Mastering the Doctrine
The following nine doctrinal topics include fundamental truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. For more information on these topics, visit topics.lds.org or see True to the Faith: A Gospel Reference(2004).
The Godhead The Plan of Salvation The Atonement of Jesus Christ
The Restoration Prophets and Revelation Priesthood and Priesthood Keys
Ordinances and Covenants Marriage and Family Commandments
The following scripture passages come from the Doctrine and Covenants and match the nine doctrinal topics above:
1. The Godhead
D&C 29:10–11.Christ will come again with power and glory.
D&C 130:22–23.The Father and Son have bodies of flesh and bone.
2. The Plan of Salvation
D&C 76:22–24.Jesus Christ lives and is the Creator of worlds.
3. The Atonement of Jesus Christ
D&C 18:10–11.The worth of souls is great.
D&C 19:16–19.The Savior suffered for our sins so we could repent.
D&C 58:42–43.To repent we must confess and forsake sin.
4. The Restoration
Joseph Smith—History 1:15–20.In the First Vision, God called Joseph Smithto be a prophet.
D&C 1:30.The only true and living church
D&C 135:3.Joseph Smith labored for our salvation.
5. Prophets and Revelation
D&C 1:37–38.The voice of the Lord and His servants is the same.
D&C 21:4–6.As we receive the prophet’s word in patience and faith, God will disperse the powers of darkness.
6. Priesthood and Priesthood Keys
D&C 13:1.Keys of the Aaronic Priesthood
D&C 42:11.The Lord’s representatives must be called by one who has authority.
D&C 107:8.The authority of the Melchizedek Priesthood
D&C 121:36, 41–42.Priesthood power depends on one’s righteousness.
7. Ordinances and Covenants
D&C 82:10.The Lord is bound when we do what He says.
D&C 84:20–22.The power of godliness is manifest in priesthood ordinances.
8. Marriage and Family
D&C 49:15–17.Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God.
D&C 131:1–4.The new and everlasting covenant of marriage
9. Commandments
D&C 18:15–16.Joy in bringing souls to Jesus Christ
D&C 64:9–11.We are required to forgive all people.
D&C 89:18–21.Blessings of the Word of Wisdom.
During this seminary year, we will give you opportunities to explain and apply these doctrines. Here are some things to remember when helping others “Acquire Spiritual Knowledge:”
Listen carefully and prayerfully: Listen attentively before you respond, seeking to clarify and understand the actual questions they are asking. Thoughtfully seek to understand the true intent of their questions and their feelings and beliefs.
Teach and testify of gospel truths: Share applicable teachings from the scriptures and modern prophets and how they have made a difference in your life. Help those with whom you speak examine or reframe their questions in the context of the gospel and the plan of salvation.
Invite them to act in faith: Remember that the Lord requires us to seek spiritual knowledge for ourselves. We must therefore invite others to act in faith through prayer, obedience to the commandments, and diligent study of the word of God, using divinely appointed sources, particularly the Book of Mormon. If applicable, invite them to remember experiences they may have had when they felt the Holy Ghost and to hold fast to eternal truths they have learned until additional knowledge comes.
Follow through: Offer to search for answers, and then follow through by sharing what you learn. You could also search for answers together. Express confidence in the Lord’s promise to provide personal revelation.
