The 13 Articles of Faith Explained + Printable Cards for Kids

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The 13 Articles of Faith are a big part of what members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe. They were written by Joseph Smith as a simple way to explain the main teachings of the church, and they’re still used today to help people understand and share their faith. Whether you’re new to the gospel or just want a refresher, this article goes through each of the 13 Articles of Faith and breaks them down in an easy-to-understand way. It’s perfect for kids, youth, or anyone wanting to learn more about what the LDS Church teaches.

The 13 Articles of Faith Explained In An Easy to Understand Ways

If you’re looking for a fun and helpful way to study them, be sure to check out our printable 13 Articles of Faith cards in our Etsy shop—they’re great for Primary lessons, home study, or just keeping the articles fresh in your mind.

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1. We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.

This article expresses the foundational belief in the Godhead—the three distinct beings who work in perfect unity to bring about God’s plan for His children. Each member has a unique role:

God, the Eternal Father: He is the literal Father of our spirits, the supreme Creator, and the source of all truth, love, and power. He is our loving Heavenly Father.
His Son, Jesus Christ: The Savior and Redeemer. Through His life, Atonement, death, and Resurrection, Jesus makes it possible for us to be forgiven of sins, find peace, and return to God.
The Holy Ghost: A spirit being who testifies of truth, comforts, warns, and guides. He helps individuals feel God’s presence and receive personal revelation.

Unlike some Christian traditions that see the Godhead as one substance in three forms (the Trinity), Latter-day Saints believe the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three separate and distinct beings who are perfectly united in purpose and will.

This article lays the foundation for all other beliefs, showing that faith in the Godhead is the starting point for understanding the gospel of Jesus Christ.

2. We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.

This article teaches the principle of individual accountability—that each person is responsible for their own choices, not for the actions of others, including Adam and Eve. Key ideas include:

“Men will be punished for their own sins”: Everyone makes mistakes and sins, but God’s judgment is based on our personal actions, not on inherited guilt. We are each accountable for the choices we knowingly make.
“Not for Adam’s transgression”: In the story of Adam and Eve, their choice to partake of the fruit brought mortality and the ability to choose between good and evil. Latter-day Saints believe this was part of God’s plan and that we do not inherit their sin—only the effects of living in a fallen world.

This article emphasizes God’s fairness and justice. It teaches that people are born innocent and free to choose, and that the Atonement of Jesus Christ makes it possible to overcome both physical and spiritual consequences of the Fall. It also reflects the belief that agency (the ability to choose) is a sacred gift and central to God’s plan.

3. We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.

This article teaches the central message of the gospel: Jesus Christ’s Atonement makes salvation possible for everyone. It emphasizes both God’s mercy and our responsibility:

“Through the Atonement of Christ”: Jesus suffered, died, and was resurrected to overcome sin and death. His Atonement offers forgiveness, healing, and the power to return to God’s presence. It is the only way that salvation can happen.
“All mankind may be saved”: Salvation is available to everyone—not just a select few. No matter your background, sins, or struggles, Christ’s Atonement reaches all.
“By obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel”: While Christ provides the way, we must choose to follow it. This means living according to His teachings and receiving the essential ordinances (like baptism and confirmation). Obedience shows our faith and commitment.

In short, this article teaches that salvation is a gift offered to all, but it must be accepted through faithful living and participation in the gospel. It highlights the beautiful balance between Christ’s grace and our personal effort to follow Him.

4. We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.

This article outlines the foundational steps of the gospel—what someone must do to begin their journey of discipleship and receive salvation through Jesus Christ. It includes both principles (beliefs) and ordinances (sacred acts):

Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ: This is the starting point. Faith means trusting in Jesus—believing in His power to save, following His teachings, and relying on Him daily.
Repentance: This is the process of turning away from sin and turning toward God. It includes feeling sorrow for wrongdoing, asking for forgiveness, making things right, and striving to change.
Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins: Baptism is a covenant with God and a required ordinance. It is done by full immersion in water, symbolizing the death and resurrection of Christ, and it washes away sins.
Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost: After baptism, a person is confirmed a member of the Church and given the gift of the Holy Ghost through the laying on of hands by priesthood holders. This gift is a constant companion, guide, and comforter—if the person lives worthily.

This article teaches that salvation is both a process and a promise. Through faith, repentance, and sacred ordinances performed by proper authority, individuals can fully enter into Christ’s gospel and begin a life guided by the Holy Spirit.

