…as if it were Joseph Smith speaking. When the original documents are compared, the supposed Kinderhook Plates “translation” traces back to older notebook material of Joseph Smith, not to the…
…a prophet called to help restore Christ’s church in preparation for the latter days. The Religious World Joseph Smith Inherited Joseph Smith was born in 1805 in Vermont and grew…
…way for others to label a growing and unfamiliar religious community. A Name Given by Outsiders In its earliest usage, “Mormon” functioned as an external label rather than a self-chosen…
…Restoration narrative. The Role of Joseph Smith Joseph Smith’s role is understood within this framework. Latter-day Saints believe God called him not because of education, power, or ambition, but because…
…fear, religious opposition, and internal dissent led to renewed conflict. Joseph Smith was arrested and murdered in 1844 while under state custody. The murder of Joseph Smith convinced many members…
…and kingship, such as the anointing of David. These acts carried promised blessings that were fulfilled over time rather than immediately. Modern revelation affirms continuity with these ancient practices. Doctrine…
…as the Son of God. The book was translated by the prophet Joseph Smith and first published in 1830. Its purpose, stated on the title page, is to persuade all…
…to restore what was lost. The Role of Joseph Smith in the Restoration Latter-day Saints believe God initiated the restoration through Joseph Smith, not because he was powerful or educated,…
…guidance. God Works Through Imperfect People Throughout the Bible, God worked through imperfect individuals. Moses doubted his ability to speak. Peter made serious mistakes. David sinned deeply. Latter-day Saints believe…
…consistently worked through flawed individuals. Peter denied Christ. Moses doubted his abilities. David made serious moral errors. Yet God continued to work through them. Latter-day Saints believe this pattern continues…
