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| From "Historic Photo of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in Rome" |
Members of the First Presidency are Apostles of Jesus Christ. Along with the other Apostles, they are special witnesses of Jesus Christ, called to teach and testify of Him throughout the world. They travel frequently, addressing and encouraging large congregations of Church members and others, as well as meeting with Church leaders. They seek direction from Jesus Christ as they oversee matters that affect millions of Church members all over the world. These matters include missionary work, humanitarian aid, temple service, gospel instruction, and much more.
How were they called?
The President of the Church is always the senior Apostle—the person who has served as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for the longest time. When a Church President dies, the next senior Apostle becomes the President of the Church and chooses counselors to serve with him in the First Presidency. While all members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are sustained as "prophets, seers, and revelators," the term "the prophet" refers to the President of the Church. Through the inspired messages of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the Lord gives instruction to His Church, including guidance that helps members with the challenges they experience in life. The First Presidency was originally organized by Joseph Smith, the Church’s first prophet.
What's their calling?
In doctrine, we are reminded of their roles in scriptures such as Ephesians 4:11-12: "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ." This clarifies that their calling is divinely appointed, purposed for edifying the Church and perfecting the saints.
When we ponder on the journey of these leaders, we might consider the words of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: "The fundamental responsibility of prophets, apostles, and general authorities of any kind is to bear witness of Jesus Christ, declaring His divinity and mission to both believers and non-believers as appropriate to the circumstances." ("A Teacher Come from God," Ensign, May 1998).
So, this People claime to be perfect?
Each Apostle's testimony of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of their ministry. As Elder David A. Bednar explained, "The call to be an Apostle does not mean the individual becomes perfect; it means the Lord will magnify the individual in his service as he seeks to serve and testify of Christ." ("Called to the Work," Ensign, May 2017).
Which specific Areas of the Church they Serve?
The First Presidency's divine direction permeates many aspects of Church life. For instance, their guidance in missionary work is significant. President Russell M. Nelson once said, "Every person who has made covenants with God has promised to share the gospel with others" ("Advancing Christ's Cause," Ensign, November 2019). They help ensure that the missionary efforts are aligned with the Lord’s work and teachings worldwide.
Their oversight of humanitarian services is equally crucial. In James 1:27, we read, "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." Reflecting this, President Nelson has emphasized the importance of caring for others: "We are followers of Jesus Christ. The most important thing we can do in our work and our family is to foster love and charity" ("A New Normal," Ensign, November 2018).
Temple service, another essential focus, is richly enhanced by their leadership. Elder Quentin L. Cook noted, "The ordinances of the temple and the covenants you make there are key to overcoming the world and preparing for a celestial home" ("Prepare to Meet God,” Ensign, May 2018). The First Presidency ensures that temples are places of peace and spiritual strength for all who enter.
The responsibility of gospel instruction also falls under their purview, ensuring that members are spiritually nourished. As instructed in Doctrine and Covenants 43:8-9, "And now, behold, I give unto you a commandment, that when ye are assembled together ye shall instruct and edify each other, that ye may know how to act and direct my church, how to act upon the points of my law and commandments, which I have given." Their teachings help members gain a greater understanding of the gospel and apply it to their lives.
Do they vote for the next successions?
The succession of Church leadership is divinely organized. "The succession is orderly and not by advance electioneering or because someone is ambitious to occupy a position," Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin taught ("Church Government through Councils,” Ensign, May 1994). The senior Apostle stepping into the role of President showcases both the order and divine hand in the administration of the Church.
With their enduring testimony, the leaders constantly underscore the importance of heeding their counsel. President Nelson urges, "Listen to the whisperings of the Spirit... listen to those who hold the priesthood. They will guide you safely home" ("Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives," Ensign, May 2018).
Why do we need additional words aside from the Bible?
Hence, the First Presidency and members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles diligently seek the Lord's direction. Their inspired messages help us navigate life's challenges and keep us anchored in faith. As the Church continues to grow globally, its leadership remains a beacon, guiding members to Christ and fostering unity and charity throughout the world.
The First Presidency, initially organized by Joseph Smith, continues to fulfill its foundational role, ensuring the Church is led by divine guidance. Through their dedicated service and profound testimonies, they stand as special witnesses, bringing the light of Christ into the lives of millions.
How were they called?
The President of the Church is always the senior Apostle—the person who has served as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles for the longest time. When a Church President dies, the next senior Apostle becomes the President of the Church and chooses counselors to serve with him in the First Presidency. While all members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are sustained as "prophets, seers, and revelators," the term "the prophet" refers to the President of the Church. Through the inspired messages of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the Lord gives instruction to His Church, including guidance that helps members with the challenges they experience in life. The First Presidency was originally organized by Joseph Smith, the Church’s first prophet.
What's their calling?
In doctrine, we are reminded of their roles in scriptures such as Ephesians 4:11-12: "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ." This clarifies that their calling is divinely appointed, purposed for edifying the Church and perfecting the saints.
When we ponder on the journey of these leaders, we might consider the words of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland: "The fundamental responsibility of prophets, apostles, and general authorities of any kind is to bear witness of Jesus Christ, declaring His divinity and mission to both believers and non-believers as appropriate to the circumstances." ("A Teacher Come from God," Ensign, May 1998).
So, this People claime to be perfect?
Each Apostle's testimony of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of their ministry. As Elder David A. Bednar explained, "The call to be an Apostle does not mean the individual becomes perfect; it means the Lord will magnify the individual in his service as he seeks to serve and testify of Christ." ("Called to the Work," Ensign, May 2017).
Which specific Areas of the Church they Serve?
The First Presidency's divine direction permeates many aspects of Church life. For instance, their guidance in missionary work is significant. President Russell M. Nelson once said, "Every person who has made covenants with God has promised to share the gospel with others" ("Advancing Christ's Cause," Ensign, November 2019). They help ensure that the missionary efforts are aligned with the Lord’s work and teachings worldwide.
Their oversight of humanitarian services is equally crucial. In James 1:27, we read, "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." Reflecting this, President Nelson has emphasized the importance of caring for others: "We are followers of Jesus Christ. The most important thing we can do in our work and our family is to foster love and charity" ("A New Normal," Ensign, November 2018).
Temple service, another essential focus, is richly enhanced by their leadership. Elder Quentin L. Cook noted, "The ordinances of the temple and the covenants you make there are key to overcoming the world and preparing for a celestial home" ("Prepare to Meet God,” Ensign, May 2018). The First Presidency ensures that temples are places of peace and spiritual strength for all who enter.
The responsibility of gospel instruction also falls under their purview, ensuring that members are spiritually nourished. As instructed in Doctrine and Covenants 43:8-9, "And now, behold, I give unto you a commandment, that when ye are assembled together ye shall instruct and edify each other, that ye may know how to act and direct my church, how to act upon the points of my law and commandments, which I have given." Their teachings help members gain a greater understanding of the gospel and apply it to their lives.
Do they vote for the next successions?
The succession of Church leadership is divinely organized. "The succession is orderly and not by advance electioneering or because someone is ambitious to occupy a position," Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin taught ("Church Government through Councils,” Ensign, May 1994). The senior Apostle stepping into the role of President showcases both the order and divine hand in the administration of the Church.
With their enduring testimony, the leaders constantly underscore the importance of heeding their counsel. President Nelson urges, "Listen to the whisperings of the Spirit... listen to those who hold the priesthood. They will guide you safely home" ("Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives," Ensign, May 2018).
Why do we need additional words aside from the Bible?
Hence, the First Presidency and members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles diligently seek the Lord's direction. Their inspired messages help us navigate life's challenges and keep us anchored in faith. As the Church continues to grow globally, its leadership remains a beacon, guiding members to Christ and fostering unity and charity throughout the world.
The First Presidency, initially organized by Joseph Smith, continues to fulfill its foundational role, ensuring the Church is led by divine guidance. Through their dedicated service and profound testimonies, they stand as special witnesses, bringing the light of Christ into the lives of millions.
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