Restored priesthood authority

What it is: The belief holds that the priesthood authority needed to govern the church and administer ordinances was restored through heavenly mediation.

How the tradition understands it: The tradition mainly distinguishes Aaronic priesthood and Melchizedek priesthood. This authority is seen as indispensable for baptisms, confirmations, blessings, and other ordinances.

Textual or traditional basis: Hebrews, Doctrine and Covenants, and narratives of priesthood restoration by John the Baptist and by Peter, James, and John are fundamental.

Historical context: Restoration of priesthood became one of the pillars that differentiated the movement from other forms of restorationist Christianity.

Common objections: Critics question the historicity of the restoration accounts and the need for such exclusivity of authority.

Internal variations: The official structure is stable in the main church, but other branches of the movement differ in succession, offices, and distribution of priesthood.