Joseph Smith: BYU Speeches

“Lightning Out of Heaven”: Joseph Smith and the Forging of Community | Terryl L. Givens | November 2005

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Joseph Smith ignited something in thousands of men and women that connects them to God and to each other in powerful ways. Click here to view the speech.

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Parallel Prophets: Paul and Joseph Smith | Richard L. Anderson | August 1983

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Richard Lloyd Anderson shares how, in many ways, the apostle Paul and Joseph Smith are similar. Both of these prophetic figures received revelation, demonstrated devoted service, and were persecuted and ultimately martyred for their testimonies. Click here to view the speech.

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The Lord God of Joseph Smith | Bruce R. McConkie | January 1972

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

The God of Joseph Smith's time is not absent. We can come to know Him, His revelations, and His miracles, just as the Prophet did. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith—the Chosen of God and the Friend of Man | Ivan J. Barrett | August 1975

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 19:35:00 +0000

Joseph Smith's character is perhaps one of the best manifestations of his calling. He was not only chosen of God, but a loyal friend of man. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith's Christlike Attributes | Jack H. Goaslind | June 1995

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Elder Jack H. Goaslind speaks on how Joseph Smith's Christlike attributes attest to the fact that this his greatest desire was to emulate the Savior and do His will. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith: Lover of the Cause of Christ | Heidi S. Swinton | November 2004

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 22:35:00 +0000

Heidi Swinton delivers a powerful call to stand by the Prophet Joseph Smith by living for the cause he loved: the cause of Christ. Access the speech page here.

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The Ongoing Restoration (Excerpted) | Gary E. Stevenson | August 2019

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Elder Stevenson shares his testimony of the ongoing Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It began with Joseph Smith, and it is still happening today. Click here to view the speech.

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The Book of Mormon: Man-Made or God-Given? | Tad R. Callister | November 2016

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Many critics of the Book of Mormon have tried but failed to give a credible alternative to Joseph Smith's testimony of it. How can we know if it is true? Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph’s School | Justin Collings | August 2025

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 11:00:00 +0000

BYU is the university of the Restoration. Joseph Smith’s revelations on God, Christ, knowledge, and truth teach the school’s divine mission. Click here to see the speech page.

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The Profile of a Prophet | Hugh B. Brown | October 1955

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

If you had to create the profile of a prophet, what would it look like? Hugh B. Brown speaks on how Joseph Smith's character and works testify of his prophetic calling. Click here to view the speech.

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Unlocking the Doors | M. Russell Ballard | November 1989

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Despite intense opposition during some of the Church's history, the gospel has been busy unlocking the doors of nations and hearts worldwide. Click here to view the speech.

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Stand by My Servant Joseph | Cecil O. Samuelson | January 2005

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The Lord's commandment to stand by Joseph Smith with true loyalty applies to each of us as builders and defenders of God's kingdom. Click here to view the speech.

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"Peace Like a River" | Heidi S. Swinton | April 2004

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 10:00:00 +0000

The restoration of the gospel is about hope. Heidi S. Swinton speaks of the restoration and how its message should bring "peace like a river" to our souls. Click here to view the speech.

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But for Joseph | Katherine D. Pullins | June 2000

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Associate law school dean Katherine D. Pullins shares her story of conversion to the gospel and Church that Joseph Smith restored. But for Joseph and his contributions, she testifies, not only would the world be vastly lacking, but so would our individual lives. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith Lecture 8: The Last Months and Martyrdom | Truman G. Madsen | August 1978

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Truman Madsen covers the martyrdom of Joseph Smith and the last few months of the Prophet’s life before adding his personal testimony. Click here to view the speech.

© 1989 Truman G. Madsen. ℗ 2003 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

For personal, educational use only. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means outside of your personal digital device without permission in writing from Deseret Book Company at permissions@deseretbook.com or PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130.

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Joseph Smith Lecture 7: Doctrinal Development and the Nauvoo Era | Truman G. Madsen, Aug 1978

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Truman Madsen on the lessons learned and taught by Joseph Smith in Nauvoo while the Prophet directed the saints in building the temple. Click here to view the speech.

© 1989 Truman G. Madsen. ℗ 2003 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

For personal, educational use only. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means outside of your personal digital device without permission in writing from Deseret Book Company at permissions@deseretbook.com or PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130.

