Question
Gramps,
Why do we only have the 4 gospels in the New Testament bible. The other 7 saint apostles should have been written also
Drew
Answer
Dear Drew,
I would give you a detailed history of the Bible and how we came to obtain it, but I won’t. Not because I am being mean, but because I feel that when it comes to this topic, it is best to learn on our own terms. But, what I am prepared to do for you is this: I will direct you to the sources that will give you a clearer picture and perhaps answer your own question.
Firstly, in The New Era, there was an article written by Janet Thomas back in January of 2007, incidentally, two of the four Gospels were written by apostles. I’ll let you find out who they were.
Secondly, it is important to note that members of The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints are Christians and believe in the Bible. Recently, the President of the Church, even Russell M. Nelson has made it clear that WE are Christians and the name changes are centered around Christ because He is the Head of the Church. Why is this important? Let me go to my next point.
Thirdly, in Doctrine and Covenants section 91 Jesus Christ directed Joseph Smith to not translate the books known as the “Apocrypha”, and we read (emphasis added):
Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Kirtland, Ohio, March 9, 1833. The Prophet was at this time engaged in the translation of the Old Testament. Having come to that portion of the ancient writings called the Apocrypha, he inquired of the Lord and received this instruction.
1–3, The Apocrypha is mostly translated correctly but contains many interpolations by the hands of men that are not true; 4–6, It benefits those enlightened by the Spirit.
1 Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you concerning the Apocrypha—There are many things contained therein that are true, and it is mostly translated correctly;
2 There are many things contained therein that are not true, which are interpolations by the hands of men.
3 Verily, I say unto you, that it is not needful that the Apocrypha should be translated.
4 Therefore, whoso readeth it, let him understand, for the Spirit manifesteth truth;
5 And whoso is enlightened by the Spirit shall obtain benefit therefrom;
6 And whoso receiveth not by the Spirit, cannot be benefited. Therefore it is not needful that it should be translated. Amen.
This section alone should be sufficient to answer your inquiry as it explains that not all of the gospels have the correct information, not because they were written that way, but because man has “interpolated” (the insertion of something of a different nature into something else) them, which is so unfortunate.
Finally, Elder M. Russell Ballard gave a talk during the April Conference of 2007, titled “The Miracle of the Holy Bible“. In this talk he ends like this:
“My brothers and sisters, we must help all people, including our own members, understand the power and importance of the Holy Bible. The Bible is scripture that leads us and all mankind to accept Jesus Christ as our Savior. May God grant us the desire and capacity to accept and live His teachings is my humble prayer in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, amen.”
So, by asking this question, you are “helping all people, including our own members, understand the power and importance of the Holy Bible” so I thank you.
Regards,
Gramps
