Full Speech: Elder Christofferson on Book of Mormon at Library of Congress

[@lindamoses3697]

The Book of Mormon has been the single most guide book in my life. It has brought me close to my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, has comforted me during the worst trials of life as well as brought deep vibrations of joy to the soul during the wonderful times of life. During my worst trial I held this book tightly or close 24 hours a day when left with four young children to raise alone. It gave me answers and the knowledge of how to commune with God and receive direction daily. Now as an elderly person it reverses fear and gives faith for the future living in our troubled world. This book has power. Please read the Book of Mormon and pray about it.

[@bankaibum82]

I never read anything better that softened my heart or to become a better person.

[@barbarastokes3919]

I have read the Bible 12 times, completed the Book of Mormon 66 times. They both are witnesses of Gods dealings with his children. They contain the Word of God. I have studied both, pondered and prayed and know they are true. Speaking of the Book of Mormon, its translater stated, "a person will get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts than any other book".

[@pamelafitzpatrick2717]

Wonderfully explained, Elder Christofferson! 💕

[@churchnewsroom]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sydneybond8793]

A very impressive presentation of the Book of Mormon. I love that glorious book. The Book of Mormon taught me about Jesus Christ. Kinda of amazing having been living in America all my life and coming from a Christian background. But I did not know Him. Now I do.

[@liznino7911]

Elder Christofferson's presentation about the Book of Mormon was impressive. I know that when you read the book of Mormon with an open mind and heart you invite the Holy Ghost to testify to your soul of the veracity of this powerful book. A book that come from the dust, writting by ancient prophets to help us overcome the biggest test of life. This book contains the words of God. Provides healing, peace, and reassurance that God is our father and Jesus Christ our Savior.

[@mercedesbudd2442]

Reading this sacred book has been a wonderful experience. I have received answers to my prayers and spiritual satisfaction.

[@gerriward9150]

I love the truths that are taught in the Book of Mormon! It truly is a second witness of Jesus Christ!Read it! & Find out for yourself!

[@Yunginspirit]

I was so impressed when reading the BoM that I couldn't put the book down. I ended up reading it in 4 days, even tho I had a family to take care of and visitors staying with us. After having finished reading I knelt and prayed a simple prayer and told my Heavenly Father that I had read the BoM and asked Him if it was true. Then the Holy Spirit witnessed to me in a way that I could never deny, that this holy work of Scripture is in fact True! How I appreciated that witness and the knowledge that we have another witness of the Saviour Jesus Christ in the Book of Mormon, to go hand in hand with the Holy Bible. Thank you dear Heavenly Father and our loving Saviour Jesus Christ.

[@bryanamundson]

This talk was an excellent use of 30 minutes as he summarized the origin and impact of the Book of Mormon on a very young nation in 1830 and continues to impact millions today. How Mark Twain could call it “Chloroform in Print” is is beyond me - because I’ve read it dozens of times and it amazes me every time at how inspiring it is. Everyone who enjoys classic literature should read it at least once.

[@wilgeneration9955]

I also add my testimony that The Book of Mormon is true. Im so grateful for the knowledge and understanding which I received from the Holy Ghost. I know opposition will continue to dismantle our beliefs, but the truth on the other hand will continue to move forward with increasing pace, compounding every error and eventually all the purposes if God shall be accomplish.

[@DanielBooth]

This is spot on. Thank you, Elder Christofferson for sharing a beloved book.

[@jordananderson123]

What a great summary and testimony

[@OwenVaughn-hc7vi]

Thanks

[@janiceharmon7222]

What a beautiful and concise presentation of the origin, content, and history of the Book of Mormon and history and beliefs of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I am grateful for Elder Christofferson's personal testimony and witness of Jesus Christ. It strengthens my belief in Jesus Christ and in the witness of Jesus Christ the Book of Mormon provides.

[@vendingguy47]

Watching this reaffirms my testimony of the Book of Mormon and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

[@nigelwilson1957]

The book of Mormon help out all the time

[@alaingatecrasher6592]

I love the book of mormon...

[@vsmckinnis]

Reading the book has been the number one most positive influence in my life as it has brought me closer to The Lord Jesus Christ. I highly recommend it. While it's form may seem strange to 20th and 21st century readers, it is written using complex Hebrew Literary styles and is indeed a literary masterpiece as well as powerful scripture.

