The Unauthorized Investigator's Guide to
The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints

Lesson 3

The Gift of the Holy Ghost

The Missionaries Will Teach...

Jesus said that we must be born by water and by the spirit.  The only way to be forgiven of our sins and be spiritually reborn is through the gift of the Holy Ghost; when we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, our new spiritual life as disciples of Jesus Christ begins.

After somebody is baptized, one or more authorized holders of the priesthood will lay their hands on your head and confirm you a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  They'll then confer upon you the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

After this ordinance is done, you are eligible to have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost.  The Holy Ghost has several effects upon us: he testifies of Jesus Christ, he helps us to know truth, he helps us to do what is right, he cleanses and sanctifies us, he provides us with the power to grow and learn, helps us feel God's love and direction, and warns us of spiritual danger. 

Only members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can have this gift because God only gives it to people who have received the priesthood ordinance through authorized members of God's one and only true church.  This priesthood authority was lost centuries ago and wasn't restored to the earth until Joseph Smith.  This is why the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is unique: God said that it is "the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth." (D&C 1:30).


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If you have a question or would like to discuss these topics, I suggest that you go to a Mormon-related bulletin board (here are some recommendations). If you'd like to contact me with comments or feedback, you may send an email to analytics@lds4u.com.