Joseph Smith - Seeker After Truth, Prophet of God

Joseph Smith has perplexed the world.

He taught a consistent authoritative theology, known only in fragments in his day, that answers satisfactorily the deep questions of the soul. He set up under this theology an understandable system of practices for human good. Besides, he left convincing evidences of the truth of his claims.

Was Joseph Smith a prophet of God?

The answer to that question lies in an honest, prayerful study of that which he taught and did. To help in such a study, a number of subjects have here been sketched simply and briefly, in the hope that they may awaken a desire for further and more profound study of the Prophet of the nineteenth century; also that they might help confirm the testimonies of his followers.

These sketches, built around a series of radio addresses, are written from the point of view of a believer. Unbelievers cannot object to that, provided the facts used are correct. Enemies who have written about Joseph Smith have been found too often to ignore facts. That destroys the value of the vast anti-Mormon literature. It is not safe to build conclusions on unsupported theories.

To help those unfamiliar with the subject, since time and places are here only briefly mentioned, a chronology of Joseph Smith's life, prepared by Dr. G. Homer Durham and published in his book, Joseph Smith, Prophet-Statesman, has been added. The sketches, however, follow in the main the chronology of Joseph Smith's teachings, with their resulting effects in works. Each of these sketches could well be expanded into a book.

This book was written at the suggestion of George Albert Smith, eighth president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was finished shortly before his death. He urged its early publication and wide circulation to aid, with other publications, in the establishment of the truth of the claims of the first prophet of this dispensation.

Prophetic blood ran strongly in the veins of George Albert Smith. His ancestor was the brother of Joseph Smith's father. His superb faith in Joseph Smith's mission was based on an intelligent examination and use of the principles of the restored gospel. To George Albert Smith the divine calling of Joseph Smith was the greatest event in the history of mankind since the days of the Savior. He was eager that anything new about Joseph Smith, in fact or presentation, provided it rests on truth, be given to the world. He knew that through the gospel alone would the great blessings of life come to the children of men. He was a worthy successor of Joseph the Prophet.

The commission given more than three years ago has guided the pen in the preparation of this volume.