My Name is Mark Lichtenwalter, I used to host The Kingdom of God or Nothing Podcast/Radio Show. I am starting a new Podcast. I like to read and discuss all things Mormon.
Ninety Five Thesis Topics 16 to 20 Pages 31 to 38 Topic 16. FALL OF U.S. GOVERNMENT Topic 17a. GATHERING OF ISRAEL Topic 17b. THE KEYS OF GATHERING Topic 17c. GATHERING TO THE MOUNTAINS Topic 18. THE WEALTH OF GENTILES Topic 19. THE WEALTH OF ZION Topic 20. HOLY SCRIPTURES
95 Thesis topics 11 to 15 Pages 23 to 30 11. PERSECUTION 12. Friendship with The World 13A. MORMON INDEPENDENCE, 13B. INDEBTEDNESS TO THE GENTILES, 13C. CORPORATION SOLE 14“ALL IS WELL” 15. DESTRUCTIONS IN THE WORLD
Ninety Five Thesis Topics 6-10 6. PERSONAL TESTIMONY the time is coming when we will be mixed up in these now peaceful valleys to the extent that it will be difficult to tell the face of a saint from the face of an enemy against the people of God. “Then is the time to look out for the great sieve, for there will be a great sifting time, and many will fall. “For I say unto you there is a test, a Test, A TEST coming.” (J. Golden Kimball, p. 364) 7. PERSONAL WITNESSES It is the privilege of every Elder to speak of the things of God; and could we all come together with one heart and one mind in perfect faith the veil might as well be rent today as next week or any other time ….” Joseph Smith (T.P.J.S. p. 9) 8. REVELATION “When new revelation ceases to be given officers cease to be called of God.” (Orson Pratt's Works, p. 40) 9. A PECULIAR PEOPLE “When the children of Israel were chosen with Moses at their head, they were to be a peculiar people, among whom God should place His name;…” Joseph Smith (T.P.J.S., p. 252) 10. FASHIONS “There was a time when we could walk up and down the streets and tell by the very countenances of men whether they were Latter-day Saints, or not; but can you do it now? You can not, unless you have greater discernment and more of the Spirit and power of God than I have. Why? Because many are trying as hard as they can to transform themselves into the very shape, character, and spirit of the world. Elders in Israel, young men, mothers and daughters in Israel are conforming to the world's fashions, until their very countenances indicate its spirit and character. This course is to the shame and disgrace of those who are so unwise.” (Joseph F. Smith, J.D. 11:310)
95 Theses by Ogden Kraut If any man writes to you, or preaches to you, doctrines contrary to the Bible, the Book of Mormon, or the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, set him down as an imposter. –Joseph Smith Times & Seasons April 1, 1844 When we have God's word pure and clear, then we think ourselves all right, we become negligent, and repose in a vain security; we no longer pay due heed, thinking it will always so remain, we do not watch and pray against the devil, who is ready to tear the Divine word out of our hearts. No greater mischief can happen to a Christian people, than to have God's word taken from them, or falsified, so that they no longer have it pure and clear. God grant we and our descendants be not witnesses of such a calamity. –Martin Luther
CONCLUSION, Chapter 14 of The Priesthood and The Church Pages 225 to 230 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the Kingdom of God. (Luke 9:62) We have seen how mortal, immortal and resurrected beings can function with Priesthood outside of the organization of the Church. We have reviewed how Jesus established a church in Jerusalem with the Priesthood. He then established another church existing simultaneously on the American continent also with Priesthood. Then He went to some “other sheep” whom He was going to bring “into the fold,” which undoubtedly had a church and priesthood. This was a demonstration that at least three churches were operating at the same time with priesthood authority without the supervision of any particular central church. Then after the Church of Jesus Christ was established, there was an apostasy. Why? Because the church changed Christ's doctrines, laws and ordinances to conform with the laws of man. Even though the Christian church grew in great numbers and became very prosperous, without the high priesthood they could no longer obey or perform higher Priesthood ordinances.
LATTER-DAY EXCOMMUNICATIONS, Chapter 13 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 215 to 224 During the first three centuries following Christ's death the Christians were nearly exterminated. Between the reign of Nero and Diocletian there were approximately ten major waves of persecution, the last ending shortly after 306 A.D. So successful had been the destruction of the Christians that Diocletian was praised on two monuments or pillars in Spain. One was inscribed, “For having extended the Roman Empire in the east and west, and for having extinguished the name of Christians, who brought the Republic to ruin.” And on the other, “For having everywhere abolished the superstition of Christ.” (Milners Church History 2:6) Finally between 326 – 330 A.D. the great Roman Emperor Constantine brought the Christians and Romans together. This was an improvement for the pagan Romans but a catastrophe for the Christians. The Christian church exploded in numbers, became popular and ultimately became rich. These three elements were the deadly seeds of apostasy and worldly approval that quickly took over the church. High positions in the church were coveted–bought, bribed and blackmailed. Some church leaders were even murdered to provide a better chance for someone else to be Pope. Other office holders were eliminated to make room for ambitious office seekers. The Popes soon gained political as well as religious powers. Excommunications became more and more popular, not because of sin, but because of threats and opportunity seekers. Thousands upon thousands became victims of prison, torture and horrible death. It was centuries before Christianity finally crept out of the Dark Ages into the light of a reformation–and even later, a restoration.
THE EXCOMMUNICATION OF JESUS CHRIST AND HIS BELIEVERS, Part 2 of Chapter 12 of The Church and The Priesthood To summarize this chapter: 1. The Mosaic church operated under the authority of the Levitical Priesthood, and Christ held the office of Rabbi in that church. However, Joseph Smith said, “All the prophets had the Melchizedek Priesthood and were ordained by God himself.” (TPJS, p. 181) Jesus had received that Priesthood from His Father, and therefore possessed the highest Priesthood authority. 2. Jesus attempted to teach higher laws of this higher Priesthood, and also performed miracles demonstrating the power that He had with God. These two factors caused both fear and envy among the chief priests and Pharisees. (See Matt. 27:18 & Mark 15:10.) 3. The Jews excommunicated Jesus for teaching and living the doctrines of the higher Priesthood while they themselves were living on only a Levitical Priesthood level. Thus, Levitical Priesthood holders were incorrectly attempting to excommunicate a Melchizedek Priesthood holder. 4. Jesus, His disciples and all others from then on who believed in Him were excommunicated from the synagogue. Jesus had to teach, live and administer the higher ordinances outside of the Mosaic church of the Jews. 5. The Mosaic church did not become Christian. Rather Christianity began outside of and separate from the Jewish church. 6. Essentially the higher principles of the true church and the fullness of the Gospel were considered as an apostate religion. 7. This pattern has occurred repeatedly–both in ancient and latter days.
THE EXCOMMUNICATION OF JESUS CHRIST AND HIS BELIEVERS, Part 1 of Chapter 12 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 196 to 214 When Jacob gathered his 12 sons together to give them their patriarchal blessings, he prophesied what would happen to their descendants down to the last days. In the blessing for Judah and his tribe, he declared, “The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh (the Savior) come; . . . (Gen. 49:10) To Moses was given the task of giving the Priesthood (sceptre) and its higher laws, but the people did not qualify. So Moses established a church with the Aaronic Priesthood and its lesser laws. The Jews (descendants of Judah) maintained both the Priesthood, its principles, ordinances and church down to the time that the Savior (Shiloh) came to earth. Jesus was born and raised in this church and soon became a full-fledged Rabbi with all their rights and privileges of teaching the Gospel. Jesus, however, was blessed with such wisdom and understanding that even at age 12 He confounded the wisest of the Pharisees on Priesthood issues. When He began to teach the laws of the higher Priesthood, he was rejected and “cast out” of the synagogues. This story of Christ's rejection is told in the King James version of the Bible, but it is told better in some of the other versions.
EXCOMMUNICATION OF THE DISCIPLES, Chapter 11 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 192 to 195 Jesus predicted that His disciples would be separated from “their company” and their names would be “cast out . . . as evil.” (Luke 6:22) He warned them of what they should expect from the Pharisees–and that they would eventually be excommunicated: These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. (John 16:1-3) The fact that the Pharisees did not “know” Jesus and the Father seems to be a major reason for their persecuting Christ's disciples. Jesus once prayed, “O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee. . . .” (John 17:25) When He had previously talked about the day of judgment, he said, “And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matt. 7:23) However, in the Inspired Translation it reads, “And then will I say, Ye never knew me: depart from me ye that work iniquity.” (I.T. Matt. 7:33)
CHRIST'S CONTROVERSIAL DOCTRINES, Chapter 10 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 188 to 191 The early Christian Church had many of the same similarities as the Church of Jesus Christ in these latter days: The PriesthoodA church organizationLaws, ordinances and principlesGood and bad membersBaptism into and excommunication out of the church The doctrines taught by Christ were often controversial, because they pertained to the higher or Melchizedek Priesthood–rather than the lesser or Levitical Priesthood. Jesus would not have upset the leaders at that time if He had taught the same things they were promoting. But, to them He was teaching dangerous new doctrines. Toward the end of His life Jesus defended His teachings before the high priest, Caiaphas: Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said. (John 18:20-21)
EXCOMMUNICATION–JUST AND UNJUST, Part 2 of Chapter 9 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 183 to 187 Where much is given, much is required, and in those early days of the Church, God gave great manifestations and revelations and thus expected a great deal from the members in return. In 1864 George A. Smith gave an illustration of this principle: It was at the same Council [June 1833] that Daniel Copley, a timid young man, who had been ordained a Priest, and required to go and preach the Gospel, was called to an account for not going on his mission. The young man said he was too weak to attempt to preach, and the Council cut him off the Church. I wonder what our missionaries now would think of so rigid a discipline as was given at that time thirty-one years ago, under the immediate supervision of the Prophet. (JD 11:8) Members who commit heinous sins are already cut off from the Spirit of the Lord even before they are brought to a Church trial. They generally continue to go downhill and fall into darkness, while those who are unjustly excommunicated feel no effect of it. Persons sometimes say that they have enjoyed the spirit of the work as much since they were cut off as while they were in the Church. Have they enjoyed the Spirit? Yes. Why? Simply because they were wrongfully cut off. They were cut off in such a way that it did not take the Spirit of God from them. And the reason why they were cut off was because they did not come up to the particular standard of perfection of those who dealt with them, or they did not come up to their feelings. (Francis M. Lyman, Mill. Star24:100)
EXCOMMUNICATION–JUST AND UNJUST, Part 1 of Chapter 9 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 178 to 183 In simple terms, communication includes a connecting, sympathetic relationship, while excommunication involves a disconnection or exclusion. In a Latter-day Saint context, some have thought that excommunication results in some terrible curse or judgment that befalls those cut off from the Church. However, when someone is excommunicated for a gross sin, that person has already incurred a severe judgment, for he has already lost his Priesthood because of his actions, and his excommunication has nothing to do with that loss. Most churches, notably Christian and Jewish, have a ceremonial program for the punishment of their members. The type of punishment depends on the seriousness of the sin. When greater offenses have been committed, individuals are removed from the general membership of the church. Thus, they are “excommunicated,” “cast out” or “cut off.” Just as a man might have an arm or leg cut off or separated from the body, so is a member separated from the body of the church. Cutting off. In the Old Testament a penalty or form of punishment used primarily, though not exclusively, for various offenses against the ceremonial laws. The agent of the “cutting off” was either God or the community. (Wycliffe Bible Dictionary, p. 412)
TWENTY PRIESTHOOD LAWS AND EVIDENCES, part 6 of Chapter 8 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 160 to 177 The Kingdom of God Jesus said, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt. 6:33) If we are to seek for this Kingdom first above all else, we certainly need to know what it is. The Kingdom of God has been defined as many things: heaven, the Holy Spirit, the Gospel and more commonly the LDS Church. The scriptures and Joseph Smith had a much different interpretation from these. In the Old Testament, Daniel interpreted King Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a great image of a man made of iron, brass, clay and gold. (See Dan. 4.) They represented various governments of men with leaders such as presidents, governors, princes, counselors, and captains. (See Dan. 6:7.) Daniel even described God's government that would be set up in the latter days. A government consists of four elements: (1) a king or leader, (2) a territory, (3) subjects, and (4) laws. This was a description of the Kingdom of God to be restored in the latter [162] days. In 1830 Joseph Smith restored the Church (religious), but in 1844 he organized the Kingdom of God (political).
Part 5. TWENTY PRIESTHOOD LAWS AND EVIDENCES, part 5 of Chapter 8 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 153 to 160 Deceptions and Delusions As Jesus reached the end of His ministry, He took His disciples up on the mountain to foretell the dangers that would come to the Saints in the last days. When asked what would be the sign of His second coming, He answered: Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. (Matt. 24:4-5; see also Mark 13:5-6) For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. (Matt. 24:24)
TWENTY PRIESTHOOD LAWS AND EVIDENCES, part 4 of Chapter 8 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 139 to 153 Celestial Plural Marriage Early in the Bible it was recorded that some men had more than one wife, but it was first demonstrated in the life of Abraham. The scriptures have clearly pointed to Abraham as the “friend of God” and the “father of the faithful;” in other words, he was held up as an example for others to follow. Abraham's wife, Sarah, was also an excellent example, as Martin Luther noted: Therefore Sarah is deservedly held up by Peter (I Peter 3:5-6) as a pattern for the entire female sex. (Luther's Works 3:44)
TWENTY PRIESTHOOD LAWS AND EVIDENCES, part 3 of Chapter 8 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 128 to 139 Rebaptism Nearly all Mormons are aware of the doctrine and necessity of baptism. Jesus said, “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5) However, few Church members today realize that rebaptism was an important doctrine taught and practiced from the commencement of the Church until the turn of the century. The primary purposes of baptism are to “enter into the kingdom of God,” to bind a covenant and for the remission of sins. However, there were many other reasons why members wanted to be rebaptized:
TWENTY PRIESTHOOD LAWS AND EVIDENCES, part 2 of Chapter 8 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 119 to 128 Garment of the Priesthood Ancient Israel had “holy garments,” and Jesus and His Apostles also referred to them. It appears that the Gospel of the Priesthood should be accompanied by garments of the Priesthood. Although the Catholic Church has apostatized from many gospel principles, they still retain vestiges and imitations of the originals. For instance, the priests' garments and robes are modified, colored and styled differently, but they still bear a significance symbolizing sacred Priesthood ties. Protestant churches abandoned the idea of the Priesthood and a Priesthood garment, along with other principles and ordinances, when they rejected Catholicism. For nearly 2000 years there was no true Priesthood nor Priesthood garment. Early Christian prophets had foretold of this apostasy, but prophesied there would be a “restitution of all things.” The Prophet Joseph Smith, along with restoring the Gospel, the temples and Priesthood authority, also restored the holy Priesthood garment. Its style and symbolic markings were specifically given by revelation.
TWENTY PRIESTHOOD LAWS AND EVIDENCES, part 1 of Chapter 8 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 109 to 119 Ordinances instituted in the heavens before the foundation of the world, in the priesthood, for the salvation of men, are not to be altered or changed. All must be saved on the same principles. (Joseph Smith, TPJS, p. 308) Why was it that the Lord did not restore the Gospel and Priesthood to one of the many churches already in existence? The answer is probably because He knew the ministers and their congregations would not accept them. This is evidenced by the fact that after Joseph Smith established the Priesthood with its doctrines and ordinances, other churches combined to oppose him and the restored Gospel. However, preserving and maintaining these Priesthood laws and ordinances have proved to be just as difficult as restoring them. When the U.S. Constitution was originally adopted, a lady asked Benjamin Franklin what they had given to the people. He responded, “A Republic–if you can keep it!” Undoubtedly the Prophet Joseph Smith felt the same–that he had given the Saints the fullness of the gospel and the authority of the Priesthood, but could they keep it?
THE PRIESTHOOD LAW OF PLURAL MARRIAGE, Chapter 7 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 99 to 108 I am the Lord thy God, and will give unto thee the law of my Holy Priesthood, as was ordained by me and my Father before the world was. (D & C 132:28) [Then follows the law pertaining to plural marriage.] Today there are approximately 30,000 Fundamentalist Mormons who believe in plural marriage. They have faith that by righteously obeying that law, they will receive corresponding blessings in the hereafter. Thus, they defend and obey the law of plural marriage even though they know it is against the laws of the LDS Church, the state and the nation. Many of these people were formerly active and loyal members of the Church, holding positions in their wards and stakes; yet they are willing to suffer excommunication, condemnation and alienation from church, family and friends because of their firm religious convictions. They believe plural marriage is a Priesthood law that can be lived outside of and separate from the corporate LDS Church. Using the words of early general authorities and other prominent Saints, several (20) questions are briefly answered in this chapter showing that plural marriage is an eternal Priesthood law. It is just one of several doctrines and laws that the Church can vote to accept or reject, but that does not change their eternal nature.
MAN-MADE MANIFESTOS, Part 2 of Chapter 6 of The Church and The Priesthood Page 80 to 98 Was the Manifesto a Revelation? There are certain criteria that can be used in determining whether or not something is a revelation from God. Probably the easiest one to recognize is when it contains the words, “Thus saith the Lord.” In the Doctrine and Covenants there are 64 “thus saith the Lord” revelations. The rest may be revelations, but should more correctly be considered pronouncements or statements. The Bible has over 450 “thus saith the Lord” revelations immediately identifying the true Author of the statements. For over a century historians have looked, without success, for indications that the Manifesto could be considered a revelation from God.
MAN-MADE MANIFESTOS, Part 1 of Chapter 6 of The Church and The Priesthood Page 66 to 79 In 1890 the LDS Church, its members and the Priesthood experienced perhaps their greatest trials and testing. But in this life good and evil are continually pitted against each other. The world appears to be a great theatrical stage where universal powers are reaching out for the souls of men. It is not just a battle of armies and navies, but a contest of simple principles. The battle reaches from the throne of kings down to the secret and sacred chambers of the heart. It is an eternal conflict drawing men towards celestial light or the depths of darkness. If God has apostles, missionaries and a priesthood, so does the devil. Once again they were to meet in a clash–not of arms but of principles. Once again these were “the times that tried men's souls.” Some of the faithful were sent to prison, [67] while others compromised. A few even turned against their beliefs and became informants and persecutors. It was a time of decision on all levels–a time when the Church leaders felt they had to make some official declaration in an effort to bring temporal relief.
A CRITICAL TIME FOR THE SAINTS, Part 2 of Chapter 5 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 58 to 65 President Taylor's statement that “many of the Saints would apostatize because of this principle” came to pass just a year later. On June 30, 1887, a convention was held for the purpose of creating a constitution in the event Utah became a state. Although not the first effort in this direction, it was significant because of the willingness of the Mormons themselves to forbid polygamy and punish those who lived it. Orson F. Whitney said that “The movement was especially notable from the fact that it was proposed by the Mormons—the Gentiles refusing to take any part in the proceedings.” (History of Utah 3:583) The convention continued for a week, until July 7th. As a result, a constitution was framed and adopted, including the following provision: Section 12 (of Article XV). Bigamy and polygamy being considered incompatible with a republican form of government, each of them is hereby forbidden and declared a misdemeanor. Any person who shall violate this section shall, on conviction thereof, be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars, and by imprisonment for a term of not less than six months, nor more than three years, in the discretion of the court. (History of Utah, Whitney, 3:584) The election occurred on Monday, the 1st of August [1887]. The count of the votes cast showed the following result: For the Constitution.. 13,195 Against the Constitution.. 502 (Ibid., p. 585) The Saints had spoken! John Taylor's prophecy was already being fulfilled. The vote demonstrated a ratio of 27 to 1 against plural marriage. The Saints had reversed their position in 35 years.
A CRITICAL TIME FOR THE SAINTS, Part 1 of Chapter 5 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 47 to 57 1886 to 1889 Leading up to 1886 Since the time of Joseph Smith's first vision in 1820, the powers of the adversary have intensified against the restored Gospel. Ministers have spewed out their religious poison against it; members of the media have written lies in order to sell more publications; and the government has passed laws and more laws to “exterminate the Mormons.” The most controversial doctrine and practice that has caused the greatest furor has been plural marriage. The LDS Church officially accepted plural marriage as a tenet of their faith in 1852. On that occasion Orson Pratt delivered the first public sermon on the subject, appropriately entitled “Celestial Marriage.” He began by saying: It is quite unexpected to me, brethren and sisters, to be called upon to address you this forenoon; and still more so, to address you upon the principle which has been named, namely, a plurality of wives. (JD 1:53) However, he was up to the job, and his powerful sermon covered over 12 written pages in the Journal of Discourses. It stands today as one of the finest speeches upon that subject. Two excerpts are included here:
DETECTING TRUE AND FALSE PROPHETS, Part 3 of Chapter 4 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 39 to 46 They support false doctrines and ordinances. “There are different churches because there are different doctrines. No two churches espouse and expound the same plan of salvation. If all men believed the same doctrines, all would belong to the same church. The mere existence of a false church of itself requires the support of false doctrines, false ordinances, false teachers, false prophets. In the very nature of things, a false church, in an attempt to survive, must oppose the truth as it is found in the true Church, and this includes opposition to true doctrine, true ordinances, true teachers, and true prophets.” (The Promised Messiah, p. 34)
DETECTING TRUE AND FALSE PROPHETS, Part 2 of Chapter 4 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 34 to 39 They set up pseudo prophets. Hugh Nibley: “The scriptural term “pseudo-prophet” designates one who is not a prophet, but who occupies the place that rightly belongs to a prophet, regardless of whether he has been put there by himself or by his followers. Fool's gold, the glittering yellow pyrites that one finds sometimes on the beach, is so called not because it pretends to be gold, but because fools take it for gold. A pseudo-prophet is one to whom foolish people accord the obedience and attention due only a true prophet, whether he or they actually take him for a prophet or not.” (The World and the Prophets, p. 254) * * * Items No. 11 to 22 come from Elder Bruce R. McConkie, who explained some of the most numerous and critical attacks against false prophets and their doctrines. For example: False prophets–the curse and scourge of the world! How awful and awesome and evil it is when one [35] pretends and professes to speak for God in leading men to salvation, but in fact has a message that is false, a doctrine that is not true, and a prophecy that will not come to pass. (The Mortal Messiah, Bk. 2, p. 168)
DETECTING TRUE AND FALSE PROPHETS, Part 1 of Chapter 4 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 28 to 34 The world always mistook false prophets for true ones, and those that were sent of God, they considered to be false prophets, . . . (TPJS, p. 206) The Old Testament records that the Lord has frequently sent prophets to help guide the people back into His presence. But unfortunately, many prophets came that the Lord did not send, and utter confusion about true and false prophets has continued ever since. The Prophet Joseph clearly explained that, “The world always mistook false prophets for true ones, and those that were sent of God, they considered to be false prophets.” (TPJS, p. 206) So it is critical for us to learn to determine the difference. This chapter will discuss the distinguishing characteristics of both false and true prophets.
PRIESTHOOD OUTSIDE THE CHURCH, Chapter 3 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 15 to 27 Wherefore, I will that all men shall repent, for all are under sin, except those which I have reserved unto myself, holy men that ye know not of. (D & C 49:8) Today there are many dangers and threats against the Holy Priesthood involving both men and the Church. Both can make seemingly insignificant yet serious mistakes which, as a result, can lead them into darkness. The Lord has frequently found it necessary to take special means to protect His Priesthood. One of these has been to have the Priesthood function outside of and separate from the general body of the Church. Even though today some claim that this is not possible, this chapter will discuss seven examples where Priesthood authority was evident and operated outside the body of the Church: MoroniJohn, the Baptist/Joseph Smith and Oliver CowderyPeter, James and JohnJohn, the RevelatorThe Three NephitesThe “Other Sheep”More “Other Sheep”
PRIESTHOOD IN THE PAST, Chapter 2 of The Church and The Priesthood Pages 11 to 14 And I will set my tabernacle among you: and my soul shall not abhor you. and I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people. (Lev. 26:11-12) To better understand the nature and power of the Priesthood, let us go back to the beginning of time when great prophets possessed and demonstrated the attributes of this High and Holy Priesthood. It is the Melchizedek Priesthood that holds the keys of the mysteries of the revelations of God; that unlocks and unfolds the secret purposes of Jehovah, and through which the children of men are enabled to come into the presence of the Most High; and without it no man can see the face of God and live. (Joseph Smith, Times and Seasons, 4:25) All the great prophets were blessed with that same Priesthood: Enoch, in possession of this Priesthood “walked with God” and was translated by faith: for “it came to pass that Zion was not, for God received it up into his own bosom; . . .” (P of GP, Moses 7:69) Noah had the same Priesthood, and hence God spoke to him, and told him to build an ark, revealed unto him the pattern and dimensions, and made known unto him the destruction that was coming on the earth. Continue Reading here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DGdWFRRFS/?mibextid=WC7FNe
What is The Priesthood, Chapter 1 of The Church and the Priesthood Pages 1-10 April 2002 PREFACE Priesthood could be considered a theological enigma–a subject of many definitions and interpretations. Catholic and Protestant churches say it existed anciently but admit they do not have it now. Even the Latter-day Saints have tendered a variety of interpretations and explanations. Questions continue to arise on how it is given, who has it and how it functions. Can a man who is not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hold the Priesthood? Is it possible for members of the Church to lose the Priesthood and still be a member of the Church? Can a man be excommunicated and still hold Priesthood? Can Priesthood exist outside the jurisdiction of the LDS Church? These questions continue to plague Church members and non-members alike. Paul the Apostle said, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.” (I Cor. 15:19) Similarly, in our dispensation if Fundamentalist Mormons learn that Priesthood cannot operate outside the bounds of the Church, they will be “of all men most miserable.” Approximately 30,000 Fundamentalist Mormons, with thousands already dead, and many thousands more being born, all believe in a Priesthood that can function both in and out of the LDS Church. It is a very critical issue, for both members and non-members, especially if Church leaders claim they have the power to cause someone to lose their power in the Priesthood. In a day when church seems to hold more importance than Priesthood and leaders declare they are more to be followed than are Gospel principles, much more clarification is needed. Thus, it is hoped that this publication will help answer more questions than it will create. –The Author
CONTEND FOR THE FAITH, Chapter 15 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 229 to 234 CONCLUSION: Throughout the world there are well over a thousand different Christian churches-most of them claiming to have the true gospel. Yet, there was originally only one Church of Jesus Christ and only one book which was claimed as holy scripture. Such diversity and confusion are the results of private interpretations and personal weaknesses among church leaders and members. Brigham Young recognized this problem: The principles of the gospel are perfect, but are the Apostles who teach it perfect? No, they are not. Now, bringing the two together, what they taught is not for me to say, but it is enough to say this, that through the weaknesses in the lives of the Apostles many were caused to err. Our historians and ministers tell us that the church went into the wilderness, but they were in the wilderness all the time. They had the way marked out to get out of the wilderness and go straight forward into the Kingdom of God, but they took various paths, and the two substantial churches that remain-a remnant from the apostles, that divided, are now called the Holy Catholic Church and the Greek Church. (JD 12:66) Continue the reading here: https://www.facebook.com/share/XvE7vbQk2tdEEQzR/?mibextid=WC7FNe
THE KINGDOM OF GOD of Chapter 14 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 215 to 228 Definition and Distinction The subject of the Kingdom of God is the grand central theme interwoven throughout the pages of scripture. There are more references in the New Testament to the Kingdom of God than there are to the Church of Christ. It was the main subject in John's book of Revelations; it was the principle topic of John the Baptist; and the Gospel itself is called the Gospel of the Kingdom. For establishing that Kingdom, Christ was brought to trial and crucified, and it is to rule over that Kingdom that Christ will come again, to reign over all other kingdoms and nations. If the Church were more important than the Kingdom, why didn't Christ say, “Seek ye first the Church” rather than “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God”? The importance of this subject cannot be ignored nor overlooked. But if we are to seek first this kingdom, we need to know what it is. If we are ignorant of its meaning, it is impossible for us to seek it at all. For thousands of years, thousands of churches have put their private interpretation on the Kingdom of God and Church of Christ. Some have said that kingdom has not yet been on the earth; or that it was here only during the ministry of Jesus. Others have said that the Church of Jesus Christ is the same as the Kingdom of God.
THE BLACKS AND THE PRIESTHOOD, Part 3 of Chapter 13 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 206 to 214 Pressure from Without and Within For nearly 150 years, the LDS Church maintained this same position on Blacks not being able to hold the Priesthood. But outside pressures upon the Church grew and so did arguments, both pro and con, over this issue. In 1924 Joseph F. Smith noted that- The question arises from time to time in regard to the Negro race and the Priesthood. . . . It is true that the Negro race is barred from holding the Priesthood, and this has always been the case. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught this doctrine. . . . (Imp. Era 27:564)
THE BLACKS AND THE PRIESTHOOD, Part 2 of Chapter 13 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 200 to 206 The Seed of Cain Enoch was a man endowed with the power of God, for we read that he could speak the word of the Lord and “the earth trembled” or he could turn rivers of water “out of their course,” or make the “mountains fall” before him. Yet when he preached the word of the Lord, he went forth among “all the people, save it were the people of Canaan. . . .” Enoch saw that the people were “a mixture of all the seed of Adam save it was the seed of Cain, for the seed of Cain were black, and had not place among them.” Those who were less valiant in pre-existence and who thereby had certain spiritual restrictions imposed upon them during mortality are known to us as the Negroes. Such spirits are sent to earth through the lineage of Cain, the mark put upon him for his rebellion against God. . . . (Mormon Doctrine, Bruce R. McConkie, pp. 476-77)
THE BLACKS AND THE PRIESTHOOD, Part 1 of Chapter 13 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 198 to 200 The Pre-Existence An individual's right to bear the Priesthood in this life was determined by experiences that occurred in the Pre-Existence. According to Joseph Smith: Every man who has a calling to minister to the inhabitants of the world was ordained to that very purpose in the Grand Council of heaven before this world was. I suppose I was ordained to this very office in that Grand Council. (TPJS, p. 365) God told Abraham that he was among those that were appointed to be rulers and that he was “chosen before thou wast born.” (Abraham 3:23) Other spirits were given certain appointments, gifts and callings, but not necessarily pertaining to the Priesthood, as they did not qualify there, neither do they qualify here. And even among those who were given that responsibility, only a relatively few prove faithful and truly magnify that Priesthood.
PLURAL MARRIAGE, Part 4 of Chapter 12 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 191 to 197 Matthias Cowley (1901) None of the revelations of the prophets either past or present have been repealed. . . . These revelations received by our prophets and seers are all of God, and we cannot repeal or disannul them without making God out a liar, and God cannot lie. . . . I wish to remind you of a certain revelation given through President Taylor. The command was given to set our quorums and houses in order, and the promise was that if we should obey the command, God would fight our battles for us; but we did not obey the command, so God did not fight our battles for us. If we [192] had obeyed that command and revelation given through President Taylor, there would have been no Manifesto. (Smoot Investigations 1:8, Jan. 28, 1901)
PLURAL MARRIAGE, Part 3 of Chapter 12 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 186 to 191 Joseph Smith (1843) The same God that has thus far dictated me and directed me and strengthened me in this work, gave me this revelation and commandment on celestial and plural marriage and the same God commanded me to obey it. He said to me that unless I accepted it and introduced it, and practiced it, I, together with my people, would be damned and cut off from this time hence forth. And they say if I do so, they will kill me. O, what shall I do? If I do not practice it, I shall be damned with my people. If I do teach it, and practice it, and urge it, they say they will kill me, and I know they will. But we have got to observe it. It is an eternal principle and was given by way of commandment and not by way of instruction. (Contributor 5:259) Heber C. Kimball (1856) You might as well deny “Mormonism”, and turn away from it, as to oppose the plurality of wives. Let the Presidency of this Church, and the Twelve Apostles, and all the authorities unite and say with one voice that they will oppose that doctrine, and the whole of them would be damned. What are you opposing it for? It is a principle that God has revealed for the salvation of the human family. (JD 5:203-204) Brigham Young (1865) There is no half-way house. The childish babble about another revelation is only evidence of how half-informed men can talk. The “Mormons” have either to spurn their religion and their God, and sink self-damned in the eyes of all civilization at a moment when most blessed in the practice of their faith, or go calmly on to the same issue which they have always had.
