A Commentary on the Doctrine and Covenants, Vol 2

by Stephen E. Robinson, H. Dean Garrett, Larry E. Dahl

What can latter-day revelation teach us about the vital doctrines of the restored gospel? How can knowing the history of the early days of the Restoration help us understand the future blessings promised to a worldwide Church? The second volume of a comprehensive four-volume series, A Commentary on the Doctrine and Covenants, by Stephen E. Robinson and H. Dean Garrett, provides a verse-by-verse examination of sections 41 through 80. Although no one but the prophet has the right to declare or define doctrine for the Church and its members (see D&C 43:5-7), learning the historical context often clarifies what is being said. Suddenly, we see familiar verses in a new light and with new insights. The authors have drawn from countless sources — original diaries, journals, maps, and atlases — to bring to life the history and doctrine of the Doctrine and Covenants in an easy-to-read format. Throughout the detailed studies, in-depth analysis, and perceptive commentary contained in this remarkable book, the authors' love for the Doctrine and Covenants shines forth. Here we learn about The circumstances under which the first bishop in the Church was called. The law of consecration. The manner in which the sick are to be blessed. How transgressors are to be disciplined. What the elders are to proclaim regarding the restoration of the gospel. The Savior's role as our advocate with the Father. How to discern the gifts of the Spirit. Of the revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord has declared, “Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled” (D&C 1:37). A Commentary on the Doctrine and Covenants, Volume Two invites us to study more deeply the history and doctrine recorded in this vital book of scripture. It is a commentary that rewards us amply for our efforts.

Genres: Lds, Religion

399 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2000

About the author

Stephen E. Robinson has taught at Brigham Young University since 1986. He received a B.A. from Brigham Young University in 1971 in English Literature and a PhD from Duke University in 1978 in Biblical Studies. He and his wife, Janet, have six children.

Reviews

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is still my favorite commentary series on the Doctrine & Covenants. Despite the fact that I occasionally disagree, sometimes rather adamantly, with their doctrinal interpretations and conclusions, I still find this to be one of the more insightful commentaries out there. Hopefully, all readers understand that no work of this kind, no matter how well done, represents the official doctrine of the Church. It gives better historical background than McConkie & Ostler's "Revelations of the Restoration," but perhaps not as much (or as updated) as Steve Harper's commentary. But you can't really fault them for needing some occasional historical updating since they wrote this series before the Joseph Smith Papers project. However, it beats both of those volumes by providing considerably more detailed analysis of the text to help readers appreciate the depth of these profound revelations. I look forward to reading the other two volumes in this series and highly recommend it to students and teachers of the Doctrine & Covenants and LDS Church history.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgiveness requires that we rid ourselves of all bitterness, hatred, or desire for revenge. It requires that we hold a grudge no longer. But forgiveness does not require that all relations and feelings be restored to what they once were. It is possible to forgive while at the same time preferring not to deal with them again. Forgiveness is about the elimination of negative feelings but not always about the restoration of former relationships and privileges.

I learned so much from reading this series of commentary. There were quotes from prophets and apostles, historical background, and setting which helped to put the revelations in context, and lots of cross-references that helped to tie the revelations to other sacred texts. It was clear that the authors loved the work they were doing and approached it with reverence and humility.

[Reid Cram · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this commentary. The historical and doctrinal background and insights from the authors help bring this scripture to life and elevate the relevance and importance of the Doctrine and Covenants today. I couldn't put them down and I started reading the Doctrine and Covenants with this commentary again the day that I finished them.

[Tosca Wijns-Van Eeden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Again easy to read along with the Doctrine and Covenants. Provides a bit of background on the section and then answers a few questions what is meant in certain verses.
Very helpful and insightful.

[Spencer Willardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still loving this series. Very informative and a great study resource.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've finished this book, which covers the sections of the Doctrine and Covenants from 41 to 80, and I'm reading the next one. These books provide a lot of insight into each section, both historical and doctrinal, and I have enjoyed learning more about this work of scripture through them.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this commentary. It had quite a bit of different material than some of the other commentaries (like Doxey).

[Jay · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was somewhat helpful/insightful.
I don't usually like reading study helps along with the scriptures unless I really need to. I feel like doing so takes away from your own personal revelation.

[Rietje · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow did this book ever help me to understand so much more of the Doctrine and Covenants! Now I have to get volume 1.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Volume 2 of 4. On pace to meet my goal of finishing these before the end of the year.