Unveiling the Melchizedek Priesthood Interview: A Comprehensive Guide

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we hold the sacred privilege of receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood, which is the highest order of the priesthood. This priesthood is named after the ancient High Priest Melchizedek, and those who receive it enter into an oath and covenant to magnify their callings and responsibilities.

One of the essential steps in this process is the Melchizedek Priesthood interview, conducted by the bishop and stake presidency. This interview is designed to assess a man’s readiness and worthiness to receive this sacred office. In this article, we will delve into the Melchizedek Priesthood interview questions, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect and how to prepare.

Understanding the Significance of the Melchizedek Priesthood

Before we explore the interview questions, it is crucial to grasp the significance of the Melchizedek Priesthood. This higher priesthood enables men to act in the name of God and perform sacred ordinances, such as conferring the gift of the Holy Ghost, blessing the sick, and presiding over the Church.

Receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood is a solemn responsibility, and those who hold it are expected to live their lives in accordance with the highest standards of righteousness, integrity, and devotion to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The Melchizedek Priesthood Interview Questions

The Melchizedek Priesthood interview is a sacred and personal experience, designed to assess a man’s spiritual preparedness and commitment to the covenants associated with this priesthood. The questions asked during the interview are intended to gauge the individual’s testimony, moral worthiness, and adherence to the teachings and principles of the Church.

Here are some of the typical questions asked during the Melchizedek Priesthood interview:

1. Testimony and Faith

   • Do you have faith in and a testimony of God, the Eternal Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and the Holy Ghost?
   • Do you have a testimony of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and of His role as your Savior and Redeemer?
   • Do you have a testimony of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ?

2. Sustaining Church Leadership

   • Do you sustain the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the prophet, seer, and revelator, and as the only person on the earth authorized to exercise all priesthood keys?
   • Do you sustain the members of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators?
   • Do you sustain the other General Authorities and local leaders of the Church?

3. Personal Worthiness

   • Do you strive for moral cleanliness in your thoughts and behavior?
   • Do you obey the law of chastity?
   • Do you follow the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ in your private and public behavior with members of your family and others?
   • Do you support or promote any teachings, practices, or doctrine contrary to those of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

4. Commandment Observance

   • Do you strive to keep the Sabbath day holy, both at home and at church; attend your meetings; prepare for and worthily partake of the sacrament; and live your life in harmony with the laws and commandments of the gospel?
   • Do you strive to be honest in all that you do?
   • Are you a full-tithe payer?
   • Do you understand and obey the Word of Wisdom?

5. Family Responsibilities

   • Do you have any financial or other obligations to a former spouse or to children? If yes, are you current in meeting those obligations?

6. Repentance and Worthiness

   • Are there serious sins in your life that need to be resolved with priesthood authorities as part of your repentance?
   • Do you consider yourself worthy to be ordained to an office in the Melchizedek Priesthood?

It’s important to note that these questions are not exhaustive, and the bishop or stake presidency member may adapt or add additional questions as guided by the Spirit and the individual’s circumstances.

Preparing for the Melchizedek Priesthood Interview

Preparing for the Melchizedek Priesthood interview is a sacred and personal process. Here are some suggestions to help you prepare:

1. Study and Ponder

   • Study the scriptures, particularly the sections that discuss the Melchizedek Priesthood and its responsibilities (e.g., Doctrine and Covenants 84:33-44, 107:1-20).
   • Ponder the covenants and obligations associated with the Melchizedek Priesthood, and consider how you can magnify your calling.

2. Engage in Self-Reflection

   • Examine your life and identify areas where you can improve or strengthen your commitment to the gospel.
   • Consider any unresolved sins or issues that need to be addressed through the process of repentance.

3. Seek Personal Revelation

   • Pray earnestly for guidance and direction from the Lord.
   • Fast, if possible, to increase your spiritual sensitivity and receptiveness.

4. Discuss with Your Family

   • Share your desire to receive the Melchizedek Priesthood with your family members.
   • Seek their support and encouragement as you prepare for this sacred responsibility.

Remember, the Melchizedek Priesthood interview is not a test or an interrogation; rather, it is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your commitment to the gospel and your readiness to receive this divine authority. Approach the interview with humility, honesty, and a desire to grow spiritually.

Conclusion

The Melchizedek Priesthood is a sacred trust bestowed upon worthy men in the Church. The interview process is designed to ensure that those who receive this priesthood are prepared to magnify their callings and live according to the highest standards of righteousness.

By familiarizing yourself with the Melchizedek Priesthood interview questions and preparing diligently, you can approach this experience with confidence and a renewed commitment to the covenants and responsibilities associated with this sacred office.

Remember, the Lord is always willing to bless and guide those who seek Him with sincere hearts and real intent. Trust in His love and mercy, and strive to live in a manner that is pleasing unto Him.