Criticism of the Fifth Article of Faith often boils down to misunderstandings about Apostolic Christianity, priesthood authority, and divine calling. Pastor Wade’s comments highlight this by questioning the necessity of revelation and the Melchizedek Priesthood. His critique is not unique but reflects broader misinterpretations that challenge core beliefs of the restored Gospel. Addressing these misconceptions is vital for defending faith and teaching truths essential to Christ's church. Let’s explore how these principles hold up against arguments like his.
Understanding the Fifth Article of Faith
The Fifth Article of Faith is at the core of Apostolic Christianity, addressing fundamental questions about how priesthood authority is conferred and exercised. Joseph Smith, the Prophet, crafted this article to clarify divine calling and the administration of the Gospel. Let’s break this down for a deeper understanding of its roots and principles.
Historical Background of the Fifth Article of Faith
The Fifth Article of Faith dates back to 1842, when Joseph Smith wrote a letter to John Wentworth, editor of the Chicago Democrat. This document, known as the Articles of Faith, aimed to succinctly summarize the beliefs of the early Latter-day Saints. Later published in the Church newspaper Times and Seasons, this letter became a key missionary tool, helping explain core doctrines of the faith to those outside the Church.
Joseph Smith's role was pivotal. As a prophet, he received divine revelation to guide the structure and order of the Church. The Fifth Article of Faith states: "We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof." This statement didn’t emerge in isolation. It grew out of the chaos Smith observed in contemporary Christianity, where anyone could claim ministerial authority without divine confirmation. The Fifth Article clarified that authority comes from God, not personal ambition or academic certification.
This principle of priesthood authority was also a response to the fragmented state of Christianity in the 19th century, where conflicting interpretations of scripture undermined cohesion. By emphasizing God’s calling through prophecy and proper ordination, Joseph Smith reinforced the need for structure, revelation, and divine validation in leadership.
Core Principles of Priesthood Authority
The Fifth Article of Faith encapsulates key elements of priesthood authority that set the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints apart from other Christian denominations. Here are the principles laid out in this doctrine:
-
Divine Calling: Authority to minister in the Church cannot be self-proclaimed. Only those who are called by God, through revelation to inspired leaders, hold this sacred authority. This eliminates arbitrary or self-serving claims to leadership.
-
Prophecy and Revelation: The calling process involves prophecy and divine confirmation. Leaders seek guidance from Heavenly Father to ensure every calling aligns with His will. This reliance on revelation highlights the dynamic relationship between God and His Church.
-
The Laying on of Hands: The priesthood is conferred through sacred ordinances performed by those already authorized. This practice ensures an unbroken chain of authority tracing back to Jesus Christ Himself, thus preserving Apostolic Christianity.
-
Hierarchical Organization: The priesthood is structured into two levels—the Aaronic Priesthood and the Melchizedek Priesthood. Each has specific responsibilities and operates under divine order. The Aaronic Priesthood is often referred to as the preparatory priesthood, while the Melchizedek carries the higher spiritual authority.
-
Responsibility and Stewardship: Holding the priesthood isn’t about honor or status; it’s about service. Responsibilities include preaching the Gospel, administering ordinances like baptism, and providing blessings through the power of God.
These principles go beyond administrative rules. They are spiritual safeguards designed to ensure that God remains at the center of the Church’s operations. By requiring a calling through prophecy and ordination by authorized leaders, this article emphasizes humility, accountability, and obedience to God’s will.
The Fifth Article of Faith is a bold affirmation of divine order in a world prone to human error. It stands as a testimony of priesthood authority and its vital role in guiding Christ’s restored Church. Rejecting this principle is, in essence, rejecting the unbroken line of authority established by Jesus Christ through His apostles and prophets. How can the Gospel function without divinely sanctioned leadership? Without it, confusion reigns, and truth is diluted.
Analyzing Pastor Wade’s Claims Against the Fifth Article of Faith
Pastor Wade has voiced strong criticisms against the Fifth Article of Faith, particularly its teachings on priesthood authority. These critiques challenge both the theological foundation and practical implications of this doctrine. Despite his assertions, many of his arguments misinterpret scripture, rely on logical errors, or misrepresent LDS beliefs. Let’s break this down.
Claim 1: The Fifth Article of Faith Contradicts the Bible
Pastor Wade contends that priesthood authority as described by the Fifth Article of Faith is unbiblical. He argues that the Bible rejects hierarchical or institutionalized structures for spiritual leadership. However, this claim rests more on interpretation issues than on scriptural evidence.
