What Does It Mean to Sustain the Prophet?
To sustain means to support.
When members of the Church sustain the President of the Church, they are expressing their willingness to support him in the sacred responsibility God has given him.
Sustaining the prophet is much more than raising our hand during general conference.
It means listening to his counsel, praying for him, seeking our own witness that his teachings come from God, and striving to apply those teachings in our lives.
It also means serving faithfully wherever we are called in the Church. Whether our responsibility is large or small, every act of willing service helps build the Lord's kingdom.
Sustaining does not mean believing the prophet is perfect. Rather, it means trusting that Jesus Christ leads His Church and calls prophets to guide it.
Why Does God Call Prophets?
Throughout the Bible, God called prophets to guide His people.
He called Noah to preach repentance.
He called Moses to lead Israel.
He called Isaiah, Jeremiah, and many others to testify of Christ.
Jesus Christ called Apostles and gave them authority to lead His Church.
God's pattern has always been to reveal His will through prophets.
There is much confusion in the world today, with countless opinions about truth and how we should live.
Because God loves His children, He continues to call prophets to provide clear direction and help us stay centered on Jesus Christ.
The President of the Church receives revelation for the Church as a whole, while each of us can seek personal revelation to guide our own lives and families.
How Do We Sustain the Prophet Today?
We sustain the prophet when we:
- Study his teachings.
- Pray for him.
- Seek our own witness through the Holy Ghost.
- Apply his counsel in our daily lives.
- Serve faithfully in our Church callings.
- Speak respectfully about the Lord's servants.
As we do these things, we strengthen our own faith and help build unity within the Church.
Why Does This Matter in Temple Preparation?
Temple covenants invite us to become true disciples of Jesus Christ.
Part of that discipleship includes following the pattern God has established for leading His Church.
Sustaining the prophet is ultimately an expression of faith in Jesus Christ, who stands at the head of His Church.
As we follow the counsel the Lord gives through His prophet, we can move forward with confidence, knowing He will guide His Church according to His will.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does sustaining the prophet mean believing he is perfect?
No.
Prophets are mortal men who rely on Jesus Christ. We sustain them because we believe God has called them to lead His Church.
Can I receive my own revelation?
Yes.
Every person can receive personal revelation for their own life. The President of the Church receives revelation for the Church as a whole.
Why is there only one President of the Church?
The Lord has consistently worked through prophets to lead His covenant people. Today, the President of the Church fulfills that role as the Lord's prophet on the earth.
Scriptures to Study
- Amos 3:7
- Ephesians 4:11–14
- Hebrews 13:7, 17
- Matthew 16:13–19
- Doctrine and Covenants 1:38
- Doctrine and Covenants 21
Final Thoughts
God has always guided His people through prophets.
That pattern continues today.
As we sustain the President of the Church, study his teachings, and seek our own witness through prayer, we strengthen our relationship with Jesus Christ and prepare ourselves to make and keep sacred temple covenants.
If we faithfully follow the Lord's prophet, we can have confidence that He will continue to guide His Church and help us stay rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We hope this article has helped you better understand what it means to sustain the President of the Church and strengthened your faith in Jesus Christ and His restored Church. Our prayer is that every resource we create points you toward the Savior and helps you prepare to make and keep sacred temple covenants.
Thank you for spending part of your temple journey with us.
— Scott & Riah Brough
Brough Made
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