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Joseph Smith Lecture 6: Joseph Smith as Teacher, Speaker, and Counselor | Truman G. Madsen, Aug 1978

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Truman Madsen speaks on the qualities and experiences that made Joseph Smith a teacher, speaker, and counselor for those around him, focusing on his time in Kirtland. Click here to view the speech.

© 1989 Truman G. Madsen. ℗ 2003 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

For personal, educational use only. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means outside of your personal digital device without permission in writing from Deseret Book Company at permissions@deseretbook.com or PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130.

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Joseph Smith Lecture 5: Joseph Smith and the Kirtland Temple | Truman G. Madsen | Aug 1978

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Truman Madsen describes the experiences and sacrifices of Joseph Smith and the Saints in Kirtland, Ohio while building the temple. Click here to view the speech.

© 1989 Truman G. Madsen. ℗ 2003 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

For personal, educational use only. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means outside of your personal digital device without permission in writing from Deseret Book Company at permissions@deseretbook.com or PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130.

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Joseph Smith Lecture 4: Joseph Smith and Trials | Truman G. Madsen | August 1978

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Truman Madsen shares an account of Joseph Smith’s trials and the effects of the hardship on his family, his friends, his life, and his character. Click here to view the speech.

© 1989 Truman G. Madsen. ℗ 2003 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

For personal, educational use only. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means outside of your personal digital device without permission in writing from Deseret Book Company at permissions@deseretbook.com or PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130.

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Joseph Smith Lecture 3: Joseph Smith and Spiritual Gifts | Truman Madsen | August 1978

Fri, 30 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Truman Madsen discusses spiritual gifts and how Joseph Smith used them to bless the Saints and teach them the fulness of the gospel. Click here to view the speech.

© 1989 Truman G. Madsen. ℗ 2003 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

For personal, educational use only. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means outside of your personal digital device without permission in writing from Deseret Book Company at permissions@deseretbook.com or PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130.

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Joseph Smith Lecture 2: Joseph's Personality and Character | Truman Madsen | August 1978

Fri, 16 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Using quotes and stories from those who personally knew Joseph Smith, Truman Madsen describes the Prophet’s personality and character. Click here to view the speech.

© 1989 Truman G. Madsen. ℗ 2003 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

For personal, educational use only. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means outside of your personal digital device without permission in writing from Deseret Book Company at permissions@deseretbook.com or PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130.

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Joseph Smith Lecture 1: The First Vision and Its Aftermath | Truman G. Madsen | Aug 1978

Fri, 02 May 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Truman Madsen on Joseph Smith’s early life, First Vision, and life in the aftermath, including lessons, experiences, and consequences. Click here to view the speech.

© 1989 Truman G. Madsen. ℗ 2003 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

For personal, educational use only. No part of this work may be reproduced in any form or by any means outside of your personal digital device without permission in writing from Deseret Book Company at permissions@deseretbook.com or PO Box 30178, Salt Lake City, UT 84130.

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Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet | James A. Cullimore | January 1977

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

In an incredible testament to Joseph Smith’s divine calling, James A. Cullimore retells several events from the life of Joseph Smith, the Mormon prophet. Click here to view the speech.

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The Prophet Joseph Smith | Preston Nibley | December 1958

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Without the Prophet Joseph Smith, the entire state of Utah—not to mention the entire world— would be a different place than it is today. Preston Nibley narrates accomplishments of Joseph’s life and proves that he was a man of sincerity and determination who never wearied of the task of spreading the gospel. Click here view the speech.

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Joseph Smith: “Praise to the Man” | Gordon B. Hinckley | November 1979

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Gordon B. Hinkcley shares his powerful testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith. The most important evidence of his calling is the witness of the Spirit. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith and the Lighter View | Leonard J. Arrington | November 1974

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 16:35:00 +0000

Although Joseph Smith was raised in an overly pious and sanctimonious society, his jovial nature, sense of humor, and zeal for life show the Saints that this life is for men to have joy. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith—The Prophet | Richard C. Edgley | August 2005

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 16:15:00 +0000

Richard C. Edgley delivers a powerful summary of the accomplishments of Joseph Smith—the Prophet whose revelations, achievements, and trials are all a testament to his calling. Click here to view the speech.

