Praise to the man

This generation shall have my word through you. D&C 5:10

Joseph Smith, mighty prophet and choice seer of the latter days, occupies a place of unique importance in our dispensation (D&C 124:58). We are indebted to him for spiritual knowledge he restored and the church he established (D&C 135:3). No wonder “the ends of the earth shall inquire after [Joseph’s] name” (D&C 122:1). All prophets of the past have looked toward this generation when God would reveal his word anew to the Prophet Joseph. God’s word is the plan of salvation; his word is the mind and will of the Lord as pertaining to his children on earth. The revelations that came through the Prophet Joseph Smith are true. And though we do not worship the Prophet, we honor him as an instrument in the hands of God in restoring the ancient truths of the gospel. We reverence his name for sealing his testimony with his blood. We raise our voices in admiration, “Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah!” (Hymns, no, 27). (Robert L. Millet and Lloyd D. Newell. Draw Near Unto Me: Daily Reflections on the Doctrine and Covenants. 18)