Prayerfully think of a friend who could benefit from reading this article. As you visit that friend, consider sharing in simple terms how the gospel has blessed your life.
Consider sharing this article electronically. Visit www.liahona.lds.org, find the article in the January issue, and click "Share." In the message you send with the article, you could comment on how the basic doctrines Elder Oaks shares are meaningful to you.
1 We maintain that the three members of the Godhead are three separate and distinct beings and that God the Father is not a spirit but a glorified Being with a tangible body, as is His resurrected Son, Jesus Christ. Though separate in identity, They are one in purpose.
2 Our theology affirms that this mortal life has a purpose. And it teaches that our highest aspiration is to become like our heavenly parents, which will empower us to perpetuate our family relationships throughout eternity.
3 We seek knowledge in the material dimension by scientific inquiry and in the spiritual dimension by revelation. Revelation is God's communication to man—to prophets and to every one of us if we seek it.
Gary C. Lawrence, How Americans View Mormonism (2008), 32.
2.How Americans View Mormonism, 34.
3.See How Americans View Mormonism, 42.
4.See How Americans View Mormonism, 40.
5.See How Americans View Mormonism, 49.
6.Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Brigham Young (1997), 194.
7.Teachings: Brigham Young, 193.
8.Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 195.
9.Teachings: Joseph Smith, 196.
10.Teachings: Joseph Smith, 132.
11.See Teachings: Joseph Smith, 193–216, 265–66.