This category offers insightful articles on the scriptures and historical foundations of the Restoration in Latter-day Saint thought. Explore topics such as the translation of the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, early revelations, and how restored scripture connects with Church history and doctrine. Whether you’re studying scriptural origins or the unfolding of Restoration events, this section provides well-researched content that deepens understanding of LDS sacred texts and their role in spiritual life.
Part 1 The Doctrine and Covenants 18 outlines the significant role of apostles within the early Latter-day Saint movement, emphasizing the calling of the Three Witnesses as foundational leaders. Under the presidency of Thomas Marsh, the Quorum of the Twelve faced various challenges, notably during the Missouri crisis, which tested their commitment and responsibilities. Key … Read more
D&C 83 The Practical Realities of Consecration in Early Latter-day Saint Life Doctrine and Covenants 83, received in April 1832, emerged from real questions confronting the early Latter-day Saints as they lived the law of consecration. Since Doctrine and Covenants 42 had already established consecration as a governing economic system, members needed clarity regarding what … Read more
Formation of the New Testament: How Early Christian Debates Shaped the Biblical Canon The early centuries of Christianity were marked by intense theological debates and uncertainty about which writings carried true apostolic authority. As Christian communities expanded, so did the diversity of beliefs and texts—many of them claiming apostolic origin. This environment produced a long … Read more
Doctrine & Covenants 91 and the Apocrypha (Part 1) Joseph Smith’s Translation Work and the Setting of the Revelation Doctrine and Covenants 91 was received on March 9, 1833, during the period when Joseph Smith was actively engaged in his Bible translation project. The revelation followed immediately after D&C 90, which instructed Joseph to finish … Read more
Easter Special The Historical Setting of Doctrine and Covenants 19 The earliest complete text of what is now Doctrine and Covenants 19 appeared in the 1833 Book of Commandments, preserving passages that are missing from the earliest manuscript copies. The revelation itself dates to 1829, a decisive moment in the unfolding Restoration when Joseph Smith … Read more
The Doctrine and Covenants and the Question of Its Sections The Doctrine and Covenants did not always appear in the form we know today. The current Latter-day Saint edition contains 138 sections and two Official Declarations, but early editions differed as new revelations were received, written, organized, and prepared for publication. Understanding this development helps … Read more
The Question of “Lead Us Not Into Temptation” A listener asked why the Book of Mormon retains the King James phrase “lead us not into temptation,” while the Joseph Smith Translation revises it to “suffer us not to be led into temptation.” This reflects a deeper issue: many Christians assume scripture must be fixed and … Read more
Question About the Illuminati and the Temple A missionary reported teaching a family whose father once investigated the Church and had prepared for baptism. Before his baptism, he watched an illegal video of the temple endowment online. Disturbed by what he saw and by perceived similarities to other religious rites, he asked a member why … Read more
Jesus’ family has been understood in different ways throughout Christian history. Traditions about Mary’s parents, interpretations of Jesus’ siblings, and non-canonical writings have all shaped how believers understand Jesus’ family beyond the New Testament record. Jesus’ Family and Traditions About Mary’s Mother Some modern reflections highlight the devotion or righteousness of Mary’s mother without referencing … Read more
Context of the Revelation Doctrine & Covenants 91 was received on March 9, 1833, one day after Joseph Smith received Doctrine & Covenants 90. Doctrine & Covenants 90 commanded Joseph Smith to finish the translation of the Bible, preside over the Church and the School of the Prophets, and receive further revelation that would “unfold … Read more