5. Prophets and Revelation

5.1. A prophet is a person who has been called by God to speak for Him (see Jeremiah 1:4–5; Amos 3:7; John 15:16; D&C 1:37–38). Prophets testify of Jesus Christ and teach His gospel. They make known God’s will and true character. They denounce sin, warn of its consequences, and help us avoid deception (see Ezekiel 3:16–17; Ephesians 4:11–14). At times, they prophesy of future events. Prophets are able to perform these responsibilities because they receive authority and revelation from God.

5.2. Revelation is communication from God to His children. Most revelation comes through impressions, thoughts, and feelings from the Holy Ghost. Revelation can also come through visions, dreams, and visitations by angels.

5.3. During His mortal ministry and again in our day, the Lord organized His Church on the foundation of prophets and apostles (see Ephesians 2:19–20). The President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is God’s prophet to all the people of the earth today. We sustain the President of the Church as a prophet, seer, and revelator and as the only person on the earth who receives revelation to guide the entire Church. If we faithfully receive and obey the teachings of the President of the Church, God will bless us to overcome deception and evil (see D&C 21:4–6). We also sustain the counselors in the First Presidency and the members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators.

5.4. The scriptures—the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price—contain revelations given through ancient and latter-day prophets. As we study the words of prophets, we can learn truth and receive guidance.

5.5. While God gives revelation through prophets to guide all of His children, individuals can receive revelation to help them with their specific needs, responsibilities, and questions and to help strengthen their testimonies. However, personal inspiration from the Lord will never contradict the revelation God gives through His prophets.

Related references: Abraham 3:22–23; Matthew 16:15–19; 2 Timothy 3:15–17; 2 Nephi 32:3; D&C 8:2–3; D&C 76:22–24

Related topics: Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge; Priesthood and Priesthood Keys