One reason Jesus was baptized, according to Nephi, was to show us "the straitness of the path." We strive for precision as we administer gospel ordinances partly as a symbol of our desire to align ourselves precisely with God's law.
The Doctrine of Christ
The doctrine of Christ consists of faith, repentance, baptism, and following the Holy Ghost along the path that leads to eternal life. President Nelson taught that the doctrine of Christ will change our lives if we understand and implement it.
Bridling My Tongue
James warns us to watch our words. They can be surprisingly harmful if we're not careful. We can govern our tongues by (1) managing our thoughts, (2) pausing before speaking, and (3) looking for encouraging and uplifting things to say.
Unshaken
Haggai prophesied that all things will shake and that only unshakable things will remain. Several Book of Mormon prophets taught us that we can develop "unshaken" faith, which will enable us to endure significant turbulence.
“With the Spirit…and With the Understanding Also”
Paul told the Corinthians that it was important to worship with the spirit and with the understanding. Passion is inspiring, but it's insufficient. We also need to clearly explain true principles which people can apply to real decisions.
Patient Continuance
Enduring to the end is an active process: continuing to do good with an ongoing commitment to eternal goals. It involves learning and growing. It is an uplifting process that can also be called "enjoying to the end."
The Way
At the time of the apostle Paul, believers in Christ called themselves "followers of the Way." Jesus said, "I am the way," so to be a follower of the Way is to be a follower of Jesus. Nephi taught that when we enter the way, the Holy Ghost guides us.
“Have Ye Received the Holy Ghost?”
Baptism prepares us to receive the Holy Ghost. The ordinance of confirmation by the laying on of hands is an important part of the process. Ultimately, we must act to receive the gift and invite the Holy Ghost into our lives.
Baptized with Fire
John the Baptist described the effect of the Holy Ghost with a striking metaphor: I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. Matthew 3:11; see also Luke 3:16 As far as I know, that is the only place... Continue Reading →
“My Beloved Son”
When our Father in Heaven has introduced Jesus Christ, He has consistently called Him, "my Beloved Son." We can follow this example by expressing love for our family members regularly.