Deep Dive into Mormonism
Mormonism defines revelation as an ongoing, open process that can expand doctrine beyond the traditional biblical canon, often channeled through a living prophet. This stands in direct contrast to how many other Christian traditions view divine communication.
For Latter-day Saints (LDS), "Scripture" is not limited to the Bible alone, but includes a "quadruple canon": the Bible (interpreted "insofar as it is translated correctly"), the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. These additional texts are considered companion standard works, providing further divine truth.
Central to this understanding is the living prophet's authority. The LDS Church teaches that its prophet can issue binding, new revelation for the entire church. This means that doctrine is not static; it can be further unveiled and elaborated, leading to dogma-expanding disclosure that may redefine core concepts like God, Christ, or the gospel. This contrasts with the Reformed view of a closed canon and finished revelation in Christ.
Mormon members often experience a "burning in the bosom," a subjective spiritual feeling or warmth, which they consider a confirmation from the Holy Spirit that the Book of Mormon and the LDS prophet's teachings are true. This internal testimony is used to authenticate these extra-canonical doctrines.
The term "revelation" itself is often considered a "false friend" in discussions between LDS and Reformed Christians, as its meaning and implications for authority and truth differ fundamentally between the two perspectives.
Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologian
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