How The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Determines New Revelations
Learn the process by which The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints receives, validates, and announces new divine guidance for its global membership.
- New revelation for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints comes through the President of the Church, acting as Prophet, Seer, and Revelator.
- Significant revelations are deliberated and must be unanimously approved by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
- These revelations are typically announced at General Conference and sustained by members through 'common consent.'
- Revelation guides adjustments to Church policy and clarifies doctrine, rather than contradicting established truths.
In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 'new revelation' refers to authoritative divine guidance given to Church leaders that can clarify doctrine, establish new policies, or adjust existing practices for the entire Church. This is distinct from personal revelation, which guides individuals in their own lives. These official revelations are understood to be the mind and will of God for His Church at a given time.
Who Receives Official Revelation?
The President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is considered the sole individual authorized to receive doctrine or commandments for the entire Church. He holds the title of Prophet, Seer, and Revelator. While all members are encouraged to seek personal revelation for their own lives and callings, only the President of the Church is empowered to receive and declare new, binding revelation for the global Church body. However, this process is not a solitary act.
The Process of Unanimity and Common Consent
When considering significant doctrinal clarifications or changes in Church policy, the President of the Church typically involves his two counselors (forming the First Presidency) and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. These fifteen men act as a unified body, engaging in prayer, study, and extensive discussion. Any major revelation or policy change requires the unanimous agreement of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve. This ensures that the decision is not based on individual opinion but on collective spiritual discernment and unity. Once a revelation or significant policy adjustment is determined, it is usually presented to the general membership for their sustaining vote through what is called 'common consent,' most often during a worldwide General Conference. This public vote signifies the members' willingness to accept and support the decision.
New revelations and policy adjustments are typically announced during the Church's semi-annual General Conferences, held in April and October. They may also be formalized through official declarations, proclamations, or adjustments to the Church's General Handbook, which outlines policies and procedures.
This process ensures the Church remains adaptable to changing circumstances while adhering to eternal principles. It allows for the clarification of existing doctrines, the establishment of new administrative policies, or even significant historical changes like the 1978 revelation extending priesthood ordination to all worthy males, regardless of race. These changes are understood as a continuation of divine guidance, building upon, rather than contradicting, foundational truths.
- In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 'common consent' is the principle that members are given the opportunity to sustain (or oppose) Church leaders and major decisions through a public vote.
- This practice ensures that members are involved in the governance of the Church, signifying their willingness to uphold and follow the direction given by their leaders.
Sources
- Official Declaration 2, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- "Chapter 3: The First Presidency," General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2020.
