Guide to the Scriptures, “Truth” Study Helps, Gospel Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“Knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come. Truth also refers to light and revelation from heaven.”

Book of Mormon, Jacob 4:13

“Behold, my brethren, he that prophesieth, let him prophesy to the understanding of men; for the Spirit speaketh the truth and lieth not. Wherefore, it speaketh of things as they really are, and of things as they really will be; wherefore, these things are manifested unto us plainly, for the salvation of our souls. But behold, we are not witnesses alone in these things; for God also spake them unto prophets of old.”

Doctrine and Covenants 93:24

“And truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come.”

Doctrine and Covenants 93:36

“The glory of God is intelligence, or in other words, light and truth.”

Doctrine and Covenants 123:12

“For there are many yet on the earth among all sects, parties, and denominations, who are blinded by the subtle craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive, and who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it.”

Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:215; from “History of the Church” (manuscript), book D-1, p. 1433, Church Archives

“I stated that the most prominent difference in sentiment between the Latter-day Saints and sectarians was, that the latter were all circumscribed by some peculiar creed, which deprived its members the privilege of believing anything not contained therein, whereas the Latter-day Saints … are ready to believe all true principles that exist, as they are made manifest from time to time.”

Joseph Smith, Letter from Joseph Smith to Isaac Galland, Mar. 22, 1839, Liberty Jail, Liberty, Missouri, published in Times and Seasons, Feb. 1840, pp. 53–54

“The first and fundamental principle of our holy religion is, that we believe that we have a right to embrace all, and every item of truth, without limitation or without being circumscribed or prohibited by the creeds or superstitious notions of men, or by the dominations of one another, when that truth is clearly demonstrated to our minds, and we have the highest degree of evidence of the same.”

Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 5:340; from a discourse given by Joseph Smith on Apr. 8, 1843, in Nauvoo, Illinois; reported by Willard Richards and William Clayton.

“Knowledge does away with darkness, suspense and doubt; for these cannot exist where knowledge is. … In knowledge there is power. God has more power than all other beings, because He has greater knowledge; and hence He knows how to subject all other beings to Him. He has power over all.”

Brigham Young, Discourses of Brigham Young. Selected by John A. Widtsoe. 1941.

“I want to say to my friends that we believe in all good. If you can find a truth in heaven, earth or hell, it belongs to our doctrine. We believe it; it is ours; we claim it.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “What is Truth?” January 13, 2013, Speeches, Brigham Young University

“Part of our problem in the quest for truth is that human wisdom has disappointed us so often. We have so many examples of things that mankind once “knew” were true but have since been proven false.”

“The scriptures are filled with stories of men and women who misinterpreted ‘truth.’”

“Part of the reason for poor judgment comes from the tendency of mankind to blur the line between belief and truth. We too often confuse belief with truth, thinking that because something makes sense or is convenient, it must be true. Conversely, we sometimes don’t believe truth or reject it—because it would require us to change or admit that we were wrong. Often, truth is rejected because it doesn’t appear to be consistent with previous experiences.”

“We simply don’t know all things—we can’t see everything. What may seem contradictory now may be perfectly understandable as we search for and receive more trustworthy information. Because we see through a glass darkly, we have to trust the Lord, who sees all things clearly. Yes, our world is full of confusion. But eventually all of our questions will be answered. All of our doubts will be replaced by certainty. And that is because there is one source of truth that is complete, correct, and incorruptible. That source is our infinitely wise and all-knowing Heavenly Father. He knows truth as it was, as it is, and as it yet will be.”

Russell M. Nelson, “What is True?” General Conference, October 2022

“The flood of information available at our fingertips, ironically, makes it increasingly difficult to determine what is true.”

“Dear brothers and sisters, God is the source of all truth. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints embraces all truth that God conveys to His children, whether learned in a scientific laboratory or received by direct revelation from Him.”

Old Testament, Isaiah 5:20-21

“Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 

Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!”

Doctrine and Covenants 1:39

“For behold, and lo, the Lord is God, and the Spirit beareth record, and the record is true, and the truth abideth forever and ever. Amen.”

Doctrine and Covenants 88:66

“My voice is Spirit; my Spirit is truth; truth abideth and hath no end; and if it be in you it shall abound.”

Doctrine and Covenants 93:30

“All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself, as all intelligence also; otherwise there is no existence.”

Russell M. Nelson, “Truth—and More,” Ensign, January 1986

“Of course, the truth isn’t ‘relative.’ It is only man’s understanding of the truth that is ‘relative.’ Researchers realize that only a small sample of the totality of ‘absolute’ truth is known. Therein lies the allurement of research. There are few rewards as exciting as the discovery of truth, through research well performed.”  

Dallin H Oaks, “Truth and Tolerance,” CES Fireside, September 11, 2011, Newsroom, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“We believe in absolute truth, including the existence of God and the right and wrong established by His commandments.”

“We know that the existence of God and the existence of absolute truth are fundamental to life on this earth, whether they are believed or not.”

“We who believe in God and the corollary truth of absolute right and wrong have the challenge of living in a godless and increasingly amoral world.  In this circumstance, all of us—and especially you of the rising generation—have a duty to stand up and speak to affirm that God exists and that there are absolute truths His commandments establish.”

“We are cast as combatants in the war between truth and error.  There is no middle ground.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “What is Truth?” January 13, 2013, Speeches, Brigham Young University

“The thing about truth is that it exists beyond belief. It is true even if nobody believes it.”

“This truth is different from belief. It is different from hope. Absolute truth is not dependent upon public opinion or popularity. Polls cannot sway it. Not even the inexhaustible authority of celebrity endorsement can change it.”

“The adversary has many cunning strategies for keeping mortals from the truth. He offers the belief that truth is relative; appealing to our sense of tolerance and fairness, he keeps the real truth hidden by claiming that one person’s ‘truth’ is as valid as any other. Some he entices to believe that there is an absolute truth out there somewhere but that it is impossible for anyone to know it.”

D. Todd Christofferson, “Free Forever, to Act for Themselves,” General Conference, October 2014

“To those who believe anything or everything could be true, the declaration of objective, fixed, and universal truth feels like coercion—'I shouldn’t be forced to believe something is true that I don’t like.’ But that does not change reality. Resenting the law of gravity won’t keep a person from falling if he steps off a cliff. The same is true for eternal law and justice.”

D. Todd Christofferson, “Truth Endures,” From an address to CES religious educators, Salt Lake Tabernacle, 26 January 2018, Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University

“All truth, including the truth that governs our present sphere, exists independent and apart. It is unaffected by my preference or your opinion. It stands independent of any effort to control or change it. It cannot be lobbied or influenced in any way. It is a fixed reality.”

“We know that truth exists, that it represents a fixed and immutable reality.”

“Relativism does real harm as it acts to diminish conscience. If acknowledged and followed, conscience will lead to ever greater light and truth. But ignoring or suppressing conscience obviously leads one away from light and truth and into denial, error, and regret. Pretending there is no fixed, objective truth is nothing more than an attempt to evade responsibility and accountability. This is not a recipe for happiness.”

Russell M. Nelson, “What is True?” General Conference, October 2022

“Some would have us believe that truth is relative—that each person should determine for himself or herself what is true. Such a belief is but wishful thinking for those who mistakenly think they will not also be accountable to God.”

Pearl of Great Price, Articles of Faith 1:5-6

“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. 

