ENJOYMENT IN THE SOUTH—THE BLESSINGS OF A TEMPLE—NEED OF CHASTISEMENT—THE REDEMPTION OF THE EARTH—THE CHRISTIAN WORLD CONCERNED IN REGARD TO THE PRIESTHOOD—THOSE WHO PERSECUTE WILL BE VISITED—THE TEN VIRGINS—THE WISE WILL UNDERSTAND.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE, SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,APRIL 29, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I am thankful to my Heavenly Fa- joyed for many centuries, that we have ther for the privilege of meeting with you any knowledge of. We have been per- again and am happy to say that I am as mitted to enjoy privileges for the pos- well satisfied with my labors during the session of which we have been striving last six months as any of the labors of and laboring for many years. For al- my life. Here let me ask, are you, my most half a century we have been ex- brethren and sisters, satisfied with the erting ourselves that we might have the labors you have performed during the privilege of entering into a Temple of same length of time? This is a question God, there to officiate and receive the you will have to answer for yourselves to ordinances of his holy house, both for your own consciences. If you have done ourselves and for our friends that have well you will be blessed, and you will feel slept without the Gospel. This privilege satisfied; if you have suffered yourselves and blessing we have not enjoyed until to do that which is wrong towards your- within a very few months past. The feel- selves or towards any other person on ing experienced by those who have par- the earth, or to the providences of God, or ticipated in the blessings administered to our Heavenly Father, your consciences in the Temple is something which can- will judge you. not be described to your understanding. Those only who have shared with us in I am aware that you wish to the Temple ordinances know for them- hear something of our labors in the selves the satisfaction there is in realiz- South. I will say that we have had ing that we are indeed co-workers with a blessed time, such a time as no our Lord and Savior; that we bear a other people on the earth have en- humble part in the great work of sal- 2 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. vation; that we have the privilege of re- God. Still, when we view the great object ceiving and obeying the truth, and of se- of our life, our being here upon the earth, curing to ourselves that happiness which being brought here expressly to receive the Gospel alone affords; and not only that experience by which we can discover of performing these ordinances for our- between right and wrong, between good selves, but of doing the necessary work and evil, between light and darkness, for our parents and forefathers who have and obtain that experience that angels slept without the Gospel, that they may have, that the gods have, and that all partake also of the waters of life, and exalted beings have, and remember that be judged according to men in the flesh. we are put in possession of those prin- This is a privilege, a blessing, which no ciples that make us wise unto salvation, one can sense unless he is in possession that we should stoop to the sinful deeds of it. We are happy to know by our faith and sinful reflections that many do, is and feelings through the spirit of rev- marvelous and strange. When I think elation within us that our labors have of these things I am impressed with the been accepted of the Lord. We have en- great importance of this life and of ex- joyed ourselves exceedingly in the soci- ercising ourselves in the privileges that ety of each other; the aged, the middle- God has granted to us to prepare our aged and the youth have rejoiced and hearts through obedience to the Gospel been made glad in this glorious work. of the Son of God, for a high station, When I look upon the youth, our for a high exaltation in worlds to come, young brethren and sisters, who are such as we cannot receive whilst clothed more or less unacquainted with the great in this mortal tabernacle. But still, in principles of life and salvation, I wish this life we can receive little by little, that they could enjoy what a few of our and more and more, growing in grace young people did this past winter, their and in the knowledge of the truth, un- minds would be detached from the tri- til our minds are able to comprehend fles and follies of this weak world, and many of the great things of eternity; and they would be placed upon more sacred thus prepare our hearts, by overcom- things, upon the principles that are cal- ing sin and the weaknesses of humanity, culated to exalt them and ennoble every for that exaltation already awaiting the feeling and desire of the heart. righteous. The Latter-day Saints present a Sometimes I am so exercised that I strange spectacle to those that enjoy chastise the people very severely; but I the spirit of revelation. To see them will say to the Latter-day Saints that following after the spirit of this world I have no chastisement for any unless and gratifying the lust of the eye and they deserve it, and if I myself am of the mind, like the rest of mankind found guilty of the same wrongs, I re- who have never enjoyed the spirit of ceive to myself a portion of the rebuke the Gospel of life and salvation; and which I give to others. But my feel- yet not so very strange when we re- ings are very acute; what I see and alize the power of the enemy and hear ofttimes causes me sorrow and won- the thousands of snares which he lays der, and I feel to exclaim, "O Lord, for the feet of the unwary, to draw have mercy upon us, thy people!" How the people astray from the things of easy it is for us to forget the Lord ENJOYMENT IN THE SOUTH, ETC. 3 who atoned for us, and to depart from before entering into the millennium of his ways, giving way to the false influ- rest, when wickedness will be taken ences that are continually prompting our away from the earth? Then the Latter- minds to lust after the things of this day Saints will be able to go forth with- world in their corrupt condition. All this out being persecuted by their enemies, is strange to the mind opened to see and and opposed on every hand by the al- understand the things of God and the luring spirits that are constantly tempt- things of eternity as they are. If we pos- ing them away from the things of God to sessed that power, that influence over follow after the things of a fallen world. ourselves, a proper portion of that sta- Then the Saints will enjoy the privi- bility that belongs to the heavens, when lege of building their Temples unmo- we once embraced the truth there would lested, redeem their friends, and make be no necessity for our being chastened, ready for the time when the nations shall no necessity for our being called upon to come up to the presence of God the Fa- refrain from this or that wrong; but the ther, to be judged according to the deeds weakness of the flesh is so great that we done in the flesh. There are a few of need continually the influence of our Fa- the brethren and sisters who understand ther through our Lord and Savior Jesus things as they are, and who are ready Christ, to hold us to the truth, in order and willing to devote their time and their that we may not fall away therefrom and means for the salvation of the human finally wander into the darkness of the family. If there are any hearts or spir- world, forsaking God and the faith we its in this city, or elsewhere, that are have embraced. fearfully wondering whether or not we are going to be destroyed, or whether It is astonishing that men should do this Church will endure and become the so when we consider things as they are, mighty power in the earth, according to and witness the continued love and kind- the predictions of the servants of God, I ness of our Heavenly Father, in again will say to all such trembling souls, You speaking from the heavens, revealing need entertain no such fears. You need himself and his everlasting Gospel to the have only one fear, and that is with re- children of men, as well as the ordi- gard to yourselves, lest you should leave nances, laws, rules and regulations of his the light that the Lord has imparted House which affect the salvation of both to you and wander into darkness, re- the living and the dead. turning to the beggarly elements of the How is it with my brethren and sis- world, lusting again after the things of ters here? Are they awake to the things the world in their sinful state. The earth of God? If they are we shall have no is the Lord's and the fullness thereof; need of calling upon them from day to even the very things which we are so day, from week to week. Brethren, will tempted to covet, through lustful de- you put forth your hands and rear these sires, in and of themselves are pure and Temples, these buildings wherein we can holy, for they are the Lord's; but we enter and officiate for ourselves and our wish to possess them unrighteously and progenitors, preparatory to the coming not according to the will of God. This of the Son of Man, which coming draws is the sin which is upon man. Every- near? Will we build up the Zion of God thing which we see and which pertains 4 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to this little earth, belongs to the Lord, are engaged, and were it not for the con- and the whole of it will be given to fident assurance that we have of success- his Saints and they will enjoy it forever fully accomplishing it, I would tremble, and ever. But at present the earth is and fear might enter my heart. groaning under sin in consequence of the wickedness of the children of men, and Why is the whole Christian world it is longing to be delivered, as are the concerned about your humble servant? Saints that have slept, whom the Apos- They say Brigham Young is not fit to live, tle John saw and heard, when he was an that he ought not to be allowed to remain exile on the Isle of Patmos. When will upon the earth. Would they remove him the earth be redeemed, when will Jesus if they had the power to? Yes, many who come to receive the Church as a bride, call themselves Christians would join in when will he come to reign King of na- the act, and many others would consent tions as he now reigns King of Saints, to his death! Not the highminded and when will he banish wickedness from the honorable of the earth, and those who earth, and when will the Saints have serve God and his Christ; but the bigot, power to overcome sin? When we learn the hypocrite, the wicked and the un- to sanctify the Lord God in our hearts. godly would. Why? Simply because they As fast as we learn to conform our indi- represent their master, the devil, who is vidual wills to his will, overcoming sin carrying on a warfare with the heavens, within ourselves, will we have power to and their hearts are opposed to God and subdue sin in those that surround us, to all that represent him. This conflict and in this way the whole earth will be always has been, and will be until the redeemed from wickedness. The curse winding up scene. If I had to depend which has been brought upon the earth upon my own wisdom and power, in con- through the Fall will be removed through nection with that of my fellow laborers, the faith and virtues of the Saints. When I might well tremble and fear. But I de- we become sanctified in the truth, and pend not upon human wisdom or human our faith, through the Gospel of the power. I occupy the position that God Son of God, becomes sufficiently pow- our Heavenly Father has placed me in, erful we will be able to remove the and while I exercise myself in the du- thorns and thistles and obnoxious weeds ties that he has committed to me, seek- that grow immediately around us, and ing to build up his kingdom and estab- to bless and sanctify our gardens and lish righteousness upon the earth, hold- farms, so that they will bring forth ing the dominion for him and for the fam- spontaneously the fruits and flowers, ily of Christ, I tremble not, I fear not, the cereals and vegetables that sustain neither do I care for the insults of the life; and upon this principle as righ- world, for the Lord is my bulwark, my teousness extends will the whole earth shield and my deliverer. But have not eventually be redeemed and sanctified, some of the wicked succeeded in remov- when all things will be as they were in ing others from the earth? Yes, they the beginning, when the Lord finished killed Joseph and Hyrum Smith, while the earth and pronounced everything to under the pledged faith of the State of be "very good." This is the nature of Illinois; and at Haun's Mill, Missouri, the great latter-day work in which we they massacred about eighteen of our ENJOYMENT IN THE SOUTH, ETC. 5 brethren and sisters, innocent men, rest, where they are free from the in- women and children, without the first fluence and power of sinful and wicked cause or provocation; and furthermore, men. But how different with the wicked the perpetrators of these and other mur- and ungodly! When they die their suf- ders were never brought to justice; in ferings which cannot be described, only fact, the press of the nation advocated commence. But have we received enough the destruction of "Mormonism," and on to understand that the wicked are a rod the death of the leaders of our Church, in the hands of God to chasten his chil- all the consolation that public opinion af- dren? If you do not, it is time that you forded their bereaved families, as well as had learned it, for it is even so; and if we the members of the Church, over which are chastened, it is for a purpose, prob- they presided, was that that would put ably to bring us to a sense of our duty, an end to "Mormonism." But will the that we may know the hand-dealing of Lord overlook and forget such crimes? the Lord towards us. But were we ever No, for the blood of the innocent is con- destroyed? No, neither will God permit tinually crying unto him for vengeance, us to be, so long as we are desirous of be- which he will administer in his own due ing his servants, and of doing the work time. He has already vexed this nation given us to do. Although it was neces- and given the people time to pause and sary that Jesus should suffer on the cross consider their conduct; and if they repent for the sins of the world, still it might not by turning from their corruptions be said of those who took an active part and wickedness, he has only to say to the in the deed, as well as those who con- innocent, and to the Latter-day Saints, sented to it in their hearts, "Woe unto "Wait a little, wait a little, and their cup them by whom this offense came." Many will be full to overflowing." I have said to of the Prophets have sealed their testi- my brethren and sisters, and I say it now, mony with their blood, that their testa- Go to Jackson County, and to Caldwell ment might go forth with force and not County, where the lives of Latter-day return void. As in ancient days, so in Saints have been taken and from where modern days. When Joseph Smith sealed they have been driven; go to the region of his testimony with his blood, his testa- Haun's Mill, where so many were mas- ment, from that moment was in force to sacred because they had come up to the all the world; and woe to those who fight western part of Missouri, and it was said against it. What will we do to them? they were "Mormons," and you will find Nothing at all, but preach the Gospel. that we, in all our persecutions, have They may lie about us as they please. not suffered so much as the characters If we will faithfully mind our own con- who executed judgment upon the inno- cerns, live our religion, do good to all cent. If I were asked today if we as a peo- men, preach the Gospel to the nations of ple had suffered persecution, I would say, the earth, gather up the honest in heart, "No, nothing worth mentioning." This build up and establish Zion in the earth, has ever been the case with the righ- send the Gospel to the House of Israel, teous, and it ever will be. For when their and live and serve God in all things, all lives are taken for the Gospel's sake, will be well with us, we have no cause they go to the Father, to the paradise of for fear in the least. When the Lord deems it necessary that his servants 6 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. should seal their testimony with their It is a source of mortification to know blood, in order that his word may be that men and women who have been in strengthened and of greater force in the this Church from twenty to forty years earth, so let it be; they are received should still be so prone to the weak- into the arms of Jehovah, they rejoice nesses of the flesh. What do I see? If in the society of those who are waiting I do not witness it with my own eyes, I patiently until the trump shall sound, hear of it through those who do—men, when the sleeping nations shall awake ofttimes of long standing in the Church, and their bodies come forth to be re- drink a little, they swear a little, smoke united with their spirits, and the faith- or chew a little, and indulge their ap- ful enter into a fullness of his glory. With petites in those things which the Lord them all is well, all is right. has warned us against, and which he has But do we live our religion? The only said are not good for man. They, too, can fear I have is that we are not as faith- spend their time wandering about these ful as we should be. We give way to pas- mountains hunting for gold and silver, sion, we yield to temptation; whereas, they can mingle and associate with those we ought to live so that the Lord can whose lives are records of vice and im- strengthen the position of his people and morality, and who are ready to oppose multiply the righteous, how fast and to God and traduce the character of his ser- what degree is not for me to say. But if vants. Can Saints of God, Elders in the Latter-day Saints were as righteous Israel, who are exercised by the power and as holy as we are capable of being and spirit of their holy calling, who have by reducing to practice the doctrine we within them the gift of eternal life, can have received, I am sure that the Lord they be guilty of such things and stand could hasten his work, and he would cut approved before God? No, they cannot; it short in righteousness, it would be con- and I say, shame upon such men, they summated much quicker than he can in are a disgrace to themselves, and their our present condition. The acts and con- actions are a disgrace to the name of dition of the people here on the earth Saint. It is a disgrace, too, to the sis- must be considered, the same is held in ters, as well as the brethren, who thirst remembrance before the throne of God, after the vain fashions and foolish prac- for he requires of his people to act with tices of the world. Cease to pattern af- him in all things pertaining to the build- ter those who know not God. How would ing up of his kingdom upon the earth. such conduct compare with the conversa- But his grace is always ready, his Spirit tion and deportment of the angels whom is always waiting, and the light that Je- we expect to meet? Would they want to sus brought into the world is always with adopt the practices and fashions of the the people, teaching them the right from wicked world? No, they have higher aims the wrong. He is the light of the world and holier aspirations, they live above that lighteth every man that cometh vanity; so should the Latter-day Saints. into the world, and if the whisperings Our hearts should be pure, entertaining of his Spirit and its dictates were hear- such things only as are comely, chaste kened to and obeyed, all men everywhere and praiseworthy before him. This is the would grow in the truth, much faster course of life that he expects of us. than we Latter-day Saints are doing. I have a great many reflections, ENJOYMENT IN THE SOUTH, ETC. 7 especially when alone, I converse with well prepared is a matter that belongs myself upon these eternal things, things solely to him, and he can do just as he which the frivolous, the vain, and those pleases about it. I want to have oil in my who are engaged only with the things of vessel, so that in case I should, in con- this world, never think of. With regard to sequence of the weakness of the flesh, the society of heaven, their conversation slumber a little, on arising my lamp and deportment, consider the magnitude would be trimmed ready to burn. This and greatness of the character of holy be- is doubtless your desire. Then live for it; ings, contemplate the expanse of eternity mingle not your voices with the wicked, and the life that is before us, and then seek not after the delusive things of this how insignificant appears this world as world in their present state. But is not it now is! Still, in our humanity, in our the Lord going to give the earth and the fallen condition, that divine influence is riches thereof to his Saints? Yes, that more or less with us, and if we would is the promise, and he has spoken it by preserve ourselves to dwell with the holy the mouth of many of his Prophets. But ones of heaven and have joy in our being, when will this inheritance pass into the we must faithfully adhere to and practice hands of his people? When we shall have the principles of eternal life, and in doing sanctified the Lord in our hearts, sancti- so, he will add for our comfort and enjoy- fied our bodies and spirits in the truth, ment all things necessary pertaining to and we become pure and holy, free from this life. selfishness and from every sin; and un- Fear not with regard to the success til we shall have reached this state of of this Church and kingdom. Rather perfection, we never need expect these fear you should not be counted wor- things committed to our care, for he will thy to be numbered among the sancti- not do it. When the judgment is given fied when Jesus comes to make up his to the Saints, it will be because of their jewels; rather fear lest you should be righteousness, because they will judge found in the condition of the five fool- even as the angels and as the Gods, and ish virgins whose lamps had gone out not as the wicked do at the present time, and who were unprepared to meet the who care not for God nor for justice, bridegroom because they had no oil. Re- who care not for truth nor mercy, love member, Latter-day Saints, there were nor kindness, who judge according to the five wise and five foolish, an equal divi- wickedness of their hearts. I am very sion, and yet they were all virgins. The thankful that it is not our province, in application is a just one and has a di- our present condition, to judge the world; rect bearing on us, as Latter-day Saints. if it were, we would ruin everything. We The wise among us will take heed, will have not sufficient wisdom, our minds hearken to the instructions and counsels are not filled with the knowledge and of the servants of God, will pattern af- power of God; the spirit needs to con- ter Christ, and thirst after the things tend with the flesh a little more until it of God, and our lamps will be trimmed shall be successful in subduing its pas- and burning, and we will be prepared sions, until the whole soul is brought into to meet the bridegroom when he comes, perfect harmony with the mind and will and they that are ready will enter in of God. And we must also acquire the with him to the marriage; and whether or not the door be shut upon those not so 8 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. discretion that God exercises in being that which is committed to our charge, able to look into futurity, and to ascer- and using it for the benefit of ourselves tain and know the results of our acts and others, which I will tell you on some away in the future, even in eternity, be- future occasion. fore we will be capable of judging. Let us live so that we shall be ready On the second Saturday and Sunday for any dispensation of providence. It in May, the 12th and 13th, we will hold a is said He will come as a thief in the two days' meeting here, or, if you choose night. We had better be on the watch- to call it so, a District Conference of this tower, waiting in readiness for him, than Stake of Zion, to which you, and as many to be putting off the time, for peradven- as can make it, convenient to attend, ture we might put it off until it is too late. are invited. If you will come with clean I have something to say to the hands and pure hearts, full of faith, so Latter-day Saints about their tem- that the Lord can pour out his spirit poral affairs, how we should live upon us, we will have a time of rejoicing. temporally, taking proper care of God bless you. Amen.
REVELATION GRADUAL—HYRUM SMITH'S EXPERIENCE—THE LORD HAS NOT SHUT DOWN THE GATES OF REVELATION—THE CHURCH ORGANIZATION NOT PERFECTED AT ONCE—THE ESTABLISHMENT OF ZION—BUILDING TEMPLES—THEIR STYLE AND CHARACTER PROGRESSIVE—DILIGENCE WILL SECURE THE BLESSING.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDATA SPECIAL CONFERENCE, AT LOGAN, ON SUNDAY MORNING,MAY 20TH, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I will read a few items from scripture tain the more part of the things which spoken by Mormon, which will be found he taught the people. And these things on the 484th page of the Book of Mor- have I written, which are a lesser part mon, European edition— of the things which he taught the peo- "And now there cannot be writ- ple; and I have written them to the in- ten in this book even a hundredth tent that they may be brought again part of the things which Jesus did unto this people, from the Gentiles, truly teach unto the people; But be- according to the words which Jesus hold the plates of Nephi do con- REVELATION GRADUAL, ETC. 9 hath spoken. And when they shall on his part, that the people should be- have received this, which is expedient come very intelligent in regard to every- that they should have first, to try their thing pertaining to their future welfare. faith, and if it so be that they shall be- He is willing that they should know more lieve these things then shall the greater concerning himself, his attributes and things be manifest unto them. And if their own, to learn concerning the glories it so be that they will not believe these of his kingdom and the mysteries thereof things, then shall the greater things be and everything that would be essential withheld from them, unto their condem- for their comfort and happiness in this nation. Behold, I was about to write world. This the Lord is willing to do them, all which were engraved upon the in behalf of his children. But he knows plates of Nephi, but the Lord forbade it, far better than we do, what the people saying: I will try the faith of my people. are prepared to receive, and what they Therefore I, Mormon, do write the things are not prepared to receive; and we can which have been commanded me of the see this illustrated by the words which I Lord." have read. Mormon informs us that he The reason why I have read these was about to write all the things which words is to show to the people more fully, Jesus had taught, but the Lord expressly or to impress upon their minds the way forbade it, and the reason, as given to and manner in which the Lord deals Mormon for not permitting this was, that with his people. It is within his power, he intended to try the faith of his people if he see proper to do so, to pour out in the latter days, and of whom he said upon the people a vast amount of knowl- that if they would believe these things edge all at once, that their minds may and hearken, then should the greater be completely surfeited with the abun- things be made manifest to them; but if, dance of the knowledge communicated on the other hand, they should not be- to them. But the Lord has not seen lieve these few things, then should the proper to thus deal with the Latter-day greater things be withheld from them, to Saints. He has another object in view their condemnation. than this. He intends to instruct them little by little, here a little when it is This reminds me of a certain say- needed, and there a little when it is ing, given in 1829, before the rise of needed; giving them a line upon this sub- this Church. Hyrum Smith had left ject when it is necessary, and there a his home in Manchester, N.Y., and had line upon another subject, leading them gone down to Susquehanna, Penn., about along, step by step, just as a wise, care- a hundred miles, to visit his brother ful parent would his little children, un- Joseph, the Prophet, who was then in til they become instructed in every prin- the act of translating the Book of Mor- ciple that would be for their good. It mon. When Hyrum arrived he felt is not because the Lord is not willing very anxious to know about his calling that his intelligent children should en- and ministry—whether he could not go joy this greater amount of knowledge; forth to preach these glorious things. it is not because he does not desire It would be very natural for a per- the human family to placed in posses- son to feel very anxious about this, for sion of all the wisdom that their hearts the things contained in the manuscript, are prepared to receive. He is willing, so far as he had become acquainted 10 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. with them, were so glorious, that he of his spirit continually; we then received wished everybody to know about them. record after record, book after book, etc." As will be found on page 98 Doctrine and The reason is clearly defined here; the Covenants, the Lord told Hyrum not to Lord, in his own time, will fulfill and ac- be in a hurry. In other words, the Lord complish his purposes, and he was de- had his own time to ordain to the min- termined, not only in these days, but he istry, his own time to send forth mis- had the same determinations some fif- sionaries among the people. "Don't you teen centuries ago, when he talked with be in a hurry in this matter." But said Mormon the Prophet, that a people who the Lord to him, "I will tell you what should live on the earth in the last days, you may do; you should study my word should have just about so much infor- which has gone forth among the chil- mation, and no more, as far as sacred dren of men, and also that which shall records and books are concerned. Do not come forth, even that which is now be- misunderstand me by this expression, ing translated." "Seek first to obtain my and carry it to the other extreme, and word, then shall your tongue be loosed; say, that God determines to give about then, if you desire, you shall have my so much, and then shut down the gate Spirit, which shall enable you to con- and give no revelation at all. But he vince men of the truth." Another lesson intended, so far as the great principles to be learned from this is, that Hyrum, of the Gospel are concerned, the funda- instead of being in a great hurry in this mental principles of salvation, that we matter, was required to store up the should have the Bible and the Book of word of God in his mind, to be thoroughly Mormon. Then he determined, still fur- acquainted with the Jewish record, as ther, that there should be a sufficiency well as that which was then being trans- given from year to year, during the life- lated, until he had obtained all that the time of the Prophet Joseph, to know how Lord should grant to the children of men to properly organize the Church. These in the generation that was then living— further revelations were published in the 1829. We may learn that the Lord did Doctrine and Covenants. These having intend to give only about so much to the been given as a pattern, for the com- generation then living. mencement of the organization, the Lord A great many have supposed that has seen proper to withhold, for the there must be a great lack on the part time being, the giving of additional sa- of the Latter-day Saints, because spir- cred records, that the Saints might show itual knowledge is not all the time their faith. "I will try the faith of my being poured down from heaven, like people, I will see whether they will be a flood in their midst; some become obedient to my commandments, and the doubtful and feel to murmur and com- laws which I have revealed to them. If plain one to another, carrying the idea they will be faithful—if they will prac- among the people that God has for- tice upon that which I have given, then saken Zion, that God has, in a mea- shall the greater things be made man- sure, withdrawn his spirit from us: say- ifest to them. But if they will not do ing, "Where are the revelations such this, they shall be withheld from them, as were given in the days of Joseph? to their condemnation." The Lord then poured out upon us REVELATION GRADUAL, ETC. 11
There will be a point, in the history as to the rest of us. And nothing but the of this people, when they will be counted Spirit of the living God, the inspirations worthy to receive all that knowledge and of the Holy Ghost, could have enabled intelligence which the Lord has held in him to do what he has done, and to direct reserve for them, from before the foun- all this people throughout this Territory, dation of the world. Such is the glori- in regard to their settlements, not only ous destiny of this people, to be realized here, but wherever the Latter-day Saints in due time. But our present work is to have been located. Consequently, you comply with that which God has already perceive that God has not forsaken us, given, and which he may hereafter give, the spirit of revelation has been with us. through the living oracles that he has But then it has not been wisdom in God, placed within our midst. that all this revelation should be writ- ten and published; because many things Now the Lord has not shut down the the servants of God are inspired to do gate; he has not closed up the spirit of under one set of circumstances, would inspiration, as all these people are wit- not be required of them, under a new nesses. What man, unless he had been condition of circumstances; hence, such under the spirit of inspiration, and the revelations would not become a stand- wisdom that comes down from heaven, ing law for all future time. For instance, could have led forth this people from in order to form new settlements, the the midst of the wicked, and established circumstances are very different from them here in this mountain desert, and what they are after you have enlarged created the wonders we now behold? No your settlements and become numerous man, however great might be his nat- in population, and other duties become ural wisdom and ability, could have ac- necessary. Consequently the Lord has complished a work of this nature, unless imparted a little here, and a little there, aided by direct revelation. The Spirit of and instructed and counseled the peo- the living God, from the time of the death ple, through his servants, what should of Joseph to the present, has rested upon be done in the incipient stages, or in the President B. Young, urging him forward, forming of settlements, in this mountain first to organize the people and lead region. them forth from the midst of their en- In the midst of all this continuous or- emies, and, second, to establish them ganization that has been going on, ever here in these mountains. He had not since the rise of the Church, it is not to the experience, beforehand, to do this; he be wondered at, that many things have had never lived in a country where the been left apparently at loose ends, for people were accustomed to irrigate their the time being, in order that the people farms; he had never lived in a country might prove themselves. Men have been where the people necessarily were com- sent, year after year, to form new set- pelled to live compactly together, as we tlements, and to do this kind of work, have to do here. But he had been ac- and that kind, without being specially customed to live in a country where the ordained to accomplish those particu- people spread abroad wherever they took lar duties. What for? To see whether a notion to; consequently it was just as they would manifest that the Spirit of new to him, when entering these valleys, the living God was with them, and 12 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. that they were worthy of ordination; and used their stewardship to the glory of if so, then afterwards they should be God. ordained and set apart, as Bishops, as Brother Erastus Snow spoke to us presidents of Stakes, etc. But one may very plainly, last evening, in relation inquire, "Why not perfect these organi- to all the officers, from the commence- zations at once?" Because there is a day ment of the Church down to the present of calling, which is distinct from a day time. When we have done all we can of choosing. And when the Lord has do, towards organizing as far as possi- called his servants and appointed them ble, according to the written law of God, to perform a certain work, if they man- as given to us in our weakness, have ifest a willingness, on their part, to ex- we completed the organization? By no ercise the wisdom that comes from God, means. The organization is only perfect in the performance of their duties, then as far as the people are prepared to re- perhaps the day of choosing may come, ceive it, and no further. To say that and they be set apart and ordained, ac- there will be a stated time, in the his- cording to the law contained in the Book tory of this Church, during its imperfec- of Covenants. It means, at this present tions and weakness, when the organiza- stage of the work, having toiled now tion will be perfect, and that there will about thirty years in these mountains, be no further extension or addition to the that the Lord is about to "right up" the organization, would be a mistake. Orga- people; and he has inspired him who pre- nization is to go on, step after step, from sides over us, to organize us more fully. one degree to another, just as the people Let those be chosen who have fulfilled increase and grow in the knowledge of their appointments in faithfulness; let the principles and laws of the kingdom them be ordained, and have their coun- of God, and as their borders shall ex- selors; let them act now in a higher tend. For instance, to illustrate my ideas sphere, with more power, because they more fully upon this point. We read, in have proven themselves faithful over a the Scriptures of truth, concerning the few things, therefore let them be made latter-day Zion; we read that Zion is to rulers over many things. This is after become a great people, "a small one to the order of heaven; this is after the or- become a strong nation." We also read der of that judgment that will be more that out of Zion shall go forth the law. fully carried out in the great day of the We also read that Zion is to become so Lord. Things will pass along here in glorious, in times to come, that the na- time, as a pattern of things in regard tions that are afar will say to one an- to his future kingdom. They will pass other, "Surely Zion is the city of our God, along for years, until, by and by, in the for the Lord is there; his power is there, great judgment day, these persons will his glory is there," etc. Now if there be have gained an experience and knowl- a time, in the history of the latter-day edge that will qualify them to act ef- Zion, that the power of God will be made ficiently in the duties and callings to manifest in their midst, so as to stir up which they have been called; and they the nations afar off, causing them to ex- will act, not as those who are igno- claim that Zion is truly the City of God; rant, but as men who have had a prac- her laws are divine; let us become sub- tical experience, year after year, having ject to her laws; do you suppose that REVELATION GRADUAL, ETC. 13 we, with our present organization, af- pointed to by the Prophet Daniel, who ter perfecting it as much as we can ex- says, that he saw in a night vision, and pect to, could be ready and prepared to beheld until the Ancient of Days came; send forth laws to foreign nations for and he describes his great and glorious their government? No. There would appearance: his face was like a flaming then be persons ordained and set apart fire, and the hair of his head was white for various purposes, not to bestow any as wool; his chariots were like unto char- new Priesthood, for it is all included in iots of fire, and thousand thousands min- the everlasting and eternal Priesthood, istered unto him and ten thousand times after the order of the Son of God; but ten thousand stood before him; and the to set apart persons already holding the books were opened. And many things are Priesthood in the great organization; to to be accomplished when this great gen- receive divine laws; or, in other words, eral assembly of immortal beings come to regulate the nations, according to the from heaven, communicating with those laws of Zion; that they may understand who are mortal here upon the earth. In her laws, and know what the divine gov- other words, every man in that immortal ernment is, by which they are to be host, among those that shall come down governed; in other words, ministers or from heaven, and every man among the plenipotentiaries are to be sent forth to mortal host will understand his place transact business among all nations and and calling in this great, grand organi- peoples who willingly shall become sub- zation of the Ancient of Days; and you ject to the laws of Zion. As to the re- will find no unbroken links there. The bellious nations, there will be none left Ancient of Days is the father of all; he alive. As it is written, "that nation or is our first progenitor, and when he shall kingdom that will not serve thee shall reveal himself, to set in order all of his perish." "Those nations shall be utterly righteous sons and daughters, he will wasted away;" consequently, the nations not forget those who have already passed left, who are not totally destroyed will through former dispensations. Every be anxious to be governed by the laws dispensation will be connected; and the of Zion. Hence there will be an organi- last dispensation of the fullness of times zation before the winding-up scene that will have given to them the keys and will control the nations politically, giving powers, knowledge, and understanding, them the privilege of remaining in their and revelations to know how to weld ev- own land if they choose to do so, but sub- ery link, in order that the entire chain ject to the laws of Zion. may be completed and made perfect. I will not, however, confine the fu- ture organizations of the Church of God Moreover let us now come back to to the political matters of the nations. the living. We are commanded to build There is to be a more perfect organi- Temples? Why? What is the great ob- zation between the living and the dead ject of building Temples in this dispensa- of all former dispensations, which or- tion? It is to effect the accomplishment of ganization is just as necessary as that the very work I have hinted at; the very which exists among the living, on this work of organization that must be com- side of the grave. This organization will pleted, by the time the Ancient of Days be fully completed, at a certain period, shall come; the very work that must 14 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. be introduced, that the children may be reveal to them little by little; I will give more perfectly connected with the fa- them line upon line; I will impart a lit- thers of all the former dispensations; and tle light upon this subject and upon the that the Saints of all former dispensa- other subject: and if my people shall in- tions may understand the work that is quire of me, in relation to these things, being done by their children on their be- then I will teach them still more, giving half, so that when the heavens shall re- them another line and another precept, veal them, they will find things ready I will issue forth another commandment; to receive them. Before that time, I but if they do not inquire of me, and their have no doubt, the generation will have hearts be found full of covetousness, and passed away that were living in 1829; they feel in their hearts to slight these but all things will be added to those reve- things which I have given to them, then lations that the Lord gave to that gener- I will withhold the greater information; ation, namely, the records of the ancient I will not let them know the law which I Nephites; they existed in great numbers gave to the ancient Nephites; I will with- and are of great importance, records kept hold many things calculated to benefit by their Kings, records of the history of them, until they learn the things that the Nephites for over a thousand years, they are already taught. But when they records of their proceedings and of the become obedient students, obedient men things that God had revealed to them, and women of God, obedient to my com- records that were secret, and not permit- mandments, hearkening to the voice of ted to come forth in the days of weak- my servants, giving heed to the whisper- ness, records that revealed all things ings of my spirit, doing away with cov- from the foundation of the world to the etousness, then I will reveal more; I will end thereof, records that were kept when introduce more and more of the princi- Jesus administered to the Nephites, the ples of the United Order, necessary to ninety-ninth part of which was not writ- govern the people, and to prepare them ten by Mormon, all of which are to come for the great day of the Lord, which is to forth. What for? To teach the Latter- come." day Saints how to organize, how to be In the beginning of the dispensa- prepared for the things that are com- tion it is necessary that there should ing. Then we will know something about be chosen vessels, raised up on pur- what is termed the United Order, when pose to bear witness of the things of we get hold of these records of the expe- God, to lay the foundation, and to es- rience of the Nephites for 165 years in tablish the Gospel in the earth. To the Order; the experience of the people do this, it is necessary that these wit- of this great western hemisphere, from nesses, though inexperienced, should re- the northern to the southern extremity; ceive revelations and administration of they will have left some records of their angels, that they may testify, that there acts and doings that cannot fail to be of may be sufficient evidence, or sufficient great worth to the people of these latter number of witnesses sent forth, that times. the Lord may be justified, in the great But first, says the Lord, "I will day of judgment, in judging the peo- try my people; I will perfect them; ple. But how dangerous it is for peo- I will see whether they will be obe- ple to see heavenly visions, and receive dient to my commandments; I will the ministration of angels in their igno- REVELATION GRADUAL, ETC. 15 rance. How dangerous for people in their plates, also telling him that he would re- ignorance to obey the Gospel! Yet shall turn one year afterwards, when he would we say that they shall not obey it, be- give him further instruction. Why this cause they are very ignorant? No. Let delay? Why not commit to his charge them step forth with all their hearts and the plates at once? It was because of obey the Gospel, that they may be put his want of experience. It is true, he in possession of the Holy Ghost; then if had previously received a heavenly vi- they will seek to cultivate their minds, sion some four years before, in which he cherishing that Spirit in their hearts and had seen the face of God, the Father. But developing every principle of righteous- he lacked all other qualifications; he was ness, and doing away every iniquitous left more or less to himself, and the an- practice, they shall receive more and gel was determined to impart to him ex- more of the Holy Spirit, with its gifts. perience, year after year, for the space So in regard to these heavenly manifes- of four years; during which, whenever tations. Joseph needed chastisement he received In the year 1829, Oliver Cowdery, it at the appointed time; his failings were David Whitmer, and Martin Harris were corrected; he was shown wherever he chosen as witnesses to behold the angel had erred; and he was taught what to of God; to behold the plates in the hands do: he was instructed little by little, until of the angel; to gaze upon the ancient he learned, by practice, to do the will of engravings, and to hear the voice of the God. Then the sacred records were com- Lord, at the same time, proclaiming to mitted to him; but not so with the three them, that the plates had been trans- witnesses referred to, and hence they lated correctly, and commanding them to kept not the holy commandments as they bear record of the same to all peoples, ought to have done. They had too much nations and tongues, to whom the work knowledge for their limited experience. should be sent. You recollect what the Lord has said Now this was truly a great manifes- upon this subject—Where much is given, tation. But who was Oliver Cowdery? much is required; and where but little is Who was David Whitmer? Who was Mar- given, but little is required. Much was tin Harris? Poor, weak, frail men; two given to these three witnesses, and much of them quite young, one of middle age. was required at their hands. Hence a They had but very little experience; they sin that they might commit would throw knew nothing about the arrangement of them into tenfold more darkness than the organization of the Priesthood, as we any man who had never seen so great now know; they had no Teachers to visit things. This accounts for their apos- them from week to week. Yet in the tasy, not for their denying the truth, for midst of all this ignorance, what a glo- they never did that; they held fast to rious manifestation they received from the truth; they declared that the Book of heaven! They lacked experience; they Mormon was true and never denied their had not been prepared as Joseph was. testimony. It is not a matter of mere He was prepared by a series of years of faith with them; they knew it. But how experience, in beholding visions and an- great is the darkness in them that sin gels. against so much light! The Lord told us, In the year 1823, the angel first came to him, telling him about the 16 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. when we were living in the State of that we were clean from the blood of New York, to go to the Ohio; there to this generation. The holy anointing was build a Temple to the name of the Most placed upon the heads of his servants, High. And there the Lord condescended but not the full development of the En- to bestow upon his servants and peo- dowments in the anointing. These ad- ple a great endowment, a blessing such ministrations in the Kirtland Temple as was not known among the children were revealed, little by little, correspond- of men. And from thence they should ing with what I have already been say- go the nations of the earth and pub- ing, that the Lord does not give the full- lish these things. We went to the Ohio; ness at once, but imparts to us accord- and after we had been sufficiently taught ing to his own will and pleasure. Great and instructed, the Lord commanded us were the blessings received. We were through Joseph, to build a Temple, giv- commanded to seek to behold the face of ing the pattern thereof, and the size the Lord; to seek after revelation; to seek thereof, the size of the inner and outer after the spirit of prophecy, and the gifts courts, the size of the several rooms and of the Spirit; and many testify to what apartments, and the form of the pul- they saw. But yet they were inexperi- pits and everything pertaining to it, was enced; they had not proven themselves given by the inspiration of the Almighty in their religion long enough. They ob- that rested upon Joseph, and upon those tained blessings greater than some of associated with him. them were prepared to receive. They When the Temple was built, the Lord perhaps might have been faithful if they did not see proper to reveal all the or- had exercised the agency which God gave dinances of the Endowments, such as them. But how easily are mankind top- we now understand. He revealed lit- pled first this way, then that way, and are tle by little. No rooms were prepared led astray, even after the heavens were for washings; no special place prepared opened and chariots and horses of fire, for the anointings, such as you under- as well as angels were seen: still many stand, and such as you comprehend at of these brethren apostatized. the period of the history of the Church! Neither did we know the necessity of Now perhaps some of you may say, the washings, such as we now receive. "Withhold these things; do not send an- It is true, our hands were washed, our gels; do not bestow the gifts of prophecy, faces and our feet. The Prophet Joseph if by being so blessed we are in dan- was commanded to gird himself with a ger of apostatizing from our religion." towel, doing this in the Temple. What This is the other extreme; on the other for? That the first Elder might witness to hand, we are commanded to seek the our Father and God, that we were clean face of the Lord always, that we may from the blood of that wicked genera- possess our souls in patience. Again, tion, that then lived. We had gone forth about three years after the organiza- according to our best ability, to publish tion of the Church, the Lord gave a rev- glad tidings of great joy, for thousands elation contained in the Doctrine and of miles, upon this continent. After this Covenants, saying, "It shall come to pass we were called in, and this washing of that every soul that comes to me, obeys hands and feet was to testify to God my commandments, and hearkens to my REVELATION GRADUAL, ETC. 17 voice, and calls upon my name shall see obeys my voice," etc. This is the privilege my face and know that I am." He has or- of the whole Church; it is the privilege of dained that in his holy House, in a Tem- all the people of God, to sanctify them- ple built to his name, these great bless- selves, to be obedient to his laws, and to ings shall be made manifest to his ser- behold his face, not only the face of Je- vants and people. He has told us also the sus, but of God the Father, and still live. privileges of these two Priesthoods. The What means, says one, that passage privilege of the lesser Priesthood is to see in the Book of Moses, where the Lord, angels. How should they seek after this speaking to Moses, says, "Thou canst not blessing? By merely praying, and act- see my face: for there shall no man see ing dishonestly, full of covetousness, and me, and live," etc. This very passage is all manner of evils clinging about us be- explained by new revelation. The Lord cause of our traditions? Is this the way at that time became angry with the chil- to seek for so great blessings? It is by dren of Israel, and he decreed that no giving heed to the instructions and laws man of that whole congregation should that pertain to the teaching of this lesser behold his face at that time. Hence the Priesthood; and when this is done, we Lord said to Moses, "Thou shalt not be- may claim the ministrations of holy an- hold my face as at other times." How gels. plain that little sentence of new revela- Again, what are the promises made tion is, showing that Moses had, at other to the high Priesthood of the order of the times, enjoyed that privilege, and that Son of God? We are told, in the revela- it was the privilege of the Children of tion given on the 22nd and 23rd days of Israel to become sanctified, and to be- September, 1832, that without the ordi- hold the face of God; but at that time, nances of this high Priesthood the power in consequence of their wickedness, he of godliness could not be made mani- in his anger, forbade them that privi- fest to men in the flesh. For, says the lege. Soon after, he made a decree that revelation, "Without this priesthood, no all that congregation should be left with- man can behold the face of God, even out this privilege, and he took his pres- the Father, and live." Again, says the ence away from them, because of their revelation, "this Moses plainly taught to transgressions and rebellions, that, had the children of Israel in the wilderness, not the Lord withdrawn his presence and sought diligently to sanctify his peo- from them, they might have been to- ple that they might behold the face of tally destroyed. The Lord desired to re- God; But they hardened their hearts and member his covenants with Abraham, could not endure his presence." Isaac and Jacob; for he promised them Here then we perceive that one bless- that he would bring up their seed to ing of this high Priesthood is to behold the promised land; and in order that he the face of God the Father and live. And might do this he determined not to go this blessing is, not merely for the per- up in their midst; for should he do so, sons holding the Priesthood, not merely he might break forth upon them, and ut- for those who have been ordained, after terly destroy them. the order of the Son of God; but every Now we have a promise given to one that keeps "my commandments, and us, that when we are redeemed, and 18 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. permitted to return to our promised stretched arm. And he also says, that his land, his presence shall go with us. angels shall go before us, and also his We have a promised land, as well as presence. Here then is a promise made Israel. The Lord said, on the 2nd of Jan- to the Latter-day Saints, that the pres- uary, 1831, "And I hold forth and deign ence of the Lord, as well as his angels, to give unto you greater riches, even a should go before their camp. land of promise, a land flowing with milk I mention these things to show you and honey, upon which there shall be no what the Lord intends to bestow upon curse when the Lord cometh; you, that your hearts may not faint, "And I will give it unto you for the while encountering the trials of reclaim- land of your inheritance, if you will seek ing the desert country; that you in the it with all your hearts. midst of difficulties and tribulations may "And this shall be my covenant with still have faith in regard to the promises you, ye shall have it for the land of your of the future. inheritance, and for the inheritance of your children forever, while the earth In another revelation given in an shall stand, and ye shall possess it again early period of the history of the Church, in eternity, no more to pass away." Here, the Lord commanded his people to build then, was a covenant made, that the unto him a House, promising that if they Latter-day Saints should have for their built a house unto his name, according particular portion a promised land. We to the commandment and pattern which were commanded to purchase the land should be given, and providing they suf- for the time being; for it was to be sig- fered no unclean thing to enter it, so nally our land of promise, and our chil- that it should not be defiled, the Lord dren's land of promise, while the earth himself would appear in it; his pres- should stand, and then they should have ence would be there; his glory would be it to all eternity. there; and all that should go into that We are at present cast out of that House, who were pure in heart, should land, the same as the Israelites were in see him. Here then you perceive that the land of Egypt, being away from their there are certain places appointed, and promised land. We are here in these certain provisions to be complied with mountain valleys. It is a goodly land before the face of the Lord can be seen. which the Lord has pointed out for us. He has said that his people are always We are making preparation for our great to build unto his name a house. What redemption to go back to the promised for? That his name might be there; that land, the same as the Israelites are to his angels might be there; that his pres- gather back to their promised land. And ence might be there; and that there the a further promise is made unto us, in fullness of the holy Priesthood might be this connection, that when the time shall more fully revealed, and that there all come, the Lord will raise up a man like the ordinances might be performed, that unto Moses who shall deliver this peo- were ordained from before the founda- ple out of bondage, the same as the chil- tion of the world. This is the object dren of Israel, their fathers, were deliv- of Temples. It is to connect the chil- ered. And he tells us that he will do dren to the fathers: it is to bring about this with a mighty hand and an out- an organization between the living and REVELATION GRADUAL, ETC. 19 the dead. It is seen that when the those placed over us? By and by we seventh angel shall sound his trumpet, will have Temples, with a great many preparatory to the coming of the Son of things contained in them which we now Man; when the Saints shall receive their have not; for with them, as with all inheritances and be made equal with other things, the Lord begins little by him, they, the dead, as well as the living, little; he does not reveal everything all receive their inheritances; that will be a at once. He gave the pattern of these perfect organization. When Adam, and things in Kirtland, Ohio, as the begin- Enoch, and his Zion, and all the righ- ning; but there were not rooms for the teous men before the flood, and all the washings, no rooms such as we have now, holy patriarchs and Prophets of the east- and such as were prepared in the Nauvoo ern and western Continents, men who Temple; and in other respects, there was lived on the earth as strangers and pil- something added to the Nauvoo Tem- grims, but who through the eye of faith ple. Why? Because we had greater ex- were permitted to behold, that in the perience, and were prepared for greater dispensation of the fullness of times, all things. There was no font in the base- things would be gathered in one that ment story of the Kirtland Temple, for were in Christ, even all things which are baptismal purposes in behalf of the dead. in heaven and which are on the earth; I Why not? Because that principle was say that when all these receive their in- not revealed. But in the Nauvoo Temple heritances, this will be an organization this font was prepared, which was some- that takes hold of eternity, that takes thing in advance of the Kirtland Temple. hold of the children of God in all ages, We have, of late, constructed a Temple that unites all dispensations in one, that at St. George. Blessings have been ad- brings all the kingdoms, and authorities, ministered in that Temple, that were to- and powers, of all other dispensations, tally unknown in the two former Tem- and unites them in one; and upon whom ples, namely, endowments for the dead. knowledge like a flood will be poured out Again, by and by, we will build a Tem- even upon the vast congregations of the ple in Jackson County, Missouri. Will Church of the Firstborn, the living and it be built according to the pattern of the dead, for the dead will then be living. our present Temples? No. There will be, according to the progress of this peo- Ought not these things, Latter-day ple, and the knowledge they receive, and Saints, to stimulate every individual to the greatness of the work that is before be diligent in the work given him to do, them, many things, pertaining to the lest he fall out by the way; lest his crown pattern, that will then be given, which be taken from him and placed upon the will differ materially, or will be, at least, head of another; lest the talent he may in addition to that which is in these Tem- have hidden in the earth be taken from ples now built. I think if you will go him and be given to him that hath more and search in the Church Historian's of- abundantly? How diligent we should be! fice, you will find a plan of a Temple, How faithful in the performance of our that is to be built in Jackson County, several callings, and how willing to hear- which will be very different from the lit- ken to the counsels and instructions of tle Temples we now build. By and by 20 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. there will be a Temple built at will reign over the house of Israel for- Jerusalem. Who do you think is going ever. It may also contain twelve other to build it? You may think that it will thrones, on which the twelve ancient be the unbelieving Jews who rejected Apostles will sit, and judge the twelve the Savior. I believe that that which is tribes of Israel. It will, very likely, have contained on the 77th page of the Book of an apartment, with a table, on which Mormon, as well as in many other places, food and drink will be prepared, such as in that same book, will be literally ful- are suitable to the taste and happiness filled. The Temple at Jerusalem will un- of immortal resurrected beings, thus ful- doubtedly be built, by those who believe filling the words of Jesus—"Ye that have in the true Messiah. Its construction followed me in the regeneration shall will be, in some respects different from eat and drink at my table, and sit upon the Temples now being built. It will con- twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes tain the throne of the Lord, upon which of Israel." Amen. he will, at times, personally sit, and
BELIEF AND KNOWLEDGE—PERSONAL KNOWLEDGE INDISPENSABLE—POSSESSION OF THE HOLY GHOST NECESSARY TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH—HOW TO OBTAIN THE HOLY GHOST—HIS OFFICE—THE ENMITY OF THE WORLD TOWARDS THE PRIESTHOOD AN EVIDENCE OF ITS DIVINE AUTHORITY—ALWAYS WAS AND ALWAYS WILL BE SO—CONDITIONS UPON WHICH BLESSINGS ARE TO BE OBTAINED, OR LOST.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOSEPH F. SMITH, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE, AT ST. GEORGE,SUNDAY,APRIL 2, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
During the time I may occupy, I de- under the sealing covenant; that princi- sire to express my feelings with regard ple was revealed to this Church subse- to my faith in the Gospel, and the great quent to my birth. I have been reared latter-day work in which we are all more in the midst of the people called Latter- or less engaged, that you as well as my day Saints, receiving most of my limited brethren may know how I stand before education in their society, and that dur- God and man. ing my childhood under the guidance of I was born in the Church of Je- my mother. Since the age of 15 years, sus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but not I have been engaged more or less in BELIEF AND KNOWLEDGE, ETC. 21 the ministry, and have received instruc- ject and purpose of life being attainable tion through having the counsels and only through being obedient unto the teachings of the servants of God, as you Gospel. all have; but some, perhaps, have not en- A saying of the Savior is here forced joyed this privilege to so great an extent upon my mind, "For what shall it profit a as others who have been less abroad. In man, if he shall gain the whole world and my childhood I learned to believe the lose his own soul? or what shall a man Gospel, and in the divine mission and give in exchange for his soul?" Again, "I calling of the Prophet Joseph Smith, in am the door: by me if any man enter the visitation of the angel Moroni, in the in, he shall be saved," but only upon this establishment of the kingdom of God on plan can he be saved. the earth, and also in the gathering to- By the principles of the Gospel, as gether of the people of the Lord, and revealed through the Prophet Joseph many important things connected with Smith, we are privileged to secure unto this great latter-day work. ourselves the gift of eternal life, which is the greatest gift of God. Without these On my first mission I began to learn principles we are as the dumb animal, something for myself; I had hitherto be- so far as relates to the knowledge of lieved the testimonies of the servants God, for our fathers were unable to teach of God whom I had heard converse and us, they knew no more of the ways of preach, as well as the instructions I re- God, or the plans of salvation, than the ceived from a most kind and affection- children, notwithstanding their boasted ate mother, as also what I could compre- enlightenment and their possession of hend through reading the Book of Mor- the holy Scriptures. They were not ac- mon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and quainted with the principles of life, they the Bible. But in the ministry, where I knew not the law of the Lord, and nei- labored earnestly, I began to comprehend ther did we until we received and obeyed more fully, through the inspiration of the the Gospel, thereby obtaining heavenly Holy Spirit, what I had read and been light through the channel of the Priest- taught, and so they became in my mind hood. Before this we were as they were, established facts, of which I was as ab- clinging to dead forms, puzzled to divine solutely certain as I was of my own exis- the meaning of many things which un- tence; and from the beginning of my ex- der the light of inspiration have become perience as an Elder in the Church until plain and easy to be understood. "And the present, if there has been a moment this is life eternal, that they might know in my life when I have doubted the di- thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, vinity and truthfulness of these things, whom thou hast sent." it has escaped my notice, and it is today It behooves the Latter-day Saints, as much a matter of fact with me, as it is and all men, to make themselves ac- that I live. quainted with "the only true God, and I long ago learned to prize the Jesus, whom he hath sent." But can principles of the Gospel, as of far we through our own wisdom find out greater importance than all earthly God? Can we by our unaided in- things; they are of more value than genuity and learning fathom his pur- this present life, for without the poses and comprehend his will? We Gospel it is valueless, the grand ob- have, I think, witnessed examples 22 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. enough of such efforts on the part of the course—it is simple, reasonable, and intelligent world, to convince us that it consistent. Who is there with common is impossible. The ways and wisdom of abilities that can fail to see, or compre- God are not as the ways and wisdom of hend it? Indeed, in the language of the man. How then can we know "the only Scriptures, it is so plain, that "the way- true and living God, and Jesus Christ, faring man, though a fool, need not err whom he has sent?" for to obtain this therein." knowledge would be to obtain the secret Having entered into this covenant, or key to eternal life. It must be through being cleansed from sin, and endowed the Holy Ghost, whose office is to reveal with the gift of the Holy Ghost, why the things of the Father to man, and to should we not abide in the truth, con- bear witness in our hearts of Christ, and tinuing steadfast before God and firm in him crucified and risen from the dead. the great work he has established on the There is no other way or means of at- earth? We should never cease to serve taining to this knowledge. How shall Him, nor thwart his mercy and good- we obtain the Holy Ghost? The method ness towards us; but ever live so that the or manner is clearly marked out. We Holy Spirit may be within us as a liv- are told to have faith in God, to believe ing spring, calculated to lead us to per- that he is, and that he is a rewarder of fection in righteousness, virtue, and in- all who diligently seek him; to repent tegrity before God, until we accomplish of our sins, subdue our passions, follies, our earthly mission, performing every and improprieties; to be virtuous, hon- duty that may be required at our hands. est, and upright in all our dealings one In this way I have learned the Gospel with another, and enter into covenant which I was first taught to believe, which with God that we will from thenceforth belief is now superseded by knowledge. abide in the principles of truth, and ob- For now I know that God lives, and that serve the commandments which he has Jesus Christ was sent into the world to given us, then to be baptized for the re- atone for the original sin, and also for the mission of our sins, by one having au- actual transgressions of mankind, inas- thority; and when this ordinance of the much as they themselves will repent of Gospel is complied with, we may receive their sins and humble themselves be- the gift of the Holy Ghost by the lay- fore Him in their pursuit of the gift and ing on of the hands of those clothed with blessing of eternal life. We should not the authority of the Priesthood. Thus be satisfied with the testimony alone of the Spirit and power of God—the Com- our brethren. It is well and good, it is forter, may be in us as a well of water indeed encouraging and cheering to the springing up unto everlasting life. He heart to hear the testimonies of the ser- will bear record of the Father, testify vants of God—to believe that God has of Jesus, and "take of the things of the raised up men in this dispensation and Father, and reveal them unto us," con- made them witnesses of Him and his firming our faith, establishing us in the Son Jesus, and who have been shown truth, that we shall be no longer tossed the mysteries of heavenly things, and to and fro by every wind of doctrine; commanded to bear record of what they but shall "know of the doctrine" whether saw and heard; yes, it is a joy to the it be of God or of man. This is the soul to have men among us who are in- BELIEF AND KNOWLEDGE, ETC. 23 spired by the Holy Spirit and full of the Then if we would know the Lord Je- light of truth and of the power of God, sus Christ, and his servants, who are bearing their testimony unto us that this in our midst, and that their testimonies is the work of God, that God lives, that are true, we must enjoy the light of the Jesus is the Christ—the Savior of the Spirit of the living God individually. The world, and that he has spoken to the possession of this heavenly knowledge is inhabitants of the earth in the day in absolutely necessary to keep us in the which we live, but is this sufficient to sat- paths of life and truth, for without it isfy me? No. It will not suffice me to be- we cannot distinguish the voice of the lieve that you know the true and living true shepherd, which is spiritually dis- God, etc. I must receive this knowledge cerned; and although we may be in fel- for myself as you have received it. Is not lowship with the Church, fully believing the way open to me to comprehend the the counsels of our brethren to be dic- purposes and the will of God concerning tated by wisdom, yet without something my salvation, as to you? Certainly it is. more than mere belief or supposition It is for all, yea, every son and daugh- we cannot stand; and furthermore un- ter of Adam to learn the will of God, to der such circumstances we cannot con- receive the testimony of the Spirit for sistently claim that we have part or lot him and herself, and not to depend alone in the kingdom of God. For as it is writ- upon the testimonies of these good men ten, "An actual knowledge to any person, that God has raised up to fill the posi- that the course of life which he pursues tions they occupy. And if we should pin is according to the will of God, is essen- our faith to them, although we might re- tially necessary to enable him to have alize consolation and even joy and satis- that confidence in God without which no faction in hearing their testimonies, yet, person can obtain eternal life." For un- unless we receive the inspiration of the less a person does know that he is walk- Holy Spirit, the time will undoubtedly ing according to the will of God, it would come when the winds will blow and the be an insult to the dignity of the Cre- storms beat upon the house we thus may ator were he to say that he would be a build and it will fall. What a deplorable partaker of his glory when he should be condition we would then find ourselves done with the things of this life. But in! when he has this knowledge, and most Is it not necessary for all to be ca- assuredly knows that he is doing the pable of judging as to whether the tes- will of God, his confidence can be equally timonies of these men are of God or strong that he will be a partaker of the man? How can we know that what glory of God. Then let us search after they testify of, is true? How can we truth—for the light of the Spirit which know that they bear witness of the leadeth into all truth, that we may com- Almighty, or that they possess the holy prehend the Gospel, be able to sustain Priesthood authorizing them to minis- the hands of the servants of God in their ter in the ordinances of the Gospel? I efforts to build up Zion, and work out answer, only by and through the in- our own salvation. Though all the world spiration of that Holy Spirit which is should be saved but ourselves, we be- given to all who diligently seek and ing excluded from the kingdom, what obtain it according to the promise. will it profit us? To see our fellow crea- 24 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. tures enter into salvation and be exalted slackened their efforts, nor failed to use into the presence of God, and the door all the means in their power, nor hesi- closed against us, would indeed be poor tated to resort to the most cruel, foul and consolation or comfort. But if we would fiendish acts to accomplish their nefari- enter in, we must do the will of the Fa- ous purpose. This same cruel enmity, al- ther, keep his commandments, possess though for the time being, to some ex- the gift of the Holy Ghost, enjoy the tes- tent subdued or held in check by the timony of Jesus, and become witnesses Almighty, still smolders and rankles in of the truth for ourselves; we then may their hearts, awaiting a favorable oppor- build upon a foundation more lasting tunity to burst forth as fiercely as at than the solid rock. That when trials any time during the life of the Prophet come and temptations surge against us, Joseph. This is one of the strongest ev- as they will do, we may stand and en- idences we can have of the divine mis- dure to the end. For not every one that sion of President Brigham Young. Be- saith Lord, Lord, shall enter into the cause of the inspiration of the Almighty kingdom; but he that doeth the will of and power of God which has rested upon the Father, etc.; or, as the wise man once him and accompanied his administra- said, "the race is not to the swift, nor the tions, he has been the very center of the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to target at which all the deadly weapons the wise, nor yet riches to men of under- of the enemy has been aimed ever since standing, nor yet favor to men of skill." the death of the Prophet Joseph. I say Nevertheless, "he that endureth to the this is one of the strongest evidences we end shall be saved." I cannot believe for can have of this fact, aside from the testi- a moment that any of us will attain to mony of the Holy Spirit, which bringeth the gift of eternal life, unless we shall knowledge. It is unmistakable. The ha- qualify ourselves through the truth, in tred of the wicked always has and always the manner God has prescribed, and in will follow the Priesthood and the Saints. that way become worthy of it. We must The devil will not lose sight of the power obtain this light by revelation, we can- of God vested in man—the Holy Priest- not do it by our own wisdom. God will hood. He fears it, he hates it, and will give us knowledge and understanding, never cease to stir up the hearts of the he will lead us in the path of truth if debased and corrupt in anger and mal- we put our whole trust in him and not ice towards those who hold this power, in man. He then can and will preserve and to persecute the Saints, until he is us, and all the powers of the earth com- bound. He delights in apostasy and in bined cannot destroy us, for we are in His apostates, and uses them for his pur- hands. Here are our fathers and lead- pose, but what does he or his emis- ers that have passed through the school saries care for their organizations? Do of experience; they have seen what the they hate them? Is the world moved enemies of this kingdom have tried to with anger or malice against them? No. do, and know full well what they would They become a part of the world, frat- do if they had it in their power. It has ernize with the people of the world ever been the desire of the wicked to de- and lose their distinction or identity, as stroy the people of God. They have never the people of God notwithstanding their BELIEF AND KNOWLEDGE, ETC. 25 claims and pretentions to being believ- This alone is sufficient evidence to ers in the Prophet Joseph Smith, and demonstrate the loyalty of this people to the Gospel which he was instrumental in the kingdom of God, and their posses- restoring to the earth. sion of the Gospel which is the power of What a host of apostasies there God unto salvation. Do you want any have been since the organization of stronger proof of this, when you contem- this Church! There have been Rig- plate the sayings of the Scriptures, "If ye donites, Strangites, Benemites, Wight- were of the world, the world would love ites, Gladdenites, Cutlerites, Morrisites, his own: but because ye are not of the Josephites, and the duce knows what world, but I have chosen you out of the ites? But what does the world care about world, therefore the world hateth you." these? Nothing. Why? Because they (John xv, 19.) "And ye shall be hated of have forfeited the Priesthood, they have all men for my name's sake." (Matt. x, not the power, nor the principles of sal- 22). "If they have persecuted me, they vation only in part; they have deserted will also persecute you." (John xv, 20.) the cause, have struck hands alike with "In the world ye shall have tribulation." the infidel and the bigot, and formed an John xvi, 33.) "Blessed are ye, when men alliance with the maligners and perse- shall revile you, and persecute you, and cutors of the Saints, and therefore they say all manner of evil against you falsely, are harmless in the eyes of the world for my sake." (Matt. v, 11.) "Yea, and and of their master whom they have all that will live godly in Christ Jesus blindly listed to serve. While these men shall suffer persecution." (2 Tim., 3, 12.) who hold the keys of the Priesthood of Therefore, "Marvel not, my brethren, if the Son of God, who have led forth the the world hate you." (I John iii, 13.) "Yea, Saints out of bondage and oppression, the time cometh, that whoever killeth such as could not be endured in the you will think that he doeth God ser- States, who have gathered the people vice." (John xvi, 2.) This was the na- from afar, and planted them in happy ture of the legacy the Savior left his dis- homes and peaceful dwellings, who have ciples and followers. Is it strange that reared cities, towns and villages well or- we should inherit the same? Certainly ganized, well governed and prosperous, not, if we are the disciples and follow- and in short wrought miracles in the ers of Christ, for the same warfare con- deserts, and who still counsel and di- tinues between him and Belial, and will rect the Saints in the paths of life, are until Satan is bound and righteousness held up to the ridicule and contempt of triumphs upon the earth. the world. Their peace, good names, honor, possessions and lives are eagerly It is a consolation therefore to know, and persistently sought after, but with that, notwithstanding our many short- less effect, by the bloodthirsty hearts and comings, frailties, and imperfections, crimson hands of relentless persecutors the Evil one, with the world at his as during the lifetime of Joseph Smith back, considers us of sufficient im- the martyr, when the Saints were driven portance to oppose and persecute us from Ohio, expelled from Missouri, or with such bitter hatred as he does. banished from their homes in Illinois. Yes, I say it is encouraging to know, Such has always been and such is to- that, as a people we are sufficiently day the spirit of the world towards us. faithful and worthy before the Lord, 26 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. notwithstanding our opportunities for that he is not only abundantly able, but improvement, to arouse the indignation willing and ready to shower upon us if and hatred of the wicked, and to en- we were worthy, for he cannot consis- title us to the chastisement of God, tently bestow "pearls upon swine." No through his servants, for our impropri- blessing or good will be withheld from eties, for "whomsoever the Lord loveth those who are prepared and worthy to he chasteneth." But we should not pro- receive and make a wise use of it. The voke the displeasure or incur the chas- kingdom of God is to be enjoyed by tisement of the Almighty—presuming the Saints—those who are righteous, not upon his forbearance and mercy by ne- those who are wicked. If we prove un- glecting to perform those duties and re- worthy, Zion will have to be redeemed sponsibilities so justly required of us— by our children, who may be more wor- but we should be most diligent, putting thy, while we may be kept, like the an- forth every energy in our power to cor- cient children of Israel, wandering in the rect our ways, and thus increase our wilderness, enduring hardships, perse- faith that we may become more wor- cution and trials, until we shall have suf- thy of the blessings and protection of fered the penalty of neglected, not to say God, than hitherto. He is more will- broken and unfulfilled covenants. ing to bestow blessings upon us than we are to use them properly when we ob- May the Lord bless us all that we may tain them, thus by our unworthiness we prove ourselves faithful and efficient ser- may prevent ourselves often from receiv- vants unto him, is my prayer in the name ing the very blessings we desire, and of Jesus. Amen.
SAINTS SHOULD BE WHOLE-HEARTED—SEEK FIRST THE KINGDOM—THE LATTER-DAY WORK A REVELATION—JOSEPH SMITH ILLITERATE—OUR AGENCY ACCEPTS OR REJECTS—LOVE OF THE TRUTH PROVED MORE BY EXAMPLE THAN PRECEPT—AN IMPORTANT GENERATION.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER CHARLES C.RICH, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SATURDAY AFTERNOON,MAY 12, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO F. GIBBS.
I am glad to enjoy the opportu- ference, under circumstances so fa- nity of meeting with the Latter-day vorable. I have been much inter- Saints in this Tabernacle in Con- ested in listening to the instructions we SAINTS SHOULD BE WHOLE-HEARTED, ETC. 27 have heard this day. They are words greatest importance that we organize of encouragement to the faithful, they ourselves that we may the better pros- strengthen the weak, they enkindle ecute our labors! We pray that the will of within us all the fire that burns yet not God may be done on earth as in heaven. consumes; and we are stimulated to con- What does it avail us if we do not seek tinue in the good fight of faith despite ev- first the kingdom of God and all its righ- ery opposing power. teousness? And how can we obey this We embraced the principles of the ev- divine injunction unless we seek in the erlasting Gospel in various lands, and right and proper way to establish its we gathered here for the express pur- principles in our hearts and lives, giving pose of learning further of his ways that that kingdom and its government a foun- we might walk in his paths. It there- dation, a chance to develop itself into the fore is plain and easy to understand the proportions it eventually will do. great obligation that we have placed our- The tendency of mankind generally is selves under, an obligation that becomes to gratify a craving for this world's goods, the more serious and important as we adopting such ways as will best secure to count the years of our membership in them their heart's desire; this really is this Church, and as we have had oppor- their aim and object of life. When we re- tunity. To become efficient laborers in flect that we live in this important age, the kingdom, is that we learn the mind when God our heavenly Father has again and will of God concerning us, and then spoken to the children of men, revealing go forth and do it to the very best of our to them his designs and purposes and ability and power. Unless we seek the the only way to be saved, it is time for us Lord with our whole heart, willing to sac- to awake to a sense of duty and prepare rifice all for him and his cause, we cannot ourselves in all readiness, for he does not be wholly accepted of him. speak in vain; all must be fulfilled even We are told by revelation that all as it is written, whether we individually blessings are to be enjoyed upon the take part in it or not. principles by which his kingdom can be built up, and upon no other. It would be The Lord will have a people trained in vain for us to imagine that we are go- in the school of experience until they ing to enjoy the blessing of the celestial shall be prepared to receive him when world by adopting any principles we may he shall come to dwell upon the earth choose, or that may be suitable to our for the space of a thousand years. This own peculiar ideas and feelings. Then we understand; we have been taught the first lesson for us to learn is how it by divine instruction, and it is for we can best become acquainted with the us to be willing to be taught and to wishes of our Father, how we can best be used in accomplishing the prepara- use our time and our talents to subserve tory work. He has also declared by the interests of his cause here upon the the voice of his servants whom he has earth. We have entered the door of the raised up, and by his own voice, that the kingdom, and that is about all. The wicked and those who delight in abom- actual work we have only commenced, inations he will overthrow as individ- and who cannot see that it is of the uals and as nations; and in the place 28 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. thereof he will have a righteous people hearken to and obey the message! And who will fear and obey him in all things. how many imperfections we find existing This has been preached to the world now among us! We need careful and gradual for nearly half a century, and we are still training, to be taught a little now and declaring it. We know not how many will again; and many times we find ourselves hearken to this warning voice, but we do almost ready to relinquish our hold on know that history informs us that Noah eternal life, having need to be converted preached one hundred and twenty years, again to the truth; and yet we call our- warning the people of threatened judg- selves Latter-day Saints. ments, preaching to them the way of life, The question that ofttimes arrests my with but very little success. The word of attention is, if we receive not the truth the Lord through Noah was verified and as it is presented to us here, will we be fulfilled even as he had declared it. willing to hereafter? Some people imag- ine that when we pass from this stage of The words of the Lord were our being we shall all be in a condition lamentably fulfilled on the heads of his to receive truth whether we received or chosen seed, because they rejected the rejected it while upon this earth. It is by same Gospel message which was sent reason of our agency that we reject truth unto them. And the Lord has said that in and accept evil; and we will find when we the last days his word should be verified go hence that we shall still be possessed as in former times. True, the message of the same agency; and if we were not might be lightly esteemed, and they that willing to receive the truth in this world, bear it, as well as those that receive it, what assurance have we that our agency may be set at nought, just in the manner will not lead us to reject truth hereafter. that his word and people always have If Latter-day Saints cannot endure to the been treated by the world of mankind end, if they cannot in their hearts receive generally. as well as practice all of the principles of This Latter-day work has been com- the Gospel as they are made known to menced by an illiterate, unlearned boy; them by his servants, it is folly in the ex- but like the leaven that was put into the treme for us to allow ourselves to believe measures of meal, it has worked until that by rejecting certain principles here already it attracts not only the atten- we will be able to practice them in the tion of men of high and low birth, but world to come. of nations. And although its advocates We will also find that there are cer- have, as a general thing, been persons tain things that can be preformed in this of humble birth and of limited educa- world, that peradventure cannot be at- tion, where has appeared the man that tended to anywhere else. Baptism by has succeeded in gainsaying them, and immersion is an ordinance essential to proving false the principles they teach? salvation; it is the door to the king- That individual is yet to be found; he dom and none can be saved without it; cannot be found nor never will be, for and it is an ordinance that strictly be- it is the truth, we bear the new and longs to this life. There are also cer- the everlasting Gospel which is incon- tain ordinances essential to our exalta- trovertible. And still, with all this be- tion in our Father's kingdom that can fore the world, how few comparatively be performed only in Temples, except in SAINTS SHOULD BE WHOLE-HEARTED, ETC. 29 certain peculiar circumstances; and in when we consider these things, that com- order that we should derive their bene- pared with our eternal happiness every- fit we are called upon to erect these sa- thing else is small and of little moment. cred edifices. These are ordinances all- There is much required at our hands, important in their nature that belong to we have not only to labor for ourselves, this life, they must be attended to here, but for our dead friends, whom we shall that we might be prepared to enter upon meet sooner or later. If when we renew the duties of the life to come. our acquaintance with them we can tell There is one matter that has received them that we officiated in the Temple or- a great part of my attention particularly dinances for them, it will afford us joy of late, that is the conforming of my will as well as them; but if when we shall to the will of God, not only pertaining to meet them we are not the bearers of such things spiritual but also to things tem- welcome intelligence, feelings of remorse poral associated with my everyday life. will overtake us in not having done our And it appears to me that we as a peo- duty, when opportunity was afforded us ple have now reached that stage of the to do so. These are some of my reflec- latter-day work when this same question tions relative to some of our present and is brought right home to the minds of immediate duties. all who claim membership in the Church and kingdom of God. There is one thing I am pleased to say that wherever I he will require of us, that is to prove go I perceive a willingness on the part of by example as well as precept that we the people to build Temples, and also to love him beyond any and everything else; become united in establishing ourselves he will require that we establish beyond upon such a basis as will make us inde- a doubt that our affections and hearts pendent of the surrounding world, pro- are his, and that to do his bidding and ducing and manufacturing everything further the interests of his cause is our we need for use and wear, and thus be- greatest and fondest desire. come self-sustaining; so that when Baby- There seems to be throughout the lon shall fall we may sustain no loss. world a great love for wealth. It is true There has never been a generation of that riches ofttimes secure ease, comfort time so important as the one in which and enjoyment. But then these are in- we live. Our prospects too are pecu- dulgences that belong only to this life; as liarly and unusually encouraging, for the no man brought anything into the world, Gospel we preach will never be taken so none will take anything away. What away from the earth, and as long as then may we expect to enjoy in the here- we prove faithful we will maintain our after? Such blessings only as are secured rights which God has given us. There is a unto us through the sealing ordinances prospect too of our posterity living when of the holy Priesthood which reach be- peace for the space of a thousand years hind the veil. While reflecting on this, shall be on this earth, when the Savior would it not be well for us, as Latter- and holy beings will visit with men in the day Saints, to also imagine, if we can, flesh, and then his glory will surround our feelings if through unworthiness on the habitation of the Saints. I know of our part we should find ourselves in the no previous dispensation that had such next world disappointed. I think that encouraging and glorious prospects. 30 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Then let me say to the Latter-day we may be placed, and be servants and Saints, let us practice the principles of Saints of God in very deed. And that this our holy religion, be willing to be di- may be our happy lot is my prayer in the rected and used for the good of our name of Jesus. Amen. Father's cause, in whatever capacity
PRAYER.
BY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDONTHE OCCASIONOF DEDICATINGTHE TEMPLE SITEAT LOGAN,CACHE COUNTY,UTAH, ON FRIDAY, AT 12 M. O'CLOCK,MAY 18, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
O God, the Eternal Father, in the shall make the necessary excavation for name of thy Son Jesus Christ, thy peo- the basement story; those that shall ple and thy servants have met together quarry the rock, either from the quar- upon this ground, for the purpose of ries of the mountains or of the valleys; dedicating the same unto the Lord our those who shall be engaged thereon and God, for building a house to thy name, have the superintendence of this place; even a Temple, wherein thy servants those that shall shape and cut the rock and thy handmaidens may receive such and prepare them to be placed in their blessings as thou hast ordained to be be- proper places on the building; those who stowed upon thy people, that are pure shall be engaged in drawing the sand, in heart. We desire, our Father, that the lime and the clay, and in working the we may do this work with holiness of mortar; and all those that shall be en- heart, that we may have the Spirit of the gaged in any way on the erection of the Lord our God to rest upon us, that we building, whether in cutting and prepar- may dedicate and consecrate this place ing the timbers, in quarrying rock, or to be most holy—a sacred and holy place in whatever work they may be engaged, unto thee, whereon may be erected a pertaining to the building of this Tem- Temple that shall be acceptable in thy ple, that they may be preserved by thy sight. By virtue and authority of thy power, that thy protection may be over holy Priesthood, we do dedicate and con- them, that thy holy angels may be with secrate this Temple site, and its imme- them, and that they may labor with their diate surroundings. We pray that it may mights upon the edifice, until it shall be be sanctified, that the foundation thereof finished, until it shall be prepared for may be steadfast, that it may be perma- a still further dedication; that it may nent, even as a rock. be built according to the instructions We pray that thou wilt bless those and inspiration and revelations of thy who shall labor thereon; those that PRAYER. 31
Holy Spirit, that shall rest more espe- upon all those upon whom thou hast laid cially upon the First Presidency of thy this duty of erecting this Temple, that Church; that thou wilt reveal to them they may be stirred up with great energy the pattern of this building, and all and much faith, to devote their means, things appertaining to its entire con- and their ability and talents, and all struction, that the same may be given that thou hast given to them, to perform to them by the inspiration of thy Spirit; the work that thou hast, through thy that thou wilt raise up those who shall servants, required at their hands; that be skilled workmen to adorn and beau- they, when it is completed, may have a tify the various apartments, and beau- place in this House; that they may re- tify and adorn the pulpits that shall be ceive ordinances therein; that it may be made for the various orders and presi- a house wherein they can minister for dents of thy holy Priesthood, and for all themselves, in their washings, in their the work that shall be placed upon this anointings, in their endowments, in their holy Temple; that for strength, and for baptisms for their dead, in their confir- grandeur, and for beauty, it may be a mations, and in their sealing ordinances; house which thou shalt delight in. For, O that in all of these things thy people Lord, we know that thou hast promised may accomplish the work which is re- to place thy name in the House that quired of them, in this House; and that thy people build to thee, if they shall do records thereof may be kept, and that the work with holiness of heart. But there may be a place in thy House for the thou, O Lord, dwellest in heaven, in holy records of thy Church—records that thy celestial abode, and thou art clothed shall be acceptable in thy sight, records with greatness, glory and power, but yet that shall be most holy, and stand to the thou dost condescend to have holy places justification of thy people who adminis- here upon the earth, where thou canst ter therein, and those who receive ordi- more fully manifest thyself to thy ser- nances therein, whether for themselves vants and handmaidens. We therefore or their dead; that out of all these books pray that the house which thy people thy people may be judged, according to shall erect upon this spot may be a holy their works, according to that which they place, where the inhabitants of Logan, of do, in thy name, with uprightness of Wellsville, of Hyrum, and of all the towns heart. and counties round about, that shall as- Now, holy Father, we ask thee to bless sist in the work of building, may be abun- this Temple site, this land on which this dantly blessed therein; that it may be House shall be erected. Bless the el- a place, a holy place, a holy sanctuary ements thereof, that the same may be to them; that those of thy people who sanctified and purified and made holy. shall seek thee in thy house, and shall Bless the waters that come down from offer their prayers and their supplica- the mountains, whether they shall be tions to thee, may be heard in heaven, conveyed in ditches, or aqueducts, or thy dwelling place, and their petitions be canals, that they may be blessed and answered to them, according to the righ- made pure, for the purposes for which teousness of their hearts. they shall be used, in thy holy Tem- ple. We pray that thou wilt not only We pray that thy blessing may be bless the place of the building, but all its 32 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. surroundings; bless this plane or bench, and not only live to see the finishing and the streets around, and the shade of this Temple, but to behold the com- trees which are for the purpose of orna- pletion of the Temple to be erected in menting, that thy blessing may be upon Salt Lake City, and the one commenced them, that they may grow to beautify the at Manti, in Sanpete County; that he place of this sanctuary, that there may may rejoice and be made glad in all thy be a place where thy people shall delight goodness, and in beholding the beauty to congregate themselves, and wherein of the works of the hands of thy people, they shall delight to enter into holy com- and thy blessings that shall be in their munion in supplication to the Most High, midst. Bless, O Lord, his generations and to hold holy converse one with an- after him, that they may rise up and other. be mighty men in the earth; that they may be clothed with the power and the May thy blessing be upon all those spirit, so abundantly manifested upon of thy people who reside in this county their respected father; and may his de- and the surrounding counties, that shall scendants, in all generations, enjoy, even do this work, that they may be blessed more abundantly, superior wisdom and in their basket, and stores—blessed in knowledge and understanding from the their orchards and gardens, in their heavens, to discern in their several call- farms and fruits. Wilt thou, O Lord, re- ings all things which shall tend to the strain the coldness of the climate, the blessing and glory and future exaltation frosts and the snows, that they may not and progress of mankind on the earth; fall upon the earth out of season, that and that there never may be a time or pe- the earth may not fail to yield to thy riod, in all the generations of this world, people rich harvests, that they may reap when he shall not be represented by a and gather in great abundance? May thy numerous posterity, who shall enjoy the blessings be upon all the labors of their fullness of the holy Priesthood, and the hands, and grant that their flocks may be powers, blessings, and keys thereof. greatly increased and multiplied. Wilt Bless, O Lord, his Counselors and thou bless their labors in their endeav- the Council of the Twelve Apostles, and ors to beautify their habitations, and in bless all who preside, not only in this planting out shade trees to make this a Stake of Zion, when it shall be more delightful place, upon this thy footstool? fully set in order, but in all the Stakes O Lord, bless him whom thou hast of Zion throughout these mountain re- inspired, even thy servant, President gions. Bless this whole community, that Brigham Young, to say to thy people, they may be prepared to enter into thy "Build to the Lord a house in this part House, when it shall be completed, with of the Territory." Bless him, O Lord, clean hands and pure hearts. with long life; bless him with exceed- May blessings, and heavenly man- ingly great health and strength of body. ifestations, and excellency of wisdom, Remove from him all the infirmities of and fullness of knowledge be the por- old age. Grant, O Lord, that he may tion of thy Priesthood and of thy live to see this House erected, finished Saints, throughout all their dwelling and set in order, according to thy righ- places, but more especially in these teous will, that within its walls he may holy places, appointed and dedicated rejoice in the midst of his brethren, unto thy great name, wherein thou REMARKS BY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG. 33 wilt dwell among thy people forever- ground, by thy servants. All of which more. Hear, O Lord, these hum- we humbly do, and ask for, in the name ble petitions of thy people, and mer- of thy beloved Son, even Jesus Christ. cifully accept the dedication of this Amen.
REMARKS MADE AT THE CLOSE OF THE FOREGOING DEDICATORY PRAYER.
REMARKSBY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDONTHE OCCASIONOF DEDICATINGTHE TEMPLE SITEAT LOGAN,CACHE COUNTY,UTAH, ON FRIDAY, AT 12 M. O'CLOCK,MAY 18, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
Brethren, if you will give me your at- proportion of men to come here and labor tention, I will say a few words to you. as they shall be notified by the proper au- We have dedicated this spot of ground thorities. upon which we expect to erect a Temple, This may be called a temporal work, in which to administer the ordinances of but it pertains to the salvation of our- the House of God. Into this house, when selves as well as our friends who have it is completed, we expect to enter to en- passed behind the veil, and also to the joy the blessings of the priesthood, and generations that are to come after us. We receive our washings, our anointings, can carry this Temple forward with our our endowments, and our sealings; and labor, without any burden to ourselves if the brethren will be sealed to brethren to our hearts are in the work, and we will connect the links and make perfect the be blessed abundantly in doing so. We chain from ourselves to Father Adam. will be better off in our temporal affairs This is the object of the Temple which when it is completed than when we com- we are about to commence building at menced, or than we would be if we did this place. We require the brethren and not build it. the sisters to go to with their might and The time we enjoy is the Lord's, but erect this Temple; and from the architect we have the permission to dictate its to the boy that carries the drinking wa- use according to our own good plea- ter to the men that work on the building, sure. When the brethren come to work we wish them to understand that wages on this Temple they may expect to be are entirely out of the question. We are blessed of the Lord, in proportion to going to build this House for ourselves, their faith. We feel to ask the brethren and we shall expect the brethren and sis- to go to as they may be called upon ters, neighborhood after neighborhood, by those who shall be placed to take ward after ward, to turn out their charge of the work, and complete the building in three years from next fall— I think it can be done within that time— 34 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. that we may come up and commence to rid of them, but we must overcome them give endowments. This work can be done and unite ourselves together in the holy with all ease in that time if we are dis- order of God, that we may be Saints of posed to. the Most High, with our interests, our We pray for you continually, that you faith and labors, that our hopes and the may be blessed. I feel to bless you ac- results of our labors may be concentrated cording to the power and keys of the in the salvation of the human family. holy priesthood bestowed upon me, and my brethren with me, heart and hand, Brethren and Sisters, try to realize and all the Saints feel to say "Amen," these things. Awake and lay these things feel to bless each other, feel to do the to heart. Seek to the Lord to know his work of the Lord, and dismiss the nar- mind and will, and when you ascertain row, contracted, covetous feelings that it also to have the will to do it. are so interwoven with the feelings of our natures. It seems hard to get God bless you, Amen.
REMARKS ON THE TEMPLE GROUND.
REMARKSBY ELDER JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDONTHE OCCASIONOF DEDICATINGTHE TEMPLE SITEAT LOGAN,CACHE COUNTY,UTAH, ON FRIDAY, AT 12 M. O'CLOCK,MAY 18, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I feel to rejoice to see the work of God order, and it is chaste, exquisite, appro- progressing as it is today, and to wit- priate, and beautiful in all its appoint- ness the spirit and feeling that are be- ments. ing manifested among the Saints every- Approaching from the north, with the where throughout the Territory for the black basaltic lava mountain frowning advancement of His Church and King- on the background, and the grim red dom on the earth. In my visit south to at- sandstone nearer its base, relieved in- tend Conference, I felt to rejoice exceed- deed by the beautiful city of St. George, ingly in seeing the Temple completed with its shrubberies, its gardens and at St. George. It is a most beautiful orchards, its vines, its trees and flow- building, pure and white as the driven ers, it stands as a chaste memorial, snow, both outside and in. It is ele- a sweet elysium, a haven of repose, gant in design, and there is a manifest in this beautiful oasis of the desert; propriety and adaptability in all its ar- and is a proud and lasting monument rangements. The labor and finish exhibit of its originator and designer, the fi- talent and artistic skill of the highest delity of the architect, the skill of the mechanics, and the faith, self-denial, REMARKS ON THE TEMPLE GROUND. 35 liberality and devotion of the Latter-day of which have their meaning, and ought Saints. to influence our hearts and minds, and lead us to take a deep and abiding in- When I visited that holy Temple, ac- terest in the great and important things companied by my brethren who were that are going on in our midst and with me, we experienced a sacred thrill around about us. They are things in of joy, and a solemn, reverential sensa- which the angels and gods are inter- tion. As we entered its sacred portals, ested, and in which God our Father is we felt that we were standing on holy interested, and all the ancient prophets ground, and experienced, with one of old, and holy men of God that have ever "Surely this is the house of God, and lived; all feel interested in these things the gate of heaven." That is not simply which we are now engaged in, and all a metaphorical expression, but a reality, stand ready to approve of our works. If for it is in that House, and it will be in we go to work with all our hearts and the House to be built on this ground, that with all our souls, we can accomplish it the most sacred ordinances of God are to within the time the President has given be performed, which are associated with us. Yes, I will venture to say we can do it the interest and happiness of the human in two-and-a-half years, instead of three- family, living and dead. I felt to rejoice and-a-half years. If we can lay aside our in my heart that we had been thus far narrow, contracted ideas, and feel that successful in the building of one temple we are servants of the living God, that to the name of our Father and God. we are operating and cooperating with On our return from St. George, when Him and with the holy Priesthood be- we came to Manti, in Sanpete County, hind the veil for the accomplishment of we found a place dedicated and set apart this object, then the power and blessing like this ground has been. Again I of Almighty God will be upon us and be felt to rejoice to witness the spirit and within us, and we will feel like giants feeling that were manifested among the refreshed with new wine, and the work brethren in that district of country; ev- of God will roll on, Zion will arise and erybody seemed desirous to commence shine, and the glory of God will rest upon the work of building the Temple. When her. I heard of the one to be erected here I say "Amen" to the prayer of Brother my joy was still greater, and I am in- Pratt, and to the remarks of President deed very happy for the privilege of Young, and I say God bless our Presi- meeting with you, of taking part in this dent and his Counselors, God bless the dedication, of listening to the prayer Twelve, and God bless the Presidents of Brother Pratt and the remarks of and Bishops and every good man that President Young, all of which were dic- fears him and keeps his commandments. tated by the Spirit of the living God, all Amen. 36 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
TRYING TO BE SAINTS—TREASURES OF THE EVERLASTING HILLS—THE HILL CUMORAH—OBEDIENCE TO TRUE PRINCIPLE THE KEY TO KNOWLEDGE—ALL ENJOYMENT COMES FROM GOD—ORGANIZATION—DUTIES OF OFFICERS—FINAL RESULTS.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDATA SPECIAL CONFERENCE HELDAT FARMINGTON, FORTHE PURPOSEOF ORGANIZINGA STAKEOF ZIONFORTHE COUNTYOF DAVIS, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,JUNE 17, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I esteem it a privilege to meet with becoming wealthy, and they adopt any the Latter-day Saints. I have visited course that they think will bring them Farmington many times, and I can say riches, which to me is as unwise as any- that, as a general thing in attending thing can be—to see men of wisdom, your meetings, I have felt much of men that seem to have an understand- the peace and blessings that flow from ing of the world and of the things of heaven to this people. God, searching after minerals through- I have no doubt that the majority out these mountains; they traverse the of the people called Latter-day Saints hills, and they dig here and there, and desire really to be Saints; were it not keep digging and picking, and rolling for this I might feel partially discour- the rocks from morning till night. This aged. The people who are honest, chain of mountains has been followed who are seeking to know and to un- from the north to the south, and its var- derstand the truth, they are the ones ious spurs have been prospected, and who, so far as their faith and good what do they find? Just enough to al- works, and their influence and ability lure them, and to finally lead them from are concerned, sustain the kingdom that the faith, and at last to make them mis- God has commenced to establish on the erable and poor. Ask the brethren why earth. When we consider the condi- they do this, and the ready reply will tion of the Latter-day Saints, and see be, "Is it not my privilege to find a gold how many there are who seem to have mine, or a silver mine, as well as oth- their eyes fixed upon the things of this ers?" As far as I am concerned I would world, things that are not lasting, but say, "Yes, certainly it is your privilege, if that perish in the handling, and how you can find one." But do you know how anxious they are to obtain them, how to find such a mine? No, you do not. do you think I feel about it? We see These treasures that are in the earth many of the Elders of Israel desirous of TRYING TO BE SAINTS, ETC. 37 are carefully watched, they can be re- may strike within four inches of that lode moved from place to place according to as many times as they have a mind to, the good pleasure of Him who made and they will not find it." They hunted them and owns them. He has his mes- and hunted, hundreds of them did; and sengers at his service, and it is just as I had the pleasure of laughing at him a easy for an angel to remove the miner- little, for when he went there again, he als from any part of one of these moun- could not find it himself. (Laughter.) tains to another, as it is for you and me to walk up and down this hall. This, how- Sometimes I take the liberty of talk- ever, is not understood by the Christian ing a little further with regard to such world, nor by us as a people. There are things. Orin P. Rockwell is an eyewit- certain circumstances that a number of ness to some powers of removing the my brethren and sisters have heard me treasures of the earth. He was with relate, that will demonstrate this so pos- certain parties that lived nearby where itively, that none need doubt the truth of the plates were found that contain the what I say. records of the Book of Mormon. There I presume there are some present were a great many treasures hid up by who have heard me narrate a circum- the Nephites. Porter was with them one stance with regard to the discovery of a night where there were treasures, and gold mine in Little Cottonwood Canyon, they could find them easy enough, but and I will here say that the specimens they could not obtain them. taken from it, which I have in my posses- sion today, are as fine specimens of gold I will tell you a story which will be as ever were found on this continent. A marvelous to most of you. It was told me man whom some of you will well know, by Porter, whom I would believe just as brought to me a most beautiful nugget. I quickly as any man that lives. When he told him to let the mine alone. tells a thing he understands, he will tell When General Conner came here, it just as he knows it; he is a man that he did considerable prospecting; and does not lie. He said that on this night, in hunting through the Cottonwoods, when they were engaged hunting for this he had an inkling that there was gold old treasure, they dug around the end there. Porter, as we generally call him, of a chest for some twenty inches. The came to me one day, saying, "They have chest was about three feet square. One struck within four inches of my lode, man who was determined to have the what shall I do?" He was carried away contents of that chest, took his pick and with the idea that he must do some- struck into the lid of it, and split through thing. I therefore told him to go with into the chest. The blow took off a piece the other brethren interested, and make of the lid, which a certain lady kept in his claim. When he got through talk- her possession until she died. That chest ing, I said to him, "Porter, you ought to of money went into the bank. Porter de- know better; you have seen and heard scribes it so [making a rumbling sound]; things which I have not, and are a he says this is just as true as the heav- man of long experience in this Church. ens are. I have heard others tell the I want to tell you one thing; they same story. I relate this because it is 38 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. marvelous to you. But to those who was a large table that stood in the room. understand these things, it is not mar- Under this table there was a pile of velous. plates as much as two feet high, and there were altogether in this room more You hear a great deal said about find- plates than probably many wagon loads; ing money. There is no difficulty at all they were piled up in the corners and in finding money, but there are a great along the walls. The first time they many people who do not know what to went there the sword of Laban hung do with it when they do find it. This upon the wall; but when they went is the great defect with the human fam- again it had been taken down and laid ily. I could relate many very singular cir- upon the table across the gold plates; cumstances. I lived right in the country it was unsheathed, and on it was writ- where the plates were found from which ten these words: "This sword will never the Book of Mormon was translated, and be sheathed again until the kingdoms of I know a great many things pertaining to this world become the kingdom of our that country. I believe I will take the lib- God and his Christ." I tell you this as erty to tell you of another circumstance coming not only from Oliver Cowdery, that will be as marvelous as anything but others who were familiar with it, and can be. This is an incident in the life of who understood it just as well as we un- Oliver Cowdery, but he did not take the derstand coming to this meeting, enjoy- liberty of telling such things in meeting ing the day, and by and by we separate as I take. I tell these things to you, and and go away, forgetting most of what is I have a motive for doing so. I want to said, but remembering some things. So carry them to the ears of my brethren is it with other circumstances in life. I and sisters, and to the children also, relate this to you, and I want you to un- that they may grow to an understanding derstand it. I take this liberty of refer- of some things that seem to be entirely ring to those things so that they will not hidden from the human family. Oliver be forgotten and lost. Carlos Smith was Cowdery went with the Prophet Joseph a young man of as much veracity as any when he deposited these plates. Joseph young man we had, and he was a witness did not translate all of the plates; there to these things. Samuel Smith saw some was a portion of them sealed, which you things, Hyrum saw a good many things, can learn from the Book of Doctrine and but Joseph was the leader. Covenants. When Joseph got the plates, Now, you may think I am unwise the angel instructed him to carry them in publicly telling these things, think- back to the hill Cumorah, which he did. ing perhaps I should preserve them in Oliver says that when Joseph and Oliver my own breast; but such is not my went there, the hill opened, and they mind. I would like the people called walked into a cave, in which there was Latter-day Saints to understand some a large and spacious room. He says little things with regard to the workings he did not think, at the time, whether and dealings of the Lord with his peo- they had the light of the sun or artifi- ple here upon the earth. I could relate cial light; but that it was just as light as to you a great many more, all of which day. They laid the plates on a table; it are familiar to many of our brethren TRYING TO BE SAINTS, ETC. 39 and sisters. I will venture to say there never was a Now, should you go prospecting for dollar taken from the mountains of Cal- gold or silver, you will find just enough ifornia, neither from these mountains to allure you and to destroy you. But it west, nor from out of this Territory, but might be said, "Are not the earth and the what cost from ten to one hundred dol- treasures the property of the Lord who lars. Do you believe that? It is said a created them, and will he not, according great deal of money has been made here to the promise, give them to his faith- and there. Who has made it? Consid- ful disciples?" O yes, this is strictly cor- erable lead has been taken from here, rect; but you mark this—the man who and a little silver; but when you count is faithful to his calling and to this holy the time that has been spent, and af- Priesthood, never goes hunting for gold ter putting a fair valuation upon it, you or silver unless he is sent. Such men will find what I say to be a fact, to say are found following their legitimate pur- nothing of the lives and property that are suits, working in their fields, in their lost. A little town directly west of here, workshops and gardens, making beauti- some fifteen months ago, contained a cer- ful their habitations; in other words, en- tain number of men, who followed min- gaged building up and assisting to estab- ing. We calculated their time at the rate lish the Zion of God on the earth, with of what was paid for common labor; and their minds centered on the true riches then we ascertained the amount realized and not upon the things of this world. from the treasure taken out of the earth, People do not know it, but I know there which was well known; and it was shown is a seal set upon the treasures of earth; that they spent in the neighborhood of men are allowed to go so far and no far- seven hundred dollars a day, and got in ther. I have known places where there return about thirty. What they did get were treasures in abundance; but could was just sufficient to allure them. men get them? No. You can read in the The Lord has permitted our enemies Book of Mormon of the ancient Nephites to come among us, who would destroy holding their treasures, and of their be- us if they could. They are only allowed coming slippery; so that after they had to allure the minds of the foolish and privately hid their money, on going to those who lack judgment and who know the place again, lo and behold it was not the things of God. But when we, not there, but was somewhere else, but as individuals and as a people, learn they knew not where. The people do things as they are, we will find this not understand this; I wish they did, for fact—all truth is worthy and worth pos- they would then do as I do, pay atten- sessing, while all untruth is not worthy tion to the legitimate business that God nor worth running after, nor working for, has given them to perform. Do I run af- nor spending our lives for. The Gospel ter mines or digging holes in the ground? of life and salvation which God has re- No, not at all. It is like the will-o'-the vealed to us, incorporates all the systems wisp, a jack-o'-lantern. You ask our busi- there are. Every true principle and ev- nessmen, or go to California, and inquire ery true science, and every truth there there whether it pays to hunt for gold. is, are incorporated within the faith 40 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of the Latter-day Saints. This is some- and the Gods can possess in time and in thing worth possessing, this is worth eternity. Take the other road, and you spending our time for; but the reli- get a shadow for the time being, and you gions of the day, independent of their may think you have the substance, but moral worth, are nothing but a myth, sooner or later you are left as a feather a shadow; there is no reality in them. floating in the air, or worse than a ship But when you come to the philosophy of upon the ocean, without compass or rud- the religion of heaven, you have facts in der, deprived of the light of the sun, the your possession that are worth having, moon and the stars, tossed hither and they are worthy the admiration of the thither until it sinks to rise no more. In wise, the prudent, the noble, the great order to yield obedience to the truth, you and those that seek after the wisdom must love the truth and have the fear of that comes from God, and the Latter- God in your hearts. All who feel the true day Saints are in possession of this trea- spirit of this latter-day work delight in sure! What are we doing? If we were the truth, they delight to hear the truth, the people of God, as we profess to be, and they delight to obey the truth; it is there would not be a dissenting voice in their delight to know the mind and will all Israel in obeying the Priesthood. It of God, that they may render obedience was observed this morning by brother to it. This is the experience of every Cannon with regard to yielding obedi- faithful man and woman in this Church. ence, that we were called upon to yield But take the experience of the apostates, obedience because it was a command of and the experience of those who have God, and our faith demands obedience. risen up in opposition to the Prophet To what? Why? Wherefore? Obedi- Joseph Smith and the Gospel brought ence to every principle of truth. What forth and contained in the Book of Doc- for? So that we may become posses- trine and Covenants and in the Book of sors of all truth. Why should we do it? Mormon, and the revelations that he was Because it gives us health, it gives us the honored instrument in the hands of wealth, it gives us knowledge, it gives God of revealing to the people; those that us power, it gives us beauty, it gives us rise up in opposition to this, who are excellency, it gives us treasures on the they and what is their end? You will earth and treasures in heaven, it gives hear one fact from them—"Brother ——, us a knowledge of God and of the love have you enjoyed yourself since resign- of God, it gives us fellowship with the ing 'Mormonism?' Now speak the truth. Saints that are sanctified and glorified, Come, tell us just as it is. Have you expe- and it gives us all things that will pro- rienced joy and happiness since leaving mote happiness and peace. These are the kingdom of God? Come, now, don't the reasons why we do it. Should you lie!" Brother —— answers, "I have not take the other road, what do you get? enjoyed one day's peace since I left the Nothing. When persons turn away from Church." This is the declaration of the the Gospel of the Son of God, what do apostates today, when they tell the truth they turn to? Nothing. And what do about it. Look at their countenances—is they turn from hereafter? All things worth possessing, everything that men TRYING TO BE SAINTS, ETC. 41 there happiness depicted there? No, it nounced Joseph, your endowments, or is sorrow; they choose error instead of Celestial Law. When they reveal the truth, they love darkness rather than truth of their hearts, they will say, as light, and the end thereof, to use Scrip- Lyman E. Johnson said, at one of our ture language, is death. The sorrow Quorum meetings, after he had aposta- thereof they feel every day, for man's tized and tried to put Joseph out of the spirit is operated upon continually. We way. Lyman told the truth. He said, are as independent in our organization "Brethren—I will call you brethren—I as the Gods are, but still we are crea- will tell you the truth. If I could believe tures of circumstances, influenced by the 'Mormonism'—it is no matter whether spirits and by the powers of eternity that it is true or not—but if I could believe are here and round about us. We are 'Mormonism' as I did when I traveled here and are operated upon by them with you and preached, if I possessed the in our organizations. This is the place world I would give it. I would give any- where every man commences to acquire thing, I would suffer my right hand to be the germ of the independence that is cut off, if I could believe it again. Then I enjoyed in the heavens. These influ- was full of joy and gladness. My dreams ences, in comparison, are like the cool- were pleasant. When I awoke in the ing breezes from the mountains that are morning my spirit was cheerful. I was so grateful to us, that revive and re- happy by day and by night, full of peace fresh us, that give us life. But on the and joy and thanksgiving. But now it is other hand, here comes the miasma from darkness, pain, sorrow, misery in the ex- the swamp, bringing disease and death, treme. I have never since seen a happy and without knowing we inhale the poi- moment." sonous air, we become conscious of weak- Lyman E. Johnson belonged to the ness, we feel that we are taking fever, Quorum of the Twelve; he was the first that we are getting sick—we become a man called when the Twelve were called; prey to the enemy, and death ensues. his name was first, Brigham Young's sec- That is the difference between the two ond, and Heber C. Kimball's third. The influences that operate continually on testimony that he gave of his bitter expe- mankind. It is either enjoyment or suf- rience is the testimony that every apos- fering. All are subject to these elements tate would give if they would tell the in which we live. Here is the good op- truth. But will they acknowledge it? erating, all the time telling men and No, because they do not want to tell the women, before passing the ordeals of re- truth. demption, that they must repent, that There is no enjoyment, no happiness, then the light of Christ will be upon no comfort, there is no light to my path, them from time to time, to operate upon for me there is no real pleasure or de- their minds, teaching them—you are do- light only in the observance of truth as ing wrong, you are saying that which is it comes from God, obeying it in every not right, you have renounced the Book sense of the word, and marching for- of Mormon, you have renounced the ward as a good faithful soldier in the Doctrine and Covenants, you have re- discharge of every duty. The man or the woman—perhaps you may think it presumptuous in me, but I will pro- 42 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. mise you that what I am going to say they did not know that they could say is the truth—who has embraced what is anything at all about its principles; but called "Mormonism," but which is noth- when they have come in contact with ing more or less than the Everlasting those who have professed much and who Gospel of the Son of God, who when have undertaken to disprove the Gospel counseled by men of God holding the as taught by the Latter-day Saints, their eternal Priesthood to do thus and so, minds have become enlightened and pas- and who will indulge in a spirit that sages of Scripture have come to them will prompt him to say, "O yes, I think and they have discomfited their oppo- I will use my own judgment. I think I nents, so that they have had nothing to have discretion as well as you, and I will say. I have done so many times myself, take my own course. I can attend to my and that too with a few words; and the own business as well and perhaps a lit- conversation would be turned to some- tle better than anyone else, and there- thing else. With all their study and fore I don't need anyone to advise me." learning, and with all the philosophy and I say the man or the woman that will do science there is brought to the aid of false so, thereby taking to himself or to herself theories, how easy it is to believe the strength and wisdom to counsel them- truth! It is much easier than to disbe- selves, unless they repent, turn round lieve it. Truth commends itself to every and do better, they will go into darkness, honest person, it matters not how sim- and sooner or later each person or per- ply it is told, and when it is received it sons will apostatize and go to destruc- seems as though we had been acquainted tion. Do you believe it? It is just as with it all our lives. It is the testimony true as the sun that shines. Is it hard of the majority of the Latter-day Saints to believe? No, it is the easiest thing that when they first heard the Gospel in the world to believe the truth. It preached, as contained in the Bible and is a great deal easier to believe truth Doctrine and Covenants, although en- than error. It is easier to defend the tirely new to them, it seemed as though truth than to defend error. It is nec- they already understood it, and that they essary that the religions and creeds of must have been "Mormons" from the be- the Christian world be defended by the ginning. most able and learned students, in or- Well, before I sit down I will present der to make them popular and to appear to the congregation the names of three as true. But after these Christian stu- of our brethren whom I shall recom- dents have been through academies and mend to form the presidency of this colleges; and the most famed seminaries Stake of Zion, which will comprise Davis in the world, and after they have studied County, and the name of which will and studied, spending a lifetime in the probably be Farmington Stake of Zion. acquisition of a theological education, it (Here Pres. Young proposed the names takes but one of our boys, with the aid of Wm. R. Smith of Centerville as of the Bible and the little Catechism, to President, and Christopher Layton of wind them up as you would an old clock. Kaysville as his first and Anson Call This has been the experience of many of Bountiful as his second Counselors). of our boys, and when they started out I know some of you wish it other- from their homes to preach the Gospel, wise, or that someone else was chosen for President; but as we cannot suit TRYING TO BE SAINTS, ETC. 43 everybody's desire in a matter of this told that there have only been three kind, we have to center on one, and I cases during the last twenty-three years, have felt to suggest the name of brother that have gone for trial before the High Smith. (Each name was put separately, Council from Farmington. That is doing and each vote was unanimous). very well. To the now acting Bishops, Before presenting the names of who will be ordained Bishops, as well as brethren to compose the High Council, to brother Hess, who I believe is the only which would be in order to do, I propose ordained Bishop in the county, I will say for President of the High Priests' Quo- that you will now be required to look af- rum the name of Thomas S. Smith, who ter your several Wards more assiduously was once Bishop of this place. (Brother than heretofore; see that Teachers are Smith was unanimously sustained; and diligent in the performance of their du- brothers Thomas Steele and Job Welling ties, and that all difficulties that may were elected as his Counselors, without arise among the brethren of the Ward be a single dissenting vote. The names of settled, if possible, by the Teachers; and the brethren to act as members of the also see that all who claim membership High Council were also presented and in this Church observe the moral law of sustained in a similar manner). our religion. We shall not expect to hear of people breaking the Sabbath, and a The Wards will be organized here- hundred other things all of which are in- after; Bishops will be placed over them, consistent with our holy callings, and op- with their two Counselors, all of whom posed to the accomplishment of the work will be ordained High Priests, if not al- that the Father has given us to do. You ready so ordained, and then be set apart are called upon now to make yourselves to act in their several offices. They then familiar with the revelations and com- will form a court; and then all the other mandments that have been given us of quorums of Priesthood will be set in or- the Lord for our perfection, for our sanc- der. For what? Paul says, "For the per- tification preparatory to our exaltation, fecting of the saints, for the work of the and so live that our acts and conversa- ministry, for the edifying of the body of tions may conform to the same. We ex- Christ." But whether this will be the re- pect to see a radical change, a reforma- sult here I do not know. All I know is that tion, in the midst of this people, so that, it should be so, and if everyone does his when the proper authorities shall call duty and lives his religion, it will be so. upon you to do thus and so, everyone (The brethren chosen and elected to fill may be found willing and ready to re- the several offices herein named, were spond, placing himself, with all he com- then set apart to act therein. The Presi- mands, for the upbuilding of the king- dent then continued—) dom of God. This is in accordance with Just a few words to the Presidency of a revelation given to this Church before this Stake of Zion. It is now their duty the law of Tithing was revealed; but in to see that the officers within their juris- consequence of unbelief and imperfec- diction perform their several duties, it is tion on the part of the people it was not sufficient work for them too if they will observed, and hence a law more adapted attend to it. The High Council I hope to their condition was given, namely, will not have much business to do. I am that of Tithing. You are called upon 44 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. now to improve your ways, to seek with wanted a little more money, they al- all earnestness for an increase of faith lowed themselves to be allured and they that you may live according to the higher lose all. I myself was the means of laws, which is your privilege to do, and making several brethren by employing which is so necessary for our peace and them, letting them have business to at- comfort and for the good order of society tend to until they became wealthy; and and for the salvation of the Latter-day now they are in poverty. Whereas, if Saints. We shall look for this change, they had taken my counsel they could and I do not think we shall be disap- have added to their wealth and been pointed; if at all, I believe it will prove in good comfortable circumstances today, a happy disappointment to all Israel, be- success and prosperity would have at- cause of the great reformation that will tended them, peace and blessing would be effected among the Latter-day Saints. have been their portion, and they in turn would have been in a position to bless Brethren and sisters, we feel to bless others of their brethren. This I say, you, we are blessing you all the time, with all confidence and assurance; but and God is blessing you. See how he no, selfishness and covetousness blinded has tempered the elements; how he has them, they wanted more and they cov- held our enemies in check, and deliv- eted that which was not their own; and ered us out of their grasp and power; if they have not already sensed it, I can how he has prospered us when we have tell them that weeping, mourning and confined our attention to our legitimate lamentation will overtake them, and this business; and I can say with all propriety they bring upon themselves. that, if we had strictly followed the coun- Let us take the course pointed out sels that have been given from the com- and we will avoid trouble; if we pay at- mencement until today, instead of being tention to our calling we will be blessed in such poverty, as we are in one sense, abundantly, both temporally and spiritu- we would be a self-sustaining, indepen- ally; and when it shall be said to the peo- dent people, commanding millions just ple, Let us do this or that, it will be done. as easy as we now command thousands. We require nothing more of the people But how unwise, how foolish some of than the Lord requires of us. And what our brethren are! I am ashamed of is that? It is this, "Son, give me thine them, and their condition is deplorable. heart." Let us truly and in reality be ser- Instead of beautifying their homes and vants of God, holding ourselves with all improving their farms, and helping to we have subject to the will of God, to reclaim the community and build up be used, if necessary, for the building the Zion of the latter days, they have up of his kingdom on the earth. This done—what? Dug holes in the ground? is what the Lord requires, this is what and, I do not know how it is with you, the Priesthood require, and is the course but go to Salt Lake City, and you will I endeavor to pursue. find men whose experience and judg- I say God bless you; I bless you. ment should have taught them better I say peace be with you. Brethren, reaping the results of their folly—their one and all, be faithful, be diligent. houses and lots mortgaged, their farm, We have all plenty to do; it remains also many are in this condition, and most for us to live so that by the light of of them will lose their property. They the Holy Spirit, we can see the work THE WORK OF THE PRIESTHOOD, ETC. 45 before us. Do not let our minds run af- have the opportunity and privileges of ter gold and silver, nor upon houses and life and salvation. lands; what the Lord gives us take the very best care of, putting the same to a wise and proper use, or our hearts can- Don't you think we have a work to not be for the kingdom. perform? Yes, and it will take a thousand Never have I seen to so great an ex- years to accomplish it. In the Temple tent that willingness to labor for the last winter the brethren and sisters en- cause of righteousness, as was witnessed joyed themselves the best that they ever in the Temple, at St. George, last win- did in their lives. So they said. And our ter. The Spirit of God pervaded the children, just old enough to work, how hearts of the brethren and sisters, and happy they were! They would exclaim, "I how willing they were to labor! This never knew anything about 'Mormonism' work will continue, and the brethren and before!" If you were in the Temples of sisters will go into the Temples of the God working for the living and the dead, Lord, to officiate for those who have died your eyes and hearts would not be after without the Gospel from the days of Fa- the fashions of the world, nor the wealth ther Adam to the winding-up scene, un- of the world. Yet the whole of this world's til every one is officiated for; who can or wealth belongs to the Lord, and he can will receive the Gospel so that all may give to whomsoever he pleases. Amen.
