The Witnesses of the Book of Mormon | Full Documentary

Episode 5 of A Marvelous Work investigates the claims of the witnesses of the Book of Mormon. Told through interviews with experts and captivating cinematic re-enactments, this episode is one you won't want to miss.
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RE-ENACTMENT CREDITS:
Director James Dalrymple
Producer Howard Collett
CAST
Samuel Smith - PAUL BRYNER
Katherine Smith - KAYLAH ALEMAN
The Traveler - RICHARD BENEDICT
Joseph Smith - BEN BURNETT
Elijah Jensen - THOMAS CUMMINS
John Whitmer - GABE DAVIS
Jacob Whitmer - CADE EZRA
Sophronia Smith - CAMREY FOX
Hyrum Smith - COOPER GARRETT
Nancy Harris - JADE GOTTFREDSON
Christian Whitmer - BENJAMIN GRIFFIN
Peter Whitmer, Jr. - LEVI HARRIS
Joseph Smith, Sr. - ROB HAERTEL
Martin Harris, Jr. - SCOTT HENDRICKSON
Martin Harris - CARL JORGENSEN
David Whitmer - TREVOR KOMM
Hiram Page - SPENCER KRAUS
Peter Whitmer - LOREN LAMBERT
Ruffian - JUSTIN MATTLE
Ola Jensen - DANIEL MAXWELL
Martin Harris - WILLIAM MCALLISTER
Josiah Stowell - BRYAN MOSS
Oliver Cowdery - AJ NEUSCHWANDER
Lucy Mack - TERESA NORVICK
Ruffian - DANNY RICE
Ruffian - KURT WALTER
Mary Whitmer - APRIL WEST
CREW
DP - Tom Garner
Cam B - Noah Heaton
First Assistant Director - Jon Farrell
Production Asst - Jonathan Rollins
Production Asst - Braxton Merzlock
Art Director - Kee Miller
Property Master - Kallan Shira
Set Decorator - Kent Everett
Gaffer - Rhett "R.F." Fernsten
Grip - James Jordan
Asst - Ryan Morgenegg
Asst - Camden Harwood
Production Sound Mixer - Gerald Hartley
Boom - Elizabeth Wheeler
Behind-the-Scenes - Elsa Jensen
VFX/Safety - Spencer Durland
Craft Services - Jacie Mustard
Casting - Sally Meyer
HMUA - Vanae Morris, Mandy Smith
Wardrobe - Sonja Harris
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00:00 Scene: Joseph Runs with the Golden Plates
00:29 Title Sequence
00:44 Episode Introduction with Scott Christopher
01:57 Smith Farm in Palmyra, New York
04:27 The Eight Witnesses Discussion
06:08 Scene: The Eight Witnesses View the Golden Plates
08:05 The Eight Witnesses Discussion Continued
10:37 Informal Witnesses of the Book of Mormon
12:20 Scene: Joseph Smith Arrives Home with the Golden Plates
13:32 Informal Witnesses Continued
13:45 Scene: Katharine Smith Feels the Plates
14:14 Informal Witnesses Continued
16:19 Discussion on Martin Harris
19:04 Scene: Martin Harris Asks for the 116 Pages
22:45 Discussion on Martin Harris Continued
24:05 Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer Discussion
26:29 Scene: Joseph Smith and David Whitmer Meet
27:29 Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer Discussion Continued
28:51 Scene: Mary Whitmer Is Shown the Plates by a Messenger
31:47 Discussing the Three Witnesses
32:39 Scene: The Three Witnesses Are Visited by an Angel
38:09 Discussing the Three Witnesses Continued
41:10 Discussion in Kirtland, Ohio
46:39 Scene: Martin Harris’ Final Testimony of the Book of Mormon
49:40 Discussion in Kirtland, Ohio Continued
50:37 Martin Harris Gravesite in Clarkston, UT
53:23 End Credits
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[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Which was your favorite re-enactment?

[@crisantocabrerajr.8540]

My favorite reenactment was that of Sister Whitmer when an angel shown her the plates...thank you for this video and oh i like the ...they run out of car rentals...hahaha. good job..

[@jodie672]

Martin Harris receiving his witness. And thank you for showing me his grave site., I had never seen that before and it certainly does make it more real. 🩷 from Australia 🇦🇺

[@CrackedCandy]

Mary Whitmer. You didn't show how she was upset that the men we not working while she felt like she bore the brunt of the manual labor on the farm. Then, one can only speculate that it was either Moroni or one of the Three Nephites showed it to her. I like how he said that she had been toiling and understood what she was doing and how she felt. Sometimes all we need is empathy

[@mikkifrompreston4396]

How did the 3 witnesses (the scribes) 'witness the plates? Why did the 8 witnesses (Joseph and Davids families) get to see the plates physically, but the 3 scribes werent allowed?

[@CrackedCandy]

