413. A calling to a position of leadership is a call to serve others; it is not for worldly honor.
414. A man receives the oath and covenant of the priesthood with a covenant of obedience.
419. The powers of heaven can only be controlled in righteousness.
411. We are to be diligent in every calling, office, and responsibility in the Church (we are to magnify our callings).
Anthony W. Ivins, Charles W. Nibley
Let every man be diligent in all things. And the idler shall not have place in the church, except he repent and mend his ways. (Revelation at a Church conference, Jan. 25, 1832) D&C 75:29
Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence. 100. He that is slothful shall not be counted worthy to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved shall not be counted worthy to stand. Even so. Amen. (Revelation on priesthood to Joseph in council with the Twelve, March 28, 1835) D&C 107:99-100
I am thoroughly convinced that all the Lord wants of you and me or of any other man or woman in the Church is for us to perform our full duty and keep the commandments of God. CR1944Apr:10
There is never a time, there never will come a time to those who hold the priesthood in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, when men can say of themselves that they have done enough. So long as life lasts, and so long as we possess ability to do good, to labor for the upbuilding of Zion and for the benefit of the human family, we ought, with willingness, to yield with alacrity to the requirements made of us to do our duty, little or great. CR1914Apr:7
"Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.
"He that is slothful shall not be counted worthy to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved shall not be counted worthy to stand. Even so. Amen." (D&C 107:99-100
This means that the man who accepts the priesthood also accepts the responsibilities that go with it. He promises that he will give service and make himself approved. If he breaks this covenant—for it is a covenant—then he will have to stand among those who do not exercise priesthood; he cannot stand among those who are approved. CR1966Apr:102
Every missionary has the responsibility to magnify his calling in teaching the plan of God. Every teacher has the responsibility to magnify his calling in teaching the word of God. Every officer has the responsibility to magnify his calling in teaching the order of God. (CR 1989Apr; Magnify Your Calling, Ensign, May 1989, p.46)
While holding the priesthood brings great blessings, the priesthood also carries with it great obligations. ¶ All priesthood holders need to magnify their callings, acting in the Lord's name to the extent their office and calling permit. (A Royal Priesthood, CR April 2006)
To bear the priesthood means you have a personal responsibility to magnify your calling. Let each opportunity to serve help to develop your power in the priesthood. In your personal grooming, follow the example of the living prophets. Doing so gives silent expression that you truly comprehend the importance of “the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God.” (CR 2003Oct; Personal Priesthood Responsibility, Ensign, November 2003, p.44)
Related Witnesses:
The great object and duty that devolves upon the Latter-day Saints is to learn, each man and each woman for himself and for herself, their individual duty as members of the Church. CR1915Apr:4
The successful leader knows his duties and responsibilities and also the members under his direction. The teacher knows his children, as well as the lessons. CR1968Oct:144
An individual who holds a share in the Priesthood, and continues faithful to his calling, who delights himself continually in doing the things God requires at his hands, and continues through life in the performance of every duty, will secure to himself not only the privilege of receiving, but the knowledge how to receive the things of God, that he may know the mind of God continually; and he will be enabled to discern between right and wrong, between the things of God and the things that are not of God. And the Priesthood—the Spirit that is within him, will continue to increase until it becomes like a fountain of living water; until it is like the tree of life; until it is one continued source of intelligence and instruction to that individual. (In Tabernacle, Jan. 27, 1856, JD3:192) TLDP:519
Now, my beloved brethren, I, Jacob, according to the responsibility which I am under to God, to magnify mine office with soberness, and that I might rid my garments of your sins, I come up into the temple this day that I might declare unto you the word of God. (Jacob teaches the Nephites in the temple, 544-421 B.C.) Jacob 2:2
For whoso is faithful unto the obtaining these two priesthoods of which I have spoken, and the magnifying their calling, are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies. (Revelation on priesthood received with six elders, Sept. 22/23, 1832) D&C 84:33
For I, Jacob, and my brother Joseph had been consecrated priests and teachers of this people, by the hand of Nephi.
19. And we did magnify our office unto the Lord, taking upon us the responsibility, answering the sins of the people upon our own heads if we did not teach them the word of God with all diligence; wherefore, by laboring with our might their blood might not come upon our garments; otherwise their blood would come upon our garments, and we would not be found spotless at the last day. (Jacob teaches the Nephites in the temple, 544-421 B.C.) Jacob 1:18-19
quoted by Mormon
And while I was thus struggling in the spirit, behold, the voice of the Lord came into my mind again, saying: I will visit thy brethren according to their diligence in keeping my commandments. I have given unto them this land, and it is a holy land; and I curse it not save it be for the cause of iniquity; wherefore, I will visit thy brethren according as I have said; and their transgressions will I bring down with sorrow upon their own heads. (Enos gives the word of the Lord to the Nephites, 544-421 B.C.) Enos 1:10
(First Presidency)
Refrain from evil; do that which is good. Visit the sick, comfort those who are in sorrow, clothe the naked, feed the hungry, care for the widow and the fatherless. Observe the laws of health which the Lord has revealed, and keep yourselves unspotted from the sins of the world. Pay your tithes and offerings, and the Lord will open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings until there shall not be room to contain them. Be obedient to the laws of God and the civil laws of the country in which you reside, and uphold and honor those who are chosen to administer them. (Centennial Message of the First Presidency to the Saints throughout the world and to the world) CR1930Apr:13
Author's Note: The dictionary defines diligent: "Characterized by steady, earnest, attentive, and energetic application and effort in a pursuit, vocation, or study: not lackadaisical." Webster's Third International Dictionary, p. 633.
