The Joseph Smith Translation (JST), or Inspired Version (IV) of the Bible is a revision of the King James Version that seeks to restore lost truths and clarify the gospel message. Joseph Smith described the process as studying it out in his mind through revelation to reveal or return hidden or lost truths excluded in the text. Smith identified six types of changes present in the JST, including additions without biblical parallel, “common-sense” changes, interpretive additions, harmonization between conflicting passages, meaning changes, and grammatical/technical improvements and modernizations.
Read the Joseph Smith Translation (JST), or Inspired Version (IV) of the Bible here.
Watch our video discussing these scriptures here.
Highlights and Overview
The JST-IV Gospels provide a rich tapestry of Jesus Christ’s teachings and ministry. They offer insights into the path of discipleship, the importance of spiritual transformation, and the ultimate hope of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. The beatitudes emphasize the characteristics of those who will inherit the kingdom of heaven – the merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and those persecuted for righteousness. This theme connects to later passages emphasizing the importance of faith, repentance, and resisting evil.
Jesus clarifies that he came not to destroy the law but to fulfill it. He emphasizes the importance of adhering to the commandments, even the smallest ones, and warns against breaking or teaching others to break them (5:20-21). The bar for righteousness is set high, exceeding even that of the scribes and Pharisees. He emphasizes the importance of inner purity and its connection to outward actions. Anger, lustful thoughts, and oaths are all addressed, with a focus on aligning one’s heart with God’s will. This internal focus is reiterated in the parable of the tree and its fruit, where good actions are seen as stemming from a good heart.
Love and forgiveness are recuring themes in the Gospels. Jesus calls his followers to love their enemies, bless those who curse them, and pray for those who persecute them. Forgiveness is also central, with the Lord’s Prayer including a petition for forgiveness and an admonition to forgive others. This forgiveness extends even to those who sin repeatedly against us. Jesus’ call to prioritize seeking the kingdom of God and establishing his righteousness over worldly possessions and concerns is also highlighted. This theme is reinforced through parables and teachings that discourage materialism and emphasize the importance of spiritual growth, as the kingdom of God, according to Jesus, is inside of you.
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus calls individuals to follow him and become his disciples. This discipleship involves specific actions like healing the sick, preaching the gospel, and living a life of service. Those who truly follow him will receive the Holy Spirit as their guide and comforter.
Important Facts and Ideas
The Gospels acknowledge the reality of rejection and tribulation that Jesus and his followers will face. This includes betrayal by loved ones, persecution by religious authorities, and hatred from the world. Faith is presented as a foundational element for receiving blessings and witnessing miracles. Jesus often chides his disciples for their lack of faith and encourages them to believe in God’s power.
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in empowering disciples, teaching them truth, and bringing comfort in times of trouble (10:17, 14:26). The blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is identified as the unforgivable sin. The document underscores Jesus’ frequent use of parables and symbolism to convey spiritual truths. These teaching methods engage listeners and provide opportunities for deeper understanding.
Key Quotes:
- “Therefore, let your light so shine before this world, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:18)
- “But I say unto you, Love your enemies; bless them that curse you; do good to them that hate you; and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.” (Matthew 5:46)
- “Wherefore, seek not the things of this world; but seek ye first to build up the kingdom of God and to establish his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:38)
- “For verily, I say unto you that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed and be thou cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he saith fulfilled.” (Mark 11:25)
- “Neither shall they say, Lo, here! or, Lo, there! For, behold, the kingdom of God has already come unto you.” (Luke 17:21)
- “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” (John 14:26)
