"A rational theology, as understood in this volume, is a theology which (1) is based on fundamental principles that harmonize with the knowledge and reason of man, (2) derives all of its laws, ordinances and authority from the accepted fundamental principles, and (3) finds expression and use in the everyday life of man. In short, a rational theology is derived from the invariable laws of the universe, and exists for the good of man. "This volume is an exposition; it is not an argument. The principles of the Gospel, as held by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, are stated, briefly, simply and without comment, to show the coherence, reasonableness and universality of the gospel philosophy. The authority for many of the statements found in the volume is given in the references included in the appendix. The doctrines herein stated are, however, the common knowledge of the members of the Church. No attempt has been made to correlate the doctrines discussed with current philosophical opinions. Those who are led to study this rational theology in the light of the best knowledge and soundest thought, will enter a fertile field, and will find a surprising harmony between the Gospel and all discovered truth. "Every writer who in this day attempts an exposition of the Gospel must draw heavily upon the clear thoughts of those who, from Joseph Smith to the living workers, have written and spoken in behalf of the truth. I acknowledge, gratefully, my obligation to the makers of "Mormon" literature. Many friends have, also, in various ways, given kindly aid; to them I offer hearty and sincere thanks." .-JOHN A. WIDTSOE. CONTENTS FUNDAMENTALS AND PRE-EXISTENT STATE. Chapter 1. The Meaning of Theology. Chapter 2. How Knowledge is Gained Chapter 3. Eternalism. Chapter 4. The Will of Man Chapter 5. The Great Law Chapter 6. God and Man. Chapter 7. Man Is That He May Have Joy Chapter 8. Man's Free Agency. Chapter 9. The Great Plan THE BEGINNING OF THE EARTH WORK. Chapter 10. The Coming of Man Chapter 11. The Course of the Gospel on Earth MAN AND GOD. Chapter 12. The Gods of this Earth Chapter 13. Man's Communion with God. Chapter 14. Man Walks with God MAN AND THE DEVIL. Chapter 15. The Kingdom of the Evil One MAN AND THE CHURCH. Chapter 16. Why a Church? Chapter 17. Conditions of Membership. Chapter 18. The Priesthood in the Church Chapter 19. The Organization of the Church Chapter 20. The Authority of the Priesthood Chapter 21. Obedience Chapter 22. A Missionary Church Chapter 23. Temple Ordinances MAN AND MAN. Chapter 24. The Brotherhood of Man Chapter 25. The Equality of Man Chapter 26. Mutual Support Chapter 27. The United Order Chapter 28. Work for the Dead Chapter 29. Marriage Chapter 30. The Community MAN AND NATURE. Chapter 31. Man and Nature MAN AND HIMSELF. Chapter 32. The Sound Body Chapter 33. Education for the Inner Life Chapter 34. Satisfaction with Daily Work Chapter 35. The Hope of Tomorrow Chapter 36. The Law of the Earth APPENDIX--References to Authorities