“If There Be Faults They Be the Faults of a Man”

Bryan Richards
“The Book of Mormon, which is a much more perfect translation than the Bible, not only makes no pretense of infallibility but specifically addresses the inevitability of errors existing in it. ’Whoso receiveth this record,’ Moroni said, ’and shall not condemn it because of the imperfections which are in it, the same shall know of greater things than these.’ He also said, ’if there be faults they be the faults of a man.’ (Mormon 8:12, 17.) This principle and spirit apply to the reading of all scripture.” (Joseph Fielding McConkie, Gospel Symbolism, p. 232)

Boyd K. Packer

"Some have alleged that these books of revelation are false, and they place in evidence changes that have occurred in the texts of these scriptures since their original publication. They cite these changes, of which there are many examples, as though they themselves were announcing revelation. As though they were the only ones that knew of them.
"Of course there have been changes and corrections. Anyone who has done even limited research knows that. When properly reviewed, such corrections become a testimony for, not against, the truth of the books…
"Now, I add with emphasis that such changes have been basically minor refinements in grammar, expression, punctuation, clarification. Nothing fundamental has been altered.
"Why are they not spoken of over the pulpit? Simply because by comparison they are so insignificant, and unimportant as literally to be not worth talking about. After all, they have absolutely nothing to do with whether the books are true.
"After compiling some of the revelations, the ancient prophet Moroni said, ’… if there be faults they be the faults of a man. But behold, we know no fault; nevertheless God knoweth all things; therefore, he that condemneth, let him be aware lest he shall be in danger of hell fire.’ (Morm. 8:17.) ’And whoso receiveth this record, and shall not condemn it because of the imperfections which are in it, the same shall know of greater things than these. …’ (Morm. 8:12.)
"…There has, over the years, been an endless procession of those who would examine these revelations by every formula save the right one. Each becomes evidence, as Paul said, ’the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.’ (1 Cor. 2:14.)
“These scriptural diamonds, as we have described them, will stand the test.” (Conference Report, May 1974 Ensign, “We Believe All That God Has Revealed”)

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