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

Doctrine and Covenants 1:29-30

“And after having received the record of the Nephites, yea, even my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., might have power to translate through the mercy of God, by the power of God, the Book of Mormon. 

And also those to whom these commandments were given, might have power to lay the foundation of this church, and to bring it forth out of obscurity and out of darkness, the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased, speaking unto the church collectively and not individually.”

Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Chapter 3: “Study and Teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Handbooks and Callings, Mission Callings, Gospel Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“As God had done with many previous prophets, He called Joseph Smith to be a prophet through whom the fulness of the gospel would be restored to the earth. This restoration would help God’s children find joy in this world and eternal life in the world to come—all through Jesus Christ.”

“After the appearance of the Father and the Son, other heavenly messengers were sent to Joseph Smith and his associate Oliver Cowdery. John the Baptist appeared as a resurrected being and conferred the Aaronic Priesthood and its keys on them. The Aaronic Priesthood includes the authority to baptize.”

“Soon afterward, Peter, James, and John—three of Christ’s original Apostles—appeared as resurrected beings and conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood and its keys on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. This priesthood is the same authority that Christ gave His Apostles anciently.”

“In the Kirtland Temple, Moses, Elias, and Elijah appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery and committed to them the further authority and priesthood keys necessary to accomplish God’s work in the latter days. Moses committed the keys of the gathering of Israel. Elias committed the dispensation of the gospel of Abraham. Elijah committed the keys of the sealing power.”

“Joseph Smith was directed to organize the Church of Jesus Christ again on the earth. Through him, Jesus Christ called twelve Apostles.”

“Just as Jesus called Apostles during His mortal ministry to lead His Church, He has called Apostles to lead it today. The First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are prophets, seers, and revelators.”

“Only the senior Apostle is called the prophet because he presides over the entire Church and is uniquely authorized to speak for the Lord. He is the authorized successor to Joseph Smith. He and the present Apostles trace their authority to Jesus Christ in an unbroken chain of ordinations that began when Joseph Smith was ordained under the hands of the heavenly messengers.”

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “Jesus Christ’s Church Is Restored,” Welcome, churchofjesuschrist.org 

“When Jesus was on the earth, He organized His Church. He called twelve Apostles to lead and teach and organize congregations in various cities, and He gave the Apostles authority (known as the priesthood) to act in God’s name.”

“After Jesus was crucified, His Apostles faced dissent inside the Church and increased persecution outside it, in some cases leading to their death. Some people misused religion to try to increase their own power or splintered off into new sects that misinterpreted the Savior’s teachings. Over time, the priesthood was taken from the earth and many important truths were lost.”

“Good people such as Martin Luther and John Calvin recognized the incomplete state of Christianity and tried to reform these churches. During this time of reformation, many new religions were organized to sincerely follow Jesus Christ and His original teachings. Yet these religions still lacked the priesthood authority from God to perform ordinances such as baptism or the sacrament. A full restoration, directed by a prophet chosen by God, was needed.”

“The time for that restoration came in 1820. A 14-year-old boy named Joseph Smith began to feel, in his words, ‘serious reflection and great uneasiness’ about the welfare of his soul and which church he should join.”

“God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith that day, telling him that his sins had been forgiven and that he should join none of the churches he had learned about. Instead, Joseph had been chosen as God’s prophet who would restore Jesus Christ’s true Church to the earth.”

“Through Joseph Smith, Jesus Christ restored His Church with a prophet, apostles, and priesthood authority to baptize, heal the sick, and do other important work in God’s name.”

“Through the Book of Mormon and modern-day revelation from God, important truths about God’s plan for us and our purpose on earth were revealed, such as a deeper understanding of the role of Jesus Christ, the knowledge that we lived with God before we came to earth, and the knowledge that we are here to learn and grow to become more like our Heavenly Father and return to live with Him again.”

“Important religious ceremonies known as ‘priesthood ordinances’ were restored to the earth, including the power to unite families together for time and all eternity. Many of these ordinances are performed in temples, just as in the days of Solomon and Jesus.”

“Jesus Christ’s Church was reestablished using the same pattern as in ancient times, including a prophet and twelve Apostles.”

“Disciples of Christ could be baptized into His Church with proper priesthood authority from God and given the gift of the Holy Ghost.”

“Today, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to be led by a living prophet and apostles as millions of people around the world experience the blessings of Jesus Christ’s restored Church and look forward to His Second Coming.”

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “Temples Bind Us to God and Each Other,” Welcome, churchofjesuschrist.org 

“For members of the Church, the first covenant we make with God takes place when we are baptized. Covenants are often made through sacred ordinances like baptism. An ordinance is a religious ceremony performed with the authority of God’s priesthood. After baptism, we receive the Holy Spirit through another ordinance. Together, these sacred commitments offer us a fresh start. Our sins are forgiven, and we become members of Jesus Christ’s Church. Keeping covenants with God strengthens us throughout our lives.”

“When we are baptized, we promise God we will keep His commandments, show love to others, and take Jesus Christ’s name upon us. And if we do these things, God promises to forgive our sins, bless us with His Holy Spirit, and help us return to live with Him forever.”

“We renew the covenant we make at baptism each Sunday at church as we take the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper (which is similar to Communion, or the Eucharist). This beautiful reminder of our covenant is patterned after the sacrament that Jesus introduced to His Apostles before His death.”

“Temples are different from the thousands of local church buildings where we hold Sunday worship services and other activities. Temples are unique houses of the Lord and are special, holy places dedicated to God’s most sacred work.”

“After baptism, adult members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can make additional covenants with God in the temple that will strengthen their relationship with Him and bring them even greater blessings.”

“The word endowment means “gift.” In the temple endowment ordinance, adult Church members learn more about the gospel of Jesus Christ. They also make solemn covenants that include the promise to obey God’s commandments and dedicate everything they have and all that they are to the Lord. In return, they receive blessings such as greater knowledge of God’s plan for our happiness, increased power to follow the example of Jesus, and the opportunity to live forever with God someday.”

“One of the great joys of the gospel of Jesus Christ is the promise that family ties can continue beyond this earthly life. In the temple, families can be united together for eternity. This special temple marriage is called a “sealing.” During a temple sealing ceremony, a bride and groom kneel across an altar to make covenants with each other and with God. They promise to honor and love one another completely and commit to follow the teachings and example of Jesus. In turn, they are promised that their marriage and their family can endure beyond this life and into eternity.”

“We believe in a perfectly just and merciful God who would never deny one of His children the blessings of eternal life or an eternal family because of circumstances they can’t control. God has provided a way for us to perform baptisms, endowments, and sealings by proxy for our ancestors who may not have had an opportunity before they died. “Proxy” simply means that someone who is living can act as a substitute on behalf of someone who has died. These sacred ceremonies are performed only in temples. Because life continues after death, we believe our ancestors can choose to accept or reject this offering made in love for them.”

Q&A: Questions and Answers, New Era, May 2005

“The Church is true because it is the restored Church.” 

“Only in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can we receive the true teachings, essential ordinances, and opportunities to serve that help us return to Heavenly Father.”

“Because Heavenly Father loves His children wherever they are, He inspires them as well. Other churches have some, but not all, truth. But the Lord has only one true and living church.”

“One reason The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a “living church” is that the living God reveals His will to living prophets and apostles. They give us guidance suited to our times.”

