A Choice Seer Part 1

In this episode of Viewpoint on Mormonism, host Bill McKeever and colleague Eric Johnson examine the exalted status of Joseph Smith within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, using a 2016 general conference talk by Elder Craig C. Christensen titled 'A Choice Seer Will I Raise Up?' as a focal point. They analyze key statements from Brigham Young and Christensen that elevate Joseph Smith to a near-prophetic, even divine, role in determining entry into the celestial kingdom, challenging the notion that such views have been softened over time. The hosts critique the historical accuracy of claims that criticism of Joseph Smith began immediately after his 'sacred grove' experience, noting that early opposition centered on the gold plates, not the vision. They also question the use of Amos 3:7 as a scriptural basis for the Mormon doctrine of a living prophet, arguing that the verse’s context refers to judgment on ancient Israel, not a perpetual need for a mortal prophet. The episode underscores the tension between Mormon claims of divine restoration and biblical consistency, particularly regarding the nature and necessity of prophetic authority.