Prophets and Revelation is a basic doctrine of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. While fundamental to our belief system, this teaching is not found in many of the religions of the world. What does it mean to be a prophet? Why do we need prophets? And, what is revelation to someone today? Who can receive revelation, and who is that revelation for?
Introducing these teachings to someone that is investigating the church can be a difficult road to travel. While some will find peace in the true doctrine, others may see it as crazy talk. For that reason it is so important to first understand where others are at before we jump into the content of Preach My Gospel. Seek first to understand, then to be understood, is wise counsel in this area.
Our guest on this episode of the podcast is religious educator, Blake Dalton. He speaks of the importance of this doctrine, as well as the ways that we can best approach teaching this subject with others not of our faith. As part of each of the episodes in our basic doctrines series, we start out with the text from the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on this doctrine of Prophets and Revelation:
5. Prophets and Revelation
A prophet is a person who has been called by God to speak for Him (see Amos 3:7). Prophets testify of Jesus Christ and teach His gospel. They make known God’s will and true character. They denounce sin and warn of its consequences. At times, they prophesy of future events (see D&C 1:37–38). Many teachings of prophets are found in the scriptures. As we study the words of prophets, we can learn truth and receive guidance (see 2 Nephi 32:3).
We sustain the President of the Church as a prophet, seer, and revelator and the only person on the earth who receives revelation to guide the entire Church. We also sustain the counselors in the First Presidency and the members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators.
Revelation is communication from God to His children. When the Lord reveals His will to the Church, He speaks through His prophet. The scriptures—the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price—contain revelations given through ancient and latter-day prophets. The President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is God’s prophet on the earth today.
Individuals can receive revelation to help them with their specific needs, responsibilities, and questions and to help strengthen their testimonies. Most revelations to leaders and members of the Church come through impressions and thoughts from the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost speaks to our minds and hearts in a still, small voice (see D&C 8:2–3). Revelation can also come through visions, dreams, and visitations by angels.
Related references: Psalm 119:105;