Let’s consider biblical examples that support priesthood authority. In the Old Testament, the concept of priestly authority is evident in the Aaronic Priesthood, where leaders were called by God and ordained to perform sacred duties (see Exodus 28). The New Testament continues this framework. Christ Himself chose and ordained His apostles, giving them clear authority to teach, baptize, and lead His church (see Matthew 16:19 and John 15:16). The laying on of hands to confer priesthood authority is also a New Testament practice (see Acts 6:6 and Acts 13:3).
Pastor Wade’s critique often relies on an overly literal reading of scripture or selective emphasis on less applicable passages. For instance, citing verses like Matthew 23:8–10 to argue against priesthood authority ignores the broader context of Christ appointing apostles and leaders like Peter.
By framing priesthood authority as an unbiblical construct, Pastor Wade applies a narrow lens to scripture, overlooking both its historical and textual continuity. The LDS framework, with its emphasis on divine calling and ordination, aligns entirely with the biblical pattern established by Christ and His apostles.
Claim 2: Priesthood Authority is Based on Human Works
Another of Pastor Wade's central arguments is that priesthood authority in the LDS Church stems from human effort rather than grace through faith. He interprets the Fifth Article of Faith to imply a "works-based" system, erroneously equating priesthood ordination with meritocracy.
This interpretation is misleading. The calling and conferral of priesthood authority in the LDS Church are grounded in divine revelation, not personal achievement. Leaders prayerfully seek God’s guidance in extending callings, and authority is conferred only “by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority,” as stated in the Fifth Article of Faith. This ensures alignment with God’s will, not personal ambition.
It’s also worth noting that holding priesthood authority is not about rank or self-glorification. It’s a responsibility to serve others with humility. Jesus taught this principle in Matthew 20:26–28, emphasizing that leadership in His church is about ministry, not status. The LDS view reflects this teaching: priesthood holders are called to act as servants, empowered by God, not their own works.
Pastor Wade's framing of this doctrine misrepresents its core. Priesthood authority is not earned or deserved; it is given through God’s grace to fulfill His purposes.
Logical Fallacies in Pastor Wade’s Critique
Pastor Wade’s arguments are not without flaws, particularly in their logic. His critique of the Fifth Article of Faith often falls into common logical errors, such as:
-
Strawman Arguments: Pastor Wade frequently misrepresents LDS teachings on priesthood authority. For example, he claims that the LDS Church views priesthood as a status symbol, despite clear teachings to the contrary emphasizing service and humility.
-
Misinterpretation of Scripture: By selectively reading Bible passages, Pastor Wade overlooks key texts that affirm the principles of divine calling, ordination, and the laying on of hands. His analysis tends to ignore the broader biblical tradition of structured priesthood authority.
-
False Dichotomies: Pastor Wade presents an “either/or” argument, suggesting that priesthood authority and grace cannot coexist. This ignores the possibility that divine grace can guide and validate authority in ministry, which is central to LDS beliefs.
These fallacies weaken the credibility of his critique. Without addressing these errors, it becomes clear that his objections fail to accurately represent LDS doctrine, let alone refute it.
By scrutinizing Pastor Wade’s claims, it’s apparent that his arguments miss the mark on several fronts. His misinterpretations of scripture and logical fallacies highlight the need for a deeper, more balanced understanding of priesthood authority as practiced within Apostolic Christianity.
Scriptural Evidence Supporting the Fifth Article of Faith
The Fifth Article of Faith emphasizes that priesthood authority in Christ's church must be God-given, not self-imposed. It declares: "We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof." This principle of divine calling rests on solid biblical foundations seen throughout the Old Testament, New Testament, and teachings of the apostles.
Old Testament Precedents for Priesthood Authority
In the Old Testament, priesthood authority wasn’t something anyone could claim for themselves. Instead, God chose specific individuals to serve as His representatives. For instance, Aaron and his sons were directly called by God to minister as priests (see Exodus 28). Their calling was confirmed through sacred ordinances and offerings, showing clear divine approval.
The Levites, as a tribe, were similarly chosen to fulfill priestly duties on behalf of Israel. Numbers 3:5-10 outlines God’s instructions to Moses to appoint the Levites for service in the tabernacle. These appointments weren’t arbitrary. They were a deliberate part of God’s order, ensuring that those who served Him were divinely ordained for their roles.
