RLDS Church History Search

Chapter Context

RLDS History Context Results

Source: Church History Vol. 1 Chapter 4 Page: 44 (~1829)

Read Previous Page / Next Page

44 While at Mr. Whitmer's, engaged in translation, occurred another of the most wonderful and confirming events connected with the introduction of the Book of Mormon and the establishment of the work. Joseph was no longer to be the sole witness of the existence of the plates and the correctness of their translation. How joyful must have been his feelings as he realized that the burden which before he had borne alone was now to be shared by others. No wonder that he exclaimed when the wonderful vision had been concluded, Father, Mother, you do not know how happy I am; the Lord has now caused the plates to be shown to three more besides myself. They have seen an angel, who has testified to them, and they will have to bear witness to the truth of what I have said, for now they know for themselves that I do not go about to deceive the people, and I feel as if I was relieved of a burden which was almost too heavy for me to bear, and it rejoices my soul that I am not any longer to be entirely alone in the world."-Lucy Smith's History, p. 147.

The relation of these remarkable events we here present in the words of Joseph Smith:-

"We found the people of Seneca County in general friendly and disposed to inquire into the truth of these strange matters which now began to be noised abroad: many opened their houses to us in order that we might have an opportunity of meeting with our friends for the purposes of instruction and explanation. We met with many from time to time, who were willing to hear us, and wishful to find out the truth as it is in Christ Jesus, and apparently willing to obey the gospel when once fairly convinced and satisfied in their own minds; and in this same month of June my brother Hyrum Smith, David Whitmer, and Peter Whitmer, Jr., were baptized

you have desired of me to know that which would be of the most worth unto you.

2. Behold, blessed are you for this thing, and for speaking my words, which I have given unto you, according to my commandments.

3. 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.

(page 44)

Read Previous Page / Next Page