What Does it Mean to be a Child of the Covenant

By Becky Squire

In recent years, President Nelson has emphasized the importance of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints understanding their divine roles as (1) A Child of God, (2) A Child of the Covenant, and (3) A Disciple of Christ.

I think we generally have a clear understanding of what it means to be a child of God and a disciple of Christ. But what exactly does it mean to be a child of the covenant?

Being a child of the covenant is a profound and sacred identity rooted in divine promises and responsibilities. This concept, deeply embedded in the doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, carries significant meaning that influences the life and spiritual journey of those who embrace it.

The Covenant of Abraham

The concept of being a child of the covenant is tied to the Abrahamic covenant, a divine promise given by God to Abraham and his descendants. In this covenant, God promised Abraham that his posterity would be as numerous as the stars in the sky and that through his seed, all the nations of the earth would be blessed (Genesis 22:17-18). This covenant is not just an ancient promise; it is alive and active in the lives of Latter-day Saints today.

As Latter-day Saints, being a child of the covenant means that one is part of this eternal covenant made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is believed that the blessings of the gospel, including the priesthood, the ordinances of salvation, and the promise of eternal life, are extended to those who are faithful to this covenant. This covenant is renewed through the ordinances of baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and temple covenants, including the sacred sealing ordinance that binds families for eternity.

A Divine Heritage

Being a child of the covenant is also about recognizing one's divine heritage. We believe that each person is a literal spirit son or daughter of Heavenly Parents, endowed with divine potential. This understanding is deepened by the knowledge that as a child of the covenant, one is part of a chosen lineage, called to fulfill specific roles in God's plan of salvation.

This divine heritage brings with it a sense of purpose. As Latter-day Saints, we believe we are called to be a "light unto the nations" (Isaiah 42:6), sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, serving others, and building up the kingdom of God on earth. The covenant gives direction and purpose to the lives of those who embrace it, encouraging them to live righteously and to strive to become more like the Savior.

Responsibilities of the Covenant

However, being a child of the covenant is not just about receiving blessings; it also involves responsibilities. Latter-day Saints are taught that to be a covenant people means to be obedient to God's commandments, to uphold the teachings of Jesus Christ, and to serve others. This includes living a life of integrity, charity, and humility, following the example of the Savior in all things.

Additionally, children of the covenant are expected to stand as witnesses of God "at all times and in all things, and in all places" (Mosiah 18:9). This means living one's faith openly and courageously, even in the face of opposition or adversity. It involves making and keeping sacred covenants, such as those made at baptism and in the temple, and striving to remain faithful to these covenants throughout life.

The Promise of Eternal Life

Ultimately, the covenant relationship offers the promise of eternal life, the greatest of all God's gifts. For Latter-day Saints, this means the opportunity to return to live with God, to be reunited with loved ones, and to continue to progress eternally. This promise is central to the hope and faith of Latter-day Saints and provides motivation to live in accordance with the gospel of Jesus Christ.