We Believe: Doctrines of Mormonism: Revelation: to Individuals

Revelation: to Individuals

Author's Note: Every truth of the gospel intended as a testimony to the world is revealed from God to men through the recorded witness of many prophets in written scriptures. Every asserted doctrine and every interpretation of scripture must be tested against those recorded testimonies and be in harmony with them.

664. Only by revelation from God can we gain knowledge about God; we cannot learn about the existence and character of God by reasoning alone.

665. "Mysteries of God" (those divine truths that bring about salvation and eternal life) are available to us only by revelation from God.

666. Revelation from God to each of us as individuals is necessary for our salvation.

667. Revelation to individuals and to the Church comes line upon line, precept upon precept.

668. If we are obedient to the light He has given us, God will reveal more truth and knowledge to us.

669. Personal righteousness is a prerequisite for receiving revelation.

670. Individual men and women can receive revelation to guide them within their own spheres of authority (they will not receive divine instructions for those higher in authority than they).

671. Every Church member is entitled to revelation in the performance of his or her calling in the Church.

664. Only by revelation from God can we gain knowledge about God; we cannot learn about the existence and character of God by reasoning alone.

Charles W. Penrose
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
Nephi, son of Lehi
Joseph Smith
Recorded in Job
Jacob, brother of Nephi
Marion G. Romney

Charles W. Penrose

No man by his own researches can find out God. He may, by reason and reflection, by observing and pondering upon the wonders of creation, by studying his own internal and external nature, come to the sure conclusion that there is a God, and to a very small extent make an estimate of His character. But unless the Almighty manifests Himself in some manner, finite man can never obtain a knowledge of infinite Deity. The speculations of human beings concerning God are many and various, and a vast number of their conclusions inconsistent and vain. Human learning, no matter how extensive, and human research, no matter how profound, are of necessity inadequate alone to the acquisition of a knowledge of divine things. Hence an unlettered person enlightened direct from God, will know more of Deity than the most erudite collegian who has not received this divine illumination. (Mission pamphlet, 1929) MDPS:9

Joseph Smith

As we have been indebted to a revelation which God made of himself to his creatures, in the first instance, for the idea of his existence, so in like manner we are indebted to the revelations which he has given to us for a correct understanding of his character, perfections, and attributes; because without the revelations which he has given to us, no man by searching could find out God. (Lectures on Faith delivered to the School of the Prophets, 1834-35) LOF3:7

Joseph Smith,
receiving the Word of the Lord

And now I speak unto you, the Twelve—Behold, my grace is sufficient for you; you must walk uprightly before me and sin not. . . .
33. And I, Jesus Christ, your Lord and your God, have spoken it.
34. These words are not of men nor of man, but of me; wherefore, you shall testify they are of me and not of man;
35. For it is my voice which speaketh them unto you; for they are given by my Spirit unto you, and by my power you can read them one to another; and save it were by my power you could not have them; (Revelation received June 1829) D&C 18:31,33-35

Related Witnesses:

Nephi, son of Lehi

For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in times of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round. (Nephi's writings, 600-592 B.C.) 1 Nephi 10:19

Joseph Smith

The object . . . is to show to this class the way by which mankind were first made acquainted with the existence of a God; that it was by a manifestation of God to man, and that God continued, after man's transgression, to manifest himself to him and to his posterity; and, notwithstanding they were separated from his immediate presence that they could not see his face, they continued to hear his voice,
31. Adam, thus being made acquainted with God, communicated the knowledge which he had unto his posterity; and it was through this means that the thought was first suggested to their minds that there was a God, which laid the foundation for the exercise of their faith, through which they could obtain a knowledge of his character and also of his glory. . . .
54. We have now shown how it was that the first thought ever existed in the mind of any individual that there was such a Being as a God, who had created and did uphold all things: that it was by reason of the manifestation which he first made to our father Adam, when he stood in his presence, and conversed with him face to face, at the time of his creation. (Lectures on Faith delivered to the School of the Prophets, 1834-35) LOF2:30-31,54

Recorded in Job

Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?
8. It is as high as heaven; what canst thou do? deeper than hell; what canst thou know?
9. The measure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader than the sea. (Zophar the Naamathite asks, can man by searching find out God?) Job 11:7-9

Jacob, brother of Nephi

Behold, great and marvelous are the works of the Lord. How unsearchable are the depths of the mysteries of him; and it is impossible that man should find out all his ways. And no man knoweth of his ways save it be revealed unto him; wherefore, brethren, despise not the revelations of God. (Jacob makes his record on plates of metal, 544-421 B.C.) Jacob 4:8

Marion G. Romney

That man is a child of God is the most important knowledge available to mortals. Such knowledge is beyond the ken of the uninspired mind. Neither logic, science, philosophy, nor any other field of worldly learning has ever been, or ever will be, able to find it out. Those who limit their search to such learning techniques will continue to be as they always have been, "Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." (2 Timothy 3:7)
The only means by which such knowledge can be had is divine revelation. Fortunately for us . . . it has been so revealed repeatedly from Adam until today. CR1973Apr:136

665. "Mysteries of God" (those divine truths that bring about salvation and eternal life) are available to us only by revelation from God.