@mikkifrompreston4396 the 3 saw the plates and the angel, the 8 saw just the plates, no angel. You can read their statements for the full story. But basically that. The Testimony of Three Witnesses Be it known unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, unto whom this work shall come: That we, through the grace of God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, have seen the plates which contain this record, which is a record of the people of Nephi, and also of the Lamanites, their brethren, and also of the people of Jared, who came from the tower of which hath been spoken. And we also know that they have been translated by the gift and power of God, for his voice hath declared it unto us; wherefore we know of a surety that the work is true. And we also testify that we have seen the engravings which are upon the plates; and they have been shown unto us by the power of God, and not of man. And we declare with words of soberness, that an angel of God came down from heaven, and he brought and laid before our eyes, that we beheld and saw the plates, and the engravings thereon; and we know that it is by the grace of God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, that we beheld and bear record that these things are true. And it is marvelous in our eyes. Nevertheless, the voice of the Lord commanded us that we should bear record of it; wherefore, to be obedient unto the commandments of God, we bear testimony of these things. And we know that if we are faithful in Christ, we shall rid our garments of the blood of all men, and be found spotless before the judgment-seat of Christ, and shall dwell with him eternally in the heavens. And the honor be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, which is one God. Amen. Oliver Cowdery David Whitmer Martin Harris The Testimony of Eight Witnesses Be it known unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, unto whom this work shall come: That Joseph Smith, Jun., the translator of this work, has shown unto us the plates of which hath been spoken, which have the appearance of gold; and as many of the leaves as the said Smith has translated we did handle with our hands; and we also saw the engravings thereon, all of which has the appearance of ancient work, and of curious workmanship. And this we bear record with words of soberness, that the said Smith has shown unto us, for we have seen and hefted, and know of a surety that the said Smith has got the plates of which we have spoken. And we give our names unto the world, to witness unto the world that which we have seen. And we lie not, God bearing witness of it. Christian Whitmer Jacob Whitmer Peter Whitmer, Jun. John Whitmer Hiram Page Joseph Smith, Sen. Hyrum Smith Samuel H. Smith

[@juneabogado4984]

I love the story of Mary Whitmer when someone appeared to her and mentioned he was sent for her as an answer to her prayer to be a witness of the record of the Nephites.

[@KBColeLong]

It was so special! The poor woman was at wits end!

[@whitneylin4297]

Beautiful! I can’t wait to thank Martin Harris for his sacrifices so that I could have the blessing of the Book of Mormon in my life. How I love this book that teaches me so much about my Savior.

[@deborahcasper6120]

The spirit was strong and testified of the truthfullness of the testimony of the witnesses of the Book Of Mormon. Thank you so much!

[@ChrisTheCasual]

I'm learning more about mormons or latterday saints and you guys are awesome wholesome super nice people I love it

[@dinocollins720]

Thank you! We love you! 👊

[@ChrisTheCasual]

@dinocollins720 I love all the support from you guys it's amazing truly this channel here is also amazing and has really awesome historical topics and videos I love history

[@dcarts5616]

You’re kind! We’re not perfect by any means but we sure love the Redeemer and try to conduct ourselves accordingly. I’m looking forward to more of your videos just reading the Bible and The Book of Mormon.

[@ChrisTheCasual]

@@dcarts5616 that is awesome my friend

[@Steelblaidd]

Good to see you around. Scripture Central is a great resource.

[@robertandersen6387]

One of the best Podcasts going. Nothing political, just some beautiful ways to support the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon, a second witness!

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@jonarddoria7934]

Thank you so much, from the Philippines.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

You're welcome!

[@crisantocabrerajr.8540]

Jonard do u know Sister Doria of Rosario Batangas ward?

[@TheMowst]

Hey brother, I'm jonard LDS from the Philippines

[@fedornourished]

My mom and I LOVE your episodes! THANK YOU!! - Esther, age 8 :)

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thanks for watching Esther and Esther's Mom!

[@LordOfThePancakes]

Esther, you’re being indoctrinated into this false religion that simply isn’t true. My advice is to look at both sides of the coin, which includes videos that completely debunk all of this bogus, because what they are presenting here is total nonsense. Dont listen to your parents or church leaders just because they are in a position of authority.

[@daviddrysdale8882]

Joseph, on one occasion, said that it was never intended that he reveal all the details relative to the coming forth of The Book of Mormon!

[@forzion1894]

That was in 1831, when Joseph was in a meeting which had a lot of other business to get to. However, after the anti-LDS book Mormonism Unvailed was published in 1834 with its false Spalding and seerstone-in-the-hat theories about how the Book of Mormon was produced, both Joseph and Oliver Cowdery published many statements about the translation emphasizing that it came from the plates through the means of the Nephite interpreters which came with the plates (sometimes referred to as the Urim & Thummim). See, for example, Oliver's account included in the Pearl of Great Price as a note to JS-H 1:71.

[@goblincamper2004]

I have been to Martin Harris's gravesite in Clarkston, Utah, and I have seen the pageant there when it was still being held. I appreciate the time you took to share this video with others about the witnesses of the truthfulness of the Book Of Mormon. I have been to the Peter Whitmore Farm House and felt a special spirit there. I felt the spirit as I watched this video and know the truthfulness you shared. Thank you for sharing your testimony. I really have been enjoying the videos in this series.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thank you for watching. Those Church history sites are indeed special places.

[@nathanbryant911]

fantastic re-enactments

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thank you!

[@scburg66]

Thank you for this amazing series. Scott Christopher does such a great job. Having visited all of these places this series has brought back a flood of memories and helps me to more fully internalize how the spirit touched me in each setting. Keep up the fantastic work.

[@hmcollett]

We felt the same thing filming it. Thanks for watching!

[@dinocollins720]

love to see the scripture central team as actors!!! haha love it!

[@dcarts5616]

Well now it makes sense why they chose an actor in his late 40’s - early 50’s to play the barely even 30 year old JS. I liked it either way.

[@dinocollins720]

@@dcarts5616 yeah I don’t know all of them but I recognized some of the actors. JS did seem like an odd choice to me; I’ve never pictured JS even looking remotely like that, but I think he did a great job acting. He filled the role well brought some gravitas. Haha

[@ruthjamieson4072]

Thank you, thank you for these wonderful episodes! You just made my day!!

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Glad you like them!

[@Icanonlyimagn7891]

Fantastic video once again! Love what you are doing with this channel! ❤️☀️

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@kaymendenhall786]

This increases my faith. Thank you! ❤

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

You are so welcome!

[@kathleensmith5132]

My favorite episode so far. Spirit bore witness again with every reenactment 💫

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

We are so happy you enjoyed it!

[@finepix888]

Well done! Love the work you guys are doing.

[@lorblacor]

Well done! Thank you! Given everything you've presented, however, it's still all about personal faith, experience, and testimony.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Well said!

