Oliver Cowdery |
David Whitmer |
Martin Harris |
The Three Witnesses not only saw the angel Moroni and handled the plates and would have heard whatever the angel said to them, but they heard the voice of the Lord commanding them to bear record to their experience. Oliver Cowdery and Martin Harris were both the Prophet's scribe at certain times during the inspired translation of the record and their experiences and knowledge gained from such should also be considered as part of their overall witness to the Book of Mormon. It was in the Whitmer home that a number of further events including the organization of the Church took place.
The point is, these three witnesses where exposed to much more understanding and knowledge of the matters concerning the Book of Mormon and its coming forth than what is summarized in their single paragraph witness statement contained in the Book of Mormon. And we need consider this when we hear them speak forth additional information, especially when all three are in agreement on such matters. And such is the case in what they understood concerning Cumorah. All three are in agreement that the ancient hill of Cumorah was the same as the hill Cumorah from which the plates where taken by the hand of Joseph Smith under the direction of the Angel Moroni.
Oliver Cowdery |
David Whitmer |
Martin Harris |
Be it known unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, unto whom this work shall come: That we, through the grace of God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, have seen the plates which contain this record, which is a record of the people of Nephi, and also of the Lamanites, their brethren, and also of the people of Jared, who came from the tower of which hath been spoken. And we also know that they have been translated by the gift and power of God, for his voice hath declared it unto us; wherefore we know of a surety that the work is true. And we also testify that we have seen the engravings which are upon the plates; and they have been shown unto us by the power of God, and not of man. And we declare with words of soberness, that an angel of God came down from heaven, and he brought and laid before our eyes, that we beheld and saw the plates, and the engravings thereon; and we know that it is by the grace of God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, that we beheld and bear record that these things are true. And it is marvelous in our eyes. Nevertheless, the voice of the Lord commanded us that we should bear record of it; wherefore, to be obedient unto the commandments of God, we bear testimony of these things. And we know that if we are faithful in Christ, we shall rid our garments of the blood of all men, and be found spotless before the judgment-seat of Christ, and shall dwell with him eternally in the heavens. And the honor be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost, which is one God. Amen.
OLIVER COWDERY
DAVID WHITMER
MARTIN HARRIS