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Abortion is a deeply complex and sensitive issue. Many Christians believe that human life is a sacred gift from God, beginning at conception and continuing through every stage of development. Elective abortion for personal or social reasons is seen as contrary to God's commandments, which value every stage of human life.

However, exceptional circumstances, such as when the pregnancy results from incest or rape, when the life or health of the mother is in serious jeopardy, or when the fetus is known by competent medical authority to have severe defects that will not allow the baby to survive beyond birth, may warrant serious consideration. Even in these cases, abortion should be approached cautiously and only after earnest prayer and consultation with medical and religious counsel.

For unplanned pregnancies outside of wedlock, the best option is for the father and mother of the child to marry and build a family relationship. If marriage is not feasible, adoption is an alternative.

We are encouraged to support individuals facing such difficult decisions with compassion and understanding, acknowledging that each situation is unique.

As part of Heavenly Father’s plan of redemption, all people experience adversity during their lifetime. Trials, disappointments, sadness, sickness, and heartache are a difficult part of life, but with the help of the Lord they can lead to spiritual growth, refinement, and progress. 

Adversity can arise from various sources, such as personal choices, natural life events, others’ actions, or even as a loving lesson from God. For example, illness may require patience, while suffering from others’ actions calls for forgiveness. Victims of abuse should seek help, and those facing trials due to disobedience should correct their behavior and seek forgiveness.

Despite different responses to adversity, one constant is trust in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (John 16:33; Rom. 8:28).

Agency, also known as free will, is the ability and privilege God gives us to choose and to act for ourselves. It is essential in the plan of salvation. Without agency, we would not be able to learn, progress, or follow the Savior. We are happier doing things when we have made our own choices.

The Lord has said that all people are responsible for their own motives, attitudes, desires, and actions. Even though we are free to choose our course of action, we are not free to choose the consequences of our actions. These may affect others as well. The consequences, whether good or bad, follow as a natural result of any choice we make (see Galatians 6:7; Revelation 22:12).

“Antichrist” is a word used by John to describe one who would assume the guise of Christ but in reality would be opposed to Him (1 John 2:18–22; 4:3–6; 2 John 1:7).

In a broader sense it is anyone or anything that counterfeits the true gospel or plan of salvation and that openly or secretly is set up in opposition to Christ. The great antichrist is Lucifer, but he has many assistants both as spirit beings and as mortals (see 2 Thessalonians 2:1–12; Revelation 13:17).

All people inherit the effects of the Fall from Adam and Eve, leading to opposition, temptation, and eventual physical death. When we sin, we become alienated from God and face spiritual death. Jesus Christ, the only one capable of performing the Atonement, suffered for our sins to reconcile us with God. His Atonement allows for resurrection and, for those who follow His gospel, eternal life with God.

Christ's sacrifice was unique: He had the power to lay down His life and take it up again. From His mortal mother, Mary, He inherited the ability to die; from His immortal Father, He inherited the power to overcome death. Having lived a perfect, sinless life, He was free from the demands of justice. Because He had the power of redemption and because He had no debt to justice, he could pay the debt for those who repent. Jesus’s Atonement occurred in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the cross at Calvary. On the cross, He allowed Himself to die. His body was then laid in a tomb until He was resurrected and became “the firstfruits of them that slept” (1 Corinthians 15:20), overcoming physical death for us all.

While the Atonement redeems everyone from Adam's Fall, each person remains accountable for their own actions.

Baptism is a key ordinance in many Christian traditions that symbolizes the cleansing from sin and the start of a new life in Christ. It typically involves being fully immersed in water, which represents both purification and commitment to follow Jesus. This practice is rooted in the example set by Jesus, who was baptized and commanded His followers to be baptized as well (Matthew 3:13-15; Matthew 28:19).

Through baptism, individuals publicly declare their faith, repent of their sins, and enter into a covenant with God. It signifies spiritual rebirth and is a prerequisite for receiving the Holy Spirit, who provides guidance and strength in one's spiritual journey (John 3:5; Acts 2:38).