[@thescottchristopher]

Naturally

[@dinocollins720]

Another fantastic video; thank you!

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@tamragoodrich6067]

"What greater witness can you have than from God?!"

[@mikkifrompreston4396]

how do explain the witnesses that people of other faiths, have received that their own church is true....

[@junetest5453]

We watched all 4 of the episodes of this program it was such eye opening on what they have learnt and put together these programs they are ❤❤❤❤ so uplifting of this knowledge they have put together from scripture central thank another to help me with my lack of knowledge of the scriptures ❤❤❤❤ just love it

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thank you for watching

[@junetest5453]

I really enjoyed these programs they have so much knowledge to give us thank you all to the crew aling with yourself ❤❤❤

[@gigidussere3014]

Thank you for this episode, I know the Book of Mormon is true and I have always known it since I was 13. Thank you for this wonderful episode where the tears flowed. Thanks to Scott and your testimony that emanates from your episodes. ❤

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thank you for your comment! We appreciate the support!

[@danieldunbar2956]

Great episode!

[@KBColeLong]

Absolutely love these podcasts! ❤❤

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Glad you like them!

[@dillonpittman1909]

Absolutely amazing! I love everything y’all are doing. Extremely powerful witness of The Book of Mormon. Thank you all for all of the hard work!

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thanks for you comment, glad you enjoyed it.

[@moperezdz6146]

Como siempre un excelente recordatorio de quienes somos. Gracias genial trabajo😊

[@juneabogado4984]

I felt the Spirit again witnessing, that the Book Of Mormon is indeed another testament of the Lord Jesus Christ this is His work. The testimonies are powerful. Salute to Brother Scott Christopher and the crew for your work.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thank you for you comment and for watching!

[@TheWildernessLife]

100% true. It is a glorious privilege to have a testimony of these things. It is one of the greatest gifts we can receive from God in this life.

[@roberttrout3588]

I too, and I am not LDS, I do however know the Holy Spirit 🙏 thank you for this wonderful work

[@BenMyers72]

You think you did. You didn’t though.

[@BenMyers72]

Evidence! 😂 Nope.

[@teresanorvick9726]

Amazing

[@darcyharefeld211]

Really enjoyed this post. I would have liked it if they had used a man who looked more like Joseph who had flax colored hair and blue eyes .

[@jeffreyturner4252]

Absolutely love your channel.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thank you so much!

[@julioramirezarcos6617]

When I watch your videos I understand better the history of the church. Thanks for share these videos

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thanks for watching

[@davidwelker6499]

I like the way you filmed this in the land if the Book of Mormon. It was very refreshing.

[@CrackedCandy]

Scott Christopher, you are a treasure too valuable to not wear a helmet. Please think of the work you have yet to complete. Love you brother.

[@user-gm3yc1bp7w]

Haha. The helmet didn't fit! Don't worry, I wear one on my bike back home in Tennessee.

[@alidurham1266]

So interesting! Love this!

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thanks for watching!

[@harmagician1]

Scott, you were a golden convert in Best Two Years.

[@thescottchristopher]

Great movie, that!

[@saldomino1639]

Love it great work and evidence !

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@user-ux3vb5zg1p]

Thank you so much for this video I believe with all my heart that the book of mormon is true

[@evajackson9470]

Thank you so grateful for his testimony l felt the spirit 😊

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

I'm so glad!

[@donnay1638]

Thanks!

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thank you!

[@wes2176]

Great video!

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@georgiamartinez4589]

This is so inspiring thank you for this amazing video 😇🙏👍

[@dennisquitoy3345]

I cried because, in the movie, I realized that if Heavenly Father chooses us, no matter what we did in the past, He is still looking at our hearts and calling us to further the work of salvation. Thank you so much for this episode,, I felt the Spirit!

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thanks for sharing 🙌

[@nancywilliams9014]

❤

[@stevenodell7662]

Chief Midegah, a chief of the Ojibwa and a member of the Church, says an ancestor of his helped Hyrum hide the plates under the wooden floor of a barn. She saw and handled them, too.

[@johnjairobustamanteacosta9535]

Felicitaciones, buen trabajo

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Gracias

[@rconger24]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1860">31:00</a>. That man was the Messenger who Joseph, Oliver and David saw on the road on a wagonride from Harmony. When asked if he wanted a ride he said "No, I'm going to *_CUMORAH_* !"

[@mgeuleinstsear]

Just to add to minute 32, the accounts all differ. Some say the plates were shown to them at somebody’s home (JS‘s?), one of the three witnesses said in a field, others said in the woods 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

The accounts do have differences. This is one of the challenges of history. People report things differently especially over the course of their lives. This is why it is so important to look at all accounts to understand what really happened.

[@SupermanQQQQQ]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@Bookofmormoncentralofficial>>> No …this is because everything the LDS church has ever claimed, in these multiple confusing accounts, are totally contradictory, AND ☝️ have never ever been verified by ‘Expert Witnesses’ in an official Court-of-Law inquiry, before any Judges and Juries, ever. Mere ‘claims’ of validity mean nothing, when compared to the stricter requirements for presentation in the United States Court system. BUT ☝️, discover the Shocking and Amazing FACTS surrounding the higher quality of Evidence which the True Researchers have proven, concerning the Authentic Stories of the Holy Bible as revealed in this landmark book (and updated for 2018 ,,,) >>> Evidence That Demands A Verdict by Josh McDowell & Sean McDowell, PhD.

[@octaviobottari2013]

Does anyone else see the man wearing a white suit in the back? <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="531">8:51</a>

[@thescottchristopher]

Creeeeepy. But not really.

