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What is that other office, not ordained to men on earth? To make this distinction, here’s one definition of Priesthood:

“The power and authority of God given to men on earth to act in all things for our salvation.”

This is a true definition. But, this says “men on earth” — certainly that is it? Not necessarily. Another true definition of Priesthood is more general and inclusive:

“It is the very power of God himself, the power by which the worlds were made, the power by which all things are regulated, upheld, and preserved.”

I see a common “all things” theme here between these definitions. Let’s add one more excerpt to this theme. It’s a portion of the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood in D&C 84.

“And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Father’s kingdom; therefore all [things] that my Father hath shall be given unto him.”

Why this theme, “all things”? I want you to have a firm understanding of the inheritance for receivers of the priesthood, because as you marry and be sealed, you will be receivers of the priesthood, not in the sense that it will be bestowed by the laying on of hands as it is to the men — that is their responsibility — but in the sense that you will be sealed to a priesthood bearer for time and all eternity. This sealing does mean that you will be with him for all of your eternal life, should you both live worthily to gain it, however it also means you will become with him as you both grow and develop spiritually.

In our Church we teach that we live this life to eventually live with our Heavenly Father and be like Him, as long as we live righteously, etc. What does it mean to be like Him? What is a god in the eternal and endless sense of the word?

“God” is a priesthood title, just as “Elder” or “Apostle.” It is the office of an exalted man and his exalted wife, eternally sealed by the bindings of the high priesthood and the Holy Spirit of Promise. It is the sealing power which is necessary for one to attain the highest degree of the Celestial Kingdom, where God lives, and where we must be like Him to live. This means to be exalted to said celestial state, being forever sealed to our spouse. This sealing binds the two bodies as one body, in a spiritual sense. It is the only way to attain the highest degree: “a man must enter into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage]; and if he does not, he cannot obtain it” (D&C 131:2-3).

It is key to remember that God’s power is the power by which the worlds were made, and on those worlds, all forms and the essence of life. For God’s power is the priesthood, and God’s power is the power of life, is it not? Why do you think the three most severe sins are those ones regarding life? The unpardonable sin is destruction of spiritual life, the unforgivable sin is taking of another’s life, and the “hard to be forgiven of” sin is the unauthorized giving of life.

What manner of men ought we to be?

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”

Matthew 5:48

That seems like a rather demanding and impossible calling; but the Lord knew what he was talking about. What does this passage mean to you?