Neither Prophets, But Both Snake Oil Salesmen of the Restoration

Joseph Smith and Brigham Young were not prophets in the traditional sense, but they were both incredible snake oil salesmen of the restoration of the Gospel. They were exceptionally skilled at putting on a show and convincing people of their visions and revelations. Their ability to influence vast numbers of people was unmatched, and their performances were so compelling that many were led to believe in their complete nonsense. Imagine if they had careers in Hollywood—they would have been A-list performers, 100% guaranteed!

Their Roles in the Restoration

Both Joseph Smith and Brigham Young were called by God to serve in the restoration of the Gospel. Joseph Smith was instrumental in the restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, while Brigham Young was tasked with continuing the unbroken line of authority and succession. His mission was to guide the Saints from Nauvoo, Illinois to Salt Lake City, Utah, and beyond. This new home was initially called Deseret, a name with LDS deference and acknowledgement of diligence and industriousness.

Joseph Smith: From Vision to Prophet

Joseph Smith was selected to receive the golden plates and interpret them into the Book of Mormon, which he later referred to as "the book of Christ." Critics might question his perfection, but it's important to remember that even Moses made mistakes and still led the Jews out of Egypt. Joseph Smith was human, but he was also the ideal prophet for his time and mission.

Brigham Young: The Necessary Leader

Brigham Young, on the other hand, was chosen to be the "transitional" prophet during a time of great turmoil and change. Under the circumstances, God saw fit to transform Brigham Young into a leader who would inspire, organize, and motivate the Saints amidst the strife, discrimination, and even extermination orders they faced. His orations and musings, while often controversial, were instrumental in shaping the future of the Church.

Leadership and Imperfections

Neither Joseph Smith nor Brigham Young was necessarily better or worse than the other. Both were chosen based on the qualities and abilities needed at their respective moments in time. By their fruits ye shall know them, which aptly describes the prophetic transition of authority and leadership that has remained unbroken since Joseph Smith's initial calling. Each President brought unique expertise and religious acumen to their role, and their imperfections were seen as integral to the process of leadership development within the Church.

The Role of Heavenly Father

Heavenly Father, being all-knowing and all-seeing, understands that His Church must adapt to the environment it operates in. This means that He calls leaders who are best suited for the challenges and opportunities of their time. As the Church grows in size and scope, like President Nelson, the leadership shifts from predominantly American to a truly global focus. This transition, while it may be met with challenges and changes, is seen as a necessary part of God's plan to bring about the immortality and eternal life of all people.

While some leaders may be more charismatic than others, each President and their counselors are called when needed to bring forth specific knowledge and expertise that is essential for the continued growth and prosperity of the Church. This continuous process of leadership refinement and adaptation is all for our edification and to prepare us for the Second Coming and the significant tests we will face in the days leading up to it.

In summary, Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, while not perfect, were both indispensable to the restoration of the Gospel. They were selected based on the unique qualities that the Lord needed at their respective times, and through their leadership, they brought about the unparalleled growth and expansion of the Church as we know it today.