False Prophecies of Joseph Smith

05 September

120+ False Prophecies of Joseph Smith

Isaiah 8:20; “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”

D&C 132:13-14; “And everything that is in the world, whether it be ordained of men, by thrones, or principalities, or powers, or things of name, whatsoever they may be, that are not by me or by my word, saith the Lord, shall be thrown down, and shall not remain after men are dead, neither in nor after the resurrection, saith the Lord your God. 14 For whatsoever things remain are by me; and whatsoever things are not by me shall be shaken and destroyed.”

Growing up in Mormonism you’re taught from an early age the importance of having a testimony of Joseph Smith and the Church. While I recall many times being taught that loving Jesus was crucial as well, the overriding theme was certainly ensuring our loyalties were to be rooted in our heritage and its founder.

Even after I left Mormonism it never occurred to me just how deceptive Smith was until I continued the in-depth research I began before my exodus. The pedestal I had placed Smith on had obviously taken the place of any honor I should have placed on the Lord.

While it goes without saying that only one false prophecy proves a prophet false I wanted to provide further insight to those investigating Mormonism of many of the false prophecies uttered by Joseph Smith himself.

Compiling the information for this article/document has made my heart hurt.  Yeah, I’ve been in ministry for almost twenty years now (it’s Sept. 2012) and you’d think I’d get used to this stuff, but this has made me so sad.

I’ve never liked confrontations and actually go out of my way to avoid them so whenever I write another section for the site and blog or do another radio show it just kills me inside thinking of what these teachings have done to not only my family, but hundreds of thousands other families as well.

With the exception of a few doctrinal false prophecies, the majority of these false prophecies deal with timing,

Pray for my people won’t you?

With Love in Christ;

Michelle Grim

1 Cor. 1:18

1. This Generation Will be Destroyed (1830)

Joseph Smith Testimony, 1:45; “He commenced, and again related the very same things which he had done at his first visit, without the least variation; which having done, he informed me of great judgments which were coming upon the earth, with great desolations by famine, sword, and pestilence; and that these grievous judgments would come on the earth in this generation. Having related these things, he again ascended as he had done before.”

Jeremiah 27:12-15; “I spake also to Zedekiah king of Judah according to all these words, saying, Bring your necks under the yoke of the king of Babylon, and serve him and his people, and live.  13 Why will ye die, thou and thy people, by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence, as the LORD hath spoken against the nation that will not serve the king of Babylon?  14 Therefore hearken not unto the words of the prophets that speak unto you, saying, Ye shall not serve the king of Babylon: for they prophesy a lie unto you.  15 For I have not sent them, saith the LORD, yet they prophesy a lie in my name; that I might drive you out, and that ye might perish, ye, and the prophets that prophesy unto you.”

Smith wrote this in 1838.  We can see this is a false testimony and that he plagiarized part of Jeremiah.  It’s been 172 years from the time Smith wrote “this generation will be destroyed”.  A generation is typically seen as 30 years.

2. Book of Mormon White and Delightsome

2 Nephi 30:6 (after 1981); “And then shall they rejoice; for they shall know that it is a blessing unto them from the hand of God; and their scales of darkness shall begin to fall from their eyes; and many generations shall not pass away among them, save they shall be a pure and a delightsome people.”

2 Nephi 30:6 (pre 1981); “And then shall they rejoice; for they shall know that it is a blessing unto them from the hand of God; and their scales of darkness shall begin to fall from their eyes; and many generations shall not pass away among them, save they shall be a white and a delightsome people.”

According to Joseph Smith the Book of Mormon was “the most correct book”.  Here we have a false prophecy all on its own, but let’s look at the issue at hand. 

In the original 1830 BoM this said “white and delightsome and then in 1840 Smith had this changed to “pure and delightsome”, then later Brigham Young changed it back to “white and delightsome”. In 1981 the Church changed it back to “pure and delightsome”. 

So far none of the American Indians have changed colors after joining the Church. 

3. Prophecies of Joseph Smith Might be Evil

Comprehensive History of the Church 1:165; “In that view of the case we have here an alleged revelation received by the Prophet, through the “Seer Stone,” directing or allowing men to go on a mission to Canada, which fails of its purpose; namely, the sale of the copyright of the Book of Mormon in Canada. Then in explanation of the failure of that revelation, the Prophet’s announcement that all revelations are not of God; some are of men and some even from evil sources.

Proverbs 22:3; “A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.”

Here we have the Church admitting not everything coming out of the mouth of Joseph Smith is godly and sometimes his revelations are from the devil.

Would you trust this man after hearing that?  According to David Whitmer who wrote An Address to All Believers in Christ, Smith made this comment at the time they tried to sell the copyright to the Book of Mormon in Canada which took place in 1829-1830.

An Address To All Believers in Christ, pg. 31; “Well, we were all in great trouble; and we asked Joseph how it was that he had received a revelation from the Lord for some brethren to go to Toronto and sell the copy-right, and the brethren had utterly failed in their undertaking. Joseph did not know how it was, so he enquired of the Lord about it, and behold the following revelation came through the stone: “Some revelations are of God: some revelations are of man: and some revelations are of the devil.” So we see that the revelation to go to Toronto and sell the copy-right was not of God, but was of the devil or of the heart of man. When a man enquires of the Lord concerning a matter, if he is deceived by his own carnal desires, and is in error, he will receive an answer according to his erring heart, but it will not be a revelation from the Lord.”

4. God No Respecter of Persons?

D&C 1:35; “For I am no respecter of persons, and will that all men shall know that the day speedily cometh; the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand, when peace shall be taken from the earth, and the devil shall have power over his own dominion.”

Revelation through Smith in Hiram, OH on November 1, 1831. History of the Church 1:221-224.

This is the first of several 2-for-1 false prophecies Smith uttered in his career as a false prophet.  In this one we see the Mormon god is indeed a respecter of people.  At this time in Mormon history blacks weren’t allowed to hold the priesthood. 

Also note the word “nigh”; it means soon, or without delay.  While there are wars going on even at the time of this writing (May 2012), there is peace here on earth because not every nation is at war and there is peace in the hearts of every Christian.

5. All Prophecies in D&C Will be Fulfilled

D&C 1:37; “Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.”

Deuteronomy 13:1-3; “If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder, 2 And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them; 3 Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the LORD your God proveth you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul.”

Revelation through Smith in Hiram, OH on November 1, 1831. History of the Church 1:221-224.

This is obviously a false prophecy.  Polygamy is gone, David Patten died before he could go on a mission, the Civil War prophecy was only partially correct which also means it was partially wrong, there’s the whole Temple Lot fiasco, the Kirtland anti-Banking Society mess, the joke of the Kinderhook plates, the race issue in 1978…

6. God’s Word Won’t Pass Away

D&C 1:38-39; “What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same. 39 For behold, and lo, the Lord is God, and the Spirit beareth record, and the record is true, and the truth abideth forever and ever. Amen.”

Revelation through Smith in Hiram, OH on November 1, 1831. History of the Church 1:221-224.

I wouldn’t be able to count the number of changes that have been made in the Doctrine and Covenants alone. You can do a side by side comparison of the two books (D&C & Book of Commandments) to see for yourself but plan on being at your desk for a long while.  This doesn’t account for the changes made in the Book of Mormon (3,900+).

7. John the Apostle; Of the Lost Ten Tribes?

Discourses of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg. 264-265; “In addition to the spiritual manifestations already mentioned as having occurred at this conference of June 3rd-6th, it should be said that, according to John Whitmer’s History of the Church, ch. v: “The Spirit of the Lord fell upon Joseph in an unusual manner, and he prophesied that John the Revelator was then among the Ten Tribes of Israel who had been led away by Salmanasser, king of Assyria, to prepare them for their return from their long dispersion, to again possess the land of their fathers. He prophesied many more things that I have not written.” (HC 1:176.)”

Matthew 4:21-22; “And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.  22 And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.

The story of the “Lost Ten Tribes” can be read in any history book and also in 1 & 2 Kings as well as the book of Isaiah.  The Assyrian Empire and their takeover of the Northern Kingdoms (tribes) took place circa 735 BC, some 760 years before the Apostle John met Jesus. 

Additionally, the name “John” is the Greek form of the Hebrew name meaning “Yahweh has been gracious”.  It is understood John was a Jew from Palestine, the son of Zebedee and the brother of James.

8. John the Apostle Captured by Assyrians

Encyclopedia of JS Teachings, pg. 402; “The Spirit of the Lord fell upon Joseph in an unusual manner, and he prophesied that John the Revelator was then among the Ten Tribes of Israel who had been led away by Shalmaneser, king of Assyria, to prepare them for their return from their long dispersion.”

Mark 1:19-20; “And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.  20 And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.”

This was chronicled at the Conference of the Church in Kirtland, OH between June 3-6, 1831.

How could this historical event with the apostle John be?  Look at a history book and you’ll see the Assyrians took over the Northern Kingdom of Israel circa 735 BC.  The apostle John lived at the time of Jesus. 

9. Works of God Cannot Fail

D&C 3:1; “The works, and the designs, and the purposes of God cannot be frustrated, neither can they come to naught.

Prophecy given in Harmony, PA in July 1828. History of the Church 1:21-23. 

Clearly this turned out to be a false prophecy since most of the prophecies in D&C alone came to naught. 

10. Conversion of the American Indian Peoples

D&C 3:3 (1828); This passage in the Doctrine and Covenants is Joseph Smith’s prophecy the Lamanites (Indian people) will all be saved.  This prophecy was given in July 1828. 

“Remember, remember that it is not the work of God that is frustrated, but the work of men”.

Here’s proof that this prophecy and work is of Joseph Smith and company and not God.  If God’s work cannot be frustrated then the Mormon god would’ve saved these people by now. It’s been 183 years since that prophecy and the Lamanites haven’t been saved, and the majority of those who do convert leave Mormonism within a year after conversion.  See Cumorah  for statistical facts on retention rates in South and Central America. 

Revelation given in Harmony, PA, July 1828. History of the Church 1:21-23. 

It’s pretty evident from Smith’s own words and God’s warning this is a false prophecy and the results of this are for us to disregard the false prophet.

11. Earth Destroyed like Jerusalem for Rejecting BoM

D&C 5:5, 12, 13, 19-20; “Verily, I say unto you, that woe shall come unto the inhabitants of the earth if they will not hearken unto my words; 12 Yea, they shall know of a surety that these things are true, for from heaven will I declare it unto them.13 I will give them power that they may behold and view these things as they are… For a desolating scourge shall go forth among the inhabitants of the earth, and shall continue to be poured out from time to time, if they repent not, until the earth is empty, and the inhabitants thereof are consumed away and utterly destroyed by the brightness of my coming.20 Behold, I tell you these things, even as I also told the people of the destruction of Jerusalem; and my word shall be verified at this time as it hath hitherto been verified.”

Prophecy given in Harmony, Pennsylvania in March 1829. History of the Church 1:28-31.

First of all woe didn’t happen to all those who rejected the LDS message.

Secondly, the original witnesses later rejected Mormonism.

Thirdly, the eleven and not even the original three witnesses ever saw the plates. They only saw them with “spiritual eyes”.

And lastly, the earth hasn’t seen any punishment for rejecting the Book of Mormon.

12. John the Apostle Never Dies

D&C 7:3; “And the Lord said unto me: Verily, verily, I say unto thee, because thou desirest this thou shalt tarry until I come in my glory, and shalt prophesy before nations, kindreds, tongues and people.”

Prophecy given in Harmony, PA in April 1829.  History of the Church 1:35-36.

John the Apostle did in fact die in Patmos, Greece circa 100 AD. 

If he didn’t die then why did God tell Joseph NO ONE was following Him?  Hmmm…today’s insight was a 2-fer.  Good job Joe.

13. Oliver Cowdery Promised Power of God & Gift of Aaron Forever

D&C 8:6-8; “Now this is not all thy gift; for you have another gift, which is the gift of Aaron; behold, it has told you many things; Behold, there is no other power, save the power of God, that can cause this gift of Aaron to be with you. Therefore, doubt not, for it is the gift of God; and you shall hold it in your hands, and do marvelous works; and no power shall be able to take it away out of your hands, for it is the work of God.”

Prophecy given in Harmony, PA in April 1829.  History of the Church 1:36-37.

Cowdery was ex-communicated in April 1838.

14. The Greatest Worth of John Whitmer

D&C 15:6; “And now, behold, I say unto you, that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you will be to declare repentance unto this people, that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father. Amen.”

Revelation to John Whitmer in Fayette, NY in June 1829.  History of the Church 1:50.

John Whitmer was excommunicated in the Far West fiasco along with the rest of his family in April 1838. Clearly, this gospel wasn’t worth all that much to Mr. Whitmer.

15. The Greatest Worth of Peter Whitmer, Jr.

D&C 16:6; “And now, behold, I say unto you, that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you will be to declare repentance unto this people, that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father. Amen.”

Revelation to Peter Whitmer, Jr. in Fayette, NY in June 1829.  History of the Church 1:50.

Kinda strange that Peter’s divine words from God to Smith were exactly like his brother’s in D&C 15:6.   He too was excommunicated in 1838.

16. What the Witnesses Witnessed

D&C 17:1, 3-4, 6; “Behold, I say unto you, that you must rely upon my word, which if you do with full purpose of heart, you shall have a view of the plates, and also of the breastplate, the sword of Laban, the Urim and Thummim, which were given to the brother of Jared upon the mount, when he talked with the Lord face to face…3 And after that you have obtained faith, and have seen them with your eyes, you shall testify of them, by the power of God; 4 And this you shall do that my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., may not be destroyed, that I may bring about my righteous purposes unto the children of men in this work. 6 And he has translated the book, even that part which I have commanded him, and as your Lord and your God liveth it is true.”

Revelation given to Cowdery, Whitmer and Harris in Fayette, NY in June 1829.  History of the Church 1:52-57.

