Topics and Questions Seeking Answers to Questions IntroductionIntroduction to seeking answers to your questions. Center Your Life on Jesus ChristFaith in Jesus Christ is vital to our pursuit of answers to life’s most challenging questions. Be Patient with Yourself and with OthersPatience with ourselves and with others is important in pursuit of answers to questions. Recognize That Revelation Is a ProcessThe history of the Restoration demonstrates that revelation is a process of seeking to know God’s will and is most often received after pondering and pleading. Consult Reliable SourcesLearning to assess the quality of our sources of information involves both spiritual and intellectual work. Work to Understand the PastThe principles in this chapter can help us see the past more clearly and constructively as we study history. Helping Others with Questions IntroductionWhen a fellow Latter-day Saint approaches you with questions or concerns about their faith, consider it a sacred privilege. Respond with LoveLook for ways to show compassion and kindness, even when they make choices you do not agree with. Listen with HumilityLook for ways to show compassion and kindness, even when they make choices you do not agree with. Trust in the LordWhen someone questions their beliefs, we should do what we can to help them, but we should also trust Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Nourish Your Own FaithWe can only lift others if we tend to the important work of nourishing our own faith and testimony. Assist Them throughout Their JourneyWe can only lift others if we tend to the important work of nourishing our own faith and testimony. A Aaronic Priesthood OverviewThe priesthood is the power to act in God’s name. Those who hold the Aaronic Priesthood have authority to baptize, administer the sacrament, and invite all to come unto Christ. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the Aaronic priesthood. AbortionAlthough a common practice in many cultures around the world, abortion is contrary to the will and commandments of God. Abraham, Book ofThe Book of Abraham is a record of the Biblical prophet Abraham and is accepted by the Church of Jesus Christ as a book of scripture. Abrahamic CovenantIn the Old Testament, God made a sacred covenant with Abraham that promised great blessings to his family and all his descendants. AbuseAbuse is the mistreatment of others. It is a violation of Christ’s law and therefore is not tolerated by His Church. AddictionAddiction is a persistent dependence on a harmful behavior or substance. Addiction can be overcome through Jesus Christ. AdoptionLoving families can be created through adoption. Children who are adopted can receive every blessing of being part of an eternal family. AdversityAdversity is the challenges, trials, disappointment, sadness, and heartache that we experience in our lives. The scriptures teach us that as we seek God's help, adversity can lead to spiritual growth, refinement, and progress. Agency and Accountability OverviewOne purpose of earth life is to show, through our choices, whether we want to follow Jesus Christ. God gives us the freedom to choose and holds us accountable for our choices. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Agency. ApostasyWhen individuals or groups turn away from the gospel of Jesus Christ, they are in a state of apostasy. ApostleApostles are special witnesses of Jesus Christ. As He did during His mortal life, Jesus Christ has ordained Apostles in our day. Are Mormons Christian?Latter-day Saints believe that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the World. We strive to follow Him as the way to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come. Articles of FaithThe Articles of Faith outline 13 basic points of belief of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Atonement of Jesus Christ OverviewThe Atonement of Jesus Christ is the most important event in history. Through His Atonement, Jesus Christ offers resurrection to all and eternal life to those who obey His gospel. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the Atonement of Jesus Christ B Baptism OverviewThrough baptism, we make a covenant to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ, keep His commandments, and serve Him to the end. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for baptism. Baptisms for the DeadIn temples of the Lord, we can be baptized on behalf of those who died without receiving this ordinance. Becoming Like GodJust as children can develop the attributes of their parents, each of us has the potential to become like our Heavenly Father. Bible OverviewThe Bible is the word of God. It testifies Jesus Christ and teaches His gospel. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the Bible. Bible, Inerrancy ofLatter-day Saints believe the Bible is the word of God. However, we believe when it was compiled and translated, errors entered the text. Birth ControlMarried couples should counsel together and seek the Lord’s guidance when deciding how many children to have and when to have them. BishopA bishop is called by God to the be the presiding high priest for a congregation in the Church of Jesus Christ. BlessingGospel topic information and links to additional resources Book of Mormon OverviewThe Book of Mormon is another witness of Jesus Christ and confirms the truths found in the Holy Bible. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the Book of Mormon. Book of Mormon and DNA StudiesDNA studies cannot be used decisively to either affirm or reject the historical authenticity of the Book of Mormon. Book of Mormon GeographyMost of the story of the Book of Mormon takes place in the Americas. The exact location is unknown. Book of Mormon TranslationBy the gift and power of God, Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from an ancient record inscribed on gold plates. C Caring for Those in NeedGospel study guide for caring for those in need. Celestial KingdomThe celestial kingdom is the highest kingdom of glory in heaven. Here the righteous, “made perfect through Jesus,” dwell eternally in God’s presence. Charity OverviewCharity is the pure love of Christ. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for charity. Chastity OverviewHeavenly Father has given us the law of chastity (sexual purity) for our protection. Obedience to this law is essential for peace and happiness. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for chastity. Children of GodGospel study guide for Children of God. ChristmasFor members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Christmas is a special time to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Church CouncilsIn Church councils, leaders receive inspiration to lead God’s Church and minister to His children according to His will. Church Finances—Commercial BusinessesThe Church owns commercial businesses that assist in the mission to help all God’s children come unto Christ. Church OrganizationGospel study guide for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. CommandmentsGospel study guide for commandments. ConscienceA person’s conscience is a manifestation of the Light of Christ. Our conscience helps us distinguish between right and wrong. Consecration OverviewGod’s people in all ages have consecrated talents, time, and resources to establish and build His kingdom on the earth. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for consecration. Conversion OverviewConversion is a significant change in our heart, beliefs, and life through Jesus Christ. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for conversion to Jesus Christ. Council in HeavenIn the premortal life, our Heavenly Father called a Grand Council to present His plan for our progression. Covenant OverviewCovenants are sacred agreements or promises between us and God. Our covenant relationship with God is the source of great spiritual power in our lives. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for covenants and ordinances. Creation OverviewJesus Christ created the heavens and the earth, organizing elements that already existed. Gospel Study GuideGospel topic study guide for the creation. CrossWhile respecting other Christians’ reverence for the cross, Latter-day Saints do not use it as the symbol of our faith. D Dating and CourtshipDating is a way to develop friendships and find an eternal companion. Latter-day Saints are counseled to choose dating activities that allow us to remain close to the Spirit of the Lord. DeaconThose who are ordained to the office of deacon are responsible to pass the sacrament and watch over the Church. Death, PhysicalPhysical death is the separation of the spirit from the mortal body. Death, SpiritualSpiritual death is a separation from God and can be overcome through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and obedience to His gospel. DebtSince the early days of the Church, the Lord’s prophets have repeatedly warned against the bondage of debt. DisabilitiesA disability is when a person experiences limitations of the body or mind that make it more difficult to do certain activities or interact with the world around them. Our Father in Heaven knows and loves all of His children, and He is aware of the challenges we face. DispensationsA dispensation is a period of time when the Lord has given, or dispensed, His gospel through authorized servants on the earth. Diversity and Unity in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day SaintsThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a religion that transcends every culture, race, nationality, and language. DivorceThe gospel of Jesus Christ—including repentance, forgiveness, integrity, and love—provides the remedy for conflict in marriage. Doctrine and CovenantsThe Doctrine and Covenants is a unique book of scripture containing revelations from the Lord in our day. E EasterLatter-day Saints testify that Jesus Christ lives today and celebrate Easter to remember His Resurrection. EducationGod wants us to educate our minds, improve our skills, and perfect our abilities so we can be an influence for good in the world. ElderElder is an office of the Melchizedek Priesthood. It is also used as a title for male missionaries or General Authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ. Emergency PreparednessWith the guidance of Church leaders, Latter-day Saints prepare to be self-reliant in times of personal and widespread tragedy. Emergency ResponseLatter-day Saints strive to follow the Savior’s example and help those in need due to natural disasters or other emergencies. EmploymentGood employment enables us to provide for ourselves and our families and to faithfully serve the Lord. Endowment OverviewThe endowment is a religious ceremony administered in temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is available to adult Church members who are prepared for this sacred experience. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for endowment and sealing ordinances. Endure to the EndGospel study guide for enduring to the end. Environmental Stewardship and ConservationThe earth and all things on it are part of God’s plan for the redemption of His children. He expects us to care for His creations and use them responsibly to sustain the human family. Eternal Life OverviewEternal life is the greatest gift God offers His children. It is available through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Eternal Life. Everlasting CovenantGospel study guide for the everlasting covenant. F Faith in Jesus Christ OverviewWe exercise faith in Jesus Christ when we have an assurance that He exists, a correct idea of His character, and a knowledge that we are striving to live according to His will. Gospel Study GuideGospel topic study guide for faith in Jesus Christ. Fall of Adam and Eve OverviewThe Fall of Adam and Eve refers to when Adam and Eve transgressed against God’s commandments and were cast out of the Garden of Eden. Their choice makes possible our eternal progress through Jesus Christ. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the fall of Adam and Eve. Family OverviewWe are all part of God’s family, and He sends His children to earth in families—the basic unit of the Church and of society. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the family. Family CouncilsIn a family council, family members talk together, share feelings and ideas, and make decisions while seeking the Lord’s will. Family FinancesWise financial management can provide security, promote family well-being, and bring a peace to your family. Family History OverviewAs we learn about our family history, we learn about ourselves. We also gather information about our ancestors so we can perform saving ordinances for them in the temple. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for participating in temple and family history work. Family Home EveningGospel topic information and links to additional resources Fasting and Fast Offerings OverviewFasting includes going without food and drink and then offering the value of that food to assist those in need. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for fasting. First PresidencyThe President of the Church and his counselors are called of Jesus Christ to lead His Church. First Vision OverviewIn the spring of 1820, God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith in answer to his prayer of faith. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the first vision. First Vision AccountsJoseph Smith gave multiple accounts of his First Vision for different audiences and purposes. Studying these accounts gives us a deep understanding of this important event. Food StorageLatter-day Saints worldwide to prepare for adversity by having a basic supply of food and water to care for ourselves and neighbors. ForeordinationIn the premortal spirit world, God appointed certain spirits to fulfill specific missions on earth. This is called foreordination. Forgiveness OverviewBecause of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can receive forgiveness for our sins through sincere and complete repentance. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for forgiveness. G GamblingGambling is motivated by a desire to get something for nothing and leads participants away from the Savior’s teachings of love and service. GarmentsTemple garments, worn underneath normal clothing, are a physical reminder of covenants Latter-day Saints have made in the temple. Gathering of IsraelGospel study guide for the gathering of Israel. Gifts of the SpiritGospel study guide for gifts of the Spirit. Godhead OverviewGod the Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and the Holy Ghost make up the Godhead. They preside over this world and all other creations of our Father in Heaven. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Godhead. God the Father OverviewGod is our Father and the ultimate Creator, Ruler, and Preserver of all things. He is perfect, has all power, and knows all things. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for God the Father. Gold PlatesJoseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from ancient writings found on gold plates. GospelThe gospel of Jesus Christ is the good news that the Savior accomplished the Atonement and fulfilled Heavenly Father’s plan for our eternal happiness. Grace OverviewGrace is the divine help or strength extended to us through the Atonement of the Lord Jesus Christ. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for grace. GratitudeGratitude is an uplifting, exalting attitude. The Lord has promised, “He who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious.” GriefBecause Jesus Christ has suffered the pains and afflictions of all mankind, we can be comforted and healed from grief and suffering. H HappinessGod sent His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to carry out the Atonement so we can be happy in this life and receive a fulness of joy in the eternities. HealthWe strive to keep our physical bodies healthy because they are a sacred gift from God. HeavenIn the scriptures, the word heaven can refer either to the place where God lives or to the expanse around the earth. Heavenly ParentsAll human beings are beloved spirit children of heavenly parents. Because of our divine parentage, we each have divine potential. HellRevelations from the Lord