The 13th Article of Faith: Creating Gospel Aligned Content in a Modern World

How Does Divine Revelation Guide Content Creation Today?

In today’s digital age, content creators within the Church face a unique calling: to produce materials that inform and inspire, all while reflecting the principles of the gospel. Through divine revelation, the prophet Joseph Smith wrote the Articles of Faith, including the 13th Article of Faith, which offers a timeless blueprint for making decisions about what we create and consume. It is more than a checklist; it is a living guide for members of the Church who are creative professionals (Smith, 1842).

Why Should Gospel Principles Serve as Practical Standards in Our Work?

Gospel principles such as honesty, virtue, benevolence, and hope are not just ideals to admire; they are practical standards for our work. When I sit down at my office desk to write an article, produce a video, or create content for a knowledge management platform, I start by asking: Will this content uplift? Does it reflect Christlike values? These questions become my compass, helping me navigate the complexities of media production while keeping my work aligned with doctrine.

What Does Stewardship Mean in Content Creation for the Church?

Working in the Church’s Correlation Department is more than a job; it is a stewardship. Each piece of content, whether it is a video about Correlation's global work or digital content for Correlation staff worldwide, it must pass through the lens of gospel alignment. Our responsibility is to ensure that every message supports Church doctrine, fosters faith, and strengthens testimonies. This requires ongoing collaboration, careful review, and a willingness to seek the Spirit’s guidance in every creative decision.

Why Is Alignment with Gospel Standards the True Foundation of Content Creation?

It is easy to think of content creation as a technical process, but for me, alignment with gospel standards is the true foundation. Before publishing anything, I reflect on whether the material is virtuous, lovely, or praiseworthy. If it does not meet these standards, it does not go out. This commitment not only safeguards the Church’s mission but also builds trust with the audience, helping members and others feel assured that what they read or watch will support their spiritual growth (Smith, 1842).

How Can Intentional Consumption Enhance Personal Worthiness?

Our choices in what we consume matter just as much as what we create. I have found that when I fill my mind with media that reflects my covenants and gospel values, my personal worthiness is enhanced. This is not about perfection; it is about intentionality. When we choose uplifting content, we open ourselves to greater influence from the Holy Ghost, which in turn inspires our professional work.

What Is the Relationship Between Worthiness and Inspiration in Content Creation?

Worthiness and inspiration go hand in hand. In my experience, the more I strive to live gospel principles, the more clearly I receive promptings for my work. The Holy Ghost becomes not just a comforter but a creative partner, guiding me to ideas that truly bless others. For content creators, maintaining this spiritual sensitivity is essential; it transforms routine tasks into meaningful ministry.

How Does the 13th Article of Faith Shape Our Purpose in Life and Content Creation?

Living and creating with purpose means letting the 13th Article of Faith shape both our personal lives and professional lives. By aligning our decisions with gospel values, we not only fulfill our responsibilities as content creators but also contribute to a culture of faith, hope, and love within the Church. In every project, the goal should be to seek after that which is virtuous and praiseworthy, because that is what inspires lasting change (Smith, 1842).

Take a Moment to Reflect:

How might your own habits and choices in creating or consuming media shift if you genuinely let the principles of the 13th Article of Faith guide you? What changes do you think you’d notice in your daily life?

To learn more about the Articles of Faith, view here.