Meaning: The quote by Orson Pratt, a theologian and an early leader of the Latter Day Saint movement, addresses the notion of authority and authorization in the act of baptism. Pratt's perspective reflects the belief within the Latter Day Saint tradition that the authority to perform religious ordinances such as baptism comes directly from God through revelation. This concept is central to the faith and practice of the Latter Day Saint movement, including The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other related denominations.

In the context of the Latter Day Saint tradition, the concept of authority in performing religious ordinances is deeply rooted in the movement’s foundational beliefs and historical narrative. According to Latter Day Saint theology, the restoration of the true church and priesthood authority was necessary due to the perceived apostasy of the early Christian church. Joseph Smith, the founder of the movement, claimed to have received divine revelation and authority to restore the true gospel and priesthood ordinances, including baptism, through heavenly messengers.

The quote underscores the significance of divine authorization in the performance of religious rites, particularly baptism. According to Latter Day Saint belief, baptism is a sacred ordinance that symbolizes the remission of sins and the initiation into the covenant community of believers. As such, the authority to perform baptism is considered essential, and it is believed to be conferred through direct revelation from God.

Pratt’s emphasis on the need for “new revelation” to baptize highlights the Latter Day Saint belief in ongoing divine communication and the idea that God continues to reveal his will to chosen individuals. This concept aligns with the movement’s foundational narrative, which includes accounts of Joseph Smith and other early leaders receiving divine revelations pertaining to the organization and practices of the church.

In addition to the theological significance, Pratt’s statement also reflects the hierarchical structure of authority within the Latter Day Saint movement. Within the tradition, priesthood authority is believed to be conferred through a line of succession and is directly linked to the ability to perform sacred ordinances such as baptism. This hierarchical system of authority is regarded as essential for ensuring the validity and efficacy of religious rites within the faith.

Furthermore, Pratt’s assertion about the sinfulness of unauthorized baptism reflects the belief that divine ordinances must be performed in accordance with God’s will and under the proper authority. This perspective underscores the significance of adherence to specific doctrinal and procedural guidelines within the Latter Day Saint tradition, particularly in relation to religious ordinances.

Overall, Orson Pratt’s quote encapsulates the central role of divine authorization and revelation in the act of baptism within the Latter Day Saint tradition. It serves as a reminder of the movement’s emphasis on the restoration of priesthood authority and the ongoing nature of divine communication. Additionally, the quote underscores the theological and practical significance of authorized priesthood authority in performing sacred ordinances, reflecting the broader foundational beliefs and organizational structure of the Latter Day Saint movement.