Articles of Faith #9 “We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.”

The Doctrine and Covenants is one of the canonized scriptures, often referred to as the standard works, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is collection of divine revelations given to the Prophet Joseph Smith for the establishment of the kingdom of God on earth. The Doctrine and Covenants is unique from the other set of scriptures because it is not a translation of ancient records. The revelations contained in it are answers to prayers as the Prophet and his associates sought the guidance of the Lord on how to establish His Church.

The Prophet Joseph Smith said that the Doctrine and Covenants is “the foundation of the Church in these last days, and a benefit to the world, showing that the keys of the mysteries of the kingdom of our Savior are again entrusted to man.” –True to the Faith, 158.

As a Mormon, studying the Doctrine and Covenants helps me understand the importance of revelation in our day. Our generation is different from that of ancient times. We face challenges that are unique to our dispensation. Therefore, we need direction from the Lord that is suitable for our needs and circumstances. It is indeed a great blessing and comfort to know that the Lord continually reveals His will to us today. The Doctrine and Covenants is a proof of that truth.

The Doctrine and Covenants contains 138 sections which are revelations given for the direction of the saints and the establishment of the Church. It also includes the Official Declaration 1 and 2 which addresses the topics of polygamy and the priesthood being extended to all worthy male members of the Church.

In Doctrine and Covenants 1:37, the Lord said, “Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.” The Lord’s promises are sure and it is our responsibility as members of the Church to read and understand the revelations written in the Doctrine and Covenants and to gain a testimony of it. President Joseph Fielding Smith said, “…this Doctrine and Covenants contains the word of God to those who dwell here now. It is our book. It belongs to the Latter-day Saints.”