Criticism of Mormonism/Video/Search for the Truth DVD/Prophecy and Revelation

Prophecy and Revelation

Did Joseph Smith receive revelation that the moon was inhabited? We have no evidence that he did. This claim is based on a single third-hand report made in 1881, almost four decades after Joseph died. Even though the belief was popular in the nineteenth century, we have no evidence from Joseph's writings or speeches that he believed any such thing, or that he made any prophecies or revelations related to such a belief. To read more: Joseph Smith and Moonmen Is D&C 84꞉3-5 an example of a failed prophecy? Joseph Smith's revelation in D&C 84 may appear on the surface to be a failed prophecy, but a more nuanced exegesis reveals that it may not have been a prophecy, and if it is, its fulfillment is still in the future. To read more: Independence temple to be built in this generation Is D&C 114꞉1 an example of a failed prophecy? This revelation is an admonition for David Patten to set all his affairs in order so that he may perform a mission, not a prophecy that he would serve a mission. To read more: "Did Joseph Smith Prophesy Falsely Regarding David Patten?" off-site Claim: Joseph Smith does not measure up to the Biblical standard for prophets in Deut 18꞉21-22 There is no reliable evidence that Joseph Smith fails any sound test based on Deut 18꞉21-22. These critics have attempted to condemn Joseph Smith using a standard that would, if applied to Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Nathan, an angel of God, and Jonah, also condemn the Old Testament as a fraud. The critics are inconsistent, given their desire to condemn Joseph. To read more: Prophetic test in Deuteronomy Did Joseph Smith prophesy the exact date of the Second Coming of Christ? Joseph Smith was merely speculating in 1835 when he said "even 56 years should wind up the scene." It is clear the actual revelation recorded in D&C 130꞉14-17 he had on the subject left the exact date much more uncertain. To read more: Joseph Smith prophesied the Second Coming to be in 1890 Richard Lloyd Anderson, "Joseph Smith and the Millennarian Time Table," Brigham Young University Studies 3 no. 3 (1961), 55–66.off-site

Jump to... Template:DVD25March2007-ToC