This is the all important introduction of who saw what when.  The reality of what the three witnesses saw doesn’t match up with what the average Mormon thinks happened.  These three men didn’t physically see the plates or the breastplate, they didn’t physically see the sword of Laban, nor were they able to keep their testimonies for the rest of their lives.  Each of these fellows was ex-communicated from the only true church on the face of the earth.

 In addition to their sketchy testimonies we have our favorite 2 for 1 deals.  The Book of Mormon has proven to be false so verse six in this section is a false prophecy.

17. Location, Location, Location

D&C 19:18-19; “Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink—Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men.”

Revelation given in Manchester, NY in March 1830.  History of the Church 1:72-74.

You’ll notice I’m sure this all important belief in Mormonism has been stashed away in a location where the unknowing Christian would never think to look. Not only is the location of this false teaching deceiving so is the actual philosophy that Jesus paid for sins in the Garden of Gethsemane.    

 The dark sins of mankind were being illuminated in the Garden of Gethsemane that day. Just as sin got man kicked out of another garden, it would be in this garden (Gethsemane) the act of reconciliation would begin.   And while the Mormon likes to believe the atonement took place here, they’ve turned their backs on God’s gift of Calvary. 

Remember how Adam and Eve questioned God’s rules by entertaining the serpent’s evil interjection?  They had turned their backs as well on God’s promise of walking unencumbered with God and receiving the gift of life.

Mormons have based their doctrine on one story in the Bible that we read about in Luke 22:44, Matt. 26:36, and Mark 14:32.  Lk 22:44;

“And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.”

And if they believed the atonement took place in Gethsemane then why do they also teach Jesus paid for sins on the cross?

Also see D&C 21:9, 35:2, 46:13, 53:6 & 76:41 for other times in this article Smith used the phrase “Jesus crucified for sins”.

18. To Tell the Truth…or Not

D&C 19:31, 37; “And of tenets thou shalt not talk, but thou shalt declare repentance and faith on the Savior, and remission of sins by baptism, and by fire, yea, even the Holy Ghost.  And speak freely to all; yea, preach, exhort, declare the truth, even with a loud voice, with a sound of rejoicing, crying—Hosanna, hosanna, blessed be the name of the Lord God!”

Revelation given in Manchester, NY in March 1830.  History of the Church 1:72-74.

See D&C 42:12; “And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel,..”

So do they teach and talk about their beliefs or don’t they? And why wouldn’t you want to talk about your belief system if you’re a missionary? Isn’t a missionary the very definition of sharing your faith?

19. A Fallen People & Fullness of the Gospel

D&C 20:9; “Which contains a record of a fallen people, and the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles and to the Jews also.”

This is a false prophecy because Smith has contradicted himself by saying the Book of Mormon is about a fallen people.  Mormons don’t believe in original sin. 

2nd Article of Faith; We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.

Secondly, the Book of Mormon does not contain the “fullness of the gospel”.  There is no commandment to practice polygamy, no instruction on church government; no families are forever, nothing about Jesus being a polygamist, nothing about temple marriages, no baptisms for the dead…   

20. God Doesn’t Change

D&C 20:17; “By these things we know that there is a God in heaven, who is infinite and eternal, from everlasting to everlasting the same unchangeable God, the framer of heaven and earth, and all things which are in them.”

Revelation given in April 1830.  History of the Church 1:64-70.

Mormon 9:9 says God doesn’t change.  Also see D&C 76:4 in this article that says God doesn’t change.

How can this god be the same if he was once a man and became a god?

21. The Trinity

D&C 20:28; “Which Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one God, infinite and eternal, without end. Amen.”

Revelation given in April 1830.  History of the Church 1:64-70.

See D&C 130:22-23 in this article on how Smith changed his mind about the nature of God not long after the Church was officially organized. The Book of Mormon has numerous verses supporting a Trinitarian God that is also taught in the Bible.

22. Gates of Hell Prevailed Against Believers

D&C 21:6, 9; “6 For by doing these things the gates of hell shall not prevail against you; yea, and the Lord God will disperse the powers of darkness from before you, and cause the heavens to shake for your good, and his name’s glory.  9 For, behold, I will bless all those who labor in my vineyard with a mighty blessing, and they shall believe on his words, which are given him through me by the Comforter, which manifesteth that Jesus was crucified by sinful men for the sins of the world, yea, for the remission of sins unto the contrite heart.”

Revelation given in Fayette, NY on April 6, 1830. History of the Church 1:74-79.

There are a few things going on in this prophecy, but let’s take a look at what didn’t happen, making this a false prophecy. The other issues are doctrinal which I’ve tried not to cover too much in this analysis, but I’m listing it this time because they’re part of this section.

Smith claimed the heavens would shake and that never happened. Many of those who labored in the vineyard of the Mormon god were not blessed. In fact, many lost most of their money invested in preaching and then ended up leaving the Church altogether.  

The doctrinal issues are the gates of hell that did prevail, in addition to the contradictory issue of Jesus being crucified for the sins of the world. D&C 19:18-19 clearly states Jesus paid for sins in the Garden of Eden. 

Also see D&C 35:2, 46:13, 53:6 & 76:41 for other times in this article Smith used the phrase “Jesus crucified for sins”.

23. Joseph Commanded to Write Book of Mormon

D&C 24:1; “Behold, thou wast called and chosen to write the Book of Mormon, and to my ministry; and I have lifted thee up out of thine afflictions, and have counseled thee, that thou hast been delivered from all thine enemies, and thou hast been delivered from the powers of Satan and from darkness!”

Prophecy given in Harmony, PA in July 1830.  History of the Church 1:101-103. 

Hopefully the wording in this one will shout out to all who read it.  Why would God state Joseph had been commanded to write the Book of Mormon?  The Church is pretty vocal about making sure everyone knows he didn’t write it, but merely translated. 

Again, we have another 2-for-1 with this prophecy.  Joseph was not delivered from his enemies. By this time people had already shunned him and were speaking out against him.

24. Unanswered Prayers

D&C 29:6; “And, as it is written—Whatsoever ye shall ask in faith, being united in prayer according to my command, ye shall receive.”

Prophecy given in September 1830 in Fayette, NY.  History of the Church 1:112.

If this prophecy was true the Saints would still be in Kirtland, Ohio.  Instead they were driven out of Kirtland to Missouri then to Nauvoo then to Utah.  Certainly they prayed for God to stay the hands of their enemies, yet we see and can only imagine what they must have thought when the Mormon god kept letting them down. 

See Jesus’ promises in Matt. 21:22, Mark 11:35 & John 14:13-14, 15:7.

25. Saints Gathered in One Place

D&C 29:8; “Wherefore the decree hath gone forth from the Father that they shall be gathered in unto one place upon the face of this land, to prepare their hearts and be prepared in all things against the day when tribulation and desolation are sent forth upon the wicked.”

Prophecy given in September 1830 in Fayette, NY.  History of the Church 1:112.

This can’t be true because they kept moving and moving and moving and no desolations were sent upon the wicked non-Mormon Gentiles.

26. Earth Will Be Destroyed – the Hour is Nigh

D&C 29:9-11; “For the hour is nigh and the day soon at hand when the earth is ripe; and all the proud and they that do wickedly shall be as stubble; and I will burn them up, saith the Lord of Hosts, that wickedness shall not be upon the earth; 10 For the hour is nigh, and that which was spoken by mine apostles must be fulfilled; for as they spoke so shall it come to pass;  11 For I will reveal myself from heaven with power and great glory, with all the hosts thereof, and dwell in righteousness with men on earth a thousand years, and the wicked shall not stand.”

Prophecy given in September 1830 in Fayette, NY.  History of the Church 1:112.

This prophecy was given in September 1830 in Fayette, NY.  At the time of this writing (4/2012) it’s been 182 years and we’re still waiting… 

www.dictionary.com describes nigh this way; “near in space, time or relation, nearly or almost”. 

27. Was 1830 Last Call for Missionaries?

D&C 33:3; “For behold, the field is white already to harvest; and it is the eleventh hour, and the last time that I shall call laborers into my vineyard.”

Prophecy given in Fayette, NY in October 1830. History of the Church 1:126-127.

This is obviously false as missionaries are still out in the field gathering new converts in 2012.

28. Jesus Crucified for Sins of Man

D&C 35:2; “I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who was crucified for the sins of the world, even as many as will believe on my name, that they may become the sons of God, even one in me as I am one in the Father, as the Father is one in me, that we may be one.”

D&C 19:18; “Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink—”

Revelation given at or near Fayette, NY in December 1830. History of the Church 1:128-131.

False prophecies can be categorized in a few different ways. One of the ways to utter a false prophecy is through doctrine.  When you’ve taught one thing about a subject and clearly contradict yourself (i.e. lie) about the same subject matter at another time, God considers this a false prophecy.  Not me, not the guy down the street and not your Sunday school teacher.  God.  He makes up the rules and we abide in them if we call ourselves Christians. 

Remember, Smith’s prophecy taught Jesus shed his blood and paid for the sins of man in the Garden of Gethsemane.  They believe Jesus died on the cross, but the “atonement” was paid for in Gethsemane, not on the Cross at Calvary.

Also see D&C 21:9, 46:13, 53:6 & 76:41 for other times in this article Smith used the phrase “Jesus crucified for sins”.

29. Backtracking with James Covill

D&C 39:7-14, 40:1-3; “7 And now, behold, I say unto you, my servant James, I have looked upon thy works and I know thee.8 And verily I say unto thee, thine heart is now right before me at this time; and, behold, I have bestowed great blessings upon thy head;9 Nevertheless, thou hast seen great sorrow, for thou hast rejected me many times because of pride and the cares of the world.10 But, behold, the days of thy deliverance are come, if thou wilt hearken to my voice, which saith unto thee: Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on my name, and you shall receive my Spirit, and a blessing so great as you never have known.11 And if thou do this, I have prepared thee for a greater work. Thou shalt preach the fulness of my gospel, which I have sent forth in these last days, the covenant which I have sent forth to recover my people, which are of the house of Israel.12 And it shall come to pass that power shall rest upon thee; thou shalt have great faith, and I will be with thee and go before thy face.13 Thou art called to labor in my vineyard, and to build up my church, and to bring forth Zion, that it may rejoice upon the hills and flourish.14 Behold, verily, verily, I say unto thee, thou art not called to go into the eastern countries, but thou art called to go to the Ohio.”

“1 Behold, verily I say unto you, that the heart of my servant James Covill was right before me, for he covenanted with me that he would obey my word. 2 And he received the word with gladness, but straightway Satan tempted him; and the fear of persecution and the cares of the world caused him to reject the word. 3 Wherefore he broke my covenant, and it remaineth with me to do with him as seemeth me good. Amen.”

Revelation in section 39 was given January 5, 1831. Revelation in section 40 was given the same month of same year.  History of the Church 1:143-145.

The problem here is timing once again…  In section 39 we see the Mormon god who made plans for Coville and gave specific instructions on what he was to do and where to go. 

Less than a month later the Mormon god is writing more scripture to reverse engineer what he had revealed to Smith. 

30. Book of Mormon Fullness of the Gospel?

D&C 42:12; “And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel, which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel.”

Revelation given in Kirtland, OH on February 9, 1831. History of the Church 1:148-154.

Again, the BoM does not contain the fullness of the gospel

Also see false prophecies D&C 20:9, 76:14 & 90:11 on this topic in this article.

There’s another false prophecy here and it’s a doctrinal contradiction.  In D&C 19:31 it says; “And of tenets thou shalt not talk…”

Are they to teach the principles of the gospel or not?  According to www.dictionary.com the word tenets means principle, doctrine, dogma, especially one held as true by members of a profession, group or movement”.

31. Polygamy NOT Allowed

D&C 42:22; “Thou shalt love thy wife with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her and none else.”

Revelation given in Kirtland, OH on February 9, 1831. History of the Church 1:148-154.

Oh my, what a tangled web we weave…

You’ll want to read D&C 132:4-7, 16-17…never mind, just read the whole thing through.

Here’s a list of Joseph Smith’s wives.

For a list of other Church leaders and their wives see our articles on polygamy and Mormon Church Leaders. 

Also see D&C 49:16 in this article.

32. Mormons to Purchase Land of Refuge for New Jerusalem

D&C 45:64-67; “Wherefore I, the Lord, have said, gather ye out from the eastern lands, assemble ye yourselves together ye elders of my church; go ye forth into the western countries, call upon the inhabitants to repent, and inasmuch as they do repent, build up churches unto me. 65 And with one heart and with one mind, gather up your riches that ye may purchase an inheritance which shall hereafter be appointed unto you.66 And it shall be called the New Jerusalem, a land of peace, a city of refuge, a place of safety for the saints of the Most High God; 67 And the glory of the Lord shall be there, and the terror of the Lord also shall be there, insomuch that the wicked will not come unto it, and it shall be called Zion.”

This prophecy was given on March 7, 1831 in Kirtland, OH.  History of the Church 1:158-163. 

Fighting with the locals (Mormon War of 1838) culminated in the “Extermination Order” issued by Missouri Governor Lilburn Boggs forcing them to leave New Jerusalem and settle in Nauvoo, IL.  The “wicked” (non-Mormons) indeed penetrated this place.

33. Jesus Crucified for Sins

D&C 46:13; “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.”

Revelation given to the Church in Kirtland, OH on March 8, 1831. History of the Church 1:163-165.

As mentioned before there will only be a few times I focus upon false prophecies in the doctrine category, obviously this is one of those as it shows a total disregard for Jesus and what He went through to secure our salvation.

This also contradicts D&C 19:18.

Also see D&C 21:9, 35:2, 53:6 & 76:41 in this article for other times Smith used this phrase.

34. Nations Will Bow to Mormon Gospel

D&C 49:9-10; March, 1831. “Wherefore, I say unto you that have sent unto mine everlasting covenant, even that which was from the beginning. And that which I have promised I have so fulfilled, and the nations of the earth shall bow to it; and, if not of themselves, they shall come down, for that which is not exalted of itself shall be laid low of power.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH in March 18, 1831.

