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John K. Sheen
(1842-1920?) Polygamy... (York, Nebraska, 1889) Transcriber's comments |
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See also Isaac Sheen's 1849 Newspaper
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I REVEAL THINGS WHICH HAVE BEEN KEPT HID. 
-}-- The Veil Lifted --{- "BEFORE THEY SPRING FORTH I TELL YOU OF THEM." |
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[ 1 ]
Such was the declaration of Joseph Smith, the prophet, seer and revelator of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who claimed to be a "chosen instrument in the hands of God to bring about some of his purposes in this dispensation." He announced the above as one of the cardinal points of belief of the church which he pretended to be called of God to establish, and that principle has been embraced in what the Reorganized church has called its "Epitome of Faith." This Reorganized church has permitted its self-styled "leaders" to assert that "Primitive Mormonism" is only confined to the three books -- the Book of Mormon, Book of Covenants and the Bible. These "authorities," or "leaders," of the Reorganized -- forgetting the admonition of Joseph Smith, that: "the only way to obtain truth and wisdom, is not to ask it from the books, but to go to God in prayer and obtain divine teaching -- have endeavored to force the argument upon the world that nothing is "Primitive Mormonism" except that printed in the three books prior to the death of Joseph Smith. Here the line of demarcation is drawn by them and all that may be good in Mormonism is twined into a crown of glory and with paeans of praise laid upon the otherwise neglected grave of Joseph Smith; while that which is deemed foul and filthy, and perhaps unpopular, is warped and woven into the prophetic mantle that fell upon the shoulders of Brigham Young. Under the tenet of faith enunciated by Joseph Smith, that he and Mormondom believed "all that God does now reveal, and all that He will yet reveal," there could be no such thing as "Primitive Mormonism." This plank of the Mormon faith was progressive, and looked forward to "great and important things yet to be revealed pertaining" to the Mormon faith, or "kingdom of God." Admitting the Book of Mormon to be a revelation from God, and that Joseph Smith was the inspired translator of that revelation, we find that it had been revealed to the Mormon church that they should "Hearken to the word of the Lord: for there shall not be any man among you have save it be one wife; and concubines he shall have none: for I, the Lord God, delighteth in the chastity of women and _____doms are an abomination before me: thus saith the Lord of hosts. Wherefore this people shall keep my commandments, saith the Lord of hosts, or cursed be the land for their sakes." So reads the Nauvoo edition of the Book of Mormon. (See Book of Jacob, chapter 2. par. 5. page 126.) From this quotation we learn that God had revealed it to the believers in the B. of M. that it was forbidden to have "save it be one wife." But this revelation through the B. of M. does not end with the quotation given; for if we quote the next two lines we read: "For if I will, saith the Lord of hosts, raise up seed unto me, I will command my people; otherwise they shall hearken to these things." Joseph Smith tells us that "we believe all that God has revealed," and we have found that it had been forbidden to have "save it be one wife;" and by the same revelation we have also found that it was possible that God might give further revelation upon the subject: -- "For if I will, saith the Lord of hosts, raise up seed unto me, I will command my people." So stood the polygamy question in 1830 when the Book of Mormon was published, and "Primitive Mormonism" (if you will) says through Joseph Smith, as late as March, 1842, "We believe that He (God) will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the kingdom of God." Was Mormonism disappointed in this belief? Is there within the three books a revelation given after March, 1842? The last revelation printed in the 1864 edition of the Book of Covenants bears date January 1841. Had God ceased then in March, 1842, to "reveal many great things pertaining to the kingdom of God." We shall see. |
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[ 2 ] == FOOTPRINTS. == Notwithstanding the B. of M. spoke in so emphatic words against polygamy, and left a proviso, as we have seen, under which that system might possibly be introduced, we find that along the path way of the history of the Mormon church whilst following its file leader, Joseph Smith, there were not wanting those who charged polygamy and "spiritual wifery" upon the church and its prophet and leaders, and that the charges were in turn denied both by the church, its prophet and leading men. As early as August 17, 1835, it Was deemed necessary to reply to the charge of polygamy made against the Church of the Latter-day Saints. On that day W. W. Phelps read an article "On Marriage," which was accepted and adopted and ordered printed in the Book of Dnctrine and Covenants, then being presented to a General assembly of the church for endorsement. This article on marriage is Section 101 of the Kirtland edition (1835) Book of Covenants and contains the following:"Inasmuch as this church of Christ has been reproached with the crime of fornication and polygamy: we declare that we believe, that one man should have one wife, and one woman but one husband, except in case of death, when either is at liberty to marry again." The reader will notice the peculiar construction of the quotation wherein it says: "One man should have one wife; and one woman but one husband." W. W. Phelps became a Utah Mormon. Two years later in the history the charge of polygamy still existed. This fact appears in the "Elders' Journa1," published at Kirtland, Ohio, November, 1837. In that paper Joseph Smith answers twenty questions. The seventh qUestion is as follows: "Do the Mormons believe in having more wives than one? Joseph Smith answers: "No not at the same time, But they believe that if their companion dies they have a right to marry again. " Passing by the years intervening between 1837 and 1842, our attention is next called to the following in the "Times and Seasons" of April 15, 1842: "He [Hyrum Smith] then spoke in contradiction of a report in circulation about Elder Kimball. B. Young, himself and others of the Twelve, alleging that a sister had been shut in a room for several days, and that they had endeavored to induce her to believe in having two wives. Hyrum Smith was then followed by his brother Joseph. The Times and Seasons says: "Pres. J. Smith spoke upon the subjet of the stories respecting Elder Kimball and others, showing the folly and inconsistency of spending any time in conversing about such stories or harkening to them for there is no person that is acquainted With our principles would believe such lies, except Sharp, the editor of the Warsaw Signal. Notwithstanding the denials made by Joseph and Hyrum Smith on April 6, 1842, we find it indellibly stamped upon the pages of the Times and Seasons for that year that the cry of "spiritual wives" and polygamy was not confined to the Gentiles alone, but that the great "Joab in Israel," mayor of the chartered city of Nauvoo by virtue of Mormon votes, chancellor of the Nauvoo University, major general of the Nauvoo Legion and quartermaster general of the State of Illinois, John Cook Bennett declared through the Sangamo Journal and St. Louis papers that a system of "spiritual wifery' was taught by Joseph Smith. Bennett had long been extolled for his virtues and learning by the Mormon press. In 1841 the editor of the Warsaw Signal attacked the character of Bennett, who had just been appointed master in chancery by Judge Douglas. The Times and Seasons, the official Mormon paper, in its issue for June 1, 1841, mounts the wall and hurls the following missile at the accuser: "It is obvious that the intention is to make the community believe that General Bennett is a mere renegrado and all that is base in humanity. But General Bennett's character as a gentleman, an officer, a scholar, and physician stands too high to need defending by us, suffice it to say that he is in the confidence of the Executive, holds the office of Quarter Master General of this state and is well known to a large number of persons of the first respectability throughout the state. He has likewise been favorably known for upwards of eight years by some of [ 3 ] the authorities of the church, and has resides three years in this state. But being a Mormon his virtues are construed into defects, and is thought a proper object of the base, cowardly and ungentlemanly attack of the editor of the Signal." But when Bennett found occasion to expose the spiritual wife business through the public press, the Times and Seasons. under the editoral control of Joseph Smith, assailed his character from "away back" most violently. It not only denied strongly the charge of "spiritual wifery" and polygamy made against Joseph Smith but also alleged that J. C. Bennett had been cut off from the church for teaching a "spiritual wife" doctrine and other things too unholy for me to utter here; and it was also asserted that Bennett had for if long time been known to Joseph Smith to be an immoral and leacherous person; and also that he had been disfellowshiped May 11, 1842. Bennett on the other hand attempt[ed] to show that this disfellowshiplng took place after the fact of his leaving of his own good will the Mormon church. Whatever may have been the truth in the matter, the fact stands out in bold relief upon the pages of the Times and Seasons that if Bennett was the vile person the Times and Seasons endeavored to show him to be -- then that paper and Joseph Smith, its editor, were negligent in duty to the public in failing to expose Bennett until July 1, and they were also negligent in duty to the church in failing to give notice of the alleged disfellowshiping until June 15 -- two numbers of that official, paper having been issued in the interim. From records at hand it appears that the cry of polygamy and "spiritual wives" made by Bennett reverberated throughout the United States, yet Emma Smith is made to say by her son, in her dying (?) testimony, that only a faint and gentle whisper disturbed her peaceful repose in the beautiful Nauvoo; only some little word was heard by her in regard to "spiritual wives." Leaving Bennett, I hasten on with the record by simply saying that nearly all of the more prominent Mormons, includIng Wm. Law, F. M. Higbee, Wm. Marks, Young, Kimball and Taylor, denied the charges then made by Bennett; and it appears that the great Orson Pratt and a few others sustained the reports sent abroad by Bennett; for I find in Times and Seasons, Aug. 1, 1842, that at a meeting of citizens a vote was taken to get an expression upon the reports calumniating the character of Joseph Smith and that Orson Pratt voted to the negative. Pratt then arose and made an explanation of his negative vote. Joseph Smith then asked him: "Have you personally a knowledge of any immoral act in me towards the female sex, or in any other way? Orson Pratt answered: "Personally, towards the female sex, I have not." B. Young then replied to Pratt. Wm. Marks, in giving his testimony in the Bennett-Smith affair says: * * * "I would further state that I know of no Order in the church which admits of a plurality of wives, and do not believe that Joseph Smith ever taught such a doctrine." -- T. & S., Aug, 1, 1842. The reader will please remember the last date as we will have further testimony from Marks. The Times and Seasons, Dec. 1, 1842, contains a clipping from Baltimore Clipper, which is evidence that the cry of "spiritual wifery" sent forth by Bennett was no muffled cry, so faint it could not be heard in Nauvoo. This contains a denial by Benj. Winchester that a belief was had in the doctrine of a "community of wives and polygamy," and he says "members are confined to one wife." "He that keepeth the law of God hath no need to break the law of the land," is a silly song that has been sung by some until it has become as stale as "Billy Barlow." A more interesting song was that sung by Joseph Smith (T. & S. Feb. 1, 1843): "But the great things of God, which he showed unto me, This beautiful stanza is the 77th verse of a poetical effusion entitled "A Vision," being a reply to another by W. W. Phelps, the whole article being designated "Ancient Poetry." What doctrines believed in by the Prophet were "unlawful to utter" is left to our own poetic imagination, for [ 4 ] there is not one printed line, to my knowledge, above the signature of Joseph Smith, printed during his lifetime, in which he taught the doctrine of "sealed wives," "spiritual wives," or "polygamy." The "burden of proof" is thrown upon those who assert that he did secretly teach such doctrine. To convict him we must follow his trail and linger with his chums" -- perhaps they will give him away. It would seem to be useless to quote Joseph Smith further upon the subject, but my purpose is to place with the reader all the denials within my reach. I therefore insert the celebrated and oft quoted "NOTICE. There is nothing in the record of the special conference to show that there was any further action in the matter. Perhaps Hiram Brown wasn't built that way, and did not need the second "cut off." We have in the above notice an exhibit of the power of the prophet. June 1, 1844, W. Woodruff and Geo. A. Smith were at a conference held at Kalamazoo, Mich. The conference was "addressed by the president and G. A. Smith, who forcibly urged upon their minds the necessity of their pursuing a wise conrse in relation to their teachings, to let what they called the mysteries alone. The names of some were called as an ensample for the rest who had been unwise in their teaching." etc. -- T. & S., Vol. 5, p. 580. NAUVOO, March 15, 1844. The reader will notice that while the letter denies that "a man having a certain priesthood, may have as many wives as he pleases," there is [ 5 ] also the admission that there were mysteries, and that it required a special command from God for an elder to preach such mysteries, "for the mysteries of God are not given to all men; and unto whom they are given they are PLACED UNDER RESTRICTIONS to