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By the revelation
of Jesus Christ, and with the realization that the greatest souls
the Restoration can name were converted upon the merits of the
1830 edition, it was decided that the True & Living Church
of Jesus Christ of Saints of the Last Days would reprint this
edition and claim it as its standard.
The Prophet said, "I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book." (Joseph Smith, Jun., November 28, 1841.) For those of us who have approached God, or who have been approached by God, we have found the above statement to be true. Indeed, any who will live the teachings of this book, and also all the teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Jun., will find themselves in the presence of God and His angels.
The "correctness" of the Book of Mormon is only to be found in its doctrines and teachings, and not in the grammar and usage. Notwithstanding the obvious imperfections in the text, the Book of Mormon stands now as it once stood-as a beacon of truth, and as bold evidence of Joseph Smith's prophetic calling. In that light, there is no shame in representing to the world the text of the first Book of Mormon, for the Elect will hear the Lord's voice and "harden not their hearts", regardless of the weakness of the language.
We once again invite all to read this book, to ponder its message, and to call upon God for the divine witness of its verity. For us and for countless others, the message is clear: It is true! We so testify in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
JAMES D. HARMSTON
President of the High Priesthood
DANIEL C. SIMMONS
RANDOLPH E. MAUDSLEY
SCOTT L. KOLLER
First Presidency