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One of the most important and central tenants of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the authenticity of the prophecies proclaimed by their founder, Joseph Smith (1805-1833). Joseph Smith was a prophet of God, if not the greatest prophet ever to have lived on the earth. This being so, he should certainly pass the Biblical test of a prophet, “And if thou say in thine heart, How shall we know the word which the Lord hath spoken? When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoke, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously…” (Deut. 18:21,22). Isaiah 8:20 and 9:15 also speak to this point; if what a prophet says is different from the law, it is because there is “no light in” him. Furthermore, a prophet that teaches lies will be “cut off.” Generally, those in the LDS Church will adhere to these admonitions proclaimed in Scripture. Nephi Lowell Morris, in the preface to his book, The Prophecies of Joseph Smith and Their Fulfillment), notes:
Joseph Smith himself (speaking for God) gave tests that could be applied to determine whether a prophet was true or false,
Even Joseph Smith, however, had to admit that some of his “revelations” might have been from man or even from the devil rather than from divine inspiration (Comprehensive History of the Church 1;165). This would certainly seem to be a troubling admission for an avowed prophet of God in the stature of Joseph Smith. Indeed, this is contradictory in concept to the Deuteronomy 18:22 test which says that the failure of the test implies that the prophet is false. Joseph Smith implies by his admission that some of his prophecies may have been false that one can be a prophet of God while still proclaiming false prophecies. Unfortunately, however, this admission necessarily casts into doubt all of his prophecies and revelations. Hyrum Smith, who was also a “prophet”, on November 1, 1831 commented that “if you hit once in 10 times, that is alright” (quoted by Abraham O. Smoot in 1868 at the Provo School of the Prophets). This seems to be a contradiction of Deuteronomy 18:22. However, all the prophecies in the Doctrine and Covenants “shall all be fulfilled.” If even one remained unfulfilled, then this also is a false prophecy (D&C 1:27). Prophecies of Joseph Smith that were Not FulfilledThe following prophecies of Joseph Smith have not been fulfilled in over 150 years, and are given in approximate chronological order. 1. Peace and Knowledge (Sept. 21, 1823). In the Pearl of Great Price, Joseph Smith 2:40), Joseph Smith indicates that Moroni told him that Isaiah 11 was “about to be fulfilled.” (Isaiah 11:6-11 prophesies that the wolf and the lamb shall dwell in peace together, and that nothing will “hurt or destroy,” and that the earth shall be “full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.” So far, 176 years have gone by and the prophesies Joseph Smith referred to have not yet been fulfilled. We know that they will be fulfilled in the future, but not in Joseph Smith’s timing. 2 Lamanites (D&C 3). (remember, that it is not the work of God that is frustrated, but the work of men.” Verses 16-20 of this same Section indicate that as part of this “work of God,” the Lamanites will be converted. In Mormon theology, the Lamanites are American Indians. The Mormon Church has been trying to convert the Indians for 153 years and are still trying. A large majority of the Indians who have been converted are inactive, especially in Latin American and South America. Furthermore, the Book of Mormon in 2 Nephi 30:6 indicates the Lamanites (Indians) would turn “white and delightsome” in a few generations after accepting the gospel. While the handwritten manuscript of 2 Nephi 30:6 indicates the words “white and delightsome,” in 1840 Joseph Smith directed that it be changed to “pure and delightsome.” Brigham Young then directed it be changed back to “white and delightsome.” Thus this verse remained until 1981 when once again it was changed back to “pure and delightsome,” with no footnote indicating why it was changed. It is now possible to see that after multiple generations of LDS Church membership, the Lamanites are not going to turn into a “white” people and that it was probably considered prudent for the Church leadership to once again change the wording. 3 Winter 3829-1830. An Address to All Believers in Christ, David Whitmer, pp. 30-31. Joseph had a revelation that Hiram Page and Oliver Cowdery were to go to Toronto to sell the copyright of the Book of Mormon to raise money. The couple went but was completely unsuccessful. Joseph Smith “inquired of God” and was told that some “revelations” are not from God. David Whitmer reports this incident in his book, An Address to all believers In Christ, Richmond, 1887). This incident was discussed by Apostle B.H. Roberts:
It seems as though this LDS Apostle is indicating that this was a false prophesy. Remember, Deuteronomy 18:22 indicates that all you need is one false prophecy to have a false prophet. 4 Return of Christ (September, 1830, D&C 29:10-11). Many so-called prophets have ventured to predict the second coming of Christ, including Joseph Smith. In this Section, he prophesied that the “…hour is nigh…” for Christ to return. About 170 years have elapsed since Joseph Smith stated that the hour was nigh; only by performing true mental gymnastics can one still believe this prophecy as accurate. 5 Everlasting Covenant (March, 1831). D&C 49:9-10 indicates:
The “everlasting covenant” has been defined as the gospel given through the Mormon Church by Mormon Apostle Bruce R. McConkie in his book Mormon Doctrine. Thus far, the nations of the earth have not “bowed down” to the LDS gospel, and no nation has been “laid low of power” for not bowing down to it. 6 Zion (July 1831, D&C 57:1-3). The location of Zion is here named to be Independence, Missouri. Independence is appointed and consecrated for the gathering of the saints and is indicated to be the land of promise. Section 3:3 indicates that any work that is frustrated is not from God but from man. Clearly, there is no doubt that the gathering of the saints in Independence has been frustrated. History indicates that the LDS people tried to congregate there but were physically driven out. Thus, by its own admission, this “prophesy” must be of man and not from God. 7 Faithful preserved (D&C 62:1,6,9). Joseph Smith declares in this revelation that God told him that,
Verse 9 notes,
However, history indicates that: 1) the faithful were not preserved but were killed and driven out from the land, 2) The faithful did not rejoice together in the land of Missouri, 3) The kingdom was not theirs as they were driven out.” 8 Zion shall flourish. Rich (Scrapbook of Mormon Literature, 2:259) reports this prophesy regarding Zion,
Again, history indicates the Saints did not flourish in Zion, but were driven out. Once again, this prophecy has been frustrated and cannot therefore be from God (D&C 3:3). Faithful Mormons would say this revelation’s fulfillment is still in the future; however, all that can be said is that thus far, the Saints have clearly been frustrated in their initial attempt to establish Zion in Independence, Missouri. 9 Respecter of Persons (D&C 1:35). This scripture notes,
However, if God is no respecter of persons, why is the following recorded in the Pearl of Great Price, Moses 5:20, 21:
Thus, the book of Moses directly contradicts the Doctrine and Covenants on this matter of theology. Joseph Smith further contradicted himself when he had recorded in D&C 134:102:
Why not other persons and only these named persons? 10 Second Coming is nigh. (D&C 133:17,26-30). This section notes the following:
Well, about 170 years have passed and Christ has not yet returned….another frustrated prophecy. 11 Prospering Weapons. (D&C 71:6-9). This section indicates: 6. For unto him that receiveth it shall be given more abundantly, even power. 7. Wherefore, confound your enemies; call upon them to meet you both in public and in private; and inasmuch as ye are faithful their shame shall be made manifest. 8. Wherefore, let them bring forth their strong reasons against the Lord. Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you – there is no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; 9. And if any man lift his voice against you he shall be confounded in mine own due time.” Most Mormons will not discuss “in public and in private” their faith, and even contend that contentiousness is not compatible with being a “saint.” However, this Section of scripture seems to indicate that this should not be their attitude; rather, they should seek out their “enemies” and be confrontational against them as their enemies’ efforts will be in vain. The main weapon against the Mormons is the Word of God as found in the Bible. Furthermore, history clearly indicates that persecution against the Mormons was clearly successful as they were driven out of Zion (Missouri) from one city to another, and then finally across the country to Utah. Certainly, the guns that were used to murder Joseph Smith “prospered.” 12 This generation. (D&C 84:2-5,31,114-115. The scripture says:
History records that Independence was built not by the Mormons, but rather by their enemies. Also, verse 4 indicates that the temple would be built in Zion (Independence, MO) in the time of the generation then living. Indeed, that generation would “not all pass away until an house shall be built unto the Lord.” The temple has still not been built there. Joseph Fielding Smith – who became the 10th president of the LDS Church, answered the generation question by stating that: “It is reasonable to believe that no soul living in 1832 is still living in mortality on the earth.” (Answers to Gospel Questions, 4:112). The lot where the temple is to be built is no longer owned by the LDS Church, but rather is owned by the Church of Jesus Christ, Temple Lot, who plan to build their own temple there. Finally, this passage indicates that the cities of New York, Albany, and Boston would be destroyed if they rejected the sound of the LDS gospel. History records that Joseph Smith and Bishop Newel K. Whitney went to these cities in response to verses 114 and 115; however, there is no record that these cities converted to the Mormon gospel or were destroyed. Indeed, the LDS Church is still very small in these cities. This represents yet another evidence that Joseph Smith failed as a prophet of God. 13 December 25, 1832, the D&C 87:1-8 notes: 1
