Scripture Central Commentary on the Doctrine & Covenants, the V1

by Casey Griffiths

Brought to you by Scripture Central, this commentary aims to make the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History more accessible, comprehensible, and defensible to people everywhere. It draws on the latest scholarship and research in Church history, including groundbreaking work from the Joseph Smith Papers project. Each section of the Doctrine and Covenants is presented in clear historical context, drawing directly from primary sources. The complete text is placed side-by-side with insightful commentary designed to increase your understanding and enlighten your mind concerning these sacred revelations.

Volume 1 covers the earliest revelations of the Restoration, including the events linked to Joseph Smith’s First Vision, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and the organization of the Church. Vital background is provided to assist in your understanding of the early history of Joseph Smith and the revelations given during the translation of the Book of Mormon. These sections include divine instruction on the nature of personal revelation, the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and the basic structure of the Lord’s Church in the latter days. Memorable figures like Joseph Smith, Emma Smith, Oliver Cowdery, Lucy Mack Smith, and the witnesses of the Book of Mormon all play a role as the Restoration of the gospel unfolds through these revelations given by divine power. Their powerful witnesses are supported by the latest historical research and teachings from modern Church leaders.

Volume 1 contains the complete text of Joseph Smith-History and Doctrine and Covenants 1–40 with verse-by-verse commentary.

394 pages, Paperback

Published September 10, 2024

Reviews

[Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

It can be hard to find the right scripture commentary, and this one was perfect for us. The analysis was engaging, the quotations from historical sources were good, and the formatting was easy to follow. Would recommend as a great contextual resource.

[Andrew Heath · Rating 5 out of 5]

The D&C is different from other volumes of scripture in that it is not presented in story form. Instead it is a collection of revelations with very little background information included. This book which covers the first 40 sections as well as the Joseph Smith History from the Pearl of Great Price makes a great companion volume. It includes background information and commentary to help the reader understand the revelations in the D&C. I highly recommend it for assisting ones study.

I received an ARC Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher however the opinions are my own.

[Dallin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series! It opens each chapter with historic context and then goes into verse by verse commentary with the actual scriptures in the text as well. I love when study books do this I stead of having to flip back and forth between two books. The insights are fantastic. They are simple yet profound! Would recommend this! I recieved an advanced readers copy of "The Doctrine and Covenants: Volume 1" but these opinions are my own.

[Magyar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I am familiar with Dr. Griffiths' work (on Scripture Central) I purchased the four volume set. A lot of the material in these volumes is contained in the SC podcast w/ Scott Woodward, PhD "Church History Matters".
The material is, to my mind, more scholarly and researched. Since converting to this faith approx. 50 years ago, this is where I have found God, but I want to study and dive deeper into various subjects and the content here provides me a good "jumping off point" so to do.

[Michael Pezely · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great commentary on sections 1-40 of The Doctrine and Covenants covering primarily the New York period of the development of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Griffiths has incorporated many quotes from the Joseph Smith Papers and general authorities of the church in his detailed analysis of these scriptures.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great companion study for a deep dive of the Doctrine and Covenants. Each section includes historical context for the revelation, verse-by-verse commentary, and well cited references. Looking forward to using this resource with the Come Follow Me study for 2025. I received an ARC, but my opinions are my own.

[Terrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great addition to your study of the Doctrine and Covenants. The author has included historical context along with commentary on the Doctrine and Covenants. It's like having two books in one. I look forward to rereading this book next year as a companion to the Come Follow Me curriculum. I received an ARC copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This new resource for our study of the Doctrine & Covenants for 2025 is going to be such a helpful addition. With The Joseph Smith Papers explained, verse by verse commentary, and historical context, I am looking forward to having new insight to The Lords revelations. I received an advanced copy, and this is my opinion only..

[Brenda Rodgers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very pleased to discover that this book is a pair of two the entire Doctrine and Covenants. . It’s a beautiful story of the history behind what we are reading, sit right next to the scriptures it discusses. This is an invaluable book for next year‘s studies. I could not wait to read the second volume.

[J davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read a great book to help you study the doctrine and covenants I have received an advanced copy of this book but all opinions are my own