Let’s focus briefly on the man, Joseph Smith. What kind of man was he? The man whom God used to commence the restoration in these latter days. What did he have to say concerning truth and doctrine?
"…Redemption cometh in and through the holy Messiah: for he is full of grace and truth…" --II Nephi 1:71
"…This day he hath spiritually begotten you; for ye say that your hearts are changed through faith on his name; therefore, ye are born of him, and have become his sons and his daughters…" --Mosiah 3:9
"…And we see that his arm is extended to all people who will repent and believe on his name…" --Alma 12:180
"…And then shall they know their Redeemer, who is Jesus Christ, the Son of God…" --III Nephi 2:109
"…Yea, and all the earth shall see the salvation of the Lord, saith the prophet…--I Nephi 5:256
"…For what could I write more than my fathers have written? For have not they revealed the plan of salvation?…" –Jarom 1:3,4
I was delightfully surprised to find so many "born again" scriptures in the Book of Mormon.
I’ll say it again. The central message of the Book of Mormon is—restoration of the covenants in these latter days! And that message is meant for all God’s children.
I know. I can hear you now. "…A charismatic Baptist minister who believes the Book of Mormon?! Impossible. That’s like a Protestant Pope…" No, it’s not. It’s not a contradiction.
There is a separation occurring regarding our approach to church ministry. A new wineskin is replacing the old.
I’m saying, spiritual adultery is always a result of distance, always a result of a lack of intimacy between two lovers. Unfaithfulness often follows.
