Voices of Revelation: Exploring the Prophets of The Church of Latter-day Saints
Since the beginning of the church to the present, there have been 17 prophets of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints. This post will present all 17 prophets of The Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints and their major contributions to shaping the doctrine, faith, and church beliefs that we hold today.
What is a Prophet in the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints?
Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
– 2 Peter 1:20-21
Divine Insights: Understanding the Role of Prophets in the Church of Latter-day Saints
In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), a prophet is called for by God to be a seer, and revelator for the entire church. He is assisted by two counselors and twelve apostles, who together form the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, respectively.
These leaders are sustained by members of the church as prophets, seers, and revelators, and their teachings and guidance are considered authoritative and binding for members of the LDS faith.
The LDS Church teaches that prophets are chosen by God as special witnesses of Jesus Christ to serve as His representatives on earth and to communicate His will to His children. So let’s dive in to the 17 prophets of the Church of Latter Day Saints.
The Role of a Prophet in the LDS Church Includes
1. Receiving Revelation
Receiving revelation stands as the paramount pillar for prophets within the Church of Latter-day Saints.
Prophets are believed to receive inspiration and guidance from God to lead the church and its members. This revelation can come through prayer, meditation, and spiritual experiences.
The prophet is the only person on earth who can receive revelation for the direction of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints.
2. Teaching and Preaching
Prophets are responsible for teaching the doctrines and principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the members of the church. They deliver sermons and addresses, both in public settings such as general conference and in local congregations.
3. Leading and Administering
Prophets of the church of latter day saints provide leadership and direction for the church as a whole, as well as for its various programs and organizations. They oversee the administration of the church, including the calling of leaders, the establishment of policies, and the management of church resources.
4. Bearing Witness
Prophets bear witness of Jesus Christ and His role as Savior and Redeemer. They testify of His divinity, His atoning sacrifice, and His teachings, and encourage others to follow Him.
5. Counseling and Comforting
Prophets of the church of latter day saints provide counsel and guidance to individuals and families, offering spiritual advice and support during times of difficulty or decision-making.
The 17 Prophets of The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints
#1 Joseph Smith (1830–1844)
“The best way to obtain truth and wisdom is not to ask it from books, but to go to God in prayer, and obtain divine teaching.”
(Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 191).
Joseph Smith, Jr. was primarily known as the founder and first prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon Church. Here are some key aspects of his life and contributions:
Founding of the LDS Church
In 1830, Joseph Smith claimed to have been visited by God the Father and Jesus Christ, who instructed him to restore the true church of Jesus Christ on Earth. This led to the founding of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Translation of the Book of Mormon
Joseph Smith was led by an angel to discover golden plates inscribed with ancient writings, which he translated into what is now known as the Book of Mormon. This book is considered scripture by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is believed to be an account of ancient peoples in the Americas.
Restoration of Priesthood Authority
Joseph Smith taught that he was visited by resurrected beings who restored the authority to act in the name of God, including the Aaronic Priesthood and the Melchizedek Priesthood.
Doctrinal Teachings
Joseph Smith introduced several theological concepts and practices, including the belief in modern prophets, continuing revelation, baptism for the dead, eternal marriage, and the concept of a pre-mortal existence.
Religious and Social Movement
Under Joseph Smith’s leadership, the early Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints movement grew rapidly, facing persecution and eventually leading to the migration of LDS members to the American West. Joseph Smith played a key role in establishing Mormon communities in Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois.
Martyrdom
Joseph Smith was killed by a mob in Carthage, Illinois, in 1844 at the age of 38. His death marked a significant moment in Mormon history and led to a period of transition and leadership succession within the LDS Church.
#2 Brigham Young (1847–1877)
“Why should we worry about what others think of us, do we have more confidence in their opinions than we do our own?”
Brigham Young
Brigham Young, the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A president is also the prophet of the church of latter day saints. Brigham Young, is primarily known for his significant contributions to the early history and development of the Mormon Church, as well as his role in leading the Mormon pioneers to settle in the Salt Lake Valley. Here are some key aspects of his life and accomplishments:
Leadership and Organization
After the death of Joseph Smith in 1844, Brigham Young assumed leadership of the LDS Church and played a pivotal role in stabilizing and organizing the LDS community during a period of transition and uncertainty.
Exodus to the West
Under Brigham Young’s leadership, the LDS pioneers undertook a monumental journey from Nauvoo, Illinois, to the Great Salt Lake Valley in what is now Utah. This trek, known as the LDS Exodus or the LDS Pioneer Trek, involved thousands of people and was a remarkable feat of endurance and determination.
