Many people ask why members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe the Book of Mormon is scripture. The simple answer is that we believe it is another testament of Jesus Christ. Along with the Bible, the Book of Mormon helps us come to know Jesus Christ more deeply and feel closer to God.
We do not see the Book of Mormon as a replacement for the Bible. Instead, we believe it works together with the Bible to teach truth, clarify doctrine, and testify that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. Our belief in the Book of Mormon comes from faith, sincere study, and personal spiritual experience.
What Is the Book of Mormon?
The Book of Mormon is a sacred record of ancient prophets who lived on the American continent. These prophets taught about Jesus Christ, long before His birth, and testified of His mission 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 people that Jesus is the Christ and to show that God continues to love and guide His children.
The Bible and the Book of Mormon Together
As Latter-day Saints, we believe deeply in the Bible and treasure its teachings. We also believe that God continues to speak and reveal His word. The Book of Mormon is not meant to compete with the Bible, but to stand as a second witness of Jesus Christ.
Both books teach essential principles of the gospel, including faith in Christ, repentance, baptism, and salvation through His grace. Together, they strengthen our understanding of God’s plan and help us follow Jesus Christ more fully.
God’s Word Continues
The Bible itself shows that God has spoken to many prophets in different times and places. We believe God is the same today and that He can reveal His word whenever and wherever He chooses.
How the Book of Mormon Came Forth
We believe that Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon by the gift and power of God. He testified that the record came from gold plates, which were preserved by ancient prophets and delivered to him by an angel.
Although the translation did not follow traditional scholarly methods, Joseph Smith and those around him consistently testified that God guided the process.
Witnesses of the Book of Mormon
Several individuals were chosen to see and handle the gold plates. Their testimonies are included in every copy of the Book of Mormon.
Faithful Testimony Over Time
Even when some of these witnesses experienced personal difficulties or separated from the Church, they never denied their witness of the Book of Mormon. For many believers, this strengthens confidence in its divine origin.
A Personal Spiritual Witness
More than historical evidence, we believe the most powerful confirmation of the Book of Mormon comes from God Himself. The book invites every reader to pray sincerely and ask God if it is true.
Millions of people around the world testify that they have received a personal answer through the Holy Ghost, bringing peace, clarity, and a stronger testimony of Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ Is the Center
The Book of Mormon testifies of Jesus Christ on nearly every page. It teaches about His atonement, resurrection, mercy, and love for all people.
One of its most sacred accounts describes the resurrected Savior appearing to people in the Americas, teaching His gospel and inviting them to come unto Him.
Common Questions and Misunderstandings
Some believe that accepting the Book of Mormon means rejecting the Bible. We believe the opposite. We study and love both books as united witnesses of Jesus Christ.
Others wonder if belief in the Book of Mormon changes Christian faith. For us, it strengthens our commitment to follow Jesus Christ as our Savior and Redeemer.
Why This Belief Matters
The Book of Mormon has changed lives. It brings comfort in difficult times, guidance in moments of uncertainty, and a deeper understanding of God’s love.
For Latter-day Saints, it helps shape daily worship, personal prayer, and our desire to follow Jesus Christ more faithfully.
An Invitation
We invite everyone to read the Book of Mormon, reflect on its message, and ask God if it is true. We believe He will answer in His own way and time.
As the Book of Mormon teaches, all are invited to come unto Christ and be perfected in Him.
Sources
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Gospel Topics: Book of Mormon
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org
Joseph Smith Papers
https://www.josephsmithpapers.org
Scripture Central
https://scripturecentral.org
Witnesses of the Book of Mormon
https://witnessesofthebookofmormon.org