412. To be efficacious, all exercise of priesthood authority is to be done with unfeigned love, patience, gentleness, and meekness.
No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned;
42. By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile—
43. Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost; and then showing forth afterwards an increase of love toward him whom thou hast reproved, lest he esteem thee to be his enemy; (Revelation during conference of Church elders, Nov. 1, 1831) D&C 121:41-43
The decisions of these quorums, or either of them, are to be made in all righteousness, in holiness, and lowliness of heart, meekness and long suffering, and in faith, and virtue, and knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity;
31. Because the promise is, if these things abound in them they shall not be unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord. (Revelation on priesthood received in council with the Twelve, March 28, 1835) D&C 107:30-31
The qualities of acceptable priesthood leadership are also carefully defined in this revelation [D&C 121]. One is to preside over the Church with patience and long-suffering, with gentleness and meekness and with love unfeigned. If one must discipline or reprove with sharpness, he must do it when moved upon by the Holy Ghost, but afterwards he should show forth love, lest the one he has reproved thinks him to be an enemy. In all of our priesthood callings, therefore, we must never forget that it is the business of the Church to save souls, and those over whom we preside are our Father's children, and he will aid us in our endeavors to save every one of them. ACR(Mexico City)1972:76
Related Witnesses:
And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for the work. (Revelation for Joseph Smith, Sr., Feb. 1829) D&C 4:5
And no one can assist in this work except he shall be humble and full of love, having faith, hope, and charity, being temperate in all things, whatsoever shall be entrusted to his care. (Revelation for Joseph Knight, May 1829) D&C 12:8
And if you have not faith, hope, and charity, you can do nothing. (Revelation received June 1829) D&C 18:19
The great object and duty that devolves upon the Latter-day Saints is to learn, each man and each woman for himself and for herself, their individual duty as members of the Church. Just as soon as a man or woman learns his and her duty to God and to those who are members with them in the household of faith, peace is established, love and good will are assured, no back-biting, no fault-finding, no bearing false witness against neighbors, no strife, no contention. For the moment that a Latter-day Saint learns his duty, he will learn that it is his business to make peace, to establish good will, to work righteousness, to be filled with the spirit of kindness, love, charity, and forgiveness; and, so far as he is concerned, there can be no war, no strife, no contention, no quarreling, no disunion; no factions can arise among the people who know their duty as Latter-day Saints. CR1915Apr:4
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
Until a selfish, individual interest is banished from our minds, and we become interested in the general welfare, we shall never be able to magnify our holy Priesthood as we should. (On visit to Utah, Juab, and Sanpete counties, June and July, 1865, JD11:115) DBY:133
I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,
2. With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
3. Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. (Paul's letter to the Saints at Ephesus in Asia Minor, about A.D. 62) Ephesians 4:1-3
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
25. In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; (Paul's letter to his assistant Timothy, about A.D. 64) 2 Timothy 2:24-25
Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:
4. But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
5. In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;
6. By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, (Paul's letter to the Church at Corinth, Greece, about A.D. 55) 2 Corinthians 6:3-6
There is no authority associated with the Holy Priesthood except on the principle of persuasion, and no man has a right to plume himself upon any position he occupies in this Church, for he is simply a servant of God, and a servant of the people, and if any man attempts to use any kind of arbitrary authority, and act with any degree of unrighteousness, God will hold that man to an account for it, and we all of us have to be judged according to the deeds done in the body. We are here as saviours of men, and not as tyrants and oppressors. (At Parowan, Utah, June 24, 1883, JD24:268) TLDP:516
Now a word to you officers and leaders in the stakes and wards, in missions, and in temples. . . .
Fellow workers, you and I cannot hope to exert even to a small degree the personality of our great teacher, Jesus Christ. Each one's personality may be compared to the Savior's personality only as one little sunbeam to the mighty sun itself; and yet, though infinitely less in degree, each leader's, each teacher's personality should be the same in kind. In the realm of character, each leader and teacher may be superior, and such a magnet as to draw around him or her, in an indescribable way, those whom he or she would lead or teach. It is the radiation of the light that attracts. . . .
It is the leader's duty, or the teacher's duty, to teach the member to love—not the leader or teacher, but the truth of the gospel. Always, everywhere, we find Christ losing himself for his Father's will; and so also should our leaders and teachers, so far as their personalities are concerned, lose themselves for the truth he desires to have them teach.
When the people came to Jesus and asked for bread, or the truth, he never turned them away with a stone. He always had truth to give. He understood it. It radiated from his being. He understood how to use illustrations, the natural things around him, to impress that truth upon his hearers. In other words, he was filled with his subject and then was enabled to give that subject to his hearers. It is not always what you say, but what you are that influences children, the young, or that influences your associates. . . .