impart only such as God will command them, the residue is to be kept in a faithful breast." Were these mysteries "The great things of God which were showed unto me, [Joseph Smith] Unlawful to utter, I dare not declare?" A strange silence has come over the Times and Seasons. A First President has apostatized and the official paper is silent as the dead of Egypt. Not till its May 15th issue does it give us any light upon the matter, from that issue I cull the above affidavit, and I have done this for the reason that it has been recently stated that Wm. Law's action was influenced by his having been disfellowshiped. By the affidavit above we see that on March 15, the same day Hyrum Smith wrote his letter, the Laws were "red-hot for rebellion." If the Mormon "leaders" of that day and this could be made to see that Jesus had withdrawn himself from them, I have not the least doubt but we would soon read a notice certifying that he had been "cut off for unchristian-like conduct." The Laws were in rebellion March 15, and not until April 15th Times & Seasons do we behold the guillotine, drop and then it is dated April, 18 NAUVOO, April 18, 1844. I was on only one occasion in the presence of Emma Smith, "The Elect Lady," and on that occasion I heard her remark: "William Law was a good man, but he acted queer in the end." What was this notice of excommunication? It was simply a scalping-knife, flourished to destroy whatever influence Law might have; and thiS scalping knife has lately been flourished to destroy his recent testimony. A few months ago a man went into the Publishing House of the Reorganized [Church?] and requested that his name be dropped from the list of membership. Public notice was given that his case be looked into and the scalping-knife applied. He that reads the record of Mormonism in its own publications who fails to see the scalping-knife's gleam is blind indeed. "Let the mysteries alone until by and bye," says Hyrum Smith. Above the date March 26, 1844, Joseph Smith memorialized and petitioned congress to empower him to raise 100,000 volunteers and transport them to the "borders of the United States and territories," and that he be "constituted a member of the United States army." This document was presented to congress May 25, 1844, by the Hon. John Wentworth of Chicago, and created an uproar of laughter. -- See Prophet, June 1, 1844. The Times and Seasons for April 1, 1844, edited by John Taylor, refers to "J. C. Bennett's spiritual wife system" and denies that any "iniquity is practised, much less sanctioned by the [ 6 ] Church of Jesus Christ [of] Latter-day Saints," and further says: "If any man writes to you, or preaches to you doctrines contrary to the Bible, Book of Mormon, or the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, set him down as an impostor." My reader may not know that the Book of Covenants referred to by Taylor was, and now is, an elastic book, capable of being stretched on the receipt of any new revelation; and as have endeavored to show in the beginning, it was promised "that God would yet reveal many important things pertaining to the kingdom of God." No two editions of this book have been just alike. The Utah edition now contains the "Celestial Revelation." The editions of 1841 and 1845 did not. The evidence to me is that, in 1844 the "Celestial Revelation" was known in "secret chambers." Among those who testified in favor of Joseph Smith against John C. Bennett in 1842 were William Law and F. M. Higbee. They have deserted him and the Times and Seasons, May 15, contains the record of a trial had in the Municipal Court of the City of Nauvoo, Ill., wherein it appears that Francis M. Higbee had brought suit in the Circuit Court of Hancock county against Joseph Smith for defamation of character, claiming $5,000 damage. In answer, Joseph Smith petitioned for and obtained from the Municipal Court of Nauvoo a writ of habeas corpus, which granted Higbee the opportunity to appear before the MunicIpal Court on the 7th day of May, to show cause why Smith should not be liberated. Higbee did not appear either by himself or counsel. J. P. Styles and Sidney Rigdon acted as counsellors for Smith. The complexion of the court was as follows: N. K. Whitney, acting chief justice, D. H. Wells, Wm. Marks. Orson Spencer, G. W. Harris, Gustavis Hills, Geo. A. Smith and Samuel Bennett, associate justices, presiding. The witness for Smith were Jos. Smith, Hyrum Smith, B. Young, Sidney Rigdon, Mr. Wheelock, H. J. Sherwood, H. C. Kimball, Joel S. Miles and Porter Rockwell. Witnesses for Higbee: None -- no not one. The witnesses appear to have had unbridled license, bringing in the names of Bennett, Foster, the Laws and others not parties to the suit. Mr. Wheelock testified that Mr. Blakely [James Blakeslee, afterwards an apostle of the "New Organization" later known as the Reorganized church,] had apostatized and had said he had seen affidavits of the guilt of Mr. Smith. In the same number ur Times and Seasons notice is given that James Blakeslee, Francis M. Higbee, Charles Ivans and Austin Cowells have been cut off by the High Council for apostacy. Joseph Smith testified to indecent acts committed by Dr. Foster, F. M. Higbee and J. C. Bennett; in fact the testimony given is unfit for publication in this religious pamphlet; it can be found in Times and Seasons. In his testimony Jos. Smith found occasion to testify "of what occured a long time before J. C. Bennett left this city," and yet, knowing what he then swore to, he used Francis M. Higbee as a witness against Bennett in 1842. The testimony of all the witnesses was directed at the character of Higbee and others. The court held that Francis M. Higbee's character having been shown to be infamous. The court is convinced that this suit was instituted through malice, private pique and corruption." The Times and Seasons says: "Two of Mr. Smith's most important witnesses being out of the city on the day of the trial, we subjoin their affidavits." I have already given part of Abiathar B. William's affidavit. M. G. Eaton's was taken same date and place with A. B. Williams'. I extract from Eaton's: On March 13 he and Jos. H. Jackson went to the Keystone store; found there Dr. Foster and one of the Higbees thought it was Chauncey Higbee. * "Higbee commenced talking about the spiritual wife system. He said he had no doubt but some of the leaders had ten or twelve apiece. He said they married them whether the females were willing or not; and they did it by recording the marriage in a large book; which book was sealed up after the record was made and was not opened for a long time, probably not until the husbands of those who were thus married were dead. They would then open the book and breaK the seals in the presence of those females, and when they saw their names recorded in that book theY would believe that the doctrine was true." * Eaton testified further that at the store R. D. Foster represented that an attempt had been made to seduce -- [a lady] -- by preaching to her a spiritual wife doctrine. At a conference held in New York City, April 3 and 4, 1844: "William Smith arose and addressed the saints at great length upon certain reports abroad among