What This Document Is
This is a study guide for the first midterm exam in RELC 225, Foundations of the Restoration, offered at Brigham Young University. It covers Units 1 through 7 of the course, focusing on foundational doctrines, key historical periods, and important events in the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The guide is designed to help students prepare for an exam assessing their understanding of core concepts and historical timelines.
Why This Document Matters
This study guide is essential for students enrolled in RELC 225 who are preparing for their first midterm. It clarifies the specific topics the exam will cover, helping students focus their study efforts. It’s most useful when used *in conjunction with* course lectures, readings from the Doctrine and Covenants, and other assigned materials. The guide exists to streamline exam preparation, not to replace engagement with the course content.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This study guide provides a framework for understanding the material, but it does *not* contain complete explanations of all concepts. It presents questions and key terms, but doesn’t offer detailed answers or in-depth analysis. Students will still need to actively engage with course materials to fully grasp the nuances of the topics covered. It is a preparation tool, not a substitute for learning.
What This Document Provides
This study guide includes:
* Key questions related to the foundational doctrines of the restored Church, including the role of Jesus Christ and unique Latter-day Saint beliefs.
* A timeline of six foundational periods of Church history (1820-Present) with corresponding headquarters locations.
* Questions regarding the historical context surrounding the First Vision, including the Great Apostasy, the Second Great Awakening, and the Burned-over District.
* A breakdown of the different types of doctrine (core, supporting, policy, esoteric) and levels for evaluating official Latter-day Saint teachings.
* Five factors for evaluating historical sources.
* Resources for further learning, such as lds.org, the Joseph Smith Papers, and Gospel Topics Essays.
This preview *does not* include the answers to the study questions, detailed explanations of historical events, or a comprehensive summary of all course readings. It is designed to show the *scope* of the midterm, not to provide all the information needed to pass it.