Building on the Templates Part 1

The two templates discussed give us two frameworks from which to build upon. The "Elias, Elijah, Messiah" template is a doctrinal template that we can tie all doctrinal subjects together through determining what part of the Priesthood order or category they belong in. Is a particular principle like humility, Light of Christ or faith part of a preparatory principle under Elias/Aaronic Priesthood or does the principle relate to the Elijah/Melchizedek Priesthood like the Holy Ghost, speaking with the tongue of angels?

Studying doctrine topically in the scriptures is not too difficult. To begin with we can start with the topical guide to the scriptures and look up every reference listed in the guide on a specific topic. Take for example the word, "faith." Look up each reference listed under the topic of faith. Take notes. The Church's new website has tremendous tools that allow you to take digital notes as you study. These tools were not available to me when I began but I believe they are extremely valuable because they digitize your thoughts and keep them accessible. The alternative is to take notes on a legal pad. I have thousands of pages of notes and probably couldn't locate much out of any of them. I would encourage you to explore the new tools and use them.

One caveat about using the topical guide. Their content is not comprehensive and you may come to find only concordances get you the comprehensive access you need for thorough study. Topical guides can provide a foundation but will be insufficient for someone seeking to really "get to the bottom" of issues researched.

Use the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template to establish the specific order of spiritual progression people follow to achieve Eternal Life. This takes time and effort but is not too difficult for anyone. The amount of clarity that comes from topical research in the scriptures is swift and surprising. To get started I suggest you look at a few references that exemplify the entire process of the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template, similar to the example given of the Savior's life. You may want to go back and review it or compare it to the passages I recommend you look at first. They are: The Sermon on the Mount in 3 Nephi 12. The spiritual conversion of King Benjamin's people in Mosiah 4 & 5 and Alma's sermon to the Saints of Zarahemla in Alma 5. Hopefully that will give a general sense of the process the Lord expects each of us to follow.

Volumes have been written on the doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Resisting the urge to look at another persons research is difficult. Every time you turn to others you deny yourself the opportunity of learning that the Lord will reveal the meaning to you as you diligently study. Remember, it is not the destination that matters here, it is what you learn from the journey to get to the destination. The singular focus of your research is to become reacquainted with God. Turning to others only delays that process. Your challenge is to put God to the test. See if He will truly manifest all things to you by the power of the Holy Ghost and by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things. (2 Nephi 32:5, Moroni 10:5) It may be the single determining factor in deciding whether you are living under the Elias law when you have entered Elijah/Melchizedek covenants.

Under the Elias, Elijah, Messiah template you can select any topic you like but I will give one hint: All spiritual growth is contingent on humility. It may be wise to begin with that subject in mind.