Settlement of Utah
Brigham Young played a key role in the establishment and development of numerous settlements throughout the Intermountain West, including Salt Lake City. His leadership helped create a cohesive and thriving LDS community in the region.
Expansion of The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints
During Brigham Young’s presidency, the LDS Church experienced significant growth and expansion, both domestically and internationally. He oversaw missionary efforts, the construction of temples, and the establishment of new congregations.
Government and Civic Leadership
In addition to his religious leadership, Brigham Young was heavily involved in civic and governmental affairs. He served as the governor of the provisional State of Deseret (which later became Utah Territory) and played a key role in shaping the political and social landscape of the region.
Polygamy
Brigham Young was known for his practice and advocacy of plural marriage, or polygamy, which was a controversial aspect of early Latter-day Saint doctrine. He himself had numerous wives and played a central role in promoting and defending the practice within the LDS community.
Brigham Young’s legacy as a religious leader, pioneer, and statesman continues to be celebrated within the LDS Church. He is remembered as one of the most influential figures in Latter-day Saint history and a key architect of the churches expansion and settlement in the American West.
#3 John Taylor (1880–1887)
“While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.”
John Taylor
John Taylor, the third prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and is known for his leadership during a tumultuous period in LDS history, particularly regarding the practice of plural marriage and the church’s resistance to pressure from the United States government to abandon the practice. Here are some key aspects of his life and contributions:
Resistance to Government Pressure
During John Taylor’s presidency, the LDS Church faced intense persecution and legal pressure from the federal government due to its practice of plural marriage. Taylor staunchly defended the practice as a religious principle and resisted efforts to abolish it.
Underground Church
As a result of government crackdowns on polygamy and other aspects of Mormonism, John Taylor led the church into a period of semi-secrecy and underground activity. Meetings and ordinances were often conducted in secret to avoid persecution.
Missionary Work and Expansion
Despite the challenges posed by government persecution, John Taylor continued to emphasize missionary work and the expansion of the LDS Church. He sent missionaries to various parts of the world, including Europe, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, leading to significant growth in membership during his presidency.
Doctrinal Clarifications
John Taylor made several doctrinal clarifications during his presidency, particularly regarding the doctrine of plural marriage and the importance of obedience to God’s commandments, even in the face of persecution.
Writing and Publications
John Taylor was a prolific writer and published numerous articles, sermons, and pamphlets defending Mormonism and its doctrines. He also served as the editor of church publications such as the Millennial Star and the Deseret News.
Death in Exile
John Taylor’s presidency came to an end with his death in 1887 while in exile from the United States government. He had been forced to go into hiding to avoid arrest for his practice of polygamy. He died in Kaysville, Utah, where he had sought refuge.
John Taylor’s leadership during a challenging period in Mormon history is remembered for his steadfast commitment to principle and his unwavering defense of religious freedom and the rights of the LDS Church. He is revered as a martyr by many members of the LDS Church for his willingness to sacrifice his freedom and safety for his religious beliefs.
#4 Wilford Woodruff (1889–1898)
I wish to say to the Latter-day Saints, all that we have to do is be faithful, to keep His commandments, to be humble, to seek Him in mighty prayer, and all will be well with us.”— Wilford Woodruff.
Wilford Woodruff, the fourth prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is perhaps best known for his role in officially ending the practice of plural marriage within the LDS Church, commonly known as the Manifesto, as well as for his efforts in promoting temple work and missionary activity. Here are some key aspects of his life and contributions:
End of Plural Marriage
One of the most significant events during Wilford Woodruff’s presidency was the issuance of the Manifesto in 1890. In response to increasing pressure from the United States government to abandon the practice of plural marriage, Woodruff received divine inspiration to issue a statement declaring an end to new plural marriages within the LDS Church. This marked a major shift in Mormon doctrine and practice and helped pave the way for Utah to gain statehood in 1896.
Temple Building and Work for the Dead
Wilford Woodruff emphasized the importance of temple work and made efforts to expand and enhance temple building and ordinances. Under his leadership, several temples were constructed, including the Salt Lake Temple and the temples in Manti, Logan, and St. George, Utah. He also encouraged members to participate in genealogical research and proxy baptisms for the dead.
Missionary Work
Wilford Woodruff placed a strong emphasis on missionary work and oversaw efforts to expand the reach of LDS Church missions both domestically and internationally. He sent missionaries to various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, leading to significant growth in membership during his presidency.
Church Leadership and Organization
Wilford Woodruff played a key role in the organizational structure of the LDS Church. He served in various leadership positions prior to becoming president, including as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. During his presidency, he continued to strengthen and expand the administrative functions of the church.
Revelation and Inspiration
Throughout his life, Wilford Woodruff claimed to receive divine revelation and guidance for the LDS Church. He kept detailed journals documenting his experiences and interactions with spiritual manifestations, which are now valued sources of LDS Church history and doctrine.
Wilford Woodruff’s presidency is remembered as a period of significant change and transition for the LDS Church, marked by the cessation of plural marriage and a renewed focus on temple work and missionary activity. He is respected and revered by members of the LDS Church for his leadership, vision, and dedication to the principles of the faith.
#5 Lorenzo Snow (1898–1901)
“Make others happy, and you will be happy yourself.”
Lorenzo Snow
Lorenzo Snow, the fifth prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and is perhaps best known for his emphasis on the principle of tithing and his role in reorganizing and stabilizing the church’s finances during a period of economic uncertainty. Here are some key aspects of his life and contributions:
Emphasis on Tithing
Lorenzo Snow is famous for his teaching and promotion of the principle of tithing among members of the LDS Church. He encouraged members to faithfully contribute one-tenth of their income to the church, promising that blessings would follow. His teachings on tithing helped establish it as a fundamental principle of LDS Church finance.
Reorganization of Church Finances
During Lorenzo Snow’s presidency, the LDS Church faced significant financial challenges, including debt and economic instability. Snow implemented various measures to reorganize and stabilize the church’s finances, including budgeting, debt reduction, and increased emphasis on self-reliance and financial responsibility among members.
Expansion of Temples
Lorenzo Snow oversaw the construction of several new temples, including the Salt Lake Temple Annex and the Hawaii Temple. He emphasized the importance of temple work and encouraged members to participate in ordinances such as baptisms for the dead and sealings.
Doctrinal Teachings
Lorenzo Snow is also known for his doctrinal teachings, particularly his emphasis on the principle of eternal progression and the potential for humans to become like God. His famous couplet, “As man is, God once was; as God is, man may become,” encapsulates this belief in the possibility of eternal advancement and exaltation.
Vision of Jesus Christ
Lorenzo Snow claimed to have had a vision of Jesus Christ in the Salt Lake Temple, where Christ appeared to him and emphasized the importance of temple work and the redemption of the dead. This experience had a profound impact on Snow and reinforced his commitment to temple building and the work of salvation.
Lorenzo Snow’s presidency is remembered as a time of financial stability, doctrinal emphasis, and temple expansion within the LDS Church. He is respected and revered by members for his leadership, teachings, and contributions to the growth and development of the church.
#6 Joseph F. Smith (1901–1918)
“I come nearer the possession of the actual knowledge that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, through the testimony of Joseph Smith[,] . . . that he saw Him, that he heard Him”
(Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed. (1939), 495).
Joseph F. Smith, the sixth prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is known for several significant contributions to the LDS Church, including his leadership during a time of internal and external challenges, his emphasis on missionary work, and his efforts to solidify church organization and doctrine. Here are some key aspects of his life and contributions:
Consolidation of Church Organization
Joseph F. Smith played a key role in further organizing and solidifying the administrative structure of the LDS Church. During his presidency, he emphasized the importance of priesthood leadership and established various auxiliary organizations, such as the Young Men’s and Young Women’s organizations, to support the spiritual development of youth.
Missionary Work
Joseph F. Smith placed a strong emphasis on missionary work and oversaw efforts to expand the reach of LDS Church missions both domestically and internationally. He encouraged young men and women to serve missions and helped establish missionary training programs to prepare them for their service.
Doctrinal Teachings
Joseph F. Smith made significant contributions to LDS Church doctrine and theology. He emphasized the importance of personal revelation and spiritual experiences, teaching that individuals can receive guidance and inspiration from God through the Holy Ghost. He also reaffirmed core LDS beliefs, such as the reality of the resurrection and the eternal nature of the family unit.
Reaffirmation of Plural Marriage
Joseph F. Smith was the last LDS Church president to have practiced plural marriage. While he publicly acknowledged the Manifesto issued by Wilford Woodruff, which officially ended the practice of new plural marriages, he continued to affirm the legitimacy of existing plural marriages and defended the principle of plural marriage as part of the church’s history.
Leadership During Challenging Times
Joseph F. Smith’s presidency coincided with a period of significant change and challenge for the LDS Church, including increasing scrutiny and pressure from the United States government, as well as internal dissent and schisms among church members. He provided steady leadership during these tumultuous times, guiding the church through various legal and social challenges.