What does blasphemy mean?
Blasphemy is showing disrespect or contempt toward God or anything sacred, like His temple, law, or prophets. In the Bible, Jesus was accused of blasphemy by the Jews for claiming to forgive sins, calling Himself the Son of God, and predicting His return in glory. These accusations would only be true if Jesus wasn’t who He claimed to be. Blasphemy charges were also falsely brought against others, like Naboth and Stephen, for their actions or beliefs. On the other hand, Jesus' Apostles considered the Jews’ actions against them and Jesus as blasphemy. 

What is blasphemy against the Holy Ghost?
Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, often described as willfully rejecting Jesus Christ after having full knowledge of Him through the Holy Spirit, is considered the unforgivable sin (Matthew 12:31-32; Mark 3:28-29). This level of knowledge is rare and usually attained only by those with profound, sacred experiences, like prophets and apostles. It cannot be done out of ignorance.

• I’m worried that I committed this, did I?
  This state involves a deliberate, open rebellion against God, which is unlikely for most people. The unforgivable nature of this sin stems from the fact that someone committing it has no desire for God's forgiveness, such as Lucifer and his followers before they were cast out of Heaven. Worrying that you have committed this sin is a strong indication that you have not. 

What is the law of chastity?
Chastity is sexual purity. It applies to everyone, regardless of relationship status or orientation. Physical intimacy is an important aspect of bonding between a married husband and wife, and the power to create mortal life in partnership with God is the most exalted power He has given His children. Its use was mandated in the first commandment to Adam and Eve, but another important commandment was given to forbid its misuse. Outside the union of marriage according to God’s law, all uses of the procreative power—and the associated feelings and functions—are to one degree or another a sinful degradation and perversion of this most divine attribute. 

Our Heavenly Father has given us the law of chastity for our protection. Those who keep themselves sexually pure will avoid spiritual and emotional damage and will be sensitive to the Holy Ghost’s guidance, strength, comfort, and protection.

Is same-sex attraction a sin?
Being attracted to people of the same sex is not a sin, but acting on that attraction is. Sexual relations are reserved for a married husband and wife. Any intimacy outside the bonds of a marriage according to God's law violates the law of chastity, regardless of relationship status or orientation.

Even though individuals may not choose to have such attractions, they do choose how to respond to them. Anyone can choose to live in harmony with God’s commandments. Anyone who participates in any type of sexual sin can be forgiven through repentance.

See more LGBT questions and answers

Keeping the law of chastity
Being chaste is not just merely refraining from sexual relations outside of marriage. Control your thoughts and do not let impure ones linger. Avoid situations that may lead to sin. Pray for strength constantly. If you are single, date with respect. If you are married, remain faithful to your spouse. No matter how strong temptations seem, the Lord will help us withstand them if we choose to follow Him (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Defining "Christian"
For nearly 2000 years, "Christian" has broadly included any group that bases its beliefs or practices on the life and teachings of the first-century Jesus of Nazareth. The attempt to narrowly define "Christian" to exclude certain groups is a relatively recent development. 

Critics who claim a group is not Christian often point to doctrines or practices they believe fall outside the "true" Christian faith. This is an example of the No True Scotsman fallacy, which disregards the broad historical usage of the term. Historically, "Christian" has included diverse and unorthodox groups like the Ebionites, Marcionites, Gnostics, and in modern times, Latter-day Saints, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Unitarians, and Coptics. 

While these critics may attempt to label groups as "false," "heretical," or “hell-bound,” these terms are subjective and without standard definitions. They cannot dismiss any group from the family of Christian religions and denominations.

The Christmas season is a time to reflect and act upon the blessings and opportunities we have because of the birth, life, Atonement, and Resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ. As our Heavenly Father “so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son” (John 3:16), we express our love toward one another and toward God and His precious Son by giving of ourselves. 

Is Christmas pagan?
Christmas, in its essence, celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and focuses on our relationship with Him. The origins of Christmas are distinct from pagan traditions. The winter solstice and Saturnalia, often mentioned in this context, do not coincide with December 25, and many symbols associated with Christmas, like trees and candles, are widespread and not exclusive to paganism. Today, these symbols are used to honor the Christian celebration of Christ's birth and should be understood in that context rather than their historical associations.