No nation has bowed to the Mormon gospel.

35. ONE WIFE???

D&C 49:16; “Wherefore, it is lawful that he should have one wife, and they twain shall be one flesh, and all this that the earth might answer the end of its creation.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH in March 1831. 

People can say what they want about this particular false prophecy. I’ve placed it here because I found it curious indeed Smith would point out it’s ordained of God to be married, but used the phrase “one wife”.  

There are statements made by leaders in the Church who concede Smith was teaching about and practicing polygamy as early as 1831.  Either way, this stands out as a contradictory doctrine which is a false prophecy. 

Also see D&C 42:22 & 132 in this article regarding Smith’s prophecy of only having one wife in addition to our article on all of Smith’s wives.

If the Church intended for everyone to have but one wife, someone should’ve informed my family because my great-great grandfather had five wives.

36. Jesus Crucified for Sins

D&C 53:2; “Behold, I, the Lord, who was crucified for the sins of the world, give unto you a commandment that you shall forsake the world.”

Revelation given in Kirtland, OH in June 1831. History of the Church 1:179-180. 

As mentioned many times before, this contradicts D&C 19:18 and the Church holds fast to this teaching today (2012).

Also see D&C 21:9, 35:2, 46:13 & 76:41 for other times in this article Smith used the phrase “Jesus crucified for sins”.

37. New Jerusalem is in Independence, MO

D&C 57:2-5; “Wherefore, this is the land of promise, and the place for the city of Zion.  3 And thus saith the Lord your God, if you will receive wisdom here is wisdom. Behold, the place which is now called Independence is the center place; and a spot for the temple is lying westward, upon a lot which is not far from the courthouse.  4 Wherefore, it is wisdom that the land should be purchased by the saints.. Behold, this is wisdom, that they may obtain it for an everlasting inheritance.”

Zechariah 14:3-4; “Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he fought in the day of battle.  4 ¶ And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.”

This is another false prophecy by Smith, given on July 20, 1831.  Today there is still no temple in Independence, MO.  If they were to be there for an everlasting inheritance why aren’t they still there?  The Church does have some property there, but only with a visitor’s center and a plaque in the ground resenbling a grave marker.

38. Mormon God Can’t Keep Promises

D&C 62:6, 9; “Behold, I, the Lord, have brought you together that the promise might be fulfilled, that the faithful among you should be preserved and rejoice together in the land of Missouri. I, the Lord, promise the faithful and cannot lie. Behold, the kingdom is yours. And behold, and lo, I am with the faithful always. Even so. Amen.”

Prophecy given August 13, 1831. History of the Church 1:205-206.

The faithful weren’t preserved – in fact, they were kicked out of Missouri, therefore their god does indeed lie.

39. Zion (Independence MO) Will Flourish

D&C 64:41-42; “For, behold, I say unto you that Zion shall flourish, and the glory of the Lord shall be upon her; 42 And she shall be an ensign unto the people, and there shall come unto her out of every nation under heaven.”

Prophecy given September 11, 1831. History of the Church 1:211-214.

Independence, MO has never “flourished”, the glory of the Lord isn’t there, they’re not an ensign to the people and the people of the earth don’t “come unto her”.   

40. Prophecies of Smith…and Poof They Were Gone!

D&C 68:3-4; “And this is the ensample unto them, that they shall speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost. 4 And whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture, shall be the will of the Lord, shall be the mind of the Lord, shall be the word of the Lord, shall be the voice of the Lord, and the power of God unto salvation.”

D&C 36:5; “That as many as shall come before my servants Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith, Jun., embracing this calling and commandment, shall be ordained and sent forth to preach the everlasting gospel among the nations—”

Revelation given in Hiram, OH in November 1831. History of the Church 1:227-229.

This prophecy flies in the face of what Church leaders did in 1978 (just one example). LDS Apostle Bruce McConkie made the following statement in a speech at the CES Religious Educators Symposium; two months after the Church accepted blacks into the priesthood;

“It doesn’t make a particle of difference what anybody ever said about the Negro matter before the first day of June of this year, 1978. It is a new day and a new arrangement, and the Lord has now given the revelation that sheds light out into the world on this subject. As to any slivers of light or any particles of darkness of the past, we forget about them.” – All Are Alike Unto God, August 1978

So much for the “everlasting gospel” of Mormonism.  Sadly for the Mormon there is never any assurance from one day to the next. Their prophecies from past prophets, scriptures written by Smith and/or rewritten and voted on by Church members today or tomorrow have the foreboding chance of becoming extinct whether they’re from Smith or not.  Their very life hangs in the balance before them.

Deut. 28:66-67; “And thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life: 67 In the morning thou shalt say, Would God it were even! and at even thou shalt say, Would God it were morning! for the fear of thine heart wherewith thou shalt fear, and for the sight of thine eyes which thou shalt see.”

Encyclopedia of Mormonism, pg. 1278; “The President alone speaks or writes for the Church and to the Church as a whole. Others can function similarly, but only within their own offices and callings. Further, “a prophet was a prophet only when he was acting as such” (HC 5:265; 2:302; TPJS, p. 278). Those officially called and ordained to lead are, in LDS terminology, the “living oracles,” and “Where the oracles of God are not there the Kingdom of God is not” (WJS, p. 156). Only the President of the Church has the responsibility and burden of exercising all the keys of scriptural presentation and declaration. These principles and practices are established to safeguard the sanctity, and vitalize the application, of inspired speaking and writing, both past and present.”

41. Generations Possess Land of Zion Forever

D&C 69:8; “Preaching and expounding, writing, copying, selecting, and obtaining all things which shall be for the good of the church, and for the rising generations that shall grow up on the land of Zion, to possess it from generation to generation, forever and ever. Amen.”

Revelation given in Hiram, OH in November 1831. History of the Church 1:234-235.

The Mormon Church doesn’t consider Ohio, Missouri or even Nauvoo, Illinois to be their Zion.  Clearly, this is a false prophecy.

42. Confounding and Shaming Your Enemies

D&C 71:7-10; “7 Wherefore, confound your enemies; call upon them to meet you both in public and in private; and inasmuch as ye are faithful their shame shall be made manifest.  8 Wherefore, let them bring forth their strong reasons against the Lord.9 Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you—there is no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper;10 And if any man lift his voice against you he shall be confounded in mine own due time.”

Prophecy given in Hiram, OH on December 1, 1831. History of the Church 1:238-239.

There have been hundreds (countless really) of people who’ve come up against the Mormon Church to prove their doctrines aren’t biblical – all without becoming confounded!  Even today you can see ministries putzin’ right along without being confounded, including this one!

43. Lyman Johnson’s Mission to Eastern Countries

D&C 75:14; “And again, verily I say unto my servant Lyman Johnson, and unto my servant Orson Pratt, they shall also take their journey into the eastern countries; and behold, and lo, I am with them also, even unto the end.”

Revelation given in Amherst, OH on January 25, 1832. History of the Church 1:242-245.

Lyman Johnson did go on a mission with Pratt, but not into any other country, just the good ol’ USA. 

“January 25, 1832 called on a mission to the East with Orson Pratt. Leaving February 3, they travel through Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York city, to Hurlgate, on Long Island, preaching thirty times on the way, “where they previously had never heard the Gospel.” Lyman and Hazen Aldrich begin return trip from Spafford, New York on November 8, 1832. Orson arrives in Kirtland February 17, 1833.”  http://www.saintswithouthalos.com/b/johnson_le.phtml

While the term “countries” may mean country side or if it was a misspelling meaning counties, this has still qualified as a false prophecy.  The Mormon god didn’t stick around with Lyman for very long.  He was excommunicated in April 1838.

44. God is the Only Savior and Always the Same

D&C 76:2, 4; “Hear, O ye heavens, and give ear, O earth, and rejoice ye inhabitants thereof, for the Lord is God, and beside him there is no Savior. 4 From eternity to eternity he is the same, and his years never fail.”

Vision given in Hiram, OH on February 16, 1832.  History of the Church 1:245-252.

Here we have another 2-for-1.  They’re quite common aren’t they?  This “vision” or “prophecy” or whatever you’d like to call it dispels the idea of man becoming god.  Also see D&C 20:17 which says God doesn’t change.

45. Fullness of the Gospel again…oh brother

D&C 76:14; “Of whom we bear record; and the record which we bear is the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ, who is the Son, whom we saw and with whom we conversed in the heavenly vision.”

D&C 19:31; “And of tenets thou shalt not talk, but thou shalt declare repentance and faith on the Savior, and remission of sins by baptism, and by fire, yea, even the Holy Ghost.”

Vision given in Hiram, OH on February 16, 1832.  History of the Church 1:245-252.

This can’t be true because it contradicts a previous revelation to the missionary Saints.  Are they to bear record of what they believe or not?

46. Jesus Crucified for Sins Again…

D&C 76:41; “That he came into the world, even Jesus, to be crucified for the world, and to bear the sins of the world, and to sanctify the world, and to cleanse it from all unrighteousness.”

Given in Hiram, OH on February 16, 1832.  History of the Church 1:245-252.

This is the fifth time Smith used this phrase in Doctrine and Covenants.  This “revelation” and doctrine is diametrically opposed to the belief system Smith taught his adherents regarding how Jesus paid for the sins of man.

Also see D&C 21:9, 35:2, 46:13, & 53:6 in this article for other times Smith used this phrase.

47. Joseph is Enoch and Adam is Michael

Revelation given in Hiram, OH, March 1821. History of the Church 1:255-257.

D&C 78:1, 16;The Lord spake unto Joseph Smith, Jun., saying: Hearken unto me, saith the Lord your God, who are ordained unto the high priesthood of my church, who have assembled yourselves together…”

History of the Church 1:255;The Lord spake unto Enoch [Joseph Smith, Jun.], saying: Hearken unto me, saith the Lord your God, who are ordained unto the high priesthood of my church, who have assembled yourselves together…”

Is Joseph not always Enoch? Why was this changed in Doctrine and Covenants?

D&C 78:16; “Who hath appointed Michael your prince, and established his feet, and set him upon high, and given unto him the keys of salvation under the counsel and direction of the Holy One, who is without beginning of days or end of life.”

In Mormonism Adam is also Michael who at one time was also God, but in recent years the Church took a step back from the Adam-God theory and now only teaches that Adam is Michael the Archangel. 

Encyclopedia of Mormonism, pg 17; “Adam has been highly esteemed by all the prophets, both ancient and modern. President Brigham Young expressed the idea in 1852 and later years that Adam “is our Father and our God, and the only God with whom we have to do” (JD 1:50). This remark has led some to conjecture that Brigham Young meant that Adam, who was on earth as our progenitor, was in reality God the Father. However, this interpretation has been officially rejected as incorrect (Kimball, p. 77).”

48. Stephen Burnett Will Preach with Nothing Amiss

D&C 80:1, 3; “Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you my servant Stephen Burnett: Go ye, go ye into the world and preach the gospel to every creature that cometh under the sound of your voice. 3 Wherefore, go ye and preach my gospel, whether to the north or to the south, to the east or to the west, it mattereth not, for ye cannot go amiss.”

Prophecy given in Hiram, OH in March 1832. History of the Church 1:257.

Mr. Burnett was converted in November 1830.  By the time 1838 rolled around he wrote a letter to Lyman Johnson declaring Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon liars.  Apparently something was amiss.  http://saintswithouthalos.com/w/1838_burnett_johnson.phtml

49. New Jerusalem

D&C 84:2-3; “Yea, the word of the Lord concerning his church, established in the last days for the restoration of his people, as he has spoken by the mouth of his prophets, and for the gathering of his saints to stand upon Mount Zion, which shall be the city of New Jerusalem. 3 Which city shall be built, beginning at the temple lot, which is appointed by the finger of the Lord, in the western boundaries of the State of Missouri, and dedicated by the hand of Joseph Smith, Jun., and others with whom the Lord was well pleased.”

Revelation 21:1-2; “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.  2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.”

As noted before the “temple lot” still sits empty of any temple.  Additionally, the New Jerusalem won’t be anywhere near Missouri.

50. Temple in Independence, Missouri

Doctrines and Covenants 84:5, 31; “For verily this generation shall not all pass away until an house shall be built unto the Lord, and a cloud shall rest upon it, which cloud shall be even the glory of the Lord, which shall fill the house.  Therefore, as I said concerning the sons of Moses—for the sons of Moses and also the sons of Aaron shall offer an acceptable offering and sacrifice in the house of the Lord, which house shall be built unto the Lord in this generation, upon the consecrated spot as I have appointed—”

Titus 1:13-14; “This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; 14 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.”

The prophecy given by Smith in Kirtland, Ohio on September 22nd & 23rd, 1832 qualifies as a false prophecy.  No temple was built in Missouri before Smith died in June 1844. 

Also see History of the Church 1:286-295. 

Smith repeated this prophecy in D&C 97 & 101 as well.

www.dictionary.com defines generation this way; “the entire body of individuals born and living at about the same time – the term of years, roughly 30 among human beings, accepted as the average period between the birth of parents and the birth of their offspring.

So – 30 years for a generation means this is 150 years late.  At the time of this writing it’s 4/2012.

51. New York and Boston to be Destroyed if they Reject Gospel

D&C 84:114; “Nevertheless, let the bishop go unto the city of New York, also to the city of Albany, and also to the city of Boston, and warn the people of those cities with the sound of the gospel, with a loud voice, of the desolation and utter abolishment which await them if they do reject these things.”

This prophecy was given in Kirtland, OH on September 22 & 23, 1832. 

New York, Albany and Boston were obviously not destroyed.