Think about it: would God leave His work in unqualified hands? The Old Testament makes it clear—priesthood authority originates from God and requires His specific direction. This precedent aligns perfectly with the Fifth Article of Faith’s emphasis on being called of God and receiving authority through proper ordination.
Christ Delegates Authority in the New Testament
The pattern of divine calling continued with Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Christ personally chose and ordained His apostles to carry out His work. For example, in John 15:16, Jesus tells His disciples: “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you.” Here, we see a direct delegation of authority from the Savior to His chosen servants.
Another pivotal example is found in Matthew 16:19, where Christ grants Peter the authority to bind on earth and in heaven. This authority, often referred to as the “keys of the kingdom,” underscores the structured leadership Christ established for His church. Similarly, the apostles later ordained others to their roles, as seen in Acts 6:6 and Acts 13:3, where the laying on of hands was used to confer authority.
These acts demonstrate that priesthood power didn’t originate from personal ambition or scholarly achievement. It was a sacred trust, passed from Christ to His apostles and then to others in His church. Can you imagine anyone claiming such authority without Christ’s approval? The New Testament leaves no doubt—true priesthood authority comes from divine direction, fulfilling the order established by God.
Biblical Teachings on Divine Calling
Hebrews 5:1-4 offers one of the clearest explanations of divine calling. The passage teaches that no one takes priesthood authority upon themselves but must be called by God, just as Aaron was. This scripture ties together the Old Testament concept of priesthood with the New Testament understanding of divine authority.
Verse 4 specifically states: “And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.” The Latter-day Saint understanding of priesthood authority mirrors this teaching. In the LDS Church, no one claims the authority to preach or administer ordinances unless they are called by revelation and ordained by those holding priesthood authority.
This principle acts as a safeguard against chaos or confusion. Without divine calling, how could anyone act in God’s name with confidence? How would we know their works are truly inspired? Hebrews affirms that priesthood authority isn’t about personal ambition; it’s about God’s will.
By framing priesthood authority within this scriptural context, the Fifth Article of Faith solidifies its roots in biblical teachings. It continues the divine order established in ancient Israel and Christ’s earthly ministry, ensuring that His work is carried out under His direction.
Responding to Misinterpretations of Key Scriptures
Pastor Wade’s critique of the Fifth Article of Faith often includes a skewed interpretation of foundational scriptures. By addressing these misapplications and clarifying the role of revelation, we can reaffirm the principles that define priesthood authority. Here, I’ll review two common areas of misunderstanding: the context of 1 Peter 2:9 and the vital role of divine revelation in priesthood authority.
Rebuttal to 1 Peter 2:9’s Misapplication: The Broader Context of Spiritual and Organizational Priesthood
One of the scriptures frequently misunderstood in critiques like Pastor Wade’s is 1 Peter 2:9. This verse declares believers as a “chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people.” Many interpret it as negating the need for an organized priesthood with specific offices, claiming that all Christians inherently hold equal spiritual authority. However, these reading overlooks both the historical and scriptural context.
Peter’s reference to a “royal priesthood” draws on Old Testament language from Exodus 19:5-6, where God called Israel a “kingdom of priests” and a “holy nation.” The key difference? In Exodus, the phrase describes Israel’s collective identity as God’s covenant people, but priestly functions remained limited to the divinely appointed Aaronic Priesthood. Similarly, in 1 Peter 2:9, the term "royal priesthood" highlights the spiritual privileges granted to followers of Christ—access to God, responsibility to proclaim His gospel, and the assurance of being spiritually “chosen.”
This doesn’t conflict with the need for an organizational priesthood. Christ Himself established hierarchical structures during His ministry, ordaining apostles to lead His church (Luke 6:13). Likewise, in the New Testament, the laying on of hands by those in authority (Acts 6:6, 2 Timothy 1:6) underscores the importance of proper ordination. Peter’s statement in 1 Peter 2:9 refers to the universal calling of believers to represent Christ, not an elimination of priesthood offices.
To accept Pastor Wade’s interpretation would disregard centuries of scriptural precedent where spiritual identity coexisted with divinely called organizational leadership. Just as a family member may have equal worth yet different roles, the unity of believers in Christ doesn’t erase the necessity of a structured priesthood authorized by revelation.
Understanding the Role of Revelation in Priesthood Authority
Equally critical to addressing misinterpretations is explaining why revelation ensures divine calling in priesthood authority. Many critics see this reliance on prophecy as unnecessary, misunderstanding the role of revelation outlined in doctrines such as those in the Doctrine and Covenants.
