BoM Narrative Based on Early 19th Century Hot Topics

12 June

The Millennial Harbinger, Vol. 2:93 “This prophet Smith, through his stone spectacles, wrote on the plates of Nephi, in this book of Mormon, every error and almost every truth discussed in New York for the last ten years. He decided all the great controversies;—infant baptism, ordination, the trinity, regeneration, repentance, justification, the fall of man, the atonement, transubstantiation, fasting, penance, church government, religious experience, the call to the ministry, the general resurrection, eternal punishment, who may baptize, and even the question of free masonary, republican government, and the rights of man. All these topics are repeatedly alluded to.” — Alexander Campbell, 1833

Matthew 24:24 “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”

Alexander Campbell was a highly respected, and well known preacher in the time of America’s Second Great Awakening.

God had gifted him with the desire to preach His word, including the calling to warn others about false teachers like Joe Smith. He was one of the many who stood up to Smith’s lies, and we’re deeply indebted because of his devotion to truth.

The work entailed in the early 19th century to write, print, and then mass produce his papers was no small feat. We’re the benefactors to God’s great provision! Everything today is much different with the internet, making it easy to take works like Campbell’s for granted.

Mr. Alexander’s insight is one of the things we deal with at the ministry as people leave the Church. They’re used to being told what to do in any given situation, and it takes time to begin trusting God’s Holy Spirit will guide them through daily life.

Ask the Mormon you know if they find it strange the Nephites would’ve been talking about 19th century topics.

With Love in Christ;

Michelle

1 Cor 1:18

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