Continuing revelation and modern prophets

What it is: This belief affirms that divine revelation did not cease in the biblical period and continues in the life of the church through prophets, apostles, and spiritual inspiration.

How the tradition understands it: The president of the church is seen as prophet, seer, and revelator. Revelation may also occur at personal, family, and ecclesial levels, within defined roles.

Textual or traditional basis: Amos 3:7, Ephesians 4, Doctrine and Covenants, and institutional pronouncements are frequent references.

Historical context: From the beginning of the movement, visions and revelations had a founding and organizing role.

Common objections: Critics question historical doctrinal changes, failed predictions attributed to leaders, or the problem of concentrated authority.

Internal variations: All major Latter-day Saint branches value revelation, but with distinct institutional arrangements.

Supportive

Amos 3:7

bible,prophets,revelation,mormonism

God reveals his secrets to the prophets.

Reference: Amos 3:7.

Content: The text states that the Lord does nothing without revealing his secret to the prophets.

Use in debate: It is widely used to support the idea of modern prophets.

Articles of Faith

mormonism,articles-of-faith,doctrine,summary

Classic summary of the movement's fundamental beliefs.

Reference: Joseph Smith's Articles of Faith.

Content: The text summarizes beliefs about God, the atonement, ordinances, spiritual gifts, revelation, the gathering of Israel, and Zion.

Use in debate: It is one of the best-known concise formulations of the Latter-day Saint religious identity.

Doctrine and Covenants 1:37-38

mormonism,doctrine-and-covenants,revelation,authority

The Lord confirms his word through servants and revelation.

Reference: Doctrine and Covenants 1:37-38.

Content: The text links commandments given by the Lord's servants to divine authority.

Use in debate: It is important for the doctrine of continuing revelation and prophetic authority.

Contrary

Galatians 1:8

bible,controversy,revelation,mormonism

Text often used by critics against additional revelations.

Reference: Galatians 1:8.

Content: Paul warns against another gospel even if it were announced by an angel.

Use in debate: It is one of the passages most often used by critics of additional revelation and of angelic visit narratives in the Latter-day Saint movement.

Hebrews 1:1-2

bible,controversy,revelation,christ,mormonism

Text used by critics to defend the culmination of revelation in Christ.

Reference: Hebrews 1:1-2.

Content: The author states that God spoke in many ways in former times and in these last days has spoken through the Son.

Use in debate: It is used by critics to question the need for new scriptures and modern prophets with similar authority.