The Doctrine and Covenants, particularly sections 84 and 107, emphasizes that priesthood authority operates under Heavenly Father’s guidance. Section 84 explains the two priesthoods—Aaronic and Melchizedek—and the spiritual blessings tied to these sacred responsibilities. It clarifies that the higher priesthood holds keys to the “mysteries of the kingdom” (D&C 84:19). Without revelation directing who receives priesthood authority, how can any calling align with God’s will? Acting outside His counsel would be akin to building a structure without a blueprint—it invites chaos where order is required.
Revelation also establishes accountability. Those who receive the priesthood are subject to a divine standard. Section 107 explains the responsibilities of priesthood holders and how these align with the order set forth by Christ. With revelation at its core, the priesthood isn’t just an organization; it’s a conduit for God’s power, governed by His voice rather than human ambition.
Critics like Pastor Wade often brush off revelation as mystical or opaque, yet the Bible is filled with examples of God revealing His will for His people. Moses’ appointment as mediator, Elijah’s prophetic authority, and Paul’s guidance to the early church all relied on direct communication from Heaven. In the restored Gospel, this pattern continues—priesthood authority is conferred only through revelation and the laying on of hands by those in authority.
By omitting revelation from the process, critics ignore one of the core ways God works with mankind. Would God’s church, meant to guide His children to truth, operate without His ongoing guidance? The Doctrine and Covenants provides reassurance that priesthood authority remains anchored in divine communication, safeguarding its sanctity and effectiveness.
This section demonstrates the harmony between the spiritual calling of believers described in 1 Peter 2:9 and the structured, revelation-based administration of priesthood authority in the restored Gospel. By addressing these misinterpretations with scripture-backed clarity, we can confidently respond to criticisms that misrepresent Christ’s church.
The Role of Christ’s Church in Delegated Authority
Delegated authority in Christ’s Church is an essential principle that ensures structure, purpose, and alignment with God’s will. The concept revolves around God’s ultimate authority and His decision to entrust specific responsibilities to His servants. This authority ensures that the Church operates in unity and order under Christ’s direction.
The Concept of Priesthood Keys
Priesthood keys are central to understanding delegated authority. In the context of Christ’s Church, these keys represent the power to direct the work of the Church and administer sacred ordinances. While priesthood authority allows individuals to act in God’s name, priesthood keys are held by specific leaders who guide how, when, and where that authority is used.
The biblical foundation for priesthood keys is found in verses like Matthew 16:19, where Christ declares to Peter, “I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” This statement highlights Christ entrusting Peter with the authority to bind and loose, both on Earth and in Heaven. This wasn’t a metaphor; it was a divine delegation of leadership responsibility.
Another example comes from Acts 1:24-26, where the apostles sought divine guidance to appoint Matthias as a replacement for Judas. This process reflects both the necessity of revelation and the exercise of priesthood keys to maintain Church order. Without such keys, clarity and direction within the Church would be lost.
Priesthood keys are essential for ordinances like baptism and temple work, ensuring that they are performed in God’s name and with proper authority. It’s like having a key that opens a specific door; without it, the Church cannot fully access or administer the blessings God intends for His children. These keys are not held by everyone but are given to those called by revelation, ensuring the Church functions under Christ’s direct guidance.
The Structure of Christ’s Church as Seen in Scripture
The structure of Christ’s Church is not arbitrary; it is divinely inspired. Ephesians 4:11-13 provides one of the clearest descriptions of this organization: “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” This verse demonstrates that Christ established specific roles to ensure unity and spiritual growth within the Church.
Think of it like a body with different parts, each performing a unique function but all working together for the body to thrive. The apostles, prophets, pastors, and other leaders in Christ’s Church are each entrusted with their own responsibilities. This structure ensures that members are spiritually nurtured, and the work of ministry is carried out effectively.
In addition, the New Testament records examples of how these roles operated in the early Church. Prophets provided revelation and guidance. Apostles, such as Paul and Peter, were tasked with spreading the Gospel and overseeing Church governance. Pastors and teachers focused on local congregations, helping members grow in faith and understanding.
This structured leadership model reflects Christ’s intention to lead His Church through divine authority. It also highlights the importance of accountability, as leaders are not there to dominate but to serve and shepherd, as instructed in 1 Peter 5:2-3. “Feed the flock of God which is among you… not as lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.”
