For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), the Melchizedek Priesthood is a sacred and important aspect of their spiritual journey. As individuals progress in their faith, they may be invited to participate in an interview to obtain the Melchizedek Priesthood. This article will explore the common questions asked during these interviews, providing insight and guidance for those going through the process.
What Questions are Asked at the Melchizedek Priesthood Interview?
The Melchizedek Priesthood interview is a chance for church leaders to assess an individual’s worthiness and readiness to receive this higher level of priesthood authority. While the specific questions asked may vary slightly depending on the leader conducting the interview, there are several common themes that are typically covered. The following are some of the questions that may be asked during a Melchizedek Priesthood interview:
1. Do you believe in God the Eternal Father, in His Son Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost?
This question is asked to ensure that the individual has a firm belief in the basic tenets of the LDS Church. It affirms their faith in the Godhead and their understanding of the role of each member.
2. Do you sustain the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the prophet, seer, and revelator, and as the only person on the earth who possesses and is authorized to exercise all priesthood keys?
By asking this question, church leaders ensure that the individual recognizes the authority and leadership of the President of the LDS Church. It emphasizes the importance of following the guidance and teachings of the prophet.
3. Do you sustain the other General Authorities and local leaders of the Church?
Similar to the previous question, this one focuses on the individual’s willingness to sustain and support the leaders of the church. It reinforces the concept of unity and the importance of following the counsel given by those in leadership positions.
4. Have you ever been involved in any activity that could be considered a serious violation of the law of chastity?
One of the core principles of the LDS Church is the law of chastity, which encompasses sexual purity and fidelity. This question is asked to ensure that the individual has been living in accordance with this principle and has not engaged in any inappropriate sexual behavior.
5. Do you keep the Word of Wisdom?
The Word of Wisdom is a health code followed by members of the LDS Church, which includes abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea. This question is asked to ensure that the individual is living a healthy and clean lifestyle in accordance with this principle.
6. Are you honest in your dealings with your fellowmen?
Honesty is a fundamental principle in the LDS Church. This question is asked to assess the individual’s integrity and their commitment to being honest and fair in their interactions with others.
7. Are you a full-tithe payer?
Tithing is a voluntary contribution of 10% of one’s income to the LDS Church. This question is asked to determine if the individual is faithfully fulfilling their financial obligations to the church.
8. Have you ever been involved in or affiliated with any group or individual whose teachings or practices are contrary to or oppose those accepted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
As the LDS Church places a strong emphasis on unity and doctrinal consistency, this question is asked to ensure that the individual has not been involved with any groups or individuals that teach beliefs contrary to those of the church.
9. Do you strive to keep the covenants you have made, to attend your sacrament and other meetings, and to keep your life in harmony with the laws and commandments of the gospel?
This question assesses the individual’s commitment to living a faithful and obedient life. It focuses on their efforts to keep the covenants they have made and attend church meetings regularly.
10. Are you willing to take upon yourself the name of Jesus Christ, always remember Him, and keep His commandments?
This question emphasizes the individual’s willingness to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and to strive to follow His teachings and commandments throughout their life.
What are the Qualities of a Worthy Melchizedek Priesthood Holder?
Obtaining the Melchizedek Priesthood is a significant milestone in the life of a member of the LDS Church. In addition to answering the interview questions correctly, there are several qualities that are important for a worthy Melchizedek Priesthood holder:
- Purity: A worthy Melchizedek Priesthood holder strives to live a life of moral purity, avoiding sin and temptation.
- Faithfulness: They demonstrate faithfulness in their commitment to the gospel and their willingness to follow the teachings of the church.
- Humility: They possess a humble and teachable spirit, recognizing their dependence on God and their need for His guidance.
- Service: They actively seek opportunities to serve others and contribute to the well-being of their community and fellow church members.
- Obedience: They willingly obey the commandments of God and the counsel of church leaders, recognizing their authority.
- Knowledge: They diligently study and seek to understand the scriptures and teachings of the LDS Church, striving to deepen their knowledge and testimony.
Final Thoughts
The Melchizedek Priesthood interview is an important step in the spiritual journey of LDS Church members. It serves as a means to assess an individual’s worthiness and readiness to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood. By understanding the questions that may be asked and the qualities of a worthy Melchizedek Priesthood holder, individuals can better prepare themselves for this significant milestone in their faith.
