Mormons Quote by Terryl L. Givens
““If Joseph initially thought only Mormons had access to truth or goodness, he was abruptly corrected of his misperception a year into the Church's founding. In an 1831 revelation, the Lord told him that most of the world was under sin, "except those which I have reserved unto myself, holy men that ye know not of." The words were a poignant indication that while Joseph might be a true prophet, the Lord's disciples were not limited to those who found themselves in the restored Church. p88””
About This Quote
Source Book: *Mormonism: A Very Short Introduction* by Terryl L. Givens, 2002
Joseph Smith’s early belief that truth was exclusive to Mormons was corrected, showing divine revelation includes many holy people outside the Church.
In simple terms: Truth isn’t limited to one group; God’s chosen are many.
Key Takeaway
Recognize spiritual worth beyond institutional boundaries.
Themes
religion
revelation
inclusivity
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
theoretical
historical
When to use this quote
- interfaith dialogue
- personal faith crises
- historical religious study
Key Concepts
prophecy
divine mystery
spiritual pluralism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this broaden your view of spiritual truth?
- Can you see holiness outside your own tradition?
A Different Perspective
The quote reflects a 19th‑century LDS perspective that may not align with modern ecumenical views.
![“the biblical scholar Richard Elliott Friedman notes that “probably the most remarkable difference of all” in disparate passages “is their different ways of picturing God.” Some depict “a deity who can regret things that he has done ([Gen.] 6:6, 7), . . . a deity who can be ‘grieved to his heart’…” quote by Terryl L. Givens](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2ae/terryl-l-givens-20241_bible_the-biblical-scholar-richard-elliott-fri_292417.jpg)
![“It was not until the spring of 1859 [two years later] that the children [the survivors of the murdered emigrant train] were officially turned over to the government officials, and bills for their care were made… The policy of letting the government pay seems to have been general…” quote by Juanita Brooks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f15/juanita-brooks-33595_children_it-was-not-until-the-spring-of-1859-two_372854.jpg)