Let me give you briefly five things, among many others, that may characterize the successful leader or teacher in the Church:
First: Implicit faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ as the light of the world, and a sincere desire to serve him. This condition of the soul will make for the companionship and guidance of the Holy Ghost.
Second: Unfeigned love for the child, or member. Unfeigned—remember how the word is used by the Prophet Joseph Smith in that great revelation in the Doctrine and Covenants: "by love unfeigned." Unfeigned love for the children or members, guided by determination to deal justly and impartially with every member of the Church. Honor the child or member, and the child or member will honor you.
Third: Thorough preparation. The successful leader knows his duties and responsibilities and also the members under his direction. The teacher knows his children, as well as the lessons.
Fourth: Cheerfulness—not forced but natural cheerfulness, springing spontaneously from a hopeful soul.
Fifth: Power to act nobly.
"If you want to be a teacher or leader just watch your acts and walk; If you want to be a teacher or leader, just be careful how you talk."
If you want to radiate the light of the gospel, that radiation must first come from the leader himself. CR1968Oct:143-44
413. A calling to a position of leadership is a call to serve others; it is not for worldly honor.
Joseph F. Smith, Anthon H. Lund, Charles W. Penrose
(First Presidency)
Priesthood is not given for the honor or aggrandizement of man, but for the ministry of service among those for whom the bearers of that sacred commission are called to labor. Be it remembered that even our Lord and Master, after long fasting, when faint in body and physically weakened by exhausting vigils and continued abstinence, resisted the arch tempter's suggestion that he use the authority and power of his Messiahship to provide for his own immediate needs.
The God-given titles of honor and of more than human distinction associated with the several offices in and orders of the Holy Priesthood, are not to be used nor considered as are the titles originated by man; they are not for adornment nor are they expressive of mastership, but rather of appointment to humble service in the work of the one Master whom we profess to serve. ("On Titles," IE1914Mar:479) TLDP:516
Behold, there are many called, but few are chosen. And why are they not chosen?
35. Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world, and aspire to the honors of men, that they do not learn this one lesson—
36. That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness. (Revelation while in Liberty Jail, March 20, 1839; why many are called and few chosen) D&C 121:34-36
Related Witnesses:
We are under obligation as men holding the Priesthood to put to service the authority which we have received. If we do this then we shall have other responsibilities and glory added, and we shall receive an abundance, that is, the fulness of the Father's kingdom; but if we bury our Priesthood, then we are not entitled to receive any reward, we cannot be exalted. (The Way to Perfection, p. 221) TLDP:515
quoted by John A. Widtsoe
Until a selfish, individual interest is banished from our minds, and we become interested in the general welfare, we shall never be able to magnify our holy Priesthood as we should. (On visit to Utah, Juab, and Sanpete counties, June and July, 1865, JD11:115) DBY:133
There is no authority associated with the Holy Priesthood except on the principle of persuasion, and no man has a right to plume himself upon any position he occupies in this Church, for he is simply a servant of God, and a servant of the people, and if any man attempts to use any kind of arbitrary authority, and act with any degree of unrighteousness, God will hold that man to an account for it, and we all of us have to be judged according to the deeds done in the body. We are here as saviours of men, and not as tyrants and oppressors. (At Parowan, Utah, June 24, 1883, JD24:268) TLDP:516
414. A man receives the oath and covenant of the priesthood with a covenant of obedience.
The faithful in the priesthood are those who fulfill the covenant by "magnifying their calling" and living "by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God." (D&C 84:33,44) Far more seems to be implied in these requirements than token obedience—far more is needed than mere attendance at a few meetings and token fulfillment of assignments. The perfection of body and spirit are implied, and that includes the kind of service that goes far beyond the normal definition of duty. (EN1975Jun:3, The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, pp. 496-97) TLDP:515
The covenant which a man makes when he receives an office in the Melchizedek Priesthood is threefold:
1. That he will receive and make a part of his life and being the Holy Priesthood and that he will honor it as the holy power and authority which it is;
2. That he will magnify his calling in the priesthood; that is, that he will minister in the duties of the office, that he will do the work assigned; and
3. That he will live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God; that is to say, he will keep the commandments and work righteousness. ACR(Lima)1977:18
"Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence.
"He that is slothful shall not be counted worthy to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved shall not be counted worthy to stand. Even so. Amen." (D&C 107:99-100
This means that the man who accepts the priesthood also accepts the responsibilities that go with it. He promises that he will give service and make himself approved. If he breaks this covenant—for it is a covenant—then he will have to stand among those who do not exercise priesthood; he cannot stand among those who are approved. CR1966Apr:102
The Lord most emphatically declared that it is impossible for man to become like God without the Priesthood and obedience to his commandments. Man has the power to know all things, to become perfect and be bathed in light, knowledge and wisdom, if he will only humble himself and walk in the light and truth. The man who refuses and lives bound within his own wisdom can never attain to these great blessings of exaltation and progression. A man must have, and be obedient to, the power of the Priesthood; he must be in full harmony and fellowship with God from whom all knowledge, wisdom and power come. No matter how much knowledge a man may gain, in this life or in the life to come, he cannot obtain the fulness unless he holds and magnifies the Priesthood and continueth in God The power, knowledge and wisdom in their fulness, will never be exercised by those who reject the counsels and covenants of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. These are the possessions to be given to the just and true, who become members of the Church of the Firstborn. (Man: His Origin and Destiny, p. 534) TLDP:519
[T]here are two main requirements of this oath and covenant. First is faithfulness, which denotes obedience to the laws of God and connotes true observance of all gospel standards. For better understanding of the oath and covenant of the priesthood, may I propound these questions:
1. Can a man be faithful who does not abide by the first two great commandments, to love the Lord God with all his heart, soul, strength, and mind, and his neighbor as himself?