THE WORK OF THE PRIESTHOOD THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE HUMAN FAMILY—THE GOSPEL MORE THAN MORALITY, IT INCLUDES REDEMPTION—DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE IDEAS OF THE SAINTS AND THE WORLD—THE PROPHETS IN REGARD TO THE INCREASE OF MINERAL WEALTH—TEACH THE CHILDREN.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,OGDEN, SUNDAY MORNING,MAY 27, 1877.
REPORTEDBY JAMES TAYLOR.
I can offer a few of the reflec- item, and explain and give you cor- tions of my own mind with regard rect views, so that you can under- to the discourse of brother Geo. Q. stand all things pertaining to this Cannon. I will take his text: "We great work; but I will give a few have a great work to perform." Not words, hoping that you are prepared that I have time to take up item by to receive them in good and honest 46 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. hearts, and digest them by the spirit of least, if it were dropped into a cauldron revelation, and understand what I have of boiling oil; if it were thrown into fire it in my own heart. would not know it until it felt the flames; The improvement that we are under- it might be laid down here, and the wolf taking is not a small labor. It is not the might come and lick its face, and it would work of a day, or a week, or a month, but not know but that its mother was sooth- the work of a lifetime; and when we end ing it. You see this foundation, the start- our career here, we hope to leave those ing point, the germ of intelligence em- behind us on the earth of our own pos- bodied in this infant, calculated to grow terity, who are better calculated to go on and expand into manhood, then to the with this work, and who will do so un- capacity of an angel, and so onward to til it is completed. What is this work? eternal exaltation. But here is the foun- The improvement of the condition of the dation. Sent to school, the child learns to human family. This work must continue read, and continues to improve as long until the people who live on this earth as it lives. Is this the end of the knowl- are prepared to receive our coming Lord, edge of man? No. It is only the begin- and dwell with the sanctified, and to as- ning. It is the first stage of all the in- sociate with angels and with our Sav- telligence that the philosopher in his re- ior, preparatory to entering into the pres- flections, taking the starry world before ence of our heavenly Father. him, and looking into the immensity of Now this is the work; and how are the creations of God, can imagine. Here we to perform this work is the question is the first place where we learn, this is which I hope you will be able to under- the foot of the hill. stand. I wish you had the spirit of reve- lation. I would delight in the Latter-day Now the object is to improve the Saints living so that the Spirit of God minds of the inhabitants of the earth, would be within them, so that they could until we learn what we are here for, see and understand and judge all these and become one before the Lord, that things for themselves. we may rejoice together and be equal. I will commence by drawing atten- Not to make all poor. No. The whole tion to the philosophy of man here upon world is before us. The earth is here, the earth. We see ourselves here to- and the fullness thereof is here. It was day. Here are old, greyheaded men, aged made for man; and one man was not ladies, infants in their mother's arms, made to trample his fellow man under and persons in the different conditions his feet, and enjoy all his heart desires, and stages of life, with varied looks, feel- while the thousands suffer. We will take ings, sympathies and passions. We see a moral view, a political view, and we this variety before us today. But we see the inequality that exists in the hu- all commenced at the foot of the hill. man family. We take the inhabitants of We see the infant in its mother's arms. the civilized world, and how many la- What is this infant here for? What is boring men are there in proportion to the design in the creation of this lit- the inhabitants? About one to every five tle infant child? It lies here in its that are producers, and the supposition mother's arms; it would not resist, in the is that ten hours work by the one to THE WORK OF THE PRIESTHOOD, ETC. 47 three persons in the twenty-four hours to be educated in the learning of the day, will support the five. It is an unequal and to possess all the wisdom of man. condition of mankind. We see servants But we are to revolutionize the world. that labor early and late, and that have Do you think these Latter-day Saints can not the opportunity of measuring their do it? I do not know. It is the work of hours ten in twenty-four. They cannot go the Almighty; and if he sends forth his to school, nor hardly get clothing to go to Spirit to teach the people true principles, meeting in on the Sabbath. I have seen we have a right, a moral right, a reli- many cases of this kind in Europe, when gious right, to tell the truth to the peo- the young lady would have to take her ple without interruption; and men have clothing on a Saturday night and wash no business to raise their anger against it, in order that she might go to meet- this people, when we are merely telling ing on the Sunday with a clean dress the truth to the inhabitants of the earth, on. Who is she laboring for? For those and instructing them how they can bet- who, many of them, are living in luxury. ter their condition. And, to serve the classes that are liv- ing on them, the poor, laboring men and But we have something more than women are toiling, working their lives morality alone to teach the people. What out to earn that which will keep a little is it? It is how to redeem the human fam- life within them. Is this equality? No! ily. In Adam—that is, if we believe this What is going to be done? The Latter-day book (the Bible), and believe the history Saints will never accomplish their mis- that Moses gave of our first parents, and sion until this inequality shall cease on of the inhabitants of the earth, which in- the earth. deed we have to depend upon, for we are We say but very little about poli- not in possession of any other history of tics. If we have laws, we should have our first parents, and are consequently good laws, and we should get good men obliged to refer to this history—if we be- to adjudicate those laws. And if we lieve this, I can say that as in Adam all are at variance with our neighbor, and die, even so in Christ all are made alive. are in want of better judgment than we If we can believe Moses and the Apostles, have to settle our difficulties, let us call we die in consequence of sin in the con- three or twelve men, and leave it to duct of our first parents, in eating that them to decide between us. Adopt this which they were forbidden to eat; that course, and it would save an immense we are shut out and cannot see and un- amount of time, and set the lawyer to derstand heavenly beings. We cannot see raising his own potatoes and wheat, in- their faces. We cannot hear their voices. stead of gulling the people. The non- We cannot behold their glory. We are producer must live on the products of shut out from this. The veil of mortality those who labor. There is no other being dropped between us and the Cre- way. If we all labor a few hours a ator, something has to be done so that we day, we could then spend the remain- may return and behold those that are ex- der of our time in rest and the im- alted. provement of our minds. This would There is a difference between the give an opportunity to the children Latter-day Saints and the professed 48 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Christian world. Shall I remark on this gave breath and being to all. And yet difference? We teach our children that man has his agency; this truth we must we are serving a God who has an ear to never lose sight of. We must teach our hear, an eye to see. He has a mouth to children that Christ came in the merid- speak, a hand to handle. He has a body. ian of time; that he suffered and died for He has the component parts of man. He the original sin Adam committed in the moves in his own sphere. He dwells at Garden of Eden, and tasted death for ev- his own dwelling place. His presence ery man. He suffered for every man upon and his power fill immensity. He has the earth. filled the heavens and the earth with his This is the character of him whom we works, and placed man here upon the receive as our Savior. earth, and brought forth in the latter We want you to believe in Him, my days his greatest work. It is the greatest son, my daughter. Believe in His Father, work for the salvation of the human fam- and that they have compassion upon us, ily that has been revealed to man since and we should hearken to His counsel. the fall of Adam. I hope you teach this What is required of us as soon as we in the Sunday school, that we are serv- come to the years of accountability? It ing a God who has a body, parts and pas- is required of us, for it is an institu- sions, and who has feelings, and a fellow tion of heaven, the origin of which you feeling. Well, you startle at this. You and I cannot tell, for the simple reason have a fellow feeling. If the Christian that it has no beginning, it is from eter- world were to hear me declare that our nity to eternity—it is required of us to go Father in heaven could know and sym- down into the waters of baptism. Here pathize with this mortality by experi- is a fountain or element typical of the ence, and has a fellow feeling, and deals purity of the eternities. Go down into kindly and sympathetically and merci- the waters, and there be baptized for the fully with those who are froward, they remission of sins, and then have hands would be startled. Yet this is our Fa- laid upon us to confirm us members of ther. We believe in him. Yes. Ask the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day the Christian world, Do you believe in Saints. Then receive the Spirit of truth, such a God? No, they say. What kind or the Holy Ghost. Then live according of a being do you believe in? Such as to every word that proceeds out of the was described in the inscription which mouth of God, through those men whom Paul saw written on the altar at Athens, he has appointed here upon the earth, "To the unknown God." "We worship that until we are perfect. unknown God." But the God that the If we go and preach the Gospel, men Latter-day Saints are worshiping, and and women of age, youths and chil- that we teach our children to worship, dren believe our testimony, come for- is the God and Father of our Lord Je- ward and desire to receive a remission sus Christ and the Father of our spirits, of their sins by obeying the ordinances the author of the existence of our bod- of the house of God, that are placed in ies, He who placed them here upon the that house for the express purpose of re- earth. He gave existence to us all. He mitting sins. Then they commence to live moral lives, as becometh those who have embraced the truth, and continue THE WORK OF THE PRIESTHOOD, ETC. 49 to live by the truth until they are pre- I can attribute it to no other agency than pared to enter into an exaltation. How the power of God diffusing it in these long will they live here? No matter if mountains. I will refer it to the scientific they live as long as Methuselah lived, world. You may as well take a piece of if they commence that moral reform re- wood and say that it shall become a piece quired in their lives. Those who have of sandstone, as to say that you will find been in the habit of swearing, swear no silver in sandstone. Did you ever know more. Never use the name of the Deity sandstone to become a petrifaction. It is without his authority. If we are in the hard to say where it will not be found, habit of telling that which is not true, now that it is found in the barks of pet- learn to speak the truth. If we speak rified trees. It is no matter, the Lord is evil of our neighbors, cease to speak evil. managing all this, and he does just as Covet not that which is not our own. he pleases with regard to the treasures Keep the Ten Commandments, and then of the earth, and we may look for them, go on until we are perfect, loving our but if we are not to find them, they will neighbor more than we love ourselves, be hid. When God says to his agents, re- imparting to all that kind fellow feeling, move this gold, this silver, this copper, it that we can take those who are in this will be done. You do not understand this poor and stricken condition of life, and philosophy, but I do. And my philosophy raise them, that they may come up and outreaches the philosophy of men that possess the fruits of the earth, and en- study books. I have said enough with re- joy all that we can enjoy in raiment, food gard to the minerals of the earth. and possessions. Raise our own horses, I see a man grow up from the in- our own food, and let everyone be a pro- fant stage to be a scholar, and by and ducer, and then we can with a good grace, by he has an empire, and can give laws be consumers. Infringe upon no one. In- to the people, that can equalize them, stead of making any poorer, make all and bring them to a state of happiness wealthy. and excellency, and give them all the A few words upon the minerals found advantages that man can possess upon in our mountains. We have had a great the earth, and make every man happy many men examining among the moun- and comfortable. This is the work that tains, and through the plateaus and we have upon our hands. Teach the ranges in the south. The whole scien- people the faith of the Gospel. Teach tific world, a few years ago, would have them what God is, and what His work pledged their reputation that there was is, and that there never was a time such not any mineral in the sandstone range as many of our philosophers speak of, along the Rio Virgin River. Now they who drift back and back, and come to are finding it in many places. A great this theory and that theory, and go back, many have told me that there was no and back to the time when we were all mineral there, but it is now found in var- reptiles. When was there a time when ious parts of the southern portion of this there was not a God? But, say they, Territory. What can I say about it? The there must have been a time. Then Lord, in Isaiah, says, "For brass I will you declare to me, do you, that there bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, was a time when there was no time. and for wood brass, and for stones iron." And this is the philosophy of a great 50 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. many of the scientific in this day. They things on a hypothesis. That philosophy see the heavens stretched out, but they reaches to all eternity, and is the phi- comprehend them not. And why do they losophy that the Latter-day Saints be- not say, if there was a time when there lieve in. Every particle of truth that was no time, there will be a time again every person has received is a gift of when there will be no time. What a con- God. We receive these truths, and go on dition for man to be in! Can we look on- from glory to glory, from eternal lives to ward and upward through the immen- eternal lives, gaining a knowledge of all sity of space, and behold the worlds on things, and becoming Gods, even Sons worlds that we call stars, and imagine of God. These are the celestial ones. that they will be blotted out forever? These are they whom the Lord has cho- What an idea! What a philosophy! Why, sen through their obedience. They have it ought to be laughed at by the igno- not spurned the truth, when they have rant, and those who are children in their heard it. These are they that have not reflections. A time when there was no spurned the Gospel, but have acknowl- God, no eternity! It cannot be possible, edged Jesus and God in their true char- and the philosopher who tries to estab- acter; that have acknowledged the an- lish such a doctrine cannot possess any gels in their true character. These are correct ideas of his own being. Will there they that work for the salvation of the ever be such a time? No. But forever human family. onward and upward. So it is with the re- I say to the Latter-day Saints, all we ligion we have embraced. have to do is to learn of God. Let the liars Teach the Sunday School children lie on, and let the swearers swear on, and with regard to the heavens, with regard they will go to perdition. All we have to their faith, with regard to their mortal to do is to go onward and upward, and lives, and reach out to that higher life, keep the commandments of our Father far above this, that we may, if we will, and God; and He will confound our ene- enjoy upon the earth. This is the condi- mies. It is for you and me to improve our tion of man. This is the road for men to children, and teach them to bring forth walk in, to be obedient to the principles the elements here, until we possess all of eternal truth, those immortal princi- things that are on the earth, and then ples that God has revealed to us. prepare to possess the things that are in With regard to the ordinances of God, Heaven, and go on from glory to glory, we may remark that we yield obedience until we are crowned with God the Fa- to them because He requires it; and ev- ther. ery iota of His requirements has a ratio- nal philosophy with it. We do not get up May the Lord bless you, Amen. ORDER OF THE PRIESTHOOD, ETC. 51
ORDER OF THE PRIESTHOOD—DUTIES OF THE SEVERAL QUORUMS—DIFFICULTIES AND THEIR SETTLEMENT—DUTIES OF THE TEACHERS—DISCIPLINE IN THE CHURCH.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDAT FARMINGTON, ON SUNDAY MORNING,JUNE 17, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
The following passage is found in the moved upon to call upon the Twelve to Doctrine and Covenants, page 266, new go through the Territory and attend to edition— these matters, in accordance with a rev- "Which priesthood continueth in the elation which makes it the duty of the church of God in all generations, and Twelve "to ordain and set in order all is without beginning of days or end of the officers of the church;" to see that the years. And the Lord confirmed a priest- Church is "righted up" in all its various hood also upon Aaron and his seed, departments, and in the organization of throughout all their generations, which its various quorums; where it is nec- priesthood also continueth and abideth essary that Stakes should be organized forever with the priesthood which is organize them; and to see that all the after the holiest order of God. And quorums and officers be placed in their this greater priesthood administereth proper position so that they will work the gospel and holdeth the key of the harmoniously and according to the rev- mysteries of the kingdom, even the key elations and order of God. The growth of the knowledge of God. Therefore, in of the Church and the changes contin- the ordinances thereof, the power of god- ually taking place render it necessary liness is manifest. And without the ordi- that this work to which we have been nances thereof, and the authority of the called be attended to. It is very desir- priesthood, the power of godliness is not able and necessary, too, that every man manifest unto men in the flesh; For with- should understand his true position in out this no man can see the face of God, the Church; that he may the better mag- even the Father, and live." nify his calling, and attend to every duty There are some ideas associated with devolving upon him. In the organiza- these principles which I will briefly re- tion of a Stake of Zion, as revealed, there fer to. We have assembled here to more should be a President with two Coun- perfectly organize the Church of God in selors, to preside over all the officers, this place; to establish a Stake; to select, authorities and people of that Stake. appoint and set apart the necessary of- There should also be a High Council con- ficers there for. Our President has been 52 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. sisting of Twelve Councilors presided eternity, when we elect officers to fill po- over by the President of the Stake and sitions in this Church we choose men his two Counselors. There should also whose authority through their faithful- be a High Priests' Quorum, with a Presi- ness will hold good not only on this earth, dent and two Counselors to preside over but in the heavens, and not only now but all the High Priests in the Stake. hereafter. And when these things are The Elders' Quorum should be com- carried out to their fullest extent, then posed of ninety-six Elders, presided over will "the will of God be done on earth, as by a President and two Counselors, and it is in heaven," and the meek will rejoice when more than ninety-six, other quo- in the administration of his rule. rums should be organized. If I had time I might refer to accounts given of various men who stood at the The Priests' Quorum should be com- head of the Priesthood in the different posed of forty-eight, presided over by a ages of the world, showing how it has Bishop. The Teachers' Quorum should been handed down from one to another, be composed of twenty-four, and the Dea- agreeably to the will of God, for the ac- cons of twelve, each with their respective complishment of his purposes and the Presidents and Counselors. The Bishop benefit of the human family. He has necessarily presides over the whole of given unto us a very good and perfect or- the lesser Priesthood in his Ward, and ganization; quite as perfect I think, and they are under his special guidance and I am prepared to say, as any organiza- direction, while he is presided over by tion that ever existed upon the face of the Presidency of the Stake, and the the earth. And it is indeed reasonable Presidents of the Stakes, in their turn that such an organization should now ex- are presided over by the First Presidency ist, for we are living in what is called and the Twelve; thus all are amenable the dispensation of the fullness of times; to proper authority in their various or- and it embraces all other dispensations ganizations and there is no schism in the that ever did exist on the earth. It em- body. All Bishops should be properly or- braces also all the powers and privileges, dained with their Counselors, in order to rights, keys and Priesthoods ever known be qualified to act efficiently in their of- to man. fices, and to be qualified to sit as common In relation to organizations, there judges in Israel. has been a great deal of carelessness We have frequently heard that "Or- exhibited in many instances; we have der is heaven's first law." In no earthly failed to sense the importance of the se- government is there so much order rious responsibilities that attaches itself evinced as in the Church and kingdom to this Priesthood, this delegated power of God, and for that we are indebted of heaven. We have found more or less to the revelations of God. The office of confusion among the churches wherever the Priesthood is really to rule and gov- we have gone; and hence the wisdom ern in that government which is recog- manifested by the President in request- nized as the Lord's, whether it be in ing a more perfect organization seems heaven or on the earth. And as the the more to be appreciated, because of Lord has restored the everlasting Gospel the necessity that exists for improve- and the keys of the everlasting Priest- ment. Says the Lord, "Without the or- hood which administers in time and dinances thereof, and the authority of ORDER OF THE PRIESTHOOD, ETC. 53 the priesthood, the power of godliness of Doctrine and Covenants, which the is not manifest unto man in the flesh; Spirit of God would dictate to men occu- For without this no man can see the face pying such a position. of God, even the Father, and live." The And then if there is an appeal from Lord having given unto us this divine this court it goes to the High Council law and revealed certain principles unto which is also composed of High Priests, us, he expects us to govern ourselves ac- set apart to this office, by the First Pres- cordingly; that every ordinance in con- idency or the Twelve, to be presided over nection with the Priesthood may be ad- by the Presidency of the Stake. For ministered properly and in accordance the lack of this more perfect organiza- with his law. We find many departures tion all kinds of confusion has prevailed however from this law. In the bishopric among the brethren in many instances; we find many irregularities. In some in- all kinds of little differences are taken stances we have found that a Bishop has to the High Council, which ought to no Counselors, in others he has had one be taken to the Bishop's court. People Counselor perhaps, and sometimes we sometimes quarrel about little things, have found the Bishop with two Coun- very trivial affairs that do not represent selors, but he himself not ordained to the more than ten or twenty dollars in mon- office, but had only been appointed, and etary matters, and they are not satis- in some instances we have found that fied unless the High Council try such the Counselors have not been properly cases. And what is the result? In- authorized and qualified to act in their stead of having these little matters set- calling. Whereas there is a law regulat- tled by the Teachers or Bishops in their ing these things which we hope to com- own Wards, they occupy the time of the ply with. Every Bishop should be first or- fifteen men composing the Council, be- dained a High Priest, and then set apart sides their own and that of the witnesses, to the Bishopric by the proper authority; who generally number from five to fif- and the Bishop's Counselors, if not al- teen. But these men work for nothing ready ordained to the High Priesthood, and board themselves, and therefore it should be, and then set apart to act in costs the disputants nothing for the adju- their capacity, as first and second Coun- dication of their differences, whereas in selors to the Bishop. These three then such cases the High Council would pre- form a quorum, and a court and are qual- fer to put their hands in their pockets ified to sit in judgment upon all mat- and pay the amount in dispute rather ters that may come before the Bishop, than listen to their nonsense. And it as a common judge in Israel which per- would seem that some men are so incon- tains to his Ward. They are then prop- siderate, that they would impose upon erly authorized to act in this capacity, them, because they are willing to give and they ought to be upheld and sus- their time. tained in the position they occupy, and Such cases should not come before in all of their doings, inasmuch as they the High Council; they more properly are characterized by righteousness and belong to the lesser Priesthood, to the sound judgment, and as the Scriptures Priests and Teachers and to the Bishop's say, with humility and faith, and long- court. suffering and wisdom, and according to Such men do not realize their po- the principles laid down in the book sition before God and their brethren. If men have differences they should 54 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. try to settle them amicably among them- First Presidency, they pass the more im- selves. But if they cannot do this, let mediate authorities, and confusion and them take the first steps as directed in disorder exist, and valuable time is oc- the Church Covenants, let them then cupied almost needlessly, and those who come together as brethren having a will work may work until they are bro- claim upon the Spirit and power of God ken down ready to cease their earthly which would attend them if they lived labors, and all this for the want of men's their religion, and then, provided the knowing their duties and doing them. Priests and Teachers did their duty and were filled with wisdom and the spirit of their office and calling, ninety-nine cases out of every hundred might be satisfacto- But while we are contending over lit- rily settled without either troubling the tle things what becomes of us? We are Bishop's court or the High Council. But losing sight of our callings, we forget that because these duties of the lesser Priest- this kingdom was established upon the hood are not faithfully performed or suf- earth for the purpose of introducing righ- ficiently estimated, they are not carried teousness and the laws and principles of out according to the laws laid down for truth, the laws of heaven upon the earth, our government and thus many of these and of blessing mankind and of saving differences and difficulties exist in our the living and the dead. We forget what midst. we are here for, and what the kingdom of When the Church is organized in all God is established for. It is not for you its various departments with the Pres- or for me or anybody else alone; it is the ident at the head, the Twelve in their interests of the world and the salvation place, the High Priests, Seventies and of mankind. We are expected, every one Elders in theirs, together with the Bish- of us, to perform the various duties and ops and lesser Priesthood, the local aids responsibilities devolving upon us. If we and governments each acting in their ap- neglect them are we not guilty before pointed sphere and calling, and all op- God? Whence come the difficulties that erated upon and influenced by the Holy we have in our midst? Because as I have Spirit, then the whole becomes as the said in many instances the Priesthood do body of a man, sound and complete in not perform their duties, are not vigilant all its members, and everything moves and faithful. The Teachers sometimes harmoniously and pleasantly along. For come to visit us and sometimes they do the body, we are told, has not one mem- not. I do not know how it is with you, but ber but many: "And the eye cannot they rarely visit me. When they do come, say unto the hand, I have no need of am I pleased to see them? Yes. I call thee: nor again the head to the feet, my family together, and then addressing I have no need of you;" but every man the Teachers I say to them; "Brethren, in his place acting in his office and we are all very glad to see you, we are calling. And there is as much devolv- ready to listen to you and if you have ing upon the Priests, the Teachers and any instructions for us we shall be happy Deacons and those of the lesser Priest- to hear you." These are my feelings hood as there is upon any other mem- with regard to men who act as Teach- bers of the Church. When they do ers. And are they prepared to teach me? not fulfill their duties, what is the re- Yes. If I have been negligent or care- sult? People go to the Twelve, or to the less, they will inquire into it; and the ORDER OF THE PRIESTHOOD, ETC. 55 same with the members of my family. Or other officers thoroughly and faithfully are there ill feelings existing among any perform their duties, and then we will of the members of the household; or be- see whether there is any power in the tween them and our neighbors. If so, Priesthood or not; then we will know they should find out. It is their busi- whether the blessings of the Lord attend ness to know whether I and my family the ordinances or not; then we will know are living our religion or not; and the that God rules in Israel, and that the same with everybody else's family in the honest in heart, the truthful and those Church. But how is it now? They come who love righteousness are in reality his perhaps once in three months, or nine people, and that they will maintain the months as the case may be. And when right and purge the Church from evil they do come they have a few words and of every kind. We do not want to be- questions which, to say the least, are come partakers of other men's sins; the very formal. Is that the spirit and calling First Presidency will not, neither will the of a Teacher? No! They should be full of Twelve; the Bishops should not, for God the light and revelation of God, quick to will require it at their hands. discover everything and know everybody God intends to build up a Church and their standing in their jurisdiction. here after the pattern of the one that ex- And they would too if they performed ists in heaven; and to come down and as- their duties and were faithful to the wel- sociate himself with man upon the earth. fare of the people. What is the result? Are we prepared? No. Shall we be by The wards are not attended to. What fol- the course we are going? Never, while lows? We have drinking in our midst. the world stands. Therefore we are going Yes, Elders and High Priests and Sev- forth and wherever we find things disor- enties are tempted to drink and humil- ganized, we organize them, and then call iate themselves before God and the peo- upon the various organizations to per- ple. We have others that break the Sab- form their duties in fidelity, honesty and bath, and others that swear and blas- faithfulness, that every man may be felt pheme the name of God. We have others after to the utmost extremity of the Ter- that lie and cheat. And who pays any at- ritory, that it may be known what they tention to it? Some think it would not be are doing, whether they are for God and polite to attend to some of these matters; the principles of truth or not. We do but I tell you God will take hold of them not want any more "Good Lord and good by and by, and they will know whether devil;" the line will be drawn and we will he will be polite or not. If a man does know who is for the kingdom and who is wrong, let him be held accountable for not. If we do not those things which are that wrong, no matter who he may be. required at our hands, what is the use If he cheats, bring him up; if he lies, let of our profession? Why should men who him be treated as a liar; if he breaks the do not want to do right, who break the Sabbath bring him to an account for it; Sabbath, who steal, defraud and impose let the proper officers of the Church see upon their neighbors, why should they that they do their duty, or God will not court the fellowship of the Saints? Do hold them guiltless. Let all the Elders, you think they will get into the kingdom the Priests, Teachers and Deacons and of God? No. We read of ten virgins, five 56 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of whom were wise and five were fool- And it will be expected that all the oth- ish; and I think both the wise and ers under their presidency will listen to the foolish ones got into rather a bad their counsels; and it will be expected condition—they went to sleep. By and that they will listen to the instructions of by, at midnight, the cry was heard, "Be- President Young and the Twelve. And it hold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out is then expected that the Priests, Teach- to meet him." Then they all awakened, ers and Deacons will hearken to and rubbed their eyes a little, I suppose, obey the counsel of their Bishop; and looked around for their lamps, some it will be expected that the people will of which contained oil and some were listen to the voice of their Priests and empty. Those who had no oil in their Teachers and those whose business it is lamps went to those who had, request- to look after their interest and welfare. ing them to give them of their oil, for We are now approaching a very impor- their lamps had gone out. But those tant stage in the history of this latter- who had oil had none to spare, and the day work; we may try to dig around our foolish were told to go to those who sold duties and responsibilities, but we have oil and buy. When the bridegroom came to meet them. We have got to walk those who were ready went in with him according to the laws of God, or abide to the marriage, and the others did not, by the result for not doing it. God ex- and—that's all. We might as well look pects these things at our hands, and at these things squarely and see how we they are things which we have a right stand, and what our position is before to expect from one another; it is ex- the Lord. "Be not deceived; God is not pected that we all will do our duty, and mocked: that which a man sows, he will God the Father of Jesus, and all the reap. If we sow to the flesh we shall of eternal Priesthood in the heavens expect the flesh reap corruption; if we sow to the the Presidency, the Twelve, the Presi- Spirit, we shall reap life everlasting." dents of Stakes, the High Priests, High Councils, the Seventies and Elders, the Why should men who do not want to Bishops, Priests, Teachers and Deacons do right stop in our midst? If I did not and all the Priesthood and all the peo- want to be a Latter-day Saint, I would ple to be governed by the law of God, say, "Gentlemen, I will leave you, suc- and to help faithfully to build Zion and cess to you." But then I do not know what establish the kingdom of God that we I might do or might not do were I in may be one in all things temporal and such a condition. At any rate, why do spiritual; that we may be welded and men palm themselves upon the commu- united together on earth and not only nity as Latter-day Saints, when they are on the earth but in the heavens also. not? And we hear of them grumbling and This is what the whole thing points to, growling about the Priesthood. If the that the Priesthood on the earth should Priesthood are such rascals, why do they operate and cooperate with the Priest- not leave them, and seek more congenial hood of heaven in the accomplishment society? of the purposes of God. We are build- When these organizations are com- ing Temples that we may labor therein pleted there will be a President with for ourselves and also become saviors on two Counselors, and they will preside Mount Zion. How can we operate with over all other Councils in the Stake. the Priesthood of heaven unless we are PRAYER, ETC. 57 governed by the Priesthood God has tion. And that God may help us to do given us on the earth? We cannot his will and perform the work given us do it; we must be governed by the to do, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus laws and principles he has revealed Christ. Amen. top our guidance, and for our salva-
PRAYER THE MEDIUM FOR BLESSING—PRACTICAL MORALITY ESTABLISHES CONFIDENCE—THE PROPHET JOSEPH MANIFEST IN BRIGHAM—AGE PREVENTS EFFORT, BUT WHEN BEHIND THE VEIL, FREEDOM FROM OBSTRUCTION IS OUR OPPORTUNITY.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON HYDE, DELIVEREDINTHE TEMPLE,ST.GEORGE,APRIL 5, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I have not language, my brethren and I trace them to their source, and I find sisters, to express the feelings and emo- that many times the places where they tions of my heart on coming into this originate are small and ofttimes hidden Temple yesterday morning; I could not from the popular gaze. But, notwith- describe them if I were to undertake to standing, they flow down and the waters do so, and consequently I will sum up increase, until by tributaries the main in short by saying, that the sentiments channel becomes a mighty river. So our of my heart were, Thank God for such a prayers in private and family circle are place in which to worship and to rever- secret and retired from the public, but ence his high and holy name. they keep the fire burning upon the altar We have been listening this morn- of our hearts. And it is not often that per- ing to some very interesting and truth- sons who faithfully attend to this duty ful remarks, and I have felt edified, walk in darkness, it is seldom that they instructed, and comforted in my feel- apostatize and turn away from the faith, ings. And I think, if we all remem- especially when we couple our solemn ber our prayers in the season thereof, prayers with a short sermon or lecture in sincerity and truth, that our light of comfort and of peace to our wives would shine before us according to our and children, sanctifying our prayers by needs and wants. It is too often the words of consolation, and then we have case that this important duty is ne- a little heaven on earth. And I have glected. I look at the rivers of water, 58 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. noticed that those who do this can gener- is good and honorable on the part of the ally give a reason for the hope that is in creditor to establish his name and char- them. Where these things are neglected, acter by showing mercy and easing the however small they may appear in the burden of those who may be indebted to estimation of some, there is a want of the him. For there should be a disposition vital principle that feeds the soul, that on one part to avoid contracting debts, keeps the leaves and branches green, and a disposition on the other to be as le- that imparts beauty and loveliness to all nient as circumstances permit, to move nature. away all the obstruction we can from the I have thought that if we were a lit- path of each other's prosperity. However tle more punctual in the discharge of small these matters may seem, they are our obligations one with another and to important. all men, it would be the means of open- At the time our Prophet and Patri- ing wider the door of light and truth arch were killed, or at least soon af- to all pursuing that course. It is too terwards, when the Twelve returned to often the case that we sometimes con- Nauvoo, their immediate circumstances tract duties and make promises to dis- were not altogether agreeable and pleas- charge them, when our present condi- ant or profitable. But suffice it to say we tion and future prospects are altogether had a meeting, a Conference, at which too slim to justify our doing so. Yet we President Young was the center of at- feel we must go in debt to supply our traction. On his rising to speak, and as immediate wants. And when the time soon as he opened his mouth, I heard the comes for payment to be made, it is not voice of Joseph through him, and it was at all an infrequent chapter in our lives, as familiar to me as the voice of my wife, that at that particular time we were not the voice of my child, or the voice of my so well prepared to meet the obligation father. And not only the voice of Joseph as we were the day we made the con- did I distinctly and unmistakably hear, tract. This I apprehend is a barrier to but I saw the very gestures of his person, our success and our prosperity. And I the very features of his countenance, and feel that if there was more punctuality if I mistake not, the very size of his per- manifested by us in paying our obliga- son appeared on the stand. And it went tions than now exists, we would have through me with the thrill of conviction more confidence in one another than we that Brigham was the man to lead this already have. I do not recommend any people. And from that day to the present person to take his neighbor in hand and there has not been a query or a doubt say, "Pay me that which thou owest me." upon my mind with regard to the divin- So far as my memory serves me, in such ity of his appointment; I know that he cases as when persons owed me who was the man selected of God to fill the failed to pay me according to promise, position he now holds. and I believed them honest and upright in their feelings, seeking not to take ad- I have found in my experience that vantage, I do not recollect ever having there is a good deal in a man's hav- crowded such persons, or putting them ing confidence in himself. A per- to the least inconvenience. I think it son having little confidence in God PRAYER, ETC. 59 and more in himself is not good; the cap- not been able to do anything, not even to ital stock should be in the Lord our God, cut a stick of wood or fetch a bucketful of and the smaller portion in the creature water. But I feel thankful that my health operating. is as good as it is, and that I have lived When the Lord created man, I believe to see this day, and to behold this elegant he placed in him a portion of himself, structure reared to the honor of our God, that is a portion of every qualification and to have the privilege of meeting and that he himself possessed. And in our joining with so many of my brethren and sphere we are to act independently; but sisters to worship within its walls. under and by the power of those princi- ples of natural inspiration. There is a good deal of natural inspiration in man; and when that is touched by the finger Brethren, I rejoice in the service of of the Almighty, it makes the cup a de- God, and I want to continue in it; and licious one, it makes the mind truly en- if our religion had no more consolation lightened. than it now affords, it would be ample Brethren and sisters, I have all con- to inspire us to honor it, and to live it. fidence in the Lord our God—I say all I look around me and see a great many confidence, perhaps that calls for a lit- heads as white and many whiter than tle qualification. At any rate I believe in my own. I ofttimes wish, Oh, that I him, and that he is just, wise and mer- were again active and able to work man- ciful. If I did not believe he was mer- fully and energetically in the cause of ciful, I could not believe my own eyes truth! But no; like many others of my while looking upon this vast congrega- age, I am subject to rheumatism and tion of his people, assembled in this iso- pains in my limbs, which at times dis- lated place, here in the southern portion able me; I have commenced to feel the of our Territory. infirmities of increasing age and years; I tell you how I feel in relation to and so many of us now, after these many the matters that have been spoken of years of toil, have to struggle with the here today. If I had more confidence in going down sun of our earthly existence. myself, and in my own ability, limited But we have the consolation of know- though it may be, I could venture far- ing that our mortal body will not always ther and do more, and perhaps overcome impede our progress, we shall not for- my natural timidity and become a more ever suffer its inconveniences; we are efficient agent in the hands of our Fa- gladdened in the hope of either laying ther of doing good. This I desire with down this mortal tabernacle or undergo- all my heart. I can say that what little ing that welcome change which will free I possess of this world's goods are sub- us from all afflictions and annoyances. ject to the orders of my superiors in the And we hail the day when we shall be Priesthood, myself and all that I com- free from sorrow and death, to forever re- mand are at their dictation to be used joice in the joys of everlasting lives. But in the service of our God for the ad- while we remain let us struggle on, and vancement of his kingdom. I labored continue the good fight of faith until we with my hands until I reached my sev- are called home. I calculate, the Lord entieth year, when I had to cease work- being my helper, to do the very best I ing; and for the last two years I have can. How long I may live I know not, 60 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. neither do I feel much anxiety, feeling of our forefathers, which we have inher- as I do that I am in the hands of my ited through entailment, and completely Heavenly Father, who will do with me baptized in the element of life everlast- as seemeth him good. But yet if I ing. These are my heart's desires. I pray could be spared in health, I would like that God may continue to bless us and to see the adversary bound, to trouble help us to walk day by day in obedience and harass no more the children of our to the requirements of heaven. Amen. God. I would like to live to see my- self entirely redeemed from the tradition
ITEMS OF HISTORY—THE PIONEERS—TALKING TO THE CHILDREN—PEACE IN UTAH—GOD A PERSONAGE OF TABERNACLE—THE FOOLISH FASHIONS.
ADDRESSBY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDTOTHE SUNDAY SCHOOL CHILDREN, INTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,JULY 24, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
If I can have quiet and the strict at- In 1830, forty-seven years ago last tention of the congregation I think all March, the Book of Mormon was printed can hear me. The children, as well and bound. Joseph Smith had received as those of older growth and manhood, revelation, and plates on which were en- will please cease their talking one to an- graved characters from which the book other, cease the rubbing of feet on the was translated. Before the book was floor, cease to make noise. I have a few printed, before Joseph had the privi- words for the children. The larger por- lege of testifying to the truth of the tion of this congregation have been born latter-day work, persecution was raised in this Territory; they know nothing of against him. On the 6th day of April the outside world; they know but little of the same year the Church of Jesus in comparison as to the cause of their Christ was organized. Persecution in- birth and education within the valleys creased and continued to increase. He of these mountains. A short recital of left the State of New York and went the reasons, why these children before to the State of Ohio. The Gospel was me were born here instead of being born preached there and many received it. in the States, I can give to you, and A settlement was formed, but Joseph will endeavor to do so in a few words. had not the privilege of staying there long before they hunted him so deter- ITEMS OF HISTORY, ETC. 61 minedly that he was forced to leave Kirt- sacring them, in driving us out of the land and the State of Ohio. He then State to the State of Illinois, where the went to Missouri. In the year 1838, in people received us with open arms, es- the month of March, in company with pecially the inhabitants of the city of a number of brethren, myself included, Quincy; for which kindness the hearts Joseph arrived at Far West, Caldwell of our people who passed through these County, Missouri. We had not the privi- scenes have ever been lifted to God, pe- lege of staying there more than for a few titioning for blessings upon them. And months before the cry was raised against they have been blessed. We lived in the Joseph Smith, that he was guilty of high State of Illinois a few years; and here, treason. This aroused the people and as elsewhere, persecution overtook us. the government of the State; and in Oc- It came from Missouri, centering itself tober, thirty-five hundred of the militia upon Joseph, and fastened itself upon of the State of Missouri were marched others. We lived in Illinois from 1839 against a few of us in Far West. They to 1845, by which time they again suc- succeeded in taking Joseph and Hyrum ceeded in kindling the spirit of perse- and sixty-five others and putting them cution against Joseph and the Latter- in prison. When Joseph had his trial, the day Saints. Treason! Treason! Trea- great accusation against him was that he son! they cried, calling us murderers, believed in the fulfillment of prophecy— thieves, liars, adulterers, and the worst the prophecies that had been made by people on the earth. And this was done Prophets of old and contained in Holy by the priests, those pious dispensers Writ. When Judge King asked Joseph of the Christian religion whose charity if he believed the predictions of Daniel was supposed to be extended to all men, the Prophet, that in the latter days the Christian and heathen; they were joined God of heaven would set up a kingdom by drunkards, gamblers, thieves, liars, which should succeed and finally rule in crying against the Latter-day Saints. and hold dominion over all other king- They took Joseph and Hyrum, and as doms, Joseph replied that he did be- a guarantee for their safety, Governor lieve this scripture as well as the rest. Thomas Ford pledged the faith of the This was considered treason! Joseph's State of Illinois. They were imprisoned, lawyer turned to Judge King and said, on the pretense of safe keeping, because "Judge, I think you had better write it the mob was so enraged and violent. down that the Bible is high treason," The Governor left them in the hands of and this was all they found against him. the mob, who entered the prison and But the mob continued until they drove shot them dead. John Taylor, who is the Latter-day Saints out of the State present with us today, was in the prison of Missouri. We were told if we re- too, and was also shot, and was con- mained there the people would be upon fined to his bed for several months af- us. What we were guilty of we did not terwards. After the mob had commit- know, only that we believed in the Bible ted these murders they came upon us and the fulfillment of prophecy, or, in and burned our houses and our grain. other words, in the literal reading of When the brethren would go out to put the word of God. They succeeded, after out the fire, the mob would lie con- killing many of the Latter-day Saints— cealed under fences, and in the dark- men, women, and children, cruelly mas- ness of the night, they would shoot them. At last they succeeded in driving us 62 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. from the State of Illinois. distress. At one time, I was told, Three congressmen came in the Fall they would have perished from star- of 1845, and had a Conference with vation, had not the Lord sent quails the Twelve and others; they were de- among them. These birds flew against sirous that we should leave the United their wagons, and they either killed or States. We told them we would do so, stunned themselves, and the brethren we had stayed long enough with them; and sisters gathered them up, which fur- we agreed to leave the State of Illinois nished them with food for days, until in consequence of that religious preju- they made their way in the wilderness. dice against us that we could not stay Children, we are the pioneers of this in peace any longer. These men said country, with one exception, west of the the people were prejudiced against us. Mississippi River; we established the Stephen A. Douglas, one of the three, first printing press in every State from had been acquainted with us. He said, "I here to the Pacific Ocean, and we were know you, I knew Joseph Smith; he was the first to establish libraries, and the a good man," and this people was a good first to establish good schools; we were people; but the prejudices of the priests the first to plant out orchards and to im- and the ungodly are such that, said he, prove the desert country, making it like "Gentlemen, you cannot stay here and the garden of Eden. live in peace." We agreed to leave. We completed our Temple far enough to give I will not prolong this recital; but will endowments to many. We left Nauvoo in ask the children if they can now under- February, 1846. There remained behind stand why they were born here in this a few of the very poor, the sick and the far off land? You might just as well have aged, who suffered again from the vio- been born in Missouri or Illinois, if your lence of the mob: they were whipped and parents had been treated as they should beaten, and had their houses burned. We have been. If let alone to enjoy the rights traveled west, stopping in places, build- and liberties in common with our fellow ing settlements, where we left the poor men, we would have beautified the land, who could not travel any further with made it an Eden and adorned it with ev- the company. Exactly thirty years to- erything desirable. But we were not al- day, myself, with others, came out of lowed to stay there to possess the homes what we named Emigration Canyon; we we had made; and consequently we are crossed the Big and Little mountains, here and this has been your birthplace. and came down the valley about three And now that we are here, we are fol- quarters of a mile south of this. We lo- lowed by a set of men who are ready cated, and we looked about, and finally to reenact the scenes that we have al- we came and camped between the two ready passed through. But we are now forks of City Creek, one of which ran where we can keep and preserve our- southwest and the other west. Here selves in the possession of our homes we planted our standard on this Tem- and property. They drove us to the fast- ple block and the one above it; here nesses of the Rocky Mountains, and it we pitched our camps and determined will be a hard matter to dispossess us that here we would settle and stop. again; it will prove a job, if undertaken, Still our brethren who tarried by the that they would be glad to let out before way were toiling through poverty and they get fairly into it. But still they are ITEMS OF HISTORY, ETC. 63 after us; and when you hear of this and ment? No other people. This is the that with regard to myself, being guilty speech that brother George Q. Cannon of this and that wrong; I would have was expected to have made. He wanted you look at those who make these ac- me to make it and I have to make the two cusations, look at certain characters we speeches in one. have and have had in our midst who are called ministers of justice, ministers Now, a few words of counsel to the of the law; they are bosom companions children. Do you feel, children, that you of thieves, liars and murderers; but the can remain patient and endure my talk honorable and upright they hate because a little longer? I think you can. A few their deeds are evil; and they believe words of counsel to you, to you that un- they have a mission, but it is a hard one derstand what I am saying, I hope you to accomplish. will observe what I say and remember You can now understand, my chil- it, and carry it out in your lives. The dren, why you were born in Utah, and first is to love the Lord your God with not in either Missouri or Illinois. If they all your hearts. And the next is to honor had let us alone we would have made your parents, that your days may be those lands an Eden, and we would have long in the land which the Lord your molested or hurt no one. For there are God has given us. Observe, children, no people that preserve the laws of our and hearken. You are taught to wor- government as well as the Latter-day ship the Lord, so are the children of the Saints. Christian world. They have their Sun- Now, permit me to cast one reflec- day schools, and churches and meeting- tion before closing this part of my ad- houses, and their ministers and teach- dress. You have been reading of the great ers who instruct the children. You go and alarming "uprising of the Mormons!" to them and ask them if they know any- What a terrible time they are experienc- thing about that Holy Being whom they ing in Utah! etc. worship, and whom they call God. Not Wonderful! Wonderful! You have that the comprehension of children is seen your fathers, who are farmers, go to equal to that of the aged philosopher, their farms, and those who are mechan- but still you have some understanding. ics, to their workshops, and our mer- Children, when you ask the ministers of chants to their place of business, without Christendom whom they worship, they molesting any person, and what a terri- will tell you, "Oh, we worship God!" Who ble state of affairs this is. You have read, is that God? Can you tell us where he too, in our late papers about the upris- lives? The answer is, "No." Can you tell ing of the railroad strikers, which has us anything about his character? He really taken place; does it not seem sin- is a personage without any body at all; gular to you why these characters, who he has neither body nor parts, he has are so afraid of trouble, do not go east no head, he has no ears, he has no and lend their aid and moral influence to eyes to see, he has no nose to smell, quell the riot? You can understand that no mouth to speak, no arms to han- if we had been let alone we would have dle anything, nor a body to which these done justice and preserved the laws. arms can be attached; he has no legs, Who pay their taxes as well as do the he therefore cannot walk; and finally Latter-day Saints? No people. Who they say, to sum him up to our entire honor so well the laws of our govern- satisfaction, he is a personage without 64 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. body, parts or passions. believe in Jesus Christ the Son of God and the Savior of the world, who is a Now, little children, can you conceive personage of tabernacle. He was to all what kind of a being this is? You say, "It's appearance like other men, and he was nothing at all." That is just what it is; it the express image of the Father. If is a myth; it is nothing to look at, nothing he were here, today, as he appeared at to adore, nothing to worship, nothing to Jerusalem, he would pass through this admire, nothing to appeal to for help. He Congregation, and no one would suppose has no arms to either handle us or our but what he was an ordinary stranger enemies; he has no legs, he can neither visiting us. Children, believe in this walk to them nor to us; he has no eyes character, he is the Savior of the world, to behold their follies or ours. And this and the Father has appointed him to is the god that the Christian world wor- act in his exalted position. It is not ship, and teach their children to worship. my business nor yours to question the Father why he appointed this Jesus to Now, children, remember this. We be the Savior of the world. If you do teach you that our Father in heaven is not now fully comprehend this, the time a personage of tabernacle, just as much will come when you will. Remember, as I am who stand before you today, and too, the great principle of improvement. he has all the parts and passions of a Learn! Learn! Learn! Continue to learn, perfect man, and his body is composed to study by observation and from good of flesh and bones, but not of blood. He, books! Listen to the instruction of your therefore, has eyes to see, and his eyes parents, and of your brethren who hold are upon all the works of his hands; he the holy Priesthood, and they will teach has ears, which are open to hear the you the ways of happiness and of life prayers of little children, and he loves eternal. If any of you are so unfortunate you, and knows you, for you are all his as to have parents who wander into by offspring; and his knowledge of you is so and forbidden paths, and who do things minute that, to use the language of the that are wrong, follow not after them, ancients, not a hair of your head falls to but honor them and be kind to them, the ground unnoticed. This is the kind of and teach them by example the better God we worship. Children, call upon him way. Study the Bible, the Book of Mor- in your childhood and youth, for from mon, the Doctrine and Covenants, read such as you he has said he will not turn the sermons that are published in the away. Ask the Father to protect you; al- Deseret News, as well as all the standard ways ask him, in the name of Jesus, for works of the Church. Such reading will his spirit. The youth, the child, those afford you instruction and improvement; who are partially grown, as well as the but novels allure the mind and are with- aged, cease not to call upon God with out profit. all your hearts. Remember this. Obey Little girls, permit me to ask you, your parents, honor them and seek to do Won't you be so kind and so good them good. And parents, seek to honor as to take those pins or the India- your children; bring them up in the nur- rubber cords out of the back of the ture and admonition of the Lord. Teach skirts of your dresses, so that you them truth and not error; teach them will look comely. They make you to love and serve God; teach them to look uncomely, to see your dresses ITEMS OF HISTORY, ETC. 65 drawn around you, showing your form. therein all the days of your life, that you Mothers ought to be ashamed of teaching may be prepared for that higher state of their children such things. Dress your glory that awaits the faithful children of children and yourselves in that comely, our God. angelic manner that, were an angel to I have said enough to answer my own visit you, you would not feel ashamed. feelings, for this occasion, and perhaps I am very pleased to say that there are to satisfy you. I say to all, God bless some of our girls, and numbered among you, my children, my little ones. I love them are some of my own, whom you you, I am a great lover of children and could not get to adopt these follies. Ask innocence and purity, and I am a hater your mothers, then, to make your clothes of iniquity, just as much so as the Lord, suitable and becoming; and keep your and perhaps more than I should be. I do hair smooth and nice. The hair is given not know this. I think very frequently, in to the female for adornment; and there- looking upon the actions of men, that I do fore let the ladies, young and old, adorn not have compassion enough; but when I their heads with their hair. Mothers see the wolf among the lambs I am af- should study and children should study ter them, to see that they do not destroy to preserve the skin of the children from the lambs. And when you are told that being ruined by dirt, and the heat of a you do not know anything about "Mor- scorching sun, and to keep themselves monism," you may know it is wrong; you clean and pure; but children, now re- know something of it every day. I would member, study those books that teach have given worlds if I could have known you the way of life and salvation. the truth in my childhood, as I now hear it. I had a great desire to know it, and You see that the infant and the chil- the priests were after me from the time dren die. How many of you witness the I was eight years of age. I was infidel to infant lying in its little coffin, and here their creeds, but not to the Bible, not to lie the child and the youth; they pass God, not to holiness, but to the creeds of away in death. And again, here are the the children of men I was infidel, and am middle-aged, many of them pass away to this day. I say, God bless you, my chil- into eternity; the old people must die. dren. I give all of you an invitation to at- And the world is but a span. tend the meetings on the Sabbath day, to Are we going to cease to exist? No, hear the preaching and to worship God, this world is only a preparatory place to and to spend the Sabbath day prudently gain a knowledge of God, that we may in the love and fear of God. Try to adopt be prepared to enter into a higher state in your whole lives that code of morals of existence and glory, and grow up unto which our religion teaches, and which we Christ our living head. Learn the ways urge upon the people. God bless you. of the Lord in your youth, and continue Amen. 66 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
RELIEF SOCIETIES—TALK TO MOTHERS—IMPROVEMENT SOCIETIES—DOMESTIC MATTERS—TRAINING CHILDREN—HOME PRODUCTION—SILK INTERESTS.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,OGDEN, ATA MEETINGOFTHE RELIEF SOCIETIESOF WEBER COUNTY,JULY 19, 1877.
REPORTEDBY JAMES TAYLOR.
[The following discourse was deliv- We hope that the people will hearken ered by President Brigham Young; it was and by their acts respond to our re- not revised by our respected President, quests. but is presented as reported by brother The people called Latter-day Saints James Taylor, of Ogden.] say that they wish to know and under- stand how to order their lives before Him whom we serve and acknowledge as our I expected to attend a meeting of the Father and our God. If I were to give Relief Societies of this Stake of Zion to you my own feelings with regard to in- hear reports, and comments from the structions, many of you would perhaps Presidency, the Secretaries, and from consider it egotism; still, I take the lib- those that they would call upon to speak. erty of saying to these my sisters, if the I learn from the President that the cal- counsel and instruction that your unwor- culation was to invite the brethren to thy servant has given to the inhabitants come here and talk to them, instead of of the earth had been obeyed and car- their talking to us, and to give them in- ried out, I have taught them enough to structions, point out their duties, and have saved the nations of the earth, and direct them with regard to their future to have made every one of them to be course of life. This we are willing to Latter-day Saints. do, on conditions. Were I to ask you We are professedly Saints. What if you are willing to comply with those is the difference between a Saint of conditions, I have no doubt but what God and an angel of God? One is you would at once answer me in the af- clothed upon with mortality, the other firmative, and believe that you would has passed through mortality and has carry out the declaration of your own received the celestial glory of our heav- voices, for this would be your mind. The enly Father, and is free from the contam- question is, will you carry out our in- inating influences of sin that we have structions? We leave each and everyone to contend with. This is the difference. to determine that by their future lives. We ask the question, can mortal beings RELIEF SOCIETIES, ETC. 67 live so that they are worthy of the soci- require something to satisfy the de- ety of angels? I can answer the question mands of nature. You place this before for myself—I believe that they can; I am them, and, if they choose, in our country, sure that they can. But in doing this, they may gorge themselves to overflow- they must subdue the sin that is within ing. You do not stop to ask them if they themselves, correct every influence that have eaten sufficient, and ask them now arises within their own hearts that is op- to desist, and eat moderately. You will posed to the sanctifying influences of the let your children eat green apples and grace of God, and purify themselves by berries of any kind; sit down and eat fat their faith and by their conduct, so that meat, if they choose it and like it; and fill they are worthy. Then they are prepared their systems with swine's flesh which for the society of angels. To be Saints is more susceptible of diseases than any indeed, requires every wrong influence other flesh that we eat. It is not like that is within them, as individuals, to be fish or fowl. It is susceptible of disease subdued, until every evil desire is eradi- of every kind, and will impregnate the cated, and every feeling of their hearts is system with disease far quicker than any brought into entire subjection to the will other food that we eat. Now, mothers, it of Christ. Now you all believe this just is well for you to think of these things. as much as I do. I will tell you how you can enjoy health. The first thing I am going to intro- You let your children have a little milk duce to my sisters is the condition of in the morning. I would prefer putting it this community. Since I have come into over the fire and boiling it, and put one- this place I understand that you have a third water in it, with a little flour and great deal of sickness here. "It is very a particle of salt to make it palatable. warm weather," one says. "A great deal Give them a little bread with it—not soft of sickness," says another. I want to bread, teach your children to eat crust— say to you that warm weather is very hard baked bread, that the Americans healthy weather. And I can say still fur- would call stale, but the English would ther, with regard to our climate, a dry cli- not. Teach them to eat this, and to eat mate is a healthy climate, much more so sparingly. Instead of drinking unhealthy than where a damp miasma arises from water, boil such water, and let it stand swamps and decayed materials, which is until it is cool. If the children are in the so frequently the case in low lands, espe- least troubled with summer complaint, cially in the Mississippi Valley, but not so and are weak in their bowels, make a on this western slope. Now I want you to weak composition tea, sweeten it with understand what I am talking to you— loaf sugar, and put a little nice cream in this weather is beautiful weather to en- it; and let the children make a practice joy health. of drinking composition instead of cold Now I will talk to you moth- water. Mothers, keep the children from ers. If I were invited to your houses eating meat; and let them eat vegetables to take supper, or breakfast tomor- that are fully matured, not unripe, and row morning, if you have it within bread that is well baked, not soft. Do not your reach you will have a platter of put your loaf into the oven with a fire hot meat cooked, and will put this before your children. They are hungry, and 68 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. enough to burn it before it is baked creates a fever; this fever creates sick- through, but with a slow heat, and let ness, until death relieves the sufferer. it remain until it is perfectly baked; and Now the people do not think of this. I would prefer, for my own eating, each You ought to have thought of it. I have and every loaf to be no thicker than my taught this for years and years to the two hands—you tell how thick they are— people. When we commence to shape our and I would want the crust as thick as lives according to the judgment that is my hand. given to us, and we exercise a proper por- Now for experience. You see I am tion of thought, and study the laws of creeping up into years; and I have been life, to know what to give, and how to from my boyhood a person of observa- guide and direct our children and our- tion. I have many and many a time selves, we shall find that the longevity said to children when they begged for of this people will increase. Although it the soft bread, that was not baked thor- is a fact that the longevity of this peo- oughly, "Look here; you will not live very ple is as great perhaps as that of any long; you will probably come to a pre- other people at the present time; yet we mature grave." I have noticed invariably shall find if we will hearken to the wis- the child that selects the soft bread to dom our Heavenly Father has given us, be a short-lived person. The children this will increase; and we shall learn at that hunt around after the crust and eat once that we are enjoying better health, it, I have noticed endure, live, and con- we shall have a greater amount of vital- tinue to live on. Have you ever noticed ity, and a stronger development of abil- this? I have quite aged sisters here; and ity, and by temperance and moderation I am talking to many that have children, lay the foundation for the development grandchildren and great-grandchildren, of the mind. Now, here let me throw like myself. Have you ever observed in a side remark. I do not mean to go this? If you have not I wish you would without food and go to fasting. This is commence to reflect upon it. the other extreme. A sufficient amount You say you are improving. These of food that will agree with the stom- societies are for the improvement of ach is healthy, and should be partaken our manners, our dress, our habits, of. Aged or middle aged, youth or chil- and our methods of living. Now, sis- dren, never should go without food un- ters, will you take notice, and instruct til their stomachs are faint, demanding those who are not here today, to adopt something to sustain their systems, and this rule—stop your children from eat- continue to undergo this; for this lays the ing meat, and especially fat meat; let foundation of weakness, and this weak- them have composition to drink, instead ness will tempt disease. But keep the of unhealthy water; let them eat a lit- stomach in a perfectly healthy condition. tle milk porridge; let them eat spar- Now I do not mean fasting, but eat- ingly and not oppress the stomach so as ing moderately; and if my sisters will to create a fever. No matter whether go home and commence to adopt this it is a child or a middle-aged person, rule, you will find that you begin to get whenever the stomach is overloaded and better, your children and neighbors will charged with more than is required it get better. We do not expect all to be RELIEF SOCIETIES, ETC. 69 free from sickness. I have had a great tured yourselves is the first step. Never deal of sickness in my life. I do not ex- allow yourselves to become out of temper pect to be free from the ills, the weak- and get fretful. Why, mother says, "this ness, debility and disease that prey upon is a very mischievous little boy or little the human family, but we can amend our girl." What do you see? That amount of ways, and amend our life by being pru- vitality in those little children that they dent; and I wish the sisters to under- cannot be still. If they cannot do any- stand this, and to adopt these instruc- thing else they will tip over the chair, cut tions; and if you do not learn before the up and pull away at anything to raise month of July is gone that your sickness a row. They are so full of life that they has departed, I shall be very much dis- cannot contain themselves; and they are appointed. So much for the health of the something like ourselves—boys. They people. Will you listen? have so much vitality in them that their bones fairly ache with strength. They Here are mothers. Who give the key have such an amount of vitality—life, to the nations of the earth with regard strength and activity, that they must dis- to their feelings, pride, prejudices; their pose of them; and the young ones will religion, habits and customs, and, I may contend with each other. Do not be out of say, who, in a great degree, govern, that temper yourselves. Always sympathize lay the foundation for the ability that is with them and soothe them. Be mild and exhibited among the nations of men? It pleasant. If you see a child with knives is the mothers. Who have laid the foun- and forks, playing with them, it might dations in the hearts of children to pre- put out its eyes. It will not do to give pare them to be great and good men? It it a hammer and a looking glass. What is not the fathers—it is the mothers. It is will you do? I am a person of experi- like the saying of the Savior with regard ence, and know to deal with children. to the poor. Speaking to his disciples, he If the child has in its hand that which says: "For the poor always ye have with it should not have, let the mother or you; but me ye have not always." Now the father, or whoever has charge of the the children are always with the mother, child or has the right, take such things and the mother is always with the chil- from it, and put them away where they dren, but the father they have not. He is belong. Now, mother, listen to this— in the field, at his work; and the mother never ask a child to give up that which it is all the time making impressions upon should not have. Step up kindly and put the minds of the children. Permit me the article where it belongs. The child here to say, mothers, and my sisters, you will not say anything. A little circum- who are young, it will do you good if you stance took place in Salt Lake City. I had will only observe it. You see, hear and business in a house where I had under- witness a good deal of contention among stood there had been considerable trou- children—some of you do, if not all— ble occasionally; and the mother would and I will give you a few words with re- not let the father speak to the chil- gard to your future lives, that you may dren, to chastise them. I went into the have children that are not contentious, house and talked to the man. The lady not quarrelsome. Always be good-na- came in and sat down. I pretty soon 70 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. saw a little girl, about two years old, he has got through he will knock the with a tip thimble in her mouth, sucking dish out of your hand." Said I, "lean him it. I went up to the girl, took the thim- against the chair, do not say one word ble from her and put it on the mantle to him, go to your work, pay no atten- shelf. Says I to the mother—"you must tion to him whatever." She did so. The not allow the child to have this thing; if little fellow stood there, looked at her, it should go into the stomach it will de- watched her; then he would look at the cay." The man looked at me as if he would basin and the spoon, watch his mother, faint away. He was a large man, but I and look at the basin and spoon again. suppose he never attempted to say such By and by he got down and crept along a thing to his wife in his life. I said it; the floor and climbed up to the chair, and and the mother was so confounded that then set the basin on the table, and crept she did not say a word; and it would until he got the spoon and put it on the not have done her any good if she had. table. He never tried to knock that dish Now, if you will mind this—You bring up out of her hand again. Now she might your children correctly, and teach them have whipped him and injured him, as a those principles and habits that are cor- great many others would have done; but rect, and you will find that you will im- if they know what to do, they can correct prove very materially in your families. If the child without violence. you find that the children are cruel, do One of the nicest things in the world not contend with them, soothe them, and is to let an enemy alone entirely, and it invite those who through accident have mortifies him to death. If your neigh- injured a little sister to pity her. "You bors talk about you, and you think that have accidentally hurt your little sister, they do wrong in speaking evil of you, do go and kiss her." By taking this course not let them know that you ever heard you will have good children, and they a word, and conduct yourselves as if will not contend with each other. I am they always did right, and it will mor- talking to you of that which I know. I tify them, and they will say, "We'll not try have had an experience in these matters. this game any longer." I have seen men, and women also, that are never happy I will relate a little incident that oc- until they are miserable, and never easy curred in my own family. A little boy until they are in pain. about three and a half years old was very These are little things; but is not the ill. His mother would feed him bread world made up of little things? The and milk, or whatever he wished. As whole earth is composed of these small soon as he could stand by her, every day atoms of sand. Our lives are made up of he wanted his bread and milk. Just little, simple circumstances that amount as soon as he had got what he wanted, to a great deal when they are brought to- he would throw up his hand, and away gether, and sum up the whole life of the went the basin to the floor. His mother man or woman; and yet in our passing did not know what to do. Said I, "If from one to another our little acts and you will do just as I tell you, I will incidents seem to be very minute or sim- tell you what to do. The next time you ple, but we find that they amount to a sit down to feed this little boy, when great deal. RELIEF SOCIETIES, ETC. 71
Now, sisters, will you learn these be in the name of Him that He has given, things. I want to see the children of this whom He calls His only begotten son, people grow as they should; and I want to die a ransom for our sins." And as to go a little farther with regard to our soon as they can understand, teach them children. Commence, mothers, just as with regard to the original sin. Teach quick as the child is old enough to un- them to have implicit confidence in the derstand, which is quite young. They ob- Father through our Lord Jesus Christ; serve the acts and doings of the mother, and every time they need wisdom, to ask and whoever is present. From these acts for wisdom, and ask for understanding; they imbibe their first impressions. Now, and every time they are in trouble, ask mothers, do you want your children to our Heavenly Father to give them com- be Saints, when they are grown up? Do fort, and they will feel joyous instead of you want your sons and daughters to grievous, and will feel a buoyant feel- be good and great, and their lives filled ing, instead of being cast down. Teach up with usefulness? "Certainly, with all the children to pray, that when they are my heart." Then lay that foundation for large enough to go into the field with their future life by teaching each little their father, they may have faith that child what it should do. Teach that child if they are in danger they will be pro- honesty, uprightness and truthfulness. tected. Teach them that those good an- Never permit a falsehood to be told, nor gels that are ministering spirits, and the color of a falsehood without correc- their angels, to guard and defend the tion. Train that child by your own acts just and pure watch over them contin- and words, from its infancy, so it may im- ually. And teach them—I am sorry to bibe the principle in its own heart to be say there are not many mothers who do perfectly honest. Teach that child to be- teach it—that they may grow up with lieve in God our Heavenly Father. Teach this understanding, that our Heavenly it to believe, to have confidence in Him. Father takes cognizance of all our acts "Why, he is the author of your lives. and doings, and of us, as individuals, Here are your father and mother with and that His eye is over us, and there regard to your natural body." As soon is not so much as a hair of our heads as they can understand anything at all, falls to the ground without the notice of teach them—"Yes, my little child, but our Heavenly Father. Teach them these you have a spirit within you. Were it things and they will grow up into this not for this spirit, you would not have habit. You may call it tradition, but it life in you. Here are the father and is an excellent one. You can sow the mother of your tabernacle; but you have seeds of infidelity and they will grow a spirit in you, and the father of that there. Teach the children so that when spirit is our Heavenly Father, whom we they go out from the presence of their serve as our God. You must have im- father and mother, God is in all their plicit confidence in this Being. You must thoughts. Can you come to this under- depend upon Him always. If you are standing, mothers? If I were talking to in danger in the least, you must be- the brethren, I should say no man in this lieve in God, and ask Him to rescue you, Church has the privilege or right to enter to preserve you; and your faith must into business, or go at anything without 72 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. having God in his thoughts, and ask- filled with this spirit. Consequently you ing for guidance and direction in all his see at once what I wish to impress upon ways. And I will say to the mothers and your mind is, that the mothers are the sisters, now give your children this cor- machinery that give zest to the whole rect tradition in their youth. As I was man, and guide the destinies and lives talking to one of my wives, she said, of men upon the earth. Now, then, I "Who is there that teaches her children want to talk upon other matters. You these things?" I turned to one and said, can do just as you please; you can rule "There is one of my wives; she has chil- this Stake of Zion. Why, here are brother dren full of faith, because she made it Peery and his two Counselors, they can- her business to teach them the tradition not move one step unless you say so. You to believe in God the Father, to call upon do not understand this, do you? Why, all Him continually; and God was in their the men in this Stake of Zion can go to thoughts from morning until evening, some other country, but when the ladies all the time they were awake." Says I, say thus and so, all the men have to come "There is the woman; she has taught her to the standard. "But, we have an inde- children." Now I know that mothers can pendence, you know; and I would not like teach their children; and they ought to to pin my destiny to any woman's apron teach them, and this is my duty to tell string." But you see the force of this edu- you what to do in this case. Remember to cation, which is forced upon them by the traditionate your children in the nurture teachings received in early childhood. and admonition of the Lord. Teach them as they ought to be taught, that they will Now I want you to guide and direct have faith from their youth up, and the to our benefit. I want these my sis- Spirit of the Lord to direct them, that ters to take into consideration what we they may never lose sight of this faith can do with regard to sustaining our- in Christ, and our Heavenly Father; and selves. Say you, "Let us go to work when they are old they will not depart and lay the foundation of it." In a great from the good path. I am firm in the many places there is a foundation of it faith, and verily believe, that if mothers laid out, which is very good. Now, I will bring up their children aright, and want you to go to work and say, we will give them that early training that they make all our headdresses, we will make should have, their children will grow up all the hats that the men need to wear; and never depart from the path of recti- we have plenty of straw and materials, tude and truth. we will do this. "Now you have an ob- The mothers are the moving instru- ject, brother Brigham." Yes, I have, more ments in the hands of Providence to than one object; and the great object guide the destinies of nations. Let is to show to our heavenly Father that the mothers of any nation teach their we have come out from Babylon, and children not to make war, the children are capable of taking care of ourselves. would grow up and never enter into When we come to finances, I want the it. Let the mothers teach their chil- people to be rich, instead of poor. The dren, "War, war upon your enemies, course we are now taking is beggaring yes, war to the hilt!" and they will be the people—running into debt for this RELIEF SOCIETIES, ETC. 73 folly and that folly, and everything that continue until we manufacture every- they can see. Why, let the merchant thing that we need here. come and bring the follies of Babylon, I will say to those who are raising we want them immediately. "Why, yes, sheep, do not send your wool away. Why, we can make all the straw hats, if you it will be said, "a fool and his money are will take them." I will tell you what soon parted." Save your wool, and send else I want, I want the sisters to say it to the factory. If we want a little cot- to themselves, and then to their daugh- ton cloth we can raise it in the south- ters, sisters and friends, "We will wear ern country; and we could raise some that which we will make, or we will wear here as well as in some other places. We nothing; we will make what we wear on can raise about two gatherings. In the our heads; we will make our own hats best of the States they will gather from and bonnets." Now men, will you pa- three to four. We can raise our cotton in tronize this? "Yes." Then get your hus- the south, and save our wool here. Go bands to say, "we will not buy one of to and save your wheat. Tell the peo- the hats from these stores, if they bring ple of this Stake of Zion not to sell their them by the carload." Well, there will grain. "We are in debt," says one. What be a great deal saved to this Stake of brought you in debt? "Oh, I wanted a Zion; probably more than twenty thou- thresher and a mowing machine." Where sand dollars. Then say to your husband, do you live? How much grass have you "now, go and build a tannery, that the to cut? "One hundred and fifty acres." hides that come off our beef cattle, can How many mowing machines have you be made into leather." And then, say to got? "Only eight." Buy another, and an- your husband, "I want you to understand other machine, and clothing from the that I am perfectly, absolutely opposed to stores that is nothing in the world but your course of life, unless you make some shoddy, with but enough of wool to hold it leather." Then, sisters, go to work and together—buy these, and buy more than make up this leather. The labor is in the you can pay for. Go into debt, and pau- shade, and a great deal of this work can perize the whole community, instead of be done by machinery; but it can be done building up Zion. I want you to stop. by hand. We have one sister in Salt Lake When we are in a position to build up City, who started twenty-three years ago ourselves, we are building up Zion. Let boot and shoe making; she has made her- us sustain ourselves. self a little fortune; she has plenty to Well, I may say there are a hundred live on; she has worked with her own and one things we have to talk about; hands until she has accumulated prop- and as the sisters will give no reports, erty enough to sustain her. My young we will tell them what they should do. sisters, instead of sitting continually Now, recollect what I have said to you. at the piano and getting the consump- Go to, from one thing to another to make tion, take hold and build up Zion. The for ourselves what we need. Stop this first thing is to do something for your- buying, so that we can have something selves, and learn to labor; and when one on hand. thing is done, take up another item, and Another item. I will say to the 74 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Presidency of this Stake of Zion, if you and said, "this atmosphere is full of silk could take one-fourth the time of the and all good things; and we will prove men who are idle here and put it on it to be one of the best places for raising the Temple, and take the other three- silk." We have proven that we can raise fourths and go to the Railroad Compa- it. There are sisters here who can reel nies and say, "Gentlemen, we will turn it and make it into cloth. There is a sis- you out a hundred hands who will work ter before me with a silk dress on; she for one dollar a day," we would have raised the silk, and made it herself; and the railroads in our hands, and have ev- I warrant it will wear four times as long ery dollar that they spend for five hun- as any you can buy in the stores. (By dred miles. We might bring every dol- invitation the sister arose that the con- lar in here, and live within fifty cents gregation might see the dress.) I want on the dollar, and save the other fifty to encourage you in this industry. If you cents. How long would it take the men to want a little change, you can very easily go down to the bedrock, where we were get it by raising silk. Silk that we raise brought up? I can see women who, when here, when it is reeled, is worth from $8 they were twenty years old, six yards of to $14 a pound. It is always a cash ar- calico was all they asked for for a gown, ticle, and finds a ready market. There and that was good enough to wear to is no day in the week or month in the meeting or to a party; good enough any- year but what you can find a market for where. If my mother and her grand- silk, and get the money for it. I wish mother got one silk dress, and they lived the sisters would think of this. A few to a hundred years old, it was all that pounds of silk gives you a little money. they wanted. I think my grandmother's It is easily raised; where there is a little silk dress came down to her children. care taken you can preserve the eggs so She put her silk dress on when I went that you can raise two crops of cocoons to see her. It was, I think, her wedding in a year. There is no trouble to pre- dress, and she had been married some serve them in our ice-houses, until the seventy years. first are disposed of, and so you can keep Some of the ladies wear a silk dress the crops growing along. You can raise and say, "Husband, I want another silk more money than the farmers, and beat dress, I have had this four years." Learn them in the production of wealth. Take a to be prudent. It is no skill to get money; woman with her children, and they will but, it is a skill to know how to preserve make twice the amount of money by rais- it and make it increase, and bring to you ing silk that the man can make with the an abundance to build up Zion, and pur- farm. If you will try it you will say it is chase what we want. true. I wish to say a few words to my sis- If you have not the mulberry trees— ters in regard to raising silk. I would I have proffered for years to give the like to talk just enough to have you trees and if you want a thousand you do something in this direction. This are welcome to them, or a million, I is a matter that I have talked upon am ready to give them to you. Some for a great many years. Soon af- twenty years ago I sent for mulberry ter I first came to the valley, I sat seed. I have raised thousands and tens on a load of hay in Salt Lake City, of thousands of trees, and they are in this RELIEF SOCIETIES, ETC. 75
Territory. I have a large cocoonery that I it since my family said to me of hoops, built twelve or fourteen years ago. I have "They are so nice and comely; how would given the use of that—a building about we look if we were to take those hoops 20 x 110 feet, and I have given the use of off? Why we should look like the town the mulberry trees, and the fruit is good. pump. Would you not be ashamed of us?" A great many people are fond of the fruit; I am ashamed. I am ashamed to see it is healthy for children. the tight clothes—to see the shape of the ladies. How long is it since the sleeves When you feel disposed to make a were so loose that you go into a store, little money, go into the raising of silk, and the gentleman says, "Are you not go- which is one of the easiest branches of ing to buy a pair of sleeves?" "O, if I buy business that was ever followed. There is a pair of sleeves I shall have to have a no other work the women can do that will new dress." "O, I will give you a dress." yield the same amount of profit. This is Eighteen yards in the sleeves, and three a matter that I wish you to hearken to. yards in the dress! These foolish fash- Will you bless yourselves, and do good to ions, what good do they do? I have yourselves? We have plenty of weavers asked my sisters what they would think who can take the silk and know how to if a lady who lives in heaven should pay manufacture it; and they will give you them a visit. Would she come with these all you could reasonably ask for it. large sleeves on—a mutton leg sleeve, Now let the beauty of your adorning with dress pulled right out in front of be the work of your hands. Will you her? Now, it is pinned back here. It not, Presidents, ask your Societies to en- is very unwise. It is nonsense and un- ter into this agreement, and go to work comely. It is the best looking of any- and make what you want to wear. Then thing in the world when brother Carring- we will appeal to the brethren and say, ton sees his wife in her new calico dress. "Come, let us wear the headdresses that "You look just as you did when I courted our wives and our sisters can make;" and you." Now there is another fashion. You it would be very healthy for the men if see a girl with her hair clipped off in the they would wear straw hats winter and front of her head, she looks as though summer. We would not see so many bald she had just come out of a lunatic asy- heads as we now see around here. Straw lum. The hair is for an ornament. You hats are perfectly healthy to wear. I have can love a woman with a comely dress on worn them through winter; and the only of her own make, just as well as though objection I have to them is that they are she had on a dress that cost five thou- a little too tight and close. Let the sisters sand pounds. go to work and make these things. We do not seem to realize that we have to give an account of the days we Now, sisters, I plead with you to spend in folly, and that we will be found stop these fashions. They are nonsense. wanting if we spend our time foolishly. Brother Carrington has given you a fine When you come to the wheat and the detail of them. They are miserable look- fine flour, to the gold and the silver and ing. I dare not tell you how they look the precious stones, the Lord owns them. to me, and how the vanity looks that is But what have we? Our time. Spend in the minds of the people. How long is it as you will. Time is given to you; 76 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. and when this is spent to the best possi- own benefit, and health, and life, and ble advantage for promoting truth upon for the comfort of the people, and the the earth, it is placed to your account, building up of Zion. And let us go to, and blessed are you; but when we spend and establish the Zion of God upon the our time in idleness and folly it will be earth, that we may be prepared to enjoy placed against us. Here is the difference. it, which I most earnestly pray for every Now, sisters, take hold; do this that day, in the name of Jesus, Amen. we ask you to do. It is for your
GOD'S PURPOSES UNCHANGEABLE—THE TWO POWERS—THE EVERLASTING PRIESTHOOD—ABRAHAM AND MELCHIZEDEK—ORGANIZING STAKES OF ZION—TEMPLE BUILDING—THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS THE FRIENDS OF THE WORLD.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,JULY 29, 1877.
REPORTEDBY RUDGER CLAWSON.
In relation to the great principles of that dwell thereon. He has never eternal life, as developed to us in the swerved, changed or altered his views word of God, and through the various or opinions in relation to this, no mat- revelations that he continues to give ter what our feelings, ideas and theo- unto us, there are many things that are ries may be concerning these matters. of great importance to the human family. In the organization of the world and all In regard to the ideas, theories and no- creation as it now exists in the vari- tions of men, it would seem that they, in ous dispensations of his providence that former ages, have been of very little avail have been inducted in the different ages, in thwarting or overturning the pur- in the manifestation of his will to the poses of the Almighty, nor will they be human family, he has had one design, in these days any more efficacious then one purpose, and one set of ideas to ac- they have been in the days that have complish pertaining to the whole mat- past and gone. Before this world rolled ter, and everything he intended con- into existence, or the morning stars sang cerning these things will all be accom- for joy, He purposed, in his own mind, plished, whether it relates to the early to accomplish certain objects that he history of man, to the middle ages, or, had designed in relation to the world to the ages in which we live. There in which we live, and the inhabitants are eternal principles associated with God, with his laws, with his Priest- GOD'S PURPOSES UNCHANGEABLE, ETC. 77 hood that are as unchanging as the that right has been contested from the eternal heavens; yea, more so, for the very first. Satan placed a demurrer heavens may pass away, but the Scrip- in the way immediately, and from the tures say, "His word shall not fall to two sons of Adam, one of which feared the ground." There is something great God and the other did not, the wicked and comprehensive associated with the one killed the righteous, who himself plans and purposes of Jehovah in con- appeared to be master of the field un- nection with the human family, which der the guidance and direction of Satan, very few men care to take the trouble and he held this position and this influ- to investigate or reflect upon; and, as ence for a length of time upon the earth, "No man can know the things of God, until Seth was introduced to represent but by the Spirit of God;" and as very Abel, to represent God, and also to repre- few place themselves in a position to ob- sent all the principles of truth and righ- tain this spirit, the result necessarily teousness; and Satan with his influence is, that there is a large amount of ig- and those that yielded to him, under the norance in relation to the things of God influence of Cain and others associated and consequently a large amount of evil with them that had wrought wickedness, prevailing everywhere and which has ex- bore sway; and iniquity of every kind isted in every age. I suppose, associ- prevailed, they fought against God and ated with these matters, there is a grand the principles of truth and righteous- overruling destiny, and that it was nec- ness, and it was then as it is today, and essary that this set of things should ex- as it was in the days of Jesus. Says ist. There have always been two grand he: "Strait is the gate, and narrow is powers in juxtaposition, or rather in op- the way, that leads to life, and few there position to each other. There was in be that find it; while broad is the gate, the heavens a conflict, and one-third of and wide is the way, that leadeth to de- the angels, we are told, were cast out struction, and many there be that go of there. That conflict has existed here in thereat." It would have seemed, at upon the earth, and will continue to ex- some time, as though the purposes of ist for a length of time yet to come, un- God were thwarted in relation to the or- til, as we are told, Satan shall be bound. ganization of the earth and the salva- The conflict is between right and wrong, tion and exaltation of the human fam- between truth and error, between God ily, and it was necessary, as has been re- and the spirit of darkness, and the pow- ferred to, on a certain occasion, to sweep ers of evil that are opposed to Him; and off the inhabitants of the earth and these principles have existed in the var- start anew. "For the imagination of the ious ages. No sooner was man placed thoughts of the hearts of the people was upon the earth, than Satan commenced only evil, and that continually," and they his work and his operations. God, it is were raising up a people that were pre- true, created the world; God, it is true, is pared for wrath and destruction, having the Father and Spirit of all flesh; God, it power to propagate their own species, is true, has a right to demand obedience they were doing it and teaching them from his children, and the observance of the laws of death instead of the laws of the laws he has given unto them; but life. God in his mercy to those spirits yet unborn, thought proper to sweep them 78 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. from the earth and then commence an- in the world which is to come; and it other state of things under the direction is the privilege of those who have it, to of Noah. It was necessary that these op- come, as the Scriptures say, "to the gen- posing influences, these contending pow- eral assembly and church of the first- ers, should be in existence; that this born, which are written in heaven, to antagonism should prevail; that there God the Judge of all, and to the spirits should be a devil, that there should be of just men made perfect, and to Jesus all the influences associated therewith. the mediator of the new covenant, and There was a degree or design of God in to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh relation to the human family from the better things than that of Abel." It is this commencement, to save all that were ca- principle spoken of in the Scriptures that pable of it, in the celestial glory. All brings life and immortality to light, that that were not capable of this, in a ter- enables mankind, when living accord- restrial glory, and all that were not ca- ing to its laws, to overcome the powers pable of receiving that, or prepared for of darkness, to combat successfully with it, in a telestial glory. It was necessary, the errors of the world, to triumph over according to certain unchangeable and evil of every kind, to subdue the world, eternal laws, that existed with Christ the flesh and the devil, through the aid, in the eternal world, that man possess- guidance, power and spirit of God; to ing any of these glories should be pre- come out triumphant and obtain an in- pared to receive them, or they could not heritance which is incorruptible and un- inherit them, therefore, it was neces- defiled, that fadeth not away, reserved sary that man should be placed in a in the heavens for those that are obedi- state of trial or probation, having to con- ent thereto, and live according to its re- tend with evil that he might, through quirements. It is in view of this, and the power of God, and the strength that of the strength and power and commu- he would give to him, if he was sought nication with God that the Priesthood is unto, that he might, through that power, imparted to man, and it is that which, overcome and inherit a celestial glory, according to the Scriptures, "brings life and dwell with God in his celestial king- and immortality to light;" and men in the dom. For this purpose, he gave the possession of these principles know and Priesthood, which is spoken of as be- understand their relationship to God, ing after the order of Melchizedek, af- unto the eternities that were and unto ter the order of the Son of God, and af- the eternities that are to come, bring- ter the powers of an endless life; which ing life and immortality to light; it is the power that exists in the heavens, chaseth away darkness, confusion, mys- and the wisdom and intelligence that tery and doubt and uncertainty; it draws dwell with the Gods; and is the principle aside the veil of the eternal world, en- by which the Gods in the heavens and abling men, who are in possession of it men who are under its influence upon to comprehend their standing and rela- the earth are governed. It is called in tionship to God, to each other, to the the Scriptures, the "everlasting priest- past, present and future, and to all in- hood, without beginning of days or end telligent beings that ever have existed, of years," and that those who have it, that now exist, or that will exist; hence administer not only in this world, but GOD'S PURPOSES UNCHANGEABLE, ETC. 79 this principle is given to men to lead taking up their cross and following him, them in the paths of life, to instruct and by searching diligently to obtain a and prepare them for that celestial glory knowledge of his laws. where God the Father dwells, and Jesus, We read a little about Abraham, as the mediator of the new covenant, and given to us in his history. What does he those of the holy Priesthood who have say about himself? "I, Abraham, having lived before in different ages, who exist been myself a follower of righteousness, now and who will exist throughout the desiring also to be one who possessed eternities that are to come. It places us great knowledge, and to be a greater fol- in relationship to all these beings, and lower of righteousness, and to possess a we feel that we are one with God, one greater knowledge, and to be a father of with Jesus, one with the ancient Apos- many nations, a prince of peace, and de- tles, Prophets and Patriarchs, one with siring to receive instructions, and to keep the men of God that have had the holy the commandments of God, I became a Priesthood in the different ages of time, rightful heir, a High Priest, holding the and expect to be one with them in the right belonging to the fathers. It was eternal worlds. We should also be one in conferred upon me from the fathers; it accomplishing the purposes of God per- came down from the fathers, from the be- taining to the earth whereon we live. It ginning of time, yea, even from the be- is not easy for men, without a knowledge ginning, or before the foundation of the of these principles, to comprehend those earth, down to the present time, even the things of which I speak, for as I said right of the firstborn, or the first man, before, and so say the Scriptures—"No who is Adam, or first father, through the man knows the things of God, but by the fathers unto me. I sought for mine ap- Spirit of God;" and the Lord has revealed pointment unto the Priesthood according unto us, through very simple methods, to the appointment of God unto the fa- the way whereby we can approach unto thers concerning the seed." him. Who is there among men, with all We read in the revelations given their wisdom and intelligence, that can unto us by Joseph Smith, that he comprehend God? Who understands his was ordained by Melchizedek, and the laws and his doctrines? Who knows any- Bible tells us that he was blessed of thing about his purposes and designs? Melchizedek; and Paul in speaking of Why, it is as high as the heavens, it is Abraham and Melchizedek, says: "The deeper than hell, it is as wide as the ex- less is blessed of the greater," and that, panse of the universe, it circumscribes although Abraham was a great man, all subjects, and comprehends all intelli- and had great intelligence, great knowl- gence. Who knows it? Nobody, but those edge and many communications from who are enlightened by the spirit of rev- God, that Melchizedek was yet greater elation that proceeds from God. How did than he, and had more intelligence, and men in former times obtain a knowledge knew more of God. What is the result? of these things? By obedience to the laws Why, the Lord gave to him the Urim and of God, by submitting to his authority, by Thummim, whereby he was enabled to inquire of the law of God. What law? The same principles that existed in that day were the same that existed in the days when Jesus came upon the earth. 80 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Jesus says, that "Abraham saw my those days? They were the descendants day, and was glad." The Apostle tells us of Abraham. What were they told to do? that "God foresaw that he would justify To damn mankind? No. What? To go and the heathen through faith, and preached preach the Gospel to all the world, to lift before the gospel unto Abraham." Then up a banner of life and salvation to the Abraham had the Gospel, and a knowl- nations, and call upon them to repent. edge of the laws of God. Life and im- Who were the Nephites that came to this mortality are brought to light where the continent? Lehi, Lemuel, Nephi, etc. Gospel exists, and he had it; hence it Who were they? They were descendants brought him to God, and the Lord re- of Abraham. Who were the Twelve Apos- vealed himself unto him and told him, tles that were on this continent? They that in blessing, he would bless him, and were descendants of Abraham. What in multiplying, he would multiply him, was their mission? It was to preach the and in him and in his seed all the fami- glad tidings of salvation to the people, lies of the earth should be blessed. There which they did. Who was Joseph Smith? was something very remarkable about We are told in a revelation in relation these things, something that shows a de- to him, that his name should be Joseph, termination on his part to do the will of and that he should be the son of Joseph, God, to obey his laws and keep his com- who was a descendant of that Joseph mandments, and to carry out his pur- who went into Egypt. God saw proper poses and designs, so far as he was able to reveal unto him the ancient records of to do it. Among other things he said: "I the people that lived on this continent, desire to be a follower of righteousness, as a descendant of Abraham, and what and to have more righteousness. Then was his message to the people? "Go ye I desire that I may be a prince of peace unto all the world, and preach the gospel and a father of nations." He sought this to every creature. He that believeth and at the hand of God, and God promised is baptized shall be saved; and he that him that in him and in his seed all the believeth not shall be damned." Has this families of the earth should be blessed. message been communicated? It has to a But did he give it to him? He did. Did he very great extent. There are around me fulfil his word to him? He did. Who were and before me, men who have traveled Moses and Aaron? Moses led the chil- thousands and hundreds of thousands of dren of Israel, under the guidance and miles, without purse or scrip, as they did direction of the Almighty, with a mighty formerly, trusting to the help of the Lord, hand and stretched-out arm, and deliv- in the midst of contumely and reproach, ered them from the hands of the Egyp- to proclaim the glad tidings of salva- tians. Who were they? They were the de- tion to a fallen world. Have they done scendants of Abraham. Who were the old it? They have so far as it was in their Prophets we read of in the Bible here? power, and they have continued to do it They were the descendants of Abraham. up to the present day. Will they accom- Who was Jesus? A descendant of Abra- plish the work that was designed of the ham. Who were the Twelve Apostles? Almighty? They will. Will the Zion of our They were the descendants of Abraham. God be built up? It will, and I prophesy Who were the Seventy that existed in GOD'S PURPOSES UNCHANGEABLE, ETC. 81 it in the name of Jesus Christ. Will the I have come to administer to you. Who kingdom of God roll on? It will. No power was it that administered to Joseph on this side of hell or in hell can stop Smith? Moroni and Nephi, men who had it. God is at the helm, and I know it, lived upon this continent. Who from the and his work will roll forth and continue other continent? John the Baptist for to roll until the kingdoms of this world one; Peter, James, and John for others; shall become the kingdom of our God and Moses and Elias again for others, who his Christ, and he will reign forever and revealed certain principles that God de- forever. The Priesthood in this day are signed they should reveal, and imparted assisted by the Priesthood that existed in unto him the powers of the Priesthood former days, who lived and operated and which existed in the heavens, that it withdrew, and are operating with Him. might be again conferred upon men on These are things that many people re- the earth, and that the blessings of the flect very little upon, but they are nev- everlasting Gospel might be again re- ertheless true. stored. We have been organizing Stakes of Who was it that appeared with Je- Zion for a length of time, and placing sus when he was transfigured upon the things in order under the direction of Mount with Peter, James, and John? President Young and Council. What or- Moses and Elias. Who were Moses and der is that? The order given by the rev- Elias? Prophets who had existed before, elations of God for the guidance of his and still continue to exist, and to ad- people, not of man nor by men, but by minister on the earth as well as in the the will of God: a pattern of things in heavens. How was it of John the Bap- the heavenly world. That is the thing tist? I speak of these things particularly that is now being introduced here among for the information of those who may be the Saints. Why are we building Tem- present who are not acquainted with our ples here? Because it is part of our revelations, and, perhaps, in many in- mission. Elijah was to come to turn stances not much acquainted with the the hearts of the fathers to the children, Bible. But John, we are told, when on and the hearts of the children to the fa- the Isle of Patmos, had great, impor- thers, lest, say the Scriptures, I come tant, and glorious visions presented to and smite the earth with a curse. In him. There was a glorious personage this is the wisdom of God made mani- who stood before him, and he was about fest, and the power of God displayed. In to fall down and worship him. But says this he shows as he has represented in he, do not worship me. Why! Who are the revelations that he would show, that you? I am one of thy fellowservants, the the wisdom of God was greater than the Prophets that have kept the testimony of cunning of the Devil, for those that Sa- Jesus Christ, and the word of God; wor- tan thought he had destroyed, that were ship God, says he, do not worship me. cast into prison, Jesus went and deliv- I am one of those that, perhaps, wan- ered, and preached unto those spirits in dered about in sheepskins and goatskins, prison who sometime were disobedient dwelling in deserts and dens and caves in the days of Noah. Again, in relation of the earth, of whom the world is to the position that we occupy here upon not worthy; but I have been exalted, the earth. We are gathered to Mount and glorified as you now see me, and Zion. We are spoken of as being saviors. 82 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
"Saviors shall stand upon mount Zion; dispensations which is embodied in the and the kingdom shall be the Lord's." dispensation of the fullness of times; How can men be saviors unless they save hence, say the Scriptures, "I will take somebody? That would be a matter of them, one of a city, and two of a family, impossibility; hence we go to work and and bring them to Zion." What do you build our Temples. Why? That we may do with them there? "I will give them carry out that mission that Elijah came pastors after my own heart, and shall about, to turn the hearts of the fathers to feed them with knowledge and under- the children, and the hearts of the chil- standing." Our mission is not a mission dren to the fathers; that our fathers, who of death, it is a mission of mercy and sal- have lived without the Gospel, and with- vation. out the light of truth thereof, that we As has been remarked, whom have may administer for them in these Tem- we injured? Whose life or liberties have ples, and be baptized for them, as the we interfered with? Are we the ene- Scriptures say: "If the dead rise not, why mies of mankind because we tell them are ye baptized for the dead?" and "Why," the truth? If God has spoken, and has says the Apostle, "stand we in jeopardy certain purposes to accomplish, can we every hour?" We go to work then and hinder him? No. If we obey his will, we build Temples, and is this message that must be subject to the inconveniences re- we have come upon a message of terror, sulting therefrom. We go forth in the trouble, misery, and confusion? No. It is name of Israel's God, trusting in him, a message of life to the people. "bearing precious seed, and returning again, bringing our sheaves with us." Well, what then? Those who are be- God told his disciples to go to the ing taught and instructed, are sent out ends of the earth; and, says he, "I will again. To whom? Why, as saviors to go with you, and mine angels shall go their own people, and then our nation, before you, and my spirit shall accom- as elders in Israel, to proclaim the un- pany you." Has it been so? It has. It searchable riches of Christ unto the na- has. Whence comes our gathering? Be- tions, and gather out all who are hon- cause we are introduced into a Gospel est and willing to obey the truth. What of gathering, because we are living in then? Then they return again. Then go a gathering dispensation, because that to work and build Temples, and then ad- is one of the dispensations that existed minister in them. "I will take them," say in former days, and has been restored the Scriptures, "one of a city, and two of in the latter days wherever this Gospel a family, and bring them to Zion, and is preached, that spirit accompanies it. they shall be saviors there;" hence we You cannot prevent it. Go and preach to have representatives here from among the people, baptize them, lay hands upon the different nations of the earth. We them for the reception of the Holy Ghost, are building Temples. What for? For our- and the first thing that exists among selves? Yes, for our fathers, mothers, un- the people is the feeling to go to Zion. cles, aunts, friends, associates, and an- A feeling of that kind universally pre- cestry. Yes, for thousands and tens of vails. Where did it come from? It comes thousands of others. That is what we through the administering of Elijah to are doing. We have built one Temple Joseph Smith, and through the things down at St. George; we are building an- that he imparted to him, and is one of the other here; we are building another in GOD'S PURPOSES UNCHANGEABLE, ETC. 83
Sanpete, and another in Cache Valley. worthy in any respect or honorable, and Well now then, how do we act as saviors? all that have desired to do right, who We first build Temples; we then go in have lived without the Gospel, shall yet and administer in them, and do for oth- have the privilege of it, and they shall ers what they cannot do for themselves. be baptized for, according to a certain We become, then, saviors in that respect order that God has indicated in rela- here upon Mount Zion; and hence the na- tion to these matters to his Priesthood tions of the earth have their represen- here upon this earth; and will God be tatives here, who are representing those thwarted? No. He will accomplish his different nations in the Temples of the designs, and the earth, by and by, will be Lord of Lords. Well, what next? How purged from iniquity; and Zion will grow are we assisted in this? By all the intel- and increase and spread, and no power ligences that have lived before us. Could can hinder it, for God is at the helm, and we have stemmed the amount of opposi- he will guide and direct all things accord- tion and overcome the evils with which ing to the counsel of his own will. we have been surrounded if there had Are we the enemies of mankind? No. not been an invisible power sustaining We are their friends. No men living ever us? We could not. But all the Priest- exhibited more friendship to the world hood that have existed before, with God than we have. I have traveled thousands and Jesus at the head, are on our side of miles, and hundreds of thousands, and assisting us; and he is all the time as President Young and many brethren crying, "Touch not mine anointed, do my around me have, thousands and thou- prophets no harm." He still cries the sands of miles without purse or scrip, same. They are operating in the heav- without hope of earthly reward, to carry ens while we are operating on the earth; forth those principles that we knew God "They without us cannot be made per- had revealed for the salvation of the hu- fect, and we without them cannot be man family, and we know it today. I made perfect." It needs a grand control- know these things are true. I know that ling power associating and uniting the God has spoken. I know that the heav- heavens with the earth; uniting them ens have been opened. I know that the together in indissoluble bonds that can- truth of God has been revealed, and I not be broken. Uniting them together bear record of it before this people, be- in one grand phalanx for the accomplish- fore God, angels, and men. I know of ment of the purposes of God. When Sa- what I speak, and therefore testify of it tan thought he had got the inhabitants of in the name of Israel's God. I call upon the whole world, did God give them up? men everywhere to repent and be bap- No! No!! When Jesus "Was put to death tized in the name of Jesus Christ for the in the flesh, he was quickened by the remission of sins, and they shall receive Spirit. By which he went and preached the Holy Ghost. I call upon the Latter- to the spirits in prison; that were some- day Saints to be one, and to be united time disobedient, in the days of Noah." in temporal and spiritual things, to seek When men have been destroyed and na- after God that they may learn of Him tions led into iniquity and overcome, are and His laws; then shall your light shine all going to be lost and destroyed? No. like the sun, and then shall Zion rise and God has introduced a plan whereby all shine, and the glory of God rest upon her, that have lived upon the earth, that are and the power of God be made manifest among his people. Amen. 84 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
INCREASE OF THE STAKES OF ZION—THE SAINTS CO-WORKERS WITH GOD—THE GOVERNMENT AND KINGDOM OF GOD—OUR INHERITANCES—THE POOR RECEIVE THE WORD—THE GOSPEL INCORPORATES EVERYTHING.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT DANIEL H.WELLS, DELIVEREDATA SPECIAL CONFERENCE HELDAT BRIGHAM CITY, ON SATURDAY AFTERNOON,AUG. 18, 1877.
REPORTEDBY G.D.WATT.
I discover it is here, as it is in other when they come they will be for Zion, places through the Territory which we for God and His kingdom, and they will have visited, that there is an increase, a sustain and uphold the holy and righ- strengthening of the Stakes of Zion. The teous principles of eternal truth which prophecy which refers to the strength- have been revealed, and the institutions ening of the stakes and the lengthening of Heaven which our Father has estab- of the cords of Zion is continually be- lished in this day and age of the world. ing fulfilled in the efforts made in this And God's purposes will be accomplished direction by the Latter-day Saints. In with triumph, for victory will crown the the world's history some of the greatest efforts of the Lord and his people. events that have taken place, in their In our day we are permitted to wit- inception attracted but little of the no- ness the occurring of some of the greatest tice or attention of the children of men. events that have ever transpired since The coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus the days of Adam upon the earth. The Christ was known to but few people who ushering in of this great and glorious then dwelt upon the face of the earth; work of the last days, the coming forth and yet it was the greatest event in the of the Gospel to the nations of the earth, history of the world. The coming forth and the assembling of the people, the of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mor- gathering together to sustain these prin- mon, and the organization of the Church ciples, and carry out the work of the of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, at- Lord, to bring to pass His great and glo- tracted but little of the attention of the rious purposes and establish His king- masses. Of course it was considered of dom in the earth, as he shall lead forth, the greatest importance by the few, but guide, and direct from time to time. It in the course of time we shall see in this is the great and glorious kingdom of our land of Zion the assembling of millions. God that shall stand forever. In these Methinks I sometimes hear the sound things we are co-workers with the Lord of their footsteps approaching; and our Father in Heaven, so far as we will INCREASE OF THE STAKES, ETC. 85 let Him work with us, for He stands at ernment of Heaven are sustaining and the helm, He guides the ship, directing upholding and carrying it forward, with the affairs of the whole earth, as well as the power and might with which the God those of His covenant people. It has come of Heaven endows them; seeking to es- forth in the age of the world in which He tablish the principles of truth and virtue designed it; He has made no mistake in upon His earth, here in the period of regard to this matter. I suppose the Lord time in which it was to come forth—the knew and understood the time of bring- set time to favor Israel. A stripling came ing to pass, and commencing to bring to forth with the message from Heaven, pass His purposes in the earth in regard leading out, guiding, and directing the to His kingdom, as well as, and no doubt affairs of the kingdom as they were made a little better than, anybody else, and He manifest to him by the Lord from time also knew there were those living upon to time, until it has grown to become the earth who would receive it when He a great people. It has gone forth and should reveal it unto them. All these continued to grow until we find it as events have their times and seasons. I it is this day here in these valleys of expect He knew also that in the days of the mountains—with a people dwelling Jesus the word would be accepted by but in a hundred towns, cities, and settle- few—yea, that it would be trampled out ments. Poor people? Yes, in the ma- by the wicked who would gain the ascen- jority of cases; I might say in all cases. dancy; and that the Priesthood and au- Poor people, laboring people, who have thority thereof would be received back come here, a good many of them, without again to the heavens, there to remain anything excepting their hands to obtain until the times of restitution should set a subsistence; all poor alike, very little in, which times it is our happy privilege difference, to find an inheritance. I do to live in. This is the commencement not suppose that a parallel can be found of the restitution; the Gospel has come since the God of Heaven gave Israel their again, but never more to be taken from inheritance in the land of Palestine. We the earth. It is now to be sustained and see many people who have received in- upheld, to grow, to increase and multiply heritances; poor people that had nothing and become mighty and powerful, and of this world's goods have received inher- the way prepared for the coming of the itances and been blessed in a temporal Lord Jesus Christ, who will rule from the point of view. I presume and believe that rivers to the ends of the earth. President Brigham Young has done more We do not fully realize, my brethren to obtain inheritances for the people, and sisters, that this work in which we the poor among men, in the last thirty are engaged is the kingdom, the govern- years than all the emigrating and phil- ment of God if you please, handed down anthropic societies in the world, putting to the children of men, with all its offi- them all together, existing at the present cers. A people, a kingdom surrounded time. I do not think it has been equaled with all the elements necessary for the since the days of Israel, when Palestine advancement and prosperity of the peo- was divided out and given to the sons of ple of the kingdom; the government be- Jacob. If it has I have no knowledge of it, ing established here in the earth, men, and I read a good deal. women, and children under the gov- It is said "in that day"—looking 86 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. forward to the day in which we live— not by any means. The God of Heaven, that the "poor among men should rejoice our Father, never planted a single indi- in the Holy One of Israel." Is this being vidual upon the earth without a purpose literally fulfilled? Yes, it is. We have and design. Well would it be for us to find demonstrated this fact, we have fulfilled out that purpose and design concerning it and are fulfilling it all the time. It is us, and then truly live to it and fulfil it, one of the signs of the latter times, when that our existence upon this earth might the Gospel is preached to the poor. What be accomplished, that our existence here is the Gospel to the poor? It is the power might not be a failure, that we might re- of God unto salvation. Cannot we see turn to our Father and receive that wel- the power of God demonstrated to the come plaudit, "Well done, good and faith- salvation of the poor among men, that ful servants." lifts them out of the poverty in which He has given us the opportunity of they have been brought up, and places filling the full measure of our creation them in a land where they can get inheri- with credit to ourselves and honor to tances both for themselves and their pos- His name. And this can be done sim- terity? Then most assuredly this Gospel ply by living our religion, the religion of is the power of God to the salvation of Heaven. He is inviting everybody who all such at least. It has proven itself will to come and partake of the waters the power of God to this whole commu- of life freely, without money and with- nity, not even President Young himself out price. And yet it will cost you all you excepted. We came here stripped of ev- have; but then there is one thing also to erything, as the poor among men; we be thought of: you did not have much can now lift up our hearts and rejoice when you commenced. Those who have in God who has wrought out His salva- riches are the last to receive the Gospel. tion, temporal as well as spiritual. We They do not see anything to rejoice over were brought here to these valleys of in the revealed will of God to man upon the mountains, a land held in reserve the earth. If they do, they are so full of by Him, where He can plant the feet of the cares and love of the world that the His Saints and strengthen Israel. Has good seed is choked by the weeds that he done it? Witness ye this day! Here in grow up around them, so that they can- this little nook and corner, a place passed not attend to it, and place for the word is by, by the traveler who journeys over the not found in their hearts. great highway, almost unnoticed. Yet in this little place the children were strung It is the poor who receive the words along the sidewalk greeting our coming, of truth, who are the most ready to do from the railroad depot to the bridge, a the will of God. When John sent one of distance of half a mile. One would not his disciples to the Savior to ask Him if suppose there were so many in the whole He was the Son of God, etc., He said tell country round. Here we behold the re- John—"The blind receive their sight, and sults of the emigration from the heav- the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, ens, as well as that from the various na- and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, tions of the earth, a grand assembling and the poor have the gospel preached of the Saints of the Most High. What to them." That is the sign he gave to for? Without a purpose or design? No, John. It seems that even he was in INCREASE OF THE STAKES, ETC. 87 some little doubt concerning the divinity sings of heaven flowing to this people to of Jesus' mission. The Gospel is preached the full extent of their hearts desire? I to the poor; it is also preached to the rich do not know of any reason, unless we so far as they will receive it, but they are not prepared and worthy to receive will not hear it. "O, (say they) go your it, and make a wise and proper use of it way, we do not want anything to do with when it does come. How many do you it or with you." This is what they say to believe there are in Israel today who, if the Elder who bears the message of life the wealth of the world were turned to- and salvation to the children of men. It wards them, would not consign it to the is among the poor they find the readiest hands of the devil about as fast as the access. And such are the ones that the Lord handed it to them? Do you know Lord can use to bring to pass his pur- that I believe there are a good many; our poses; they are the ones who need re- experience teaches us there are a good demption, and who feel that they need many, because they part with it just as it, and who obtain it. Feeling their de- fast as it comes to them. I will say that pendence upon Him, they appreciate the no Latter-day Saint has any right to dis- great good, the blessing that God is pour- pose of the blessings that God bestows ing out upon them from time to time; upon him; he has no right to bestow they realize that it is he who is doing his patronage upon the outside world, this work for them. But they could not and especially upon those who are in the arrogate to themselves this honor, inas- midst of Israel, whose interests are sep- much as they know that they are merely arate and apart from ours. It only fos- instruments in our Father's hands of es- ters an agency in our midst calculated tablishing his kingdom. The rich if they to undermine the faith of the Latter-day attempted to perform this work would go Saints; it nourishes a viper in our midst; forth in their own power; they would say, a power that is calculated to lead astray "I have done it; it is I who have accom- the young and unthinking. I said a plished this great work." They would not Latter-day Saint had no right to dispose acknowledge God in all things, nor give of the blessings that God bestows upon the honor to whom it really belongs, for him; they are not given to us for any who does not know that they themselves such purpose. What are they given us only exist by God's power and benefi- for? To strengthen the Zion of God upon cence? But how is it that while the great the earth, not to destroy it; to send forth majority feel and realize these things, the Gospel to all nations, to build Tem- there are many who very soon arrogate ples to God's holy name, wherein those to themselves greatness and power, and who are faithful may receive the bless- think that they have accomplished great ings of time and eternity for themselves things, and that the Lord can scarcely and their dead; they are given to us to get along without them; I wonder some- sustain and uphold righteous principles, times how he did happen to get along be- and the institutions of heaven; to gather fore they were born. I have seen a great the poor from afar, who are seeking to many of this character. You know those be delivered from a state of bondage, to who get fat quickly are very apt to kick. come up and participate in the bless- What is there to hinder the bles- ings you and I enjoy in these mountains. 88 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
And so when the Lord finds out that he done more or less everywhere. Suppos- has a people who will be thus zealous of ing for instance, nations at war with good works, who will make a good use of each other should find any of their cit- the wealth of the world, so fast and so izens giving comfort and aid to the en- soon will the kingdom be delivered to the emy, giving munitions for war, render- Saints in greatness and power. ing service or information, or betraying It cannot be given any sooner, and any trust whatever, such person would should not be if it could. Then if we be strung up for treason. This is the law want to see advancement and progress, among the nations; and why should it be let us be diligent and faithful over the counted anything less than treason for few things committed to our trust, us- those who have sworn allegiance to the ing them for God and for his kingdom, government of Heaven to be found giving and not distribute them to the wicked, their patronage to the enemy. I tell you nor sift our ways to strangers, nor to in the name of the Lord, you cannot do it those who know not God, and who give with impunity; such acts will be counted no heed to the principles of truth he has against you, no matter who you are, and established in the earth. It is suicidal you will have to meet it! It behooves the in the highest degree for the Latter-day Latter-day Saints, above all people upon Saints to take such a course, and it is the face of the earth, to stand shoul- treasonable against the Government to der to shoulder, presenting an unbroken which we have sworn allegiance. There phalanx for the enemy to meet, a pha- is a warfare, but who institutes it? The lanx that they cannot penetrate or de- Devil; he is against the authority of the stroy. It is our duty to God and to one holy Priesthood, seeking to trample it another to fortify our walls of defense. from off the face of the earth. What do How? By living our religion, by sustain- the Latter-day Saints do? Nothing, only ing through our faith, integrity, and good stand in their own defense, contending works the government which the God of inch by inch for the right. The Adver- heaven has so kindly bestowed upon us. sary is found all the day long seeking There is necessity enough for this gov- to overthrow us, his agents are contin- ernment to be established in the earth. ually making their insidious approaches There was no rallying point in all the to undermine the faith of the Saints, earth for the Saints, until the Lord re- and destroy the authority of the holy vealed the truth. But now there is a ral- Priesthood, their aim and object being lying point, and the people are gather- to drive it from the earth as they did ing to it. What for? To pull it down? anciently. Then for the Saints to give No! but to uphold it, to keep it and aid to those who would destroy them, to hold it, unfurling its banner to the by giving them our patronage, even the mountain breezes, and in the strength of means that God has placed in our pos- Israel's God to stand by and defend it! session! Yes, we do it all the day long, To stand by and sustain each other in we are doing it continually. The people all good works, not to seek to pull each here in Brigham City not so much per- other down; but to put down sin and iniq- haps as in other places. You have a bet- uity, and trample it out of our midst, sus- ter order of things I presume; yet it is taining purity and upholding and main- INCREASE OF THE STAKES, ETC. 89 taining righteousness, and God and his abuse. The Gospel teaches us better kingdom forever. Let the wicked howl; things, a better way; and still it fur- heed them not! What matters though nishes us everything necessary for our we are unpopular; Jesus and his disci- pastime and for our encouragement to go ples were unpopular in their day; but our forward in the path that leads to honor Savior passed the ordeals. Have we any and renown in time and eternity. ordeals to pass? Not many. We have There is a great work to be done! more or less difficulties to encounter it The Lord has designed to accomplish a is true, which is all right, in fact it is mighty work through the instrumental- the only way we can be tested. If we ity of his children who do and will ex- "fly the track" the moment a difficulty ist upon the earth. It is through this presents itself, what good are we? Where means he does accomplish his purposes; is our integrity? It is given unto us to he always has and I expect he always overcome every difficulty and continue will. The redemption of our dead friends, on our way rejoicing, having our hearts of our progenitors who never knew the fixed like a flint on the prize before us; Gospel; the resurrection of the dead to yes, no matter what devil stands in our come forth clothed in immortality and way to prevent our onward march, or eternal lives, will all be brought about to beckon us this way or that way, let through the Gospel. What, all the hu- us not be moved either by fear or temp- man family? Yes, pretty nearly all. It tation, but exclaim like one of old, "As is a great undertaking; the Lord is sus- for me and my house, we will serve the ceptible to great undertakings. He un- Lord!" Let us all, young and old, make dertook to people this earth with spirits our resolves, and then live to our resolu- that were begotten in heaven and who tions, notwithstanding the inducements dwelt in his presence. Consider that un- and allurements the evil one may bring dertaking for a moment, and perhaps it to bear to prevent us walking in the will be found to be as vast as our compre- strait and narrow way. hension is of the redemption of the dead and the accomplishment of the resurrec- The Gospel incorporates everything tion of the dead. He is capable of great calculated to do any good whatever, and enterprises of this kind. And just as sure it is the power of God unto salvation both as he brought forth man upon this earth, here and hereafter; and you will not find organizing it for them to dwell upon, so any real pleasure or salvation outside of sure will he bring them forth again in the it. Now remember that! Both the old resurrection. I do not know that one is and the young can find suitable and sat- greater than the other; however he is ca- isfactory enjoyments within the purview pable of accomplishing all. I have heard and elements of the Gospel. Real enjoy- people talk about the utter impossibil- ment is such as can be participated in ity of bringing about the resurrection of without offending the Lord. There is no the dead. We read there is nothing im- enjoyment in taking a course calculated possible with God. I am quite sure of to injure and offend Deity. There is no it in this respect. We see how natural, real enjoyment in the intoxicating cup, how easy it is to bring forth the great it brings misery instead of joy. And so work of peopling the earth; and I see are all these things that are used to their no reason why the other should not be 90 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. just as easy for him to do as this seems man is able to control or is fit to govern, to us. He has all time and eternity at even a family, unless he can govern and his command; the heavens are full of control himself. days, and the work will continue onward Let us give heed to the requirements when you and I rest and sleep in the of heaven, and perform them regardless dust. There is something to be done, we of the consequences, trusting in God who have the opportunity and blessed privi- will sustain even to the death. If we have lege of laboring in the cause; and it is to meet obstacles, what of it? "Though well for us if we do it while the day lasts, he slay me, yet will I trust in him," let for "behold the night cometh, wherein no this be the word in the heart and mind of man can work." Therefore we should be every man and woman before the Lord. diligent in the performance of our du- Because we know he is the wise giver of ties, divesting ourselves of the errors and all good things, the wise controller of all traditions we have imbibed, and which events who does all things well. Let us are in opposition to truth and righteous- put our trust in him, and go forward in ness according to the revelations of Je- the righteousness of the God of our sal- sus made known to us in this our day vation, in the performance of the work and generation. We should control our- allotted to us his Saints upon the earth. selves; our passions are given to us for If we do this and endure faithful to the a good and wise purpose, not to be our end, great will be our reward; and great masters, not to be given way to, allowing is our reward as we pass along. It brings ourselves to quarrel, to speak harsh and peace of mind in the assurance that we unkind words and to mistreat our wives are doing the Lord's will, and taking that and children as some do. Our passions course which is pleasing unto him. are implanted within us to give strength and energy of character, to serve a good That the Lord may add his blessing and wise purpose; and it is expected that unto us while we sojourn in the earth, we hold them in proper subjection, in- and at last save us in his kingdom is my stead of allowing them to master us. No prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen. THE LORD'S SUPPER, ETC. 91
THE LORD'S SUPPER—A WORD TO MOTHERS—THE SACRAMENT IN SABBATH SCHOOLS—HISTORY OF SOME THINGS—YOUNG MEN TO PRESIDE—HOME MANUFACTURES.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDATA SPECIAL CONFERENCE HELDIN BRIGHAM CITY,BOX ELDER COUNTY, FORTHE PURPOSEOF ORGANIZINGA STAKEOF ZIONIN SAID COUNTY, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,AUGUST 19, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
Previous to attending to the business through obedience to his requirements to be presented to the congregation this and commandments and the ordinances afternoon, I feel to exhort the Latter-day of his house; may be sanctified and pre- Saints before me to try to realize the sa- pared to return unto the presence of the credness of the ordinance that is now Father and there sit down with Jesus, being administered to them, which was where he will administer to them again introduced by our Savior, that his dis- in fulfillment of his saying to them, "I ciples might witness to the Father that will not drink henceforth of this fruit of they were truly his followers. On the last the vine, until the day when I drink it time that our Lord met with his disci- new with you in my Father's kingdom." ples, previous to his being betrayed, he I would exhort my brethren and sis- administered to them the sacrament. In- ters to receive this ordinance every Sab- stead of eating as at other times, he took bath, when they meet together, as is the bread and blessed and brake it and our practice; not following the customs gave to his disciples, saying to them that of others, for with some denominations he should require of them to meet to- this is administered once a month, with gether to break bread in remembrance others once in three months, with oth- of his body, that would suffer for them ers never, they not believing in outward and for the sins of the world. So when ordinances. This is the way with the he had blessed and broken the bread, Christian sects; they teach that portion he administered the same to them, say- of the Bible which seemeth right unto ing, "Take, eat; this is my body." When them and add such doctrines, views and his disciples had eaten, he then took the opinions as suit their own creeds. cup of wine and gave thanks, and gave it We are in the habit of partaking to them, saying, "Drink ye all of it; For of the contents of the cup each Sab- this is my blood of the new testament, bath when we meet together, and I which is shed for many for the remission do pray you my brethren and sis- of sins." He came here to redeem fallen ters to contemplate this ordinance man, he being the heir of the family that thoroughly, and seek unto the Lord receive bodies on this earth, that they, with all your hearts that you may obtain the promised blessings by 92 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. obedience to it. Teach its observance to turning away, wandering here and there your children; impress upon them its ne- from the society of the Saints. We let cessity. Its observance is as necessary our children do too much as they have to our salvation as any other of the or- a mind to; if they want this or that dinances and commandments that have their wishes must be gratified; if they been instituted in order that the people want to go here or there, the mother, in may be sanctified, that Jesus may bless very many instances, is too ready to urge them and give unto them his spirit, and upon the father directly or indirectly, the guide and direct them that they may se- necessity of accommodating the young cure unto themselves life eternal. Im- mind to the path of folly. press the sacredness of this important By some it is very well understood ordinance upon the minds of your chil- that in the days of ancient Israel while dren. Many of you who are aged, have in the land of Palestine they were not witnessed the strength and power of tra- blessed so profusely as we are with dition, whether it be correct or false. The the crystal streams from the mountains. power of tradition upon the minds of the They were in the habit of drinking a inhabitants of the earth is most potent, I great deal of wine, and among the few might say it is almost almighty. We know who have continued to inhabit that land, the way of life, we have the keys of life this habit I believe has been kept up to in our possession; and if we do not take the present time. It is a wine country. the pains to train our children, to teach But the Lord has said to us it mattereth and instruct them concerning these re- not what we partake of when we admin- vealed truths, the condemnation will be ister the cup to the people, inasmuch as upon us, as parents, or at least in a great we do it with an eye single to the glory of measure. We do not want this sin to rest God; it is then acceptable to him. Conse- upon us; we want the people, each and quently we use water as though it were every one to understand their duty and wine; for we are commanded to drink not then discharge that duty fearlessly, with- of wine for this sacred purpose except it out favor or hope of earthly reward, hav- be made by our own hands. ing in view the doing of the Father's will In some of our wards and settlements alone and the receiving of the heavenly the administering of the sacrament has reward. been introduced in the Sunday schools. Let me here call the special atten- It is very pleasing and gratifying to the tion of the mothers to what I am going spirit that I possess, for the parents to to say: If you mothers will live your re- see that their children attend Sunday ligion, then in the love and fear of God school and receive the proper instruc- teach your children constantly and thor- tion with regard to their faith. After oughly in the way of life and salvation, the Sunday school is over, let the parents training them up in the way they should take the pains to bring their children to go, when they are old they will not de- meeting. This would be very pleasing to part from it. I promise you this, it is me. An idea seems to have gone abroad as true as the shining sun, it is an eter- among the parents, and consequently de- nal truth. In this duty we fail; we do scends to the children, that when the not bring up our children in the way little ones have been to Sunday school, they should go, or there would be no the remainder of the day is for them to THE LORD'S SUPPER, ETC. 93 enjoy themselves the best way they can. be brighter, that will be more beautiful, No more duties, no more obligations to more permanent and lasting through- attend meeting. They have been to out all the organizations of the Stakes the Sunday school and the mothers and of Zion, than we have heretofore seen. probably the fathers think this is suffi- We have a multitude of traditions to cient. But if we do our duty, each and overcome, and when this people called every one of us, and as communities, and Latter-day Saints will be free from these perform the duties required of us, we will traditions, so that they can take hold see that our children attended all the of the Gospel and build up the kingdom preaching meetings and meetings for in- according to the pattern, I am not able struction, which it is proper for them to to say; but I hope the time will soon attend, where they, as well as the par- come. I can say I am encouraged, I think ents can be taught pertaining to God and there is an improvement, I can perceive to his religion on the earth, for the salva- a growth in the knowledge of God among tion of the human family. If my brethren the Latter-day Saints. And yet I see and sisters will accept of this exhorta- many old members of the Church, fa- tion and try to carry it out in their lives, thers in the Church and kingdom of God, my heart will say to them, "God bless of long standing, who have been teach- you, peace be with you, love be multi- ers and have been taught, and have exer- plied upon you." cised themselves in the different duties We will now attend to the business of the Priesthood, and also in municipal before us pertaining to the organization affairs among this people, to direct, to of this Stake of Zion in this county of Box counsel; and yet they seem to have no Elder. When the people are fully orga- brightness within them concerning the nized we shall expect them strictly to at- Priesthood; no knowledge with regard to tend to the duties devolving upon them. the dealings of God with his children. We Brother Franklin D. Richards, in his re- see this; but still on the whole there is marks has drawn out the thread of the an increase of faith, of knowledge, of wis- organization of the Priesthood and the dom, of understanding. When we get to duties devolving upon the Bishops and understand all knowledge, all wisdom, upon the Priests, Teachers and Deacons that it is necessary for us to understand in advancing the faith of the Gospel and in the flesh, we will be like clay in the seeing that there is no iniquity among hands of the potter, willing to be molded the people. We expect this will be carried and fashioned according to the will of out. There are many things wherein the him who has called us to this great and people will need instructing, they will glorious work, of purifying ourselves and receive these instructions from time to our fellow beings, and of preparing the time, adding instruction to instruction nations of the earth for the glory that with regard to the faith, ordinances and awaits them through obedience. Here commandments of the house of God; our is mystery, here are the hidden myster- faith in the religion we possess or hope ies that God has reserved for the latter to possess, and in the faith we should times, and they are coming forth; the possess in the name of our Savior and work we have upon us is an immense through him in the Father. And we ex- one, it is great, powerful and divine; it pect to see an exhibition thereof that will is an almighty work. And with regard 94 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to the conduct of this people—if an an- it is not true." Did you find or hear of any gel should come here and speak his feel- such men? But very few, and they will be ings as plainly as I do, I think he would blessed for so doing. Are we at all aston- say, "O, Latter-day Saints! Why don't ished at the silence of the great majority you see, why don't you open your eyes under such circumstances? No. It has and behold the great work resting upon always been so; it is so now, and will con- you and that you have entered into? You tinue to be so; for there is no union, no are blind, you are stupid, you are in affiliation, no fellowship between Christ the dark, in the mist and fog, wander- and Baal. Baal will fight the Savior, the ing to and fro like the boat upon the wa- enemy will fight against the law of God, ter without sail, rudder or oar; and you and he will never give up the contest un- know not whither you are going." But we til he is taken and bound and cast into run first this way, and then that way, "the bottomless pit." And these honor- turning here and turning there, strew- able men, these good men who with their ing our ways to strangers and doing that families have received the blessings from which we should not do. I will refer to a the hands of this people; those to whom little incident. we have given our substance, our flour I used to travel this road running and breadstuffs, our money and what- through here several times during the ever we had, were there any of them who season. I recollect, not many years ago, opened their mouths in justification of there was a little gold found in Mon- the innocent, the pure and good, and de- tana. The inhabitants of Utah, called nounced the falsehoods and the slanders Latter-day Saints, took everything that of those that raised the cry against us? If the Lord caused the earth to bring forth there were any I do not know it. But they that they could pack in their wagons, say to the liars, "Lie on about those 'Mor- and carried it away to those who would mons,' we like to hear it." Whilst on the not even speak a good word for them. other hand these Latter-day Saints are Brother Staines referred to and related giving everything that the Lord bestows facts to us yesterday. He told us that upon them just as fast as they receive there were a great many people in these it; not resting satisfied until they hand mountains, and a great many had been everything over to the laps and hands here, who had become acquainted with of our enemies. A great many will say, this people, whom they acknowledged "But we are not your enemies." Why then to be an industrious and honest peo- do you not speak out and tell the truth ple; that some had said to him they about us? would rather trust themselves with the people of Utah than any other com- Regarding the brethren carrying munity, feeling safer with them. But their substance north to Montana, I will when the hue and cry was raised that say I knew a man who undertook to head the "Mormons" were rising against the off all this, by trying to organize the law, and against the rules and regula- Elders of Israel into a society to raise tions and all that is good pertaining to an influence by which they might con- the society of this great republic and trol the northern market; but no, they were in open rebellion, where could be rebelled against it. But what I was found the man to open his mouth or going to mention, go into the north- to write a word saying, "This is false, ern settlements, and you would see the THE LORD'S SUPPER, ETC. 95 wagons by hundreds and thousands plagues come? Yes! Will distress come hauling off the provisions to those who upon the nations? Yes, and upon this na- would never speak a word in our fa- tion, and that, too, before a great while. vor. Yes, we are generous enough to feed When they made war upon us some eigh- them, and clothe them, and give them teen years ago, how it pleased and tick- money. And then, when the enemy would led the masses who thought that now raise persecution against the Latter-day destruction was to overtake the Latter- Saints, they can sit and laugh at it. All day Saints. I told many, and sent word the merchants among us we have made to Congress saying, that it would prove rich. Do you know of any that brought the opening wedge for the struggle of money here? If you do, you know more war between the North and South. But than I do, and I think I am as well ac- some gentlemen took the liberty of say- quainted with them as anyone. Who ing, time after time, "No, no, that can- brought capital here and spent that cap- not be." Said I, "It will be so, and I tell ital? They came here poor, and made it to you in the name of Israel's God." their capital, but they never lifted their And when the press delight in publish- voice in behalf of anyone; but they laugh ing such falsehoods about the Latter-day and sheer around the corner and in their Saints as they have done, and the peo- sleeve when they see the storm of trou- ple delight to read them, you will see ble coming upon the Latter-day Saints. real trouble crop out in and among them- I will not tell their doom, they will find selves. Is there power enough in the it out quick enough; a good many have Federal Government to put down moboc- found it already. Our persecutors too racy. No! And it is a truth that they who die, and they keep dying, their end whom the Lord makes weak are weak in- is sorrow, both priests and people. deed; and those whom the Lord makes There is a good deal of money spent. I strong are strong indeed. Strength was know of one man who spent many thou- given to the North in the last struggle, sands of dollars trying to organize the El- and the South suffered extremely. But ders in such a manner that they could the time will come when the North will hold the control of the market. But no. be weaker than the South was, and they Wild as the deer upon the mountains, will have no power to muster their forces running by day and by night, ofttimes against the tide of folly that will come under the shades of night, to get away upon them, that they bring upon them- from this and other towns, lugging off selves, and they themselves must receive the blessings that God had poured into the results. their laps. We have counseled the people But say the Latter-day Saints, "How to save their grain. Supposing we had are we living?" If you were to hear a few million bushels of grain on hand, an angel talk to you, and tell just would it do us any hurt? To say the what he sees and understands, you least, we certainly might as well have would say, that is as sharp preaching kept it, for we got nothing for it; we did as brother Brigham's; his words are not even pay for the transportation of our sharper than brother Brigham's. And substance. they would be. And still we are improv- Will famine come? Yes! Will ing a little; but oh! what improvement 96 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. we have yet to make in order to acquire not the experience that older men have; such victory over ourselves as to bring but if they do not possess more wisdom ourselves into perfect subjection to the than a good many of our old experienced law of Christ. Let us take heed, and men, I am sorry. There are a good many teach our children by precept and exam- that do not profit by the experience they ple to love and serve the Lord. What a have got, they do not know how to do so. glorious sight was presented to us yes- I want to tell you the reason why we have terday on our arrival at your depot, to made the selection of brother Oliver G. witness the hosts of children that lined Snow to preside here. He is the son of the sidewalks. You have here in this lit- brother Lorenzo Snow, who has hitherto tle city the buds, the beginning of a na- presided here. By appointing brother tion. Be careful my brethren and my Oliver to this position, I think he will sisters how you conduct yourselves. See be under his father's care, and where he that you bring yourselves in subjection can get the wisdom his father possesses. to the law of Christ, and then teach And I will say to the credit of the people your children in the spirit of love and here, they have done well. And brother affection the way of life, so that they Lorenzo Snow, who has had charge of will not stray away from you, becom- you, has set the best example for the lit- ing heady and high-minded, wandering eral building up of the kingdom of God after the foolish fashions of the world, of any of our presiding Elders. There is the pleasures of the world; but let them one man in the South who I think will make their delight in that which is vir- come up to this standard, and continue tuous and true, for this is more pleasur- on. But brother Snow has led the people able than all the vanities of the world. and guided them and counseled them in Real wisdom is real pleasure; real wis- the way that they should go, apparently dom, prudence, and understanding, is without their knowing anything about it, real comfort. until he got them into the harness; and I (The Presidency of the Stake were like this very much. then unanimously elected—namely, Oliver G. Snow as President, and Eli- jah A. Box and Isaac Smith as his coun- Our motive is to make every man and selors, who also received their ordina- woman to know just as much as we do; tions. Elder William Box was ordained this is the plan of the Gospel, and this a Patriarch. The names of the members is what I would like to do. I would like of the High Council were presented, and all the Latter-day Saints to come up to that of the President of the High Priests' this standard, and know as much as I Quorum, together with the names of do, and then just as much more as they the Bishops of the several Wards, all of can learn, and if they can get ahead of which were unanimously sustained. The me, all right. I can then have the privi- President then continued:) lege of following after them. If they keep I have a few words to say to up close to me, so that they will under- the Latter-day Saints concerning these stand as I do the workings of the Spirit, young men we have called to pre- they will do a good deal better than they side over the people of this Stake of do now. But the beauty and excellency Zion. They are young—they have of the wisdom that God has revealed THE LORD'S SUPPER, ETC. 97 to us is to fill everybody with wisdom, dollar when he commenced to trade. You bringing them up to the highest stan- will hear many say of such a person, dard of knowledge and wisdom, purify- what a nice man he is, and what a great ing us and preparing us to enter into financier he is! My feeling of such a man the highest state of glory, knowledge and is he is a great cheat, a deceiver, a liar! power, that we may become fit associates He imposes on the people, he takes that of the Gods and be prepared to dwell which does not belong to him, and is a with them. This I say is the beauty and living monument of falsehood. Such a glory of the great knowledge that God man is not a financier! The financier has revealed unto the Latter-day Saints. is he that brings the lumber from the You may ask in what particular? In ev- Canyons and shapes it for the use of his ery particular. For the knowledge men fellow man, employing mechanics and possess of every science, every art, ev- laborers to produce from the elements ery study there is, and every branch of and the crude material everything nec- mechanism known to men, they are in- essary for the sustenance and comfort of debted to the Lord. True men may have man; one who builds tanneries to work been taught it by his fellow man and he up the hides instead of letting them rot may have discovered much himself; but and waste or be sent out of the coun- all originated with God our Heavenly Fa- try to be made into leather and then ther, through his agents to the children brought back in the shape of boots and of men. The faith and philosophy of our shoes; and that can take the wool, the religion comprehends all things, believes furs and straw and convert the same into all things, hopes all things, and I wish I cloth, into hats and bonnets, and that was able to say a little better than I am, will plant out mulberry trees and raise endures all things. But we must endure the silk, and thus give employment to all things that we cannot help, enduring men, women and children, as you have patiently until we are counted worthy to commenced to do here, bringing the ele- be free. ments into successful use for the benefit I want to say this with regard to of man, and reclaiming a barren wilder- brother Oliver G. Snow; virtually we ness, converting it into a fruitful field, leave brother Lorenzo to overlook you. making it to blossom as the rose; such Can you understand this? If you can- a man I would call a financier, a bene- not you cannot see as I do. Brother factor of his fellow man. But the great Snow has exhibited splendid talent in majority of men who have amassed great what he has done towards making this wealth have done it at the expense of people self-sustaining. Shall I give you their fellows, on the principle that the my ideas in brief with regard to busi- doctors, the lawyers and the merchants ness and business transactions. Here acquire theirs. Such men are impositions for instance is a businessman, a mer- on the community, and they ought to be chant, comes to our neighborhood, with taken and put to some honorable labor a stock of goods; he sells them at such as raising potatoes, raising grain, from two to ten hundred percent above cattle and sheep, and performing other what they cost. As a matter of course useful and necessary labors for the good he soon becomes wealthy, and after of mankind. Amen. a time he will be called a million- aire, when perhaps he was not worth a 98 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SAINTS AND THE ANCIENT APOSTLES AND DISCIPLES—THE QUORUMS OF THE PRIESTHOOD WILL CONTINUE TO GO FORWARD—THE SAINTS ARE CALM AND UNDISTURBED.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ERASTUS SNOW, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY,SEPTEMBER 9, 1877.
REPORTEDBY RUDGER CLAWSON.
While Elder Richards was address- Him and that He was verily risen, they ing us, a certain Scripture presented it- could not seem to sense it. When two of self somewhat forcibly to my mind, that I their number traveled out into the coun- will call attention to, as an illustration of try the same day, Jesus overtook them, the difference existing between us at the and they knew him not, and they re- present time, and the condition, feelings lated to Him what had happened, adding and spirit of the Apostles and disciples of that they had expected that He was the Christ at the time of His crucifixion. one who should have redeemed Israel. The students of the Bible are aware Then He began to expound unto them how the feelings and faith of the disci- the Scriptures, and show unto them that ples anciently centered in Christ, with it was necessary for Christ thus to suf- the expectation that he was at that fer, to fulfill the words of the Prophets. time to restore Israel to the posses- Yet even these two, after hearing Him sion of their promised inheritances, and and His explanation of the Scriptures, establish himself upon the Throne of returned and reported to the rest of David forever, and that the kingdom the disciples what they had seen and which he came to establish, was not heard, and even these could not dispel only to be spiritual but also temporal the doubts from the hearts of the disci- in its character. And notwithstanding ples or take off the veil from their minds. the many plain sayings of the Savior, Still they hesitated; still the vision of pointing at his death and his resurrec- their minds was not fully open to com- tion, and the work He came to per- prehend the true nature and character form for the redemption of man, there of His mission and their own true call- seemed to be a veil over their hearts ing. Finally, after a day or two, and that they comprehended it only in part. the depth of their grief and mourning When He was taken and crucified, that began to subside a little, Peter says to veil still covered their minds. Notwith- his brethren: I propose to go a fishing. standing that on the morning of His John says, I go with you; and so one af- resurrection, the holy women reported ter another they who had followed the to His disciples that they had seen DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SAINTS, ETC. 99 occupation of fishermen before they were tention again to his fishing. After they called to be Apostles, concluded they had filled themselves with the fish and would turn again to their former occu- cakes, Jesus asked him: "Simon Peter, pation and go fishing. They tried it, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than but the Lord did not bless them in their these?" pointing to his fish. "Yea, Lord; labors. They toiled all night, but the thou knowest I love thee." "Then feed fish would not come, and they caught my lambs." Again the Lord says, "Si- nothing. In the morning a voice called mon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?" "Yea, to them from the seaside, saying, "Chil- Lord; thou knowest I love thee." "Then dren, have ye any meat," and they an- feed my sheep." Again, the third time, swered Him, "No." Now, said He, "Cast Jesus asked, "Simon Peter, lovest thou your net over on the other side of the me more than these?" Peter was grieved ship." They cast their net on the other because the Lord asked the same ques- side of the ship, straightway, and their tion with renewed earnestness the third net was full of fish, so much so that time, as if he doubted his assurance, and they could not bring it into the ship, and said, "Yea, Lord, thou knowest all things; they were under the necessity of row- thou knowest I love thee." Jesus saith ing to shore and drawing the net after unto him,"Feed my sheep. Now you have them. But about this time, a thought tried your hand at fishing, Peter, and you penetrated Peter's heart that this was see that when the Lord was not with you, very much like the many deeds of Je- you caught nothing. I called you from sus; this was like one of Jesus' mira- your fishing in the beginning, and said cles, and straightway he cast a look to- to you henceforth to leave your nets, and ward the shore and exclaimed to his I would make you fishers of men." This brethren, "Truly it is the Lord." Then reproof sufficed Peter the rest of his life. his faith and hope revived, and such joy We have no account of his ever wishing filled his bosom that the impetuosity of to go fishing again, at least not to neglect his nature led him to leave the ship; he the flock of Christ. could not wait its progress to the shore but plunged into the sea, to meet his In the epistle which Peter wrote to Lord. You remember what followed; Je- his brethren in the latter end of his life, sus knew they were hungry, and had he refers very delicately to that period breakfast prepared for them; he did not of his career, when as he says, in his wait for their seine of fish to be brought own words, "We buried our hope with ashore and cooked, but when they ar- Christ, but thanks be unto God that it rived he had it cooked, and the fish is renewed again by the resurrection of ready, and he invited them to sit down our Lord from the dead." The hope they to breakfast with him. No one durst ask had cherished seemed to have been lost him who he was for by this time, God had when they buried him, but it was re- opened their eyes and they knew him. newed again unto them by the resur- You remember the peaceful yet keen re- rection of the Lord from the dead, and buke administered to Peter on the oc- by his ministrations among them dur- casion, because he had forsaken the ing a period of forty days after his resur- injunctions that he had previously re- rection, showing himself repeatedly and ceived, and the commandment that had giving them instruction, telling them, been given unto him, and turned his at- at the same time, "not until I have de- 100 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. parted from you will the Holy Ghost clined to rebuke them and asked Jesus come upon you and endow you with to rebuke them and tell them to be quiet. power from on high, revealing all things His answer was, "If these should hold unto you which the Father hath pre- their peace, the very stones will cry out," pared; but if I go away the Comforter as much as to say, it is the Father in will come, and he will guide you into all them that is crying. It was the prompt- truth: and show you things to come." ings and inspiration of the Almighty that It is interesting to reflect upon and were moving the hearts of the people contemplate the influences and sur- to call the attention of all Judea and roundings of the early disciples and the Jerusalem, and all the people around manner in which the Father performed about, that their eyes might see and his works in their midst and after the their ears might hear and all the peo- resurrection of the Savior; how their ple know him who cometh in the name eyes were opened to see and compre- of the Lord, riding upon the foal of an hend the true nature and character of ass, according to the predictions of the his mission upon the earth; the true ancient Prophets. He would not rebuke nature of his kingdom, and the work them, but let the spirit flow; let their which he was sent to perform, in which mouths utter praise; let them show their they were his helpers and fellow work- respect; let them show their respect, and ers; called and ordained to the holy Apos- do honor to him whom the Father had tleship, to be his witnesses in all the sent. And all this that when he should earth, to bear witness of him and bap- suffer, and the curtain should drop, and tize those who believed in the name of he should be executed, the Lord should the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, teach- cause the sun to be darkened, and the ing them to observe all things which he earth to quake, and the veil of the Tem- had commanded them. It seemed wise ple to rend, that all Israel might have a in the providences of God to conceal it, testimony and an assurance that the Son measurably, from their minds until af- of God was suffering. ter his resurrection from the dead. His Those who are familiar with the early last entrance into Jerusalem, when he history of the Latter-day Saints, with rode upon the foal of an ass, and the be- the life, career and death of the Prophet lievers spread their garments and palm Joseph Smith, with the scenes that sur- branches in his pathway, for him to ride rounded the people at that time, and the upon in token of the great esteem and re- mighty strides that he seemed to take in spect they cherished for him, and their the last years of his life; the force with assurance that he had come in the name which he seemed to push forward the of the Lord, to establish the Throne of work that was upon him, and the feel- David and redeem Israel from the op- ing that hurried him forward to confer pression of the Gentiles and the bondage upon the Apostles and a few others the that was upon their necks as a people; keys of the Priesthood and the Holy En- and they cried, "Hosannah: Blessed is dowments, which God had revealed unto he that cometh in the name of the Lord," him, and his efforts to set in order all while some of the overrighteous ones or things pertaining to the Priesthood; also those who thought they were making his communication on the powers and too much ado about him were rather in- policy of the Government of the United DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SAINTS, ETC. 101
States, and the purposes of God con- attending to their ministry, holding Con- cerning them, putting his name before ferences in various parts of the coun- the people as a candidate for the Presi- try, nor did they leave those labors and dency of the United States, and the rec- turn again to their former occupations as ommendations which he made to save did Peter and his brethren. A profound them from the civil war that has since sensation was produced among all the overtaken them, the results of the slav- Latter-day Saints throughout the world, ery question, that was agitating the na- and among their enemies, many of whom tion, all these great and important sub- loudly condemned the shocking manner jects were kept prominently before the in which their death was accomplished. people, and while the Elders and peo- Time will not permit, nor does it appear ple of Israel labored diligently to carry to me a suitable time to dwell upon it; out his teachings and execute his plans but great was the impression produced and designs, he stepped behind the veil throughout the land. Deep was the sor- almost as suddenly and unexpectedly, to row and mourning, and the query arose the people, as did Jesus when he was cru- in the minds of many, what shall be cified. I repeat, it was almost as sudden the result of these things? Especially and unexpected to the vast body of this among that class whose hopes seemed to people as the crucifixion of Jesus was to have been buried with him, whose faith his disciples, who were looking for him to seemed to have been centered in him; be placed upon the throne of his father who did not look beyond him. David, to rule and reign over the House of Israel. But the response of the Spirit to those The Apostles of this dispensation did whose faith centered in God was this: not, however, leave the work of the min- The Prophet Joseph has organized the istry to which they had been called, and quorums, has set in order the Priest- go a fishing; but there were some in Is- hood, and conferred the keys and powers rael who seemed to have buried their thereof upon his brethren, and said to hope with the Prophet Joseph. And it the Twelve Apostles, "Upon your shoul- has been said of some that they died ders shall rest the burden of this king- with him; and though they continued to dom, to bear it off in all the world. The live years after, yet their faith and hope Lord is going to let me rest." His words seemed to have died with him. Not so were before the people, and in the hearts with President Brigham Young, and the of those who were living and walking in Apostles that were with him. They were the light of the Holy Ghost, whose faith mostly abroad ministering in their call- reached beyond the Prophet Joseph, and ing, but two or three of them were at looked to the source from whence he re- home. Among the latter number was ceived his power and influence. Elder John Taylor, who is with us to- day, as you who are familiar with the We have often heard our late Pres- early history of those times are aware. ident, Brigham Young, who was Presi- He and Elder Willard Richards were dent of the Twelve Apostles by seniority, with the Prophet Joseph and Hyrum, in and who had been placed there by the person, when they were assassinated, voice of his brethren, to preside over his and John Taylor received four balls. quorum, which had also been confirmed The rest of the Twelve were abroad by the Lord, say that he was attending a 102 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Conference in Petersboro, New Hamp- ham Young. How often has he said, shire, when he heard of the Prophet's "Joseph is still my leader; he is still my death. The query arose in his mind: President; he still bears the keys before Where now rests those keys of the holy me. I am still following after him to Priesthood which the Prophet Joseph re- carry out his counsel, to accomplish the ceived and revealed unto us? Where work of which he laid the foundation, now on this side of the veil are those under God. I am still as he appointed, keys deposited? The answer came to an Apostle to bear off this kingdom, to him by the Holy Spirit resting upon him bear witness of the work which God by with a power and influence and peace- him did accomplish, and to carry it for- ful assurance which caused him to bring ward by the power of God and the help his hand to his thigh with the utter- of my brethren and fellow laborers, and I ance, "They are here. They are here!" am still an Apostle and President of the The voice of his brethren responded, and Twelve Apostles." the echo reverberated not only among the Apostles, but, among the Seventies, But the Lord signifies to me that the High Priests, the Elders, Bishops, these Quorums of the Priesthood shall go Teachers, Deacons, and all the people. forward in their respective spheres of la- They are here, with brother Brigham, bor, and as one passes beyond the veil, with his brethren the Apostles, who have following his file leader, the next Apos- been called and charged by the Prophet tle will follow after, treading, as it were, Joseph with the duties and responsibil- in his footsteps, to bear off this kingdom. ities of bearing off this kingdom and The work is of God and not of man, and building it up, and setting in order and no number of martyrdoms or death, and regulating the affairs thereof in all the no amount of persecution nor slaying of world. This revelation of the Spirit to the Lord's anointed, can put a stop to it. our beloved President, Brigham Young, How often we have heard it proclaimed on that occasion, and which also rested that the keys of the Apostleship, which upon his brethren, and was diffused had been committed to men on the earth, among all the people and responded to together with all the keys of the Holy En- with such universal voice, sentiment and dowments, and every blessing which the feelings, was not a fresh call, a new Lord has provided and promised to men revelation, but it was bringing to their in the flesh, are placed within our reach minds one previously given, refreshing through the keys of this Priesthood, and their minds and understanding in the that this Apostleship will continue upon word of the Lord that had been spoken the earth until it has accomplished that unto them through the Prophet Joseph which the Lord has ordained and ap- himself, making more fully and clearly pointed, and until Israel shall be gath- than ever, those words that had been ered, and the people be prepared for his previously spoken to them, the charge second coming, and that, if one passes that he gave to them to bear off the work beyond the veil, another follows in his which now rested upon their shoulders. footsteps, and if persecution rage, and From that day until the present time has many witnesses of the Lord are slain, this revelation been clear and prominent still he will preserve witnesses upon the before the people, and in their hearts, earth, with the keys of that ministry and and in the mouth of President Brig- Apostleship to bear off the kingdom tri- DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SAINTS, ETC. 103 umphantly, and fulfill and accomplish all fro, nobody dropping their tools or ne- that the Lord has predicted. These utter- glecting their labors, and nobody wish- ances have often been made in our hear- ing to go a fishing. When we had finished ing, within the last thirty-three years, the last sad rites, and completed what since the death of the Prophet Joseph, duties we owed to the honored dead, we and have become household words with found every one, on Monday morning, those who have been alive to their call- resuming his duties; business assumed ing and duties, and whose eyes and ears its wonted course in every department of have been open to hear the word of the our public as well as our private labors. Lord and remember it. How calm and The Saints everywhere, as well as our peaceful the spirit and feelings of Israel Elders abroad, move forward in the dis- on this memorable occasion, when our charge of their duties with calmness and beloved President, who has led the van serenity, with assurance that Brigham for the last thirty-three years, quietly is still our leader. Joseph is still our gathered up his feet and was gathered to Prophet, and Brigham is leader as much his fathers. How different was the spirit as he was in life, but not on this side and feelings of Israel on this occasion of the veil—he has gone into another from the other occasion I have referred sphere, to engage in the labors of the to, and from the Apostles and disciples Gospel with Joseph, Hyrum, and all the of Jesus when He departed! It shows to holy ones that have gone before in this our minds the education of the people, dispensation, to assist them in rolling and their advancement in understand- on the work of this dispensation among ing and faith. It shows the stability of the dead, and prepare the way for the fi- our institutions and their power over the nal consummation of all things spoken of feelings and hearts of the people. In ev- by the Prophets, while his brethren on ery department of the Priesthood, in ev- this side the veil tread softly and dili- ery branch of the Church, through all the gently after him, as it were in his foot- Stakes of Zion, and in every department steps, to move on the cause of Israel, of our labor, there seems scarcely a ripple and send the Gospel to the ends of the upon the smooth surface of the waters. earth. What a commentary on the stabil- Last Sabbath, when a vast congrega- ity of the institutions of Zion! The power tion of the people came from the east, of that faith that we have received, the west, north and south, and from this strength of that union, and the perfec- city and its suburbs, to pay their last re- tion of that organization which God has spects to the honored dead, the quiet, established among us, which gives us the the order, the silent and discreet feel- reassurance that instead of the cause of ing of resignation and peace that pre- Zion weakening, it will gain additional vailed, should be a lesson to the Saints power and strength; and the Priesthood and a testimony to the world of the pu- that remain on this side, having lost rity of faith that we have embraced, a tower of strength in him who has and the influence that had been ex- gone, must exert themselves and their erted upon the hearts of the people by faith, and renew their strength in the our departed leader, and his brethren Lord, and magnify their calling, that the who have been laboring with him. We work of the Lord be not hindered. That find no confusion, no running to and this may be the feelings and determina- 104 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. tion of every one of the Apostles, Sev- building the Temples of the Lord, and en- enties, High Priests, Elders, Bishops, tering therein and officiating in the bap- and Presidents in Zion, and all the peo- tisms, endowments, and ordinances, and ple, that we may strive more diligently sealing blessings upon our dead, that the to magnify our calling, until we meet promises of God may be fulfilled which again those who have gone behind the he has made, namely, that in this dispen- veil, where already there seems to be sation of the fullness of times He would almost a majority of the early Apos- gather in one all things that are in Christ tles and first Elders of the Church, Jesus, which are on the earth and which preaching the Gospel and preparing the are in heaven, which may God grant and hearts of those that receive it, while help us to accomplish, through Jesus. we who remain continue our labors in Amen.
THE ROCK OF NEW (OR CONTINUED) REVELATION—INCIDENT IN REGARD TO P. P. PRATT—"ONE LORD, ONE FAITH, ONE BAPTISM"—THE WORK OF THE FATHER EXTENDS THROUGHOUT THE ETERNITIES.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SEPT. 16, 1877.
REPORTEDBY RUDGER CLAWSON.
Those who have listened to the dis- his Elders have gone forth bearing tes- course of Elder Woodruff and to the tes- timony of the truths of the everlast- timonies which he has borne concern- ing Gospel. The rock upon which this ing this work, must have been inter- Church is built, and the foundation ested in his recital, in his explanations stone thereof, is new revelation from and in the doctrines which he has ad- God to men, and that revelation be- vanced, and which have special inter- ing of divine origin it must of neces- est for the Latter-day Saints. If it sity agree with the revelations which were not for the new revelations received have already been given; hence, as from the Almighty, this people called he has said, the doctrines taught by Latter-day Saints would not be in ex- the Prophet Joseph Smith, and the or- istence. If it were not that the Lord ganization of the Church as he was has revealed in great plainness his mind directed to accomplish it, was all in and will unto his people, they would perfect harmony with the truths con- not be an organization, neither would tained in this book (the Bible). It can THE ROCK, ETC. 105 not be otherwise and be what it pro- prophets had said. I have heard Presi- fesses to be. It made no difference to dent Young make the same remarks. He Joseph Smith whether he read and was said that he never consulted the Book of familiar with every doctrine taught by Covenants, he never consulted the Bible the Apostles; he was under no necessity or Book of Mormon to see whether the of framing his teachings therewith that doctrines and counsels which he was in- there should be no difference between spired to give, corresponded with these that which he taught, and that which books or not. It was a matter that gave had been taught, because the same spirit him no particular concern, from the fact that revealed to the ancient Apostles and that he endeavored always to be led by Prophets, and inspired them to teach the the Spirit of the Lord, to speak in accor- people, and leave on record their predic- dance therewith; hence these men have tions and doctrines, taught him also and had very little care resting upon their enabled him to teach exactly the same minds as to whether their doctrines and truths. counsels were in harmony with the doc- I remember hearing related brother trines and counsels of those who pre- Parley P. Pratt's first interview with the ceded them. It was for them to seek to Saints at Fayette, Seneca County, where know the mind and will of the Lord and the Church was organized. Those of comprehend his Spirit as it rested upon you who remember brother Parley know them, to speak in accordance therewith; his familiarity with the Scriptures, espe- and the doctrine that has been taught cially with the prophecies. On that oc- under the inspiration of that spirit will casion he was called upon to speak; the be found to be in perfect harmony with Prophet Joseph was not present at the the doctrines which have been taught by time. He brought forth from the prophe- men inspired of God in ancient days. cies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and other prophets, abundant proofs con- There are no two modes of baptism, cerning the work which the Lord had there are no two methods of organiz- established through his servant Joseph, ing the Church of Christ; there are a great many of the Latter-day Saints no two paths leading into the kingdom were surprised that there were so many of God our heavenly Father; there are evidences existing in the Bible concern- no two forms of doctrine. "There is ing this work. The Church had then one Lord," as the Apostle Paul says, been organized some five months, but "one faith, and one baptism." There is the members had never heard from any one form of doctrine, and when we all of the Elders these proofs and evidences meet (those of us who shall be so for- which existed in the Bible. And, if I re- tunate as to be redeemed and sancti- member correctly, he told me that Oliver fied in the presence of our Father and Cowdery and the Prophet Joseph himself the Lamb), we shall find that our doc- were surprised at the great amount of trines will precisely agree; our obedi- evidence there was in the Bible concern- ence will be of a similar character, we ing these things. The Prophet Joseph shall all discover that the doctrines that was inspired of God to teach the doc- we have received and bowed in submis- trines of life and salvation, and he did sion to are precisely the same doctrines, so without reference to what the ancient whether we were baptized into Christ 106 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. in America, in Asia, in Africa or any die in their ignorance they will be judged other part of the earth, and it will be according to the light they received. But found when we all come together (that will they forever, through the endless is the family of our heavenly Father), ages of eternity, remain in this igno- that we have all received the same faith, rance? Certainly not. The work of our the same doctrines, and have partaken Father is not confined to this earthly ex- of the same Spirit and the same gifts, istence, it extends throughout the eter- the Spirit having rested down upon all nities: it extends from eternity to eter- alike according to his or her faith. If it nity; it is without beginning and with- were not so heaven would be full of clash- out end; it is as indestructible and en- ing sectaries; it would be full of confu- during as he himself. But all of the sons sion, strife and division and every kind of of our Father who ever dwelt upon the contention; because the same spirit that earth, and his daughters also, will hear characterizes men here, and that cre- at the proper time and under the proper ates division and contention among them circumstances the glad tidings of salva- here, if they could reach heaven in the tion, the name of our Redeemer and the possession of it, as some claim they do, plan by which they can be redeemed and would turn heaven itself into a pande- be exalted into his presence. There are monium, and make it no better than this several plain allusions to these doctrines earth so far as confusion is concerned. in the Scriptures. Peter talks about This is not the Gospel of the Lord Je- them very plainly. The Savior himself al- sus; this is not the path that he marked luded to the same idea when he spoke to out. He marked out a plain path and all the thief on the cross, when he said to the inhabitants of the earth must, if they him—"This day shalt thou be with me in ever come into the presence of the Lamb, paradise;" when it is a well-known fact walk in that path to the end, or they that he did not ascend to his Father in never can reach there. And the millions Heaven. But while his body lay in the of the dead, to whom allusion has been earth his spirit went elsewhere, and was made by brother Woodruff, they also absent from that body. The Apostle Paul shall hear of the glad tidings of salva- also alludes to it in the 15th chapter of tion. And the unnumbered millions who his Epistle to the Corinthians, and our have died without ever having heard the minds have been set at rest by those glo- name of the Son of God, and without rious revelations and doctrines, because ever having known anything concerning they explain to us the goodness, mercy the redemption which he wrought out and justice of our Father in Heaven, for them; they who died in ignorance of and enable us, who have received these the law will not, of course, be judged by doctrines and believe in them, to glo- or held accountable to the law, having rify Him as we could not if we believed never known it. This would be contrary these unnumbered millions that I have to the justice, the eternal justice of our alluded to were condemned to endless Father in Heaven, to hold any man or be- perdition, without ever having a chance ing accountable for the law which they to be redeemed therefrom. It has always violated without their first having been been a mystery to me, since I have been made acquainted with it, hence, if they old enough to comprehend the truth, ACTIONS, ETC. 107 how it is that men, with the ideas which heighten the feeling of admiration in the they entertain concerning the Gospel, breast of the human being in contem- can reconcile their belief with the fact plating the character of our Father in that our Father is a God of truth, a God the light of the plan which He has re- of mercy, and a God of perfect justice. vealed for our salvation from the power I do not wonder at men becoming skep- of sin. And this is what the Gospel (or tical in view of the ideas which prevail as men choose to call it in these days in the so-called Christian world. A man "Mormonism") has done for us. It is this must, in some instances, throw away his that has enlightened this people; it is feelings and reason, and surrender his this that has gathered them from the na- judgment, and accept the theories which tions of the earth, and has enabled them prevail upon this subject, without rea- to submit to the privations and persecu- soning and without questioning, in order tions that they have had to contend with; to flow along with the orthodox stream. and it is this that will carry them for- This is the only way in which many do, ward, until they are brought back into to go along without difficulty. But if the the presence of our Father in Heaven. Gospel was taught in its plainness and in I pray that the blessings of the Lord its fullness, and if men and women un- may rest upon the people, and that the derstood the Gospel as it is, there would revelations of the Lord Jesus may be in be nothing that would be in contradiction their hearts, and in their souls, to guide to those truths to which I have alluded; them in that path that will bring them but all would be harmonious there- back into the presence of our Father, with, and everything would tend to in- which I ask in the name of Jesus Christ. crease the faith, strengthen the love, and Amen.
ACTIONS SHOULD HARMONIZE WITH PROFESSIONS—"MORMONISM" A SYSTEM OF POWER—ALL THE FAITHFUL ARE ENTITLED TO REVELATION—LEADING MEN BUT AS INSTRUMENTS IN THE HANDS OF GOD.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SEPT. 23, 1877.
REPORTEDBY RUDGER CLAWSON.
I have listened with a great deal and the instructions which they of pleasure to the remarks which have given unto us upon the princi- have been made by our brethren, ples of the Gospel. The interesting 108 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. remarks of brother Brigham Young must strength that might be expected from have appealed very strongly unto all of a people situated as we are, and hav- us, and impressed us with their truth. ing the blessings that we enjoy. Do the First, he has said if our professions are Latter-day Saints exhibit these fruits as greater than those of the rest of the they should? In some respects they are world, and if we testify that we have to be seen, and in others they are not received truths in advance, and author- so fruitful as they should be. There is ity greater than that possessed by oth- an abundance of room for improvement ers, our lives should correspond with our on our part. There is room for an in- professions, or we can never justly ex- crease of exertion and an exhibition of pect that we will receive any greater re- greater faith as a people, than we have ward than they; and this is a truth that ever yet exhibited. The Lord is ready, ac- should be taken home to the hearts of cording to our own testimonies, to pour all the people who are called Latter-day out upon us every blessing that we need. Saints. The Lord requires of us that Are we sick? Are any of our households our acts, and that our desires, and that sick? What is the privilege of the Latter- all our labors shall be in harmony with day Saints according to our doctrines, ac- our professions, and that when we testify cording to the teachings of these books that we know that God lives, and that (the Bible and the Book of Mormon), and he has restored the everlasting Gospel according to our own belief? It is our to the earth, in its primitive simplicity, privilege to exercise faith in the name purity, and power, with the authority to of Jesus Christ, to have the sick, where administer in the ordinances thereof for not appointed unto death, restored to the salvation of the children of men— life. This is the privilege of the Latter- that making these professions and bear- day Saints, the privilege of every faith- ing these testimonies, we should exhibit ful man and woman in the Church of in our lives the fruits of the glorious Christ upon all the face of the earth. If doctrines and truths that we profess to there be a misfortune impending that have received. In no other way can is fraught with difficulty, or disaster, or we truly bear testimony to the verac- trouble of any kind, what is the privi- ity of these things. "A tree is known lege of those who are the servants and by its fruits; a good stream does not handmaidens of the Lord Jesus Christ? send forth bitter waters; men do not It is the privilege, and has been the gather grapes of thorns, and figs of this- privilege in all ages of the world, ac- tles." And so with us and the rest of cording to the records that have come mankind. When we profess to have re- down to us, for those who live godly in ceived the truth, we should exhibit the Christ Jesus to have revelation concern- fruits of that truth in our lives. When ing those events, that they may be pre- we profess to have received the ever- pared for them, and not be taken un- lasting Gospel and the Spirit of God, awares. I would not give much for a reli- we should rejoice in the gifts of that gion that did not prepare me for events Spirit. We should live so as to enjoy of that character; I would not think it them, and in times of trial, of difficulty, the religion of Jesus Christ. I would not of perplexity, and of affliction, we should give much for a church, to me it would exhibit a self-control and power and ACTIONS, ETC. 109 have no attractions, in which God did not ham Young—but were the gifts, powers manifest his power, in which there were and qualifications of this Gospel confined no evidences received of God's power to his person alone? Were they con- and of God's ability to deliver in the fined to his Counselors? Are they con- hour of trial and difficulty. It is this fined to the Twelve? Are they confined which makes the Church of Christ, it is to the Bishops or to any other class in this which makes what men call "Mor- this Church? Certainly not. They are monism," so attractive to me. It is be- like the air we breathe; they are like the cause it is a system of power; it is be- light that enlightens our understandings cause there are gifts connected with it; it and gives light to our intellects. They is because I was told when a child that if are free to all who will live so as to re- I would be baptized for the remissions of ceive them. There is none so old, none my sins and repent of them, I should re- so learned, none so high, neither is their ceive the gift of the Holy Ghost. It is be- any so low, nor so young, nor so illiterate, cause there are in this Church Prophets unto whom these are denied. They are and Apostles, the gifts of revelation, of the free gift of God to all His children; to healing, and discerning of spirits, and all who keep His commandments. They all the other gifts, that were ever en- shall receive these gifts, and enjoy them joyed by the ancient people of God. It if they will live so as to have them in is these gifts that make the Church of their hearts, so that the Holy Spirit will Jesus Christ a power in the earth, and bestow them upon them, and it is this that makes the teachings and doctrines also that causes this Church and this of this Church so attractive to all the in- Gospel to be so delightful, there is an habitants of the earth who believe truth- equality about it. It is not, as I have fully and sincerely the doctrines con- said, confined to a few, but it is extended tained in the Old and New Testaments. to all the inhabitants of the earth, who It supplies the want that is felt by every will place themselves in a position to re- honest heart, a yearning after a knowl- ceive it. "Repent, and be baptized every edge of God, a yearning after the things one of you in the name of Jesus Christ of God, and a yearning after that cer- for the remission of sins, and ye shall re- tainty that dispels all darkness and un- ceive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For this belief, and is a rock, which is like the promise is unto you, and to your chil- rock of ages, upon which the foundation dren, and to all that are afar off, even being built, the building is forever with- as many as the Lord our God shall call." out fear of being shaken or overturned, Even all. Whom does he call? Go preach when the storms and tempests shall beat this gospel to every creature, therefore upon it. every creature is called, at all times and This is the secret of the union that in all generations throughout the earth. has always characterized this Church of None are excluded from its glorious ben- Jesus Christ, and yet we do not live up efits. It is therefore the privilege of every to our privileges. What is the privilege of member of this Church to enjoy revela- the Latter-day Saints? Are the privileges tion for himself or herself, to know the of this Gospel confined to a few individ- mind and will of the Father, to know con- uals? Revelations have been given to cerning the doctrine whether it be of the our departed President—President Brig- 110 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Lord or whether it be of man, and I of the Prophets. And further, it will would not give much for a people or an cause us to draw nearer unto the Father individual who is destitute of this knowl- and live so that we shall receive reve- edge. Sooner or later unless they repent lation from him for ourselves, that the and feel after it, they will stand in slip- knowledge of the Spirit shall be in our pery places, and when the floods come hearts, that the voice of the true Shep- and the tempests beat upon them, they herd will be known to our ears, that are in danger of falling away and becom- when we hear it we will know it, that ing castaways from the Church of Christ; we cannot be deceived or led astray. This but the man who receives his knowledge is the privilege of the Latter-day Saints, from the Father, and the woman who can and the man and woman in this Church come to the Father in the name of Je- who does not live so as to enjoy this privi- sus and ask and receive for herself a tes- lege comes short of being what he should timony concerning this work, and con- be. It is these blessings that compen- cerning the government of God, in times sate for the falsehoods, for the contu- of trial and difficulty, they are safe, be- mely and for the persecution to which cause they know where their strength is the Latter-day Saints are subjected. If and unto whom they can apply for light it were not for these gifts and bless- and guidance in the hours of temptation, ings our case would not be a very en- trial and difficulty. They know then the viable one; but in possession of these voice of the true Shepherd. blessings, and knowing for ourselves the truth, and understanding the will of our Father in heaven and rejoicing in the My brethren and sisters let me ad- blessings of peace, quietude, union and dress myself more directly to you upon love, such as cannot be obtained else- this point. We have been bereft of our where, with those other gifts to which I President. We have been bereft of the have alluded—having these in our pos- man who has stood at our head and session we can look calmly upon the ef- guided us for thirty-three years, and we forts of the wicked. We can, without have learned to look upon him as the being afflicted in our souls, receive the mouthpiece of our Father to us, but we persecution which they may seem fit to ought, also, to have learned, as I have heap upon us; to have our names cast no doubt the majority of this people have out as evil, to be accused of all manner learned, that he was but an instrument of wickedness and crime. We can sub- in the hands of God to accomplish the mit to these things cheerfully, knowing work entrusted to him, and that he be- that the day will come when these lies ing gone, the Lord will raise up and shall be swept away; when the will of strengthen those who remain, and give the Father and the glorious light of truth them the power necessary to accomplish will shine upon us, and we shall be vin- his work and carry it forward in the dicated in the sight of the inhabitants of earth; and if they fall too, as they likely the earth, in the sight of heaven and an- will, the column of humanity, the column gels. This being our condition, we can of the Priesthood will still press forward, rejoice under these circumstances, and until all that the Lord has appointed look forth to the time when we shall re- to his people, he will accomplish on the ceive the happiness and reward alluded earth, and Zion will be established and to. Brethren and sisters, live so that each fully redeemed according to all the words of you can go to the Father and ask and THE SAVIOR AMONG THE NEPHITES, ETC. 111 receive from him the blessing that you sins; be of a broken heart and contrite need. He has said, "Cursed is he that spirit, and he will visit you with his putteth his trust in man, or maketh Spirit, and bestow upon you gifts such as flesh his arm." Do not build upon man. you have never yet received. Do not lean upon him, but lean upon That you may do this, and that we our Father in heaven. Seek unto all may do it, that we may be eventually him; implore his blessing; ask for light saved and exalted in the kingdom of our and strength from him; humble your- Father, is my prayer, in the name of Je- selves before him, and confess your sus. Amen.
THE SAVIOR AMONG THE NEPHITES—PRINTING OF THE BOOK OF MORMON—THE PRESIDENCY OF THE CHURCH—THE ANCIENT PRIESTHOOD—THE KIRTLAND TEMPLE.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDATTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,FRIDAY,OCTOBER 5, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I will read a few words of our Lord be judged. And know ye that ye shall and Savior, at the time of his last per- be judges of the people, according to the sonal appearance among the Nephites, judgment which I shall give unto you, or rather, the last account of His appear- which shall be just. Therefore, what ance in their midst, so far as the Book of manner of men had ye ought to be? Ver- Mormon has given the history. ily I say unto you, even as I am." "Write the things which ye have seen These words of our Lord and Savior, and heard, save it be those which are to the ancient Israelites of the Amer- forbidden. Write the works of this peo- ican Continent, are written, not only ple, which shall be, even as hath been for the benefit of the descendants of written, of that which hath been. For the Israelites, who inhabit the Conti- behold, out of the books which have nent, but also for the benefit of all peo- been written, and which shall be writ- ple, that all might know something in ten, shall this people be judged, for by relation to the authority that God be- them shall their works be known unto stowed upon His servants in ancient men. And behold, all things are written times. The Priesthood is not a delegated by the Father; therefore out of the books authority from heaven to be merely ex- which shall be written shall the world ercised in this life; it is a divine au- 112 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. thority intended to be exercised in the in our country became interested in the next life, as well as this: its exercise here enterprise, and he, by will, advanced is only the beginning. money to publish an extensive dictio- Before dwelling upon this subject, I nary upon the phonetic principle. A lit- wish to say to the Latter-day Saints, that tle different alphabet was adopted in our I have been permitted by the counsel of country from that which was used in the servants of God, to perform another England. After examining these differ- but very short mission abroad, having ent systems, I concluded that, in some left Salt Lake City on the 18th July, and very few respects, they were all in er- returned again after about two months ror. These errors consisted mostly in the and nine days' absence, traveling, dur- mode of spelling. Some have adopted ing this period of time, about thirteen one standard, and some another; and thousand miles, by land and ocean. I having examined the different systems feel very glad, and rejoice, that I have closely and carefully, I finally concluded had this opportunity of going out once to accept the American phonetic alpha- more among mankind abroad. Although bet, with the exception of two or three my mission was not specially a preach- characters, and also to spell according to ing mission, to declare to the people the the American phonetic dictionary, with things of the kingdom of God, yet I en- some slight alterations. deavored, so far as opportunity permit- I made arrangements with a house ted to bear my humble testimony among in London to furnish the phonotype, and the people. most of it had arrived in Liverpool, just My mission, as is well known, was as I was called home. to go to England, for the purpose of These preliminary preparations for printing the Book of Mormon, and the printing were made just as fast as pos- Book of Doctrine and Covenants, ac- sible before learning the sad news of the cording to the phonotype system of Pit- death of our beloved President, which man. I will here state, that Pitman's we received some seven hours after he system of phonetics has been changed breathed his last. A few hours later and re-changed, in England, so many we received another telegram from the times, that it has finally and almost en- Council of the Twelve Apostles, instruct- tirely dropped out of use in that coun- ing brother Joseph F. Smith and myself try. Pitman still continues to pub- to arrange matters in Great Britain, per- lish a periodical in which he gives his taining to the European mission, and present forms of type or characters, and come home immediately. We have com- present forms of spelling, but his paper plied with the request. is more particularly advocating the sys- We feel, with all our hearts, to mourn tem of shorthand writing, or phonogra- with the Latter-day Saints, in the loss of phy, which is quite popular in England. so great and good a man, as the Presi- By making inquiry, I found that one of dent, who has led us, with marked suc- the brothers, Benj. Pitman, in conse- cess, for one-third of a century. He quence of the numerous alterations that was the instrument, in the hands of were being made, was disgusted, and God, of bringing the people forth, some came to America to see if he could es- 1,400 miles from the great Mississippi tablish a system upon a little different River, over wild, barren, and track- principle. A certain wealthy gentleman less plains, and locating us here, in THE SAVIOR AMONG THE NEPHITES, ETC. 113 the great American desert. He has work to perform; he lived to do it, and he been the instrument, in the hands of has passed away in peace, beloved by his God, of giving counsel and instruction people. for the numerous towns, cities and vil- This is the second time in the his- lages, through our mountain region; he tory of the Church of Jesus Christ of has been foremost in the encouragement Latter-day Saints, when the Twelve have of home manufactures, and home indus- stepped forward as the proper authori- tries; introducing at his own expense, ties, to bear off this kingdom, and to pre- much machinery into the Territory, so as side over the Church. Joseph was in our to make the Latter-day Saints, as far as midst but a few years. The Lord called possible, a self-sustaining people; he has him to lay the foundation of this work; labored diligently during the last years he gave him revelations before the rise of his life, to bring about a greater degree of the Church. He ordained him and of union among the Latter-day Saints, in Oliver Cowdery to the Apostleship, giv- regard to temporal things. And near the ing them the authority, and power, and close of his useful life, he was wrought office, and Priesthood, to perform the upon by the spirit of God, and more espe- things necessary in the future organi- cially on his last mission at St. George, zation of the Church, giving line upon to give counsel to the Twelve Apostles, line, precept upon precept, from time to to go into all parts of the Territory and time, to instruct the various Councils of more fully organize the people according the Church in regard to their several du- to the revelations and commandments ties. He having performed the work, God and institutions of heaven, as given by required at his hands, was taken away; revelation, through the Prophet Joseph the Lord saw proper to remove him from Smith. Having accomplished so great a our midst. The authority then devolved work, in leading forth the people of God, upon the Twelve, and upon the Priest- in locating them here in these moun- hood of the Twelve. Another First Pres- tains, so far from what is termed civiliza- idency was appointed about three years tion, and having redeemed the desert, and six months after the martyrdom of established academies and schoolhouses, Joseph. During that time the Lord was Tabernacles and Temples, home manu- with the Twelve, in every duty, and a factures and home industries, and finally great work was accomplished, during having organized the Saints into Stakes, that period, by them. The greater part appointing Bishops, and having them or- of the Temple in Nauvoo was built by the dained, in all parts of our Territory, hav- Twelve, after the death of the Prophet. ing fulfilled and completed the work, the Endowments were given in that Tem- Lord has taken him home to himself. ple, by the Twelve, while presiding over the Church. Sealings and blessings We heard this forenoon, respecting in behalf of the living and the dead, the Prophet Elijah; the Lord had a were performed in that Temple. All great work for him to perform; he lived the ordinances necessary on that occa- to accomplish it, and he knew then sion were administered, under the Pres- that the time had come for him to idency and jurisdiction of the Twelve. depart and leave the children of Is- And not only this, but the Lord enabled rael. He was taken up to heaven. them to lead the people forth, through The Prophet Brigham, too, had his an unexplored country, to select a 114 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. location for them. Having done this, they all large Branches of the Church, evan- returned in the latter part of the year gelical ministers. When this was first 1847, to the camps located on the Mis- given, the word "evangelical" was not souri River. there. But Joseph was wrought upon by I mention these things to show you, the Spirit to erase the word patriarchs that the Twelve were not idle after and substitute the words "evangelical the death of Joseph, but took the lead, ministers." Hence the Twelve have so or- and organized the camps of Israel, and dained patriarchs, as Hyrum Smith. But presided over all the authorities in the inquires one, should the Twelve ordain midst of these camps. Prophets, Seers and Revelators? Yes. In those days, some persons, igno- Were they not appointed in the Kirtland rant of the authority of an Apostle, ques- Temple, in the year 1836, after its ded- tioned the right of the Twelve to preside, ication by the voice of Joseph, and the but I would ask, what authority ever ex- First Presidency, and the united voice of isted in the Church that the Twelve do the Church to be Prophets, Seers and not hold? I would further inquire, had Revelators to the people? Yes. Then the First Presidency any office that the they could ordain such; or in other words Twelve had not? If they have, where they could set apart such to these duties. did they get it? Do you know? An- They could set apart Patriarchs, to such other First Presidency of the Church an office as brother Hyrum Smith held, were organized, three years and a half, when he was taken out of the First Pres- after the death of Joseph. If they held idency and placed in the Patriarchal of- any higher authority, then they must fice. have received it by direct communica- Then, again, there is another reve- tion from the heavens. But it is known lation given concerning the Priesthood, that they received it by the voice of the which you can read in the Doctrine and Council of the Twelve, with all the au- Covenants. After having mentioned the thorities of the kingdom of God to back various offices and callings, the Lord re- them up. We have been taught, ever quired it as a duty enjoined upon the since the Twelve were chosen, that they Twelve, though the First Presidency was held all the power of the Melchizedek then alive, to organize all the officers Priesthood, all the power of the Apostle- in Zion. What! The Twelve, a trav- ship that could be conferred upon mor- eling High Council; the Twelve, who tal man. Hence, when Hyrum Smith was hold the keys of all nations, to the Gen- taken out of the First Presidency and ap- tiles first, and then to the Jews, to be pointed to another calling, not to another at home attending to such work? Yes. office in the Apostleship, was it not the The Twelve had duties to perform, both province of the Twelve to set him apart? abroad and at home. Having fulfilled It was, because they held that author- important duties abroad, they were not ity, that Priesthood, that Apostleship, relieved from the duties specified in the that gave him the right to do this. By commandment, to act at home, and they what revelation you may ask? I answer, have been, from that time to this, in the by a certain revelation contained in the midst of the people of God, at home, at Book of Doctrine and Covenants, where the gathering places. it says, that the Twelve shall ordain in In the revelation given on the THE SAVIOR AMONG THE NEPHITES, ETC. 115
19th day of January, 1841, Brigham it is just as I believed it would be, when Young was called by name, and ap- I was in Liverpool, after learning of the pointed the President of the Twelve, and death of President Young. The question also, in another revelation, given not far came up there, and I took the liberty from the same time, he was required to of instructing the Saints making the in- remain at home. Instead of being a trav- quiries. I told them, that when the First eling Councilor, to be sent abroad among Presidency left, the Twelve would lead the nations, his services were required at forth the Church, until such times as the home, which was also the case with sev- Spirit of God, and the desires of the peo- eral of the Apostles, and especially since ple, universally, should be to select and the death of Joseph. set apart and sustain by their prayers and faith, a First Presidency again. Fur- There is another subject, while thermore, it was published in the papers, dwelling on the Priesthood, which I wish particularly in America, and also in Eng- to speak of; I refer to the Counselors land, and there seemed to be a great that may be left, when the President, the anxiety on the part of our enemies, to First President of the Church is taken know who was going to lead the Church. away from our midst. We are informed They seemed to have far more anxiety that the Counselors that existed in the than you upon this subject. For the day of Joseph could not act as Counselors Saints generally have been instructed on to Joseph after he was taken away; to this matter, and have, in a measure un- be Counselors to him would be impos- derstood it. We knew that President sible, unless they themselves should go Brigham Young, and his two Counselors, the other side of the veil. Hence when received no new office, by being taken the President was taken away their du- from the Quorum of the Twelve, and ap- ties as Counselors to the Prophet, the pointed to other duties. The same as First President, ceased. Just the same brother Joseph F. Smith has been ap- with a Bishop's Council under the same pointed and set apart not to a new of- circumstances. Supposing the Bishop fice, but to go to Great Britain and pre- were to die, his two Counselors could side over the European Mission. That not legitimately step forward claiming to did not devolve upon brother Richards, be Bishops themselves; and furthermore nor brother Rich, nor any other member their duties as Counselors to the de- of the Twelve; he alone can perform this ceased Bishop would at his death cease. duty. It is not a new office, but merely a And so it would be if the Bishop, instead new duty required of him. So in relation of dying, were called to some other lo- to the First Presidency. They carry no cation or should be cut off the Church. new office, but new duties are required So it was considered, in the days of the at their hands, when they are chosen loss of our Prophet and Seer, Joseph by the Priesthood and set apart, not or- Smith. The two Counselors that then dained to a new office, but set apart to existed had the privilege, if they chose preside. to do so, of being associated with the I wish also to speak a few words, Council of the Twelve to assist us in in regard to the ancient Priesthood. the work of bearing off the kingdom; I find, from the Book of Mormon, not as members of the Twelve, but act- concerning the ancient Twelve—the ing with and assisting them. The same twelve Nephites of this land; that order has again been carried out; and Jesus chose them, and called them 116 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. by name, and set them apart and or- even as I am." In other words, If you dained them. Prior to this time, be- are to be judges of all this people, to fore his death, he chose twelve in the whom you are administering; if you are land of Jerusalem. These officers, the to sit in judgment in the great and com- Twelve on the Eastern, and the Twelve ing day, and if the words which are writ- on the Western continent, did not lose ten in the books which you keep, and their office by death; but as was clearly which are also written by the Father, are stated by brother Snow this morning, to be the records out of which the peo- and as is plainly set forth in the reve- ple are to be judged, sure enough, you lation, they retained their office. For in- should be as pure and holy as Jesus him- stance, we will take the Book of Mormon; self. We are told too that it should not and in the vision and prophecy of Nephi, depend upon their weak judgment, but given almost 600 years before Christ, the they should judge according to the judg- Lord showed to that Prophet, that there ment which the Lord their God should would be Twelve Apostles in some five give unto them. In other words, af- or six hundred years after his day. And ter they leave this present life, and the instead of the Lord pointing out what time comes for them to sit in council should be the duties of these Apostles, in the midst of the Nephites, that in- while here in this temporal existence, stead of judging according to human wis- he pointed out the more important du- dom and imperfect knowledge, that God ties that would devolve upon them in the would give them the spirit of judgment, next state. The simple duties of this life or the spirit of inspiration more abun- were nothing compared to those of the dantly than what they were in posses- world to come. Hence the angel said to sion of in this life; and in order that they Nephi that these Twelve Apostles should may be entitled to judge all people, they judge the twelve tribes of Israel. What were required to be pure and holy. a great work! Then he showed him the Let me say a few words in regard to twelve Nephite disciples, all descendants another revelation that the Lord gave in of Nephi and his brethren. Said he, these the year 1830, on this same subject. He twelve disciples of the Lamb shall be says, "The decree has gone forth from judged by the Twelve Apostles that shall the Father that mine apostles, they who be chosen in the land of Jerusalem. Here were with me in my ministry in the land then was another and most important of Jerusalem, shall at the time of my duty assigned to that particular Council coming, sit upon twelve thrones, clothed of Apostles, after this mortal life. First, it in glory even as I am, to judge the whole is said, they shall judge the whole House house of Israel, they that have loved me of Israel; secondly, they shall judge "the and kept my commandments, and none twelve ministers of thy seed." Also from else." Again, we will appeal to the New the language of the text I have read, we Testament, "You that have followed me, learn that the Twelve Nephite Apostles in the regeneration when the Son of man had a knowledge of some other, future comes in his glory, you also shall sit duties to be performed in the world to upon twelve thrones, and shall judge the come. "Know ye that you shall be judges twelve tribes of Israel; and shall eat and of this people. What manner of men drink at my table." ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, Here, then, we have a number of THE SAVIOR AMONG THE NEPHITES, ETC. 117 evidences and witnesses from the Book persons. Six of the original Twelve Apos- of Mormon, from the Doctrine and tles apostatized, and three of their suc- Covenants, and from the New Testa- cessors apostatized, making nine apos- ment, concerning the future duties of the tates that once had hands laid upon servants of God, in the world to come. them, ordaining them to the Apostle- In relation to the Twelve Jewish Apos- ship. These apostates are mostly dead. tles, have they a First Presidency inde- We cannot suppose that they can hold pendent of the Twelve, a separate body? an office in eternity which they have They have not. Why were there twelve forfeited. We are told to the con- Apostles chosen instead of nine, or thir- trary in the Doctrine and Covenants; teen, or any other number? Why that the Lord saying, through a revelation particular number? Because it so hap- given to the Prophet Joseph in Missouri, pened in the economy of the Most High, that his servants John E. Page, Wilford that a certain servant of God had power Woodruff and Willard Richards should to prevail with him, and by four wives take the place of those who had apos- he had power to beget twelve sons, and tatized. And Oliver Cowdery, although the Lord ordained that through them never one of the Twelve, had his place the twelve tribes should spring up in filled up; and the keys and the glories the earth, and he would have regard for and the promises conferred upon and them. He intended that they should not made to Oliver Cowdery were taken from only be organized as tribes in this life, him and bestowed upon brother Hyrum but also in the world to come. And in Smith. But there are nineteen Apos- order that all may have judges, twelve tles that have not apostatized. Out of were chosen to perform the work, instead this number there are seven dead and of any other number. Had these Twelve twelve living. If the Lord, in the world to Apostles, in ancient days, that had no come, should follow the examples given separate First Presidency, so far as we in regard to the former Twelve, suppose have any record, power to preside over these nineteen should remain faithful the Church? They had. If they had no and obtain their crowns, yet there would power there was none upon the earth. be only twelve, I think, that would be placed in certain positions, the same as Again, these twelve men among the the Twelve at Jerusalem, and the an- Nephites, that were to sit in judgment, cient Twelve on this American land. This had a great many successors, proba- is something, however, not revealed, not bly sixty or seventy in number. Had made manifest to any of us in the latter these successors all equal power on this days, what the future of the Twelve will earth? I think they had, so far as apos- be, as it is in regard to the ancient ones tleship, or discipleship was concerned, who have gone. they held equal power with those who In the year 1829, the Lord told preceded them. But in the next world, David Whitmer and Oliver Cowdery to can these sixty or seventy successors search out the Twelve, and pointed stand in the position of the first cho- out how they should be known, etc. sen? No. So it is in regard to the In the same revelation he speaks of latter-day Apostles. In this Church their duties, and also informs them we have had ordained to the Coun- how great was the trust and bless- cil of the Twelve Apostles, twenty-eight ing conferred upon them, if they prove 118 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. faithful in all things; that the blessing items in relation to the Priesthood, in re- upon them was above all. How far this lation to the Twelve at Jerusalem, and extended I do not know; that is all which the Twelve Nephite disciples, and the is revealed, so far as I know, in all of the Twelve of these latter times; and now let revelations of God, in regard to the fu- me say in regard to the various authori- ture of the Twelve Apostles in the last ties and Councils of the Priesthood, there days. has not been a time since the rise of this Now we hope these nineteen Apostles Church, when the people have been so will be faithful. Thomas B. Marsh, the completely and fully organized as at the oldest of the original Twelve, chosen in present time. Go where we will, through 1838, and who stood at the head, apos- all these mountain valleys, and wher- tatized, and left the Church. David W. ever we see a family, or wherever we can Patten was the next in age, and the Lord find a small Branch of the Church, if you took him to himself, as we are informed make inquiry, you will find it is included in the revelation given on the 19th of in a regular Stake of Zion; it belongs to January, 1841. The Lord says: "My ser- some Stake, and you will find, too, that vant David W. Patten, who is with me they are looked after, if the officers are at this time." The Lord accepted of him. doing their duties, for they are consid- He died in the faith—a martyr in Mis- ered a part and portion of the great fam- souri. "I have taken him to myself." ily of God. I feel to congratulate the Yet, says the Lord, "another may be ap- Latter-day Saints, on this occasion, in pointed to the same calling;" and further regard to the perfect organization, as it says that "my servant Lyman Wight is were, that exists in all our mountain re- appointed to succeed him." Did that give gion, and hope that every man will strive Lyman Wight power to preside over the to learn his duty, and faithfully and hon- Twelve Apostles? No. David W. Patten orably perform the same. died in the faith, and so far as we know I wish to state still further in regard holds the keys of the Presidency of the to the Priesthood, while upon the sub- Twelve, in the world to come. But there ject, that in the Kirtland Temple when may be changes in that world. The orig- the authorities were presented before inal Twelve, first chosen, were all made the people, they were called upon to vote equal, by the Prophet Joseph Smith. And by quorums. Not that it occurred al- he said to them in the basement of the ways in that manner. That was the Temple as they were to be sent as a way Joseph ordained in the Temple; each Council on their first mission, that the Council voting separately, by standing oldest should preside in the first Confer- upon their feet in order that their votes ence, in the following Conferences, the might be better known than they could next in seniority, and so on, until all had be by keeping their seats. After one Quo- taken their turns in presiding. And you rum had voted for the highest author- shall be equal, showing respect to the ity of the Church, then another Quo- oldest. They were arranged according rum or Council would be called upon to their ages, while all their successors to give their vote, and so on, until all were arranged, according to the date of had voted for the different authorities, their respective ordinations. and then it was presented to all the I have given you some of these Church, male and female. Why? It is be- THE VOICE OF GOD, ETC. 119 cause God ordained, on the 6th day of should vote and give their general voice April, 1830, as you can read in the Doc- to either sustain or not to sustain. I do trine and Covenants, that all things in not know why, only in the latter days this Church should be done by com- the kingdom is in a little different cir- mon consent. This is the reason for cumstances upon the face of the earth, the voting. Although the Lord may than it has been in during any former give a revelation upon the subject, al- dispensation. We are living in a free Re- though he might say, Let my servant publican Government, wherein the peo- Hyrum Smith be Patriarch; or Let my ple vote, and the Lord established this servant Brigham Young be President great American Government and gave of the Twelve Apostles; notwithstand- the Constitution, and he wished the peo- ing the Lord may give this by reve- ple to have a voice in the officers named; lation, yet he himself was anxious to he wished the people to exercise their carry out the principle he had revealed agency; you may call it a democratic a long time before that; namely, that all principle. Notwithstanding He himself this I have named may be brought be- may point out the persons, and call them fore the General Conference to be sanc- by name, yet you may approve of them or tioned and approved, or not to be sanc- disapprove of them at my General Con- tioned. What! the people have a right ference. to reject those whom the Lord names? Yes, they have this right, he gave it to Perhaps I have said enough; there them. "Let them be approved of, or not is a great field open when Priesthood approved of;" showing that he had re- is spoken of. May the Lord bless you. spect to the people themselves, that they Amen.