52. Civil War Prophecy

D&C 87:1-6; “Verily, thus saith the Lord concerning the wars that will shortly come to pass, beginning at the rebellion of South Carolina, which will eventually terminate in the death and misery of many souls; 2 And the time will come that war will be poured out upon all nations, beginning at this place. 3 For behold, the Southern States shall be divided against the Northern States, and the Southern States will call on other nations, even the nation of Great Britain, as it is called, and they shall also call upon other nations, in order to defend themselves against other nations; and then war shall be poured out upon all nations.4 And it shall come to pass, after many days, slaves shall rise up against their masters, who shall be marshaled and disciplined for war.5 And it shall come to pass also that the remnants who are left of the land will marshal themselves, and shall become exceedingly angry, and shall vex the Gentiles with a sore vexation.6 And thus, with the sword and by bloodshed the inhabitants of the earth shall mourn; and with famine, and plague, and earthquake, and the thunder of heaven, and the fierce and vivid lightning also, shall the inhabitants of the earth be made to feel the wrath, and indignation, and chastening hand of an Almighty God, until the consumption decreed hath made a full end of all nations.”

Jer. 14:14; “Then the LORD said to me, “The prophets are prophesying falsehood in My name. I have neither sent them nor commanded them nor spoken to them; they are prophesying to you a false vision, divination, futility and the deception of their own minds.

Prophecy given by Smith on December 25, 1832.

The Mormons like to use this passage in the Book of Mormon as proof  Joseph Smith had a prophecy that came true.

Fact:  this passage in the Book of Mormon is a false prophecy.  In verse 2 it says that war will be poured out on all nations.  This still hasn’t happened.

53. Twelve LDS Apostles in Heaven

D&C 88 and History of the Church 2:381-382

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH on December 27, 1832.

This large section tells us of a prophecy given by Joseph Smith in which he sees the twelve LDS apostles in heavenly glory.  However, if you dig a little deeper we learn that five of those apostles were ex-communicated from the fold!  Part of this revelation can also be found in D&C 88.

And I finally saw the Twelve in the celestial kingdom of God. I also beheld the redemption of Zion, and many things which the tongue of man cannot describe in full…Further Visions and Revelations.  The visions of heaven were opened to them also. Some of them saw the face of the Savior, and others were ministered unto by holy angels, and the spirit of prophecy and revelation was poured out in mighty power; and loud hosannas, and glory to God in the highest, saluted the heavens, for we all communed with the heavenly host. And I saw in my vision all of the Presidency in the celestial kingdom of God, and many others that were present.” – Joseph Smith

Lyman Johnson HC 3:20; “…and he was cut off from the Church.

Luke Johnson HC 2:528; Apostasy in Kirtland.  I returned to Kirtland on or about the 10th of December. During my absence in Missouri Warren Parrish, John F. Boynton, Luke S. Johnson, Joseph Coe, and some others united together for the overthrow of the Church.”
William McLellin HC 3:31; “…he had no confidence in the heads of the Church, believing they had transgressed, and had got out of the way, consequently he quit praying and keeping the commandments of God, and indulged himself in his lustful desires…
William Smith HC 7:483; “William Smith who has published a pamphlet against the Twelve was excommunicated from the church by unanimous vote.
Thomas Marsh HC 3:284; “…the following persons be excommunicated from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, viz.: George M. Hinkle, Sampson Avard, John Corrill, Reed Peck, William W. Phelps, Frederick G. Williams, Thomas B. Marsh, Burr Riggs, and several others.

2 John 1:10-11; If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

So we have to ask; did the apostles get saved or not?

54. Earth to be Destroyed

D&C 88:87; “For not many days hence and the earth shall tremble and reel to and fro as a drunken man; and the sun shall hide his face, and shall refuse to give light; and the moon shall be bathed in blood; and the stars shall become exceedingly angry, and shall cast themselves down as a fig that falleth from off a fig-tree.”

Deuteronomy 18:20-22; “But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die.

21 And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken?

22 When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.”

This was a prophecy given by Joseph Smith on December 27, 1832.  You can also find it in History of the Church 1:302-312.

The problem with this prophecy is obvious to all I’m sure!  Nothing Smith prophesied about here took place!  As of today’s date (October 20, 2011) it’s been 178 years, 297 days.  That means 65,267 days have passed by since that revelation, so my next question should be obvious as well.  What’s the meaning of “not many days”? 

This is a paraphrase of Isa 13:10; also see Matt 24:29 and Mark 13:25.

55. United States to be Destroyed

History of the Church 1:315-316; “And now I am prepared to say by the authority of Jesus Christ, that not many years shall pass awaybefore the United States shall present such a scene of bloodshed as has not a parallel in the history of our nation; pestilence, hail, famine, and earthquake will sweep the wicked of this generation from off the face of the land, to open and prepare the way for the return of the lost tribes of Israel from the north country.”

Matthew 24:4-6; “And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.  5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.  6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”

Revelation given on January 4, 1833 by Joseph Smith. 

At the time of this writing (May 4, 2009), it’s been 176 years since the time of this prophecy.  In case you’re wondering, that’s 64,380 days.

The US obviously  wasn’t destroyed.

56. Joseph to be Priest Until Jesus Returns

History of the Church 1:323; “On the 23rd of January, we again assembled in conference; when, after much speaking, singing, praying, and praising God, all in tongues, we proceeded to the washing of feet (according to the practice recorded in the 13th chapter of John’s Gospel), as commanded of the Lord. Each Elder washed his own feet first, after which I girded myself with a towel and washed the feet of all of them, wiping them with the towel with which I was girded. Among the number, my father presented himself, but before I washed his feet, I asked of him a father’s blessing, which he granted by laying his hands upon my head, in the name of Jesus Christ, and declaring that I should continue in the Priest’s office until Christ comes.”

This event took place on January 23, 1844 at a “School of the Prophets” meeting.  We’ve listed this to show where Smith may have gotten his ideas from.  It looks like the apple didn’t fall far from the tree.

57. Word of Wisdom Promises

D&C 89:18-21; “And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones;19 And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures;20 And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.21 And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH on February 27, 1833. History of the Church 1:327-329.

Joseph may have promised people good health but I’ve known hundreds if not thousands of Mormons who’ve been devout to the Church and obeyed the Word of Wisdom and have still died.  I’ve been to countless funerals of my relatives alone and like Ed Decker once said;

 In fact, many of the highest leaders of the LDS church (who presumably are keeping this commandment) are sick and dying of degenerative diseases. The entire First Presidency just a few years ago was so ill with blindness, Parkinson’s disease and cancer that a Third Counselor to the Prophet had to be called to take over.” 

As of August 2012 the Church is now taking another stance on the caffeine issue. It’s no longer considered a sin to drink caffeinated sodas.

58. Changing Stories of Who’s in Charge

D&C 90:6; “And again, verily I say unto thy brethren, Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams, their sins are forgiven them also, and they are accounted as equal with thee in holding the keys of this last kingdom.”

D&C 43:3-6; “And this ye shall know assuredly—that there is none other appointed unto you to receive commandments and revelations until he be taken, if he abide in me.4 But verily, verily, I say unto you, that none else shall be appointed unto this gift except it be through him; for if it be taken from him he shall not have power except to appoint another in his stead. 5 And this shall be a law unto you, that ye receive not the teachings of any that shall come before you as revelations or commandments; 6 And this I give unto you that you may not be deceived, that you may know they are not of me.”

Revelations given in Kirtland, OH in February 1831 and March 8, 1833 respectively.  See History of the Church 1:154-156 & 1:329-31. 

As you can see this set of prophecies are intertwined as are most of the other stories Smith found himself making up along the way.

The prophecy from 90:6 was geared toward the three men involved, but about 14 months later Smith prophesied again David Whitmer would be his successor and then several months after that (Dec. 1834) he changed his mind again and put Oliver Cowdery in charge for his succession.

59. If Saints are Obedient They’ll Build Temple in Zion but Zion cannot Fail

D&C 97:15-20; “And inasmuch as my people build a house unto me in the name of the Lord, and do not suffer any unclean thing to come into it, that it be not defiled, my glory shall rest upon it;16 Yea, and my presence shall be there, for I will come into it, and all the pure in heart that shall come into it shall see God.17 But if it be defiled I will not come into it, and my glory shall not be there; for I will not come into unholy temples.18 And, now, behold, if Zion do these things she shall prosper, and spread herself and become very glorious, very great, and very terrible.19 And the nations of the earth shall honor her, and shall say: Surely Zion is the city of our God, and surely Zion cannot fall, neither be moved out of her place, for God is there, and the hand of the Lord is there;20 And he hath sworn by the power of his might to be her salvation and her high tower.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH on August 2, 1833. Also see History of the Church 1:400-402.

The nations of the earth don’t honor Kirtland and Zion is now in Utah. 

And yes, this is a repeated prophecy by Smith from D&C 84 and again in D&C 101.  Also see The Way to Perfection, pg 270 which said in 1935 the generation of 1832 would return to build that temple in the City of Zion.

Also note that two weeks before this prophecy, Zion was moved and top officials of the Church were run out of town.

60. Enemies Not Destroyed

History of the Church 1:455; “…when the executive fail you, appeal unto the president; and when the president fail you, and all laws fail you, and the humanity of the people fail you, and all things else fail you but God alone, and you continue to weary Him with your importunings, as the poor woman did the unjust judge, He will not fail to execute judgment upon your enemies, and to avenge His own elect that cry unto Him day and night.”

Prophecy given on December 10, 1833. 

The Mormons were kicked out of Ohio and God didn’t destroy their enemies.   This prophecy was actually part of a letter written by Smith to the saints after some of them had been killed by the locals in Missouri.    While they had settlements in MO at the time their main facilities were in OH. 

They were being attacked from all sides and this letter was to encourage them to seek redress from the government and by any means they could find.  Meanwhile, they were told by Smith to flee for their very lives.   In June 1834 they fled OH and settled in MO.

None of the promises made by Smith for their afflictions came true.  You can read the entire story which is located on pages 453 – 456.

61. Redemption for Zion 

D&C 100:13, 15; “And now I give unto you a word concerning Zion. Zion shall be redeemed, although she is chastened for a little season. 15 Therefore, let your hearts be comforted; for all things shall work together for good to them that walk uprightly, and to the sanctification of the church.”

Prophecy given in Perrysburg, NY on October 12, 1833. History of the Church 1:416, 419-421.

The phrase “for a little season” is what is in question here.  It’s been 180 years!  While we all know and understand God works on His own timing (and rightfully so!) this has pushed the limits for “a little season” way past what is reasonable.  God doesn’t operate this way with His children.

62. God’s Wrath

D&C 101:11;Mine indignation is soon to be poured out without measure upon all nations; and this will I do when the cup of their iniquity is full.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH on December 16, 1833.  Also see History of the Church 2:458-464. 

As of 2006, it’s been 176 yrs.  What is the meaning of “soon”?  Additionally, those whom Joseph was prophesying against are now dead so it’s past the time for their cup of iniquity to be poured out. 

63. Zion Will Not Be Moved

D&C 101:17; “Zion shall not be moved out of her place, notwithstanding her children are scattered.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH on December 16, 1833.  Also see History of the Church 2:458-464.

The Church will tell you Zion has multiple meanings – it could be an actual place or it could mean a place in your heart.  (See lds.org, topics, Zion.)  This prophecy is obviously meant for a literal place and Zion is now in Utah, so it has indeed moved. 

Also see D&C 97 & 101 where this prophecy was repeated.

64. Saints to Possess Zion Forever and Ever

D&C 103:5-7; “But verily I say unto you, that I have decreed a decree which my people shall realize, inasmuch as they hearken from this very hour unto the counsel which I, the Lord their God, shall give unto them. 6 Behold they shall, for I have decreed it, begin to prevail against mine enemies from this very hour. 7 And by hearkening to observe all the words which I, the Lord their God, shall speak unto them, they shall never cease to prevail until the kingdoms of the world are subdued under my feet, and the earth is given unto the saints, to possess it forever and ever.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH on February 24, 1834. History of the Church 2:36-39. 

This was obviously a flop.  The Mormons were kicked out of here.

65. Zion’s Camp Organized, became Disorganized and Disbanded

D&C 103:1; “Verily I say unto you, my friends, behold, I will give unto you a revelation and commandment, that you may know how to act in the discharge of your duties concerning the salvation and redemption of your brethren, who have been scattered on the land of Zion.”

Revelation given in Kirtland, OH on February 24, 1834.  History of the Church 2:36-39. 

This prophecy uttered by Smith came on the heels of an ongoing persecution period the Saints believed was aimed at them.  While being told to cut their losses and leave Jackson County, Missouri, Smith received this revelation to form Zion’s Camp which consisted of an armed “military group” of Mormons. 

Smith’s original prophetic commandment was for a few hundred men to organize themselves in Kirtland, OH and march to Missouri to aid fellow Mormons and reclaim property in Jackson County, MO.   As it turned out only 100 or so men showed up and began marching to Missouri on March 6, 1834.  As they marched to Missouri they gathered more people to aid in their plight bringing their numbers up to about 200 or so men, women and children. http://mormonhistoricsitesfoundation.org/USA/missouri/daviess/zionsCamp/history.htm

Zion’s Camp was officially disbanded in July of the same year because of what Smith claimed was disobedience of Church members.  Besides the disobedient Mormons, there were a number of weather related incidents that impeded their progress, but the real problem they faced was cholera.  Their inability to keep things sanitary led to the deaths of 13 people.

By June or July of 1834 Smith had another message from God telling them not to worry about Zion just yet and lie low for a few years. (D&C 105)  According to Reed Peck who was an active convert at the time, testified Smith told members if they’d wait for three years not even a dog would open its mouth when they go back in to reclaim Zion for God. See “The Reed Peck Manuscript” here: http://www.mormoninformation.com/reedpeck.htm

Also see references below for further insight of what happened to Zion’s Camp:

History of the Church 3:xxxix; “From this it is very clear that the reason why the Saints were prevailed against by their enemies and driven from the center place of Zion, was because of their failure to live up to the high requirements made of them by the Lord. In subsequent efforts to redeem Zion, by attempting to return the exiles to Jackson county, the Saints in all parts of the land again failed to respond with sufficient promptness and fullness to the requirements of the Lord, for He commanded them again to consecrate money to purchase lands in Jackson county and in the counties round about, saying to the Church: “There is even now already in store a sufficient, yea even abundance, to redeem Zion, and establish her waste places, no more to be thrown down, were the churches who call themselves after my name willing to hearken to my voice.””

