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We Believe: Doctrines and Principles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
A comprehensive reference work on what Mormons (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) believe. Contains almost nine hundred doctrines and principles of the Church, supported by quotations from Church leaders. Used by Church Seminaries and Institutes world wide.
1200 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 1994
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 18, 2021
This is a reference work of delightful thoroughness. The creation of the sub-topics and cross references to other sub-topics must have been a massive effort covering many years. The author has colllected authoritative quotations with citations for each of those sub-topics. This is a very impressive one-volume reference work.
The following criteria helped keep it authoritative:
“Three key criteria have been used in the editing of this work making it a reliable publication:
1. Only declarations from scriptures and latter-day prophets are used. (General and Regional Church authorities who are NOT prophets are not quoted.)
2. Only declarations from official Church publications are used.
3. A doctrine is not included unless three or more distinct doctrinal declarations can be verified.”
I keep recommending it to people. Personally I like the Kindle edition, which has been less than $3 every time I’ve looked at it on Amazon. For people who prefer physical media, paperback and hardcover are also available.
I’ve made over 200 notes and highlights. It would have been a lot more than that, but for many of them I went to the referenced document where I made a highlight and/or annotation. It almost seems rude to make that many visible.
A few of the sections that I found particularly interesting are:
139. In the celestial kingdom there are three heavens or degrees.
681. We are to heed the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
708. If we sanctify ourselves so our minds become single to God and His glory, we may one day see the face of the Lord (for some, this may occur in mortal life).
720. Inspired prophetic utterances, both oral and written, are scripture.
782. Men are not to have sexual relations with other men, or women with other women. (Homosexuality)
831. Love of God dispels fear.
836. God will give us knowledge of truth as fast as we are able to receive it.
853. We are to avoid financial debt.
"In addition to these four books of scripture, [the Standard Works] the inspired words of our living prophets become scripture to us. Their words come to us through conferences, Church publications, and instructions to local priesthood leaders." (Gospel Principles, pp. 51-52) (Topic 720)
The following criteria helped keep it authoritative:
“Three key criteria have been used in the editing of this work making it a reliable publication:
1. Only declarations from scriptures and latter-day prophets are used. (General and Regional Church authorities who are NOT prophets are not quoted.)
2. Only declarations from official Church publications are used.
3. A doctrine is not included unless three or more distinct doctrinal declarations can be verified.”
I keep recommending it to people. Personally I like the Kindle edition, which has been less than $3 every time I’ve looked at it on Amazon. For people who prefer physical media, paperback and hardcover are also available.
I’ve made over 200 notes and highlights. It would have been a lot more than that, but for many of them I went to the referenced document where I made a highlight and/or annotation. It almost seems rude to make that many visible.
A few of the sections that I found particularly interesting are:
139. In the celestial kingdom there are three heavens or degrees.
681. We are to heed the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
708. If we sanctify ourselves so our minds become single to God and His glory, we may one day see the face of the Lord (for some, this may occur in mortal life).
720. Inspired prophetic utterances, both oral and written, are scripture.
782. Men are not to have sexual relations with other men, or women with other women. (Homosexuality)
831. Love of God dispels fear.
836. God will give us knowledge of truth as fast as we are able to receive it.
853. We are to avoid financial debt.
"In addition to these four books of scripture, [the Standard Works] the inspired words of our living prophets become scripture to us. Their words come to us through conferences, Church publications, and instructions to local priesthood leaders." (Gospel Principles, pp. 51-52) (Topic 720)
November 10, 2008
Better than McConkie's Mormon Doctrine for getting at the heart of authoritative LDS beliefs. Set up with summary doctrinal restatements that are then backed up with multiple quotations from official sources.
March 5, 2015
This is absolutely the best reference work on LDS (Mormon) doctrine ever published. It has everything for understanding the doctrines of the gospel. It is also very authoritative as every declaration is from an official Church publication.
March 5, 2015
This is one of the best ebooks I have on my phone and iPad. I use it constantly. It includes everything concerning the doctrines of the gospel. It is an excellent tool for preparing talks and lessons. If you are LDS (Mormon) this is a must have.
July 4, 2008
Lots of great quotes from the prophets on lots of topics; I use this quite often as a reference for talks or for just finding out more about a certain gospel topic
October 9, 2008
I use this resource often in my personal study and for clarification. Love it!
November 19, 2008
Absolutely wonderful to have around when asked to give a talk or when you just have a question about what the LDS Church believes.
August 16, 2009
great reference
November 28, 2012
I got this book right after I was baptized. This book is excellent for every doctrine taught in the church. It is taken straight from scripture and the words of the prophets.
August 19, 2013
Excellent Mormon reference. It is hard to refer back to a book with the web being the first point of research. I wish they would publish a website of "We Believe"
March 5, 2015
The best reference work on LDS (Mormon) doctrine. This has everything for studying LDS doctrines. Perfect for preparing talks and lessons.
February 24, 2011
a great resource book!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews