Richard Neitzel Holzapfel and David M. Whitchurch

Jeffrey R. Holland, then dean of Religious Instruction at Brigham Young University (BYU), established the Religious Studies Center (RSC) in 1975 with the mission of encouraging and supporting the pursuit of truth through scholarship on gospel-related topics. This collection of essays, like all RSC endeavors, is part of Religious Education’s overall mission of building the kingdom of God by teaching and preserving the sacred doctrine and history of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

When Robert L. Millet, then dean of Religious Education at BYU, initiated the publication of the Religious Educator (TRE) in 2000, he wanted to provide another venue for scholars and students of the Restoration to explore our rich Church history, plumb the depths of ancient and modern scripture and doctrine, and highlight approaches in understanding and teaching the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

During the ten years of its history, TRE has been a place where dedicated Church leaders and seasoned teachers could publish thoughtful, well-researched essays and articles that highlight how to teach important and timely gospel principles. The collective volumes provide a remarkable library of pedagogical and devotional resources that have and will bless and inspire the lives of its many readers.

This, the tenth year of TRE provides an ideal and timely opportunity to bring together two special volumes of some of the best articles and essays from past issues—one devoted to doctrinal and historical subjects, and the other dedicated to gospel teaching. The few articles included in this volume are just a small sampling from the numerous articles published over the past decade. We believe they typify meaningful and efficacious teaching. May they be a blessing to all who read and apply the principles to their own teaching.