Latter-day Prophets Speak:

Scripture Study

Wilford Woodruff (1807–98)

Fourth President of the Church

“I read these—the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and I regard them as eternal truths. … I consider that the Doctrine and Covenants, our testament, contains a code of the most solemn, the most godlike proclamations ever made to the human family” (The Discourses of Wilford Woodruff, sel. G. Homer Durham [1946], 47–48).

Heber J. Grant (1856–1945)

Seventh President of the Church

“My brethren and sisters, if we will study the scriptures, the plan of life and salvation, keeping the commandments of the Lord, all the promises that have been made will be fulfilled upon our heads. And we will grow and increase in light, knowledge and intelligence” (Gospel Standards, comp. G. Homer Durham [1941], 43).

George Albert Smith (1870–1951)

Eighth President of the Church

“The Book of Mormon contains evidence of the importance that our Heavenly Father attaches to reading the scriptures. He sent the sons of Lehi back to Jerusalem to recover the Old Testament scriptures, in order that they might retain the teachings of the Prophets. The Lord would not take [Lehi’s family] into a new country without preserving to them the privilege of reading his teachings to their forefathers” (Sharing the Gospel with Others, comp. Preston Nibley [1948], 43–44).

Harold B. Lee (1899–1973)

Eleventh President of the Church

“The scriptures, particularly, after one’s prayerful and diligent study, will serve as the safest guide in the discovery of the true church, for the gospel the Savior taught has not changed. It is the same today as it was when He dwelt upon the earth” (Stand Ye in Holy Places [1974], 315).

Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985)

Twelfth President of the Church

“Scripture study is a family responsibility. Scripture study as individuals and as a family is most fundamental to learning the gospel. Daily reading of the scriptures and discussing them together has long been suggested as a powerful tool against ignorance and the temptations of Satan. … Home is where we become experts and scholars in gospel righteousness. …

“… We shall indeed find answers to our problems and peace in our hearts. We shall experience the Holy Ghost broadening our understanding, find new insights, witness an unfolding pattern of all scripture; and the doctrines of the Lord shall come to have more meaning to us than we ever thought possible” (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 129, 135).

Ezra Taft Benson (1899–1994)

Thirteenth President of the Church

“I urge you to recommit yourselves to a study of the scriptures. Immerse yourselves in them daily so you will have the power of the Spirit to attend you in your callings. Read them in your families and teach your children to love and treasure them” (“The Power of the Word,” Ensign, May 1986, 82).

Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–)

Fifteenth President of the Church

“I promise you that if you will read the words of that writing which we call scripture, there will come into your heart an understanding and a warmth that will be pleasing to experience. ‘Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.’ (John 5:39.)” (Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley [1997], 572).