Study Guide for "God’s Compelling Witness: The Book of Mormon"

In his General Conference talk, Tad R. Callister, Sunday School General President, discusses the profound significance of the Book of Mormon. He emphasizes its role as the keystone of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its unparalleled power to strengthen testimonies. Callister systematically addresses common criticisms of the Book of Mormon and provides compelling arguments for its divine origin. He underscores the book's doctrinal richness and its ability to bring individuals closer to God, ultimately bearing his solemn testimony of its truthfulness.

Before Reading

Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:

Why is the Book of Mormon considered the keystone of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
What are some of the arguments critics use against the Book of Mormon, and how does Tad R. Callister address them?
How does the Book of Mormon clarify or contradict traditional Christian beliefs according to the talk?
What role does the Book of Mormon play in strengthening individual testimonies?
How did Tad R. Callister's friend regain his testimony of the Book of Mormon?

Topics

Understand the Book of Mormon as the Keystone of Our Religion

Tad R. Callister explains that the Book of Mormon is the keystone of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It serves as the foundation of testimonies and provides stability during trials and unanswered questions. Its truth validates Joseph Smith's prophetic calling and the restored Church.

The Book of Mormon is not only the keystone of our religion, but it can also become the keystone of our testimonies so that when trials or unanswered questions confront us, it can hold our testimonies securely in place.

Why is the Book of Mormon referred to as the keystone of our religion?
How does the Book of Mormon help in holding our testimonies securely in place?
How can you make the Book of Mormon the keystone of your own testimony?
Recall a time when the Book of Mormon helped you through a trial or answered a question you had.

Address Critics" Arguments Against the Book of Mormon

Callister addresses critics" claims that Joseph Smith was a creative genius who used various local resources to create the Book of Mormon. He refutes these arguments by highlighting the lack of evidence of such resources and the improbability of Joseph's ability to dictate the book without notes.

First, the critics must explain how Joseph Smith, a 23-year-old farm boy with limited education, created a book with hundreds of unique names and places, as well as detailed stories and events.

So how did Joseph perform this remarkable feat of dictating a 500-plus–page book without any notes?

What are some of the arguments critics use against the Book of Mormon?
How does Callister refute the claim that Joseph Smith used local resources to create the Book of Mormon?
How can you use the information from this talk to address criticisms of the Book of Mormon?
Have you ever faced criticism about the Book of Mormon? How did you respond?

Recognize the Doctrinal Richness of the Book of Mormon

The talk highlights the unique and profound doctrines found in the Book of Mormon that were not present in traditional Christian beliefs of Joseph Smith's time. These include teachings on the Fall of Adam, covenants made at baptism, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

The Book of Mormon teaches, contrary to most Christian beliefs, that the Fall of Adam was a positive step forward.

It reveals the covenants made at baptism, which are not addressed in the Bible.

What are some of the unique doctrines taught in the Book of Mormon?
How do these doctrines differ from traditional Christian beliefs?
Which doctrines in the Book of Mormon have had the most impact on your faith?
How can you deepen your understanding of the unique teachings in the Book of Mormon?

Appreciate the Divine Origin of the Book of Mormon

Callister asserts that the Book of Mormon's profound doctrines and intricate narratives are evidence of its divine origin. He argues that Joseph Smith could not have produced such a work on his own, emphasizing the role of revelation in its creation.

Contrary to such a conclusion, God’s fingerprints are all over the Book of Mormon, as evidenced by its majestic doctrinal truths, particularly its masterful sermons on the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Because it was revelation, not brilliance, that was the source of this book.

How does Callister argue for the divine origin of the Book of Mormon?
What evidence does he provide to support this claim?
How can you strengthen your testimony of the divine origin of the Book of Mormon?
Have you had any personal experiences that confirm the divine origin of the Book of Mormon?

Embrace the Testimony of the Book of Mormon's Witnesses

Callister emphasizes the importance of the testimonies of the 11 witnesses who saw the golden plates. He argues that their unwavering testimonies, despite facing persecution, serve as strong evidence for the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.

I would have to disregard the testimony of every one of the 11 witnesses, even though each remained true to his testimony to the very end.

Why are the testimonies of the 11 witnesses significant?
How do their testimonies support the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon?
How does the testimony of the witnesses strengthen your own testimony of the Book of Mormon?
What can you do to better understand and appreciate the testimonies of the witnesses?