The seven lectures in this collection expound upon these subjects:
- What is faith?
- What is the role of revelation in developing faith?
- What...
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May 01, 2011
Lowell
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As I write this, the LDS church is closing its 191st year as an "organized" religion, established on April 6, 1830.
What many modern members of the church do not know is that between years 5 and 91, "Lectures on Faith" was included with the Doctrine and Covenants... and was actually the Doctrine part, with our existing version containing the Covenants portion. In 1921, they were removed from canonical volume of scriptures because the Lectures "were never presen More...
What many modern members of the church do not know is that between years 5 and 91, "Lectures on Faith" was included with the Doctrine and Covenants... and was actually the Doctrine part, with our existing version containing the Covenants portion. In 1921, they were removed from canonical volume of scriptures because the Lectures "were never presen More...
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Nov 01, 2010
Brian
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This is the clearest and most acurately detailed discussion on faith that has ever been assembled on the subject. It lays forth in clarity what faith is, how to get it and hold onto it, and how to reorient your own compass to discern between good and evil. Better this books tells you the only way in which you can be saved. But it discusses being saved in a literal sense vs. from mystery and the superficial and usual connotations of that word- the emotions of being 'worked up' and false notion
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Mar 19, 2009
Travis
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I read this book a long time ago (back in '97), but I remember being deeply touched by the King Follett sermon. Joseph Smith was a fascinating man as they come, and his writings and teachings have influenced my life probably more than most any other man.
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Sep 22, 2010
Chris
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I just finished this again. I was assigned to speak on faith in church last weekend. I forgot how many wonderful ideas are in this book. So many of things that are often quoted about faith are in this book.
“But faith is not only a principle of action, but of power also,”
[t]here are 3 things that intelligent beings need to have to exercise faith in God unto salvation:
1: The idea that [God] actually exists
2: A correct idea of His character, perfe More...
“But faith is not only a principle of action, but of power also,”
[t]here are 3 things that intelligent beings need to have to exercise faith in God unto salvation:
1: The idea that [God] actually exists
2: A correct idea of His character, perfe More...
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Aug 17, 2011
Jaime
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I read this because of it's title...and I was curious about the topic of 'faith'.
Never have I heard this subject explained so openly, honestly and in a clear, concise manner so I could better understand what faith was, how it worked in my life (or could work) and how to build it.
I don't think it matters what religion you are when it comes to reading this book. If you love God, and you seek truth because you love truth for its own sake, you should read this book. It's brillian More...
Never have I heard this subject explained so openly, honestly and in a clear, concise manner so I could better understand what faith was, how it worked in my life (or could work) and how to build it.
I don't think it matters what religion you are when it comes to reading this book. If you love God, and you seek truth because you love truth for its own sake, you should read this book. It's brillian More...
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Nov 27, 2011
VeNicia
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Once part of the Doctrine & Covenants, the 7 lectures on faith were originally prepared for the school of the elders in Kirtland, Ohio. They give insight into the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and His role as our Savior. Joseph Smith definitely gave his consent to its publication, but most evidence points to Sidney Rigdon being the author of at least most of it.
I tried reading this a couple times before in my life, but this was the first time I stuck with it through to the end--a More...
I tried reading this a couple times before in my life, but this was the first time I stuck with it through to the end--a More...
Jun 23, 2008
Greg
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Original lectures on faith given by the Prophet Joseph Smith in the early days of the LDS church. Wonderful exposition of this core principle of the gospel. Excerpts:
"How do men obtain a knowledge of the glory of God, his perfections and attributes? By devoting themselves to his service, through prayer and supplication incessantly strengthening their faith in him, until, like Enoch, the brother of Jared, and Moses, they obtain a manifestation of God to themselves."
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"How do men obtain a knowledge of the glory of God, his perfections and attributes? By devoting themselves to his service, through prayer and supplication incessantly strengthening their faith in him, until, like Enoch, the brother of Jared, and Moses, they obtain a manifestation of God to themselves."
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Jan 10, 2009
David
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I'm still tryig to figure out the significance of the dates other than to say that the first hand witness of God's existance was perpetuated.
The last 3 lectures were my favoites. I really enjoyed pondering the faith of the believer vrs a lesser faith. Faith has a purpose and is not a goal unto itself. Likewise, to act the part of faith is nothing unless we are believers in faith unto the seeking the will and likeness of God, and that Jesus is our example of how to do it.
The last 3 lectures were my favoites. I really enjoyed pondering the faith of the believer vrs a lesser faith. Faith has a purpose and is not a goal unto itself. Likewise, to act the part of faith is nothing unless we are believers in faith unto the seeking the will and likeness of God, and that Jesus is our example of how to do it.
Apr 26, 2009
Cindy
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This was a difficult read in parts. I enjoyed the book, but the format was not an easy one to follow. The lectures had lots of good, inspiring doctrine in it, but then the questions were just repeating what was already there. The edition that I read including a message by Orson Pratt called, "True Faith," and excerpts from the King Follett address. Those excerpts were the best part, in my opinion. The message by Brother Pratt had some great stuff in there too.
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Jan 25, 2010
Christin
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I did not know a few things about this book, first of all it was the "doctrines" that originally made up the Doctrines and Covenants and also that we do not know who the author is but it is thought to be Sidney Rigdon due to the style of writing, interesting huh? (at least that is what my copy said)
I liked this and it gave some good, logical insights into faith and what it needs to be able to flourish. Easy to read and a good addition to personal study.
I liked this and it gave some good, logical insights into faith and what it needs to be able to flourish. Easy to read and a good addition to personal study.
