“And If It So Be That the Church Is Built Upon My Gospel”

Brant Gardner

The name may be essential as part of the defining essence of the church, but it really is more important that what is taught is Christ’s gospel rather than simply that it be called by that name. The gospel is what is important. Therefore, while the church may be named for Christ, it is built on the principles of the true gospel, and deserves to bear that name only when the true gospel is taught. If the church is “built upon my gospel then will the Father show forth his own works in it.” However, failing to build the church upon the correct principles will inexorably alter the relationship with Christ. The name will no longer be associated because the essence has changed and no longer represents Christ. If it is built upon the gospel of the devil, it becomes the church of the devil. If it is built upon the works of men, it becomes the church of men. The name and the essence are inextricably intertwined.

Multidimensional Commentary on the Book of Mormon

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