Are the dates, details, and traditions of Christmas biblical?
The Bible does not specify the exact date of Christ's birth or the number of wise men who visited, and some traditions have been influenced by secular and commercial practices. However, the heart of Christmas is a celebration of Jesus Christ's birth and His mission to bring us back to our Heavenly Father. When celebrated with this focus, Christmas serves as a reminder of Christ's gift and offers an opportunity for spiritual reflection and joy. While some customs may not be directly scriptural, activities like decorating, sharing gifts, and spending time with loved ones can be meaningful and enjoyable. If you have concerns about certain practices, consider using the season to serve others and share the message of Jesus Christ.

Confirmation is a key ordinance in many Christian traditions that follows baptism. It represents a personal affirmation of faith and a commitment to the Christian community. During this rite, typically performed by priesthood holders, the individual is anointed with oil or blessed by the laying on of hands to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost and other gifts of spiritual empowerment (Acts 8:14-17; Acts 19:5-6).

The purpose of confirmation is to affirm and strengthen the grace received at baptism. It symbolizes a deeper maturity in the faith, marking the transition from a baptized believer to an active member of the Christian community. Through this sacrament, individuals strengthen their baptismal covenants and are empowered to live out their faith with greater conviction and responsibility.

What is a cult?
Historically, the term "cult" comes from the Latin cultus, meaning "worship" or "adoration," and originally referred to any system of religious devotion centered around a figure, deity, or concept. In this broad sense, any religion with a central figure—like Christianity with Jesus—could be considered a "cult" in the most literal and neutral sense of the word.

Today, "cult" often carries a negative connotation, implying manipulation or deviance from accepted norms. Using the term to dismiss or discredit another denomination that professes Christian beliefs is misleading, oversimplifies complex theological differences, and fosters unnecessary conflict. It's more constructive to approach disagreements with respect and focus on understanding rather than labels.

Easter is the most significant event in Christianity, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. After suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane and enduring crucifixion, Jesus died and was buried. His resurrection on Easter Sunday marks His victory over sin and death, bringing joy, hope, and gratitude to Christians as they reflect on God’s love and the promise of eternal life.

As Christianity spread, it often merged with local customs, which is why traditions like the Easter bunny and egg hunts, though not originally religious, now symbolize new life and rebirth through Christ’s resurrection. The early church chose to celebrate Easter around the time of Jewish Passover to commemorate Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

For Christians, the essence of Easter is the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus, focusing on His redemptive sacrifice rather than secular or cultural aspects of the holiday.

Where does the word "Easter" come from?
The origin of the word "Easter" is not entirely clear, but the most widely accepted theory links it to the Jewish festival of Passover. In Hebrew, Passover is called Pesach, which was translated into Latin as Pascha. Over time, Pascha evolved into "Easter" in English. This connection is supported by the fact that many other languages use variations of Pascha for the Christian holiday, such as Pâques in French and Pascua in Spanish.

When choosing what to watch, read, or listen to, consider whether the content aligns with your values. The media you consume can significantly impact your thoughts, feelings, and actions, even if you don't immediately notice the effects. Avoid content that promotes vulgarity, immorality, or violence. If something feels inappropriate or conflicts with positive influences like the Spirit, it's best to turn it off or walk away.

Focus on content that is wholesome and promotes positive values, personal growth, and respectful interactions. This can help strengthen your character and faith. Use your discernment to select beneficial content, and seek advice from trusted sources, such as religious leaders and family, to guide your choices.

Concerns have been raised about fantasy literature, including the works of J.K. Rowling, C.S. Lewis, and J.R.R. Tolkien, labeling them as potentially harmful or opposed to Christian values due to their use of magic and fantastical elements. This reaction often stems from a concern that such content could influence readers away from traditional religious values.

