The lesson schedule below follows the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Gospel Doctrine class study guide for 2017, which was developed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The church normally repeats this class every 4 years and will, from time to time, make minor revisions to lesson topics in order to make sure that the course study is balanced throughout the year. The manual for the class was published in 1999. In the lesson material, I have made use of the section headings from the 2013 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants. They are different from the headings found in the 1981 edition. For those of you who are currently attending the Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Gospel Doctrine class and would like to use our lesson material to supplement your experience in the class, the following document maps chapters and topics covered in the church’s lessons may serve to enhance your learning experience. The material contained corresponds with the current lesson titles with additional supplementary material and commentary.
- Brother Van Sweden welcomes you to the class.View Lesson
- We begin with an introduction to the Doctrine and Covenants. We learn to whom it was intended: its purpose, and importance. It confirms the concern the Lord has for His children and the importance of revelation to guide our lives today.View LessonReading: Overview of the Doctrine and Covenants; D&C 1
- The Doctrine and Covenants testifies of Jesus Christ as our Savior and Redeemer. It states the purpose of His atonement and the steps necessary for us to be able to "Come Unto Him."View Lesson
- In this lesson we come to understand the events of the First Vision and Joseph Smith’s experience in the grove. This vision ushered in the Book of Mormon and the Restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ in these latter days.View Lesson
- Our focus is on the Book of Mormon, including its translation, the witnesses, and the blessing it can be in our lives and the lives of others.View Lesson
- What is revelation? Why it is important in our lives? What steps are necessary for us to receive personal revelation?View Lesson
- We learn how the Holy Ghost communicates with us. We also address potential causes of interference when revelation is not received or recognized.View Lesson
- In this chapter, we review the first principles of the gospel including: Faith in Jesus Christ; Repentance; Baptism; Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end in faith. We also come to understand their importance to each of us.View Lesson
- The meaning of the Priesthood is clarified along with the Keys of the Priesthood. We address the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthood and their importance. We note the offices in the priesthood and its blessing to all people.View Lesson
- This chapter reviews the restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ upon the earth. As members we learn of the importance of following the Prophet, partaking of the sacrament, and our duties as members of the Church of Jesus Christ. We also address the special relationship we each have with God the Eternal Father.View Lesson
- We learn the importance of "likening all [the] scriptures unto us" (B/M, 1 Nephi 1923). This includes our relationship as husbands and wives; avoiding pride, and the importance of rejoicing and being of good cheer.View Lesson
- As we come to know the truth ourselves, we then desire to share the message with others. As we open our mouths, the Lord will bless us with the words to speak. It is His desire that all come to know the blessings of His gospel in their lives.View Lesson
- The Lord has commenced the gathering of His people in these latter days. We have a responsibility, especially to those who are of the House of Israel, to bring them to a knowledge of Christ that they can receive the special blessings the Lord has for them, including the blessings of His temple.View Lesson
- This lesson addressed the question of Joseph Smith being a Prophet of God. The evidence noted included: The testimony of the Lord, Jesus Christ himself; The additional scriptures that have come forth through Joseph Smith, and The restoration of doctrinal truths through revelation.View Lesson
- Living the law of Consecration has served as a great separator regarding the faithfulness of the Lord’s covenant people. For a while, the Latter-day Saints were able to live the law. Unfortunately, greed arose among the members and it became necessary for the law to be replaced with a lesser law. We must, however, prepare ourselves to live the law of Consecration, for it is an eternal law.View Lesson
- In this lesson we learned about the gifts of the Spirit given through the Holy Ghost. We are counseled to seek after these gifts in order that we may serve others.View Lesson
- This lesson focuses on remembering the Sabbath day and to keep it holy. It was one of the Ten Commandments given to the children of Israel and continues in effect today. As we obey this law, we are promised great blessings.View Lesson