THE VOICE OF GOD, THE VOICE OF THE PEOPLE—THE POSITION OF THE TWELVE—READINGS FROM DOCTRINE AND COVENANTS.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATTHE SEMI-ANNUAL CONFERENCE,HELDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SATURDAY AFTERNOON,OCT. 6, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I am very happy to find so great vox dei," or, "The voice of the peo- an unanimity of feeling in the vot- ple is the voice of God." Although ing, as has been manifested at this the voice of the people is very im- Conference. There is a very com- portant, we do not believe in that mon axiom in the world, "Vox populi, action separate and alone. It was 120 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. usual among ancient Israel for the Lord by that wisdom and intelligence that to speak, presenting his laws, ordi- flows from above, for without the aid, nances, and commandments to the peo- guidance, and direction of the Almighty, ple, then they were presented to the peo- we can do nothing acceptably to him. ple, and then all the people said, "Amen." I have said very little, very little in- Then it was the voice of God and the deed, since the death of our esteemed voice of the people; or, in other words, the President, Brigham Young. I have had voice of the people assenting to the voice various reasons for that. One is, my of God. heart has felt sorrowful and pained, for In relation to the duties devolving we have lost a man who stood promi- upon the Twelve, in consequence of the nent in Israel for the last thirty-three changes that have recently taken place, years, yes, for upwards of forty or forty- I can say, in behalf of myself and my five years. He is taken away, and all Is- brethren, that their full weight and re- rael felt to mourn the event. This is one sponsibility are felt by us. Unless we reason why I have been so silent. An- had the sanction of the people we would other is, a great many questions have be unwilling to assume them, and, were had to be decided, arrangements made it not that these things are plainly laid and investigations had, in regard to the down in the law of God, we would not proper course to pursue pertaining to have accepted the situation that we find these very important matters. Still an- ourselves placed in today. We feel now other reason is, I did not wish to put my- that unless God is with us we can accom- self forward, nor have I, as the Twelve plish nothing that can in anywise be for here can bear me witness. [The Twelve the welfare of Zion, or the building up of unanimously gave their assent.] I have his kingdom on the earth. Those are my not had any more hand in these affairs feelings, and those are the feelings of my than any of the members of my Quo- brethren. It is not with us as viewed by rum; but I am happy to say that in the world generally, that there is some- all matters upon which we have deliber- thing so very honorable in office, for we ated, we have been of one heart and one have learned that in order that any of- mind. When brothers Pratt and Smith fice in the government of the Church returned from England, as you will have and kingdom might be made honorable, learned from their published letter, their the office itself must be honored, and sentiments were precisely the same as that, too, by faithfully complying with ours, and also the Counselors of Presi- the laws of God governing it. Then it is a dent Young, whom we esteem and honor high honor conferred upon man from the in their place, are also united with us. Lord, and the Twelve so appreciate it. We are glad to have them with us, as our Whilst they thank you for the confidence friends and associates, and Counselors which you have manifested in them, at to the Twelve. I pray that the blessing the same time they feel to rely upon of God may rest upon them, and lead God, and to ask that you will remem- them in the paths of life, and that they ber them before the throne of our heav- with the Twelve may unite together as a enly Father in your prayers and daily grand phalanx, not in our own individ- supplications, that we may be guided ual interests, but in the interests of the THE VOICE OF GOD, ETC. 121
Church and kingdom of God, and the exercise control or dominion or compul- building up of his Zion on the earth; for sion upon the souls of the children of the Priesthood is not instituted for the men, in any degree of unrighteousness, purpose of personal aggrandizement or behold, the heavens withdraw them- personal honor, but it is for the accom- selves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; plishment of certain purposes of which and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the the Lord is the Author and Designer, and priesthood or the authority of that man. in which the dead, the living, and the un- Behold, ere he is aware, he is left unto born are interested. We ought, brethren, himself, to kick against the pricks, to all of us, to feel and act as though we persecute the saints, and to fight against were the servants of the living God, feel- God," etc. See page 87, new edition.] ing in our hearts an honest desire to do his will and establish his purposes on the I wanted to have this excellent in- earth. If we can be united in our faith, struction read over in your hearing, for it our acts and labors, as we have been in was true and profitable at the time it was our voting, as manifested at this Confer- written, and it is so today. If we possess ence, the heavens will smile upon us, the the Spirit that flows from God, and that angels of God will manifest themselves dwells in his bosom, we shall possess the to us, the power of God will be in our spirit of kindness and love and affection, midst, and Zion will arise and shine, and that will eventually bind us in the bonds the glory of God rest upon her. of eternal union. It becomes us, as ser- [By request, Elder Geo. Q. Cannon vants and handmaidens of God, to seek read from the Doctrine and Covenants after these things, that we may be full of the following extract from a communica- light and life, and the power and intel- tion entitled, A Prayer and Prophecies, ligence of God, and feel that we are in- written by Joseph, the Seer, while in Lib- deed children of the Most High, that he erty Jail, Clay County, Missouri, March is our Father, and that, with the ancient 20, 1839, commencing at the 34th para- Prophets and Apostles, and the Gods of graph: the eternal worlds, we will unite in ac- "Behold, there are many called, but complishing the work God designed from few are chosen. And why are they not the commencement of the world. No man chosen? or set of men need think that the work "Because their hearts are set so much will stop, for God has decreed that it upon the things of this world, and aspire shall go onward, and no power this side to the honors of men, that they do not of hell can stop its progress. The Lord is learn this one lesson— with us, the great Jehovah is our shield "That the rights of the priesthood are and our buckler; the Lord is our Judge, inseparably connected with the powers the Lord is our King, the Lord is our of heaven, and that the powers of heaven Ruler, and he shall rule over us. cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness. May God help us to be faithful in "That they may be conferred upon the observance of his laws, that we may us, it is true; but when we under- secure to ourselves eternal lives in his take to cover our sins, or to gratify kingdom, is my prayer in the name of Je- our pride, our vain ambition, or to sus. Amen. 122 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
THE TRUSTEESHIP—PRESIDENT YOUNG'S LABORS—THE PRIESTHOOD, ITS POSITION, DUTIES, ETC.—KIRTLAND AND NAUVOO TEMPLES—SAVIORS UPON MOUNT ZION—EMIGRATION OF THE POOR—BUILDING OF THE TABERNACLE—THE UNITED ORDER.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATTHE SEMI-ANNUAL CONFERENCE HELDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON, OCT. 7, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
There are one or two items I wish In consequence of our present organiza- to present before you in relation to the tions, necessitating their frequent visits Trusteeship. I have been appointed to to our quarterly Conferences, in addi- that office, and I feel that I need some as- tion to other duties accumulating upon sistance in regard to the duties devolving them, rendering it impossible for them upon me in that capacity. I am desirous to pay any attention to their own pri- to have the matter laid before this Con- vate affairs. My proposition, and I know ference. One thing I refer to is the au- it will meet with the hearty response diting of the accounts of the Trustee-in- of the brethren generally, is that they Trust. I therefore beg to present three have a reasonable recompense for their names, as an auditing committee, for services, and that the Trustee-in-Trust the sanction of this Conference—namely, be authorized to arrange this matter. I Wilford Woodruff, Erastus Snow, and would wish these same remarks to ap- Joseph F. Smith. [On motion, they were ply also to the Counselors of the Twelve. unanimously sustained.] [The motion was put and unanimously There is another subject that I wish sustained.] to present, one which pertains more As has been remarked, the condi- particularly to my brethren of the tion we occupy today is a very impor- Twelve. I suppose that most of you tant one. There has been a change of know that they have traveled and la- Presidency, and necessarily a change of bored for a very long period, some of administration. In the providence of them for forty years and upwards, with- God our heavenly Father, he has seen out purse or scrip, while almost every- fit to take from us our beloved President body else has been paid for his ser- Brigham Young, who has so long labored vices. It does seem proper to me that in our midst. It is one of those occa- they should be placed, at least, on an sions that cause reflection and thought, equal footing with other people, particu- casting a degree of gloom among this larly as their labors necessarily increase. whole people. We have felt sorry to THE TRUSTEESHIP, ETC. 123 lose his counsel, to be deprived of that lasting Gospel? Nothing at all. We were wisdom and intelligence that have char- all alike ignorant until heaven revealed acterized him in all of his administra- it. Then in the administration of these tions. For they have been of such a na- things the heavens are interested. These ture as not only to interest the Latter- my brethren before me, this Priesthood day Saints, but his name has become fa- that assembled yesterday in their vari- mous throughout the world. Brigham ous quorums, all of them have assisted Young needs no factitious aid to perpetu- in this work, all have more or less been ate his memory; his labors have been ex- preaching and laboring in the interest of hibited during the last forty-five years in Zion, in the building up of this the king- his preaching, in his writing, in his coun- dom of God upon the earth. So that it sels, in the wisdom and intelligence he is not by any means an individual af- has displayed, in our exodus from Nau- fair, as many totally ignorant of it sup- voo; in the building of cities throughout pose and say it is; it is not in the wis- the length and breadth of this Territory, dom of this man or the intelligence of in his opposition to vice and his protec- the other, but it is the wisdom and guid- tion of virtue, purity and right. These ance of God, and by his sustaining hand, things are well known and understood that this whole people are led forward, by the Latter-day Saints, and also by and that this kingdom has an existence thousands and millions of others. But, upon the earth. For my part, I would as with his predecessor, Joseph Smith, say today as Moses did on a certain oc- who had to leave, while we are called casion, when God said he would not go upon to mourn a President dead, angels up with the children of Israel because announce a President born in the eter- they were rebellious people, "If thy pres- nal worlds; he has only gone to move ence go not with us, carry us not up in another state of existence. But then hence;" or, in other words, I want noth- in speaking of these things we would ing to do with so great an undertaking not eulogize only the man, for Brigham as the leading forth of this people with- Young, although so great a man could out the Lord's assistance. I would say have done nothing towards developing today, if God be not with us, if we are the purposes of God unless aided and not sustained by the almighty power of sustained by him. Joseph Smith could Jehovah, if his guiding and protecting have done nothing, neither, as I have al- hand be not over us, I want nothing to do ready said, can the Twelve Apostles ac- with it. But he is with us, and we know complish anything unless they receive it. The feeling that was manifested here the same divine support? The work we yesterday, is most creditable to Israel, it are engaged in emanated from God, and is approved of by the Gods in the eternal what did Joseph Smith know about it worlds; and if we carry out in our prac- until God revealed it? Nothing. What tice and daily lives that union which we did President Young, or the Twelve, or manifested in our voting, the Lord God anybody else, know about it before the will continue to pour upon us his bless- heavenly messengers, even God himself, ing until we shall be united in all things, came to break the long, long silence of temporal and spiritual, which unity we ages, revealing through his Son, Jesus have got to come to. When this is Christ, and the holy angels, the ever- 124 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. achieved, Zion will arise and shine, and fore him, and all creation is, and hell then the glory of our God will rest upon and destruction are also without a cover- her, then his power will be made mani- ing before him. As mortal and immortal fest in our midst. beings, as men holding the holy Priest- You heard this morning a good deal hood that the Lord has conferred upon said, and that very correctly too, in rela- us for the establishment of his kingdom, tion to Priesthood and the organization the building up of his Zion, the redemp- thereof, and the position we occupy in re- tion of the living and the dead, it is of the lation to these matters. You voted yester- utmost importance that we stand forth, day that the Twelve should be Prophets, every one of us, and magnify our several Seers, and Revelators. This may seem callings; for with all our weakness, with strange to some who do not comprehend all our infirmities, God has given unto us these principles, but not to those who great treasures, which we hold in these do. The same vote was proposed by earthen vessels. Joseph Smith and voted for in the Tem- ple in Kirtland, so long ago as that; con- As has been referred to, the Presi- sequently there is nothing new in this. dent was operated upon to organize the And, as you heard this morning, this is Church throughout the Territory more embraced in the Apostleship, which has completely; the Twelve were called upon been given by the Almighty, and which to visit every part of the Territory and embraces all the keys, powers and au- organize it, which they have done. There thorities ever conferred upon man. I do are now twenty different Stakes fully or- not wish to enter into the details of this ganized with their Presidents and Coun- matter; you will find them in the Book selors, with their High Councils, with of Doctrine and Covenants, very clearly Bishops and their Counselors, who op- portrayed, and I refer you there for the erate as common judges in Israel, and evidences on these points. with High Priests, Seventies, Elders, and You heard too that although the the lesser Priesthood, that they may Priesthood held certain powers and priv- administer in all things in their sev- ileges, the manifestations and powers eral Stakes under the direction of the thereof were only conferred according Twelve. As was remarked this morn- to the exigencies of the case and the ing, the Church never since the day of necessities and requirements thereof. its organization was so perfectly orga- God has conferred upon us these bless- nized as it is today. What has this been ings, but here are certain manifesta- done for? Is it to place some men in posi- tions and powers that must come di- tions of honor or emolument? No, but it rectly from him, and it is the duty is to organize the Church and Kingdom of the Twelve to hunt up, search af- of God according to the pattern that ex- ter, pray for and obtain them; and it ists in the heavens, that we may be pre- is also the duty of these Presidents of pared to comply in all things with the Stakes, Bishops, High Priests, Seven- ordinances of God, for, as we are told, ties, and all men holding prominent po- "In the ordinances, the power of godli- sitions, to seek after and comprehend ness is manifest. And without the or- God, whom to know is life everlast- dinances thereof, and the authority of ing. We need, all of us, to humble our- the priesthood, the power of godliness selves before the Almighty, for we are be- is not manifest unto men in the flesh; THE TRUSTEESHIP, ETC. 125
For without this no man can see the face among the people, after the appearing of God, even the Father, and live." of Moses in the Temple, and the com- It is expected that these Presidents mitting of the Keys of the Gathering, of Stakes be full of the Holy Ghost and when you Latter-day Saints received the the power of God, that they feel and re- Gospel of baptism for remission of sins alize that they are the servants of Jeho- and the laying on of hands for the recep- vah, engaged in his work, and that he tion of the Holy Ghost, you also received will require at their hands an account of the spirit of the gathering. You Elders their stewardships. It is necessary also before me today might have preached that the High Councils and the Bishops until your tongues had cleaved to the act in the same way, together with the roof of your mouth, but if the Spirit of High Priests, Seventies, Elders, and all God had not accompanied your admin- those of the Aaronic Priesthood, and that istration in this regard, you could have all operate together in the fear of God, accomplished nothing of any worth. At for his eye is over you, and he expects the time this messenger came, there ap- you to work righteousness and purge the peared another, even Elijah, whose mis- Church from iniquity, and teach the peo- sion was to turn the heart of the fa- ple correct principles and lead them in thers to the children, and the heart of the paths of life. This is what God re- the children to their fathers, lest (says quires at your hands. the Lord) I come and smite the earth Hence, while we are looking at these with a curse. He committed these keys. things and are engaged in these orga- But before they were committed, what nizations, there are other things neces- was done in the Temple? Did we bap- sarily connected therewith. There has tize for the dead there? No, we did not. been a feeling working gradually upon Why? Because the keys were not given. the minds of the Saints that many could When they were given and afterwards not comprehend, nor tell where it came when the Temple was built in Nauvoo, from, and that is to build Temples. Pres- then that spirit accompanied it, and we ident Young, the Twelve and the peo- began to feel after our fathers behind ple generally have felt drawn out in the veil, and they likewise began to feel their feelings with an almost unaccount- after their children. Brother Woodruff, able desire for the accomplishment of who has been ministering in the St. this object; and why? Can you tell me George Temple, could relate to you if the reason? It is very difficult some- he had the time, many things of great times to explain some of these mat- importance, associated with these mat- ters to the human mind. You heard ters. Suffice it to say that the purposes this morning about Moses appearing in of God pertaining to the human family, the Temple at Kirtland, committing to which he had in his mind before this Joseph Smith the Keys of the Gath- world rolled into existence, or the morn- ering Dispensation, over which Moses ing stars sang together for joy, all have presided anciently, and over which he to be accomplished in the salvation of the presides today. Unless those keys had living and in the redemption of the dead. been restored and you had partaken These things you are acquainted with: of that influence and spirit, would you it is not necessary for me to talk much have been here today? No, you would upon these subjects. But I merely wish not. When the Gospel went forth 126 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to refer to the spirit and influence and We without them cannot be made per- power that have operated upon the fect, for we need the help and assistance Saints, and which are operating upon and the power of God to sustain and them throughout the length and breadth guide and direct us in our labors and ad- of this Territory. That comes from the ministrations. Priesthood which existed before; it comes This is the thing President Young because the keys of that Priesthood have has been engaged in with all his might, again been restored to man. What is mind and strength; this is the thing my the result? Why, a desire to build Tem- brethren of the Twelve have been en- ples. What for? That we may ad- gaged in, and what we are engaged in minister therein in those ordinances in today. This is the thing that all Israel which they and we are so greatly in- ought to be engaged in, for we are living terested. You heard through brother only for a short time here, and by and by Woodruff how many more administra- we shall pass away, as our President has tions there had been for the dead than done; but it will only be to associate with for the living. This is because Elijah another Priesthood, or the same, if you has been here and has delivered the keys please, in the eternal worlds, for the one that turn the hearts of the children to is combined and united with the other. the fathers, and we are beginning to feel The Priesthood that has lived before, and after them. Hence we are building a that which lives now, are eternal, and Temple here, one in Sanpete, another in administer in time and in eternity; and Cache Valley, and we have one already the principles which God has revealed to built in St. George, all of which I think us draw aside the curtains of the eternal will be quite creditable buildings, which worlds, giving us a glimpse within the the Lord and holy angels will accept. Do veil, where Christ, our Forerunner, has we devote our labor and our means? Yes, gone. We are gathered together, "one of a we do; and it is this spirit which rests city, and two of a family," as the Prophet upon us that is prompting us to do it, and said they should be. And he says, "I it will not let us rest until these things will bring you to Zion." What will he do are done. Why? Because the keys of with them when he has brought them the Priesthood have brought us in con- there? "I will give them pastors after my nection with the Priesthood in the heav- own heart, which shall feed them with ens, of which we are a part, belonging knowledge and understanding." Again, to the Church of the Firstborn, whose "Saviors shall come up on mount Zion names are written in heaven. They are to judge the mount of Esau; and the interested in their children, whose chil- kingdom shall be the Lord's." Some talk dren are our fathers. We have been about empires and kingdoms being built called together for the purpose, among up by man. This is the Lord's kingdom other things, of operating with them in and not man's. The Lord is our God, he this work; for they without us are not is our king and our lawgiver, and he shall made perfect, as the Scripture tells us. rule over us; and we will seek for and ob- Therefore it is necessary that we should tain his help and power. be here, building Temples and minister- Saviors shall come up on Mount ing therein, that their seed and poster- Zion, say the Scriptures. What is ity may be hunted up and looked after. a Savior? One who saves another, THE TRUSTEESHIP, ETC. 127 is it not? How could any man save peo- Christ, the sons and daughters of God, ple if he knew not how, and how could and desired to come to Zion. We have he know except the Lord teach him? The sent as much as five hundred teams at world often finds fault with us. There a time to help out the poor. You have are no greater benefactors to the world done it, and many of you have either in existence than the Latter-day Saints sent your sons or gone yourselves, and are. There are no persons who have you have carried provisions for them as done more for the benefit of mankind, ac- well as bringing them here. I do not cording to their number, than this peo- think there is very much harm in that. ple have. President Young, who is dead, And what then? When these same men and a number of others who have passed who had received the message of truth away, as well as the Twelve and thou- in far off lands, and who had been gath- sands of others who still tarry, have trav- ered here, had been further instructed, eled the length and breadth of the earth, we have sent them back again to the without purse or scrip, to preach the nations from whence they came, to pro- glad tidings of salvation which heaven claim to their kindred and friends, to revealed to them. Do you find anybody their tongue and nation, what God had else that has done it, or that is doing done for them. After fulfilling their mis- it, outside of this Church? No, such a sions they return again. What to do? To thing is unheard of. We have gone forth, slumber and sleep away their time? No, as the Scriptures say, bearing precious but to continue their work in reclaiming seed, and have returned again rejoicing, the waste places, and to build Temples in bringing our sheaves with us. Is this the interest of humanity, as the friends anything to hurt anybody? Does it in- of God and of the world. terfere in the least with the rights of There are, today, engaged working any? No. Are there any in this city, who on our Temple, one hundred and fifty are not of us, that can show that their men. What for? That a place may be religious rights, privileges, or principles found that will be acceptable to God, have been interfered with or infringed and in which we may administer, in upon by the Latter-day Saints, or by the the name of the Lord, for our dead authorities of this Church? No, not one. as well as for our living. We do not If I knew of any that were in any way be- want to do this grudgingly, but with ing interfered with, I would be the first willing hearts, desiring to operate, with to protect them. These are our feelings the Priesthood behind the veil, in build- towards the world, and to those who say ing up and establishing the kingdom of all manner of evil against us. God upon this earth. These men, af- ter preaching and returning again, can We have expended millions upon mil- then go into these Temples and minis- lions in gathering the poor to this land, ter in them as representatives of the na- by what is known as the Perpetual Em- tions from whence they came, and in the igration Fund. We may ask why did interest of these nations we are operat- this people in these valleys expend such ing. Will God be pleased with this work? large sums? Was it because they were Yes, if we continue faithful in well do- sending for relatives and friends? No, ing. There are not less, I presume, than but because they were of the family of 500 men at work on the Temples now 128 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. being erected in this Territory, and prob- people who are thus assisted are ex- ably more than that. This seems fool- pected to repay the means advanced to ish to the outside world; but we know them when they have earned it, so that in whom we have believed, and we know others may be helped with the same the work in which we are engaged—and money, and thus that the fund in its op- who is injured by it? None. erations, as was desired, may be perpet- ual. I am told that there is upwards Some of our brethren feel sometimes of a million dollars of indebtedness to that these things draw heavily upon this fund today. This is a sad reflec- them. Of course they do; and God ex- tion upon the gratitude of men thus as- pects to try us, to see what we are made sisted. I am afraid the heavens will not of, and see whether the right ring of smile upon such proceedings, and that metal is in us or not, and whether we God will not sanction it. It is time we are prepared to stand up to the rack and waked up and attended to these obliga- walk forth in the name of Israel's God. tions and duties, and felt that there was Is it the desire to oppress anybody? No, somebody else in the world besides our never, nothing of that kind. In speak- own selves; and if we have been assisted ing on this, I would say to the Presi- that we will be at least honest enough to dents of Stakes, and to the Bishops, see meet that amount, and others who need that there is no oppression of any kind, its assistance may find it through the or anything approaching arbitrary mea- proper channel. sures, or anybody interfered with; let ev- We are engaged in this place in build- erything be done righteously, properly, ing a Tabernacle, in which we can meet and voluntarily. Instead of oppressing during the Winter season. We do not the poor, feed them. Instead of taking call upon you outside brethren to assist from the naked, clothe them. Be merci- us in this undertaking, because it is lo- ful to the widow and the fatherless and cal and belongs to this Stake. This is a the orphan, and all who may be in dis- matter that was designed by President tress; dry up their tears, and pour balm Young before his death; and we have into their wounds, and be full of compas- been desirous, as brother Cannon said sion, and kindness, and the love of God, this morning, to carry out the views of and let it bubble and flow from you like our venerated President, as far as we a river of life. These are the feelings that can. We have commenced to build this ought to exist among the Saints; noth- house, we want to put it up without de- ing like oppression or wrong of any kind lay. In this, as in every other matter, should find place in our hearts. we do not wish anybody to contribute his Let me pass from this to another means or labor towards it, unless he feels thing which was touched upon this free to do it; for there are plenty that will morning, which is, but which I really do it willingly, and it will be built; and wish was not, true. Many of these we shall have a nice, comfortable place my brethren have sent out their teams, to worship in through the Winter, and and have subscribed their means to send it will serve the Priesthood for all nec- for the poor, bringing them to these essary purposes, as well as the public. valleys. According to the provisions The building will be 116 x 64 feet in- of the Perpetual Emigration Fund, the side, with gallery all around. It will be THE TRUSTEESHIP, ETC. 129 a little larger than was at first contem- tions. In speaking of these things I would plated; and we have also departed a lit- address a few words to our sisters of tle from the original intention respect- the Relief and of the Mutual Improve- ing the kind of building material. In- ment Societies. You are performing a stead of adobie, we have concluded to good work in Zion. I am pleased with use rock. I now invite the people of this the paper you publish, and have been Stake and the masons especially to come very much interested in the reports you forward and exert their energies, and let have made, in witnessing the energy and us do the work. It will be done by vol- zeal you display in endeavoring to intro- untary donations and by utilizing labor duce home-manufactured goods and ar- tithing. Some people may say, Why do it ticles of different kinds, in looking after by voluntary donations? Why not use the the poor and necessitous, and in trying to tithing for all such purposes? Is not that elevate the community generally. To our sufficient? Yes, if all of you strictly paid Young Men's Mutual Improvement Soci- it, but then you do not all do this, and eties I say, God bless you, and all who are consequently we have to resort to other operating in the interest of Zion, forever. means. But, as I have before said, in Now let me say to parents, let us see this and everything else, we do not wish that our youth are properly cared for to press the people, nor place any in un- and taught, and that honesty, truthful- pleasant positions; but as we sometimes ness, virtue and good morals are incul- sing, it's "all free grace and all free will." cated, that they may grow in the faith of the Gospel and in the fear of God, to I wish to make a few remarks in rela- be useful in their day, to carry on the tion to what we term the United Order. great work in which we are engaged. We We are united today with God, and with already perceive a great improvement the holy Priesthood that existed before among our young men in their adminis- us, with Jesus the Mediator of the New trations; they are stepping forth, mani- Covenant, and with the ancient Prophets festing an excellent spirit, and many of and Apostles and men of God, in build- them promise to become mighty men in ing up the Zion of God upon the earth. Israel, who will roll forth the work when They, in their different spheres and call- we get through. I will say to the Pres- ings, are operating with us, and we with idents of Stakes, encourage and foster them, and the whole thing is a grand these institutions; and to all the people Cooperative Society; and everything we I would say, love God and fear him and do here should be with the view of unit- keep his commandments. Be honest with ing our earthly interests, that we may be yourselves, honest before God. Be virtu- one in things temporal and one in things ous, be truthful and full of integrity, and spiritual, one on the earth and one fear the Lord your God in your hearts, with those in the heavens, helping with and his blessing will be with you, and our united efforts to roll on the King- his Spirit will attend you, and your gen- dom of God according to his purposes, erations after you, worlds without end. and not according to our erratic no- Amen. 130 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
CONFERENCES—ORGANIZATION OF THE STAKES OF ZION—QUALIFICATIONS FOR A BISHOP—THE PEOPLE IN THREE GRAND DIVISIONS.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ERASTUS SNOW, DELIVEREDATTHE QUARTERLY CONFERENCEOF THE UTAH STAKEOF ZION, INTHE PROVO MEETINGHOUSE,SATURDAY,OCT. 13, 1877.
REPORTEDBYTHE TERRITORIAL ENQUIRER.
The Lord in his revelation to the Young, and of the Twelve Apostles, were Prophet Joseph, forty-seven years ago, mainly devoted to this work—organizing required the Elders to meet together in the Stakes and the Priesthood therein, Conference once in three months, or from and arranging a system of reports with time to time as appointed, for the pur- a view of holding the people to closer pose of transacting necessary business responsibilities, to awaken them to a connected with the work, and for giv- better understanding and appreciation ing and receiving instructions in rela- of their obligations. At the same time tion to the duties of the Priesthood. This this rendering an account of steward- commandment has been published in the ship in the various districts, Wards and book of Doctrine and Covenants, and Stakes of Zion, is calculated to encour- is a standing revelation which has not age those who are doing right, and re- been generally observed. We have had prove such, if there be any, as do evil. General Conferences of all the people— You may be sure that if these arrange- Priesthood and laymen—twice a year ments are carried out, and good coun- since our settlement in these valleys, sel is given to the people, they cannot which only a small portion of the peo- fail to produce good results. Those who ple and a few of the general authorities love the truth and hate iniquity, and who of the Church have been able to attend. keep their covenants with God unbro- We have had occasional Conferences in ken, are not afraid of their works be- some places in the Territory, and in var- ing made manifest before the people. If ious places abroad. It is time now that they live in the faithful discharge of their Stakes of Zion are organized, to hold our duties, they have nothing to fear from Conferences with more regularity and this system of rendering reports of their in their order, for the Saints to come stewardship. Presidents of Stakes, Bish- together to be instructed, that reports ops, Counselors, Priests, Teachers, Dea- may be heard from the various Wards, cons, and Presidents of Quorums, who and the Elders enter into counsel and are doing well and performing their du- learn their duties. The last summer's ties, need not shrink from giving re- labors of our late President, Brigham ports of their actions, lives, and gen- eral conduct. It is pleasing to me, and CONFERENCES, ETC. 131 to every right-minded man and woman, accomplishment of the greatest good. to hear these reports. They are not un- There are matters of a delicate nature interesting nor dry to those who have which sometimes arise in families, and the welfare of Israel at heart, and are which should be properly understood watchful of the progress made among by the Bishop and his Counsel before us. We have been instructed by the heralding them abroad. It might not revelations of God to keep records of be necessary to publish them among the our organizations and councils, of ev- people to the detriment and injury of the erything brought before the Priesthood parties interested, but be considered in a in their respective Quorums, of the at- proper spirit and not reported in a gen- tendance of members, who are speak- eral sense, to the ward. At the same ers, what they say, and all things per- time, nothing that may have a bear- taining to the business and general wel- ing on the union and fellowship of the fare of the Quorums. Our various or- Saints, should escape the notice of the ganizations should keep clerks, whose teachers; and no Bishop should ever be- duty it should be to record the acts of its tray the confidence and trust imposed in members, whether or not those members him through a knowledge of these ten- are living up to their requirements, and der and delicate matters, but manifest whether, instead of attending their meet- that fatherly love, tenderness and anx- ings, they are engaged in fishing, hunt- iety that parents feel for their offspring. ing, freighting, gold seeking, or anything Sunday School Teachers also ought else that is contrary to what is expected not to exercise any undue severity and from them as laborers in the Church harshness toward those under their care, and kingdom of God. It is the duty but should be actuated by feelings of ten- of the Teachers to report to their Bish- derness and love. Every presiding officer ops the relative standing of those under of a quorum should do likewise, and ev- their supervision—whether their houses ery mother in her house should govern are houses of order—whether the wife is her children in gentleness, and filial love good to the husband, and the husband and kindness should be a part of their is good to his wife—whether the chil- nature. dren are obedient to their parents, and The Holy Spirit will impress us with whether the parents are training their these matters, and on the other hand, children in the way they should walk— the powers of evil will endeavor to in- if there is strife where there should be fluence us to act contrary to those im- peace, if there are jealousy and dis- pressions, to give way to anger, jeal- cord where love and unity should exist— ousy and envy. This is warfare—it is whether the mother poisons the mind with ourselves, whether we conquer or of her daughter instead of teaching her yield to our evil passions. In our fam- correct principles; in short—whether the ily circles, in our daily associations with house is what it should be—a house of our wives, and children, friends and God. neighbors, we should be actuated and A Bishop should necessarily be a governed by feelings of tenderness and man of sound judgment, full of the love. We should strive to become per- Holy Ghost and capable of adjusting fect in every great and good work and matters in a manner that will work be examples worthy of imitation in our the least injury possible and for the home and before our neighbors. We 132 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. can never be truly great until we become may be able to learn what our individual truly good. condition is as members of the Church, If we would have a good people to as- to see ourselves in a glass, as it were, sociate and labor with, or to preside over; and find out wherein we need improv- if our Wards, towns, divisions, subdivi- ing; and that men who have the charge sions and families must be in order, we and general oversight of the people may must not neglect any duty or leave any see at a glance the condition of the peo- place uncared for. We cannot so neglect ple in the different Wards. They may our responsibilities without feeling the by this means form correct ideas of the effects afterwards. If a wound afflicts the feelings, faith and works of the Saints, body a scar is left as the effect of that how far the laws of God are observed, wound. If we allow evil to dwell in the and whether the members are keeping midst of the community it will manifest their covenants, attending to home du- itself in the fruits thereof in afteryears. ties, paying their tithes and are engaged In the words of the Apostle Paul, "What- in all the laudable works required at soever a man soweth, that shall he also their hands, so that if the Lord com- reap." No farmer expects to raise wheat mands any service at our hands, there when he sows oats, nor can a man gather will be a unity of purpose and a concert figs from thorn trees that he may plant; of action, on the part of the people, in car- neither can we expect to enjoy the fruits rying it out. of love unless we have sown the seeds The people in this Territory are of love in our hearts and in the hearts classed into three grand divisions for the of others. Every careful and reflecting purpose of Temple building. There are mind will appreciate the Apostle Paul's a certain number of stakes grouped to- words. gether to build a Temple in Manti, an- Have we not seen children flee from other to build a Temple in Logan, and their parents? And why? Because they others of the more central stakes to build have not sown in the hearts of their one in Salt Lake City. The presiding offi- children the seeds of love, respect and cers of these Stakes and the various quo- goodwill, but have themselves given way rums will vie with each other in the ac- to evil passions, and, by such a course complishment of this work, that the peo- have driven away their offspring. On the ple may officiate in the ordinances of the other hand, you may see men and women house of God for themselves and their who, by their kindness, gentleness and dead. love, have drawn towards them not only These things being necessary for their offspring but the offspring of oth- working out the Lord's purposes, and ers. Like cleaves to like. Those, there- for the general welfare of Israel, have fore, who lead the Saints must be men another good effect in the experience who have within them these same feel- they give to us. They are valuable ings. Can the wicked lead them? No! Je- in the training of the people and give sus says, "My sheep know my voice, and an increase of power that will prove a stranger they will not follow." of benefit to the Saints in years to The object of our Conferences, Priest- come. That experience and increase of hood meetings and reports, is, not power we shall find necessary in our only to ascertain how we stand ac- future warfare against evil. There is cording to statistics, but that we and always will be, until the Savior ap- CONFERENCES, ETC. 133 pears again, a great battle fought be- ifestations in various forms. In the days tween the Priesthood and the powers of of the Prophet Joseph there were only a darkness. The wicked do not compre- few who entertained any faith in such hend this. They witness various man- manifestations, but now they are num- ifestations of unseen powers operating bered by millions. What has all this ef- in the human family, but whether they fected? Has it produced any more unity are good and truthful or vile and de- in the world than existed before? Is there ceptive they are unable to comprehend an increase of happiness or aught that satisfactorily, because they have not ap- is praiseworthy? The effect it has pro- plied to the fountain of light, truth and duced is evident, to the reflecting mind. knowledge. The Saints, on the other Infidelity has increased as the powers hand, can comprehend these manifesta- of darkness have spread their influence tions and judge this wicked world by the over the minds of men. light of the Holy Ghost. We shall see the manifestations of the powers of dark- I do not expect many of the Latter- ness in an increased degree in the fu- day Saints to be able to fully contemplate ture, deceiving the children of men. So the subject, not having mingled with the far as this generation is concerned it world since these great changes have oc- has been since the Prophet Joseph came curred, but there are some who possess forth and declared his belief in revela- a general knowledge of such things by tions, visions and angels that the powers seeing, hearing and reading. The testi- of darkness have operated by external mony of the Elders is that the world is and supernatural manifestations, and as almost universally infidel—priests and the power of God increased with the peo- people. Religion is used as a cloak with ple and extended throughout the earth the great majority of professing Chris- and was felt by other nations besides tians. There appears to prevail an al- this, the Evil One manifested his power most general disbelief in Jesus and his among men to a greater extent. When Apostles. The Bible is counted unworthy the Prophet Joseph appeared, announc- of credence or attention, and religion is ing his belief in these things, there was deemed a farce. This general tendency a general unbelief among religious sects to infidelity is also the result of men's ef- in regard to them. Professed Christians forts to put down Mormonism. The world disclaimed any belief in manifestations rejected the power of God made manifest from heaven, had no faith in visions or by the visitation of holy angels, but when angels, and considered the claims of any the devil manifested his power through man to be absurd who professed to have the visitation of evil spirits, assuming communication with the unseen world. all sorts of fantastic shapes, the peo- Those who had faith in visions and ple eagerly ran after them and became dreams where looked upon as supersti- blind, bewildered and stupefied. Such tious beings. Joseph's professions were persons would rather "believe a lie and viewed as inconsistent with the spirit be damned;" they willingly follow after and enlightenment of the age. But how the "strong delusions" that the Apostle great is the change! We find men and Paul referred to. These powers of dark- women seeking communication with the ness will continue to come upon them unseen world, with spirits of departed and spread over the earth, as we advance friends, and receiving spiritual man- in truth and righteousness. 134 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
We that have this warfare to meet, to uphold and sustain the Priesthood should keep ourselves prepared for over us but each other. If we do this, and any and every attack of the evil one. perform the duties we owe one another, It becomes us to draw ourselves to- we shall perform the duties we owe to gether in the bonds of unity, to cling the Priesthood and to God. God bless to each other, our covenants and our you. Amen. God. We are called upon not only
THE WORK PROGRESSING—PROPHECY FULFILLED—WE SHALL ALL OBEY THE LAW OF DEATH.
SYNOPSISOFA DISCOURSEBY ELDER WILFORD WOODRUFF, DELIVEREDINTHE PROVO MEETINGHOUSE,OCT. 13, 1877.
REPORTEDBYTHE TERRITORIAL ENQUIRER.
It was with pleasure I listened this now as I ever was in my life, that this is morning to the remarks of brother Snow, the kingdom of God. I am as firm a be- and wish that all the people in this Stake liever in God, in the revelations of God, had heard them. We have had a great in the Books of Mormon and Doctrine deal of preaching, and need a great deal, and Covenants, as I ever was. I have and I don't know that a people ever lived read the prophecies of Isaiah, Jeremiah, who had more. Ezekiel, and other inspired writers, and We are in the valleys of the moun- have seen some of them fulfilled, and tains for a special purpose—to estab- expect to see others have their literal lish righteousness and live in accordance fulfillment. God worked with the chil- with the principles of truth. There dren of men through revelation, and he never was a generation of people who will continue to do so in this generation. had so much to perform as the Latter- With him there is no change; his ways day Saints have. This work is progress- are one eternal round. ing, and it will continue to advance. The Lord has directed and guided I have seen the time when you could this work from the beginning. The get the whole Church into this room— prophecies relating to the present when there were a few High Priests, no dispensation—to Zion being estab- Apostles or Seventies, and only a few lished in the tops of the mountains— Elders. I am as thoroughly satisfied to the building of cities and Temples THE WORK PROGRESSING, ETC. 135
—are being fulfilled. We have nothing all gone, and the few that are left of to do but build up the kingdom of God, the Twelve will also go by and by; but and the more light and understanding while here, it is our duty to labor on we get, the less our hearts will cling to the foundation they have laid. President outside things. While we are engaged Young labored hard and faithful during in this work, we can realize that holy the last few years of his life in organiz- angels are watching us. The Lord told ing and building up Zion. We have to us, forty-seven years ago, what would continue the work they were engaged in, take place, and we are now fulfilling that and when our time comes to take our which he spoke of. Brothers Joseph and departure for that life behind the veil, Brigham are gone into the spirit world, none of us will regret having devoted our but there are a few of us left to continue time, talents, and labor for the accom- the work laid out by the Almighty. We plishment of this great object. The riches have preached to the world, organized of the world will appear as the dust un- the Priesthood and the Saints, and an- der our feet compared with the eternal gels have borne record of this, and it is reward before us. recorded in heaven—our toil, our preach- This kingdom will never be given into ing, and our testimony. We have filled the hands of another people. We may these once desert places with Saints of pass away, but our sons and daughters the living God, and many thousands are will have the labor on their shoulders of here who never saw the world. We have building up the kingdom. to build Temples—one is almost com- pleted and is dedicated; we have laid the Many of you may have read, years be- foundations of others, and the work, like fore it was fulfilled, the revelation and a panorama, is before us. This labor prophecy of the Prophet Joseph in re- is not to be performed by other hands. gard to the trouble, anarchy, and war God looks to us to build these Temples, that should befall this nation. Wise and to bring about the redemption of the men said its fulfillment was a matter of earth. He holds us responsible for this impossibility—that the government was work; we have to preach to the house too sound and too well established for of Israel—to the Lamanites—to gather such a calamity to occur, but the fulfill- together the honest in heart from all ment came. When the Lord undertakes parts of the earth. We are chosen to to perform a work, he is certain to carry perform this great and important work— it out. It would not take the Lord twenty- we, a small handful of people compared four hours to cause war, anarchy, confu- with the millions of human beings on sion, and judgments to come upon the the earth. The Lord does not expect any nation. He is withholding these calami- other people but the Latter-day Saints to ties until his purposes are accomplished. do this work; there is nobody else prepar- The set time has come, and the world ing. is preparing itself for these things. The One after another of our brethren Church and kingdom of God must adorn have left us and gone to labor on itself, and prepare for the coming of the the other side of the veil. Presi- Great Bridegroom. Every key relating dent Brigham Young, brother George A. to this dispensation was given to the Smith, and others before them, have Prophet Joseph, and they remain with 136 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the Priesthood today. We have no right Young has for years repeatedly im- to walk in the dark. The burden is now pressed upon the brethren the neces- resting upon us, and, holding the Priest- sity of preparing for a period of famine hood, our aim should be the building up by storing their wheat, and, before his of the kingdom of God. We hold the death, was impressed to speak to the sis- Priesthood for that purpose, and we have ters and urge them to look after that no business to use it for anything else matter. Let us be united in our labors, but to officiate in the ordinances of the and in all the branches of industry that house of God. males or females may be engaged in. The Sooner or later we shall have to obey raising of silk may be rendered an im- the law of death. As it is written, "In portant item in the industry of this Ter- Adam all died, so in Christ shall all ritory. It is a business that our wives be made alive." We shall have to pass and children can engage in, and there through the ordeal—there is no escape is nothing to hinder the people from be- from it. We have, consequently, no time coming rich from this branch of indus- to throw away. It may be asked, "How try alone. There is an improvement in much longer will it be before the wind- the United Order, or Cooperation. The ing up scene takes place?" It is not for Saints are preparing themselves for that me to say. How much longer have the El- event when Jesus shall come as a thief in ders to suffer violence at the hands of the the night. For our own sakes let us do the wicked? It appears to me that the world best we possibly can. We must observe is about ripe for the judgments of the and keep the laws of God, in order to in- Lord, and that the testimony will soon herit the rewards promised. Let us not be sealed. He is already working with set our hearts on the riches and vanities the Lamanites, and he will accomplish a of this earth. It is very convenient, it is great deal in a little time. true, to have the comforts of life around Some people entertain the idea that us, but we shall be better without them, because wheat is plentiful and selling at if by hoarding up the riches of the world exceedingly low figures, the probability we forget the things of God. of a famine is more remote than ever; but the Lord makes no mistakes about I pray God to bless you and our sons what is going to transpire. He has de- and daughters, that their minds may be creed the visitation of judgments, and led and prepared for the work they will they are certain to take place. President be called upon to perform. GOD IS AT THE HELM, ETC. 137
GOD IS AT THE HELM—ORGANIZATION ACCORDING TO THE REVELATIONS—HISTORIC STATEMENTS—SOCIETIES CONNECTED WITH THE CHURCH—TEMPLE BUILDING.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE PROVO MEETINGHOUSE, SUNDAY MORNING,OCT. 14, 1877.
REPORTEDBYTHE TERRITORIAL ENQUIRER.
It is the first time that I have after having performed our various du- been permitted to meet with you since ties here and passed away, we shall the death of our beloved President and be called upon to operate for the same Prophet. We all feel sad and sorrowful grand purpose in another sphere. The on account of our bereavement. He had Priesthood we have received on the earth been our guide, director, Prophet, Seer is everlasting, it administers in time and and Revelator for the last thirty-three eternity, and to that Priesthood are we years, and his departure caused feelings indebted for the revelations of God's will of gloom and sorrow throughout all the to man; for with the introduction of the Territory. We all felt to appreciate our Priesthood to men on the earth came the President and mourn his loss, and we development of the principles of truth still have some feelings of sorrow lin- and, by that means, light, knowledge gering about us; yet, at the same time, and intelligence were communicated to we cannot ignore the fact that there are this people. We cannot do anything of certain duties and responsibilities rest- ourselves, unless aided by the spirit of ing upon us that call into operation our the Lord. We are in communion with best energies, thoughts, reflections and not only the Prophets and Apostles who actions. And while we mourn his loss we lived anciently, but with brother Joseph, are impressed with the responsibilities brother Brigham, brother Heber C. Kim- that rest upon us as individuals, in con- ball, brother Geo. A. Smith and oth- nection with the work of God, and are led ers who held the holy Priesthood and to reflect upon the changing vicissitudes have passed away, and are operating of human life and the various events that with them in behalf of fallen human- have transpired among us. ity, in behalf of the people who live There is a satisfaction in the re- now on the earth and the myriads of flection that God is at the helm and dead who have left us. We are en- guides, controls and dictates accord- gaged in a work that nothing but the ing to his own plans and designs, combined action of the Priesthood on and that the Priesthood is not con- the earth and in the heavens can bring fined to this earth alone, but that, about. It is not in the power alone 138 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of any one man, whether it be brother by all those holding the Priesthood. We Brigham, brother Joseph or any that are not to act as lords over God's her- exist, to accomplish the redemption of itage, but ought to act in the fear of the the human family, unless aided by the Almighty, aided by the Holy Spirit, in Almighty. We are not only working in seeking to carry out the various duties our own interests, but in the interests devolving upon us, for little or insignif- of mankind, and we should seek that icant as these things appear to us, they light, intelligence and knowledge neces- are of the greatest importance. God un- sary in the carrying out of the designs derstands better the wants of the peo- of Jehovah, and associate ourselves with ple than we do, for he has had experi- that grand combination and union be- ence that we have not yet acquired. In tween heaven and earth for the accom- all his operations He is governed by love, plishment of His purposes. and he desires to see those who hold We have lately been organizing our- his authority here on the earth exercise selves according to the revelations of the it for the welfare of the human family, Almighty. Our organization is not en- and to act as he would, with the same tirely perfect, but we shall continue to parental solicitude. For this purpose He approach nearer to that condition until has delegated his authority to man, as every man is placed in his right position described in the Scriptures, "first apos- and we are properly organized, whereby tles, secondarily prophets," etc., that the all matters connected with the work of Saints might be perfected, "until we all God can be placed in their proper work- come to the unity of the faith." This was ing order, all of which will be accom- said in former times for the organiza- plished if we follow the directions of our tion of the former-day Saints, and is ap- late venerated President. By continuing plicable to the case of the Latter-day in this good work we shall go on from Saints. Through these ordinances come intelligence to intelligence, and from the blessings of the Gospel, and without knowledge to knowledge, until we shall them the power of God cannot be made see as we are seen and know as we are manifest to man in the flesh. Now there known. These organizations of Stakes is more in this than is apparent to the and Wards are not made for the pur- superficial observer. pose of putting men in positions, neither We have and have had various or- are positions in the Priesthood given to ganizations of the holy Priesthood. We men to enable them to strut about and have had a First Presidency, and some- lord it over their fellows, but in all their times we have not. It was sometime administrations, men should have the before a First Presidency was organized fear of God, understand His mind and in the early days of the Church, and realize their responsibility to Him for then it was quite a number of years be- their acts and doings. Men holding the fore the Twelve Apostles and the sev- Priesthood should not be governed by eral quorums now in existence were or- personal ambition, but feel full of the ganized. The Lord has been develop- love of God, the Holy Ghost, light, revela- ing us in these matters, and there is a tion, mercy, kindness and long-suffering beauty and a harmony in the organiza- toward all with whom they are associ- tion of the Church that cannot be found ated. These are the kind of feelings that in any other community in the world. ought to be expressed and manifested Before the Prophet Joseph departed, GOD IS AT THE HELM, ETC. 139 he said, on one occasion, turning to the have not assumed the Presidency of the Twelve, "I roll the burden of this king- Church to suit themselves, but as a duty dom on to you," and, on another occa- which they could not ignore. Men of sion, he said their place was next to that the world cried out, "The Mormons are of the First Presidency, and he wished all scattered now," but they don't know them to take their place that he might anything about the character and mis- attend to other duties, such as trans- sion of this Church. I don't think we lating, etc. At the time he was taken have been much scattered. Our last Gen- away he was in the bloom of life and the eral Conference in Salt Lake City proved vigor of health, and although his depar- how much scattered we were. Our voting ture was sudden and unexpected our or- on that occasion showed a cementing— ganization rendered it no difficult matter a uniting together of the people, that to decide who should assume the lead- could not be equaled by any other peo- ership of the Church. There was no ple on the earth. It may be asked why difficulty in the matter; it was under- we voted at Conference in the manner stood that the duty rested on the Twelve. we did. Because it was the way that God Why? The revelation stated that the ordained. Under the inspiration of the Twelve were to hold the keys of the king- Almighty, Joseph Smith organized this dom in connection with the First Pres- state of things at a General Assembly idency, which were handed down un- held in Kirtland, when the people were der various circumstances. You will find called upon to vote, and they did so in in the history of the Prophet Joseph the same manner that we did at our last Smith, that this matter is made perfectly General Conference. You will recollect plain. He said there was no authority that about the 19th of January, 1841, a or power of presidency over the Twelve revelation was given defining the vari- except the First Presidency, and where ous positions of men called to act in the he was not there was no presidency over Priesthood. First, the Lord gave to the the Twelve. Hence President Brigham Church Hyrum Smith to be Patriarch, Young said, when the Prophet Joseph then Joseph Smith, Jun, to be Prophet, was taken away, "Thank God the keys Seer and Revelator to the people, and of the kingdom are not taken from us," Sidney Rigdon and William Law for his and being head of the Twelve, he as- Counselors, Brigham Young as President sumed his position and so acted on the of the Twelve, which Twelve he called authority he held and according to the by name—then the High Priests, Sev- rules laid down. Thus there was no scat- enties and Elders—then again the Bish- tering, confusion or difficulty that might ops and lesser Priesthood. Now, says he, otherwise have existed if the organiza- at the next General Conference present tion of the Church had not been perfect. this organization to the Conference for When President Young was taken away its acceptance or rejection. At the next the same condition of things were pre- Conference the various quorums were sented again, the circumstances being presented in that form and the peo- similar. There is no contention, strife or ple voted as quorums and with uplifted difficulty, because we all understand the hands. Some of these men that the principles that God has ordained for the Lord had named, however, were rejected: government of his people. The Twelve One man named Hicks, and another 140 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Bishop Ripley. John E. Page, one of the not be able to do anything of themselves. quorum of the Twelve, was also rejected, but after a hearing was afterwards re- I would like to have been at the High stored. The Prophet Joseph told the peo- Priests' meeting held here last evening, ple to vote in that manner, as the major- but could not attend in consequence of ity of the several quorums would form a ill-health. There is a quorum of High quorum or authority that would be de- Priests in this Stake, and it is proper cisive. This manner of voting was ob- that they should fully understand the served at Far West also; and even after duties of their office and calling, which Joseph's death this same rule was ob- the Book of Doctrine and Covenants served, though not with the same una- plainly states. It is an ordinance, as nimity as at our General Conference. therein shown, that has been instituted There is no logrolling—no seeking for of- for the purpose of qualifying men for fice, but our idea is that the voice of Presidents of the different Stakes scat- God should dictate and then the voice tered abroad. Many circumstances have of the people. He respects our rights, occurred since the commencement of our as he did the rights of the people thou- recent organizations which show how sands of years ago, when the congre- little prepared the High Priests were gations of ancient Israel stood up and to take upon themselves the duties of said Amen to the voice of God through their office, in presiding over Stakes, his Prophets. There is no compulsion— Wards, etc. We have had to take hun- no forcing the human mind—no driving; dreds from the Quorums of Seventies but everyone should have a full, frank, and Elders and ordain them High Priests free and unfettered opportunity of ex- and make Bishops, Bishops' Counselors, pressing his wish for or against, but we Presidents of Stakes and High Coun- always ought to consent to that which cilors of them. Now it seems to me that is right. I never saw more unanimity if the High Priests had understood and on the part of the people than was dis- performed their duties, we should not played at the General Conference two have been in the position we were and weeks ago; there could not possibly be compelled to go outside of these quorums more. The Twelve stand as they did af- to find men suitable for presiding. I ter the Prophet Joseph was taken away. draw their attention to this matter; and I and others of the Twelve, now living, you Presidents of High Priests should in- were with them. Now a second time it struct your quorums on the principles of devolves upon the Twelve to take the Presidency, that when called upon they presidency of the Church. Will there be can be used in positions of that charac- anything else? I cannot say; there may ter. Let us not be negligent in time to be, when the Lord deems it necessary. come. I say, get your people together, in- We should feel as Jesus did when he ex- struct them in the duties of their call- claimed, "Lord, not my will, but thine be ing, have them seek after light, knowl- done." It devolves upon the Twelve to at- edge and intelligence as to the require- tend to the duties the Lord has placed ments of their exalted positions, that upon them, but they need the faith and when we want qualified and capable men confidence of the Saints and the sus- we may know where to find them. Now, tenance of the Almighty, for they will then, is it wrong to take others? If one, GOD IS AT THE HELM, ETC. 141 who by the Priesthood he holds has a living nearer to God and acting in such priority of claim in a case of this kind, a manner as to call down upon us the is otherwise unqualified, we must select power of God, and angels will adminis- the wisest and the best, whether he be a ter to us. We cannot tell which member Seventy or an Elder, to fill such position of the body is most useful to us, which and to administer correctly in the things we can best afford to spare—the leg or of God. the arm, the eye or the nose. All are nec- Now let us go on to the Seventies. essary to render the body perfect. There are large numbers of them, and Moses appeared to the Prophet there has been a great desire to push Joseph to confer upon him the keys for men into quorums, without regard some- the gathering together of the dispensa- times to their worth and fitness. Now tions and the house of Israel from all what is their duty? Why, to go abroad portions of the earth. We have got to and preach the Gospel to all nations. preach to the Lamanites, to the house How many do this? Very few. Well, say of Judah and by and by the ten tribes. some, we go when called upon. That is We must be prepared for these things all true; the Seventies have, as a rule, and realize the importance of this duty been on hand to go forth and preach; and the responsibilities resting upon us but I am speaking more particularly, of as God's holy Priesthood. Now, Elders, the nature of the Priesthood they hold you ought to be diligent in observing the and the duties which devolve upon them. laws and keeping the commandments of They should be always ready, a kind of God. These are the leading features minutemen, under the immediate direc- of the Melchizedek Priesthood, including tion of the Twelve, to go forth as the the Patriarchs. In England we ordained messengers of life and salvation to all a few Patriarchs, and I remember that nations on the earth. Are you Seven- the people on occasions used to get to- ties preparing yourselves for this? Are gether and have a feast, and then the you prepared to stand forth as men of Patriarch would bless them. This is the God, clothed upon by the power of the way some of the ancient Patriarchs did. Holy Ghost, to go into the world to warn The people ought to be liberal with them, the people, calling them to repentance? but men holding the Priesthood should A great deal has been accomplished for be governed by higher and more exalted the salvation of the human family, but feelings than that of using their callings we are only starting in. We have sent for the purpose of merchandising. The a few here and there, and although we Elders should stand in their positions as think we have done a great work, there men of God. We are really today a king- is but a small handful of people to show dom of Priests, and ought to wield a pow- for it. There will be great and wonderful erful influence for good in the earth. We changes on the earth; war, bloodshed and should get our spirits right and act in desolation will stalk through the land, righteousness. and we have got to pursue our work and The Presidents of Stakes have seek after the light of revelation to guide important positions; they preside us. We talk about and wonder who the over all the interests of the Church biggest man is—the Seventy or the High where they are placed, and they Priest? Let us seek to know who of us is should feel like acting for God, and 142 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. they and their counsel should have con- if the offending person will not listen to tinually with them the light of revela- him, report him, to be dealt with accord- tion, be full of the Holy Ghost, and quick ing to the order of the Church, and if he to discern. There is no officer in the continues obdurate and stubborn, then Church, who acts with a single eye to he does not belong to us. Let us always the glory of God but what will have wis- feel like operating together for the good dom given him according to his capac- of each other and for the kingdom we are ity. The President of the Stake presides identified with. over the High Council, a set of men ap- We have other societies—the Young pointed and ordained to adjudicate all Men's and Young Ladies' Mutual Im- matters in dispute that may come be- provement Associations and the Female fore them, and they should act in all Relief Societies. A great deal of credit meekness, humility and wisdom, seek- is due to our sisters. God has pro- ing intelligence from the Foundation of vided them as helpmates to their hus- Light, so that they can act in righteous- bands, and it is the duty of the lat- ness and give righteous judgment. Then ter to cherish and protect those whom the Bishop is a common judge in Israel, God has given unto them, and show acting in the interests of the people; his them how to make themselves happy— duty is to put down evil and root out in- teach them—our wives and daughters— iquity. What is the duty of the Priests? the pure principles of the Gospel, that Only to hold office? No; it is to visit the daughters of Zion may be lovely and the members of the various Wards, and shine as the light and glory of the age to see that there are no hard feelings, in which we live. Sisters, put away from troubles or difficulty among the people, you the vanities and frivolities of the to anticipate the occurrence of anything world, administer to the poor and the af- of that sort, put things right and see that flicted. The sisters know how to sympa- the ordinances of the Church are car- thize with and administer to those who ried out. Then the Teachers, who are are poor, afflicted and downcast; and let helps to the Priests, whose duty it is to the brethren help them in their kindly go among the people and talk to them on ministrations. The young men should their duties—not like so many parrots, be encouraged in the work they are en- but full of the spirit of God. And where gaged in, and their Mutual Improve- there may be difficulties to settle, and ment Associations ought to be nourished it is not within the power of the Teach- and their interests promoted. The Lord ers to satisfactorily adjust them, report has encouraged these things from the them to the Bishop, who sits as a com- commencement. The first sister's re- mon judge in Israel, and to adjudicate all lief society instituted in the Church was such matters. If thy brother offend thee, presided over by sister Emma Smith; sis- go and say to him, "Brother, you have ter Whitney was her Counselor, and sis- done so and so," and if he will not listen ter Eliza Snow was the Secretary. to you nor ask forgiveness for the offense The spirit of Temple building he has given you, take another man seems to have taken possession of with you—one whom you think has influ- the people. One Temple has al- ence with him, and one whom you think ready been built, and it is designed to he will listen to—and let him talk, and build three more. We are prompted THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL, ETC. 143 by holy influences to embark in this la- the privilege there, they will want it in bor. The Lord said he would send his other places where Temples are being servant Elijah to turn the hearts of the erected, and what next? What are we fathers to the children, and the hearts going to do to meet all the expenses, of the children to their fathers, and this and they are various, which occur in the matter of Temple building is in fulfill- carrying on of the work? By and by ment of his word. We are seeking not the Tithing may be sufficient to meet all only to administer for the living, but for requirements. We do not wish to op- the dead. There are many queries come press and crush the poor and faithful up in relation to the manner in which of God's people—we would rather say, the various works we are now engaged "Break every yoke, and let the oppressed in shall be accomplished. Shall we pay go free!" There is nothing contributed for our Tithing? Yes. Shall we sustain the the work of God but what should be ac- building of Temples? Yes. And any- counted for. We intend to tell you all thing outside of this? Yes, we should do what becomes of your Tithes and offer- the best we can to build up the king- ings. Through these ordinances come the dom of our God. A case came up re- blessings of God. Brotherly love should cently in Cache Valley, where a lead- prevail among all the people of God, and ing man wanted to know if he could not we should be more united in our tem- have the Tithing for putting up the Tem- poral and spiritual matters, and thereby ple in that Stake. Now, if this privilege claim the promised blessings. is given to them in Cache County, they May God bless you and lead you in will want it in Sanpete, and if they have the paths of right. Amen.
THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL—TEMPLE BUILDING—THE HIGH PRIESTS AND SEVENTIES—TO THE BISHOPS—TO THE SISTERS.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATTHE QUARTERLY CONFERENCE, HELDIN OGDEN,OCT. 21, 1877.
REPORTEDBYTHE OGDEN JUNCTION.
[This report is from longhand notes, mourn the loss of our venerated Pres- and though not verbatim, is as nearly so ident, Brigham Young. It has cast as possible.—ED.] a gloom over the Saints throughout I am happy to meet my brethren the Territory, and all feel sorrow- and sisters at this Conference. Since ful. He led Israel for a long time— I was last here, we have had to the past 33 years, and in leaving us 144 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. we have felt his loss. His demise was throughout all time for instructions to among the events necessarily associated sustain and direct us. We talk about with human affairs, for the Lord man- the organization of the Church being bet- ages such things by his own will. I re- ter attended to lately than formerly; but member when Joseph was taken, but from whom did we receive it? What his death was not like that of Brigham did we know about the Apostles till Young, but by the hands of a ruthless God revealed it? Nothing. We talk mob. It was a matter of great importance about the Patriarchs, the First Presi- to us relatively, but not great with the dency; who knew of them till God re- work in which we are all engaged. When vealed it? No one. The High Priests, Sev- the Lord revealed the gospel unto Joseph enties, Elders—who knew about them Smith, and unfolded His purposes and or their calling, duties and labors till designs to the earth—when He gave us a God revealed it? No one. It is the knowledge of the laws, ordinances of the case with the Bishops, Counselors, High Gospel and doctrines, it was not for the Councilors, the Lesser Priesthood, and object of elevating him as a man, but was with all the organizations and Quorums; done in the interest of society and the the light was all from God, and not from world in which we live—in the interest man. It came through revelations from of the living and the dead, according to God to Joseph Smith, the Prophet of the decrees of Jehovah before the world God; hence we are indebted to the Lord was rolled into existence, or the morn- for all these things, for all the knowl- ing stars sang together in joy. In the edge we have in relation to those prin- last days He saw it was proper to restore ciples. Who taught the gathering prin- the new and everlasting Gospel—new to ciple and why are we here today? Un- the world because of its traditions, fol- der what influence did we come? Many lies, weaknesses, etc., but everlasting be- Latter-day Saints themselves hardly re- cause it existed with God, with Him be- alize it. We read in the history of the fore the world was, and will continue Church that, at a certain time there when change shall succeed change, and was a revelation given, in the Temple when all things are made new the things which was built at Kirtland, Ohio; when of God will endure on and on forever. So Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were it is an everlasting Gospel, though new seated in it, several important person- to the world. It was introduced in the ages appeared and gave certain keys, interest of humanity: our fathers, the powers and privileges; among them was Prophets and men of God who once ad- Moses, who represented what is termed ministered on the earth and are now ad- the Gathering Dispensation, which was ministering in the heavens, had a hand to gather Israel from the four quarters in introducing this work. Today they feel of the earth; you will find it in the edi- interested in rolling forth the work and tion of the Doctrine and Covenants, and purposes of God assigned to them before I refer you to that, where it is positively the foundation of the world. It is to them, stated. Why did we gather? Because to God, to Jesus, that we are indebted the keys of this dispensation were given for the light, life and intelligence com- to Joseph Smith, and conferred by him municated, and we shall look to them on the Twelve, the Seventies and oth- ers, and they received this as a part of their ministry, their endowments, if you THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL, ETC. 145 please, and when they called upon the them. It looks odd to some people who people to repent and be baptized, and don't know what it means, but we know they did so, they received the Holy because God revealed it to us; we are al- Ghost, and among other things received ways on hand. was this principle of gathering, and I The year past, 1876, feelings were defy all Israel to have so gathered with- stirred up in the mind of the President, out these keys and been brought to- and he called on the Twelve, the High gether as they are today. But we had Priests, the Seventies and Elders to sub- no trouble in gathering because we had scribe to build the Temple at Salt Lake. the keys. I have seen the time when the Did they do it? Yes. You, here, did people were almost willing to sell them- your share and gave means freely, as selves in order to get here, and you know thousands did throughout the Territory. this to be true; it is all from God. Why did he feel like this? Because the Our Temple building is of the same spirit of God prompted him. Why did nature; we are living in the dispensa- the Seventies, Priests, Teachers, etc., re- tion of the fulness of times, embrac- spond so promptly? Because the spirit ing all the powers, principles, doctrines of God rested on them and all hands and covenants since the world was, and wanted to help build the Temples to the among the rest is Temple building. The name of God, that we might adminis- speaker here read from the Doctrine and ter the ordinances necessary to be per- Covenants, concluding with, "Before the formed for the living and the dead. If great and terrible day of the Lord shall we turned our Temples over to the world come, I will turn the hearts of the chil- today, they would not know what to do dren to the fathers, and of the fathers with them; they could not administer in to the children, etc., lest I come and the ordinances, and we should not know smite the children with a curse." Did Eli- if God had not taught us; but the Gospel jah hold these keys? He did. Did he brings us light and places us in com- give them to Joseph? He did. You will munion with the heavens through time find it in the same revelation as that and eternity; they tell us to build Tem- quoted; a feeling of that kind sprang up ples and then instruct us how to ad- in the breasts of the Latter-day Saints, minister in them for the living and the till we hardly know sometimes why we dead—that men who are placed here are do so, but we do. We built our first for a certain work, and they are help- Temple in Kirtland, then one at Nau- ing us to do our work and are operating voo, and laid the foundation for one at with the Gods in the heavens in our be- Far West, Missouri; we have also built half, and we for them—they without us one here at St. George; it is a beauti- are not made perfect, nor are we per- ful building, and we are performing the fect without them. It requires union— ordinances there for the living and the union cemented by indissoluble ties; it dead. Do any of us regret the part we unites us to each other and to them, have taken in it? I think not. Then and enables us to act intelligently, and we have been doing work on another in when we get through with our affairs, Salt Lake, another in Sanpete, and an- to assist others in the accomplishment other in Cache Valley, all of which will be of theirs in the interest of God and hu- magnificent buildings when completed; manity. This is not our work, nothing not less than 500 men are at work on that we have done; God has done it, He 146 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. wants us to help Him and He will help land; hence some things at times took us. We can do nothing in and of our- place that were peculiar to some people; selves, for we are weak and frail and when they were at a loss to find out any- need the guidance and revelation of God thing pertaining to the principles and to uphold us. doctrines, the Presidency inquired of the We have had a Conference here today, Lord, and would get the desired infor- and you are more perfectly organized mation. Now, I would make a remark than before. The Lord some time ago in regard to these things here. All the wrought on the mind of President Young High Councils and all those holding the to have a more complete organization in Priesthood, the Presidents and all the the Church, and the Twelve were called Bishops and their Counsel, and all hold- on to visit the settlements and explain ing positions in the Church and king- the order of the Priesthood, etc.; to or- dom of God that are faithful, honest, dili- ganize the Stakes with all the officers— gent and upright, if they seek unto God President and Counsel, the High Coun- they will have wisdom imparted to them cil and Priests under the President and under all circumstances and on all oc- the Counsel over the Stake—Bishops, casions, as to what course they should Elders, the Lesser Priesthood, and all pursue, and it is the order of God that those called local authorities in their sev- all should have His Spirit in proportion eral places, and have everything in or- to their integrity and faith; and if one der; the Twelve went through the Terri- does not have it is because he is not dili- tory, and assisted by the Presidency, the gent in seeking after such things. As work was accomplished, and has been for brother Joseph F. said this morning he some time. The quorums before you to- could have revelation for himself, though day are the result of their work. What not to regulate the Church; it would did he know of this only as God revealed be the privilege of the President of the it? Nothing. Did Brigham Young or Twelve to regulate all things in relation Joseph Smith know it? No, only as God to Zion; but the other principle extends revealed it. But the necessary infor- to all grades and all men in the Church mation has been given, and today the and kingdom of God, each in his place, if Church is more perfectly organized than he lives his religion and is faithful and ever before, perhaps with the exception prepared to receive the truths from God of the general assembly at Kirtland, but so that he can instruct the children of in some things now we are more stable men. There appears at times to be a and complete than they were even then. discrepancy among all of us, for we are It is proper at the present time to re- all weak and infirm; and God made it so fer to such things for instruction, though on purpose, that man might not glory in brother Richards is well posted in re- himself but in the God of Israel. spect to these matters, and has taught you much in relation to them. I will say something in relation to In Kirtland, Ohio, we had many High Priests, and what their place things revealed through the Prophet is in the Church. They came con- Joseph; we had the First Presidency spicuously before us in the late or- over the High Council, and another ganizations. The speaker again read in Missouri. Joseph Smith and his from the Doctrine and Covenants, Counsel presided over that in Kirt- "And again, I give unto you John THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL, ETC. 147
C. Smith," etc. What are they organized which is the most useful to the Church, for? The purpose is set forth in the Doc- the High Priests or Seventies. We ought trine and Covenants. They are a sort of to magnify the Priesthood we hold, and normal school to prepare the people to be satisfied with the positions we hold. preside; they have hardly fulfilled this; We have sent a number of Elders on mis- perhaps if they had been more active, sions, whose duty it is to preach to the and become acquainted with principles people of the earth. They go when they for which they are organized, we should are called, but it is often hard work; they not have to ordain so many High Priests make a great many excuses—they have from the Elders' Quorum to make Presi- debts to settle, families to support, etc. dents of Stakes, Bishops, High Councils, In meeting they will talk about who is etc.; but as it was we had to pick up the the "biggest," and when they are gone for material where we could, and I hope we a while they get homesick and want to will have better material next time. return; they say, "there is no place like I hear a great deal said about which home." They meet difficulties among the is the "biggest" man. The "biggest" man people, who don't believe much that is makes no difference whatever. I think told them. Did they ever? Not much. that the man who can be most like a lit- We don't expect to gather all, we will tle child will be the greatest in the king- take one of a city and two of a fam- dom of God. Greatness does not consist ily, and bring them to Zion; and if our of talking of things, but in doing them. Elders abroad would be more particu- We are now just beginning to move; Zion lar, and realize that they are messengers is stretching forth and lengthening out of the Lord—exhibit more of the Apos- her cords; we want no more baby's play, tolic power, and have the light of the but let us have wisdom, light, revela- Spirit of God, they would realize that tion, and let the power of the Priest- they are sent to teach, not to be taught; hood of God burn in the hearts of the they would measurably control circum- people to waken them to a knowledge of stances, not be controlled by them alto- truth; then when other Stakes are to be gether. Here are the Lamanites to at- organized we can apply to this normal tend to; when we are through with them, school and get men prepared. We have then the Jews, then the Ten Tribes, and got a great number of Seventies, and the then the earth is to be redeemed and the question has often arisen, Which is the power of God prevail, and we must take biggest, they or the High Priests? I say I a part, for we are not here to look so don't think it makes much difference as much after our own affairs as to build up to which is the greater or smaller. I think Zion. The Elders ought to reflect and say, the body of Christ was not one mem- "What can I do to help on the work? God ber, but composed of many parts. Now inspire my heart and mind and soul, that which member of your body would you I may help to build up the kingdom of like to be without? An arm or a leg? God." That is the way to feel. Then to the No, you want both. So does the Church. High Councils of Stakes and to the Pres- But which is the most useful? If you idents of Stakes I would say, you ought can tell me which of those members is to feel that you are servants of the liv- most useful to you, I will let you know ing God, that the eye of the great Jeho- 148 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. vah is over you, and be working in the in- wards the men who come in that capac- terest of the Gospel. We are not here to ity. They have a perfect right to do it, it is build up ourselves, but to build up Zion their duty, and they are always at liberty and the kingdom of God on the earth, to visit my household. that we may magnify our calling and We all have a great Priesthood if we honor our God. As brother Joseph F. magnify it, and there is no little Priest- said, we should not allow ourselves to be hood. In relation to the young men, I bartered or sold, but work for the inter- would say that in their associations a ests of Israel. good spirit is growing—they are wak- The Bishops of the various Wards ing up. The Young Men's Mutual Im- have their place; it is their duty to attend provement Associations and other orga- to the interests of their Wards, to look af- nizations of our young men are very ter the temporal affairs principally, not praiseworthy. Young men, the burden of for their own benefit, but that of the peo- the kingdom will yet roll on your shoul- ple. They should set patterns of all that ders, and you must prepare for it. If is good and praiseworthy; their duty is you will go to God and ask for wisdom, to do justice and adjudicate in all mat- he will give it to you. Get the best ters pertaining to a Bishop's court, as a books, the Book of Mormon, Doctrine common court in Israel, and they ought and Covenants, and read our own pub- to judge in all righteousness, fidelity, and lications, you will find such intelligence truth. The Priests ought to be full of the as you never dreamed of. Ask God for Holy Ghost, and should be full of intelli- faith. Get all the sciences, arts, and use- gence to act as watchmen over the peo- ful learning you can from schools; get ple, trying to stop ill feelings, evil ac- nothing false, but the things pertaining tions, etc. The Teachers ought to assist to earth and the elements, and how to them, and visit from house to house, and use them; when you meet let it be in the see that no iniquity prevails. The Dea- fear of God, and he will bless you. cons should assist the Bishops in tempo- A word to the sisters. They have their ral affairs, and be faithful in their call- associations and societies—all of which ing. are good and praiseworthy. They form Let us act together as a family in a part of us, for the man is not with- the interest of the Church and kingdom out the woman, nor the woman without of God, for thereby come the blessings the man. It takes a man and a woman promised. We are now operating for to make a man; without woman, man is these things, and these organizations are not perfect; God so ordained it. We are for that purpose. The Deacon who hon- aiming at celestial glory, and when we ors his calling is more honorable than reach that exaltation, will we have our the Apostle who does not. Can we find wives? Yes. The women have to man- High Priests, Seventies, and Elders who age household affairs; they must rear don't pray? Yes, I am afraid so. And fur- the children properly, and cultivate those ther, in relation to the Teachers, I will principles which exalt and beautify, that tell you my rule. When they come to me, all may move on pleasantly and harmo- I call in my family and ask them to in- niously. In the Relief Societies they dis- struct us and impart such information as charge their duties better than we could, is their duty. That is the way I feel to- because of their tender sympathies and THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL, ETC. 149 gentler natures. Joseph Smith organized saved it in the Bible. Finally a finan- a Relief Society in Nauvoo as far back cial crash came, and he went to his wife as that; Emma was president, sisters for consolation. She told him to read the Whitney and Cleveland were her coun- Bible for comfort, and when he opened selors, and Eliza R. Snow secretary, who the leaves the money dropped out. What has visited you often, and whom you well does this mean? he said. His wife said, know. They allowed the society to sleep you were careless, and I took care of for a while, but they are now waking the money you gave me; and this money up. What should they teach? I can't go saved him from ruin. Therefore let the into details, but they should teach dress, sisters take care of the wheat. speak and act aright, diffuse correct principles, and let us have sisters grow- ing up fit to associate with the angels of The speaker here referred to the God. I want you to make home a heaven question of using the Tithing for Tem- for your husbands, that when they come ple building, saying if it were all paid there they will feel happy, cheerful, and in that was owing, we need ask noth- comfortable in their households. Do ing further, but such was not the case. away with evil speaking—let love, kind- He then referred to the Perpetual Em- ness, and friendly feelings prevail; and igration Fund, saying there was over if the sisters want the brethren to give $1,000,000 due it from those who had them a few bushels of wheat to take care been emigrated, and he hoped it would of, let them have it, it is not much, and be paid without further delay. At present we may some day be glad we did so. I no radical changes would be made in the have read of an extravagant man, whose matter of Temple building. May God wife proposed that he give her so much— help Israel and prepare us for an inheri- ten or twenty dollars to keep house tance in his kingdom, in the name of Je- with, and instead of spending it she sus. Amen. 150 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
GATHERING THE RESULT OF REVELATION—TEMPLE BUILDING SIMILAR—THE RESTORATION OF THE PRIESTHOOD—MINISTERING FOR THE DEAD—THE GOSPEL, GOD-SUSTAINED.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE FOURTEENTH WARD ASSEMBLY ROOMS,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,NOV. 14, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
There is something novel as well as first, for as soon as the principle of the interesting in the contemplation of the gathering was first preached, the peo- subject that has been referred to by ple needed no convincing argument, for brother Folsom. The ideas entertained the Spirit of the Lord had revealed it to by the Latter-day Saints are different them, and they knew it was true. And from those believed in by any other peo- it mattered not where people heard it, or ple upon the face of the earth; and there in what language it was preached, they is a feeling and spirit resting upon the immediately had a strong, fervent de- Saints that is not known nor experienced sire to gather to Zion, to assemble with among any other people. The way we the Saints and worship with them. And have been led is very peculiar and dif- however foolish many of us have acted fers entirely from anything else that ex- since that time, yet these were the feel- ists anywhere in the world. Our gath- ings that welled up in our bosoms; and ering together, the kind of Gospel that they came because of certain principles is preached, the disposition and feeling having been developed through Joseph to build Temples, a strong impression Smith. You that are acquainted with that seems to rest upon all the people, the history of Joseph Smith well know is something in itself very remarkable. that in the Temple in Kirtland, among Now in relation to our gathering, who other visions, manifestations and admin- is there anywhere else in the world that istrations he received was one in which feel as the Latter-day Saints do? You do the Prophet Moses appeared to him, who not find it anywhere, and nothing but the committed to him the keys of the gath- Spirit of God operating upon the minds ering dispensation. It was he who led of the people could have induced them to the exodus of Israel in former times, and gather together as they have done. This like all other men who have held the spirit was imparted, as the Holy Ghost holy Priesthood and have been faithful is, by the laying on of hands, through the in the discharge of their duties, he not medium of the Priesthood. And this pe- only administered in time but contin- culiarity seemed all the more striking at ues to minister in eternity. And hold- GATHERING, ETC. 151 ing the keys of this Priesthood, he was quite a length of time, or willing to the proper person to confer them upon do anything required of them, provided the Prophet Joseph; and on doing so, he they could be assisted to the gathering told Joseph, that he had bestowed upon place of the Saints. And it was to meet him "the keys of the gathering of Israel this universal want that the Perpetual from the four parts of the earth, and the Emigrating Fund was gotten up, which leading of the ten tribes from the land of has been the means of bringing out to the north." And this was in fulfillment of this country thousands of people, the a significant scripture which says, "That majority of whom, perhaps, by their own in the dispensation of the fullness of exertions, never could have accumulated times he might gather together in one the necessary amount of means to have all things in Christ, both which are in brought themselves here; and as each heaven, and which are on earth; even in one was required, after being assisted, to him." refund the amount received for this pur- pose, others could realize its benefits in Hence, after men had been baptized like manner, and thus the fund became for remission of sins, and had hands laid perpetual. upon their heads for the reception of the Temple building is another character- Holy Ghost by those holding this Priest- istic associated with this Gospel that is hood and authority, of which this was in itself peculiar. We are here, as Je- one of the principles, they began imme- sus was, not to do our own will, but diately to have the feeling to gather to the will of Him who sent us; and, as he Zion. This has been spoken of by an- was, so we are expected to do and per- cient men of God as one of the events form such things as may be required of of the latter days. One of the Prophets us by the Almighty. This is really the referring to it says, "I will take you one position we occupy as Latter-day Saints, of a city, and two of a family, and I will if we could fully comprehend the situa- bring you to Zion: And I will give you tion. There are certain powers and priv- pastors according to mine heart, which ileges, rights, immunities and blessings shall feed you with knowledge and un- connected with this Gospel that do not derstanding." It was through this princi- exist anywhere else, and this is one of ple and this ordination, with the spirit them. We are told that the Gospel brings attending it, first conferred upon Joseph life and immortality to light, and with- Smith, and afterwards upon the believ- out it there is no correct knowledge of ers of the Gospel by obedience thereunto, life and immortality. We did not under- through the administration of baptism stand either our own position, nor the and of the laying on of hands by the El- position of the world; we could not com- ders, that brought the people together prehend anything of God, or the laws as they are today. Wherever this Gospel of God, or the laws of life, until we be- has been preached, believed and obeyed, came acquainted with the Gospel. Ev- this desire to leave the lands of their ery good and every perfect gift proceeds nativity, to gather with the Saints, has from God, in whom there is no variable- been strongly manifested; and so strong ness or shadow of turning. And the world has it been, that I have had men of- generally are ignorant of God. Why? Be- fer to bind themselves to my service for cause we are told that no man knows the 152 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. things of God but by the Spirit of God. ing that Priesthood to reveal unto him And if they cannot obtain a knowledge the laws and the ordinances thereof. of God only by the Spirit of God, unless Hence, as early as September 21st, 1823, they receive that Spirit they must re- an angel said to Joseph Smith, "Behold, main ignorant of these principles. And it I will reveal unto you the Priesthood." matters not what the learning, what the He was informed there had to be a cer- intelligence, what the research, the phi- tain ordinance attended to, viz., bap- losophy, or religion of man may be, the tism. And as John the Baptist had things of God cannot be comprehended, held the keys of that Priesthood, in gen- except through and by the Spirit and rev- erations gone and past, he was sent elations of God. And this can only be to confer upon him and upon Oliver obtained through obedience to the prin- Cowdery what is known as the Aaronic ciples which God has and shall ordain, Priesthood, which authorized them to sanction and acknowledge. And hence, baptize each other for the remission in these last times, he first communi- of sins. And this heavenly messenger cated a knowledge of himself to Joseph did come and did so ordain them, on Smith, long ago, when he was quite May 15th, 1829, saying—"Upon you my young. Who in that day knew anything fellow servants, in the name of Mes- about God? Who had had any revela- siah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, tions from Him, or who knew anything which holds the keys of the minister- in relation to the principles of life and ing of angels, and of the gospel of re- salvation? If there were any persons I pentance, and of baptism for the remis- never heard of them, nor read of them, sion of sins; and this shall never again nor never met them. But when the Lord be taken from the earth, until the sons manifested himself to Joseph Smith, pre- of Levi do offer again an offering unto senting to him his Son who was there the Lord in righteousness." (D&C, page also, saying, "This is My Beloved Son. 100.) And what next? It was neces- Hear ye Him;" he then knew that God sary then that other institutions should lived; and he was not dependent upon be introduced and other principles de- anybody else for that knowledge. He veloped; and consequently the Apostles saw him and heard his voice, and he Peter, James and John appeared, bring- knew for himself that there was a God, ing, and conferring on their heads the and of this he testified, sealing his tes- Melchizedek Priesthood, which holds the timony with his blood. The evidence of keys of the mysteries and revelations of the existence of God that he received, God, and by which they could lay their none but God could impart. Well, what hands upon men for the reception of the was the result? He told him how oth- Holy Ghost. And when they received ers might obtain the same knowledge this gift, it "brought things past to their of him and of his laws; and he made remembrance, led them into all truth: him acquainted with a medium through and showed them things to come;" it which he could obtain a knowledge of opened up communication between the these things. And how did he do it? By heavens and the earth, whereby others, communicating unto him a knowledge as well as Joseph Smith, could know of the everlasting Priesthood, and send- that God lived, and obtain for them- selves through the administration of the GATHERING, ETC. 153 ordinances, a knowledge of their accep- we call the principles of life, or the laws tance with him, and of their relationship of life, for it leads to life, it leads to God, to him, and also obtain a knowledge of it leads to a knowledge of the laws of heavenly as well as earthly things. So God, and a knowledge of the principles of that first, Joseph Smith having received truth, and to an acquaintance with those this knowledge that God lived, and oth- principles which are calculated to exalt ers through the medium that God or- and ennoble mankind both in time and dained were accorded the same privilege. through all eternity. There is nothing Thus there was opened up a communi- new in it, and yet there is. It is called cation with the heavens; not only with the new and everlasting Gospel. Singu- Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, and lar, that an everlasting thing should be those immediately associated with them, new. But it is a principle that has ex- but with those also who received the isted with God, or with the Gods, if you Gospel; and as the Scriptures say, "But please, in the eternities, and it has been as many as received him, to them gave communicated from time to time to the he power to become the sons of God, even children of men. And although we have to them that believe in his name: Which a great amount of intelligence, learning were born, not of blood, nor of the will of and science, and everything else consid- flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God." ered worthy among men, yet we have And they received that Spirit whereby nothing in all of this that gives a knowl- they were able to comprehend the prin- edge of the laws of life. It needs a de- ciples of truth; and as the Apostle John velopment from God to unravel these says, "But ye have an unction from the things, and make us acquainted with our Holy One, and ye know all things. But true position. Hence although it is new the anointing which ye have received of to us, it is nevertheless an everlasting him abideth in you, and ye need not that principle. We are mortal and immor- any man teach you: but as the same tal beings, we have to do with time and anointing teacheth you of all things, and also with eternity. And as the things of is truth, and is no lie, and even as it the future are hidden from men and can hath taught you, ye shall abide in him." only be known through the medium of How did they receive this anointing? By the Gospel, this means was made use of repenting of their sins, by being bap- by the Almighty for the introduction of tized by one having the authority of God the principles of truth and the placing for the remission of sins, and by having of mankind in the position to acquire a hands laid upon their heads for the re- knowledge of him and his laws. Having ception of the Holy Ghost. They received been put in this position, we, every one this spirit precisely in this manner, and of us, men and women who are living our hence they had this knowledge for them- religion, preserving ourselves in the pu- selves; which knowledge all Latter-day rity of the Gospel and acting honorably Saints have who are living their reli- and honestly before God and man, have gion, walking humbly and obediently be- a right to know and understand for our- fore God. Hence, this is a part of what selves the principles of truth which we we term the Gospel; it is part of what have embraced. I well remember a re- mark that Joseph Smith made to me up- 154 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. wards of forty years ago. Said he, "Elder of labor, whether mental, physical, me- Taylor, you have been baptized, you have chanical or scientific, they have some had hands laid upon your head for the re- particular object in view. So it is also in ception of the Holy Ghost, and you have relation to these matters. I have already been ordained to the holy Priesthood. referred to it; but many of us can hardly Now, if you will continue to follow the realize why it is that we are engaged in leadings of that spirit, it will always lead these things. you right. Sometimes it might be con- I will go back again and refer to an- trary to your judgment; never mind that, other manifestation. We find, among follow its dictates; and if you be true to others that appeared to Joseph Smith its whisperings it will in time become in was Elijah the Prophet; and what did you a principle of revelation, so that you he come for? His special mission was will know all things." That agrees pre- to "turn the hearts of the fathers to cisely with some of the remarks of John the children, and the hearts of the chil- in the passage I have quoted to you. "Ye dren to the fathers." And the same scrip- have an unction from the Holy One, and ture informs us of his coming "before ye know all things, and need not that any that great and terrible day of the Lord." man teach you: but the same anointing What is meant by this, say the world? teacheth you all things." Now, that which It means that we are the offspring of John taught was the everlasting Gospel, God; it means, as the scriptures say, that and that which Joseph Smith taught was God is the Father of the spirits of all the everlasting Gospel. That which John flesh; it means that we have to do with taught has been forgotten long ago by eternity as well as time; it means that the people, they are not in possession of we have to do with things past, with it and consequently they cannot compre- things present and with things to come; hend it. And hence when Joseph Smith it means that being the children of our revealed it, he preached the new and ev- Heavenly Father, we are or ought to be erlasting Gospel; new to the generation under his government, yielding obedi- that lives, and everlasting because it has ence to him, and that we ought to op- existed in all ages and times when God erate with him in extending mercy and has revealed himself to the human fam- love and salvation to the living and the ily. dead, according to certain laws unknown to men generally; but known unto God and now revealed again by him for the But to return to this singular thing salvation of our race. It means that of Temple building, which I will refer God is the Father of the human fam- to again. Why do we want to build ily and is interested in the whole of his these Temples? Some of us hardly know; progeny, these that now exist and those but we do want to build it. What who have passed away. It means that a most singular thing! Just consider there are certain laws in the heavens the amount of labor that has already that all men have to do with that must been performed throughout this Terri- be complied with, if not in time in eter- tory. Surely the people have some mo- nity. It means that all men who have tive in view. The mechanic or the la- lived and died without a knowledge of borer does not go to work unless he the Gospel, shall be placed on the same gets a recompense of some kind. When plane as ourselves through the plan he men devote themselves to any kind has provided, giving all of his children, GATHERING, ETC. 155 whether living or dead, an equal chance our doctrine be true they think it would to avail themselves of the means of sal- be cruel that this state of things should vation; and that we are to operate in exist. Why, God is more merciful than their behalf, working out certain ordi- man is, he possesses more sympathies nances for them which they are now with human nature than man does or incapable of doing for themselves. It ever did, one with another. The Lord has means that as God feels interested in the been feeling after the welfare of mankind welfare of all his family, men in the flesh all the day long, from the first com- who are in possession of his spirit and mencement of the world to the present the light of eternity, having come to a time. But there are certain eternal laws knowledge of him and his eternal laws, among the Gods in the eternal worlds should cooperate with him in the accom- which render it necessary that mankind plishment of this object. And it means shall go through certain ordeals and ob- too that if he has conferred the Gospel serve certain ordinances and be gov- and the power thereof and the Aaronic erned by certain laws before they can be and Melchizedek Priesthoods, sending exalted in the kingdom of God. And as his messengers from the heavens for this Satan has been operating in opposition purpose, that it is not for a phantom, it to the Lord's designs, and having so far is not for a plaything to be trifled with succeeded in drawing men after him, it at pleasure; but it is that we should op- became necessary that these ordinances erate with God and with the Priesthood that God has instituted should be intro- who lived before us, in the accomplish- duced and that man should be governed ment of the things of God on the earth. by them. Hence it was necessary that That is what it means. And hence, says a Redeemer should be provided, which he, when Elijah comes he will "turn the was perfectly understood by one of the hearts of the fathers to the children," Prophets who said, "Deliver him from etc. It is not for mankind to come and going down to the pit: I have found a live and exist a little while to be blot- ransom." Who was he? When Jesus ap- ted out and nothing more of them; but peared, says John, "Behold the Lamb of it is that they should be enlightened by God, which taketh away the sin of the the Spirit of God, that they should sym- world." He was the ransom. pathize with and have regard for all the What about the others, they who human family living and dead, feeling have died without a knowledge of the desirous to promote their happiness and Gospel? They are amply provided for. welfare, as he himself does. How of- The Lord has shown us that we must ten when abroad preaching this Gospel build Temples in which to officiate for have I heard men say, and you have them. We have commenced to do so, heard the same sentiment expressed, "If and our fathers have already commenced this is true what has become of our fa- to feel after us, manifesting themselves thers? Are they to be lost forever?" by dreams and visions, and in various And then you know they have certain ways to those most interested in their peculiar ideas about hell and damna- welfare. And having inaugurated this tion, the lake of fire and brimstone into state of things for our guidance that which a certain portion of the human we have today, with Presidents, Apos- family are to be cast to be forever burn- tles, Presidents of Stakes, High Coun- ing and never to be consumed. And if cils, High Priests, Seventies, Bishops, 156 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Elders, Priests, Teachers and Deacons engaged there. What is the reason? He and the various organizations of the has been engaged in the service of God; Church; it is for us each one to operate and there is no happiness among men in our sphere under the direction of the to be compared with the joy and satis- Almighty; and feel not only for ourselves, faction that the Gospel imparts; it lifts but for others, as Abraham did, and as us up from the sublunary things of time Isaac and Jacob did, we should have a and sense, and we feel that we are gods, desire to bless our posterity after us; and even the sons of God, and that he is our God has shown us how to do it, and has Father; and we know that we have a bestowed his Patriarchal authority with hope that blooms with immortality and power to bless. He has appointed this eternal lives, and we feel that we are through the Priesthood and sealing ordi- in the hands of God, and that he will nances. That which is joined together no guide and direct us and sustain us and man can put asunder, and what is bound bear us off triumphant under all circum- on earth is bound also in heaven; and stances; and we feel joyous and happy in also a great many other things of a sim- the contemplation of these things. And ilar nature in relation to ourselves. The then it is necessary that the Lord should moment a man gets enlightened by the have introduced this Gospel, or shall I Spirit of God and begins to comprehend say he never could have saved the hu- himself, be begins to feel for the welfare man family that have gone? Yes, I will of others. "I have a wife, what shall I do say that; because there are certain laws to save her? I have children, what can in relation to these things which must I do for them?" And by and by his com- be obeyed; the Lord himself is governed prehension expands, and he commences by them, and we must be governed by at once to reach after his father, and his them. And hence when Elijah came and grandfather, and friends and relatives, laid his hands upon Joseph Smith, con- who have passed away; and his feelings ferring upon him that Gospel which was if they were expressed would be, What to turn the hearts of the fathers to the can I do for them to help them? Yes, children, he received it, and the spirit he has revealed to us that we can ren- of it we have received; and that is why der valuable aid to our dead friends and we want to build Temples. And in this ancestors, and, as I have said, the Lord regard we are associated with those in has shown us that in order for them to the heavens in carrying out the plan that receive the benefit of our services, Tem- was contemplated and designed by the ples must be built, and they must be gods before the world was, in relation to dedicated to God and accepted of him; the formation of the earth, and in rela- and through the medium of those sa- tion to peopling it, and then with regard cred structures and the ordinances per- to its redemption and the salvation of its formed therein, there is to be a unit- inhabitants and everything pertaining to ing and welding together of all principles it, until it shall be celestialized and ce- and peoples, and without them this great lestial beings inhabit it. And we are work cannot be done. operating, or should do so, and we will Brother Folsom, who has just been when we know ourselves, operate with speaking to you of his recent labors the holy angels and with the holy Priest- in the Manti Temple, says he never felt better in his life than when GATHERING, ETC. 157 hood, that has existed before, doing our crush us, and that too by one principle. part on the earth while they are per- What was that? Jesus, when in the flesh, forming theirs in the heavens. Could we taught his disciples how to pray; and do anything unless God helped us? No, the Lord has also instructed us how to we could not. You might preach until pray. And we have the consolation of the tongue cleaved to the roof of your knowing that our prayers have availed mouth, urging the people to build Tem- with him, for we have seen our ene- ples, but unless the spirit of Elijah rested mies foiled, frustrated, discomfited and upon them they never would do it. And scattered, who sought our destruction, sometimes people think now that it in- and their plans utterly fail, and that too terferes with the dollars and dimes and when to all human appearances we were their monetary calculations; but what of going to be submerged and overwhelmed that? God is interested in these things, by their fury. And so long as we continue and he does not care much about the dol- to fear Him, observe his laws and keep lars, for the gold and the silver, and the his commandments, all their plans will cattle upon a thousand hills are his, the fail from this time henceforth and for- earth in its fullness belongs to him; the ever [the congregation said, Amen], for heavens are his throne and the earth his God is on our side, and He will uphold us footstool, and he manages and directs ac- and never forsake us. cording to the counsel of his own will. To return again to the subject of Tem- And as we send our ministers to the na- ple building. I may talk about it from tions of the earth to perform certain mis- now until tomorrow, and then not get a sions designed by the Priesthood on the quarter through, for there are so many earth; so does God in the eternal heav- things connected with it. But we feel ens employ those of his servants around now that we want to build Temples that him in the accomplishment of the same we may administer in them. Brother grand object. Woodruff has been operating a long time Do you think that this Gospel would in the Temple at St. George; and you have stood the opposition it has met have perhaps heard him testify of vis- with, and that this people could have its that he has had from the spirit world, lived under the calumny and reproach, the spirits of men who once lived on the the vituperation, hatred and persecu- earth, desiring him to officiate for them tion that has been raised against them in the Temple ordinances. This feeling by men, unless God had been with us? is planted in the hearts of the people; No; we should have been scattered like and the Priesthood in the heavens are the chaff before the wind, long, long watching over us; they are ministering ago. But God has sustained us, and spirits sent forth to minister to those has said to all men and will continue who shall be heirs of salvation, says the to say, Thus far shalt thou go and no Apostle; and if we were not the recip- farther, and here shall thy power be ients of their ministrations and watch- stayed. Our strength is in God, and not ful care, we should be in a poor condi- in man. Many and many a time have tion. They are operating in the heav- I seen the wrath of man turned away, ens, and we are on the earth; they with- when it was thought its power would out us cannot be made perfect, neither 158 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. we without them; it requires the com- selves an infinite amount of trouble, mis- bined and united efforts of both parties, ery and sin. And supposing ourselves to directed by God Himself to consummate be of the number of unborn spirits, would the work we are engaged in. it not be fair to presume that we would I will here show you the difference be- appeal to the Lord, crying, "Father, do tween the operations of men and those of you not behold the condition of this peo- the Lord, in regard to the human family. ple, how corrupt and wicked they are?" Men make war one upon another, they Yes. "Is it then just that we who are now kill and destroy and make waste. This pure should take of such bodies and thus work of killing and destruction is even subject ourselves to most bitter experi- now going on among the Russians and ences before we can be redeemed, accord- Turks. And it is only a short time since ing to the plan of salvation?" "No," the the Germans and French were doing the Father would say, "it is not in keeping same thing; and it almost seems like with my justice." Well, what will you do the recollections of yesterday, when our in the matter; man has his free agency own nation were imbruing their hands and cannot be coerced, and while he lives in each other's blood, when the cries of he has the power of perpetuating his widows and orphans, of bereaved fathers species? "I will first send them my word, and mothers, brothers and sisters were offering them deliverance from sin, and heard throughout our land, and when warning them of my justice, which shall want and misery, pain and sorrow were certainly overtake them if they reject depicted on the faces of so many because it, and I will destroy them from off the of man's inhumanity to his fellow man. face of the earth, thus preventing their What do the Scriptures say? "Whoso increase, and I will raise up another sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his seed." Well, they did reject the preach- blood be shed." What right has any man ing of Noah, the servant of God, who was to interfere with the life of another man? sent to them, and consequently the Lord Now I will go back to show you caused the rains of heaven to descend how the Lord operates. He destroyed incessantly for forty days and nights, a whole world at one time save a few, which flooded the land, and there being whom he preserved for his own spe- no means of escape, save for the eight cial purpose. And why? He had more souls who were obedient to the message, than one reason for doing so. This all the others were drowned. But, says antediluvian people were not only very the caviller, is it right that a just God wicked themselves, but having the power should sweep off so many people? Is that to propagate their species, they trans- in accordance with mercy? Yes, it was mitted their unrighteous natures and just to those spirits that had not received desires to their children, and brought their bodies, and it was just and merci- them up to indulge in their own wicked ful too to those people guilty of the in- practices. And the spirits that dwelt iquity. Why? Because by taking away in the eternal worlds knew this, and their earthly existence he prevented they knew very well that to be born of them from entailing their sins upon their such parentage would entail upon them- posterity and degenerating them, and GATHERING, ETC. 159 also prevented them from committing with another. further acts of wickedness. And was it We are moved upon to build Tem- just to send them to hell, to be eternally ples. There is one now building in Logan, burning up in fire, never to be consumed? Cache Valley. I was up there two weeks We do not know anything about that part ago, and was much gratified to find the of it, that is sectarianism, and is no part work being pushed forward so energeti- of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Suffice it cally and so spiritedly. Since the early to say, they were put into prison and the part of June, I think upwards of $30,000 doors were so securely locked that they has been expended by the people of that could not be unfastened until the right and two other Stakes in making the nec- time had arrived. The Prophets under- essary arrangements for the building of stood this, and spoke of it. this Temple. We find the same spirit ex- What next? God still felt after them; isting among them as we found in St. and he said, in speaking of the Sav- George, and in Sanpete, and here, and, ior, that he was to come. And what in fact, as we find everywhere among the to do? "To bind up the brokenhearted, Latter-day Saints; and I am much grat- to proclaim liberty to the captives, and ified to see the people thus moved and the opening of the prison to them that acted upon. In the Millennium, a dura- are bound; To proclaim the acceptable tion of one thousand years, we shall be year of the Lord." This was the nature actively engaged administering for the of his mission to the earth. And what dead, and assisting God to fix up ac- do the Scriptures tell us he did? "Be- counts with the inhabitants of the earth. ing put to death in the flesh, but quick- Before closing I wish to add a few ened by the Spirit: By which also he words in regard to matters associated went and preached unto the spirits in with our position here, which is a very prison; Which sometime were disobedi- important one before angels and the peo- ent, when once the long-suffering of God ple. We stand in an important position in waited in the days of Noah." Were they this respect, we are the sons and daugh- redeemed? Yes, if Jesus preached the ters of God; if we obey his laws and keep Gospel to them, and which he most as- his commandments, proving ourselves suredly did. If a man kill another, does valiant and true to his cause, we shall be he know how to redeem him afterwards? heirs, "heirs of God, and joint heirs of Je- No, he does not; therefore men have no sus Christ; and if we suffer with him, we right to assume the prerogatives of God, shall also reign with him, that all may be and hence the Scriptures say that, "no glorified together in the eternal worlds." murderer hath eternal life abiding in Now, then, if we can perform a work of him." You may get the priest or priests this kind, and secure the approbation to pray for him and pack him off to of God, and the cooperation of the holy heaven the moment he breathes his last Priesthood, then we will be doing some- here; but such prayers avail not; he will thing that will not only be acceptable to never get there, but will go to the place Him and to the holy angels, but to our appointed unto him. Here then is the name, and fame, our honor and happi- difference between the dealings of God ness and glory, and to the increase of our with man, and the dealings of man one dominion there will be no end. But if we 160 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. give way to folly and to vanity, to cov- acter, or anything else; but let us all copy etousness and pride or to evil, to wicked- after the Son of God, walking in all hu- ness or corruption of any kind, the hand mility and meekness, feeling rather to of God will be over us, our candlestick suffer wrong than do wrong, and ever be will be removed out of its place, the light desirous to promote each other's happi- within us will take its departure, and ness and welfare. Do not let us be cen- darkness will take its place; and oh, how sorious, or oppressive, or tyrannical, or great will be that darkness! How often exacting; but cultivate the spirit of kind- have I seen men whom I have known in ness and charity, and seek continually this Church, and whom I have respected for the Spirit of God to lead and direct us. as honorable, make shipwreck of their Every morning that we arise, dedicate faith, lose the Spirit of God and go into ourselves to God, and ask his blessing darkness. When they turn aside, after upon us through the day, that we may having received certain light and intelli- be preserved from evil, folly and van- gence, can you lead them back? No, you ity. Let us be governed and influenced by cannot. They have no desire for it, and the counsels we receive from our Bish- you cannot implant that desire within ops and presiding authorities; and let us them. What does Paul say? "For it is pray for them, that they may be kept impossible for those who were once en- pure and holy; and fail not to supplicate lightened, and have tasted of the heav- the Father in behalf of the Twelve, for we enly gift, and were made partakers of the are poor, weak creatures, and need the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good faith and prayers of the Saints, and the word of God, and the powers of the world help and favor of the Almighty, and we to come, If they shall fall away, to re- ask an interest in your prayers, that we new them again unto repentance; see- may be led in the paths of life; for none ing they crucify to themselves the Son of of us can do anything unless God be with God." We do not want to be in that fear- us. ful condition. Let us be careful, then, what we do and what we say, and how Brethren and sisters, God bless you, we act and live. Let us treat one another and lead you in the paths of life, that in a right and proper manner, not seek you may be prepared for an inheritance to oppress and defraud, or rob one an- in the celestial kingdom of God, in the other of property, or of honor, or of char- name of Jesus. Amen. EXPECTATIONS DEFERRED, ETC. 161
EXPECTATIONS DEFERRED—ON REVELATION—MARRIAGE, HOW PERFORMED—SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED AMONG THE YOUTH—LOVE CONTROLLABLE—MEANT TO BE UNDER THE DOMINION OF RIGHTEOUSNESS—AND TO BE FOR TIME AND ETERNITY.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER CHARLES C.RICH, DELIVEREDATA CONFERENCE HELDIN PARIS, IDAHO,NOV. 11, 1877.
