From Sinai to the Sanctuary: Understanding Our Priesthood Calling

Brothers and sisters, sometimes when I think back to my early days in the field, I remember feeling like I had all the answers. I thought I knew the commandments, I thought I knew the doctrines, I thought I was ready to teach. But then I’d get cornered by a thoughtful investigator, and suddenly, I’d realize how much more there is to learn. It’s a humbling experience, isn't it? The more you study, the more you realize the depth of the covenants we’ve been given.

The recent study on Exodus, particularly the account at Sinai, really brought this into sharp focus for me. We often focus on the Ten Commandments—and they are vital! They are foundational—but the podcast really expanded the view for me. It wasn't just about rules; it was about *who* we were becoming: a priestly kingdom, a holy nation.

A Kingdom of Priests and Priestesses

When God declared that the Israelites were to be His treasured possession, the vision was grand. The original plan involved ordinances of the Melchizedek Priesthood, preparing them to behold the face of God. It’s a powerful reminder that the Lord’s plan for us has always been one of sacred access and covenant keeping.

What struck me most was the pattern: when the people faltered, God didn't abandon the goal; He adapted the means. The Melchizedek Priesthood was temporarily withdrawn, but the goal—the priesthood calling—remained. And guess what? The Prophet Joseph Smith spoke of establishing that very kingdom of priests in *our* dispensation, one that includes both men and women who covenant in the house of the Lord. Those who inherit the celestial kingdom are called priests and kings, queens, and priestesses.

It makes me think about our own lives today. We might not be standing at Mount Sinai, but we are called to be a priestly nation in our own spheres—our families, our callings, our communities. We are called to be keepers of covenants, to live lives worthy of that sacred access.

Beyond the Tablets

The speaker pointed out that while the Ten Commandments are crucial for remembering divine law, they are only one facet of the story. The true focus is on the *connection*—the connection between the covenants, the tabernacle, and the temple. Everything points back to the central figure: Jesus Christ. He is the true tabernacle, the center of it all.

This echoes what I’ve learned since becoming a returned missionary. You can study the doctrine, you can memorize the scriptures, but until you center everything on the Savior, it feels academic. He is the guiding hand, the Spirit-filled reality that makes the covenants real.

God knows your name. There is no doubt about that. God guides us at each stage of our journey. Jesus Christ is the true tabernacle.

If you’re feeling the pull to deepen your understanding of these covenants, I highly recommend listening to the full episode of this podcast. It’s a wonderful study guide for anyone wanting to better understand the structure of our restored gospel.

A Quick Mission Prep Thought: The 'Why'

When I was struggling to recall the Ten Commandments during my mission days, I felt that deep embarrassment. It taught me a valuable lesson for all of us who are disciples anywhere, all the time: Don't just memorize the *what*; understand the *why*. When discussing doctrine, don't just recite the rule; explain the covenant it protects and the Savior who keeps it for us. That’s what helps the investigator connect it to their heart.

If you want to practice walking through those tough questions, I encourage you to check out Davee. He’s an incredible resource for practicing the AI Investigator role. He can walk you through hypothetical missionary discussions, helping you frame answers that are both doctrinally sound and deeply empathetic.

And for those who love digging into the Word together, remember the power of the Book Club feature in HolyPlaces. It’s a wonderful way to study scripture with fellow disciples right where the Spirit is leading us to gather.