2. Can a man be faithful who is not honest and truthful in all dealings and relationships with his fellow men?
3. Can a man be faithful who does not honor the Sabbath day and keep it holy, attend the Sacrament and priesthood meetings; also worthily fulfil all other duties in keeping with his callings and obligations that day?
4. Can a man be faithful who does not plan and arrange for daily family prayer in the home?
5. Can a man be faithful who does not teach his children the true principles of the gospel of Christ and then set them a worthy example by living according to those truths?
6. Can a man be faithful who does not observe and keep the Word of Wisdom?
7. Can a man be faithful who does not pay an honest tithing and fast offering?
8. Can a man be faithful who does not obey the law of chastity and is not morally clean in his life and habits?
9. Can a man be faithful who does not, through obedience and sacrifice, prepare himself worthily for the holy temples of God where he can receive his endowments and sealings in the higher ordinances of the gospel and thus bind his family happily and eternally together in love and understanding?
10. Can a man be faithful who does not honor and obey the laws of the land?
Perhaps we could summarize by asking, "Can a man be faithful if he does not keep all the commandments of God? . . . CR1957Apr:76-77
receiving the Word of the Lord
For whoso is faithful unto the obtaining these two priesthoods of which I have spoken, and the magnifying their calling, are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies. . . .
35. And also all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord;
36. For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me;
37. And he that receiveth me receiveth my Father;
38. And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Father's kingdom; therefore all that my Father hath shall be given unto him.
39. And this is according to the oath and covenant which belongeth to the priesthood.
40. Therefore, all those who receive the priesthood, receive this oath and covenant of my Father, which he cannot break, neither can it be moved. . . .
43. And I now give unto you a commandment to beware concerning yourselves, to give diligent heed to the words of eternal life.
44. For you shall live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God. (Revelation on priesthood with six elders, Sept. 22/23, 1832) D&C 84:33,35-40,43-44
It is of utmost importance that we keep clearly in mind what the magnifying of our callings in the priesthood requires of us. I am persuaded that it requires at least the following three things:
1. That we obtain a knowledge of the gospel.
2. That we comply in our personal living with the standards of the gospel.
3. That we give dedicated service. CR1980Oct:64; DGSM:70
Related Witnesses:
And no man receiveth a fulness unless he keepeth his commandments.
28. He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things. (Revelation at Kirtland, Ohio, May 6, 1833) D&C 93:27-28
If we have the holy priesthood upon our heads and do not live our religion, of all men we are under the greatest condemnation. (In Tabernacle, June 6, 1880, JD21:125) TLDP:514
There is no limit to the power of the priesthood which you hold. The limit comes in you if you do not live in harmony with the Spirit of the Lord and you limit yourselves in the power you exert. (Lamanite conference priesthood meeting, Nov. 1947) DGSM:70
Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence. 100. He that is slothful shall not be counted worthy to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved shall not be counted worthy to stand. Even so. Amen. (Revelation on priesthood in council with the Twelve, March 28, 1835) D&C 107:99-100
415. A man receives the oath and covenant of the priesthood with a covenant of service to do the work assigned.
Wherefore, now let every man learn his duty, and to act in the office in which he is appointed, in all diligence. 100. He that is slothful shall not be counted worthy to stand, and he that learns not his duty and shows himself not approved shall not be counted worthy to stand. Even so. Amen. (Revelation on priesthood in council with the Twelve, March 28, 1835) D&C 107:99-100
Now you made an oath, when you received the priesthood. You made an oath, and you cannot with impunity ignore that oath. You promised. When the stake president or mission president interviews, or the bishop or branch president, he asks promises: "Will you? Do you? Have you done? Will you continue to do?" And with that oath and the promise, you move forward into your service in the Melchizedek Priesthood. ACR(Stockholm)1974:99
[I]t is of utmost importance that we keep clearly in mind what the magnifying of our callings in the priesthood requires of us. I am persuaded that it requires at least the following three things:
1. That we obtain a knowledge of the gospel.
2. That we comply in our personal living with the standards of the gospel.
3. That we give dedicated service. CR1980Oct:64; DGSM:70
Can a man magnify his calling who does not use his priesthood in righteousness for the blessing and benefit of his fellow men? CR1957Apr:77
We have been ordaining men in the various quorums for the last forty years; and what for? Merely to give them a place and position and the priesthood? No, I tell you nay; but that holding the holy priesthood you may magnify it and become the saviors of men. . . .