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
Paul
Ammon, son of Mosiah
Elder Joseph F. Smith
Joseph Smith
Mormon
Dallin H. Oaks
Paul
Joseph Smith
President John Taylor
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
Amos
Joseph Smith

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

The Lord has promised to reveal his mysteries to those who serve him in faithfulness. . . . There are no mysteries pertaining to the Gospel, only as we, in our weakness fail to comprehend Gospel truth. . . . The "simple" principles of the Gospel, such as baptism, the atonement, are mysteries to those who do not have the guidance of the Spirit of the Lord. CHMR1:43; DCSM:15

Joseph Smith

For thus saith the Lord—I, the Lord, am merciful and gracious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and in truth unto the end.
6. Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their glory.
7. And to them will I reveal all mysteries, yea, all the hidden mysteries of my kingdom from days of old, and for ages to come, will I make known unto them the good pleasure of my will concerning all things pertaining to my kingdom.
8. Yea, even the wonders of eternity shall they know, and things to come will I show them, even the things of many generations.
9. And their wisdom shall be great, and their understanding reach to heaven; and before them the wisdom of the wise shall perish, and the understanding of the prudent shall come to naught.
10. For by my Spirit will I enlighten them, and by my power will I make known unto them the secrets of my will—yea, even those things which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor yet entered into the heart of man. (Vision to Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon, Feb. 16, 1832) D&C 76:5-10

Joseph Smith,
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

[I]f it requires the Spirit of God to know the things of God; and the spirit of the devil can only be unmasked through that medium, then it follows as a natural consequence that unless some person or persons have a communication, or revelation from God, unfolding to them the operation of the spirit, they must eternally remain ignorant of these principles; for I contend that if one man cannot understand these things but by the Spirit of God, ten thousand men cannot; it is alike out of the reach of the wisdom of the learned, the tongue of the eloquent, the power of the mighty. And we shall at last have to come to this conclusion, whatever we may think of revelation, that without it we can neither know nor understand anything of God, or the devil; . . . (Editorial in Times and Seasons, April 1842) HC4:573-74; TPJS:203-04

Joseph Smith

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. . . .
65. Behold, thou shalt observe all these things, and great shall be thy reward; for unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom, but unto the world it is not given to know them. . . .
68. Therefore, he that lacketh wisdom, let him ask of me, and I will give him liberally and upbraid him not. (Revelation "embracing the law of the Church," Feb. 9, 1831) D&C 42:61,65,68

Paul

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
10. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
11. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
12. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
13. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
15. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
16. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (Paul writes to the Church at Corinth, Greece, about A.D. 55) 1 Corinthians 2:9-16

Ammon, son of Mosiah ,
quoted by Mormon

Yea, he that repenteth and exerciseth faith, and bringeth forth good works, and prayeth continually without ceasing—unto such it is given to know the mysteries of God; yea, unto such it shall be given to reveal things which never have been revealed; yea, and it shall be given unto such to bring thousands of souls to repentance, even as it has been given unto us to bring these our brethren to repentance. (Ammon addresses his brethren, 90-77 B.C.) Alma 26:22

Elder Joseph F. Smith

If I have learned something through prayer, supplication, and perseverance in seeking to know the truth, and I tell it to you, it will not be knowledge unto you. I can tell you how you can obtain it, but I cannot give it to you. If we receive this knowledge, it must come from the Lord. He can touch your understandings and your spirits, so that you shall comprehend perfectly and not be mistaken. But I cannot do that. You can obtain this knowledge through repentance, humility, and seeking the Lord with full purpose of heart until you find Him. He is not afar off. It is not difficult to approach Him, if we will only do it with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, as did Nephi of old. [2 Nephi 4:32] This was the way in which Joseph Smith, in his boyhood, approached Him. He went into the woods, knelt down, and in humility he sought earnestly to know which church was acceptable to God. He received an answer to his prayer, which he offered down in the depths of his heart, and he received it in a way that he did not expect. CR1899Oct:71

