Explain: “Inspiration is always revelation, but revelation is not always inspiration.”
Revelation is the larger, all inclusive term, which includes inspiration, although many times the two terms are used interchangeably.
Let’s make a list of some of the many ways we can receive revelation:
1. Dreams (Many prophets, incl. Joseph, Mary’s husband)
2. Visions (many prophets)
3. Voice in one’s mind (Enos, 1st C. in Poc. Ida. bishopric)
4. Audible voice
5. Feelings (Elder Packer)
6. Edifying thoughts come
7. When we sit in council and the Spirit counsels.
8. When thoughts are expressed by others and the Spirit gives it emphasis.
9. When reading the scriptures you receive new insights, new understanding or feel the Spirit (Elder McConkie)
10.While meditating during the Sacrament or in the temple. (Pres. McKay quote)
11.After sincere prayer, have a feeling of quiet peace envelope you (D&C 6, Gal. 5)
Explain: To understand the scriptures one must receive the same spirit as did the prophet who wrote them.
Explain: Since all scripture was written by “Saints”, only “Saints” can understand and correctly interpret it.”
On the importance of revelation, Glenn L. Pearson and Reid E. Bankhead write:
“It takes individual revelation to be saved. It takes revelation to understand revelation. It takes revelation to know a revelation. It takes revelation to have priesthood authority. It takes revelation to live the way Christ wants us to live. It takes revelation to do missionary work. It takes revelation to be converted. It takes revelation to run the day-to-day affairs of the kingdom of God on earth.
“Every way and every time the Holy Ghost touches our lives it is revelation by definition because it is some form or other of communication from God. The Holy Ghost himself is a member of the Godhead….If we are to be saved, the Holy Ghost must touch our lives continually….”
(Building Faith with the Book of Mormon, p. 139.)