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Fundamental to sharing the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ is a solid knowledge of the Doctrine of The Godhead; namely the true nature of God, The Son, The Holy Spirit, and their relationship to humankind. In part 1 of our Basic Doctrines series, we interview Robert Millet, who was a professor of many religion courses at the University level include at BYU. We discuss the true, revealed and enduring teachings about The Godhead.
Each episode in this Basic Doctrines series will come with source material to official teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the various doctrines, as well as resources to support it as a “doctrine” of the church. For an introduction on what is meant by a Doctrine or what is a Policy or Practice of the church, please listen to our introductory episode with Mike Goodman by clicking here.
Here is the official teaching on The Godhead from the Church’s official website:
There are three separate personages in the Godhead: God, the Eternal Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and the Holy Ghost (see Joseph Smith—History 1:15–20). The Father and the Son have tangible bodies of flesh and bone, and the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit (see D&C 130:22–23). They are one in purpose and doctrine. They are perfectly united in bringing to pass Heavenly Father’s divine plan of salvation.
The Godhead – God the Father
God the Father is the Supreme Ruler of the universe. He is the Father of our spirits (see Hebrews 12:9). He is perfect, has all power, and knows all things. He is also a God of perfect mercy, kindness, and charity.
The Godhead – Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the Firstborn of the Father in the spirit and is the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh. He is Jehovah of the Old Testament and the Messiah of the New Testament.
Jesus Christ lived a sinless life and made a perfect Atonement for the sins of all mankind (see Alma 7:11–13). His life is the perfect example of how all mankind should live (see John 14:6; 3 Nephi 12:48). He was the first person on this earth to be resurrected (see 1 Corinthians 15:20–22). He will come again in power and glory and will reign on the earth during the Millennium.
All prayers, blessings, and priesthood ordinances should be done in the name of Jesus Christ (see 3 Nephi 18:15, 20–21).
Related references: Helaman 5:12; D&C 19:23; D&C 76:22–24
The Godhead – The Holy Ghost
The Holy Ghost is the third member of the Godhead. He is a personage of spirit without a body of flesh and bones. He is often referred to as the Spirit, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God, the Spirit of the Lord, and the Comforter.
The Holy Ghost bears witness of the Father and the Son, reveals the truth of all things, and sanctifies those who repent and are baptized (see Moroni 10:4–5).
Related references: Galatians 5:22–23; D&C 8:2–3
Additional References or Sources on The Godhead include:
The Father and the Son – A Doctrinal Exposition by the First Presidency
The Living Christ – THE TESTIMONY OF THE APOSTLES
Future episodes will continue to feature one of the 9 basic doctrines as outlined on the Church’s official website. Please subscribe to the podcast as we interview scholars who help us to come to a greater understanding of the official teachings of the Church and its leadership.
Brother Millet was Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on 30 December 1947. Served in Eastern States Mission from 1967-69. Married Shauna Sizemore in 1971; six children. Received B.S., M.S. degrees in Psychology from BYU; Ph.D. from Florida State University in Religious Studies. Worked with LDS Social Services, LDS Seminaries and Institutes, and joined BYU Religious Education faculty in 1983. Served as Ancient Scripture Department Chair and as Dean of Religious Education. (from BYU.edu)