W.W. Phelps had been both called and chosen, but it was also his duty to be baptized in water and receive the Holy Spirit by the laying on of hands. There is no other entrance to the Kingdom of God.
One who wants to hold an office in a kingdom must take upon himself certain obligations as a citizen. He must be naturalized, if his citizenship is not one of birthright. He must enter into certain covenants as to loyalty, morality, etc. The rule is the same in the Kingdom of Heaven. We enter it through baptism and the laying on of hands, taking upon us the obligations of citizens in that Kingdom, and receiving the Holy Spirit which permeates it. Then we are qualified for appointment for such offices as the King may call us to take charge of.
Doctrine and Covenants Commentary by Hyrum M. Smith and Janne M. Sjodahl. Deseret Book. 1965. p.318
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