It is time we were waking up to a sense of the position we occupy before God; for the day is not far distant when we will hear of wars and rumors of wars; not only rumors of wars, but wars themselves . . . and general carnage will spread through the lands, and if you do not magnify your callings, God will hold you responsible for those whom you might have saved had you done your duty. (In Tabernacle, July 7, 1878, JD20:22-23) TLDP:514
There is never a time, there never will come a time to those who hold the priesthood in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, when men can say of themselves that they have done enough. So long as life lasts, and so long as we possess ability to do good, to labor for the upbuilding of Zion and for the benefit of the human family, we ought, with willingness, to yield with alacrity to the requirements made of us to do our duty, little or great. CR1914Apr:7
Because the responsibility of holding the priesthood is so great, all who receive it do so by an oath and a covenant. Honoring the covenant means that "the man who accepts the priesthood also accepts the responsibilities that go with it. He promises that he will give service and make himself approved." CR1966Apr:102; DGSM:69
The covenant which a man makes when he receives an office in the Melchizedek Priesthood is threefold:
1. That he will receive and make a part of his life and being the Holy Priesthood and that he will honor it as the holy power and authority which it is;
2. That he will magnify his calling in the priesthood; that is, that he will minister in the duties of the office, that he will do the work assigned; and
3. That he will live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God; that is to say, he will keep the commandments and work righteousness. ACR(Lima)1977:18
Related Witnesses:
And we did magnify our office unto the Lord, taking upon us the responsibility, answering the sins of the people upon our own heads if we did not teach them the word of God with all diligence; wherefore, by laboring with our might their blood might not come upon our garments; otherwise their blood would come upon our garments, and we would not be found spotless at the last day. (Jacob teaches the Nephites in the temple, 544-421 B.C.) Jacob 1:19
These transcendent blessings the Father promises the receiver of the Melchizedek Priesthood by an oath and covenant which he says ". . . he cannot break, neither can it be moved.". . . But these blessings . . . do not come by ordination alone. Ordination to the priesthood is a prerequisite to receiving them, but it does not guarantee them. For a man actually to obtain them, he must faithfully discharge the obligation which is placed upon him when he receives the priesthood; that is, he must magnify his calling. CR1962Apr:17
That [service] is the mission of the Priesthood of God. The Priesthood of God means to me only the right to serve, in the name of God, God's children, and he who serves God's children in God's name is doing the greatest service for the Master that can be done. CR1917Oct:147
416. In the oath and covenant of the priesthood, God covenants with an oath that the man who faithfully keeps this covenant shall receive all the Father has (he shall receive exaltation).
President Joseph Fielding Smith
President Joseph Fielding Smith
The covenant which God makes [in connection with the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood] is that he on his part will give the faithful all that his Father hath. In other words, he will give eternal life to those who keep their priesthood covenants.
Now we have mentioned both an oath and a covenant where the Melchizedek Priesthood is concerned. The oath is the solemn promise of the Lord that all those who keep the priesthood covenant shall gain exaltation. That is to say, the Lord swears with an oath that his adopted and obedient sons shall be high priests forever after the order of Melchizedek (see D&C 76:57); they shall be joint heirs with his natural Son, who is Christ our Lord. ACR(Lima)1977:18
receiving the Word of the Lord
And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Father's kingdom; therefore all that my Father hath shall be given unto him.
39. And this is according to the oath and covenant which belongeth to the priesthood.
40. Therefore, all those who receive the priesthood, receive this oath and covenant of my Father, which he cannot break, neither can it be moved. (Revelation on priesthood with six elders, Sept. 22/23, 1832) D&C 84:38-40
[W]hen we receive the Melchizedek Priesthood we do so by covenant. We solemnly promise to receive the priesthood, to magnify our callings in it, and to live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God. The Lord on his part promises us that if we keep the covenant, we shall receive all that the Father hath, which is life eternal. Can any of us conceive of a greater or more glorious agreement than this? CR1970Oct:91
To swear with an oath is the most solemn and binding form of speech known to the human tongue. . . . And so Christ is the great prototype where priesthood is concerned, as he is with reference to baptism and all other things. And so, even as the Father swears with an oath that his Son shall inherit all things through the priesthood, so he swears with an oath that all of us who magnify our callings in that same priesthood shall receive all that the Father hath. CR1970Oct:92
The Father, by oath and covenant, promises the receiver that if he does so magnify his priesthood he will be sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of his body . . . and receive the ". . . Father's kingdom; therefore," said the Savior, "all that my Father hath shall be given unto him." [D&C 84:38]
These transcendent blessings the Father promises the receiver of the Melchizedek Priesthood by an oath and covenant which he says ". . . he cannot break, neither can it be moved."[D&C 84:40] But these blessings . . . do not come by ordination alone. Ordination to the priesthood is a prerequisite to receiving them, but it does not guarantee them. For a man actually to obtain them, he must faithfully discharge the obligation which is placed upon him when he receives the priesthood. . . . CR1962Apr:17
Every man who is ordained to an office in the Melchizedek Priesthood should realize fully just what that ordination means. He receives the Priesthood with an oath and covenant that he will magnify his calling and be faithful therein. This oath and covenant when received in the fullness will entitle a man to become a member of the Church of the Firstborn, and the elect of God. He receives the fullness of the Father's kingdom and is entitled, if faithful to the end, "to all that the Father hath." This oath and covenant cannot be treated lightly, and if broken and altogether turned from, the man thus guilty has no forgiveness, that is to say, he will not again have these privileges granted to him which bring exaltation, or "all that the Father hath." He will stand aside without these blessings, but does not become a son of perdition because of this serious offense. CHMR1:339
Related Witnesses:
They are they into whose hands the Father has given all things—
56. They are they who are priests and kings, who have received of his fulness, and of his glory;
57. And are priests of the Most High, after the order of Melchizedek, which was after the order of Enoch, which was after the order of the Only Begotten Son.
