"If you will stay with the majority of the Twelve Apostles, and the records of the Church, you will never be led astray"

Joseph Smith Jr. emphasizes the importance of unity with Church leadership and adherence to its foundational records as a safeguard against spiritual deception. By referencing “the majority of the Twelve Apostles,” he alludes not only to the significance of apostolic authority, but also to the idea that God provides ongoing guidance for his people through appointed leaders. Trusting in the collective wisdom of duly appointed apostles, rather than setting oneself apart or following dissenting voices, becomes a means of maintaining the integrity and direction of the community.

The inclusion of “the records of the Church” underlines the vital role of scripture and maintained historical documents in preserving doctrine, practice, and the stories that shape faith identity. These records serve as both a resource and a standard, enabling Church members to measure teachings and actions against established truths, thus providing a defense against error, speculation, or the drift of popular opinion. Joseph Smith Jr. encourages reliance on these records as benchmarks for judging new ideas or claims.

The phrase “never be led astray” implies a confidence in divinely appointed structures of authority and recordkeeping. It reflects the belief that God will not allow the collective leadership of His Church, or its scriptural foundation, to fundamentally deviate from truth or fall into apostasy. Church members are given a straightforward principle: loyalty to the united counsel of the leading authorities and to the historical and scriptural record ensures spiritual safety. It cautions against isolation, rebellion, or excessive reliance on personal interpretation at the expense of divinely appointed channels.

Implicit is a vision of both authority and accountability. The apostles themselves are answerable to the body of records and revelation. Members, in turn, are encouraged to root themselves in both the living guidance of leaders and the enduring words of scripture, fostering a resilient faith bound by unity, order, and divine direction.