=1. The Divine Authenticity of the Book of Mormon= constitutes our
most important consideration of the work. This subject is one of vital
interest to every earnest investigator of the ways of God, to every
sincere searcher after truth. Claiming to be, as far as the present
dispensation is concerned, a new scripture, presenting prophecies and
revelations not heretofore recognized in modern theology, announcing
to the world the message of a departed people, written by way of
commandment, and by the spirit of prophecy and revelation--this volume
is entitled to the most thorough and impartial examination. Nay, more,
not alone does the Book of Mormon merit such consideration, it claims,
even demands the same; for surely no one professing the most cursory
belief in the power and authority of God can receive with unconcern
the announcement of a new revelation, having the seal of Divine
authority upon it. The question of the authenticity of the Book of
Mormon is therefore one in which the world is interested.
=2.= The Latter-day Saints base their belief in the authenticity and
genuineness of the book on the following proofs:--