Joseph Smith

The best way to obtain truth and wisdom is not to ask it from books, but to go to God in prayer, and obtain divine teaching. (Conference in Nauvoo, Ill., Oct. 1841) HC4:425

Mormon,

also quoting King Benjamin
And he also taught them concerning the records which were engraven on the plates of brass, saying: My sons, I would that ye should remember that were it not for these plates, which contain these records and these commandments, we must have suffered in ignorance, even at this present time, not knowing the mysteries of God. (King Benjamin teaches his sons the language and prophecies of their fathers, about 130 B.C.) Mosiah 1:3

Dallin H. Oaks

Worthy men and women who have the gift of the Holy Ghost can be edified and guided by inspiration and revelation. The Lord has declared that “the mysteries of his kingdom … are only to be seen and understood by the power of the Holy Spirit, which God bestows on those who love him, and purify themselves before him” (CR 1996Oct; D&C 76:114, 116). (“Always Have His Spirit”, Ensign, November 1996, p.59)

Related Witnesses:

Paul

For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.
22. For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
23. But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
24. But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. (Letter to the Church at Corinth, Greece, about A.D. 55) 1 Corinthians 1:21-24

Joseph Smith

The God of heaven, understanding most perfectly the constitution of human nature, and the weakness of men, knew what was necessary to be revealed, and what ideas must be planted in their minds in order that they might be enabled to exercise faith in him unto eternal life. (Lectures on Faith delivered to the School of the Prophets, 1834-35) LOF4:2

President John Taylor

As we are all made in the image of God, and as God is the God and Father of the spirits of all flesh, it is His right, it is His prerogative to communicate with the human family. We are told that there is a spirit in man and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth it understanding. God having made the earth, made the people to inhabit it, and made all things that exist therein, has a right to dictate, has a right to make known His will, has a right to communicate with whom He will and control matters as He sees proper: it belongs to Him by right. (In Tabernacle, Oct. 8, 1882, JD23:260) TLDP:566

Joseph Smith

And again, he that receiveth the word of truth, doth he receive it by the Spirit of truth or some other way?
20. If it be some other way it is not of God.
21. Therefore, why is it that ye cannot understand and know, that he that receiveth the word by the Spirit of truth receiveth it as it is preached by the Spirit of truth? 22. Wherefore, he that preacheth and he that receiveth, understand one another, and both are edified and rejoice together. (Revelation for the elders of the Church, May 1831) D&C 50:19-22

Joseph Smith,

translating the Book of Moses
And thus the Gospel began to be preached, from the beginning, being declared by holy angels sent forth from the presence of God, and by his own voice, and by the gift of the Holy Ghost. (The record of Moses concerning Adam and Eve after they were driven out of the Garden of Eden) Moses 5:58

Amos

Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets. (Amos prophesies the downfall of Israel, about 770-750 B.C.) Amos 3:7

Related Witnesses:

Joseph Smith

And this greater priesthood administereth the gospel and holdeth the key of the mysteries of the kingdom, even the key of the knowledge of God. (Revelation on priesthood received with six elders, Sept. 22/23, 1832) D&C 84:19

Author's Note: According to Smith and Sjodahl in their commentary on page 141: "A mystery is a truth that cannot be known except through divine revelation—a sacred secret." (DCSM:15)

666. Revelation from God to each of us as individuals is necessary for our salvation.

President Brigham Young
President Brigham Young
President Brigham Young
Bruce R. McConkie
Elder Joseph F. Smith
Elder Ezra Taft Benson

President Brigham Young

Without revelation direct from heaven it is impossible for any person to fully understand the plan of salvation. We often hear it said that the living oracles must be in the Church, in order that the kingdom of God may be established and prosper on the earth. I will give another version of this sentiment. I say that the living oracles of God, or the Spirit of revelation must be in each and every individual, to know the plan of salvation and keep in the path that leads them to the presence of God. (In Tabernacle, April 7, 1862, JD9:279) TLDP:572

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

No person [no being] possesses intelligence, in any degree, that he has not received from the God of heaven, or, in other words, from the Fountain of all intelligence, whether he acknowledges his God in it or not. No man, independent of the Great Ruler of the universe, is capable of devising that which we see and are well acquainted with. All mechanism, good government, wholesome principle, and true philosophy of whatever name or nature, flows from God to finite man. What for? To determine what he will do with it. It is for his improvement and advancement in the arts of civilized life, mortality, and true religion. This has been taught you from the beginning as the unmistakable features of our holy religion. (In Tabernacle, May 22, 1859, JD7:141) DBY:148