History records that South Carolina was already in rebellion on Christmas Day, 1832 when this revelation was written. Mormons generally refer to the Civil War as one of the prophecies that has been fulfilled. However, upon close examination, it becomes very clear that it is a failure. This is a very complex prophecy with approximately 20 different components, all of which must be satisfied for the prophecy to be true. Indeed, if all 20 elements were proven true by history, then this would be a remarkable testimony toward the truth that Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God! However, the statistics are instead stacked against Joseph Smith. History records that the Civil War did not begin until April 12, 1861 when Southern artillery fired upon Fort Sumter in the harbor at Charleston, South Carolina. The Civil War then ended four years later on April 9, 1865 when General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Courthouse in Virginia. The Civil War did not result in war being poured out upon all nations, nor did it bring about a “…full end of all nations.” It is also interesting that the Civil War prophesy was not even published during the lifetime of Joseph Smith, but rather was published originally in 1851 – a full 19 years after the death of Joseph Smith. Jerald and Sandra Tanner discuss more fully the Civil War Prophesy in their book, “The Changing World of Mormonism.’ 14 December 27, 1832. The D&C reports in Section 88:87,
More than 61,000 days have elapsed since this prophesy was made, and still the moon has not been bathed in blood, the sun has not yet refused to give light, and the stars have not yet become exceedingly angry nor cast themselves down. 15 January 4, 1833. History of the Church, 7:315-316 reports,
About 170 years have gone by since this prophecy was given, and the wicked are sill upon the earth. The lost tribes of Israel have not yet returned from the north country, and everyone that was alive in 1833 is now dead, and the things that Joseph Smith prophesied have not come to pass. There is no reasonable, rational explanation that can be proposed that would indicate this is anything but a false prophecy. 16 February 27, 1833 (D&C 89:18-21):
This prophecy was given as a part of what is known as the “Word of Wisdom.” The promise is given that if the Mormons will obey the Word of Wisdom (no coffee, tea, tobacco, etc.) then they would obtain all the promises given in verses 18 through 21. The facts are, however, that there are many Mormons who obey the Word of Wisdom to the letter, and they have not found great treasures of knowledge or hidden treasures. They do indeed run and get weary – and walk and become faint. Mormons die just like other people. For example, the death rate of those Mormons in and around St. George, Utah that has been exposed to radiation from nuclear tests in Nevada – the destroying angel certainly did not pass them by. Interestingly, the phrase “…they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint.” Is found on page 268 of the book titled, View of the Hebrews, written by Ethan Smith (no relation to Joseph Smith). These words are also found in Isaiah 40:31. While it is possible that Joseph Smith got his idea from View of the Hebrews, it is probably more likely that it was copied directly from the Bible. In the King James Version of the Bible, the word “and” is italicized, which means it was not in the original manuscripts but is included for clarity. It is interesting to notice how many times Joseph Smith presents language that is supposed to have come directly from God and yet finds it is an exact quote from the Bible including the italicized words. As a side note, the book View of the Hebrews was published in 1825, about 5 years previous to publication of the Book of Mormon. There are many parallels between these two books that many believe that View of the Hebrews served as an inspiration for the Book of Mormon. These parallels are so numerous that Mormon apostle and historian, B.H. Roberts, wrote a 141 page report on the parallels entitled, Book of Mormon Difficulties. Later, this study was expanded into a 291-page review entitled, A Book of Mormon Study. 17 August 2, 1833, Parley P. Pratt Biography, p. 100, and D&C, Section 97;19:
However, history does record that Zion (Independence, MO) did fail, and that the Mormons were indeed driven out of Independence in the winter of 1838-1839. Another false prophecy. 18 October 12, 1833, D&C 103:13,15:
Almost 170 years have passed since this prophecy was written – hardly “a little season.” When you combine this revelation with all the others that have not come to pass, it is clear that Joseph Smith was a false prophet. What happens to those who follow the teachings of a false prophet? The Bible is very clear, for Isaiah 9:16 notes, “For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed.” Matthew 7:15-20 encourages believers to be aware of false prophets, for the fate of a false prophet is that he will be “…hewn down, and cast into the fire.” It may well be that the fate of those who follow a false prophet is the same as that of the prophet. 19 December 10, 1833. History of the Church, 1:455:
However, history indicates that:
20 December 17, 1833, D&C 101:17-20:
The facts are that the Mormons were driven out of Zion, that they were moved out of her place. People were becoming discouraged by the intense persecution being heaped upon them, and Joseph Smith was issuing these prophecies in an attempt to give the people hope. They truly were suffering, but largely because they followed the Mormon doctrines. Suffering and persecution does not indicate that the Church is true, for certainly many false movements have been persecuted throughout history. The Unification Church (Moonies0, and Christian Science movements have been intensely persecuted, and the persecution that Mormons suffered is nothing compared to the persecution that Christians in all ages have suffered. 21 February 24, 1834. D&C 103:5-7:
The faithful Mormon will indicate that this is a conditional prophecy, conditioned upon the righteousness of the people. However, Isaiah 64:6 indicates that Mormons will never obtain the blessings ascribed in this prophecy because man is unclean and unrighteous, “But our righteousness are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.” Furthermore, the rest of D&C 103 describes the mission of Zion’s Camp: 1. Verily, I say unto you… (presented as if from God). 13. Behold, this is the blessing which I have promised…even their restoration to the land of Zion, to be established, no more to be thrown down…. 15. Behold, I say unto you, the redemption of Zion must needs come by power…. 17. For ye are the children of Israel, and of the seed of Abraham, and ye must needs be led out of bondage by power, and with a stretched-out arm… 19. Therefore, let not your hearts faint, for I say not unto you as I said unto your fathers: Mine angel shall go up before you, but not my presence…. 24. And inasmuch as mine enemies come against you to drive you from my goodly land, which I have consecrated to be the land of Zion, even from your own lands after these testimonies, which ye have brought before me against them, ye shall curse them; 25. And whomsoever ye curse, I will curse, and ye shall avenge me of mine enemies.” However, history records Zion’s Camp was a miserable failure. It was a group of Mormons that was organized to march to Missouri and rescue the Mormons there. The introduction to Volume 3 of the History of the Church describes the failure of this venture. 22 April 23, 1834, D&C 104:1:
The United Order was a communal type of order where everyone worked according to his ability, gave everything that he produced or earned to the Bishop’s Storehouse and received from that same storehouse as he required. History records, however, that the United Order failed. There is no way to escape the simple truth that it failed, despite the “prophecy” indicating that it would be an “everlasting order.” Therefore, it was not from God, but the work of men (D&C 3:3). 23 June 22, 1834. D&C 105:13-15:
History records, however, that the enemies of the Mormons were not laid waste, in spite of the fact tha thte destroyer had been sent forth. There is evidence to suggest that the identity of this destroyer was Porter Rockwell. He was sent out to destroy those who were frustrating the will of the Mormons. This prophecy was again frustrated because the Mormons continued to be persecuted. It would only be 4.5 years later that the Mormons would be driven out of Zion. 24 August 16, 1834. History of the Church, 2:145. “Dear Brethren…I shall now proceed to give you such counsel as the Spirit of the Lord may dictate … use every effort to gather to those regions and locate themselves, to be in readiness to move into Jackson County in two years from the eleventh of September next, which is the appointed time for the redemption of Zion…” By September 11, 1836, the Mormons should have been all gathered in Independence, Missouri (Zion). If all the other prophecies regarding Zion were to come true (which they did not), they should have:
It is clear that these set of prophecies have failed, thereby indicating the person who issued them was a false prophet, and all who follow this false prophet are in eternal danger. 25 November 25, 1834. D&C 106:4:
The only way this prophecy has a chance of being fulfilled is if “draweth nigh” could be 167 years! 26 February 14, 1835. History of the Church, 2:182:
History relates that Jesus Christ did not return by February 14, 1891. This is another false prophecy. It should be noted that Matthew 24:36 indicates that the exact date of Christ’s coming is unknown: “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heave, but my Father only.” 27 February 14, 1835. As reported in Prophecies of Joseph Smith and Their Fulfillment, Nephi Morris, Desertet Book Co., 1926, p. 261:
This was a prophecy given to Orson Hyde – one of the twelve apostles chosen by Joseph Smith. History indicates that Orson Hyde did indeed travel to Jerusalem; however, it hardly follows that a great work was facilitated for it took another 107b years for the Jews to return to Israel. Certainly, when the Jews returned in 1948, not a single Jew who had ever seen Orson Hyde was still alive. Only through mental gymnastics could one believe in the fulfillment of this prophecy. 28 January 21, 1836. Church History, 2:380-381
