1648: Joseph Smith's First Vision w/ LDS Discussions - 17

Mormonism in all ages is a nineteenth-century critical work about the origins and development of Mormonism. John Larson identifies it as an 1842 publication that does not mention Joseph Smith’s First Vision. The book is cited alongside newspapers, church publications, and other historical sources that likewise omit the event. In the episode’s argument, this silence is significant because the First Vision is now presented as the foundational event of the church. The work thus serves as one example of the contemporary documentary record used to question the traditional chronology.

The Book of Mormon is a scripture that tells the story of a group of Hebrews who migrated from Jerusalem to the Americas around 600 BCE. It describes their history, including their division into two main groups: the Nephites and the Lamanites. The book emphasizes the appearance of Jesus Christ to these people after his resurrection, where he teaches them and establishes his church. It also discusses various doctrinal topics such as the fall of Adam and Eve, the nature of God, baptism, and the importance of faith and repentance. The book ends with Moroni's testimony and an invitation to readers to come unto Christ and be perfected in him.

The Book of Commandments is a compilation of Joseph Smith Jr.'s early prophecies and revelations. It was planned to be printed in 10,000 copies but due to a mob attack on the printing press in Independence, Missouri, only about 3,000 to 5,000 copies were printed. Many of the revelations had previously been published in the church newspaper, The Evening and Morning Star. The book contains 65 chapters, which were later revised and included in the Doctrine and Covenants with significant changes and additions.

The Lectures on Faith are a series of seven theological lectures that represent one of the earliest attempts to formulate a systematic Latter-day Saint theology. They were delivered by Joseph Smith and possibly Sidney Rigdon to a group of elders in the School of the Elders in Kirtland, Ohio, during the winter of 1834-35. The lectures emphasize the importance of faith, defining it and outlining the necessary conditions for its exercise: the idea that God exists, a correct idea of His character and attributes, and a knowledge that one's course of life is in accordance with His will. These lectures were initially included in the 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants but were later removed in 1921 due to concerns about some of the theological statements.

The Doctrine and Covenants is a compilation of revelations, prophecies, and inspired declarations received by Joseph Smith and other leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It contains messages, warnings, and exhortations for the benefit of all mankind, inviting people to hear the voice of the Lord Jesus Christ for their temporal well-being and everlasting salvation.

The King James Bible, also known as the Authorized Version, was commissioned by King James I of England to resolve disputes over different translations of the Bible. It was translated by 54 scholars over seven years, using the best Hebrew, Greek, and Latin texts available. The KJV consists of 66 books: 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. It was first published in 1611 and has since become a cornerstone of English-speaking Christianity, known for its poetic and influential language.

The Pearl of Great Price is a volume of scripture that includes several key works: the Book of Moses, the Book of Abraham, Joseph Smith—Matthew, Joseph Smith—History, and the Articles of Faith. It was compiled by Elder Franklin D. Richards in 1851 and canonized in 1880. The book provides insights into the creation of the world, the lives of biblical figures such as Adam, Enoch, and Abraham, and the foundational beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It also includes accounts of Joseph Smith's First Vision and his prophetic ministry.