D&C 101:75; “There is even now already in store sufficient, yea, even an abundance, to redeem Zion, and establish her waste places, no more to be thrown down, were the churches, who call themselves after my name, willing to hearken to my voice.”

66. Zion’s Camp; Angels go Before You, Curse Enemy

D&C103:15-25; Behold, I say unto you, the redemption of Zion must needs come by power… 24 And inasmuch as mine enemies come against you to drive you from my goodly land, which I have consecrated to be the land of Zion, even from your own lands after these testimonies, which ye have brought before me against them, ye shall curse them.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH on February 24, 1834. History of the Church 2:36-39. 

Jesus told us not to curse, but love and pray for your enemies – Matt. 5:44.

67. United Order to be Forever – Then Again Maybe Not

D&C 104:1, 47, 53; “1 Verily I say unto you, my friends, I give unto you counsel, and a commandment, concerning all the properties which belong to the order which I commanded to be organized and established, to be a united order, and an everlasting order for the benefit of my church, and for the salvation of men until I come— And now, a commandment I give unto you concerning Zion, that you shall no longer be bound as a united order to your brethren of Zion, only on this wise— Therefore, you are dissolved as a united order with your brethren, that you are not bound only up to this hour unto them, only on this wise, as I said, by loan as shall be agreed by this order in council, as your circumstances will admit and the voice of the council direct.”

Prophecy given on April 23, 1834. Also see History of the Church 2:54-60.

Good grief, make up your mind. 

At this time in Mormon history the Church was under immense pressure.  A few weeks after this prophecy was given, “Zion’s Camp” marched to the Mississippi River area on May 4th and settled in Jackson Co Missouri, but by the end of June they were in deep trouble.  They had been kicked out of their Zion yet again.  They went back to Ohio with their tails between their legs after 13 people died of cholera in their march to Missouri.  The LDS Saints that were already living in MO continued living there without any further help from their brothers and sisters to the east.

68. Whitmer, then Cowdery, then… to Take Smith’s Place – oh never mind…

Far West Record, July 7, 1834, pg 73; “After all this was done the afore mentioned High Priests, Elders, Priests, Teachers, Deacons & members convenanted with uplifted hands to heaven that they would uphold Brother David Whitmer as President, head and leader in Zion (in the absence of br. Joseph Smith jr.) & John Whitmer & W.W. Phelps as assistant Presidents and Counsillors also convenanted to uphold him and one another at the throne of grace.”

This prophecy was given by Smith during a High Council Meeting held at the home of Lyman Wight on July 7, 1834.  Also History of the Church 2:125-126.

The ordination was short lived.  Smith ordained Oliver Cowdery to take his place if he died on December 5, 1834.  From the website of olivercowedery.com it says;

5 Dec (Fri)
Joseph Smith ordained Oliver Cowdery to be the “Assistant President of the High and Holy Priesthood in the Church of the Latter Day Saints.” Oliver Cowdery was authorized “to assist in presiding over the whole church, and to officiate in the absence of the president, according to his rank and appointment” (Dean C. Jessee, Papers of Joseph Smith, 2:36; “Manuscript History of the Church,” Book A1, p. 11, LDS Archives).”
  http://olivercowdery.com/hurlbut/HChron4.htm 

Both these prophecies are obviously false as both Cowdery and Whitmer were excommunicated in the Far West fiasco of 1838. 

Also see:

http://www.saintswithouthalos.com/m/341205.phtml  and http://user.xmission.com/~research/central/chorg4.htm (H. Michael Marquardt)

“Succession of Church President

The third issue of the Ensign of Liberty contained a “Testimony of Three Witnesses” concerning Whitmer’s 1834 ordination as successor to Joseph Smith…

“…And while the conference was in session, Joseph Smith presiding, he arose and said that the time had come when he must appoint his Successor in office. Some have supposed that it would be Oliver Cowdery; but, said he, Oliver has lost that privilege in consequence of transgression. The Lord has made it known to me that David Whitmer is the man. David was then called forward, and Joseph and his counsellors laid hands upon him, and ordained him to his station, to succeed him…

       Martin Harris,
Leonard Rich,
Calvin Beebe.”

69. Zion to be in Missouri on 9/11/1836

History of the Church 2:145; “…and peace prevails, use every effort to prevail on the churches to gather to those regions and locate themselves, to be in readiness to move into Jackson county in two years from the eleventh of September next, which is the appointed time for the redemption of Zion.”

Prophecy given August 16, 1834. The Mormons were supposed to move to Jackson County, MO on September 11, 1836 which was the “appointed time for the redemption of Zion”. Instead they fled to Nauvoo in 1839.  Zion was not redeemed in Missouri.

On 9/11/1857 the Mormons attacked a group of pioneers who were traveling from Arkansas to California. More than 120 unarmed men, women and children were gunned down and slaughtered because the Mormons didn’t like them. 

70. Second Coming; Year of Jesus’ Return (56 Years Should Wind Up the Scene)

On Feb. 14, 1835 Smith said in History of the Church 2:182; “…and it was the will of God that those who went Zion, with a determination to lay down their lives, if necessary, should be ordained to the ministry, and go forth to prune the vineyard for the last time, or the coming of the Lord, which was nigh—even fifty-six years should wind up the scene.”

Matt. 25:13; “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”

That became a false prophecy in 1891 in addition to what Jesus said in the verse above.

71. Lyman Johnson Won’t Die Until He Sees Jesus Return

History of the Church 2:188; “The blessing of Lyman E. Johnson was, in the name of Jesus Christ, that he should bear the tidings of salvation to nations, tongues, and people, until the utmost corners of the earth shall hear the tidings; and that he shall be a witness of the things of God to nations and tongues, and that holy angels shall administer to him occasionally; and that no power of the enemy shall prevent him from going forth and doing the work of the Lord; and that he shall live until the gathering is accomplished, according to the holy prophets; and he shall be like unto Enoch; and his faith shall be like unto his; and he shall be called great among all the living; and Satan shall tremble before him; and he shall see the Savior come and stand upon the earth with power and great glory.”

Prophecy given Feb. 14, 1835. 

Ex-communicated on 4/13/1838 and died 12/1856 @ Prairie du Chien, Wis.

72. Luke Johnson Will Always be LDS Saint

History of the Church 2:190; “Luke S. Johnson’s Blessing:—Our Father in heaven, look down in mercy upon us, and upon this Thy servant, whom we ordain to the ministry of the Twelve. He shall be prepared and preserved, and be like those we have blessed before him. The nations shall tremble before him. He shall hear the voice of God; he shall comfort the hearts of the Saints always. The angels shall bear him up till he shall finish his ministry. He shall be delivered, and come forth with Israel. He shall bear testimony to the kings of the earth, and hold communion with the Father, with the Son, and with the general assembly and Church of the first-born. If cast into prison, he shall be able to comfort the hearts of his comrades. His tongue shall be loosed, and he shall have power to lead many to Zion, and sit down with them; the Ancient of Days shall pronounce this blessing, that he has been faithful; he shall have strength, wisdom, and power; he shall go among the covenant people and speak all their tongues where he shall go. All these blessings we confirm upon him in the name of Jesus. Amen.”

Prophecy given February 15, 1835 

History of the Church 3:20 tells us Luke Johnson was cut off from the Church.

73. William Smith to Remain on Earth to See Jesus’ Return

History of the Church 2:191; “William Smith’s Blessing:—We pray that he may be purified in heart; that he may have communion with God; that he may be equal with his brethren in holding the keys of this ministry; that he may be kept and be instrumental in leading Israel forth, that he may be delivered from the hands of those who seek to destroy him; that he may be enabled to bear testimony to the nations that Jesus lives; that he may stand in the midst of pestilence and destruction. He shall be mighty in the hands of God, in bringing about the restoration of Israel. The nations shall rejoice at the greatness of the gifts which God has bestowed upon him: that his tongue shall be loosed; he shall have power to do great things in the name of Jesus. He shall be preserved and remain on the earth, until Christ shall come to take vengeance on the wicked. Adjourned.”

Prophecy given February 15, 1835

William Smith was Joseph’s youngest brother. He was ex-communicated on 10/19/1845. He died in 1893 at age 82 in Osterdock, Iowa.

In History of the Church 7:483 it tells us Smith published a pamphlet against the Church and was ex-communicated.  

74. John Boynton to Lead Saints to the Father

History of the Church 2:191; “John F. Boynton’s Blessing:—Thou hast prevailed and thou shalt prevail, and thou shalt declare the Gospel unto many nations. Thou shalt be made mighty before God; and although thou shalt be cast out from the face of men, yet thou shalt have power to prevail. Thou shalt lead the elect triumphantly to the places of refuge; thou shalt be like the brethren who have been blessed before thee. Thou shalt stand in that day of calamity when the wicked shall be consumed, and present unto the Father, spotless, the fruits of thy labor. Thou shalt overcome all the evils that are in the world; thou shalt have wisdom to put to silence all the wisdom of the wise; and thou shalt see the face of thy Redeemer in the flesh. These blessings are pronounced and sealed upon thee. Even so. Amen.”

Prophecy given February 15, 1835

Boynton was ex-communicated on Sept. 3, 1837 – died in 1890 in Syracuse, NY 

75. White & Delightsome Indians

Messenger and Advocate, Vol. 2 (October 1835-September 1836): pg. 193; “The Indians are the people of the Lord; they are of the tribes of Israel; the blood of Joseph, with a small mixture of the royal blood of Judah, and the hour is nigh when they will come flocking into the kingdom of God, like doves to their windows; yea, as the book of Mormon foretells—they will soon become a white and delightsome people.”

James 2:9; “But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.”

This “hour is nigh” has passed you by Mr. Smith.  This prophecy was made 174 years ago and the Indians are still dark brown.  God doesn’t perform magic tricks.

76. God’s Destroyer

D&C 105:13-15; “Therefore it is expedient in me that mine elders should wait for a little season, for the redemption of Zion.14 For behold, I do not require at their hands to fight the battles of Zion; for, as I said in a former commandment, even so will I fulfil—I will fight your battles.15 Behold, the destroyer I have sent forth to destroy and lay waste mine enemies; and not many years hence they shall not be left to pollute mine heritage, and to blaspheme my name upon the lands which I have consecrated for the gathering together of my saints.”

Prophecy given in Missouri on June 22, 1834. History of the Church 2:108-111. 

The Mormon god promised he’d fight their battles, and has sent forth a destroyer to lay waste to their enemies. What really happened is the Mormons got kicked out of Missouri and eventually pushed into Illinois with no enemies being laid waste.

77. Lost Ten Tribes Live on North Pole

Messenger and Advocate, Vol. 2, No. 1, “Letter No. 11”, October 1835, pg 194; “Let no man marvel at this statement, because there may be a continent at the north pole [sic], of more than 1300 square miles, containing thousands of millions of Israelites, who, after a highway is cast up in the great deep, may come to Zion, singing songs of everlasting joy.” – W.W. Phelps

http://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/cdm/compoundobject/collection/NCMP1820-1846/id/7308/rec/2

Don’t let the Mormons tell you this was only a speculation and not a false prophecy because he used the words “there may be…”

This was only one statement in a long line of repeated statements of Joseph Smith’s false prophecy about the “Lost Ten Tribes” and the North Pole.

78. Denial of Polygamy

History of the Church 2:247; “Inasmuch as this Church of Christ has been reproached with the crime of fornication and polygamy, we declare that we believe that one man should have one wife, and one woman but one husband, except in case of death, when either is at liberty to marry again. It is not right to persuade a woman to be baptized contrary to the will of her husband; neither is it lawful to influence her to leave her husband.”

This is a denial of the prophetic words from God, thus making it a false prophecy because of lying.  It was September 24, 1834. 

This text used to be part of D&C 101 from 1834 to 1876.

79. God’s Dreadful Day is at Your Door

D&C 110:16; “Therefore, the keys of this dispensation are committed into your hands; and by this ye may know that the great and dreadful day of the Lord is near, even at the doors.”

 Vision of Smith & Cowdery in Kirtland, OH on April 3, 1836. History of the Church 2:435-436.

 The “eyes of understanding were opened” to these two men when they saw the great and dreadful day of the Lord being near.  If the Lord was at the door it’s been a long wait for him – 176 years at the time of this writing in 2012. 

80. Takeover of Salem, Mass.

D&C 111:2-5; “I have much treasure in this city for you, for the benefit of Zion, and many people in this city, whom I will gather out in due time for the benefit of Zion, through your instrumentality. 3 Therefore, it is expedient that you should form acquaintance with men in this city, as you shall be led, and as it shall be given you. 4 And it shall come to pass in due time that I will give this city into your hands, that you shall have power over it, insomuch that they shall not discover your secret parts; and its wealth pertaining to gold and silver shall be yours. 5 Concern not yourselves about your debts, for I will give you power to pay them.”

Prophecy was given on August 6, 1836.

This prophecy from Joseph Smith proved wrong everywhere. They never took over Salem, Mass. and Salem never paid off the LDS debt.   The other problem with this prophecy is how Smith claimed the Mormon god told him they’d find a lot of treasure up in Salem.  The only thing found here is Smith’s lies and his empty pockets with nothing to pay off their debts.

81. Quakers on the Moon

In 1837 Joseph Smith prophesied to Oliver Huntington; “Inhabitants of the Moon are more of a uniform size than the inhabitants of the Earth, being about 6 feet in height.  They dress very much like the Quaker Style and quite general in Style, or the one fashion of dress.  They live to be very old; coming generally near a thousand years.  This is the description of them as given by Joseph Smith the Seer.”