By establishing this framework, Christ ensured that His Church could remain united and effective in fulfilling its mission. Ephesians 4:13 emphasizes the goal: “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God.” This unity is possible only through divinely delegated authority, properly exercised by those called and set apart to serve.
The Importance of Priesthood Authority in the Restored Gospel
Priesthood authority is the foundation of how ordinances are administered, and covenants are made in the Restored Gospel. It ensures that these sacred acts are performed under divine endorsement, safeguarding their spiritual efficacy and eternal significance. Without this delegated power from God, the very structure of Christ's Church and His teachings would lack the divine order essential for salvation.
Ordinances and Covenants Administered Through Priesthood Authority
Ordinances, like baptism and receiving the Holy Ghost through confirmation, are more than symbolic acts—they are sacred, binding promises with God. These ordinances require priesthood authority to ensure they align with God’s will. Think about it: Would you want someone unauthorized officiating a legal document or sacred ritual? When ordinances are performed without divine authority, their validity and spiritual blessings come into question.
In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, priesthood authority ensures that:
- Baptism by immersion is not just a public show but a spiritually binding covenant with God.
- Confirmation and the gift of the Holy Ghost are offered under the same divine authority seen in Acts 8:17, where apostles laid hands upon new converts.
- Temple covenants and eternal sealings unite families for eternity under God’s direct approval.
Imagine entering into a contract without a signature from the authorized party—it wouldn't hold any real weight. Similarly, covenants with Heavenly Father must come through His authorized priesthood to carry eternal significance. That’s why these ordinances aren’t open to personal improvisation or self-proclamation; they are sacred acts requiring a divine commission.
Moreover, the priesthood ensures ordinances are consistent across Christ’s Church, creating unity instead of confusion. Whether in Utah or Africa, the same baptismal prayer, words of confirmation, and sacramental blessings are performed exactly as Christ directed. This consistency fortifies the worldwide Church and allows every member to partake of the same sacred promises and blessings.
Priesthood Authority as a Continuation of Christ’s Work
The priesthood isn’t just a concept that ended with Christ’s original apostles—it’s the continuation of His ministry, designed to preserve the structure and doctrine of His Church. Christ Himself conferred priesthood authority upon His apostles, as seen when He told Peter in Matthew 16:19, “I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” This organizational integrity didn’t vanish after their ministry; it’s been restored through the priesthood conferred in modern times.
The restored priesthood ensures that the Church functions as Christ intended. Consider the Melchizedek Priesthood, which empowers leaders to give blessings, lead congregations, and officiate temple ordinances. Such responsibilities reflect Christ’s delegation to His apostles during His earthly ministry. By conferring priesthood authority on worthy individuals today, God ensures that His Church remains His—not one created by human ambition or interpretation.
Furthermore, the priesthood preserves the principle of divine governance. When you look at the authority structure in the Restored Gospel, it mirrors Christ’s Church in the New Testament. Apostles, prophets, and other leaders are called through revelation, just as Paul and Barnabas were ordained through the laying on of hands (Acts 13:3). Without this authority, how could you trust anyone claiming to act in God’s name? The restored priesthood guarantees that those who serve are divinely appointed, not self-assumed leaders.
This continuation of authority isn’t just about governance—it's about blessings. Through priesthood authority:
- Members receive personal blessings of comfort and healing.
- Temples operate as sacred spaces, enabling covenants that bind individuals to God and families for eternity.
- The Church worldwide remains unified in doctrine, ordinances, and direction under Christ’s leadership.
To deny the necessity of priesthood authority is to deny the framework Jesus Christ established for salvation. It’s the mechanism through which God’s power flows into the lives of individuals and families, turning holy ordinances into eternal covenants.
Conclusion
The Fifth Article of Faith stands as a cornerstone for understanding God's divine order in Christ’s Church. Its principles safeguard against doctrinal confusion, ensuring that authority flows through revelation and ordination. Pastor Wade’s critique, while thought-provoking, falls short when measured against scriptural evidence and the consistent teachings of Apostolic Christianity.
Rejecting this framework risks abandoning the structure Christ Himself established. Without priesthood authority, how can the church maintain unity or fulfill its sacred mission?
I encourage readers to explore further, seek prayerful insights, and deepen their understanding of priesthood authority and divine calling. The restored Gospel offers a path firmly rooted in Christ’s teachings, aligning scripture, revelation, and divine order. Let’s embrace it with faith and conviction.
No comments:
Post a Comment