Safety of the Fold

Come into the Fold of God

By Elder Randy D. Funk

Of the Seventy

Alma’s baptismal covenant invitation to those gathered at the Waters of Mormon begins with this phrase: “Now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God.”⁵

A fold, or sheepfold, is a large enclosure, often constructed with stone walls, where the sheep are protected at night. It has only one opening. At the end of the day, the shepherd calls the sheep. They know his voice, and through the gate they enter the safety of the fold.

You Have a Right

 “Every man or woman that has ever entered into the church of God and been baptized for the remission of sins [and received the gift of the Holy Ghost] has a right to revelation, a right to the Spirit of God, to assist them in their labors.”

Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Wilford Woodruff (2004), 49.

Remission of Sins

“In order to receive a remission of sins, it is necessary to take each step as taught in the doctrine of Christ. Receiving the ordinance of baptism, therefore, requires that we first develop faith in the Savior and repent of our sins. Then we enter into the required baptismal covenant to keep the commandments and qualify for the promised blessing of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands. Likewise, to renew the blessing of the constant companionship of the Spirit promised in the sacrament prayers, we continue the ongoing process of developing and exercising faith in Christ, repenting of our sins, and partaking of the sacrament with a determination to keep the commandments.”

Elder Wilford W. Anderson, “Receiving and Retaining a Mighty Change,” Ensign, April 2012, 36-37. 

What Does It Mean To Take Upon Us the Name of Jesus Christ?

Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles helps answer this question in his general conference talk “Taking upon Us the Name of Jesus Christ” (Ensign, May 1985, 80).

1. As we take the sacrament, we can willingly renew the covenant we made at baptism—to remember the Lord and keep His commandments.

2. We can proclaim our belief in Him to others (see D&C 18:21).

3. We can serve Him by doing the work of His kingdom (see Hebrews 6:10).