[@octaviobottari2013]

@@thescottchristopher It's there!! between the scholars, he is walking on the farm o whatever that is

[@thescottchristopher]

@@octaviobottari2013 No, i just meant it's not really creepy, but yes i do see him

[@zon3665]

There's a great book by an LDS author that shows that there is perfect harmony between the prophetic statements concerning the garden of Eden being in Missouri and the Old Testament account concerning the garden of Eden. It's called Canaan, Babylon, and Egypt A Comparative Theological Analysis on Creation sold by Eborn Books.

[@aspenmgy]

Love how the dude says "at" with the most Utah accent in the world.

[@peggybell6332]

What movie are the movie clips from this episode?

[@RichF245]

Scripture Central filmed them for this episode. New, unique, and never before seen. :)

[@peggybell6332]

@@RichF245 Thank you so much. I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. This was one of my favorite episodes. But all of the episodes have been intriguing and educational. Thank you again.

[@dorothybatton9544]

How could Joseph possibly run from those chasing him with gold plates that had to weigh at least 40-50 lbs. Were the “golden” plates really gold?

[@hmcollett]

He was a farm boy accustomed to hard work. Army special forces and Navy Seals do it all the time. The plates were likely a gold alloy to be stronger yet inscribable.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

The composition of the plates is a topic of interest for many people and most scholars agree that they were likely not made of pure gold. We have an excellent article about that here: scripturecentral.org/evidence/composition-of-the-plates

[@Terminatorguy34]

No they were not actually gold, but were gold in appearance.

[@MemyzelphandI]

Don't forget he also had a bad leg. It never happened!

[@drewnielsen8257]

Is this avaliable in spanish? And if so, how can I find it?

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

We have started to release them fully dubbed in Spanish on the Central de las Escrituras channel. Episode one is currently online

[@Wh3nth3wick3drul3]

Joseph Smith is the prophet of the restitution of all things spoken of by all the Holy prophets and The Book of Mormon is what it purports to be, an ancient Egyptian record of the time only existing during that one moment in time when the Greek's, Egyptian's and Hebrews had an alliance. Joseph Smith didn't know that he was translating word for word Egyptian into English, but we have the evidence today and another testimony from Dr. Sami Hanna! That record is a Semitic record in every detail.

[@louiswall2984]

Me too from Philippines the only British member here in cebu lsland

[@trevakirk1494]

Why didn't you set your camera up so you could mount proper?

[@user-yl2eq2nh8y]

❤❤

[@user-ux3vb5zg1p]

We millions say they believe the bible to be the word of God but how many REALLY do 100 percent because there are a lot of weird miricles in the bible like a donkey talking and a rod turning into a snake etc I believe the bible to be the word of God because i pray every day Repent And seek the Holy Spirit to help me and i believe the book of mormon the same way

[@wilmarmalapitan9872]

Thank you for producing the witnesses re-enactment. Also, I would like to add my witness that the Book of Mormon is a true record that testify the divinity of Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ. I know that Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God and was an instrument in translating the ancient record by the power of the Holy Ghost. I know also that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is God's kingdom here on earth. I so testify these things to be true in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

[@thescottchristopher]

Thanks for sharing that.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Thanks for taking the time to watch and for sharing your testimony!

[@landenferwerda2280]

All 3 witnesses were "dissenters" excommunicted or left the church having lost confidence in Joseph...

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

It is true that all three witnesses left the church over differences with Joseph, but not one of them ever denied what they saw (although many tried to get them to). Martin Harris and Oliver Cowdery came back to the Church later in life.

[@larasoto2408]

Cool story bro🙄

[@jeffreyjourdonais298]

An observation that I find interesting is that LDS members base belief on a personal testimony or feeling. In Nicene Christianity reliance on scripture is paramount to personal feelings.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

This idea of gaining a personal witness comes from the scriptures. Of course the scripture in James 1:5 is the most often quoted "let him ask of God", but there are many others such as Matthew 21:22 "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.", Philippians 4:6 "...but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.", etc. Prayer and seeking guidance from God is the way in which we can more fully understand his word as written in scripture, and answers often come through a combination of prayer and study.

[@thescottchristopher]

Yes, but what do you do when scriptural integrity weakens? When scripture gets translated over and over and is reinterpreted over centuries either accidentally or worse, on purpose? Best bet to rely on communication from a divine and loving Father who is there waiting for us to ask, knock and seek His pure truths.

[@PeterNeave]

The golden plates are a similitude of Jesus Christ. Both are long lasting/immortal and both have been returned to our Heavenly Father. We have witness and records of their existence. Critic's might say, "Oh, it's convenient that the plates have been taken back" but could not the argument be made about a resurrected Savour? Why isn't he here now with us, since his immortal? Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. (John <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1229">20:29</a>)

[@mgeuleinstsear]

At around 23 min, there is a mistake. Martin Harris never touched or saw the plates. He only saw them with his „spiritual eyes“ and then he mentioned something like seeing them like a city through a mountain. Knowing that they are there, but not actually seeing them with his eyes.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Actually it's not a mistake. Martin gave many accounts of the plates and especially later in his life. Although the accounts differ in details it is important to remember who they come from. Several of the accounts were given by those who were trying to discount the witnesses and their actually seeing the plates. If you take all the accounts together especially those later in Martin's life directly from him he reaffirmed time and again that he had seen the plates for real. He would say things like "Do you see this hand, just as surely as you see my hand, I saw the plates." There is no doubt that he was trying to emphasize the reality of his experience. He also testified in several accounts that he did actually handle the plates. We do not know on what occasion, but it was likely sometime during translation and in the same way as did Joseph's family, feeling them or hefting them while they were covered. The account that mentions spiritual eyes is often used to discredit Martin but if you read all the accounts they make it clear. Here is an excellent article with 10 or so of the statements from Martin: witnessesofthebookofmormon.org/three-witnesses/martin-harris/statements/

[@jonaholiphant1020]

