Do Latter-day Saints Have Their Own Bible? A Look at LDS Scriptures
Do Latter-day Saints Have Their Own Bible? A Look at LDS Scriptures
Do Latter-day Saints have their own Bible? Do they recognize the traditional Christian Bible? These are common questions many people have about the LDS faith. If you’re curious or uncertain about what Latter-day Saints believe when it comes to scripture, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll explore the truth about the unique set of sacred texts that guide members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Do Latter-day Saints Have Their Own Bible?
No, Latter-day Saints do not have their own separate Bible. They use and regard the Bible as a sacred text—specifically the King James Version (KJV), which is the Church’s official English-language Bible. It is valued for both its historical significance and its literary style.
The idea that Latter-day Saints have their own Bible likely comes from the fact that they believe the Bible is not the only word of God. In addition to the Bible, they accept other scriptures that they believe support, clarify, and expand upon biblical teachings. These additional texts, collectively known as the Standard Works, include:
- The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ
- The Doctrine and Covenants
- The Pearl of Great Price
The Book of Mormon
Also referred to as Another Testament of Jesus Christ, the Book of Mormon is considered a companion to the Bible. It tells the story of ancient prophets on the American continent and affirms the divinity of Jesus Christ.
The Book of Mormon declares: “Wherefore, because that ye have a Bible ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that I have not caused more to be written” (2 Nephi 29:10). Latter-day Saints believe that God continues to speak and reveal truth through multiple witnesses.
The Doctrine and Covenants
The Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) is a foundational scripture containing modern revelations given to Joseph Smith and other Church leaders. Unlike the Bible or Book of Mormon, which are ancient records, the D&C focuses on contemporary guidance for the Church.
Latter-day Saints believe God still speaks through living prophets, as affirmed in D&C 1:38: “Whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.” Revelation is seen as ongoing and personal (D&C 42:61), and additional scripture like the Book of Mormon complements the Bible (D&C 20:9).
The D&C also emphasizes prophetic authority, stating that only the Lord’s chosen—beginning with Joseph Smith—may receive commandments for the Church (D&C 28:2).
The Pearl of Great Price
A scripture volume containing select revelations, inspired translations, and writings of Joseph Smith. The Pearl of Great Price includes key texts such as the Book of Moses, the Book of Abraham and The Articles of Faith.
The Book of Moses is a retranslation of early Genesis offering expanded insights into the Creation, the Fall, and Enoch’s ministry. The Book of Abraham is a translation of Egyptian papyri that provides unique teachings about the premortal existence, the purpose of life, and the cosmos.
The volume also includes a revised version of the Book of Matthew 24 (Joseph Smith–Matthew). It reflects Joseph Smith–History. His firsthand account of the First Vision and early events of the Restoration.
The Articles of Faith is a concise summary of Latter-day Saint beliefs. Together, these writings offer doctrinal clarity and deepen understanding of God’s plan from a Restoration perspective.
Want to Learn More?
Have any questions or are curious about what Latter-day Saints believe? Their doctrines or where you can attend the service? Visit ChurchofJesusChrist.org to read the scriptures online, request a free copy of the Book of Mormon, or connect with missionaries who can help answer your questions. Discover for yourself the beliefs, teachings, and message of hope found in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.