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The Legacy of Learning (Excerpted) | Cecil O. Samuelson | August 2005

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Although he had little formal schooling, Joseph Smith left the Church a legacy of asking and answering questions, working hard, and learning all we can. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith: The Prophet | David B. Haight | March 1986

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Elder David B. Haight offers a stirring testimony of Joseph Smith: the Prophet of the Restoration. The courageous and selfless giving of his life is evidence of Joseph's devotion to the Lord and to the Saints. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith and the Problem of Evil | David L. Paulsen | September 1999

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 11:00:00 +0000

David L. Paulsen speaks on how examining the life of Joseph Smith can help us learn to find meaning in our suffering, maintain hope, and trust God. In the face of evil, we can find peace. Click here to view the speech.

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The Authorship of the Book of Mormon | Noel B. Reynolds | May 1997

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Noel B. Reynolds offers a sampling of scholarly evidence to date for the veracity of the Book of Mormon's ancient authorship. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph, the Seer | Gordon B. Hinckley | December 1967

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 18:15:00 +0000

Gordon B. Hinckley shares his testimony that Joseph Smith was called to be a prophet of God. There are many others whose lives testified of his call. Click here to view the speech.

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Lessons from Joseph Smith | Bonnie L. Oscarson | December 2016

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 11:00:00 +0000

Bonnie L. Oscarson teaches us how Joseph Smith's life teaches us about our potential, standing up to criticism, and repentance. A testimony of this prophet brings us closer to the Savior. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith—The Man | S. Dilworth Young | January 1966

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000

It can be easy to focus on what happened under Joseph's direction. But it is just as important to learn about the hard working, family oriented man he was. Click here to view the speech.

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A Choice Seer and Prophet | LeGrand Richards | March 1956

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Joseph Smith was a choice seer of the Lord, and his prophetic calling is evidenced by the indisputable value of the works which he produced. Click here to view the speech.

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The Book of Mormon Manuscripts | Preston Nibley | April 1957

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Preston Nibley offers little-known insights into the history of the Book of Mormon manuscripts which help us appreciate its value as a book of scripture. Click here to view the speech.

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The Life and Character of the Prophet Joseph Smith | William E. Berrett | April 1964

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Using stories from the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith to illustrate the fact that there is no man—save it be Christ—who has done more for the world, William Berrett explains that one need only to look at the life and character of the prophet to find an example of service and humility. Click here to view the speech.

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Powerful Truths that make a Difference in Our Lives | Joe J. Christensen | October 1998

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The revolutionary and powerful truths revealed by the Prophet Joseph Smith can change the world—and, if we are true to them, each one of us. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith: A Revealer of Christ | Bruce R. McConkie | September 1978

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Joseph Smith's most important contribution as a revealer and the Prophet of the Restoration is his testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ. Click here to view the speech.

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The Restoration of the Priesthood | A. William Lund | March 1951

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Lack of knowledge about specific church events does not mean that we must doubt. We must only keep searching for the truth, whether by history or faith. Click here to view the speech.

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What Came from Kirtland? | M. Russell Ballard | November 1994

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

We owe much to the Kirtland era of Church history. This time of the restoration is rich in visions, revealed doctrine, and essential progression. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith: “A Choice Seer” | Neal A. Maxwell | March 1986

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Elder Neal A. Maxwell bears powerful testimony of the choice seer Joseph Smith and his role in revealing essential truth about our Savior Jesus Christ. Click here to view the speech.

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The Importance of Asking Questions (Excerpted) | Cecil O. Samuelson | November 2001

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

In our quest for knowledge, we must learn to ask questions - but we must learn to ask the right questions, and we must learn how to find answers. Click here to view the speech.

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The Value of a Good Name | L. Tom Perry | February 1997

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000

The scriptures make evident the importance that the Lord places in living up to a good name. We carry the namesake of our families and of God Himself. Click here to view the speech.

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Lessons from Liberty Jail | Jeffrey R. Holland | September 2008

Fri, 31 May 2024 10:00:00 +0000

What lessons does Joseph Smith's experience in Liberty Jail teach us about God's love? How can our trials be both a prison and a temple? Jeffrey R. Holland answers these questions and more in this BYU Devotional. Click here to view the speech.

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Joseph Smith: Seer, Translator, Revelator, and Prophet | Alexander L. Baugh | June 2014

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Using scripture and the personal histories of the Prophet and his associates, Alexander L. Baugh offers an explanation of Joseph Smith’s distinct but complementary roles as seer, translator, revelator, and prophet. Click here to view the speech.

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