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

There is only one way to obtain power and influence in the Kingdom of God, and only one way to obtain foreknowledge, and that is to live so that that influence will come from our Creator, enlightening the mind and revealing things that are past, present and future pertaining to the earth and its inhabitants, and to the dealings of God with the children of men; in short, there is no source of true information outside of the Spirit of Revelation; it maketh manifest all things, and revealeth the dispositions of communities and of individuals. By possessing this Spirit, mankind can obtain power that is durable, beneficial, and that will result in a higher state of knowledge, of honor, and of glory. This can be obtained only by strictly marking the path of truth, and walking faithfully therein. (In Tabernacle, March 8, 1863, JD10:104-05) DBY:147

Bruce R. McConkie

If we build our house of salvation on the rock of personal revelation, if we build it on the revealed reality that Jesus is the Lord, if we build it on him who is the Eternal Rock—it will stand forever. CR1981Apr:103

Elder Joseph F. Smith

Now if we are permitted to believe that the Lord revealed himself to the ancients of whose deeds we read in the Holy Scriptures, it seems to me that there is no good reason for believing that it is not necessary that he should reveal himself in this day to others who desire to be guided by his Spirit and inspiration. Every new truth which grows into living action in the lives of men is a revelation in itself from God, and without the revelation of additional truth, men would not progress in this world, but, left to themselves, would retrograde, being cut off from the light and life of the great fountain of all intelligence, the Father of all. (Gospel Doctrine, p. 37) TLDP:572

Elder Ezra Taft Benson

The Lord will increase our knowledge, wisdom, and capacity to obey when we obey His fundamental laws. This is what the Prophet Joseph Smith meant when he said we could have "sudden strokes of ideas" which come into our minds as "pure intelligence." (See Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 151.) This is revelation. We must learn to rely on the Holy Ghost so we can use it to guide our lives and the lives of those for whom we have responsibility. CR1983Apr:71-72

667. Revelation to individuals and to the Church comes line upon line, precept upon precept.

Nephi, son of Lehi
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
Rudger Clawson
President Joseph F. Smith
Alma, the younger
Bruce R. McConkie
Bruce R. McConkie

Nephi, son of Lehi

For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from them that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have. (Nephi foretells the last days, 559-545 B.C.) 2 Nephi 28:30

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

The Lord could not reveal to the Church in the beginning all the knowledge and organization which would be essential to the full and complete organization of the Church. Had this been done, it would have been like an overwhelming flood that would have brought destruction. The truth had to come piecemeal—line upon line, precept upon precept, just like knowledge comes to all of us. CHMR1:95; DCSM:42

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

Revelation is promised us through our faithfulness. . . . The Lord withholds much that he would otherwise reveal if the members of the Church were prepared to receive it. . . .
We have little occasion to clamor for more revelation when we refuse to heed what the Lord has revealed for our salvation. (Doctrines of Salvation, 1:283) DGSM:5

Joseph Smith

And again, the voice of God in the chamber of old Father Whitmer, in Fayette, Seneca county, and at sundry times, and in divers places through all the travels and tribulations of this Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints And the voice of Michael, the archangel; the voice of Gabriel, and of Raphael, and of divers angels, from Michael or Adam down to the present time, all declaring their dispensation, their rights, their keys, their honors, their majesty and glory, and the power of their priesthood; giving line upon line, precept upon precept; here a little, and there a little; giving us consolation by holding forth that which is to come, confirming our hope (Epistle to the Church, Sept. 6, 1842, at Nauvoo, Ill.; all of the keys, powers, and authorities have been restored) D&C 128:21

Joseph Smith,
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

We consider that God has created man with a mind capable of instruction, and a faculty which may be enlarged in proportion to the heed and diligence given to the light communicated from heaven to the intellect; and that the nearer man approaches perfection, the clearer are his views, and the greater his enjoyments, till he has overcome the evils of his life and lost every desire for sin; and like the ancients, arrives at that point of faith where he is wrapped in the power and glory of his Maker and is caught up to dwell with Him. But we consider that this is a station to which no man ever arrived in a moment: he must have been instructed in the government and laws of that kingdom by proper degrees, until his mind is capable in some measure of comprehending the propriety, justice, equality, and consistency of the same. (From an epistle to the elders of the Church in Kirtland, Ohio, and to their brethren "abroad," Jan. 22, 1834) HC2:4-24; TPJS:51

