Matthew 1:18-23 “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. 19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. 20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. 21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. 22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, 23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” [emp. added]
Luke 2:4-7 “And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.” [emp. added]
If/when Mormons are looking to share a story at Christmastime about the Savior’s birth, their beloved canon (BoM) would have to be excluded. Although Joseph Smith claimed it was ‘the most correct book on the face of the earth’ the reader will find that it’s riddled with mistakes.
The only passage in the BoM that speaks of the pre-incarnate Jesus is seen in our example above (2 Nephi 10:3). In about BC 559, the BoM prophet, Nephi, supposedly had a vision that Jesus would be born, and his name would be ‘Christ’.
We pray Mormons will see the obvious problems in the passage!
1.This is an anachronism because Nephi is using a Greek word (Christ) before Greek was first used in BC 323.
2.This is a false prophecy because ‘Christ’ is not His name. The Lord’s name is Jesus. The word Christ is a title.
3.It’s also a false prophecy because Mormons don’t believe Jesus is their god. Their god is an exalted man by the name of Elohim.
4.The verse in the BoM is a standalone verse with no corroborating substance surrounding it. There’s nothing in the verses beforehand describing the upcoming birth of the Messiah, nor is there any specific details of events about Him afterwards.
5.Let’s not forget the BoM also announced Jesus would be born in Jerusalem, not Bethlehem — Alma 7:10.
If you’re a Christian, please share this with a Mormon you know! The Bible provides a great picture of what took place that awesome night 2,000 years ago, and it’s a reliable source of info!!!
With Love in Christ;
Michelle