“Be Not Deceived, but Continue in Steadfastness” Doctrine & Covenants 26; 28; 43:1-7; 50; 52:14-19

Keywords

spiritual deception, prophetic discernment, Doctrine and Covenants teachings

Abstract

Deception was a reoccurring problem among the members of the early church. Between July 1830 through June 1831 the Lord gave at least five major sections of the Doctrine & Covenants to correct misunderstanding, false prophets, false leaders, false revelations and false spirits so that the members would not be deceived. In most of these situations the sincere, faithful seekers found security in the Lord as he answered their vexing concerns. For those that fell prey to the deceptions of Satan the Lord rebuked them sharply and then returned to them with increased love and compassion. In some cases false spirits or disturbing spiritual manifestations were rebuked by Joseph Smith, who then taught by inspiration from God various keys to discern the truth. In this article we will review the historical context of these various situations as a way to more fully appreciate the sections assigned to this lesson (D&C 26, 28, 43, 50 and 52) and integrate the revealed principles into our lives.

Original Publication Citation

“Be Not Deceived, But Continue in Steadfastness: D&C 26; 28; 43:1-7; 50; 52;14-19.” Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship. 2013.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2013

Publisher

Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship

Language

English

College

Marriott School of Business

Department

Marketing

University Standing at Time of Publication

Associate Professor

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