The Foundation of Faith
Some folks were surprised when the Lectures on Faith were added back into the scriptures (Teaching and Commandments). The Lectures on Faith are a set of theological discussions originally included in the 1835 Doctrine and Covenants but later removed in 1921 by a committee, and not by common consent of the people. These lectures outline the principles of faith necessary for salvation, describing faith not only as belief but as the very power by which God governs the universe. Joseph was very involved in producing them.
Recently, I revisited this critical work through the lens of Denver Snuffer’s 40 Years in Mormonism lecture series, particularly his second lecture, Faith. While the first lecture, given in Boise, focuses on hope, this blog post seeks to highlight the essential teachings on faith and what we may have overlooked or forgotten. I am personally focusing on faith right now as I deal with some difficult trials in my life. I have hope that I can overcome them, but recognize more clearly every day that it is though faith that I obtain power to do so.
Why Faith Matters
The Lectures on Faith explain that faith is more than just belief—it is a principle of action and power. Without a correct understanding of God’s character, perfections, and attributes, faith cannot be exercised effectively. Denver echoes this theme in his 40 Years in Mormonism series, emphasizing that faith is the first step toward true spiritual knowledge and communion with God. Faith in Christ is the natural progression from the hope that learning about Christ brings to us.
One of the most striking observations from Denver’s lecture on faith is his assertion that many Latter-day Saints have unknowingly distanced themselves from the original power and significance of faith as taught by Joseph Smith. He describes how faith is often reduced to passive belief rather than the dynamic, power-filled principle that leads to personal revelation and eventual knowledge of God. The loss of the Lectures on Faith from modern LDS canon, he argues, is a symptom of this shift.
The 40 Years in Mormonism Lectures
While faith is the foundation, Snuffer’s 40 Years in Mormonism series (aka The Ten Talks) builds upon this by discussing the restoration of lost knowledge. Each lecture contributes to a broader understanding of faith and the process of returning to God’s presence. Below is a brief summary of each lecture:
- Be of Good Cheer (Boise, ID) – Denver opens the series by emphasizing the need for hope and courage in seeking the truths of the gospel. He discusses the importance of understanding early LDS history and the challenges of the Restoration.
- Faith (Idaho Falls, ID) – This lecture focuses on the Lectures on Faith and how they outline the necessity of understanding God’s attributes in order to develop true faith. Denver highlights how faith leads to knowledge and, ultimately, salvation.
- Repentance (Logan, UT) – Repentance is framed as a transformative process that requires humility and genuine change. Denver explains how repentance is not just about sin but also about shedding false traditions.
- Covenants (Centerville, UT) – Discusses the nature of covenants, emphasizing that they must be made directly with God rather than through institutions. Denver argues that the fullness of the gospel requires personal commitment beyond ordinances.
- Priesthood (Orem, UT) – Reviews the original understanding of priesthood as taught by Joseph Smith, contrasting it with modern hierarchical interpretations. Denver asserts that priesthood is meant to empower individuals to commune with God rather than to establish authority over others.
- Zion (Grand Junction, CO) – Explores the requirements for establishing Zion, including unity, purity, and faith. He calls for a return to the principles of the early Restoration to prepare for Zion’s eventual establishment.
- Christ (Ephraim, UT) – Discusses the true nature of Christ’s role and how many have misunderstood His mission. Denver emphasizes the necessity of knowing Christ personally rather than relying solely on institutional teachings.
- A Broken Heart and Contrite Spirit (Las Vegas, NV) – Teaches that true spiritual progress comes through personal sacrifice and submission to God’s will. Denver outlines how this leads to greater revelation and spiritual gifts.
- Marriage and Family (St George, UT) – Examines the eternal purpose of marriage and family from a scriptural perspective, arguing that the LDS Church has strayed from its original understanding of these relationships.
- Preserving the Restoration (Mesa, AZ) – Concludes the series by warning against the dangers of institutional corruption and apostasy. Denver encourages individuals to take responsibility for their faith and seek direct guidance from God.
Restoring the Knowledge of Faith
What stood out most to me in Denver’s analysis of the Lectures on Faith was his call to restore an active, living faith—one that moves beyond belief and into knowledge. This requires personal sacrifice, deep study, and a willingness to step outside of conventional religious expectations. The Lectures on Faith remain a vital roadmap to understanding how faith transitions into knowledge and ultimately leads to direct interaction with God. They are the “Doctrine” part of the original Doctrine and Covenants.
Denver’s call to reclaim the original teachings of the Restoration is not just about doctrine—it is about experience. Faith, as he describes it, is something to be lived and tested. This aligns perfectly with the teachings found in the Lectures on Faith: we must act on our faith, making the necessary sacrifices to know for ourselves that we are on the path God intends for us. Why were the lectures removed? They were canonized in the original 1835 Doctrine and Covenants.
The Path Forward
The Lectures on Faith provide a scriptural foundation for a faith that is alive and transformative. Denver Snuffer’s 40 Years in Mormonism series reinforces this principle, urging believers to actively seek truth, make sacrifices, and develop a personal relationship with Christ. Faith, as originally taught, is the beginning of a journey that leads to knowledge, and knowledge leads to redemption.
For those who take the concept of faith seriously, striving to internalize it as a principle of power and action, it is worth revisiting the Lectures on Faith with fresh eyes, considering Denver’s insights, and asking God directly how we might better exercise faith in our daily lives. Faith is not just a principle to be understood—it is a power to be lived.
