The concept of apostasy, or falling away from the truth, is a recurring theme throughout scriptural history. While The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints affirms that a universal Apostasy necessitated the Restoration of the gospel through the Prophet Joseph Smith, it also recognizes that individual apostasy continues to occur within the Church. However, unlike the Great Apostasy that led to the loss of priesthood authority and divine truth from the earth, a generalized apostasy of the entire Church in the latter days will not occur. The Lord has promised that the Church, restored in its fulness, will remain intact and will fulfill its prophesied role in preparing the world for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Yet individual members may fall into apostasy by rejecting Church teachings, resisting prophetic counsel, or turning away from covenants made with God.

The scriptures contain numerous warnings about individual apostasy. The Book of Mormon recounts the story of Nehor, who taught false doctrines and led many away from the true faith (Alma 1:2-6). Similarly, Korihor preached against Christ and ultimately suffered the consequences of his rejection of divine truth (Alma 30:6-60). In the New Testament, Paul lamented that “some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils” (1 Timothy 4:1). The Doctrine & Covenants reiterates this principle, warning that “that man who was called of God and appointed, that putteth forth his hand to steady the ark of God, shall fall” (Doctrine & Covenants 85:8). These scriptures underscore the reality that individuals, despite having once embraced the truth, may choose to forsake it.

While individual apostasy is an ongoing reality, the Church itself will not fall into apostasy. The Lord declared through Joseph Smith that “the keys of the kingdom of God are committed unto man on the earth, and from thence shall the gospel roll forth…until it has filled the whole earth” (Doctrine & Covenants 65:2). This prophecy affirms that the Church will continue its divine mission until the Second Coming. This assurance stands in contrast to previous dispensations, where apostasy led to the loss of truth and priesthood authority. Unlike those earlier periods, the Restoration will not be undone.

Some critics argue that changes in Church policies or doctrines reflect a form of institutional apostasy, asserting that deviations from past practices indicate a departure from revealed truth. However, such an argument misunderstands the nature of continuing revelation. The Lord has declared that He “will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God” (Articles of Faith 1:9). Adjustments in Church governance, policies, and even practices do not constitute apostasy but rather demonstrate the ongoing process of divine instruction (see #122 THE RESTORATION IS ONGOING).

The advantages of this perspective are significant. It allows for a robust view of human agency, recognizing that each individual must work out their salvation “with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). It also provides confidence in the stability of the Church, reassuring members that despite external pressures or internal challenges, the Church will not fail in its divine mission. The doctrine of ongoing individual apostasy serves as a reminder that personal righteousness requires diligence, while the assurance of the Church’s permanence affirms God’s hand in guiding His people. Those who embrace this understanding find both motivation to remain faithful and comfort in the certainty that the restored gospel will endure.