"And he commandeth all men that they must repent, and be baptized in his name, having perfect faith in the Holy One of Israel, or they cannot be saved in the kingdom of God." (2 Nephi 9:23)
Jesus Christ suffered for our sins. He took upon Himself all of our pains and afflictions.
So how can we expect to go through life without enduring some miniscule measure of the pain He suffered? How can we expect to be saved simply by saying we believe in Him?
We are repeatedly commanded in the scriptures to have faith. Faith is a principle of action. Belief alone is not enough. We learn this principle in James 2:17-18—
"Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works."
The way to return to live with our Father in Heaven is clear. My purpose as a missionary focuses on showing others that way. I invite others to come unto Christ through faith, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. These principles and ordinances are necessary for our salvation.
We demonstrate our faith in Jesus Christ by obeying commandments and serving Him, just was we would demonstrate love for a child or spouse by serving them.
How can we develop 'perfect faith' in Jesus Christ?
If we study Jesus Christ, utilize the Atonement,and try to be like Him, our faith in Him will grow. Our faith won't be perfect in just a day (it will be a life-long experience!), but, "by small and simple things are great things brought to pass" (Alma 37:6).
ReplyDeleteI completely agree, Kate. Faith comes over time, not all at once. I think the world sometimes has a mistaken concept of faith. It's not a single event that gives us our faith; it's daily living of gospel principles that builds our faith.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments :)