The amount of labor and inspiration that went into writing the History of the Church is incredible. The following testimony is something to keep in mind while reading this history:
"We, therefore, hereby bear our testimony to all the world, unto whom these words shall come, that the History of Joseph Smith is true, and is one of the most authentic histories ever written."
"We, therefore, hereby bear our testimony to all the world, unto whom these words shall come, that the History of Joseph Smith is true, and is one of the most authentic histories ever written."
- George A. Smith, Wilford Woodruff
One of the best books that I have ever read is The Words of Joseph Smith. Naturally there is a difference between the way in which the Prophet described his own experiences and the way in which others described them, but both are valuable, and both prove that Joseph Smith was a good, honest, upright and sincere man. Moreover, they prove that he was not perfect, and that he never claimed to be perfect. These records have helped to solidify my testimony that Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God. The witness that I have comes from the Holy Ghost, but the historical records and journals have given me even more reasons to believe.
One of the best books that I have ever read is The Words of Joseph Smith. Naturally there is a difference between the way in which the Prophet described his own experiences and the way in which others described them, but both are valuable, and both prove that Joseph Smith was a good, honest, upright and sincere man. Moreover, they prove that he was not perfect, and that he never claimed to be perfect. These records have helped to solidify my testimony that Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God. The witness that I have comes from the Holy Ghost, but the historical records and journals have given me even more reasons to believe.
Joseph Smith was greatly persecuted for his testimony from the moment he began to share it. He found a friend in Martin Harris, even though Harris foolishly lost a portion of the sacred records that were entrusted to him. Joseph Smith learned a lesson from this incident, namely, not to go on in the persuasions of men, but to trust in the Lord and in His work. The lesson is that the Lord's work is never frustrated, even though the work of men may be frustrated. The lesson is also that God is merciful and that He constantly and lovingly persuades His children to repent and to come unto Him.
There are many other lessons in this chapter, but this suffices as a summary.
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