Outline of Topics to be Covered in Doctrines of the Restoration

a series of essays by David L. Allen


(In no particular order at this point)


Introduction - a brief introduction to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Book of Mormon mentioned as the source of an often used nick-name for members of the Church, and explanation given of it's powerful witness of Jesus Christ.

The Nature of God - modern revelation from God Himself reveals the startling truth that God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost are three separate and distinct personages, the first two having tangible bodies of flesh and bone, and the third being a personage of spirit.

The Nature of Man - revelation also shows the dual nature of man. On the one hand, the "natural man" who in his fallen state is an enemy to God. On the other hand, the spirit in man, that which defines him as an individual is in fact a literal child of God, and as such is capable of growth and enlargement, becoming ever more like his Heavenly Father.

Grace and Works - Whereby Salvation? - Councils have debated for centuries over whether man is saved by the Grace of God alone, or whether works are also required. Modern revelation makes clear that man is saved by grace "after all we can do" - we can't be saved by our works alone, but neither can we be saved without significant effort on our part.

The Great Plan of Happiness - What's it all about anyway? Is there any meaning in life? Is there some overall plan, some business that we need to be about? Yes! As children of a loving Heavenly Father, we are entitled to the richness of the eternities, but we've got to learn of Him and follow His plan for us.

The Necessity of Revelation - An often misunderstood scripture tells us that "upon this rock (revelation) I will build my church". Since Jesus Christ was the speaker of these well known words, we really ought to study what he meant.

The Need for a "Restoration of All Things" - Being the title of these articles, we really should explain what we mean by "The Restoration", and why it was necessary.

The Book of Mormon - mentioned briefly in the introductory article, we need to explore it a little. The "plain and precious" doctrines it reveals or clarifies invigorate our faith in Jesus Christ.

Baptism - one of the most important covenants we make with the Lord is at baptism. How, when and why should it be done?

The Holy Ghost - a member of the Godhead, but often not fully understood. What is His nature and His mission? A Book of Mormon prophet made an amazing promise : "...by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things". What can we do to avail ourselves of such a great blessing?

The Mission of Elijah - what does this ancient prophet have to do with us in this modern age? The prophet Malachi knew when God said through him "...I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD:...". If this is supposed to happen before the second coming of the Savior, maybe we ought to find out what he (Elijah) is coming for.

The Marriage Covenant - Is "Until Death" Long Enough? - Marriage was instituted by God when Adam and Eve became the first husband and wife. Death wasn't present until after the fall, so it wasn't a part of that first marriage covenant. Should it be part of ours?


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Updated 20 October '98... © Copyright 1998 David L. Allen. All rights reserved.