[@ronlifestyle837]

vsmckinnis lucky for you I feel like a idiot not understanding the scripture

[@audreytoney2213]

Uchiha Ron I hear ya, I definitely sometimes struggle to understand scriptures. One thing that has helped me is using a study guide as I read. They often offer explanations, background info, and supporting content from modern prophets. There are a lot of good study guides you can buy, but I've also found a lot of help in using the seminary and institute scripture guides that are available on lds.org for free. Perhaps you'd also find them useful? Here's a link if you are interested. www.lds.org/si/institute/manuals?lang=eng

[@rshawlogan]

No need to feel bad. Scripture can be hard to understand for anyone, including myself. Personally, I think the key thing is to try to feel and to build faith and love in our learning the gospel. No need to understand everything at once, we all learn bit by bit. Just keep doing your best! :)

[@kyokushinutah3328]

I add my testimony of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and my testimony is independent of any mortal sources but comes from God. This book literally changed my life and has brought me closer to Jesus Christ.

[@jparkerbros]

After living a raucous teenage life in my hometown of Santa Barbara, Ca., I joined the USAF! Then, after basic training in Texas, and then tech school in Illinois, I went to Castle AFB in California! There it was, that I read the Book of Mormon twice as a 19 year old, and has been the foundation of my faith in JESUS CHRIST and the RESTORATION of HIS True and Living Church on the earth! READ THE BOOK OF MORMON! It is a 2nd Witness of Jesus Christ, and literally, ANOTHER TESTAMENT OF JESUS CHRIST!

[@churchnewsroom]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful testimony of the Book of Mormon!

[@smarkl54bbin]

I look forward to reading the Book of Mormon everyday, I am grateful it positive & peaceful influence in my daily life. I am grateful for the history & doctrine that are contained within its pages because they help bring me closer to Jesus Christ. Just like the Bible the book of Mormon is the word of God. It may be difficult to read since it is not in modern English but I can promise you it will touch your life for good if you read it with an open & sincere heart.

[@miezanaka5407]

I love the Lord's Church.I am ever grateful for the restored of JESUS-CHRIST.I know the book of mormon contains the word of God.The book of mormon is true.

[@dayzzr9464]

I stand with the Book of Mormon

[@liciusnashiwaya6017]

The book of Mormon it help me to understand the Bible better. why I'm saying that because it written for our days. I trongly believe it true, for i understand it better than any other book . I read the book of Mormon everyday. it has charged my life, even my family we are blessed to have the book of Mormon.

[@dairey1956]

I consider the Book of Mormon to be a treasured possession. Thank you for your talk

[@sekalekameshachpeter1683]

It is a blessing to hear from the Church leaders about the past events of the CHURCH. THANK YOU TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN TO US AND GOD BLESS YOU.

[@zaramarland8402]

I love being a member of this amazing gospel!!!

[@juneabogado4984]

this book teaches men to do good .. The Book Of Mormon is indeed another testament of Jesus Christ ..thank you elder christofferson for that wonderful talk..

[@patriciahayden8955]

I would like to add my witness that the Book of Mormon is true, and it is the word of God as given to Joseph Smith.

[@briancrismonpetersen7885]

So well done!

[@reaganmandamba8589]

The book of Mormon is the word of God is another testimony of the lord Jesus Christ I testify.

[@gason5]

Great talk! I love the Book Of Mormon!

[@theworldwontlisten27]

I have just started to re-read the Book of Mormon .

[@scottsoward]

Amazing and concise description of the history surrounding the Book of Mormon. I have read the book. Its a beautiful and remarkable history of christians who lived around the time of Christ's birth. And who's primary focus is bringing people to the Savior.

[@n.l.4025]

I thought Elder Christofferson’s speech was excellent! I never heard the senator’s speech, but how could it have been better than the Elder’s, a servant of the Lord?!

[@pionodalo8323]

The BOM for me is a precious Book. . .which i have learned Some knowledge about Jesus Christ.

[@karlshaner2453]

The Book of Mormon another testament of Jesus Christ. Literal fulfillment of Ezekiel 37:18-28. Some of the words of Isaiah also are fulfilled in the coming forth of this book. What a wonderful time to live.

[@fernandovaldez5706]

Very helpful for me and Aaron Ok for me and you

[@drum4fun969]

One of the biggest trials in our lives is to accept or reject this great book, but one thing I always wonder is this: Why people believe or accept in the holy bible without even reading or bother turn one single page in their life time.

