Commandments

In the New Testament, Jesus declared, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that God gives us commandments because He loves us. God’s laws can help us avoid things that create sorrow or lead us to sin and actively seek things that will bring us eternal joy. Our Heavenly Father gives us commandments because He knows what is best for us and wants us to return to live with Him again. Additionally, we show our love for God when we obey Him. Obedience shows that our priorities are in line with what God wants for us. Commandments also keep us safe from outside influences that can negatively affect our faith.

When we think of commandments, we often think of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments. Members of the Church follow the Ten Commandments in addition to other holy laws meant to bring us joy. The complete list of standards that Church members hold themselves to can be found in the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet. Prophets are called of God to give laws and standards that relate specifically to the difficult challenges of our day.

By searching this collection of talks, you will find diverse perspectives on why commandments are necessary and how we can keep them better. We invite you to listen to these scholars and disciples of Christ as they testify of how commandments have helped them reach their full potential in this life. Their stories and insights are incredibly valuable and necessary in an age when obedience to God is considered trivial in comparison to moving up the ladder of worldly success.