Gospel Principles
Unit 6: The Gospel of Jesus Christ
Chapter 21: The Gift of the Holy Ghost
Concept 2: What is The Gift of the Holy Ghost?
"The Gift of the Holy Ghost is the privilege, given to people who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, been baptized, and been confirmed as members of the Church, to receive guidance and inspiration from the Holy Ghost.
Joseph Smith said we believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost being enjoyed now as much as it was enjoyed in the days of first Apostles. We believe in this gift in all its fullness, power, greatness, and Glory. (see Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 243.)
A person may be temporarily guided by the Holy Ghost with out receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. However, this guidance will not be continuous unless the person is baptized and receives the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. We read in Acts 10 that the Roman soldier Cornelius received inspiration from the Holy Ghost so that he knew the gospel of Jesus Christ was true. But Cornelius did not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost until after he was baptized. The prophet Joseph Smith taught that if Cornelius had not received baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost, the Holy Ghost would have left him (see Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 199).
Today many nonmembers of the Church learn by the power of the Holy Ghost that the Book of Mormon is true (see Moroni 10:4-5). But that flash of testimony leaves them if they do not receive the continuing assurance that can come to those who have the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Discussion
What is the difference between inspiration from the Holy Ghost and the gift of the Holy Ghost?"