the Saints. -- Times and Seasons, Vol. 5 page 526. I have followed the Times and Seasons down to the Dead Line in the history. Before we cross the dead line [ 7 ] Joseph, the younger, would have us believe that "Primitive Mormonism" and his father's tried and true friends were all virtue and truth -- ACROSS THE DEAD LINE he would have us believe that the foul bullets that laid his father "smitten like a tree that falls by the vivid shaft of lightning" robbed the "special witnesses" (called by his father) of all virtue and truth, and that they immediately conspired to fasten the stigma of Polygamy upon his father, and that they who had clung to him "through good and evil report" had now become his enemies.Along the grand march of Mormonism, had straggled from the ranks Cowdery, Whitmer and Harris, who had believed the Book of Mormon before it was translated, and who in the quiet opening in the woods of New York, while "sitting on a log" "kneeling in prayer," had beheld the angel descend and "lay upon a table," while "holding in his hands," the golden tablets. McLellin, the Johnsons, Marsh, Willams. Avard and Hinkle had also lagged with "Company Q." In lieu of these had been gathered the Laws, Bennett, the Higbees and Foster -- and they, too had gone out from the ranks of the Mormon host. But the Twelve had clung to the "rod of iron" and followed their beloved Prophet down till the lightning's flash -- Now, they are traitors and enemies, and from their fields of labor they gather around and stamp upon his cold brow "Polygamy." The "burden of proof" grows lighter. What if a brother should betray him? The ominious cloud seen ariSing upon the horizon by the Gentiles in 1835 had become a roaring whirlwind; the muttering thunders were heard in Nauvoo and Kalamazoo, in New York City and Lapeer county, Michigan; the fiat had gone forth to "cease teaching your mysterious things" and to "leave the mysteries alone until by and bye;" the "Ark of God" was tumbling and the "man of God," who had been "called and appointed," had put forth "his hand to steady the ark of God" -- the lightning flashed, and "like a tree smitten by the vivid shaft of lightning," Joseph the Prophet lies dead, and the "church rejected with its dead." But where was the "One Mighty and Strong?" His "bowels" should be "a fountain of truth" -- Surely he is not Joseph the younger, whose statements I "have sought to invalidate by letters and slips" when the channel of communication was closed against me -- But, there were to be those "like unto the children of the priests, the children of Habaiah, the children of Barzillia, which took a wife of the daughters of Barzillia the Gileadite, and was called after their name. These sought their register by GENEAOLOGY, but they were not found; therefore were they, as polluted PUT FROM THE PRIESTHOOD." (The next verse in the "Inspired" Translation (Ezra 2:63) tells us further of these): "And the Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy things, till there stood up a priest with Urim and Thummim." Now, Joseph the younger, show us the goggles! At a conference held in Philadelphia Aug. 31 and Sept. 1, 1844: Wm. Smith was made president of conference. * * "after which followed a spirited address (dictated by the spirit of holy zeal) by the President, on the subject of dissensions and divisions in the Church, the spirit of persecution, and of casting reflections upon the authorities God has chosen to be his special witnesses," etc. Here are troubles referred to in the Prophet of Sept. 14, 1844. which lap over the dead line more than two years. The last sentence shows that an attempt was made to suppress. At this conference Elders Winchester, Wharton and McClane refused to uphold the Twelve. The members of the Twelve who had been in the east preaching JeffersonIan gospel on learning that Joseph was killed had flocked to Nauvoo, William Smith alone remained in the east. At a conference held in New York City, Sept. 4, 1844: [ 8 ] "Elder [William] Smith arose and said there were many things that grieved him, -- he said that it appeared that he was most unfortunate in most things since he had been in the city -- thought it strange that elders should give credence to such stories -- had LAST WINTER proven them false by the very individuals who originated the stories against him before the conference: He had told openly all the MYSTERIES to-day that he had ever made known to any of them -- no one could say aught against him in this city, he therefore had nothing to repent of. -- Times and Seasons, Vol. 5, page 681. "MYSTERIES!" What means this weird word that stares us in the face like the Red Hand on the antique walls of Yucatan? "Let the MYSTERIES alone until by and bye," said Hyrum Smith; and George A. Smith urged the Kalamazoo Saints to "let the MYSTERIES alone" and called out the names of some "who had been UNWISE in their teaching. Were these mysteries "The great things of God, which he showed unto me, [Joseph Smith] unlawful to utter, I dare not declare?" In the year 1878, in Plano. Illinois, William Smith said: "I have taught nothing but what my brother Joseph taught me." What were the stories proven false "last winter" (1843-44) by William, and what were the "mysteries he had told today" (Sept. 4, 1844)? We shall see.
Another scalp is hung up to dry, and another gospel warrior leaves the ranks of the Mormon host. In reply to Rigdonite charges, Orson Hyde said: -- "Wo to the man or men who will thus lie to injure an inocent people! The law of the land and the rules of the church do not allow one man to have more than one wife alive at once, but if any man's wife die, he has a right to marry another, and to be SEALED to both for eternity, to the living and the dead." -- T. & S. Nov. 15, 1844. Let's see, didn't Chauncey Higbee say something about "sealing" wives. [ 9 ] (On page 6.) Now, wasn’t this sealing for time as well as eternity? And could weak sisters who had married outside of the faith be sealed for eternity? B. Young, April 6, 1845, said: -- "I tell you the truth as it is in the bosom of eternity: and I say so to every man upon the face of the earth; if he wishes to be saved he cannot be saved without a woman by his side. This is spiritual wifeism; that is the doctrine of Spiritual Wives. -- T. & S. July 15, 1845. Ah, there! cries Joseph, the younger, Brigham, you are introducing new doctrine. Guess not, says Brigham, Brother Phelps introduced that doctrine in 1835 and it was ordered printed in the Book of Covenants that "One man should have one wife, and one woman but one husband" --Now, tell your Reorganized Primitive bachelors "they cannot be saved without a woman by their side." At Boulogne-sur-mer, France, John Taylor said: -- "We are accused here of polygamy, and actions the most indelicate, obscene and disgusting, such as none but a corrupt heart could have contrived. These things are too outrageous to admit of belief.