Artworks for Doctrine & Covenants 84-93
Our artistic exploration of the Doctrine & Covenants continues! Each month, we'll share artworks from our permanent collection or visiting exhibitions that accompany the coming month's Come, Follow Me readings. You can also subscribe to get email reminders when new artworks are ready or follow along weekly on Instagram or Facebook. We hope that art-lovers everywhere will be inspired by these artworks as they complement their gospel study, family discussions, and church classes with fine art from around the world.
July 28 - August 3
Chase Shepherd’s etching featured here comes from a series titled “Christ in Four Eras.” In this image, Shepherd’s work does not include a depiction of the Savior, but instead references Christ’s power. Doctrine & Covenants 84 outlines one way to access Christ’s power: “Therefore, in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest” (v. 20).
August 4-10
The principle of record keeping has been taught in each dispensation. John the Beloved, shown here, is often depicted with his gospel writings, which comprise nearly 20% of the New Testament. By the time he recorded the Savior’s life and ministry, The Gospels According to Matthew, Mark, and Luke had likely already been written. However, John provides unique stories and perspectives, filling in gaps in the record. What is the value in keeping a history, even when someone else has already authored one?
August 11-17
The crown of thorns was placed on Christ’s head not only to inflict physical pain, but to mock and humiliate. Thorns evoke the fall of Adam as the Lord declared, “…cursed is the ground for thy sake…Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee…” (Genesis 3:17-18). In every way, the Atonement and Resurrection would overcome the effects of the Fall. The Lord reminds us of his sacrifice when he said, speaking of himself, “He that ascended up on high, as also he descended below all things, in that he comprehended all things, that he might be in all and through all things, the light of truth; Which truth shineth. This is the light of Christ” (D&C 88:6-7).
August 18-24
“And again, verily I say unto you, all wholesome herbs God hath ordained for the constitution, nature, and use of man— Every herb in the season thereof, and every fruit in the season thereof; all these to be used with prudence and thanksgiving.” (Doctrine and Covenants 89: 10-11).
The Word of Wisdom is often explained in terms of what it restricts, but by abiding by its principles, we realize how much it allows us. Yes, we are promised physical blessings (“…health in their navel and marrow to their bones…And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint” [v. 18, 20]), but perhaps more importantly, we are promised spiritual blessings. Those who obey the Word of Wisdom “shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures” (v. 19).
What blessings have you experienced from living the Word of Wisdom?
August 25-31
Max Thalmann imagines a space where a grand cathedral and its radiating light convey a sublime worship experience. Such sacred experiences may resonate with you, but perhaps the Spirit washes over you in less dramatic ways. Whether you learn truth through big moments or a gradual buildup of smaller epiphanies , the Lord has provided direction for you in Doctrine and Covenants 93: “He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light…” (v. 28).