However, many of these works explore themes of good versus evil, courage, sacrifice, and redemption, which align with positive moral and spiritual lessons. C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, both devout Christians, integrated their faith into their stories, often using allegory to convey Christian principles.

While it's important to approach all literature thoughtfully, fantasy works by these authors often offer valuable moral insights and reflections. They should be considered within their broader context rather than dismissed outright.

Gambling involves risking money or valuables on an event with an uncertain outcome, hoping to win something of greater value. While it may seem like harmless entertainment, gambling can lead to addiction, financial problems, and strained relationships. Many Christians avoid gambling because it can foster greed, encourage irresponsibility, and undermine the principle of trusting in God for provision.

Scripture advises against the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10) and encourages wise stewardship of resources (Proverbs 21:20). Rather than relying on chance, Christians are encouraged to work diligently, be generous, and seek God's guidance in their financial decisions. When faced with the temptation to gamble, it’s important to consider the potential consequences and align choices with faith-based principles of integrity, love, and service.

Does God love me?
God loves you more than you can imagine. He is the Father of our spirits (Hebrews 12:9) and desires for us to return to His presence. The greatest demonstration of His love is found in His willingness to sacrifice His Son, Jesus Christ, so that we might have the opportunity to repent, overcome death, and receive eternal life (John 3:16). This act shows the depth of His love for each of us individually. No matter what challenges or mistakes you face, God’s love is unwavering. He is always there, ready to help you, guide you, and welcome you back with open arms.

Halloween, originally "All Hallows' Eve," is the night before All Saints' Day, a Christian observance honoring saints and martyrs. Historically, this period was marked by church services, vigils, prayers, fasting, and other preparatory customs.

Today, Halloween has evolved into various secular and cultural traditions. For many, it's a time for fun and community spirit. However, modern elements like horror themes and commercialism might not align with everyone's values. The important thing is to engage with Halloween in a way that respects your beliefs and feels appropriate for you.

The Law of Moses, also known as the Mosaic Law, was a set of commandments and regulations given to the Israelites, including moral, ceremonial, and civil laws (Exodus 20; Leviticus; Deuteronomy). It served as a guide for living and a covenant between God and His people.

With the coming of Jesus Christ, the Law of Moses was fulfilled and transcended. Christ’s life, teachings, death, and resurrection brought about a new covenant, emphasizing love, grace, and internal transformation (Matthew 5:17; Romans 10:4; Galatians 3:24-25). Jesus summarized the law's essence with the commandments to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37-40), showing that the deeper purpose of the law is to cultivate a sincere, heartfelt relationship with God and others.

Is [X] the mark of the beast?
The mark of the beast is associated with worshiping the beast as described in Revelation 13:12, 15; 19:20; and 20:4. It represents a spiritual allegiance to the beast's ideology, marked by actions (hands) and beliefs (foreheads) (Rev. 13:16). The precise meaning of the mark has not been revealed yet, but it is understood to not be a physical or visible sign but a spiritual one.

Concerns about new technologies or other items being the mark of the beast often stem from misunderstandings. The mark symbolizes a deliberate choice to follow the beast rather than an accidental or unintended action. Therefore, modern technologies or systems cannot be the mark of the beast on their own. The mark involves a conscious rejection of God’s covenants and acceptance of the beast’s rule.

Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained by God and vital to His eternal plan. It provides a stable environment for raising children and requires a father and mother who are fully committed to each other. Marriage should be a partnership of equals, with mutual support and love.

Husbands are to lead their families with love and provide for their needs, while wives primarily nurture their children. Both partners are to assist each other as equals, adapting to circumstances such as disability or death.

Marriage is the most cherished earthly relationship and deserves time and effort. A spouse is the only person other than the Lord whom we have been commanded to love with all our heart. Couples should prioritize their relationship by communicating, listening, showing respect, and expressing affection regularly.

How should we handle differences with others?
In life, we often encounter differences in values and beliefs. As followers of Christ, we are called to live peacefully with those who do not share our values, without compromising our own principles. The Father’s plan includes loving others, even those who may not agree with us.