Boyd K. Packer, “The Only True Church,” General Conference, October 1985

“Good conduct without the ordinances of the gospel will neither redeem nor exalt mankind; covenants and the ordinances are essential. We are required to teach the doctrines, even the unpopular ones. Yield on this doctrine, and you cannot justify the Restoration. The doctrine is true; it is logical.”

“There are essential ordinances just as there are required courses. There are prescribed standards of worthiness. If we resist them, avoid them, or fail them, we will not enter in with those who complete the course. Do you realize that the notion that all churches are equal presupposes that the true church of Jesus Christ actually does not exist anywhere?”

“We did not invent the doctrine of the only true church. It came from the Lord. Whatever perception others have of us, however presumptuous we appear to be, whatever criticism is directed to us, we must teach it to all who will listen.”

“We do not recognize the ordinances performed in other churches. We will not exchange baptisms, a practice which has become commonplace in the Christian world. “

“We do not claim that others have no truth. The Lord described them as having ‘a form of godliness.’ Converts to the Church may bring with them all the truth they possess and have it added upon. “

“I bear testimony that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is, as the Lord declared, the only true and living church upon the face of the earth; that with it, He is well pleased, speaking of the Church collectively. And that, individually, if we are humble and faithful, we can stand approved of Him.”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Marvelous Foundation of Our Faith,” General Conference, October 2002

“Do we as Latter-day Saints really understand and appreciate the strength of our position? Among the religions of the world, it is unique and wonderful.”

“Reflect upon it, my brethren and sisters. For centuries the heavens remained sealed. Good men and women, not a few—really great and wonderful people—tried to correct, strengthen, and improve their systems of worship and their body of doctrine. To them I pay honor and respect. How much better the world is because of their bold action. While I believe their work was inspired, it was not favored with the opening of the heavens, with the appearance of Deity.”

“We love those of other churches. We work with them in good causes. We respect them. But we must never forget our roots. Those roots lie deep in the soil of the opening of this, the final dispensation, the dispensation of the fulness of times. What an inspiration it has been to look into the faces of men and women across the world who carry in their hearts a solemn conviction of the truth of this foundation. When it comes to divine authority, this is the sum and substance of the whole matter. God be thanked for His marvelous bestowal of testimony, authority, and doctrine associated with this, the restored Church of Jesus Christ.”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “Closing Remarks,” Ensign, Nov. 2004, 105

“This work is true. Never doubt it. God our Eternal Father lives. Jesus is our Redeemer, our Lord, the Son of the living God. Joseph was a prophet, the Book of Mormon is of divine origin, and this is God’s holy work in the earth.”

Henry B. Eyring, “The True and Living Church,” General Conference, April 2008

“This is the true Church, the only true Church, because in it are the keys of the priesthood. Only in this Church has the Lord lodged the power to seal on earth and to seal in heaven as He did in the time of the Apostle Peter. Those keys were restored to Joseph Smith, who then was authorized to confer them upon the members of the Quorum of the Twelve.”

“The keys of the priesthood are held by mortals, but the way has been prepared by the Lord for the keys to remain functioning on the earth so long as the people exercise faith both that the keys are on the earth and that they have been passed on by the will of God to His chosen servants.”

“We know from prophecy that not only will the true and living Church not be taken from the earth again, but it will become better. Our lives will be transformed for the better as we exercise faith unto repentance, always remember the Savior, and try ever harder to keep His commandments. The scriptures contain promises that when the Lord comes again to His Church, He will find it spiritually prepared for Him.”

Dallin H. Oaks, “The Only True and Living Church,” From an address delivered on June 25, 2010, at a seminar for new mission presidents. New Era, August 2011

“The fashionable opinion of this age is that all churches are true. In truth, the idea that all churches are the same is the doctrine of the anti-Christ. “

“Certainly all churches and philosophies have elements of truth in them, some more than others. Certainly God loves all of His children. And certainly His gospel plan is for all of His children, all according to His own timetable.”

“Because so much had been lost in the Apostasy, it was necessary that the Lord restore the fulness of His doctrine. That began with what we call Joseph Smith’s First Vision.”

“The Bible is clear that priesthood authority is necessary and that this authority had to be conferred by the laying on of hands by those who held it. Priesthood authority did not come from a desire to serve or from reading the scriptures. When that priesthood authority was lost through apostasy, it had to be restored by those resurrected beings who had held it in mortality and who were sent to confer it. That happened as part of the Restoration of the gospel, and that priesthood authority, together with the keys necessary to direct its operations, are in this Church and no other.”

“As a result of our having the power of the priesthood, the leaders and duly authorized members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are empowered to perform the required priesthood ordinances, such as baptism, the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the administration of the sacrament.”

“This Church is ‘living’ because we have prophets who continue to give us the word of the Lord that is needed for our time.”

“We have the revealed truth about the nature of God and our relationship to Him, and we therefore have a unique testimony of Jesus Christ. Significantly, our belief in the nature of God is what distinguishes us from the formal creeds of most Christian denominations.”

“We maintain that these three members of the Godhead are three separate and distinct beings and that God the Father is not a spirit but a glorified being with a tangible body, as is His resurrected Son, Jesus Christ. Though separate in identity, They are one in purpose.”

“We are not grounded in the wisdom of the world or the philosophies of men—however traditional or respected they may be. Our testimony of Jesus Christ is based on the revelations of God to His prophets and to us individually.”

Brad Wilcox, Youth Fireside, Alpine Utah, February 6, 2022

“My kids played church! They’d pull out the stuffed animals, they’d put them on the couch, they’d sing the song, they’d do the talk. Got a little nervous when my daughter started blessing the sacrament, but they’d play church. And I used to think, ‘Oh, that’s so cute! It’s so cute!’ But now I’m older and I realize it wasn’t just cute. It’s actually what most people in the world are doing. They’re playing church. They’re sincere; they want it to count, but they don’t have the authority. They don’t have God’s permission so that the things they do really count.”

Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, Page 188

“Mormonism, as it is called, must stand or fall on the story of Joseph Smith. He was either a Prophet of God, divinely called, properly appointed and commissioned or he was one of the biggest frauds this world has ever seen. There is no middle ground. If Joseph was a deceiver, who willfully attempted to mislead people, then he should be exposed, his claims should be refuted, and his doctrines shown to be false.”

J. Reuben Clark, “J. Reuben Clark: The Church Years,” pg.24, Brigham Young University Press, 1983

“If we have the truth, it cannot be harmed by investigation. If we have not the truth, it ought to be harmed.”

Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon—Keystone of Our Religion,” General Conference, October 1986

“The Book of Mormon is the keystone of testimony. Just as the arch crumbles if the keystone is removed, so does all the Church stand or fall with the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.”

Jeffrey R. Holland, “True or False,” Liahona, June 1996

“Everything in the Church – everything – rises or falls on the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and, by implication, the Prophet Joseph Smith’s account of how it came forth...It sounds like a 'sudden death' proposition to me. Either the Book of Mormon is what the Prophet Joseph said it is or this Church and its founder are false, fraudulent, a deception from the first instance onward. 

Not everything in life is so black and white, but it seems the authenticity of the Book of Mormon and its keystone role in our belief is exactly that. Either Joseph Smith was the prophet he said he was, who, after seeing the Father and the Son, later beheld the angel Moroni, repeatedly heard counsel from his lips, eventually receiving at his hands a set of ancient gold plates which he then translated according to the gift and power of God—or else he did not. And if he did not, in the spirit of President Benson’s comment, he is not entitled to retain even the reputation of New England folk hero or well-meaning young man or writer of remarkable fiction. No, and he is not entitled to be considered a great teacher or a quintessential American prophet or the creator of great wisdom literature. If he lied about the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, he is certainly none of those.” 

Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Marvelous Foundation of Our Faith,” General Conference, October 2002

“Our whole strength rests on the validity of that vision. It either occurred or it did not occur. If it did not, then this work is a fraud. If it did, then it is the most important and wonderful work under the heavens.”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Mormons,” Interview, PBS, April 2007

“It’s either true or false. If it’s false, we’re engaged in a great fraud. If it’s true, it’s the most important thing in the world. Now, that’s the whole picture. It is either right or wrong, true or false, fraudulent or true.”

Bible Dictionary, “Knowledge,” Study Helps, Gospel Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“Knowledge of divine and spiritual things is absolutely essential for one’s salvation; hence the gospel is to be taught to every soul.”

New Testament, 2 Peter 1:5

“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge.”

New Testament, 2 Peter 3:18

“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”

Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 32:7

“And now I, Nephi, cannot say more; the Spirit stoppeth mine utterance, and I am left to mourn because of the unbelief, and the wickedness, and the ignorance, and the stiffneckedness of men; for they will not search knowledge, nor understand great knowledge, when it is given unto them in plainness, even as plain as word can be.”

Doctrine and Covenants 42:61

“If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries and peaceable things—that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal.”

Doctrine and Covenants 45:57

“For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day.”

Doctrine and Covenants 131:6

“It is impossible for a man to be saved in ignorance.”

Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 4:588; from a discourse given by Joseph Smith on Apr. 10, 1842, in Nauvoo, Illinois; reported by Wilford Woodruff

“A man is saved no faster than he gets knowledge, for if he does not get knowledge, he will be brought into captivity by some evil power in the other world, as evil spirits will have more knowledge, and consequently more power than many men who are on the earth. Hence it needs revelation to assist us, and give us knowledge of the things of God.”

Joseph Smith, Quoted by Martha Jane Knowlton Coray, reporting a discourse given by Joseph Smith on May 21, 1843, in Nauvoo, Illinois; Martha Jane Knowlton Coray, Notebook, Church Archives

“Knowledge is necessary to life and godliness. Woe unto you priests and divines who preach that knowledge is not necessary unto life and salvation. Take away Apostles, etc., take away knowledge, and you will find yourselves worthy of the damnation of hell. Knowledge is revelation. Hear, all ye brethren, this grand key: knowledge is the power of God unto salvation.”

Brigham Young, Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. John A. Widtsoe [1941], 135

“I am more afraid that this people have so much confidence in their leaders that they will not inquire for themselves of God whether they are led by him. I am fearful they settle down in a state of blind self-security. … Let every man and woman know, by the whispering of the Spirit of God to themselves, whether their leaders are walking in the path the Lord dictates, or not.”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “Questions and Answers,” General Conference, October 1985

“People ask whether we are fearful of research of our history. My reply to this is no, of course not, provided it is done with balance and integrity, as has been done by some scholars both in and out of the Church.”

Gordon B. Hinckley, “Keep the Faith,” Ensign, September 1985

“As a Church, we encourage gospel scholarship and the search to understand all truth. Fundamental to our theology is belief in individual freedom of inquiry, thought, and expression. Constructive discussion is a privilege of every Latter-day Saint.”

James E. Faust, “The Truth Shall Make You Free,” Ensign, September 1998 

“As a means of coming to truth, people in the Church are encouraged by their leaders to think and find out for themselves. They are encouraged to ponder, to search, to evaluate, and thereby to come to such knowledge of the truth as their own consciences, assisted by the Spirit of God, lead them to discover.”

Jeffrey R. Holland, “A Prayer for the Children,” Ensign, May 2003

“In this Church there is an enormous amount of room—and scriptural commandment—for studying and learning, for comparing and considering, for discussion and awaiting further revelation. We all learn ‘line upon line, precept upon precept,’ with the goal being authentic religious faith informing genuine Christlike living. In this there is no place for coercion or manipulation, no place for intimidation or hypocrisy.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Acting on the Truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Worldwide Leadership Training, February 11, 2012

“Brothers and sisters, as good as our previous experience may be, if we stop asking questions, stop thinking, stop pondering, we can thwart the revelations of the Spirit. Remember, it was the questions young Joseph asked that opened the door for the restoration of all things. We can block the growth and knowledge our Heavenly Father intends for us. How often has the Holy Spirit tried to tell us something we needed to know but couldn’t get past the massive iron gate of what we thought we already knew?”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “What is Truth?” January 13, 2013, Speeches, Brigham Young University

“I believe that our Father in Heaven is pleased with His children when they use their talents and mental faculties to earnestly discover truth. Over the centuries many wise men and women—through logic, reason, scientific inquiry, and, yes, through inspiration—have discovered truth. These discoveries have enriched mankind, improved our lives, and inspired joy, wonder, and awe.”

“The invitation to trust the Lord does not relieve us from the responsibility to know for ourselves. This is more than an opportunity; it is an obligation—and it is one of the reasons we were sent to this earth.”

“Latter-day Saints are not asked to blindly accept everything they hear. We are encouraged to think and discover truth for ourselves. We are expected to ponder, to search, to evaluate, and thereby to come to a personal knowledge of the truth.”

Elder Neil L. Andersen, “You Know Enough,” General Conference, April 2015

“Nearly 40 years ago as I contemplated the challenge of a mission, I felt very inadequate and unprepared. I remember praying, ‘Heavenly Father, how can I serve a mission when I know so little?’ I believed in the Church, but I felt my spiritual knowledge was very limited. As I prayed, the feeling came: ‘You don’t know everything, but you know enough!’ That reassurance gave me the courage to take the next step into the mission field.”

“Our questions and doubts are resolved or become less concerning to us. Our faith becomes simple and pure. We come to know what we already knew.”

Jason Swenson, Church News associate editor, “President Oaks Counsels Young Couples Defending the Gospel ‘on the Frontline,’” Church News, 5 February 2019, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“Matters of Church history and doctrinal issues have led some spouses to inactivity. Some spouses wonder how to best go about researching and responding to such issues. ‘I suggest that research is not the answer,’ he said.”

Kyle S. McKay, “A Sure and Certain Foundation,” April 2023, Devotionals, Brigham Young University Idaho

“Brothers and sisters, I hope you realize that having perplexing questions that arise from reasons to doubt is not a problem. But please understand, finding answers to these perplexing questions ultimately is not the solution. The solution is a sure and certain foundation whereon if you build, you cannot fall. That foundation is Jesus Christ and His gospel, the fullness of which is found and taught in this Church.”

“Trying to understand the things of God by some way other than the Spirit of God is like trying to understand the flavor of food by listening to it. You’re using the wrong sense!”

Old Testament, Genesis 2:17

“But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.”

Pearl of Great Price, Moses 4:11-12

“For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. 

And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it became pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make her wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and also gave unto her husband with her, and he did eat.”

Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 2:22-24

“And now, behold, if Adam had not transgressed he would not have fallen, but he would have remained in the garden of Eden. And all things which were created must have remained in the same state in which they were after they were created; and they must have remained forever, and had no end. 

And they would have had no children; wherefore they would have remained in a state of innocence, having no joy, for they knew no misery; doing no good, for they knew no sin. 