[@dhabon7431]

this book is true and another testimony of Jesus Christ

[@paulgreenfield4714]

even If the book of Mormon wasn't true living by its precepts will bring great joy to one's life isn't that what we're seeking a happy life with many blessings ...

[@LeroyBrown]

The Great and Spacious building of the United States of America. It's in the Book of Mormon.

[@vendingguy47]

The Book of Mormon is true!!!!!

[@KnuttyEntertainment]

My of my favorite works is 12 angry men. It makes me so curious as to what a court case about the Book of Mormon would look like, the only thing I can say for sure is that it would be incredibly entertaining.

[@heavyt7557]

I add my witness that the Book of Mormon is the word of God and the most correct of any other book. And a man will grow closer to God by abiding by its precepts than by any other book.

[@marcy5399]

Awesome talk! :D

[@johnleonardlausao4373]

President lausao 1day ago I love the Book of Mormon and also the power of the Book ofmormon

[@henriquewalker825]

The Book of Mormon is the word of God as The Holy Bible. God is God and He can speak and His word be write where He wants. It is a Second Testimony that Jesus is The Christ the Only Begotten Son of God and that He cane to His own and was rejected as the Messiah,The Savior and Redeemer of the world.

[@ctuitee5486]

I know that the Book of Mormon is the Word of God...

[@troyables5225]

If the Book of Mormon wasn't true in 1830, It definately is now! How could a Father in Heaven see the impact that scripture like book has made and not call it his own?

[@sdhoneycutt6999]

RIP Senator Orin Hatch

[@HomesteadSnapshots]

This is big.

[@kbhpioneer7517]

The book of Mormon stands upon the the word of God and upon the merits of his servants. The Prophet Joseph did translate the book from gold plates and we can know the truth of its authenticity by first reading, then pondering then praying to ask our father in heaven if it is true........ further to this we can speak with the missionaries and members of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints to find out more about book of Mormon and the church itself, we can also attend church..... this proven formula has worked in this the last dispensation of times since its restoration in the year of 1830. If we ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he God, our father in heaven, will reveal the truth of these things unto us/you by the power of his holy spirit. And by the power of the holy ghost we/you shall know the truth of all things and the truth shall set you free........ This I know to be true, I invite you to to read the book of mormon and put this to the test....... you have nothing to lose in trying and I promise you that you will have everything to gain...... The book of Mormon is a second witness of Jesus Christ in the Americas along with the bible, the record and stick of Ephraim for Joseph and Judah for the children of Israel and his companions, as propecied by the Prophet Ezekiel in his thirty-seventh chapter.....

[@novawarren5074]

I have read The Holy Bible and The Book Of Mormon Both are from God and speak about Jesus Christ, The Book Of Mormon is a second testimony of Jesus Christ. Yes, I know believe that Joseph Smith saw Jesus Christ and The Father God Angels and many things when he went into the woods in the spring 1820 Then Spoke with many times to get the Book of Doctrine and Covenants and we also have more of different books of the Holy Bible that went missing,due to time or human inaccurate ability and mistakes. We love the Father, Jesus Christ and The Holy Ghost, and know they are 3 different beings yet having the same being goal,wants and design,plan of Salvation for all humans 📖❤️ I know The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-day Saints is a living church and welcome everyone to come in . I say these things in Jesus Christ name,Amen🙏

[@churchnewsroom]

Thank you for sharing your testimony!

[@lynnbelnap2918]

The battle between good and evil is raging in our day. The teachings of Jesus Christ need to be applied. The Book of Mormon, the Bible and other scriptures that contain the teachings of Jesus Christ are the play book for the forces of good to overcome the forces of evil. The Book of Mormon was specifically written to help us win the battle in our day. I love the Book of Mormon and know by the witness of the Holy Spirit that Jesus Christ is responsible for its sacred content.

[@electricmayhem24]

Where was this talk given?

[@Yunginspirit]

It tells you where the talk was given right under this video!

[@KevlarX2]

From the description, at a luncheon at the Library of Congress, Washington D.C.

[@bradjennings8714]

The library of Congress in Washington D.C.

[@shirleycrosby150]

When was this given?

[@dl6066]

Anyone who can not see beyond the Bible, I like to know why shouldn't there be additional scripture? Can't God say more?