Jesus Christ, while addressing wrongs and teaching truth, did so with love and never out of anger (Matt. 5:44). He showed us how to support and care for others, including those who may not reciprocate. Responding with silence, meekness, forgiveness, and humble testimony requires faith, strength, and Christian courage. True discipleship means rejecting bigotry, hatred, and violence, and instead embodying the love and example of the Savior.

What is pornography?
Pornography is any content designed to arouse sexual feelings inappropriately. It can be found in books, images, movies, video games, social media, apps, music, and more.

Pornography undermines the sacred nature of physical intimacy, which is part of Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness. Its use can lead to isolation, secrecy, and deceit, harming relationships and causing issues like low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. It can create unrealistic expectations about sexual intimacy, dehumanize people, and foster obsessive and compulsive behaviors. Additionally, it can dull sensitivity to God’s moral teachings and offend the Spirit, leading to a loss of divine guidance and protection.

How can I overcome it?
If you’re struggling with pornography, know that you can overcome it. The adversary may have led you astray, but you have the power to make choices and change. Start by honestly acknowledging the issue and taking responsibility for your actions and their impact on others. Talk with a trusted leader or your family. It may be difficult and embarrassing, but they will know how to help you.

Turn to your Redeemer, who loves you and offers help and healing. Through His Atonement, He provides strength and hope for those who repent and follow Him. As the Apostle Paul said, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13). Draw on His power as you work towards repentance and recovery.

Resources
Fight the New Drug
Addressing Pornography - Protection, Help, & Healing

This response deals with a unique Protestant belief of recent origin that is not universally accepted or understood among Christians.

What is the rapture?
The term "rapture" comes from a Latin translation of the Greek word harpazo, meaning "caught up," found in 1 Thessalonians 4:17. This belief holds that at Christ's second coming, living believers will be taken up to meet Him in the air and transformed into immortal bodies, avoiding physical death. They are then believed to be spared from the tribulation and will return with Christ at the end.

Interpretations of passages like Matthew 24:31, 39-42; 1 Corinthians 15:51-54; and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 support this view. However, there are differing theories about when the rapture will occur, such as pre-, mid-, or post-tribulation, or even a "partial rapture" view.

A more traditional perspective aligns with the idea that Christ’s second coming will happen after the tribulation, gathering the elect to meet Him in the air as part of the Millennium (Revelation 22:4-5). The New Testament suggests that tribulations will precede Christ’s return and warns of false Christs deceiving many (Matthew 24:5, 23-24; Mark 13:6, 21-22; Luke 21:8). The righteous are expected to endure tribulations but will ultimately be victorious (Revelation 15:2).

Why do I need organized religion?
Many people prefer to focus on being spiritual and living good lives without the structure of organized religion. However, organized religion plays a crucial role in helping us grow spiritually and morally. By participating in a church, we learn how to apply religious principles, support one another, and become better people through shared experiences. Being part of a faith community provides strength, guidance, and the opportunity to influence others positively. As the Bible says, our hearts can be “knit together in love” (Colossians 2:2) when we gather in worship and service. While personal spirituality is important, organized religion offers the structure and community that help us thrive in our faith.

Religious freedom is a fundamental human right that allows individuals to choose, practice, and express their faith without fear of persecution. It is central to God’s plan of salvation, ensuring moral agency—the ability to make personal choices about right and wrong.

This freedom includes the right to:

• Hold and change religious beliefs

• Teach faith to children

• Receive and share religious information

• Worship with others

• Engage in religious ceremonies and practices

• Avoid religious discrimination in employment, housing, and other services

Religious freedom also protects religious organizations, allowing them to form churches, schools, charities, and to govern their own affairs, establish doctrines, and manage property. Defending the religious freedom of others helps protect our own.

While religious freedom is crucial, it is not absolute. Restrictions are appropriate only when necessary to protect important interests such as safety or health, and should not be used to unjustly limit religious practices.

Repentance, derived from the Greek word metánoia, means a change of mind and heart. It involves a new perspective on God, oneself, and the world, leading to a turning away from sin and towards God. Sin makes us unclean, but through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, we can be cleansed and renewed.

