In the third lecture, Joseph explained that three things are necessary in order
for any person to generate saving faith: (a) the idea that God actually exists;
(b) a correct idea of his character, perfections, and attributes; and (c) an
actual knowledge that the course in life one is pursuing in according to the
will of God. That is, the first two perquisites for faith are associated with
his knowledge of and confidence in God; the third is related to his confidence
in himself. (Joseph Smith: Selected Sermons and Writings, ed. Robert L.
Millet [Sources of American Spirituality; New York: Paulist Press, 1989], 128
n. 1)