Why do Mormons trust Joseph Smith: Understanding the Foundation of Latter-day Saint Belief
For those outside the faith, the question of why members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as Mormons, place such profound trust in Joseph Smith is a significant one. This trust is not a blind allegiance but is rooted in a deeply held belief that he was a prophet of God, chosen to restore Christ's original church to the earth. Understanding this requires delving into the core tenets of their faith and the events that shape their understanding of Joseph Smith's role.
The Core Belief: A Prophet of God
At the heart of Latter-day Saint belief is the conviction that God continues to communicate with humanity through prophets, just as He did in biblical times. Joseph Smith is believed to be the latest in this line of divinely appointed messengers. For Latter-day Saints, his prophetic calling isn't merely an assertion but a divinely ratified reality, substantiated by what they believe to be extraordinary spiritual experiences.
The First Vision: A Pivotal Experience
The genesis of Joseph Smith's prophetic claims, and the subsequent trust placed in him, centers on what is known as the First Vision. According to his own account, when he was just fourteen years old, Joseph was troubled by the religious disunity he witnessed among various Christian denominations. Seeking divine guidance, he went to a grove of trees near his home in western New York and knelt in prayer.
He described this experience as follows:
"I saw a pillar of light exactly brighter than all the brilliance of the sun at noon. It descended until it fell upon me. . . . When the light rested upon me I was enveloped in the midst of it, and I felt the presence of God... I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spoke unto me, calling me by name, and said, pointing to the other—‘This is My Beloved Son, Hear Him!’"
This account is foundational. Latter-day Saints believe that in this vision, God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith. They are said to have instructed him that he should join none of the existing churches, as they had "all gone astray." This experience, they believe, marked the beginning of a divine commission to Joseph Smith to restore the true church of Jesus Christ.
The Book of Mormon: A Divine Record
Another cornerstone of Latter-day Saint trust in Joseph Smith is the Book of Mormon. Joseph reported that in 1823, an angel named Moroni appeared to him and told him of ancient records inscribed on golden plates, buried in a nearby hill. These plates, Joseph claimed, contained the history of an ancient people who lived on the American continent and the dealings of God with them, including the personal ministry of Jesus Christ to them after His resurrection.
Joseph Smith then described the process of translating these plates by the "gift and power of God." The Book of Mormon was published in 1830, and Latter-day Saints view it as another testament of Jesus Christ, a companion scripture to the Bible. The evidence for its divine origin, in their eyes, is multifaceted:
- The nature of the text: They believe the Book of Mormon contains profound spiritual truths, prophecies, and teachings that could only have been revealed by God.
- The historical context: While debated by scholars, Latter-day Saints believe the book aligns with an ancient history of peoples in the Americas.
- Testimony of witnesses: The Book of Mormon includes the testimonies of several individuals who claimed to have seen the golden plates themselves, either through divine revelation or by handling them.
Restoration of Priesthood Authority
Joseph Smith and his early followers also believed that key priesthood keys and authority, which they felt had been lost from the earth since the time of the original apostles, were restored through him. They recount angelic visitations by John the Baptist, Peter, James, and John, who bestowed upon Joseph and others the authority to act in God's name, organize the Church, and administer ordinances like baptism and confirmation.
This restoration of priesthood authority is crucial for Latter-day Saints, as they believe that only those ordained with this divine authority can perform saving ordinances and lead the Church. Joseph Smith's role as the recipient and dispenser of this restored authority is therefore central to their trust.
Continuing Revelation
A vital aspect of Latter-day Saint theology is the belief in continuing revelation. They believe that God does not speak only through Joseph Smith but continues to reveal His will to His prophets today and to individual members through the Holy Ghost. However, Joseph Smith's position as the prophet through whom the original restoration occurred sets a precedent for the authority of subsequent prophets.
For Latter-day Saints, Joseph Smith's life and ministry are not viewed as a closed chapter of history but as the necessary foundation for the ongoing work of God on earth. His teachings, prophecies, and the church he organized are seen as divinely appointed instruments for the salvation and exaltment of humankind.
Addressing Doubts and Criticisms
It is important to acknowledge that Joseph Smith's life and claims have been subject to considerable scrutiny and criticism. Skeptics often point to inconsistencies in his accounts, the historical context of his era, and accusations leveled against him during his lifetime.
However, for Latter-day Saints, these criticisms are often addressed through their understanding of divine intervention, the challenges of historical interpretation, and the spiritual nature of their testimony. They often emphasize the transformative power of their faith and the personal spiritual experiences that solidify their belief in Joseph Smith's prophetic calling. Ultimately, their trust is a matter of faith, based on what they believe to be divine confirmation through prayer, the scriptures, and the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do Mormons know Joseph Smith was a prophet?
Latter-day Saints believe they can know Joseph Smith was a prophet through personal spiritual experiences, primarily through prayer and the promptings of the Holy Ghost. They are encouraged to read his history and the Book of Mormon, pray about their truthfulness, and seek a spiritual confirmation. The Bible also speaks of a "restoration" and a "new covenant," which they believe Joseph Smith fulfilled.
Why is Joseph Smith considered more important than other religious leaders?
Joseph Smith is considered uniquely important by Latter-day Saints because they believe he was chosen by God to restore Christ's original Church and its lost priesthood authority to the earth. While they revere biblical prophets, they see Joseph Smith as the key figure in a divinely ordained "dispensation" or era, initiating a new phase of God's dealings with humanity in modern times.
What if someone struggles with doubts about Joseph Smith?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints acknowledges that members may experience doubts. They encourage individuals to seek answers through prayer, study of scripture, counsel with Church leaders and fellow members, and by relying on past spiritual experiences. The faith emphasizes that doubt is a normal part of the process of strengthening faith, and that seeking truth is a valued endeavor.
