Religious Studies Center Books

Behold the Lamb presents a compelling collection of contemporary artwork by Latter-day Saint artists, each piece depicting the final twelve hours of Christ’s mortal life—from his trial before Caiaphas to his burial. Through these visual meditations on Good Friday, the book invites readers to reflect more deeply on the Savior’s redemptive suffering and to “behold the Lamb of God,” who “was lifted up upon the cross and slain for the sins of the world” (1 Nephi 11:21, 33).

This landmark volume brings together sixteen essays from historians, scholars, and project contributors to reflect on the significance of The Joseph Smith Papers. Together, these authors assess the project’s scholarly achievements, explore how it reshapes narratives of early Latter-day Saint history, and highlight its far-reaching implications across multiple academic disciplines. An essential resource for scholars and students of Latter-day Saint history, this book invites a deeper appreciation for the faith, sacrifice, and scholarly excellence that brought The Joseph Smith Papers to life. More than a celebration, this volume is a springboard for future study and discovery. It offers scholars and believers alike a deeper appreciation for the life of Joseph Smith and the inspired scholarship that has preserved his legacy for generations to come.

Latter-day Saint scholars of religion often confront a demanding challenge — producing gospel-centered scholarship that meets academic expectations and speaks meaningfully to readers seeking to deepen their faith in the Restoration. In the Eyes of the Ancients rises to that challenge with new and expanded lines of research on the Book of Mormon. Drawing on literary, ethnographic, linguistic, and archaeological approaches, sixteen scholars situate the Book of Mormon in its ancient cultural and historical contexts. Readers will see how this rich record continues to yield insights under close analysis—bringing its ancient character into clear relief in support of its truth claims and enduring prophetic messages. Together these studies show how rigorous, faith-informed scholarship can deepen appreciation for the complexity and integrity of a sacred text at the heart of the Restoration.

What does it mean to live in covenant community—and how do faith, hope, and love make such a life possible? In These Three Abide, James E. Faulconer weaves personal experience with theological reflection to show how Zion can be glimpsed here and now. Drawing on his life in a small Pennsylvania branch of the Church—where farmers, academics, business owners, and students shared not only worship but work and service—Faulconer describes a community shaped not by sameness but by covenant. In ordinary acts of care and cooperation, social differences became sources of unity, and daily life anticipated a future Zion. Warm, wise, and deeply moving, These Three Abide will leave readers with renewed trust in God, strengthened hope for the future, and a clearer vision of the community of love to which we are called.