Honestly a really well put together video. I was wondering why it wasn't mentioned during the 3 witnesses that they witnessed the plates with the eye of faith or spiritual eyes? Not sure where those phrases came from but it seems like an important detail to to omit and to not try to prove/disprove; or at the very least, clarify what that means exactly. Maybe those phrases just lead to a misunderstanding of what spiritual manifestations are like and it's best not to use them? ........It would be like saying "Let me just have a vision of the plates real quick and I'll get back to you as to what those phrases mean"...... haha so I don't expect an answer anyway. Or maybe.....I can have that same vision? If I can believe that Moroni appeared to Joseph several times then it's not really a stretch to believe he could have appeared to Mary Whitmer in the (flesh/material form) and the other 3 (in spiritual form) as well, so it's never been an issue for me. It might lead to people speculating that Joseph possibly fabricated the plates or started fabricating them before or within the space of time (like maybe a week?) between the 3 and 8 witnesses. It's hard to resist following the chain of questioning where it naturally leads. People might end up with that question in the back of their mind if it's not addressed and disproven.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

The quote you refer to comes from Martin Harris. The spiritual nature of the 3 witnesses experience has long been used to try to discredit them, but the three witnesses were very explicit that they had actually seen the plates and the angel. Casey Griffiths addresses this in the episode as does Dan Peterson. Oliver Cowdery specifically responded to accusations in a letter in 1829 and made it very clear that there was no deception in the event. All the witnesses when challenged on this point (which critics wish to read into their statements) were adamant that the experience was literal, real, and undeniable.

[@robertayers7013]

WERE THE WORDS SHIFT SHOWN 😊

[@robertayers7013]

The SHIFT Show the way 😊

[@Wh3nth3wick3drul3]

Again, they were not the ones who left the church, the followers of flesh were removed from their place for their condemnation of many wives! Jacob <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="154">2:34</a> many wives is a condemnation: "34 And now behold, my brethren, ye know that these commandments were given to our father, Lehi; wherefore, ye have known them before; and ye have come unto great condemnation; for ye have done these things which ye ought not to have done"

[@VisualParadox000]

I keep getting unsubscribed. When I resubscribe it flashes 'error.' Seen this happen on channels that KZbin is not happy with, but why this channel?

[@ChrisTheCasual]

I got a quick question what happened to the one kid that ran the channel 6 years ago or are you that same man hahaha silly question but ha

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

He still works for Scripture Central.

[@patriciafinn5717]

Did they see the rock and hat behind tbe screen😅😅

[@user-ux3vb5zg1p]

Great podcast of course the book of mormon has to be from God sadly a lot of people arnt prepared to understand how important it is to find out if God is still speaking to us through the book of mormon and our prophet Now is the time to prepare to meet God

[@rosemariebennett7213]

He wrote that

[@jaybravo2199]

Didn’t the nighttime escape with the plates happen… at night?

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

There are different accounts from different people. We do not know for sure what the time of day was. It is generally accepted that they were retrieved at night and hidden. We portrayed Josiah Stowell seeing them in the morning.

[@jaybravo2199]

@@Bookofmormoncentralofficial this is the first off me hearing any claims that it happened during daylight hours… I thought Joseph Smith himself said it was at night.

[@MemyzelphandI]

So a guy wirh a gimpy leg holding 60 plus pounds of plates out ran a group of men. All of these stories are so silly if you stop to think about it.

[@MidLifeChaos13]

​@@MemyzelphandI or you are putting limitations on what the power of God can do for those He chooses as His servants to do His will. If Christ can cause the blind man to see, The Leper to be clean and *le gasp!* the Lame to walk, why would he not cause that Joseph Smith could, for a bit, to be able to outrun or be hidden (possibly by angelic help) from a small group of men? Saying it couldn't happen ever, is saying that Christ probably never performed miracles and was a con man Himself. Your statement lacks faith in Christ's power.

[@MemyzelphandI]

​@@MidLifeChaos13 the God card always solves the problem.

[@jodybundrant9386]

Only one problem " there was now golden book , scripture said it was a breastplait ,

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

There were many artifacts, among them the gold plates, a breastplate, the urim and thumim, as well as the Liahona and sword of Laban. These were in the stone box on a hill near the Smith Family farm. If you are interested here are a few great articles about this: scripturecentral.org/knowhy/why-were-the-three-witnesses-shown-the-liahona? scripturecentral.org/evidence/book-of-mormon-evidence-empty-stone-box?

[@landenferwerda2280]

What about Sydney Rigdon and the Spalding manuscript?

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

It sounds like you're asking about the theory that Sidney Rigdon was somehow connected to a manuscript written by Solomon Spalding, sometimes called the "Spalding Manuscript." This theory involves claims that the Book of Mormon was derived from Spalding's work through Rigdon's involvement. Solomon Spalding was a former minister who wrote an unpublished manuscript called "Manuscript, Found." After his death in 1816, the manuscript went missing. Some people later alleged that this manuscript found its way to Sidney Rigdon, who then used it as a source for the Book of Mormon. Sidney Rigdon was an early leader in the Latter-day Saint movement who joined the Church after the Book of Mormon was published. Skeptics of the Church have proposed that Rigdon collaborated with Joseph Smith, using Spalding's manuscript to create the Book of Mormon. However, the majority of historical scholars, including non-LDS scholars, have found little credible evidence to support this theory. Key points that challenge the theory include: Manuscript Recovery: The "Manuscript, Found" was eventually discovered and is nothing like the Book of Mormon. Timelines and Relationships: Historical records don’t show that Rigdon had any connection with Joseph Smith or the manuscript before its publication. Witness Testimonies: The Eight Witnesses and the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon consistently maintained their testimonies of the divine origins of the book, even under duress and despite leaving the Church for various reasons.

[@FrederickBergman-gz5yp]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1620">27:00</a> classic con man tricks . Lol

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Joseph demonstrated on many occasions his abilities as a seer. I understand that is hard to believe, but the Lord has given these gifts to prophets throughout the ages.

