This is the sixth revision of this little book. It has been an honest pleasure to write, particularly because of the things I have learned in the process. I wanted the expressions here to be simple and straightforward. My efforts were directed to economizing on words while still making the necessary points. Some thoughts are very complex, especially those about early Christian church history, and I have summarized them as was needful. I hope that those with an interest in research will note the suggested reading list on page 71.
Many faithful people have influenced me as I have considered responses to anti-Mormon media. I acknowledge the astounding contributions of Hugh Nibley, Daniel Peterson, Robert and Rosemary Brown, Stephen Ricks, John Sorenson, Noel Reynolds, John Tvedtnes, Darryl Barksdale, Harold Brown, Bruce Warren, Barry Bickmore, and Gilbert Scharffs. Where I am weak, they are strong. The ongoing support I have received from Brent Hall at FARMS is truly noteworthy as well. Special thanks to Julie Dozier, Alison Coutts, Shannon Murdock, and David Pendleton for their work with the manuscript and to Cameron Read for his proofreading skills and thoughtful observations. To all of them I express my deep and sincere appreciation. As always, I am indebted to my wife, Judy, for her love and guidance.
In a way, I am grateful to the opponents of the church who have argued their positions with me. I have been forced, because of their claims and accusations, to dig deeper and learn more than I otherwise would have. As a result, I have come away with an even stronger conviction of the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I’m thankful for that.