REPORTEDBY JAMES H.HART.
Brethren and sisters—I have a few ceived the Gospel I did not expect forty- remarks to make to the Saints this af- seven years to pass away before the ternoon, and I trust I shall have your prophecies would be fulfilled concerning prayers and attention. I feel my weak- the second coming of the Savior, and ness and that I am unable to benefit the the end of the world. I expected the Saints without the Spirit of the Lord. Savior would come and reign upon the And the same applies to all who stand earth, before this time, as the King of before the Saints, to minister in word Kings and Lord of Lords. In the reve- and doctrine. We are taught by the rev- lations given to the Prophet Joseph, Je- elations given us through the Prophet sus said it would be but a short time be- Joseph, that we should not undertake to fore he would come and take the King- teach without the spirit, and I feel that dom. We are not accustomed to hear the I need its influence and power, that I Lord speak, and when he spoke of a short may speak such things that will be pleas- time, we understood it according to our ing to the Lord. If I have any pride it use of the language. Forty-seven years is in being an Elder in the Church of may appear a long time with us, but a Jesus Christ, and having the privilege thousand years is not a long time with of presenting the principles of life and the Lord. A few moments with Him is salvation to the people, and in preach- a long time with us. It takes a long time ing the fulness of the Gospel that has according to our reckoning to do the work been restored to us in the last days. the Lord has decreed concerning the chil- Many seek after the honors of the world, dren of men in this last dispensation. It none of which are worthy to be com- is no small matter to preach to all na- pared with the honor of serving God, tions and kingdoms of the earth; this has in proclaiming His Gospel to the inhab- to be done; all people must be warned of itants of the earth. I have had the the judgments of the Lord that are com- honor of being in this Church for many ing upon the earth. The sound of the years. It has been organized upwards everlasting Gospel must go forth to all of forty-seven years. When I first re- 162 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. nations. It is a great work for us to mandments are accepted of Him. If you perform individually and collectively, to will not accept His kindness, if you will preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all not receive His blessings, He is not to nations, and to prepare for his coming. blame. They are offered free to all with- Some may think it a small work to pre- out money and without price. When Je- pare for his coming. I do not think so. sus came into the world and died for the I find myself far from being prepared. sin of the world, he blotted out original Are we worthy to be received and dwell sin. He did not die for us only, but for ev- where our Savior dwells? No one can ery creature. These are some of the char- dwell with him but those who overcome acteristics of our Lord and Savior. We and endure to the end. It should give do not receive His counsels as we should. us more energy and more determination We are called upon to be perfect like unto to overcome our sins when we find ev- Him, and to walk in His footsteps. To be erything depends on our perseverance to perfect and godlike, we must do as He the end. We should be energetic in do- did while upon the earth, for He said, "I ing the will of God. We find we have came not to do my will, but the will of my many things to learn, and we learn daily Father who sent me." by our experience something we did not know before, and thus we feel our de- I want to say a few words on an- pendence upon the Lord for wisdom to other important subject. We are a people lead and guide us into all truth. It is who profess to believe in revelations. I important we put our trust in God. We have thought many times that this prin- may have imagined that we were safe ciple was very little understood. If I can from danger and would stand, but dif- have the spirit to sustain me I will in- ficulties crowd upon us which we had struct the Saints this afternoon in this never considered, and we are tempted principle. What is the spirit of which and tried to prove whether we are will- we are speaking? It is neither more ing to stand the trials or not. It is with us nor less than the Holy Spirit. I don't like the parable of the sower; some seed know of two kinds of Holy Spirit. It is fell on stony ground, some fell among the spirit of promise, the same that im- thorns and so perished. So it is in the parts revelation from heaven. I have hearts of many who join the Church of many times heard persons deliver rev- Jesus Christ. Some seed has fallen on elations, in which I had no faith what- good ground, and has brought forth fruit. ever. It is difficult to be deceived, if we The Lord has said He seeks those who know the proper channel through which worship Him in spirit and in truth. He they are to be received. We, as the is no respecter of persons. He has no Church of Jesus Christ, cannot live with- favorites—only on the principle of righ- out revelation. If we had no revelations teousness. We are all His children, one in this Church, we would not be the as well as another. His sun shines on the Church of Jesus Christ. It is important just and the unjust, and He causes the when we need revelations, that we un- earth to bring forth fruit for the benefit of derstand what channel they should come all. He is impartial in His character, and through. We read in the early history those who love Him and keep His com- of this Church that Oliver Cowdery, who EXPECTATIONS DEFERRED, ETC. 163 was the second Apostle in this Church, charge of our duties and to teach us all was instructed on this subject, and it that is necessary for our guidance. The is written for our learning. The Lord Bishop is entitled to the spirit of revela- told Oliver that Joseph was the man to tion to teach him his duties, and when receive revelations for the Church; he guided by that spirit he will never come might receive revelations for himself, but in collision with those who preside over those to the Church must come through him. Joseph Smith, or the leader. If we need Some years ago, when I was presiding revelations for our guidance, what chan- in California, evening meetings were es- nel should they come through? You have tablished. I think it was about the time just voted to sustain the Twelve Apos- of the reformation. On one occasion I tles as Prophets, Seers, and Revelators. had been away for a short time, and on Brother John Taylor is the President my return I found a large crowd on the of that Quorum, therefore when reve- water's edge, some of whom were being lations are needed for the government baptized. I think brother Hopkins was of this Church, they will come through there, and I asked him, subsequently, President John Taylor, as long as he what induced the people to turn out so lives, because he holds the keys of the suddenly; he replied that some sister had Apostleship. He does not hold any keys received a revelation the night before, or powers that he did not hold when commanding them to be baptized. I told President Brigham Young was alive, or him that if any revelation had been given any other keys than are held by his on that subject, I should have known it. brethren of the Twelve; but the Lord We should seek to be governed by these will speak to us through the head of principles, and learn to discern the spir- his Church, through him who holds the its, and discriminate between that which Presidency. We should all understand is from God and that which is from be- these principles that we may not be de- neath. If we seek unto the Lord he will ceived, and if revelations are given from give us wisdom to lead us into all truth. any other source professing to guide the It is a serious thing to say the Lord has Church, we may know they are not from spoken through us if he has not. To say God. All of us have the privilege of re- thus saith the Lord, when the Lord has ceiving revelations. For the Church? By not spoken, would subject us to his wrath no means; we cannot receive all that and displeasure. It is a fearful thing to are necessary for the performance of fall into the hands of the living God. If our duties. We have here a Stake of we receive revelations we should be sure Zion, and a presidency of this Stake. they are not leading us outside of our du- Can anybody receive revelations for the ties, but tend to our instruction and im- government of this Stake? Certainly provement, and lead us to perform those not. If any person other than the Pres- duties devolving upon us. idency should profess to receive revela- There is another matter impor- tions for its government, would you con- tant to the Saints, of which I would sider them genuine revelations? If so, like to speak this afternoon; it is you would be mistaken. We are entitled the subject pertaining to marriage. to the Holy Spirit to help us in the dis- It was the first great commandment given to our parents in the Garden 164 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of Eden. The Lord said: "Be fruit- ple so that these ordinances may be ad- ful, and multiply, and replenish the ministered for the living and for the earth." This principle, like the princi- dead. In relation to this deviation ple of revelation, should be properly un- from this rule pertaining to sealings derstood and rightly and legally admin- and endowments, we understand that istered. Some persons rush into mar- the Priesthood is greater than the Tem- riage hastily and inconsiderately, with ple, and that which is sealed on earth no other consideration than that they by those holding the keys, is sealed in call love, which frequently brings mis- heaven. Many cannot go to St. George ery and unhappiness. We have to tell to receive their marriages and endow- them what is wrong in relation to this ments, and should the way be opened principle. It would be unwise and un- by which they may be performed with- pleasant for an Elder in Israel to per- out going there, it will be appreciated, for form a marriage ceremony that could all who understand the Gospel and the not be acknowledged in heaven. Since sacred ordinances pertaining thereto, the endowment house has been closed would prefer to be married in the proper in Salt Lake City, those wishing to be manner. I don't know how far these priv- married according to the laws of heaven ileges may extend, whether they will ex- have had to travel down to St. George, tend to plural marriages or not; it will be where they can be sealed together for as the Lord wills; should it be the case time and all eternity; for a Temple is the that we obtain these privileges, it will proper place in which to perform these be no cause for slackening our labors on sacred ordinances. We learn from our the Temple. Our dead friends are wait- past history and experience that there ing for their baptisms and other ordi- have been deviations from this rule from nances, which can only be administered time to time, according to the circum- in a Temple. I cannot say any more on stances of the people, and the attention this subject until arrangements are more of the Twelve has been called to the sub- fully perfected. ject, and it has been taken under advise- There is no blessing that our heav- ment. We learn that although a Tem- enly Father is not ready to bestow upon ple stood in Kirtland, still the Prophet us on condition that we observe the laws Joseph gave endowments and performed and ordinances established for the sal- marriages in Nauvoo before the Nauvoo vation of his Saints. We are brought to- Temple was built. The same was done gether from time to time that we may be in Salt Lake City for many years, and instructed and learn our duties. There those endowments and marriages were are many things to talk about, we have legally administered; and the way may to select a few and pass by the rest. The be opened by which these ordinances principle of marriage is one of great im- can be performed among us without hav- portance; our young men and maidens ing to travel to St. George for that are called upon to become united and to purpose. This no doubt will be grati- learn to live together and accomplish all fying to the Saints, particularly to the the Lord has commanded. young. There are ordinances that can One of the Bishops remarked yes- only be administered in a Temple, hence terday that the people liked cooper- the importance of completing the Tem- ation very much when they obtained EXPECTATIONS DEFERRED, ETC. 165 big dividends, which principle is very also. We do not want to take one man's good if it is right. As Latter-day Saints means and give to another; that is not we have to deal with the Lord; he the principle intended; but by uniting knows our hearts and comprehends our our means we can establish a store, a thoughts, and we cannot cover up the se- tannery or other business that will be crets of hearts from him. What we do profitable. If we do not so cooperate, that is right will be approved; that which others may come in who have no inter- we do that is wrong will be disapproved. est in our prosperity, who will trade and If we are willing and obedient we shall traffic, and when they become wealthy find very little trouble in cooperation. We would leave us and spend their means have embraced it in a small way, and we elsewhere. This has been our experi- are expected to handle it honestly; and ence in years past with those who have if we do not handle it honestly, it would come among us with their merchandise. be better if we never embraced it at all. We can prevent this in the future by our We should seek to the Lord for knowl- cooperative institutions. It is right and edge and wisdom that we may deal with proper that we should combine for self- each other righteously, that we may es- defense against this world, and so pro- tablish confidence in each other that can- tect our general interests. not be shaken. The Lord wishes to in- I cannot say much in favor of stores troduce and perfect among his Saints the although it is necessary that we have principles of union. He intends to lift his such institutions. The grand object be- people up, and to make them wealthy. fore us is to make what we need, and When his will is done among the Saints dispense with outside importations, as there will be no poor among them. When much as possible. We must not be con- this time comes all will form one king- tent to buy and sell what we get abroad, dom and serve one God. We are all en- we want to establish a factory, and make titled to his blessings and all should be our own clothing. We don't want our wool devoted to his service. to go abroad to be manufactured for us; but we must make the necessary prepa- It is not his will that one should be rations to make it up ourselves. We find lifted up and another put down, one be occasionally among us one who wants made rich and another poor. We have to to strike out in business on the Gentile keep this principle in view in our coop- principle, and a few are always ready to erative labors and be one, or we are not feed and encourage an institution of that the Lord's. It is the purpose of the Lord kind; but we must learn better and do to build up the poor, and these principles better, and show by our faith and works are revealed for its accomplishment. If that we will not sustain such institu- twenty or thirty persons engage in busi- tions, but that we will serve the Lord, ness and we make them more wealthy, and sustain our brethren, and discard and others poor, what difference is there everything that is set up in opposition between us and the Gentile world? If to the institutions of Zion. When the we do as is done in the world, wherein Saints are governed by these principles, are we better than they? If we carry then you will find a people who are will- out the principle of cooperation with un- ing to devote their energies and means selfishness of spirit and singleness of to establish and advance our home insti- heart, it will build us up, and the poor tutions. 166 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
I will say a few words on the subject if they do not find more or less difficulty of counsel. We are a people who profess where they go, but that is their affair; to be governed by counsel. It never hurts they are gone, and may they prosper. anyone to obey the counsels of the ser- I have a few words to the sis- vants of God, but we should never ask ters, Ladies' meeting was announced counsel unless we intend to receive it; for Thursday next; the general report you should never ask counsel when your given at this Conference concerning the mind is made up concerning the thing Ladies' Relief Societies, is, that they are you ask. The most important counsels a great help to the Bishops. One of the are given us from the pulpit or stand, Bishops stated that they rendered assis- and it would be well with us if we obey tance in substantial means in helping to them. King Saul inquired of the Lord build a meetinghouse. I am glad to learn through his Prophet concerning Israel. of their efforts in laying up grain. It is They had already determined to go to gratifying to see this disposition mani- battle. The Prophet Samuel told them fested among the sisters. If all the sis- to go; they did so and got whipped. We ters advocate the laying up of grain it should understand that there is safety would not be graceful for them to say to in counsel, but we should seek for it in their husbands, let us have a few bushels the proper manner, and from the proper to trade out at the store. When in Salt source. We should go for counsel where Lake some time ago, a lady came round we have the right to go. When you need and wanted to sell some notions; she counsel you should go to your Bishop said she had just sold a sister twenty- or President, and he will give you good five yards of lace, only one dollar per counsel if he has any to give. If the yard. When I see such things among the Bishop does not understand the mat- Saints I think it a little extravagant; it ter and cannot give counsel understand- needs a great amount of means to sup- ingly, let him tell the applicant that he port a wife who indulges in many such don't know how to counsel in this matter; purchases. Some people have extraordi- for we shall be held accountable for our nary notions concerning marriage; they acts and counsels and for everything we think they must have everything to start do or say. If any persons want to know with; they don't want to marry unless anything you do not know, tell them to they can have a carriage, horses, and ser- go to someone who does know, so that vants, and many things besides; these they may not take a leap in the dark. If I are extravagant notions. I have heard it were counseled to leave Bear Lake Valley taught by the Presidency that young peo- I would leave. It is right for me to be gov- ple should marry, and to commence they erned by counsel, and if it is right for me should have a straw bed; they should it is right for you also, for this principle have at least a bed tick, and fill it with will apply to us all. Some have left Bear straw, and commence any way. I remem- Lake Valley without asking counsel; I do ber hearing that my great grandfather not condemn them; let them do as they and his wife, when they started in mar- please; if they want counsel of me I will ried life had but one or two blankets to give it if I have any to give, if they do start with. They took up some land, both not, I wish them well; but I am mistaken went to work with a will, and they were successful, and before they died they had EXPECTATIONS DEFERRED, ETC. 167 become wealthy. They owned two large do well, if not, I would do the best I could. farms, good rock houses and property Father Abraham married Sarah and Ha- worth sixty thousand dollars, all accu- gar many years ago, and great nations mulated by their labor, industry and have sprung out of this marriage. If we economy. Many persons marry those do as well as he did we shall be blessed possessing fortunes and soon become as he was blessed. I want to impress poor; they are almost sure to run this upon the minds of the young and through their property; they did not earn old, that we should labor to accomplish it, and they don't know how to use it. all the good we can in this world. We Concerning marriage, it must be an im- have encountered many things and have portant matter for God to teach and learned many things. We have learned command obedience to it. What consti- that there is an immense amount of self- tutes its importance? In the first place ishness in this world, and that it is a a man cannot have an exaltation with- very bad thing, and we should get rid out a wife. It was some years before I of it as soon as possible. We should be learned the fact that I could not do much as willing that others should enjoy the good without a wife and without poster- blessings of the Lord as ourselves. We ity. I therefore concluded to marry. And should be as willing to bless other people you ladies cannot wear a celestial crown as we are to be blessed ourselves. I want without a husband; if you happen to get you, my brethren and sisters, to think a husband who is not entitled to a crown, of these things and treasure them up in what are you going to do? If I were a your hearts. Whatever the Spirit will al- lady I should be careful whom I married: low me to say to you I will say to the best I should want to be pretty sure that the of my ability. When Jesus came to the man tried to live his religion as revealed Nephites he found them unprepared to to us. Young folks generally marry be- receive his words, and he said to them, cause they love, sometimes because they "I will come again tomorrow; you are not are pretty. It is said that beauty is "only prepared to receive my words." He came skin deep," and I believe it is so, it will to them several times; and they became shortly fade away. We should be reason- prepared, finally, to hear and learn, that able on this subject, as well as on others; which they were not prepared to learn but when a person is love struck, there before. If we are not prepared to receive is no reason in them. We should never the word of the Lord today, we may pos- be struck very bad. We should love so sibly be prepared tomorrow. that we could throw him off at any time I am glad to meet you, my brethren, if he does not do right. Where is the man to behold the manifestation of good feel- who understands the principles of the ing and witness your willingness to build Gospel who does not want to lay a foun- up Zion, and establish righteousness on dation for a kingdom? Some young peo- the earth. And may you continue faith- ple, and some older ones, appear to have ful, that you may be happy and pros- but little judgment of marriage. When perous and realize all the promises. It we marry it should be for time and eter- is promised that the Saints shall be nity. I have thought many times that the richest of all people, and to real- if a man or woman could get the Lord ize this promise, we must be guided by to tell them who to marry they would those placed to lead us. This is the 168 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. principle of safety and success. Any Stake of Zion and all his people, is my other course will produce sorrow. That prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. God will bless the Saints in this Amen.
THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT—THE RECORDS OF THE PAST—THE TWO STICKS—THE PROMISES AND BLESSINGS OF JOSEPH—THE SANCTIFIED EARTH—THERE IS A SPIRIT IN MAN.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDINTHE FOURTEENTH WARD ASSEMBLY ROOMS, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,DEC. 2, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I will call the attention of the congre- state of things that has never been gation to a passage in the prophecy of known to have existed upon our earth Joel, second chapter, commencing with since the Prophet lived here. All flesh the 28th verse: should be under the influence of the "And it shall come to pass afterward, Spirit of God, and not only all hu- that I will pour out my spirit upon all man flesh, but also the animal cre- flesh; and your sons and your daughters ation, and all things living. The ef- shall prophesy, your old men shall dream fect of the outpouring of this Holy Spirit dreams, and your young men shall see upon mankind will be to cause the young visions: people to prophesy, making revelators "And also upon the servants and upon of them, and the older ones to dream the handmaids in those days will I pour dreams. This prophecy was quoted by out my spirit. the Apostle Peter on the day of Pente- "And I will shew wonders in the heav- cost, when under the influence of the ens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and same Spirit. It was not referred to, pillars of smoke. however, with the intention of declaring "The sun shall be turned into dark- its fulfillment at that time, but merely ness, and the moon into blood, before the to inform the unbelieving Jews that it great and terrible day of the Lord come." was the same Spirit which Joel spoke These words were spoken by the of. It will be remembered that on the inspired man long before the first morning of the day of Pentecost, about coming of our Savior; they refer to 120 disciples had received this Spirit. the future condition of the world, a THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT, ETC. 169
On that occasion, while assembled in the by the power of that Spirit poured out Temple, it operated so powerfully upon upon them. I think our present Bible will them, that the illiterate and unlearned then be greatly enlarged, should their were enabled to speak in different lan- revelations be written. guages, and that it manifested itself in the form of cloven tongues, like fire in Before all flesh receive the Spirit of appearance. The people who witnessed God, the kingdom of God is to appear these operations marveled and wondered upon the earth. The work is to be com- exceedingly. But some were inclined to menced, and his Spirit poured out upon a evil, and accused these men of God of few, preparatory to the coming of the Son drunkenness. It was then that the Apos- of Man, that there may be Prophets and tle Peter, in order to correct any false im- revelators again on the earth, and the pression upon the minds of the congre- true Church of God again exist among gation, arose, and after denying the ac- men, as anciently. The time having fully cusation of these evil-disposed persons, arrived, in this the 19th century, for the said, "This is that which was spoken by prophecies to be fulfilled, in regard to the Prophet Joel," quoting the prophecy the setting up of the latter-day kingdom, nearly word for word. the Lord and his angel, as predicted in Some have supposed that the the 14th chapter of John's Revelation, re- prophecy was then fulfilled. It is very vealed the original plates from which the evident to everyone who will reflect for Book of Mormon was translated by in- a few moments, that such was not the spiration and the aid of the Urim and case, but that the Spirit which rested Thummim, is found to contain the full- upon those one hundred and twenty was ness of the Gospel of the Son of God, the same Spirit that should, in the last as revealed in ancient times to the Is- days, be poured out upon all flesh. It is raelites of this western hemisphere, the still further evident that it was not then forefathers of our Indian race. They un- fulfilled, as appears from the following: derstood the Gospel and also the law of "I will show wonders in the heavens and Moses, the latter of which they had kept in the earth, blood, and fire, and pil- for nearly 600 years before Christ. Af- lars of smoke. The sun shall be turned ter His crucifixion and resurrection from into darkness, and the moon into blood," the dead, they were favored with His per- etc., having reference to His second com- sonal ministry; the Gospel was taught ing, when these great events should take them in great plainness, and twelve men place. It is generally believed, by the were chosen on this continent, and com- various Christian churches, that there missioned to go forth and preach the are to be no more revelations, or vi- fullness of the Gospel to all the inhab- sions, or dreams, given by the Spirit itants of the land. These Twelve men, of God, and this belief has been enter- like the Apostles of the eastern hemi- tained for generations by millions of sphere, preached faith in the Lord Je- people terming themselves Christians. sus Christ, and baptism by immersion But when this prophecy is really ful- in water for the remission of sins, and filled, all men and women upon the earth the laying on of hands for the recep- will become revelators, receiving from tion of the Holy Ghost; and upon those the heavens information and knowledge who believed and obeyed, the Spirit of 170 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the Lord was poured out to a very great day work, which will never end, until all extent. They had visions, and dreams, flesh, that will not be destroyed from the and revelations, and great manifesta- face of the earth by the judgments spo- tions of the power of God, and the people ken of, will be made partakers of this generally of both North and South Amer- same Spirit, and it will have the same ica were converted and were taught and effect promised. instructed in the things of God. Yet this You may ask, Why it has not been the did not include all flesh, and therefore case since the first century of the Chris- did not fulfil the prophecy of Joel. tian era? Why it has not been fulfilled The Lord has brought to light these among the various Christian denomina- ancient records, containing the fullness tions of our globe? Why they have not of the Gospel, which he has commanded received dreams, and visions, and reve- to be preached and published to ev- lations by the power of the Holy Ghost? ery nation and in every tongue upon It may be a mystery to some, why so the face of the earth, that all of his long a period should have elapsed among numerous children may have the op- the people of the different nations, dur- portunity to hear, and, through obedi- ing which they have had no revelations, ence to its requirements, may receive no visions, no prophecies, no voice of the Holy Ghost, the Comforter, which God. The reason of this, as revealed should reveal to them the mind and will by the Lord, is because the people did of God concerning them, and lead them turn away from the ancient Gospel; they in the path of truth. This command did, as had been predicted they would do, strictly specifies that this Gospel is to change the ordinances and break the ev- be preached to all the world, but first erlasting covenants; they did apostatize to the Gentile nations, and when they from the truth so that the authority of are fully warned, and their times are the Apostleship ceased among them; the fulfilled, then the Lord will declare the authority to baptize no longer existed, law and the testimony sealed, so far the authority to lay on hands that they as preaching any more to them is con- might receive the Holy Ghost no longer cerned; and he will once more commis- existed, and they were no longer able to sion his servants to go to the Jews, the minister authoritatively in the name of House of Israel, whom the Lord will pre- the Lord in any of the ordinances of the pare, through his own power and wis- Church. There were many good moral dom, to receive the message, and not re- people that lived. But where was to be ject it as they anciently did. Scores of found the Church organized according to thousands, among the different nations, the New Testament pattern, with Apos- have already received the ministry of the tles, living Apostles receiving revelation Gospel, revealed by the angel, and they from heaven, and possessing the power have been filled with the Holy Ghost, that those anciently possessed? You according to the promise made to every could find churches in abundance, which soul who will believe and repent of his were called Christian churches—thus sins; and they have measurably become denominated by themselves, some called revelators and prophets. This, there- by certain names and some by others; fore, is the beginning of the great latter- all of them believing in separate, distinct THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT, ETC. 171 doctrines which characterized them; one himself says, "I am not sent but unto believing one principle of the Gospel, and the lost sheep of the house of Israel." another believing some other; one be- Not merely to the Jews, for they were lieving in one mode of baptism, another only a part of them, he had others dis- in some other; one receiving part of the persed in various countries, and upon Gospel, and another claiming some other the islands of the seas. And inasmuch part. This was the condition of the Chris- as they all had a knowledge of the com- tian nations when the Lord sent his an- ing of Christ, and that he would offer the gel to reveal the fulness of the Gospel great last sacrifice, thereby doing away to Joseph Smith, a mere boy, who was with the rite of sacrifice which they had raised up specially by the hands of God for so many generations held sacred, it to bring to light another record, agree- would seem consistent that he should in- ing with the one which already existed, form them in whatever land they might called the New Testament; not another have been, that the true Messiah had Gospel, but the same gospel taught to come and offered himself, and therefore another branch of the house of Israel. they should no longer offer up beasts Our Heavenly Father is not a respecter and birds as sacrifices, but forever after- of persons; he respects one branch of wards believe in Him. It is also just as the house of Israel just as much as an- reasonable, that a branch of Israel, ex- other; and inasmuch as he did by his own isting thousands of miles from Palestine, power, according to their own records, having the personal ministry of Christ, bring a remnant of the tribe of Joseph would keep a record of his teachings, out of the land of Jerusalem to this con- just as much as they did in the land of tinent, he had as much regard for them Jerusalem; and that his teachings would as he had for the Jews, and as he had for be just as sacred, when written, as the the ten tribes who were taken away from New Testament is. And it is again just the land of Palestine some 720 years be- as reasonable that they should receive fore Christ. They were led away to the the same gospel and the same spirit, north country, but where, we do not ex- and that the same effects should be pro- actly know. He had equal respect to all duced among them, as among these at these branches of the seed of Israel; and Jerusalem. Jesus informs us too in St. as all had a knowledge before their dis- John's Gospel, that he had other sheep persion about the coming of the future besides those at Jerusalem. The pas- Messiah, it would be perfectly reason- sage reads: "Other sheep I have, which able that when he should come to suf- are not of this fold: them also I must fer and be crucified for the sins of the bring, and they shall hear my voice; world, the Jews, only a portion of Is- and there shall be one fold, and one rael, should not be the only portion who shepherd." He did not go to the Gen- should be favored and blessed with his tiles, as they were not the "other sheep" personal ministry; it is perfectly rea- referred to; they were never denomi- sonable that he should go to the ten nated in any of the Scriptural writings tribes, and also come to this great con- as the sheep of Israel, they were al- tinent, where a part of one tribe existed, ways called by their own name. But and minister to them. You know Jesus the sheep that Jesus speaks of were those he meant to visit; "they shall 172 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. hear my voice"—that is, he would min- by the world of Christianity, we have a ister to them, and they would see Him prophecy which may be found in the 37th and they would hear His voice. And the chapter of Ezekiel, concerning the unit- instruction that he gave, they were com- ing together of two of the records. I will manded to write, with a view of its com- read the prophecy. "The word of the Lord ing forth in the latter days, preparatory came again unto me, saying, to the time when "the earth shall be filled "Moreover, thou son of man, take thee with the knowledge of the glory of the one stick, and write upon it, For Judah, Lord, as the waters cover the sea;" not and for the children of Israel his com- merely the knowledge of God contained panions: then take another stick, and in the Jewish record, but the knowledge write upon it, For Joseph, the stick of of God contained in all the records. The Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel Book of Mormon informs us that the ten his companions: tribes in the north country will have a "And join them one to another into record as well as the Jews, a Bible of one stick; and they shall become one in their own, if you please. Indeed Jesus thine hand. after having instructed the remnant of "And when the children of thy peo- Joseph upon this land and revealed to ple shall speak unto thee, saying, Wilt them His gospel, said to them, "But now thou not show us what thou meanest by I go unto the Father, and also to show these? myself unto the lost tribes of Israel, for "Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord they are not lost unto the Father, for he GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of knoweth whither he hath taken them." Joseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, And it was predicted concerning them by and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and one of the ancient American prophets, will put them with him, even with the who lived in those days, that when God stick of Judah, and make them one stick, should bring these ten tribes from the and they shall be one in mine hand. north country, they would bring their "And the sticks whereon thou writest records with them. And it should come shall be in thine hand before their eyes." to pass that they should have the records Why was he commanded to do this of the Nephites, and the Nephites should simple thing, for surely it would be con- have the records of the Jews, and the sidered simple in our day for a man Jews and the Nephites should have the to take two sticks, writing upon one records of the lost tribes of the house of for Judah, and upon another one for Israel, and the lost tribes of Israel should Joseph, and then joining the two sticks have the records of the Nephites and the together, and holding them up in his Jews. "It shall come to pass that I will hands to become one? If we were to un- gather my people together, and I will dertake to preach in this way the peo- also gather my word in one." Not only ple would think we were insane. But it the people are to be gathered from the was a familiar way by which the Lord distant portions of our globe, but their intended to instruct his people, and the records, or bibles, will also be united in interpretation is this: These two sticks one. were to represent what the Lord would do. Says he, "When the children of thy people shall speak unto thee, say- In the good old book believed in ing, Wilt thou not show us what thou THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT, ETC. 173 meanest by these two sticks, that they gather them on every side, and bring become one in thine hand, Thus saith them into their own land, making of the Lord God; Behold, I (not Ezekiel) will them one nation under one king never take the stick of Joseph, etc." And what more to be divided, neither, says the will you do with it? "I will put it with the Lord, shall they any more defile them- stick written upon for Judah, and will selves with their detestable things, etc. make them one in mine hand. And the "And they shall dwell in the land that sticks whereon thou writest shall be in I have given unto my servant Jacob, thine hand before thine eyes;" one being wherein your fathers have dwelt, etc." It a representation of the other. But when is not a spiritual thing, it is natural, and will it take place? Read the next verse. will take place even as it is written. How "And say unto them, Thus saith the will He accomplish this work? In the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the chil- very way He has pointed out in this chap- dren of Israel from among the heathen, ter? He will take the stick, or records, of whither they be gone, and will bring Joseph written upon for Joseph, and join them into their own land: it with that of the Jews, written upon "And I will make them one nation in by the Jewish nation; and when they be- the land upon the mountains of Israel; come one in His hand, then He will bring and one king shall be king to all: and Israel from the four quarters of the earth they shall no more be two nations, nei- and fulfill all that has been said concern- ther shall they be divided into two king- ing them. doms any more at all: "Neither shall they defile themselves Here (holding the Book of Mormon any more with their idols, nor with their in his hand) we present a record of detestable things, nor with any of their this American continent, a history of transgressions: but I will save them a branch of the tribe of Joseph, for out of their dwellingplaces, wherein they nearly 600 years before Christ, and un- have sinned, and will cleanse them: so til 420 years after Christ, a history of shall they be my people, and I will be the Lord's dealings with them from the their God." time they left Jerusalem until one of Has this been fulfilled? Has He their principal nations fell in battle, be- done this for the House of Israel, scat- cause of their apostasy; and the de- tered among the heathen, bringing them scendants of the remaining remnant are back and making them one nation in this degenerated people we call Indi- the land and upon the mountains, with ans, who still exist. Their record has one king to reign over them all? Has been brought to light; the Lord has there ever been a period since the twelve done it, not Joseph Smith. He has al- tribes lived, some two thousand five hun- ready united the record and testimonies dred years ago, that the House of Ju- of Joseph with those of Judah that we dah has been made one? It is very may have additional evidence that Je- well known that such things have not sus is the Christ, that we may have yet taken place. But the prophecy the testimony of two great nations—the will be fulfilled, and that too in our Jewish nation and the nation of Joseph day. The Lord will gather the ten that dwelt on this land, and which after- tribes from the north, and the House wards became a "multitude of nations," of Judah from the four quarters of the according to the blessing pronounced by earth whither they be gone, and will the ancient patriarch Jacob, when bles- 174 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. sing his two grandsons, Ephraim and itors were Abraham and Isaac. What Manasseh. Here we find on this conti- blessings were given to them? Pales- nent a multitude of nations, and when tine. But says the Patriarch, I have a we come to examine the language they greater blessing, it has prevailed above all speak, we find that it evidently that of my progenitors. How much above sprang from the same source. Antiquar- theirs? Unto the utmost bounds of the ians who have searched diligently into everlasting hills. Said he, I will give this matter, all testify to this one fact— this to you, Joseph; or, "they shall be on that their language evidently sprang the head of Joseph, and on the crown from the same source. It is also stated of the head of him that was separate by them they must have lived for many from his brethren." How marvelous are generations on this continent in order to the dealings of God with man in bring- have become so diversified in their sev- ing to pass the prophetic utterances of eral tongues. You know where people his servants! There was another bless- have no written language, as we have, ing pronounced upon his head by Moses, that it will become corrupted, and as before he was taken out from the midst they separate from each other, as the of Israel, which was very distinct from Indian race has done, it will corrupt it- the rest of the tribes. It reads—"And self more and more. When you come of Joseph he said, Blessed of the Lord to trace the languages spoken by the be his land, for the precious things of aborigines of our country, you will find heaven. And for the precious things of that they have the same origin; also the earth and fulness thereof." As much that this "multitude of nations" are the as to say, his land shall be very choice. descendants of Joseph, in fulfillment of Instead of being blessed with lands side the promise God made him through his by side with the rest of the tribes, he was father Jacob. Patriarchs used to bless to be a fruitful bough by a well, whose their children in ancient days and tell branches run over the wall, unto the ut- them what would come to pass in the most bound of the everlasting hills, and latter days. Jacob so blessed his twelve there he should be blessed with all kinds sons; and when he came to Joseph he of climate; the temperate and the tor- pronounced a peculiar blessing upon his rid zone; the blessings of the earth and head. It reads—"Joseph is a fruitful fulness thereof, so far as the temperate bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; zones are concerned; then the blessings whose branches run over the wall;" sig- of the earth, so far as the torrid zone is nifying that a portion of his seed would concerned. not always stay with the main body of Here then we perceive with all these his people, but would branch off, "run predictions and prophecies that the Lord over the wall," depart out of the land of in his providences has so wrought among Jerusalem. "The blessings of thy father the Israelites as to fulfill these promises have prevailed above the blessings of to the very letter. They should not my progenitors unto the utmost bounds be blessed with the blessings of the of the everlasting hills: they shall be earth only, but "Blessed of the Lord on the head of Joseph, and on the be his land, for the precious things of crown of the head of him that was sep- heaven." What would you consider the arate from his brethren." Jacob's progen- precious things of heaven? I should say that the revelations given from THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT, ETC. 175 heaven to his descendants would be as not only the Kingdom, but the domin- precious as anything that could be be- ion, also, "And the greatness of the king- stowed upon them. Why then should dom under the whole heavens, shall be it be thought unreasonable that these given to the people of the saints of the prophecies in relation to the descendants most High, whose kingdom is an ever- of Joseph should be fulfilled, that the lasting kingdom, and all dominions shall Lord should bring forth these precious serve and obey Him." That is, all people things in the latter days, under the name then living will be under this one King of the record of Joseph, in order that it of Kings, he will reign in the midst of might go forth as testimony in connec- his people, the resurrected Saints, and tion with the Jewish record, first to the the Saints then living. And all flesh will Gentiles, and then to the house of Israel, have the Spirit of God poured out upon that the way might be prepared, that the them. kingdom that was to be set up in the last I said "all" flesh including the flesh of days might increase upon the earth, in the animal as well as human. This has fulfillment of the prophecies of Daniel, been clearly spoken of in the prophecies. even until the Kingdom and the great- That is, in those days when "the earth ness of the Kingdom under the whole shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, heavens should be given to the Saints of as the waters cover the sea," then the the Most High. If God intends to set up "lion shall eat straw like the ox." His na- a Kingdom represented in the Book of ture will be so susceptible to the Spirit of Daniel by a "stone cut out of the moun- God that it will be entirely changed, in- tains without hands," and that Kingdom stead of his preying upon other animals is to extend until it becomes, as he saw and devouring their flesh, he will feast it in vision, as a great mountain filling upon the vegetable kingdom, just as he the whole earth, it will no doubt be but a did in the morning of creation. When preparatory work for the second advent the earth was first made, all things were of his Son, so that when He comes in pronounced very good; it issued forth all His glory, in the clouds of heaven, ac- from the hand of the Creator in a very companied by the prophets, and apostles, perfect condition, but when man fell, a and revelators, and the rest of the Saints change came over, not only man, but to reign on the earth, it is reasonable also the animal creation, and the veg- to suppose that the Kingdom to be set etable kingdom came under the curse, up would have prophets, and revelators, and the power of Satan was exercised and inspired men, old men dreaming upon the earth, enmity was introduced dreams, and young men seeing visions. between man and the animals. But the And in this way, when Jesus descends time will come, when the Spirit of God with his resurrected Saints finding a will be poured out upon all flesh and Kingdom prepared for him composed of "The wolf shall lie down with the lamb, those who have the Spirit of God in their and the leopard shall lie down with the hearts, he will commence his reign— kid; and the calf and the young lion and his universal reign upon the earth, over the fatling together; and a little child all the Saints living. Then will be ful- shall lead them," etc. That will change filled that part of the prophecy of Daniel, the fall of creation or at least, the liv- "And the kingdom and dominion," ing portion of it. The curse then will be 176 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. removed. It will be like the garden of twelve tribes of Israel." Then the twelve Eden, and Jesus will be here, and he will tribes will come back, and twelve men teach his people, fulfilling what is writ- sitting on twelve thrones, in the land ten in the sacred Scriptures about his of Palestine, will reign over them. The reign of a thousand years. The Saints Twelve disciples raised up in this land, then will be resurrected, and they will 1,800 years ago, are to have their also be the inhabitants of this globe. thrones; who, after being judged them- They are singing about it in heaven, selves by the Twelve at Jerusalem, will while their bodies are sleeping in the sit upon their thrones and will judge the grave. Read the 5th chapter of John's remnant of the tribe of Joseph. And they Revelation, that will give you an idea will have that work to do in the eternal what the Saints of heaven anticipate. worlds. The Priesthood is not given for The words of the new song which John a few years and then to cease; but all heard them sing, were: "Thou art wor- the servants of God who have ministered thy to take the book, and to open the here below by authority of the Priest- seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hood will continue their work among hast redeemed us to God by thy blood immortal beings, and among those liv- out of every kindred, and tongue, and ing who will not have been changed to people, and nation; And hast made us the immortal state. Some think that unto our God kings and priests: and we when Jesus comes all that are then liv- shall reign on the earth!" How plain! "We ing upon the earth will be changed. shall reign on the earth!" They hope for There is no Scripture to this effect. But it; they sing about it; they expect it, just there is a Scripture that says, the Saints as much as we hope to go with them, living will all be "changed, In a mo- and mingle with them, and just as much ment, in the twinkling of an eye, at as we have faith that we will, when we the last trump." When the first trump lay our bodies down in the grave, go to sounds, at the coming of the Savior, they our former abode where we once were, to will not be changed, but they will be the mansions prepared, and that we will caught up, but when the graves of the join with the heavenly hosts. We will not Saints are opened and they come forth forget the earth; it is our native abode; as immortal beings they will be quick- but instead of forgetting it, we will join ened, not made immortal, renewed in with them in their new song, and with a measure, and they will be taken up them we will look forward with joyful an- with those who will ascend out of their ticipation to the day when we shall re- graves to meet Jesus, and descend with turn to reign on the earth, having been him. And the immortal ones will mul- made kings and priests unto our God. tiply and spread forth so that the many And Jesus and the Twelve Apostles will places depopulated in consequence of the be in our midst. And we have an ac- great judgment that will precede his count of their thrones. "And Jesus said coming, will become inhabited by their unto them, Verily I say unto you, That numerous children during the millen- ye which have followed me, in the regen- nium, filling up the different parts of the eration when the Son of man shall sit earth. So that when the thousand years in the throne of his glory, ye also shall are ended, and Satan is again loosed, sit upon twelve thrones, judging the he will find a large number who have not been tempted by him, and he will THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT, ETC. 177 use his cunning among them, and will which there has been no revelation succeed in leading more or less astray. given. But we will return to our earth, He will gather up his numerous hosts and then will be fulfilled that part of the from the four quarters of the earth, and vision where John says, "And I heard a will encompass the camp of the Saints. great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, The Saints will then gather from abroad, the tabernacle of God is with men, and as they now do, and they will have to he will dwell with them, and they shall pitch their tents while doing so; and Sa- be his people, and God himself shall be tan's army will also compass the beloved with them, and be their God. city to destroy the people of God; but fire will come down from God out of heaven, "And God shall wipe away all tears and will devour them. And the beloved from their eyes; and there shall be no city and the righteous will be taken to more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, heaven; and after the thousand years are neither shall there be any more pain: for ended the earth will pass away. This the former things are passed away." earth that will be sanctified and puri- Why? Because all its inhabitants fied and blessed with the presence of Je- then will be immortal, and the earth it- sus, and upon which the immortal and self will be celestial, consequently there resurrected Saints will live and reign as will be no more funerals, nor any cause kings and priests; this earth because of for mourning: "Behold, I make all things the fall and the curse that came upon it, new," said he that sat upon the throne. will have to undergo a greater change, the same as our bodies, and will pass That will be the history of this lit- away. There will be no place found for tle creation of ours; it is only one out of it, as an organized world: it will exist the immensity of creations that God has in an elementary condition, all of its ele- made, all of which have their times of re- ments scattered through space, until the demption, having to pass through sim- Lord sees proper to gather them together ilar changes as those which I have al- by his power, and forms an immortal luded to; and the people inhabiting them earth, an earth free from the curse, free have to learn by a school of experience; from the effects of the fall, restored as they have their joys and sorrows as well it was in the beginning. This then will as we, because they, like us, could not be the new earth and the new heaven, acquire the necessary experience in any whereon the righteous only will dwell. other way to fit them for the society of The beloved city will descend upon this the heavenly hosts. eternal earth, and it will then become one of the heavenly mansions, whereon When, according to the prophecy of the Saints that are prepared will reign Joel, God bestows visions and revela- forever and ever. tions upon his sons and daughters, and This is our eternal home then; we are dreams, by the same Spirit, upon the not to look for a heaven— old men, they will acquire more knowl- "Beyond the bounds of time and edge in a very short time, than could space, Where human mind can never be learned by studying the best of books trace." that are possessed by the colleges and in- We are not to go further than stitutions of learning all over the world. our thoughts can carry us, to some We have to study for years in order remote unknown place, concerning to learn one branch, mathematics for 178 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. instance, viz: geometry, conic sections, this world or of ourselves, when our spir- calculus, etc. its were born, or if we desire to know It takes years of study to acquire a things that took place before the founda- knowledge of them, and about the time tions of the world were laid or the nu- we have partially mastered them, we are cleus was formed, when the sons of God old men, ready to pass away from this shouted for joy, if we desired to know state of existence. But when the time these things it would only be necessary shall come that the Spirit of the living for the Spirit of the Lord to touch the God shall be poured out upon all flesh, vision of our minds and light up our in a very few moments of time the Lord understanding and we could gaze upon could unlock the mysteries and trea- things past for thousands of generations sures of the earth, so that we could un- of worlds before the earth was made, and derstand not only the geographical sur- we could see the succession of worlds face of the earth, but be able, by the that have been and were in existence power of vision, to behold every parti- long before this earth was formed, we cle of it inside as well as outside, and could see the ordeals through which they also the law that governs its elemen- had passed, see them brought into exis- tary portions, nearly all of which is now tence and passing through their several closed from our mortal vision. We can changes and finally become glorified ce- only go about so far with our natural lestial mansions in the presence of God. sight; but there is a faculty in every By this same spirit spoken of by Joel, we man and woman which is now sleep- could look forward into the distant fu- ing in a dormant state; and as soon as ture and behold new worlds formed and it is touched by the spirit of the Lord, redeemed, and not only this, but see and we shall be enabled to see a new world understand the laws by which they were of things as it were, mysteries will be made, and the object and end of all these opened up and we will perceive naturally creations, being touched by the finger of as if they were written, and in this way the Almighty and lighted up by the Holy we shall be able to learn very rapidly Ghost. Amen. indeed. If we want a knowledge of THE UNITED ORDER, ETC. 179
THE UNITED ORDER—AMONG THE NEPHITES—NOT INCOMPATIBLE WITH INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY OR STEWARDSHIP—THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS GATHER FOR TRAINING—HOME MANUFACTURE INDISPENSABLE.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ERASTUS SNOW, DELIVEREDAT PROVO, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON, JUNE 3, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
The house is so crowded that in order said to be the best and most prosperous for all to hear it will be advisable that people on the earth; it was said of them, each one keep as quiet as possible. as of no other people we read of, that there were neither rich nor poor among In my remarks yesterday forenoon them; that they dwelt in peace and righ- I alluded briefly to the subject of the teousness, and every man dealt honestly United Order, as I understood it. In the with his neighbor. The fact that every minds and feelings of some the United man dealt honestly with his neighbor, Order is a sensitive topic: but this is necessarily implies individual responsi- chiefly for the want of a proper under- bility and stewardship. The Book of Mor- standing of the revelations of God, and mon tells us further that after a period of the obligations of the Gospel which we one hundred and sixty-five years living have embraced, for the want of under- in this state, there began again to be dis- standing what the Lord has purposed to union, and they began to cease to have accomplish through this Order. In one everything in common; a certain class of the revelations contained in the Book began to wear jewelry and costly rai- of Covenants is to be found these words: ment; class distinctions began to spring "Except ye are one in your temporal af- up, some exalting themselves over their fairs, how can ye be one in obtaining fellows, and they commenced to build heavenly things?" This oneness referred up societies and associations and classes to is variously understood, ofttimes con- which were graded by their wealth. And strued according to the peculiar views thus they grew from bad to worse, until and notions of men and women, who do the judgment of God fell upon them to not take the broad, comprehensive view, their utter destruction. Those who are as the Lord does, and intended we should inspired by the Holy Spirit to compre- do, and who do not comprehend the rev- hend the dealings of God with his peo- elations and the manner in which the ple, both ancient and modern, may be Lord purposes to deal with his people. able to look forward to the future and Under the operations of the United behold a prosperous and happy people Order the ancient Nephites were that shall be one in temporal things, and 180 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. rich in the enjoyment of heavenly things, to think that this state of feeling is nec- and among whom there will be no poor or essary to constitute us good democrats; rich, having all things common, so far as in other words, unless we have this kind property is concerned, when no one will of feeling of "doing as we damn please"— say "this is mine, and I have a right to do you will please pardon the expression— just as I please with it." we are not men, that this is the only way we can give expression to our manhood. And yet to my mind this state of To me this is worse than folly; it is ig- things will not necessarily be incompat- norance of the true spirit of manhood. ible with individual responsibility and A Saint will say, "I have no will of my stewardship. It will merely imply that own, except to do the will of my Heav- advanced condition of the people, that enly Father who has created me. True, will enable them to seek each other's he has given me an agency and this will, welfare, and build each other up instead but he has given it to me to see what I of pulling each other down, in order that will do with it, how I will use it; and I they may rise upon the ruins of their fel- have been instructed from heaven suffi- lows. And that which they possess, or ciently to know and understand that it are stewards over, will be held in trust, is for my best interest to allow this will from the Lord, accounted for to Him, and to be subservient to the will of my Fa- to His servants who shall be over them ther; it is best for me so to live and so in the Lord. This state of things will be to seek his face and favor, that I may such as Brother Cannon referred to this know and learn what his will is concern- morning; when there will be no tempta- ing me, and that I may be ready to do tion placed before the people to take ad- it, holding my will in subjection to his." vantage of their neighbor, because there "Well, then, how can you be an indepen- will be nothing to be gained by it; there dent man? Surely you cannot be an in- there will be no temptation to steal or dependent man unless you resist every- plunder, for if they need anything for body's will but your own." If good and their personal comfort, it could be sup- evil is placed before us, does not the per- plied them with all good feeling; and son who chooses the good and refuses the he that would take stealthily that which evil exhibit his agency and manhood as would be given to him freely and abun- much as the man who chooses the evil dantly, would be a consummate fool, or and refuses the good? Or is the indepen- grossly wicked. This state of things also dence of manhood all on the side of the presupposes a disposition on the part of evildoer? I leave you to answer this ques- all to do their duty; to be saints in very tion in your own mind. To me, I think deed, to be industrious, to be frugal, us- the angels and saints and all good peo- ing their gifts and talents for the com- ple have exercised their agency by choos- mon welfare, to be ready to serve where ing the good and refusing the evil; and they are best fitted to serve; in a word, in doing so they not only exhibit their in- to be the servants and handmaidens of dependence and manhood as much, but the Lord, instead of serving themselves show a much higher and greater nobility and having a will of their own contrary of character and disposition; and I leave to the will of heaven, and determined to the future to determine who are wise in follow that if they have to go to hell for the choice of their freedom and indepen- doing it. We are, some of us, at times apt dence. THE UNITED ORDER, ETC. 181
Joshua said to ancient Israel: he has promised, it will not be by our "Choose ye this day whom ye will serve; clinging to Babylon and to her foolish if the Lord be God, serve him; if Baal, ways, and imitating the evil and foolish serve him. But as for me and my house, things of the world. But what we have we will serve the Lord." I think what proved and know to be good, hold fast to we need to learn are the true principles it; but lay aside that which tends to evil. that shall lead us to peace, to wealth We must become a people within and of and happiness in this world, and glory ourselves, sooner or later, and learn to and exaltation in the world to come. And be self-reliant and self-sustaining; this that if we can learn these principles, and we cannot do as individuals nor as an receive them in good and honest hearts, individual community, but by combining and teach them as our faith, and prac- our energies as a whole, we may even- tice them in our lives, we shall show tually arrive at this. To accomplish it our manhood, our independence and our requires a united effort, concerted ac- agency as creditably before the angels tion and perseverance, a long pull and and the Gods, as any wicked man can, a pull altogether. Disunion and pulling in refusing the good and cleaving to the against each other will only retard it; evil, exhibit his before the devil and his we need never think we can truly enrich angels. ourselves by plundering each other by Now the Latter-day Saints are gath- carrying on merchandising, and import- ering from all nations and tongues, with ing the products of the labor of other men divers customs and habits and tradi- while our own brethren at home are idle, tions, and we have brought them with hungry, naked and destitute. Merchants us, unfortunately we could not leave and middlemen are necessary evils, their ourselves behind, while we gathered to legitimate sphere is interchanging com- Zion. Having brought ourselves along modities between the producing classes. we have the labor of separating the fol- The Lord has taught us that by and by lies of Babylon, the traditions of the fa- he will waste away the wicked and un- thers and every foolish way, learning godly, or they will devour and destroy something better as fast as we can; and each other, when the righteous shall be this is the duty that is upon us. Many gathered out through the preaching of sermons would be necessary to teach the Gospel. And He designs his people us this lesson; we shall need the les- to prepare while there is time, and while son often repeated before we can learn he gives them bread to sustain them- these principles and practice them thor- selves. But if that time should come oughly; we shall need a great deal of suddenly upon us in our present condi- self-control, and a great deal of effort tion, who would be prepared for it? If on the part of the brethren to help us, the news was to reach us that Baby- and by mutually assembling together, lon was really going down, that a gen- by doing business together, by learn- eral war had overtaken her, causing dis- ing correct principles and then living tress of nations, and the closing up of her them. One thing is certain, that if manufactories, and the struggle between God accomplishes with the Latter-day capital and labor were again renewed, Saints what the prophets have fore- causing domestic and national trouble, told, and establishes his Zion, and he and as a consequence we found our for- makes them a holy nation, a kingdom of eign supplies cut off, how many would priests, a peculiar people to himself, as 182 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. begin to pray that Babylon might be real wealth may be summed up in a few spared a little longer? The sisters would words, to be the comforts of life; that begin to cast their eyes around to see is to say what is needed for us and our where they were to get their pans and families and those depending upon us. kettles, their stoves and articles of do- How are these obtained? We might say mestic use; the farmers would think money, when we have the money to ex- it very hard that mowers and reapers, change for them, and when these com- plows and harrows could no more be modities are to be bought. But where found on the market; and the mechanic do they come from? They are not in would find too that his business was af- the market unless somebody has pro- fected for the want of tools; and how the duced them; if in the shape of food, some ladies would feel when they found that farmer has raised it; if clothing, some their hats and bonnets and fine apparel manufactory has produced it; if boots were no longer to be purchased. The and shoes, somebody did the work. It real value of Provo Factory would then is the labor of men's hands with the aid be appreciated, and it would not be con- of machinery that produced these arti- sidered transcending to say, that it was cles; if not by the labor of our commu- worth more to the county than all the nity, by that of some other; and if we are merchants in Utah. It is true, it does not dependent upon other people then are net as large dividends to the stockhold- we their servants and they our masters. ers, as these merchants get who enrich The Southern States in the late civil war themselves by encouraging the vanity were whipped by the Northern States, and foolishness of the people. The Provo why? There may be some general rea- Factory takes the raw material produced sons, but you may say, speaking on nat- at home, and converts it into the use- ural principles they were not sufficiently ful articles of clothing for the people, and self-sustaining. They relied mainly upon that mainly by the labor of your own cit- their cotton, and a few other products of izens. The same might be said corre- the earth, mainly fruits of their close la- spondingly of every other branch of home bor; they had few manufacturing estab- industry. They ought to be encouraged lishments. They sent the raw material by the masses of the people; they ought to other States and countries, and these to be multiplied and increased among us worked it up, sending back to them the by our united efforts, for they produce manufactured articles. No nation un- our wealth. What is wealth? Does it con- der heaven can long thrive, and continue sist of gold and silver? No. Let this Ter- this state of things. Just as soon as their ritory be filled with gold, and war pre- trade was interfered with, their domestic vail outside and all intercourse be cut institutions broken into, and the country off, what would we do with it? It would blockaded, preventing the export of their be a medium of exchange, and as such raw material, and the import of manu- would facilitate home trade; but noth- factured goods, they were brought to the ing further. There is no real wealth in verge of ruin. metallic or paper currency, in drafts, let- This subject of home manufac- ters of credit, or any other representa- ture has become somewhat hackneyed. tive of value. At best they are only the When will we cease to talk about it? representatives of wealth, though conve- When the necessity ceases to exist, nient in carrying on our trade. But the when we will have learned to apply THE UNITED ORDER, ETC. 183 these principles in our daily lives and perty ought to be, instead of allowing conduct. The greatest lack among us them to be exposed to the storms of win- is the means to employ our idle hands. ter, as many are, and get out of repair. We should be able to afford every man, Some have thought we need but few fac- woman and child in our community prof- tories today; I may be mistaken, but I itable employment; were we able to do am under the impression that every fac- this, we would by wisely and prudently tory in the Territory, except yours, be- directing that labor become a thriftier, fore the last wool was brought into mar- wealthier and happier people, of whom ket, had to stop running for want of ma- it might be said, there were no poor terial. The wool that should have sup- among us. Comparatively speaking, we plied them was shipped out of the coun- can say now there is no abject poverty try, gone abroad to afford other hands among us, yet we are far from enjoying employment, and the goods brought back that which is our privilege to enjoy, and made up ready for wear, to sell to you. that which we have comes from abroad You not only buy back again your own and we are striving for money to pay for product, but you buy the labor of foreign it. Crops are mortgaged or sold to our manufacturers, and pay the transporta- creditors in advance for articles of for- tion both ways, all the expenses of the eign manufacture. I was told that San- merchants or middlemen who handle the pete County owed for sewing machines wool, and sell you the clothes, while your alone from forty to fifty thousand dol- own wives and children are idle at home, lars; and I was told by brother Thatcher and your own factories standing still for of Cache Valley, that forty thousand dol- want of wool. Is this the way to get rich? lars would not clear the indebtedness The same may be said with regard to the for sewing machines. The irrepressible manufacture of leather. Our hides and sewing machine agents have ravaged our skins either rot upon the fences, or are country, imposing themselves upon ev- gathered up and sold mostly to men who ery simpleton in the land, forcing their ship them to other countries to be tanned goods upon them. Tens of thousands of and worked up into harness and boots dollars are lying idle in the houses of and shoes, which are brought back for the Latter-day Saints today in this ar- you to wear; so that you are buying back ticle alone; almost every house you en- your own hides and skins, in the shape ter you can find a sewing machine noise- of these manufactured articles, and pay- less and idle, but very seldom you hear ing the cost of the transportation and it running; and all of which were pur- the profits of the middlemen, besides em- chased at enormous figures, and now the ploying strangers, while our own bone patent rights having expired, they can be and sinew too often are engaged either bought for less than half the prices paid digging a hole in the ground or lounge for them. And in this way many of our around the street corners for something agricultural machines are obtained; we to turn up. should be properly classified in our la- During the last sixteen years I have bor, so that our investments in agricul- been engaged laboring and counsel- tural and other machinery could be kept ing and trying to assist my brethren in constant use in the season thereof, in Southern Utah to become self- and then well taken care of, as pro- sustaining, and as much as they can 184 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to develop the resources of the country. economy, have accumulated a little We have begun a great variety of asso- means, and that such men are not will- ciations which are incorrectly called co- ing to put their money at the mercy operative institutions, but in reality they of laborers who have not sense enough are only combinations of capital. I have to take care of it, or to preserve intact sought for the last six or eight years to the capital invested, let alone increas- start cooperative institutions; that is to ing it. This, I say, is one of the great say associations of laborers, workmen's difficulties we have met with through- and workwomen's associations, associa- out this country, in attempting to start tions to derive benefits from a combined home industries. Everybody is willing effort, and by the unity of labor accumu- that somebody else should furnish the late material, manufacturing them into means and assume the responsibility; in useful articles for the common good, and other words, "if you have anything to then to induce those who begin to gather give us, we are willing to take it." "If we together a little surplus of capital, to en- work we must have from three to five dol- courage these labor associations, by let- lars per day, whether you make anything ting them have a little means to help out of the business or not; we would not them to start. But the great difficulty I want to work for any less, and when we have had to fight against has been the have got it instead of buying articles of ignorance of the laborers, their inability home production, we will buy those im- to make their labor pay for itself, and ported from foreign countries." Do all the their unwillingness to be put to the test. people feel and act like this? O, no; but They prefer someone to raise the capi- I think nearly all of us have indulged tal to be invested in the enterprises, and more or less in that folly. There are not employ them and pay them big wages; many of us that say by our acts "we de- and if we have not the money neces- sire to do away with the antagonism be- sary, they would have us borrow it at tween capital and labor." There are not big interest, and establish shoe shops, many capitalists in our community; if and woolen factories and other various we counted out a dozen, that would be branches of industry, fitted up with the about all. We are so evenly balanced, latest improved machinery, and they will that it might even be said of us now, that say, "Let us work by the day or piece, we have neither rich nor poor among and be paid our wages every Saturday us. The little capital we have, compared night; and then let us have a store to with the many who think themselves spend our money at, that we might do poor, would be a mere breakfast spell if as our fathers used to do in the old coun- turned loose among a greedy horde; I tries we came from." This is the spirit of include myself of course. When I say, the working classes of the old world, and greedy horde, I mean we are ignorant I said before, unfortunately we brought of the laws of life and true liberty, that ourselves with us when we emigrated which is needed among us for our own to the new world. They do not seem good. We should look and see how we to know that our capitalists are gener- can make ourselves useful in produc- ally men who have lived closely, have ing something, and not waste our time walked instead of rode, and through the either in digging holes in the ground dint of perseverance and the study of in the hopes of finding something, THE UNITED ORDER, ETC. 185 or laying in our nest with mouth wide will venture to say that nine-tenths of open like young robins, for something the property under mortgage and to be to be dropped in. This is not the way sacrificed in Salt Lake City, and in fact to become a self-sustaining, wealthy and throughout the Territory, is sacrificed at happy people. Will we form our asso- the shrine of this wildcat speculation. ciations and establish home industries? One of the best shares in any bank is a Will we tan the hides that come off our plowshare, and the best speculation we cattle and our sheep, and goats and other can go into, is to raise from the elements animals, making them into leather, and around us the things necessary to supply then work it up into boots and shoes and our daily wants. Everything produced harness and so forth; or will we suffer at home, furnishes employment for idle them to be shipped out of the country hands, and stimulates the production of for others to do it for us? Will the sis- some other articles. Let home manufac- ters ask their husbands and fathers to ture, and the production of raw material plant out mulberry trees along the wa- from the elements, be our watchword, ter ditches, where the willows are now that employment may be furnished our growing, so that you may secure food for sons and daughters, and those who shall the silkworm? A little while ago we had come unto us from distant lands. Let lots of worms, but nothing to feed them. us too establish reasonable and consis- Let the sisters raise the worms, and com- tent fashions within ourselves, and cease mence their little associations for feed- patronizing the fashions of the wicked ing them, that you may have silk to man- world. ufacture your ribbons and dresses. This Now, referring to what we call the climate is adapted to the silkworm, the United Order, what is it? I will tell you. growth of the mulberry, and the feed- It is to live at home and sustain our- ing of the worms, and the manufacture selves. It is not to hunt after capital as of the silk. Let us then have silk man- we would a fat goose to eat it up, and ufactures, let us all say, we will bless when eaten to hunt another the next day, this enterprise with our faith; and let the for fat geese are not so plentiful. Our men encourage the sisters by planting true policy is, learn how to produce and the trees for them and affording them ev- be sure to produce a little more than ery facility within their power. You may we consume; and if we only produce five say, this is a hard way of getting silk. cents a day in something more than we I assure the Latter-day Saints, that it consume, we will soon be rich. But if we will be harder by and by when Babylon all consume five cents a day more than goes down. We had better improve the we produce, how long before we shall all time and use the elements now within be poor? We are poor already when we our reach. Let us multiply our facto- commence that system. It is a great les- ries, and work up our wool at home, and son to impress upon the minds of this cease employing spinners and weavers great people, gathered from all nations at distant parts of the world, while our and tongues, to induce them to live at own people are hunting for something home and support themselves, to depend to do, and crying "hard times," or wast- upon their labor for their subsistence, in- ing their time hunting for minerals. I stead of hunting for somebody to devour. 186 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Many of the people may say, I do not then to succumb to the demands of oper- want to be eaten up by the rich. I can atives. This is the way of the world, and tell you there is a heap of us for the the warfare that is going on all the time; rich to eat up, and there are not many and why? Because they comprehend not rich to do it. My opinion is the scare is how to promote their mutual interests; the other way, for, as I have said, the covetousness of capital on one hand, and few rich among us are only a breakfast covetousness of labor on the other, each spell. How long do you think it would trying to enrich itself at the expense of take if we were all producers, and con- the other. Most of the Saints, when they verting the raw materials into useful ar- embraced the Gospel, partook of its true ticles, to become a self-sustaining peo- spirit, opening their hearts and hands, ple? And then if we heard of Babylon's and those who had it to spare, used their downfall, we would not of necessity lift means to gather up the poor; and when up our hands and cry, "O Lord spare they landed among us were generally on her a little longer, we are not ready for a common level. And hence the necessity her to go down, we should suffer from of our labor, and through our labor ac- the want of boots and shoes, and for cumulate capital instead of needless ex- our clothing, and our machinery, and so penditures, exhausting the results of our forth." The United Order is designed to labors and getting us into debt. Learn help us to be self-reliant and to teach to live within our means that there may us to understand what it costs to pro- be a little increase, that we may have duce that which we consume. One of the something wherewith to purchase im- chief obstacles in the way of our progress proved machinery, and extend our indus- towards becoming a self-sustaining peo- tries until we shall be able to supply our ple is the lack of this understanding every need. And that we may learn these among the people. They cling to the lessons, and profit by them for the mu- habits and customs of Babylon that they tual benefit of the Saints, and the ad- have learned abroad—the laborer wish- vancement of the Zion of our God, I pray ing to eat up the capitalist, and the in the name of Jesus. Amen. capitalist constantly guarded for fear he should be drawn into close quarters, and ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE CITY, ETC. 187
ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE CITY—THE FIRST PRINCIPLES—THE QUESTION OF AUTHORITY—THE ORDINANCES—EDUCATION OF OUR YOUTH—PLURAL MARRIAGE, ETC.—"MORMONISM" IMMORTAL.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOSEPH F. SMITH, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,SEPT. 30, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I fear I shall not be able to make my- er, making the journey from England self heard by this vast congregation. I to this city in about fifteen days. We have not been accustomed lately to ad- had rather a rough passage across the dress so many people; but on the con- Atlantic, having experienced equinoctial trary, a very few in a place at a time. gales and heavy seas for the first few It is difficult for me to speak so that all days, which made it very disagreeable; may hear me distinctly, in this immense the remainder of the voyage, however, house. Besides, I have not been in very was comparatively pleasant, and the trip good health of late, having had an attack from New York here very much so in- of sickness since my return home, which deed. has drawn heavily upon my strength. For the past few months I have been engaged preaching the Gospel in Eng- land, as opportunities presented for me I am thankful that I have been to do so. I did not travel very exten- privileged to meet with you today, un- sively, as my limited time and other cir- der so favorable circumstances as those cumstances did not warrant it. which surround us; although in com- I was pleased, in July last, to mon with the Latter-day Saints, I can- meet in Liverpool Brother Orson Pratt, not but regret the cause of my pres- who came to England to publish the ence among you. I left my home and Book of Mormon and the Doctrine friends here, but a few months ago, for and Covenants in phonetics, or phono- Europe, expecting to fill a mission there type. He was diligently engaged pros- of two years and perhaps much longer. ecuting this work at the time the But soon after hearing of the death sad news of the death of the Presi- of our departed President, Brigham dent reached us. Arrangements had Young, Brother Orson Pratt and I re- been so far completed that the type ceived a cablegram from our Brethren, was mostly obtained and delivered the Twelve, inviting us to return home. at our office, and preparations were As soon, therefore, as circumstances nearly made for the commencement of permitted, we were on our way hith- this work. But as Brother Pratt is 188 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. here, I will leave his mission and labors to Berlin; and we feel encouraged in our for him to narrate himself. labors in that country, knowing that ef- I can say, in all consciousness that forts have been made so long and so per- during the time I have been absent from sistently to open up the Gospel to that home, I have felt as strong a desire in my nation, without accomplishing anything. heart as I ever did, for the advancement The object of sending Elders forth to of the kingdom of God, and the spread of the nations of the earth is to preach the Gospel among those who sit in dark- the Gospel, that the world may know ness. And I feel that I have done the best the truth as it is in Christ Jesus, and I could under the circumstances to carry through obedience thereto be gathered out my desires. to the people of God, and be saved in His kingdom. We are thankful that we As missionaries we have labored un- are engaged in the great latter-day work, ceasingly through England, Scotland that God our heavenly Father is at the and Wales during the past summer, head, and has decreed to carry it forth to availing ourselves of every opportunity a successful consummation. Therefore, of holding meetings in the streets, on so long as we put our trust in Him, doing the squares, and in whatever places we the best we can to accomplish His pur- could procure for the purpose; the El- poses, we may rest content that all will ders going around from house to house be well. to notify the people and invite them to I have been a member of the Church attend. The brethren have labored dili- of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from gently and unceasingly the past summer, my childhood; and ever since I began to endeavoring in this way to spread the investigate for myself, I have been satis- Gospel. In many places very encourag- fied with my religion; I have been per- ing success has crowned their labors; in fectly confident that I was engaged in many instances congregations, number- a righteous cause, having had every as- ing from one to three thousand persons, surance that it is the work of God and have assembled in the public parks, and not of man; and that it is the business upon the commons, to listen to the El- of the Almighty to sustain it, choosing ders preaching. It is true, that so far we and using the instruments best suited have seen but little immediate fruits of to accomplish His purposes that were at this labor; but we feel that the seed is be- His command. I believe He has ever ing sown, that it will fall in more or less done so, and will continue to do so un- good soil, and in due season it will bring til He completes His undertaking. As forth fruit meet for repentance. Latter-day Saints we have every reason The European mission today if I am to rejoice in the Gospel, and in the tes- to speak my feelings plainly upon the timony we have received concerning its matter, is in a very low condition—that truth. I repeat, we have reason to re- is, speaking of Great Britain. Whereas, joice and to be exceeding glad, for we pos- on the Continent and throughout Scan- sess the testimony of Jesus, the spirit of dinavia, the work is flourishing. In some prophecy, which the world know nothing places in Germany, which have been im- about, nor can they without obedience to penetrable heretofore, the Gospel is now the Gospel. preached. There have been recently Jesus thoroughly understood this a number of baptisms in and adjacent matter, and fully explained it when ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE CITY, ETC. 189 he said, "Except a man be born again, months past to the world, and perhaps he cannot see the kingdom of God." On it would not be amiss to dwell for a few first reflection, it would seem that any- moments upon some of the principles of thing so clear, reasonable and tangible the Gospel, as though I were talking to could be easily made plain to the under- strangers, notwithstanding I feel I am in standing of all men. Hence the feeling the presence of the Latter-day Saints. that has prompted many of the Latter- About the first question an honest in- day Saints to believe, after their minds quirer would ask would be: What is your have been enlightened by the Spirit of religious belief? Or, What are the prin- God—everything being made so plain ciples of the Gospel as you understand and clear to them—that they had only them? I do not propose to tell you all to tell their friends and kindred what about the Gospel in one discourse, but I they had learned and they would gladly may tell you a few of my thoughts upon receive it. But how disappointed, after some of its principles, which are essen- they had presented to them the truths tial not only for the Latter-day Saints to of heaven in simplicity and plainness, to know, but for all the children of men, in hear them say "We cannot see it!" or "We order to be saved in the kingdom of God. do not believe it!" Or perhaps bitterly op- First, then, it is necessary to have pose it, which is by far the most common faith in God, "faith being the first prin- practice of the world. They cannot un- ciple in revealed religion, and the foun- derstand it. Why? Because, as Jesus dation of all righteousness." has said, no man can see the kingdom Faith in God is to believe that he is, except he is born again. You may preach and "that he is the only supreme gover- the Gospel to the people, but unless they nor and independent being, in whom all humble themselves as little children be- fullness and perfection and every good fore the Lord, acknowledging their de- gift and principle dwells independently," pendence upon him for light and wis- and in whom the faith of all other ratio- dom, they cannot see or sense it, al- nal beings must center for life and sal- though you may preach to them in as vation; and further, that he is the great great plainness as it is possible for the Creator of all things, that he is omnipo- truth to be conveyed from one person to tent, omniscient, and by his works and another. And should any believe your the power of his Spirit omnipresent. testimony it would only be belief. They Not only is it necessary to have faith would not see as you see—nor compre- in God, but also in Jesus Christ, his Son, hend it as you do—until they yield obe- the Savior of mankind and the Mediator dience to the requirements of the Gospel, of the New Covenant; and in the Holy and through the remission of their sins Ghost, who bears record of the Father receive the Holy Ghost. Then they, too, and the Son, "the same in all ages and can see as you do, for they have the forever." same spirit; then will they love the truth Having this faith, it becomes nec- as you do, and may wonder why they essary to repent. Repent of what? could not comprehend it before, or why Of every sin of which we may have it is that there can be anybody with com- been guilty. How shall we repent of mon intelligence that cannot understand these sins? Does repentance consist truth so plain and forcible. of sorrow for wrongdoing? Yes; but I have been preaching for a few is this all? By no means. True 190 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. repentance only is acceptable to God, Ghost by the laying on of hands. Only nothing short of it will answer the pur- those who are commissioned of Jesus pose. Then what is true repentance? Christ, have authority or power to be- True repentance is not only sorrow for stow this gift. The office of the Holy sins, and humble penitence and contri- Ghost is to bear record of Christ, or to tion before God, but it involves the neces- testify of him, and confirm the believer in sity of turning away from them, a discon- the truth, by bringing to his recollection tinuance of all evil practices and deeds, things that have passed, and showing or a thorough reformation of life, a vital revealing to the mind things present and change from evil to good, from vice to to come. "But the Comforter, which is virtue, from darkness to light. Not only the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will so, but to make restitution, so far as it send in my name, he shall teach you all possible, for all the wrongs we have done, things, and bring all things to your re- to pay our debts, and restore to God and membrance, whatsoever I have said unto man their rights—that which is due to you." "He will guide you into all truth." them from us. This is true repentance, Thus, without the aid of the Holy Ghost and the exercise of the will and all the no man can know the will of God, or powers of body and mind is demanded, that Jesus is the Christ—the Redeemer to complete this glorious work of repen- of the world—or that the course he pur- tance; then God will accept it. sues, the works he performs, or his faith, Having thus repented, the next thing are acceptable to God, and such as will requisite is baptism, which is an essen- secure to him the gift of eternal life, the tial principle of the Gospel—no man can greatest of all gifts. enter into the gospel covenant without "But," says an objector, "have we not it. It is the door of the Church of Christ, the Bible, and are not the Holy Scrip- we cannot get in there in any other way, tures able to make us wise unto salva- for Christ hath said it. "Sprinkling," tion?" Yes, provided we obey them. "All or "pouring," is not baptism. Baptism scripture is given by inspiration of God, means immersion in water, and is to be and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, administered by one having authority, in for correction, for instruction in righ- the name of the Father, and of the Son, teousness: That the man of God may and of the Holy Ghost. Baptism with- be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto out divine authority is not valid. It is all good works." The "good works" are a symbol of the burial and resurrection the great desideratum. The Bible itself of Jesus Christ, and must be done in the is but the dead letter, it is the spirit likeness thereof, by one commissioned that giveth life. The way to obtain the of God, in the manner prescribed, oth- Spirit is that which is here marked out erwise it is illegal and will not be ac- so plainly in the Scriptures. There is cepted by him, nor will it effect a re- no other. Obedience, therefore, to these mission of sins, the object for which it principles is absolutely necessary, in or- is designed, but whosoever hath faith, der to obtain the salvation and exalta- truly repents and is "buried with Christ tion brought to light through the Gospel. in baptism," by one having divine au- As to the question of authority, thority, shall receive a remission of sins, nearly everything depends upon it. and is entitled to the gift of the Holy No ordinance can be performed to ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE CITY, ETC. 191 the acceptance of God without divine au- and call upon man to repent and be bap- thority. No matter how fervently men tized in the name of the Lord? Or, that may believe, or pray, unless they are en- "This Jesus hath God raised up (from dowed with divine authority they can the dead), whereof we all (the Apos- only act in their own name, and not tles) are witnesses." And, therefore, let legally nor acceptably in the name of all men "know assuredly, that God hath Jesus Christ, in whose name all these made that same Jesus," who was cruci- things must be done. Some suppose this fied, "both Lord and Christ." No man, authority may be derived from the Bible, without the Holy Ghost as enjoyed by the but nothing could be more absurd. The ancient Apostles, can know these things, Bible is but a book containing the writ- therefore cannot declare them by author- ings of inspired men, "profitable for doc- ity, nor teach and prepare mankind for trine, for reproof, for correction, and in- the salvation of God. God Almighty is struction in righteousness;" as such we the only source from whence this knowl- hold it is sacred; but the spirit, power edge, power and authority can be ob- and authority by which it is written can- tained, and that through the operations not be found within its lids, nor derived of the Holy Ghost. The Scriptures may from it. "For the prophecy came not in serve as a guide to lead us to God, and old time by the will of man: but holy hence to the possession of all things nec- men of God spake as they were moved essary to life and salvation, but they can by the Holy Ghost." If by reading and do no more. believing the Bible this authority could Having profiled by this example, and be obtained, all who read and believed done the works commanded by both would have it—one equally with another. Christ and his Apostles, ancient and I have read the Bible, and I have as good modern, I am happy of the privilege to reason for believing it as any other man, declare to the inhabitants of the earth and do believe it with all my heart; but that I have received this testimony and this does not give me authority to teach witness for myself. I do know that men in the name of the Lord, nor to of- these things are true. Jesus my Re- ficiate in the sacred ordinances of the deemer lives, and God hath made him Gospel. Were the Scriptures the only both Lord and Christ. To know and source of knowledge, we would be with- to worship the true God, in the name out knowledge for ourselves, and would of Jesus—in spirit and in truth—is the have to rest our hopes of salvation upon duty of man. To aid and qualify him a simple belief in the testimonies and for this service is the duty and office of sayings of others. This will not do for the Holy Ghost. Man may fail through me; I must know for myself, and if I faltering and unfaithfulness, but the act as a teacher of these things, I must Spirit of God will never fail, nor aban- be clothed with the same light, knowl- don the faithful disciple. I can say edge and authority those were who acted as one who has tried the experiment— in a similar calling anciently. Else how for it may be called an experiment to could I declare the truth and bear tes- the beginner—that all who will take timony as they did? What right would the course and accept the doctrine thus I have to say "thus saith the Lord," marked out will, through faithfulness, become acquainted with the truth, and shall know of the doctrine, whether it be 192 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of God or of man, and will rejoice in it as giveness of our sins. all good, faithful Latter-day Saints do. In various dispensations there are Here is an ordinance which we are various differences in regard to certain now administering, the Sacrament of the requirements of the Gospel. For in- Lord's Supper; it is a principle of the stance, in the day of Noah, when he Gospel, one as necessary to be observed preached the Gospel to the antediluvian by all believers, as any other ordinance world, he was given a special command- of the Gospel. What is the object of it? ment, to build an ark, that in case the It is that we may keep in mind contin- people would reject him and the message ually the Son of God who has redeemed sent unto them, that himself and all who us, from eternal death, and brought us believed on him might be saved from the to life again through the power of the destruction that awaited them. In this Gospel. Before the coming of Christ to dispensation there is a principle or com- the earth, this was borne in mind by mandment peculiar to it. What is that? the inhabitants of the earth to whom the It is the gathering the people unto one Gospel was preached, by another ordi- place. The gathering of this people is nance, which involved the sacrifice of an- as necessary to be observed by believ- imal life, an ordinance which was a type ers, as faith, repentance, baptism, or any of the great sacrifice that should take other ordinance. It is an essential part of place in the meridian of time. Hence, the Gospel of this dispensation, as much Adam, after he was cast out of the Gar- so, as the necessity of building an ark den, was commanded to offer sacrifices to by Noah, for his deliverance, was a part God; by this act he, and all who partici- of the Gospel of his dispensation. Then pated in the offering of sacrifices, were the world was destroyed by a flood, now reminded of the Savior who should come it is to be destroyed by war, pestilence, to redeem them from death which, were famine, earthquakes, storms, and tem- it not for the atonement wrought out by pests, the sea rolling beyond its bounds, him, would forever exclude them from malarious vapors, vermin, disease, and dwelling in the presence of God again. by fire and the lightnings of God's wrath But in his coming and death, this com- poured out for destruction upon Baby- mandment was fulfilled; and he insti- lon. The cry of the angel unto the righ- tuted the Supper and commanded his teous of this dispensation is, "Come out followers to partake of this in all time of her, O my people, that ye partake to come, in order that they may re- not of her sins, and that ye receive not member him, bearing in mind that he of her plagues." We believe also in the had redeemed them, also that they had principle of direct revelation from God covenanted to keep his commandments to man. This is a part of the Gospel, and to walk with him in the regenera- but it is not peculiar to this dispensa- tion. Hence it is necessary to partake tion. It is common in all ages and dispen- of the sacrament, as a witness to him sations of the Gospel. The Gospel can- that we do remember him, are willing not be administered, nor the Church of to keep the commandments he has given God continue to exist without it. Christ us, that we may have his spirit to be is the head of his Church and not man, with us always—even to the end, and and the connection can only be main- also that we may continue in the for- tained upon the principle of direct and ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE CITY, ETC. 193 continuous revelation. It is not a heredi- add to his condemnation, for it would be tary principle, it cannot be handed down as burying his talent in the earth. To from father to son, or from generation to secure the fulness of the blessings, we generation, but is a living vital principle must receive the fulness of the Gospel. to be enjoyed on certain conditions only, Yet men will be judged and rewarded namely—through absolute faith in God according to their works. "To him that and obedience to his laws and command- knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to ments. The moment this principle is cut him it is sin." Those who receive a part off, that moment the Church is adrift, of the Gospel with light and knowledge being severed from its everliving head. to comprehend other principles, and yet In this condition it cannot continue, but do not obey them will come under this must cease to be the Church of God, and law, hence condemnation will be added like the ship at sea, without captain, unto such, and that which they did re- compass or rudder, is afloat at the mercy ceive may be taken from them and added of the storms and the waves, of ever to them who are more worthy. contending human passions, and worldly Obedience is a requirement of interests, pride and folly, finally to be heaven, and is therefore a principle of wrecked upon the strand of priestcraft the Gospel. Are all required to be obedi- and superstition. The religious world ent? Yes, all. What, against their will? is in this condition today, ripening for O, no, not by any means. There is no the great destruction which awaits them, power given to man, nor means lawful to but there is an ark prepared for such as be used to compel men to obey the will are worthy of eternal life, in the gather- of God, against their wish, except per- ing of the Saints to the chambers of the suasion and good advice, but there is a Almighty, where they shall be preserved penalty attached to disobedience, which until the indignation of God is passed. all must suffer who will not obey the ob- vious truths or laws of heaven. I believe Marriage, is also a principle or ordi- in the sentiment of the poet: nance of the Gospel, most vital to the "Know this, that every soul is free, happiness of mankind, however unim- To choose his life and what he'll be; For portant it may seem, or lightly regarded this eternal truth is given, That God will by many. There is no superfluous or un- force no man to heaven. He'll call, per- necessary principle in the plan of life, suade, direct aright, Bless him with wis- but there is no principle of greater im- dom, love and light. In nameless ways portance or more essential to the hap- to be good and kind, But never force the piness of man—not only here, but es- human mind." pecially hereafter, than that of mar- Is it a difficult task to obey the riage. Yet all are necessary. What good Gospel? No. It is an easy matter to would it be to one to be baptized and those who possess the spirit of it. Most receive not the Holy Ghost? And sup- of this congregation can testify that the pose he went a little further and re- Gospel "yoke is easy, and the burden ceived the Holy Ghost, thereby obtain- is light." Those who have embraced it ing the testimony of Jesus, and then will be judged according to their works stopped at that, what good would it therein, whether they be good or evil. To do him? None whatever, but would such as are untrue to their covenants, 194 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. it may be said by and by, "depart from be the truth—Bible truth, Gospel truth, me!" In vain will they plead their former and are essential to the salvation of good works, and faith. Why? Because mankind. I am not deceived in this the race is not to the swift nor the bat- but know whereof I speak. My reli- tle always to the strong, but to him that gion teaches me to do good, to be at endures faithful to the end. We must peace with my neighbors, at least not to save ourselves from this untoward gen- infringe upon their rights nor trespass eration. It is a continual labor, but the upon their property, and even to endure strength of the righteous will be suffi- wrongs from them rather than do them cient for their day. Jesus said, "In my Fa- wrong, or even demand from the tres- ther's house there are many mansions." passer what I might deem full justice. It There is a glory, or mansion, of which the teaches me to trust in the justice of the sun is typical, another of which the moon Almighty, and to rest my cause in his is typical, and still another like unto the hands. It enjoins honesty, sobriety and stars, and in this latter the condition of industry. It forbids profanity, lying, adul- its occupants will differ as the stars dif- tery, deceitfulness, and vile cunning. fer in appearance. Every man will re- ceive according to his works and knowl- It gives true enlightenment to the edge. "These are they who are of Paul, mind and exalts the low and debased and Apollos, some of one and some of who will hearken and obey it. The ob- another—some of Christ, some of John, servance of the Gospel will make good of Moses, Elias, Isaiah and Enoch; But men of bad ones, and better men of good received not the gospel, nor the testi- ones. It will make good citizens, good mony of Jesus." Thus impartial justice fathers, husbands, wives and children, will be meted out unto all, and none will good neighbors, a good people, an en- be lost but the sons of perdition. lightened, pure and high-minded com- Let us treat with candor the religious munity, a blessed state and a prosper- sentiments of all men, no matter if they ous nation. Obedience to the Gospel differ from ours, or appear to us absurd will save the world from sin, abolish and foolish. Those who hold them may war, strife and litigation, and usher in be as sincere as we are in their convic- the millennial reign. It will restore tions. It is well to prove all things, so the earth to its rightful owner, and pre- far as we can, and be sure to hold fast to pare it for the inheritance of the just. that which is good, no matter where we These are all principles of that same find it. Ridicule is not likely to convince Gospel of Christ, and the effects which a man of his error, or if it does, it may de- will flow from their acceptance and adop- stroy his respect and love for its author, tion by mankind. Jesus taught them, and if he has truth, his victim will most and on one occasion the people took up likely spurn it. stones and were about to stone him for I desire to say that my faith in it. When he said, "Many good works this work is as firm or firmer than have I showed you from my Father; for ever. My heart is in it, and I which of those works do ye stone me?" know truly it is the kingdom of God. He had done many good works, taught These things of which I have been them many good things, and for this so imperfectly speaking, I know to they were about to stone him. The ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE CITY, ETC. 195
Latter-day Saints could with propriety pioneers of true and enlightened civiliza- address themselves in like manner to the tion in the Western States and Terri- world, but more especially to our own na- tories. Through our industry and en- tion. We have done many good things, terprise, cities, towns and villages have have tried to do no harm, have suffered sprung up in the wilderness, and the the spoilation of our goods without retal- deserts and waste places have been iation, have been driven from place to made fruitful and to blossom as the rose. place. Our Prophets and leaders have Can there be any wrong in all this? been slain, and you still persecute us, "But," says one, "it is not for this you are and are not satisfied. For which of the persecuted, it is for your religion." What, good works we have done do ye these then, in the name of reason, is there things? I know they will say, "for your in our religion that we should be perse- good works we do not hate or persecute cuted for it? Is it because we believe in you, but for your blasphemy, and because the Lord Jesus Christ? The Christian you say you are the people of God." This world also profess belief in him, and we was about what the Jews said to Jesus, believe in him as much as they do and a but it did not change the fact that he little more. Is it because we believe it is had told them the truth, or that he had necessary to repent of sin? Certainly we done the many good works among them have a right to do this. Is it because we which he did, nor that it was for these baptize for the remission of sin? Christ they hated and crucified him. What commanded it, and laid it down as the did the Savior or his disciples do to in- law. Then what can it be that so distin- jure mankind? Nothing. But much to guishes us from the people of the world, benefit them; yet they were hated, per- and that moves their hatred toward us? secuted, hunted and destroyed. What Is it revelation from God to man? Per- have the Latter-day Saints done to in- haps so. jure anybody? Absolutely nothing, but a great deal to benefit humanity. I am Some forty years ago, the great cry at the defiance of the world to prove to against Joseph Smith was "He believes the contrary. We have gathered our peo- in revelation!" and this was considered a ple by thousands out of poverty and dis- crime. But very soon after, others who tress from many nations to these val- were not "Mormons" commenced to have leys where they are now enjoying good "revelations," and seemingly the stream homes, the sweets of liberty and plenty. has so enlarged that today the world is Aside from religion, that is an ines- full of "revelation." So our belief in rev- timable blessing to them. But we have elation is not now considered so much also taught them good principles and of a crime as formerly, and therefore it doctrines, and they are happy, honest, in- can be no longer the object of persecu- dustrious and prosperous. tion, for we would have as good a right We have labored diligently to ad- to persecute them, as they would to per- vance in the scale of intelligence. secute us on that score. We do not be- Our schools compare favorably with lieve in these "revelations" of the world, any in our broad land; our children no more than they do in ours. We believe are as intelligent, and we are the them to be bogus, but we are quite wil- 196 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. ling that others should enjoy their opin- Has plural marriage deprived any ions. We believe that while they have woman of a home, of husband or chil- rejected the true light, they are found dren? Has it promoted immorality or willing and ready to be thus deceived, vice? No, it has not. Has it sown the by false and delusive spirits, just as seeds of corruption and death among the the Prophets have foretold would be the people? On the contrary it has promoted case. (See 1 Tim., 4th chap., 1st verse, healthy, robust and vigorous increase, and 2 Tim. iii, 1). The revelations given and the laws of life and health. Can the through Joseph Smith are full of light, Elders of this Church be accused of go- knowledge and wisdom, because they ing to the Gentiles for their wives and emanated from God. What has Spiritu- daughters? No, for we think we have alism done for the world? Can it boast of better ones at home, we have not the bringing life and immortality to light? I least occasion to go abroad. So far as re- have yet to learn that a single principle lates to this matter we are independent has been developed from this source that of the world. We are willing to let them will save mankind, or exalt them to the and theirs alone, and mind our own busi- presence and glory of God. Yet they have ness, while we respectfully request them a right to their convictions, and we grant also to attend to their own affairs. it cordially. We have the same right. The real facts are, the Latter-day But says one, "You have dodged Saints have embraced the unpopular the main question; it is polygamy that doctrine of Jesus Christ, have received causes all the trouble!" the keys of the Holy Priesthood— This is the mind of our enemies gen- heaven's delegated authority to man, erally, yet nothing can be more falla- and are not ashamed of the gospel, know- cious; those who assert this only ex- ing it to be the power of God unto sal- pose their ignorance. The fact is that vation. Hence the Devil is enraged, and since the announcement and practice of although they will not believe it, this that principle by this people, their perse- professedly pious, hypocritical world are cutions have been comparatively trivial moved with hatred towards the work and and harmless to what they were, before the people of God, instigated by the spirit it was even known to themselves. of him whose servants they are. "By But the plural marriage of the "Mor- their fruits ye shall know them." mons" now seems to form one of the They predict our downfall, but they strongest pretexts for the bitterness of will not live to see their predictions ful- our enemies, and the thoughtless read- filled. The wicked may rage and imag- ily fall into the ranks of the maligners of ine they can successfully measure arms this principle. Did they ever stop to re- with the Almighty, but he will hold them flect as to what harm this principle and in derision and laugh when their fear practice has done? Let me ask the ladies cometh, while the kingdom of God will in this vast audience, Have any of you, or continue to progress until his purposes do you know of any woman who has been are consummated as has been decreed. compelled to practice polygamy among It is vain for the world to hope this people? Or who has been com- that "Mormonism" will die with pelled even to marry at all? I think not. President Brigham Young. When ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE CITY, ETC. 197 the Prophet Joseph Smith was assassi- to God my heavenly Father, and I desire nated the press and pulpit universally to increase in the truth, to become better, joined in predicting the end of "Mor- more faithful and diligent in overcoming monism." But instead of their being any every weakness, that I may be worthy truth in their predictions, "The blood of to stand in the position I occupy in the the martyrs was the seed of the church;" Church of the living God. This is the for the church grew as fast as it had way we should all feel; and we should, ever done before, and it took deeper and above all other considerations, be deter- firmer root. Men were no longer de- mined to cleave to the gospel, building pendent upon the Prophet, the man of our faith upon the rock, not upon the God to guide them; they began to stand arm of flesh. Let us humble ourselves be- upon their own foundation, to seek more fore God, seek unto him continually with earnestly after God themselves, and to prayerful hearts, be diligent in the ob- know for themselves, and not to be de- servance of our covenants, and he will pendent upon the voice of man. Hence bear us off triumphant over every op- they grew in faith and in power, the posing foe and every power that under- truth sinking deeper into the hearts of takes to measure arms with him and the people who remained true to the his cause. This is my testimony, and Lord, and they a comparative handful, this is my exhortation to the Latter-day have succeeded in building up the church Saints. I pray God to bless his people, as it exists today in these valleys. Are and to bless his servant brother Taylor, we now going to be scattered to the four who stands at the head of the Quorum winds because one or two distinguished of the Twelve Apostles, who now pre- men should pass away? No, the seed side over the Church of Jesus Christ of has fallen into good ground, and it will Latter-day Saints in all the earth. May germinate and mature; the priesthood it- the Lord bless him, prolong his life and self is still with us, the authority is here, give him power and wisdom to stand in and in obedience to the command of God, his place and calling and to magnify the we will continue to go forth and organize priesthood conferred upon him; may his and establish the kingdom, never more brethren stand with him in one solid to be thrown down or given to another phalanx, united as one man, even as God people, until all is consummated and fin- the Father and Jesus and the heavenly ished. This is the work of God, and not hosts are one, and I tell you the whole of man. Man is incompetent to direct people will be united and rejoice in the and manage it. He will not suffer man truth. That God may bless the faithful to arrogate to himself the honor of doing everywhere and enable them to keep sa- it. The honor belongs to him and he will cred the covenants they have made with take it to himself. him, is my earnest prayer, in the name of This is my faith in the Gospel. It Jesus. Amen. fills my soul with joy and gratitude 198 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
LEAVING NAUVOO—NO CHANGE ACCIDENTAL—DIVINITY MARKS THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH—DILIGENCE WILL AID IN SECURING SUCCESS—THE TEMPLE IN NAUVOO.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE BOWERY,SALT LAKE CITY,JULY 21, 1867.
REPORTEDBY DAVID W. EVANS.