[@AllyYoung-bf3qf]

there wouldnt be more believers if God showed the plates to more people? r u sure about that? I wonder the reasoning behind that idea in a video thats showing extra witnesses beyond the 11 as a means of boosting belief

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

I don't think there would. Remember the people in Jerusalem had Jesus there with him, they saw miracles, yet so many still chose not to believe, and they crucified him. The same happened in the Book of Mormon when despite signs from heaven and miracles being performed they set aside a day to kill the believers if the sign of Christ's birth did not come. When it did, they fell to the earth with fear because they realized the prophecy had been fulfilled. Most then repented and were baptized. God will not take away people's opportunity to choose for themselves or exercise faith.

[@RichF245]

It's a good question you ask Ally. I've thought about this before. I believe Heavenly Father is cautious in how much evidence He puts out there. If the evidence was so strong that all but the bitterest critics had to agree of the authenticity of any point of belief, then the agency of mankind is compromised. He will not force anyone to believe, but give just enough evidence to confirm the belief that already was in the heart. But if people do not exercise their faith to read, ponder and pray, they can choose to not believe and dismiss the evidence believers see.

[@MidLifeChaos13]

Well Laman and Lemuel saw an angel, felt God's power, and heard the voice of the Lord and they still turned out the way they did. So, 🤷‍♀️ Those who choose the things of the world over Christ will deny the authenticity of what they've seen, heard, and felt.

[@SamGregland]

This is a nicely made video! Although it's missing some important historic details that shouldn't be ignored or omitted when deciding what to make of the witnesses, specifically: Martin Harris reported that the 8 witnesses did not see the plates with their natural eyes and were therefore hesitant to sign the testimony, but were persuaded to do so. Stephen Burnett and Warren Parrish independently recorded this event. Burnett's disbelief was a result of listening to what Harris was telling him. The video mentions there being many reasons for the 8 to deny and they never do, but 6 of the 8 were alive to deny what Martin Harris said in that instance and they never do that either. As a matter of fact most of the 8 didn't really say anything as we only have Cowdery's version of what they saw and no input from them directly. There's no evidence that the 8 witnesses took part in the wording of their testimony statement at all. A number of accounts report the 3 witnesses having visions outside of the angelic encounter. Even men like William Hyde who knew Harris well and could only "speak well of him" would also say "on religious subjects I thought him slightly demented." or Lorenzo Saunders who said he "was a good citizen" had to add he was "a great man for seeing spooks." Joseph even dictated a revelation that said Cowdery already received supernatural communication through the "rod of nature" or divining rod. It's possible they saw the angel and plates, but if they did it's unfortunate that God chose people who were already inclined to seeing things as that isn't a reassuring character trait for bolstering a witness's testimony. I hope this comment is not seen as an attack, I don't think this added information necessarily means anything conclusive against the testimony claims, but it seemed important to take it into account for honest transparency as the focus of the video is the credibility of the witnesses.

[@Steelblaidd]

Can you cite your source where Martin says the eight didn't see the plates with their natural eyes? Also, whether or not they wrote the statement l, that they signed it means they were willing to go on the record affirming that is their testimony. I didn't write a lot of the documents that I have signed over the years that still represent my legally binding oath.

[@MarkFarrell-fu5cw]

I got you bro the source is on the Joseph Smith Papers website, go to Letterbook 2, Page 64. It's a letter written by Stephen Burnett where he mentions recent dissenters including Martin Harris, and how they were split on what to think of the Book of Mormon's authenticity. He mentions how Martin stated that neither he nor the other 3 witnesses saw the plates with their natural eyes "& also that the 8 witnesses never saw them & hesitated to sign that instrument for that reason, but were persuaded to do it." You can also read how Burnett was reluctant to give up his beliefs but details that after hearing Harris say those things, he concluded "if the witnesses whose names are attached to the Book of Mormon never saw the plates as Martin admits, there can be nothing brought to prove that any such thing ever existed." Warren Parrish stated in a March 13, 1838 letter that is recorded in The Waldo Patriot, Vol. I. Belfast, Maine, Friday, May 4, 1838. No. 19. that "Martin Harris, one of the witnesses to the book of Mormon, told me and others a few days since that he never saw the plates with his natural eyes, but in a vision. He also said that Joseph, nor any other man, ever saw them in any other way; which agrees with the revelations." Parrish also made statements elsewhere. These two independent witnesses to Harris' statements have corresponding details, and the accounts don't suggest any intent to misrepresent what Harris was saying, as Burnett seemed conflicted as one whose mind could sway one way or the other depending on what Harris said to him.

[@johnthompson8540]

Sam, There are many sources in history (like rumor, gossip, hearsay) that fall short when weighed against the preponderance of evidence to the contrary. You raise a few regarding the character of the witnesses and their experiences that have already been addressed by historians as unreliable or misunderstood when compared to the many more accounts that contradict what you are reporting here. For example, David Whitmer, one of the Three Witnesses, frequently tried to correct rumors that were being circulated that he or any of the others denied their testimony: “Mr Whitmer felt very indignant while speaking of certain statements published recently to the effect that he and Oliver Cowdery had denied their statement as published in the Book of Mormon. This he denounced as false in every particular. He said: “Oliver never wavered in his testimony, and when he was on his death bed, I was there, with many of his friends, until he passed away. He bore the same testimony on his dying bed that he had always borne through life, and earnestly called upon all to cleave to the truth revealed through the Prophet Joseph, and to serve the Lord. As for myself, I have never denied my testimony that is published in the Book of Mormon, for I know that God has revealed these things for the salvation of the children of men, and to Him belongs all the honor, the power and the glory.” (David Whitmer interview with James H. Hart). In short, when you take into consideration _all_ the evidence, the picture is not the one you paint with a few hearsay sources. But thank you for your respectful tone!

