1 John 5:7-8 Comma Johanneum affirmed as scripture; supports Godhead
The LDS church affirms 1 John 5:7-8 in its traditional form (including the Comma Johanneum, 'three that bear record in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost') as part of the canonized scripture. This is based on the King James Bible, which Joseph Smith used as his foundation Bible.
From an LDS perspective, the presence of this phrase in early Christian tradition and its inclusion in the King James Bible signifies its authenticity. While aware of textual-critical debates, the LDS position prioritizes the King James text as used in the Church. The Comma Johanneum supports the LDS doctrine of the Godhead: three distinct personages (Father, Son, Holy Ghost). This passage, understood in light of LDS additional revelations, expresses the theological truth that the Godhead consists of three separate beings.
Key Distinctions
- Textual status:
- Trinitarian grounding:
- supports doctrine of three distinct personages
- Canonical status:
- based on King James Bible text
Scripture References
- Doctrine and Covenants 130:22
- Doctrine and Covenants 76:58-59
Sources
- Doctrine and Covenants 130:22
- LDS Gospel Principles