Elements of Repentance
Repentance can be challenging but brings forgiveness and peace. As Isaiah 1:18 promises, “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” Key elements of repentance include:

• Faith: Belief in Christ’s power to save

• Sorrow: Genuine regret for sin

• Confession: Acknowledging sins

• Abandonment: Turning away from sin

• Restitution: Making amends where possible

• Righteous Living: Committing to live according to God’s commandments

How do I know if God has forgiven me?
God promises forgiveness to those who truly repent. You can know you are forgiven when you feel the comfort of the Spirit, affirming that Christ’s atonement is working in your life.

What if I keep making the same mistakes?
Repentance is a process, and developing good habits takes time. Don’t lose hope—turn to Christ, who offers sufficient grace to help you. Keep trying, and remember you are never alone; Jesus Christ is with you in your efforts to change.

What is the purpose of the Sabbath?
The Sabbath is a special day set apart for rest and worship. Originally observed on the seventh day of the week because God rested after creating the world (Genesis 2:2), Christians began observing it on the first day of the week, Sunday, after Jesus’ Resurrection (Mark 16:2; Acts 20:7).

The Sabbath's importance is highlighted in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11). It is a sign of the covenant between God and His people (Exodus 31:13; Ezekiel 20:20). Jesus Himself honored the Sabbath during His life (Matthew 12:9–13; Luke 4:16; John 5:9).

Observing the Sabbath offers a time to rest from daily work, focus on spiritual growth, and participate in public worship. It serves as a reminder of our need for spiritual nourishment and our duty to God, and it reflects the presence of revealed religion in our lives.

Why did Sabbath observance change to Sunday?
After Christ’s Ascension, early Christians began to observe the first day of the week, Sunday, to commemorate Jesus’ Resurrection (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:2; Rev. 1:10). Over time, this led to the discontinuation of the Sabbath on the seventh day.

The shift from Saturday to Sunday is less significant than the principle of the Sabbath itself. Regardless of the day, the Sabbath symbolizes God's great works: creation, the deliverance of Israel, and Jesus' resurrection.

What should I do or avoid on the Sabbath?
The Old Testament laws for Sabbath observance were detailed and strict, aimed at teaching obedience. However, Jesus later criticized the excessive focus on technicalities that developed instead of the core principles like faith and charity (Matt. 23:23).

Today, Sabbath observance emphasizes the spirit of worship rather than rigid rules. The day should be used for activities that are spiritually uplifting and beneficial, such as attending church, studying the gospel, strengthening family relationships, and serving others. While there are scriptural guidelines, each person should seek to align their Sabbath activities with sincere devotion and honesty before the Lord.

Who is a saint?
The word "saint" is a translation of a Greek word also rendered “holy,” the fundamental idea being that of consecration or separation for a sacred purpose; but since what was set apart for God must be without blemish, the word came to mean “free from blemish,” whether physical or moral. In the New Testament, the saints are all those who by baptism have entered into the Christian covenant and strived after a life of holiness (see Acts 9:13, 32, 41; Rom. 1:7; 1 Cor. 1:2; Philip. 1:1; 1 Pet. 1:14–15). 

Today, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and some Protestant sects refer to all their members as saints. In Catholic tradition, all faithful are called to be saints, but "saint" often specifically refers to those canonized by the Church who are believed to be in heaven and have led exemplary lives. The Orthodox Church also recognizes saints but does not have a formal canonization process.

Scrupulosity, often referred to as "religious OCD," is an intense and debilitating preoccupation with morality, causing excessive guilt and fear that one's actions are displeasing to God. This condition can lead to an obsession with religious practices, turning them into compulsive behaviors driven by anxiety rather than genuine spiritual connection.

Symptoms and Impact

• Excessive Guilt: Individuals may feel intense and unwarranted guilt, believing their actions or thoughts are sinful.

• Compulsive Behavior: Religious practices like praying or confessing may become repetitive and distressing, driven by fear rather than faith.

