Primer on Sacrifice

There is a distinct pattern that can be found in the scriptures detailing the manner in which faith is developed. This pattern was established before the foundation of the world and has not changed from the dispensation of Adam down to this, the dispensation of the fullness of times. This is namely, the pattern of sacrifice.

Joseph Smith taught this principle saying, “A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has the power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation.” (Lectures on Faith, p.69)

Here the Prophet explains the direct connection between what we are willing to sacrifice and our level of faith. Is it any wonder the pioneer history of this dispensation is replete with stories of faith? Is it any wonder the scriptures are bursting with stories of faith? Consider for a moment what the saints in these stories were required to sacrifice. From Adam to Abraham and from Joseph of Egypt to Joseph Smith, we see that the Lord ordains sacrifice as a means to build faith, and faith is necessary for salvation.

Brigham Young explained it this way, “All intelligent beings who are crowned with crowns of glory, immortality, and eternal lives must pass through every ordeal appointed for intelligent beings to pass through, to gain their glory and exaltation.” (Discourses of Brigham Young p.345)

In other words, there is no shortcut. The scriptures teach we must be tried even as Abraham if we want equal glory with him. (D&C 101:4-5)

Follow along in the coming weeks as we take a closer look at what it means to be tried as Abraham.