["] In March, 1850, in a discourse before the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Hon. Thomas L. Kane, a friend to the Mormons in the hour distress, said: -- ["]I am asked to explain or justify the Mormon Creed. I will have nothing to do with it. It is enough for me to say that it does not manifest itself externially [sic] by the Pythian ravings or Elusinian hocus pocus of new religions, nor the pageantry of mumming of those sometime established; that its communicants cultivate no mysteries or double faiths; and that I certainly think they are to be believed in their exposition of it." Thomas L. Kane had further to say upon the subject in a letter to President Fillmore and, if I remember right William Smith is also mentioned. Old Saul of Tarsus said eighteen hundred years ago: "In the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils: teaching lies in hypocrisy." THE VEIL LIFTED. "We believe that he will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the kingdom of God." -- Joseph Smith.I have endeavored to show that all along the line of march of the Mormon Priesthood, its Prophet and leaders had been almost continually charged with a belief in a spiritual marriage doctrine, and that their belief was not confined to eternity, but was of the earth earthly -- in other words, it was "Polygamy." so strong had been the denials that when in January, 1850, a petition signed by Isaac Sheen, William Smith and others was presented in the United States Senate against the admission of the "State of Deseret," the Republic and Globe, of Washington, editorially discussed the matter and declared the people of Utah innocent of the charge of Polygamy. Jason Briggs, the apostle and church historian of the Reorganized church, in his history of that organization, tells of a Lineal church that existed in Illinois under the leadership of William Smith, Hook, Wood and others. Among many things he writes: "October 6th of that year (1851), they threw off the mask, in a council called at Priests’ Lodge, and confessed to the belief and practice of polygamy in the name of the Lord." * * This led Briggs into deep thought, and he received a revelation (Nov. 18, 1851), which he claims was the corner stone of the Reorganization. The revelation says: "But as Esau despised his birthright, so has William Smith despised my law, and forfeited that which pertained to him as an Apostle and High Priest in my Church," etc. * * * "Behold that which ye received as my celestial law is not of me, but is the doctrine of Baalam. And I command you to de-nounce and proclaim against it: and I will give you power, that none shall be able to withstand your words, if you rely upon me: for my spirit shall attend you. -- And the Spirit said unto me Write, write, write; -- write the revelation and send it unto the Saints at Palestine, and at Voree, and at Waukasha [ 10 ] and to all places where this doctrine is taught." etc -- Messenger, Nov., 1875. Issued from Reorganized publishing house. The organization established by Jason Briggs, Z. H. Gurley, senior, David Powell, H. P. Brown and others, under the above revelation and through the "gift of tongues" in Julia Gurley, has become known as the Reorganized church, and through two members of its Publishing Committee and the editor of its official paper under date January 1869, and otherwise, and also by one of its First Presidency has admitted that Joseph Smith did receive a polygamy revelation, and taught polygamy. Before God, man, or the devil I am prepared to defend this statement. «| 1852 |» August 29, 1852, Brigham Young, in Salt Lake City, presented a revelation to a Mormon conference and stated that it was a revelation that had been given to Joseph Smith, July 12, 1843; that the original copy had been burned by Emma Smith, wife of the Prophet, and that a copy had been made from the original before its cremation, and the revelation had thus been preserved. The revelation then proclaimed has become known as the "Celestial Revelation." Orson Pratt started about the 20th of September from Utah for the east and under date Dec. 21, 1852, published the revelation in the Seer. He argued that the celestial law did not interfere with the "law of the land;" that the practice of it as a religious doctrine was allowable under the constitution, -- hence, "He that keepeth the law of God, hath no need to break the law of the land." As published in the Seer the revelation is divided into 25 paragraphs: the first containing A Law of Justification for Abraham and others in the practice of polygamy; the next nine are a running argument teaching the doctrine of Sealing, or Marriage for Eternity, and the 7th paragraph mixes with the eternal wife doctrine the doctrine of A Plurality of Gods -- and then, the whole is nicely blended with the promises to Abraham -- and the promises to Abraham was the blessing that "his seed should be as innumerable as the stars." "This promise is yours" --"For if I will, saith the Lord of host[s:] raise up seed unto me, I will command my people. -- Book of Mormon. God has now revealed. The command has come: "GO YE and do the works of Abraham!" "Sarah gave Hagar to Abraham to wife." -- How beautiful the scheme! ˜THE DEVIL DEFENDED.˜ All these long years, while you "blacklegs, counterfeiters, whip stealers, leacherous devils and murders" have been howling "Spiritual Wives" and "Polygamy," we have been enjoying the fruits of the everlasting covenant, says Brigham; and all the congregation shout -- Amen!F[R]AUD, FRAUD, fraud! cries Joseph the younger. M. G. Eaton, stand up. Did you ever hear anything about Sealing and Spiritual Wives? Yes, I was one of Joseph’s most "important witnesses," and swore to what Chauncy Higbee said on March 15, 1844. What was that? Joseph the younger: I object. This is hearsay. Objection overruled. "Higbee commenced talking about the spiritual wife system. He said he had no doubt but some of the elders had ten or twelve apiece. They did it by recording it in a large book." -- See page 6. Will Gov. Ford come in? Yes, sir. Do you know anything. Think I do. What is it? "It was asserted" * * ; "that he [Joseph] had instituted an order in the Church whereby those who composed it were pretended to be sealed up to eternal life -- I object, says Joseph the younger, this man has no personal knowledge. Court: We are governed by the rules of the Municipal court of Nauvoo. Gov. Ford, proceed. "against all crimes, save the shedding of innocent blood, or consenting thereto. That this order was instructed that no blood was innocent blood except that of members of the church.