PLURAL MARRIAGE, Part 2 of Chapter 12 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 179 to 186 Because the revelation was received in 1843, the command to live that principle also came with it. Many men such as Brigham Young, John Taylor, Orson Pratt, William Clayton, Heber C. Kimball, and many others were commanded to obey it. Some men, however, such as William Law (Joseph's second counselor), Stake President William Marks, and High Councilmen Leonard Soby and Austin Cowles, rejected the revelation. This division began a split in the Church which has continued ever since. Men who opposed the revelation set up a printing establishment in Nauvoo with the intent to expose the plural marriage doctrine. The first and only edition was published as The Nauvoo Expositor on May 10, 1844, and it referred to the revelation on the “plurality of wives, for time and eternity.” Before the Prophet Joseph was killed, he predicted that his death would not end the persecutions that would come from the Saints living plural marriage: It is thought by some that our enemies would be satisfied with my destruction; but I tell you that as soon as they have shed my blood, they will thirst for the blood of every man in whose heart dwells a single spark of the spirit of the fulness of the gospel . . . . It is not only to destroy me but every man and woman who dares believe the doctrines that God hath inspired me to teach to this generation. (“Plural Marriages as Taught by Joseph Smith,” Helen Mar Whitney, p. 19; as Lundwall quoted in Fate of the Persecutors. . . , p. 144)
PLURAL MARRIAGE, Part 1 of Chapter 12 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 174 to 179 An Ancient Doctrine Polygamy, polygyny, or plural marriage certainly did not start with the Mormons. All the people of the Orient, who are descendants of Japheth, the son of Noah, have accepted it as an integral part of their marriage practices. All of the Arabic nations, who are descendants of Abraham, have continued to allow plural marriage because it is a principle of their religion that was practiced and honored by father Abraham. All through the Bible the great and grand prophets, patriarchs and kings believed that God gave that principle as a divine revelation. Hence, it has been acceptable in most nations. This gave the Apostle Orson Pratt reason to say in 1852: Plurality of wives is a doctrine very popular among most of mankind at the present day. It is practiced by the most powerful nations of Asia and Africa, and by numerous nations, inhabiting the Islands of the sea, and by the Aboriginal nations of the great Western Hemisphere. The one wife system is confined principally to a few small nations, inhabiting Europe and to those who are of European origin, inhabiting America. It is estimated by the most able historians of our day that about four-fifths of the population of the globe, believe and practice, according [175] to their respective laws, the doctrine of a Plurality of Wives. If the popularity of a doctrine is...
THE ONLY TRUE GOD, Part 4 of Chapter 11 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 167 to 173 To Summarize This Chapter The Prophet Joseph Smith said that “very few” understand “rightly” the true character of God.Scientists and philosophers have fallen short in their ideas of explaining the creation of man on this planet.Mankind are the offspring of God. All things are reproduced through no other means than procreation and generation.All the plants and animals came to this earth from another world.Adam (Michael, the great Prince, the Archangel) came here with a resurrected celestial body, and brought Eve (one of his wives) with him. By eating of the fruit in the Garden of Eden, their bodies were transformed, allowing them to have mortal children.This doctrine, as taught by Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, was gradually rejected by subsequent Church members and leaders, and today is considered as merely a false theory.
THE ONLY TRUE GOD, Part 3 of Chapter 11 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 160 to 167 Question 7. What do the Bible and Biblical scholars say about the personage of Michael? I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of Days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool; his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him; thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the judgment was set, and the books were opened. I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of Man came with the clouds of heaven, and [161] came to the Ancient of Days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that shall not be destroyed. (Dan 7:9, 10, 13, 14) The Ancient of Days is now taking His seat in judgment and aspects of His wrath are beginning to manifest themselves on the earth. Soon His Son Jesus Christ will return in the clouds of heaven and in righteousness He will judge and make war against all evil. (Destiny Magazine, Dec. 1953, Vol. 24, No. 12)
THE ONLY TRUE GOD, Part 2 of Chapter 11 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 153 to 160 The Priesthood is an everlasting principle, and existed with God from eternity, and will to eternity, without beginning of days or end of years. The keys have to be brought from heaven whenever the Gospel is sent. When they are revealed from heaven, it is by Adam's authority. (TPJS, p. 157) Adam delivers up his stewardship to Christ, that which was delivered to him as holding the keys of the universe, but retains his standing as head of the human family. (DHC 3:386) Commencing with Adam, who was the first man, who is spoken of in Daniel as being the “Ancient of [160] Days,” or in other words, the first and oldest of all, the great, grand progenitor of whom it is said in another place he is Michael, because he was the first and father of all, not only by progeny, but the first to hold the spiritual blessings, to whom was made known the plan of ordinances for the salvation of his posterity unto the end, and to whom Christ was first revealed, and through whom Christ has been revealed from heaven, and will continue to be revealed from henceforth. Adam holds the keys of the dispensation of the fullness of times; i.e., the dispensation of him from the beginning to Christ, and from Christ to the end of the dispensations that are to be revealed. (TPJS, pp. 167-68) He set the ordinances to be the same forever and ever, and set Adam to watch over them, to reveal them from heaven to man, or to send angels to reveal them. “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14) These angels are under the direction of Michael or Adam. (TPJS, p. 168) This, then, is the nature of the Priesthood; every man holding the Presidency of his dispensation, and one man holding the Presidency of them all, even Adam. (TPJS, p. 169)
THE ONLY TRUE GOD, Part 1, Chapter 11 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 147 to 153 This Is Life Eternal . . . The Prophet Joseph Smith once said: There are but a very few beings in the world who understand rightly the character of God (TPJS, p. 343) And again- The things of God are of deep import; and time and experience and careful and ponderous and solemn thoughts can only find them out. (TPJS, p. 137) We never can comprehend the things of God and of heaven, but by revelation. We may spiritualize and express opinions to all eternity; but that is no authority. (TPJS, p. 292) I want to ask this congregation, every man, woman and child, to answer the question in their own hearts, what kind of a being God is? Ask yourselves; turn your thoughts into your hearts, and say if any of you have seen, heard, or communed with Him? This is a question that may occupy your attention for a long time. I again repeat the question-What kind of a being is God? Does any man or woman know? Have any of you seen Him, heard Him, or communed with Him? Here is the question that will, peradventure, from this time henceforth occupy your attention. The scriptures inform us that “This is life eternal that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” (DHC 6:303)
UNITED ORDER, Chapter 10 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 127 to 146 YouTube: https://youtu.be/JUjnKXwySPM?si=lPCQjwbJo5kor8Qt Come Out of Babylon One of the most noticeable differences between Mormonism and other religions is the close relationship between the spiritual and the temporal. Mormonism is not just another ethereal, mystic, or philosophical religious system-but rather a practical down-to-earth religion that can deal with dollars and cents, butter and beans, parcels of real estate or heavenly kingdoms-because a religion that cannot help people temporally has little power to help them spiritually. Mormonism embraces both practicality and spirituality. In a doctrinal dissertation by Dean D. McBrien, it was noted that in 112 revelations to Joseph Smith, 88 dealt in part or wholly with economic matters. This is not out of harmony with the Gospel of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, for one verse in every six deals with the money question. Out of the 29 parables of Christ, 16 of them mention the Christian and his money. It is not riches alone, but the lust for riches that overcomes the human will. “The love of money is the root of all evil.” (I Tim. 6:10) So when men idolize riches, they often condescend to evil means to obtain them.
Modern day Revelation to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints I meant to play the prerecorded program for the United Order today. But I had some technical difficulties and it began playing my last episode. I stopped it and just played some modern day revelations from The Father and The Son about the One Mighty and Strong and calling The LDS church and its members to repentance. My next episode will be the one I prepared for the topic on the United Order.
REBAPTISM, Chapter 9 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 115 to 126 The Book of Mormon contains specific references to rebaptism. Nephi, it is written, baptized many believers and “ordained men unto this ministry,” and “there were many in the commencement of this year that were baptized unto repentance.” (A.D. 32: see 3 Nephi 7:26) However, a few years later, after the destruction of his nation, it is written that Nephi again “went down into the water and was baptized.” (3 Nephi 19:11) Thus Nephi complied with the principle of rebaptism; and being a leader among his people, he established the precedent for that practice and they followed his example. Nephi proceeded to baptize the others and “it came to pass when they were ALL baptized and had come up out of the water, the Holy Ghost did fall upon them.” (3 Nephi 19:13)
GATHERING ISRAEL, Chapter 8 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 97 to 114 Gathering Through the Centuries From the pre-existence, throughout mortality, and into the eternities to come, spirits and mortals have been attracted and gathered by truth or by error. Habitations and principles are being acquired by selection. In making a multitude of choices throughout the years, we become products of our own expressive desires and gather together.. The success or failure of the Gospel in any age has been dependent upon the unity of God's people. It is for this reason they have always been commanded to gather. It has been a strict commandment that the children of God should gather to Zion-that they might be worthy of eventually gathering in the Zion of heaven. The person who becomes accustomed to a lifetime in saloons, gambling dens, and houses of ill repute, would feel disturbed and uneasy in a church. Likewise a faithful and devoted individual would feel the same uneasiness and distress in a saloon or gambling den. That gradual selection and attraction of people is inherent and eternal in its nature. Their eternal destiny is dependent upon who and what they are gathered to.
THE DEMISE OF THE SEVENTIES, Chapter 7 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 83 to 96 Scriptural and Early History The calling and mission of the Seventy is unique. They have been associated with the mission of nearly all the chosen servants of God. Scripturally they are first mentioned among the ancient Israelites at the time of Moses: And the Lord said unto Moses, Gather unto me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom thou knowest to be the elders of the people, and officers over them; and bring them unto the tabernacle of the congregation, that they may stand there with thee. And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which is upon thee, and will put it upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear it not thyself alone. (Num. 11:16-17) And Moses went out, and told the people the words of the Lord, and gathered seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them round about the tabernacle. And the Lord came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease. (Num. 11:24-25) Youtube: https://youtu.be/ouQZj64C2Pc?si=KT6ClU7JdrDePGu3
WITHOUT PURSE OR SCRIPT, Chapter 6 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 62 to 82 The Lord's Missionary System The Lord had a special program for missionary work-it was for His servants to devote full time to the spiritual call of preaching the Gospel. The manner He prescribed was to go without purse or scrip, meaning they were not to take a wallet or money (or credit cards) with them. It was a very unusual system by worldly standards, but one that certainly promoted faith and humility.
WITHOUT PURSE OR SCRIPT, Chapter 6 of The Church and The Gospel Pages 62 to 82 The Lord's Missionary System The Lord had a special program for missionary work-it was for His servants to devote full time to the spiritual call of preaching the Gospel. The manner He prescribed was to go without purse or scrip, meaning they were not to take a wallet or money (or credit cards) with them. It was a very unusual system by worldly standards, but one that certainly promoted faith and humility.
GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT, Chapter 5 of The Church & The Gospel Pages 54 to 61 The Importance of Spiritual Gifts The Latter-day Saints profess to believe in spiritual gifts. Indeed we say that the true Church of Jesus Christ must have those gifts to be the true church. We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, etc. (7th Article of Faith) Many spiritual gifts were given to the ancient prophets, apostles and righteous saints. Miracles were performed which were called blessings, gifts, and signs. These gifts and blessings were evidences that God acknowledged them as His people. Even the great high priests of the Sanhedrin acknowledged that Jesus had power to do miracles. They admitted it by saying to Him, “We know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.” (John 3:2) This was an indication that these miracles were from God, and it was a testimony to the divinity of his Priesthood. Christ performed miracles as foretold by Isaiah (35:5, 6; 42:7), but not to astonish people nor to satisfy their demands and curiosity.
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