Rudger Clawson

And let me say to you, brethren and sisters, that the heights and the depths of the Gospel are quite beyond our reach. The finite mind is not capable of wholly comprehending the great plan of redemption. We, occasionally, have a glimpse of its power and beauty; but we must learn line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, until we come up to the full stature of a man in Christ Jesus. It cannot be comprehended in a day, or a month, or a year, it is the study of a lifetime. CR1904Oct:35

President Joseph F. Smith

Even Christ himself was not perfect at first; he received not a fulness at first, but he received grace for grace, and he continued to receive more and more until he received a fulness. Is not this to be so with the children of men? Is any man perfect? Has any man received a fulness at once? Have we reached a point wherein we may receive the fulness of God, of his glory, and his intelligence? No; and yet, if Jesus, the Son of God, and the Father of the heavens and the earth in which we dwell, received not a fulness at the first, but increased in faith, knowledge, understanding and grace until he received a fulness, is it not possible for all men who are born of women to receive little by little, line upon line, precept upon precept, until they shall receive a fulness, as he has received a fulness, and be exalted with him in the presence of the father? (In Tabernacle, March 16, 1902) (Gospel Doctrine, p. 68) TLDP:474

Alma, the younger,
quoted by Mormon

It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him. 10. 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. 11. 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. (Alma contends with the wicked Zeezrom, about 82 B.C.) Alma 12:9-11

Bruce R. McConkie

But not all people in all ages and under all circumstances are prepared to receive the fulness of all gospel truths. The Lord gives his word to men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, confirming their hope, building each new revelation upon the foundations of the past, giving his children only that portion of his word which they are able to bear.
When the elders of Israel go forth to proclaim the gospel to the world, they are subject to two commandments that the spiritually untutored might assume are contradictory. In one of them the Lord says: "Teach the principles of my gospel, which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon." (D&C 42:12) Does this mean they are free to teach all they know about all of the doctrines found in the standard works? In another revelation, the Lord says, "Declare glad tidings. . . . And of tenets thou shalt not talk, but thou shalt declare repentance and faith on the Savior, and remission of sins by baptism and by fire, yea, even the Holy Ghost."(D&C 19:29-31) The clear meaning, of course, is that the servants of the Lord go forth to teach what people are prepared to receive, nothing more. They are to declare glad tidings, to proclaim the message of the restoration, to teach the simple and easy doctrines, and to leave the mysteries alone. They are not to present lessons in calculus to students who must first learn arithmetic; they are not to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom until people believe the first principles: they are to give milk before meat.
Alma summarized the restrictions under which preachers of righteousness serve by saying: "It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him." (See Alma 12:9.) Such is the universal principle; it is not how much the teacher knows, but how much the student is prepared to receive. Strong and deep doctrine, spoken to rebellious people, drives them further away and widens the gulf between them and the saints of God. . . .
. . . . Even the true saints—the believing disciples, those who have accepted the gospel and received the gift of the Holy Ghost—are not prepared to receive all things. We have the fulness of the everlasting gospel, meaning we have every truth, power, priesthood, and key needed to enable us to gain the fulness of salvation in our Father's kingdom. But we do not have, and are not yet prepared to receive, the fulness of gospel truth. (The Mortal Messiah, 2:235-37) TLDP:672-73

Bruce R. McConkie

The doctrine of the priesthood is known only by personal revelation. It comes, line upon line and precept upon precept, by the power of the Holy Ghost to those who love and serve God with all their heart, might, mind, and strength. (CR 1982Apr; The Doctrine of the Priesthood, Ensign, May 1982, p.32)

668. If we are obedient to the light He has given us, God will reveal more truth and knowledge to us.

John A. Widtsoe
Nephi, son of Lehi
Elder Ezra Taft Benson
Joseph Smith
President Brigham Young
Alma, the younger
Jedediah M. Grant

John A. Widtsoe

There is only one way . . . to obtain and possess this mighty spirit . . . which guides the Church today and enlightens every soul, and that is by obeying strictly, with all our might, as far as we poor mortal beings are able, the laws of the Gospel. If we obey, if we practice in our lives the truths given us, then as certainly as we do that, the enlivening spirit of light, of revelation, of understanding will come to us, comprehension will enter our minds and hearts and we shall know the true joy of being Latter-day Saints. CR1934Oct:11

Nephi, son of Lehi

Elder Ezra Taft Benson

Joseph Smith

He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things. (Revelation received May 6, 1833; Christ received a fulness of all truth and man by obedience may do likewise) D&C 93:28