58. Wherefore, as it is written, they are gods, even the sons of God—
59. Wherefore, all things are theirs, whether life or death, or things present, or things to come, all are theirs and they are Christ's, and Christ is God's.
60. And they shall overcome all things. (Vision to Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon, Feb. 16, 1832) D&C 76:55-60
receiving the Word of the Lord
What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens 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. (Revelation received during conference of elders of the Church, Nov. 1, 1831; preface to the doctrines given to the Church) D&C 1:38
417. Those upon whom the authority of the priesthood has been conferred can lose the power to exercise that priesthood authority when they are corrupted by sin.
There is no limit to the power of the priesthood which you hold. The limit comes in you if you do not live in harmony with the Spirit of the Lord and you limit yourselves in the power you exert.(Lamanite conference priesthood meeting, Nov. 1947) DGSM:70
That the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.
37. That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man. (Revelation received in Liberty Jail, March 20, 1839; why many are called and few chosen) D&C 121:36-37
Every bearer of the Melchizedek Priesthood should give diligent and solemn heed to the implications of this oath and covenant which he has received. Failure to observe the obligations imposed by it is sure to bring disappointment, sorrow, and suffering. Total disregard of it will place one beyond the reach of the blessings of forgiveness. ACR(Mexico City)1972:73
How tragic and utterly disgusting a phenomenon is wife abuse. Any man in this Church who abuses his wife, who demeans her, who insults her, who exercises unrighteous dominion over her is unworthy to hold the priesthood. Though he may have been ordained, the heavens will withdraw, the Spirit of the Lord will be grieved, and it will be amen to the authority of the priesthood of that man. (CR 2002Apr; Personal Worthiness to Exercise the Priesthood, Ensign, May 2002, p.52)
Related Witnesses:
The priesthood cannot be conferred like a diploma. It cannot be handed to you as a certificate. It cannot be delivered to you as a message or sent to you in a letter. It comes only by proper ordination. An authorized holder of the priesthood has to be there. He must place his hands upon your head and ordain you. . . .
I have told you how the authority is given to you. The power you receive will depend on what you do with this sacred, unseen gift.
Your authority comes through your ordination; your power comes through obedience and worthiness. (That All May Be Edified, pp. 28-29) DGSM:70
Can a man magnify his calling who does not banish all iniquity from his soul, that he may gain favor with God and thus enjoy power in the use of the priesthood to bless people? CR1957Apr:77
Author's Note: A priesthood ordinance properly performed, such as a baptism or the conferring of the priesthood, is not invalidated because the person performing the ordinance was unworthy. An unworthy priesthood holder will be limited in the ability to call upon the powers of heaven, or to be led by the Spirit, but if he is directed to perform an ordinance by someone in authority, that ordinance does not become invalid because of his sins. If grievous sins are known it is highly unlikely that the priesthood holder will be invited to participate in holy ordinances.
418. A man called to administer in the Church is to also faithfully administer and set in order his own house.
Those who would lead in this Church must set the example of personal righteousness. They should seek for the constant guidance of the Holy Spirit. They should have their lives and homes in order. They should be honest and prompt in the paying of their bills. They must be exemplary in all their conduct. They should be men of honor and integrity. CR1980Oct:53
I should like to say to you fathers tonight that our conduct in our homes determines in large measure our worthiness to hold and exercise the priesthood, which is the power of God delegated to man. Almost any man can make a good showing when on parade before the public, but one's integrity is tested when "off duty." The real man is seen and known in the comparative solitude of the home. An office or title will not erase a fault nor guarantee a virtue. CR1962Apr:88
One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
5. (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) (Paul writes to his assistant Timothy, setting forth the attributes of a bishop, about A.D. 64) 1 Timothy 3:4-5
[A]s men of the priesthood, as women of the Church, [we have the responsibility] to make our homes such as will radiate to our neighbors harmony, love, community duties, loyalty. Let our neighbors see it and hear it. Never must there be expressed in a Latter-day Saint home an oath, a condemnatory term, an expression of anger or jealousy or hatred. Control it Do not express it You do what you can to produce peace and harmony, no matter what you may suffer. CR1963Apr:130
Govern your house in meekness, and be steadfast. (Revelation calling Thomas B. Marsh to preach the gospel, Sept. 30, 1830) D&C 31:9
receiving the Word of the Lord
But I have commanded you to bring up your children in light and truth.
41. But verily I say unto you, my servant Frederick G. Williams, you have continued under this condemnation;
42. You have not taught your children light and truth, according to the commandments; and that wicked one hath power, as yet, over you, and this is the cause of your affliction.
43. And now a commandment I give unto you—if you will be delivered you shall set in order your own house, for there are many things that are not right in your house.