Recorded in the Journal of Oliver B. Huntington was the account of Joseph Smith’s prophecy about the inhabitants on the moon.  The Church actually printed the copy of his journal in two different church authorized manuals; The Young Woman’s Journal and the Young Ladies MIA as late as 1892; obviously giving their approval.  Mormons will say Smith wasn’t speaking as a prophet at the time, but notice in the Journal of Discourses the way Brigham Young backs up Smith’s prophecy and adds even more to it!

It goes without saying this is false.

82. Kirtland Anti-Banking Society Flop – Saints Will be Rich!

Latter-day Saint Messenger & Advocate, April 1837, pg. 488; “He then closed at about 4 P. M. by uttering a prophesy saying this place must be built up, and would be built up, and that every brother that would take hold and help secure and discharge those contracts that had been made, should be rich.”

This prophecy by Smith was given in Kirtland, OH in April 1837.  He prophesied if they’d bail the Kirtland anti-banking Society out by securing contracts for land they’d all become rich.  Truth: everyone lost everything and even Smith went bankrupt on this one.

http://www.centerplace.org/history/ma/v3n07.htm

83. Thomas Marsh to be Exalted

D&C 112:3-4, 11; “Nevertheless, inasmuch as thou hast abased thyself thou shalt be exalted; therefore, all thy sins are forgiven thee.4 Let thy heart be of good cheer before my face; and thou shalt bear record of my name, not only unto the Gentiles, but also unto the Jews; and thou shalt send forth my word unto the ends of the earth…11 I know thy heart, and have heard thy prayers concerning thy brethren. Be not partial towards them in love above many others, but let thy love be for them as for thyself; and let thy love abound unto all men, and unto all who love my name.”

Revelation given in Kirtland, OH on July 23, 1837.  History of the Church 2:499-501. 

Marsh was excommunicated less than 2 yrs later.

84. Joseph Holds Keys Forever

D&C 112:15; “Exalt not yourselves; rebel not against my servant Joseph; for verily I say unto you, I am with him, and my hand shall be over him; and the keys which I have given unto him, and also to youward, shall not be taken from him till I come.”

Deut. 18:20-22; “But the prophet, which shall presume to speak a word in my name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or that shall speak in the name of other gods, even that prophet shall die. 21 And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the LORD hath not spoken? 22 When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.”

Prophecy given in Kirtland, OH on July 23, 1837.

It only takes one false prophecy to prove the prophet to be false. Clearly Smith isn’t holding the keys today and Jesus hasn’t returned.  And if you don’t think this rule applies to the next prophet in charge, think otherwise.  The Church is clear when it teaches the living prophet holds all the keys to the kingdom (kinda like owning all the properties of a Monopoly game).

“The Living Prophet Possesses All the Keys of the Holy Priesthood…As God’s presiding high priest upon the earth, the living prophet holds the keys to direct the Lord’s work…“He is the one man on earth at a time who can both hold and exercise the keys of the kingdom in their fulness. (D. & C. 132:7)…The same keys and authority given to Joseph Smith have been passed to each succeeding President of the Church…”

So…Joseph is gone and Jesus hasn’t returned yet = false prophecy.

85. Stem of Jesse

D&C 113:5-6; “What is the root of Jesse spoken of in the 10th verse of the 11th chapter? 6 Behold, thus saith the Lord, it is a descendant of Jesse, as well as of Joseph, unto whom rightly belongs the priesthood, and the keys of the kingdom, for an ensign, and for the gathering of my people in the last days.”

Smith’s answers to question on the writings of Isaiah, March 1838. History of the Church 3:9-10.

The ensign spoken of from the verse in question in Isaiah is God’s power.  His miracles were a sign to the Israelites of what He can and did do during the reign of King Hezekiah.  God brought the Israelites back to safety during the Assyrian takeover to prompt the surrounding countries to come in and ask the Israelites what this God was about that rescued them.

86. Smith Lies about Polygamy Revelation/Marriage to Fanny Alger

History of the Church 3:16; “Charges Against Oliver Cowdery. Wednesday, April 11…

Second—For seeking to destroy the character of President Joseph Smith, Jun., by falsely insinuating that he was guilty of adultery.”

This was a church trial held against Oliver Cowdery. The next day David Whitmer went before the board and the following day it was Lyman Johnson. 

Obviously Smith didn’t think twice about throwing his apostles under the bus when they called him out for practicing polygamy.  

Smith was married to three women at the time.

87. Missionary doesn’t make it to the mission field

D&C 114:1-2; “Revelation through Joseph Smith, Far West, Missouri, April 17, 1838. History of the Church 3:23… that he may perform a mission unto me next spring, in company with others, even twelve including himself, to testify of my name and bear glad tidings unto all the world….”

History of the Church 3:170-1;Captain Patten then ordered a charge, which was instantly obeyed. The parties immediately came in contact, with their swords, and the mob were soon put to flight, crossing the river at the ford and such places as they could get a chance. In the pursuit, one of the mob fled from behind a tree, wheeled, and shot Captain Patten, who instantly fell, mortally wounded, having received a large ball in his bowels.”

Prophecy given in Far West, MO on April 17, 1838. 

Patten was one of the disciples.  Smith prophesied that Patten would go on a mission the next spring, but Patten was killed in a gun fight just 6 months later without being able to fulfill that prophecy.

88. Temple in Far West?

D&C 115:7-12; “Let the city, Far West, be a holy and consecrated land unto me; and it shall be called most holy, for the ground upon which thou standest is holy.8 Therefore, I command you to build a house unto me, for the gathering together of my saints, that they may worship me.  And let there be a beginning of this work, and a foundation, and a preparatory work, this following summer;10 And let the beginning be made on the fourth day of July next; and from that time forth let my people labor diligently to build a house unto my name;11 And in one year from this day let them re-commence laying the foundation of my house.12 Thus let them from that time forth labor diligently until it shall be finished, from the corner stone thereof unto the top thereof, until there shall not anything remain that is not finished.”

Prophecy given in Far West, MO on April 26, 1838. History of the Church 3:23-25.

To this day all that’s on this lot of land are markers indicating a cornerstone of where the temple should be built.

89. Denial of Polygamy Again

This lie was told by Smith on May 8, 1838 in Far West, MO.

History of the Church 3:28-29; “—”Do the Mormons believe in having more wives than one?” “No, not at the same time. But they believe that if their companion dies, they have a right to marry again. But we do disapprove of the custom, which has gained in the world, and has been practiced among us, to our great mortification, in marrying in five or six weeks, or even in two or three months, after the death of their companion. We believe that due respect ought to be had to the memory of the dead, and the feelings of both friends and children.”

Smith had three wives at this point; Emma, Fanny Alger and Lucinda Pendleton Morgan Harris. 

90. Who is Oliver? 

D&C 117:12; “And again, I say unto you, I remember my servant Oliver Granger; behold, verily I say unto him that his name shall be had in sacred remembrance from generation to generation, forever and ever, saith the Lord.”

Revelation given in Far West, MO on July 8, 1838. History of the Church 3:45-46 

Have you ever heard of Oliver Granger?  The majority of Mormons have not.  If his name was to be an everlasting remembrance why don’t the majority of Mormons know his name?

91. Enemies Will be Punished

D&C 121:10-15; “10 Thou art not yet as Job; thy friends do not contend against thee, neither charge thee with transgression, as they did Job. 11 And they who do charge thee with transgression, their hope shall be blasted, and their prospects shall melt away as the hoar frost melteth before the burning rays of the rising sun.  And also that God hath set his hand and seal to change the times and seasons, and to blind their minds, that they may not understand his marvelous workings; that he may prove them also and take them in their own craftiness;13 Also because their hearts are corrupted, and the things which they are willing to bring upon others, and love to have others suffer, may come upon themselves to the very uttermost;14 That they may be disappointed also, and their hopes may be cut off; 15 And not many years hence, that they and their posterity shall be swept from under heaven, saith God, that not one of them is left to stand by the wall.”

Prophecy given March 20, 1839.

Joseph’s friends did indeed testify against him on many occasions. William Law (Nauvoo Expositor), Mormonism Unveiled by John D. Lee, An Address to All Believers in Christ by David Whitmer…many of those who spoke against Joseph didn’t have their hope blasted unless of course you’re talking about their hope in the Church or Joseph. 

Also note the date of this prophecy; it was 1839.  In April of 1838 more than a handful of Mormon leaders were ex-communicated and threatened they should leave the state of Missouri lest something befall them.

While some of the enemies of the Mormon Church did meet gruesome deaths, others died of old age, thus making it a false prophecy; in fact most of those enemies outlived Smith!  The other thing that must be looked at is how the majority if not all of the prophecies/promises he made here turned out to be totally false! 

The laws in Utah subjugated the everlasting covenant of polygamy and the unending revelation of blacks not holding the priesthood.  The most basic of Mormon tenets have been broken in order to fall into line with the US government.  Why didn’t their god protect these statuses? 

92. The Many gods of Mormonism

D&C 121:25-28; “For there is a time appointed for every man, according as his works shall be. 26 God shall give unto you knowledge by his Holy Spirit, yea, by the unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost, that has not been revealed since the world was until now; 27 Which our forefathers have awaited with anxious expectation to be revealed in the last times, which their minds were pointed to by the angels, as held in reserve for the fulness of their glory; 28 A time to come in the which nothing shall be withheld, whether there be one God or many gods, they shall be manifest.”

Ecc. 3:1; “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”

Notice how the first part of this passage is a paraphrased snippet from a biblical axiom coupled with a sharp left turn into the pit of heresy and polytheism.  

This set of “prayers and prophecies” was meted out by Smith during his incarceration in Liberty, MO on March 20, 1839.  Also see History of the Church 3:289-300 – date is March 25, 1839.

What I found alarming aside from using biblical terminology to look and sound holy was how he left the audience hanging on whether or not there is more than one god.  Can you imagine being one of the members of the Church who received this news when you went to church?

“…whether there be one God or many gods, they shall be manifest.”

If you’re using part of the Bible to look Christian then certainly you’d know there is ONLY ONE GOD.  This tells me he did this purposefully to trick the audience. 

It also means you won’t become a god.  The God of the Bible doesn’t have a father in heaven.  You don’t have to worship those other so-called gods to qualify to be a polytheist.  Just believing they exist fits the definition.

On top of that is the lie “…knowledge through the gift of the Holy Ghost hasn’t been revealed since the world was until now…”

This is a false prophecy according to what Jesus revealed to His disciples in John 14:12-19, 23-26.

Additionally, it’s a false prophecy according to Smith’s own “translation” in the Book of Mormon.  

On the front page in my Book of Mormon (1974) it says: “Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God”.

Then we see the following scattered about in Book of Mormon;

2 Nephi 31:21; “And now, behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and the only and true doctrine of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end. Amen.”

Alma 11:44; “…every thing shall be restored to its perfect frame, as it is now, or in the body, and shall be brought and be arraigned before the bar of Christ the Son, and God the Father, and the Holy Spirit, which is one Eternal God, to be judged according to their works, whether they be good or whether they be evil.”

Mormon 9:9-10; “For do we not read that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and in him there is no variableness neither shadow of changing?  And now, if ye have imagined up unto yourselves a god who doth vary, and in whom there is shadow of changing, then have ye imagined up unto yourselves a god who is not a God of miracles.”

Mormon 9:19;And if there were miracles wrought then, why has God ceased to be a God of miracles and yet be an unchangeable Being? And behold, I say unto you he changeth not; if so he would cease to be God; and he ceaseth not to be God, and is a God of miracles.”

Moroni 8:18;For I know that God is not a partial God, neither a changeable being; but he is unchangeable from all eternity to all eternity.”

The god in the Book of Mormon is clearly not the god Smith spoke about in numerous sermons.  We also know the god of the Book of Mormon isn’t the same God of the Bible.  There are so many false teachings that flowed from the lips of Smith it’d take a lifetime to study just one of the gods he tried to pass off as authentic.

You also have to wonder why Smith’s prayers weren’t answered.  Moroni 8:24; “…and by the power of his word did they cause prisons to tumble to the earth…”

93. Testimonies of Traitors Cannot Influence LDS

D&C 122:3; “And thy people shall never be turned against thee by the testimony of traitors.”

Is. 55:11; “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”

Prophecy given in Liberty, MO in March 1839.

According to the Church someone like Ed Decker or me are all traitors.  They don’t want to admit it publicly, but the testimonies of ex-Mormons have led many people out of Mormonism and into a loving relationship with the real Jesus of the Bible.

94. No Peace but in Zion

Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg 161; “The time is soon coming, when no man will have any peace but in Zion and her stakes.”

This prophecy was given to the Mormon missionaries on their way to Great Britain on July 2, 1839. 

There is no Zion for the Mormons in Independence, MO. Zion is in Utah for today’s Mormon.

95. Most Correct Book

History of the Church, vol. 4:461;The Prophet’s Estimate of the Book of Mormon.

Sunday, 28, 1841.—I spent the day in the council with the Twelve Apostles at the house of President Young, conversing with them upon a variety of subjects. Brother Joseph Fielding was present, having been absent four years on a mission to England. I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.”

Prophecy made November 28, 1841. 

It should be stated here that to date there have been almost 4,000 changes made to the Book of Mormon since its first printing in 1830.  These are not typographical changes; they are grammatical in nature, changing the meaning of the text.

96. George Miller Apostatized

D&C 124:20-21; “And again, verily I say unto you, my servant George Miller is without guile; he may be trusted because of the integrity of his heart; and for the love which he has to my testimony I, the Lord, love him. 21 I therefore say unto you, I seal upon his head the office of a bishopric, like unto my servant Edward Partridge, that he may receive the consecrations of mine house, that he may administer blessings upon the heads of the poor of my people, saith the Lord. Let no man despise my servant George, for he shall honor me.”