But behold, all things have been done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things.”

Pearl of Great Price, Moses 5:10-11

“And in that day Adam blessed God and was filled, and began to prophesy concerning all the families of the earth, saying: Blessed be the name of God, for because of my transgression my eyes are opened, and in this life I shall have joy, and again in the flesh I shall see God. 

And Eve, his wife, heard all these things and was glad, saying: Were it not for our transgression we never should have had seed, and never should have known good and evil, and the joy of our redemption, and the eternal life which God giveth unto all the obedient.”

Russell M. Nelson, “Constancy Amid Change,” General Conference, October 1993

“We and all mankind are forever blessed because of Eve’s great courage and wisdom. By partaking of the fruit first, she did what needed to be done. Adam was wise enough to do likewise.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “What is Truth?” January 13, 2013, Speeches, Brigham Young University

“And it is always good to keep in mind just because something is printed on paper, appears on the internet, is frequently repeated or has a powerful group of followers doesn’t make it true.”

Dallin H. Oaks, “Truth and the Plan,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 25

“We live in a time of greatly expanded and disseminated information. But not all of this information is true. We need to be cautious as we seek truth and choose sources for that search.”

“Be cautious about the motivation of the one who provides information. … Our personal decisions should be based on information from sources that are qualified on the subject and free from selfish motivations.”

General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 38.8.41, Gospel Library.

“In today’s world, information is easy to access and share. This can be a great blessing for those seeking to be educated and informed. However, many sources of information are unreliable and do not edify. Some sources seek to promote anger, contention, fear, or baseless conspiracy theories.”

“Therefore, it is important that Church members be wise as they seek truth. Members of the Church should seek out and share only credible, reliable, and factual sources of information. They should avoid sources that are speculative or founded on rumor. The guidance of the Holy Ghost, along with careful study, can help members discern between truth and error.”

“In matters of doctrine and Church policy, the authoritative sources are the scriptures, the teachings of the living prophets, and the General Handbook.”

Answering My Gospel Questions Teacher Material (Religion 280), “Questions for Evaluating Sources,” Microtraining 3: How to Assess the Reliability of Sources

“What are the qualifications, intentions, and possible biases of the author?”

“How closely connected is the author to the events being described? When a source addresses something from Church history, ask yourself how far removed the source is from the event it is discussing. Stories based on second- or thirdhand accounts are often less reliable.”

“Does the author intentionally ignore available evidence in order to mislead? Some authors deliberately omit important facts and ignore critical evidence to support their particular point of view.”

“Are the teachings and events addressed in this source presented in the proper context of their time, place, and circumstance? Some teachings and historical events can become confusing when they are taken out of the context of their time and place. Historical context also includes other events happening at the time (such as wars, economic crises, and social and political movements) and the culture and demographics of a given time and setting.”

“Are the teachings and events supported by additional reliable sources? Support from other reliable sources helps establish the accuracy of doctrine and historical events.”

Topics and Questions, “Consult Reliable Sources,” Seeking Answers to Questions, Gospel Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“We should avoid sources that are founded on rumor or that promote contention or anger.”

“Learning to assess the quality of our sources of information involves both spiritual and intellectual work.”

“Evaluate the reliability of sources. Not all sources are of equal value on all topics. The best sources will have direct knowledge of a topic instead of relying on hearsay, rumor, or innuendo. They will speak from a position of direct knowledge or expertise. They will refer to other reputable sources so you can check their claims. Reliable sources will not always affirm what you already think. They may challenge your views.”

“Learn to recognize bias. Almost all sources have some bias. This does not automatically make them unreliable, but it is important to take the source creator’s perspective into account. Examine your source’s motives and background. Be wary of sources that claim to be unbiased or that express views in inflammatory ways.”

“Corroborate what you learn. It is significant when multiple reliable sources agree or speak with clarity on a topic. This is especially true when studying sources discussing Church history and teachings. Though it is not always possible to find this kind of agreement among sources, it is helpful to compare information from different sources so you can better assess their quality.”

“Distinguish facts from interpretation. Some pieces of information are facts. But much of what we encounter on the internet and in other publications consists of someone’s interpretation of the facts. The best interpretations try to account for all the facts. They consider specific details or facts in broader context and give them proper weight. They don’t simply dismiss information that doesn’t agree with a particular point of view. Check the sources used to make a particular interpretation to ensure they support the claims being made and are not taken out of context.”

“Become familiar with Church resources. In matters of doctrine and Church policy, the best sources are the scriptures, the teachings of the living prophets, and the General Handbook. The Church has also published additional resources to help you better understand some of the most common questions Latter-day Saints have about Church history and culture. You may find these to be useful starting points as you investigate your questions.”

“Seek the guidance of the Holy Ghost. New information can sometimes feel disorienting. That feeling doesn’t necessarily mean the information isn’t true. Along with the skills mentioned above, seek the influence of the Holy Ghost. He can help you discern truth. He will “enlighten your mind” and help you reorient your perspective in light of new truths. Pray for help. Live in such a way that the Spirit can speak to you. Be open to spiritual promptings as you work to resolve your concerns.”

The Words of God Found in the Scriptures

Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Chapter 6: “Seek Christlike Attributes,” Handbooks and Callings, Mission Callings, Gospel Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“Study the scriptures every day, as well as the words of the living prophets. Through study and prayer, seek help for specific questions, challenges, and opportunities. Look for scripture passages you can use in teaching and in answering questions about the gospel. As you study diligently and prayerfully, the Holy Ghost will enlighten your mind. He will teach you and give you understanding. He will help you apply the teachings of the scriptures and latter-day prophets in your life.”

Guide to the Scriptures, “Bible” Study Helps, Gospel Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“A collection of Hebrew and Christian writings that contains divine revelations. The word bible means “the books.” The Bible is the work of many prophets and inspired writers acting under the influence of the Holy Spirit.”

“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reveres and respects the Bible and affirms also that the Lord continues to give additional revelation through His prophets in the last days that supports and verifies the biblical account of God’s dealings with mankind.”

Book of Mormon, Introduction

“The Book of Mormon is a volume of holy scripture comparable to the Bible. It is a record of God’s dealings with ancient inhabitants of the Americas and contains the fulness of the everlasting gospel. The book was written by many ancient prophets by the spirit of prophecy and revelation.”

“Concerning this record the Prophet Joseph Smith said: “I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.’”

Pearl of Great Price, Articles of Faith 1:8

“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.”

Pearl of Great Price, Introduction

“The Pearl of Great Price is a selection of choice materials touching many significant aspects of the faith and doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These items were translated and produced by the Prophet Joseph Smith, and most were published in the Church periodicals of his day.”

“The Pearl of Great Price received wide use and subsequently became a standard work of the Church by action of the First Presidency and the general conference in Salt Lake City on October 10, 1880.”

Doctrine and Covenants, 1835, Preface, The Joseph Smith Papers

“The first part of the book will be found to contain a series of Lectures as delivered before a Theological class in this place, and in consequence of their embracing the important doctrine of salvation, we have arranged them into the following work. 

The second part contains items or principles for the regulation of the church, as taken from the revelations which have been given since its organization, as well as from former ones.

There may be an aversion in the minds of some against receiving any thing purporting to be articles of religious faith, in consequence of there being so many now extant; but if men believe a system, and profess that it was given by inspiration, certainly, the more intelligibly they can present it, the better. It does not make a principle untrue to print it, neither does it make it true not to print it.