[@timrathbone7093]

Why can one not major in the book of Mormon at BYU or any other LDS school. If the book of Mormon is an actual history why not?

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

At BYU there are classes just about the Book of Mormon. However the religion major is more wholistic. Anyone who wishes to discuss theology in academic circles has to be learned in many books of scripture even if they focus their study on the Book of Mormon. Every student who attends BYU technically graduates with a minor in religion, though the honor is not actually awarded. There is also a Masters of Religion offered as well.

[@timrathbone7093]

But not in the book of Mormon academia or history or geography or archeology, right . Book of Mormon in a religious class is different than studying the book of Mormon like the Bible is studied in the ancient studies department.

[@timrathbone7093]

Like is discussed in the nahom follies read discussion.

[@SteveCarrDrivesAPrius]

Nope.

[@spongeman6559]

The Book of Mormon mentions iron and steel, despite said resources not being available technologically at the time. DNA evidence disproves it entirely, with native Americans being originally from north Eastern Asia.

[@kc51dawg]

😂

[@bartbutkis]

This fairytale is hilarious! 😅

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

This is understood by many scholars and theologians to be a warning specific to the Book of Revelation and not necessarily to the entire Bible. It's kind of like an author saying, "Don't mess with my manuscript!" 😅 As Latter-day Saints, we believe that God continues to reveal His will and that additional scripture can be given. The Book of Mormon, for instance, is considered another testament of Jesus Christ. The idea here is that God’s word isn’t limited or confined to one volume but continues as He speaks to His prophets.

[@jefflarson2800]

The hat? The Lord and Joseph spoke of the Urim and Thummum time and time again as the mode of translation and not the seer stone and the hat. Why the hat and not the nephite instrument that was with the plates.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Joseph Smith used both the Urim and Thummim and a seer stone during the translation of the Book of Mormon, this is attested in multiple accounts from many different witnesses. For example: David Whitmer gave multiple accounts later in life explaining that Joseph placed the seer stone in a hat to block out light, allowing him to read the words that appeared on the stone. Emma Smith, Joseph's wife, also described in later interviews that Joseph used a seer stone placed in a hat during the translation process. Martin Harris, also confirmed similar details about Joseph using a seer stone and a hat. Here's a video from President Nelson describing the process: www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/video/2020-05-0290-the-book-of-mormon-is-tangible-evidence-of-the-restoration?lang=eng

[@Enos_Envy]

Well, that didn't take long for the Brighamites to start using the Kirtland temple in their grifting. That's a pretty one-sided version of Martin Harris, but worse is the omission of David Witmer's "Message to all Believers"

[@robbiefl58]

Joseph Smith would have been 21 at the time. Why is an actor in his 30s playing him?

[@thescottchristopher]

It's just the way things worked out given our time, budget and scheduling. We're a simple, well-meaning documentary. Once i got past his age and look (since it didn't really matter) I thought the performance was perfectly useful for our purposes.

[@user-eg4kz9rw4w]

Who do u guys worship. I thought jesus told his followers to never bow or worship him, I thought the bible said, that when jesus was on earth, he prayed to his father in heaven daily, How come jesus didnt know he was god n didnt know he doesnt need to pray to himself ?

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Jesus Christ prayed to his Father in Heaven. We believe the Godhead consists of God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. Three distinct and separate beings that are one in purpose.

[@cosmone482]

its giving jim jones

[@thelastgoonie6555]

The 8 witnesses were not all present together. Odd depictions. Mary Witmer's was also much more supernatural with the man coming out from underneath her shed as he was on his way to the nearby Hill Cumorah (which is no longer recognized as THE Cumorah). Trying to sugar-coat the history is gross. Just tell the WHOLE account even if you don't like the details.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Please remember friend that multiple accounts were given. In their official statement, the 8 testified that they saw and handled the plates. Over the years, some of them made additional statements or were interviewed, providing more context and details about their collective experience. Each account slightly varies in detail but they consistently reaffirm their testimonies. Mary Whitmer's account of seeing the golden plates was not written by her directly but has been shared through family traditions and later recordings by her descendants. The most thorough and detailed recounting comes from her grandson, David Whitmer's brother, David Whitmer's statement, and other Whitmer family members. As is the case with this story and the others depicted in the episode, many accounts were given. It is important to acknowledge that some accounts were given by those purposefully trying to defraud the witnesses (this is very much the case with the 3 witnesses). The way we chose to portray these stories takes into account all these resources (some of which are more credible than others) and presents them as they have been understood by LDS scholars and the Church itself. We aren't trying to hide anything. People can go read the accounts for themselves. The evidence all points to the same conclusion, there were gold plates, and they were translated by the gift and power of God. Thanks for your comment.

[@rosemariebennett7213]

No one actually saw the plates. They were under cloth or covered

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

This is not accurate. Many people saw the plates. The 8 witnesses for example saw them in the light of day and handled them. Mary Whitmer and other informal witnesses also saw the plates with their own eyes and testified that they had seen them. Josiah Stowell even gave his testimony under oath in a court of law. Although they were almost always covered, the Lord allowed these witnesses to see the plates as a testimony that they were real.

[@qsource262]

With spiritual eyes.

[@wes2176]

Nope, read the account.

[@qsource262]

@wes2176 I have. God shouldn't have made it so convoluted. The 3 and 8 witnesses have conflicting interpretations and not only that most were dead soon.

[@wes2176]

@@qsource262 Might want to stop huffing all that modeling glue.

[@ednakravitz2738]

Lolololololololol

[@Doglip11]

ITS A CULT

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Cult is a word that you could use to describe any religion or thing you don't agree with, but it does not define the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints very well. The church is internationally recognized as a worldwide Christian religion with over 16 million members, governed by a lay clergy, and focused on the teachings of Jesus Christ, family values, and community service.

