Calling and Election Made Sure

Having one’s calling and election made sure comes from the teachings of Joseph Smith. It is taught in the writings of Peter as found in the New Testament. It is not often referred to in the teachings of modern leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

According to the Guide to the Scriptures, “righteous followers of Christ can become numbered among the elect who gain the assurance of exaltation. This calling and election begins with repentance and baptism. It becomes complete when they ‘press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end’ (2 Ne. 31:19–20). The scriptures call this process making our calling and election sure (2 Pet. 1:3–11; Doctrine & Covenants 131:5–6).[1]

An exhortation to make one's "calling and election sure" is found in Peter's writings (2 Pet. 1:3–10), and is associated with the "more sure word of prophecy" (2 Pet. 1:16–19). The Prophet Joseph Smith explained that "the more sure word of prophecy means a man's knowing that he is sealed up unto eternal life, by revelation and the spirit of prophecy, through the power of the Holy Priesthood" (D&C 131:5).

Peter said that the acquisition and exercise of faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity are necessary to make one's "calling and election sure" and to obtain a fulness of the blessings of God (2 Pet. 1:5–7; cf. TPJS, p. 305).

In addition to acquiring these qualities of character, those who would have their calling and election made sure must receive the ordinances of the gospel, including the temple ordinances (D&C 131:2–3; 132:19–20).[2]

As recorded in the Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Prophet taught that "When the Lord has thoroughly proved [a person], and finds that the [person] is determined to serve Him at all hazards, then the [person] will find his[/her] calling and election made sure" (TPJS, p. 150). The Prophet indicates that this was the case with ancient prophets such as Isaiah, Ezekiel, John, Paul and others (TPJS, p. 151).[3]

• Calling and Election: Part 1 - Episode 39

• Calling and Election: Part 2 - Episode 40

• See also Second Comforter