I also beheld Elder M’Lellin in the south, standing upon a hill, surrounded by a vast multitude, preaching to them, and a lame man standing before him supported by his crutches; he threw them down at his word and leaped as a hart, by the mighty power of God.’ Also, I saw Elder Brigham Young standing in a strange land, in the far south and west, in a desert place, upon a rock in the midst of about a dozen men of color, who appeared hostile. He was preaching to them in their own tongue, and the angel of God standing above his head, with a drawn sword in his hand, protecting him, but he did not see it. And I finally saw the twelve in the celestial kingdom of God. I also beheld the redemption of Zion, and many things which the tongue of man cannot describe in full.” History does not record any of the above happening; namely, Elder M’Lellin standing upon a hill surrounded by a vast multitude with a lame man being healed, or Brigham Young preaching in a desert to a dozen “men of color” in their own tongue, etc. Interestingly, Elder M’Lellin was excommunicated on May 11, 1838 and became one of the greatest enemies of the Mormon Church. Joseph Smith recorded that he saw the twelve apostles in the celestial kingdom of God. How is that possible when five of the apostles were either excommunicated or apostatized, never to return to the LDS Church? According to Mormon theology, it would not be possible for apostates and excommunicated individuals to reach the celestial kingdom:
It is interesting that the first part of the above revelation was accepted as scripture on April 3, 1976, but the last part of the vision was not accepted as scripture. Perhaps the reason the entire vision is not considered scripture is obvious. It is also interesting that the vision as originally recorded in Joseph Smith’s diary under the date of January 21, 1836 has been altered. In the diary, the beginning of the revelation read as follows: “The heavens were opened upon us and I beheld the celestial kingdom of God … I saw father Adam, and Abraham and Michael and my father and mother, my brother Alvin…” (Joseph Smith’s Diary, January 21, 1836). The problem with this original revelation is that in Mormon theology Adam is Michael. Thus, if Adam is Michael, then Joseph Smith could not have seen both of them in the celestial kingdom. Because of this problem, the Mormon leaders deleted the words “and Michael” from the revelation 29. April 3, 1836. D&C 110:16:
Well, more than 165 years have elapsed and Jesus has not yet returned. 30. August 6, 1836. D&C 111:1-11. This was a revelation given through Joseph Smith at Salem, Massachusetts:
History records, however, that Joseph Smith and other leaders in the Mormon Church at that time found no treasures in Salem, Massachusetts; the Mormons have never taken power over Salem. Their god did not give the silver and gold in that city to them. This is certainly a prophecy that has not been fulfilled. Time ran out in September 1836 when Joseph Smith returned to Kirtland, Ohio – with no treasure. 31. April 1837. Latter-day Saint Messenger and Advocate, Page 48:
History records the Mormons were driven out of Kirtland, Ohio, and nobody became rich by helping to secure the contracts for land. In fact, many of those men who helped Joseph Smith financially in Kirtland lost most of their money in the Kirtland anti-banking society. Joseph Smith himself went bankrupt. Everything about this particular prophecy failed. 32. July 23, 1837. D&C 112:3-12. This is a prophecy concerning Thomas B. Marsh, one of the original twelve apostles. In fact, he was the president of the twelve apostles when this prophecy was given about him.
History records that Thomas B. Marsh was excommunicated on March 17, 1839 (Church History 3:284). Even though he was re-baptized in 1857, and died a member of the church in Utah, he never did any of the things outlines in this prophecy. He never did a great work in the church; in fact, for many years, he was a bitter enemy of the church. 33. 1837, Oliver B. Huntington Journal, Book 14, Original at Huntington Library, San Marino, California. Also found in The Young Women’s Journal, published by the Young Ladies’ Mutual Improvement Association of Zion, 1892, 3:263-264.
Well,. It is clear that this prophecy is in error! The evidence is rather conclusive that Joseph Smith said it – despite confessions to the contrary by many LDS apologists. In fact, Brigham Young confirmed it on July 24, 1870, when he said:
The question should be asked whether anybody should risk their eternal destiny on those who would utter such nonsense! I would personally rather place my destiny in the hands of Jesus Christ who said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but buy me.” (John 14:6). 34. April 17, 1838. D&C 114:1:
However, history records that on October 27, 1838, Apostle David W. Patten was buried at Far West, Missouri (Church Chronology, Page 15). The usual excuse that Elder Patten was not worthy and thereby excluded from this missionary experience is disproved by what Joseph Smith said about him: “Brother David Patten was a very worthy man, beloved by all good men who knew him. He was one of the Twelve Apostles, and died as he had lived, a man of God, and strong in the faith of a glorious resurrection, in a world where mobs will have no power or place. One of the last expressions to his wife was – ‘whatever you do else, O! Do not deny the faith’” (History of the Church, 3:171). 35. April 26, 1838. D&C 115:1, 7-9, 12.
