but they are pretty close. They are men and have their strengths and weaknesses just like everyone else. They do make mistakes. But I would hasten to add that these men are some of the most kind, pure, righteous people who have ever lived on the earth. They are tremendous examples of what we should be. Who can look at Pres. Thomas Monsn's example in working with the poor, unfortunate, downtrodden, and widowed and not see strong elements of a Christlike life. 
 
Be that as it may - even as righteous and good as these men are - not everything they say is doctrine. Here is a great quote from the church on that: 
 
Not every statement made by a Church leader, past or present, necessarily constitutes doctrine. A single statement made by a single leader on a single occasion often represents a personal, though well-considered, opinion, but is not meant to be officially binding for the whole Church. With divine inspiration, the First Presidency (the prophet and his two counselors) and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (the second-highest governing body of the Church) counsel together to establish doctrine that is consistently proclaimed in official Church publications. This doctrine resides in the four “standard works” of scripture (the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price), official declarations and proclamations, and the Articles of Faith. Isolated statements are often taken out of context, leaving their original meaning distorted. 
 
—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Approaching Mormon Doctrine (May 4, 2007)  
 
Are prophets perfect? No, but they are pretty darn close. And we revere them as God's prophets who speak with God and communicate God's revelations to all mankind throughout all the earth.

Prophets are not nor have they ever been perfect or infallable. They are no more infallible or prefect than you or I for they are mortal just like you and I and guess what they too put there pants on one leg at a time just like you and I.  
 
We praise them as righteous men who receive the will of God but they make mistakes, they sin, and they are not ever close to being perfect.  
 
The only person to have ever walked this Earth and been perfect is Jesus Christ. All others are far from his perfect example no matter what there occupation or calling from God is. Look to the scriptures to find how imperfect the ancient prophets were.  
 
Noah became a drunk who passed out naked at least once.  
 
Abraham lied to the pharaoh of Egypt  
 
Moses (the greatest prophet in all Israel) complained to God often, doubted him much (at time he doubted so much that God became angry with him) he failed to circumcise his first born son for many years (in fact his wife circumcised him to stay the wrath of God from striking Moses down), he disobeyed a direct commandment of God and drew water from the rock by striking it (this caused him to never be able to step foot in the promise land) 
 
King David committed adultery then arranged the murder of his mistress' husband so he could marry his mistress.  
 
Prophets make mistakes, they sin, and the only difference between a prophet and everyone else is they are called by God to receive his word.  
 
This is why we teach that we must read, ponder, and pray about everything we are taught because only the Holy Ghost can confirm truth. Men can't confirm truth because we are imperfect and capable of making mistakes.

Thank you for teaching this wonderful advise. I am thankful for all things are clear up.