Understanding Temple Covenants

By Becky Squire

The temple is a sacred place where we make covenants with God. These covenants are central to our faith and provide guidance on how to live a Christ-centered life. But how well do you understand each covenant we make in the temple? While temple worship is deeply personal and sacred, understanding the general principles behind these covenants can provide greater appreciation for their significance.

1. The Law of Obedience

The first covenant made in the temple is the Law of Obedience. This covenant is a commitment to obey God’s commandments and follow His will. It signifies a willingness to submit to God’s guidance, trusting that His plan leads to eternal happiness. In making this covenant, we strive to align our lives with God’s teachings and serve Him wholeheartedly.

Obedience is a principle that has been emphasized throughout scripture. Christ Himself demonstrated perfect obedience to the Father, teaching that true discipleship requires following God’s commandments with faith and devotion. Through obedience, we can experience greater peace and spiritual strength.

2. The Law of Sacrifice

The second covenant is the Law of Sacrifice. This covenant invites us to dedicate our time, talents, and means to the Lord’s work. While ancient sacrifices involved offerings on altars, in the latter days, the sacrifice God requires is a broken heart and a contrite spirit (3 Nephi 9:20).

Living this covenant means being willing to make sacrifices for righteousness—whether by giving service, enduring trials faithfully, or prioritizing God over worldly pursuits. It is a reminder that discipleship often requires personal sacrifice, but such sacrifices bring spiritual growth and greater blessings.

3. The Law of the Gospel

The third covenant is to live the Law of the Gospel. This law encompasses the teachings of Jesus Christ, including faith, repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. The Law of the Gospel is centered on love, kindness, and righteousness, encouraging us to live Christlike lives.

This covenant also involves a commitment to avoid unholy or impure practices and to actively seek opportunities to serve others. As we strive to embody the Gospel in our daily lives, we will draw closer to God and become more like our Savior.

4. The Law of Chastity

The fourth covenant made in the temple is the Law of Chastity, which is a commitment to moral purity. This means maintaining sexual relations only within the bonds of legal and lawful marriage between a man and a woman, as ordained by God. It also extends to thoughts, words, and actions, and upholding purity in all aspects of our lives.

By living the Law of Chastity, we show respect for the divine gift of procreation and honor our bodies as temples of God. This covenant strengthens marriages, families, and personal spirituality.

5. The Law of Consecration

The final covenant is the Law of Consecration, which is a commitment to dedicate our life and resources to building up God’s kingdom. This covenant calls for selflessness and a willingness to put God first in all things. While we are not currently required to live in a fully communal society, as seen in past dispensations, we are expected to consecrate our time, talents, and material blessings to serve the Lord and His Church.

Living the Law of Consecration helps us develop a Christlike attitude of generosity and service. It also reinforces the idea that all blessings come from God and should be used to bless others.

These five temple covenants can help us so much in whatever we are going through. Each covenant deepens our relationship with God and prepares us for eternal life. By striving to honor these sacred commitments, we can experience greater joy, spiritual power, and eternal blessings.