The church viewing this subject to be of importance, appointed, through their servants and delegates the High Council, your servants to select and compile this work.”

Doctrine and Covenants 42:12

“And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel, which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel.”

Doctrine and Covenants 19:26

“The Book of Mormon, which contains the truth and the word of God.”

Doctrine and Covenants 20:11

“Proving to the world that the holy scriptures are true, and that God does inspire men and call them to his holy work in this age and generation, as well as in generations of old.”

Doctrine and Covenants 33:16

“And the Book of Mormon and the holy scriptures are given of me for your instruction; and the power of my Spirit quickeneth all things.”

Doctrine and Covenants 84:45

“For the word of the Lord is truth, and whatsoever is truth is light.”

Book of Mormon, Alma 17:2

“Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God.”

1 Nephi 11:25

“And it came to pass that I beheld that the rod of iron, which my father had seen, was the word of God, which led to the fountain of living waters, or to the tree of life; which waters are a representation of the love of God; and I also beheld that the tree of life was a representation of the love of God.”

Pearl of Great Price, Moses 1:6

“Mine Only Begotten is and shall be the Savior, for he is full of grace and truth.”

New Testament, John 14:6

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

The Words of God Spoken by His Prophets

Russell M. Nelson, “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,” General Conference, May 2018

“You don’t have to wonder about what is true. You do not have to wonder whom you can safely trust. Through personal revelation, you can receive your own witness that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, that Joseph Smith is a prophet, and that this is the Lord’s Church. Regardless of what others may say or do, no one can ever take away a witness borne to your heart and mind about what is true.”

“When we convene as a Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, our meeting rooms become rooms of revelation. The Spirit is palpably present. As we wrestle with complex matters, a thrilling process unfolds as each Apostle freely expresses his thoughts and point of view. Though we may differ in our initial perspectives, the love we feel for each other is constant. Our unity helps us to discern the Lord’s will for His Church. In our meetings, the majority never rules! We listen prayerfully to one another and talk with each other until we are united. Then when we have reached complete accord, the unifying influence of the Holy Ghost is spine-tingling!”

Doctrine and Covenants 21:4-6

“Wherefore, meaning the church, thou shalt give heed unto all his words and commandments which he shall give unto you as he receiveth them, walking in all holiness before me; 

For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith. 

For by doing these things the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name’s glory.”

General Conference, Additional Resources, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“In the first conference of the restored Church, the Lord made remarkable promises to those who ‘receive’ and ‘give heed unto’ the words of His prophets.”

“Since that first conference, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have looked forward to hearing the Lord’s voice through His servants. Consider how you can more fully receive and give heed to the messages you receive from the Lord’s prophets and other Church leaders in general conference.”

“Every April and October, we have the privilege of hearing messages of inspiration and guidance from Heavenly Father through His Prophet, Apostles, and other Church leaders. General conference is an amazing gift—a gift we should try to reap as many benefits from as we can!”

“We should approach general conference with questions in mind.”

“So as you prepare for general conference, think about questions that have been weighing on your mind, write them down, and then listen for answers the Lord will send you through His servants during general conference.”

“In addition to answering your questions, the Lord may have other things He wants to tell you. Be open to any messages He may have for you. If you pray to Him and genuinely ask for help in hearing and recognizing His voice, He will help you find those messages meant for you during general conference.”

“General conference can be a feast of spiritual insights and revelation. To help you remember the spiritual experiences you had, you can write in your journal about what questions you had answered, what talks inspired you, and in what ways you want to improve.”

Dale G. Renlund and Sister Ruth L. Renlund, “Doubt Not, but Be Believing,” Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults, January 2019, Broadcasts, Gospel Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“The blogosphere cannot replace scripture study and reading the words of living prophets and apostles. Foster your faith by going to trustworthy sources to find answers to your questions.”

High Quality Research

Doctrine and Covenants 88:118

“And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.”

Joseph Smith, Letter from Joseph Smith to Isaac Galland, Mar. 22, 1839, Liberty Jail, Liberty, Missouri, published in Times and Seasons, Feb. 1840, pp. 53–54

“Mormonism is truth; and every man who embraces it feels himself at liberty to embrace every truth: consequently the shackles of superstition, bigotry, ignorance, and priestcraft, fall at once from his neck; and his eyes are opened to see the truth, and truth greatly prevails over priestcraft.”

“Mormonism is truth, in other words the doctrine of the Latter-day Saints, is truth.”

Henry B. Eyring, “Faith of a Scientist,” pg. 12, 31

“Since the Gospel embraces all truth, there can never be any genuine contradictions between true science and true religion...I am obliged, as a Latter-day Saint, to believe whatever is true, regardless of the source.”

Brigham Young, Discourses of Brigham Young, 2–3

“The philosophy of the heavens and the earth of the worlds that are, that were, and that are yet to come into existence, is all the Gospel that we have embraced. Every true philosopher, so far as he understands the principles of truth, has so much of the Gospel, and so far he is a Latter-day Saint, whether he knows it or not. Our Father, the great God, is the author of the sciences, he is the great mechanic, he is the systematizer of all things, he plans and devises all things, and every particle of knowledge which man has in his possession is the gift of God.”

Quentin L. Cook, “Can Ye Feel So Now?” General Conference, October 2012

“Some have immersed themselves in internet materials that magnify, exaggerate, and in some cases invent shortcomings of early Church leaders. Then they draw incorrect conclusions that can affect testimony. Any who have made these choices can repent and be spiritually renewed.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Our Search for Truth,” New Era, Aug. 2020, 2.

“Never in the history of the world have we had easier access to more information—some of it true, some of it false, and much of it partially true.”

Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days, Church History, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“Read the inspiring true story of the women and men who dedicated their lives to establishing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across the globe.”

“Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days is a key resource to add perspective and context as you teach the truths of the Restoration and sections of the Doctrine and Covenants.”

Saints: The Story of the Church of Jesus Christ in the Latter Days, Volume 1, The Standard of Truth, 1815-1846, Church History, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 

“True stories well told can inspire, caution, entertain, and instruct.”

“What follows is a narrative history designed to give readers a foundational understanding of Church history. Every scene, character, and line of dialogue is founded in historical sources, which are cited at the end of the book. Those who wish to read these sources, better understand related topics, and discover even more stories can find links to additional resources online at history.churchofjesuschrist.org.”

“Saints is not scripture, but like the scriptures, each volume contains divine truth and stories of imperfect people trying to become Saints through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.”

The Joseph Smith Papers, “About the Project”

“The Joseph Smith Papers Project is an effort to gather together all extant Joseph Smith documents and to publish complete and accurate transcripts of those documents with both textual and contextual annotation. All such documents will be published electronically on this website, and a large number of the documents will also be published in print. The print and electronic publications constitute an essential resource for scholars and students of the life and work of Joseph Smith, early Latter-day Saint history, and nineteenth-century American religion. For the first time, all of Joseph Smith’s known surviving papers, which include many of the foundational documents of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, will be easily accessible in one place.”

“The Joseph Smith Papers Project is a comprehensive edition, meaning it will include all known and available documents meeting the project’s criteria as Joseph Smith documents. While selective editions may exclude some documents because they are of less interest or importance, comprehensive editions such as this one make no such exclusions. All Joseph Smith documents, even routine ones such as certificates, will be published on this website, and many documents will be published in print volumes.”

