Description

by Duane S. Crowther

Thus Saith the Lord is a powerful work that will strengthen the faith of the saints as it increases their understanding of God’s communication with man. It is a carefully-documented study which draws many new insights from the scriptures and weaves them into broad patterns of doctrinal truth. An interesting Prologue presents an overview of the book and sets forth some of the various beliefs about revelation and prophecy held by different groups and personalities. Then, beginning with scripturally-based definitions of terms such as “Prophet,” “Seer”, and “Revelator,” the book reviews the broad system of checks and balances which God has established to govern the revelation process. A chapter explains the obedience God requires from His prophets; another shows what God expects of the saints when He reveals His will.

Two chapters show the scriptural patterns concerning who can prophesy. Two other chapters explain how prophecy should be verified and interpreted, and suggest appropriate responses to those who criticize and attack prophecy and revelation received by others.

“What Is Doctrine?” becomes the topic of yet another insightful chapter, which focuses on the process of scriptural canonization and the importance of doctrinal acceptance by the saints through the application of the principle of common consent.

Then, a significant chapter shows why the author is advocating greater precision in the receiving and dissemination of revelation and prophecy. That chapter answers the query “Will Satan attempt to deceive the Saints?” by documenting numerous scriptural warnings of false Christs and false prophets who will lead many astray during the early New Jerusalem period. An Epilogue then focuses on the implications for the saints, in years to come, of the materials presented in the book.

Thus Saith the Lord is a major contribution to Latter-day Saint thought and doctrinal understanding. It raises questions which need careful analysis and answers prior to the time of severe testing of which it warns, and provides the precise documentation needed to shed new light on these subjects. It is by far the most comprehensive treatment on this important subject, and will be read and pondered by many.

Chapters include:

1. Prologue
2. What is a “Prophet,” a “Seer,” and a “Revelator”?
3. What Does God Require of His Prophets as He Reveals His Will?
4. What Does God Require of the Saints as He Reveals His Will?
5. What Do the Scriptures Teach About Who Can Prophesy?
6. What Are the Characteristics of True Prophecy?
7. How Should Prophecy Be Verified and Interpreted?
8. What Is an Appropriate Response to Critics of Prophecy?
9. What Is “Doctrine”?
10. Will Satan Attempt to Deceive the Saints?
11. Epilogue

6” x 9” hardback

340 pages