The Commandment to Seek Learning: A Sacred Duty
In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we are taught
that education is not just a suggestion but a sacred
commandment from our loving Heavenly Father. Throughout the
scriptures and the teachings of modern prophets, we are invited
to seek knowledge, wisdom, and understanding—both
intellectually and spiritually. This invitation is extended to all of
us, regardless of our age, background, or stage in life. The Lord’s
call to seek learning is a divine duty, an essential part of His plan
for our happiness and eternal progression.
Scriptural Foundation: The Command to Learn
The doctrine of seeking learning is deeply rooted in the scriptures.
In Doctrine and Covenants 88:118, the Lord lovingly instructs us:
"And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one
another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books
words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith."
This counsel from the Lord reminds us that the pursuit of
knowledge is not optional—it is a divine command. We are to seek
learning with both our minds and our hearts. Intellectual
education helps us to serve others and bless the world, while
spiritual learning helps us to draw closer to God, understand His
plan, and prepare to fulfill our divine potential.
In Doctrine and Covenants 93:53-54, the Lord reassures us of the
importance of continual learning:
"And, verily I say unto you, that it is my will that you should
continue in the work of translation until it be finished; and when
you have finished, you shall have the record of the Nephites and
the Lamanites, and the Gentiles, and all the house of Israel; and
you shall have the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the end
of the earth."
This passage gently teaches us that learning is not just a
momentary task—it is a lifelong pursuit. Whether it is learning the
gospel, gaining new skills, or deepening our understanding of
God’s will, this pursuit never ends. It is a constant part of our
journey toward eternal life.
The Counsel of Modern Prophets: Emphasizing the Importance of
Learning
Our beloved prophets and leaders have consistently emphasized
the importance of education, not just for our temporal well-being,
but for our spiritual and eternal growth.
President Gordon B. Hinckley often spoke of the significance
of education. In his April 2007 General Conference address,
he said:
"I urge you to go to school and get all the education you can.
If you cannot attend a formal institution of higher learning,
at least take advantage of other educational opportunities.
Study. Learn. Improve yourself. Do it for your own good, and
for the good of others."
President Hinckley’s words call us to action in a loving,
gentle way. He encourages us to seek education not only for
ourselves but for the benefit of others. As we grow, we are
better able to serve those around us and contribute to God's
work.
President Thomas S. Monson shared in October 2011:
"Education is the key to opportunity. It opens doors of
possibility and makes dreams become a reality. It will help
you to be the best that you can be. It will help you in your
search for eternal truths. It will help you serve others in this
life and prepare you for the life to come."
Here, President Monson lovingly reminds us that education is
not just about achieving personal success, but about
preparing ourselves spiritually and helping others along the
way. It is a means of becoming more like the Savior.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland spoke in March 2003 about the
profound importance of education:
"The learning we pursue on earth is not merely a means to
temporal ends; it is the very key to unlocking the blessings
of eternity. The Savior called for us to be 'perfect'—not only
spiritually but intellectually as well."
Elder Holland’s words invite us to see learning as something
that blesses us eternally. Education, both spiritual and
intellectual, helps us grow closer to God and prepares us to
receive all He has in store for us.
Elder David A. Bednar reminded us in April 2012 General
Conference:
"Education is a key part of our eternal progression. It is not
optional. It is a commandment."
This loving counsel emphasizes the sacred responsibility we
each have to seek learning. It is not something we should
take lightly but rather something to approach with
commitment and joy.
President Henry B. Eyring spoke with tenderness and clarity
in April 2009:
"The Lord has commanded us to seek learning. Our desire to
know more about the world around us, the people in it, and
the purposes of God’s plan should lead us to gain as much
knowledge as we can. Every educational opportunity that we
pursue helps us understand God’s plan more fully and
prepare us for our eternal destiny."
President Eyring’s words remind us that our pursuit of
knowledge is not only for our good in this life, but it helps us
understand the grander purpose of God's plan for us.
Learning prepares us for the eternal life He desires to share
with us.
The Urgency of Learning: Ignorance Excuses No One
The Lord’s counsel is clear—ignorance is never an acceptable
excuse. In Doctrine and Covenants 58:26-28, He lovingly reminds
us:
"For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for
he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a
wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. Verily I say, men
should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, do many things of
their own free will, and bring much righteousness to the church."
The Lord teaches us that He expects us to take responsibility for
our learning. He invites us to seek knowledge and wisdom
willingly, without having to be compelled. We are not to be lazy or
complacent, but to act with enthusiasm and love for the good of
others.
Accountability and Eternal Progression
In Mosiah 4:30, King Benjamin encourages us with loving counsel:
"But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves,
and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe
the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye
have been taught, ye will be in danger of apostasy."
King Benjamin teaches that we are responsible for our thoughts,
actions, and especially our commitment to learning. The choice to
seek knowledge is not only a matter of personal growth, but a
matter of spiritual commitment. We are accountable to God for
our efforts to seek understanding and to grow in both intellect
and spirit.
Opportunities for Learning: Church Resources
The Church provides numerous opportunities to help us fulfill this
divine command to seek learning. These resources are blessings
from the Lord, designed to make learning more accessible and to
help us grow spiritually and temporally.
Seminary and Institute programs offer our youth and young
adults the opportunity to gain a strong foundation in the
gospel. These programs help them grow spiritually and
prepare for the challenges they will face in life.
BYU-PathwayConnect offers a flexible and affordable way for
members to continue their education. This program opens
the door to earning degrees and certificates, helping us
become more self-reliant and spiritually prepared for God’s
plan.
Church leaders also have opportunities to grow by studying
the General Handbook of Instructions, which helps guide
them in fulfilling their divine responsibilities.
The Call for Leaders to Be Constant Learners
The role of a leader in the Church is a sacred responsibility, one
that requires constant learning, humility, and diligence. Leaders
are not placed in positions of authority to rule over others but to
serve them. They are called to be examples of the Savior, to help
those they lead feel loved, understood, and supported. This
requires deep understanding, not only of the gospel but of the
world around them.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland reminds us:
"I do not believe that any of us, as leaders of the Church, can
afford to be ignorant of the law or the teachings of the gospel. We
are to be students of the scriptures and also of the world around
us."
As leaders, we are called to continually learn—to grow spiritually,
emotionally, and intellectually. The Lord has called us to serve His
children, and to do so with wisdom and compassion, we must be
diligent in our studies.
The Lord's Plan to Make Learning Accessible to All
The Lord has made it possible for all of us to continue learning, no
matter our circumstances. Distance, time, or other challenges are
no longer barriers. Today, many of us can learn online, in our own
homes, while caring for our families or working. These
opportunities are gifts from the Lord, showing us that He has
made a way for us to grow and progress without difficulty. He has
provided ways for us to stay obedient to His command to seek
learning. What more could we ask for, when the Church offers
programs and resources that make it possible for us to fulfill this
commandment?
Conclusion: The Urgency and Commandment to Seek Learning
My dear brothers and sisters, seeking learning is not simply an
option—it is a sacred commandment. The Lord has asked us to
grow, both spiritually and intellectually. The blessings that come
from diligent study are beyond measure. It is not too late to begin
or continue this pursuit. The Lord will bless us as we seek
knowledge with sincerity, and He will help us understand His will
for our lives.
Leaders, especially, are called to be lifelong learners. The
responsibility you carry is sacred, and the Lord will help you if you
remain humble, diligent, and open to learning. Let us all be
proactive in seeking knowledge, whether for personal growth or to
better serve others. As we do, we will grow closer to our Heavenly
Father and be better prepared to fulfill our eternal destiny.
I testify to you that as we embrace this divine command to seek
learning, we will become more like the Savior, grow in wisdom
and understanding, and be better equipped to serve others. Let
us take heart, knowing that our efforts to learn will be blessed,
and that through education—both intellectual and spiritual—we
will become more like our Heavenly Father and prepare for eternal
life with Him.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
