Why This Matters
In Mormonism, authority and revelation are central to how truth is understood and how doctrine is established. Latter-day Saints are taught that God continues to speak through living prophets and apostles today. But how does this compare with the biblical model of authority and revelation? This page explores how truth is determined—and how believers can discern whether a message or messenger is truly from God.
LDS Teaching vs. Biblical Teaching
In LDS Teaching
- God reveals truth through living prophets
- Modern apostles hold priesthood authority
- New revelation may expand or clarify doctrine
- Scripture includes the Book of Mormon and other modern texts
- The Church is led by ongoing divine guidance
In the Bible:
- God spoke through prophets and apostles
- Scripture is the final written authority
- The gospel message was delivered once for all
- Believers are called to test all teachings
- Christ is the head of the Church
Key Biblical Passages to Consider
- Hebrews 1:1–2
- Jude 3
- Galatians 1:8–9
- 2 Timothy 3:16–17
- Acts 17:11
A Question to Reflect On
If the core message of the gospel was delivered once for all through the apostles, how might that shape our expectations about new revelation or doctrinal developments today?