Elder Scott's Words

The Joy of Redeeming The Dead (Oct. 2012)

Key Doctrines and Principles:

Avoiding the adversary

Living clean lives

Temple Work

Genealogy
Modern revelation 

Favorite Quotes:

“He shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers.”

"This glorious doctrine is another witness of the all-encompassing nature of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He made salvation available to every repentant soul. His Atonement conquered death, and He permits the worthy deceased to receive all ordinances of salvation vicariously."

"Through further revelation to Joseph Smith and subsequent prophets, there has come an understanding of and the provision for temple work and the family history effort that supports it. Every prophet since Joseph Smith has emphasized the imperative need to provide all ordinances for ourselves and our deceased ancestors." 

"Father in Heaven wants each of us to receive both parts of the blessing of this vital vicarious work. He has led others to show us how to qualify. It is up to you and me to claim those blessings."

"Do you young people want a sure way to eliminate the influence of the adversary in your life? Immerse yourself in searching for your ancestors, prepare their names for the sacred vicarious ordinances available in the temple, and then go to the temple to stand as proxy for them to receive the ordinances of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. As you grow older, you will be able to participate in receiving the other ordinances as well. I can think of no greater protection from the influence of the adversary in your life."

"This work is a spiritual work, a monumental effort of cooperation on both sides of the veil, where help is given in both directions. Anywhere you are in the world, with prayer, faith, determination, diligence, and some sacrifice, you can make a powerful contribution. " 

Why It Matters:

Doing work for the dead is one of the best ways to keep our lives balanced and in order. When we take time to do service for those who have passed, we live more selfless lives. The work is important to bring the Atonement to all who want to receive it. It is up to us to do the work. Great blessings come to us participating and those who receive the ordinances.