Turning the Hearts of the Fathers and the Children

Welcome to Day 24 of our 60-Day Challenge! But before we tackle today’s question, let’s take a moment to reflect on the question from Day 23.

The Book of Revelation is packed with symbolism, prophecy, and deep spiritual truths. One passage that stands out is Revelation 7:15, which describes disciples in white robes serving God day and night in His temple. But here’s the big question:

What church today actually does that?

Let’s break it down.

The Vision in Revelation 7:15

First, let’s take a look at the scripture itself:

“Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.”

John, the author of Revelation, describes a group of disciples, clothed in white, serving God continually in His temple. This paints a vivid picture of devotion, holiness, and ongoing worship. But how does this apply to us today?

Many Christian denominations wear white for special religious occasions—baptisms, confirmations, or certain rituals. But is there a church today that regularly engages in temple service, wearing white as an ongoing sacred practice?

The Role of Temples in Worship

Throughout biblical history, temples were central to worship. In the Old Testament, the temple was where sacred ordinances were performed and where the presence of God dwelled in the Holy of Holies.

Fast forward to today, and many Christian churches no longer build or operate temples. Worship has become more centered on personal faith rather than sacred spaces. But there is one modern Christian faith that still follows this pattern:

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Temple Worship

The Latter-day Saints are unique among Christian denominations in their consistent and structured temple worship. Their temples are not regular Sunday meetinghouses but dedicated sacred spaces where members serve regularly, wearing white, and performing sacred ordinances—closely resembling the description in Revelation 7:15.

What Happens in Latter-day Saint Temples?

In these temples, members:
- Wear white clothing, symbolizing purity and equality before God.
- Perform baptisms for the dead, following the pattern set in 1 Corinthians 15:29.
- Participate in eternal marriages, sealing families together for eternity.
- Make sacred covenants with God to live righteously and serve Him.

While temples are not open 24/7, temple worship is a continuous practice in various locations worldwide, happening daily. This echoes the imagery of “serving day and night” in the temple, as described in Revelation.

Why This Matters Today

Revelation is a book of prophecy, but it also gives us glimpses into how God’s people worship in preparation for His Second Coming. Temples are not just historic relics of the past—they are places where people continue to serve, covenant, and grow spiritually today.

For Latter-day Saints, temple service is not just symbolic; it’s a direct connection to God’s divine work. It’s where people go to:
✅ Deepen their faith
✅ Seek revelation
✅ Bless their families—both living and deceased

In essence, temples bridge heaven and earth, allowing us to participate in God’s eternal plan.

A Question for Reflection

As we move forward in our 30-day gospel series, here’s your next challenge:

Malachi 4:5-6 talks about turning the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers. What does that mean?

This scripture appears in the final chapter of the Old Testament, making it kind of a big deal—so what is its significance?

Transcription:

   Hi, my name is Joe Cirillo with Gospel First, and once again, thank you for your decision to follow me on this exciting journey to find Christ restored church in our day. But before I give you question number 24, did you get the answer to question number 23? Revelation chapter 7 verse 15 says that in the last days, disciples wearing white clothes would be working day and night in the temple.

While other Christian denominations also wear white for certain rituals like baptisms or confirmations, the Restored Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints uniquely incorporates regular temple worship with members wearing white as part of ongoing sacred service, which closely resembles the description in Revelation 7 verse 15.

In the temples, members wear white clothing to symbolize purity while performing sacred ordinances, such as baptisms for the dead and eternal marriages. Although not open 24 7, temples operate daily, and temple work is viewed as a continuous spiritual service, much like day and night imagery in Revelation.

For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, temple worship is central to fulfilling God's work and serving Him in holiness. Question number 24. The last chapter of the Old Testament seems kind of important. Does anyone have any idea what it means to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to the fathers?

You can find the answers in Malachi chapter 4, verses 5 to 6. And I'd love to hear your answers.