Like other individuals, Joseph Smith developed his ideas over time, as evidenced by the expansion of themes in his revelations and by his recollections of his early life assuming a theological nature. He seemed unconcerned that some of his ideas changed or contradicted previous positions. Joseph was able to express his interpretation of events as he presented new ideas in a revelatory manner. Critical studies usually do not play a part in what a believer has experienced. What is important is how the story is told within the context of faith.

H. Michael Marquardt