As we begin our study of the Book of Mormon, it’s message and teachings, let us begin by dispelling two common misconceptions regarding the Book of Mormon: (1) “Is the Book of Mormon, the replacement of the Bible in the ‘Mormon Church’ or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints?” and, (2) “Is the Book of Mormon a history book of the “Mormon Church?,’ or the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints?

First, it is another witness, along with the Bible, of Jesus Christ and his teachings. It forecasts his birth, death, and resurrection, as revealed to prophets living on the Western Hemisphere. It also tells of the appearance Jesus Christ made to these people living in ancient America following his resurrection.

Like most Christians, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints believe and accept the King James Bible as one of its references regarding their beliefs as far as it is translated correctly.

Second, it is not a history book regarding the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Book of Mormon is an abridgement or condensed version of the records of an ancient people who lived in ancient America from B.C. 600 to A.D. 421. It was written on gold plates by Prophets of God that were later abridged by Mormon. These plates were delivered to Joseph Smith by the Angel Moroni. Through the gift and power of God, a major portion of the plates were translated. It was published in 1830, as the Book of Mormon. It remains, with only minor corrections, as it was when translated. It is one of the four canonized scriptures, accepted as containing the inspired word of God, by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The four scriptures are the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine of Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price.

All are invited to sincerely read the Book of Mormon for themselves and to apply its promise.

As we proceed, it is my hope that you will come to a increased understanding of this unique book, its teachings, and the benefit it can be to you.

Robert C. Van Sweden