Though he never wrote a book, Joseph F. Smith, sixth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1901-1918), has for decades been one of the most widely quoted gospel scholars in the history of the Church. President Harold B. Lee, eleventh president of the Church, said, When I want to seek for a more clear definition of doctrinal subjects, I have usually turned to the writings and sermons of President Joseph F. Smith. Gospel Doctrine was first published in 1919 as a course of study for Melchizedek Priesthood quorums. It has subsequently gone through numerous printings and is truly a classic in Mormon literature. I

n a publisher's preface for this Classics in Mormon Literature edition of Gospel Doctrine, a great-grandson of Joseph F. Smith, Joseph Fielding McConkie, summarizes the value of his work, Gospel Doctrine stands in a class of its own as a reference book and as a source of edification to the Latter-day Saint reader. Within the covers of this book one will find scripture, prophecy, wise counsel, and good doctrine. Truly it is a book that edifies.