Watch The Bible vs. Joseph Smith
- 2010
- 1 hr 18 min
-
6.3 (53)
The Bible vs. Joseph Smith is a documentary film released in 2010 that explores the fundamental differences between the religious beliefs of Christianity and Mormonism. The film is directed by Joel P. Kramer and features interviews with several religious scholars and historians, including Greg Gifford and Christophe Rico. The documentary begins by outlining the origins of the Christian faith, tracing its roots back to the time of Jesus Christ and the New Testament. The filmmakers then delve into the history of the Mormon faith, examining the life of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, and the Book of Mormon, which Smith claimed to have translated from a set of golden plates.
Throughout the film, the filmmakers use a variety of archival footage, interviews, and dramatic reenactments to explore the differences between the two faiths. They examine key doctrines such as the nature of God, the role of Jesus Christ, and the concept of salvation, contrasting the teachings of the Bible with those of the Book of Mormon.
One of the most striking differences between the two faiths highlighted in the film is their respective views on the nature of God. While traditional Christian doctrine holds that God is an eternal, all-powerful, and all-knowing being, Mormons teach that God was once a mortal man who attained godhood through faithful obedience. According to the Book of Mormon, humans also have the potential to become like God if they live righteous lives.
The film also examines the role of Jesus Christ in each faith. Christianity teaches that Jesus is the only way to salvation, and his death and resurrection made it possible for all humans to be reconciled with God. However, Mormonism teaches that Jesus is one of many gods and that he is the son of God in the same way that all humans are sons and daughters of God.
Another significant difference between the two faiths is their teachings on salvation. Christianity teaches that salvation is a free gift given to believers through faith in Jesus Christ, while Mormons believe that salvation is earned through obedience to God's commands and the performance of good works.
Throughout the film, the scholars interviewed provide insights into the historical and theological context of each faith, shedding light on the beliefs and practices of both Christian and Mormon communities. The filmmakers endeavor to present an objective and informational account of the differences between the two faiths, refraining from taking a definitive stance on which belief system is right or wrong.
Overall, The Bible vs. Joseph Smith is an informative and engaging documentary that provides an in-depth exploration of the differences between Christianity and Mormonism. The film is well-researched and thoughtfully presented, featuring a diverse array of experts and perspectives. While the documentary is unlikely to change the beliefs of ardent believers in either faith, it may help to shed light on the fundamental differences between the two religions and foster greater understanding between their followers.
The Bible vs. Joseph Smith is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.