It has been very interesting to me, knew but little of us, that we must be and no doubt it has to all who have quite as bad as we had been represented been present, to listen to the remarks to be; and if we were, of course we had of our brethren this morning, in rela- nobody to steal from in the wilderness tion to the principles of the Gospel as but ourselves; nobody to aggress and taught by us, and their experience in prey upon but ourselves, and these be- this work. While Brother Lawrence was ing our characteristics, as they believed, speaking in relation to our position in they very naturally came to the conclu- Nauvoo, my mind reverted to the time sion that we would quarrel one with an- when we left there, and to the reluc- other, and the result would be our ex- tance displayed by many of our people termination through our own quarrels, to cross the river and take their journey or that we should fall an easy prey westward. It required a great amount to the Indians. How these anticipa- of faith on the part of the people, to tions have been realized, the lapse of venture into an unexplored and desert twenty-one years has proved. For a country to attempt again to build up number of years after leaving Nauvoo homes, and to perform the labors en- we were not deemed particularly wor- joined upon us by God, our Heavenly Fa- thy of notice. Men's minds were at- ther. There was a cry of exultation went tracted in other directions, and our op- up throughout all that country when we erations here, being so far removed from were broken up, and the hope was in- all communication with them, were al- dulged in by all who were inimical to most overlooked. But time has wrought us, that the solution of the Mormon great changes, not only with us and in problem had been arrived at, and that our position, but also in the position the subject of Mormonism might hence- and feelings of the world by which we forth be dismissed from every mind. are surrounded. Instead of being re- We had gone forth into the wilderness, garded as a people scarcely worthy of and it was not at all likely that we notice, we now, through the blessings would ever trouble civilization again. It of our Heavenly Father, inhabit a large was naturally supposed, by those who Territory, and if we are alluded to at LEAVING NAUVOO, ETC. 199 all by the world, it is in a national ca- if they are only faithful to the truth that pacity. Have these changes been acciden- he has committed unto them. Would tal and unlooked for? Did no one antic- to God that all the inhabitants of the ipate such results as we now behold be- earth could see and comprehend these ing wrought out? Or were they antici- things! Would to God that they would di- pated years and years ago by those most vest themselves of their prejudices and familiar with the genius and organiza- preconceived ideas, and that they would tion of the kingdom of God? Those who calmly look truth in the face and reflect are not familiar with our early history upon the work that God, our Heavenly have but to read the utterances of those Father, is performing in the midst of the who were engaged in the founding of nations of the earth! If they would do this work, to become convinced that they this, they might avoid a great many diffi- were anticipated long ago by those who culties into which they will otherwise be contemplated the future growth and de- inevitably involved. It is no more, nor velopment of the kingdom of God. There no less, true today, than it was thirty- is no feature connected with our cir- seven years ago, that God has stretched cumstances today that has not been fa- forth his hand to accomplish a great and miliar for years to the minds of those a mighty work, that shall stand forever, who have contemplated the future of and shall not be given into the hands of this work. When the church was or- another people; but it will go on increas- ganized, and a small house would hold ing and spreading abroad, until it has all its members, predictions were in- accomplished that for which it was des- dulged in that the circumstances of to- tined by our Almighty Father. I say it is day but partially fulfil, and years will as true now as it was then, and no more yet have to elapse before they are com- true today than then, and they who paid pletely fulfilled. Our Heavenly Father heed to it then have never had cause to poured out his spirit upon his servants regret doing so; and they who give heed in the beginning, which enabled them to it today will never have cause to re- to comprehend the work he had estab- gret it in the future. To us who are fa- lished on the earth, and through the miliar with this work, and understand spirit of prophecy and revelation they the operations of the spirit, and can see could plainly see the great results which the design of God, our Heavenly Father, would be wrought out through the faith- it seems strange that mankind should be fulness of the people of God. Can we so indifferent to so great a work as this now see the limit of this work? Is the in which we are engaged. Yet it is so. You horizon of our vision bounded by those would imagine that men going forth with things actually transpiring around us, the proclamation that the elders bear or do we still stretch forward to a fu- would receive everywhere that attention ture, for this people, too glorious for de- that the importance of their proclama- scription? I do not suppose there is tion demands, at least until men were one here who has ever thought on this satisfied in their own minds of the truth great subject and attempted to grasp or falsity of the message they bear. But the circumstances by which we are sur- this is not the case. No man ever calmly rounded, that has not stretched forward sat down with a prayerful heart to ex- in delightful anticipation of the glorious future that awaits the people of God, 200 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. amine the claims of this work, popularly the earth, binds them together, and termed Mormonism, who did not rise makes a unity of the people of the var- from the investigation convinced that ious nationalities here assembled to- there was a power, an influence and a gether? Is it the power of man? Is it spirit accompanying this work, that he delusion? Or, is it a manifestation of had never met with before. Are they who the restoration of that power bestowed investigate the ones who fight against upon men in ancient days, and which has this work, and persecute and slay the been so long withdrawn from the earth? servants of God? No; they who do this Why is it that we love one another? Is are the ignorant, who have never inves- it as the Apostle John said, "We know tigated, or, having investigated and em- that we have passed from death unto life, braced it, have afterwards apostatized, because we love the brethren?" We love and have thus become two-fold more the one another because we have bowed in children of hell, through rejecting the obedience to the truth which God has truth. God our Heavenly Father has revealed, and through the reception of commenced a great and mighty work, the Holy Spirit of promise we have the and has given the strongest kind of ev- love of God in our hearts. If mankind idence in favor of it, if the inhabitants of loved the truth and would examine these the earth would only receive it; but their things, they would see something desir- condemnation will consist in their rejec- able about this work, and they would be tion of this work and the evidence of its prompted to investigate. But the dif- truth which is spread before them. The ficulty now is, as it has been in every whole history of this people, from the age when God has attempted to estab- commencement until the present time, lish his work upon the earth—men in affords abundant evidence of the divin- general are blinded by the traditions of ity of the work in which we are en- their fathers. This, and the love of ease, gaged. When our elders go forth into and popularity, and other worldly ob- the world men cry aloud for miracles, jects that surround them, prevent men for some supernatural manifestation of from seeing the work of God in its true power, that will convince them that we light, and blinds them to their highest are the people we profess to be. Jesus interests. They cannot see how they said, "A wicked and an adulterous gen- are going to receive any benefit from eration seek a sign; but no sign shall be this work. That which is material is given them, save the sign of the prophet right before them, and they can under- Jonah." But God, our Heavenly Father, stand the material advantages accruing has nevertheless left his handwriting, as to them through not obeying this work; it were, to be seen by all the nations but the advantages and blessings that of the earth on the work that he has would result from obedience are hidden established. Divinity is marked in ev- from their sight, being discernible only ery feature of this great work; in ev- by the light of the Spirit of God. Yet there ery step of its progress, from its com- is this peculiar feature about the work of mencement until the present time, we God today, more especially than at any see divinity exhibited, and the power other time since the days of Enoch, that of God manifested in its preservation, they who embrace it not only receive the growth and development. What is it that Spirit of God, with its gifts, but they brings this people from the nations of LEAVING NAUVOO, ETC. 201 also receive blessings of a temporal na- The work in which we are engaged ture, which they would never receive differs in some respects from the work outside of it. Those who have joined the in which the Apostles were engaged in Church, as a mass, have been benefited the days of Jesus Christ. Many things temporally, though at the time of render- operated against them that we have not ing obedience, they probably could not to contend with. They had to scatter out see how advantages of this nature could and preach the Gospel in various places; result. They could see that their names they could not gather together with the would be cast out as evil, that they would same facility that we can. But God, be hated of all men, persecuted and prob- our Heavenly Father, reserved this—the ably driven from place to place, but how land of promise—for the especial pur- they would be blessed temporally they pose of building up his kingdom in the could not see. But God, our Heavenly latter days. As the "Book of Mormon" in- Father, has held in reserve until these forms us, it has been hid from the eyes days great and glorious blessings for his of the generations of men for this pur- people, who are faithful to the truth. He pose. If it had not been thus hidden the has reserved for his Saints the kingdom nations of the earth would have overrun and the greatness of the kingdom un- the land until there would have been no der the whole heavens. Not something foothold found for the establishment of beyond the bounds of time and space, the kingdom of God upon it. But the Lord not something that we will inherit in concealed it, from the days of the flood, eternity alone; but he has also tempo- from the eyes of men, excepting those ral advantages to bestow upon his peo- whom he led hither; as we are informed ple here. A great many people imag- by the "Book of Mormon" that no nation ine that we hold these out as induce- after the flood, knew anything about this ments to get people to join the Church; land; although I believe it is said in the but they who join the Church for the love Norwegian Antiquarian researches, that of these things, and with a desire to ob- this land was visited by the Icelanders in tain them, are invariably disappointed. the eleventh century. But there is noth- If people join the Church of God with ing authentic in this. But be that as any other motive than to embrace the it may, this land was kept secret until truth and to be associated with the peo- Columbus was moved upon by the Spirit ple of God, and to receive the spirit of of God, to go forth and penetrate the the Gospel, they are invariably disap- western ocean. Then the land was set- pointed; but when they come in for the tled and a government was formed un- love of the truth, willing to take upon der the protecting aegis of liberty, and them the cross of Christ, and endure all a place was found for the establishment the persecutions incident to the life of of the kingdom of God, to which the a Saint, submit, to the contumely and Saints from every nation under Heaven privation that in the providence of God could gather together. Hence we are sur- they may be called to endure, God thus rounded by many more favorable circum- tests their faith, and if they continue stances than they who preceded us in the faithful he will bestow upon them every work of God in the days of Jesus and blessing promised to the most faithful. the Apostles. They did not possess the 202 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. advantages that we enjoy; but we have the privilege of all to possess. It is them, and our Heavenly Father intends this that binds us together, and gives that we shall possess them, and that the Priesthood influence over the Saints we shall build up his kingdom on the of God. My brethren and sisters, it earth, establish righteousness and bring is only by faithfulness that we can re- about that improvement alluded to by tain this knowledge. A man may be brother Jesse N. Smith, in his remarks. an Apostle and may have had the ad- Our circumstances, then, being differ- ministration of holy angels, and the ent, we can indulge in anticipations no heavens opened to his view, and behold other people have ever been able to in- the things of eternity, but if he is not dulge in, unless it be the people of Enoch faithful himself, pursuing a right and and the Nephites, to whom Jesus ap- proper course before God, he cannot re- peared on this Continent. tain his standing in this Church and Those who investigate the Gospel keep that knowledge God has given him with a desire to keep the commandments undimmed by error; but errors will creep of God, as I have remarked, rise from into his heart and false spirits take pos- its investigation with convictions of its session of him, and sooner or later he truth, for an honest man cannot go to the will become alienated from the work of Lord in the name of Jesus Christ, and God. We should everyone be careful on ask Him respecting this Gospel with- these points. This is the work of God, out receiving a knowledge for himself and there is a well-established princi- that it is true. In my preaching to the ple upon which we can remain connected world, I have many times dared them to with it, and that is by being true and this test, that if they would go in hon- faithful to the principles which God our esty before the Lord and ask Him in the Heavenly Father has revealed. We can- name of Jesus Christ to show to them not grieve the Spirit of God with im- the truth of this Gospel, I would pledge punity; we cannot indulge in frivolity myself that the Lord would show them nor in anything that is wrong without and they would become convinced that driving that spirit from us with its holy the principles we taught were indeed the and sweet influence. We should seek, principles of life and salvation. No per- therefore, as individuals, whether Apos- son ever investigated this Gospel with tles, High Priests, Seventies, High Coun- that spirit without being convinced of its cilors, Elders, Priests, Teachers, Dea- truth, because our Heavenly Father be- cons or members of the Church, to have stows upon everyone who embraces it the spirit of our holy religion continually with the right spirit a knowledge of the resting upon us. How can we retain this? truth. What a glorious privilege it is to Can we retain it by being negligent and have this knowledge bestowed upon us. indifferent to its claims? Do men gather This testimony emboldens us to declare earthly riches around them by being neg- to the inhabitants of the earth, no mat- ligent? We all know that, as a rule, the ter to what nation we may be sent, that man who is the most diligent in busi- if they will embrace the truth, as it is ness is he who gains the greatest amount taught by the Elders of this Church, they of profit for his labor; we are proving shall know for themselves that this is this every day in earthly business, and the work of God. This testimony it is if necessary in earthly business, it is LEAVING NAUVOO, ETC. 203 equally so in the things of the kingdom of to speak, in arms against us; so in the God. The men and women who most dili- future we will have the whole world to gently keep the commandments of God, contend with. Not only this nation, but offer up prayers in sincerity, not with every nation on the face of the earth will their lips, but with their hearts, making manifest greater or less opposition to us it a rule to live near the Lord, are they as a people, and we will have a thousand who retain the light of the Holy Spirit; things to contend with. Why? Because and they are they who, when persecution Satan has influence over the hearts of or affliction comes, feel that God is near the children of men; he has power with to them; and that when they pray He is them, and so long as there is a foot of not afar off, but He hears their prayers this earth upon which he can maintain and pours consolation, peace, and every foothold, so long may we expect warfare, good gift upon them, and they can re- and find difficulties to contend with, and joice from morning to night among the it will only be by the power of God man- changing vicissitudes to which we are ex- ifested in our behalf that we will over- posed in this mortal life. My brethren come. This warfare will not be a contest and sisters, we are commanded not to with cannons, rifles, or earthly weapons give the whole of our attention to the of war, so much as a moral warfare. We accumulation of earthly things; we are are engaged in a great moral warfare; commanded also to lay up treasures in it is by the exercise of moral force that heaven. We are required to build up Zion we are going to achieve the victories that on the earth; then let us take a course God our heavenly Father has promised that will ensure to us the blessing and fa- us. We may be threatened, as we have vor of God our Heavenly Father, that our been, with weapons of war, and it will prayers and thanksgiving may be accept- doubtless be necessary, so long as we able before Him. We should do this, espe- have an existence on the earth, to be pre- cially when we reflect upon the nature of pared for every contingency. This will the work in which we are engaged, and no doubt be necessary, but the day is the nature of the opposition with which probably far distant when we will have we have to contend. We have the whole to shoulder weapons and engage in ac- world to contend with to a certain extent, tual warfare. I look for a moral con- or rather, we have to defend ourselves test, a moral triumph, and moral victo- against the whole world; they are com- ries, gained by the force of truth, and bating us. There are probably thousands the exercise of those Godlike qualities of honest men and women in the world with which we have been endowed by our who manifest no disposition to persecute heavenly Father. And when the great or oppose us; but this is not the case with victory is achieved, there will be no blood the majority. There is a spirit of oppo- to mourn over, no sorrow to be indulged sition to this work gone abroad in the in, and nothing to prevent us from build- world; and, as in the beginning, we had ing the Temples of God, as was the case a township to meet and contend with, af- with David, because he was a man of terwards a county and counties, then a blood. I anticipate that we will be free State, and ultimately we had a nation, so from this, and that we, like Solomon, can go forward and build the Temples of 204 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
God according to His commandments. in course of erection here, should never While brother Henry W. Lawrence was be completed, and that we should never talking about the Temple in Nauvoo, I build another, than to see those holy felt to echo the sentiment I have heard places built by God's commands, pass expressed by President Young respect- into the hands of our enemies and be de- ing that Temple. I am glad it is de- filed by them. stroyed; I am glad that it was burned and purified by fire from the pollu- May God bless you, my brethren and tion our enemies inflicted upon it, and sisters, and enable us to be faithful and I am glad there is nothing of it left; true in keeping His commandments, is and I would prefer that this Temple my prayer for Christ's sake. Amen.
KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, FROM THE BOOK OF MORMON—AMMON REPLIES—SEERSHIP AND THE URIM AND THUMMIM—THE BROTHER OF JARED—HYRUM SMITH'S ENQUIRY—WHAT IS A GENERATION—THE IMMENSE NUMBER OF RECORDS TO BE REVEALED.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDINTHE TWELFTH WARD MEETINGHOUSE, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,DEC. 9, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
Since coming to this stand I have people should take a journey into the been reminded of a certain passage con- wilderness, that thereby they might tained in the "Book of Mormon" (com- find the land of Zarahemla, that we mencing on page 161), which I will read. might appeal unto our brethren to de- liver us out of bondage. And they "Now, as soon as Ammon had read were lost in the wilderness many days, the record, the king inquired of him to yet they were diligent, and found not know if he could interpret languages, the land of Zarahemla but returned to and Ammon told him that he could not. this land, having traveled in a land of And the king said unto him: Being many waters, having discovered a land grieved for the afflictions of my peo- which was covered with bones of men, ple, I caused that forty and three of my and of beasts, and was also covered KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, ETC. 205 with ruins of buildings of every kind, from God. And the king said that a having discovered a land which had been seer is greater than a prophet. And Am- inhabited with a people who were as nu- mon said that a seer is a revelator and a merous as the hosts of Israel. And for a prophet also; and a gift which is greater testimony that the things that they have can no man have, except he should pos- said are true they have brought twenty- sess the power of God, which no man four plates which are filled with engrav- can; yet a man may have great power ings, and they are of pure gold. And given him from God. But a seer can know behold, also, they have brought breast- of things which are passed, and also of plates, which are large, and they are of things which are to come, and by them brass and of copper, and are perfectly shall all things be revealed, or, rather, sound. And again, they have brought shall secret things be made manifest, swords, the hilts thereof have perished, and hidden things shall come to light, and the blades thereof were cankered and things which are not known shall be with rust; and there is no one in the made known by them, and also things land that is able to interpret the lan- shall be made known by them which guage or the engravings that are on the otherwise could not be known. Thus plates. Therefore I said unto thee: Canst God has provided a means that man, thou translate? And I say unto thee through faith, might work mighty mira- again: Knowest thou of any one that cles; therefore he becometh of great ben- can translate? For I am desirous that efit to his fellow beings. these records should be translated into "And now, when Ammon had made our language; for, perhaps, they will give an end of speaking these words the king us a knowledge of the remnant of the rejoiced exceedingly, and gave thanks to people who have been destroyed, from God, saying: Doubtless a great mystery whence these records came; or, perhaps, is contained within these plates, and they will give us a knowledge of this very these interpreters were doubtless pre- people who have been destroyed; and I pared for unfolding all such mysteries to am desirous to know the cause of their the children of men. O how marvelous destruction. are the works of the Lord, and how long "Now Ammon said unto him: I can doth he suffer with his people; yea, and assuredly tell thee, O king, of a man how blind and impenetrable are the un- that can translate the records; for he derstandings of the children of men; for has wherewith he can look, and trans- they will not seek wisdom, neither do late all records that are of ancient date; they desire that she should rule over and it is a gift from God. And the things them! Yea, they are as a wild flock which are called interpreters, and no man can fleeth from the shepherd, and scattereth, look in them except he be commanded, and are driven, and are devoured by the lest he should look for that he ought not beasts of the forest." and he should perish. And whosoever is The instructions that are im- commanded to look in them, the same is parted here, which I have just read, called seer. And behold, the king of the are of importance to the children of people who is in the land of Zarahemla men. We are here taught about a is the man that is commanded to do very great, and precious, and high these things, and who has the high gift gift that comes from God—the gift 206 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of being a Seer, a Revelator, a Prophet, turally very weak and imperfect, and an inspired man. Not only to receive inasmuch as Aaron was required to revelation from God, but to interpret judge the people of God, it was of the revelations given to other Prophets who utmost importance that all his decisions lived in times before, bringing to light should be given in righteousness, that knowledge, and intelligence, and wis- there should be no imperfections con- dom, and the dealings of God with the nected with them, and for that reason human family, among more ancient peo- the Lord gave express instructions to ple. This gift is more fully explained Aaron, through his brother Moses, to in the "Book of Mormon" than in the have a breastplate. In this breastplate Jewish record. We have in the Jewish were twelve stones, representing the record, the Bible, some information in Twelve Tribes of Israel, and in the cen- relation to the instrument here called ter of these rows of stones the Urim and interpreter, but which is called in that Thummim was placed, and when he was record by another name, namely, Urim required to render judgment upon any and Thummim. matter, he inquired of the Lord through it, and was enabled to give decisions ac- cording to the word of the Lord. It was a gift that was exercised in the We have other accounts given in the days of Moses, among the house of Israel: Bible concerning the exercise of this it was a gift specially given to Aaron, the same gift. David was blessed with this brother of Moses, who was appointed the gift, and when Saul was pursuing him chief priest over all the tribes of Israel. from place to place, seeking his life, he The Lord saw proper to give him instruc- would inquire of the Lord, by means of tions in relation to the duties of his of- a similar instrument, and receive rev- fice and calling, how he should be clad, elations. The nature of his inquiries what kind of priestly garments he should was—Would Saul go to such a city seek- wear, what he should perform in admin- ing him? Would the people of such a istering certain ordinances and how he city deliver him into his hands? And should perform them; and also gave unto the Lord would answer him, and he him some instruction in regard to the of course would govern himself accord- breastplate, that was called the breast- ingly. This gift seems to have been of fre- plate of judgment. The reason of this quent occurrence among the Israelites in was that Aaron was appointed to be a their several generations, down to a few judge among the children of Israel, oc- centuries before the coming of Christ. cupying a similar place among that peo- Then it seems that Israel so far trans- ple that the President of the Bishopric gressed the law of heaven, and so far occupies in the Church. But he was strayed from the Lord that the Urim and blessed above those who have been or- Thummim was taken from their midst, dained to the same calling in this dis- as you will find mentioned by one of pensation, for he was in possession of the Prophets in the Jewish Bible; it the Urim and Thummim, and by virtue was taken from them, and they were of this instrument he could inquire of to abide many days without this instru- the Lord in relation to every case that ment, also without a king and without should be brought before him for adju- sacrifices, and eventually the ordinances dication. The judgment of man is na- of God were to be taken from them. In KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, ETC. 207 other words, they were to be left with- plored covered with ruins of buildings out revelators, without prophets, with- and cities, and they found the bones out an inspired king to rule over them, of men and animals, and among other all of which has been fulfilled for many things they found twenty-four plates centuries in the dispersion of the de- which were of pure gold, on which were scendants of Jacob from their land of engravings, which they brought, among promise, among the nations whitherso- other things, to King Limhi. He at that ever they are driven, without having any time was a righteous man, as well as king; they do not offer sacrifices as an- most of his people, and they were ex- ciently; they have no priest with the ceedingly anxious to know the interpre- breastplate of judgment, and Urim and tations of the engravings, believing that Thummim to inquire of the Lord. they would give some account of the peo- It seems that the Lord manifested ple who had occupied the country where himself to the people of this great west- they were found. They wanted to know ern continent in a similar manner. Here what had become of so great a people, he raised up Prophets, and here they for evidently it appeared to them they were in possession of an instrument, al- had been very numerous. And it was though not called strictly by the same for this purpose that Ammon was ques- name, yet an instrument evidently de- tioned. Ammon was a man who had been signed by the Almighty as a medium sent up in the mean time from the north- of communication to his people. King ern portions of South America, called Mosiah, who lived some time after the Zarahemla, and he informed King Limhi Israelites came to the American con- that the King of Zarahemla had this high tinent, some few centuries before the gift from God, that he was a seer, and first coming of Christ, he had this great could, by using the interpreters, inter- gift. Ammon, a servant of God, who pret ancient languages. Hence the re- explained this gift to King Limhi, tells joicing of the king, because there was a us the nature of the gift. He in- man who could give them the informa- forms us that Mosiah had wherewith tion they were so anxious to find out. he could look and interpret writing and Afterwards we have a history in engraving of ancient date. It seems the "Book of Mormon," of the peo- that forty-three of the people of King ple of King Limhi having been driven Limhi had been sent from the kingdom out by some of the wicked portions where they resided, which was down of the people. He came to the land at, or near Ecuador, in South Amer- of Zarahemla, taking, with his colony, ica, to search the land which they had these twenty-four plates, and asking left some two or three generations be- King Mosiah to translate them into the fore; and they lost their way in the Nephite language. He did so; and wilderness, and failed to find Zarahemla, they gave an account of a people— the land they were seeking, which was who came from the tower of Babel, at in the northern part of South Amer- the time of the confusion of tongues; ica. They passed by the land through that they landed upon this north coun- a wilderness country, and it appears try, called North America, and dwelt that they went into North America. here some sixteen or seventeen cen- They found all the land which they ex- turies, and they were part of the time a 208 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. righteous people, and a part of the time ing, and leading them, the same as he af- wicked. And many Prophets existed terwards led the children of Israel. And among the ancient colony, and they kept he brought them to great waters, where their records, some upon metallic plates they were commanded of him to build and others upon other materials. There vessels, which they did, eight in number, was a Prophet at the time of the destruc- by which, under the particular care of tion of this first colony whose name was the Almighty, they were brought across Ether. He wrote an abridgment of the the great Pacific, as we now term it, Jaredites, also an account of their com- taking them three hundred and forty- ing to this land from the Tower of Ba- four days, and finally they landed upon bel; he wrote also concerning the cre- the western coast of North America, as ation of the world, and the doings of near as we can determine from this book, the Lord from the beginning down to the in Mexico, south of the Gulf of Cali- building of the great tower, this short fornia. And that when the brother of account was given on these twenty four Jared was coming to this land the Lord plates. And there is also given in the gave him some very remarkable visions, "Book of Mormon," by Moroni, the man and, among other things he gave him the who hid up the plates from which the Urim and Thummim, prepared two crys- book was translated, a very short sketch tal stones in two rims of a bow, and sanc- of the history of this first colony that tified them, and showed to the brother came from the tower, under the name of of Jared many marvelous things, some of the "Book of Ether." And in this Book which I will read, for the instruction of of Ether we find that they had some those who have not, perhaps, given their thirty kings from the time they left Ba- attention to these matters. bel, and that they were finally destroyed I will read first how the Lord lighted because of great wickedness, to fulfil up the eight vessels in which the colony a prophecy and decree which the Lord from the tower came. made when he was bringing them forth "Howbeit, ye cannot cross this great to this land. The decree was that if deep save I prepare you against the they or their descendants should fall into waves of the sea, and the winds which wickedness and become fully ripened in have gone forth, and the floods which iniquity, that the Lord would utterly de- shall come. Therefore what will ye that I stroy them, and bring forth another peo- should prepare for you that ye may have ple to possess the land in their stead. Ac- light when ye are swallowed up in the cordingly these twenty-four plates men- depths of the sea?" tion their overthrow, how they were de- Their barges were so constructed that stroyed; also some mention is made of they could dive under the waves and be their most eminent Prophets, and much brought up again, and thus they were instruction is given in regard to the com- driven by the force of the winds for 344 ing to this land of this first colony, how days. they were brought here by the Lord "And it came to pass that the from the tower, and how, in passing brother of Jared, (now the number through the valley called Nimrod, the of the vessels which had been pre- Lord himself went before their camp in pared was eight) went forth unto a cloud, teaching them and instruct- the mount, which they called the mount Shelem, because of its ex- KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, ETC. 209 ceeding height, and did molten out of him for the Lord to touch these sixteen a rock sixteen small stones; and they stones, two of which were to be placed in were white and clear, even as transpar- each vessel, one at each end. He knew ent glass; and he did carry them in his the Lord could touch them, and that it hands upon the top of the mount, and was possible for him to cause them to cried again unto the Lord, saying: O shine forth in these vessels, giving them Lord, thou hast said that we must be en- light while they crossed the ocean. compassed about by the floods. Now be- hold, O Lord, and do not be angry with "And it came to pass that when the thy servant because of his weakness be- brother of Jared had said these words, fore thee; for we know that thou art holy behold, the Lord stretched forth his hand and dwellest in the heavens, and that and touched the stones one by one with we are unworthy before thee; because his finger. And the veil was taken from of the fall our natures have become evil off the eyes of the brother of Jared, and continually; nevertheless, O Lord, thou he saw the finger of the Lord; and it was hast given us a commandment that we as the finger of a man, like unto flesh and must call upon thee, that from thee we blood; and the brother of Jared fell down may receive according to our desires. Be- before the Lord, for he was struck with hold, O Lord, thou hast smitten us be- fear. And the Lord saw that the brother cause of our iniquity, and hast driven of Jared had fallen to the earth; and the us forth, and for these many years we Lord said unto him: Arise, why hast thou have been in the wilderness; neverthe- fallen? And he saith unto the Lord: I saw less, thou hast been merciful unto us. the finger of the Lord, and I feared lest O Lord, look upon me in pity, and turn he should smite me; for I knew not that away thine anger from this thy people, the Lord had flesh and blood. And the and suffer not that they shall go forth Lord said unto him: Because of thy faith across this raging deep in darkness; but thou hast seen that I shall take upon me behold these things which I have molten flesh and blood." out of the rock. And I know, O Lord, that It must have been the spirit of our thou hast all power, and can do what- great Redeemer whose finger he then soever thou wilt for the benefit of man; saw, thousands of years before he came therefore touch these stones, O Lord, and took a body of flesh and bones. with thy finger, and prepare them that they may shine forth in darkness; and "And never has man come before they shall shine forth unto us in the ves- me with such exceeding faith as thou sels which we have prepared, that we hast; for were it not so ye could not may have light while we shall cross the have seen my finger. Sawest thou sea. Behold, O Lord, thou canst do this. more than this? And he answered: We know that thou art able to show forth Nay; Lord, show thyself unto me. And great power, which looks small unto the the Lord said unto him: Believest understanding of men." thou the words which I shall speak? You can see from the very lan- And he answered: Yea, Lord, I know guage itself, what great confidence that thou speakest the truth, for thou this man of God had in relation to art a God of truth, and canst not the doings of the Lord. It was lie. And when he had said these not a thing that looked impossible to words, behold, the Lord showed himself 210 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. unto him, and said: Because thou know- in the spirit will I appear unto my people est these things ye are redeemed from in the flesh. the fall; therefore ye are brought back "And now, as I, Moroni, said I could into my presence; therefore I show my- not make a full account of these things self unto you." which are written, therefore it sufficeth You know that one of the penalties of me to say that Jesus showed himself the fall was, that man should be shut out unto this man in the spirit, even after from the presence of God, by this mortal the manner and in the same likeness of tabernacle; but this man, because of his the same body even as he showed him- knowledge and the great faith he had ob- self unto the Nephites." tained, had the veil removed and was re- The Nephites were Israelites to stored back again to the presence of God, whom Jesus appeared after his resurrec- as man was before the fall. tion. "Behold, I am he who was prepared "And he ministered unto him, even from the foundation of the world to re- as he ministered unto the Nephites; and deem my people." all this, that this man might know that The Lord had the plan already laid he was God, because of the many great before this world was made, or brought works which the Lord had showed unto into existence. And it was all under- him. And because of the knowledge of stood in the councils of eternity about the this man he could not be kept from be- Lord's coming in the meridian of time to holding within the veil; and he saw the take upon himself flesh and blood. It was finger of Jesus, which, when he saw, he understood that he should suffer death, fell with fear; for he knew it was the and be as a Lamb slain from before the finger of the Lord; and he had faith no foundation of the world, in the mind of longer, for he knew, nothing doubting. God. Wherefore, having this perfect knowl- "Behold, I am Jesus Christ. I am edge of God, he could not be kept from the Father and the Son. In me shall within the veil; therefore he saw Jesus; all mankind have life, and that eter- and he did minister unto him. And it nally, even they who shall believe on my came to pass that the Lord said unto the name; and they shall become my sons brother of Jared: Behold, thou shalt not and my daughters. And never have I suffer these things which ye have seen showed myself unto man whom I have and heard to go forth unto the world, un- created, for never has man believed in til the time cometh that I shall glorify me as thou hast. Seest thou that ye my name in the flesh; wherefore, ye shall are created after mine own image? Yea, treasure up the things which ye have even all men were created in the be- seen and heard, and show it to no man." ginning after mine own image. Behold, It seems that the Lord did not wish this body, which ye now behold, is the to show these things to others, when the body of my spirit" (not a body of flesh people had not sufficient faith. These and bones, but the shape, the stature things were too great and glorious for and form of the body of his spirit, a them at that early period of the world pure and immortal body), "and man have to be made acquainted with. But at I created after the body of my spirit; a certain time, when his name should and even as I appear unto thee to be be glorified in the flesh, and after he KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, ETC. 211 should rise from the dead, then he would "And it came to pass that the Lord permit these things to come forth, which commanded him that he should seal he did among the ancient Israelites on up the two stones which he had re- this continent; they were then translated ceived, and show them not, until the into the Nephite language and brought Lord should show them unto the chil- to light. But the Lord said unto the dren of men. And the Lord commanded brother of Jared: "And behold, when the brother of Jared to go down out ye shall come unto me, ye shall write of the mount from the presence of the them and shall seal them, up that no Lord, and write the things which he had one can interpret them; for ye shall write seen; and they were forbidden to come them in a language that they cannot unto the children of men until after that be read. And behold, these two stones he should be lifted up upon the cross; will I give unto thee, and ye shall seal and for this cause did King Mosiah keep them up also with the things which ye them." shall write. For behold, the language I told you that Mosiah was a righ- which ye shall write I have confounded; teous man, and a revelator as well as a wherefore I will cause in my own due king, who dwelt on this American con- time that these stones shall magnify to tinent some few centuries before Christ, the eyes of men these things which ye and when he interpreted the history of shall write. And when the Lord had the people, he did not interpret these said these words, he showed unto the things that the brother of Jared saw in brother of Jared all the inhabitants of this great vision; the Lord would not per- the earth which had been, and also all mit him to do so. that would be; and he withheld them not "That they should not come unto the from his sight, even unto the ends of the world until after Christ should show earth." What a great gift it is to know himself unto his people. And after Christ and see by the enlightenment of the truly had shown himself unto his people Spirit, by vision, things that have taken he commanded that they should be made place from the beginning of this world; manifest." to see, for instance, all the inhabitants They were translated after Christ of the earth that had been prior to the first appeared to the Nephites, and prob- day that the Lord gave this vision; and ably sent abroad among the Nephite na- then all the inhabitants of the earth that tion. The Prophet Moroni says, "And should be, even to the end of the world. now, after that, they have all dwindled "For he had said unto him in times be- in unbelief; and there is none save it fore, that if he would believe in him that be the Lamanites, and they have re- he could show unto him all things—it jected the gospel of Christ; therefore I should be shown unto him; therefore the am commanded that I should hide them Lord could not withhold anything from up again in the earth. Behold, I have him, for he knew that the Lord could written upon these plates the very things show him all things. And the Lord said which the brother of Jared saw." unto him: Write these things and seal A great many, in reading this them up; and I will show them in mine record carelessly, would wonder why own due time unto the children of men. it was that a part of these plates should be sealed, and why Joseph Smith should not be permitted to 212 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. break the seal. It was because, in this speak, judge ye; for ye shall know that it great revelation, the sealed portion of is I that speaketh, at the last day. the plates from which the Book of Mor- "But he that believeth these things mon was taken, contained this great which I have spoken, him will I visit with vision, given to the brother of Jared. the manifestations of my Spirit, and he Joseph was not permitted to translate it, shall know and bear record." neither to break the seal of the book; it is to be reserved to come forth in due time. Now, I want to appeal to the Latter- The Prophet Moroni further says, day Saints who occupy this room, "And there never were greater things whether this promise has been fulfilled made manifest than that which was to you, or not? I will read it again. "But made manifest unto the brother of Jared. he that believeth these things which I Wherefore the Lord hath commanded me have spoken, him will I visit with the to write them; and I have written them. manifestations of my Spirit, and he shall And he commanded me that I should seal know and bear record." It does not say, them up; and he also hath commanded he shall merely have an opinion and me that I should seal up the interpreta- bear record, but he shall know and bear tion thereof; wherefore I have sealed up record. Do you know that this book the interpreters, according to the com- (the Book of Mormon) is true, Latter-day mandment of the Lord. For the Lord Saints? Do you know that what I have said unto me: They shall not go forth been reading are the words of the Lord? unto the Gentiles until the day that they If you have believed these things with shall repent of their iniquity, and become all of your hearts, and complied with clean before the Lord. And in that day the commands of the Most High, man- that they shall exercise faith in me, saith ifesting your faith by your works, then the Lord, even as the brother of Jared you have been put in possession of this did, that they may become sanctified in knowledge, and you know, by the Spirit me, then will I manifest unto them the which he has poured out from heaven things which the brother of Jared saw, upon you, that they are true, and in force even to the unfolding unto them all my to all the world, and this Spirit gives you revelations, saith Jesus Christ, the Son a knowledge concerning all truth. You of God, the Father of the heavens and of are not like those who have no revela- the earth, and all things that in them tion of whom the ancient apostle speaks, are. And he that will contend against who were "Ever learning, and never able the word of the Lord, let him be ac- to come to the knowledge of the truth;" cursed; and he that shall deny these but you are of those, if you keep the things, let him be accursed; for unto commandments of God, who are not only them will I show no greater things, saith learning from the word of God, but have Jesus Christ; for I am he who speaketh. a knowledge of all revealed truth by the And at my command the heavens are power of the Spirit, the Comforter, which opened and are shut; and at my word is a revelator, an unction to all those the earth shall shake; and at my com- who receive it; and they are able to bear mand the inhabitants thereof shall pass record of the things which they formerly away, even so as by fire. And he that be- believed to be true. The Lord has thus lieveth not my words believeth not my raised up a great cloud of witnesses in disciples; and if it so be that I do not connection with scores of thousands of KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, ETC. 213 others to bear record of the truth, in this come unto me, and believe in my gospel, last dispensation of the fullness of times. and be baptized in my name; for he "For because of my Spirit he shall know that believeth and is baptized shall be that these things are true; for it per- saved; but he that believeth not shall suadeth men to do good. And whatso- be damned; and signs shall follow them ever thing persuadeth men to do good that believe in my name. And blessed is is of me; for good cometh of none save he that is found faithful unto my name it be of me. I am the same that lead- at the last day, for he shall be lifted up to eth men to all good; he that will not be- dwell in the kingdom prepared for him lieve my words will not believe me—that from the foundation of the world. And I am; and he that will not believe me behold it is I that hath spoken it. Amen." will not believe the Father who sent me. For behold, I am the Father, I am the I have read these things because I light, and the life, and the truth of the am fully aware that there are in the world. Come unto me, O ye Gentiles, and Church of Latter-day Saints many per- I will show unto you the greater things, sons who are very careless about read- the knowledge which is hid up because ing the "Book of Mormon." It is one of of unbelief. Come unto me, O ye house the greatest treasures, so far as books of Israel, and it shall be made manifest are concerned, that has been given to unto you how great things the Father mankind for almost 1,800 years. It con- hath laid up for you, from the foundation tains the things of God in great plain- of the world; and it hath not come unto ness, so easy of comprehension that the you, because of unbelief. Behold, when child who reads can understand it. And ye shall rend that veil of unbelief which yet, how many there are of the Latter- doth cause you to remain in your aw- day Saints who suffer this book to re- ful state of wickedness, and hardness of main upon their shelves, week after heart, and blindness of mind, then shall week, without ever reading a page of the great and marvelous things which these precious things. I have also read have been hid up from the foundation of these things for the benefit of strangers the world from you—yea, when ye shall who may be present on this occasion. call upon the Father in my name, with a It is not to be expected that they will broken heart and a contrite spirit, then read it, for they do not believe it is a shall ye know that the Father hath re- divine record; they do not believe that membered the covenant which he made God has spoken, or that Joseph Smith unto your fathers, O house of Israel. was raised up to bring it forth to the And then shall my revelations which I children of men, by the power of the have caused to be written by my servant Urim and Thummim. It is not expected, John be unfolded in the eyes of all the therefore, that they will read a work people. Remember, when ye see these that they have no faith in. They do not things, ye shall know that the time is at want to have faith in it, they do not con- hand that they shall be made manifest sider it a matter of sufficient importance in very deed. Therefore, when ye shall even to inquire of the Lord whether it receive this record ye may know that is true or not. And yet, sometimes they the work of the Father has commenced may have, for a few moments, a feeling upon all the face of the land. There- in their hearts that they would like to fore, repent all ye ends of the earth, and know what is contained in the "Book of 214 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Mormon;" hence, I have read this that terms. If you will turn to the "Doc- you may have an idea what is contained trine and Covenants," you will there find in this book, on which the Latter-day a revelation, given in the year 1829, Saints found their faith, as well as on the to Hyrum Smith, who went down from Bible. Manchester, Ontario County, N.Y., to You will perceive, Latter-day Saints, Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, to how this Urim and Thummim was visit his brother, Joseph, who was then formed in the first place. It was not engaged in the work of translating the something that existed on the earth in "Book of Mormon." When Hyrum arrived a natural state, it was something made in the presence of his brother, he felt by the Lord. He is a good mechanic, he anxious to know what the Lord had for understands how to make things. He him to do, or if it would not be well made the heavens and the earth, he for him to commence to preach, bear- made many worlds that we see roll as ing testimony to the manuscripts of the it were, upon their wings in the midst "Book of Mormon," etc. He finally de- of space. He made the garments that sired that his brother should inquire of first clothed Adam and Eve; and he made the Lord, through the Urim and Thum- a very beautiful garden, and planted it mim, what he wished him to do. The with a variety of trees, and caused them Lord gave a revelation, telling him he to bear fruit, and that they should have was not to preach his word at that time, seed within themselves. He understands that the time had not come. He had how to do such things; he is not like not received the ordination authorizing many of us, who, after attempting to do him to preach, neither had the Church certain things, fail for the lack of knowl- been organized on the earth. The Lord edge; but when he undertakes to do a told him, however, of certain things he thing, he does it in the best manner pos- should do. He said, "Study my word sible, and what he makes is made per- which hath gone forth among the chil- fect. And if afterwards his handiwork dren of men, and also study my word becomes imperfect, it is because of the which shall come forth among the chil- curse that comes upon the earth in con- dren of men, or that which is now trans- sequence of sin. He made the Urim and lating, yea, until you have obtained all Thummim, and we have an account of which I shall grant to the children of his making it in the words which I have men in this generation, and then shall been reading. Two crystal stones that all things be added thereunto." After the he gave unto the brother of Jared were generation living in 1829, some forty- made by him. When ye shall write these eight years ago, is all accomplished, then things, ye shall seal them up, also the in- we may look for the revelation which terpreters, until the Lord shall see fit, in the brother of Jared obtained upon the his own due time, to reveal them to the mount, then we may look for the things children of men. he saw when the Lord showed him all Perhaps some of you may ask the children of men that had ever been when this great revelation, that was upon the earth from the beginning of given to the brother of Jared, will creation down to his day, and also that be revealed. I wish I could an- would come upon the earth down to the swer the question; I cannot answer end of time. In showing him these as to the year, for I do not know. I things, I do not think he merely gave may, however, answer you in general KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, ETC. 215 him this to satisfy his curiosity, for no doubt, were revealed to this man of God, man, we are told, had ever before wit- and were commanded to be written, and nessed such great things, and the Lord will come forth when the generation has could not withhold them from him, be- fully past away that were living in the cause of his great faith. I do not believe, year 1829—forty-eight years ago. either, that this great man would have As regards the number of years by sought the Lord seeking to satisfy curios- which a generation shall be measured, ity; but I told you, and I do believe, that we have no special definite period given He revealed to him many of his great and to us by revelation; the Lord speaks in marvelous purposes in relation to the in- terms that are general in relation to gen- habitants of the earth in relation to his erations. Among the Nephites, immedi- future dealings with the nations of the ately after Christ's appearance to them, earth, in relation to the rise of his king- a generation was a hundred years, and dom in the latter days, as now taking in the fourth generation they were de- place. I have no doubt he saw every par- stroyed, as a nation; except some few ticular as they have occurred, since 1830 who went over to the Lamanites. We to the present time. He saw our history find generations numbering from father and our travels and our persecutions; to son, and from son to grandson, etc., and he also saw the state of darkness and when we come to average genera- that the world would be in before the tions, according to the statistic, of na- Lord would set up this Church upon the tions, we find them to be about thirty earth again, and the persecutions that years to a generation; but when the Lord would come up on the former-day Saints, speaks in general terms, and says, This and how the Church would fall away generation shall not pass away, until a and the Priesthood be taken away from House shall be built to his name, as is among men; all these things were mani- given in this "Book of Covenants," and fested to him, and he was commanded to a cloud should rest upon it; in that case write them. And if we had these things I do not think he is limited to any defi- now which he wrote, I have not the least nite period, but suffice it to say that the doubt we could read the future history of people living in 1832, when the revela- this Church, just the same as we can its tion was given, will not all pass away; past history; we could understand all the there will be some living when the House particulars until the wicked shall be de- spoken of will be reared, on which the stroyed from the earth, and we could see glory of God will rest. Already forty-five our future travels and our future tribu- years have passed away since that rev- lations and persecutions, and also our elation was given, concerning the build- blessings that shall come upon us af- ing of that House. And when he says to ter the days of tribulations are ended; Hyrum Smith, "Study my word, etc., un- we could behold the glory of God that til you have obtained all which I shall would rest upon Zion, and the resurrec- grant unto the children of men in this tion of the righteous dead, and the com- generation," I do not know how long ing of the Church of the Firstborn in that generation was intended, in the the clouds of heaven, in connection with mind of God, to be, and I do not think Jesus, and the coming of the ancient there is any person in the Church that day Zion. All these things, I have no does know, unless the Lord has revealed 216 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. it to him. But we have every reason to brought out from Jerusalem, in con- believe that the time is not far distant, nection with his father's family and and that there are some living among some others, landing them on the west- the young now upon the earth, that will ern coast of South America where they live to behold great numbers of revela- formed a colony. Before he got here, he tions given, and will behold other books had a great revelation, and also after come forth and other records translated coming here. I will commence at the 17th by the Urim and Thummim, that same paragraph of the vision he had. instrument that Joseph Smith used in "And it shall come to pass that the the translation of the "Book of Mormon," Lord God shall bring forth unto you the which will again come forth and be re- words of a book, and they shall be the vealed to the seer and revelator that words of them that have slumbered." God will raise up by which these ancient He was prophesying of the last days, records will be brought to light. Then of the time when the Book of Mormon these great things will be known, then should be brought forth to the inhabi- we shall rejoice in the greater fulness tants of the earth. of knowledge and understanding, accord- "And behold the book shall be sealed; ing to the promise; and when we rend and in the book shall be a revelation that veil of unbelief, spoken of in the from God, from the beginning of the "Book of Mormon," and when it is taken world to the ending thereof." This is the away from our midst, and we exercise part that is sealed. "Wherefore, be- faith in God, even as the ancient man cause of the things which are sealed up, of God, the brother of Jared, did, then the things which are sealed shall not will the Lord reveal to this people what be delivered in the day of the wicked- was shown to this man. And if it were ness and abomination of the people." important for him, in the early ages, to That agrees with what I was telling understand the great things of the latter you about the generation that is pass- days, how much more important it is for ing away. The people who are wicked us who are living, as it were, just preced- shall be swept away from the earth, and ing the coming of the Son of Man; and if those who remain that are righteous will ancient men of God were privileged and have this great revelation unsealed to blessed in understanding the things of them. "Wherefore the book shall be the future, how much greater blessing it kept from them." The Lord did not suf- will be to us, inasmuch as these things fer these plates to go among the wicked, are at our doors. for he well knew that they would have I believe I will make a few more re- destroyed them for the sake of the gold marks in relation to this same revela- upon which they were written. "But the tion that is to be given. In the second book shall be delivered unto a man, and book of Nephi, the 11th chap., we have he shall deliver the words of the book, some account of what the Lord is going which are the words of those who have to do, referring to the things which the slumbered in the dust, and he shall de- brother of Jared saw. The prophecy I liver these words unto another; But the am about to read was delivered nearly words which are sealed he shall not de- six centuries before Christ, by a man liver, neither shall he deliver the book." whose name was Nephi, whom the Lord I wish to state here for the informa- KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, ETC. 217 tion of those who do not understand, that the words of the book; and in the mouth before Joseph Smith translated the part of as many witnesses as seemeth him that was unsealed, he copied some of the good will he establish his word; and wo words and sent them by Martin Harris be unto him that rejecteth the word of to the city of New York to have them ex- God!" hibited to the learned, to see if they could That gives us a little more light upon read them. "For the book shall be sealed the same subject. When that is brought by the power of God, and the revelation forth, I expect that the same Urim which was sealed shall be kept in the and Thummim which the Lord gave to book until the own due time of the Lord, Joseph Smith will come forth with these that they may come forth; for behold, plates, and they will be translated, but they reveal all things from the founda- by whom I know not. Who will be the tion of the world unto the end thereof." favored Seer and Revelator that will be We will get some knowledge of the pur- raised up among this people to bring this poses of God, not only in relation to the revelation to light, is not revealed to me. six thousand years past, but for the thou- And not only this revelation, but those sand years to come, after the revelation twenty-four plates of gold which contain is given showing forth the purposes and the doings of the old Jaredite nation that designs of the great Jehovah in relation inhabited this North American conti- to this creation. "And the day cometh nent; at present we have only an abridg- that the words of the book which was ment, not a hundredth part of their his- sealed shall be read upon the house tops; tory. These plates of gold will come and they shall be read by the power of forth, as well as many other records kept Christ; and all things shall be revealed by the first nation—the Jaredites, that to the children of men which ever have came here; and I have no doubt that the been among the children of men, and Lord will give the Urim and Thummim which ever will be even unto the end of to translate them. And not only these, the earth. Wherefore, at that day when but the Lord intends, in this dispensa- the book shall be delivered unto the man tion in which you and I live, to over- of whom I have spoken, the book shall whelm the whole earth with a flood of be hid from the eyes of the world, that knowledge in regard to himself; in re- the eyes of none shall behold it save it be gard to his purposes and designs, and that three witnesses shall behold it, by in regard to the future glories and bless- the power of God, besides him to whom ings that are ordained for the Latter-day the book shall be delivered; and they Saints, in regard to the preparation of shall testify to the truth of the book and the earth for the thousand years of righ- the things therein. And there is none teousness to come. Hence these plates, other which shall view it, save it be a these great numbers of plates, that were few according to the will of God, to bear kept by the kings of the Nephites and by testimony of his word unto the children many Prophets before and after Christ, of men; for the Lord God hath said that as well as those sealed records of which the words of the faithful should speak I have been speaking, will all come to as if it were from the dead. Wherefore, light; we then will have revelations of the Lord God will proceed to bring forth heavenly and earthly things, and the de- signs and purposes of God. We will have, 218 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. perhaps, the most complete history of one of the greatest Prophets ever born of this continent that there is in existence a woman; but we have very little writ- of any other nation or kingdom on the ten in the Jewish record concerning him. earth. Moreover, we have abundance We have a revelation in the Doctrine of promises that God has made to us, and Covenants concerning the record of in this book called the Doctrine and John, that great Prophet. And we are Covenants, given through the Prophet promised that if we were faithful as a Joseph, concerning other records besides people, the fullness of the record of John those I have named, that were kept shall hereafter be revealed to us. When by the Jaredites and the Nephites, a we get this, I think we shall have still record for instance back so far as the more knowledge in regard to doctrine days of Enoch. You might say, they did and principle, and things that are great not know how to write in those days. and marvelous, of which we know very But the Bible indicates that they did little, if anything about. This is not all. know, and speak about the book of the The Lord has told us that he would bring generations of Adam even before the forth those brass plates that Lehi and flood. Furthermore, we have an account the families that came with him from that three years prior to the death of Jerusalem, some six hundred years be- Adam, he called together the righteous fore Christ, brought with them, which of his posterity, he called also the High contain the history of the creation, and Priests of that day, into a certain val- the writings of inspired men down to ley, called Adam-ondi-Ahman, which is the days of Jeremiah; they came out in located about fifty miles north of Jack- Jeremiah's day. We are informed in the son County, or what is now called Davis "Book of Mormon" that they contained County, Missouri. Here assembled the many prophecies very great and exten- righteous of his posterity for eight gen- sive in their nature. And when these erations, and he pronounced upon them plates, now hidden in the hill Cumorah, his last blessing, as the grand patriarch are brought to light we shall have the of the whole. And he stood up, notwith- history of the Old Testament much more standing he was bowed down with age, fully, with the addition of a great many before the vast body that were gathered prophecies that are not now contained in on that occasion, and prophesied of all that record. The prophecies of Joseph things of importance that should tran- in Egypt were very great, and we are spire among his seed, and the nations told in the "Book of Mormon" that there that should spring from him, down to were a great many given to him. When the very end of time. These things, it we have all those, also the prophecies of says, were written in the book of Enoch, Neum, a great Prophet who prophesied and are to be testified of in due time. concerning Christ; also those of Zenos When we get that, I think we shall know and Zenock, and others of which only a great deal about the antediluvians, of bare reference is given; and then again whom at present we know so little. when the ten tribes of Israel come from Then there is still another record the north country, they will bring with to come forth. John the Baptist is them their records which they have kept said by the highest authority to be since seven hundred and twenty years KING LIMHI'S ENQUIRY, ETC. 219 before Christ, which will contain an ac- jewels under their feet. But as soon count of the hand dealing of God among as the righteousness of the people shall that lost people, which doubtless will warrant, he will reveal these hidden be exceedingly interesting as well as in- treasures of knowledge, and they will structive. understand and comprehend the great Shall we stop here? No, the time will things of God; and not only will records come when this people will become more be brought forth, but the minds of men, fully revelators, and Prophets, and Seers and minds of women, and minds of chil- themselves, and the earth will be filled dren, and the minds of all the people who with the knowledge of God, and even out believe, will be like a fountain of light of the mouth of babes and sucklings will and intelligence, and they will be able the Spirit of God reveal things that have to comprehend all records and books in- been kept secret from the foundation of spired from on high. the world; they will utter forth the things Sometimes, when I reflect upon these of God, helping to fill the earth with the things in the spirit, it seems as though knowledge of God, as the waters cover I can scarcely wait for the present gen- the great deep. eration to pass away, without seeing the We might now stop and say no Latter-day Saints in possession of these more about the bibles that are yet to great things. They will surely come! come. From what little I have said, the Rest assured, Latter-day Saints, that strangers present may begin to believe these things will be fulfilled, yea, ev- the truth of that Scripture which says, ery jot and tittle; and every record that "And there are also many other things God has commanded to be kept among which Jesus did, the which, if they the ancient seers and revelators, will be should be written every one, I suppose brought to light in this last dispensation, that even the world itself could not con- and none need think that the Lord is tain the books that should be written." trifling with us, for these things will be The Lord has not, because of unbelief made manifest. and wickedness of the people, permitted these things to come forth to be trampled May God bless you is my prayer, in under the feet, as swine would trample the name of Jesus. Amen. 220 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
LIVING ACCORDING TO THE LIGHT—TEMPLE WORK—GOOD COUNSEL—WHAT SAY THE HIGH PRIESTS AND SEVENTIES.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDAT RICHFIELD,SEVIER COUNTY,UTAH, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,APRIL 22, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I am very much gratified in the oppor- mitted to our charge. When we become tunity of appearing in this house again. one we shall have a heaven here upon I am disposed to say a few words to the earth. Do you think that in the fam- you. I have not time to instruct you ily of heaven dwelling in the presence of in all things, nor to say all I wish to God there is any jarring, bickerings, con- say. Do just as well as you know how tentions, faultfinding, or distrust in the in all things, never permitting yourself Priesthood? No. It is true we are in a to commit an act unless the Spirit of God world of darkness, and we have a great within you justifies you in doing it. And many weaknesses, temptations and an- if you live every day of your lives accord- noyances all tending to lead us astray. ing to the best light and understanding But if we do as well as we know how, we you possess, glorifying God, our Heav- shall accomplish the work. enly Father, just as far as your knowl- I have been spending the winter in edge extends, I will promise you eternal St. George. Our Temple there is fin- life in the kingdom of God. This is say- ished, which is the first completed Tem- ing a great deal, it is a very important ple built to the name of the Most High, discourse embodied in a few words. The in which the ordinances for the living grand difficulty with the people is they and the dead can be performed, since do not do quite as well as they know how; the one built by Solomon in the land of it is that which hinders us from accom- Jerusalem, that we have any knowledge plishing the work given us to do. of. The Nephites may have built Tem- Now let me say to you, my brethren ples, and in all probability they did, but and sisters, if you live according to we have no account of them. We en- the light within you, you will be of joy privileges that no other people en- one heart and one mind; your in- joy, or have enjoyed. In the days of terests and labors will be one, and Solomon, in the Temple that he built in you will take hold with all the power the land of Jerusalem, there was con- God has given you to consummate fusion and bickering and strife, even to this great and glorious work com- murder, and the very man that they LIVING ACCORDING TO THE LIGHT, ETC. 221 looked to to give them the keys of life and we have succeeded so well in building salvation, they killed because be refused one Temple, we feel encouraged to con- to administer the ordinances to them tinue our labors in the same direction when they requested it; and whether until we shall have built and finished they got any of them or not, this history others. We want to commence another does not say anything about. one in your region of country, at Manti; We enjoy the privilege of entering and we intend to lay out the ground into a Temple, built to the name of when we reach there on our way to the God, and receiving the ordinances of his city. We have, traveling with us, in our House, with all the keys and blessings company, Elder Parry, the man who had preparatory of entering into the "lives;" charge of the rockwork of the St. George we also enjoy the privilege of admin- Temple; he is on his way to Manti, to istering for our fathers and mothers, work on the Temple to be built at that our grandfathers and grandmothers, for place. We expect to say to the Latter-day those who have slept without the Gospel. Saints, Rear these walls forthwith, and You can understand why it is that complete this building, that you may en- the press of our nation is so ready to joy the blessings therein promised. cry out against the "Mormons;" why it Brethren and sisters, live your holy is that these poor Latter-day Saints are religion that the spirit of truth, of virtue not considered fit to live, why they ought and of holiness may burn within you, not to enjoy the common blessings of cit- that your only desire may be to do the izenship, and why the wicked would, if will of the Father in the literal building they could, deprive this whole people of up of this his kingdom on the earth. Say their rights and privileges, and destroy your prayers, and increase your faith their leaders from off the earth? It is in the Lord and in his promises made evidence to all Latter-day Saints, if they to the faithful. Bring up your chil- have hearts to understand, that God is dren in the love and fear of the Lord; with this people, and that the Evil One study their dispositions and their tem- is using the same means now, as he al- peraments, and deal with them accord- ways has done, to oppose Him. We ought ingly, never allowing yourself to correct to be thankful that we are worthy to them in the heat of passion; teach them receive these persecutions. And I can to love you rather than to fear you, and promise you, that if we exercise patience let it be your constant care that the chil- and faith, and attend faithfully and dili- dren that God has so kindly given you gently to the work given us to do of the are taught in their early youth the im- Father, that they will work out for us a portance of the oracles of God, and the more excellent degree of glory and ex- beauty of the principles of our holy reli- altation. Consequently it becomes us gion, that when they grow to the years of to be patient, trusting in God and the man and womanhood they may always promises he has made unto us. cherish a tender regard for them and I was about to say to you, that our never forsake the truth. I do not wish labors during the time I have spent you to lay the stress and importance in St. George, are perfectly satisfac- upon outward ceremonies that many do. tory to me; and I believe we have There are those belonging to what is all the evidence we can ask for, that called the Mother Church who say give the Lord is satisfied. And now that them the care and training of children at 222 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. from three to seven years old, and they Do you kneel down in humility and could so ground them in their faith, that meekness, with the faith that the Fa- they forever afterwards, would remain ther requires at your hands to ask him in good Catholics. The secret of their great the name of Jesus, to bless and preserve success is no doubt in their strict obser- and give you grace according to your day; vance of outward ordinances and cere- and do you do this before retiring to bed? monies. But while they go to one extreme Seventies, do you call upon the Lord in the observance of ceremony, making morning and evening? The Lord says, I bigots of their children, (for one of the will be sought unto by my people for the earliest recollections of the child, who is blessings that they need. And instead reared in Catholicism, is the use of the of our classing prayer among the duties sign of the cross) many of the Latter-day devolving upon us as Latter-day Saints, Saints go to the other, failing entirely we should live so as to deem it one of to impress the minds of their children the greatest privileges accorded to us; for with that degree of reverence and sa- were it not for the efficacy of prayer what credness that belongs to the ordinances would have become of us both as a people of our Church. Parents, teach your chil- and as individuals? dren by precept and example, the impor- tance of addressing the throne of grace; teach them how to live, how to draw I do not feel disposed to preach a from the elements the necessaries of life, lengthy sermon to you, but we feel in our and teach them the laws of life that hearts to say, God bless you, peace be to they may know how to preserve them- you. I do not expect to come to see you as selves in health and be able to minister often as I have done, my health will not to others. And when instructing them in permit of it. My voice is good, I feel as the principles of the Gospel, teach them though I could make myself heard a mile that they are true, truth sent down from off, but my system is almost worn out; heaven for our salvation, and that the yet I expect to work right in the harness Gospel incorporates every truth whether until I am called for to go hence. I am so in heaven, in earth, or in hell; and teach thankful we have completed our Temple, them too that we hold the keys of eter- it is the greatest blessing that could be nal life, and that they must obey and ob- bestowed upon us, I know of nothing that serve the ordinances and laws pertain- could equal it. But we are not satisfied ing to this holy Priesthood, which God with this one, we must hurry the build- has revealed and restored for the exal- ing of another one, and thus another one tation of the children of men. and so on, and perform the great work If I were to ask the High Priests therein that is required at our hands. of this district, Do you pray in your Let us live so that we may be worthy to families before going to work, or be- be owned of the Lord, and to be received fore you sit around the breakfast table? into the fulness with him. Amen. NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 223
NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL—THIRTY YEARS PROGRESS IN THE MOUNTAINS—THE GOSPEL UNCHANGEABLE—JOSEPH INSPIRED—PRESIDENT YOUNG'S WORK—WORK OF THE TWELVE—LABORS IN ST. GEORGE TEMPLE—GATHERING OF THE SPIRITS OF THE DEAD.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER WILFORD WOODRUFF, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE, SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,SEPTEMBER 16, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
It is with much pleasure and satisfac- communication of God to man, although tion I again stand before the Saints of I am well aware that the Scriptures have God in this Tabernacle. A year nearly been more or less spiritualized by the has passed since I enjoyed this priv- whole Christian world, especially dur- ilege, my labors having been directed ing the last hundred years. I believe elsewhere. Whatever I may say to you that holy men of old wrote and spoke depends entirely upon the dictation of as they were moved upon by the Holy the Holy Spirit. And I may say that we Ghost, and that they meant what they all need the inspiration of the Almighty said and said what they meant, and that to dictate us, whether we preach or lis- the Apostle Paul spoke truly when he ten, and not only in our public gather- said, "that no prophecy of the scripture is ings but in all of our labors connected of any private interpretation." The Lord with the building up of the kingdom of has taught us in a modern revelation God, yes, just as much as the Saints of contained in this book, the "Doctrine and God did in every past age and dispensa- Covenants," that it matters not whether tion. he speaks from heaven by his own voice, I can truly say as the Apostle Paul or by the ministration of angels, or by said, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel the mouth of his servants when they are of Christ: for it is the power of God unto moved upon by the Holy Ghost, it is all salvation to every one that believeth." the same, the mind and will of God; and I am not ashamed of what the world although the heavens and the earth pass is pleased to call "Mormonism;" I am away, my words would not fall unful- not ashamed of any revelation that God filled. has given unto the Latter-day Saints, I desire more particularly to ad- through the mouth of modern Prophets; dress myself, this afternoon, to the I am not ashamed to acknowledge my- Latter-day Saints; and at the same self a firm believer in the literal ful- time if any of the strangers present fillment of the Bible, as well as every can receive any benefit from my re- 224 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. marks, I shall be glad of it. the wilds of this desolate, uninhabited Our position, today, before the heav- land, and which has already produced ens and the earth and before each other, such marvelous results? It was per- reminds me of days that are past and formed in a very singular manner, to be- gone. On the 20th of July, 1847, I gin with. As the Lord ever has done in brought our late President Young in attempting to establish his rule and gov- my carriage through Emigration Canyon ernment on the earth, he chose the weak into this valley, which was the first time things of the earth, and them he will use he set foot upon this land. The question to confound the wisdom of the wise. He has been often asked by strangers who manifested himself to a boy in his teens, visit our city, why did Brigham Young and also sent an angel to him on sev- pick upon this spot to build a city? Be- eral occasions, in fulfillment of the rev- cause it was shown him before he came elation to John the Revelator, and of the here. But when we came to this coun- inspired words of many other Prophets try, what did we find here? A barren and Apostles who have spoken concern- desert, as barren as the Desert of Sa- ing the marvelous work and wonder of hara; and the only signs of life were a few the latter days. But says the world, "We black crickets, some coyote wolves, and a do not believe that." We understand that few poor wandering Indians. Today we perfectly well; we do not expect you to may travel from Paris in the north of our receive the Gospel of the Son of God with Territory to St. George in the south, a the same readiness that you believe the distance of some 500 miles, and see on falsehoods and misrepresentations that every hand towns and villages, gardens, are constantly made about it. The world and orchards, fields and crops; we behold ever has opposed it, and we expect to a people industrious and happy, build- meet all manner of opposition until the ing their own dwelling houses, meeting- final triumph of right over wrong, of houses, schoolhouses, tabernacles and truth over error. We might commence Temples, and improvements and enter- with father Adam and trace it down to prises are constantly going on. And all the present time, and we would find that this within so short a time. What does the same spirit of opposition and of per- this mean? What does it bespeak to the secution followed the people of God in ev- strangers who visit our Territory, and in ery age, as exists today against us, as fact to the whole world, and to heavenly a people. And so natural is it for the as well as mortal beings? It is evidence devil to oppose every move that the Lord that God has set his hand to fulfil the makes towards reclaiming and redeem- prediction contained in the Bible, that ing the earth, that men are often found he has commenced the work of uniting to denounce the "Mormons" and their re- the record or stick of Joseph with that ligion when they know nothing either of of Judah; that the set time has come us or our tenets. The Savior of the world for him to favor Zion. And how have himself was denounced as a deceiver, these things come to pass and what was as an impostor; why? Because those the origin of this peculiar system that who raised this cry against him knew presents itself now to the inhabitants of him not, and those who reechoed it took the earth, which found a resting place in not the trouble to ascertain whether it NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 225 was true or false. And it has been pre- there never has been nor never will be cisely in the same way that the names of any other, and that that Gospel never Joseph Smith and Brigham Young have changes from one generation to another, been had for evil by the masses of this and that it consists of the simple princi- enlightened age. The Savior said of those ples taught by the Savior and contained that rejected him, that he was hated in the New Testament, which principles by them because he testified of their never deviate one from another. The works which were evil. And so verily it first was faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; might be said of those who decry against the second was baptism in water by im- the men who, in this respect, have not mersion for the remission of sins, and been more favored than their Master. then the laying on of hands for the re- Through them light has dawned upon ception of the Holy Ghost; and this was the world, and because men choose dark- the kind of doctrine taught by Christ ness rather than light, their deeds be- and his Apostles, and this was the doc- ing evil, they find their opposite in "Mor- trine that Joseph Smith preached. In do- monism," and in all those who faithfully ing so he stood alone in the world, and adhere to it and advocate it. he had to meet the traditions of eigh- teen hundred years, traditions which Through this boy, inexperienced and had been handed down from generation unlearned as he was, the Lord organized to generation, which were entirely op- this Church on the 6th day of April, posed to the doctrine which the Lord 1830, with only six members; and it can had revealed to him, and which he was be said of him as of no other man in commanded to preach. You and I were Christendom, that he was the instru- taught from our youth that there was no ment in the hands of God of present- such thing as new revelation, it was all ing to the world a system of religion, a done away; and this same tradition is Church organization complete with all being imbibed by the youth of Christen- the keys and powers of the Holy Priest- dom to the present time. Ask the min- hood, and that through him has been isters, the men to whom people look as imparted to the religious world more their spiritual guides, why they do not light and knowledge than all the profes- enjoy the gifts and graces and the light sors of religion combined, with all their of revelation from heaven, and what is boasted intelligence and learning. And the universal reply? It is in substance, when he published to the world this "Oh, these things are all done away, they new yet old doctrine, even the everlast- are no longer needed; it was necessary ing Gospel, it was found to agree pre- that they should exist in the dark ages cisely with that taught by the Savior, of the world but not in these days of and the Church organization was after the blaze of Gospel light." Whenever God the same pattern as the one instituted had a Church upon the earth these gifts by Him, although the Gospel had not were enjoyed by the people. The sick been preached since it was driven away were healed of their sickness, the lame from the earth by the iron hand of per- were made to walk, the blind to see, the secution. One of the peculiar features in dumb to speak, etc., through the admin- the faith of the Latter-day Saints is that istrations of those among them who held we believe there is but one Gospel, that the Priesthood, which authorizes men 226 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to act in the name of the Lord; and with- Most High, to possess it forever and ever. out it no man ever did or ever can offi- Who are the Saints of God, I may ask? ciate in the ordinances of the House of Every honest soul who on hearing the God. And I cannot believe that there Gospel preached, receives it and obeys it, is an honest-hearted man anywhere who and uses his energies to consummate its possesses any portion of the spirit of the establishment upon the earth. Lord, and who has any faith in the reve- lations of God, who can believe that men, whether of high or humble birth, learned or unlearned, would be divinely called The Prophet Joseph was moved upon to minister in the things of God, unless by divine inspiration in the establish- they were endowed from on high with ment of this Church. And before his the same power that the ancient Apos- death he called the Twelve Apostles to- tles possessed. gether, whom he had called to the min- Well, the Prophet Joseph Smith lived istry by revelation, intimating that he fourteen years after he had organized was going to leave them, that he would the Church; and during that time the shortly be called home to rest. And he work spread over the United States, and talked with them and instructed them to some of the foreign nations and is- for weeks and months in the ordinances lands of the sea. And when he had and laws of the Gospel; and he sealed done this, he had a mission the other upon their heads all the Priesthood, side of the veil, as well as this. Here keys and powers that had been con- again we widely differ from other reli- ferred upon him by the angels of God. gious denominations. As I before inti- And then, in addressing them he said, mated, the world of mankind do not com- "Brethren, no matter what becomes of prehend "Mormonism;" the people are as me, or what my fate may be, you have ignorant of the Gospel today as Nicode- got to round up your shoulders and bear mus was when he inquired of the Sav- off this kingdom; the God of heaven re- ior what he should do to be saved. And quires it at your hands. I have desired," I will here say that the answer which said he, "to see the Temple completed, Jesus made him in that early day is but I shall not be spared to see it, but strictly applicable to all who are now you will." Although he spoke so plainly seeking the same information. "Verily, to us, intimating that his end drew near, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be we could no more get it into our hearts born again, he cannot see the kingdom that he was going to be martyred, any of God." And no man from Father Adam more than the Apostles could compre- to the present time ever understood the hend the meaning of the Savior when he principles of the Gospel, unless he re- told them he was going away, and that ceived the testimony of Jesus through if he did not leave them, the Comforter obedience thereto. could not come. When the Messiah was We are living in the dispensation crucified his followers felt sorrowful and which Daniel saw in prophetic vision, disappointed, because they expected him when the kingdom of God was to to release them and their nation from be established upon the earth, whose the Romish yoke. And so helpless did dominion is to have no end, and they feel themselves when denied his so- when the greatness of the kingdom ciety, that even Peter, the first among is to be given to the Saints of the the Apostles, proposed that they return NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 227 to their nets, that instead of pursuing who had not received it. And there is the high calling of "fishers of men," that no greater duty resting upon the Latter- they again become common fishermen. day Saints today than that of building They comprehended not the words of the Temples, and officiating therein for the Savior to them. But after his death, he dead as well as the living. Said Paul, appeared to them, and they began to un- in support of this doctrine, "Else what derstand then what he had previously shall they do which are baptized for the told them. We did not understand either dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are what Joseph meant when he told us he they then baptized for the dead?" There was going to be taken away. But so it is no doubt or obscurity in the minds was, and when it came, we knew too well of the Latter-day Saints respecting this his meaning, for sorrow and gloom rested principle, it has been made plain unto upon all Israel. The question may be our understanding by the light of reve- asked, Why was this necessary? There lation. The Adversary, well knowing the may be more than one reason; one, how- nature and importance of the mission of ever, is, the dispensation already ush- this Prophet of God, put it into the hearts ered in is the dispensation of the full- of wicked men to kill him, and in taking ness of times; and like preceding ones, his life they thought they were putting the men who have been called upon to an end to "Mormonism." They reasoned open them up, had to seal their testi- from their human standpoint, for such mony with their blood, Joseph had to might have been the case if this work do the same. But those who took his were the creation of man. But the hand life, and those who assented to it, will of God was over him and the work that have to pay the bill. He held the keys he established, and it is his work and of the Priesthood, and had a work to per- he directs it, and those who want to find form in the spirit world, as Jesus had. fault with it, or any part of it, should en- When he was put to death, and while ter complaint against God, for he is its his body lay in the tomb, he went to the Author; we are merely the instruments spirit world to introduce the Gospel to in his hands in carrying it on. the spirits there, that they might have After the martyrdom of our beloved the opportunity of either receiving or re- Prophet, the Twelve Apostles stepped jecting it, and be judged according to forward, in the magnitude of their men in the flesh. And it will be the calling, and assumed the Presidency privilege of every son and daughter of of the Church, and, as a Quorum, Adam, sometime of their life, either in they led it, with President Young as the body or in the spirit, to hear the President of that Quorum, for sev- glad tidings of great joy proclaimed to eral years before there was an orga- them, for God is just and is no respecter nization of the First Presidency; and of persons. Joseph, then, standing at when this organization was effected, the head of this dispensation holds the with Brigham Young as President of keys of the Priesthood pertaining to this the Church, he continued to preside time, and it was a duty that the God for the space of thirty-three years, un- of heaven required of him to open up til the time of his death, notwith- the Gospel to those in the spirit world standing the combined efforts of the 228 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
Adversary and wicked men to destroy forty years, without purse or scrip, and I him from off the earth. His works are have been sustained by the hand of the before you; they are before the heavens Lord, and so have my brethren. Our El- and the earth, and all men. The en- ders who are called constantly from the tire Territory bears marks of his genius plow and the workshops to go forth into and enterprise; and the Lord certainly the world and preach the Gospel, trav- crowned his labors with success, as he eling from place to place on foot, with- has blessed the labors of his brethren out purse or scrip, and although they are who have not spared their hands or their not trained in colleges or seminaries of hearts in assisting him. And instead learning, yet they are sustained and en- of the work of the latter day stopping, abled to cope with the learned and wise, or its progress being retarded in conse- and the honest in heart receive their quence of the death of our beloved Pres- testimony, which is accompanied by the ident, it will move forward with acceler- Spirit of God, and the Holy Ghost. ated speed, until Zion arises in beauty, Before I close, I want to say one thing and power, and dominion, in fulfillment to the Latter-day Saints, which is rest- of the inspired words of Prophets and ing upon my mind. President Young hav- Seers who have spoken, and who, while ing now passed away, his labors with us wrapt in heavenly vision, saw our day. have ceased for the present. He, with his It cannot be a very great while be- brethren, built and completed one Tem- fore many of us will follow him. I have ple, also laid the foundation for one at traveled with him for some forty-four Manti and one at Logan, and besides a years of my life, and during those years great deal of work has been done on the I have never known him to waver or one in this city. He left this unfinished flinch in the performance of his duties. work for us to carry on to completion; He has performed an honorable mission and it is our duty to rise up and build to earth, and while his body sleeps his these Temples. I look upon this portion spirit lives, and he continues his labors, of our ministry as a mission of as much strengthening the hands of Joseph, and importance as preaching to the living; Hyrum, and Jedediah, and Heber, and the dead will hear the voice of the ser- George A., and all those who have been vants of God in the spirit world, and they true and faithful to God and to man cannot come forth in the morning of the while upon the earth, who are now en- resurrection, unless certain ordinances gaged in the same great cause of re- are performed, for and in their behalf, demption and salvation. Although Pres- in Temples built to the name of God. It ident Young has finished his earthly ca- takes just as much to save a dead man as reer and mission to this earth, the work a living man. For the last eighteen hun- has only commenced. The Gospel must dred years, the people that have lived be thoroughly and faithfully preached and passed away never heard the voice to every nation under heaven, and the of an inspired man, never heard a Gospel Lord holds us responsible, for verily sermon, until they entered the spirit the trust has been imposed upon us, world. Somebody has got to redeem and it behooves us to see to it. I them, by performing such ordinances for have traveled more or less for the last them in the flesh as they cannot attend NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 229 to themselves in the spirit, and in or- I will here say, before closing, that der that this work may be done, we must two weeks before I left St. George, the have Temples in which to do it; and what spirits of the dead gathered around me, I wish to say to you, my brethren and sis- wanting to know why we did not redeem ters, is that the God of heaven requires them. Said they, "You have had the use us to rise up and build them, that the of the Endowment House for a number work of redemption may be hastened. of years, and yet nothing has ever been Our reward will meet us when we go be- done for us. We laid the foundation of the hind the veil. government you now enjoy, and we never "Blessed are the dead which die in apostatized from it, but we remained the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith true to it and were faithful to God." the Spirit, that they may rest from their These were the signers of the Declara- labors; and their works do follow them." tion of Independence, and they waited We have labored in the St. George on me for two days and two nights. I Temple since January, and we have done thought it very singular, that notwith- all we could there; and the Lord has standing so much work had been done, stirred up our minds, and many things and yet nothing had been done for them. have been revealed to us concerning the The thought never entered my heart, dead. President Young has said to us, from the fact, I suppose, that hereto- and it is verily so, if the dead could fore our minds were reaching after our they would speak in language loud as more immediate friends and relatives. I ten thousand thunders, calling upon the straightway went into the baptismal font servants of God to rise up and build and called upon brother McCallister to Temples, magnify their calling and re- baptize me for the signers of the Declara- deem their dead. This doubtless sounds tion of Independence, and fifty other emi- strange to those present who believe not nent men, making one hundred in all, in- the faith and doctrine of the Latter-day cluding John Wesley, Columbus, and oth- Saints; but when we get to the spirit ers; I then baptized him for every Pres- world we will find out that all that God ident of the United States, except three; has revealed is true. We will find, too, and when their cause is just, somebody that everything there is reality, and that will do the work for them. God has a body, parts and passions, and I have felt to rejoice exceedingly in the erroneous ideas that exist now with this work of redeeming the dead. I regard to him will have passed away. I do not wonder at President Young say- feel to say little else to the Latter-day ing he felt moved upon to call upon the Saints wherever and whenever I have Latter-day Saints to hurry up the build- the opportunity of speaking to them, ing of these Temples. He felt the im- than to call upon them to build these portance of the work; but now he has Temples now under way, to hurry them gone, it rests with us to continue it, up to completion. The dead will be af- and God will bless our labors and we ter you, they will seek after you as they will have joy therein. This is a prepa- have after us in St. George. They ration necessary for the second advent called upon us, knowing that we held of the Savior; and when we shall have the keys and power to redeem them. built the Temples now contemplated, 230 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. we will then begin to see the necessity all the descendants of Shem, Ham, and of building others, for in proportion to Japheth who received not the Gospel in the diligence of our labors in this direc- the flesh, must be officiated for in the tion, will we comprehend the extent of Temples of God, before the Savior can the work to be done, and the present present the kingdom to the Father, say- is only a beginning. When the Sav- ing, "It is finished." ior comes, a thousand years will be de- voted to this work of redemption; and Temples will appear all over this land May God continue to bless us, and of Joseph—North and South America— guide and direct our labors, is my prayer, and also in Europe and elsewhere; and in the name of Jesus. Amen.
AN IMPORTANT CONFERENCE—THE DEATH OF JOSEPH AND THE DEATH OF BRIGHAM—THE KEYS OF THE APOSTLESHIP—REVELATION FOR THE GUIDANCE OF THE CHURCH COMES THROUGH THE HEAD—AS TO THE FIRST PRESIDENCY.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEO.Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY MORNING,OCTOBER 8, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
Our Conference is a most important blow has fallen, it may be said, unexpect- one, one that doubtless will be long re- edly upon us; it was particularly so at the membered by those who have partici- martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pated in its deliberations and actions. for he had passed through so many dif- It is not often that we, as a people, ficulties, and had so many narrow es- have been called upon to pass through capes, and so many deliverances from such circumstances as those which have perils of the most menacing character, surrounded us for the past four or five that the Latter-day Saints had been led weeks. Twice in our history, during the to regard him as almost invulnerable, past forty-seven and a half years, have and that his life would be spared to a we been called to mourn the loss of him good old age, if not to the winding up who has led the cause of the Holy Priest- scene. His martyrdom, then, fell as a hood upon the earth. At both times the very unexpected blow upon the people. It AN IMPORTANT CONFERENCE, ETC. 231 was a dreadful shock, for which a of affairs, by the authority of the Apostle- great bulk of the Latter-day Saints were ship, and the authority which they had unprepared. It is true that many received from the Prophet Joseph. And were warned, especially those who were for a little rising of three years they led abroad among the nations preaching; and guided the Church, until the Lord they had dreams and manifestations inspired his servant Brigham, to orga- of the Spirit concerning the terrible nize a First Presidency of the Church. calamity. But those at home were This experience has been most valuable scarcely prepared. Evidences came so to us under our present circumstances. quickly, one after another, that there was Men have looked back to the past; they scarcely an idea among the people that have remembered what was done at the his arrest, or his delivering himself up as period to which I refer, and doubt un- he did, would terminate in such a catas- certainty and hesitation have not existed trophe. The Church itself was so unpre- to any extent; in fact, have not existed pared, by any previous experience, for at all in the minds of those of long ex- the steps that were necessary to carry perience in the Church. The Twelve on the work that the Lord had estab- Apostles have the authority to lead and lished, and of which he had been the in- guide, to manage and direct the affairs of strument. the Church, being the Quorum standing I well remember the feelings that next to the First Presidency. Naturally it were experienced upon that occasion; falls to them to step forward once more how men's minds wondered, and the and assume the direction and control, to surmises that were indulged in; the dictate and counsel and to regulate, so guesses, the anticipations, some think- far as may be necessary, everything con- ing one man would be chosen, and oth- nected with the organization of the peo- ers that someone else would be. Many of ple, and the proclamation of the Gospel the people were at an entire loss to know among the nations of the earth. who would take charge of the Church af- fairs. And while they were not satis- Although the blow has been a heavy fied with Sidney Rigdon, nor his preach- one, and has fallen unexpectedly upon ing, nor his propositions; a great many us, it seemed to me, during the past were undecided in their minds as to who summer, in watching President Young, would be the leader, or who would have in listening to him, in associating with the right to stand at the head. When the him, that he had obtained a new lease Twelve returned and their voices were of life. He had not been able to speak heard in the midst of the people; when for years in public assemblies with the President Young stood before the congre- ease to himself that he had done since gation and spake to the people, doubt the last winter. It seemed that he and uncertainty and every kindred feel- had overcome his weakness, a weakness ing vanished, and everyone who had a of the stomach from which he suffered sufficient portion of the Spirit of the Lord when he spoke to large congregations, recognized in him the man whom the and his bodily health appeared to be Lord had chosen to lead and guide his as perfect as it could be for a man of people, instead of the martyred Prophet. his age; this being the case, it was a For the first time in the history very unexpected thing for him to pass of the Church, the Twelve Apostles off so suddenly. But in looking back stepped forward and took the charge at the circumstances that surrounded 232 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. him and that surrounded the Church, trary to his usual calmness of manner), and the labors that were so essential to have the work of organization com- for him to perform, we can now under- pleted. I have been reminded a number stand why it was that he was so greatly of times of the same spirit that rested strengthened, that he had such vigor upon the Prophet Joseph; he seemingly not only in speaking, but in perform- could not rest, he was constantly stirring ing the labors of traveling and visiting up and urging the Twelve to step forward the various settlements, that he enjoyed. and assume the responsibility that lay I do not believe myself that President upon them, and to impart to the people Young could have felt as happy, as I know the knowledge that the Lord had given he does feel, had he left the Church in to him, and to bestow upon the servants the condition it was in when he com- of God the keys and the authority of the menced his labors last spring. I am con- holy Priesthood in its fulness. And Pres- vinced that it has added greatly to his ident Young manifested the same spirit. satisfaction; it has been a fitting con- He lived to receive Elder Taylor and the summation to the labors of his long life brethren of the Twelve who accompanied that he should be spared to organize the him after their return from organizing Church throughout these valleys in the the last of the Stakes of Zion, and to con- manner in which it now is organized. fer with them. In a few hours afterwards It was remarked by brother Pratt, in he took his exit. his discourse, that at no time since the first organization of the Church have the Latter-day Saints been so well orga- At no time probably in the history nized; everything set in order so com- of the Church have the Saints been so pletely as we now see them. This is calm and so serene, manifesting so lit- his experience and his testimony; and tle concern in relation to the way mat- you know he has been familiar with the ters should go, and the affairs of the Church from nearly the first of its or- Church be conducted, as they have on ganization to the present time. And this occasion. It has seemed as though I believe this would be the testimony the Lord has prepared the people for of every man of years belonging to the these things. He has poured out upon Church. And I am thankful this day that us the spirit of union that has not been President Young was spared to accom- enjoyed, probably, to so great an extent plish this work, that the Lord gave him at any time in our history. There are the bodily vigor and the mental capacity great labors assigned to all of us in ev- sufficient to enable him to close up the ery department of the Priesthood. If we labors of his earthly career in so fitting a take up the work and carry it forward in manner. the spirit with which it has been com- He has marked out the path for mitted to us by him, now that he has the Twelve to pursue. And I was gone from our midst, the Lord will con- a number of times impressed during tinue to be with us, and to bless us as the summer that the spirit he pos- he did him. For He was with him all sessed in relation to these matters im- his life; He was with him in counseling pelled him to hurry them up, and the people; He was with him in proph- have everything attended to quickly; esying to the people, and in teaching almost a feeling of restlessness was them and directing them in their tempo- manifested by him (which was so con- ral as well as their spiritual labors. And AN IMPORTANT CONFERENCE, ETC. 233 the Lord crowned his life with success, pleasure to that portion of brother and his labors with blessing; and they Pratt's discourse which I heard, in re- who sustained him and obeyed his coun- lation to the Apostleship and the au- sel have been prospered in every in- thority of the Apostleship, and the right stance; and when they received the coun- of the Priesthood to rule and to gov- sel in a proper spirit, and carried it ern. There have been a great many ideas out as it was given to them, they and afloat in the minds of men concerning the Church prospered under his pres- this work, and I suppose I have been idency and administration; and it has interrogated I might say thousands of gone forth in power and majesty, and in times—at any rate I have been inter- such a way as to bring conviction to the rogated upon this point more than any hearts of thousands of people that there other namely, Who will succeed Presi- is a power connected with this system dent Young in case he dies? The Latter- called "Mormonism," not comprehensi- day Saints who have had experience in ble to any who do not view it, by the this matter have not had occasion to ask Spirit of God. I feel that we, as a people, this question; but many inexperienced should take hold of this work; that we, Saints had it in their hearts, wondering as Apostles, that we, as Seventies, and what shape affairs would take in case as High Priests, as Elders, as Priests, anything were to happen to the Presi- Teachers and Deacons, should take hold dent of the Church. of this work in earnestness and in zeal, Every man who is ordained to the and carry it forward as our Prophet and fullness of Apostleship, has the power file leader did during his lifetime; that and the authority to lead and guide the we should take it up where he laid it people of God whenever he is called upon down, and carry it on until the end is to it, and the responsibility rests upon reached, and the full consummation of him. But there is a difference, as was all things is accomplished; seeking to explained by brother Pratt, that arises have the spirit that animated him, and in some instances from seniority in age, to follow him as he followed Joseph, as in other instances from seniority in or- he honored Joseph, as he revered Joseph, dination. And while it is the right of as he upheld Joseph, as he maintained all the Twelve Apostles to receive reve- Joseph, touching doctrine and counsel, lation, and for each one to be a Prophet, so that it appears to me if we are ani- to be a Seer, to be a Revelator, and to mated by the Spirit of God we will honor hold the keys in the fullness, it is only him and follow in his footsteps, as he the right of one man at a time to exercise followed Joseph, and as Joseph followed that power in relation to the whole peo- Christ. When we do this, and take hold ple, and to give revelation and counsel, of this work with the earnestness and and direct the affairs of the Church— zeal which should characterize our ac- of course, always acting in conjunction tions, the Spirit and power of God will with his fellow servants. And while we rest upon us, and he will bear us off as he say that the Twelve Apostles have the has borne them off who preceded us; he right to govern, that the Twelve have will not desert us, nor leave us in any po- the authority, that the Twelve Apostles sition where we will be destitute of help. are the men who preside—when we say I listened with a great deal of this, we do not mean that every one of 234 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the Twelve is going to give revelation is he whom you sustained yesterday, as to this great people, that every one of President of the Quorum of the Twelve, the Twelve has the right to counsel and as one of the Twelve Apostles and of dictate and regulate the affairs of the the Presidency, John Taylor by name. Church as emergencies may arise, in- When revelation comes to this people, it dependent of the rest. The Church is is he who has the right to give it. When not governed like Zion's Cooperative In- counsel comes to this people, as a peo- stitution, by a Board of Directors; this ple, it is he who has the right to im- is not God's design. It is governed by part it; and while the Twelve are asso- men who hold the keys of the Apostle- ciated with him, one in power, one in au- ship, who have the right and authority. thority, they must respect him as their Any one of them, should an emergency President, they must look to him as the arise, can act as President of the Church, man through whom the voice of God will with all the powers, with all the author- come to them, and to this entire people. ity, with all the keys, and with every en- By extraordinary providence he has been dowment necessary to obtain revelation brought to the front. Men have wondered from God, and to lead and guide this peo- at it, why it was so. It is easy of ex- ple in the path that leads to the celes- planation. There was a time when three tial glory; but there is only one man at living Apostles, three Apostles who now a time who can hold the keys, who can live, whose names were placed above his dictate, who can guide, who can give rev- in the Quorum of the Twelve. But, when elation to the Church. The rest must ac- this matter was reflected upon, Presi- quiesce in his action, the rest must be dent Young was moved upon to place governed by his counsels, the rest must him ahead of one, and afterwards ahead receive his doctrines. It was so with of two others, until by the unanimous Joseph. Others held the Apostleship— voice of the Apostles he was acknowl- Oliver received the Apostleship at the edged the Senior Apostle, holding the same time that Joseph did, but Joseph oldest ordination without interruption of held the keys, although Oliver held pre- any man among the Apostles. Not that cisely the same authority. There was he sought it; not that he endeavored to only one who could exercise it in its full- obtain it; not that he begged for his place, ness and power among the people. So for it is due to him to say to this con- also at Joseph's death, there was only gregation today, that no man has been one man who could exercise that author- more modest in urging his claim or set- ity and hold these keys, and that man ting forth his right than he. But Pres- was President Brigham Young, the Pres- ident Young was led by the Spirit of ident of the Quorum of the Twelve whom God, as we do verily believe, to place God had singled out, who by extraordi- him in his right position; and two years nary providence had been brought to the ago last June, in Sanpete, he declared front, although many were ahead of him in a public congregation that John Tay- according to ordination at one time and lor stood next to him; and that when another. he was absent it was his right to pre- Now that he has gone, one man side over the Council. We little thought only can hold this power and author- then, at that time, that there would ity to which I refer, and that man be a necessity so soon arise when he AN IMPORTANT CONFERENCE, ETC. 235 would be required to exercise that power, all were, and there had been faith and that authority and right. Most of the men enough left, he would have had the people could very readily imagine that right to ordain other Apostles, and set in President Young would have outlived order the entire Church, and carry for- President Taylor, but the Lord has or- ward the work as the Lord should dic- dered otherwise. tate it. So in our day. As I have stated, it is not necessary for a man who has re- In relation to ordination, a great ceived this power and these keys to be or- many people have imagined that it was dained and set apart to act; he can act in necessary to ordain a man to succeed any position. President Young, when he another, that it would impart a partic- chose brother George A. Smith to be his ular efficacy or endow him with some First Counselor, in the place of Heber C. additional power. Ordination is always Kimball, did not lay his hands upon his good and acceptable; blessings and set- head to confer upon him any additional ting apart are always desirable to those power or authority for the position, be- who have to go forth to prepare them for cause brother George A. held the Apos- God's service; but it is not necessary that tleship in its fulness, and by virtue of an Apostle should be ordained to stand that Priesthood he could act in that or at the head of the people. When the exi- in any other position in the Church. He gency arises, he has already got the ful- chose other assistant Counselors; he did ness of authority, and the power of it. I not set them apart, there was no neces- was told of a dream that a person had sity for it, as they already held the Apos- shortly after the death of the Prophet. A tleship. And if he had, he could only person dreamed that a certain man had have blessed them; he could not bestow been set apart by the President, and the upon them any more than they already keys had been given him; and that Pres- had, because they had all that he himself ident Young came and said that he had had, that is when he chose them from the given to this person the keys. Now, that same Quorum. He did choose several of of itself, to a person understanding the his assistant Counselors from the Quo- principle, would carry its own contradic- rum of the Twelve; he did not put his tion with it. The man dreamed of was al- hands upon them to set them apart, nor ready an Apostle, holding and exercising to give them the authority and power to the keys of the Apostleship; and there- act as his Counselors; they already held fore it would not be necessary for Presi- it. dent Young to confer again upon him the It is well for the Latter-day Saints keys. If every man of the Twelve but to understand the principles of the Holy one were slain, the one remaining would Priesthood, and the power thereof, that have the right to organize a First Pres- it may be known by you where the idency of the Church, to choose Twelve authority rests, who has the right to Apostles, and to organize the Church in teach and guide and counsel in the its fulness and power, and to preside affairs of the kingdom of God. The over it. And his acts would be accepted Lord has revealed it in plainness, so of the Lord, and binding upon the peo- that a wayfaring man, though a fool ple. This is the authority of the Apostle- need not err therein. Was it necessary ship. If every Apostle anciently had been that Elder Taylor should be set apart slain but John the Revelator, as they to preside over this people? Was it 236 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. necessary that the Twelve Apostles of him whom the Lord chooses to be his should be set apart to preside over this voice, sanctioned by the Twelve Apos- people? No it was not, for they already tles. Hear it, O Israel! and remember it. possessed the power, authority and ordi- Have I the right to say who shall preside nation. Was it necessary for the Prophet over this people? No. Although an Apos- Joseph Smith to set apart Brigham or tle, holding the keys with my brethren Heber or Willard, or any of the rest of and being side by side with them, having the Twelve Apostles? No, for the same equal authority with them. Why? Be- reason, they had received the fulness cause I am not chosen by the Lord to be of the Holy Priesthood, the full endow- his mouthpiece to the Latter-day Saints; ment and the keys, and the authority, what I mean by this, to give them rev- and the fulness of the Apostleship; there- elation. It is my right to instruct and fore it was not necessary. It might have teach, to labor and to counsel; but it is been done; there would have been no not my right to organize a First Presi- wrong in doing it; there would be no dency for this Church, neither is it the impropriety in blessing a man; there right of any other man, excepting him would be no impropriety in a man like whom the Lord has chosen the Presi- Joseph or Brigham, favored of God with dent of the Twelve, with that Quorum the power to move the heavens to bring standing as the First Presidency. A day down blessings upon the children of men; or two ago, a man came here and noti- I say, there would be no impropriety fied the President of the Twelve that he in such men laying their hands upon was to be the successor to Brigham. The any man and blessing him; the Lord most charitable construction you can put would bless him, if he were thus blessed. upon such speeches is that the man is But I am now speaking of the author- crazy. Whenever the voice of the Lord ity and power of the Holy Priesthood. comes upon such a subject, it will come The blessing of such men or by such with the power and demonstration of men, would not bestow upon him any the Holy Ghost and with much assur- additional authority or any more keys, ance, and every Latter-day Saint on the presuming that he already had received earth will receive it, because the Spirit the fulness of the Apostleship. Some of God will bear testimony to our spir- may feel that the Lord should raise up a its that it is from Him, so that we can- man by special manifestations of power not be deceived. It is our privilege to to preside over his Church—they hav- so live that we know the voice of the ing an expectation of that kind. When- true shepherd, and cannot be deceived ever the Lord does it will be because by those who profess to have revelation of there being a necessity for it, and and have authority, when they have it whenever there is a necessity for it, it not. And every man and woman in this will not be made plain through one of Church should so live that when they the Twelve aside from the President, it hear the true voice, they will know it as will not be made plain through a Sev- they would know the voice of their near- enty, it will not be made plain through a est friend, and not be deceived or led High Priest, through an Elder, through astray. Well but, says one, Why cannot a Patriarch; it will come as all revela- you organize a First Presidency now, if tions from the Lord come, to be bind- ing upon this people, through the voice THE GOSPEL REVEALED, ETC. 237 the Twelve have this authority? Do shall be the counsel of our Heavenly you want to know the reason, brethren Father that a First Presidency shall and sisters, why we do not take such be again organized, the Quorum of the a step? I suspect you would like to Twelve will be organized in its fullness know why a man and his two Counselors as before. Therefore you can wait, as are not singled out, called and set apart well as we, for the voice of the Lord; and by the voice of the people at this Con- when it does come, whenever it will be, ference, as the First Presidency of the you will see the Church take action in Church? The reason is simply this: the this matter; but until then, Latter-day Lord has not revealed it to us; he has Saints, you will be governed by the au- not commanded us to do this, and un- thority that already exists. If three men til he does require this at our hands, have the right to govern, certainly twelve we shall not do it. For the present, it men, all possessing the same keys, have seems to be the mind and will of God, as that right and that authority. Then let manifested to us, that the Twelve should us wait the good pleasure of the Lord, preside over the Church. And until he and cease surmises, and cease indulging does reveal unto his servants that it is in vain and foolish ideas upon these sub- right and proper that a First Presidency jects. should be organized again, we shall I pray God to bless you, and pour out wait, we shall do nothing of that kind. his Spirit upon us all, in the name of Je- When the voice of God comes, when it sus. Amen.