• Disconnected Worship: The focus on adherence to a strict checklist can lead to a lack of spiritual fulfillment and connection with the Spirit.

Understanding and Coping

• Human Imperfection: Recognize that all people have weaknesses and fall short of divine glory (Romans 3:23). Repentance is a part of growth, not a source of relentless guilt.

• Grace of Christ: True perfection is a gift from God, not something we can earn through our own efforts. Christ’s grace offers not only salvation but relief from self-criticism and anxiety.

• Seek Help: Consult with trusted religious leaders and seek professional help from licensed mental health providers. Therapy can provide strategies to manage anxiety and break the cycle of obsessive-compulsive behavior.

Addressing scrupulosity involves balancing faith with mental health care, allowing for a more compassionate and less fear-driven approach to spirituality.

Is X a sin?
Sin is defined as an act, thought, or behavior that goes against God's will and causes harm. This harm can be mental, emotional, spiritual, or physical—either to oneself or others. To determine if something is a sin, one might ask: Does this action harm me or someone else in any way? Does it distance me from God or lead me away from moral goodness?

Different Christian traditions may have varying interpretations of what constitutes sin, but generally, it is what damages the relationship with God and others. At its core, sin is anything that disrupts love, justice, or the dignity of others. Reflecting on these principles can help discern whether an action is sinful.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help immediately. Call 988 or consult other helplines for support.

Most people who have thought about suicide do not want to die; they simply want to find relief from the physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual pain they are going through. Even righteous people like Paul have “despaired even of life” (2 Corinthians 1:8) when they felt weighed down and in deep distress (see also Numbers 11:14–15; 1 Kings 19:4; Jeremiah 20:14; Philippians 1:21–24). Nevertheless, in times of trouble, they knew that God was their support in trials and troubles of every kind.

Is suicide a sin?
It is very wrong for a person to take their own life, comparable to committing murder. However, extreme stress and mental anguish can impair one's ability to make rational decisions, which may affect their level of accountability. Since the full context of each situation is known only to God, He alone can provide a complete understanding and judgment.

In His judgment, the Lord "will take all things into consideration: our genetic and chemical makeup, our mental state, our intellectual capacity, the teachings we have received, the traditions of our fathers, our health, and so forth" (M. Russell Ballard).

Tattoos carry different meanings depending on cultural and personal perspectives. Some view them as a form of self-expression or a connection to their heritage, while others see them as conflicting with religious or moral values. Leviticus 19:28, which advises against body markings, is often cited by those who oppose tattoos. However, many understand this Old Testament law as specific to the Israelites' cultural context and not necessarily binding under the new covenant.

The body is considered a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), which emphasizes the importance of treating it with respect. Decisions about tattoos should be made thoughtfully, considering personal beliefs, spiritual convictions, and the potential long-term impact. It's important to seek guidance through prayer, reflection, and counsel from trusted religious leaders.

Temptation is a test of our desires, challenging us to choose good over evil. It can come from various sources—personal weaknesses, societal influences, natural inclinations of human nature, or effects from the adversary's efforts to lead us away from God. While temptation itself is not a sin, our response to it is crucial.

Jesus, who faced and overcame temptation (Matthew 4:1-11), offers us both an example and a way out of every trial (1 Corinthians 10:13). By centering our lives on the Savior and seeking His strength through prayer and scripture, we can resist temptation. Filling our time with good activities, avoiding tempting situations, and striving to be a positive influence on others can also help us make choices that align with our values. When faced with temptation, don't hesitate—choose to withstand it immediately, relying on the resources God has provided to overcome the challenges we encounter.

Tithing is the practice of giving a portion, traditionally 10%, of one's income back to God as an act of faith and obedience. It is a principle taught in the Bible (see Genesis 14:18-20 and Malachi 3:8-11) and serves as a way to acknowledge that all we have comes from God. This helps to further missions of ministry, support for the needy, and spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Many Christians follow this principle, believing it shows trust in God’s provision and supports their community. The key is to give generously and cheerfully, not out of obligation (Luke 21:1-4), reflecting a heart committed to God’s work.