Knowledge of Joseph Smith’s seer stones won’t change our doctrines—nor can they offer salvation. But they do challenge the limits of our assumptions about how God works, especially when it comes to miracles. Early witnesses of the Book of Mormon translation process consistently described Joseph’s use of seer stones as a divine instrument, not a distraction from revelation, but a confirmation of it. Emma Smith testified that Joseph had no manuscript or book in front of him as he dictated; to her, this was evidence of divine aid. Oliver Cowdery remembered those sacred hours as “days never to be forgotten.”
As Joseph read the words given through the stones, he wasn’t referencing books or injecting his own commentary—he was acting as a conduit. And in that light, the seer stones become not a relic of superstition, but a bold declaration that the Book of Mormon did not originate from Joseph Smith. Yet in our modern world, shaped by skepticism and a reliance on replicable scientific proof, we can become blind to the miracle that early Saints recognized without hesitation: that God had indeed spoken again, and the stone was simply a tool in His hand.
In this episode of The Brother Joseph Podcast, Brett and Truus explore the remarkable life and legacy of Martin Harris, one of the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon. Though separated from the main body of Saints, Martin remained in Kirtland for decades, dedicating himself to preserving the temple and sharing his testimony with all who came. His sacrifices—both financial and personal—underscore his unwavering commitment to the Restoration. Martin Harris stands as the indefatigable witness whose faith continues to inspire generations.
Oliver Cowdery's life is a compelling narrative of profound spiritual experiences, dedicated service, personal struggles, and ultimate reconciliation. His unwavering testimony of the Book of Mormon remains a cornerstone of Latter-day Saint belief and a significant aspect of the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Brett & Truus discuss the complex interplay of divine guidance, human effort, opposition, and miraculous events that characterized the early stages of the Book of Mormon translation and its journey towards publication. The experiences of individuals like Joseph Knight Sr., David Whitmer, Oliver Cowdery, and Martin Harris were instrumental in supporting Joseph Smith and bearing witness to the authenticity of his claims.
Brett & Truus paint a picture of Emma Hale as a woman of deep religious conviction, intelligence, and strong character who came from a loving and prosperous family in Harmony, Pennsylvania. Her meeting and courtship with Joseph Smith, despite their differing backgrounds and her parents' strong opposition, highlight her independent spirit and the deep connection she felt with him. Their elopement and early marriage marked the beginning of a life filled with both joy and significant hardship, where Emma's unwavering support and faith would be crucial to the early development of the Latter-day Saint movement. The musical "BROTHER JOSEPH" further emphasizes Emma's early devotion to God as a central aspect of her character and motivations. Despite the challenges in accessing her personal reflections, the available accounts underscore her vital role and enduring legacy in the history of the Church.
The Second Great Awakening, with its proliferation of denominations and emphasis on personal conversion, created both intense religious fervor and significant confusion. Joseph Smith's personal experiences within this dynamic landscape, particularly his struggle to find truth amidst competing claims and his profound encounter with James 1:5, ultimately led to his decision to seek divine guidance through prayer and the foundational First Vision of Latter-day Saint history. The musical "BROTHER JOSEPH" offers an engaging artistic representation of this vibrant and religiously charged period.
Brett & Truus continue their discussion of Brother Joseph, a new mega-musical that seeks to bring the lives of Joseph and Emma Smith to the stage with deep emotional resonance and spiritual power. Through the medium of musical storytelling, the production offers a profound exploration of the spiritual experiences, trials, and triumphs that shaped the Restoration of the Gospel. Emphasizing that faith is felt in the heart, Brother Joseph uses music as a powerful conduit for those sacred emotions. The production delves into both the soaring victories and profound struggles of Joseph, Emma, and the early Saints, offering an intimate and moving perspective on their extraordinary journey.
"BROTHER JOSEPH" seeks to provide an emotionally resonant and spiritually powerful portrayal of the life and work of Joseph and Emma Smith. The musical format is intended to convey a deeper understanding of the spiritual experiences and trials associated with the Restoration of the Gospel. It emphasizes that faith is rooted in the heart and that music is an important channel to access those feelings. The production explores both the triumphs and the deep suffering associated with Joseph and Emma’s lives.