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4th Article Of Faith

We have touched on this topic already a few times.

I think that this particular article of faith is pretty self-explanatory. Faith lays a foundation and gives a reason for repentance. Repentance prepares for baptism. Once a person has been baptized, they are prepared to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Faith Article th

Since each sets up the other, this is almost like a plan for reaching another stage, preparing you for what ever is next? If I'm understanding, from first to last, each one would necessarily come before the next? I guess what I'm trying to get into words is can you receive the holy spirit before baptism or does it necessarily come afterwards, or am I taking to much from this article of faith?

4th Article Of Faith Studies Doctrine Mormon

You are taking it exactly right.

This is the core of what we call the "Plan of Salvation" or the "Plan of Happiness". It is a progression.

It is possible to have repentance without faith, but it is far less effective. You can be baptized without either faith or repentance, but if you do, then it is just getting a quick bath, without any spiritual effect.

The big question is the one that you asked. It is the huge difference between Mormonism and modern Christianity, especially the evangelical and fundamentalist movements.

You can receive guidance, a testimony, even visions, dreams, and revelation from the Holy Ghost without baptism. These things are temporary. The Gift of the Holy Ghost is a much different thing. It CAN be a constant guiding companion, leading a person in all their actions, guiding them to Truth, and confirming that it really is Truth.

To receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost not only requires an ordinance, it requires that the person actively seek the Gift, preparing himself or herself to receive it. While this takes "work", it is a work of preparation, of making oneself READY, as the Gift brings with it responsibility as well as great blessings.

This particular Article of Faith contains probably the simplest yet most profound concepts within our religion.

Faith Article th

I agree that this particular Article of Faith possibly contains the simplest yet most profound concepts within our religion.

One of those profound concepts came to my mind during a recent sacrament talk on this subject. It was stated that we must remember that one of the first principles and ordinances of the gospel is Faith in Christ. This is the key. The Article of faith does not state that one must have faith alone, but states that one must have Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Although this is a simple concept, it makes tremendous sense.