After more than 160 years, the temple is still not finished. The cornerstone of the temple was laid on July 4, 1838, amid elaborate ceremonies (A Comprehensive History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, B.H. Roberts, p. 440). However, for over 160 years, the rest of the building effort has been frustrated thereby making clear this commandment cannot be from God, but rather from man. 36. July 8, 1838. D&C 117:12-15.
The prophecy indicates that the name of Oliver Granger would be held in sacred remembrance from generation to generation. Yet, there are hardly any members of the LDS Church who could relate any factual information concerning this man and what he did to gain such a recommendation. Another clear-cut false prophecy. 37 March 20, 1839. D&C 121:5-15, 33.
The preface to Sections 121 in the 1981 edition of the D&C indicate that the above remarks are “Prayer and prophecies written by Joseph Smith the Prophet, while he was a prisoner in the jail at Liberty, Missouri, Dated March 20, 1839. History records that Joseph Smith and the Mormons did not triumph over all their foes. They had just been driven out of Zion (Independence, Missouri) by their enemies. Joseph Smith would later die by the hands of his enemies in a little bit over five years. The Mormons were to be driven out of Illinois all the way across the mountains to Utah in just eight years. During this successful persecution against the Mormons,
None of these things really did happen, in spite that the Mormon god kept promising them that they would conquer their enemies. 38. September 18, 1839. Reed Peck’s Manuscript:
History records that over 160 years have elapsed since this prophecy was made and the Mormons have not yet marched to Jackson County, Missouri. They once had tried to march to Zion (Independence, Missouri) in 1834, and the march failed (see #21 above). They then were to march into Zion no later than September 11, 1836 (see #24 above). However, history indicates that the Mormons were driven out and have never returned. 39. January 19, 1841. D&C 124:20-21:
History records, “At a meeting held in the Great Salt Lake City Ford, fellowship was withdrawn from Apostle Lyman Wight and Bishop George Miller.” (Recorded in the Church Chronology, p. 36, Sunday, Dec. 3, 1848). Another promise made by god through Joseph Smith frustrated. Mormons would say that all blessings are predicated upon the righteousness of the people. But, what does the Bible say about righteousness?
None are righteous, for all have sinned and all have disobeyed at least one commandment. Christ says that all who have disobeyed just one commandment is guilty of disobeying all of them; none are righteous – no, not one. Blessings are predicated upon the acceptance of Christ as your personal Lord and Savior and not upon our own righteousness. Even more interesting is the contradiction provided by verses 49 and 50 later in this same Section 124: “49. Verily, verily, I say unto you that when I give a commandment to any of the sons of men to do a work unto my name, and those sons of men go with all their might and with all they have to perform that work, and cease not their diligence, and their enemies come upon them and hinder them from performing that work, behold, it behooveth me to require that work no more at the hands of those sons of men, but to accept of their offerings. 50. And the iniquity and transgression of my hold laws and commandments I will visit upon the heads of those who hindered my work, unto the third and fourth generation, so long as they repent not, and hate me, saith the Lord God.” What happened to the promises of God that he would take care of his saints? Verses 49 and 50 so totally contradict what was said earlier in the same Section that it is incredible that such a verse could be accepted as revelation or scripture. 40. March, 1941, D&C 125:1-4.