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

An individual who holds a share in the Priesthood, and continues faithful to his calling, who delights himself continually in doing the things God requires at his hands, and continues through life in the performance of every duty will secure to himself not only the privilege of receiving, but the knowledge how to receive the things of God, that he may know the mind of God continually; and he will be enabled to discern between right and wrong, between the things of God and the things that are not of God. And the Priesthood—the Spirit that is within him, will continue to increase until it becomes like a fountain of living water; until it is like the tree of life; until it is one continued source of intelligence and instruction to that individual. (In Tabernacle, Jan. 27, 1856, JD3:192) DBY:132

Alma, the younger,
quoted by Mormon

Jedediah M. Grant

If this people wish any more law, doctrine, and policy, let them live to the doctrines and revelations which they have already received.
Whoever reflects for a moment will perceive that there is plenty of truth on hand for them to observe, and that more is coming continually and that too faster than we obey. The light is shining upon us direct from heaven, from the throne of light. Can good come from hell? Will light come from darkness? If light can only come from heaven, then the priesthood is the channel for it to flow through. That channel is here, and that God from whom the light comes is the being to govern the world. Then love God, the doctrines and revelations that he gives, and do the best you know how, and you shall have all that you can eat, drink, wear, understand, and make wise use of: Amen. (Deseret News Weekly, April 2, 1856, p. 28) TLDP:575

669. Personal righteousness is a prerequisite for receiving revelation.

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
President Brigham Young
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
Elder Ezra Taft Benson
Ammon, son of Mosiah
President Heber J. Grant
Abraham O. Woodruff
Elder Joseph F. Smith
Nephi, son of Lehi
Elder Spencer W. Kimball

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

There is only one way to obtain power and influence in the Kingdom of God, and only one way to obtain foreknowledge, and that is to live so that that influence will come from our Creator. . . . This can be obtained only by strictly marking the path of truth, and walking faithfully therein. (In Tabernacle, March 8, 1863, JD10:104-05) DBY:147

Joseph Smith,
receiving the Word of the Lord

Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God; and the doctrine of the priesthood shall distil upon thy soul as the dews from heaven.
46. The Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, and thy scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth; and thy dominion shall be an everlasting dominion, and without compulsory means it shall flow unto thee forever and ever. (Revelation received in Liberty Jail, March 20, 1839; the priesthood should be used only in righteousness) D&C 121:45-46

Joseph Smith

And if ye are purified and cleansed from all sin, ye shall ask whatsoever you will in the name of Jesus and it shall be done. (Revelation for the elders of the Church, May 1831) D&C 50:29

Joseph Smith

And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments. . . .
19. . . . shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures; (Revelation, Feb. 27, 1833) D&C 89:18-19

Elder Ezra Taft Benson

Listen to the spiritual promise; "All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments . . . shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures." (D&C 89:18-19)
Some have thought this promise was contingent on just keeping the provisions of the Word of Wisdom. But you will notice we will walk in obedience to all the commandments. Then we shall receive specific spiritual promises. This means we must obey the law of tithing, keep the Sabbath day holy, keep morally clean and chaste, and obey all other commandments. . . .
I do not believe that a member of the Church can have an active, vibrant testimony of the gospel without keeping the commandments. A testimony is to have current inspiration to know the work is true, not something we receive only once. The Holy Ghost abides with those who honor, respect, and obey God's laws. And it is that Spirit which gives inspiration to the individual. CR1983Apr:71-72

Ammon, son of Mosiah ,
quoted by Mormon

President Heber J. Grant

The Lord gives to many of us the still, small voice of revelation. It comes as vividly and strongly as though it were with a great sound. It comes to each man, according to his needs and faithfulness, for guidance in matters that pertain to his own life. CR1945Apr:9

Abraham O. Woodruff

It is the right of every Latter-day Saint, who is living in accordance to the commandments of the Lord, to know of the truthfulness, correctness, and righteousness of every enactment that is made by the Church of Christ, for we believe in revelation. We believe that God will manifest these things unto us, not simply to those who stand at the head of the Church, but to all the members of the Church of Christ. It is our privilege to know and understand whether anything that is done by the Church is right or not, if we are living in accordance with the commandments of the Lord. CR1899Oct:62

Elder Joseph F. Smith

Nephi, son of Lehi

And it came to pass after I, Nephi, having heard all the words of my father, concerning the things which he saw in a vision, and also the things which he spake by the power of the Holy Ghost, which power he received by faith on the Son of God—and the Son of God was the Messiah who should come—I, Nephi, was desirous also that I might see, and hear, and know of these things, by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him, as well in times of old as in the time that he should manifest himself unto the children of men.
18. For he is the same yesterday, to-day, and forever; and the way is prepared for all men from the foundation of the world, if it so be that they repent and come unto him.
19. For he that diligently seeketh shall find; and the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto them, by the power of the Holy Ghost, as well in these times as in times of old, and as well in times of old as in times to come; wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round. (Nephi's writings, 600-592 B.C.) 1 Nephi 10:17-19

