Book

A New Witness for the Articles of Faith

📖 Overview

A New Witness for the Articles of Faith is a comprehensive doctrinal work by Mormon apostle Bruce R. McConkie, published in 1985. The book expands on the thirteen Articles of Faith, which were written by Joseph Smith as fundamental declarations of Mormon beliefs. McConkie examines each article of faith in sequence, providing scriptural references and detailed explanations from both LDS and biblical sources. The text includes analysis of core Mormon concepts including the nature of God, the atonement of Christ, priesthood authority, and the gathering of Israel. The work spans over 680 pages and contains extensive quotations from church leaders and theological arguments supporting LDS doctrine. McConkie incorporates historical context and addresses common questions about Mormon beliefs throughout the chapters. The book serves as both a scholarly reference and a testimony-building text that connects Mormon theology to broader Christian traditions while asserting the distinctive elements of LDS faith. Its systematic approach reflects McConkie's focus on doctrinal precision and the interconnected nature of Mormon beliefs.

👀 Reviews

Readers describe this as a comprehensive doctrinal reference book that systematically explains Mormon theology. Many cite it as their go-to resource for understanding LDS beliefs in depth. Readers appreciate: - Clear explanations of complex doctrinal concepts - Detailed scriptural references and cross-references - Organized format that makes topics easy to find - McConkie's direct writing style Common criticisms: - Dense, academic tone that can be hard to follow - Some readers find McConkie's interpretations too rigid - Outdated language and cultural references - Length (791 pages) can be overwhelming Ratings: Goodreads: 4.41/5 from 166 ratings Deseret Book: 4.5/5 from 12 reviews "This book helped me understand Mormon doctrine better than anything else I've read" - Goodreads reviewer "Sometimes his absolute certainty on debatable points bothers me" - Goodreads reviewer "Dense but rewarding if you put in the effort" - Deseret Book reviewer

📚 Similar books

Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage This doctrinal examination of Jesus Christ's life and ministry presents scriptural analysis and historical context through an LDS theological framework.

Mormon Doctrine by Bruce R. McConkie The book provides encyclopedic explanations of LDS doctrinal concepts with scriptural references and theological interpretations.

Doctrines of Salvation by Joseph Fielding Smith This three-volume compilation presents LDS theological concepts, priesthood doctrines, and explanations of salvation principles with scriptural support.

The Articles of Faith by James E. Talmage The text presents systematic explanations of LDS fundamental beliefs with historical background and scriptural foundations.

Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith compiled by Joseph Smith, Joseph Fielding Smith This collection contains Joseph Smith's sermons, writings, and doctrinal teachings arranged by topic with contextual explanations.

🤔 Interesting facts

🔹 Bruce R. McConkie wrote this comprehensive doctrinal work during his final years while battling cancer, completing it shortly before his death in 1985. 🔹 The book systematically examines each of the Articles of Faith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, using both ancient and modern scripture to provide detailed explanations. 🔹 McConkie's son, Joseph Fielding McConkie, helped complete and publish the book posthumously, ensuring his father's final theological work reached the public. 🔹 The title deliberately echoes James E. Talmage's earlier classic "Articles of Faith," positioning this work as a companion volume that incorporates additional revelation and understanding gained in the intervening decades. 🔹 Many of the doctrinal explanations in this book were influenced by McConkie's experience composing the chapter headings and cross-references for the 1979 LDS edition of the King James Bible.