The gospel is a gospel of action.

Mosiah 4:1-5

I had a lot of interruptions this morning as I read, but I did some serious pondering of these five verses.  After King Benjamin has talked with the people, they realized they needed to repent – “. . .they viewed themselves in their own carnal state. . .” (v2)   They believed in the Savior and his promise to atone for their sins and prayed for forgiveness.  Key words:  “. . .for we believe in Jesus Christ. . .”  What happened when they said these words?  In verse three it says “. . .after they had spoken these words. . .”  After we exercise the faith to believe and pray for forgiveness, we can have joy!  Our sins are remitted and we are free to move forward with our lives.  We will feel peace because of our faith.

Is that all that is necessary?  For that moment in time, it is enough.  But what happens then?  King Benjamin continues to speak to them.    I will focus more on the “what” tomorrow.  But we must understand that believing is only the first step.  We must continue to believe and then act according to that belief.   

I just read the conference talk by O. Vincent Haleck “Having the Vision to Do”.  This entire talk is on “doing”.  We must act according to our beliefs.  The talk is about discipleship – being a disciple of Christ.  Sixteen times he uses the word “act”.  The Gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel that requires action on our part.  As we act, we are given more to do and the strength to do it.  We are given the power of the Holy Ghost to know what we need to do.  When we see someone struggling with their testimony, it is because of their failure to act when they are given direction be it from our Prophet through a conference talk or through the Holy Ghost.  I’ve seen it enough in my own life and the lives of those I love to recognize it.  The gospel is a gospel of action.  If you aren’t acting as a disciple of Christ, you are in danger.