["] -- Prophet, Feb. 8, 1845. Brother Brigham tell us what this is? A revelation. Who received it? Brother Joseph. Is there anything in it like Gov. Ford has stated [ 11 ] here and in his Message to the Illinois Legislature, if so, read it. "If a man marry a wife according to my word and they are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, according to mine appointment, and he or she shall commit any sin or transgression of the new and everlasting covenant whatever, and all manner of blasphemies, and if they commit no murder, wherein they shed innocent blood -- yet they shall come forth in the first resurrection, and enter into their exaltation." -- Celestial Revelation. Brigham, M. G. Eaton has made in his affidavit a statement about a book, is there any light thrown upon the book in this revelation? Read it, "And again, verily I say unto you, if a man marry a wife by my word, which is my law, and by the new and everlasting covenant, and it shall be sealed unto them. * then shall it be written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, that he shall commit no murder whereby to shed innocent blood," etc. Celestial Revelation. Gov. Ford, recalled: Do you know anything further of Joseph Smith and a revelation? "It was also believed" -- I object, says Joseph the younger. "It was also believed that Joseph Smith had announced a revelation from heaven sanctioning polygamy, by some kind of spiritual wife system, which I never could understand; but at any rate, whereby a man was allowed one wife in pursuance of the laws of the country and an indefinite number of others to be enjoyed in some mystical and spiritual mode; and that he himself, and many of his followers had practiced upon the precepts of this revelation by seducing many women. -- Prophet, Feb. 8. 1845. Joseph F. Smith, son of Hyrum: -- Do you believe this revelation to have been received by Joseph? I do. Does it say that Joseph practiced polygamy. It does. Read it. Joseph the younger: -- I object. We have proven this document by the word of Brigham and have shown from its contents that it was what we said it was. Brigham is charged with fraud in the matter, and we insist that it be admitted in evidence. In the year 1866 the plaintiff in this case alleged that a conspiracy had been entered into by the defendant and that this revelation was the result of that conspiracy, and threw the "burden" upon "those who assert that his father taught polygamy." The "burden of proof" has become a huge pile of documents. He has not attempted to show how, where and when that conspiracy was entered into, who were the three or more that so conspired, nor has he shown any specified date when that conspiracy was accomplished. The defendant in this case has alleged that the plaintiff’s "father taught polygamy," and practised it. Brigham is accused of uttering a forged revelation. We now throw the "[b]urden of proof" upon Joseph to show how, where and when the alleged conspiracy was concocted and entered into, and we insist that the proofs in the matter be not veiled or covered up. Joseph F. reads[:] "Let my handmaid Emma Smith, receive all those who have been given unto my servant Joseph." Do you know anything further? Yes, in the 60’s I obtained the affidavits of some who swore they were his wives, and others that were knowing to circumstances stated therein, and these were published in the Deseret News and never in full by the Reorganization. The President of the Reorganized [church] has asserted that "the Reorganized church has never affirmed nor denied a belief as to whether Joseph Smith did, or did not teach polygamy;" yet, in the face of this he has sat high upon his editorial throne and said: Thus far shalt thou come, but no farther; and thousands of gospel dollars have been spent to establish the "policy I, Joseph, affirmed" in 1866 -- and now, when forced to the wall its watchmen climb the tall tree and cry: "Hear ye, hear ye! It is not essential to the plan of salvation, whether Joseph Smith did, or did not so teach;" and all the people shout -- That’s so! The Nauvoo Neighbor had this to say in reply to Governor Ford: "To relieve the Governor’s mind we will say that the meaning of spiritual wife is to be married for eternity, instead of natural lifetime; and should a man or woman die after they have been married they have a legal right to get married again, and would they do it for eternity, especially a man, he must have spiritual wives."This is in harmony with the celestial revelation, [ 12 ] but being so [mildly] drawn served to deceive the public. In a leaflet, called "History of the Reorganization," Zenas H. Gurley, the younger, says: "In the year 1841 was revealed to the church the authority for baptizing for the dead, and it is stated upon good authority that its twin in birth (in the same year) was marrying for eternity." It matters not when the child of many names was born -- "Sealing for Eternity" was a belief in "Polygamy" in Heaven; polygamy in heaven esstablished the Simon-pure Polygamy doctrine on earth. At just what time the two became one is not within my province to say, but it must have been before July 12, 1843, and if Zenas H. Gurley be correct, then sometime between the dates given the "doctrines of devils" entered in -- and here we strike a clue; and then, J. C. Bennett; and then, Bro. Marks I have "wanted to talk with you upon the subject of polygamy for a long time." It is not true that the Udney Jacobs notice was the first personal notice of some new and strange marriage doctrine. The first of that character that I have discovered is to be found on page 2; and there the "devils" are called by name. "Shades" of Chauncy Higbee arise! This is not "Popery," Willard J. Smith, it is genuine, "Primitive Mormonism!" Zenas H. Gurley, "the Vision is clear" --
[ 13 ]
____________________________________ Reader, I have given you "the key" to the Mystery of Mormonism, to God be the praise, I have but done my duty to the world. On page 4 of this pamphlet I said: "there is not one printed line, to my knowledge, above the signature of Joseph Smith, printed during his lifetime, in which he taught the doctrine of ‘sealed wives,’ spiritual wives,’ or ‘polygamy.’" I know better now. I have "lingered with his chums" and have kept upon his trail and have tracked him down to the 16th of February, 1832. But I have found two "devils." -- Is there no further clue? -- Ah, the Book of Mormon! Nearly every faction of the Mormon church, while howling Polygamy at the Utah church, had run into the practice of fouler systems. Rigdon, James J. Strang, William Smith and Lyman Wight were found to be teaching and practicing polygamous doctrines. The Reorganized church is honestly opposed to any such doctrine. It not only repudiates that doctrine, but has thrown overboard the doctrine of a Plurality of Gods taught by the Prophet in his last sermon, known as the King Follet sermon, and also the Book of Abraham. The plurality of gods doctrine is part [ 14 ] of the polygamy doctrine. At the same time this church has permitted its leaders to squander its means in vain endeavor to fasten upon Brigham Young the sins of the other. THE PROMISES. "97. A patriarchal blessing on the head of Phebe Merrid, daughter of James and Lucy Oder, * by Hyram Smith, Patriarch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, Jan. 2, 1841, City of Nauvoo, Hancock Co, Ill. -- Beloved Sister" etc. * * * * "being a descendant of Abraham the promises which were obtained for his posterity shall rest upon you as a daughter of Abraham with faith and the principle of faith which was present with you and the blessings of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in their inheritance shall be SEALED upon your head and realized in common with your husband, children and kinsfolks inasmuch as the principle of faith which was according to faithful Abraham was present with you the Lord has inspired your heart with his spirit which spirit is confirmed on your head by promise and SEALED to wax stronger and stronger until the perfect day, the same shall manifest unto you the