Jesus Christ Established His Church

From the time of the Creation, the children of God looked forward to the coming of the Savior Jesus Christ. As He had promised, Heavenly Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth over 2,000 years ago.

Jesus Christ lived a perfect, sinless life. He established His Church, taught His gospel, and performed many miracles. He chose twelve men to be His Apostles, including Peter, James, and John. He taught them and gave them priesthood authority to teach in His name and to perform sacred ordinances, such as baptism.

Jesus Christ organized His Church:

• He called and ordained Apostles.

• He gave them His authority to teach and baptize. This authority is called the priesthood.

• After His death and Resurrection, He continued to guide the Apostles through revelation.

When Jesus established His Church, He received instructions from Heavenly Father. He then instructed His disciples. Jesus taught His followers that revelation from God was the rock on which He would build His Church.

At the end of His life, Jesus Christ suffered and died for the sins of everyone who has lived or who will live on earth. This sacrifice is called the Atonement. Through His suffering, death, and Resurrection, the Savior made it possible for us to be forgiven. Those who have faith in Him, repent, and keep His commandments receive forgiveness of sins and are filled with peace and joy.

After His Resurrection, Jesus Christ guided His Apostles through revelation. The Bible records many ways in which He continued to direct His Church (see Acts 10; Revelation 1:1). Thus the Church of Jesus Christ was led by God and not by men.