THE GOSPEL REVEALED FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE WORLD—WITNESS OF THE SPIRIT—PRIESTHOOD—HIGH PRIESTS AND SEVENTIES—ENERGETIC MISSIONARIES—DUTIES OF PRESIDENTS, BISHOPS, ELDERS, PRIESTS, TEACHERS AND DEACONS—RELIEF SOCIETIES—TITHING—P. E. FUND—COMMON SCHOOLS.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE OGDEN TABERNACLE, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,OCTOBER 21, 1877.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I am happy to meet with the had to suffer the loss of our vener- brethren and sisters at this Confer- ated and beloved President Brigham ence. Since I was last here we have Young, which cast a gloom over the 238 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. feelings of the Saints throughout the Ter- before the world was, and will con- ritory, and made us all feel sorry. His tinue when change shall have succeeded demise, with that of others, however, is change upon this earth, and when the among the evidences that are necessar- earth shall have been redeemed and all ily associated with human affairs, and is things made new, and while life and something over which we have no con- thought and being last, and immortality trol, for the Lord manages such things endures. Therefore, although the Gospel according to the counsel of his own will. is new to the world, it is everlasting. And I remember the time very well when it was introduced, as I have stated, in Joseph Smith was taken from us, not the interests of humanity—our fathers, however in the manner that President the ancient Prophets and Apostles, and Young was, but by a ruthless mob, meet- men of God who have lived in the vari- ing his death at the hands of assassins. ous ages of the world, who have admin- But these things are matters, although istered in the holy Priesthood while they of great importance to us, yet relatively lived upon the earth, and who are now they have not a very great deal to do with administering in the heavens, and who the building up of the Church and king- had a hand in the introduction of this dom of God upon the earth, and with His work, together with God our heavenly work in which we are all engaged. Father, and Jesus the Mediator of the When the Lord revealed the everlast- New Covenant; and today they feel in- ing Gospel to Joseph Smith, he unfolded terested in the rolling forth of this work, unto him his purposes and designs in and in the accomplishment of these pur- relation to the earth whereon we live, poses which God designed before the and gave unto him a knowledge of his foundation of the world. And it is to God law and the ordinances of the Gospel and his Son, and to these men, that we and the doctrine thereof. It was not are indebted for the light and the intel- for the object simply of elevating him ligence that has been communicated to as a man, but it was done for the in- us, and to them we shall be indebted terest of society, in the interest of the through all time for the same kind of world, and in the interest of the living knowledge and intelligence to sustain and the dead, according to the decrees and direct us. and designs of Jehovah which he formed We talk sometimes about the organi- before the world rolled into existence, zation of our Church, and about a First or the morning stars sang together for Presidency, and about Apostles, and Pa- joy. The Lord had his designs in re- triarchs, and High Priests, and Seven- lation to the earth and the inhabitants ties, and Elders, etc.; but who knew any- thereof, and in these last days he saw thing about any of these offices, their proper to reveal and restore, through rights and privileges, etc., until God re- his servant Joseph Smith, what we term vealed it? Nobody. And this is not only the new and everlasting Gospel; new to so with regard to the several offices of the the world at present, because of their Melchizedek or higher Priesthood, but it traditions, their follies and weaknesses, is also the case with those of the Aaronic and their creeds, opinions and notions, or lesser Priesthood. These are things but everlasting because it existed with that were not originated by man, they God, and because it existed with him came to us through revelation from God, THE GOSPEL REVEALED, ETC. 239 and hence we are indebted to the Lord bers of the church and also conferred the for them, and also for all the knowledge Holy Ghost, and they received it; and we possess in relation to them. Who among other things they received was taught us anything about the Gather- the principles of the Gathering. And ing, and why are we here today? What it was universally the case, and they brought us here, and under what influ- hardly knew why it was, that among ence did we come, and by what principle their first desires after their confirma- were we united as we find ourselves at tion, was a wish to gather to Zion; the present time? You who are familiar and no one that remains faithful to the with the history of the Church know that cause ever remained satisfied until he there was a Temple built in Kirtland, did gather with the saints. I would defy Ohio, and that while the Prophet Joseph the world and all the Elders of Israel to Smith and Oliver Cowdery were seated have gathered this people together, as we in their proper places in that Temple, now are, unless these keys of the Gath- there were several important personages ering had been restored to earth, and appeared to them, and gave unto them the people had received the spirit of it several keys, powers and privileges, and through the proper channel. But as it that among these heavenly beings was was, there was no trouble at all, so far as Moses, who represented what is termed their willingness was concerned. I have the Gathering dispensation. His mission seen many of them after baptism almost to earth was to restore the keys of the ready to sell themselves in order to have Gathering dispensation, which should the chance of coming to Zion. And you gather Israel from the four quarters of elders, who are my hearers today, have the earth, and also restore the ten tribes. witnessed the same, and many of you You who have not read this for your- were doubtless numbered among those selves, you will find it in the new edi- of whom I speak, who were so extremely tion of the Doctrine and Covenants; I re- anxious to gather. fer you to it and recommend you to read We are living in what ancient men of it. Moses conferred these keys of au- God have been pleased to term the dis- thority upon the prophet Joseph Smith, pensation of the fulness of times, which and he afterwards conferred them upon embraces all previous dispensations and the Twelve Apostles and others, who all the priesthood that has ever before when they were ordained received them existed on the earth. And among other as part of their ministry and priesthood, means that God will make use of to ac- to prepare them for the work that was complish his purposes is that of Temples; to be done. And when these elders and the spirit of Temple building comes went forth in the performance of their in the very same way as that of gathering duties, calling upon the people among together, and this accounts for our desire whom they traveled to repent and be to assist in erecting Temples. The Lord, baptized in the name of Jesus Christ through the prophet Malachi, in refer- for the remission of their sins, promis- ring to this feature of the great Latter- ing believers that they should receive the day work says, "Behold, I will send Holy Ghost, in obedience to the gospel you Elijah the prophet before the com- requirements, they laid their hands ing of the great and terrible day of the upon their heads confirming them mem- Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the 240 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. fathers to the children, and the heart of was strongly impressed with this feeling, the children to their fathers, lest I come and he requested the Twelve to call upon and smite the earth with a curse." Did the High Priests and Seventies, and the Elijah hold these particular keys of the Elders to subscribe towards carrying for- priesthood? He did. And did he confer ward the Temple in this city. Was the them upon Joseph Smith? Yes, he did. call responded to? Yes; the various quo- An account of this too will be found in the rums throughout the length and breadth reference I have already given you. Did of the Territory willingly contributed and the Latter-day Saints generally manifest a very material advance has been made any particular desire to build Temples in the construction of that building. Why before the prophet Elijah came? No; but did President Young feel so? Because the ever since this desire and feeling has spirit of God rested upon him, prompting existed in the minds of the Latter-day him to move in this direction. Why did Saints. It might appear very foolish to the brethren of these several quorums other people, but to us it is both consis- so readily respond to the call? Because tent and necessary. The first Temple we the same spirit rested upon them; and built was in Kirtland, Ohio; the next was hence we find that the First Presidency, in Nauvoo, Illinois, and a foundation of the Twelve, and the Saints generally, are a third was laid in Far West, Missouri. all interested in this movement, evincing Since our coming to Utah, we have built the same desire to accomplish this work one Temple in St. George and a beauti- of Temple building, as the Saints of for- ful building it is; and in that Temple are eign lands do to gather to Zion. What now performed ordinances for the living object have we in view in doing this? and the dead. And let me ask, if any That we may administer the ordinances present in this large assembly today re- which the Lord has revealed unto us, and gret in the least having contributed to it. which, according to his command, must I do not think for a moment that there is be done in Temples built to his name. If a man or woman that does. We have al- we were to turn over today these build- ready expended a large amount of means ings to the religious world, they would on the Temple now being constructed in know no more how to use them legiti- Salt Lake City; and still we have com- mately, than a baby would know what menced two other such buildings, one to do with algebra; neither would we in Manti and the other in Logan, all had not the Lord taught us by revelation of which will be magnificent buildings from heaven. The Gospel brings life and when completed; I suppose there are not immortality to light; it places us in com- less than five hundred men employed on munion with the heavens, the Priesthood these buildings, in this Territory. It looks there and the Priesthood here working odd and simple, the world does not know harmoniously together, we being taught what it means; but we know, for God has of them are enabled to accomplish what revealed it to us; and he has not only re- the Lord requires of us. vealed it, but he has put it here (pointing We, as intelligent beings, made to the heart), and we cannot get rid of it. in the image of our Creator, are placed here upon the earth to ac- In the year 1876, President Young complish a certain work, that we THE GOSPEL REVEALED, ETC. 241 may operate with the Gods in the eter- present occasion to refer to some things nal worlds, through the light of revela- connected with the organization of our tion that God has given unto us, and Church for our information; although that he will continue to give us, until I presume a good deal of similar in- all things designed by him pertaining to struction has already been given you by this earth and its inhabitants shall be brother Richards, who is very conversant accomplished. In other words, they are in such matters. Yet it is very desir- helping us to do our work, by commu- able that the Saints generally, as well as nicating to us principles we require to the Twelve and leading Elders, should know, and also by operating in our be- become familiar with these things and half, while we are operating for them, have a correct understanding of them; and their children, who are our fathers. and it will do no harm to again talk on As the Scriptures say, "that they without some of them. us should not be made perfect," it is re- In Kirtland, Ohio, a great many quiring a union of the heavens and the things were revealed through the earth, forming a grand cooperative so- Prophet. There was then a First Presi- ciety, if you please, connected together dency that presided over the High Coun- by indissoluble ties, by the gift of the cil, in Kirtland; and that High Council Holy Ghost, the light of revelation and and another which was in Missouri, were the power of God. Thus we are united to the only High Councils in existence. As I each other and to them, and are able to have said, the High Council in Kirtland act intelligently, doing works that will be was presided over by Joseph Smith and approved in heaven which are connected his Counselors; and hence there were with the interests of God and the inter- some things associated with this that ests of humanity. were quite peculiar in themselves. It is stated that when they were at a loss to It is not our work, it is not anything find out anything pertaining to any prin- we have done, but it is God that has done ciples that might come before them in the whole of it, he having called upon us their councils, that the presidency were to help him a little in our weak way; and to inquire of the Lord and get revela- inasmuch as we seek continually to do tion on those subjects that were difficult his will, he will help us, for in and of our- for them to comprehend. And I would selves we can do nothing, no not any of make a remark here in relation to these us, for we are all poor, weak, erring hu- things, that all High Councils, and all man beings, constantly needing his sus- Presidents of Stakes and Bishops, and in tenance, aid and guidance. fact all men holding the Priesthood, who The various quorums of the Priest- are humble and faithful and diligent and hood, which have been presented to honest and true to the principles of our you this afternoon, give a more perfect religion, if they seek unto God with that representation of your Stake than has faith that he requires of us, he will give been given before. And I am pleased them wisdom under all circumstances to say that this extended organization and on all occasions, and the Holy Spirit of the Priesthood exists among all the will never fail to indicate the path they Stakes—some twenty in all—throughout should pursue. This is the order of God the Territory. It may be proper on the in relation to these matters, that every 242 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. man holding any position in the Church, but if they had reflected more upon these through his faithfulness, shall have his things, and humbled themselves before Spirit commensurate to the duties de- God, and met together often to talk over volving upon them, to enable them to the principles of the Gospel, manifest- magnify their calling to the acceptance ing an eager desire to become acquainted of God and their brethren. And if such with doctrine, and using due diligence men do not enjoy this blessing, this di- in seeking for wisdom from the best of vine assistance, it is because they do not books and every available source, I do "live godly in Christ," because they do not think we should have taken so many not seek unto him in humility and lowli- men from among the Seventies and El- ness of heart, making it their daily study ders to make of them Presidents and to observe the laws of God and the rights Bishops and Councilors, as we have been of their fellow men. It is true, we all of obliged to do. But instead of the High us have certain infirmities and foibles, Priests pursuing this course, many of and as you heard this morning, God has them have indulged in much unneces- placed them upon us that man should sary talk about which was the biggest, not glory in himself, but that he might a High Priest or a Seventy. I can an- depend upon and glory in the God of Is- swer that question for you, my brethren: rael; but it is our duty to overcome them, If you will take a little child among you, and learn to subject our will to that of and on comparing yourselves with it, can our Heavenly Father, and continue on in find the one most like unto it—the one the way to perfection. who is the most honest, truthful and childlike, such a man should be classed There is a matter that has of late be- among the greatest in the kingdom of come a subject of a good deal of conver- God. It is not talking about these things sation, and it occurs to my mind to re- that qualifies men for positions, but do- fer to it, namely that of the High Priest- ing them. hood, or the place and calling of a High We are only just starting in on the Priest. In the revelation on this sub- great work before us. Zion is bound ject I find these words: "And again, I to spread and grow; her cords will give unto you Don C. Smith to be a pres- be lengthened and her stakes will be ident over the quorum of high priests; strengthened; but we must be energetic Which ordinance is instituted for the and alive to the duties devolving upon purpose of qualifying those who shall us, always keeping in mind the object to be appointed standing presidents or ser- be accomplished, and in order to facil- vants over the different stakes scattered itate things and to meet the mind and abroad." What are they organized for? It will of God, and that his work may be is instituted for the purpose of qualify- cut short in righteousness, we must op- ing those who shall be appointed stand- erate together. And if not, what? "Lul- ing presidents over the different Stakes laby baby on the tree top, when the wind scattered abroad. A sort of a normal blows the cradle will rock." We have had school, if you please, to prepare men enough of that; let us now begin more to preside, to be fathers of the people. earnestly to seek after the wisdom and Have they fulfilled this? Hardly; perhaps power of God and the light of revela- many of them have not thought about it; tion, so that the love of God may burn THE GOSPEL REVEALED, ETC. 243 in the hearts of the people, and awaken yoke of oxen," and he must needs "go to them up to an understanding of the prin- prove them;" and another has perhaps ciples of eternal truth. This is what we "married a wife, and therefore would like want. And if they do this, magnifying to be excused." And still such men gen- their calling, then when other Stakes are erally have quite an opinion of them- to be organized and other changes made, selves, and they are ofttimes anxious to all we will have to do will be to go to know which is the biggest, they or some- the High Priests for such persons to fill body else. And when such men do go such offices that rightly belong to the upon missions, they are of very little High Priesthood. And the question that account, they are ready to find excuses has agitated the minds of the Seventies not to go, and just as ready to find ex- and High Priests will no longer trouble cuses to return, and are soon reconciled them, for all will then more clearly per- to the fact that "there is no place like ceive that Church or body of Christ is home," and that "Jordan is a hard road as the body of man, composed not of one to travel;" they have all kinds of diffi- member, but many. For instance, there culties to encounter, meeting with lions is the head, there are the eyes, there is in their way, etc. Did you ever remem- the nose, the mouth, there are the ears, ber the time when the Elders felt a de- the arms and hands, the legs and feet, sire to preach the Gospel, and men were all of which are members of the human ready with open arms to receive those body; which of these would you like to be who proclaimed it? I believe the Scrip- without? Supposing you had to part with ture to be true today which says, "I will one of your legs, or one of your arms, you take you one of a city, and two of a fam- would of course want to retain the most ily, and I will bring you to Zion." We pro- useful of the two; but if you will tell me fess to be Apostles of the Lord bearing which of the two is the most useful to the his Gospel message to the nations of the human body, then I will tell you which earth; then let us exhibit a little more is the most useful to the body of Christ, of the apostolic power and zeal when we the High Priests or the Seventies. I do go out among our fellow men, realizing not think, however, we need discuss this that we have got the light and life and question; but rather let us magnify the power of God with us; and that we are Priesthood we hold, seeking to acquire sent to teach and not to be taught of a proper fitness for the positions we oc- men, to control circumstances, in a great cupy. measure, by the power of the Priesthood, Now, I will tell you something I have instead of allowing ourselves to be con- noticed lately. We call upon Seven- trolled so much. We have not got through ties, and sometimes upon High Priests with the work, we have only just com- to perform missions abroad, but how is menced it. Here are our fallen brethren, it with them? They generally go, but the Lamanites. What an extensive it is often a hard squeak. One man work opens up among them, which must has a roof to put on a house, another yet be done, but which will not fairly is perhaps building a new house, or his commence until we approximate to the business is in such a flourishing condi- consummation of our mission to the tion as to need his personal superinten- Gentile world. And when we shall dence; another has perhaps "bought five have introduced more fully the Gospel, 244 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. and developed the purposes of the they will feel his hand upon them. For Almighty to this Branch of Israel, the as I have said, we are not here to build Jews will be ready to receive the ser- up ourselves, but to build up Zion and vants of God and the Gospel, which will establish the principles of righteousness then be proclaimed to them. And when upon the earth. That is our calling, that we get through with Israel, there will re- is what the Priesthood is conferred upon main the ten tribes to be restored, the us for, and it behooves us to magnify it earth to be redeemed and the kingdom and honor our God. Be governed by in- of God to be established thereon; all of tegrity and truthfulness, and never al- which must be done in order that the low yourselves to be bartered or sold in Scriptures may be fulfilled, and the de- the interests of anybody, but operate for signs of God consummated. Our work Israel, doing justice before God and the is mapped out before us, it is all de- angels and all good men. signed and planned by him who rules And then we have our Bishops; they above, and it is time that every Elder have their place in our midst, to attend in Israel fully understood this fact that to the interests of their several Wards, to the Latter-day Saints have got to take look more particularly after the temporal a part in all this work, and that we are affairs of the people, and act and counsel not here to attend to our own personal them as fathers for their good; and not in affairs merely, but, we are called to look their own interests, but for the good and after the interests of God, to build up his benefit of the whole. And then, in the ca- Zion and establish his kingdom on this pacity of High Priests, to take charge of his earth. meetings, and instruct and counsel those There is another class of men—the of their Wards, always setting a pattern Elders of Israel—that play a most impor- in all that is upright, good and noble, tant part. They are very numerous, and saying to the people, Follow me, as I fol- it is time that they commenced to feel low Christ. And as common judges in Is- after God, and to think and reason and rael, they should be jealous of the peo- reflect: "What can I do to help to build ple's rights, adjudicating all matters that up the kingdom of God temporally and may come before them in all righteous- spiritually. O God, inspire my heart with ness. light and revelation, that I may magnify Then we come to our Priests, and my calling, honor my position, teach the what are they to do? I do not think I principles of righteousness, and, help to need tell you, for I have heard brother build up thy kingdom on the earth." This Richards tell you. They should visit is the way they should feel. from house to house, and see that And I might refer to Presidents of there are no hard feelings existing in Stakes and to our High Councils; how those households, or between the in- ought they to feel? That we are the ser- habitants of different households; and vants of the living God; that the eye of such men ought to be full of the Holy the great Jehovah is over us, and that Ghost, standing as watchmen over the we are operating in the interests of Zion flock committed to their care, trying and for her welfare in all things per- to put things right, and to keep them taining to time and eternity. If they do right. The Teachers should be their not do this, God will be after them, and assistants, whose duty it is to see THE GOSPEL REVEALED, ETC. 245 that there is no iniquity of any kind, in all humility, and ask him for wis- and that righteousness and truth pre- dom and intelligence, your prayers will vail among the people. And then, the be heard. You are commanded to search Deacons should be active in their place after wisdom from the best of books, and and calling, standing side by side with also through faith; and I will promise the Bishops, assisting them in all their you that diligent study of our own works temporal duties, operating together as will place you in possession of a fund of one family. And then everything will knowledge that you never dreamed of. move on harmoniously and pleasantly, And then devote your leisure time to the for through these ordinances come the acquisition of such useful knowledge as blessings, we are told in the revelation; can be obtained through the schools, and and without them the power of godli- from works on the sciences; but do not ness is not manifested to men in the be led by their nonsense, and skepticism, flesh. God placed in the Church, Apos- and false theories. And in doing this, tles, Prophets, etc., for the perfecting of seek earnestly for the Spirit of God to the Saints, for the work of the ministry, aid you, to enlighten your mind, that you for the edifying of the body of Christ; may the better comprehend truth, and that we may all grow together to a per- be able to discard error. And when you fect man, to the full measure of the meet together, let your hearts be set on stature of Christ. This Priesthood and the worship of God, and you will grow up our Church organization are introduced in his fear, and your delight will be in do- for this purpose, not to make big men ing good and laboring in the interest of of some, and little men of others; for I his cause on the earth. tell you, I would rather see a Deacon magnify his calling, than an Apostle who Now a few words to the sisters. They treats his indifferently. We must seek to have their Relief Societies and Retrench- magnify our offices, and not expect our ment Societies, and their Mutual Im- offices to magnify us. provement Societies, all of which are I will here refer to the young peo- very laudable and praiseworthy. You ple. I find a very good spirit growing heard quoted this morning that the man up through the Territory, associated with was not without the woman, nor the the Young Men's and Young Women's Im- woman without the man, in the Lord. Or provement Societies. It is very grati- in other words, it takes a woman and a fying, and we trust that the youth of man to make a man. Did you ever think Zion will continue to search after God about that, that without a union of the and a knowledge of his ways, for I want sexes we are not perfect? God has so or- to say to you young men, that by and dained it. And therefore do we expect to by the burden of this work will fall on have our wives in the future state? Yes. your shoulders, and it is pleasing to God And do wives expect to have their hus- and all good men, that you should pre- bands? Yes. Are we engaged in build- pare yourselves for the labor and re- ing up the kingdom of God? Yes. What sponsibility to which you are fast ap- have we to do? Why, our sisters have to proaching. And I wish to say to you fur- learn to manage their household affairs ther, that if you will go before the Lord in a proper manner, and to train their 246 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. daughters in such a manner as will pre- to awaken, and great good is being ac- pare them to become mothers in Is- complished. And what do we want to rael, competent to attend to the various teach our good sisters? I do not pro- duties and responsibilities which must pose to go into details, but will merely sooner or later devolve upon them in the say they should be things most elevating household, and also cultivate their no- and useful. Teach them to cook aright, bler qualities, calculated to elevate and to dress aright, and to speak aright; also exalt woman in the estimation of God to govern their feelings and tongues, and and man; and not only your daughters, unfold unto them the principles of the but sons also; begin early to teach them Gospel. Let the elderly ladies teach the meekness, kindness and gentleness, and younger ones, leading them on in the withhold not from them such training as paths of life, that we may have sisters will give them an acquaintance with the growing up, whose goodness and praise- common branches of education, and, if worthy principles will make them fit to possible, afford them a knowledge of sci- associate with the angels of God. And if ence, and of music, and everything that you persevere in this good work, God will will have a tendency to lead their minds bless you and your efforts. Let male and to find enjoyment in the development of female operate together in the one great the mind, but be sure and have for your common cause. Sisters, let it be your base, or foundation, the early cultiva- daily study to make your homes comfort- tion of the virtues, and a due regard to able, more and more pleasant and agree- their superiors, as well as reverence for able, in fact, a little heaven on earth. God and sacred things. And what next? And brethren, let us treat our wives Teach others who lack the opportunity properly, and prepare proper places for that your children may possess. Sisters, them; be kind to them, and feel to bless you are eminently constituted for this them all the day long. Do away with work. God has given you both the de- unkind or harsh words, and do not al- sire and ability to do it; you can enter low hard feelings to exist in your hearts, into the sympathies of others, and you or find place in your habitations. Love can better appreciate their feelings than one another, and by each trying to en- we men can, and you are altogether more hance the welfare of the other, that el- competent to minister in such affairs. ement will characterize the family cir- Hence the Prophet Joseph Smith, in his cle, and your children will partake of the day, organized a Female Relief Society; same feeling, and they in turn will imi- some of you sisters now before me I re- tate your good example, and perpetuate member seeing present on that occasion. the things they learn at home. Sister Emma Smith was President of that Society, sister Whitney, now of Salt There is another subject I wish to re- Lake City, was one of her Counselors, fer to, which was introduced this morn- sister Cleveland was the other Coun- ing by brother Joseph F. Smith. He selor, and sister Eliza Snow was Secre- said, in speaking on Tithing, that if all tary. This movement, under the auspices of the brethren would pay their Tithing, of the Relief Societies, was allowed to there would be no need to call for dona- sleep for a while, but it has again began tions. I am precisely of the same opinion. THE GOSPEL REVEALED, ETC. 247
But then all of you have not done this, that in making such things public, that neither do you do it. "But are you in all may have an understanding of our hopes that something of that kind will position. There were some propositions be accomplished?" Yes, of course we are. made to the Twelve, when they were Well, how is it now with our Temple in Cache Valley, lately, the substance affairs, there has been a change made of which was in the form of a request in relation to these matters? The High that the Tithing of that Temple District, Priests and Seventies were called upon comprising three Stakes, be used on the to contribute in this direction, and they Temple now building. This, doubtless, did it, and did well, which is praisewor- seemed very desirable to them, but some thy. If I remember correctly, the whole of us thought, and so expressed our- amount subscribed during the year was selves, that if this request were granted, some sixty-three thousand dollars, and then the people of the other two Temple this act not only facilitated the building districts would, of course, want the same of the Temple, but also rendered employ- favor extended to them, which could not ment to a great many of our brethren. well be denied. And if this were done, Now, President Young, before he left us, how could we meet all the other ex- said that after the Stakes of Zion were penses? Perhaps some of you wise men organized, these subscriptions should be can tell me; the brethren of Cache Valley made through the Bishops, instead of could not. There are thousands of dol- through the Presidents of these several lars owing in different directions, which Quorums. Some would be ready to sug- I am constantly called upon to meet, and gest that we do away with that, and use if our resources were stopped, we could the Tithing instead. I am, as I have said, not carry out certain public labors re- in hopes that we will be able to do that by quired of us, and should be unable to pay and by, but I do not think you can today. our debts. But, with the hearty and con- We wish to take a steady, even course, tinued cooperation of my brethren, I am and advance in improvements gradually, in hopes that we will so work things be- as our way shall open. I will show you fore very long, that we shall be able to what effect these sudden changes has. ease up in some of these matters, and We talk about the Seventies, and the have things move along a little more High Priest and Elders, and what they agreeable. We do not wish anybody to have done. But it is not generally known feel oppressed or crowded, but, on the that the result of that sudden change other hand, we want to feel as we sing was that Bishop Hunter had to furnish sometimes—"We are the freeborn sons of supplies for 50 or 60 men out of the Zion," etc.; and that it is "All free grace Tithing Office. And our experience con- and free will." I mention these things to vinces us that any sudden changes in re- show you that there are responsibilities lation to these matters, might prove dis- that many of the people little dream of. astrous, causing perhaps the stoppage of Bro. Joseph mentioned one thing some of our works. this morning to which I think I I find there is considerable means should have demurred a little, and I owing by the Church, and I will speak think you will when I tell you. In a little about that, believing as I do speaking about the poor people, that 248 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. they seemed to get along very well, etc., speak on, that is our school operations. and that it was necessary sometimes for You have elected me Superintendent of the Lord to humble the rich, etc., which Common Schools, and I feel a good deal things are spoken of in the "Doctrine of interest in the welfare of Common and Covenants." But what of some of Schools, and also in all of our institu- the others—those who cannot be said to tions of learning, where good education be either rich or poor? I want to refer can be had, for I feel interested in our to an item. There is owing to the Per- youth, and I take this opportunity to petual Emigrating Fund Company, up- speak to the whole county in relation to wards of a million of dollars; the na- this matter. I can perceive quite an in- ture of this indebtedness you are ac- terest in educational matters, manifest- quainted with. Certain brethren have ing itself in our brethren who preside been assisted here and you have joined here; and I am much gratified in it. I in rendering that assistance. They have hope that this whole county will go at since come in possession of means and this matter in all good faith, and where property of various kinds, but they have you lack good schoolhouses put them up; not settled for their emigration indebted- and when you have already the school- ness. And this debt has increased to this house, but lack the furniture, get it and enormous sum, and it hangs in this posi- try to make the schoolhouse comfortable tion today. Is this right? Is it just? I am for the children; and then good teachers inclined to think, with the president of who are good Latter-day Saints. Shall the company, that if we only have the pa- we have them, or shall we employ teach- tience, the thing will be completely hung ers that will turn the infant minds of our by and by, it is only a question of time. children away from the principles of the But then this state of things I look upon Gospel, and perhaps lead them to dark- as an outrage to the community, and a ness and death? Some say, "You ought greater outrage to the good and worthy to be very generous, quite as liberal and poor who are ungathered, who are cry- generous as others." I think so. But if ing for assistance. And the Church has some of these liberal people, who talk so listened to these cries, and has advanced much about liberality, would show a lit- a large amount of means, at one time and tle more of it, we would appreciate it a another, to do what these once-poor peo- little better. I would like to know if a ple should have done, but have not done. Methodist would send his children to a Now I would ask, shall these things con- Roman Catholic School, or vice versa?I tinue? I hope not; I trust that those think not. Do either send their children who are indebted to this Fund will have to "Mormon" schools, or employ "Mor- more "bowels of compassion." How anx- mon" teachers? I think not. Do we ob- ious you were, when in foreign lands, to ject to it? No, we do not; we accord to all get to Zion; and you felt when assistance classes their rights, and we claim rights reached you, that one of the first things equal with them. Well, shall we, after go- you would do, would be to extend the ing to the ends of the earth to gather peo- same to others. Let us be reminded of ple to Zion, in order that they may learn these obligations, and see that they are more perfectly of His ways and walk paid. in His paths, shall we then allow our There is another subject I want to BLESSING THE RESULT OF OBEDIENCE, ETC. 249 children to be at the mercy of those who would say: We wish to continue on as we would lead them down to death again? have done, and as soon as we can see God forbid! Let our teachers be men of our way out, we will make things more God, men of honor and integrity, and let agreeable. These are my feelings; but in us afford our children such learning as the meantime, there will be no radical will place our community in the front changes. We started in with the inten- ranks in educational as well as religious tion of carrying out the views of Presi- matters. But would we interfere with dent Young, and we purpose to do it; but other religious denominations? No. Pre- should we, by and by see a better way, vent them from sending their children one that suits us better, that would be where and to whom they please? No. Or more pleasant all around, we will then from shipping where they please? No. I adopt it. In the meantime, we will stick would not put a hair in their way, nor to the rod of iron, and humble ourselves interfere with them in any possible way; before God, seeking to do His will in all they can take their course, and we want things; and by and by, when we shall the same privilege. have done our work on earth, will obtain With regard to some of these other an inheritance in the celestial kingdom things which I have referred to, I of our Father. Amen.
BLESSING THE RESULT OF OBEDIENCE TO LAW—OUR AGENCY IN THE FLESH—THE ADVANTAGES OF UNION—ORDER IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD—THE ETERNAL WARFARE BETWEEN GOOD AND EVIL.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER CHARLES C.RICH, DELIVEREDATTHE QUARTERLY CONFERENCE HELDIN PARIS,BEAR LAKE COUNTY,IDAHO,FEB. 10, 1878.
REPORTEDBY JAMES H.HART.
Brethren and sisters, I am pleased excellent instructions during the Confer- to have the opportunity of meeting with ence. I am glad to meet so many of you in Conference. I have enjoyed myself the Saints. I will say, however, that I very much while listening to the reports feel of myself very weak, and I desire of the Bishops, and also to those who the prayers of the Saints, that I may be have addressed us. We have had some able to instruct you. I desire to speak to 250 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. your edification, but that depends upon dowments. This is one of the keys and the Holy Spirit, without which no one blessings that will be bestowed upon the can instruct and edify the Saints. I trust Saints in these last days, for which we the Spirit of the Lord will be with us this should be very thankful. afternoon, that I may, peradventure, be In the first instructions we received a means of blessing and building you up from the Elders, we were told we must in the principles of the Gospel. I will repent of our sins and be baptized, in or- read, for your instruction, from the Book der to receive the Holy Spirit, and that of Doctrine and Covenants, and will give we had no claims upon the Lord for his you some keys by which you may unlock Spirit, until we had complied with the the treasures of the Gospel. Page 424, requirements made of us. I remember new edition: "Mine house is a house of or- very well my feelings upon this subject der, and not of confusion," etc. Page 421: before I obeyed the Gospel. I studied "All blessings are predicated on law," etc. carefully, anxiously, and prayerfully, that I have read these passages because to I might know if it were the Church of Je- me they are important, and they are im- sus Christ. I did not want to run any portant to you also. We learn from the risk in the matter, and remain in un- revelations we have just read, that it certainty. I was willing to do anything was ordained before the foundation of that would give me a knowledge of the the world how the blessings of the Gospel truth. I was willing to receive it through were to be obtained, and why some peo- the ministration of an angel, through ple could not attain to certain blessings. direct revelation, or by any other way, We are told they could not obtain these but I did not want to be deceived. Ev- blessings because they did not abide by ery time I reflected carefully upon the the law. As Latter-day Saints, it is im- subject, I came to this point—the condi- portant that we understand the princi- tions upon which the promises have been ples of salvation, that we may be en- made are, repentance, baptism, and im- abled to comprehend and obtain all the position of hands. The spirit would then keys, principles, and blessings pertain- whisper, you have not been baptized, you ing thereto. It was a long time after the have not obeyed the Gospel; but when I Prophet Joseph Smith had received the had complied with the law, then I had keys of the kingdom of God, and after a perfect claim to the blessings and the Hyrum and others had received many promises, and did receive them, and ob- blessings, that the Lord gave Joseph a tained a perfect knowledge of the truth, revelation, to show him and others how and could then bear a testimony of it to they could ask for and receive certain all the world. I mention these things blessings. We read in the Revelation to show you the principles we have to of St. John, that the Saints are to re- act upon in order to obtain the bless- ceive a white stone, "and in the stone a ings of salvation and eternal life. And I new name, which no man knoweth save can testify that the Lord has fulfilled his him that receiveth it." Joseph tells us promises, and has poured out his Spirit that this new name is a key word, which upon the people, through baptism and can only be obtained through the en- the laying on of hands. So we see that BLESSING THE RESULT OF OBEDIENCE, ETC. 251 the keys given for our introduction into why was it necessary? Because we could the Church of Jesus Christ, are as ef- not attain to an exaltation without com- fectual in this our day as they were in ing here. Many people think this is the days of the former Apostles. Some a world of sorrows, and a very horrid might say, Why would not some other world to live in. So it may seem to some ordinance do as well? Simply because people, but I think that it is a glorious these were the principles ordained for world, for it is here we are enabled to that purpose before the world was. It is obtain our blessings and endowments. not a new feature in the Gospel, some- We come into this world weak and frail thing started a few years ago. From mortals. We have an agency given us, what I have read, we find they are eter- with an opportunity of doing good and nal principles; that they existed and evil. We are invited to obey the Gospel, were ordained for our salvation before which embraces principles that will en- the foundation of the world, and cannot dow the willing and obedient with exal- be changed. We must comply with the tation and eternal life. But our agency principles of the eternal law, in order to is not taken from us. We have placed obtain eternal blessings. I want to im- before us light and darkness, the bitter press these principles upon your minds, and the sweet, exaltation and degrada- for there is no "think so" and "guess so" tion, life and death, and we have rea- about these things, for the Lord him- son and intelligence given us, by which self has decreed them, and I bear record to judge and choose for ourselves. By that they are true. I hope these princi- choosing the good and obeying the prin- ples will make a lasting impression upon ciples of truth, we are entitled to the your minds, that you may devote your- spirit of revelation, and by that spirit selves more fully to the service of the only can we know God the eternal Fa- Lord, and faithfully obey all the com- ther, and his Son Jesus Christ. Is it mandments which he has given us, and not important that we should know God? may give us hereafter. Surely it is; for to know God, and his There is another principle to which I Son Jesus Christ, is eternal life. So will call your attention; that is, the pre- notwithstanding we have our trials and existence of spirits. Before we came into sufferings here, we have joys and hap- this world we had an existence with the piness likewise, and we learn to dis- Father in the heavens. We are eternal cern and appreciate the difference be- beings. How do you know that? one tween good and evil. An opportunity might say. We know it by the revela- is also afforded us in this world to in- tions of Jesus Christ, which bring life crease in faith and wisdom, and in all and immortality to light. It was re- that leads to exaltation and eternal life. vealed to Abraham and many of the an- And we are told that all the intelligence cient Prophets, and it has been revealed we gain in this world will rise up with unto us in these the last days. We are us in the resurrection. Now, who is there told that before the inhabitants of the among the Saints that does not want to earth had an existence in the flesh, they learn something concerning the princi- had an existence in the spirit world; and ples of life and salvation? We should, that it was necessary to come into this above all people, be diligent in seek- world and be clothed with mortality. And ing to know the principles of truth, that 252 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. we may obtain eternal life. We can use There is but one way to be united, ac- the keys and principles that we have cording to the will of God, and that is received to obtain this knowledge, and by being dictated in our affairs by the what is there pertaining to the Gospel Spirit of the Lord. When we were bap- that we cannot learn if we are faithful? tized we received the spirit of the Gospel, If we do not know all that is necessary and by that spirit we obtained a knowl- for our advancement, it is our privilege edge of its truth. And the same spirit to go to some person who does know. And we then received, if it continues with us, when we understand how to use the keys will lead us into all truth and reveal to us and principles ourselves, we can then things to come. We have need of revela- teach others, for all who have received tion at every step after we are baptized, the Gospel are expected to practice its for when we take a step it ought to be principles in their lives, and to devote a right step, and the only right step we their energies and lives to the establish- can take will be one that is in accordance ment of truth and righteousness upon with the principles of truth, as dictated the earth. Are we doing this? Are we by those authorized to teach and instruct doing our duty as Saints of God? Or are the Saints. This is the only principle on we passing away our time idly and indif- which we can be united, and when this ferently? If so, we are doing ourselves an principle fully is carried out, then perfect injury, and we thus deprive ourselves of union will exist among the Saints. the blessings promised to the faithful. I remember once being sick, but I There is another great principle of- scarcely realized that I was sick, for my ten brought before us, that may be con- mind was bright and active. During the sidered a very common principle. It is night the Spirit rested upon me, and the principle of Union. We are told by the principles of the Millennium were the Savior that we must be united, or opened up to me. It seemed to me that all we are not his. Does this concern us as was happiness and union. Now what will Latter-day Saints? I think it does, but it require to bring about the Millennium? some do not seem in any way concerned In the first place every man will have to about it, notwithstanding the word of learn his duty, and do it. Each one must the Lord, that otherwise we "are none study his neighbor's interest as well as of his." How can we be united so as his own. No one will do that which to be acceptable to God? We have to would conflict with his brother's inter- be united, not merely in doctrinal mat- est, and no man would willfully infringe ters, but in every other way. So far upon his neighbor's rights and privi- as doctrine is concerned, we are pretty leges. Now if all had learned their duty well united, but not so in our tempo- and were doing it faithfully, it would ral affairs. But we may become united bring about a reign of peace and righ- in our temporal affairs, if we are will- teousness, and knowledge would cover ing to learn some practical lessons that the earth. If these principles were un- have been taught us, and uniting in their derstood and carried out, we should execution; by entering into them with have no reason to find fault with each all our heart and our means, we may other. Are we seeking after these things? then be united in temporal matters also. I trust we are, and I feel rejoiced at BLESSING THE RESULT OF OBEDIENCE, ETC. 253 the progress we are making as a people, ments in this meetinghouse? Just simply although we come far short of that we because the Lord has not so ordered it. should attain unto. We must have our The way and manner in which these or- minds fixed on this subject, and be deter- dinances have to be performed have been mined to receive these truths, and live determined in the eternal world, and un- for them. This should be our first and less you comply with the requirements last thought every day, and we should and obey the law, you cannot obtain the not be contented till we realize our de- keys, and without the keys you cannot sires in righteousness. Some persons pass by the angels and the Gods in the think that a few prayers offered to the eternal worlds. For example, you cannot Lord will be all-sufficient in securing attain to an exaltation without a wife, their salvation. It is very good to pray, or wives; and you ladies cannot be ex- but something is required besides pray- alted without a husband. "For man is ing; for example, we must be baptized, not without the woman, nor the woman for that ordinance has been instituted without the man, in the Lord." So said for the remission of sins. We need en- the Apostle Paul. What, then, will be dowments and ordinations, and they can the situation of those who remain sin- only be administered by those holding gle, and do not attain to an exaltation? the Priesthood, for without these gifts we We learn from the revelations that they could not obtain a celestial crown. We be- will be angels. Some people think that stow the Priesthood on many young men, angels are the most exalted and glorious to bring them up and qualify them for beings in the eternal world; but this is a future usefulness. We want our wash- mistake. If it will satisfy any of you to ings and anointings, and how can we re- receive that glory it will not satisfy me. ceive them without someone to adminis- Now we understand that in order to ob- ter them to us? And no one could give tain an exaltation we must have a wife, them without divine authority. The same and we have to comply with the celes- words might be used, and the same or- tial law, so as to have her in the eter- dinances administered in the same way nal world. In the first place, we must precisely, but they would be of no avail receive her from the man whom God has whatever, without the priestly author- authorized and appointed to seal for time ity. Our baptisms, confirmations, ordi- and eternity, otherwise we have no claim nations and endowments can only be ad- on her in the eternal world. Perhaps ministered by those who are ordained some do not care much about the other and set apart to administer them. The world. Such persons remind me of a man law must be complied with concerning I knew in California, who became ac- these things or the ordinances are void quainted with and courted a lady whose and of no effect. Temples have to be built husband was dead. He was told that the in which some of these ordinances must lady was sealed to another man for eter- be performed. Who is to dictate concern- nity; he replied he did not care, all he ing their construction and management? wanted was to marry her for this life, The Lord himself controls these things, he did not care about the other world. and authorizes whom he will. Such a man will not attain to an ex- Some might ask, Why not bap- altation. Some persons may be satis- tize for the dead, and give endow- 254 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
fied without a complete exaltation. I do We are dependent on the Almighty not feel so. I feel my unworthiness and for the breath of life, for the bread we my inability to speak as I would like, and eat, and for every blessing we enjoy. We if I did not know it was my duty, I would need not feel in any way troubled when shrink from this undertaking; but I feel we see a man lifted up in his feelings, it my duty to declare faithfully the coun- and act as though he was some great per- sels of God, to instruct the Saints in their son. We are all of us, mere worms of duties, and tell them how they can ob- the dust, and at best are poor dependent tain salvation. When I have done this creatures; but some men appear to grow I have done my duty. Every man and larger and larger in their own imagina- woman can obtain and enjoy the spirit tion, and when we see a man ascending of revelation, so as to guide them in the higher and higher in his own conceit, it path of duty, and if we are all guided by is not always wise to pull him down sud- the same spirit, and all our actions are denly, but give him a lift, and when he dictated by its influences, we shall then gets so high that his head swims, we can enjoy happiness and peace. then help him gently down. We must We have cooperative institutions es- learn to be humble, meek and lowly, or tablished among us, and if they are con- we cannot enjoy the spirit of the Lord. ducted properly they will be a blessing to us. How shall we carry on our co- There is another thing I wish to men- operative institutions so as to be ap- tion, and that is the manner in which we proved of heaven? They must be dic- should treat each other. The principle tated by the spirit of revelation, for un- was advanced anciently, "Do unto others less they are dictated and controlled by as you would have others do unto you." that spirit they are in danger of being This principle is as binding upon us, as overthrown. If we build up institutions it was upon the people in former days, on any other foundation they will be and we need as much urging to observe overthrown sooner or later. If we es- it as they did. How would we do with tablish our institutions according to the the Lord if he were here? We have his principles of revelation, they will he ap- word for it, that forasmuch as ye do it proved by the Almighty, and they will unto one of the least of these my disci- be preserved when he overthrows the ples, ye do it unto me. If we see a brother kingdoms of this world. Who would not mistreated, we do not like it, and we feel like to see the cooperative institutions to take his part. If we do not like to see growing up among us, built upon a firm a brother mistreated, we should be the foundation? We should look well to the more careful not to mistreat each other, foundation on which we build, for un- for it is displeasing to the Lord. What less we act upon correct principles we can we say concerning these things? We cannot expect to prosper. The build- can say, "strait is the gate, and narrow ing that is reared properly will stand is the way, that leadeth to the lives, and the winds and storms and will be firm few there be that find it." Do we all want and solid. Time will tell whether we to find it? I do. And you do, then let build by the spirit of revelation or oth- us seek diligently that we may find the erwise. You may be assured that if we right way—the way God has pointed out. do not our building will be overthrown. He has made it plain before us, and has BLESSING THE RESULT OF OBEDIENCE, ETC. 255 told us the manner in which he is will- rule of action, it would have been better ing to bestow his blessings upon us. And for you if you had never heard them. if we do not obtain them it will not be We have been taught that we have his fault. What would be the condition a great work to perform in working out of society if these principles were fully our salvation, in promoting that of our carried out? We would find a brother families, and securing the salvation of and a friend in every place where God our dead friends. We cannot leave any is known. No one would have any dis- of these things undone and feel justified position to wrong his neighbor. No one before God, and before our dead friends would seek to injure his brother or sister. when we meet them in the other world, Would it not be good to live in such soci- and if we do not feel justified we shall not ety? Instead of men striving to take ad- feel very happy. vantage of their fellow men, and seeking An opportunity is now offered by to aggrandize and build up themselves at brother Cummings, by which some of the expense of others, they would seek us may obtain our genealogies, and we to build up and enrich others as well should improve it as much as possible. as themselves, and instead of hungering I feel happy in being able to send to and thirsting after the perishable things the States where many of my ancestors of this life, they would hunger and thirst have lived and died, so as to get the after righteousness. names of many of my dead friends, that I may do a work for them that they had We read in the "Book of Mormon" no opportunity of doing for themselves. that Jesus told the Nephites to return We have the privilege of being baptized home, for they were not prepared to re- for our dead, and performing other ordi- ceive his words. They went home and nances for them, and thus become sav- they did prepare their hearts for the re- iors on Mount Zion. There is a great ception of the truth. Why do we not labor to be performed by every faithful receive more truth than we do? We Saint. There is no time to waste in fool- hear a great many teachings and coun- ishness. There is too much time wasted sels from the servants of God. And in frivolity and nonsense. It is impor- why do we not receive more? Perad- tant that we make good use of the time venture we are not prepared to receive allotted us in this probation, for we un- it. Why does not the Almighty bestow derstand that we shall be judged accord- on us more light, truth, intelligence and ing to the deeds done in the body. We other blessings he is able to bestow? It have placed before us good and evil— is because we are not prepared to re- that which tends to exalt and dignify, ceive them. We have more offered now and that which tends to corrupt and de- than a great many can receive because grade. And we are expected to over- their hearts are unprepared, they are come evil, and not allow the evil to over- filled with the spirit of the world, they come us. For example, we find too of- have lost sight of the principles of salva- ten persons who can be overcome with tion, and do not comprehend them. You whiskey, and by that means they de- may have heard these things preached stroy their usefulness in the Church of many times before, but if you have Jesus Christ; they have been tried in not received them and made them your this matter, and have made a failure. I 256 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. would say to such, do not receive nor things, for now is the time to avoid the partake of that which leads to destruc- trouble that might come upon us, and to tion. Hundreds and thousands have secure our future happiness and exalta- been overcome by this evil, and are now tion, by carrying out the principles re- suffering the consequences of their folly. vealed for our salvation. We should be prepared to resist every The Lord has greatly blessed us, and evil, if we do not we shall bring trouble we have great reason to thank him for upon ourselves. It will not be because our homes in these mountains. We have we do not understand the laws of God, been led by him in all our travels, and but because we do not observe them. I he has blessed us in all our labors. We trust my brethren will remember these have reason to thank him more abun- things, and that they will make a lasting dantly for the fullness of the Gospel, and impression on your minds. I want you for the promise of eternal life. We are to remember that you are eternal beings, told by him that it is his business to that God is eternal, and that the princi- provide for his Saints. Now the better ples he has revealed to us are eternal— Saints we are, the better the Lord will that you have an opportunity of receiv- provide for us. He has told us through ing them, and that you must give an his Prophet, that his Saints shall be the account of all your actions, and will be richest of all people. But here comes the rewarded according to the principles of question, are we his Saints? It should be righteousness. remembered that we must be one, or we We have learned that there is a war- are none of his; and to become one, we fare between good and evil, and we are must allow the Lord to dictate all our ac- free to choose the one or the other. We tions and lead us in his way. If we have have learned what is required of us, and our own way we shall do as the world what our privileges are as Saints of God; does. The Lord wants to build up a peo- and if we do not receive and obey the ple like the people of Enoch, who had no principles of truth, and secure the bless- poor among them. If it was necessary ings of salvation for ourselves, and for that such a condition of society should our dead, we shall know it when we get exist then, is it less so now? The nations into the eternal world; we shall know of the earth, and the large cities of the that we have failed to comply with the United States, are crowded with the poor condition on which they are promised. and indigent, thousands and millions Don't you think we shall be sorry when among them suffer for want of bread; we discover what we have lost? I think how thankful we ought to be for our con- we shall. And how long shall we be dition in these mountains, where we en- sorry? Can we think of any time in fu- joy peace and plenty, and if not very rich ture ages when we will not be sorry if we we are not very poor. It is written that lose this opportunity of obtaining salva- against none is the Lord displeased, but tion? When we have sorrowed for thou- against those who do not acknowledge sands of years, we shall still be sorry his hand in all things. And those who if we neglect this great salvation; we feel themselves poor, should acknowl- shall forever sorrow if we do not improve edge in it the hand of the Almighty our opportunities and lay hold of eter- and be comforted, for poverty is a most nal life. I want you to think of these excellent thing; 'tis the poor in this BLESSING THE RESULT OF OBEDIENCE, ETC. 257 world's goods, but the rich in faith, who country by and by, but I would recom- are the heirs of the kingdom. Poverty mend you not to be in too great a hurry. has been one of the greatest blessings I don't want to dictate the people too that could be conferred upon us. If we much, but I am willing to counsel you had been rich we might have gone to for your good, if you are willing to take the devil long ago. But being poor we my counsel, all right, you will be blessed had to hold on to the kingdom of God, in your obedience. I would like to pour or nothing. Many men, when they get out blessings upon the Saints. There are wealthy, apostatize, because they love many things that occur to my mind that their money more than the Almighty. I cannot say to you, but that which the When we love the Almighty more than spirit dictates that I will communicate. I we love money, or anything else, then have nothing in my heart but the best of perhaps he will entrust us with riches, feelings towards the Saints. but may the Lord keep us from becom- ing rich, if riches would tempt us to Some people think I am a poor fi- forsake the truth, and hinder us from nancier! Perhaps I am. There are some serving him and keeping his command- persons who are such good financiers ments. Poverty is a great blessing, if that they take all the wool and part of in our poverty we learn to serve God. the hide with it. Now I would not like to And riches are also a great blessing if financier in that way. And if I don't fleece we make a good use of them. When the anyone, and take an advantage of those time comes that the Saints can be en- with whom I deal, I shall have nothing trusted with riches, the Lord will give to regret, and shall enjoy a clear con- them all they need, for they all belong to science; but if I do these things it will the Almighty. I am blessed with a Rich have a bad effect in this world and worse name, but I have been through poverty in the next. Perhaps those who financier myself, and I know how it feels. I trust so closely to the injury of their neigh- I have gained some good by my experi- bors will not feel so well about it in the ence. Have I anything to complain of? next world. If they have deceived and Certainly not. I have no fault to find taken advantage of us in our necessities, with the providences of God, who doeth they will not feel so well about it, if they all things well. should meet us in the other world. I Soon after my return from a mis- could tell a story. I think I will do so. I sion to England, I was called to Bear could mention names. You understand Lake Valley to superintend the settle- that when a man dies and leaves this ment of the Saints in this country. I world, he don't take his family with him, felt that it was right that I should come but they are left to the care and protec- here, not because I could live better here tion of others. A certain good man died than any other place, but because this and left a large family. A near relative was my place and field of labor. And took charge of the family and removed there is one good thing we should all them to a certain town, built a grist mill, learn, that is, always to be contented from which the family was supplied with where the Lord has placed us. But I the necessary bread. He built the first want to be in a better country says one. mill in that town, and it was a bless- Well, I think you will get into a better ing to the people as well as to the family 258 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of our deceased brother. By and by a few it sooner or later. Then let us do to persons concluded to build another mill, others as we would have others do unto and in order to get the grinding they re- us. But do not suffer transgressors to solved to build another mill. The conse- deprive you of any blessing, but rather quence was the first mill failed to supply suffer wrong than do wrong. Deal righ- food for the widows and fatherless chil- teously with each other, and so establish dren. These brethren expect to go into confidence by your good works. Do not the eternal world. Will the head of this take any right or privilege from any man family be there? He certainly will. And or woman. Not from a Gentile? No! Take how will these brethren feel when they no right from any man. I would not like meet him? I don't think they will feel to infringe upon any man's rights. If we very happy. do the Lord will hold us accountable in The effect produced by their fi- the day of judgment. He causes the sun nanciering was that of taking the bread to rise upon the evil and the good, and from the fatherless children. Will they sendeth rain upon the just and on the feel as well as though they had not done unjust. And as the Lord dealeth will all it? I think not. I was always sorry when I the children of men, so should we deal thought of these circumstances and their with each other. I have detained you effects. These things will have to be met longer than I expected. My prayer is that somewhere. The God we profess to serve the Lord will bless you, in the name of lives and takes notice of our actions, and Jesus Christ. Amen. if we do wrong we shall have to meet
AN AGE OF VISITATION AND REVELATION—REVELATION THE LAW OF GOVERNMENT—THE NATURE OF DEATH—JESUS OUR FORERUNNER AND EXEMPLAR—THE THREE WITNESSES—PERSONAL KNOWLEDGE ABOVE ALL—ORDINANCES FOR THE DEAD.
FUNERAL SERVICES PREACHEDBY ELDER JOSEPH F. SMITH,OVERTHE REMAINSOF EMMA,DAUGHTEROF ELDER DANIEL H. AND EMMELINE WELLS, ON THURSDAY MORNING,APRIL 11, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
While sitting listening to the singing, would read part of a revelation given it occurred to me that, in making to the Church of Jesus Christ of a few remarks on this occasion, I Latter-day Saints on the 27th of AN AGE OF VISITATION, ETC. 259
December, 1832, believing that we may love of God and of our fellow creatures, derive some comfort and encouragement, doing the works of righteousness, not as well as enlightenment by doing so. omitting to improve an opportunity to do good. It is necessary for us to un- He then read section lxxxviii, Doc- derstand these things and bear them in trine and Covenants, new edition, from mind, in order to abide the law which has the 3rd to the 32nd verse inclusive. been given unto us, a portion of which These are the words of God unto us, I have read to you; and which is neces- words that were not spoken in some re- sary for us to obey, in order to be found mote period of the world, and handed keeping the celestial law, and in order down to us by the traditions of our fa- to be quickened by that glory, that our thers, but they are the words of the souls, which are our bodies and spirits, Almighty spoken directly to our brethren may be redeemed and restored to life and chosen by God to be his mouthpiece and immortality, to possess crowns of glory revelators to the people of this time. and exaltation, which are to be had only They are, therefore, words of truth, and in the celestial kingdom; in other words, of eternal life, words upon which we may that we may be quickened by the celes- rely with the utmost confidence, without tial glory and receive a fullness thereof, doubt or misgiving, or fear of yielding to according to this revelation. the caprice of vain philosophy, for they God has given laws to govern all are not the words of man, but of God. his works, and especially has he given laws to govern his people, who are his It is well for us to realize, if we possi- sons and daughters. We have come to bly can—and we can if we enjoy a suffi- sojourn in the flesh, to obtain taber- cient portion of the Spirit of God—that nacles for our immortal spirits; or in we are living in an age in which the other words, we have come for the pur- Father in heaven has deigned to visit pose of accomplishing a work like that his children, making himself known by which was accomplished by the Lord Je- declaring his law and his word, by his sus Christ. The object of our earthly own mouth and by his own presence. existence is that we may have a full- If we could always realize this, it ap- ness of joy, and that we may become the pears to me that we would place greater sons and daughters of God, in the fullest reliance upon the words of eternal life sense of the word, being heirs of God and which have come unto us; we would joint heirs with Jesus Christ, to be kings thereby be induced to live so near to and priests unto God, to inherit glory, the Lord, and be so faithful in the dis- dominion, exaltation, thrones, and every charge of our duties, as the covenant peo- power and attribute developed and pos- ple of God, that our hearts would burn sessed by our heavenly Father. This is with grateful joy, we would be inclined the object of our being on this earth. In to that which is pleasing and acceptable order to attain unto this exalted posi- unto the Lord, all the day long, and we tion, it is necessary that we go through would eschew even the appearance of this mortal experience, or probation, by evil. In all the varied scenes of life, we which we may prove ourselves worthy, would never forget him, disobey his will, through the aid of our older brother, Je- nor neglect a duty; but we would abide sus. The spirit without the body is not in the covenant of the Gospel, in the perfect, it is not capacitated, without 260 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the body, to possess a fullness of the perhaps only for a little while, of the so- glory of God, and, therefore, it cannot, ciety and companionship of a daughter, without the body, fulfil its destiny. We a sister, a friend; for tears are partially are foreordained to become conformed to dried and sorrow is greatly ameliorated the likeness of the Lord Jesus Christ; in the fact that our loss is her gain. She and in order that we may become like has been released from a world of sor- unto him, we must follow in his foot- row, anguish and pain, and rests from steps, even until we sanctify ourselves her earthly labors. Blessed is her con- by the law of truth and righteousness. dition, for she has performed her mis- This is the law of the celestial kingdom; sion to earth, she has made her name and when we die, its power will bring us honorable amidst the honest and true of forth in the morning of the first resurrec- God's people, she has fought the good tion, clothed with glory, immortality, and fight, and has now taken her departure, eternal lives. Unless we do keep the law gone to her old home from whence she that God has given unto us in the flesh, came. What has she lost? Simply the which we have the privilege of receiving society of her earthly friends, but not to and understanding, we cannot be quick- the extent that we miss her; for I believe ened by its glory, neither can we receive the greater can always comprehend the the fullness thereof and the exaltation of lesser, but the lesser can only compre- the celestial kingdom. hend the greater as it may be revealed "There is a law, irrevocably decreed by glimpses from time to time by the in heaven before the foundations of this Holy Spirit. While we are in mortality world, upon which all blessings are we are clogged, and we see as through predicated—And when we obtain any a glass darkly, we see only in part, and blessing from God, it is by obedience to it is difficult for us to comprehend the that law upon which it is predicated." smallest things with which we are asso- We must, therefore, learn the laws of ciated. But when we put on immortal- heaven, which are the laws of the Gospel, ity, our condition will be very different, live and obey them with all our hearts, we ascend into an enlarged sphere; al- and in faith abide in them, perfecting though we shall not become perfect im- ourselves thereby, in order to receive the mediately after our departure from the fulness of the glory of that kingdom. body, for the spirit without the body is I make these remarks, not to the de- not perfect, and the body without the parted, but to the living—to you as well spirit is dead. The disembodied spirit as myself, who still tarry in the flesh, to during the interval of the death of the battle with the weaknesses and infirmi- body and its resurrection from the grave ties of human nature, who have yet to is not perfect, hence it is not prepared to learn by experience, that we may be in- enter into the exaltation of the celestial structed in the things necessary to know, kingdom; but it has the privilege of soar- in order that our course here may secure ing in the midst of immortal beings, and unto us the greatest reward in the pres- of enjoying, to a certain extent, the pres- ence of our Father and God. ence of God, not the fulness of His glory, We have not met here to brood not the fulness of the reward which we over our sorrows in this our tem- are seeking and which we are destined porary loss—in thus being deprived, AN AGE OF VISITATION, ETC. 261 to receive if found faithful to the law of come forth from the grave to redeem the the celestial kingdom, but only in part. body, and be reunited with it, and thus The righteous spirit that departs from become a living soul, an immortal being this earth is assigned its place in the Par- never more to die. Having accomplished adise of God; it has its privileges and its work, having gone through its earthly honors which are in point of excellency, probation, and having fulfilled its mis- far above and beyond human compre- sion here below, it is then prepared for hension; and in this sphere of action, en- the knowledge and glory and exaltation joying this partial reward for its righ- of the celestial kingdom. This Jesus did; teous conduct on the earth, it continues and he is our forerunner, he is our ex- its labors, and in this respect is very dif- emplar. The path which he marked out ferent from the state of the body from we have got to walk in, if we ever ex- which it is released. For while the body pect to dwell, and be crowned with him sleeps and decays, the spirit receives a in his kingdom. We must obey and put new birth; to it the portals of life are our trust in him, knowing that he is the opened; it is born again into the pres- Savior of the world. ence of God. The spirit of our beloved It is not a difficult thing for me to sister in taking its departure from this believe this; I read the Bible in which world is born again into the spirit world, I find narrations of many of his do- returning there from the mission it had ings, sayings, precepts, and examples. been performing in this state of proba- And I do not believe that any upright, tion, having been absent a few years honest man or woman, possessing com- from Father, Mother, kindred, friends, mon intelligence, can read the Gospels of neighbors, and from all that was dear; it the New Testament and the testimonies has returned nearer to the home circle, therein given of the Savior, without intu- to old associations and scenes, much in itively feeling that he was what he pro- the same way as a man who comes home fessed to be. For every upright, hon- from a foreign mission, to join again his est person is possessed, more or less, of family and friends and enjoy the plea- the Holy Spirit, and this holy messen- sures and comforts of home. This is the ger in the hearts of men bears record condition of her whose remains now lie of the word of God; and when all such before us, or of everyone who has been read these inspired writings, with hon- faithful to virtue and purity, while trav- esty of heart and meekness of spirit, di- eling here below; but more especially vested of prejudices and the false con- of those who while here had the priv- ceptions arising from traditions and er- ilege of obeying the Gospel, and who roneous training, the Spirit of the Lord lived true and faithful to its covenants. bears witness in unmistakable language They instead of continuing here among that burns with conviction, therefore, the things of time, surrounded as we are I believe that Jesus was the Christ, with the weaknesses of a fallen world, the Savior, the only begotten of the and subject to earthly cares and sorrows, Father; and this too through reading are freed from them to enter a state the Bible. But do we depend upon of joy, glory and exaltation; not a ful- the Bible for this conviction and knowl- ness of either, but to await the morn- edge? No, thank the Lord we do not. ing of the resurrection of the just, to What else have we to impart this know- 262 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. ledge and confirm this testimony? We cross, was laid in the tomb, burst the have the "Book of Mormon," the "stick of bands of death and came forth out of Ephraim," which has come to us by the the grave. That he was the same who gift and power of God, which also tes- came to the Nephites upon this conti- tifies of him, and which reveals an ac- nent; who, when about to take his de- count of his mission to and dealings with parture from them, declared that he was the inhabitants of this continent, after going to visit the ten tribes whom the Fa- his resurrection from the dead, when ther had led away, having the same pur- he came to this land to visit his "other pose in view that he had in visiting the sheep," to unite them in the one fold, that Nephites. Here, then is another testi- they might also be his sheep and he their mony of this divine truth; hence we have great shepherd. Besides the conviction three witnesses. In the mouth of two or that the Book itself carries with it, we three witnesses, we are told, all things have the collateral testimony of him who shall be established; and by the testi- translated it, who sealed his testimony mony of two or three witnesses shall we with his blood; also that of other wit- stand, or be condemned. nesses, who testify to the whole world that they saw the plates and the en- But would this satisfy me? It might, gravings thereon, from which the Book if I could obtain no further light or was translated, these plates were shown knowledge. But when greater light them by an angel of God, who declared comes, and I have the privilege to make that the Book had been translated cor- myself possessor of it, I could not re- rectly by the gift and power of God; and main satisfied with the lesser. We could in obedience to divine command these never be satisfied nor happy hereafter, witnesses bear record of what they saw unless we receive a fulness of the light and heard. and blessings prepared for the righteous. Here, then, are two witnesses—the This, in part, will constitute the misery, "Bible" and the "Book of Mormon," both sorrow and anguish of the condemned— bearing record of the same truth, that Je- those who reject the truth when it is sus was the Christ, that he died and lives offered to them, for their eyes will be again, having burst the bands of death opened to behold, in part, the greater and triumphed over the grave. This lat- light, exaltation and joy which they ter additional evidence the Latter-day might have attained unto, but which Saints have of this fact, over and above is irretrievably lost to them, because that possessed by the Christian world of their disobedience and wrong doings. who do not believe in the "Book of Mor- Then I say we cannot be satisfied with mon." anything short of a complete salvation But is this all? No. We have in the kingdom of God, our joy can- here another book, the "Doctrine and not be full unless we obtain a fullness Covenants," which contains revelations of knowledge. Hence I am not satis- from God through the Prophet Joseph fied with the Bible, the "Book of Mor- Smith, who lived cotemporary with our- mon," nor the "Doctrine and Covenants." selves. They are Christ's words, declar- All these three are not sufficient for me, ing that he was the same that came for the reason that greater privileges to the Jews, that was lifted up on the have been revealed to man, and they are AN AGE OF VISITATION, ETC. 263 within the reach of all that live upon the and society of those from whence it came, earth. Therefore, I could not rest satis- and to whom it is joy again to return. fied with myself until I had fully availed And this will be the condition of the righ- myself of my privileges. teous until the morning of the resurrec- tion, when the spirit will have power to It is given to us to know these things call forth the lifeless frame to be united for ourselves. God has said he will show again, and they both become a living these things unto us; and for this pur- soul, an immortal being, filled with the pose the Holy Ghost has been imparted light and power of God. I am a wit- to all who are entitled to it through sub- ness of these things. Am I alone? No; mission, which bears record of the Fa- there are tens of thousands today that ther and the Son, and also takes of the can bear this testimony. They, too, know things of God and shows them unto man. it for themselves; God has shown it to Convictions that we may previously have them, they have received the Holy Ghost, had respecting the truth the Holy Ghost which has born witness of these things confirms, giving us a positive assurance in their hearts, and they likewise are of their correctness, and through it we not dependent upon books, nor upon the obtain a personal knowledge, not as one words of another, for they have received that has been told, but as one that has a knowledge from God themselves, and seen, felt, heard, and that knows for know as he knows, and see as he sees himself. in relation to these plain and precious Then, in standing before you, my things. brethren and sisters, as a humble instru- What reason have we to mourn? ment in the hands of God, I testify, not None, except that we are deprived for by virtue of the knowledge I may have a few days of the society of one whom derived from books, but by the revela- we love. And if we prove faithful while tions of God to me, that Jesus is the in the flesh we will soon follow, and be Christ. I know that my Redeemer lives; glad that we had the privilege of pass- I know that although the worms may de- ing through mortality, and that we lived stroy this body, that I shall in my flesh in a day in which the fullness of the Ev- see God, and I shall behold him for my- erlasting Gospel was preached, through self and not for another. This light has which we will be exalted, for there is come to me, and is in my heart and no exaltation but through obedience to mind, and of it I testify, and through law. Every blessing, privilege, glory, or and by it I testify, and I know whereof exaltation is obtained only through obe- I speak. God has called me, in con- dience to the law upon which the same nection with my brethren, to this mis- is promised. If we will abide the law, sion, and this is our testimony to the we shall receive the reward; but we can whole world. I therefore say, there is receive it on no other ground. Then let no death here, instead of death it is life us rejoice in the truth, in the restora- to the departed. That which we call tion of the Priesthood—that power del- death is merely the slumber and rest egated to man, by virtue of which the of this mortal clay, and that only for a Lord sanctions in the heavens what man little season, while the spirit, the life, does upon the earth. The Lord has has gone to enjoy again the presence taught us the ordinances of the Gos- 264 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. pel by which we may perfect our exal- they cannot perform for themselves, and tation in his kingdom. We are not liv- which are essential to their release from ing as the heathen, without law; that the "prison house," to come forth and live which is necessary for our exaltation has according to God in the spirit, and be been revealed. Our duty, therefore, is judged according to man in the flesh. to obey the laws, then we shall receive The Prophet Joseph Smith has said our reward, no matter whether we are that this is one of the most important cut down in childhood, in manhood or duties that devolves upon the Latter- old age; it is all the same, so long as we day Saints. And why? Because this is are living up to the light we possess, we the dispensation of the fullness of times, shall not be shorn of any blessing, nor which will usher in the millennial reign, deprived of any privilege; for there is a and in which all things spoken by the time after this mortal life, and there is a mouth of holy Prophets, since the world way provided by which we may fulfil the began, must be fulfilled, and all things measure of our creation and destiny, and united, both which are in heaven and in accomplish the whole great work that we the earth. We have got that work to do, have been sent to do, although it may or at least all we can of it, leaving the reach far into the future before we fully balance to our children, in whose hearts accomplish it. Jesus had not finished we should instil the importance of this his work when his body was slain, nei- work, rearing them in the love of the ther did he finish it after his resurrection truth and in the knowledge of these prin- from the dead, although he had accom- ciples, so that when we pass away, hav- plished the purpose for which he then ing done all we can do, they will then came to the earth, he had not fulfilled take up the labor and continue it until all his work. And when will he? Not it is consummated. until he has redeemed and saved every May the Lord bless this bereaved son and daughter of our father Adam family and comfort them in their de- that has or ever will be born upon this privation. Those who die in the Lord earth to the end of time, except the sons shall not taste of death. When Adam of perdition. That is his mission. We partook of the forbidden fruit he was will not finish our work until we have cast out from the presence of God into saved ourselves, and then not until we outer darkness; that is, he was shut shall have saved all depending upon us; out from the presence of his glory and for we are to become saviors upon Mount the privilege of his society, which was Zion, as well as Christ. We are called to spiritual death. This was the first this mission. The dead are not perfect death; this indeed was death; for he without us, neither are we without them. was shut out from the presence of God, We have a mission to perform for and and ever since Adam's posterity have in their behalf; we have a certain work been suffering the penalty of this spir- to do in order to liberate those who, be- itual death, which is banishment from cause of their ignorance and the unfavor- his presence and the society of holy be- able circumstances in which they were ings. This first death will also be the sec- placed while here, are unprepared for ond death. Now we look upon the mor- eternal life; we have to open the door for tal remains of our departed sister; her them, by performing ordinances which immortal part has gone. Where? Into outer darkness?—banished from the pre- AN AGE OF VISITATION, ETC. 265 sence of God? No, but born again into his secure every benefit and blessing that it presence, restored, or born from death was possible for her to have received in to life, to immortality and to joy in his the flesh. These ordinances have been presence. This is not death, then; and revealed unto us for this very purpose, this is true in relation to all Saints who that we might be born into the light from die in the Lord and the covenant of the the midst of this darkness—from death Gospel. They return from the midst of into life. death to life, where death has no power. We live then, we do not die, we do not There is no death except to those who anticipate death; but we anticipate life, die in sin, without the sure and stead- immortality, glory, exaltation, and to be fast hope of the resurrection of the just. quickened by the glory of the celestial There is no death where we continue in kingdom, and receive of the same, even the knowledge of the truth and in hope a fullness. This is our destiny: this is the of a glorious resurrection. Life and im- exalted position to which we may attain, mortality are brought to light through and there is no power that can deprive or the Gospel, hence there is no death here; rob us of it, if we prove faithful and true here is peaceful slumber, a quiet rest to the covenant of the Gospel. for a little season, and then she will That the Lord may bless, comfort and come forth again to enjoy this taber- solace the family of his servant, who are nacle. If there is anything lacking in called to lament this momentary loss, regard to ordinances pertaining to the that in the midst of their affliction, while House of the Lord, which may have been their sorrow finds no relief in tears, they omitted or not reached, those require- may bow obedient to Heaven's will, and ments can be attended to for her. Here in gratitude and thanksgiving, praise are her father and mother, her broth- Him "from whom all blessings flow." And ers and sisters; they know the course that the Lord may help us to be faith- to pursue, they know the ordinances ful, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus. necessary to be performed in order to Amen. 266 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
THERE IS A GOD—COMMUNION WITH HIM AN INHERENT CRAVING OF THE HUMAN HEART—MAN IN HIS IMAGE—MALE AND FEMALE CREATED HE THEM—SPIRIT AND FLESH—MORTAL AND IMMORTAL.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ERASTUS SNOW, DELIVEREDINTHE MEETINGHOUSE,BEAVER CITY,BEAVER COUNTY,UTAH, ON SUNDAY MORNING,MARCH 3, 1878.
REPORTEDBY JOSIAH ROGERSON.
"And God said, Let us make man in hard for them to do it, or to satisfy them- our own image, after our likeness: and selves that they are correct when they let them have dominion over the fish of think they have done it. And the univer- the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and sal feeling that may be set down to be over the cattle, and over all the earth, common to all nations and people bear- and over every creeping thing that creep- ing the human form, is that there is a eth upon the earth. God; and there is a yearning after him, "So God created man in his own im- and a desire to worship him, however dif- age, in the image of God created he him; ficult it may be to satisfy themselves of male and female created he them. And the manner in which they may worship God blessed them, and God said unto him acceptably. them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and re- On one occasion our Lord and Savior plenish the earth, and subdue it: and said to the people among whom he minis- have dominion over the fish of the sea, tered, "Ye worship ye know not what: but and over the fowl of the air, and over we (speaking of himself and his disciples every living thing that moveth upon the and followers) know whom we worship: earth."—Gen. i, 26—28. and we speak the things we have heard In Gen. v, 1, 2, we read, "This is the of him, and we know what we speak; and book of the generations of Adam. In the yet you receive not our testimony." day that God created man, in the like- ness of God made he him; Male and fe- The Jews were in possession of many male created he them; and blessed them, laws and regulations given to their fa- and called their name Adam, in the day thers, and they were taught the true when they were created." and the living God, but darkness covered All mankind feel instinctively that their minds, and many of them walked there is a God. I admit that many in darkness at noonday, and enjoyed not people try to reason themselves out the true light, as it was in Christ, per- of the idea and into a state of infi- taining to themselves and to their heav- delity, or into atheism, but it is very enly Father. THERE IS A GOD, ETC. 267
Heathen nations, as they are termed This craving of the human heart is by Christians, have less definite ideas universal; and education does not re- of their Creator, though all of them en- move it. It is not confined to barbarous tertain the common notion of the Deity, tribes and less cultivated people. All and seek to worship him, though it may nations may have their skeptics, and be in a crude way, and very undefined. in many enlightened nations of modern Sometimes they are accused of worship- times, there is an evident tendency to ping the work of their own hands— infidelity; yet those who seriously enter- images made of wood, of stone, iron and tain doubts of the existence of a Supreme brass, and various other materials, and Being, are generally those who have a other nations, tribes and tongues are ac- smattering of learning and have become cused of worshipping animals of vari- mad in this particular. The thorough ous kinds. They have their sacred ele- scientist is forced to recognize the exis- phants, crocodiles, or other beasts of the tence of the Great Supreme. They can- earth, whom they learn either to love or not get around it, or arrive at any other fear and worship, either as "friend" or conclusion, than that the great wheel of "foe." Yet when we become acquainted nature is moved by an overruling hand, with these nations and find out their in- and the regularity and uniformity that ward faith, we find that none of them is found in all her laws, are traceable look upon these as anything but repre- to that Supreme Being, and unaccount- sentations of Deity. They do not see De- able upon any other principle. It is al- ity before them, they do not walk, and most impossible for them to arrive at any talk, and converse, and eat, drink, and other conclusion, and where, in the his- sleep with the being whom they have in tory of the world, is it chronicled of any their minds as God, but they set up be- great astronomer that he was an infidel? fore them something they can see, to rep- Anyone that has the mind, and whose re- resent him, and as soon as they begin searches have enabled him to stretch out and rear up before them some represen- and begin to comprehend and fathom the tation of Deity—one representative they greatness of the works of creation, that consider to be about equal to another, has not in the most humble and reveren- and if it is the work of men's hands, it tial manner acknowledged God? Those is something that corresponds to their who deny him as I said before, are those ideas of a Deity, and whether it be in that have a partial education; and a little his exact likeness or not they know not— learning is intoxicating to the brain. not having formed a personal acquain- As the great English poet says: tance with him, nor having any like- A little learning is a dangerous thing! ness of him, from which they can pat- Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian tern after—one image answers as well spring; Those shallow drafts intoxicate as another, or one representation as well the brain, And drinking largely sobers us as another. But all these are but rep- again. resentations of Deity. And no nation It is those that gain a little knowl- has been found upon the earth, tribe or edge, and begin their researches in var- tongue, but what have some mode of wor- ious branches of science, but do not ship, or some faith in the Deity, and feel fathom them, who are bewildered in the need of honoring a superior Being. their imaginations, and they tend to infi- delity. 268 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
There is a theory in the human that has neither body, parts nor pas- mind—I will say with a certain school of sions, and that is located nowhere; I modern philosophers—to satisfy them- cannot conceive of him." The elaborate selves and justify their infidelity; the thinker says, "I cannot conceive of any bent and tendency of their inclinations such being, nor can anybody else con- is that way. But it is probable that the ceive of him. It is not within the sphere crude, undefined devices and erroneous and range of our comprehension." It is notions and ideas of modern Christianity simply nothing at all; and in the exer- touching the Deity leads to this infidelity, cise of his reasoning faculties, he chooses as much as anything else. The advo- to disbelieve in their dogmas, and is set cates of Christianity are in a great mea- down by them as an infidel. Yet the true sure to blame. When we begin to scan philosopher is not an infidel. He is only the teachings and inquire into the views infidel to those vague ideas and theories of the leading divines of modern times, that are in themselves monstrosities. Yet and examine their articles of faith and in the absence of true religious teaching, their discipline, the teachings of differ- and being taught by the Christian world ent Christian denominations on the sub- that the Scriptures do not mean what ject of the Deity, we do not wonder that they say, and must be taken in some the reflecting, careful thinker, should re- mysterious sense, they come to the con- pudiate their crude notions. clusion that they do not know anything The old Catholic Church, who call about the true character of the Deity, and themselves the Holy Mother Church, it is not their province to teach him, only the English Church and the Lutheran as they learn to know him in scanning Church, the two most extensive his works. But in scanning his works branches of dissenters from the Catholic we learn that he is a Being of order and Church, and the most of the lesser law, and that all things are governed by Protestant denominations, all declare to law. Whether the minutest atoms that their followers that God is a spirit, with- are examined under powerful glasses in out body, parts and passions. Some leave the molecular world, that are scrutinized off the word passions, but they all say he by the aid of the microscope, or whether is without body, or parts; and when they we study the works of God in the vast un- attempt to locate him, they locate him numbered worlds that are rolling in the nowhere. His center is everywhere his midst of the power of God, we find the circumference is nowhere. His form may same order. "All things are governed by be best described in the quaint language law." of Parley P. Pratt, "A footless stocking If we study physiology or anatomy, without a leg," sitting upon the top of a we are led to exclaim with the Psalmist topless throne, far beyond the bounds of of old, "I am fearfully and wonderfully time and space; that heavenly unknown made," and see a beautiful harmony in place that some crazy poet sung about. all the parts, and a most exquisite de- And we are asked to believe in, ren- sign. This is proven by an examina- der obedience to and worship this being. tion of the various parts of the hu- The careful thinker says, "I cannot; it is man form. And every organ adapted to impossible for me to believe in a being its special use, and for its special pur- THERE IS A GOD, ETC. 269 pose, and combining a whole, a grand to our father and mother, and the rela- union—a little kingdom composed of tionship of our own children to us. That many kingdoms, united and constitut- which we see before our eyes, and which ing the grand whole, the being we call we are experiencing from time to time, man, but which in the language of these day to day, and year to year, is an exem- Scriptures was called Adam—male and plification of Deity. female created he them, and called their "What," says one, "do you mean we name Adam, which in the original, in should understand that Deity consists of which these Scriptures were written by man and woman?" Most certainly I do. If Moses, signifies "the first man." There I believe anything that God has ever said was no effort at distinguishing between about himself, and anything pertaining the one half and the other, and calling to the creation and organization of man one man and the other woman. This upon the earth, I must believe that De- was an after distinction, but the explana- ity consists of man and woman. Now tion of it is—one man, one being, and he this is simplifying it down to our under- called their name Adam. But he created standing, and the great Christian world them male and female, for they were one, will be ready to open their mouths and and he says not unto the woman mul- cry, "Blasphemy! Sacrilege!" Open wide tiply, and to the man multiply, but he their eyes and wide their mouths in the says unto them, multiply and reproduce utmost astonishment. What! God a man your species, and replenish the earth. and woman? The Shakers say he was, He speaks unto them as belonging to- and Ann Lee says, "Christ came in the gether, as constituting one being, and form of a man in the first place, and now as organized in his image and after his comes in the form of a woman," and she likeness. And the Apostle Paul, treat- was that form. ing upon this subject in the same way, says that man was created in the like- Then these Christians—they say he ness of God, and after the express im- has no form, neither body, parts nor pas- age of his person. John, the Apostle, in sions. One party says he is a man, and writing the history of Jesus, speaks in the other says he is a woman. I say he the same way; that Jesus was in the like- is both. How do you know? I only re- ness of his Father, and express image of peat what he says of himself; that he cre- his person. And if the revelations that ated man in the image of God, male and God has made of himself to man, agree female created he them, and he called and harmonize upon this theory, and if their name Adam, which signifies in He- mankind would be more believing, and brew, the first man. So that the be- accept the simple, plain, clear definition ings we call Adam and Eve were the first of Deity, and description of himself which man placed here on this earth, and their he has given us, instead of hunting for name was Adam, and they were the ex- some great mystery, and seeking to find press image of God. Now, if anybody is out God where he is not and as he is disposed to say that the woman is in the not, we all might understand him. There likeness of God and that the man was is no great mystery about it; no more not, and if vice versa, I say you are both mystery about it than there is about wrong, or else God has not told us the ourselves, and our own relationship truth. 270 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
I sometimes illustrate this matter by oration of the human family; deteri- taking up a pair of shears, if I have one, orates the vital power and physical but then you all know they are com- strength and longevity, and tends to posed of two halves, but they are neces- weaken, lessen and destroy the human sarily parts, one of another, and to per- race, instead of building up, and sus- form their work for each other, as de- taining and strengthening; while on the signed, they belong together, and nei- other hand, the strictly confining of a ther one of them is fitted for the accom- woman to one husband, tends to all that plishment of their works alone. And for is lovely, to family organization and gov- this reason says St. Paul, "the man is ernment, and the classification of human not without the woman, nor the woman beings in groups, in families and king- without the man, in the Lord." In other doms, tends to increase the vital pow- words, there can be no God except he is ers, endurance and long life; and in ev- composed of the man and woman united, ery sense accomplishes the great object and there is not in all the eternities that of creation. exist, nor ever will be, a God in any There is a theory put forth by Mr. other way. I have another description: Darwin, and others, that is the school There never was a God, and there never of modern philosophers, which is termed will be in all eternities, except they are in late years, the theory of Evolution, made of these two component parts; a that man in our present state upon the man and a woman; the male and the fe- earth, is but the sequence and outgrowth male. Some of those who are disposed to of steady advancement from the lowest cavil will say, how will you explain the order of creation, till the present type of idea of a plurality in the female depart- man, and that we have advanced step by ment? Here opens a subject involving step from the lowest order of creation till philosophy and the philosophical propa- at last man has been formed upon the gation of our species, and it involves the earth in our present sphere of action; in great principles of virtue, and the laws short, that our great-grandfathers were that govern, or should govern through apes and monkeys. And how much all eternity the commerce of the sexes; satisfaction these philosophers have in and the more they are scanned in the the contemplation of their grandfather light of true philosophy and revelation, monkeys, we are left to conjecture; but the more it will be proven that the su- such are the theories put forth by some perior wisdom of Jehovah has ordained of our modern philosophers. But we that in the higher type of the Godhead, find nothing on the earth, or in the they are not limited in their union of the earth, nor under the earth, that in- sexes; I refer to the female principle. On dicates that any of these monkeys or the other hand all the laws governing the apes, or any other orders of creation be- commerce of the sexes, and the results low man have ever accomplished any flowing from them in the procreation of great exploits. So far as the history of our species, show that the violation of this earth is known, whether written or the laws that God has ordained to govern unwritten, or whether written in vol- and control the commerce of the sexes, umes of books, whether engraven upon produces disease, death and deteri- metallic plates, or whether found im- pressed in rocks, neither geologists, nor any other scientists have ever been able THERE IS A GOD, ETC. 271 to show us any great exploits of any of before him and he ate with him. these inferior grades of being to indicate Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that there was any such vitality in them, was born of the Virgin Mary, the Scrip- as to develop in their future progress, the tures tell us; and she bare record of it, present order of beings we call man. But and there were many witnesses of this if there is any truth in the history given fact, and the record teaches us that he us by Moses, this being we call man, is was begotten by the power of God, and only God in embryo. And Moses tells not of man, and that she had no inter- us that the Creator conversed with this course with mortal man in the flesh until man whom he called Adam, consisting after she gave birth to the Savior, who is of male and female. He conversed with called the Son of God. I will also say that them, showed himself to them, spoke Adam was called the Son of God. with them at different times, gave them Matthew, in giving the genealogy of instructions, gave them his law, visited Jesus Christ, traces it back from his them repeatedly in their new home, in mother, through the lineage of the fa- the place we call the Garden of Eden, the thers, back to David, from David to Abra- garden that the Lord planted for man— ham, from Abraham to Noah, and Noah eastward in Eden. And after he was to Adam; when he gets back to Adam he driven out from the face of his Creator, says, "Which was the son of God." But from the Garden, and the veil was drawn Jesus was begotten by the power of God between him and his Creator, yet from and not by a mortal in the flesh. And time to time God was wont to draw aside the New Testament tells us that God that veil and show himself, and we not sent his angel to visit this beautiful Vir- only find that Adam and Eve had fre- gin Mary, and to make known unto her quent intercourse with their Creator and that she was chosen of the Lord to be talked with him personally as we talk the Mother of Jesus who should be the with our children and they with us; but Savior of this people. And the messen- we find many of Adam's descendants ob- ger or the angel sent to her was designed tained like privileges of seeing their Cre- to prepare her mind, her heart and her ator, and speaking with him, receiving faith for this great work unto which instructions from him. Enoch, the sev- the Lord had chosen her. And he said enth from Adam, it was said walked with unto her, "The Holy Ghost shall come God, and enjoyed this privilege for three upon thee, and the power of the High- hundred years. From time to time the est shall overshadow thee: and there- veil was drawn aside, and whenever he fore that holy thing that shall be born of desired, and it was expedient to receive thee shall be called the Son of God." This instructions and counsels from his Fa- Jesus, therefore, partook of this divine ther and Creator he enjoyed this privi- nature; he partook also of the human, lege, and the Father came and showed the mortal, through the mother. And be- himself to him and spoke with him. cause he had partaken of the human— The same may be said of Noah and of the mortal through the another, he Abraham, who conversed with him, and became subject unto death, the same the Scriptures tell us, furthermore, that as all other mortal beings; for death Abraham killed the fatted calf, and pre- passed upon our first parents, Adam pared savory meat for a meal, and set and Eve, through their partaking of 272 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the fruits of the earth, their systems be- material nothing as some imagine. We came infected by it, and the blood formed read about material and immaterial in their veins, and composed of the ele- things, and such terms are used by men ments of the earth, which they partook, for the want of more suitable language and these contain the seeds of dissolu- to correctly represent ideas; but in truth tion and decay. And this blood, circulat- there is no such thing as immaterial sub- ing in their veins, which was made up stance. Though we are told that God is of the fruits of the earth—those things an immaterial substance, and you read of which they partook—that formed their the philosophic descriptions of the De- flesh, and made the deposits that consti- ity by some of these learned divines, and tuted their muscle, and their bones, ar- it is all simmered down to an immateri- teries and nerves, and every part of the ality or nothing at all. But there is no body, became mortal and this circulating such thing as immaterial substance in fluid in their systems produced friction the strict sense of the word; and imma- which ultimately wore out the machin- teriality when rigidly defined is another ery of their organism, and brought it to definition for nothing at all. But we use decay, that it became no longer tenable these terms only comparatively to com- for their spirits to inhabit, and death en- pare one thing with another, and we say sued; and this was the decree of the Fa- that one thing is material because we ther, "In the day you partake of this fruit, can touch it with these hands, and we you shall die." But this death was the can handle it with these mortal bodies, death of the mortal, and not the immor- we can see it with these mortal eyes, and tal. The dissolution of the mortal taber- it is visible to the sight, touch and so on, nacle, which was the outer covering of and hence we call it material; and what their spirit. As I said, man was created, is not visible to these natural eyes, and male and female, and two principles are what these coarse hands cannot feel, we blended in one; and the man is not with- call that immaterial or intangible; but out the woman nor the woman without these are only comparative terms. the man in the Lord; and there is no If the veil were drawn aside, and Lord, there is no God in which the two we could see the spirits of those that principles are not blended, nor can be; once have lived here in the flesh, and and we may never hope to attain unto that have passed behind the veil, or the eternal power and the Godhead upon have been separated from their taberna- any other principle. Not only so, but cles, and now exist in the spirit world, this Godhead composing two parts, male if the veil was drawn aside and we and female, is also composed of two el- could see them, if this second sight, ements, spiritual and temporal. Or in this spiritual sight was enjoyed by us, other words, two organisms; the one ca- that we could look through the eyes pable of dwelling within the other. The of our spirits instead of through the spirit dwelling within the outer taber- eyes of our earthly tabernacles, and nacle, answering to the spirit what our could see these spirits and converse clothing answers to this body, as a cov- with them, we should find we could ering and shield and protection. The talk with them, and we would not talk spirit is also an element. It is not an im- through the organs of speech either. We could talk through other organs. THERE IS A GOD, ETC. 273
This tabernacle may be upon the couch, tion, it cannot keep itself in motion; it is the eyes closed, and all the sensibilities the spirit that does all this. And when of the tabernacle suspended for the time the spirit is separated from the taber- being, and yet the organism of life may nacle it still retains the power of see- be kept up by the circulation of the blood, ing, hearing, feeling, tasting, smelling and the motion of the heart, the machin- and conversing; but the tabernacle loses ery of our organism may be kept in mo- all these powers, the moment the spirit tion, and for the time being, kept from takes its departure. decay and dissolution, while the spirit Now what is this spirit? Is it an im- is conversing with spirits. This some material substance? No? As I said be- call a trance. In the scriptures, and fore, that is only another definition of other places it is called a vision. It is nothing at all. It is a being precisely simply the spirit within us enjoying a as we are seen here today; and if you higher privilege of conversing with spir- ask, "How does brother Snow's spirit its, seeing spiritual things and convers- look when it is disembodied?" Why, you ing with spirits or immortal beings; but just look at me now, and you can answer they neither converse through these or- the question. How does the spirit of my gans of speech, nor see through these wife look? Why, just look at her and natural eyes, but they see through the see. And if we were both disembodied eyes of their spirit, and converse with at the same instant, we should scarcely the organs of speech that belong to the know that we were changed any more spirit, and if the spirits of men did not than we would if we both started out of possess the faculties and power of com- the door at the same instant and found munication, and conversing and carry- ourselves outside, looking at each other, ing on conversation with each other be- and do not see very much difference be- fore they came into this tabernacle they tween us than what there was when we never would speak in this tabernacle. were both inside the house. Whether in- This is only an art; this art of speech— side or out of it, we are the same be- this power of sight—of hearing. Speech ings. Conversing together? Yes. Looking is not something peculiar to the taber- at each other? Yes. The same features nacle and belonging to this tabernacle. exactly. Our tabernacles are formed for It belongs to the spirit, and the spirit our spirits, yes, expressly for our spirits. teaches the tabernacle; and the spirit But why were they not all made alike? makes use of the tabernacle. When once Why were they not all made just six feet it finds itself embodied in this taberna- high? And why were they not all, in ev- cle, it begins to use the fingers and hands ery respect, all the same length; limbs, of the tabernacle, and makes these its likeness, the same; the same length of servants. The moment it is separated an arm? You may just as well ask this tabernacle lies senseless. It has the tailor, "Why do you make different mouth and teeth and tongue and organs sized coats and pants?" And say to the of speech, but it cannot use them. It has milliner also, "Why do you make differ- eyes, but it cannot see. It has ears but it ent sizes of dresses and other garments?" cannot hear, and it has no power of using And their answer is, because I have so these organs. It cannot set itself in mo- many different persons to fit, and I make 274 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the garment to fit the person. And that have any stopping place, and so the is the answer concerning the taberna- Scriptures in another place, more ex- cles. They are made to fit the spirits. I pressly use the term, that the course of say, therefore, that God not only includes God is an eternal round, and therefore it within himself the male and female prin- is called eternity. But this course of God ciple, the same as man does, but it being "one eternal round," is marvelous also includes the two elements which we in our eyes, and who can comprehend it? call spirit and tabernacle, and these are But we see, yes, we see right before us to- only comparative terms, to illustrate in a day, his image, man—male and female. crude way the idea of the two principles, The first pair placed here was on a the spirit being of finer material, pos- farm he had prepared for them; an earth sessing greater intelligence, more fully he had organized for them, and where developed, and organized for greater and he gave them dominion as gods over it, more glorious works. as rulers over the earth and all things Now touching the doctrine of mortal- therein. Lucifer, who fell from heaven, ity and immortality. Says one, "What is when these evil spirits we read of re- mortal and what is immortal?" These are belled against God the Father, and his only comparative terms, again; the same angels that fell with him, set about the as we use temporal and eternal. Time opposition of this earth and to wrest the means temporal—short lived. Immortal dominion from Adam, and he has been means that which reaches forward into trying it ever since, from the beginning eternity? And what is eternity? Why it is till the present, to wrest the dominion another term which we use—a compara- of this earth from Adam and his pos- tive term to measure time, and we say terity, and the only means by which he time and eternity. And then the scrip- expects or hopes to accomplish it is, in tures use other terms, eternities, and short, to take possession of the taber- from eternity to eternity; while these nacles of Adam, which means a man are only so many definitions, or divi- and his wife—male and female, whom sions of duration. But the scriptures he called Adam, and rule the earth, and tell us that time only is measured to make the earth and the fullness thereof man, that is to say, time as a term is his servants. He has sought to do this, used in reference to the short period be- but he will not accomplish that evil de- longing to mortality, while eternity is sign, for the Father has provided a way used in the measure of the time of the of thwarting him. The Savior will dis- Gods, from one period to another, and place him. The name of Jesus has the vastness of eternity none can com- power over all these evil spirits, Lucifer prehend. It is illustrated by Abraham, and all the hosts of hell who are cast by the figure of a ring. He marks a down to the earth, and have set up their round ring to give an illustration of his abode in the tabernacles of men, and views of eternity. You may start any- in many instances they have succeeded. where on that ring and undertake to They do not altogether get possession of find the end, and you cannot, for it has the tabernacles of men, only in isolated none. You may have a starting point cases. There are cases in which it seems any place on the ring, but you cannot that these spirits so far control the taber- THERE IS A GOD, ETC. 275 nacles of men as to find the natural rity after them, and violating the laws spirit that owns these tabernacles and of their being, and thereby subjecting suspend the operations of their func- themselves to dissolution and death. tions, and usurp the control of the func- The form of this organism does not nec- tions of the body, and make these organs essarily imply dissolution and death. It of speech speak the language of devils, is only the materials that enter into and make these tabernacles perform the it that implies this, and that brings it wicked works of the evil one; while the about. The seeds of dissolution and de- spirit that owns, and should control this cay are planted here, as I said, through tabernacle, is bound, as it were, hand the influence of this evil one leading us to and foot; and where these powers and violate the laws of our being, and which functions are thus suspended in these brings death in its train. The Father, in isolated cases, we call them maniacs, his economy, has foreseen this, and has because their natural powers are sus- provided a way of escape, provided a de- pended, and they are under the domin- liverance. He has provided the resur- ion of devils. But others, and this em- rection, a period when the spirits which braces all of us, are more or less influ- are unclothed in death when the natu- enced by evil spirits, that prompt and ral death comes, and which is the sepa- lead to passions, and the lusts of the ration of the spirit from the tabernacle, flesh; and to do many things in viola- when this natural death comes which tion of the true laws of life and health, unclothes this spirit, and leaves it in its and of peace and glory and exaltation, native state unclothed, he has appointed and these evils to which we are prompted a time when it shall be clothed upon through the influence of these spirits are the second time, and then in immortal- designed, little by little, to bring us into ity, with tabernacles incorruptible, un- bondage, to sin and death, and to him defiled, that fadeth not away. And this who has the power of death, which is the is the second clothing; this is immor- devil. tal. This incorruptible is free from the Now the term devil we use also as coarser elements that enter into these a term representing a power that is at mortal tabernacles, and free from these the head of the rebellion against God seeds of dissolution and decay, and those our Father. A power that stands at things that wear out, and destroy this the head of that organized rebellion. A tabernacle, that perish with their using. power that governs all evil spirits. He Herein then is life. We eat and drink is called in the Scriptures that old Ser- and live, and yet that very eating and pent, the devil, and Satan, and Lucifer, drinking destroys us. We partake of the and a variety of names. These are ap- fruits and elements of the earth, and plied to him, and all representing the that build up these mortal tabernacles, chief power over that organized rebel- and when they have been built up to a lion, that governs and controls these evil certain stage, the very process by which spirits, and that power holds the power we build them up destroys them again, of death over mortality, and over man and they perish with the using. They are in the flesh. And why and how do they worn out in the objects for which they obtain that power? I have said by in- are created. Just like our clothing, boots, fluencing the parents in the first place, and shoes, and hats, do they perish with and then by influencing their poste- 276 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. their using. Not so with the immortal; he was living; go and tell his disciples the spirit is clothed upon with the im- that he is risen," and as she turned to mortal tabernacle. Is it like the mor- go away, Jesus was by her. She met tal? Yes; and yet unlike, like so far him, saw that he looked just as he did as the form is concerned; the form and when he died, and she recognized him organism constituted to the spirit, and instantly. And as she made the mo- to the labor which has to be performed tion towards him, as if she would seize throughout eternity; but not composed him by his feet and worship him; says of perishable materials. That immortal he, "Touch me not; I have not yet as- tabernacle, that incorruptible, will have cended to my Father, I have just risen, no blood circulating in its veins. That I must go and report myself to my Fa- is free from the gross elements of this ther, and then I will come and visit you, earth, from the fruits of this earth, from but you cannot touch me yet. But go and the grains and vegetables of this earth. tell my disciples, I go before them into Galilee, as I promised them, and I will We have a sample of this immortal in go to my Father." After a little he showed our Lord Jesus Christ. He was raised himself to his disciples. He appeared to from the dead after he had lain in the two of them the same afternoon, as they tomb for three days. We are told in the were journeying out of the village, a few Scriptures that he was quickened by the miles out of the city, talking and con- power of the Father, who raised him from versing with them by the way side, and the dead; and he looked as he did when discovered himself to them in the act of he perished, his features were the same. breaking bread. Then he departed from He showed himself to his disciples after them. The next time he appeared unto his resurrection, on numerous occasions. eleven of the disciples as they were gath- First, he showed himself to Mary, near ered together in a room, and instructed the tomb where he was raised. When them. But Thomas called Didymus was Mary came to the tomb at early dawn, not present, and when these told him she saw two angels by the tomb, and that they had seen the Lord he could they said unto her, "whom seek ye?" (Of not believe it, he says, "I must not only course they knew whom she sought, but see him myself before I believe, but I they spoke to draw her out), and she, must feel the prints of his wounds, where supposing them to be the guards, in the the nails were driven through his hands grey dawn of the morning looked in the and feet, thrust my hands in his side, door of the tomb, and saw he was gone. and feel the hole that was made by the There was the winding sheet, and the spear when the soldiers thrust it into napkin that had been about his head his side, and drew out his heart's blood. neatly folded and laid down, but no Jesus Unless I can do this, I will not believe." was there, and in her disappointment So the next time the disciples were to- and grief, she turned to go away, and gether, and Thomas was with them, Je- saw two men which were supposed to be sus came into their midst and showed the guards, and said, "If you have borne himself to them again, and the first thing him hence, tell me I pray you where he said was, "Thomas, come here, stick you have lain him." They replied, "Je- your fingers in the holes in my hands, sus has risen, as he said unto you when thrust your hands into my side, feel THERE IS A GOD, ETC. 277 the wound as it was made by the spear eyes in its sockets, same tongue in its in my side, feel the print of the nails in head, same hands and feet, with the my hands and feet, and doubt not but same holes made by driving the nails be believing." Not a word had been said, through them, the same hole made in its but Jesus heard his words, and knew the side by the spear that was run into it? thoughts of his heart, and it took him Says he, "spirit has not flesh and bones unexpectedly. Now come, come said he, as you see me have," and he used the "Now apply the test you demand. Feel same teeth, the same organs, and ate be- the print of the nails in my hands and fore them, and showed them that there feet, and thrust your hands into my side, was his tabernacle. Then wherein did and doubt not but be believing." Thomas he differ from the mortal tabernacle? I saw that the thoughts of his heart were answer, the blood was spilled, and that known and heard, and the words of his the purpose of the Father might be ac- mouth were known and read, and he at complished, he caused the soldiers to run once exclaimed, "Lord! It is enough." the spear into his vitals that they might Well, says Jesus, "Thomas, you believe draw out the last drop of his heart's now that you have seen, but blessed are blood. And when he was raised from the those who shall believe, and have not dead he was quickened by the spirit, by seen." the spirit and power of the Father, and I know there is a great many think the life that was in him was not the life that they must show their great strength infused by the circulation of the blood, it of mind by doing as Thomas did, and was not that that kept the machinery of swear that they won't believe anything this organism in motion, it was the ele- till they see it; but Jesus says, "Thomas, ment called spirit. And this is the essen- you believe now you have seen, but tial difference between the mortal and blessed are those who believe, and have immortal. not seen." Now, the first time Jesus appeared to his disciples they thought it was a As I said, a union of two principles— spirit that had appeared to them, and the refined element that is organized to show them that he had his taberna- into spirit, and the grosser element we cle with him, he says, Bring me some- call tabernacle, organized as an outer thing to eat, and I will prove to you that clothing, the two united and blended there is something more than spirit in together, and the two principles, male me. "What have you to eat?" And they and female, united. And for what pur- answered, "We have got some fish here pose? Why, we see here, for the purpose and some honey." "Bring me some fish of procreation; for the purpose of end- and honeycomb." And he took some of less increase, and the building up, and the fish and some honey and ate it be- enlarging, and extending the kingdoms fore them. Now, says he, "Be believing; and dominions of eternity. Else why the spirit has not flesh and bones as ye are all these vast creations, the shin- see me have." ing orbs, that indicate to feeble man on Here was an immortal being raised this lower earth the existence of these from the dead. In what did that glorified worlds! Why all this if there tabernacle differ from the mortal were not the works of the Gods of eter- tabernacle? Was there a change nity going on, and that continually? And wrought upon it? Had it the same the need and extent thereof, none can 278 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. tell; and to use the language of Enoch, and aspire to rise up and become one the seventh from Adam, said he, "If the with God, because, says he, "You are his particles of this earth were numbered, image, and you are his." Why? We may and millions of earths like this, it would aspire to be equal with him, and that is scarcely be a beginning to the number not robbery. Yes, Jesus, who found him- of thy creations, and thy hand is over self in the form of God, thought it not them all." And this is the object we wor- robbery to become equal with him. How ship. And, notwithstanding the Apos- can that be? I ask if any son robs his tle Paul says, "There are lords many father if he grows up to became equal and gods many, yet" said he, "unto us with him; attains to all the perfections there is but one God, even the Father of his father; attains to all knowledge, of our Lord Jesus Christ," and that is all wisdom, all understanding, all power, enough for us. And we may say to every and performs as great works as his fa- child, though there are fathers many and ther performed? Did he rob his father of mothers many, but to you there is but anything? Has his father lost anything one, and that is enough, that is enough because the son has attained to the same for you. Honor your father and your greatness, glory and perfection? No! The mother, and let your father and mother Scriptures tells us that God, in bestow- honor their father and mother, and this ing blessings, loses nothing. In giving it is the chain of the Priesthood, and power does not impoverish him, and in with- let down from the eternities to man on holding it does not enrich him. He can the earth. And may God enable us to impart light, truth, knowledge, power, grow in this chain, and climb higher wisdom, understanding, ability, lift up and higher, onward and upward, and and exalt his creatures, and make them work ourselves up to the eternal power like unto himself, and instead of losing and godhead. I repeat to you what the anything he is greatly enriching him- Apostle Paul said to the Ephesians, in self. He is enlarging and extending his his epistle to them; says he, "Brethren, dominions, he is multiplying his king- let the same mind be in you, that was doms, and his offsprings, over which he in Christ Jesus: Who, when he found is extending his benign influence, and himself in the form of God, thought it blessings, and glory, and honor, forever not robbery to be equal with him." But, and ever. Then, says the Apostle Paul, says the narrow-minded bigot sectarian, Why your narrow-mindedness? Let the What blasphemy! for man, in the form same mind be in you that was in Christ, of God, to aspire to be equal with him! who, finding himself in the form of God, That is precisely the exhortation of St. thought it not robbery to become equal Paul to his former-day Saints. Shall we with him, growing up unto Christ, our continue in the estimation of Jesus for living head, and that is the object of applying the same truth to us, or using the organization of the Priesthood on the the same exhortation that Paul did to earth, and the classification, and orga- his brethren? And St. Paul understood nization of the Church of Christ upon what he declared, and he wished to instil the earth. It is not to exclude and this same faith and feeling in numbers send down to damnation, to hell, every- of his brethren, and cherish the same body that does not subscribe to our ideas feeling, hope and aspiration, and labor and beliefs in an instant, nor in a day, week, month, nor a year, nor in this THERE IS A GOD, ETC. 279 short life time; but it is to gather out head, and all the parts being fitly joined men and women, and locate and orga- together may become perfect in him. nize them, and classify them together, Here are the objects of this organization and instruct them, and lead them on of this Priesthood, and the ordinances and inspire them with faith, and build thereof, and the power of godliness, that them up, and teach them the laws of life is made manifest unto man in the flesh, and health, and lift them up that they and through it to urge them on, faster, may exercise faith, and lay hold upon the further and further, until they shall at- promises of God and climb up upon this tain to this fullness of eternal power and chain that is laid down from the Gods the Godhead. And that we may not lose of eternity to their children on earth. sight of this high calling of God in Christ Climbing by this chain till they are built Jesus, which has come down unto us, up in Christ, our living head, and become and that we may not turn back to the one with Christ Jesus, for, says the Apos- beggarly elements of the world, but cast tle Paul, We are heirs of God and joint away the lusts of the flesh, and the pride heirs with Jesus Christ. of life, and all the vanities and follies of Now, again, that same Paul says, in this mortal state, and learn to appreciate the same epistle to the Ephesians, that our true position, and our high and holy Christ set in his Church first Apostles, calling, and labor to perfect ourselves secondly Prophets, and thirdly Evange- through the Gospel, and in obedience to lists, Pastors, and Teachers, and gifts his ordinances, till we shall become heirs and healings. All these hath he placed of God and joint heirs with Christ, ris- in his Church for the perfecting of the ing up to the eternal power and Godhead Saints, and for the work of the ministry, and the perfection that is in him, is my and for the perfecting of his people, that prayer, through Jesus Christ our Lord, they may grow up unto Christ, our living Amen. 280 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
