The Articles and Covenants of the Church (D&C 20) outline core doctrines and priesthood duties, drawing heavily from the Book of Mormon. Some passages are quoted directly, while others synthesize multiple passages to affirm core doctrines. By relying on the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery grounded the restored Church on Christ’s gospel.
Priesthood Power
Authority gives us permission to do something. Power gives us the ability to do it. Priests and teachers were ordained anciently "by the power of the Holy Ghost." Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery experienced spiritual gifts and power when they received the priesthood and were baptized. We also need to seek to receive God's priesthood power in order to more effectively bless His children.
Repentance and Remission of Sins
Moroni tells us that priests were charged with preaching "repentance and remission of sins." Repentance is an invitation; remission of sins is an assurance. Because of Jesus, we can let our old selves go. We don't have to be burdened by our sins any more.
Songs, Sermons, Lessons, and Prayers
Moroni and Paul both explained that church services ought to include a variety of content provided by a variety of people. As we share what we have to contribute and learn from others, under the guidance of the Spirit, we are all edified.
When I Called
The book of Isaiah ends on a happy note: a new heaven and a new earth, with joy and peace among those who have been faithful to God. But the text is also tinged with sorrow for those who have not been faithful. Twice, the Lord utters the following lament: "When I called, ye did not... Continue Reading →
Gifts and Callings
We all have capabilities (gifts), and we all have opportunities to serve (callings). The apostle Paul encouraged the members of the church in Ancient Rome to be patient with their friends who were non-believers. Perhaps these friends were not currently using their gifts and fulfilling their callings, but "the gifts and calling of God are... Continue Reading →
“Preach Nothing Save It Were Repentance” – Mosiah 18:20
When Alma organized the church at the waters of Mormon, he ordained priests to teach the people. What were they to teach? The same things he had taught, and the same things prophets before him had taught: "He commanded that they should preach nothing save it were repentance and faith on the Lord, who had... Continue Reading →
Gifts and Callings – Moroni 3:4
Near the end of the Book of Mormon, Moroni describes how priesthood authority was given. After explaining the process, he adds two significant points: It was done "according to the gifts and callings of God unto men."It was done "by the power of the Holy Ghost" (Moroni 3:4). When Joseph Smith was instructed to establish... Continue Reading →
What Is a “Remission” of Your Sins?
The word aphesis (ἄφεσις) appears 17 times in the Greek New Testament. It literally means "letting go" or "setting at liberty." When Jesus reads the prophecy from Isaiah 61 that the Messiah would "preach deliverance to the captives, and...set at liberty them that are bruised," He used the word aphesis twice. (See Luke 4:18 on biblehub.com.)... Continue Reading →
What Is an Elder?
When Moses saw the burning bush on Mount Horeb, God commanded him to return to Egypt and lead his people out of slavery. Moses was somewhat concerned about fulfilling this assignment alone. But God explained that he wouldn't be alone: Go, and gather the elders of Israel together, and say unto them, The Lord God... Continue Reading →