refer to hell either as a temporary spirit prison or as the permanent location of Satan and his followers. High CouncilEach stake of the Church of Jesus Christ has a high council—twelve high priests who serve under the direction of a stake presidency in ministering to members of the stake. High PriestHigh priest is an office of the Melchizedek Priesthood. A high priest has the right to officiate in the Church. Holy Ghost OverviewHoly GhostThe Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead. He comforts us in times of adversity and testifies of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Gospel Study GuideHoly GhostGospel study guide for the Holy Ghost. Gospel Study GuideGift of the Holy GhostGospel study guide for the Gift of the Holy Ghost. Home EveningHome evening is a designated weekly time for individuals and families to study the gospel of Jesus Christ and spend time together. HonestyTo be honest means to be sincere, truthful, and without deceit at all times. When we are honest, we are able to enjoy peace of mind, self-respect, and strength of character, which allows us to be of service to God and others. Hope OverviewHope is the confident expectation of and longing for the promised blessings of righteousness. The scriptures often speak of hope as anticipation of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for hope. HumilityJesus Christ is our greatest example of humility. He always acknowledged His dependence on His Father. J Jesus Christ OverviewJesus ChristJesus Christ is the Savior of the world and the Son of Heavenly Father. Because of His atoning sacrifice, we can overcome sin and death and return to the presence of God. OverviewJesus Christ Chosen as SaviorHeavenly Father’s plan of salvation required a Savior to pay for our sins and teach us how to return to God. Jesus volunteered and was chosen by the Father to be our Savior. Gospel Study GuideBirth of Jesus ChristGospel topic study guide for the birth of Jesus Christ. Gospel Study GuideMortal Ministry of Jesus ChristGospel study guide for Mortal Ministry of Jesus Christ. Gospel Study GuideThe Savior and Redeemer of the worldGospel study guide for Jesus Christ. Joseph Smith OverviewAs a boy, Joseph Smith searched for the truth. Jesus Christ chose him to be His prophet and to restore His gospel and His Church to the earth. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Joseph Smith. Joseph Smith’s Teachings about Priesthood, Temple, and WomenWomen and men enjoy many opportunities for service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, both locally and at the Churchwide level. Journal of DiscoursesThe Journal of Discourses is not an official publication of the Church. It is a compilation of sermons, some of which are only of historical interest. Judgment OverviewAll our judgments must be guided by righteous standards. Only God, who knows everyone’s heart, can make final judgments of individuals. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Judgment. JusticeWhen we sin, justice requires that a penalty must be paid. Jesus Christ, through His Atonement, “satisfied the demands of justice” for those who repent. K Kingdoms of GloryAfter this life, we will inherit a kingdom of glory, depending on the depth of our conversion to Jesus Christ and His gospel. L Laying On of HandsThe Lord revealed that certain ordinances are received by the laying on of hands. Those with priesthood authority place their hands on the head of the person receiving the ordinance. Light of ChristThe Light of Christ influences people for good and prepares them to receive the Holy Ghost. One manifestation is what we call a conscience. LoveLove is the defining characteristic of a disciple of Jesus Christ. The greatest example of love is found in the infinite Atonement of Jesus Christ. M Marriage OverviewMarriage between a man and a woman is central to Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness. In His holy temples, a man and a woman can be sealed to one another for time and all eternity. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for marriage. MediaThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has always used a variety of media to share the gospel and move the Lord’s work forward. Melchizedek Priesthood OverviewThe Melchizedek Priesthood is also known as the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God. Through this priesthood, the Lord makes available all the spiritual blessings of His Church. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Melchizedek Priesthood. Membership CouncilsWhen a Church member has committed a serious sin, a membership council helps him or her access the redeeming power of Jesus Christ through repentance. MercyMercy is made is made possible through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and is shown by Heavenly Father when He forgives us of our sins. MillenniumFollowing His Second Coming, “Christ will reign personally upon the earth” for 1,000 years—a period called the Millennium. MinisteringMinistering means loving and serving others the way the Savior did. Miracles OverviewA miracle is a manifestation of God’s power. Many miracles are recorded in the scriptures, and they continue to be an important element in the work of Jesus Christ today. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Miracles. Missionary Work OverviewMissionary work, or sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, is the joyful responsibility of all who follow the Savior. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for inviting all to receive the gospel. ModestyThrough our dress and appearance, we can show the Lord that we respect our bodies as a precious and sacred gift. Mormon ChurchThe Mormon Church is an inaccurate term to describe Christ’s restored Church, which He named The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. MormonismThe teachings and doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are sometimes called Mormonism, though this is not the preferred term. MormonsMembers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are sometimes called Mormons, though this is not the preferred term. Mortality OverviewMortality refers to the time from birth until physical death. This is sometimes called the second estate, where our spirits are united with our bodies. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for mortality. Mother in HeavenThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that all human beings are beloved spirit children of a Heavenly Father and a Heavenly Mother. Mountain Meadows MassacreOn September 11, 1857, approximately 120 emigrants who were traveling by wagon to California were massacred by members of the Church in southern Utah. Movies and TelevisionGospel topic information and links to additional resources MusicPositive, uplifting music can bring feelings of happiness and peace, invite the Spirit of the Lord, and can help us control our thoughts. O Obedience OverviewGod gives commandments for our benefit. Obedience to the commandments leads to blessings from God and shows our love for Him. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Obedience. The Only True and Living ChurchThis document answers common questions about the veracity of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. OrdinancesThe Lord has provided us ordinances to help us come unto Him and receive eternal life. When we honor these ordinances, He strengthens us spiritually. P ParadiseParadise is the part of the spirit world where the righteous spirits who have departed this life await the Resurrection. ParentingThe Lord has commanded parents to “bring up [their] children in light and truth,” including teaching faith in Christ, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost. PatriarchA patriarch is called by the Lord and ordained to give special patriarchal blessings to members of the Church. Patriarchal Blessings OverviewFaithful Latter-day Saints can receive a patriarchal blessing. It includes personal guidance and promises from the Lord and declares the person’s lineage in the house of Israel. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Patriarchal Blessings. PeaceEven when we are surrounded by turmoil, we can find peace in Jesus Christ and His gospel. Peace and Violence among 19th-Century Latter-day SaintsDuring the 1800s Church members were often the victims of—and participated in—violence and persecution. Pearl of Great PriceThe Pearl of Great Price is a book of scripture that includes writings and translations by Joseph Smith. Plan of Salvation OverviewThe plan of salvation is our Heavenly Father’s plan to help us grow to become like Him and obtain eternal life. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the Plan of Salvation. Plural MarriageMarriage between one man and one woman is the Lord’s standing law of marriage. Plural Marriage and Families in Early UtahGospel topic information and links to additional resources Plural Marriage in Kirtland and NauvooGospel topic information and links to additional resources PornographyPornography is any depiction, in pictures or writing, that is intended to inappropriately arouse sexual feelings. PostmortalityPostmortality refers to the period of our eternal existence after our death. Prayer OverviewOur Heavenly Father invites us, His children, to communicate with Him in prayer. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for prayer. Premortal Life OverviewPremortality refers to our life before we were born on this earth, when we lived in the presence of our Heavenly Father as His spirit children. Gospel Study GuidePremortal life refers to our life before we were born on this earth, when we lived in the presence of our Heavenly Father as His spirit children. PriestGospel topic information and links to additional resources PriesthoodThe priesthood is the power and authority that God gives to man to act in all things necessary for the salvation of God’s children. Priesthood and RaceIn 1978, a revelation from God allowed worthy Latter-day Saints of all races to receive the priesthood and temple blessings. Priesthood Blessing OverviewA priesthood blessing is given by a Melchizedek Priesthood holder, by the laying on of hands and by inspiration, for comfort or healing. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for priesthood blessing. Priesthood KeysGospel study guide for Priesthood Keys. Prison MinistryJesus Christ taught that His disciples minister to those in need, including those who are imprisoned. Prophets OverviewLike the prophets of old, prophets today testify of Jesus Christ, teach His gospel, and reveal God’s will and true character. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for prophets. Church and Gospel QuestionsThis document answers common questions about the role of prophets in our day. Q QuorumPriesthood holders are organized into quorums who serve together and support one another in fulfilling their duties. Quorum of the Twelve ApostlesThe Twelve Apostles are chosen as special witnesses of Jesus Christ to all the world. They serve and counsel together as a quorum. R Race and the PriesthoodIn 1978, a revelation from God allowed worthy Latter-day Saints of all races to receive the priesthood and temple blessings. Racial and Cultural PrejudiceEvery person is a child of God and part of His divine family. He does not love one race or culture more than any other. Relief SocietyThe purpose of Relief Society is to help prepare women for the blessings of eternal life as they increase faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Religious FreedomFreedom of religion is a basic principle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a fundamental human right. Repentance OverviewRepentance includes turning away from sin and turning to God for forgiveness. It is possible because Jesus Christ took upon Himself our sins as part of His atoning sacrifice. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for repentance. Restoration of the Gospel OverviewAfter the death of Jesus’s original Apostles, the gospel was taken from the earth, but the Lord has since restored the fulness of His gospel through Joseph Smith. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the Restoration of the Gospel. Restoration of the Priesthood OverviewAfter the death of Jesus’s original Apostles, the priesthood was taken from the earth. It was restored to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery by John the Baptist and Peter, James, and John. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Restoration of the priesthood. Resurrection OverviewThrough the Atonement of Jesus Christ, all people will be resurrected and saved from physical death. Gospel Study GuideGospel topic study guide for the resurrection. Revelation OverviewOur Heavenly Father communicates with His children through revelation—both to prophets and other leaders and to individuals to help us with our personal needs and questions. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for revelation. ReverenceA reverent attitude toward God includes honoring Him, expressing gratitude to Him, and obeying His commandments. S Sabbath Day OverviewThe Sabbath is the Lord’s day, set apart each week for rest and worship. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Sabbath Day. Sacrament OverviewThe sacrament is an ordinance in which Church members partake of bread and water in remembrance of Jesus Christ’s atoning sacrifice. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for sacrament. Sacrament MeetingSacrament meetings are the most sacred meetings in the Church. In these meetings, members of the Church renew their covenants to follow Jesus Christ. Sacrifice OverviewSacrifice has always been a part of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is a reminder of His Atonement for all who have lived or will live on earth. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for sacrifice. Salvation OverviewThrough the grace of God, all can be saved from their sins as they repent and follow Jesus Christ. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for salvation. Same-Sex AttractionPeople who experience same-sex attraction can make and keep covenants with God and participate fully in the Church. Same-Sex MarriageMarriage between a man and a woman was instituted by God and is central to His plan for His children and for the well-being of society. SatanSatan, also called the adversary or the devil, is the enemy of all righteousness and of those who seek to follow God. Scriptures OverviewThe principal purpose of scriptures is to testify of Jesus Christ and to guide the children of God so they can come unto Him and receive eternal life. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for scriptures. SealingSealing is an ordinance performed in the temple, eternally uniting a husband and wife or children and their parents. Second Coming of Jesus Christ OverviewWhen the Savior comes again, He will come in power and glory to reign on earth during an era of peace and righteousness. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Self-RelianceThe purpose of becoming spiritually and temporally self-reliant is to better serve the Lord and care for others. ServiceDuring His ministry on the earth, Jesus Christ spent His time serving and helping others. True disciples of Christ do likewise. Sex Education and BehaviorAs children mature, it is normal for them to have sexual feelings. Parents should teach them to follow the Lord’s teachings in dealing with those feelings. SinTo commit sin is to willfully disobey God’s commandments or to fail to act righteously despite a knowledge of the truth. Single Adult Members of the ChurchSingle adults—divorced, widowed, or never married—serve and worship in the Church alongside other members. Single-Parent FamiliesThe gospel of Jesus Christ was given by God to bless all His children, without exception, regardless of their family situations. SoulIn scripture, the term soul is used as a synonym for spirit, to describe a person in four different phases of his or her eternal existence. Spaulding ManuscriptSome critics of the Church have claimed that Joseph Smith used the Spaulding manuscript to write the Book of Mormon—a claim that has been discredited. SpiritEach individual is a spirit child of Heavenly Father and existed as a spirit before this life on earth. During this life, the spirit of the individual is housed in a physical body, which was born of mortal parents. Spirit Children of Heavenly ParentsBecause we are the spirit children of God, we have inherited the potential to develop His divine qualities. Spiritual ExperiencesGod blesses His children throughout the world with inspiration and other spiritual feelings, many of which are manifestations of the Light of Christ. Spiritual GiftsSpiritual gifts are blessings or abilities given by God to His children through the power of the Holy Ghost. Gifts of the Spirit are given to bless and benefit those who love the Lord and seek to keep His commandments. Spirit World OverviewWhen we die, our spirits separate from our bodies and await the Resurrection in the spirit world. