One night as a youth, Joseph Smith prayed on behalf of his welfare, and Moroni, an angel & prophet of the Book of Mormon appeared to him, telling about the ancient record engraved an golden plates, which was abridged by his father Mormon.
Seer stone will reveal images to the faithful/chosen. Joseph Smith found one personally in a well before given one by an angel. It was described as a tool to learn how to receive revelation. He translated the Book of Mormon by seer stones and the Urim and Thummim.
"To some it is given by the Holy Ghost to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that he was crucified for the sins of the world. To others it is given to believe on their words, that they also might have eternal life if they continue faithful." (D&C 46:13-14)
Joseph Smith's Translation
about 8 pages a day
He did not:
- edit it.
- cross reference.
- ask where he left off
- know the contents of the literature, asking his wife "Were there walls around Jerusalem?"
- know some of the words, spelling them letter by letter.
He could barely write, not being educated much.
What would you say if someone questioned you and Joseph's means of translation?
I would say that God does not work the way man does. The Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, a true record.
three v. eight witnesses
angel | in person
shown book and inscriptions, & artifacts | hefted it
spiritual | physical
Knowledge v. hearken
People may not live according to their knowledge.
The three witness are David Whitmer, Martin Harris, and Oliver Cowdery; all excommunicated & left the church. Martin & Oliver returned to the Church. When David Whitmer heard rumors that he denied his witness, he published a document affirming his witness.
The Book of Mormon answers all the questions of a student.
The Book of Mormon is the keystone of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It clarifies the atonement of Christ, the plan of Salvation, and the gospel.
