What does “line upon line” mean?

You may have heard the phrase “line upon line” in church. Or in scriptures like 2 Nephi 28:30.

But what does it mean?

Joseph Smith explained it this way:

“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.”¹

You can’t reach the top of a ladder without climbing the steps upward. Similarly, we become like our Heavenly Father one gospel step at a time.

So don’t worry if it seems like you don’t have a super strong testimony yet. Or you make a mistake while learning how to do your calling. It’s all part of building faith, step-by-step.

No matter where you are on the ladder, just focus on the next small step in front of you. And let’s celebrate every victory!

Notes
1. Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, page 268.