The Sacrament of Faith is a holy covenant and a union with the divine that strengthens believers as they grow in their spiritual gifts and service to God. Each individual is blessed with unique gifts of the Spirit, bestowed upon them to help build up the Church and bless others. By recognizing, nurturing, and utilizing these gifts, we can deepen our faith and live a life that reflects Christ’s love.
We believe in the powers and gifts of the Everlasting Gospel; the gift of faith, discerning of spirits, tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, wisdom, charity, brotherly love, and so forth.” –Doctrines of the Saints 3b:7
The Sacrament of Faith is a Sacrament of Union for all believers. Regardless of one’s calling, we all have been blessed with gifts of the Spirit that we use to help one another grow in Christ.
Key Concepts
- The Gifts of the Spirit: Every believer is given spiritual gifts, such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, prophecy, and charity, to fulfill God’s work (Doctrines of the Saints 3b:7; Moroni 10:9-13).
- Faith as a Living Gift: Faith is both a gift and a practice. As we grow in our relationship with God, our faith deepens and transforms our lives, empowering us to serve others.
- Unity through the Sacrament of Faith: This sacrament symbolizes the unity of all believers, celebrating the shared gifts of the Spirit and calling individuals to strengthen the community of Christ through their unique contributions.
And there are different ways that these gifts are administered; but it is the same God who worketh all in all; and they are given by the manifestations of the Spirit of God unto men to profit them.
“For behold, to one is given by the Spirit of God that he may teach the word of wisdom; and to another, that he may teach the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; and to another, exceeding great faith; and to another, the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; and again, to another, that he may work mighty miracles; and again, to another, that he may prophesy concerning all things; and again, to another, the beholding of angels and ministering spirits; and again, to another, all kinds of tongues; and again, to another, the interpretation of languages and of divers kinds of tongues. And all these gifts come by the Spirit of Christ; and they come unto every man severally according as he will.
And I would exhort you, my beloved brethren, that ye remember that every good gift cometh of Christ.” –Moroni 10:9-13 [10:8b-18]
Faith as a Gift
Faith is not static; it grows as we nurture it through prayer, study, and practice. The Sacrament of Faith reminds us of this truth, calling us to actively seek Christ’s presence in our lives. Consider Moroni’s reminder:
And all these gifts come by the Spirit of Christ; and they come unto every man severally according as he will.” -Moroni 10:12 [10:17]
Recognizing Spiritual Gifts
Take time to reflect on the spiritual gifts God has given you. Gifts may include wisdom, healing, teaching, or prophecy. These gifts are not for personal glory but are tools to serve others and glorify God.
Every good gift cometh of Christ.” -Moroni 10:13 [10:18]
Unity in Service
The Sacrament of Faith unites believers in Christ’s mission. Just as the body of Christ has many parts, each believer plays a unique role in advancing God’s work. Through the sacrament, we renew our commitment to use our gifts to serve and uplift one another.
As we grow in the Gospel, we learn what our gifts are, and how to use them to bless others in God’s name. To grow and express our faith, we pray and we listen. As we grow in our personal relationships with God we will grow in the Grace and are moved by the Holy Spirit to paratke of further sacraments. As we grow, our gifts of faith will grow as well. These gifts will help us in serivce to our God.
Discussion Questions
If you are taking this course independently, please use the quiz to turn in your answers.
- What spiritual gifts do you believe God has given you? How can you use these gifts to serve others?
- How does participating in the Sacrament of Faith deepen your relationship with God?
- What does it mean to you that faith is both a gift from God and a practice to be cultivated?
Suggested Actions to Grow in Faith
- Daily Reflection and Prayer: Spend time each day in quiet reflection, asking God to reveal your gifts and guide you in their use. Record your thoughts and inspirations in a journal.
- Serve with Intention: Identify one way to use your spiritual gifts in service this week, whether through teaching, helping someone in need, or sharing the Gospel.
- Study the Scriptures: Read Moroni 10:9-13 [10:8b-18] and ponder how the gifts of the Spirit are working in your life. Reflect on how faith connects you to others in the body of Christ.
Final Thought/Final Meditation
“Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” -Hebrews 11:1
Close your eyes and take a moment to breathe deeply. Reflect on the gifts God has placed in your life. Imagine those gifts as a light within you, shining outward and blessing others. Ask God to guide your steps, strengthen your faith, and inspire your actions as you live out the Sacrament of Faith.