What do Mormons believe about Joseph Smith?
Mormons consider Joseph Smith, Jr. (1805–1844), the founder of the Mormon Church, to be a true prophet. Following what Mormons believe to be divine instruction, Joseph formed the Mormon Church—what is also known today as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mormons in no way worship the Prophet Joseph, but rather revere his work, understanding it to be some of the most important work of the latter-days, and remember him as a martyr for the cause.
Mormons believe Jesus Christ established a church when He was on the earth. This church was His church, and led people to understand His doctrine and commandments. By obeying His teachings and following His ministry, all people could be saved. At His death, the twelve apostles whom Jesus called continued His church on earth, being led by revelation from the Lord, until they were killed. Christ’s church withdrew from the earth.
Mormon history is interesting and could possibly begin with the church Jesus Christ built. Mormons believe the Lord Jesus Christ began in 1820 to restore His church once more to the earth. He did this through the Prophet Joseph Smith, who, at the age of 14, desired to know more about the various religions which were rampant on the earth. Joseph desired to know which sect he should join. In his person record he wrote:
“In the midst of words and tumult of opinions, I often said to myself: What is to be done? Who of all these parties are right; or, are they all wrong together? If any one of them be right, which is it, and how shall I know it?”
Around this time, I read in the Book of James, first chapter and fifth verse: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
This scripture offered Joseph an idea of what he should do. He went into the woods and knelt to pray to the Father. It was during this experience that he saw the Father and the Son and began the many years of instruction which would bring about the Church of Jesus Christ, or the Mormon religion, again to the earth. The Church of Jesus Christ (Mormon Church) has now grown to include more than 12 million members living in many nations. The Mormon Church has the same teachings and basic organization as the Church established by Jesus when He was living on the Earth.
Mormons believe Joseph Smith followed the divine instruction He received to bring back the sacred commandments, promises, and ordinances of Christ’s church. These important revelations allow men and women to be taught, receive salvation, and to live with Christ again.