In Matthew 18:16, we read:

“.”

jesus christ mormonThe scenario for this passage is the disciples had come unto the Savior asking, “who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus taught His beautiful lesson, by placing a little child in front of the disciples and teaching them they were to become as little children themselves.

Jesus then moved into speaking about offenses, both against children and otherwise. Eventually he then taught this great principle found in Matthew 18:16 and the need for witnesses when people will not believe or hear the truth.

As to the Book of Mormon, I often find it a bit laughable that 19th century contemporaries of Joseph Smith claimed that Joseph lied about having the Book of Mormon record, yet went to such great lengths to steal it from him. It was against such a societal backdrop, and precisely following the principle of witnesses stated in Matt. 18:16, that the Lord allowed others to actually view the golden plates from which Joseph translated this ancient scriptural record.

Placed after the Title Page, and immediately after the Introduction, we find a page with two short paragraphs accompanied by names of individuals who stated they handled the sacred record and knew “of a surety that the work is true.”

These men were willing to put their names and reputations on the line, not an easy task to do during any time in the history of the world. But they knew the importance of the principle of witnesses – and they were willing to add their names to the list of those testifying of this ancient record’s validity.

Read this somber statement from these men:

“Be it known unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, unto whom this work shall come: That Joseph Smith, Jun., the translator of this work, has shown unto us the plates of which hath been spoken, which have the appearance of gold; and as many of the leaves as the said Smith has translated we did handle with our hands; and we also saw the engravings thereon, all of which has the appearance of ancient work, and of curious workmanship. And this we bear record with words of soberness, that the said Smith has shown unto us, for we have seen and hefted, and know of a surety that the said Smith has got the plates of which we have spoken. And we give our names unto the world, to witness unto the world that which we have seen. And we lie not, God bearing witness of it.”

The Lord used witnesses early on to act as testators of the Book of Mormon’s presence and reality. But of course it is for every person to determine the worth of the Book of Mormon. To make it easy for you to do so, please feel free to visit this link to read from the actual Book of Mormon.

About Cindy B

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