What happened to Zion? It was supposed to flourish, and not to be moved out of her place (See #17 above). History records, however, that Zarahemla failed, along with Nauvoo, Kirtland, Independence, and every other attempt to settle, until they finally were driven out of the country and arrived in Salt Lake where there was nobody to contend with for the land. The promises of the Mormon god have been broken so many times in the past that it is difficult to understand why anybody thinks he will produce on the promise of eternal life – it is an empty promise. 41. August 6, 1842. George Q. Cannon Diary:
This is a questionable prophecy of Joseph Smith, as evidence suggests that it is a forgery. However, if the Mormons want to accept it as prophecy, there are still some difficulties. Some of the statistics regarding the Mormons in the Rocky Mountains indicate they are not as mighty as one might believe;
42. August 6, 1842. Anson Call Diary, as reported in Prophecies of Joseph Smith, and Their Fulfillment, Nephi Lowel Morris, Deseret Cook Company, 1926:
History records that Anson Call assisted in settling Millard County, Utah – a southern semi-desert region of which Fillmore is the county seat (Church Chronology, page 44). The other “large” cities in that district are Delta, Hinkley, Kanosh, Leaminton, Oasis, and Abraham. Anson Call did not assist in building cities from one end of the country to another. He did not perform as great a work as has ever been performed by man. Certainly the nations of the earth are not astonished at his accomplishments. Another clear-cut false prophecy. 43. September 1, 1842. D&C 127:2:
Another promise that Joseph Smith would triumph over his enemies. Joseph Smith died at the hands of his enemies, and the Mormons were driven out of every place they tried to settle. The Mormon people will never reach the state of righteousness required by the Mormon god (obedience to all of the laws and ordinances of the gospel), and the Mormon god will not back down on his requirement to become perfect – exaltation is impossible. The failure of these prophecies should convince any reasonable person that Joseph Smith was a false prophet. A man who was truly brilliant has deceived millions of Mormons into believing a false gospel and a false Jesus, and who was most likely an unwitting tool of Satan. The Apostle Paul gave advice in Colossians 2:18: “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” Applying this verse to Joseph Smith,
Certainly Joseph Smith demonstrated conceit when he boasted, “Come on! Ye prosecutors! Ye false swearers! All hell, boil over! Ye burning mountains, roll down your lava! For I will come out on top at last. I have more to boast of than ever any man had. I am the only man that has ever been able to keep a whole church together since the days of Adam. A large majority of the whole have stood by me. Neither Paul, John, Peter, nor Jesus ever did it. The followers of Jesus ran away from Him; but the Latter-day Saints never ran away from me yet…” This boasting should be contrasted with what is promoted in D&C 3:4: “For although a man may have many revelations, and have power to do many mighty works, yet if he boasts in his own strength, and sets at naught the counsels of God, and follows after the dictates of his own will and carnal desires, he must fall and incur the vengeance of a just God upon him.” History records that Joseph Smith made the above-noted boast on May 26, 1844 and that he was shot dead on June 27, 1844. 44. April 6, 1843. History of the Church 5:336, and Joseph Smith’s Diary, March 10, 1843 – July 14, 1843:
The preceding account is found in Church History. Notice the changes that were made in this account as recorded in Joseph Smith’s Diary: “...I prophesy in the name of the Lord God – and let it be written: that the Son of Man will not come in the heavens til I am eight-five years old hence or about 1890...” The Mormon historians have deleted “48 years hence or about 1890.” It is fairly obvious that the rising generation of that time has risen – and fallen, and the Son of Man has not yet appeared. The only way that this can not be a false prophecy is to engage in mental gymnastics – once again. Another interesting question concerning this prophesy – didn’t Joseph Smith claim that he had already seen the face of the Son of Man in the Sacred Grove many years earlier? 45. May 18, 1843. History of the Church 5:394:
The Millennial Star, Vol. 22, page 455, has the following prophecy of Joseph Smith recorded, which is probably the same prophesy. “I prophesied by virtue of the holy priesthood vested in me, and in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that, if Congress will not hear our petition and grant us protection, they shall be broken up as a government, and God shall damn them, and there shall be nothing left of them – not even a grease spot.” History records that Congress did not grant protection to the Mormons and did not redress the wrongs committed against the Saints in the state of Missour. There was not punishment of the officers of the government. It has been about 160 years since this prophesy was made and the government of the United States has not been destroyed nor overthrown and wasted – it is not a grease spot. Another false prophesy. 46. July 12, 1843. Doctrine & Covenants, Section 132:6, 8, 12, 52-54, 62, and 66.
Plural marriage was to be an everlasting covenant – but where it this “everlasting” covenant now?
This is an absolute contradiction to God’s word in Galatians 2:16:
Continuing on,
Verse 53 states that Joseph Smith would be strengthened, Less than one year later he was dead at the hands of his enemies.
