Mormon publications often portray Joseph Smith as a man “incapable of lying and deceitfulness,” a figure of unmatched kindness and nobility. Yet historical records paint a far more complicated picture. When confronted about his multiple wives, Smith publicly denied the allegations, claiming, “I can only find one.” Even the LDS Church acknowledges that his first wife, Emma, was likely unaware of all his plural marriages.
The Bible has much to say about honesty, integrity, and the consequences of deceit:
- “Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight” (Proverbs 12:22)
- “Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour” (Ephesians 4:25)
- “A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies” (Proverbs 14:5)
Joseph Smith’s secret plural marriages, denials, and attempts to conceal the truth raise serious questions when measured against God’s standard of integrity. If we are to trust someone as a prophet, the Bible calls for transparency, honesty, and faithfulness to God’s commands (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2-3).
This video examines the stark contrast between the idealized image of Joseph Smith presented by the LDS Church and the historical evidence of his actions. Viewers are invited to compare human claims with God’s Word and ask a critical question: can a prophet who practiced deception be trusted as an authoritative messenger of God?
“The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them” (Proverbs 11:3). True faith rests not on the claims of fallible men but on the unchanging truth of God revealed in Scripture.
