My Testimony of Joseph Smith

I bear testimony that Joseph Smith was a prophet, called of God, and given the responsibility of restoring the fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

As a faithful boy of 14, he prayed for answers to the questions that burned within him, and was answered by seeing God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. They spoke to him directly, and answered his questions, and gave him instructions.

He was visited by the Angel Moroni, who gave him further instructions and prepared him to receive the golden plates.

He did indeed receive the golden plates - an ancient record of the people who once populated the Americas, and who were visited by Jesus Christ following His resurrection. Joseph translated the records by the gift and power of God. They were published as the Book of Mormon.

Joseph organized the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was ordained to the true priesthood of God by John the Baptist (Aaronic Priesthood), and by Peter, James and John (Melchizedek Priesthood).

To Joseph God revealed many great and wonderful things pertaining to the Kingdom of God, including the temple ordinances that bind on Earth as well as in Heaven - the sealing power.

I fully, whole-heartedly believe - yes, I KNOW without reservation - that the Prophet Joseph Smith did indeed receive the revelations that comprise the book of Doctrine and Covenants.

How do I know these things are true? Because I have asked God for myself, in faith, believing I would receive an answer. And I did receive an answer. The Holy Ghost has testified directly to my own spirit that these things are true. I will never deny it - because I know as well as I know anything that it is true.

Now, Joseph was not perfect - he was just a man. But he was kind, charitable, faithful, strong and courageous. He was a great man of love and perseverance. He endured many awful trials, and suffered much pain and sorrow at the hands of evil men, with unshakable faith.

He was murdered for his faith, sealing his testimony with his own blood (along with his brother Hyrum).

I love and admire and respect and feel a deep gratitude for Joseph Smith, and the great work he did to bring to pass the restoration of the Gospel.

I thank God for the Prophet Joseph Smith.