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Cover of Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 2 of 2)

Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 2 of 2)

Written by B. H. (Brigham Henry) Roberts

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Latter Day Saint churches

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About this book

"Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 2 of 2)" by B. H. Roberts is a comprehensive theological treatise written in the early 20th century. This volume primarily discusses the origins of the Book of Mormon, addressing various theories regarding its authorship and the historical context surrounding its compilation. The book is likely aimed at defending the principles of Mormonism against critical scrutiny, particularly focusing on the accusations of plagiarism linked to individuals like Solomon Spaulding. The opening of this volume sets the stage for a detailed examination of the origins of the Book of Mormon through a debate format involving multiple authors, including Roberts and Theodore Schroeder. In the beginning, Roberts outlines the necessity of responding to critical perspectives that question the divine authenticity of the Book of Mormon. He introduces key figures involved in the discourse, such as Solomon Spaulding, and notes the controversies surrounding claims made by opponents of the faith, particularly focusing on contrasting viewpoints regarding the manuscript's alleged origins and connections to early Mormon leaders like Sidney Rigdon. The narrative is designed to systematically counter the assertions against the Book of Mormon and strengthen the faith of its adherents by reviewing evidence and arguments supporting its divine origin.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 2 of 2), written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 12 hours
  • advanced
  • academic
  • polemical
  • defensive

B. H. Roberts's "Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 2 of 2)" is a seminal early 20th-century theological treatise primarily dedicated to defending the divine authenticity of the Book of Mormon. This volume systematically addresses critical theories, most notably the Solomon Spaulding plagiarism hypothesis, which posited that the Book of Mormon originated from a lost manuscript. Roberts engages in a detailed argumentative debate, outlining the necessity of responding to these challenges and scrutinizing the claims made by opponents of the faith, such as Theodore Schroeder. Through a meticulous review of historical evidence and counter-arguments, Roberts aims to solidify the faith of adherents by discrediting the notion of human authorship and reaffirming the Book of Mormon's divine origin, particularly countering accusations linking early Mormon leaders like Sidney Rigdon to the alleged plagiarism.

“It is necessary, therefore, that we meet the issues squarely, and not shrink from the fullest investigation.”

Key themes

Defense of Faith / Apologetics
This is the overarching theme. Roberts's entire work is a systematic defense of Mormonism against its critics, particularly concerning the Book of Mormon's origins. He demonstrates the necessity and methodology of defending religious truth claims through intellectual engagement and historical analysis.
Historical Truth vs. Allegation
The book deeply explores the tension between historical fact and unsubstantiated accusation. Roberts meticulously sifts through historical documents, testimonies, and oral traditions to distinguish between verifiable evidence and speculative claims, advocating for a rigorous approach to historical inquiry in religious contexts.
Divine Authenticity and Inspiration
At its core, the book seeks to establish and reinforce the belief that the Book of Mormon is not a product of human ingenuity or plagiarism but a divinely inspired text. Roberts argues that the only plausible explanation for its existence, given the available evidence, is its miraculous origin through prophetic revelation.

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