School of the Prophet: Joseph Smith Learns the First Principles, 1820-1830

How does the Lord "bring up" a prophet?

If Joseph Smith was to be the Lord's instrument for the Restoration, the message of the gospel needed to be reflected in the life of the messenger. But what began in 1820 in a grove of trees in upstate New York didn t result in the formation of the Church for another decade. Important events transpired during this period, but do we understand why it took ten years? In this fascinating and groundbreaking book, Richard Bennett teaches how the Lord carefully instructed the budding prophet in the saving principles and ordinances of the gospel during that decade.

• This ten-year "incubation" period allowed the Lord to teach Joseph Smith fundamental principles he would later be called on to teach.
  
• The Lord used visions, heavenly messengers, and common, everyday experiences to teach the future prophet.
  
• This era in Church history provides for us a divine pattern of instruction in essential, life-changing principles.