Mormon Doctrine

Mormon Doctrine is a comprehensive encyclopedic reference book written in 1958 by Bruce R. McConkie, a general authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The book represents McConkie's attempt to compile and explain the doctrines of the LDS faith in a single volume, drawing from church scriptures and teachings of prominent Mormon leaders. The publication generated significant discussion within the LDS community, with some church leaders expressing concerns about certain interpretations while many members embraced it as an unofficial but influential doctrinal guide. The book underwent multiple revisions following its initial release, with two subsequent editions published to address various concerns raised by church leadership. Mormon Doctrine stands as a significant work in Mormon literature, illustrating the complex relationship between individual interpretation and institutional authority in religious scholarship. Its eventual discontinuation in 2010 highlights ongoing discussions about the nature of doctrine and authoritative sources within the LDS faith tradition.

Readers view Mormon Doctrine as comprehensive but controversial. The book remains influential despite being out of print. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear, direct writing style - Alphabetical organization makes topics easy to find - Thorough scriptural references - Helps explain complex theological concepts Common criticisms: - Contains harsh statements about other religions - Some doctrinal interpretations differ from current LDS Church positions - Too definitive on speculative matters - First edition had serious errors requiring major revisions Ratings: Goodreads: 4.27/5 (819 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (168 ratings) Sample reader comments: "Perfect reference for gospel study" - Amazon reviewer "McConkie overstepped in many areas" - Goodreads user "Useful but needs to be read with discernment" - Deseret Book review "The definitive doctrinal reference for decades, though some parts haven't aged well" - Goodreads user

Encyclopedia of Mormonism by Daniel H. Ludlow This reference work presents LDS doctrines, history, culture, and terminology through scholarly articles by multiple contributors.

Doctrines of Salvation by Joseph Fielding Smith The text compiles sermons and writings about LDS theology, priesthood, ordinances, and fundamental church teachings.

Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith by Joseph Smith, Joseph Fielding Smith This compilation contains Joseph Smith's sermons, discourses, and doctrinal teachings from primary historical sources.

Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage The book examines the life and ministry of Jesus Christ through LDS doctrinal perspectives and scriptural analysis.

Articles of Faith by James E. Talmage This systematic explanation of LDS beliefs covers the church's fundamental doctrines, principles, and theological positions.

🔹 The first 1958 edition contained several controversial statements about other religions and races that were later modified or removed in subsequent editions published in 1966 and 1978. 🔹 Bruce R. McConkie wrote the entire first draft of Mormon Doctrine in just three months while serving as a mission president in Australia. 🔹 The book's initial publication caused such concern among LDS Church leadership that President David O. McKay commissioned a review that found over 1,000 corrections needed. 🔹 Despite never being officially endorsed by the church, the book sold over 100,000 copies in its first decade and remained continuously in print for over 50 years. 🔹 McConkie's father-in-law, Joseph Fielding Smith (who later became church president), was one of the few early supporters of the book among church leadership and helped advocate for its continued publication.