“Except It Be Through Transgression”

Joseph F. McConkie, Robert L. Millet

Virtually all God’s promises and blessings granted to men or nations in our mortal estate are conditional. Even when conditions are not specifically stated, the very system of salvation implies that there are no unearned blessings (see D&C 132:5-7).

When righteousness ceases, the promise of blessings ceases also. In the true sense of the word, there are no covenant people unless a covenant has been made and the conditions of the covenant are honored. There are no covenants with the Lord that do not require obedience and righteousness.

All ordinances of salvation have efficacy, virtue, and force only in and through the name of Christ. In these ordinances, which come by covenant, we take upon ourselves his name.

Through them we obtain joint heirship with him “of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named” (Ephesians 3:15). No power in heaven or earth, save wickedness only, can sever these familial ties, bringing the forfeiture of the promised inheritance.

Doctrinal Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 2

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