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for Spirit World StakeA stake is a group of about five to ten Church congregations, generally consisting of about 3,000 to 5,000 members. Standard WorksThe standard works are the volumes of scripture officially accepted by the Church—the Holy Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. StewardshipStewardship is the responsibility to administer or attend to the assignments one receives in the Church and kingdom of God. SuicideIf you or someone you know is considering suicide, please reach out and talk to someone who can provide the right help. T Tattooing and Body PiercingOur bodies are a gift from God. Prophets have warned against tattooing and excessive piercing. Teacher (Aaronic Priesthood)Those who are ordained to the office of teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood have the duty to prepare the sacrament and watch over the Church. Teaching the Gospel OverviewAll Church members have the responsibility to teach the gospel by the Spirit through word and example, even if they do not have a formal assignment as a teacher in the Church. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for learning and teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. Telestial KingdomThe telestial kingdom is the lowest of the three degrees or kingdoms of glory in heaven. In the scriptures it is compared the glory of the stars. Temples OverviewTemples are literally houses of the Lord. They are holy places of worship where individuals make sacred covenants with God. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for temples. TemptationTemptation is a test of a person’s desires to choose good instead of evil. It is an enticement to sin and follow Satan instead of God. Ten CommandmentsObedience to the Ten Commandments paves the way for obedience to other gospel principles. Terrestrial KingdomThe terrestrial kingdom is the second degree or kingdom of the three degrees of glory in heaven. In the scriptures it is compared to the glory of the moon. TestimonyA testimony is a spiritual witness given by the Holy Ghost. The Manifesto and the End of Plural MarriageThe Manifesto marked the beginning of the return to monogamy, which is the standard of the Church today. Tithing OverviewThe Bible indicates that God’s people followed the law of tithing anciently; through modern prophets, God restored this law once again to bless His children. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for tithing. TransgenderThose who identify themselves as transgender—as well as their family and friends—should be treated with Christlike love. TransgressionTransgression is the violation or breaking of a commandment or law set by God. Translation and Historicity of the Book of AbrahamThe book of Abraham’s status as scripture ultimately rests on faith in the saving truths found in the book, as witnessed by the Holy Ghost. Transparency about Church HistoryThis document answers common questions related to transparency about the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. TruthGospel study guide for truth. U UnityThe gospel unites us with Heavenly Father, with Jesus Christ, and with each other. Unwed PregnancyBeing pregnant and unmarried can be a difficult time in a person’s life. Our loving Heavenly Father is willing to offer guidance and comfort in such situations. Urim and ThummimGospel topic information and links to additional resources V Vicarious WorkVicarious ordinances are religious ordinances performed by a living person in behalf of one who is dead. VirtueVirtue is a pattern of thought and behavior based on high moral standards. It encompasses chastity and moral purity. W WarIf Latter-day Saints must go to war, they should go in a spirit of truth and righteousness, with a desire to do good. War in HeavenBecause our Heavenly Father chose Jesus Christ to be our Savior, Satan became angry and rebelled. There was war in heaven. WitnessA witness is a statement or other evidence that something is true. It can also refer to someone who gives a statement based on personal knowledge. Women in the ChurchWomen apply their God-given talents and abilities as they participate in all aspects the Lord’s work of salvation and exaltation. Word of Wisdom OverviewGod has revealed the Word of Wisdom as a commandment for the physical and spiritual benefit of His children. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for the Word of Wisdom. Worship OverviewTo worship God is to give Him our love, reverence, service, and devotion. Gospel Study GuideGospel study guide for worshiping God the Father. Z ZionLatter-day Saints strive to build up Zion wherever they live, beginning in their own hearts and homes.