Understanding the LDS Church's Official Doctrine and Teachings

The sources, structure, and boundaries of official doctrine in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 7, 2026

Quick take

Official LDS doctrine comes from the standard works plus current First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve statements.
Living prophets can clarify or emphasize doctrine, but core teachings remain consistent across scriptures.
Not every statement by a leader qualifies as binding doctrine; only those presented through official channels.
Doctrine determines beliefs on God, salvation, family, and ordinances that guide daily practice.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints maintains that its official doctrine consists of the teachings contained in the four standard works—the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price—together with official statements issued by the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles acting together.

How Doctrine Is Established

Scripture forms the foundation. The Bible is accepted as far as it is translated correctly, while the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price supply additional revelations given through Joseph Smith and later prophets. These texts are sustained by common consent at general conferences and remain the unchanging core.

Living prophets add clarity through formal declarations. When the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve issue a joint statement, it carries the weight of doctrine. General conference addresses by these leaders are considered authoritative when they align with scripture, though individual talks may contain personal opinions.

Key Parts of Official Teachings

Central doctrines include the nature of God as an exalted being with a body, the plan of salvation involving premortal existence, mortal probation, and post-mortal kingdoms of glory, and the necessity of saving ordinances performed by proper priesthood authority. Teachings on the family, including eternal marriage and the role of temples, also hold doctrinal status.

Policy and practice can change without altering doctrine. For example, the end of plural marriage in 1890 and the 1978 priesthood revelation adjusted practice while the underlying principles of revelation and priesthood remained intact.

Distinguishing Doctrine from Opinion

Not every remark by a church leader becomes doctrine. Only statements that are presented formally, sustained by the united voice of the First Presidency and Twelve, and consistent with existing scripture qualify. Members are encouraged to measure all teachings against the standard works.

This framework matters for members seeking to follow current prophetic direction, for researchers studying the church’s positions, and for journalists reporting on doctrinal controversies. Accurate identification of official sources prevents confusion when unofficial comments or past statements surface in news coverage.

Does the LDS Church consider itself Christian?

Yes. Its official doctrine centers on Jesus Christ as the Savior and Redeemer, with the church’s full name explicitly including his name.

How do members know what is current doctrine?

They study the standard works and recent official statements from the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, especially those published in official church magazines or presented in general conference.

Can doctrine change?

Core doctrines about God, Christ, and salvation remain constant, while policies and practices may be adjusted through revelation to living prophets.

Where can someone read official doctrine directly?

The scriptures at churchofjesuschrist.org, the Gospel Topics section of the same site, and official proclamations such as The Family: A Proclamation to the World.