We Come to the Temple to Conquer the Evil of the World

“Let This House Be Built unto My Name”

(Doctrine and Covenants 124:40)

By Elder David A. Bednar

Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

The word heart is used over 1,000 times in the standard works. This simple but significant word often denotes the inner feelings of an individual. Our hearts—the sum total of our desires, affections, intentions, motives, and attitudes—define who we are and determine what we will become. And the essence of the Lord’s work is changing, turning, and purifying hearts through gospel covenants and priesthood ordinances.

We do not build or enter holy temples solely to have a memorable individual or family experience. Rather, the covenants received and the ordinances performed in temples are essential to the sanctifying of our hearts and for the ultimate exaltation of God’s sons and daughters....

We do not come to the temple to hide from or escape the evils of the world. Rather, we come to the temple to conquer the world of evil. As we invite into our lives the “power of godliness”¹⁹ by receiving priesthood ordinances and making and keeping sacred covenants, we are blessed with strength beyond our own²⁰ to overcome the temptations and challenges of mortality and to do and become good....

Understandably, the announcement of each new temple is a source of great joy and a reason to give thanks to the Lord. However, our primary focus should be on the covenants and ordinances that can change our hearts and deepen our devotion to the Savior and not simply on the location or beauty of the building.