- As we addressed these two important laws, Tithing and Fasting, we learned that great blessings awaited those who are obedient. Our understanding of obeying these two laws is essential to receiving eternal salvation.View Lesson
- The Lord commanded the early saints to build the Kirtland Temple. It was in the Kirtland Temple that sacred keys were restored to the earth. As a result of receiving these keys, the work in latter-day Temples has been expanded for the benefit of both the living and the dead.View Lesson
- In this lesson, we answered three important questions: (1) Where did I come from? (2) Why am I here? and, (3) Where am I going? The answers to these three questions were given through revelation to the Prophet Joseph Smith.View Lesson
- In 1 Corinthians 15:40-42, Paul wrote there were more kingdoms than just heaven and hell. Through Joseph Smith, the Lord expanded our understanding of each of these kingdoms and gave us further insight. Paul likened these three kingdoms to the sun, the moon, and the stars.View Lesson
- The Savior will return to the earth. Prior to His coming, events will occur which will impact our lives both positively and negatively. It is important that we prepare for his coming by putting our own houses in order. As we do so, we will be able to "stand in holy places" (D&C 45:32), and receive His protection.View Lesson
- Why was the Word of Wisdom given? It is the Lord's counsel regarding what is good and not good for our body. It promises blessings, both physical and spiritual, to those who follow its directions.View Lesson
- The admonition to seek learning includes obtaining both secular and spiritual knowledge. It is important we continue learning throughout our lives. It is in the temple, where we are taught the truths of eternity.View Lesson
- It is essential for our spirituality that we be able to recognize Satan's deceptions. It is equally important for us to strengthen our testimonies. As we do so, we will receive additional enlightenment from the truths of God as revealed through His prophets, both past and present.View Lesson
- As the Church grew, the First Presidency and, the Quorums of the Twelve Apostles and the Seventy were organized. The Lord revealed the Oath and the Covenant of the Priesthood. This outlines both the responsibilities and blessings extended to those who hold and honor the priesthood.View Lesson
- In Kirtland, the Saints received many blessings as they accepted the call of the Lord to share the gospel with others. The first missionaries were called to serve in the British Isles. Through their efforts, thousands joined the Church. Those who sustained the prophet survived the persecutions that afflicted many of the Saints.View Lesson
- The Saints who had gathered in Missouri experienced great persecution. In an effort to assist the Saints in Missouri, Zion's Camp was organized. No battles were fought, and the Saints were driven from Missouri, but great blessings were received by those who participated.View Lesson
- As the Saints were driven from Missouri, and the Prophet and others were imprisoned, the Lord taught us lessons regarding adversity and suffering. We learned its purpose, causes as well as the blessings given to those who endure in faithfulness.View Lesson
- After the Saints sought refuge in Illinois, the Twelve Apostles returned to Far West, Missouri. From here they embarked upon their mission to Great Britain. Upon Joseph's release, the Saints settled in Nauvoo, Illinois. Here the Women's Relief Society was organized.View Lesson
- The Lord revealed the Doctrine of Priesthood Ordinances for the Dead, including baptism for the dead. The first baptisms were performed in the Mississippi River. The Lord then commanded the Saints to build a temple in Nauvoo where baptisms were to be performed. Prior to the completion of the temple, sacred ordinances were revealed and given in Joseph's Red Brick store.View Lesson
- The importance of eternal marriage is emphasized. The youth begin their preparation for temple marriage. They joyfully enter the temple to be married for eternity. Here they make sacred covenants to God and each other, and qualify to receive special blessings. The blessings of eternal marriage will not be denied to any faithful Saint.View Lesson
- The Prophet Joseph Smith sealed his testimony with his blood. We addressed seven specific contributions Joseph made regarding the salvation of mankind. He also made other important contributions. While worshipping God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, we honor Joseph Smith, as the Prophet of the Restoration.View Lesson
- Prior to Joseph’s martyrdom, he gave the keys he received to the Twelve Apostles. The Twelve initially presided over the Church, led by Brigham Young. Before the Saints left Nauvoo, many received their temple ordinances. Trials and miracles accompanied them as they departed Nauvoo.View Lesson
