Joseph Smith learned from his first vision what he should not do: join any of the churches in his community. His second vision, which came three and a half years later, gave him a specific assignment: translate the Book of Mormon.
Both visions came in response to sincere prayers, and both were followed by long waiting periods—Joseph didn’t take possession of the gold plates until four years after Moroni’s initial visit. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:59.) The lesson for us: Keep praying, and keep being patient. God answers our sincere prayers in His own way and in His own time. Faith includes approaching Him with confidence and trusting His timing.
Here are some other lessons I’ve learned from Joseph Smith’s experience:
Outline
- v. 27-43 – Moroni appears to Joseph Smith, assigns him to translate the plates, and teaches him using biblical passages
- v. 44-50 – Moroni appears three more times with the same message
- v. 51-54 – Joseph finds the plates; Moroni instructs him to return each year until it was time for him to take possession of the plates
- v. 55-58 – Joseph meets and marries Emma Hale
- v. 59-62 – Joseph obtains, protects, and begins transcribing the record on the plates
- v. 63-65 – Martin Harris takes some of the transcribed characters to professor Charles Anthon in New York City, who (temporarily) endorses the characters and the translation
Key Themes
- God has assignments for each of us.
- We can have full confidence in receiving answers to our prayers.
- The Book of Mormon contains the fulness of the gospel.
- God speaks with one voice through many messengers. We gain greater insight as we synthesize what we learn from various scriptural passages.
- God will help us through the difficult days which will precede the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
- The power restored by Elijah can help us strengthen family relationships.
Book of Mormon Connections
- Isaiah prophesied that educated people would reject the Book of Mormon. (See Isaiah 29:11-12.) Nephi provided a clearer version of this prophecy, indicating that a learned man would dismiss the book when told that it was sealed. (See 2 Nephi 27:15-20.) Martin Harris’s experience sharing characters from the plates with a professor closely matched Isaiah’s prophecy. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:63-65.)
- Moses prophesied that God would raise up a prophet, and that we would be judged based on our response to that prophet’s words. (See Deuteronomy 18:18-19,) In the Book of Mormon, Jesus identifies Himself as that Prophet. (See 3 Nephi 20:23.) Moroni quoted that prophecy to Joseph Smith, telling him that the day had not yet come when those who will not hear the Savior’s voice will be cut off, but that it will soon come. (See Joseph Smith—History 1:40.)
Applications
- Don’t take serious things lightly.
- Turn to God when you feel like you’re falling short.
- Trust and love your children.
- Keep focused on God’s glory. Don’t be distracted by opportunities for worldly gain.
- Rely on God’s help as you fulfill your callings.
Recommended Posts
- What Is the Urim and Thummim?
- What Is the Sealed Portion of the Book of Mormon?
- Why Do Quotes from the King James Version Appear in the Book of Mormon, Even Ones that Joseph Smith Later Altered in his Translation of the Bible ?
Blog Posts: January 20-26
Making and Keeping Appointments with God
Joseph Smith’s annual visits with the angel enabled him to demonstrate his commitment to God. The anticipation of these visits surely blessed him throughout the year. We can also set and keep appointments to do things which bring us closer to God.
Serious Reflection
Joseph Smith’s mother said that he was “given to reflection.” His own history confirms that observation. He speaks about pondering, meditating, and engaging in “serious reflection.” Thinking deeply about what we have learned can invite more revelation.
Feeling Condemned
Joseph Smith prayed because he felt inadequate to his divine calling. Nephi offered a similar prayer, detecting a contrast between his behavior and the miracles he had seen. Feelings of inadequacy can be helpful if they turn us toward the Source of grace.
Old Testament Prophecies of the Second Coming
Four Old Testament prophecies quoted by Moroni to Joseph Smith teach us how to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ: 1. Strengthen families with priesthood power 2. Gather Israel and preach the gospel 3. Hear Him 4. Receive personal revelation
Noah, Babylon, and the Slipperiness of Political Power
King Noah trusted too much in his political power and failed to recognize the real dangers he and his people faced. When his power failed, it was sudden and dramatic. The king of Babylon suffered a similar fate. Worldly power and influence is temporary.
Of God / Of the Devil
How do we respond to other people’s spiritual experiences? A trusted leader told Joseph Smith that his first vision was “of the devil.” In contrast, his father told him his vision of the angel Moroni was “of God.” The Spirit can help us avoid defensiveness and recognize truth.
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