MYSTERY OF GOD and the spiritual gifts which is placed for the edifying of the body notwithstanding you have come to declining years yet you shall see many of the sacred things which are hidden which shall be REVEALED and by them many of the MYSTERIES OF GOD and because of your faith which is in God and your obedience to the everlasting .... gospel I will seal upon your head the HOLY SEAL OF PROMISE even THE COMFORTER which is the promise of Eternal life for a witness of the truth of the same joy shall spring up in your heart WHEN YOU SHALL READ THE SACRED WORDS doubt not fear not" * * * * "your name shall be perpetuated to your kinsfolks from generation to generation and your head shall be crowned with immortality and Eternal life Even so Amen We have seen the plot laid in the Book of Mormon; we have seen the Three Glories and Sons of God revealed to Joseph and Sidney, in Feb. 1832, and in Dec. 1832, we have seen another Comforter sent, even the HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE; we have seen PROMISES made by Hyrum, Jan. 2, 1841, and the blessings of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob sealed upon a daughter of Abraham; we have heard it declared Jan. 19, 1841 that "I deign to reveal" and, Hyrum, the Comforter "anointed." -- What next? The "hidden mysteries"! The "promises" given, they are ours -- See, they are in the Celestial Revelation! Go ye, therefore, and do the works of Abraham! One objection that has been frequently urged by the Reorganized elders against the Celestial Revelation is the claim made that it was never presented to the church for endorsement. This amounts to nothing in view of the fact that it has endorsed, or accepted other revelations that were not presented to the church under the Prophet. The revelation of Dec. 25, 1832, is not mentioned in Joseph’s History and was first published in 1851 by the Utah church. Joseph the younger has caused to be printed in what is called the "Inspired Translation of the Bible" a revelation beginning: "The words of God which he spake unto Moses" and it is hardly necessary for me to say that it has been altered from the original as first published in Joseph’s History. The Preface of that Bible is one evidence of this. The revelation was never embodied in the Book of Covenants until 1861 (unless it was done by the Utah church) and then Isaac Sheen printed it correct from Times and Seasons, only dividing it into more paragraphs. There is nothing to show that these two revelations were endorsed; for certainly they were not in the Book of Covenants; nor have they been endorsed in the form that the Kirtland B. of C. was received. In February, 1849, Isaac Sheen began the publication of a small paper devoted exclusively to "lineal rights" of the "Smith family." In June of that year a conference was held at Covington, Ky., and it was there resolved that they recognized the right of "young Joseph" to be the President of the church "whenever he should so claim". In the meantime, William Smith was to officiate. A combination with Lyman Wight was made and it was planned to go to Texas, but "the best laid plans of mice and men, gang aft aglee." Through the visit an[d] death of Otis Hobart it was learned that the "devil" was in Texas and that William was not above suspicion. Father laid a plan to entrap him, and succeeded in getting a polygamous letter from William, who was [ 15 ] then in Illinois. He immediately exposed "the Elijah of the last dispensation:" withdrew his name from the petition against the "State of Deseret" and pulled up the "Stake of Zion" in Covington. It is the old, old story -- William flourished the scalping knife and even "little Johnnie" got a slash; even now, looking into the future, I think I see a gleam. So be it. William’s wife, Polly [sic - Roxey Ann Grant?], came to Covington and the result was that she gave into father’s hands a lot of papers and books. He felt justified in keeping them. Two Patriarchal books, through Almon W. Babbitt, went to Utah; William’s Journal was given to him when he came to Plano, Ill., in 1878 to be regenerated, or whitewashed, by the Reorganization; "Mother Smith’s History" (in manuscript) was GIVEN by Uncle Almon to Orson Pratt, who had it published, and thereby hangs a tale. In the Deseret News, Aug. 23, 1865, B. Young and others send forth a proclamation against points of doctrine and things published by Orson Pratt. They give the history of Mother Smith’s manuscript and say: "It was purloined from Mother Smith and went into the hands of apostates and was purchased of them by Orson Pratt," and they ordered all copies of it destroyed. They claimed that it had been altered and Brigham cited once instance, i.e., the reference to William when he came out of Missouri. William had claimed that his blessing in Joseph’s History had been altered by Brigham and I believe William’s version was in Mother Smith’s History as published. I have not a copy and am not certain. At any rate, be it known that father assured me that it had not been altered or even read by him. He gave the manuscript to Almon W. Babbitt. The Reorganized are now publishing that book under the name of "Joseph Smith and his Progenitors," and this I have never seen. "THE ELDERS’ POCKET COMPANION" now arises like the Celestial Revelation, and ringing through days to come I think I hear the muttering murmer of the word -- F-R-A-U-D! It matters not -- GOD AND THE RIGHT! The manuscript under the title last named came (like the others) into my father’s keeping early in 1850 and has been preserved by him and myself to the present time. If Joseph is disposed to cry fraud I want to say right here that upon personal application I will give him a pointer that I perpetrate no fraud. As the manuscript covers 35 pages of fools-cap paper (2d page blank) I shall only print at this time the matter having a bearing on the polygamy questions. The title page shows the nature of the whole contents. The whole business is open for the investigation of any who is not blinded by the cry of "Persecution for Righteousness’ Sake!" To understand the Elder’s Pocket Companion it is necessary to compare it with the Benj. Winchester matter on pages 7 and 8 and also with the Celestial Revelation, which was not printed until two years and more after this important church document came into my father’s possession. On a High Priest’s seat in the Kirtland temple let it be recorded that it is written, in part -- "And the Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy things, till there stood up a priest with Urim and Thummim."
THE
Also,
The Power and authority of the Priesthood with the duties of Elders, Priests, Teachers and Deacons, Members
&c. -- Mode of Baptism, Manner of Administering the Sacrament -- Settling difficulties, &c. &c. with a
brief sketch of the faith, and rise of the Church of the Latter Day Saints.
Together
with a Short Biography of Joseph Smith Sr and his family -- Martyrdom of Joseph & Hyrum Smith, the Prophet
and Patriarch of the Church &c -- The whole designed to assist the Elders, Members &c
By W. SMITH, One of the twelve.
"A wise man seeketh after knowledge and findeth it" -- But a fool despiseth it. -- Mormon Scripture.
