Sign 15 - Joseph Smith, a Latter Day Prophet is Born

Year:1805

Scriptures:

Malachi 3:1

1 Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me….

Elder Legrand Richards bears witness “that Joseph Smith was the messenger sent, that he was the instrument in the hands of God in setting up this kingdom.” (Elder Legrand Richards, Conference Report, April 1958, Afternoon Meeting 41)

Joseph Smith, Jr., was born on December 23, 1805 in Sharon Vermont. He was among the noble spirits in the pre existence (Abra. 3:22-23) and was foreordained to restore the gospel in the latter days and stands at the head of the dispensation of the fulness of times. (Joseph Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, selected and arranged by Joseph Fielding Smith [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1976] )

His assigned mission was so important that he is mentioned by name in the scriptures pertaining to this event.

2 Nephi 3:9, 15

9 And he shall be great like unto Moses, whom I have said I would raise up unto you, to deliver my people, O house of Israel.

15 And his name shall be called after me; and it shall be after the name of his father. And he shall be like unto me; for the thing, which the Lord shall bring forth by his hand, by the power of the Lord shall bring my people unto salvation.

There are numerous prophesies in the scriptures foretelling of the restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ in the latter days. This event began with the birth of Joseph Smith on December 23, 1805.