Vision of the Spirit World
Joseph F. Smith is also known for his vision of the spirit world, which he claimed to have received while pondering the doctrine of the afterlife. In this vision, he described the conditions of the righteous and the wicked after death, reinforcing LDS beliefs about the importance of repentance and the reality of life after death.
Joseph F. Smith’s presidency is remembered as a time of organizational growth, doctrinal reaffirmation, and missionary expansion within the LDS Church. He is respected and revered by members for his leadership, teachings, and contributions to the ongoing development of the church.
#7 Heber J. Grant (1918–1945)
That which we persist in doing becomes easier to do; not that the nature of the thing has changed, but our capacity to do has increased.
Heber J. Grant
Heber J. Grant, the seventh prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is known for his leadership during a period of significant social and economic change, as well as for his emphasis on financial responsibility, missionary work, and the expansion of church programs. Here are some key aspects of his life and contributions:
Emphasis on Financial Solvency
Heber J. Grant is perhaps best known for his focus on financial responsibility and stewardship within the LDS Church. Under his leadership, the church became more fiscally conservative and began to operate on a balanced budget. Grant emphasized the importance of self-reliance and encouraged members to avoid debt and live within their means.
Expansion of Church Programs
Heber J. Grant oversaw the expansion of various church programs and initiatives, including the improvement of seminary and institute programs, the establishment of the Church Welfare Program to provide assistance to members in need, and the construction of numerous meetinghouses and temples throughout the world.
Missionary Work
Heber J. Grant placed a strong emphasis on missionary work and oversaw efforts to expand the reach of LDS Church missions both domestically and internationally. He encouraged young men and women to serve missions and implemented programs to support missionary training and preparation.
Temple Building
Heber J. Grant oversaw the construction of several temples during his presidency, including the Los Angeles Temple, the Idaho Falls Temple, and the Cardston Alberta Temple. He emphasized the importance of temple work and encouraged members to participate in ordinances such as baptisms for the dead and sealings.
Social and Economic Challenges
Heber J. Grant’s presidency coincided with a period of significant social and economic change, including the Great Depression and World War II. He provided steady leadership during these tumultuous times, guiding the LDS Church through various challenges and encouraging members to remain faithful and resilient in the face of adversity.
Doctrinal Teachings
Heber J. Grant made significant contributions to LDS Church doctrine and theology, including teachings on the importance of obedience, honesty, and integrity. He emphasized the principles of repentance and forgiveness and encouraged members to live righteous and honorable lives.
Heber J. Grant’s presidency is remembered as a time of growth, stability, and institutional development within the LDS Church. He is respected and revered by members for his leadership, teachings, and contributions to the ongoing progress of the church.
#8 George Albert Smith (1945–1951)
We must seek the loving kindness of God in all the breadth and open air of common life.
George A. Smith
George Albert Smith, the eighth prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is known for his humility, compassion, and emphasis on kindness and service. Here are some key aspects of his life and contributions:
Emphasis on Compassion and Service
George Albert Smith was known for his deep empathy and concern for the welfare of others. He emphasized the importance of kindness, charity, and service in the lives of LDS Church members. He encouraged individuals to reach out to those in need and to serve one another with love and compassion.
Support for Humanitarian Efforts
Under George Albert Smith’s leadership, the LDS Church expanded its humanitarian efforts and outreach programs. He encouraged members to contribute to humanitarian causes and to participate in service projects both locally and globally. His emphasis on humanitarianism helped establish the foundation for the LDS Church’s extensive humanitarian efforts in later years.
Temple Building and Worship
George Albert Smith oversaw the construction of several temples during his presidency, including the Bern Switzerland Temple, the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple, and the London England Temple. He emphasized the importance of temple worship and encouraged members to participate in temple ordinances and ceremonies.
Promotion of Family Values
George Albert Smith emphasized the importance of family unity, love, and support. He encouraged members to strengthen their families through regular family prayer, scripture study, and quality time spent together. He also promoted the importance of marital fidelity and the sanctity of marriage.
Health and Well-being
George Albert Smith struggled with health issues throughout his life, including chronic pain and physical ailments. Despite his own challenges, he encouraged members to take care of their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. He promoted healthy living practices and encouraged members to seek medical care when needed.
Diplomacy and International Relations
George Albert Smith was known for his diplomatic skills and efforts to foster positive relationships with government leaders and representatives of other faiths. He traveled extensively during his presidency, meeting with world leaders and promoting goodwill and understanding.
George Albert Smith’s presidency is remembered as a time of compassion, service, and devotion to the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He is respected and revered by members for his humility, kindness, and dedication to the well-being of others.
Keep reading for prophets 9 – 17 of the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints – Part 2.
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