“Worth … the Riches of the Whole Earth”
- CFMCorner
- 7 days ago
- 11 min read
CFM:
Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material
VIDEOS & PODCASTS
Media | Resource Links |
|---|---|
BYU RSC Library | |
Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson | |
Come Follow Me Kid | |
Come Follow Me Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths | |
Come Follow Up | |
D&C Historical Background | |
Don't Miss This | |
Follow Him | |
Grounded with Barbara Morgan | |
Gospel For Kids | |
Seminary Decks | |
Hurricane Adult Religion Class | |
Latter Day Kids | |
Line Upon Line | |
Meridian Magazine Podcast | |
Our Mother's Knew It | |
Saving Talents | |
Scripture Study Central | |
Scripture Explorers | D&C 67-70 |
Scripture Gems | |
Scripture Insights | |
Talking Scripture | |
Teaching With Power | D&C 67-70 |
Thumb Follow Me | |
The Red Crystal | |
The Scriptures are Real | |
The Interpreter Foundation |
|
Unshaken |
CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES
Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson
What is Scripture?
A Study of Doctrine and Covenants 67-70
The Etymology and Definition of Scripture
The word "scripture" comes from the Latin scriptura, meaning "a writing." When we break it down further, we can see it as combining "script" (written) with elements that echo the Hebrew torah (law, instruction, doctrine). This etymology helps us understand that scripture is fundamentally divine instruction that has been preserved in written form for our guidance and edification.
But as we'll discover in Doctrine and Covenants 67-70, the Lord's definition of scripture is far broader and more inclusive than we might initially think.
The Lord's Definition of Scripture
In Doctrine and Covenants 68:3-4, the Lord provides a revolutionary definition of scripture that expands far beyond ancient texts or official church publications:
"And this is an ensample unto all those who were ordained unto this priesthood, whose mission is appointed unto them to go forth—And they shall speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost. And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation."
Notice that the Lord defines scripture not by who speaks it or where it's published, but by the power behind it: the Holy Ghost. This means that scripture is any truth spoken or received through the power of the Holy Ghost.
Scripture as Commentary: The Nephi Example
When Commentary Becomes Canon
Consider Nephi's fascinating position as he wrote what we now know as the Book of Mormon. From his perspective, he wasn't necessarily setting out to write new scripture—he was creating what might have been viewed as commentary on the Torah and the writings contained in the brass plates. Nephi frequently references "searching the scriptures" and drawing connections between the law of Moses and the coming Messiah.
To the Jewish community of Nephi's time, his writings might have been received as midrash—interpretive commentary on established scripture. Yet what began as inspired commentary, written by the power of the Holy Ghost, became canonized scripture for millions of people centuries later.
The Defining Characteristic of True Scripture
This pattern reveals one of the defining characteristics of authentic scripture: its ability to enlighten, clarify, sustain, and support the doctrine the Lord has already provided. Nephi's writings didn't contradict the Torah; they illuminated it. They didn't replace Moses' law; they revealed how it pointed toward Christ.
Similarly, the Doctrine and Covenants doesn't replace the Bible—it clarifies and expands upon biblical truths. The Book of Mormon doesn't contradict biblical doctrine—it serves as "another testament of Jesus Christ," supporting and sustaining the same eternal principles.
The Gradual Recognition of Scripture
This raises an intriguing question: Did Nephi fully realize he was recording what would become canonized scripture? His own words suggest he understood the sacred nature of his task—he speaks of being "constrained by the Spirit" and commanded to write (1 Nephi 19:3). Yet he also expresses humility about his writing abilities and concerns about how future generations might receive his words.
This mirrors our own experience with personal revelation and inspired writing. We may not always recognize in the moment when we're receiving or recording something that will prove to be truly scriptural in nature—something that will enlighten, sustain, and support gospel truth for ourselves or others.
Who Can Receive Scripture?
The Democratic Nature of Revelation
One of the most remarkable aspects of these revelations is how democratically the Lord distributes the gift of receiving scripture. As Casey and Scott noted in their discussion, this isn't limited to prophets and apostles. The Book of Mormon teaches us that "God imparts his word to not only men but women also, and this is not all—little children do have words given unto them many times which confound the wise and learned" (Alma 32:23).