“Because the Joseph Smith Papers Project meets the requisite scholarly and documentary editing criteria, it has earned an endorsement by the National Archives’ National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC). To ensure accuracy of the texts, project editors undertake three independent levels of text verification for each manuscript, including a final verification against the original.”

“The project is staffed by scholars, archivists, and editors employed by the Church History Library of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City, Utah. The publisher of the project’s print and web publications is The Church Historian’s Press, an imprint of the Church History Department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”

Gospel Topics Essays, Church History, Gospel Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“Not all sources of knowledge are equally reliable. Seeking ‘out of the best books’ does not mean seeking only one set of opinions, but it does require us to distinguish between reliable sources and unreliable sources. 

Recognizing that today so much information about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can be obtained from questionable and often inaccurate sources, officials of the Church began in 2013 to publish straightforward, in-depth essays on a number of topics. The purpose of these essays, which have been approved by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, has been to gather accurate information from many different sources and publications and place it in the Gospel Topics section of ChurchofJesusChrist.org, where the material can more easily be accessed and studied by Church members and other interested parties. 

The Church places great emphasis on knowledge and on the importance of being well informed about Church history, doctrine, and practices. Ongoing historical research, revisions of the Church’s curriculum, and the use of new technologies allowing a more systematic and thorough study of scriptures have all been pursued by the Church to that end. We again encourage members to study the Gospel Topics essays cited in the links below as they ‘seek learning, even by study and also by faith.’”

“Richard L. Bushman” Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University

“Richard Bushman was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on 20 June 1931. Brother Bushman received his AM, AB, and PhD in the history of American civilization from Harvard University. Through the years he has taught at Harvard University, Brigham Young University, Boston University, University of Delaware, and at Columbia University. Brother Bushman served a mission for the LDS church in New England and Atlantic Canada. His Church callings over the years include seminary teacher, bishop, stake president, and stake patriarch.”

Deseret Book, “About Us”

“Deseret Book is a wholly owned subsidiary of Deseret Management Corporation, the holding company for business firms owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”

“The company had its beginnings in 1866 when Elder George Q. Cannon, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, founded George Q. Cannon and Sons Company, which engaged in publishing and retail book sales.”

“Deseret Book is committed to creating and offering resources to build faith, strengthen families, and promote personal virtues.”

“Deseret Book’s purpose is to provide quality products that build faith, strengthen homes and families, ennoble personal virtues, and offer practical advice.”

“We cultivate stories worth telling, questions worth exploring, and beauty worth sharing to improve the lives of ALL Latter-day Saints at every step of their journey.”

Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought, About, History

“Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought is an independent quarterly established to express Mormon culture and to examine the relevance of religion to secular life. It is edited by Latter-day Saints who wish to bring their faith into dialogue with the larger stream of world religious thought and with human experience as a whole and to foster artistic and scholarly achievement based on their cultural heritage. The journal encourages a variety of viewpoints; although every effort is made to ensure accurate scholarship and responsible judgement, the views expressed are those of the individual authors and are not necessarily those of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of the editors.”

“We moved from a subscription model to a donation model, which allowed us to make all 54 years of Dialogue entirely free for online users. By placing Dialogue online and making it free, we ensured that it would always be available to readers, scholars, researchers, and anyone with an interest in Mormon thought and culture.”

Prayerful Study

Joseph Smith, History of the Church, 6:459; from a letter from Joseph Smith to Washington Tucker, June 12, 1844, Nauvoo, Illinois.

“Study the Bible, and as many of our books as you can get; pray to the Father in the name of Jesus Christ, have faith in the promises made to the fathers, and your mind will be guided to the truth.”

Robert D. Hales, “Personal Revelation: The Teachings and Examples of the Prophets,” General Conference, October 2007

“Personal revelation is the way we know for ourselves the most important truths of our existence: the living reality of God, our Eternal Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ; the truthfulness of the restored gospel; and God’s purpose and direction for us.”

“You may ask, ‘How do we seek personal revelation?’ Paul counseled the Saints to rely on the Spirit rather than the wisdom of the world. To obtain that Spirit, we begin with prayer.”

“Revelation comes on the Lord’s timetable, which often means we must move forward in faith, even though we haven’t received all the answers we desire.”

“We prepare to receive personal revelation as the prophets do, by studying the scriptures, fasting, praying, and building faith. Faith is the key.”

Doctrine and Covenants 9:8

“But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.”

Obedience and Righteous Living

New Testament, John 8:31-32

“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

New Testament, John 7:17

“If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.”

Book of Mormon, Alma 12:10-11

“And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full. 

And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell.”

Book of Mormon, Alma 32:28

“Now, we will compare the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give place, that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it be a true seed, or a good seed, if ye do not cast it out by your unbelief, that ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it will begin to swell within your breasts; and when you feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves—It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me.”

Book of Mormon, Alma 32:32-33

“Therefore, if a seed groweth it is good, but if it groweth not, behold it is not good, therefore it is cast away. 

And now, behold, because ye have tried the experiment, and planted the seed, and it swelleth and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow, ye must needs know that the seed is good.”

Doctrine and Covenants 93:28

“He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things.”

Doctrine and Covenants 93:39

“And that wicked one cometh and taketh away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men, and because of the tradition of their fathers.”

Recognizing Goodness and Virtue

Book of Mormon, 3 Nephi 14:15-20, also see Matthew 7:16-20

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. 

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 

A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 

Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 

Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them.”

Book of Mormon, Moroni 7:12-18

“Wherefore, all things which are good cometh of God; and that which is evil cometh of the devil; for the devil is an enemy unto God, and fighteth against him continually, and inviteth and enticeth to sin, and to do that which is evil continually.”

“But behold, that which is of God inviteth and enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.”

“Wherefore, take heed, my beloved brethren, that ye do not judge that which is evil to be of God, or that which is good and of God to be of the devil.”

“For behold, my brethren, it is given unto you to judge, that ye may know good from evil; and the way to judge is as plain, that ye may know with a perfect knowledge, as the daylight is from the dark night.”

“For behold, the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil; wherefore, I show unto you the way to judge; for every thing which inviteth to do good, and to persuade to believe in Christ, is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ; wherefore ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of God.”

“But whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do evil, and believe not in Christ, and deny him, and serve not God, then ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of the devil; for after this manner doth the devil work, for he persuadeth no man to do good, no, not one; neither do his angels; neither do they who subject themselves unto him.”

“And now, my brethren, seeing that ye know the light by which ye may judge, which light is the light of Christ, see that ye do not judge wrongfully; for with that same judgment which ye judge ye shall also be judged.”

Dale G. Renlund and Sister Ruth L. Renlund, “Doubt Not, but Be Believing,” Worldwide Devotional for Young Adults, January 2019, Broadcasts, Gospel Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“So, it is simple. If a choice leads you to do good and believe in Christ, it is from God. If the choice entices you to do evil and deny Christ, it is of the devil.”

Craig C. Christensen, “A Choice Seer Will I Raise Up,” General Conference, October 2016 

“To any who may be questioning their testimony of Joseph Smith or are struggling with erroneous, misleading, or superficial information about his life and ministry, I invite you to consider the fruits—the many blessings that have come to us through the miraculous mission of Joseph Smith, the Prophet of the Restoration.”

