Dear Gramps,

This question was put to me by a gospel doctrine teacher and he wanted a reference. He wanted to know if I considered the conference editions of the ensign as scripture. I said that I believed it was as that was what I remember being taught in Sunday School and Elders Quorum. He said that as far as he knew it wasn’t scripture but rather a scriptural study guide. Something to study along with the scriptures. He said that he researched it and found comments from B.H. Roberts, Bruce R. McKonkie, and a few other brethren to support his idea.

So, my question to you is, is there any reference that you can point me too that one of the brethren or former leaders have made in regards to this query?

Stuart Wall

Dear Stuart,

Sectarian Christianity defines the scriptures as the books of the Bible. In Latter-day Saint theology we add three other canonical works-the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price. These four standard works are normally what is referred to by the term “the scriptures.” However, we read in one of the scriptures that the term also is defined in a much more general way than referring to only the four Standard Works. In the Doctrine and Covenants we read,

And, behold, and lo, this is an ensample unto all those who were ordained unto this priesthood, whose mission is appointed unto them to go forth– And this is the ensample unto them, that they shall speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost. And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation. Behold, this is the promise of the Lord unto you, O ye my servants. (D&C 68:2-5)

Gramps