The Bible is seen
as the word of God by millions of people around the world. Interpretations of the book vary nearly as
much. Many have tried over the ages to
understand what the Bible tells us of the true condition of man. In the 1800’s there was a man named Joseph
Smith who said he had seen and been taught by God. The religion known as the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-Day Saints, or the Restored Church (often called Mormon), is based on these
teachings.
Many people claim
that the Restored Church has no basis in the Bible. Those who make such claims either do not
understand the doctrine of the Restored Church, or do not understand the Bible.
The Restored Church is undoubtedly a Bible-based religion, and indeed has an
authoritative position with biblical teachings and fearlessly answers some of
the greatest questions in life.
Ought not a church
that so boldly answers such questions be allowed a closer scriptural
inspection?
Scripture is very
important. What began as a collection of books and letters, over hundreds and
thousands of years, eventually became what we know of as the Bible. Our ancient fathers and mothers believed it
important to preserve scripture, so it has been the efforts of generations from
the beginning of time. What is believed to be the word of God to man should be
taken seriously and closely examined. God undoubtedly wishes for us to
understand His words.
“And this I do that I may establish my gospel, that
there may not be so much contention; yea, Satan
doth stir up the hearts of the people to contention concerning the points of my
doctrine; and in these things they do err, for they do wrest the scriptures
and do not understand them. Therefore, I will unfold unto them this great
mystery.” Doctrine and Covenants
10:63-64
Here we begin our
biblical inspection of Restored Church's doctrine, for without knowing the scriptures you
can fall into error.
“Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures,
nor the power of God.” Matthew 22:29
Even if a person reads
the scriptures, those who are unlearned or unstable can find the scriptures
very difficult to understand. If a
person does not understand the scriptures it can lead to their personal
destruction.
“As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of
these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that
are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto
their own destruction.” 2 Peter 3:16
Scripture is useful
for God’s children to gain knowledge, so that they may correct themselves.
“All scripture
is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16
Scriptures give
comfort to God’s children. The scriptures teach that there is hope.
“For whatsoever
things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we
through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” Romans 15:4
How can you become
wise enough to understand the scriptures? The Holy Spirit can guide you in
understanding the scriptures.
There are also
points of truth which can guide understanding. This book is a catechism of
questions answered by modern revelations found in the Restored Church's Scriptures (The Book
of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price), which
answers are then verified by biblical sources. This book is not a catechism for
rote memorization. It is a catechism of
questions and answers for personal instruction. These verses will help you build
a sure doctrinal foundation on which to gain an understanding of the pure
religion of the Bible, beginning with understanding who we are and God’s plan for
us. Undoubtedly, God has had a plan from the beginning, and will see it
through.
“Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and
there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things
that are not yet done, saying, My
counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure: Calling a ravenous bird
from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I
have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also
do it. Hearken unto me, ye stouthearted, that are far from righteousness: I
bring near my righteousness; it shall not be far off, and my salvation shall
not tarry: and I will place salvation in Zion for Israel my glory.” Isaiah 46:9-13
This book covers a
lot of material. You will see some repetition of themes. This is purposeful so
to manifest the golden threads of truth that are woven throughout the Bible.
Although this book is written so that anyone can understand it, there is a lot
to process. Scriptures play a serious role in this work. Each chapter builds on the ones before it. I hope you find the answers you may seek, and
treasure on every page.
Next Chapter
Watch- “A Choice Seer Will I Raise Up”
Watch- A House of Sequential Order