- The trek across Iowa exacted toil, sacrifice, death, and took 131 days to cross the 300 miles. In contrast, the Pioneer Company took only 111 days to cover the 1,050 miles from Winter Quarters to the Great Salt Lake Valley. The Lord gave the Saints specific directions regarding both their physical preparation as well as their conduct on the trail.View Lesson
- Why handcart companies? Most companies made the journey to the valley with few deaths. The Willie and Martin handcart companies became stranded. Brigham Young guided their rescue. There were many miracles that occurred before they were safe in Salt Lake. The Savior rescued us through His Atoning Sacrifice, and we follow His example when we seek to rescue those who are in need.View Lesson
- Upon the arrival of the Saints in the Valley, a place was selected for the building of a temple. The first years in the valley were a trial. The Saints dealt with crickets and grasshoppers, as well as the temptations of California and Gold. Despite the challenges, they persevered. Missionaries accepted calls to serve throughout the world. John Taylor became the Third President of the Church.View Lesson
- We ask, What is a prophet? Why does God only speaks through a prophet? And, the danger of false prophets. We also explore why we need a living prophet today, his role in the Church, and, the importance of our heeding his counsel. We offer examples of latter-day prophets' Christ-like love.View Lesson
- It is important we learn to be self-reliant. This includes spiritual self-reliance as well as temporal self-reliance. We have a responsible to care for the poor and needy in the Lord’s way. The Church Welfare program was inspired in order to assist us in fulfilling this responsibility.View Lesson
- We focus on the contributions of four prophets regarding the redemption of the dead. They are: Elijah, Wilford Woodruff, Joseph F. Smith, and Gordon B. Hinckley. Each played an important role in turning the hearts of the children to their fathers.View Lesson
- We build upon the foundation laid for the redemption of the dead. Through the “Spirit of Elijah,” we are motivated to learn about the lives of our ancestors, to prepare their names for their temple ordinances, and to attend the temple. We also prepare a personal history of our lives for those who follow.View Lesson
- The commandment given to the early members of the Restored Church to take the gospel to the world, has not be rescinded. Today, our responsibility includes: serving a full-time mission; supporting the full-time missionaries, and, as we are able, to serve a mission as a senior couple. In turn, we have a responsibility to do all we can to nurture new converts as they come into the Church.View Lesson
- The importance of continuing revelation is fundamental to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Through the power of revelation: (1) Correlation in the Church was revealed; (2) Blessings of the Priesthood were extended to every worthy male member of the Church; (3) A new Latter-day edition of the Scriptures were published, and, (4) Additional Quorums of the Seventy were called. All has been accomplished in these latter days under the direction of Jesus Christ through His Prophets.View Lesson
- The admonition the Apostle Paul gave to the Saints of Ephesus, to “Take upon You My Whole Armor,” has been repeated to the Saints living in these latter days. We have also been admonished to live the law of chastity; to be honest, and use language that reverences God and is edifying. As we do so, we will continue to enjoy the blessings and protection of the Lord.View Lesson
- As the membership of the Church is now in many locations throughout the world, the importance of our being good citizens has been renewed. It is important that as members, we actively participate in choosing good leaders; obeying the laws of the land, and seek to strengthen the communities where we live. As we do so, we will become an influence for good with others who seek peace in the world.View Lesson
- As the forces of good and evil gather, the attack upon the family has increased. In that the family is the basic unit of society, this threat serves to undermine the stability of the nations of the world. In September, 1995, the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles issued to the leaders of the world, the Family: A Proclamation To The World. Only as we respond to its admonitions, will we be blessed as a nation and as a people.View Lesson
- In this concluding lesson, we explored the various meanings of Zion. We learned that Zion had existed in previous dispensations, and will again be established in our day. We addressed the principles upon which Zion will be established and the qualifications of those who will live in its city. It gives each of us hope as we strive for righteous in an ever increasingly wicked world.View Lesson
- Brother Van Sweden's conclusion of the Doctrine and Covenants.View Lesson