One in me as I am one in the Father

The Lord was not teaching that He and Heavenly Father are the same person when He said, “I am one in the Father, as the Father is one in me” (D&C 35:2). Rather, this passage clarifies that Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, are united in purpose and possess the same character, perfections, and attributes. They invite true followers to become one with Them. Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained how we can become “one” with Heavenly Father and His Son:

“Jesus achieved perfect unity with the Father by submitting Himself, both flesh and spirit, to the will of the Father. His ministry was always clearly focused because there was no debilitating or distracting double-mindedness in Him. Referring to His Father, Jesus said, ‘I do always those things that please him’ (John 8:29). …

“Surely we will not be one with God and Christ until we make Their will and interest our greatest desire. Such submissiveness is not reached in a day, but through the Holy Spirit, the Lord will tutor us if we are willing until, in process of time, it may accurately be said that He is in us as the Father is in Him. At times I tremble to consider what may be required, but I know that it is only in this perfect union that a fulness of joy can be found. I am grateful beyond expression that I am invited to be one with those holy beings I revere and worship as my Heavenly Father and Redeemer” (“That They May Be One in Us,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2002, 72–73).