Prophecy given January 19, 1841. History of the Church 4:274-286. 

Miller apostatized in 1847.

97. Nauvoo House

D&C 124:59-60; “Therefore, let my servant Joseph and his seed after him have place in that house, from generation to generation, forever and ever, saith the Lord.60 And let the name of that house be called Nauvoo House; and let it be a delightful habitation for man, and a resting-place for the weary traveler, that he may contemplate the glory of Zion, and the glory of this, the corner-stone thereof…”

Prophecy given January 19, 1841. History of the Church 4:274-286.

The Nauvoo House was never completed and belongs to the RLDS Church (now called Community of Christ).  Verse 63 tells members how to issue stock for the house that was never completed. 

98. No Zarahemla for Iowa

D&C 125:3; “Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it.”

Revelation given in Nauvoo in March 1841.  History of the Church 4:311-312.

There has never been an official name of Zarahemla, Iowa.  Before Nauvoo was settled by the Mormons the local Mormons called themselves citizens of Zarahemla but that was before this revelation.  The locals (non-Mormons) didn’t like the idea of Mormons renaming their area and called it Montrose.  Subsequently the LDS Church called one of their wards by the name of Zarahemla. 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_cities_in_Iowa

http://www.mormonhistoricsitesfoundation.org/publications/studies_fall2003/MHS_Fall2003_Markers.pdf

99. Kings and Queens Will Come to Nauvoo

History of the Church 4:605-606; “I now deliver it as a prophecy, if the inhabitants of this state, with the people of the surrounding country, will turn unto the Lord with all their hearts, ten years will not roll round before the kings and queens of the earth will come unto Zion, and pay their respects to the leaders of this people; they shall come with their millions, and shall contribute of their abundance for the relief of the poor, and the building up and beautifying of Zion.” – Joseph Smith

1 Corinthians 6:9-10; “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”

Date of prophecy April 28, 1842. 

Again this prophecy serves as a fail proof way of keeping their authenticity intact.  How can it be a prophecy when in fact you already know it won’t happen?  Keep dangling that carrot…and for the record, the kings and queens were a no-show.

100. Rocky Mountain Prophecy & Anson Call

Extracts from Anson Call’s Diary;

“During the year of 1842, Anson Call witnessed Joseph Smith prophecy that the Saints would leave Nauvoo, Illinois and then go to the Rocky Mountains. Once the Saints arrived to the Rocky Mountains, Joseph Smith prophesied that they would become a great and mighty people. Anson Call was one of the few people that recorded this prophecy.

Anson wrote these words about Joseph Smith describing the Rocky Mountains, “There is Anson. He shall and assist in building cities from one end of the country to the other…and you shall perform as great a work as had been done by man, so that the nations of the earth shall be astonished, and many of them will be gathered in that land and assist in buildings cities and temples, and Israel shall be made to rejoice.”

The website of “Geni” which is a genealogical website also had this to say about Smith’s prophecy:

“Anson Call fulfilled this calling and these prophetic words. He helped colonize our beautiful city of Bountiful. Brigham Young entrusted the building of the Bountiful Tabernacle upon Anson. He was responsible for raising the money in one year’s time and to help push the project to completion. He was able to raise between $40,000-$50,000 to complete the Bountiful Tabernacle. In addition, Anson Call assisted in the building up of Parowan, Fillmore and Call’s Fort, Utah.”

http://www.geni.com/people/Anson-Call/6000000004237618161

Prophecy made on July 14, 1842 in Montrose, IA.  Also see History of the Church 5:85 with prophecy and date of July 6, 1842.

I’ve listed the above info for the purpose of showing this was indeed a false prophecy. Anson Call did not settle towns and cities from one end of the country to the other and nations of the earth weren’t astonished.

101. Denial of Polygamy Once Again

Millennial Star, Vol. 3, No. 4, pg 73-74; “Among the most conspicuous of these apostates, we would notice a young female who emigrated from Manchester in September last, and who, after conducting herself in a manner unworthy the character of one professing godliness, at length conceived the plan of gaining friendship and extraordinary notoriety with the world, or rather with the enemies of truth, by striking a blow at the character of some of its worthiest champions. She well knew that this would be received as a sweet morsel by her old friends, the Methodists, and other enemies of the Saints. She accordingly selected J. Smith, and elder B. Young for her victims, and wrote to England that these men might have two wives; by these disreputable means she thought to overthrow the Saints here, or at least to bring  a storm of persecution on them, and prevent others from joining them; but in this thing she was completely deceived by Satan…But for the information of those who may be assailed by those foolish tales about two wives, we would say that no such principle ever existed among the Latter-day Saints, and never will…the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants and also all our periodicals are very strict and explicit on that subject, and indeed far more so than the Bible.”

This was written and distributed in August 1842. 

So much for telling the truth and upholding the office of a true prophet of God…

102. Smith Will Overcome All Enemies

D&C 127:2; “…for to this day has the God of my fathers delivered me out of them all, and will deliver me from henceforth; for behold, and lo, I shall triumph over all my enemies, for the Lord God hath spoken it.” – September 1, 1842

Deuteronomy 18:9-12; “When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations.  10 There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch,  11 Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer.  12 For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee.”

Prophecy given in Nauvoo, IL on September 1, 1842. 

Joseph Smith was killed by his enemies in June 1844.

103. Denial of Polygamy Again and Again…

Times and Seasons Vol. 3, No. 21, September 1, 1842, pg 909; “Inasmuch as the public mind has been unjustly abused through the fallacy of Dr. Bennett’s letters, we make an extract on the subject of marriage, showing the rule of the church on this important matter. The extract is from the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, and is the only rule allowed by the church.

“All legal contracts of marriage made before a person is baptized into this church, should be held sacred and fulfilled. Inasmuch as this church of Christ has been reproached with the crime of fornication, and polygamy: we declare that we believe, that one man should have one wife; and one woman, but one husband, except in case of death, when either is at liberty to marry again. It is not right to persuade a woman to be baptized contrary to the will of her husband neither is it lawful to influence her to leave her husband.”

See earlier entry for Denial of Polygamy, History of the Church 2:247. The denial of polygamy in 1842 is the same denial verbatim from May 1838.

Times and Seasons Vol. 4, No. 9, March 15, 1843, pg 143; “We are charged with advocating a plurality of wives, and common property. Now this is as false as the many other ridiculous charges which are brought against us. No sect have a greater reverence for the laws of matrimony, or the rights of private property, and we do what others do not, practice what we preach…” 

Smith just kept recycling the same lie whenever he could.

104. Moroni, an Angel of Light

D&C 128:20; “The voice of Michael on the banks of the Susquehanna, detecting the devil when he appeared as an angel of light!”

Introductory page of D&C 1976, 3rd paragraph; “This took place in the early spring of 1820.  In September, 1823, and at later times, Joseph Smith received visitations from Moroni, an angel of light, who revealed the resting place of the ancient record from which The Book of Mormon was afterward translated.”

2 Nephi 9:9; “And our spirits must have become like unto him, and we become devils, angels to a devil, to be shut out from the presence of our God, and to remain with the father of lies, in misery, like unto himself; yea, to that being who beguiled our first parents, who transformeth himself nigh unto an angel of light, and stirreth up the children of men unto secret combinations of murder and all manner of secret works of darkness.”

This passage in Doctrine and Covenants was part of a letter from Joseph to the Church in Nauvoo on September 6, 1842. History of the Church 5:148-153.

The problem here is who they say is an angel of light.  It is here in this passage and in 2nd Nephi they’ve referred to it as the devil, yet in the intro of D&C it is Moroni that is an angel of light. 

This can only mean one thing.  The devil sits atop every Mormon temple throughout the world heralding the Saints into hell.  And as long as people keep getting baptized into that Church, Smith will be racking up his judgment from God.  Just because the false prophet is dead doesn’t mean God stops counting the cost of what is lost.

105. Potsherd Prophecy/United States to be Overthrown

Latter-day Prophets Speak – Selections from the Sermons and Writing of Church Presidents, Book 4, Chapter 22; “I prophesy, in the name of the Lord God of Israel, unless the United States redress the wrongs committed upon the Saints in the State of Missouri and punish the crimes committed by officers, that in a few years the government will be utterly overthrown and wasted, and there will not be so much as a potsherd left for their wickedness in permitting the murder of men, women and children, and the wholesale plunder and extermination of thousands of her citizens to go unpunished, thereby perpetrating a foul and corroding blot upon the fair fame of this great republic, the very thought of which would have caused the high-minded and patriotic framers of the Constitution of the United States to hide their faces with shame.

-Joseph Smith, Jr., “Historical Record,” p. 514, May 18, 1843.”

2 Thessalonians 1:4-5; “So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: 5 Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer.”

History of the Church 5:394.

Also see Historical Record Vol. 5, pg 514

This is known as the “Potsherd Prophecy” and it is obviously false.  Mormons claim Smith couldn’t be referring to the U.S. government but to the Whig party. Alas, it’s still a false prophecy as they (the Whig Party) were dissolved shortly after this and weren’t overthrown. 

Smith made this prophecy in response to getting kicked out of Missouri.  As you can see he made this prophecy in 1843.  At the time of this writing it is June 14, 2010 – 167 years later.

106. Jesus Won’t Return Until Joseph Turns 85

History of the Church 5:335-337; “I was once praying earnestly upon this subject, and a voice said unto me, “My son, if thou livest until thou art eighty-five years of age, thou shalt see the face of the Son of Man.” I was left to draw my own conclusions concerning this; and I took the liberty to conclude that if I did live to that time, He would make His appearance. But I do not say whether He will make his appearance or I shall go where He is. I prophesy in the name of the Lord God, and let it be written—the Son of Man will not come in the clouds of heaven till I am eighty-five years old.”

Prophecy given at Church Conference April 1843.  Also see D&C 130:14-17.

Joseph died at the age of 38 in June 1844.

God tells us in 1 Cor. 14:33 that He is not a God of confusion but a God of peace.  Clearly, if this isn’t the epitome of confusion nothing else will qualify.

107. The Trinity

D&C 130:22-23; “The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us. 23 A man may receive the Holy Ghost, and it may descend upon him and not tarry with him.”

Instructions given in Ramus, IL on April 2, 1834.  History of the Church 5:323-325.

We’ve listed this as an example of how the god Smith taught about evolved over the years. Before the Church was officially started Smith wrote and taught about the Trinitarian nature of God that we find in the Bible.  Examples of this can be found in the Book of Mormon in numerous places.  Mormon 7:7, 2 Nephi 31:21, etc. are just a few examples.  Also see D&C 20:28. 

Ironically (or maybe not) just weeks before Smith’s death he told people in the King Follett Discourse he’d always taught on the plurality of gods (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg. 370) and clearly, this is not the truth.

108. Rising Generation Won’t Die till Christ Returns

History of the Church 5:336-337; “Then read the 14th chapter of Revelation, 6th and 7th verses—”And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment is come.” And Hosea, 6th chapter, After two days, etc.,—2,520 years; which brings it to 1890. The coming of the Son of Man never will be—never can be till the judgments spoken of for this hour are poured out: which judgments are commenced. Paul says, “Ye are the children of the light, and not of the darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief in the night.” It is not the design of the Almighty to come upon the earth and crush it and grind it to powder, but he will reveal it to His servants the prophets.”

This prophecy given on April 6, 1843. 

Obviously this wasn’t fulfilled as that “rising generation” did in fact pass away and Christ still hasn’t returned.

109. White Horse Prophecy: Constitution hanging by a thread

Journal of John J. Roberts; “You will see the constitution of the United States almost destroyed. It will hang like a thread…. A terrible revolution will take place in the land of America…. [T]he land will be left without a Supreme Government,… [Mormonism] will have gathered strength, sending out Elders to gather the honest in heart… to stand by the Constitution of the United States…. In these days… God will set up a Kingdom, never to be thrown down…. [T]he whole of America will be made the Zion of God.”

Also see Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses 7:15, July 4, 1854;

“Will the Constitution be destroyed? No: it will be held inviolate by this people; and, as Joseph Smith said, ‘The time will come when the destiny of the nation will hang upon a single thread. At that critical juncture, this people will step forth and save it from the threatened destruction.’ It will be so.”

Ernest L. Wilkinson, BYU President (1951-1971), BYU Speeches, April 21, 1966, p. 7; “I gave the language and sources of the prophetic utterance made by the Prophet Joseph that the Constitution of the United States would hang by a single thread, but be saved by the elders of Israel. I hope you will read those sources so you will be well-informed as to this prophecy and be prepared to do your part in its fulfillment.”

Prophecy given on May 6, 1843.

This subject matter has gone back and forth from the time of its inception.  One of the best insights into this subject was written by my good friend Ed Decker.  You can read his article here:

http://saintsalive.com/resourcelibrary/mormonism/the-mormon-plan-for-america-and-the-rise-of-mitt-romney

110. Joseph Smith III to Succeed Father for Prophet

History of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, pg 789; “Now, Mr. Editor, if you had been present when Joseph called on me shortly after we came out of jail [Liberty jail, Missouri, Ed.] to lay hands with him on the head of a youth and heard him cry aloud, ‘You are my successor when I depart,’ and heard the blessings poured on his head,-I say had you heard all this, and seen the tears streaming from his eyes-you would not have been led by blind fanaticism, or a zeal without knowledge. . . .” – LDS Apostle Lyman Wight

http://www.centerplace.org/history/ch/v2ch35.htm

There are many testimonies and evidences showing Joseph Smith, Jr. did in fact bless his eldest son Joseph Smith III to take his place if/when he died.  The following list is just a microcosm of the testimonies, excerpts from private journals and letters to newspaper editors from various people testifying to a number of times Smith publicly announced his intentions of who should run the Church.

