Throughout history, God has guided His people by speaking to them. Latter-day Saints believe this divine pattern did not end with the Bible, but continues today. This belief in continuing revelation reflects the conviction that God is still aware of the world’s needs and actively involved in the lives of His children.
Rather than seeing God as distant or silent, Latter-day Saints believe He continues to offer guidance, correction, and comfort—both to individuals and to His Church—while remaining perfectly consistent with eternal truth.
What Is Continuing Revelation?
Continuing revelation is the belief that God reveals His will through inspiration. Latter-day Saints believe this guidance can come through scripture, prayer, the influence of the Holy Ghost, and through prophets called to lead the Church.
This belief does not suggest that God changes His fundamental teachings. Instead, revelation is understood as God providing direction and understanding appropriate to different times, situations, and individual needs.
Biblical Foundations for Revelation
The Bible presents a consistent pattern of God revealing His will as circumstances unfold. Prophets in the Old Testament received revelation suited to their generation, and the New Testament records continued divine guidance through apostles after the ministry of Jesus Christ.
Scripture teaches that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Latter-day Saints understand this to mean that God’s nature is unchanging, even as He continues to communicate with humanity.
Revelation Through the Holy Spirit
Jesus Christ taught that the Holy Ghost would guide His followers into all truth. Latter-day Saints believe this promise remains in effect today. Through the Holy Spirit, individuals can receive truth, comfort, and understanding directly from God.
Personal Revelation in Scripture
Biblical figures such as Peter and Paul received personal revelation that guided their choices and ministry. Latter-day Saints view these experiences as examples of how God continues to guide sincere seekers in every age.
Prophetic Revelation for the Church
In addition to personal revelation, Latter-day Saints believe God guides His Church through living prophets. These prophets seek divine direction to help the Church remain centered on Jesus Christ while responding to the needs of a changing world.
Revelation given to prophets is expected to align with scripture and to reflect God’s will rather than personal opinion.
Revelation Through Councils
Important decisions within the Church are often made through councils of leaders who seek revelation together. Latter-day Saints see this as a continuation of the pattern used by early Christian apostles.
Unity and Confirmation
Revelation for the Church is typically confirmed through unity among leaders and through spiritual confirmation felt by members. This shared witness strengthens faith and promotes harmony within the Church.
Personal Revelation in Daily Life
Latter-day Saints believe God also offers personal guidance to individuals. This may include help with family decisions, spiritual growth, and everyday challenges.
Personal revelation is understood to operate within God’s commandments and does not override the revelation given to prophets for the Church as a whole.
Learning to Recognize Revelation
Revelation often comes quietly—through peaceful feelings, clear thoughts, or gentle impressions. Learning to recognize this guidance requires patience, faith, and a sincere desire to follow God’s will.
Role of Prayer and Scripture Study
Prayer and scripture study play a central role in receiving revelation. As individuals consistently seek God through these practices, they become more receptive to His guidance.
Common Misunderstandings
Some believe that continuing revelation means doctrine changes frequently. Latter-day Saints believe eternal doctrines remain constant, while revelation helps apply those truths to new circumstances.
Another misunderstanding is that revelation replaces personal responsibility. In Latter-day Saint belief, revelation works together with study, effort, and wise decision-making.
Why This Belief Matters
Belief in continuing revelation reassures Latter-day Saints that God is aware of their lives and willing to guide them. It provides comfort during uncertainty and direction during difficult decisions.
More importantly, continuing revelation invites individuals to build a personal relationship with God and to follow Jesus Christ with faith in every generation.
An Invitation
Latter-day Saints invite everyone to seek God’s guidance personally through prayer and scripture study. We believe God still speaks today and desires to guide all who sincerely seek Him.
Sources
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Gospel Topics: Revelation
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org
Gospel Topics Essays – Revelation
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics-essays
Doctrine and Covenants Central
https://doctrineandcovenantscentral.org
Scripture Central
https://scripturecentral.org
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