Recognizing the Spirit

Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Chapter 3: “Study and Teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Handbooks and Callings, Mission Callings, Gospel Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

“As we read the Book of Mormon and pray about it, we will learn truths about Jesus Christ that will bless our lives. We will also come to know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God and that the gospel and Church of Jesus Christ have been restored through him.”

“Because God is our Father, He will help us recognize truth. We can know that the message of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ is true as we read the Book of Mormon and pray to God. When we pray with faith and real intent, He will answer our questions and guide our lives.”

“God usually answers our prayers through the Holy Ghost. As we pray, the Holy Ghost teaches and confirms truth. Communications from the Holy Ghost are powerful. They usually come as a quiet assurance through our feelings, thoughts, and impressions.”

“Consistent study of the scriptures (particularly the Book of Mormon), weekly sacrament meeting attendance, and sincere prayer help us feel the power of the Holy Ghost and discover truth.”

Gospel Topics, “Holy Ghost,” Gospel Library, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“The Holy Ghost works in perfect unity with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, fulfilling several roles to help us live righteously and receive the blessings of the gospel. He ‘witnesses of the Father and the Son’ and reveals and teaches ‘the truth of all things.’ We can receive a sure testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ only by the power of the Holy Ghost. His communication to our spirit carries far more certainty than any communication we can receive through our natural senses.”

Doctrine and Covenants 8:2

“Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.”

Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 32:5

“For behold, again I say unto you that if ye will enter in by the way, and receive the Holy Ghost, it will show unto you all things what ye should do.”

Doctrine and Covenants 11:13

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy.”

Doctrine and Covenants 121:26

“God shall give unto you knowledge by his Holy Spirit, yea, by the unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost, that has not been revealed since the world was until now.”

Doctrine and Covenants 84:46

“And the Spirit giveth light to every man that cometh into the world; and the Spirit enlighteneth every man through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit.”

Book of Mormon, 2 Nephi 33:1

“For when a man speaketh by the power of the Holy Ghost the power of the Holy Ghost carrieth it unto the hearts of the children of men.”

Pearl of Great Price, Moses 6:61

“Therefore it is given to abide in you; the record of heaven; the Comforter; the peaceable things of immortal glory; the truth of all things; that which quickeneth all things, which maketh alive all things; that which knoweth all things, and hath all power according to wisdom, mercy, truth, justice, and judgment.”

Doctrine and Covenants 11:12

“And now, verily, verily, I say unto thee, put your trust in that Spirit which leadeth to do good—yea, to do justly, to walk humbly, to judge righteously; and this is my Spirit.”

Doctrine and Covenants 50:19-20

“And again, he that receiveth the word of truth, doth he receive it by the Spirit of truth or some other way? 

If it be some other way it is not of God.”

Book of Mormon, Moroni 10:4-5

“And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. 

And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.”

Doctrine and Covenants 42:61

“If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries and peaceable things—that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal.”

New Testament, John 16:13

“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”

D. Todd Christofferson, “Truth Endures,” From an address to CES religious educators, Salt Lake Tabernacle, 26 January 2018, Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University

“The first thing we should understand about truth, then, is that a knowledge of truth in any significant measure requires divine assistance, either through the Light of Christ or by the aid of the Holy Ghost. Given our limited mortal capacity and resources, if we are unaided by revelation, we simply cannot achieve a comprehensive knowledge of things as they were, are, and will be, and how any one thing relates to how everything else was, is, or will be.”

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “What is Truth?” January 13, 2013, Speeches, Brigham Young University

“Just think about it. You actually have a powerful companion and trustworthy guide in this ongoing search for truth. Who is it? It is the Holy Ghost. Our Heavenly Father knew how difficult it would be for us to sift through all the competing noise and discover truth during our mortality. He knew we would see only a portion of the truth, and He knew that Satan would try to deceive us. So He gave us the heavenly gift of the Holy Ghost to illuminate our minds, teach us, and testify to us of the truth.”

“The Holy Ghost is a certain and safe guide to assist all mortals who seek God as they navigate the often troubling waters of confusion and contradiction.”

“Yes, your loving Father in Heaven would never leave you alone in this mortality to wander in the dark. You need not be deceived. You can overcome the darkness of this world and discover divine truth.”

Russell M. Nelson, “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives,” General Conference, May 2018

“Imagine the miracle of it! Whatever our Church calling, we can pray to our Heavenly Father and receive guidance and direction, be warned about dangers and distractions, and be enabled to accomplish things we simply could not do on our own. If we will truly receive the Holy Ghost and learn to discern and understand His promptings, we will be guided in matters large and small.”

“What will your seeking open for you? What wisdom do you lack? What do you feel an urgent need to know or understand? Follow the example of the Prophet Joseph. Find a quiet place where you can regularly go. Humble yourself before God. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Turn to Him for answers and for comfort. Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart. And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take.”

“To be sure, there may be times when you feel as though the heavens are closed. But I promise that as you continue to be obedient, expressing gratitude for every blessing the Lord gives you, and as you patiently honor the Lord’s timetable, you will be given the knowledge and understanding you seek. Every blessing the Lord has for you—even miracles—will follow. That is what personal revelation will do for you.”

Mathias Held, “Seeking Knowledge by the Spirit,” General Conference, May 2019

“I like to compare this principle with our visual capacity. Our Father in Heaven has given us not only one but two physical eyes. We can see adequately with only one eye, but the second eye provides us with another perspective. When both perspectives are put together in our brains, they produce a three-dimensional image of our surroundings.”

“Likewise, we have been given two sources of information, through our physical and spiritual capacities. Our mind produces one perception through our physical senses and through our reasoning. But through the gift of the Holy Ghost, the Father has also provided us with a second perspective, which is really the most important and true one because it comes directly from Him. But since the whisperings of the Spirit are often so subtle, many people are not consciously aware of that additional source.”

“When these two perspectives are then combined in our souls, one complete picture shows the reality of things as they truly are.”

David A. Bednar, “Patterns of Light: Spirit of Revelation,” Media Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“When sons and daughters of God communicate with Him, we call it prayer. When He communicates with us, it comes in a variety of methods, means, or channels. We’re talking about the patterns whereby God communicates with His children here upon the earth.”

“Revelation is communication from God to His children here upon the earth. Sometimes those messages come quickly and rather dramatically. I’ve compared that to a light being turned on in a dark room where very suddenly the darkness is expelled and you can see everything in the room quite clearly and brilliantly. I would suggest that that pattern of receiving messages from God is more rare than common.” 

“A second pattern is when the light comes gradually, much like the rising of the sun. You can discern the increase of light on the horizon, but never all at once. This pattern of revelation, I would suggest, is more common than rare.”

“Sometimes, receiving inspiration is like a foggy day. There’s enough light that you can tell it’s not darkness anymore; it’s not night. But it’s not brilliantly illuminated; you can see just enough to take a few steps ahead into the cloudiness. I don’t know about other people, but it occurs that way for me all the time. There’s enough to just take a few steps, and then the light continues to help me see just far enough ahead that I can continue to press forward.”

“I know when there is a power beyond my own that comes from God to me and through me, which is the spirit of revelation.”

David A. Bednar, “Patterns of Light: Discerning Light,” Media Library, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

“People sometimes will question whether it’s inspiration or whether it’s my own thought. We have to act, then we find out if it’s coming from me, or if it’s the power of God.”

“People might ask, ‘well why not make it easy to recognize all the time?’ I would suggest that the simple answer is that God trusts us. He shouldn’t have to dramatically shake us to get our attention.”