This first link below provided copies of no less than eight different statements testifying JS III was supposed to fill his father’s shoes.

http://home.earthlink.net/~jptandy/rlds/js3.htm

http://www.centerplace.org/hs/dc/rdc-043.htm

http://restorationbookstore.org/articles/heritage/articles/josephsmithsuccessor.htm

http://archive.org/stream/mormonismunveile00leej#page/154/mode/2up/search/Joseph+Smith+III+ (Mormonism Unveiled, pg 155, John D. Lee)

No Man Knows My History, pg 381-382, Fawn Brodie

Also see:

Law of Prophetic Succession

http://home.earthlink.net/~jptandy/rlds/index.htm

111. New and Everlasting Covenant Outlawed; was Emma Damned?

D&C 132:4-6, 52, 54; “For behold, I reveal unto you a new and an everlasting covenant; and if ye abide not that covenant, then are ye damned; for no one can reject this covenant and be permitted to enter into my glory.  For all who will have a blessing at my hands shall abide the law which was appointed for that blessing, and the conditions thereof, as were instituted from before the foundation of the world.  And as pertaining to the new and everlasting covenant, it was instituted for the fulness of my glory; and he that receiveth a fulness thereof must and shall abide the law, or he shall be damned, saith the Lord God.

52 And let mine handmaid, Emma Smith, receive all those that have been given unto my servant Joseph, and who are virtuous and pure before me; and those who are not pure, and have said they were pure, shall be destroyed, saith the Lord God. 54 And I command mine handmaid, Emma Smith, to abide and cleave unto my servant Joseph, and to none else. But if she will not abide this commandment she shall be destroyed, saith the Lord; for I am the Lord thy God, and will destroy her if she abide not in my law.”

Prophecy recorded on July 12, 1843. History of the Church 5:501-507.

This is the “prophecy” of polygamy.  Polygamy was outlawed in 1887 through the Edmunds-Tucker Act.  If they did not abide the law of multiple wives then they were going to be damned by God, if they did practice it then the state of Utah would lose their bid for statehood.

The mainstream Mormons are supposedly those living in a damned state as they’re not practicing polygamy today. The fundamental branch of Mormonism (FLDS) do practice polygamy and number around 30,000 today. This means the majority of Mormons won’t receive a true salvation in the Celestial Kingdom.

Secondly, Emma never liked Joseph’s wives. There are numerous accounts of Emma tossing Joseph’s concubines to the curb.

Third – the prophecy states Joseph would be strengthened.  Joseph was dead a year later. 

Fourth – Emma wasn’t destroyed as threatened. In fact she went on to remarry and live in a monogamous relationship until she died in old age.

112. Joseph and the Virgins

D&C 132:61-63; “And again, as pertaining to the law of the priesthood—if any man espouse a virgin, and desire to espouse another, and the first give her consent, and if he espouse the second, and they are virgins, and have vowed to no other man, then is he justified; he cannot commit adultery for they are given unto him; for he cannot commit adultery with that that belongeth unto him and to no one else.62 And if he have ten virgins given unto him by this law, he cannot commit adultery, for they belong to him, and they are given unto him; therefore is he justified.63 But if one or either of the ten virgins, after she is espoused, shall be with another man, she has committed adultery, and shall be destroyed; for they are given unto him to multiply and replenish the earth, according to my commandment, and to fulfil the promise which was given by my Father before the foundation of the world, and for their exaltation in the eternal worlds, that they may bear the souls of men; for herein is the work of my Father continued, that he may be glorified.”

Revelation given in Nauvoo, IL on July 12, 1834. History of the Church 5:501-507.

Wow – where do we begin???  Instead of trying to figure out Smith’s rationalization and his form of Islam, let’s turn to our Bibles.  God said; “Thou shalt not commit adultery”. – Exodus 20:14

What makes this a false prophecy not only against God’s word, but also in Smith’s own teachings is how he married and had sex with married women as well as girls as young as fourteen.  See our article here

113. Prophecy, All Nations Will Tremble

D&C 133:17, 42; “17 For behold, the Lord God hath sent forth the angel crying through the midst of heaven, saying: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, and make his paths straight, for the hour of his coming is nigh—42 O Lord, thou shalt come down to make thy name known to thine adversaries, and all nations shall tremble at thy presence—” – August 27, 1843

Revelation 1:7; “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.”

Revelation given in Hiram, OH on November 3, 1831.  History of the Church 1:229-234.

As stated earlier in our investigation, the word nigh means immediately soon.  It’s been over 180 years…

Indeed the Lord will return and all nations, including Mormonism, will tremble.  Smith convinced his followers everyone but the Mormon Church is the enemy of Jesus.

114. Obedience to Civil Law Mandatory

D&C 134:5; “We believe that all men are bound to sustain and uphold the respective governments in which they reside…”

This declaration was originally given in Kirtland, OH on August 17, 1835. History of the Church 2:247-249.

Joseph Smith blew it on this one.  He committed many crimes which have been well documented; from glass looking, treason, polygamy, and even arson.  Four major charges were levied against him in the early summer of 1844 that landed him in jail in Carthage.

115. Smith Will Not be Overthrown

History of the Church 5:554; “I [Joseph Smith] prophesy and bear record this morning that all the combined powers of earth and hell shall not and cannot ever overthrow or overcome this boy, for I have a promise from the eternal God. If I have sinned, I have sinned outwardly; but surely I have contemplated the things of God.”

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.”

Prophecy given circa August 1843.

Joseph Smith was shot and killed by his enemies in June 1844. 

116. Grease Spot Prophecy

Millennial Star, Vol. 22, No. 29, (July 21, 1860), pg. 455; “I prophesied by virtue of the holy Priesthood vested in me, and in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that, if Congress will not hear our petition and grant us protection, they shall be broken up as a government and God shall damn them, and there shall be nothing left of them – not even a grease spot!”.

2 Timothy 2:25-26; “In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;  26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.”

That prophecy was actually made on December 16, 1843.  It’s been 167 years since he made that claim and here we still are in 2010 putzin’ right along.

Also see History of the Church 6:116.

117. No Dark Revelations from Joseph

Contributor, Vol. 5, (October 1883-September 1884), No. 7, pg 259; “”They accuse me of polygamy, and of being a false Prophet, and many other things which I do not now remember; but I am no false Prophet; I am no impostor; I have had no dark revelations; I have had no revelations from the devil; I made no revelations; I have got nothing up of myself. The same God that has thus far dictated me and directed me and strengthened me in this work, gave me this revelation and commandment on celestial and plural marriage, and the same God commanded me to obey it. He said to me that unless I accepted it and introduced it, and practiced it, I, together with my people, would be damned and cut off from this time henceforth. And they say if I do so, they will kill me! Oh, what shall I do? If I do not practice it, I shall be damned with my people. If I do teach it, and practice it, and urge it, they say they will kill me, and I know they will. But,” said he, “we have got to observe it. It is an eternal principle and was given by way of commandment and not by way of instruction.””

This is obviously a lie.   This is an excerpt from one of Joseph Smith’s speeches in the spring of 1844 which they reprinted in the LDS periodical The Contributor.

We know Smith’s words are a lie because he is indeed a false prophet based on lies he told, the adulterous affairs he had, the illegal activities he engaged in and the outright lies about God and the Bible.

118. David Hyrum Smith to be King of Israel

History of the Church 6:253; “Although David was a king, he never did obtain the spirit and power of Elijah and the fullness of the Priesthood; and the Priesthood that he received, and the throne and kingdom of David is to be taken from him and given to another by the name of David in the last days, raised up out of his lineage.”

Prophecy recorded March 10, 1844.

This prophecy by Smith was given when he told a number of people the child Emma was expecting would be the king of Israel. When the child was born they named him David, but as it turned out David Smith never did succeed him.

There were many meetings, discussions and not to mention deep concerns over this prophecy. People had been under the assumption that Smith’s namesake would take his place, but as you read the many personal journals of those involved it became clear they had accepted David was favored over his elder brother Joseph. 

The prophet Joseph also prophesied and taught couples who had children after they’d been sealed in the temple would bless the oldest son after the sealing with the covenant of the father. This promise and covenant therefore fell upon the shoulders of David.

In fact David died at age 60 in 1904 spending the last 27 years in an insane asylum.  David was born about five months after the death of his father Joseph in June 1844.

Also see Mormon Hierarchy Origins of Power, pgs 230-232 by D. Michael Quinn.

119. Arrogance of Joseph Smith

History of the Church 6:408-409; “Come on! ye prosecutors! ye false swearers! All hell, boil over! Ye burning mountains, roll down your lava! for I will come out on the top at last. I have more to boast of than ever any man had. I am the only man that has ever been able to keep a whole church together since the days of Adam. A large majority of the whole have stood by me. Neither Paul, John, Peter, nor Jesus ever did it. I boast that no man ever did such a work as I. The followers of Jesus ran away from Him; but the Latter-day Saints never ran away from me yet.”

Deut. 34:10; “And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face.”

Deut. 28:66; “And thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life.”

At the time of Smith’s boastful speech people had indeed left the fold.  As a matter of fact it was an address towards the dissenters of the Church on Sunday, May 26, 1844.

120. Mormons Will Ride Triumphant

History of the Church 6:485; “”I therefore warn the lawless not to be precipitate in any interference in our affairs, for as sure as there is a God in Israel, we shall ride triumphant over all oppression.””

Prophecy made in Mayor’s Office (Smith was the mayor) on June 16, 1844.

Eleven days after this prophetic statement was made Smith was killed by his enemies. In February 1846 they were forced to leave Nauvoo and subsequently settled in Utah.

121. THE ABRIDGEMENT OF D&C 137

The next entry we have for false prophecies was written by my good friend Ed Decker. I asked him if I could reprint his writings on D&C 137 and with his permission here it is;

Although there are actually dozens of false prophecies we could begin with, we thought it might be appropriate to begin with one that has come to newfound prominence in recent years. In 1976, the 137th section of Doctrine & Covenants (D&C) was submitted to the general conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for a vote to be “sustained” as scripture. It is a narrative of a vision supposedly seen by Joseph Smith in Kirtland, OH in 1836.

What the members who voted on this new addition to scripture were not told by “the Brethren,” is that whole paragraphs (216 words) of the actual revelation as recorded in The History of the Church had been conveniently left out of the version to be included in the D&C. The reason for these omissions was that four obviously false prophecies were contained in the part of the revelation that was censored out. These were prophecies so obviously false that even the average LDS reader would pick them up. Therefore, they went down the “black hole” of Mormon history.

What exactly were in these missing parts? Well, if you go to the official history of the LDS church published by the church’s own publishing company, you will be easily able to find the missing prophecies. Here is what is not in the new D&C 137:

[Joseph Smith:] “….I saw the Twelve Apostles of the Lamb, who are now upon the earth, who hold the keys of this last ministry, in foreign lands, standing together in a circle, much fatigued, with their clothes tattered and their feet swollen, with their eyes cast downward, and Jesus standing in their midst, and they did not behold him. The Saviour looked upon them and wept.

I also beheld Elder M’Lellin in the south, standing upon a hill, surrounded by a vast multitude, preaching to them, and a lame man standing before him supported by his crutches; he threw them down at his word and leaped as a hart, by the mighty power of God.

Also, I saw Elder Brigham Young standing in a strange land, in the far south and west, in a desert place, upon a rock in the midst of a bout a dozen men of color, who appeared hostile. He was preaching to them in their own tongue, and the angel of God standing above his head with a drawn sword in his hand, protecting him, but he did not see it.

And I finally saw the Twelve in the celestial kingdom of God. I also beheld the redemption of Zion and many things which the tongue of man cannot describe in full”

Now, if this were true, it was a truly inspiring and wonderful declaration! Unfortunately, for the LDS faithful, a short look at the official history of the church reveals the false prophecies contained therein.

First of all, Smith claimed to see his (original LDS) Twelve apostles all in the celestial kingdom. This is difficult to imagine, since there was already division between Smith and the majority of the Apostles, beginning with discord in Kirtland, Ohio. The first portion of the “missing words” shows his less than subtle rebuke of their resistance to his will. “…fatigued….tattered…eyes cast downward….The Saviour looked upon them and wept.” Smith was calling them to get into line and submit themselves to his full authority. That’s the carrot offered in the last portion, “I finally saw the Twelve in the Celestial Kingdom of God.”

However, his “thus saith the Lord” must have had little effect on them, since at least seven of the twelve under discussion were soon excommunicated or apostatized from the church: John F. Boynton & Luke S. Johnson (1837), Lyman Johnson (1838), William E. M’Lellin (c.1838), Thomas B. Marsh & Orson Hyde (1838), and William Smith (1845)

How could they have ever attained the celestial kingdom under those conditions? They couldn’t! They were not only accursed by their very acts of apostasy or excommunication, but fell victim to the LDS Church’s own scriptural denunciation. D&C 84.40-41 clearly states:

“Therefore, all those who receive the priesthood, receive this oath and covenant of my father, which he cannot break, neither can it be moved. But whoso breaketh this covenant after he hath received it, and altogether turneth there-from, shall not have forgiveness of sins in this world nor in the world to come.”

Although a few of these men later returned to the church, none of them were even close to the standards necessary for attainment of that highest degree of glory. The majority remained apart for life. Therefore, the prophetic utterance, “I finally saw the Twelve in the Celestial Kingdom of God.” was obviously false. It would have been false even if only one Apostle remained outside the fold.

Second, the vision of M’Lellin preaching and working miracles in the south never came true because he apostatized from the church without ever doing it! (See above).

Third, Although Brigham Young did bring the Mormons west and was a great colonizer and orator, the vision of Brigham Young preaching to “men of color” in their own language, in some strange and faraway place in the southwest never took place either, or at least there is no trace of it in the very detailed records and diaries concerning his reign as prophet.

Finally, “Zion” (Independence, MO.) was never redeemed, has never been redeemed in the 150+ years since the prophecy was made. (See below, for more on Zion). Is it any wonder that the Brethren chose to remove whole chunks of this “inspired” revelation? Four false prophecies for the price of one!

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