[@alancampunique]

What good does it do one who cares little for TRUTH - A lie goes half way around the earth before 'truth' gets her shoes laced-up!

[@lindaellis9470]

LDs church

[@coachmarc2002]

It's interesting that he omitted the contents of the Smithsonian Institution's paper regarding the Book of Mormon. (See below) STATEMENT REGARDING THE BOOK OF MORMON 1. The Smithsonian Institution has never used the Book of Mormon in any way as a scientific guide. Smithsonian archeologists see no direct connection between the archeology of the New World and the subject matter of the book. 2. The physical type of the American Indian is basically Mongoloid, being most closely related to that of the peoples of eastern. central, and northeastern Asia. Archeological evidence indicates that the ancestors of the present Indians cane into the New World - probably over a land bridge known to have existed in the Being Strait region during the last Ice Age - in a continuing series of small migrations beginning from about 25,000 to 30,000 years ago. 3. Present evidence indicates that the first people to reach this continent from the East were the Norsemen who briefly visited the northeastern part of North America around A.D. 1000 and then settled in Greenland. There is nothing to show that they reached Mexico or Central America. 4. One of the main lines of evidence supporting the scientific finding that contacts with Old World civilizations if indeed they occurred at all, were of very little significance for the development of American Indian civilizations, is the fact that none of the principal Old World domesticated food plants or animals (except the dog) occurred in the New World in pre-Columbian times. American Indians had no wheat, barley, oats, millet, rice, cattle, pigs, chickens, horses, donkeys, camels before 1492. (Camels and horses were in the Americas, along with the bison, mammoth, and mastodon, but all these animals became extinct around 10,000 B.C. at the time when the early big game hunters spread across the Americas.) 5. Iron, steel, glass, and silk were not used in the New World before 1492 (except for occasional use of unsmelted meteoric iron). Native copper was worked in various locations in pre-Columbian times, but true metallurgy was limited to southern Mexico and the Andean region, where its occurrence in late prehistoric times involved gold, silver, copper, and their alloys, but not iron. 6. There is a possibility that the spread of cultural traits across the Pacific to Mesoamerica and the northwestern coast of South America began several hundred years before the Christian era. However, any such inter-hemispheric contacts appear to have been the results of accidental voyages originating in eastern and southern Asia. It is by no means certain that even such contacts occurred; certainly there were no contacts with the ancient Egyptians, Hebrews, or other peoples of Western Asian and the Near East. 7. No reputable Egyptologist or other specialist on Old World archeology, and no expert on New World prehistory, has discovered or confirmed any relationship between archeological remains in Mexico and archeological remains in Egypt. 8. Reports of findings of ancient Egyptian, Hebrew, and other Old World writings in the New World in pre-Columbian contexts have frequently appeared in newspapers, magazines, and sensational books. None of these claims has stood up to examination by reputable scholars. No inscriptions using Old World forms of writing have been shown to have occurred in any part of the Americas before 1492 except for a few Norse rune stones which have been found in Greenland.

[@IIIJT]

coachmarc2002 I really do love the church but that being said, I don't think the church ever will publish the facts of evidence or science if it won't support their beliefs. They are truly struggling lately. Many members are truly struggling. As they come to grips with facts over mysticism, the transition is difficult. The best estimate I can find for church activity rate is roughly 30 to 40%, which is worsening, and is characterized by showing up only one Sunday a month, only 12 times a year. During the 1970s and 80s membership activity broadly speaking, was 90%. Whereas today 74% percent of respondents cited a disbelief in church doctrine or theology as major reason for leaving the church, generally tired to history. What is particularly troubling is the future generations of the church are diminishing. Only 25% of young adults ages 18-30 raised LDS are actively involved. If not honestly addressed we will have bigger problems to deal with besides inactivity, empty buildings and dwindling revenue streams. www.cumorah.com/indexphp?target=church_growth_articles&story_id=14#id2 www.washingtonpost.com/national/religion/new-almanac-offers-look-at-the-world-of-mormon-membership/2014/01/13/7beb7888-7c86-11e3-97d3-b9925ce2c57b_story.html?sw_bypass=true&.5949c736671a 58,593 missionaries in 1999 with a membership growth rate of 2.57%. I was a faithful missionary then. Contrast that with 67049 missionaries in 2017 with declining membership growth rate of only .53% in 2016. Things are really changing. A growth rate of only 8456 missionaries in 19yrs and a decline in recruitment.