SPANISH FORK, Utah — The promises given to the Old Testament prophet Abraham were restored to the earth through the Prophet Joseph Smith, BYU religion professor Robert L. Millet told a gathering of the descendants of Icelanders on Sunday.

Because of that restoration, people past and present may receive the promises of the gospel, said Millet, speaking at the annual Heritage Fireside, the final event of Iceland Days 2009. Such promises include the priesthood authority of God, the continuation of families through the eternities because of eternal marriage and an inheritance of land.

The book of Genesis in the Old Testament records that promise, Millet said. The gospel of Jesus Christ has been on this earth since Adam, which is one of many teachings unique to Joseph Smith, he said.

"Joseph Smith helps us understand the Abrahamic covenant," Millet said.

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