The Lectures On Faith are among the oldest of LDS writings. They formed the basis for doctrinal studies in the School for Elders during the winter of 1834-35 and, ever since, have been highly valued in the Church.
This book first explores the authorship and history of the lectures, addressing such questions such as what they are, who wrote them, who delivered them, and when they were given. Then after outlining the publication history of the lectures, including editions currently in print, the book presents a 1990 edited version of them — prepared especially for this volume.
The declared aim for this version is 'to maintain the integrity of the text of the 1835 edition and at the same time make the Lectures easier to read.' The latter goal has been achieved mainly by correcting misspellings, misquotations, and grammatical errors; clarifying ambiguities; breaking up long and complex sentences; occasionally adjusting syntax; and rectifying a few simple mistakes. The result is a version that faithfully preserves the doctrines in the original edition but to the modern reader is more 'user-friendly.' Comparative charts are included that list textual changes made since the lectures were first published in 1835.
The Lectures On Faith constitute a substantial historical and doctrinal heritage from early Restoration years. Bringing together in one volume the background, the history, the text, and an informed and stimulating commentary, this book makes a major contribution to an understanding of the subject and therefore to the reader's efforts to live the great principle of faith in Jesus Christ.