Related Witnesses:

Elder Spencer W. Kimball

For many it seems hard to accept as revelation those numerous . . . revelations which come to prophets as deep, unassailable impressions settling down on the prophet's mind and heart as dew from heaven or as the dawn displaces the darkness of night.
The burning bushes, the smoking mountains, the sheets of four-footed beasts, the Cumorahs, and the Kirtlands were realities; but they were the exceptions. The great volume of revelation came to Moses and to Joseph and comes to today's prophet in the less spectacular way—that of deep impressions, without spectacle or glamour or dramatic events.
Always expecting the spectacular, many may miss entirely the constant flow of revealed communication.
When in a Thursday temple meeting, after prayer and fasting, important decisions are made, new missions and new stakes are created, new patterns and policies initiated, the news is taken for granted and possibly thought of as mere human calculations. But to those who sit in the intimate circles and hear the prayers of the prophet and the testimony of the man of God; to those who see the astuteness of his deliberations and the sagacity of his decisions and pronouncements, to them he is verily a prophet. To hear him conclude important new developments with such solemn expressions as "the Lord is pleased;" "that move is right;" "our Heavenly Father has spoken," is to know positively. ACR(Munich)1973:76-77

670. Individual men and women can receive revelation to guide them within their own spheres of authority (they will not receive divine instructions for those higher in authority than they).

Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
James E. Talmage
Boyd K. Packer
President Joseph F. Smith
President Joseph F. Smith
President Spencer W. Kimball
Russell M. Nelson
James E. Faust
James
Jesus

Joseph Smith,
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

I will inform you that it is contrary to the economy of God for any member of the Church, or any one, to receive instructions for those in authority higher than themselves; therefore you will see the impropriety of giving heed to them; but if any person have a vision or a visitation from a heavenly messenger, it must be for his own benefit and instruction; for the fundamental principles, government, and doctrine of the Church are vested in the keys of the kingdom. (Letter to Jared Carter, April 13, 1833) HC1:338; TPJS:21; DGSM:5

Joseph Smith,
receiving the Word of the Lord

Behold, I say unto thee, Oliver, that it shall be given unto thee that thou shalt be heard by the church in all things whatsoever thou shalt teach them by the Comforter, concerning the revelations and commandments which I have given.
2. But, behold, verily, verily, I say unto thee, no one shall be appointed to receive commandments and revelations in this church excepting my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., for he receiveth them even as Moses .
3. And thou shalt be obedient unto the things which I shall give unto him, even as Aaron, to declare faithfully the commandments and the revelations, with power and authority unto the church.
4. And if thou art led at any time by the Comforter to speak or teach, or at all times by the way of commandment unto the church, thou mayest do it.
5. But thou shalt not write by way of commandment, but by wisdom;
6. And thou shalt not command him who is at thy head, and at the head of the church;
7. For I have given him the keys of the mysteries, and the revelations which are sealed, until I shall appoint unto them another in his stead. (Revelation for Oliver Cowdery, Sept. 1830) D&C 28:1-7

James E. Talmage

The Lord observes the principle of order and fitness in giving revelation to His servants. Though it is the privilege of any person to live so as to merit this gift in the affairs of his special calling, only those appointed and ordained to the offices of presidency are to be revelators to the people at large. AF:209

Boyd K. Packer

Revelation continues in the Church: the prophet receiving it for the Church; the president for his stake, his mission, or his quorum; the bishop for his ward; the father for his family; the individual for himself. CR1974Apr:139

President Joseph F. Smith

I say to you that there is revelation in the Church. The Lord not only blesses the men who stand at the head and hold the keys of the kingdom, but He also blesses every faithful individual with the spirit of inspiration. He gives His people revelation for their own guidance, wherein they keep His commandments and serve Him. That is a blessing promised and within their power to receive. CR1910Oct:41

President Joseph F. Smith

I believe that every individual in the Church has just as much right to enjoy the spirit of revelation and the understanding from God which that spirit of revelation gives him, for his own good, as the bishop has to enable him to preside over his ward. Every man has the privilege to exercise these gifts and these privileges in the conduct of his own affairs, in bringing up his children in the way they should go, and in the management of his farm, his flocks, his herds, and in the management of his business, if he has business of other kinds to do; it is his right to enjoy the spirit of revelation and of inspiration to do the right thing, to be wise and prudent, just and good in every thing that he does. I know that this is a true principle. CR1912Apr:9-10