5. We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.

This article emphasizes that priesthood authority—the right to act in God’s name—is essential in the Church, especially when it comes to teaching the gospel and performing sacred ordinances like baptism or the sacrament. It outlines how a person is properly called to serve in the Lord’s Church:

“Called of God”: No one can assume a role of spiritual leadership on their own. The call must come from God, often through revelation.
“By prophecy”: Church leaders seek and receive spiritual confirmation through prayer and revelation before calling someone to a position of service or leadership.
“By the laying on of hands”: This is the sacred, physical act of conferring authority or responsibility. Worthy men are ordained to offices in the priesthood through this process, just as was done in biblical times (see Acts 6:6 or 1 Timothy 4:14).
“By those who are in authority”: Only those who already hold the priesthood and have the proper authority can extend these callings, ensuring that leadership and ordinances remain orderly and divinely guided.

In short, this article teaches that divine authority and proper calling are necessary to act in God’s name. It helps maintain unity, reverence, and order in the Church, and it reflects the pattern Jesus Himself established with His apostles and disciples.

6. We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.

This article teaches that the organization of the Church today should mirror the Church that Jesus Christ originally established during His earthly ministry. Latter-day Saints believe that the true Church of Christ is not just about doctrines, but also about how it is structured and led. Key roles mentioned include:

Apostles: Special witnesses of Jesus Christ, called to lead the Church and testify of Him to the world.
Prophets: Those who speak for God, receive revelation, and guide the Church in His name.
Pastors, teachers, and evangelists: These refer to other leadership and teaching roles within the Church, responsible for guiding, instructing, and serving members.
“And so forth”: This phrase implies that other roles and offices—such as bishops, deacons, and seventies—also belong to the divinely inspired structure of the Church.

The idea is that Christ’s original Church was organized with divine authority and specific leadership, and that same pattern has been restored in modern times through revelation. Latter-day Saints believe that having this structure is essential for maintaining unity, teaching true doctrine, and performing sacred ordinances with proper authority.

7. We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.

This article teaches that spiritual gifts are real, active, and available today, just as they were in biblical times. These gifts are special blessings from God, given through the Holy Ghost to help individuals grow in faith and serve others. Here’s what some of the listed gifts mean:

Gift of tongues: The ability to speak or understand foreign languages by the power of the Spirit—often used to teach or share the gospel.
Prophecy: Inspired messages from God about current or future events. This can come through prophets or through personal inspiration.
Revelation: God revealing truth to individuals or leaders. It might guide personal decisions or Church direction.
Visions: Powerful spiritual experiences where individuals see divine things—often used to strengthen faith or deliver a message.
Healing: The ability to restore physical, emotional, or spiritual health through faith and priesthood power.
Interpretation of tongues: Understanding or interpreting languages that one has not learned naturally—often paired with the gift of tongues.

The phrase “and so forth” reminds us that this is not a complete list—there are many different spiritual gifts, and they are given according to the needs and faith of God’s children.

This article emphasizes that the Church of Jesus Christ today is a living church, filled with the power and presence of the Holy Ghost. Spiritual gifts are meant to build up the Church, bless individuals, and strengthen faith in Jesus Christ.

8. We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.

This article teaches that scripture is central to knowing God’s will, and it emphasizes the importance of both the Bible and the Book of Mormon in Latter-day Saint belief. It includes two key ideas:

The Bible is the word of God: Latter-day Saints love and study the Bible—both the Old and New Testaments—as sacred scripture. However, they acknowledge that over time, translation errors or alterations may have affected parts of it. That’s why the phrase “as far as it is translated correctly” is included: it recognizes the Bible’s divine origin while also being mindful of its human transmission.
The Book of Mormon is also the word of God: Latter-day Saints believe the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ. It was translated by Joseph Smith from ancient records and provides clarity and additional teachings about the gospel, supporting and complementing the Bible.

Together, these scriptures work hand-in-hand to testify of Jesus Christ, teach truth, and guide daily life. This article expresses a belief in multiple witnesses of God’s word and encourages careful study and openness to modern scripture.