This verse is not only contrary to God’s word in the Bible, but it is also contrary to Section 101 of the 1835 Doctrine & Covenants where it said in verse 4:
And now, as pertaining to this law, verily, verily, I say unto you, I will reveal more unto you, hereafter; therefore, let this suffice for the present. Behold, I am Alpha and Omega. Amen. Where is the additional information on the law of plural marriage that was supposed to have been given to Joseph Smith? Certainly, if there were more to be revealed, then it would have been revealed to one of the presidents of the Mormon Church by now. I believe that the “new and everlasting covenant of plural marriage” was from Satan – but at the very least – it was frustrated! 47. January 17, 1844. Joseph Smith blessing:
This might be the most clear-but false prophecy Joseph Smith ever gave. The key is the second paragraph. history records that Joseph Smith III lived to be a ripe old age, but he did not abide in the Mormon Church. He abandoned the Utah church and became President of the RLDS Church on April 6, 1860. The fact that he lived to be such a ripe old age, and the fact that he was not taken in an instant because he did not abide with the Utah Church, clearly indicate that this was a false prophecy. There is another aspect to the succession crisis of 1844 that is frequently overlooked. This prophecy was only one of eight different ways that a successor could be anointed that had been established by Joseph Smith between 1834 and 1844,
More information on the eight methods of successfion can be gained from, The Mormon Succession Crisis of 1844, BYU Studies, Winter 1976, pp. 187-233, By D. Michael Quinn. Section 132, v. 8 of the D&C states,
Providing eight different ways for succession is clearly confusing – and also chaotic. Also, having multiple versions of the “First Vision” that are all contradictory is also unreasonable and chaotic. See, The Early accounts of Joseph Smith’s First Vision, BYU Studies, 0:3, Spring, 1969, pp. 275-295, Dean C. Jesse. Unfortunately, most Mormons have really studied the mass of confusion that is Mormonism, but only believe what they are taught in church publications, and by the missionaries. What a shame so few really understand the history of their church, and how far it is from the Biblical Christianity that was established by the Savior! 48. June 19, 1844. Mormon Neighbor: “I therefore warn the lawless not to be precipitate in any interference in our affairs, for as sure as there is a God in Israel, we shall ride triumphant over all oppression.” On June 17, 1844 – only 8 days later, Joseph Smith was dead at the hands of his enemies.
The Kirtland “anti-bank” failed in the summer of 1837.
“The time is soon coming when no man will have any peace but in Zion (Independence, Missouri) and her Stakes.” Over 118 years have passed since this prophecy was uttered – we are still waiting for its fulfillment!
“Joseph Smith prophesied by revelation that W.W. Phelps would not taste of death till Jesus came. Often in private and in public did Mr. Phelps boast ot the saints of this blessing, given to him by revelation and prophecy through Joseph.” In March, 1872, The Salt Lake City newspapers carried the following announcement, “Phelps – William Wines Phelps, born int he State of New Jersey, February 1792, died March 7, 1872, in Salt Lake City, Utah.” Another false prophecy.
“I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding its precepts, than by any other book.” The Book of Mormon – the most correct of any book written on earth – has had 3,914 changes in it since the first edition in 1830. Some of the most recent changes have been the 1981 change in 2 Nephi 30:6, which changed “white and delightsome” to “pure and delightsome.” Also, there are many essential doctrines in the Mormon Church that are not contained within the Book of Mormon –
If the Book of Mormon contains “...the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles and to the Jews also,” why aren’t the above listed doctrines contained therein?
“How long will it be before the words of the Prophet Joseph Smith will be fulfilled? He said if the Constitution of the United States were saved at all it must be done by this people. It will not be many years before these words come to pass.” If Joseph Smith really said the above, and there is no reason to doubt Brigham Young, then at least 155 years have come and gone since Joseph Smith said it (as he died in June, 1844). Summary Some may argue about some of these prophecies, but remember; only one failure in prophecy makes you a false prophet. The standard is admittedly very high, but it is high so as to disqualify the many false prophets the Lord said would be common in the latter days. Many millions of people have left their eternal souls in the hands of Joseph Smith and his successors in the Mormon Church. Joseph Smith is generally considered by them to be the second most important person who ever lived - second only to Jesus Himself. And yet, was Joseph Smith Christ-like? Did he exhibit the same characteristics as the Savior? And in the context of the current discussion, did ALL of his prophecies come true - or has there been just one failure? That is the question every investigator of the Mormon Church has to decide. Admittedly, some might find some objections to several of the above prophecies not having been fulfilled - but can you find a logical remedy for ALL of these failures? Your eternal destiny is in your hands. Make your decision wisely. |
