The following is a summary containing some of the highlights that are found in the PDF File and the Audio below.
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Was Joseph Smith a True Prophet? A Christian Response.
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When engaging with Latter-day Saint (LDS) doctrine, the most crucial question is not about secondary issues, but about salvation and the identity of Christ. Central to this is the claim that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. If this claim fails, the foundation of Mormonism collapses (see Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of Faith, p.13).
The Biblical Test for a Prophet
The Bible provides clear criteria for identifying a true prophet. Deuteronomy 18:18-22 states that if a prophet speaks in God’s name and the prophecy does not come to pass, that prophet is false. There are no exceptions, except when judgment is averted by repentance (as with Jonah and Nineveh). God Himself ensures the fulfillment of true prophecy (Ezekiel 12:25; Habakkuk 2:2-3).
Joseph Smith’s Prophecies Examined
The Civil War Prophecy (D&C 87:1-8, 1832):
Smith predicted that war would begin in South Carolina and be “poured out upon all nations,” resulting in the “end of all nations.” While the Civil War did begin in South Carolina, war was not poured out on all nations, nor did all nations end. Historical context shows that such tensions were already widely anticipated, and the prophecy’s broader claims did not come to pass.
The Missouri Temple Prophecy (D&C 84:1-5, 1832):
Smith prophesied that a temple would be built in Missouri “in this generation,” dedicated by his own hand. This did not occur. Later LDS revelations (D&C 124:49-54) excused the failure, claiming the Saints were hindered by enemies. However, the biblical God does not excuse failed prophecies—He is the one that fulfills them.
The 56-Year Prophecy (History of the Church, Vol.2, p.181, 1835):
Smith declared by revelation that the “pruning of the vineyard” and the coming of the Lord would be “wound up” in 56 years (by 1891). This did not happen. Smith and his followers also made other statements suggesting Christ’s return was imminent in their lifetimes, which did not occur.
Contradictions and Consequences
Smith made contradictory statements about knowing the time of Christ’s return, at times prophesying specific timeframes and at other times denying that anyone could know. According to his own standard, “all that say so are false teachers” (History of the Church, Vol.6, p.254).
Conclusion
The Bible warns that following a false prophet is spiritually dangerous (Deuteronomy 13:1-10; Matthew 7:21-23). Joseph Smith’s failed prophecies, by biblical standards, disqualify him as a true prophet. Christians are called to test all things by Scripture and to hold fast to the true Gospel of Jesus Christ, not to the teachings of a proven false prophet.