[@suzannedixon699]

Not a word of this is true and the family wholesomeness has completely been removed in the greed and of this billionaire cult.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

I'm sorry you feel that way. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints strives to bring people closer to Jesus Christ and help them find peace, purpose, and community. The Church does have significant financial resources, these funds are used to support various efforts, including humanitarian aid, education, building and maintaining temples and meetinghouses, and supporting missionary work.

[@user-jl3zb9ej6d]

This is not evidence for the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. Visionary experiences are not evidence. Using this logic, we should also believe the Shaker witnesses who signed a statement claiming they had seen an angel holding their founder’s “Sacred Roll and Book,” or the three witnesses from Fatima who claimed multiple visitations and revelations from the Virgin Mary. There’s no objective evidence that the numerous people who claim to see visions are seeing anything objectively real. The three witnesses fit the profile of people who are inclined to have visionary experiences, because they were hyper-religious and strong believers in a magical world view. Martin Harris had a reputation for seeing weird supernatural things. Oliver Cowdery claimed to have had a vision of the golden plates even before he met Joseph Smith and believed he could receive revelations through his dousing rod. David Whitmer possessed his own “seer stones.” If three people like this showed up in a court of law claiming something was true because any angel had told them so, no jury would take them seriously. Oliver Cowdery, in particular, is not credible because there’s reason to believe he colluded with Joseph Smith to make up the priesthood restoration stories by John the Baptist and Peter James and John. These stories don’t appear in early church publications, and once they do appear there is an evolving story. David Whitmer, who was in contact with Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery during the time these events were alleged to have occurred, stated he never heard anything about them till years later and didn’t believe John the Baptist restored the priesthood to Joseph and Oliver. Moving on the eight witnesses, there’s reason to doubt any of them ever physically saw the plates either, due to the Stephen Burnett letter. He wrote to Lyman Johnson in 1838 that he had left the Church because of Martin Harris stating publicly that the eight witnesses never saw the plates physically any more than three witnesses did, but were persuaded to sign the statement. Even if you set the Stephen Burnett letter aside, the most you could conclude is that the eight witnesses were shown a book of plates. None of them had any qualifications to determine if what they were seeing was an authentic ancient artifact or a forgery created by Joseph Smith. The Mary Whitmer experience isn’t particularly credible, because we don’t find out anything about it till decades after she died. Not only is it late and second hand, but what, angels now look like ordinary fat old men? Anyone looking for objective evidence that the Book of Mormon plates were genuine ancient artifacts comes up wanting. Joseph Smith kept them wrapped up in a cloth most of the time, forbade people to look at them, and promptly disposed of them once the Book of Mormon was done. The whole thing has scam written all over it. None of this questionable witness testimony does anything to overcome the enormous amount of internal evidence that the Book of Mormon isn’t historical-the parallels to Joseph Smith’s 19th century environment, the numerous places it quotes Bible passages that, according to the Book of Mormon timeline, hadn’t been written yet, etc.

[@hmcollett]

By the same logic, do you also dismiss the accounts of Jesus Christ? There is no physical evidence, and much of the eyewitness history is written years, even decades after his death.

[@_Lachoneus]

Oh so just the same old arguments critics always use. With this level of skepticism and nitpicking, most of human history wouldn't stand up to your cynicism.

[@user-jl3zb9ej6d]

@@_Lachoneus Most of human history is not based on visionary experiences, so yes it would. None of what I said is nitpicking. These are problems that strike at the very heart of the argument.

[@user-jl3zb9ej6d]

Ab@@hmcollett Absolutely. The resurrection story is a contradictory mess. We can't prove that any of the gospels were written by anyone who knew Jesus. They may contain some genuine historical information, but it's hard to separate fact from fiction.

[@kaduyantv2857]

They have felt the plates, touched it by their hands, and even weight it. Most of this witnesses hated Joseph Smith, but never one of them deny their witness of the plates. They saw it, knew it but never denied it even they hate Joseph Smith. Its easy to lie when you hate someone. But here, none of them ever deny what they saw and felt.

[@Wren402]

No one saw them.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Except all 14 or so people that did.

[@LordOfThePancakes]

All this “evidence” is total bogus. Sorry…

[@BaBumz]

Please explain

[@j.d.westphal6949]

Yep, and the earth is flat.

[@stokenasty]

@@j.d.westphal6949are you equivocating those who don’t believe in the evidence presented in this video with flat-earthers?

[@TreyDoe]

This reminds me of South Park

[@montyklaus7223]

Book of Mormon is right out of marvel comics

[@hmcollett]

Marvel Comics does not refer to Jesus Christ 3,925 times as does the Book of Mormon. Think what you may, but the purpose of the Book of Mormon is to testify of Jesus Christ, his atonement, and his resurrection.

[@armysapper12b]

The greatest fiction ever told, and has made billions off the credulous. So many contradictions within the original testimonies of these people. 😂

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

It's true that when you look closely at the testimonies of the witnesses, including those of the Book of Mormon, you might find some variations and differences. This is actually quite common in historical accounts, especially those given by different people over a long period of time. The important part is that despite these differences, the core of their testimonies has remained consistent. All of the witnesses affirmed that they saw the plates and that they were shown by an angel or by Joseph Smith. They never denied their testimonies, even during times when personal relationships with Joseph Smith were strained.

[@armysapper12b]

@@Bookofmormoncentralofficial you mean their spiritual eyes 👀 👻. Also, the first vision has changed numerous times since his first account. If a lawyer submitted this as evidence in a court of law, they’d not only be laughed at, but be held for perjury or at the very least ethics violations and possibly criminal charges.

[@sausagetherat]

False teaching. Lots of dramatic music doesn’t make true.

[@Bookofmormoncentralofficial]

Lot's of negative comments don't make it false. The accounts portrayed in this episode come from real people. Have you read all the accounts of these witnesses? Have you read the Book of Mormon? It is easy to jump on the bandwagon with what people say, but learning the truth takes effort.