44. Verily, I say unto my servant Sidney Rigdon, that in some things he hath not kept the commandments concerning his children; therefore, first set in order thy house.
45. Verily, I say unto my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., or in other words, I will call you friends, for you are my friends, and ye shall have an inheritance with me—
46. I called you servants for the world's sake, and ye are their servants for my sake—
47. And now, verily I say unto Joseph Smith, Jun.—You have not kept the commandments, and must needs stand rebuked before the Lord;
48. Your family must needs repent and forsake some things, and give more earnest heed unto your sayings, or be removed out of their place.
49. What I say unto one I say unto all; pray always lest that wicked one have power in you, and remove you out of your place.
50. My servant Newel K. Whitney also, a bishop of my church, hath need to be chastened, and set in order his family, and see that they are more diligent and concerned at home, and pray always, or they shall be removed out of their place. (The leading brethren are commanded to set their houses in order, Kirtland, Ohio, May 6, 1833) D&C 93:40-50
Our success, individually and as a Church, will largely be determined by how faithfully we focus on living the gospel in the home. Only as we see clearly the responsibilities of each individual and the role of families and homes can we properly understand that priesthood quorums and auxiliary organizations, even wards and stakes, exist primarily to help members live the gospel in the home. Then we can understand that people are more important than programs, and that Church programs should always support and never detract from gospel-centered family activities. . . .
You will observe that all of these functions can best be accomplished through a strong home environment. ("Living the Gospel in the Home," EN1978May:101) TLDP:91
Related Witnesses:
Can a man be faithful who does not plan and arrange for daily family prayer in the home? CR1957Apr:76
Remember, he [the bishop] has the same obligations as other heads of households: to, first, be a good husband; second, be a good father; and third, discharge his responsibility to provide for his family. We should not interrupt his family time or prevent him from growing, accomplishing, and achieving in his professional pursuits. CR1982Oct:43
Author's Note: From the witnesses quoted, it is clear that this doctrine applies not only to priesthood leaders in the Church but to all other priesthood bearers, and to parents as well.
419. The powers of heaven can only be controlled in righteousness.
Joseph F. Smith, Anthon H. Lund, Charles W. Penrose
[T]he rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and . . . the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness.
37. That they may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man.
38. Behold, ere he is aware, he is left unto himself, to kick against the pricks, to persecute the saints, and to fight against God. (Revelation received in Liberty Jail, March 20, 1839; why many are called and few chosen) D&C 121:36-38
Let all Israel remember that the eternal and everlasting Priesthood is bestowed upon us for the purpose alone of administering in the ordinances of life and salvation, both for the living and the dead, and no man on earth can use that Priesthood for any other purpose than for the work of the ministry, the perfecting of the Saints, edifying the body of Christ, establishing the Kingdom of Heaven, and redeeming Zion. If we attempt to use it for unrighteous purposes, like lightning from heaven, our power, sooner or later, falls, and we fail to accomplish the designs of God. ("A Communication from President Woodruff," Millennial Star, Aug. 1887, p. 546) TLDP:523
The penalty if we do use our priesthood unrighteously is that the heavens withdraw themselves and the Spirit of the Lord is grieved. When we lose the Spirit, our priesthood authority is taken from us and we are left to ourselves "to kick against the pricks," when we are being irritated by the admonitions and instructions of our leaders. Then we begin to persecute the saints, which means criticize, and finally to fight against God, and the powers of darkness overtake us if we do not repent and turn from that evil course. (At Mexico City Area conference, Melchizedek Priesthood session, Aug. 26, 1972) (Stand Ye in Holy Places, pp. 253-54) TLDP:524
There is no authority associated with the Holy Priesthood except on the principle of persuasion, and no man has a right to plume himself upon any position he occupies in this Church, for he is simply a servant of God, and a servant of the people, and if any man attempts to use any kind of arbitrary authority, and act with any degree of unrighteousness, God will hold that man to an account for it, and we all of us have to be judged according to the deeds done in the body. We are here as saviours of men, and not as tyrants and oppressors. (At Parowan, Utah, June 24, 1883, JD24:268) TLDP:516
(First Presidency)
Priesthood is not given for the honor or aggrandizement of man, but for the ministry of service among those for whom the bearers of that sacred commission are called to labor. Be it remembered that even our Lord and Master, after long fasting, when faint in body and physically weakened by exhausting vigils and continued abstinence, resisted the arch tempter's suggestion that he use the authority and power of his Messiahship to provide for his own immediate needs. ("On Titles," IE1914Mar:479) TLDP:516
The Lord has given to all of us, as holders of the priesthood, certain of his authority, but we can only tap the powers of heaven on the basis of our personal righteousness. Thus, for the power of the priesthood to truly be felt in a family requires the righteousness of the men and young men therein. (CR 1976Apr; Boys Need Heroes Close By, Ensign, May 1976, p.45)
Related Witnesses:
Most men are inclined to abuse authority, especially those who wield it who are the least prepared to hold positions of trust. It has been the characteristic of men in power to use that power to gratify their own pride and vain ambitions. More misery has come to the inhabitants of this world through the exercise of authority by those who least deserved it, than from almost any other cause. Rulers of kingdoms in the past have oppressed their subjects, and where they had the power they have sought to increase their dominions. We have had some horrible examples of misplaced ambition which, in recent years, placed the very existence of humanity in peril. These conditions still prevail in high places bringing fear and consternation to the troubled world.
