PREFACE

Most of the sermons, sayings, and prophecies of Joseph Smith were written down by other people, many of which are found in their private diaries and journals. Among the hundreds of prophecies given by Joseph Smith, one of the most interesting and controversial is the so-called “White Horse Prophecy.” It has been published and re-published by many different authors and compilers, most of whom believe it is true.

There are some, however, that do not believe the prophecy because they feel it is based on insufficient documented evidence. That alone does not necessarily mean the prophecy is untrue or not factual. It is written as a prophecy and should be studied and analyzed to determine its merit and value. Since it contains many predictions of incidents and conditions that could seriously affect our lives, we should seriously consider the possibility that it is just as authentic as any of Joseph Smith’s other prophecies–not just stick one’s head in the sand and throw out the whole thing. We would do well to heed Peter’s warning:

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (II Peter 1:19-21)

Prophecy is a most fascinating subject and is a vital part of scripture. Prophecy should be considered as scripture when it is given by the inspiration of the Lord. Paul the Apostle said, “Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy,” and “he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.” (I Cor. 14:1, 3)

To us as individuals, the future should be of greater concern than the past because it will probably have more serious consequences in our lives. There are few men today who prophesy; therefore, we should search all prophecy to determine which are pertinent to us and our time, and which will shed a little light on the darkness of the future. By seeking out and learning from prophecy, we can better prepare ourselves for future events.

Naturally, the true test of prophecy is in its eventual fulfillment. For many disbelievers, the verification was unfortunately fulfilled with their own destruction. The world disbelieved Noah’s prophecy until the rains came; then they knew it was true.

In these days prophecy is just as important and for similar reasons. It is hoped that through this study of the White Horse Prophecy, it will be of greater significance and benefit to those who are struggling through today’s troublesome times.