Why Joseph Smith

For those who are confused and may wonder what Joseph Smith is all about and what the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches about him, I want to now share a few brief comments.

In the Old Testament we learn from the prophet Amos: "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." (Amos 3:7). When Christ was upon the earth he organized a church. This church took the gospel to all the known world at that time. After Christ's ascension into heaven persecution of his church increased and over time all the Apostles were murdered. Eventually the Church as an organised body seized to exist.

We also know from other biblical prophesies that God, prior to the Second Coming of Christ, would prepare a people to receive him. For reference study the book of Daniel, in particular the part dealing with the kings dream of an image made out of different materials.

We belief that we live in the time prior to Christ's second coming. In order to prepare a people ready to receive him, God called a prophet to whom he revealed his secret, even Joseph Smith.

Joseph Smith was a prophet like Moses, Isaiah and many others. He carried out God's will in organizing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do not worship Joseph Smith, but respect him and honour him as a servant of the Lord. There has been a number of prophets since Joseph Smith, with Thomas S. Monson being the current prophet of the church. We refer to the prophet as the president of the church. Along with the president we also sustain his two councilors and the Quorum of Twelve Apostles as Apostles, Prophets and Seers.

Colleen's Testimony

I'd like to take this opportunity to share with you my testimony... as did my husband. Unlike my husband, I had the opportunity of being born and raised in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Now this could bring both advantages as well as disadvantages. I'm not very familiar with the beliefs of other churches, but what I know is that the principles that I have both been taught and live, are true. I have had the privilege of seeing miracles happening both in my life as well as in my children's lives. And through it all I've felt the Saviour's love for me and my family. This has strengthened my testimony about our Saviour. I know that He lives and loves each one of us. I know that we are His beloved children whom He wants to return back to live with Him someday.
I also know that the Prophet Joseph Smith has restored the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth. And that he could only have done this through divine revelation. I know that God, the Eternal Father lives... and we are created in His image. We are His spiritual sons and daughters here on earth. He loves us immensely, and desires that we do His will and keep His commandments. I know that He has provided us with a way that we can be Eternal Families and live with Him in the life to come.
I am grateful for a living prophet on the earth today. President Thomas S. Monson is God's mouthpiece on the earth. Just like we read of the prophets of old in the Old Testament. I know that the Lord's Church has been restored.
This I humbly leave with you. In the name of Jesus Christ... our Saviour and Redeemer. Amen