Nephi reinforces this principle, teaching that "anyone who receives the Holy Ghost can speak with the tongue of angels by the power of the Holy Ghost, which means they can speak the words of Christ" (2 Nephi 32:2-3).
God's Pattern of Choosing the Humble
This pattern reflects God's consistent method of working through humble, often broken vessels:
Joseph Smith was only 14 years old when he received the First Vision
Moses struggled with speech, whether that was impediments or anxiety, we do not know, but we do know he became God's spokesman
Jesus chose fishermen over scholars as His apostles
The Samaritan woman at the well—an outcast from the lowest social class—was among the first to whom Jesus revealed His messianic identity
Mary Magdalene, a woman with a complicated past, was chosen to be the first witness of the Resurrection
Nephi himself described his writing as "weakness in writing" (2 Nephi 33:1), yet his words have become beacons of light to millions
God deliberately chooses servants who are humble and teachable, often those who are broken. As Leonard Cohen wrote, "There is a crack in everything—that's how the light gets in." Our brokenness is not a liability; it's how God's light enters our lives.
Different Types of Scripture
Understanding the Lord's broad definition of scripture helps us recognize different categories:
Personal Scripture
This includes:
Patriarchal blessings (scripture to the individual recipient)
Personal revelations received through prayer
Inspired counsel from parents, leaders, or friends
Promptings of the Holy Ghost in daily life
Personal journals and writings when moved upon by the Spirit
Canonized Scripture
This represents official doctrine that serves as a "measuring rod" for the entire Church:
The Bible
The Book of Mormon
The Doctrine and Covenants
The Pearl of Great Price
Commentary That Illuminates
Like Nephi's writings, this category includes:
Inspired talks and teachings that clarify scripture
Commentaries and writings that support and sustain established doctrine
Teachings that help us better understand canonical scripture
Scripture from Other Faiths
The Lord acknowledges that He works with people of all nations. As stated in the 1978 First Presidency declaration: "The great religious leaders of the world such as Muhammad, Confucius... received a portion of God's light... to enlighten whole nations and bring a higher level of understanding to individuals."
The Doctrine and Covenants confirms this: "There are other holy men that ye know not of... the Lord doth grant unto all nations... to teach his word in wisdom, all that he sees fit that they should have" (D&C 49:8; Alma 29:8).
The Process of Receiving Scripture
Being "Quickened" by the Spirit
In Doctrine and Covenants 67:11, the Lord explains that "no man has seen God at any time in the flesh, except quickened by the spirit of God." This principle of being "quickened"—spiritually prepared and enhanced—applies not only to seeing God but to receiving any form of divine communication.
When we are quickened by the Spirit, we become more sensitive to:
The voice of the Lord through the Holy Ghost
Truth wherever it may be found
The patterns and principles of divine revelation
How new truth connects with and supports established doctrine
The Role of Preparation
Joseph Smith's ability to detect false revelation (like Hiram Page's writings) came from his experience being quickened by the Spirit. Through divine manifestations, he learned to recognize:
The patterns of true revelation
How authentic scripture feels and sounds
The difference between divine and counterfeit spiritual experiences and manifestations
How true revelation always supports and clarifies truth
Detecting True Scripture
The Measuring Rod Principle
Joseph Smith detected problems with Hiram Page's revelations because they contradicted the spirit and fundamental doctrines of established scripture—both the Bible and revelations Joseph had already received. This teaches us an important principle: true scripture does not contradict the essential doctrinal truths previously established by God; instead, it will enlighten, clarify, sustain, and support existing doctrine.
However, this principle refers to doctrinal contradictions, not differences in perspective, interpretation, or historical accounts—and this is a crucial distinction. Scripture itself contains multiple viewpoints and interpretive approaches, and this diversity was intentional and inspired.
