(Standard Works; formally sustained declarations)
Doctrine is established by revelation and canonization.
It is not created, revised, or overridden by leaders or policy.
Degree-0° content is not tested by lower degrees; all lower degrees are tested against it.
Handbook grounding:
• General Handbook 1.1 — Doctrine originates in Jesus Christ and His revealed word
• General Handbook 38.8.40 — Personal views must not be represented as Church doctrine
(Prophets, Apostles, General Conference talks; presiding leaders within stewardship)
Prophetic and presiding speech must be tested for:
• context (audience, purpose, occasion)
• intent (doctrinal teaching vs exhortation, opinion, or warning)
• consistency with 0° (Standard Works)
Authority is jurisdictional and ordained, but accountability remains absolute.
Handbook grounding:
• General Handbook 4.4 — Authority exercised through priesthood keys and delegated stewardship
• General Handbook 30.1 — Stake presidents ensure correct doctrine within jurisdiction
• General Handbook 31.1 — Bishops oversee doctrine and instruction in the ward