President Spencer W. Kimball

Never again will God be hidden from his children on the earth. Revelation is here to remain. . . .
. . . . Man never needs to stand alone. Every faithful person may have the inspiration for his own limited kingdom. But the Lord definitely calls prophets today and reveals his secrets unto them as he did yesterday, he does today, and will do tomorrow: that is the way it is. CR1977Apr:115

Russell M. Nelson

The father in the home next door will not receive revelation for his neighbor's family. CR1984Oct:40

James E. Faust

Individual members of the Church may receive revelation for their own callings and areas of responsibility and for their own families. They may not receive spiritual instruction for those higher in authority. (CR 1996Apr; The Prophetic Voice, Ensign, May 1996, p.4)

Related Witnesses:

James

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. (James writes to his brethren in the Church) James 1:5

Jesus,
quoted by Mormon

And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you. (The resurrected Jesus commands the Nephite people to pray, A.D. 34) 3 Nephi 18:20

671. Every Church member is entitled to revelation in the performance of his or her calling in the Church.

Joseph Smith
Elder Lorenzo Snow
President Joseph F. Smith
James E. Talmage
Joseph F. Merrill
Abraham O. Woodruff
James E. Faust
Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith,
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

It is also the privilege of any officer in this Church to obtain revelations, so far as relates to his particular calling and duty in the Church. (In solemn assembly in Kirtland Temple, April 6, 1837) TPJS:111; DGSM:5

Elder Lorenzo Snow

[I]n every circumstance and condition surrounding the Latter-day Saints, while in the performance of their duties, they are entitled to supernatural aid from the Holy Spirit, to help in the various conditions surrounding them, and in the duties that they are required to perform. CR1898Apr:12

President Joseph F. Smith

The gift of revelation does not belong to one man solely. It is not a gift that pertains to the Presidency of the Church and the Twelve Apostles alone. It is not confined to the presiding authorities of the Church. It belongs to every individual member of the Church; and it is the right and privilege of every man, every woman, and every child who has reached the years of accountability to enjoy the spirit of revelation, and to be possessed of the spirit of inspiration in the discharge of their duties as members of the Church. CR1912Apr:5

James E. Talmage

Joseph F. Merrill

Revelation is needed not only to guide the organization and teachings of the Church, but also to enable the members to function acceptably in their respective duties. One thing that is characteristic of the Latter-day Saints is their assurance that God lives, that this is His accepted Church and that He helps His children according to their worthiness and needs. Experience has taught them the validity of certain scriptural teachings relative to the individual receiving divine revelations. CR1941Apr:47-48

Abraham O. Woodruff

We are told that we are agents unto ourselves, and that we ought to be engaged in bringing to pass much righteousness. When we are placed to preside over a Ward it is not necessary to go to the President of the Church to ask about every little matter, but we are entitled to the spirit of God and to the revelations of the Lord Jesus Christ in our calling. If we are energetic and are working in the calling whereunto the Lord has called us, he will reveal many great and important things unto us, and he will bring to our minds many suggestions and ideas with regard to the government of our Ward. So with presidents of Stakes and High Councils and other officers of the Church. CR1900Oct:15

James E. Faust

Related Witnesses:

Joseph Smith,
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

I will inform you that it is contrary to the economy of God for any member of the Church, or any one, to receive instruction for those in authority higher than themselves; therefore you will see the impropriety of giving heed to them; but if any person have a vision or a visitation from a heavenly messenger, it must be for his own benefit and instruction; for the fundamental principles, government, and doctrine of the Church are vested in the keys of the kingdom. (Letter, April 13, 1833) TPJS:21; DGSM:5

We Believe: Doctrines and Principles

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Revelation: to Individuals

664. Only by revelation from God can we gain knowledge about God; we cannot learn about the existence and character of God by reasoning alone.

Related Witnesses:

665. "Mysteries of God" (those divine truths that bring about salvation and eternal life) are available to us only by revelation from God.

Related Witnesses:

666. Revelation from God to each of us as individuals is necessary for our salvation.

667. Revelation to individuals and to the Church comes line upon line, precept upon precept.

668. If we are obedient to the light He has given us, God will reveal more truth and knowledge to us.

669. Personal righteousness is a prerequisite for receiving revelation.

Related Witnesses:

670. Individual men and women can receive revelation to guide them within their own spheres of authority (they will not receive divine instructions for those higher in authority than they).

Related Witnesses:

671. Every Church member is entitled to revelation in the performance of his or her calling in the Church.

Related Witnesses: