▣ Answers from the Scriptures

You asked · Latter-day Saint

Who was Joseph Smith, and was he a prophet?

Reflection

The Prophet Joseph Smith, as he is known, was a man called in latter days to restore the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth. He was but a youth when he sought earnestly for truth amidst the confusion of many religious claims, and in his seeking, he experienced divine visitations that guided him to the knowledge of God and the Father, and of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Through these heavenly encounters, he was led to a sacred record, the Book of Mormon, which bears witness of Jesus Christ and further testifies of His doctrine. He was instrumental in the re-establishment of Christ’s church upon the earth, with apostles, prophets, and the restoration of priesthood keys necessary for divine authority and ordinances. His life was one of profound faith and steadfast testimony, even unto the shedding of his blood, in bearing witness of the divine mission entrusted to him.

Passages

"And I had needed no other thing, for the Lord God had prepared my way." — Joseph Smith—History 1:20 · Pearl of Great Price

"For a seer will I raise up unto my name, and it shall be in the name of Christ." — 2 Nephi 3:6 · Book of Mormon

"And the voice of the Lord came unto him, saying: Joseph, my son, thy sins are forgiven thee." — Doctrine and Covenants 11:1 · Doctrine and Covenants

A Question for You

What does it mean to you when the scriptures speak of prophets as messengers called of God?