9. We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.

This article expresses a foundational belief in ongoing revelation—that God is not silent, but continues to speak to His children today, just as He has in the past. It teaches three key truths:

God has revealed: Latter-day Saints accept all of God’s past revelations, such as those found in the Bible and other scriptures like the Book of Mormon, which contain truths revealed through prophets.
God does now reveal: Revelation didn’t end with the Bible. The Church believes that God continues to guide His people through living prophets and personal revelation by the Holy Ghost.
God will yet reveal: God still has more truth to give. As the world and His work move forward, He will continue to reveal “great and important” truths about His Kingdom and our role in it.

This article encourages an attitude of spiritual openness and growth. It teaches that truth is not limited to the past, and that being a disciple of Christ means being willing to listen, learn, and follow new direction from God as it comes.

10. We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.

This article focuses on future events in God’s plan, especially those related to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ and the fulfillment of ancient promises made to the House of Israel. It includes several key beliefs:

Literal gathering of Israel: Latter-day Saints believe that the descendants of Israel (the 12 tribes) will be gathered both spiritually (through the gospel) and physically (to promised lands). This is a process that is actively happening today through missionary work around the world.
Restoration of the Ten Tribes: Ten of the twelve tribes of Israel were scattered and “lost” in ancient times. This article expresses faith that these tribes will be identified and restored in the last days as part of God’s covenant.
Zion (the New Jerusalem): Latter-day Saints believe that a holy city, called Zion or the New Jerusalem, will be established on the American continent as a gathering place for the righteous in preparation for Christ’s return.
Christ’s personal reign: Jesus Christ will physically return to earth and reign as King during the Millennium, a thousand-year period of peace and righteousness.
Renewal of the earth: After Christ’s return, the earth will be cleansed and transformed into a paradise-like state, free of sin and suffering—a place where God’s presence can dwell.

In summary, this article expresses hope and confidence in God’s future promises, emphasizing that the work of salvation is global, ongoing, and leading to a time of peace, justice, and divine presence on earth.

11. We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.

This article teaches the principle of religious freedom and mutual respect. It emphasizes that every person has the right to choose how they worship—or whether to worship at all—based on their own conscience and personal beliefs. Key ideas include:

Freedom of worship: Latter-day Saints believe strongly in the God-given right to follow one’s own religious convictions without coercion or restriction.
Mutual respect: Just as Latter-day Saints claim this right for themselves, they also extend that same respect to others, no matter their faith, belief system, or background.
Peaceful coexistence: This article encourages understanding and tolerance, affirming that differences in belief should not lead to division or conflict.

This principle aligns with the teachings of Jesus Christ to love one another and to treat others as we would want to be treated. It also supports the idea that faith should never be forced, but must come from sincere, personal conviction.

12. We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.

This article teaches civic responsibility and respect for government authority. Latter-day Saints are encouraged to be law-abiding, responsible citizens wherever they live. This includes:

Being subject to leaders: Showing respect for those in positions of power—whether they are kings, presidents, judges, or other officials.
Obeying the law: Following the rules and laws of the land, even if one doesn’t fully agree with them, as long as they don’t conflict with God’s commandments.
Honoring and sustaining: This goes beyond simple obedience. It means supporting and upholding the government and working to promote peace, fairness, and justice in society.

This principle reflects a belief that order, structure, and accountability in society are important to God. It also echoes the LDS doctrine that freedom of religion and other rights thrive best in a lawful, stable society. Members are also encouraged to participate in their communities and democracies in positive and respectful ways.

13. We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men… If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

This article teaches a high moral standard for daily living. It highlights the Christlike character that Latter-day Saints are encouraged to develop, including:

Honesty and truthfulness: Always being sincere and trustworthy.
Chastity: Living a clean and morally pure life, especially in thoughts and actions related to sexuality.
Benevolence and virtue: Being kind, generous, and morally upright.
Doing good to all: Treating everyone with compassion and respect, regardless of background or beliefs.

The second part references the Apostle Paul and broadens the principle: Latter-day Saints are taught to seek out and embrace anything that is good, wherever it may be found—whether inside or outside their faith. This includes literature, music, art, teachings, and values that uplift and inspire.

In essence, this article is both a personal code of conduct and a call to actively pursue goodness, excellence, and truth in all areas of life.

Final Thoughts On The 13 Articles of Faith

Understanding the 13 Articles of Faith can help strengthen your testimony and give you a clearer picture of what the LDS Church believes. This article walks through each one, offering simple explanations to make them easier to learn and teach. Don’t forget to grab our printable 13 Articles of Faith cards from our Etsy shop—they’re a great tool for memorization, family study, or church handouts.