"Behold the former things are come to pass and new things do I declare[.] Before they spring forth I tell you of them[."] Isa xlii:9. Dear Brethren Greeting [ 16 ] As I am informed that Elder Grant is about to publish a Pamphlet touching the claims of Elder Rigdon [See Note below -- J. K. S.] and the twelve to the Presidency of the Church of Christ. And as it is expected, Great will be the mystery of ungodliness exposed by the Rigdonites on various plans and schemes devised by their own imagination. And as I profess to know some things, that the world does not; I shall endeavor to reason upon some that will I trust, be a benefit to all that is seeking after truth and knowledge. Jesus said unto his disciples, "Unto you is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom." But to them that were without he spoke in Parables, and so do we. I hold it a maxim, that I have as good a right to know the mysteries of the third heavens, as Paul, and if Paul saw and heard, things, ["]unlawful for men to utter," so have I. And Because men of meaner spirits do not, seek after, or aspire for the glory of the stars. Is that a reason, others should not seek to know the power and fullness, of their salvation in the celestial world? No man shall contract or chain my belief; the soul is free to act, like the bird uncaged, -- mantled with charity, which is the bond of perfectness, and peace, "believeth all things, and endureth all things." Free to roam where it pleases, in the midst of the Boundless fields of knowledge; until like Paul, it can comprehend, the height, and depth, of the eternal world; comprehend all mysteries, and upon this principle I stand Gods free man, Christ said "fear not them that can kill the body," but fear him that can (not will) destroy both soul and body in hell" Thus I am not bound by human creeds, or the fear of man. And to satisfy the inquiring mind I think it proper to address the saints, on some other points of doctrine, (altogether different from the one Elder Grant, has taken in hand, as no doubt, but he will do justice to the subject.) And this I do for the benefit of the church, that they may be saved, and conducted through the storm that is now gathering around them, and be protected from the ravening wolves, who are seeking to destroy the flock I ----- proper for me to state that since the great Mormon exposures By J. C. Bennett the ------- ------- ------ ------ wife system, has become so notorious in all the churches, and also in the world abroad, as a matter of public rumor, that situated as I have been, among different people, for the last two years, involved upon me has been the arduous task, of answering to the thousand and one questions asked concerning the subject above alluded to. And no doubt hundreds of persons may be brought to testify, that I have (from what will appear in the sequent) taught them plurality wife doctrine. This would not have been the case however had things been otherwise, with these men. Just at this present time A struggle is being made to divide the Church, destroy the twelve and make Elder Rigdon the Prophet and Head of the same. A right that belongs to the twelve who according to the Law of God legally hold that office: Hence to displace these men, it becomes needful to destroy their character, influence &c. by falsehoods[,] slander, or anything else, that will accomplish the object of those engaged in it. Therefore it is to be expected that doctrine will be most grossly misrepresented, and especially where it suits them to accomplish their base and wicked purposes in carrying out their [plan]. It could not be otherwise expected; in relation to many instances where questions of a singular character have been asked, if some things should be said to gratify, the most curious and inquisitive[.] Solomon said ["]answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit." These kind have got the desire of their heart and will perish in their own corruption. But so far from teaching what has been represented it is entirely in the reverse. And since some few of these men (Rigdonites) who appear the most conspicuous, and have taken it upon them to betray the most unlimited confidence according to their own statements if provided what they say is true. It will be seen in the course of my remarks what I have taught and said, both publicly and privately. And as my belief in doctrine is founded upon the Bible, and revelation, the word of God. Then let Judas’s betray and grumble, on, the Lord knows them that are his, and will prove the Just, he will never forsake them. And to this day, ------ ---- -----, I can say he has never forsaken me, neither has he forsaken the twelve, that has been called and chosen[.] But our enemies God will judge. When Jesus left the earth 1800 years ago the government fell upon the twelve, Peter, James and John presiding & Joseph our Prophet is gone, and God has given the twelve the keys of this last ministry, and their power still remains to bind on earth, and seal __________ NOTE. -- The Prophet of Dec. 28, 1844 says: "We have just received a small pamphlet from Elder Grant of Philadelphia, and for sale at this office at 15 cents per copy, bearing the title "Grant’s Rigdon." [ 17 ] in heaven. In the language of the Poet "Ye chosen twelve, to you are given, To seal matrimonial contracts, remission of sins by Baptism, and to Baptise the living for the dead, &c Christ gave this power to his disciples in former times and it remained with them and God has given this power to the twelve in these last times, and none can take it away. Then let the heathen rage and the people imagine vain things" The scriptures must be fulfilled[.] See Rev vii. 2 to 4. The servants of God must be sealed; and who is to do this work, the ministers God sends, and these must have Priesthood Power. These too, are to "come up through great tribulation["] (16v) This the Prophet Joseph, the twelve and others have done. We are also told in the sixth Chap of Rev. 10, 11 v that these will be persecuted unto death &c. Jer xvi. 16. Speaks of Fishers and hunters being sent to gather Israel &c. Christ said he would send his angels, to gather his elect from the four corners of the earth." Angels are sometimes servants; and servants angels, in scripture in many places, and these will have power to do the work of these last days, of the fulness of times to seal. Bind, gather, save on earth and heaven for time and also for eternity. Although some have already sealed their testimony with their blood, others would rob them of their glory, Despoil the Church of its Power, &c – ----the true servants of God, of their Priesthood, Oh! shame on such men, that would be guilty of such foul treachery, consummate ignorance and folly. Daniel said this kingdom the God of heaven should set up, "should break in pieces all other kingdoms and stand forever.["] And not be given to others ----- ------ With these remarks I shall content myself to proceed, and give my opinion, on the following subjects, under their respective heads, which are three peculiar doctrines in the Bible[.] First. The Doctrine of Baptism for the Dead. 2. The Spiritual Wife system (so-called) 3. Is the plurality of wives, a doctrine, as practised by the ancient Prophets and Patriarchs. First. Baptism for the Dead. Omitted. [Page 10.] Second. THE SPIRITUAL WIFE SYSTEM: SO CALLED.This doctrine is different from the one under the head of "plurality of wife doctrine." Yet it is plural, but not confined to the probationary state, but to the resurrected. "In that day says Isa iv. 1. Seven women shall take hold of one man, and say we will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel, only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach." It is evident this refers to the Millennium from what follows in the five following verses, otherwise it is a circumstance connected, with the preparatory work of the coming of Christ. We shall take the liberty however of applying it to the Millennium, as the above passage most unquestionably [sets] forth the order -- the glory and beauty of that day, when the earth shall bloom again as in the Garden of Eden redeemed from sin, and Zion shall be called holy, and all that remain in her and in Jerusalem &c. At this time all the wicked will be destroyed, and the saints will be few, and further in the Millennium the mortal saints who remain in the flesh, at the time of Christ’s coming, will multiply and replenish the earth[.] See Isa lxv. 20 to 25. And those born during the Millennium are the ones Satan is going forth to tempt and deceive after the Millennium. See Rev. xx. 7, 8. It will be then no doubt as it was in the days of old, a reproach for women not to generate, and bare [sic - bear?] children but it will be done without the pang, and sting of sin attendant now, Isa lxv. 23. This I give as my opinion, based upon the scriptures referred to. There is another point connected with the subject I wish to notice, i.e. all marriages solemnized in the ancient church was sealed by the Priesthood for time and eternity [C. Rev., par. 2.] Hence marriages out of the Church is [sic] not considered legal[.] "Be ye not unequally yoked with unbelievers[.]" Marriage is a sacred ordinance, and was always solemnized in the church by a man holding the Priesthood, And not as the custom is among the Gentiles, for time only, and not for eternity by Priesthood authority, but by Gentile Law, which makes this kind of marriage legal only so far as the laws of man are concerned, in the sight of men and not of God. [C. Rev., par. 2.] It is evident that to seal contracts for time and also for eternity [C. Rev., par. 2.] it would require the same power and authority that it would to baptise. This was the extent and power given to the ancient disciples, to bind on earth and seal in heaven. __________ NOTE. -- All italics are mine. Words underscored are so marked in copy. References to Celestial Revelation are mine. |
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