Lectures on Faith

Lectures on Faith has been a cherished book since I was a teen-ager. I memorized a bit of it, and recite it from time to time. However, it wasn’t until this week that I read the whole book again for the second time. It was delightful. Here is a favorite part.

Lecture 3
2 Let us here observe, that three things are necessary, in order that any rational and intelligent being may exercise faith in God unto life and salvation.
3 First, The idea that he actually exists.
4 Secondly, A correct idea of his character, perfections and attributes.
5 Thirdly, An actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing, is according to his will. For without an acquaintance with these three important facts, the faith of every rational being must be show more imperfect and unproductive; but with this understanding, it can become perfect and fruitful, abounding in righteousness unto the praise and glory of God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

I look forward to reading it more often hereafter. show less

Modern readers will be unfamiliar with the rhetoric and pedagogy of the Lectures from 1835, but the principles are sound.

Full Title: A Compilation containing the Lectures on Faith as delivered at the School fo the Prophets at Kirtland, Ohio with added references on the Godhead and th Holy Ghost -- also An Historical Sketch of the Same by Dr. John A. Widtsoe -- also a treatise on True Faith by Orson Pratt -- also a Bibliography on Melchizidek by Ariel L. Crowley -- N. B. Lundwall compiler.

This is a set of lectures that are very clear and enlightening, especially when read with Hebrews. A must have for anyone who is LDS and others who would like to learn more about Joseph Smith's teachings on faith.

I can't recommend a better book about faith in Jesus Christ.

Publisher's preface gives the history of the lectures. This copy does not include the additional essays compiled by N. B. Lundwall.

Contents: "From the School fo the Prophets at Kirtland, Ohio" compiled by N.B. Lundwall; comprising: "Lectures on Faith" by Joseph Smith jr;" An Historical Sketch of the Same" by Dr. John A. Widtsoe; "True Faith" by Orson Pratt; "Bibliography on Melchizedek" by Ariel L. Crowley and other items. Re-issued in facsimile.