The name of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is of profound significance, as it reflects both its divine origin and its central focus on Jesus Christ. This name was not chosen arbitrarily by its members but was revealed by the Lord Himself. The scriptural foundation for this naming is found in the Book of Mormon, where the resurrected Christ explicitly instructed His disciples on the proper designation of His Church. In 3 Nephi 27:7-8, Christ declared, “Therefore, whatsoever ye shall do, ye shall do it in my name; therefore ye shall call the church in my name; and ye shall call upon the Father in my name that he will bless the church for my sake. And how be it my church save it be called in my name?” This passage establishes the principle that the Lord’s Church must bear His name to properly signify its divine authority and purpose.

The Church was formally organized on April 6, 1830, under the name "The Church of Christ" (Doctrine & Covenants 20:1). This title was used in the early years of the Restoration, from 1829-34. In 1834 and to distinguish it from other groups, the Church changed its name to the Church of the Latter Day Saints. This name was in use from 134–38. In 1838, the Prophet Joseph Smith received a revelation clarifying the full and proper name of the Church: “For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” (Doctrine & Covenants 115:4). This revealed name encompasses several key theological principles. It explicitly affirms that the Church belongs to Jesus Christ, distinguishing it from any man-made organization. It also acknowledges that this is Christ’s Church in the latter days, emphasizing its role in the final dispensation before His Second Coming.

President Russell M. Nelson has emphasized the sacred importance of using the full and correct name of the Church, stating, “When we discard the Savior’s name, we are subtly disregarding all that Jesus Christ did for us—even His Atonement.” ²⁰¹ This perspective underscores the belief that the name of the Church is not a mere label but an affirmation of divine authority and doctrine.

One of the theological implications of the revealed name is that it testifies of Jesus Christ to the world. The Church does not claim to be a sect, denomination, or organization founded by human effort alone, but rather the restored Church of Jesus Christ. Its name acts as a declaration of its divine origin and mission. This understanding differentiates it from other religious traditions in which church names often reflect theological positions (such as “Baptist” or “Methodist”), historical figures (such as “Lutheran”), or particular doctrines (such as “Presbyterian”). While other Christian groups rightly emphasize their commitment to Christ, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints uniquely asserts that it is the continuation of the Church established by Christ in the meridian of time, now restored with the same priesthood authority, doctrine, and ordinances.

The emphasis on using the full name of the Church is not merely a question of preference but carries practical and spiritual significance. The name itself testifies of Christ and His restored gospel, ensuring that members and non-members alike recognize its divine foundation. When the full name is used, it reinforces the understanding that the Church is centered on Christ rather than on any prophet, leader, or historical movement. President Nelson has explained that this focus is essential in the latter days: “The Lord has impressed upon my mind the importance of the name He decreed for His Church, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”²⁰²

There are unique privileges and benefits in adopting this understanding. First, it strengthens faith in Jesus Christ by keeping His name at the center of worship and identity. Second, it provides clarity to the world about the Church’s divine mission, distinguishing it from mere human institutions. Third, it fosters unity among members, reinforcing that they belong to Christ’s Church and not a church built on any one individual or philosophy. Finally, it aligns with the broader scriptural principle that names hold divine power and significance, as seen throughout the Old and New Testaments when God names His people, places, and covenants according to His purposes.

The revealed name of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is more than an identifier; it is a testimony of Christ’s role as the head of the Church and the central figure of faith. By using the name given by revelation, members affirm their discipleship and commitment to the Savior’s work in the latter days.