Taking responsibility - if you don't get the Priesthood or don't get baptized, your future isn't bright

Sometimes we run into people who seem to like the church but are very dismissive of advancing in the church because "if I falter after being baptized, I'm in bigger trouble" (and sometimes add if you're in Guatemala, "because God's not a toy to play with." - such a dumb phrase; not living a good life shows God he's not important; making steps towards him through ordinances does not upset him).

Anyway, sometimes this is an excuse by someone who is just looking for one. Other times, I've seen it be a legitimate concern. Concerning the priesthood, the Lord said the following in D.C. 84:

40Therefore, all those who receive the ^apriesthood, receive this^boath and covenant of my Father, which he cannot break, neither can it be moved.

41But whoso breaketh this ^acovenant after he hath received it, and altogether turneth therefrom, shall ^bnot have forgiveness of sins in this world nor in the world to come.

42And wo unto all those who come not unto this priesthood which ye have received, which I now confirm upon you who are present this day, by mine own voice out of the heavens; and even I have given the heavenly hosts and mine angels ^acharge concerning you.

So it is definitely bad to break the oath and covenant of the priesthood. However, it's also bad to not "come unto this priesthood." This may mean "not accept the responsibilities" or may also mean to not get ordained at all. (He could be saying men may not come get ordained unto the priesthood that the church has received.) If you don't get ordained, "wo unto you". That's not too positive of a statement. :)

It's true that there can be punishment for getting greater light and knowledge and then falling away. However, if you have some light and knowledge and don't move towards baptism and ordination to the priesthood, there's condemnation in that as well. Doing nothing is not an acceptable solution.

So, when given the choice to progress in ordinances or to not, progressing opens the door to greater blessings and happiness while also opening the door to greater punishment for mistakes. Not progressing opens no doors and keeps the door to punishment open.

LaDon