Biblical Studies/Christianity/The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints/The Gospel of Jesus Christ

The Gospel of Jesus Christ

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that the gospel was the same gospel from the time of Adam through to today, all of it the gospel of Jesus Christ. Old testament prophets made animal sacrifices as a symbol of the sacrifice that Jesus Christ would make with his atonement.

In the meridian of time, Jesus Christ taught and lived his gospel. His mortal ministry ended with his death. His apostles continued to teach his gospel until they too were killed. This resulted in a falling away from the truth, or apostasy.

In 1820, 14-year-old Joseph Smith prayed to know which church he should join. In answer to his prayer, God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph and told him to join none of them. He was directed to retore the gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth. This he did as well as translating more scripture and becoming the first prophet of this, the final dispensation.

Fourteen prophets have followed Joseph Smith, up until Gordon B Hinckley, today (Oct 2006). They each have been designated as the Lord's mouthpiece to the world and presidents of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Throughout this history, the gospel of Jesus Christ has been the same. It's central figure, savior, and leader is Jesus Christ. Before the time of Christ, the gospel looked forward to the ministry of Christ. After the time of Christ, the gospel looks back on his mortal ministry and forward to the time of his second coming.

Next: The Great Apostasy