Most people are surprised to learn that the Book of Mormon actually comes with a built-in disclaimer. In editions published from 1981 onward, the page titled “A Brief Explanation about the Book of Mormon” includes this statement:
“About this edition: Some minor errors in the text have been perpetuated in past editions of the Book of Mormon. This edition contains corrections that seem appropriate to bring the material into conformity with prepublication manuscripts and early editions edited by the Prophet Joseph Smith.”
This paragraph functions as an “escape clause” for the Mormon Church — an admission that changes have been made, while at the same time excusing them as necessary corrections. But it raises an obvious and serious question: If the Book of Mormon was supposedly translated “by the gift and power of God” (Book of Mormon, Title Page), then why would it contain errors at all? And if Joseph Smith was a true prophet of God, why would the “true church” need to issue disclaimers for repeated mistakes in what was claimed to be God’s perfect revelation?
The Bible paints a very different picture of God’s Word. Scripture is consistent, flawless, and enduring. “The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times” (Psalm 12:6). Unlike the Book of Mormon, the Bible has never required “disclaimers” or doctrinal revisions. Jesus Himself affirmed, “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away” (Matthew 24:35).
The Mormon disclaimer suggests that human error — not divine perfection — lies behind their text. Yet the true God declares, “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent” (Numbers 23:19). When God speaks, His Word is final, pure, and unchanging.
By contrast, the LDS Church has attempted to cover its tracks, claiming that Joseph Smith’s “early editions” justify the alterations. But this only underlines the unreliability of the Book of Mormon. Paul warned believers about those who would twist God’s truth: “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:8).
In short, the “Official Book of Mormon Disclaimer” is not a safeguard — it is evidence. It shows that the Book of Mormon is not the infallible Word of God, but the product of human error. The true and living God has already given His complete and trustworthy revelation in the Bible: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).
Christians can stand confidently on the unchanging Word of God, which needs no disclaimers, revisions, or excuses.