Jan 18, 2011
Misty
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I couldn't exactly give this anything less than 5 stars could I? I read it in college for a religion class and just recently re-read it again. Although, I have to admit, that I understood it and got more from it when I had a Religion Teacher explaining to me what it meant. Guess I need to dig a little deeper!
Jan 12, 2012
Sandy
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Another reviewer put it best when she said that if she read it five more times, then she would start to understand it. This book was simultaneously obvious and mind-blowing.
This is NOT a book you sit down and read. It's deceptively short, but really ought to be read carefully and slowly, with much time for pondering. I won't make that mistake again.
This is NOT a book you sit down and read. It's deceptively short, but really ought to be read carefully and slowly, with much time for pondering. I won't make that mistake again.
Sep 28, 2011
Kayce
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The doctrine in this book is amazing. I feel almost guilty with my three stars...but it was really hard for me to get through, even though I learned a ton. I feel like there was a lot there that I didn't get in a first reading. It may be a while, but I'm confident I'll tackle it again some day.
Oct 21, 2008
This was advanced and hard for me to really follow all the thoughts. But I made it through and did learn some things. I thought it was really advanced and it makes me wonder how some of the early saints who were unlearned grasped any of this! But it is a logical understanding of faith, what it is, what creates it, what it rests upon, and what knowledge and understanding we must have first in order to have faith in God. I felt like I learned about what knowledge I must strengthen to have more
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Jan 27, 2012
Karen
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Really enjoyed this doctrinal book. Insightful and inspiring. I read it once on my mission and then read it again with Tyson - every now and then we would read a few pages and talk about it. It is a short book and in sections so it is easy to read slowly and not feel overwhelmed.
Sep 30, 2011
Greg
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A very thought-provoking read as an in-depth discussion of faith. Short enough to be read in one sitting, but with enough depth to require that the reader spend considerable time pondering what's been read. It certainly would have been awesome to be present at the actual lectures!
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Feb 21, 2011
Shannon
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Though my father-in-law informs me that few scholars actually believe this was written by Joseph Smith (most think Sidney Rigdon), I found it insightful and interesting. The 19th century rhetoric can be a little difficult sometimes, but I felt it was worth reading.
Jan 07, 2010
Gina
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I suppose I am giving it 3 stars because while reading it, I realized I have a very limited understanding of what faith is, if I understand it at all. I didn't really like the Q&A after the first few lectures either. But, the last lectures I found very enlightening.
Jul 02, 2011
Jeffrey
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Some of the best, most doctrinally dense LDS writing available. If fact, for many years, these were published as part of the scriptures. If you'd like to better understand and strengthen your knowledge of God these short lectures are foundational.
Jan 29, 2012
Tyler
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Synopsis: Joseph Smith, Jr. and Sidney Rigdon prepared seven "Lectures on Faith" that were included in the Doctrine and Covenants for many years before being removed. The lectures focus on the doctrine and theology of faith and how it applies to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
My Review: I found that many of the lectures were a little dry and that they often dwelt far too long on minor points. For example, the lifespans of the righteous men living between Ad More...
My Review: I found that many of the lectures were a little dry and that they often dwelt far too long on minor points. For example, the lifespans of the righteous men living between Ad More...
Feb 24, 2010
Magila
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if you have not read this book, and are familiar with joseph smith or the book of mormon, you should read this. immediately. stop, drop, and read this. it was actually printed in the book of commandments/d&c for years.
Jul 01, 2009
Sheralyn
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This book was going to be part of the Doctrine and Covenants,(scriptures of the LDS church). It was so intriguing to read. Joseph Smith disects faith in so many intricate details it's amazing. You won't be able to put it down.
Dec 23, 2008
Stacy
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This is one of my favorite books. Every time I finish I start re-reading it. I love to study this along with the scriptures. I love books that help me strengthen my testimony and help me stay close to the Lord.
Dec 14, 2011
Jenette
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I don't know why this says that this book has 88 pages. It has 213. This is an amazing book full of pure intelligence and knowledge that you know comes from a Prophet of God and the spirit. This is one I will read again and again.
Feb 20, 2009
Brandon
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There's a lot here about the nature of God that is good to learn and is not to be found in most other sources. This book made me feel better about myself than any Sunday School lesson I've ever heard.
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Jul 07, 2010
Chris
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Although the first of the Principles of the Gospel Joseph Smith shows just how deep and involved of a subject Faith in Christ is. Just goes to show much of the "deep" doctrine is in the simple principles.
Feb 21, 2010
Jake
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Way cool, I never realized how much there was to faith before I read this book. It gives you some insight into how intelligent Joseph Smith was. He really understood and explained things so well.
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Nov 12, 2010
Taylene
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This book was good. I guess I had hoped it would hold more hidden treasures of knowledge. Still, there were many pearls of wisdom to ponder on and I'm better for having read the book.
Feb 22, 2008
Sally
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I took an Institute class on Lectures on Faith and "other documents of scriptural stature." LOVED IT. The other documents included: The King Follett discourse, the Sermon in the Grove, the Origin of Man, Doctrinal Exposition on the Father and the Son, the Wentworth Letter, and the Family Proclamation. All wonderful. The Follett discourse and Sermon in the Grove are both in Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith (TPJS), I believe. Origin of Man is a 1st Presidency statement from ??
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Jan 17, 2012
Reedblackburn
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These are good, but I felt like they could've been made more simplistic. There are questions if Joseph Smith actually wrote these, very possible they could be from Sidney Rigdon.
