Pre-First Vision

Shawn McCraney criticizes a common attitude among some LDS members who trivialize the Bible through unfounded comparisons, such as equating changes in Mormon scripture to modifications in biblical texts. He emphasizes the importance of handling the Bible with respect and warns against diminishing its value by drawing parallels to altered or rewritten histories, encouraging a broader exploration of Joseph Smith Jr.'s early life stories.

Joseph Smith's early life was marked by enormous challenges, including severe physical suffering from a leg infection that necessitated painful medical procedures, and exposure to family trauma related to his father's drinking habits, which he rejected at a young age. Despite these hardships, Joseph also faced extreme responsibility and sorrow, notably after the death of his pivotal elder brother Alvin, which profoundly affected him and his family, demonstrating resilience and the influences shaping his path and decisions, including those that led to his claims of seeing God.

The difficult early life of Joseph Smith was marked by extreme physical pain, poverty, and social condemnation, shaping his character and future actions. Despite rumors of his virtuous nature, evidence suggests that alcohol was present in the Smith household, and Joseph himself consumed it in moderation as an adult.

Joseph Smith's early experiences of adversity and religious tension within his family, influenced by being socially outcast, mystical, and visionary, contributed to shaping his unique theological perspectives that diverged from traditional Christianity. These formative experiences, including being told that his deceased brother went to hell for not being baptized, likely impacted his rejection of certain conventional religious beliefs and contributed to the creation of his new theological framework.