Continuous revelation
One of the most important teachings in Mormonism is continuing revelation. According to Mormon beliefs, God continues to reveal his will to men on earth, through living prophets who can be compared to Moses, Isaiah, Peter, or Paul. Mormons teach that revelation is “communication from God to his children on earth. Revelation may come through the Light of Christ and the Holy Ghost by way of inspiration, visions, dreams, or visits by angels. Revelation provides guidance that can lead the faithful to eternal salvation in the celestial kingdom” (see Revelation in the Guide to the Scriptures).
One of the most unique beliefs of Mormonism is the belief in continuing revelation through living prophets. The Prophet Joseph Smith wrote:
“We believe all that God has revealed, all that he does now reveal, and we believe that he will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the kingdom of God.” (Article of Faith 9)
Mormons believe that God will always reveal things to his prophets. In the Bible, we read, “Surely the Lord God will do nothing but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets” (Amos 3:7). Revelation through prophets is the pattern God follows in making known His truth to men on earth. The Prophet and Apostle Peter spoke of this. In the city of Joppa, he received a revelation commanding him to begin preaching the gospel to the non-Jews. As Peter told both the Jews and the non-Jews
36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. (The Acts 10:36-43, emphasis added)
In this passage, we see God’s pattern for teaching his children. Witnesses are chosen by God to behold Jesus Christ and His glory. They learn the truth from Him and from angels sent by God. These prophets, these witnesses are then commanded by God to preach to all the world. As they preach, the Holy Ghost testifies that the words they speak are true. We see this also in Peter’s case:
While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. (Acts 10:44)
Immediately, Peter “commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord” (Acts 10:48). God has used this pattern throughout the earth’s history. He still calls witnesses today to be prophets; to testify of His truth and command people to repent and be baptized. These prophets exist in the Mormon Church today. The first prophet of these last days was Joseph Smith.
