Joseph Smith: BYU Speeches
The impact of Joseph Smith’s life has been debated for decades. Listen as prophets, apostles, professors, and historians discuss the life of Joseph Smith and add their personal witnesses that he was God’s servant. This unique account commemorates the 174th anniversary of the Prophet’s martyrdom.
Episodes
The Restoration of the Priesthood | A. William Lund | March 1951
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What Came from Kirtland? | M. Russell Ballard | November 1994
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith: “A Choice Seer” | Neal A. Maxwell | March 1986
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Importance of Asking Questions (Excerpted) | Cecil O. Samuelson | November 2001
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Value of a Good Name | L. Tom Perry | February 1997
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lessons from Liberty Jail | Jeffrey R. Holland | September 2008
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Lightning Out of Heaven”: Joseph Smith and the Forging of Community | Terryl L. Givens | November 2005
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Parallel Prophets: Paul and Joseph Smith | Richard L. Anderson | August 1983
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lord God of Joseph Smith | Bruce R. McConkie | January 1972
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith—the Chosen of God and the Friend of Man | Ivan J. Barrett | August 1975
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith's Christlike Attributes | Jack H. Goaslind | June 1995
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith: Lover of the Cause of Christ | Heidi S. Swinton | November 2004
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Ongoing Restoration (Excerpted) | Gary E. Stevenson | August 2019
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Book of Mormon: Man-Made or God-Given? | Tad R. Callister | November 2016
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph’s School | Justin Collings | August 2025
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Profile of a Prophet | Hugh B. Brown | October 1955
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unlocking the Doors | M. Russell Ballard | November 1989
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stand by My Servant Joseph | Cecil O. Samuelson | January 2005
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Peace Like a River" | Heidi S. Swinton | April 2004
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
But for Joseph | Katherine D. Pullins | June 2000
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith Lecture 8: The Last Months and Martyrdom | Truman G. Madsen | August 1978
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 permissi
Joseph Smith Lecture 7: Doctrinal Development and the Nauvoo Era | Truman G. Madsen, Aug 1978
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 permiss
Joseph Smith Lecture 6: Joseph Smith as Teacher, Speaker, and Counselor | Truman G. Madsen, Aug 1978
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
Joseph Smith Lecture 5: Joseph Smith and the Kirtland Temple | Truman G. Madsen | Aug 1978
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 i
Joseph Smith Lecture 4: Joseph Smith and Trials | Truman G. Madsen | August 1978
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 witho
Joseph Smith Lecture 3: Joseph Smith and Spiritual Gifts | Truman Madsen | August 1978
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
Joseph Smith Lecture 2: Joseph's Personality and Character | Truman Madsen | August 1978
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 permissi
Joseph Smith Lecture 1: The First Vision and Its Aftermath | Truman G. Madsen | Aug 1978
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 permissi
Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet | James A. Cullimore | January 1977
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Prophet Joseph Smith | Preston Nibley | December 1958
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith: “Praise to the Man” | Gordon B. Hinckley | November 1979
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith and the Lighter View | Leonard J. Arrington | November 1974
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith—The Prophet | Richard C. Edgley | August 2005
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Legacy of Learning (Excerpted) | Cecil O. Samuelson | August 2005
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith: The Prophet | David B. Haight | March 1986
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith and the Problem of Evil | David L. Paulsen | September 1999
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Authorship of the Book of Mormon | Noel B. Reynolds | May 1997
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph, the Seer | Gordon B. Hinckley | December 1967
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lessons from Joseph Smith | Bonnie L. Oscarson | December 2016
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith—The Man | S. Dilworth Young | January 1966
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Choice Seer and Prophet | LeGrand Richards | March 1956
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Book of Mormon Manuscripts | Preston Nibley | April 1957
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Life and Character of the Prophet Joseph Smith | William E. Berrett | April 1964
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Powerful Truths that make a Difference in Our Lives | Joe J. Christensen | October 1998
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith: A Revealer of Christ | Bruce R. McConkie | September 1978
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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joseph Smith: Seer, Translator, Revelator, and Prophet | Alexander L. Baugh | June 2014
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