There should not, however, be any of this unrighteous ambition within the Church, but everything should be done in the spirit of love and humility. CHMR2:178; DGSM:70
The Savior who was the head of the Church never ruled by force, but by kindness and long-suffering and love. So you branch presidents and you counselors go back and with greater love than ever before seek to give leadership to your branch as Christ does to the Church. (Lamanite conference, priesthood meeting, Mesa, Arizona, Nov. 3, 1947) (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p. 485) TLDP:359
One breaks the priesthood covenant by transgressing commandments—but also by leaving undone his duties. Accordingly, to break this covenant one needs only to do nothing. (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p. 497) TLDP:501
We have learned by sad experience that it is the nature and disposition of almost all men, as soon as they get a little authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion.
40. Hence many are called, but few are chosen. (Revelation received while in Liberty Jail, March 20, 1839; why many are called and few chosen) D&C 121:39-40
420. The Lord authorizes priesthood holders to act as His agents (to do what He would do if He were personally present).
President Joseph Fielding Smith
We are the Lord's agents; we represent him; he has given us authority which empowers us to do all that is necessary to save and exalt ourselves as well as his other children in the world.
We are ambassadors of the Lord Jesus Christ. Our commission is to represent him. We are directed to preach his gospel, to perform the ordinances of salvation, to bless mankind, to heal the sick and perhaps perform miracles, to do what he would do if he were personally present—and all this because we hold the holy priesthood.
As the Lord's agents we are bound by his law to do what he wants us to do regardless of personal feelings or worldly enticements. Of ourselves we have no message of salvation, no doctrine that must be accepted, no power to baptize or ordain or marry for eternity. All these things come from the Lord, and anything we do with reference to them is the result of delegated authority.
When we join the Church and receive the priesthood, we are expected to forsake many of the ways of the world and live as becometh saints. We are no longer to dress or speak or act or even think as others too often do. Many in the world use tea, coffee, tobacco, and liquor, and are involved in the use of drugs. Many profane and are vulgar and indecent, immoral and unclean in their lives, but all these things should be foreign to us. We are the saints of the Most High. We hold the holy priesthood. CR1971Apr:47
Wherefore, as ye are agents, ye are on the Lord's errand; and whatever ye do according to the will of the Lord is the Lord's business.
30. And he hath set you to provide for his saints in these last days, that they may obtain an inheritance in the land of Zion. (Revelation to the elders of the Church at Kirtland, Ohio, Sept. 11, 1831) D&C 64:29-30
You see, when one becomes a holder of the priesthood, he becomes an agent of the Lord. He should think of his calling as though he were on the Lord's errand. That is what it means to magnify the priesthood. ACR(Mexico City)1972:77
What is priesthood? . . . [I]t is the government of God, whether on the earth or in the heavens, for it is by that power, agency, or principle that all things are governed on the earth and in the heavens, and by that power that all things are upheld and sustained. . . . It is the power of God delegated to intelligences in the heavens and to men on the earth; and when we arrive in the celestial kingdom of God, we shall find the most perfect order and harmony existing, because there is the perfect pattern, the most perfect order of government carried out. . . . ("On Priesthood," Millennial Star, Nov. 1847, p. 321) TLDP:498
The Church, the community of persons with the intelligent faith and desire and practice, is the organized agency through which God deals with His children and presents His will. Moreover, the authority to act for God must be vested on earth in some one organization and not independently in every man. The Church through the Priesthood holds the authority for the use of man. Besides, it is the common law of the universe, that when intelligent beings are organized, as of one body, they progress faster, individually and collectively. The Church as the product of Priesthood therefore represents God on earth and is the official means of communication between man and God. PCG:180-81
Related Witnesses:
There are different callings, and offices, and stations, and authorities in the holy priesthood, but it is all the same priesthood; and there are different keys, and powers, and responsibilities, but it is the same government; and all the priesthood are agents in that government, and all are requisite for the organization of the body, the upbuilding of Zion, and the government of his kingdom. ("On Priesthood," Millennial Star, Nov. 1847, p. 322) TLDP:498
And as I wondered, my eyes were opened, and my understanding quickened, and I perceived that the Lord went not in person among the wicked and the disobedient who had rejected the truth, to teach them;
30. But behold, from among the righteous, he organized his forces and appointed messengers, clothed with power and authority, and commissioned them to go forth and carry the light of the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to all the spirits of men; and thus was the gospel preached to the dead. (Vision regarding the Savior's visit to the spirits of the dead, received Oct. 3, 1918) D&C 138:29-30
Author's Note: This principle of agency—that priesthood holders act as agents of the Lord—extends further into the duties of priesthood bearers, that they organize and delegate the work to sub-agents, so to speak. Hence Jethro, priest of Midian, counseled Moses : "And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening.
14. And when Moses ' father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even?
15. And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to inquire of God:
16. When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do make them know the statutes of God, and his laws.
17. And Moses ' father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good.
18. Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone.
19. Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to Godward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God:
20. And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do.
21. Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens." (Exodus 18:13-21
