Why Some People Doubt the Book of Mormon-And Why You Should Still Read It
- primaraldinternshi
- Jul 8
- 5 min read
"When ye shall receive these things… ask God… if these things are not true." - Moroni 10:3–5
You’re Not the Only One Who Wonders
Let’s face it, when someone hands you a religious book and tells you it can change your life, it’s natural to respond with a raised eyebrow.
That’s how many people feel when they first hear about the Book of Mormon. They may say:
“Isn’t that just a Mormon Bible?”
“Wasn’t that made up by Joseph Smith?”
“How do we even know it’s true?”
If any of those questions sound familiar to you, know this: you’re not alone, and your questions are valid.
In this blog post, we’ll explore four common reasons people doubt the Book of Mormon, and why those doubts shouldn't stop you from reading, pondering, and praying about it yourself.
Why People Doubt the Book of Mormon
1. “It’s Too New-Wasn’t It Just Written in the 1800s?”
This is one of the most common doubts. The Book of Mormon was first published in 1830, making ita relatively new scripture compared to the Bible. People often assume that because it’s new, it must be false, or less credible.
But here’s the thing: the printing is new. The content is ancient.
The Book of Mormon is a translation of records kept by prophets who lived on the American continent between 600 B.C. and 400 A.D. It includes writings by spiritual leaders, wars between civilizations, sermons from prophets, and most importantly, a direct appearance of Jesus Christ after His resurrection.
So while it was published in the 19th century, its message is timeless, and its teachings are rooted in antiquity.
Let’s also consider that just because something was revealed recently doesn’t mean it’s invalid.
Wouldn’t a loving God want to continue speaking to His children? Wouldn’t He provide more light in a world full of confusion?
In fact, the Book of Mormon complements and confirms the Bible, offering a second witness of Jesus Christ and His teachings.
2. “Joseph Smith? Really?”
Some people find it hard to accept that a 14-year-old farm boy from New York could receive divine visions and later translate an ancient record by the gift and power of God.
But this doubt reveals a common assumption: that God only works through the elite, the scholarly, or the traditionally “religious.”
Look at the Bible.
Moses had a speech impediment.
David was the youngest of eight sons.
Peter was a fisherman.
Mary was a young, unwed girl.
Jesus Christ, the son of a carprnter.
The Lord has always chosen humble and unlikely vessels to do His work. Why? Because He’s not looking for perfection, He’s looking for faith.
Joseph Smith claimed that after reading James 1:5 (“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God…”), he prayed and saw God the Father and Jesus Christ. Later, he was guided to golden plates, which he translated by divine help into what we now have as the Book of Mormon.
Whether you believe that claim or not, one thing is undeniable: the book exists, and its contents deserve thoughtful consideration.
If the Book of Mormon was Joseph’s invention, how did a poorly educated teenager produce such a spiritually rich, doctrinally sound, and historically layered volume, under pressure, without notes, in just a few months?
The more you study it, the more you’ll realize: this book goes far beyond Joseph Smith.
3. “It Sounds… Weird”
Yes, let’s talk about that.
The Book of Mormon uses names like Nephi, Zarahemla, and Lamanites. It talks about plates, interpreters, and visions. For someone unfamiliar with the book, it can feel… strange.
But let’s be fair: so does the Bible when you first read it.What do you make of Gog and Magog, Ur of the Chaldees, cherubim, or Ezekiel’s wheels within wheels?
Every sacred text includes unfamiliar language, cultural references, and ancient expressions. What seems “weird” is often just “new.”
That’s why it’s important to read the Book of Mormon with patience and curiosity. Over time, what once seemed foreign will begin to feel familiar, even comforting.\
Plus, the core messages are crystal clear:
Faith in Jesus Christ
Repentance and forgiveness
God’s plan of salvation
The importance of family, service, and love
Weird words fade. Powerful truths remain.
4. “It Might Contradict the Bible”
Another common fear is that the Book of Mormon competes with the Bible or replaces it. This is a myth.
In fact, the Book of Mormon honors the Bible and often quotes it. Prophets in the Book of Mormon saw visions of the coming Bible and rejoiced in its teachings.
Its very subtitle is: “Another Testament of Jesus Christ.” Not a replacement. Not a rewrite. A second witness.
Together, the Bible and the Book of Mormon act as two beams of spiritual light, both pointing us to Jesus Christ, both reinforcing each other’s teachings, and both inviting us to draw closer to God.
Jesus said, “In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established” (2 Corinthians 13:1). The Book of Mormon is that second witness.
If anything, reading both books together increases your faith in Christ, your understanding of scripture, and your trust in God's word.
So, Why Should You Read It Anyway?
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about debate, it’s about discovery.
You don’t need to have all your questions answered before you read it. You just need to be open.
Start small. Pray sincerely. Let the words speak to your heart.
Moroni’s promise still stands today:
“When ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God… if these things are not true… and if ye ask with a sincere heart, with real intent… he will manifest the truth of it unto you.” – Moroni 10:3–5
Because Doubts Fade in the Face of Experience
Reading the Book of Mormon won’t magically erase every question, but it will give you spiritual data to work with.
You might feel:
Peace during your study
Insights for your life
A desire to be better
A quiet reassurance that what you're reading matters
Because Millions Have Read It, and Been Changed
The Book of Mormon has influenced over 16 million members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. But beyond that, thousands of sincere seekers from other faiths have read it and found new layers of spiritual clarity.
Some read looking for flaws and found faith.
Doubt Can Be a Starting Point
If you’re wrestling with doubts, that doesn’t mean you’re weak, it means you’re searching. And that’s exactly what God invites us to do.
So don’t let questions stop you from reading the Book of Mormon. Let them push you toward it.
Because behind every honest doubt is the potential for divine discovery.
Try This Challenge:
If you’ve ever doubted the Book of Mormon, try this 3-step approach:
Read Alma 32 or 3 Nephi 11 - Start with these powerful chapters on faith and Christ.
Ponder what you read - Don’t rush. Let the words sink in.
Pray and ask - Speak from the heart. Be honest with God.
What do you have to lose?
What if you gain peace, direction, and personal revelation?
Want to Read the Book of Mormon?
You can read it free online at churchofjesuschrist.org
Download it from App store or Google Playstore
Or request a free printed copy at comeuntochrist.org
Have questions? Let’s talk. Leave a comment or message me. I’d be honored to study with you.
Author: David C. Igberi
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