Consider these examples of intentional scriptural diversity:
Different historical perspectives: The books of Chronicles and Kings offer varying accounts of the same events, each emphasizing different lessons and details
Multiple Gospel witnesses: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John each present Christ's life and ministry from their unique perspectives and for different audiences
Varied interpretive approaches: Old Testament writers often included multiple traditions or explanations for the same events, allowing readers to find meaning that resonated with their circumstances
Why this diversity exists: Ancient writers and compilers understood that different perspectives could illuminate different aspects of eternal truth. Rather than seeing this as problematic, they embraced it as enlightening. When they included multiple accounts or interpretations, they trusted readers to prayerfully discern which perspectives offered the most insight for their particular needs and situations.
The key distinction: These various accounts and interpretations all sought to understand and illuminate the same fundamental truths—the Law, the nature of God, the path to salvation. They didn't contradict core doctrine; they demonstrated how different people experienced and interpreted God's unchanging principles in their unique circumstances.
Just as Nephi's commentary on the brass plates illuminated rather than contradicted the Torah—offering fresh insights while maintaining doctrinal consistency—authentic modern revelation builds upon the foundation of previous truth rather than undermining its essential teachings. The diversity enriches our understanding; and expands our vision and appreciation for the Lord and his instruction.
The Fruits Test
The Savior taught us to judge by fruits (Matthew 7:16-20). True scripture, properly interpreted, will:
Draw us closer to Christ
Inspire righteous living
Bring peace and clarity
Align with established gospel principles
Bear witness of truth through the Holy Ghost
Clarify and support previous revelations
The Light and Truth Test
Doctrine and Covenants 67:9 gives us another test: "You know that there is no unrighteousness in them, and that which is righteous cometh down from above, from the Father of lights." True scripture will always promote righteousness and come from God, the ultimate source of all light and truth.
Why This Matters Today
Recognizing Revelation in Our Lives
Understanding that anyone can receive scripture when moved upon by the Holy Ghost helps us:
Value personal revelation more highly
Recognize when family members, friends, or leaders speak by inspiration
Be more attentive to the Spirit's promptings in daily life
Appreciate that God speaks to us individually according to our needs
Understand that our own inspired writing or speaking can be scriptural in nature
Appreciating Church Leadership
When we understand that our leaders speak scripture when moved upon by the Holy Ghost, we can better recognize and receive their inspired counsel. This doesn't mean everything they say is scripture, but it helps us be more spiritually attuned to when they are speaking by inspiration—when their words clarify, support, and sustain established doctrine.
Interfaith Understanding
Recognizing that God works with people of all faiths helps us:
Find common ground with people of other religions
Appreciate truth wherever it's found, especially when it supports gospel principles
Build bridges of understanding and cooperation
Maintain our own convictions while respecting others' spiritual experiences
Becoming Better Receivers of Revelation
As we study how scripture comes and how to recognize it, we become better prepared to:
Receive personal revelation
Distinguish between our own thoughts and God's voice
Help others recognize the Spirit's influence in their lives
Build Zion through inspired cooperation and understanding
Create our own "commentary" through inspired living, teaching, and journaling
Conclusion
The Lord's definition of scripture in these sections is both humbling and empowering. It's humbling because it reminds us that God can work through anyone—including ourselves when we're prepared. It's empowering because it assures us that divine communication isn't limited to ancient prophets or modern apostles, but is available to all of God's children who seek it with sincere hearts.
Like Nephi, we may not always recognize when we're receiving or sharing something truly scriptural. But when we speak or write by the power of the Holy Ghost, when our words enlighten, clarify, sustain, and support the doctrine of Christ, we participate in the same sacred process that has given us all canonized scripture.
As we learn to recognize scripture in all its forms—whether spoken by a child in Primary, whispered by the Spirit in personal prayer, taught by our leaders, or even found in the inspired writings of other faiths—we open ourselves to a richer, more abundant spiritual life. We become part of that great community of believers who, though scattered across the earth and throughout history, are united by the same Spirit that speaks truth to honest hearts everywhere.
The promise of Doctrine and Covenants 68:4 applies to each of us: when we speak as we are moved upon by the Holy Ghost, our words become "the will of the Lord... the mind of the Lord... the word of the Lord... the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation." What a remarkable privilege and responsibility we have as recipients and transmitters of divine truth—as potential creators of commentary that may, through the Spirit, enlighten and sustain others in their journey toward Christ.
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