GOD IS LIGHT—GOD OUR FATHER—GOD A PERSONAGE—THE HOLY GHOST—THE EARTH AS PART OF THE UNIVERSE—THE PURPOSE OF EXPERIENCE—THE RESURRECTION—ZION TAKEN FROM EACH OF THE CREATIONS—SPIRITUAL FACULTIES.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDATTHE FOURTEENTH WARD ASSEMBLY ROOMS,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,——, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
These words are found in the 5th condition in which they are placed, to fill verse of the 1st Epistle of John: "God is the object of their creation. light, and in him is no darkness at all." The Lord does not entrust a fullness of light to any of his creatures in this Inasmuch as God is represented to world, not even his own sons and daugh- be a being full of truth, full of knowl- ters have this privilege, while in this edge and intelligence, having almighty mortal state of existence. It seems to power, we would naturally suppose that be in accordance with the great purpose he was also a God of light, that is full of Jehovah, to place his own children of the principle of light; and that there here in this creation and impart to them is nothing too deep for him to under- a very small degree of light and truth. stand, or too great for his understand- They are required to improve upon this ing to comprehend or reach. He be- degree of light, adding thereunto under- ing full of light, there can be no dark- standing, knowledge and truth. Some, ness in him. Indeed, he is spoken of in reflecting upon this subject, might by James as the "Father of lights." In ask the questions, "If the Lord is an other words, his offspring, his children, almighty being, possessing all power, his sons and daughters, partake of a por- and is full of intelligence, knowledge and tion of that light which dwells in the truth, and if we are his children, why Father; the same as our children, born did he not impart unto us the fullness unto us, partake, in some respects, of of this light in the beginning of our ex- the light and intelligence which dwells in istence in this world? Why should he their parents. All creatures that we are give us little by little? Why are we acquainted with, that have life, and be- not born with an understanding of all ing, and power to move upon the earth, things past, all things present, and all have a degree of light, a degree of under- things to come?" To my mind these ques- standing, and that light or understand- tions are easily answered. The Lord de- ing is meted out to them, according to the signed, in placing his children here upon decree of heaven, and according to the this creation, that they should not only GOD IS LIGHT, ETC. 281 attain to great knowledge, and under- world prior to the existence of this one— standing, and wisdom, but that they in our former or first estate. There we should show themselves approved in were born, there we were begotten, there every sphere in which they might be we received a spiritual existence in the placed. Where little is given, but little image of God, we were then without will be required. And having determined flesh, without bones, without the organi- in his own purpose and mind that they zation we now are in possession of. When should be agents to themselves, he de- I speak of a spiritual existence, do not signed to try them in their agency, with misunderstand me, I do not mean the a small degree of light and truth at first, kind of existence spoken of in the writ- to see how they would act in relation ings of many theologians in which the to the degree of intelligence given; in spirits of men are represented as occu- other words, to see whether they would pying no space, and as having no rela- make a good use of the same, exercis- tion to duration or time. Such an exis- ing their agency in doing that which is tence is inconceivable; it is absurd in its right, cleaving to that which is good, and very nature, to suppose that there can resisting evil of every kind. And then be any existence, either in an immortal having been found worthy he would im- form, or in the present form of body and part a greater degree of light, and im- spirit, as persons occupying no space; it part to them greater knowledge concern- is one of the greatest absurdities ever ing himself, and his purposes, and his invented by intelligent beings. Yet this ways, and the works of his hands. If we is incorporated in the articles of faith of were created with a fullness of knowl- some of the Christian societies and espe- edge, it would be very difficult for us to cially in their theological writings. They conceive how it could be possible, to use try to make spiritual existence as mys- this agency properly before the Lord. It terious as they possibly can, and often is true we would be placed in possession declare our Father and God to be a per- of a vast amount of information concern- son, and yet, according to their articles of ing the past, present and future, but be- faith, he is said to be without body, parts ing agents to ourselves we might, perad- or passions, as though we could compre- venture, use this knowledge in a man- hend the existence of something without ner to do great injury. Therefore the a body or parts. Lord determined that we should only be entrusted with a little information, and with an agency to use it according to his Some of you, my hearers, may be sur- mind and will. prised, especially the rising generation We are the sons and daughters of growing up in these valleys, when I tell God, just as much so as the children, you that there are millions of Christians present this afternoon, are the sons (so called), who believe that God occupies and daughters of their parents, and in no space, that is, as a body, and yet is a the same light, that we are the chil- person. You read the 39 Articles of the dren of our earthly parents, so are Church of England, if you doubt what I the children of men the offspring of say, and you will there find it just so; the Almighty. He is our Father in also the Articles of the Methodists, which the full sense of the word, and we are more or less copied from those of the were begotten by him, and born to Church of England. In the Methodist him, not in this probation, but in the discipline it reads: We believe in one 282 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
God, consisting of three persons, without that being, the subject of our text. "God body, without parts, without passions. is light, and in him is no darkness at In reading these things when a all." Does he exist as a person? Yes. boy, and not having reflected much, I Has he a Son called his Only Begotten? thought, of course, it was one of the Yes. Did his Son have a body? Yes. We mysteries which we were not permitted have, this afternoon been celebrating the to understand. I did not then perceive Lord's Supper, and commemorating his the absurdity of the idea, incorporated broken body, that was crucified for us. as one of the articles of faith of a great Had he parts? Yes, and those parts occu- and numerous religious body. But after I pied space just the same as all the chil- grew up to manhood, and reflected upon dren of men? Yes. Was he about the com- these things, and began to try to grasp in mon height of men? Yes. Had he dimen- my mind and comprehend, in some mea- sions? Yes, a body and parts. And yet we sure, a being consisting of two other be- are really told that God consists of three ings beside himself, and yet having no persons without body or parts. Is Jesus body, I could not do it. It was a con- one of these three persons? They will tradiction in my mind, something that tell you so, and that these three have one did not look consistent; and especially body. How did the Jews crucify him when when they, in order to make the thing he had nothing to crucify? Please do not so plain, in their estimation, that nobody blame me for speaking of these absurdi- might misunderstand them, declare that ties. But what says the Scriptures in re- he has no parts. Consequently he does gard to these matters. Paul, in speaking not occupy any portion of finite or infinite of Jesus, says, he was "the brightness of space. However minutely we may divide his (Father's) glory, and the express im- a cubic inch of space, though separated age of his person." The martyr Stephen, into millions of parts, yet every one of in his last dying testimony said, "Be- these minute portions are parts of the cu- hold, I see the heavens opened, and the bic inch; and when you speak about that Son of man standing on the right hand which has no parts, then you come to the of God." How many persons did Stephen representation of nothing; then you come see? Two; and the Son was standing on to the modern Christian God, as repre- the right hand of the Father. Then we sented in their discipline, and in their ar- have testimony to show that the Father ticles of faith. I have ofttimes wondered has a right hand, and it would, therefore, how it is, that there are so many who be- be fair to infer that be has a left hand lieve in these absurd ideas; men of in- also. But let me refer you back to a very telligence, men that would scorn to be- early period just before, and immediately lieve such principles connected with nat- after man first appeared on our earth; ural philosophy, and with the sciences of among other things that are said of him, the day, yet so mistaken in their minds, you will find these words: "And God said, and so infatuated by false religions, as to Let us make man in our image, after our conceive of the existence of a being that likeness." And then it says, "So God cre- has no parts. ated man in his own image, in the image Now let me say something about of God created he him." Hence, whenever GOD IS LIGHT, ETC. 283 we have had any account given us of The difference, however, between man heavenly beings appearing to man on and God does not consist so much in the the earth, they have always come in the personal form, as in the vast, immeasur- form of man. For instance, the Lord able amount of knowledge and informa- and two other heavenly personages ap- tion in possession of the Father, while peared to Abraham, who besought them we, his offspring, have but little, a very to tarry until something could be pre- limited amount, comparatively the same pared for them to eat; and we are told as our little children: they have power that "a calf tender and good," was killed to move their limbs, and that informa- and dressed, and cakes also were pre- tion apparently is all that they have; pared, which, together with butter and their minds are much limited, indeed, milk, constituted the meal, and that they and they have to learn by actual expe- did eat. Can you conceive of a more rience. They at first learn something ridiculous idea than for a person with- that concerns them; they have to learn out body or parts to sit down to a meal the nature of their sight, and that is not and eat? You may say, these were angels; correct at first, but by experience they but you will find by reading the whole learn to compare things, and also find of this chapter that I have quoted from, the distances of things. For instance, a namely: the 18th of Genesis, that after little child taken to the door and seeing the repast, they proceeded on their way the moon shining in the heavens, puts towards Sodom, accompanied by Abra- forth its little hand to reach that lumi- ham, and that two of the persons went nary; it does not know the distance of ob- ahead leaving the Lord himself in con- jects, until it learns by experience. And versation with Abraham, both of them in hence it seems we have been placed in the same human form. the first conditions of knowledge, and we have to cultivate this knowledge by Again, we are informed that seventy degrees—from one degree to another, un- of the Elders of Israel, at a certain time, til we arrive to manhood and woman- went up into Mount Sinai, where "they hood; and some continue to cultivate saw the God of Israel;" and they describe knowledge and information until they his person, and also the appearance of become old and grayheaded. But some the ground upon which he stood. Jacob learn much faster than others, from ei- also tells us that he saw God face to face; ther natural advantages, or those of and we have many declarations made by method. But there is a certain school many of the ancient Prophets to the ef- far superior to any schools established fect that they saw him. Isaiah speaks of among men. It is this. The Lord has having seen him, and says that his train taught us that if we, his children, will filled the Temple; he was accompanied only repent of our sins—when I speak by a numerous host of heavenly beings. of repentance, I mean a reformation, a putting away of sin; when we do this In all of the references, the Lord with all our hearts, and are immersed appears as a man, they saw him as in water for remission of our sins, we a man, and those who saw him de- have the promise that the Holy Ghost scribe him as a man, as having a head, shall be given to us. This is a blessing eyes, ears, mouth, etc., in common that the natural man is not acquainted with the human family, his children. with; but when he becomes a spiritual 284 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. man, so far as learning is concerned, future to the minds of men, just as Je- he comes in possession of a power he sus promised his disciples, when he was never knew before to any great extent; about to leave them. "Howbeit when he, in other words, he is baptized with the the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide Holy Ghost. What does this do for you into all truth: and he will show you the education of the children of men? things to come." Far more than our academies do. Our Supposing then that the children of children have, by hard study, year af- God, who are counted worthy to be in ter year, to acquire their learning in possession of the Holy Spirit, should these human institutions; hard think- comply with all his commandments, and ing is necessary, reasoning, gaining lit- become revelators, and supposing they tle by little, and it frequently requires should inquire about the condition and many years of close application to be- formation of the earth, when the Lord come what is termed a learned man—a rolled it into existence, also about the man that understands the sciences, that changes that have come upon it, how has worked his way through the various easy it would be for the Lord to show departments of mathematics, and per- them, in a moment, almost in the twin- haps geology, and mineralogy, and all the kling of an eye, all about it, giving the sciences, such as are usually taught in whole history of its condition, before universities. But the man filled with the and when it was first formed. Geolo- Holy Ghost has got the advantage of stu- gists may study, year after year, all the dents who graduate at our universities. best works they can obtain, concerning Why? Because he can learn more in ten the geological phenomena of our globe; minutes, in regard to many things, than they may speculate and say, the earth another, not so favored, can in all his is several millions of years old, found- life. Indeed, he can learn some things by ing their speculations upon geological the operations of the Holy Ghost, which appearances; they may say, that it must no natural man or woman could learn, have passed through successive changes however gifted they may be. You may for millions of years. But after all, what inquire where they could learn these do they really know? They may have a things? I answer, by the revelations of very imperfect idea in relation to the sur- the Holy Ghost, which brings to light face of the earth; but they do not know many things that are past, and shows anything about the depths, underneath things that are in the future. The Lord this superficial stratum—the great inte- is just as able to show one of his pupils, rior; they have only a faint idea of cer- who will take the necessary steps to be tain very limited localities—a few sur- taught, what will take place a year, or face scratches, and almost infinitesimal ten years, or a hundred, or a thousand in thickness. From these uncertain data or more years hence, as the principals they have drawn their conclusions con- in our universities are to teach persons cerning the age of the earth. concerning things present. God is not Supposing persons, under the in- confined to the present, or to things im- fluence of the Spirit of the living mediately concerning his pupils, or those God, should behold how many of who may enter into the university he these changes have been brought about, has prepared, but he opens the past and and how great revolutions have taken place, since the earth was last organ- GOD IS LIGHT, ETC. 285 ized out of pre-existent and eternal ma- the surface of the earth? terials; supposing they should behold the Then again, when it comes to astro- solid earth gradually emerging from its nomical phenomena, we are taught that watery envelope, and becoming one land, there are very slow climatic changes tak- the waters gathered together into one ing place, which occupy very long pe- place—not into two places, not into dif- riods, during which, the northern and ferent oceans, seas and lakes, but into southern hemispheres of our globe, are one place, leaving the dry land in one alternately affected with extremes of place. Supposing they should still fur- heat and cold. It is true, there are causes ther see by the power of the Holy Ghost, of an astronomical character, which, if this dry land, after a few thousand years, permitted to act through immense peri- separate into great continents, not by ods, would necessarily produce alternate long gradual phenomena, in the nature extremes of temperature in the two po- of geological periods, but by the immedi- lar hemispheres. It is also true, that dif- ate power of the great Creator; suppos- ferences of temperature in the two hemi- ing again, that the ocean should change spheres, would necessarily diminish the from its location, and land, in many polar ice in one, and increase it in the places, should be brought to light. Sup- other; thus there would necessarily re- posing again, that they should behold sult a continued change of sea level—a in vision, mountains sink, forming deep change in the earth's center of gravity— valleys, and valleys rise up, forming a rising of the ocean in the colder hemi- high mountains. Supposing again, that sphere, a corresponding retirement of they were to see many parts of these the ocean in the warmer, giving rise to continents sink, and lakes appear in glacial and interglacial periods of great the sunken portions; and supposing too, length. they were to behold great and impor- But all these great phenomena could tant changes, at different times, wrought also be brought about, in a few thousand upon the dry land, and upon the parts years, by simply and alternately chang- called ocean, changing places by degrees. ing the angle between the planes of the earth's orbit and the equator. He who Now, a geologist would say that all formed the universe holds the regulating these things, and all these revolutions key in his own hand. By his almighty were brought about by gradual and slow power it was organized; by his law it is changes; whereas the man of God, be- governed; by his good will and pleasure ing taught by the Holy Ghost, would it passes through great changes; by his say that these things were accomplished decree it will pass away and be renewed. in a comparatively short period of time. Which gives the most information, that Which of the two would be most correct, which comes from God, direct by the the man who speculates from the little power of his Spirit—revelation from he can find out from the surface exam- heaven—or that which comes from mere ination of our little globe, or the man speculation, based upon some uncertain who, by the power of the living God, data, that may be correct, and that may penetrates in vision, into the depths of not be correct? I would say, give me the the earth, and also beholds those various privilege of being taught from on high, revolutions which have taken place upon give me the privilege of being taught by 286 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. that being who knows and comprehends existence ever have an end. There are everything pertaining to this creation, just as many particles now as there and knows the changes that it has un- were at any previous period of duration, dergone, and how long the earth has con- and will be while eternity lasts. Sub- tinued in its present condition, or nearly stance had no beginning; to say that in its present condition. laws had no beginning would be another thing; some laws might have been eter- We infer from this good book, called nal, while others might have had a law- King James' translation of the Bible, giver. But the earth was formed out of that a few thousand years ago the earth eternal materials, and it was made to be was formed. And many have supposed inhabited and God peopled it with crea- that it was then formed out of noth- tures of his own formation. ing. I need hardly say to this congrega- There have been many people in this tion, that no such nonsense can be found world so limited in their information and in the Scriptures; but in the creeds of knowledge, in consequence of tradition men, may be found this idea set forth, and false creeds, and catechisms, that that God created all things from noth- they really believe that our earth is the ing. Now, how do the founders of these only creation that exists on which inhab- creeds, as well as those who believe in itants dwell, that the stars were made them, know that he did such a thing? to shine for the benefit of our earth, Have they any revelation, from the first that the sun and moon were made es- chapter of Genesis to the end of the Rev- pecially for us, and that the earth is elation of St. John, which states or inti- the great central standard, and that all mates that the Lord made the earth out things were made for its benefit. But of nothing? Not one. This is the addi- I am happy to say, that these ideas are tion of man; this is a tradition formed by fast getting out of date, and that people uninspired articles of faith and discipline are beginning to learn that God is not so to govern people in their religious ideas; limited in his power as to confine himself whereas the word of God says nothing to a creation so little and insignificant of the kind. The materials out of which as that of our earth. There is an infini- this earth was formed, are just as eter- tude of space, boundless in every direc- nal as the materials of the glorious per- tion. In other words, when I say bound- sonage of the Lord himself. Now, he con- less, I mean that it is impossible for us sists of a body and parts, and not only of to limit any bounds to that space. Has parts but passions. He has the passion of this space materials existing in it? Yes. love, so much so that he is called a God (So far as our telescopes are able to pen- of love: hence this nonsense about God etrate, and some of them go very far in- having no parts nor passions is among deed.) You take Lord Ross' six foot re- the inventions of human wisdom. This flector, and point it towards yonder heav- being, when he formed the earth, did not ens, and you find new systems, new uni- form it out of something that had no ex- verses, as it were, revealed. What are istence, but he formed it out of materi- these worlds? They are mighty globes. als that had an existence from all eter- To say they are like our globe would nity: they never had a beginning, nei- not be correct; for if they were only ther will one particle of substance now in little specks like our little earth, they GOD IS LIGHT, ETC. 287 could not be seen. But they are mighty is no darkness at all, why not his chil- suns, like our sun in yonder firmament. dren, if they be educated and taught Our sun is over twelve hundred thou- properly, and prove themselves accept- sand times larger than our earth; and able and worthy before him, be brought those distant bodies that are seen—some up, in due time, and be made like him, on of them by the naked eye, and others by the same principle that all other things the aid of powerful glasses, are worlds beget their like. It is true, we are now of great magnitude. For what purposes fallen beings, we have departed from were all these mighty worlds framed? our Father, we have transgressed his What object had the Lord in view in their holy laws, we have been thrown into un- creation? Was it to satisfy a few indi- happy circumstances, in consequence of viduals that should dwell upon this lit- the transgression of our first parents, in tle earth that the Lord made them to the Garden of Eden, and hence, darkness twinkle in yonder heavens, to shine by reigns over this little creation, and has night? Was that the main object that he taken possession of mankind; but as they had in view? No; he had a greater and were immortal when placed in the gar- more glorious object than that. He has den, and death had no power over them, created worlds without number, that is so must their offspring (if they were per- they cannot be numbered by us; millions mitted to have any) have been immor- on millions have been discovered by the tal and not subject to death. But by the aid of glasses, but those are only a be- fall, death came; by sin and transgres- ginning of the immensity of the worlds sion men became subject to death, and in existence; and he has made them to consequently this world of ours became be inhabited by his own offspring, or a fallen world. Our first parents were own children, his own sons and daugh- in the immediate presence of God, their ters, intelligent beings designed to be Father; they could behold him and con- brought up and eventually to be made verse with him face to face, before the like him. You know our children become transgression. But how changed every- like their parents in many respects; and thing became! They were not only cast you know, too, that it is the hope of all out of the garden, but out of the presence parents that their children, if they live, of their Creator and God; cast out from and are properly educated and trained, the presence of celestial beings—cast out will grow up to be good men and women, into a world of darkness, there to learn and that they will possess the same in- by sad experience many lessons, which telligence, if not more, than their par- we, perhaps, never could have learned, ents. And we also see other kinds of had we still continued to dwell in our for- beings brought forth in the likeness of mer condition. their parents; the lion begets a lion, not Now this, no doubt, has been done a lamb; and so with every species of be- in wisdom. When we occupied our ings that exist, each begets his own like- first estate, dwelling in the presence ness. And why not we, the masterpiece of of the Father, before this world was the creations of our Father, grow up unto created, we were without bodies of all that fullness of eternal knowledge flesh and bones, but possessing parts and truth which he himself possesses. and passions then as much as we do If he is full of light, and in him there now; we were there as intelligent spir- its, in our present form and shape, 288 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. but although we had no bodies of flesh what would he know about these colors? and bones, that spiritual substance of Nothing at all; his experience has not which our spirits were formed had a been called to grasp them; such a thing term, and that form was after the like- as a ray of light never penetrated his ness and image of God, the Father. But if dungeon. But when he is permitted to we had continued to dwell there for innu- experience the nature of light, when he merable millions of years, we never could sees the various colors, he then learns have learned, in that state of existence, something which he never could reason many things that we are being taught out. So with regard to ourselves. We, in this fallen world. We might have in our first state of existence, never hav- seen other worlds formed: we might have ing seen misery among any of the immor- had some idea, perhaps, of their condi- tal beings, and never experiencing it in tion and of their misery and wretched- our spiritual personages, how could we ness, and we might have had some idea know anything about it? I do not think of the awful calamities that happened to we could possibly comprehend the na- the bodies of other fallen creations; but ture of it. We could not reason out the then there are many things that intel- difference between happiness and mis- ligent beings cannot learn without ex- ery. Why? For the want of experience. periencing the same. For instance, we It was for this reason that God the Fa- can learn a great many things by our re- ther caused the tree bearing forbidden flective powers, without the aid of nat- fruit to be placed in the garden. This tree ural senses; we might, by reason alone, was not placed beyond Adam's reach, but find out some obtuse problems of math- it was found in a conspicuous place—in ematics; we might, by reason, too, com- the midst of the garden, so that man, prehend more or less of the revolutions by his agency, might bring upon him- and mechanism of our celestial system; self his own misery, and by that means we might, by a pure process of reason, he would be able to distinguish between find out all the principles of geometry, happiness and misery. The Lord pre- and the differential and integral calcu- pared everything, and he made special lus and many other principles of math- reference to the tree of knowledge of good ematics. But there are some things we and evil, forbidding Adam to eat of it, might never find out by the process of saying that in the day he eat the fruit reason. For instance: suppose we were of that tree he should surely die. But created in the celestial world without a then, what did Adam know about death? knowledge of that which we term pain, Such a penalty could not be understood could we learn to sense it by seeing oth- by him; the only way possible for him ers suffer? No, no more than a person to conceive of it was through vision, and born in a dungeon and kept there until the probability is he did not know any- he reached the years of manhood, with- thing about it. But he was his own agent, out the least gleam of light, could, while and he exercised that agency by putting in that condition, be instructed about forth his hand and partaking of the the principle of light. Why could he fruit: both he and his wife ate the fruit, not be instructed? Because it is some- and thus transgressed the law of God. thing he never has experienced. You Then the earth became fallen, and all tell him that light produces beautiful the inhabitants thereof have inherited colors, such as red, blue, green, etc., GOD IS LIGHT, ETC. 289 the effects of the fall, through these two which you dwelt." What kind of person fallen beings. Death is not something would you be if you had no experience? we bring upon ourselves, but we are sure What? Go and create a world, and then to die because our first parents rendered people that world with your own off- themselves mortal; before that they were spring, and not know the difference be- immortal. They made themselves mor- tween good and evil, between sickness tal by partaking of the forbidden fruit, and health, between pain and happiness, transgressing the law of heaven and we having no knowledge of these by expe- are the inheritors of these calamities and rience. I think that such a one would these penalties, the same as children are not be fit to be entrusted with a world susceptible of parental diseases, and fre- that was to undergo and pass through quently inherit, for many generations, the same ordeals that our creation is now evils that their forefathers were in pos- experiencing. session of. We learn quite an experi- As Latter-day Saints, we look forward ence here: we learn what it is to be to the future with a great deal of pleasing miserable, we learn what it is to be un- satisfaction, when we shall come forth happy, and we can now contrast misery from the grave, and our vile bodies be with happiness; and we can say in our changed and fashioned after His most hearts, if I could only get rid of sick- glorious body; and this is what the Scrip- ness, and pain, and sorrow, the effects tures set forth and testify of. Hence, of this death, how I could appreciate it! when the materials of our body shall We often give expression to such feelings, come together again to be reorganized, when we are deeply afflicted. The Lord our bodies will be a little different to intends to free us, if we keep his com- what they are now. Blood will not then mandments, after having suffered suffi- flow in the arteries and veins of the im- ciently long through this state of sick- mortal male and female; for blood leads ness and feebleness, this state of suffer- to death—leads to change; but instead of ing and sorrow, which we have endured blood will flow the pure Spirit of the liv- for so many years. He intends to bring us ing God. This is referred to in the 37th forth triumphant over the grave, bring chapter of the prophecy of Ezekiel, as fol- up our bodies from the tomb, restoring lows: our spirits to immortal bodies, as Adam "The hand of the Lord was upon me, was in the Garden of Eden, and make and carried me out in the spirit of the us immortal and eternal in our nature. Lord, and set me down in the midst of Then we shall know, by experience, how the valley which was full of bones, And to appreciate as well as distinguish be- caused me to pass by them round about: tween happiness and misery, and be as and, behold, there were very many in the gods, knowing good and evil. Is this the open valley; and, lo, they were very lesson necessary? Yes, suppose the Lord dry. And he said unto me, Son of man, were to appoint to you a kingdom; sup- can these bones live? And I answered, O pose he were to say to you, "Son, yon- Lord God, thou knowest. Again he said der are materials which you may orga- unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, nize by my power into a world; and you and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear may place upon it your own offspring, as the word of the Lord. Thus saith the I did my offspring upon the world upon Lord God unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live: 290 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
"And I will lay sinews upon you, and death. And when they leave, instead of will bring up flesh upon you, and cover going away off to a heaven inconceivable, you with skin, and put breath in you, and such as we find in the articles and creeds ye shall live; and ye shall know that I am of men—a "heaven beyond the bounds of the Lord. time and space," a place supposed to be "So I prophesied as I was com- beyond infinity, they will actually come manded: and as I prophesied, there was here and be brought to the land of Israel, a noise, and behold a shaking, and the as immortal beings, male and female. bones came together, bone to his bone. They will have kings and priests among "And when I beheld, lo, the sinews them, and they will reign on the earth. and the flesh came up upon them, and And if you want to know how long, you the skin covered them above: but there can learn it from the revelation which was no breath in them. John had. He says, "a thousand years." "Then said he unto me, Prophesy But that "the rest of the dead lived not unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, again until the thousand years were fin- and say unto the wind, Thus saith the ished." After the thousand years here re- Lord God; Come from the four winds, ferred to, this earth will die; it will pass O breath, and breathe upon these slain, through a change similar to that of our that they may live. bodies; it will pass away, as an organized "So I prophesied as he commanded world, but not a particle, however, will be me, and the breath came into them, and destroyed or annihilated; it will all exist, they lived, and stood up upon their feet, and when it is resurrected again, it will an exceeding great army." That was a vi- be a new earth. Then those immortal be- sion of the resurrection. The interpre- ings who come up out of their graves, at tation is given in the following verse. the beginning of the thousand years, will The children of Israel at that time dis- again descend from heaven upon the new believed more or less in the resurrection, earth; and the earth will be eternal; and which was taught by their Prophets; and the beings that inhabit it will be eter- they began to say in their hearts, "Our nal. And the earth will at that time have bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we no more need of the light of a luminary are cut off for our parts." like our sun, or any artificial light, for "Therefore (says the Lord) prophesy it will be a globe of light; for when God and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord makes this earth immortal, he will make God; Behold, O my people, I will open it glorious like the inhabitants that will your graves, and cause you to come up be permitted to live upon it. They will out of your graves, and bring you into the become immortal, and be crowned with land of Israel." When the Lord brings up crowns of glory, and light will radiate the children of Israel out of their graves, from their personages and countenances; he will do it just as Ezekiel saw it in vi- so will the earth radiate its light, and sion. The materials that form the bones shine forth in celestial splendor. I will will come together: first, the anatomy or not say as the splendor of our sun, for framework, the most part of the system; it is not a celestial body. Although the then the flesh, afterwards the skin, and light of the sun is very glorious, it will then the Spirit of the living God will en- not begin to compare with that of this ter into them, and they will live as im- earth, when it becomes celestial and mortal beings, no more to be subject to GOD IS LIGHT, ETC. 291 eternal and is lightened by the presence another? Why not; is the Lord limited in of God the Father. It is doubtful whether the process of communication? We find the children of mortality on other worlds, that man, poor, weak, fallen man, is now will ever behold the light of this earth, able to communicate from one end of the after it is made eternal, unless they hap- world, on which we live, to the other; and pen to catch a glimpse of it by vision. God why not immortal beings communicate dwells in a world of light too glorious for from world to world. If they were lim- mortal eyes to behold, unless aided by ited, then they would partake more of the Spirit of the living God. the nature of mortality. But they are not Let me say a few words on these dif- limited in their communications. There ferent worlds of which I have spoken. is a faculty in mankind which, when They are stretched out in the immen- lighted up by the Spirit of God, cannot sity of space, are infinite in every direc- only pierce in vision through millions of tion, and they are inhabited. I doubt miles of space, but can also hear through very much, whether any of these worlds millions of miles of space. Indeed, the are celestial. I do not think we could progress of man, in this the nineteenth behold them, unless by vision, if they century, shows to us, in a very forcible were celestial. They are worlds in var- manner, what may be hereafter in our ious stages of progression, some more more perfect state. What a wonder- glorious than others, inhabited by be- ful thing it was to the whole world, a ings prepared to dwell upon them, be- few years since, to communicate their ings who are the sons and daughters of thoughts, by the means of electric wires, God, or the sons and daughters of his sending them from city to city, from state children. If God is our Father, and we to state, and then across the great ocean become like him, we may have our at- to foreign countries, and that too almost tributes greatly enlarged, sufficiently to momentarily! If people had been told prepare us to occupy a greater sphere of some fifty years ago that such wonder- existence, to become rulers and creators ful developments would take place, in so under the command of God, being one short a time, they would have laughed with him, as the Father and the Son are at and even derided the idea; but now it one, to carry out his law and eternal pur- is an accomplished fact. Who, some two poses. Not only are present worlds ex- years ago, would have supposed that the isting, but worlds without number have senses of the ear could have been awak- existed from all ages of eternity, in their ened by sounds transmitted some hun- various stages of progress from the infi- dreds of miles distant? And yet this is nite duration of the past, and are peo- now done by the aid of the telephone; pled by the children of God—his own and although the discovery is yet only offspring, or the offspring of those who in its infancy, the human voice is heard have become Gods. Besides, these worlds distinctly, and readily recognized at that will exist forever, and there still remains distance. no end, as it were, to the materials Now, supposing we were immortal which will yet be organized into worlds, beings, and we stood upon one ce- for the materials are infinite in quan- lestial world, away in a distant part tity; they cannot be exhausted. And of space, and others dwelling upon do these worlds communicate one with another celestial world innumerable 292 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. miles distant from us, there may be a redeemed were permitted to dwell, process by which we could communi- whom he saw and heard, singing the cate one to another, and ideas be ex- songs of Moses and the Lamb. What a changed, from world to world, without happy state and condition, not only to adopting the slow progress of communi- study these things pertaining to this lit- cation by light or electricity. Well, says tle world we inhabit, but to extend our one, "I thought that light was transmit- researches to our neighboring worlds, ted more rapidly than anything that we learning the laws, institutions, and gov- could conceive of." Light proceeds from ernments of the peoples that inhabit one luminary to another, at the rate of them, also their history, and everything 185,000 miles per second. Can any- pertaining to them, and then extend thing be swifter than this? Do you sup- our researches still further. Let me pose the Lord would reveal all his re- here quote from one of the revelations sources to us? I think not; I believe that given anciently to Enoch, and revealed when the children of men become im- anew, in these latter days to Joseph mortal and eternal, their privileges will Smith. Enoch, we learn, was favored be enlarged; and those powers of na- with a great and glorious vision; he ture, and laws of which we have such saw the different worlds, and saw the a limited understanding, will become Lord and other glorious personages, who greatly multiplied and enlarged. There were weeping over the fallen sons and may be a process of communication by daughters of this world. This astonished means of celestial, heavenly light, that Enoch; he was astonished beyond mea- will far outstrip the natural light which sure, to think that there should be so proceeds from yonder luminaries in our many worlds in existence, and all pass- heavens. It may be that this natural ing through certain changes and degrees light travels very slowly, compared with of changes, and yet the Lord should weep the light that proceeds forth from celes- over the fallen sons and daughters of tial worlds, wherever they may be situ- this little planet. So he inquired about ated. Then again, if immortal beings on it, asking how it was that the heavens celestial worlds can hear, and see, and wept and shed forth their tears like rain communicate with each other, would it upon the mountains; saying, Thou art not be just as pleasant as though they holy from all eternity to all eternity; and were associated together in the same were it possible for man to number the room? What difference can it make, see- particles of this earth and a million of ing that distance is no impediment to earths like it, it would not be a beginning them? This is the destiny of these worlds to the number of thy creations, and yet that twinkle in the firmament of heaven; thou art there and thy bosom is there, they will finally arrive at that state how is it that thou canst weep! It was of perfected existence, unless they for- marvelous to him, why the Lord should feit their privileges through transgres- weep over so small a creation, when sion; all that do not forfeit these privi- there were so many others. The Lord leges will be exalted to them; and they then told him concerning the wicked- will be sanctified; they will be full of ness of the people who existed before light, like unto the sea of glass, that the flood; he told him of their abomina- John the Revelator saw, upon which the tions and sinful practices. And then he GOD IS LIGHT, ETC. 293 further tells him, that his eyes could nus and Neptune—the great primary pierce all the creations which he had planets of our system; are these made made, showing how powerful are the for nothing? No. What has the Lord eyes of the great Jehovah, that he can be- said to us, Latter-day Saints, concern- hold all these creations; however numer- ing these planets? He says, all these ous, and can behold all that transpires are kingdoms, to which he has given upon them. laws. And he likens these worlds, or There is one thing connected with kingdoms, unto a man having a field, and this same revelation, to which I wish he sent forth his servants to dig in this also to call your attention; it is in regard field. To the first he said, "Go and la- to the fallen condition of many of these bor in the field, and in the first hour, creatures. Notwithstanding the unnum- I will come unto you, and ye shall be- bered worlds which have been created, hold the joy of my countenance. And he out of each one of these creations the said unto the second: Go ye also into Lord had taken Zion (in other words a the field, and in the second hour I will people called Zion) to his own bosom. visit you with the joy of my countenance. What does this signify? Are we not to And unto the third and so on unto the understand that all these creations were twelfth. And the lord of the field went fallen worlds. Why did he not take them unto the first in the first hour, and tar- all? Because they were not all worthy, ried with him all that hour, and he was because being fallen, they did not keep made glad with the light of the counte- his commandments, because they did not nance of his lord. And then he withdrew exercise their agency to worship God; for from the first that he might visit the sec- that reason he did not take them all to ond also, and so on unto the twelfth." himself. He did not qualify them and This withdrawing from one, to go to an- make them one in him, as Jesus is one other is something which I will explain. with the Father; he did not make them Why was it necessary, that there should like him in all respects, to go forth and be a withdrawal of the presence of the make new creations and people them. I Lord in visiting the different worlds? I mention these things to show that we think it was necessary, so far as mor- have, in the revelations that God has tality is concerned, and indicates that given, many indications, that there are the inhabitants of these different plan- worlds beside our own that are fallen; ets are fallen, as we are. It does not say also that we may see that the Lord has so, in so many words, but I can see that one grand method, for the salvation of they must be fallen, and for that reason the righteous of all worlds—that Zion the Lord withdraws his presence from is selected and taken from all of them. them, and visits them in their hour, and And reasoning from analogy, may we not, time, and season, and then withdraws with propriety believe, that these fallen from them, leaving them to ponder in creations, after fulfilling their temporal their hearts the commandments given destiny, will be changed, and become them. If they were immortal beings the celestial abodes of their respective and celestial in their nature, the Lord Zions? Let us, for a moment, consider the would not act with them thus, for then planets of our solar system, namely, Mer- they would always be in his presence, cury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Ura- whether they are beings of one world 294 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. or another, or whether the worlds upon which I have quoted. His method of which they dwell are as numerous as the conveying intelligence is far more rapid sands upon the seashore; when they be- than that of light. Light, how slow! Only come celestial the veil that obscures the 185,000 miles in a second. It would take view of mortals is removed, and it makes three and a half years at that rate for no difference whether a world be one mil- light to come from one of the nearest lion, a hundred million, or a million mil- fixed stars. A long time to wait, espe- lion of miles distant from another, if the cially if you were in a hurry to get an an- veil is taken away, they are still in each swer to any message you may send; you other's presence. would have to wait three and a half years There is a spiritual faculty of seeing, for the message to go, and probably for different from that of the natural sight, the same time, for the returning answer. a power of discerning through space, by Now, the Lord has powers beyond those which celestial beings can see innumer- with which we are acquainted. He has able millions of miles in distance, just almighty powers. He has only entrusted as easy as mortals can see ten feet with us his children of mortality with a knowl- their natural vision. To be in the pres- edge of some of the more gross princi- ence of God, then, is simply to have ples and laws of this fallen creation, and the veil withdrawn, which will be done when we, through hard study, search out when we prove ourselves worthy of ce- the relation of one law to another, we lestial glory. If the worlds of which I think we are learned men; but I think have spoken, pertaining to the planetary when we learn in that great university system, were celestial worlds, occupied the sciences of which the Lord our God by celestial inhabitants, they would all is the great Teacher, we shall learn more the time be in the presence of their Fa- rapidly and comprehend more easily the ther, and there could be no withdraw- things of his kingdom, than we now do ing from the first, to visit the second, the things of time. Amen. etc., according to the revelation from THE BLESSINGS REALIZED BY THE SAINTS, ETC. 295
THE BLESSINGS REALIZED BY THE SAINTS—MEN DIE, BUT THEIR WORKS REMAIN—A DAY OF INFIDELITY—THE COMING GLORY OF ZION—TEMPLE BUILDING AGAIN—BLESSING AT ST. GEORGE.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER WILFORD WOODRUFF, DELIVEREDATTHE ANNUAL CONFERENCE, SATURDAY MORNING,APRIL 6, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
The very fact that we have a peo- are but two of the first Quorum of the ple, that we have a Zion, that we have Twelve with us in the flesh, and only two a kingdom, that we have a Church and of the second Quorum. And this speaks a Priesthood which is connected with the in loud and forcible language, at least it heavens, and which has power to move does to me, that what we have to do in the heavens, and that we know that the interest of the great cause of salva- the heavens are communicating with us, tion, we should perform it faithfully and directing the performance of this great diligently, making the very best use of latter-day work in which the Latter-day the few remaining days we have yet to Saints are engaged, this very fact alone labor in the flesh. should fill our hearts with humility be- While I refer to the absence of our fore the Lord our God, and it should con- brethren whose works remain and whose tinually remind us in our reflections and memories are cherished, I am fully con- feelings of the responsibility we are un- scious this morning that we who are der both to Him and to one another, and left are not laboring alone, nor particu- also of our dependence upon him for all larly for our own benefit, in a temporal the blessings we enjoy of a spiritual as point of view; but I realize that we are well as a temporal nature. called and ordained of God to labor with The prayer offered up by brother him and the heavenly hosts, in the ac- Pratt filled my mind with reflections of complishment of his purposes, the bring- the past. Almost half a century has ing forth and establishing of his Zion expired since the Prophet of God orga- and Kingdom in the earth, and all that nized this Church upon the earth; but he has been designed to be consummated and most of the men who labored promi- in this the dispensation of the fullness nently with him, in laying the founda- of times. I also sense that when I and tion of this Church, are not with us to- my brethren who still remain shall pass day, their voices are hushed in death, away, we shall go as others have done— they have finished their earthly work, we shall not take this world or any part having labored a series of years, and are of it with us. When Joseph Smith died, now the other side of the veil. There Nauvoo remained, he did not take it 296 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. with him; when President Brigham the designs of God, and the revelations Young died, Salt Lake City still re- of Jesus Christ, which are recorded not mained, and when we join them we shall only in the Bible, or on the stick of leave behind us the things of time, even Judah, but also in the Book of Mor- as Jesus did himself who was the founder mon, or stick of Joseph in the hands of of the earth. This truth itself should Ephraim, as well as in the New Testa- incite the Latter-day Saints to reflec- ment, and those revelations of modern tion, it should indelibly impress upon our date as those of ancient time, have been memories, the fact that we are work- sealed with the blood of him who brought ing for something far greater, in real them forth, and this testimony therefore worth, than dollars and cents, houses is in force to all the world. The Lord is and lands, and this world's goods. We not trifling with this generation, neither have been gathered here in our present is he trifling with the Saints or with the condition by the commandment and by world of mankind. During the last 48 the inspiration of the Lord, to continue years the Gospel has been preached to the work that others commenced, and this generation, and this work will con- like them we must improve the time in tinue preaching to the Gentiles, until the doing what is required of us, working Lord directs otherwise. The harvest is faithfully for God and his Kingdom while ripe, and he, the Lord, said, through the the day lasts. Prophet Joseph, he that would thrust in I know, you know, and all Israel the sickle and reap was called of God. knows who have received the fullness of And some have continued to labor faith- the everlasting Gospel in this last dis- fully almost from the organization of this pensation of God to man, that this is the Church to the present time—almost half work of God and not of man; we under- a century. I think it a great blessing and stand this perfectly. This Church and privilege to stand in the midst of the peo- Kingdom has been organized by the ad- ple of God in this age of the world to ministration of angels from God. The or- preach the Gospel of Jesus, and to labor ganization of this Church has been gov- to build up Zion, in obedience to his com- erned and controlled by revelation and mandments, and to carry out his pur- upon no other principle, and what has poses in the day and age in which I live. already been accomplished since our ex- We, as a whole people, should certainly istence, as a church, reveals the hand- exercise our faith in God and in the rev- iwork of God, for no man could have elations, more especially those that im- done what has been done unless God mediately refer to our present condition; were with him. I rejoice to have the no matter where they are found, in any privilege of meeting with so many of of the records of divine truth. The Lord my brethren and sisters, and that I has said unto us, through Joseph Smith, have the privilege of bearing testimony that it matters not whether he speaks to the divinity of this latter-day work, unto the children of men by his own and of the principles of salvation re- voice or by the ministrations of angels, or vealed from God to man. The scene I whether by the voice of his servants, that behold this morning, and that which I it is all the same, it is his word, his mind behold in traveling through the extent and his will to those to whomsoever it of this Territory, speaks to me in very loud language that it is in fulfillment of THE BLESSINGS REALIZED BY THE SAINTS, ETC. 297 comes; and that although the heavens has given to man. When I look upon and the earth pass away, not one jot these Latter-day Saints I cannot help or tittle of his word shall remain unful- contemplating our calling and the labor filled. required at our hands, and, when I am I am a believer in this revelation and reminded of the account that we have also in the records which are left for us to all got to give before the judgment seat pursue, the inspired words of ancient as of God for the use we make of our own well as modern Prophets; and I also be- time and talents, and the gifts of God lieve that they will have their fulfillment and the holy Priesthood, and the work of in the due time of the Lord, and that no our God which has been committed to us, power on earth can prevent it. and I do I feel to ask, What manner of men ought not believe there has been a revelation we to be. Our souls should be open to given from God to man, from the days the building up of this Kingdom of God, of father Adam to this hour, but what and we should continue with increased has had its fulfillment, or will have, as diligence to rear towards heaven these fast as time will admit; and we are every Temples of our God, the foundation of day of our lives making history, and we which we have laid and commenced to are also fulfilling the prophecies of Isa- build upon, so that all Israel who dwell iah and many other ancient men of God, here may enter into them and attend who were permitted in vision to see our to the ordinances of the house of God. day. And I again say to the Latter-day Saints, I know we live in a day of infidelity; I this work the God of Israel requires at know that darkness covers the earth and your hands. This requirement is not gross darkness the minds of the people; confined to the Twelve, the President of I know that the Lord is angry with the Stakes and the Bishops, but it is bind- wicked, and withholding his Spirit from ing upon every man who has entered into the inhabitants of the earth; I know that covenant with the Lord our God, and I light has come into the world, and that trust that one and all will willingly share men love darkness rather than light, be- this responsibility, and not for a moment cause their deeds are evil. But as a ser- permit this work to drag or appear labo- vant of the living God I will say that, rious to perform. notwithstanding all the unbelief of this wicked generation—the Christian, the I thank the Lord my God that my Jewish and the pagan world, together ears have been saluted with the sound with the combined efforts of the devil of the Gospel, and that I have had the and wicked men, the fulfillment of the privilege of reading the revelations of purposes of God in their times and sea- God to us, and I know that, as an in- sons cannot be frustrated. These vol- dividual, I am held responsible for my umes of revelation are written on the duty to Him. We have a harvest to pages of divine truth as in letters of reap both sides of the veil. We have fire, and they will have their fulfillment already done considerable work on this whether men believe or disbelieve, for side, by way of preaching the Gospel to they are the words of God. the nations of the earth, as commanded It is a great work, an almighty to do by God. Well do I remember the work; it is a work different from early experience of the first Elders of that of any dispensation which God the Church, how we traveled afoot for 298 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. thousands of miles, without purse or dom of God, and they have received or- scrip, with valise in hand, and many dination in order to enter into it. And times having to beg our bread, from door when they enter into it, they have the to door, in order to impart to the people a spirit of it, and this makes the difference knowledge of the Gospel. Our garments between the Latter-day Saints and the are clear from the blood of this genera- former-day Saints. No man can see the tion, and the testimony of these Elders kingdom of God unless he is born of the will yet rise in judgment against this Spirit; and this is wherein these Latter- generation to condemn them. Notwith- day Saints have faith in God, and ob- standing the unbelief of the Christian serve the signs of the times, and trust world, and notwithstanding the warfare in him by this principle. Their prayers that may be waged against God and his have ascended in the ears of the Lord of Christ, Zion will be redeemed and his Sabbaoth, asking for things which they kingdom will be established never more stood in need of; and he has answered to be thrown down. He holds the na- our prayers and he has continued to sus- tions in his own hands, and he also has tain us until the present time. I ask, his Saints in his holy keeping, and he my brethren and sisters, will the Lord will continue to guide and direct and sus- withhold now his hand, will he now close tain his people, until they consummate the heavens, withdrawing the power by all unto which they have been ordained. which we have been upheld? No, he will not; his hand will continue over us if we Look at these valleys! When we came be true to him and the laws he has given here in 1847, they were barren and des- unto us. He has decreed before the foun- olate, without the least sign or mark of dation of this world, before the fall of civilization. Today our Territory is filled man, that in the dispensation of the ful- with villages, towns and orchards, and ness of times, he would gather unto him- the land is brought under a good state self all things, both things which are in of cultivation, inhabited by a civilized heaven and things on the earth. He is do- race. Who are they? Sons and daugh- ing it, although the world generally does ters of the Lord Almighty; they are a not know it. people that have been, as corn sifted in Now, brethren and sisters, I do not a sieve, among the Gentile nations, and wish myself to occupy all your time called out by the proclamation of the ev- this morning, but I want to say to you erlasting Gospel. The Lord chose a boy that our position, our calling, our re- from the humble walks of life, and en- ligion embrace the noble work of God, dowed him with intelligence and power both temporal and spiritual, which rests to commence this great work, and also upon us. We have to go forth with our to send forth others throughout this and hands and build up Zion. Zion will be to other nations bearing the message of built up; Zion will be redeemed, and life, and this people opened their hearts she will arise and shine and put on to receive it, and were baptized in wa- her beautiful garments; she will break ter for remission of sins, and received the from off her neck her yoke, and she will laying on of hands for the reception of be clothed with the glory of our God. the Holy Ghost. They have been born of Zion has been sold for nought; she will the Spirit, and they have seen the king- be redeemed without money; she will THE BLESSINGS REALIZED BY THE SAINTS, ETC. 299 arise in her beauty and glory, as the God's gifts to man. Our Savior, our Prophets of God have seen her; she will Heavenly Father, the angel Gabriel, Pe- extend her borders and strengthen her ter, James and John, Joseph Smith and stakes, and the God of heaven will com- Brigham Young, are not coming back to fort her, inasmuch as we will unite to- build our Temples for us, they are not gether to carry out his purposes. coming to settle new country and open up new roads, plant out our trees, build I see nothing to tempt me or you to up and beautify this land, this is our part turn aside from the work given us to do. of the work, and we have got it to do, The Prophets have predicted that every working while we live, and when we go weapon that is formed against Zion shall away we shall move on exactly as others be broken, and this is in accordance with have done, leaving our houses, our gar- the revelations of God to us. He will dens, our flocks and herds, and all our continue this work and direct its onward earthly interests behind us. And when course, but he expects us to continue to we go to the spirit world and our eyes are reclaim the waste places, and to continue opened on eternal lives, we shall all mar- to build Temples and also to impart of vel at the way in which our lives have our substance. And I wish all Israel to been spent. There is a veil over all the understand that when we impart of our earth, it is ordained of God that it should substance to build Temples that we do be so, and the fact of it being so will prove not do it to benefit the Lord at all, he all of his children whether we will abide had his endowments a long time before in his covenant even unto death or not. we were born, and also passed through And those who are not willing to abide in his probation. We are his children, he their covenant unto the end for the build- wishes to exalt us back to his presence, ing up of the kingdom of God, are not and he knows very well we are obliged worthy of a place with God and with the to walk in the same path and receive Savior and those who have sealed their the same ordinances in order to inherit testimony with their blood. the same glory that surrounds him. And I pray the Lord to bless you and all when we erect Temples in which to per- those who may attend this Conference, form ordinances for the living and the and also the brethren who may address dead, we do it to benefit our own blessed you; and trust that our prayers may con- selves. I want salvation, I wish to inherit tinually ascend into the ears of the Lord eternal life, I wish to get back to the pres- on behalf of Zion and her speedy redemp- ence of God from whence I came, when I tion. have finished my probation in the flesh. I will say before closing, that I have And I believe that I desire nothing in this just returned from St. George, where I respect but what you also wish. Then I have been laboring in the Temple. The know that it requires my diligence and work of God continues there; as a gen- my constant labor and study, the little eral thing we have as much labor as the time I have to spend in the flesh, to do Temple is capable of sustaining. The all I can to build up Zion and to establish spirit of the work does not lag. And I the Church and the kingdom of God upon can safely add that just as quick as the the earth. If we can only obtain eternal people get the Temple done at this place, lives we shall attain to the greatest of the way will be opened before them, 300 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. they will feel the responsibility of at- phet Joseph may turn the keys in the tending to the work so essentially nec- spirit world, and he and those engaged essary to be done on behalf of those with him may preach to the spirits in who have lived and passed away with- prison, but they cannot baptize them nor out having had the privilege of receiv- confirm them, nor administer offices of ing the blessings of the Gospel; and as the endowment. Some person or per- their time and attention will be occu- sons dwelling in the flesh must attend pied in this direction will they perceive to this part of the work for them; for it the importance as well as the magni- takes just as much to save a dead man tude of the work. There are many to- who never received the Gospel as a liv- day who stand in need of this assis- ing man. And all those who have passed tance, and as I have often said, so say I away without the Gospel have the right again to this body of Latter-day Saints, to expect somebody in the flesh to per- that this labor devolves upon us, and form this work for them, Amen. God requires it at our hands. The Pro-
NO MAN CAN DIRECT THE KINGDOM OF GOD—THE GOSPEL DID NOT ORIGINATE WITH JOSEPH SMITH OR BRIGHAM YOUNG—THE SAINTS OPERATING WITH GOD AND THE ANGELS—THE GRAND ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH—OTHER INSTITUTIONS OF ZION.
DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATTHE ANNUAL CONFERENCE, SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,APRIL 8TH, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I shall feel very much obliged, while I ence. And I have been very much pleased attempt to address you; if you will keep in witnessing the union and general feel- as quiet as possible; because it is quite a ing of interest manifested among the labor to speak to so large a congregation, people to attend these meetings. It is and unless quiet and order is preserved, evidence to me that the people feel in- it is impossible for all the people to hear. terested in these great and eternal prin- ciples developed through our holy reli- I have been very much interested gion, and that they have a desire to and edified in listening to the re- yield obedience to the law of God and to marks made by the brethren since we keep his commandments. And in that have assembled together in this Confer- alone is our safety, our happiness, our NO MAN CAN DIRECT THE KINGDOM OF GOD, ETC. 301 posterity, and our exaltation, as a peo- prehended in the future destinies of the ple; for we derive every blessing we en- races of men, it will be found that the joy, whether of a temporal or of a spir- Judge of all the earth has done right. itual nature from our heavenly Father; The Lord has in these last days, for and without him we can do or perform no his own special purpose, and also in the good work, for in him "we live, and move, interest of humanity, revealed himself and have our being," and from him, and from the heavens, made manifest his will through him we receive all blessings per- to man, sent his holy angels to com- taining to this life, and we shall here- municate and reveal unto us his chil- after, if we possess eternal lives, inherit dren certain principles as they exist in them and obtain them through the good- the bosom of God, and he has pointed ness, mercy and long-suffering of God out the way whereby we may secure our our Eternal Father, through the merits happiness and an eternal exaltation in and redemption of Jesus Christ our Sav- the celestial Kingdom of God. He has ior. been pleased to restore again the ever- It is not in man to direct, to man- lasting Gospel in all its fullness, with age and control affairs of the Kingdom all its riches, and blessings, and power, of God. No man ever did possess that and glory. He has organized his Church power, nor will he, unaided by the power and Kingdom upon the earth; he has of the Almighty. All nations and all peo- chosen men as he did in former times ples are more or less under his direction to be the bearers of his message of life and control, although many of them do and salvation to the nations of the earth. not know it. He raises up one nation, He has, through these instruments, in- and puts down another, he debases the structed us, and gathered us together, as proud and exalts the humble at his plea- we are found here today, from the differ- sure, and he pursues that course among ent nations where the Gospel reached us. all the peoples and nations of the earth, He has brought us here according to cer- as seemeth best unto him; and all na- tain eternal principles which he had in tions and all peoples are his offspring his mind before the world was, and ac- and he is the God and Father of the cording to certain councils that existed in spirits of all flesh, and feels an inter- the heavens among the gods, who have est in the welfare of all the human fam- been operating upon and with the hu- ily. He has been in the ages that are man family from the commencement to past, and he is in the present age do- the present, and will until the winding ing all that he can to promote the hap- up scene. piness and well-being of the human fam- ily. This does not always appear to men The work that we are engaged in is of superficial minds, the dealings of God not the work of man, it did not origi- with man are not always comprehended. nate with man, it was not found out by But he nevertheless does control the des- him. It is the work that has been proph- tinies of all peoples; and if in many in- esied of by all the holy prophets that stances it does not seem for their present have lived on this continent, on the con- benefit, yet as mankind are eternal be- tinent of Asia, and in the various por- ings, having to do with eternity as well tions of the earth. As the Apostle Paul as time, when the secrets of all hearts describes it, it is "the dispensation of shall be developed and the actions of the fulness of times spoken of by all the gods shall be made known and fully com- holy prophets since the world was." And 302 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. anything that we may have received— you to come here unless the Spirit and any light, any intelligence, any knowl- power of their mission had been with edge of the things of God, have em- them. But the Lord said in former anated and proceeded from him. He years through his prophets, "I will take saw and comprehended the fitting time you one of a city, and two of a fam- for this work to commence; he prepared ily, and I will bring you to Zion: And I the way by once more opening the heav- will give you pastors according to mine ens, by revealing himself and his Son heart, which shall feed you with knowl- Jesus, and by afterwards sending holy edge and understanding." And through angels to communicate his will and his the operation and influence of the Spirit purposes and designs to the human fam- of the living God, manifested through ily. It therefore did not originate with the priesthood, God's ministers on the us, nor with any sect or party or peo- earth, you have been brought together ple, for nobody, not even Joseph Smith, as you are today. But why should we or Brigham Young, or any of the Twelve be thus gathered together? That there Apostles knew anything about the great may be a body of people found to whom principles that were stored up in the God can communicate his will, that there mind of God. It was the mind and will might be a people who should be pre- and revelations of God, made known to pared to listen to the word and will and the human family, in the first place to voice of God: that there might be a peo- Joseph Smith, and through him to oth- ple gathered together from the differ- ers. And when the Elders of this Church ent nations who, under the influence of went forth to the nations of the earth, that spirit, should become saviors upon as bearers of the gospel message, if they Mount Zion; that they might, under the had gone upon their own responsibility inspiration of the Almighty, and through they could have accomplished nothing. the power of the Holy Priesthood which But having been chosen and set apart they should receive, go forth to those of the Lord, they went forth as his mes- nations and proclaim to the people the sengers, without purse or scrip, trusting principles of life, that they might indeed in Him. And he opened up their way become the saviors of men. And if we and prepared their path, as he said be- could fully comprehend our position, we forehand that he would. "Behold," said should see things very differently from he, "I send you forth to the nations of what we now do. If we could compre- the earth, and my Spirit shall go with hend our relationship to God, to each you, and my angels shall prepare the other, to his church upon the earth, and way for you." I send you forth not to be also the greatness and magnitude of the taught, but to teach, not to be instructed work in which we are engaged, and the by the world of mankind or the intelli- responsibilities that devolve upon us as gence of the world, but by the wisdom Elders in Israel, as Saints of the Most and intelligence and power and spirit High God, we should see things in a which I shall give you, and it is through very different light from what we now and by this influence that we have been do. We are not here, as they say in gathered together. And why are we the Church of England, to "follow the gathered? These Elders could not have devices and desires of our own hearts;" gathered you unless God had been with we are not here to pursue our own them; they could not have influenced individual interests and emoluments, NO MAN CAN DIRECT THE KINGDOM OF GOD, ETC. 303 we are not here merely to attend to our and authority which was given him for own secular affairs, but to learn the laws that purpose, that he might be the le- of life, and then teach the people the way gitimate representative of God upon the of salvation. There was an old saying earth. He also taught him how to orga- among ancient Israel: "Hear, O Israel: nize his Church, and put him in com- the Lord our God is one Lord: And thou munication with many of the ancient shalt worship the Lord thy God with all Prophets who have long since passed thy heart, with all thy mind, with all thy away, who also communicated with him, soul, and with all thy strength, and him and revealed unto him further the plan only shalt thou worship." And Jesus, in and design of the Almighty in relation to after time, added a little more to this: this earth, and the salvation of all who "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." would listen to the principles of truth. God is one, and they who dwell with him The nations of the earth have their are one. Those who will inherit the celes- representatives, their ministers, their tial kingdom will be one when they get plenipotentiaries, empowered and sent there; and we, as a people, ought to be forth by the recognized authority of the one—one in faith, one in principle, one in several nations. He was the represen- practice, one in our interests, one in our tative of God, his credentials came from associations, with each other and in our God, and his mission extended not to families, one with God, one with the holy one nation only, but to all nations; and angels, one in time, and one in eternity. he was authorized to establish and orga- nize what was termed the Church and To bring about a union of this kind, Kingdom of God upon the earth. And the principle of baptism has been intro- every step that he took, every principle duced that we all might be baptized into that he inculcated, and every doctrine one baptism, by the laying on of hands, that he taught, came from God by the and through the various orders of his revelations of God to him, and through Priesthood, we all partake of the same him to the people. He selected others by spirit; and being brought into union revelation—Apostles, High Priests, Sev- and communion with God, that we all enties, Bishops, Elders, Priests, Teach- might feel after God, that the tens of ers and Deacons, also High Councils, and thousands, and hundreds of thousands Bishops' Councils, and Patriarchs, and might be brought into connection with all the various authorities and organi- the Almighty, whose prayers could as- zations of this Church. Joseph Smith cend into the ears of the Lord of Sab- neither knew how to select men, whom baoth. And for the accomplishment of to select, nor what their offices should this purpose, he selected Joseph Smith be until it was communicated by the to be the first Apostle in his Church: Lord. And yet we find that these prin- he was called "not by the will of man," ciples revealed to him, agree with those nor by the power of man, nor by the in- that existed in former ages whenever telligence of man, but by God who re- God had a Church or people on the vealed himself unto this young man, as earth. And hence the ushering in of also the Savior, committing unto him a the Gospel simply means the revela- mission to perform to the inhabitants of tion of the will of God to man; it sim- this earth. He was endowed with power ply means the placing of mankind in 304 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. communication with the Lord that he shall be, and if we live our religion, and may not be governed by his own fol- keep his commandments, the principles lies or notions or theories, but by the that we are in possession of will bear will and word of God. And the exam- us off triumphant over death, hell and ples that you heard referred to here, of the grave, and land us among the just, our Stakes, with their Presidencies, to- among the celestial host that dwell with gether with the Bishops and their Coun- our Father in heaven. We really have cil, etc., is a part of the system of heaven, no time to attend to those trivial affairs, as it exists in the eternal worlds; and that some people seem to think ought the Priesthood that we hold is the ev- to occupy so much of our time. I wish erlasting Priesthood, and it administers now, while we are together to talk upon in time, and it will administer in eter- some general principles associated with nity; and a knowledge of the works that the Priesthood which has been conferred we are now engaged in, in regard to the upon us. building of Temples and administering It was said of ancient Israel, if they therein, all came from God, and are a had kept the commandments, that he part of the eternal system. Who knew would have made out of them a kingdom about them until God revealed it? No- of Priests. We are literally a kingdom body. Who knows how to administer ac- of Priests today. Our business is not to ceptably in these Temple without revela- follow our own will, our own desires and tion? Nobody but those to whom it has plans, but to seek to know and to do the been communicated, it came from God. will of God, to carry out these principles And our preaching to the living, and which he has revealed, and in this is our our administering for the dead are all of happiness and exaltation in time, and them parts and parcels of the same con- will be throughout the eternities that are cern. The fact is, we are in a state of pro- to come. bation; we have enlisted under the ban- We ought to be operating with God, ner of the Almighty; we have dedicated and with the holy angels; we ought ourselves to him for time and for eter- to be feeling after them, we ought to nity, and he expects it at our hands that be operating with the ancient Priest- we be true to the trust conferred upon hood that have lived before—the Patri- us, that we be faithful to our obligations archs, the Prophets, the Apostles, and and fulfil them, that we honor our God, all those men of God who have lived that we magnify our callings and Priest- and died in the faith who act with hood, and that we stand forth among God our heavenly Father, and with Je- the people and before the nations, as the sus the Mediator of the new Covenant. representatives of God upon the earth. We ought to be operating with them We have a similar view to that of the in establishing righteousness through- Apostle Paul, who said when address- out the earth, not nominally, but really; ing himself to the Corinthians: "Ye are we ought to be laboring in conjunction not your own? For ye are bought with a with them in saving the living, not to price: therefore glorify God in your body, make it a hardship and a trouble and and in your spirit, which are God's." We a toil; something that we can hardly have enlisted in a work, have engaged endure to go through; but on the con- in a warfare that will last while time trary, feeling it an honor to be associ- ated with the interests of God and bear- ers of the message of life and salvation, NO MAN CAN DIRECT THE KINGDOM OF GOD, ETC. 305 and also seeking for wisdom, and intel- work, turn our attention to the building ligence, and power, and revelation from of temples and minister in them for the God to carry out his will and designs, dead, that we may operate with the fa- and to accomplish his purposes upon the thers in the interest of their posterity, earth. helping them to perform that for their Will his purposes be accomplished? posterity which they were not able to do. They will. Will the Gospel grow, spread And in regard to the world, what and increase? I tell you, in the name ought our feelings to be towards them? of Israel's God, it will. Will the time A feeling of generosity, a feeling of kind- come when every fictitious thing will ness, a feeling of sympathy, with our be removed, when light and truth shall hearts full of charity, long-suffering and prevail, and when the kingdoms of this benevolence, as God our Father has, for world will become the kingdoms of our he makes his sun to rise on the evil God and his Christ? I tell you it will, as well as the good; he sends his rain and God will hasten it in his time. And on the unjust as well as the just. And this priesthood and this people are to be while we abjure the evils, the corrup- the instruments, in the hands of God, in tions, the fraud and iniquity, the lasciv- connection with the priesthood who have iousness and the lyings and abomina- gone before, who are now operating in tions that exist in the world, whenever their sphere, as we are in our's. The we see an honorable principle, a desire Lord hath so ordained, says the Apostle, to do right, whenever we see an opening "that they (referring to the dead) with- to promote the happiness of any of these out us should not be made perfect;" nei- people, or to reclaim the wanderer, it is ther can we without them be made per- our duty to do it, as saviors on Mount fect. There needs to be a welding and Zion. uniting together, that in all of our doings as God's servants and representatives, Will they have trouble? Yes. Will we may be influenced and directed from there be tribulation? Yes. Will nation above, being united with the Gods in be arrayed against nation? Yes. Will heaven we may become one in all things thrones be cast down and empires de- upon the earth, and afterwards one in stroyed? Yes. Will there be war, and the heavens. And says the Lord, "If ye carnage, and bloodshed? Yes. But these are not one ye are not mine." Everything things are with the people and with that tends to divide the people, as you God. It is not for us; we have a mis- heard this morning, proceeds from be- sion to perform, and that is to preach neath, and those that are engaged in it the Gospel and introduce correct princi- are the emissaries of the devil; for as ples, to unfold the laws of God as men he is the father of lies, so he is the fa- are prepared to receive them, to build ther of division, strife and discord. But up his Zion upon the earth, and to pre- union, peace, love, harmony, fellowship, pare a people for the time when the brotherhood and everything honorable, bursting heavens will reveal the Son of noble and exalting, proceeds from God; God, "and when every creature on the these are the principles that we ought to earth, and under the earth, will be heard seek after and to disseminate as far as to say, Blessing, and glory, and honor, we can everywhere and among all peo- and power, and might, and majesty, and ples. And then when we have done that dominion, be ascribed to him that sits 306 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for- ernment of the Church of God upon the ever." earth, that they may be prepared, when Will this people grow and increase? called upon, to fulfil the duties and re- Yes. And the time will come—it is not sponsibilities devolving upon them. I now, we are not prepared for it—when will here read part of a revelation which calamity and trouble and bloodshed, con- indicates the nature of these duties. fusion and strife will spread among all "And again, I give unto you Don C. Smith the nations of the earth. The time will to be a president over a quorum of high come, and is not far distant, when those priests; Which ordinance is instituted for who will not take up the sword to fight the purpose of qualifying those who shall against their neighbors, will have to flee be appointed standing presidents over to Zion for safety. That was true some the different stakes scattered abroad." time ago, and it is nearer its fulfillment Hear it, O ye High Priests! This is by a great many years than at the time the prominent duty devolving upon you. it was first uttered. The position you occupy is a sort of a What are we here for? To build up or normal school, if you please, to prepare aggrandize ourselves? No, but to build those who are in it and are taught in up the Church and kingdom of God upon it, that when they shall be called to the earth, and to spread the light of truth hold official places in the various stakes among the nations. That is our duty, of Zion, they may be prepared to mag- and also to pray for the revelations of nify them. How was it when we were God, that the Spirit and power of God engaged organizing these stakes, were may rest upon us, that we may compre- these brethren prepared? No, many hend correct principles and understand of them were not by any means. One the laws of life, to guide and guard and was engaged on his farm, another was protect the ship Zion from among the tied up in his merchandising, another rocks and shoals and troubles that will had bought five yoke of oxen and had sooner or later overcome this nation, and to prove them, and another had mar- other nations, and prepare ourselves for ried a wife and he could not come. And the events that are to come. We ought to we, therefore, had to go outside of the be men of honor, of honesty, of integrity, High Priests, whose legitimate business having our eyes single to the glory of it was to occupy these positions, and God. That is the duty of these Apostles, call other men and ordain them High and not to act with a view for their own Priests, and set them apart to preside aggrandizement, and for the obtainment in these stakes, as Presidents and Bish- of filthy lucre, or anything else pertain- ops and Councilors, having to take them ing to this world. We brought nothing from among the Seventies' and Elder's into this world, we can take nothing out. Quorums, because the High Priests were It is for us to operate for God and in the not prepared to magnify their legitimate interests of his Church and kingdom. calling; whereas, if they had been do- And what of these other brethren, ing their duty, living their religion, and the High Priests? They have a meeting together in prayer, and examin- mission to perform, and that is to ing the doctrine of Christ, instead of be- make themselves acquainted with the ing engaged almost exclusively in many laws, doctrines, ordinances and gov- of these other matters, they would have NO MAN CAN DIRECT THE KINGDOM OF GOD, ETC. 307 been prepared to step forward and mag- it? This is your calling. Prepare your- nify their calling. There are many other selves for it. I do not want Elders com- stakes to be organized. Prepare your- ing to me, as some have been doing, after selves, you High Priests, for the duties having been called upon missions say- and responsibilities that may devolve ing, I pray thee have me excused. And upon you, that the Church of God may be I call upon the first President of the Sev- strengthened in all its parts, and every enties to instruct the various Presidents man in his place, all prepared to magnify of Seventies, and they in turn the mem- their calling. bers of their several quorums, in regard Then, again, there are Seventies; I to their duties; and to live themselves so think there are some seventy-six quo- that the spirit of the living God may rest rums of seventies. Does their duty con- down upon them, that they may indeed sist merely in making their own plans be qualified to teach their brethren what and calculations, such as to go on a farm their duties are, that they may prepare and live there all their lifetime, attend- themselves to magnify them. Instead, ing to their own individual affairs, or therefore, of everyone seeking his own pursue any other avocation without con- individual gain from his own quarter, let sidering the obligations they are under every man feel that he is a servant of the by virtue of their Priesthood, and call- living God, a messenger to the nations of ing? I tell you nay. We have some- the earth, and that when the Lord calls thing else to do. I read in the revela- upon him, through the proper authority, tion touching this matter, when the sev- to do a certain work, he must obey, and enties were ordained, "they were to or- that readily and willingly! These are the dain more seventies, until there should duties and responsibilities that devolve be seven times seventy, if the labor in the upon you, my brethren of the Seventies. vineyard required it." They were to do And it is the duty of the Elders also to this "if the labor in the vineyard required magnify their callings; to feel after God it." In whose vineyard? Their orchards and to seek instruction from Him, and to and farms? I do not read it so. Does this magnify their calling and Priesthood at refer to their merchandising? It does not home or abroad, being governed by the so read. In looking after their own af- Holy Priesthood, in regard to their du- fairs or emoluments? That is not what I ties, that they may be acceptable to the read; but for the labor of the vineyard. Lord, and magnify their callings with all Whose vineyard, then? The vineyard diligence and fidelity, and then it is the of the Lord. But it seems that a great duty of the Presidents of Stakes to look many of the Seventies have no more after the interest and welfare of their idea of going into the vineyard of the own people under their Presidency, not Lord, than if they held no such Priest- in a formal manner, but as interested in hood or calling; they do not seem to com- their welfare, having a lively desire to prehend their duties, nor their respon- benefit and build them up, both spiritu- sibilities. Hear it, O ye Seventies! You ally and temporally, and perfect them in are called and set apart by the Priest- righteousness, purging out when neces- hood, to act under the direction of the sary the ungodly, lifting up and exalt- Twelve, to go forth as His messengers to ing the poor, and blessing and benefit- the nations of the earth. Do you believe ing everybody according to the principles 308 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of righteousness and truth, guarding Bishops of the various wards, and of the their virtue and their honor, and see whole people, to the responsibilities that that men are honorable, that they regard devolve upon us in relation to this mat- their word of more value than their bond, ter. We seem to be dwindling down in that all people may rely on them; men some of these matters, and I am sorry to who, in the language of the Prophet, will say that there is a great lack of that in- swerve to their own hurt and change not, tegrity and interest that we would like and who will do that which is right and to see manifested among our brethren. equitable before God. It is their duty, There are those here who have assisted and the duty of the Bishops and also that with their means to the amount of up- of the High Priests and Seventies and El- wards of a million dollars, which is un- ders operating with them to look after paid by those who received the benefit the poor and see that they are provided of it. It was the calculation that this for. Do not let us have anybody crying for means should be used to bring those of bread, or suffering for the want of em- our brethren to this land, who needed ployment. Let us furnish employment and were worthy of this assistance, and for all, divide up our farms and plan and when you who were thus assisted were in devise liberally that all who need work, distant lands praying and wishing to be and want to be employed, may find la- gathered to Zion, this help came to you bor. And I now call upon the Presidents and you were brought here; and instead of Stakes throughout Zion to give this of paying this your honest debt, you go matter their serious and earnest atten- to work and build up yourselves, with- tion. We have land in abundance, wa- out meeting your obligations, what is the ter in abundance, and means in abun- result? Those of your brethren who still dance; let us utilize them for the common remain, who are just as worthy as you to weal. Talk about financiering! Financier be gathered to Zion, are left to cry for as- for the poor, for the working man, who sistance. I am daily in receipt of letters requires labor and is willing to do it, from different parts of the earth, asking and act in the interest of the commu- to be thus assisted pleading: "we want nity, for the welfare of Zion, and in the to gather with the Saints, can't you help building up of the kingdom of God upon us?" Yes, we can if you who owe the Fund the earth. This is your calling; it is not will pay your honest debts, we can then to build up yourselves, but to build up meet all these requirements. And I call the Church and kingdom of God; and see upon the Presidents of Stakes and upon that there is no cause for complaining in the Bishops to look after these things, all your villages and cities and neighbor- and see that these obligations are met, hoods. Let us take hold together for the that the poor from abroad may not cry accomplishment of this object, and pray in vain; but that we may help them, and God to give us wisdom to carry it out, and then they return the amount advanced he will pour upon us blessings that there to them to assist others, and thus keep will not be room enough to contain. the work rolling in the same direction. Again, we have what is called a And if this duty is not performed, how Perpetual Emigration Fund. I wish can we expect the blessing of God to rest to draw the attention, not only of upon us? the Presidents of Stakes but of the We are engaged quite extensively NO MAN CAN DIRECT THE KINGDOM OF GOD, ETC. 309 in the erection of Temples. We are build- could, and possibly circumstances have ing one here, and also one in Cache so overruled that they find themselves Valley, and another in Sanpete, and if hardly able to meet their Tithing, for as we had time, and it was considered ad- a rule it is those who take delight in visable, we could read the report read observing the law of Tithing that sub- setting forth the receipts and disburse- scribe to these other calls. We do not ments of these places; and I presume wish to crowd or press upon the people; we shall, before the Conference adjourns. but rather let us take things easily and Suffice it to say, with all our backward- deliberately, seeking always to break off ness in some other things, there are a the yoke of him that is bound, letting great many of the Latter-day Saints who the oppressor go free. And let our sym- are doing all they can in every laudable pathies be extended towards the widow enterprise. I presume at the present and the orphan; and while we are build- time there is not less than 500 men en- ing Temples, paying our Tithes and of- gaged in rearing the walls of these Tem- ferings, and doing the best we can before ples. And men are taking hold of it with God and man, we will let that go for the energy, doing all they can in many in- present, and when we get into more fa- stances, but not in all by a great deal. vorable circumstances we will do better. At any rate, we will keep doing with a Then in regard to our Tithing oper- long pull and a strong pull, and a pull al- ations, Bishop Hunter informs me that together, as one in the interests of all Is- many of the people are very negligent rael. But we must not forget our duties in regard to this matter. Now, I would to the Lord. say in behalf of the people, that perhaps I would say in this connection that there may be a partial excuse for some of there are three of the Twelve appointed these things. We have had a very strin- to superintend the erection of these edi- gent time for a number of years past, a fices in these outside districts, and then financial crisis has prevailed in the east- there are those residing here attending ern States for some years now, and al- to home affairs. And we are seeking most every paper reports the failure of to act in concert and do the very best mercantile and business institutions—of we can. Some people have an idea that the failure of one firm after another; and these Temples ought to be built from we have been subject, more or less, to the proceeds of the Tithing; I do not ob- these depressions. The fact also must ject to it in the least, providing you will be considered that great exertions have only pay your Tithing. But we cannot been made in the building of the St. build Temples with something that ex- George Temple, and also the three Tem- ists only in name. You deal honestly ples now under way, which have already with the Lord, handing over in due sea- exhausted considerable means furnished son that which belongs to his storehouse, chiefly by the people residing in those and then we will show you whether we Temple districts. I must give the people cannot build Temples, as well as do ev- credit for their zeal and energy in this di- erything else that may be required with rection, which we must all acknowledge it. In the mean time, we have got to is very commendable and praiseworthy. do the best we can in these matters; And, perhaps, in the performance of this and as we are personally interested in labor many have done the best they these things, as well as our brethren, the 310 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. departed deed who have gone before us, of bearing off the Church and Kingdom and who depend upon this being done, of God shall pass from us to them, they we feel a strong desire to carry out these may be prepared for it, and carry on the projects; and this feeling, I am happy to work to a glorious and triumphant con- say, exists throughout all Israel. summation. And that we may stand in regard to education and literacy, the sci- We want also to be alive in the cause ences, the arts and intelligence of every of education. We are commanded of kind, as high above the nations of the the Lord to obtain knowledge, both by earth, as we do today in regard to reli- study and by faith, seeking it out of the gious matters. best books. And it becomes us to teach And before closing I would refer our children, and afford them instruc- briefly to the ladies' relief society. We tion in every branch of education calcu- are told that, "the man is not without lated to promote their welfare, leaving the woman, nor the woman without the those false acquirements which tend to man, in the Lord." She is spoken of as infidelity, and to lead away the mind and a helpmeet to her husband. I remem- affection from the things of God. We ber the organization of the first Relief So- want to compile the intelligence and lit- ciety in Nauvoo, by the Prophet Joseph eracy of this people in book form, as well Smith; today we find them spreading as in teaching and preaching; adopting all over the land, and the benefits of all the good and useful books we can ob- their labors are widely realized. Our sis- tain; and what we need and cannot ob- ters are doing a noble and commendable tain, make them. And instead of doing work in writing and publishing, in vis- as many of the world do, take the works iting the sick and needy, and minister- of God, to try to prove that there in no ing to their wants, and showing kindness God; we want to prove by God's works and benevolence towards the suffering that he does exist, that he lives and rules and distressed, and also advocating prin- and holds us, as it were, in the hollow of ciples that are honorable and praisewor- his hand. For it is very unfair for man thy before God and man, calculated to el- to take the works of God to try to prove evate and bless their sex. And I say to that there is no God. But then it is only the sisters, God bless you in your labors the fool that has said in his heart, there of love, and in your enterprise, continue is no God. I would like to talk upon this to press forward in your good work, and subject if time would permit. the Lord will bless you and your poster- I am pleased to see the exertions ity after you; for you are mothers in Is- made by the young men's and young rael who are raising up kings and priests women's mutual improvement associ- unto the Most High God. See that your ations, to benefit and bless the ris- children are taught aright, and that they ing generation of our people. And grow up in virtue and purity before the I am also pleased to witness the de- Lord. Teach them good principles, never gree of intelligence and studiousness mind so much about the fashions; but manifested by our young people; it let economy, industry, charity, kindness is creditable and praiseworthy. We and virtue be early impressed upon their want to lead them on and encourage minds, and try to love your sons and them in the study of correct princi- daughters, and to lead them in the paths ples, so that when the responsibility of life. TEMPLES IN ANCIENT AMERICA, ETC. 311
I should like to speak of our Sun- talked long enough. God bless you, in the day Schools and other institutions, name of Jesus. Amen. but time will not permit. I have
TEMPLES IN ANCIENT AMERICA—THE GOD OF MANKIND AN IMPOSSIBLE GOD—THE TRUTH IN REGARD TO HIM—MAN IN HIS IMAGE—PRE-EXISTENCE—WHY INFANTS DIE—THE REDEMPTION BY JESUS—PLURALITY OF GODS—THE WORD OF THE LORD IS TRUTH.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDINTHE NEW TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,OCT. 7, 1867.
REPORTEDBY DAVID W. EVANS.
Never having had the opportunity of mountains." I have often wondered when speaking to so large a congregation as I have read this portion of Scripture, the present, or at least in so large a what was meant by the mountain of the house as the one which we are now as- house of the Lord being erected, or es- sembled, I do not know whether I shall tablished, in the tops of the mountains. be able to adapt my voice so as to make The mountain of the house of the Lord the congregation hear me. I know the is something, it seems, that God him- object of coming to meeting and preach- self would establish in the mountains. ing is to hear and to be edified and in- When I entered this Territory in August structed more perfectly in the things per- last, on my return from my last mis- taining to God and to godliness, and sion, I beheld from the mouth of Par- in our duties before the Lord. When I ley's Canyon the top of this building very look upon this large tabernacle, which prominent. It seemed to rear itself up has been erected here in these high re- above the surrounding buildings, and it gions of our globe, I am forcibly re- was easily to be seen. It looked very minded of the sayings of two of the an- much like an artificial mountain erected cient prophets, Isaiah and Micah, both here, or like some of those mounds that of whom have spoken of an event that we see down on the Missouri River, that was to take place in the latter days. were made by the ancient inhabitants I will quote their sayings, for the lan- of our country, only it is much larger guage of both is almost identical. "It and higher than some of them. Whether shall come to pass in the latter days, that this is really what the prophet in an- the mountain of the house of the Lord cient days meant, it is not for me to say, shall be established in the tops of the 312 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
I only say that the shape of this building Solomon in the days of old. When reminds me, or suggests to me what was Solomon had built the temple, he spread prophesied anciently; but whether or not forth his hands to the heavens, and it is the fulfillment of that prophecy I do prayed to the Father, in the presence of not know. the congregation of Israel that was as- I will take this opportunity to express sembled, and the spirit of the Lord was my gratitude and feelings of thanksgiv- poured out in such a wonderful manner ing to the Almighty, that he has en- that the people, through their faith, be- abled this people to erect unto him so held the power and the glory of God as large a building in which they can as- they were manifested in that temple. By semble to worship his great and holy this the people knew that God respected name. The Lord, in ancient days, when his own house. So it was in the days he constructed temples and tabernacles, of Moses. When they journeyed in the did honor them by his presence. No wilderness, God commanded the Chil- doubt on some occasions his presence dren of Israel to build a tabernacle. He was made more manifest than on oth- gave them a pattern thereof. In that ers. Oftentimes we read that the power tabernacle the Lord showed forth his and the glory of God, as manifested in power among Israel. It became visible his tabernacles and temples were so con- not only on the inside, but on the outside spicuous that the people could behold the glory of God was made manifest and them with their natural eyes. I do not rested upon it. By this the Children of Is- say that this was the case under all cir- rael knew that God was near unto them. cumstances, and in all houses that were They not only believed, but the testi- built unto the name of the Lord. Many mony manifested before their eyes gave temples and houses were built on the them a knowledge that God was in the American continent by the remnant of midst of their camp; although through the House of Israel, to whom this land their wickedness, unbelief, and darkness was given. It is not recorded whether of mind God withdrew his immediate the Lord manifested himself in all these presence from the midst of the congre- houses or not; but it is recorded that at gation, and Moses only was permitted to the temple which was built in the land see the Lord and talk to him face to face, Bountiful, in the northern part of South yet the display of God's power and glory America, the Son of God, himself, did was so great that the Children of Israel show forth his power and his glory to a knew that God was near them. certain congregation assembled in and around about the temple. Jesus, after The question may arise, Will there his resurrection from the dead, was sent be a time again when the glory of the by his Father from the heavens to the Lord will be manifestly visible to and American continent, to a congregation his voice heard by his people? I an- of two thousand and five hundred souls, swer, yes. God has promised this in the men, women and children, who where last days. There is no doubt, as was assembled together for the purpose of said yesterday by Brother Kimball, that worshipping God the Father in the name heavenly messengers hover around the of Jesus. Consequently God did respect congregation of the Saints here assem- this temple built on the American conti- bled. I have no doubt of this in my nent, as well as the great temple built by own mind, though I have not seen them TEMPLES IN ANCIENT AMERICA, ETC. 313 and you may not have seen them; yet the view of the great mass of the Chris- that God who has seen your labors and tian world at the present day. Some diligence in building a house to his name, two hundred millions of the inhabitants has no doubt sent heavenly messengers of our globe consider that God is some- to hover around us, to bluff off the pow- thing altogether indefinable, incompre- ers of darkness, that seek to darken the hensible, a person, and yet has no parts; minds of the people, and to close their consisting of three persons, Father, Son hearts against understanding. The time and Holy Ghost, and yet no part of these will come when the faith of this peo- persons. That is a horrible idea in my ple, the pure in heart, will be sufficiently mind. My mind is so constructed that, great that when they build a house to the with all my reading and meditation, I name of the Lord, and do not suffer any never could conceive of a being of that unclean thing to enter therein, that the description, and yet it is incorporated in Lord will come and grace it by his pres- the articles of the Church of England, ence, as well as by the presence of his also in the Methodist discipline, and is in angels. That will be the time when the accordance with the views of almost all pure in heart, who enter into the house the Christian world at the present day. of God, will behold his face. O! what "God consists," say they in their creeds, a grand, glorious, happy privilege that "of three persons without body, parts or will be to the sons and daughters of the passions." I do not wish to dwell upon Most High, to behold the face of him who this long; it is so inconsistent, so very created them, the Father of their spirits, absurd, so contrary to all intelligence, who created them before the foundation reason and revelation that I am willing of the world. How great and glorious a to throw it by without contemplating it privilege for the sons and daughters of for any length of time. I merely men- God who are now shut out from his pres- tion it to call to your mind the inconsis- ence! For this cause the people of God tencies of the religious world who pro- are commanded at all times to build a fess Christianity. One of these persons, house to his name, that he may reveal called the Son, without body and with- those ordinances devised by him for the out parts, was actually crucified, died salvation of the children before the world and was buried in a tomb, and the third was laid. day he rose again, and with his body as- I know there are some people who cended into heaven, when he did not pos- do not believe God has a face like unto sess a body. If anybody can believe such man, or in other words that we are in nonsense, they are perfectly welcome to his image and likeness. There has been it, only keep it away from me. I want a great variety of views among the in- nothing to do with it. I never expect to habitants of our globe in regard to the worship such a being here on earth or being or beings whom they have wor- throughout all the future ages of eter- shipped and called God. Some have be- nity. I have no reverence whatever for lieved that he was an immaterial be- such a being, for I do not believe that ing. Some have believed that he had such a one ever existed, only in the hal- no properties, perfection or qualities in lucinations of disordered minds. common with any other substance in na- ture; that he was entirely separated from Perhaps the strangers who are all material nature. This seems to be present, if any there be, may be led 314 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to inquire what kind of a being do the between the parent and the offspring, Latter-day Saints worship? Let me re- certainly we do. If then this law pre- ply according to my understanding. I vails among all animated beings here believe that God—I mean God the Fa- on the earth, why should we imagine ther is a material personal being; that he God to be entirely distinct and differ- has a body and a spirit united together; ent from his own sons and daughters? that his spirit within his body is mate- Why not believe that there is a resem- rial; that he is a personage just as much blance between them and him. When we as every man in this congregation is a look at our fellow man we behold him personage; and let me go still further erect in the form of God. To be sure and say that he is a personage of flesh there may be many deformities among and of bones. Perhaps that may shock men and women, produced in many in- the ideas of some of the outsiders and stances, perhaps, by wickedness, disease they may think that to get over their im- and by accident; but in the general out- material god, without body or parts, we line there is resemblance among all the have gone to the other extreme. Well, human species, and there should be in whether it is to the other extreme or not, as much as their Father and God is in- I wish to state to you my views, and I deed their Father, as any in this congre- think they correspond with the views of gation are the literal fathers of their chil- the servants of God. dren. We, who compose this congrega- God is a being, then, who has a taber- tion, are all one family, and only a very nacle of flesh and bones in which his small portion of the family of our Fa- spirit dwells; and this flesh, bones and ther and God. But when did he beget spirit are material. Strangers may be us? I answer before this world was made; anxious to know something more about not our flesh and bones, but that being this personal being whom we call God called man that was created in the im- the Father. We are told that in the be- age and likeness of God and who dwells ginning man was created in the image in his mortal tabernacle. That being is of God, and we are also told that Je- the offspring of God; we were all begot- sus, the Son of God, was the express ten by him before this world was made. image of His Father. The doctrine that We then dwelt in his presence and could man, in his form and shape is in the im- behold his face as sons and fathers here age of God, may be or may seem some- on earth can behold each other. We thing new and strange to those who then partook, in a measure, of his glory, are not acquainted with the principles and were acquainted with the glory and in this church. But why should not power of his kingdom. We were present men resemble God is the question, see- with him in the grand and magnificent ing that we are his offspring? Would work of creation, and we saw and re- you expect that sons and daughters of joiced in his handiwork. We sang praises this world would be like a horse or like in the presence of our Father and God; the fowls of the air or the fish of the before we had tabernacles of flesh and sea? Or would you expect them to re- bones. We then assembled ourselves to- semble their parents, and be in their im- gether as we do here on the earth; we age and likeness? Do we not see in the then accompanied our Father and God animal creation—of which the human and his Son Jesus Christ, on the grand species is said to be a part—a likeness and glorious mission of the formation TEMPLES IN ANCIENT AMERICA, ETC. 315 of the world we now inhabit. Did Job, when the morning stars sang to- we know anything about the object for gether, and all the sons of God shouted which this world was created? Yes, we for joy?" I do not know that Job under- knew that it was created expressly for stood the pre-existence of man, it might us, and we sang and rejoiced over it as not have been revealed to him; at any much as the people of God now rejoice, rate he left the Lord to answer the ques- when they erect a temple or tabernacle tion on the subject, knowing that he to his name. When you erect a taberna- would give information on the matter cle to the Most High, you expect to enter that he, Job, could not give. If Job had at times, and be feasted with the words been a sectarian, how easily he could of eternal life, and to partake of the have answered this question! "Why, blessings of God. So it was in regard to Lord," Job could have said, "I did not ex- the creation of this world. We were there ist then, and why do you ask me such and I think all this generation among a question?" But Job very well under- all nations, kindreds, tongues and peo- stood that there must be something in ple were present on that occasion. Shall the pre-existence of man, or the Lord I limit it to this generation? No; I be- would never have put such a question lieve all the sons and daughters of God to him. The very question itself implied who had proved themselves faithful were the pre-existence of Job at the time the assembled on that occasion. I do not in- foundations of the earth were laid, and clude in this number the one-third part it also implied a knowledge on the part of the family that fell, but the two-thirds of all the sons of God of the objects of who kept the law of their first estate who the creations of this world; for if they were really and truly accounted the sons had had no such knowledge, why should and daughters of God, the thousands and they have joined together in singing the millions who inhabit this globe besides songs of heaven on account of it? Well, the generations of the past and all future then, we have come to the point, namely, generations. Think of this and try to con- that we did exist in the image and like- ceive in your heart the magnitude of the ness of God before the foundations of great army of the sons and daughters of the world were laid, and this is what is God assembled at the time the founda- meant when the Lord says to his only be- tions of this world were laid. gotten Son on the sixth day of creation, The Lord put a very curious ques- "Let us make man in our image and in tion to the old patriarch, Job, on a cer- our likeness, and give him dominion over tain occasion. Job had been praising up the fish of the sea, over the fowls of the the works of God, and so far as his nar- air, the beasts of the earth, and over all row mind would permit him, he tried the earth to subdue it," and so forth. So to magnify the greatness of his power; God created man, male and female. He but, by putting a few questions to Job did not tell us all the particulars of the the Lord showed to him that his wis- creation—that we were born male and dom and knowledge were but foolish- female in the spirit world, and so on, but ness in the sight of his creator. Said yet there are many sayings which indi- the Lord, "Where were you, Job, when I cate that such was the fact. For instance, laid the foundation of the earth, and the in the books of Moses and in the books of cornerstones thereof? Where were you, 316 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the New Testament we read that God is he thought, it was really flesh and bones, the Father of all our spirits, that we were until he was corrected and found that it begotten sons and daughters unto God. was the spirit of Jesus, that same spirit, The vision given in 1832 to our Prophet, says Jesus, which, in the meridian of Joseph Smith, shows this matter more time, should come and take a body, and clearly. Besides showing the vast num- die for the sins of the world. These be- ber of worlds that the Lord had created, ings, who, in the beginning, were cre- the voice of the Lord, in that vision, de- ated after the image of the spirit of Je- clares that all the inhabitants of all those sus, had a probation; they had law; they worlds were begotten sons and daugh- had intelligence. It was called their first ters unto God. The Book of "Mormon" estate. They were agents there just as bears testimony to the same great doc- much as you and I are here. They could trine. You who are familiar with that obey the law that was given to them, or book will recollect reading in the book they could disobey that law. I have al- of Ether how that the brother of Jared ready alluded to a third part of the great fell to the earth with fear when he saw family, who did not keep their first es- the finger of the Lord, after the veil fell tate. What became of them? They were from his natural eyes. And the Lord thrust down, and thus came the devil spoke to him, saying, "Why hast thou and his angels. Jude says they were re- fallen?" Then the brother of Jared an- served in chains of darkness, until the swered, "I saw the finger of the Lord, and judgment at the great day. That was I knew not that the Lord had flesh and their doom; their transgressions were so bones." It did resemble flesh and bone, great—sinning against God the Father, but he, doubtless, thought it was so in whom they could behold, and against the reality, whereas it was the body of his person of his Son, whom they could also Spirit. Then said the Lord, "I am he see—disobeying the most sacred of all who was prepared from the foundation of laws—seeking to dethrone the Almighty, the world to redeem my people; I am Je- and to take the power from that Being sus Christ; I am the Father and the Son, who had begotten them, into their own and the body which thou now beholdest hands. For this they were thrust down, is the body of my spirit. Seest thou not and were called Perdition, and the heav- that thou art created after the body of ens wept over them. I do not know my spirit, and all men," says Jesus to how faithful the remainder of the spir- the brother of Jared, "have I created in its were; that is not for me to say. I the beginning after the image of the body do not know whether they transgressed of my spirit." This, I believe, is the only any of the laws of God, or not in their passage in the Book of "Mormon" that di- first estate. If they did, one thing I rectly teaches the pre-existence of man. do know, and that is, that they under- stand about Jesus and his atonement; Well, that body—the body of the for he was as a Lamb slain from before Lord—that the brother of Jared saw, the foundation of the world, and inas- was a personal body. It had fin- much as he suffered in spirit as well as gers, a face, eyes, arms, hands, and in body, I do not know but his suffer- all the various parts which the hu- ings in spirit would redeem them in their man body has, so much so that first estate as well as us who sin here TEMPLES IN ANCIENT AMERICA, ETC. 317 in the body. I do not pretend to say often been asked of me by the Latter- that such was the case. Suffice to say, day Saints, and by those outside of this that the plan of redemption was known Church—"Why is it that infants, who by them, and suffice it to say again, have never sinned, should die? Why that they were faithful enough to re- should they be subject to death because tain their position in their first estate, their father some six thousand years and to have the privilege of coming forth ago sinned and transgressed?" I answer in this world, and taking upon them- this by asking you a question, Why is selves tabernacles, or bodies, and having it that children, oftentimes to the third, a second estate. We also read that all fourth and fifth generation, suffer from who come into this world were innocent. lingering diseases here in this life, be- That shows that they never had sinned, cause their forefathers were licentious, or if they had, that they had been for- and broke the laws of life and happi- given and made innocent. Which way it ness? Why, it is hereditary, is it not? was I do not know. If they had sinned Is it just that they should suffer, be- and were all made innocent through the cause their parents or some of their pro- blood of the atonement, and through genitors have sinned? No, it is hered- the sufferings of Jesus in the spirit, as itary. Why, then, may not all the in- well as in the flesh, that would prepare habitants of the world, whether in their them to come into this world without infancy or not, inherit death as well as having any stain upon them. But if these children who suffer through dis- they never transgressed the law, never eases entailed upon them by their fore- went beyond its bounds, or limits, they fathers? Not as a matter of justice par- would be sanctified, purified, perfected, ticularly, but something that comes upon saved and be innocent by keeping the them in consequence of the fall of man. law. But let us come down a little further. It is handed down among them. Now, When we came forth into this world, and that would be a very unpleasant condi- took upon ourselves bodies of flesh, they tion if they were always to remain in that were fallen bodies—subject to pain, sick- state. They are plunged into slavery, as ness, sorrow, mourning, trials, and fi- it were, by one man; hence the Redeemer nally death, or dissolution. This death steps forth and rescues them from that that came upon the bodies of the children slavery. When I say rescues them, I do of men, was brought to pass by the trans- not say that he does it at once, before gression of one man and woman, that is, they have had a chance to know the dif- by our first parents; as it is written, "By ference between good and evil, between the transgression of one sin entered the the bitter and the sweet, to contrast be- world, and death by sin." It matters not tween happiness and misery. It is wis- whether it is the little infant that dan- dom that they should suffer, even should dles on the knee that has never sinned, it be from hereditary disease, that they or the youth, the middle-aged or the old, may gain experience. But I will tell all have to feel this great penalty that you what he rescues them from, by his has been inflicted upon all the posterity atoning blood. He breaks the bands of of Adam by reason of his transgression. death and rescues them from the power of the grave, which, but for that, would Now, there is a question that has have held the infant as well as the 318 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. middle-aged in their power eternally. bodies slumber in the grave. I have There is such a thing as a father, through power to bring them forth by virtue of his foolishness, plunging not only him- the atonement I have made." self but all his children into a slavery Could man have redeemed himself? from which he cannot redeem himself Could one man have shed his blood for or them, so far as their bodies are con- another, and said to the grave give up cerned; but with Adam's children this your dead? No. Why not? Because all was the case with both their bodies and were fallen; all were under the domin- spirits, for the Book of "Mormon" says ion and power of Satan. All were spiritu- that all mankind, through Adam's trans- ally dead—dead to things pertaining to gression, became subject not only to a righteousness. It was universal, eternal temporal death—the separation of the death. A being greater than man was re- body and spirit, but also to a spiritual quired to redeem him, hence Jacob says, death, eternal in its nature. If there were in the passage to which I have already no atonement—no sufferings and death referred, in relation to the atonement, of our Redeemer—no infinite atonement "that it must be infinite." Wherein was to rescue men from the grave, their spir- the Son of God infinite? In the first place, its, in consequence of the slavery en- he was begotten different from you and tailed upon them by their first parents, me. We were begotten by a mortal father, could not have been rescued from eternal but Jesus was begotten by an Immortal death. Could they have delivered them- Being, his Father and God. If then his selves? No. They were in captivity— body was begotten by that Being, do you slavery—and their master, the devil, was not see that his body in that respect dif- there to bind them in that slavery. Could fered from ours? It is true that he in- they turn the key of the prison doors and herited the same as we do so far as his run back again? No! Could they say to mother was concerned, but on the part the grave, Yield up my body and let me of the Father he was superior. Hence, go again into the presence of my Father being begotten by an Infinite Being, he and God? No; there were potent enemies could do that which no other man could who had endless power over them had it do—redeem from spiritual death and the not been for the atonement. captivity of Satan. Hence it is said that, We are taught in the revelations of "through Jesus came life and light into God that Jesus suffered the pain of all the world." If it had not been for Jesus, men. You will find it in the teach- darkness would have reigned eternally ings of Jacob, the brother of Nephi, over this creation. in the Second Book of Nephi. "He suffered the pains of all men, women Talk about works of righteousness re- and children," says Jacob. What was deeming us without the atonement! Why this great suffering for? That the res- the thing is preposterous in the highest urrection might come unto all men, degree. Why? Because we were spir- women, and children; that Jesus might itually dead, and can a person who is have power to say to the grave, "re- dead work righteousness? Can a person store those captives you have taken, who is dead to everything good, holy, up- behold I have redeemed all whose right and Godlike, who is in captivity to TEMPLES IN ANCIENT AMERICA, ETC. 319
Satan, work righteousness? Could a things, that we may become Gods like feast of salvation be prepared for him in unto our Father who begat us. that dead state, unless there was some This is consistent with analogy. Anal- redemption or atonement made to bring ogy shows that sons here upon the earth, life to the world to impart to the human grow up and become like their par- family? Light and life have come upon ents. Why then should we set a bar- all men. Jesus is that light and life; He rier between the sons of God, who are is the light and life of all things; and by redeemed through the atonement, and reason of that light and life which he has their restoration to the mansions where purchased for us by his own blood, you they formerly dwelt? Why should we and I have the privilege of working righ- erect obstacles, and set a barrier so that teousness, which we never would have we cannot become like him? Analogy had without the atonement. We could would say at once that when he appears not have done anything acceptable in the we shall be like him, for we shall see sight of God, without his atoning blood. him as he is. Analogy would say that That is the very foundation of the re- when he shall redeem our bodies from demption of the children of men; with- the grave, that he will fashion them af- out it, this would have been a lost and ter his own glorious body, and clothe fallen creation, and not one could have them with power and glory, even as He is been saved. clothed with glory and power, in the pres- ence of his Father and our Father and God. But let us pass on a little further. But says one, if you adopt that sen- You recollect in the former part of my re- timent, then your people believe in a marks, I was speaking about the person- plurality of gods, and we have all been ality of God. Now let us come along to taught in the Christian world that there the plan of redemption, and see how it is but one personal God, or rather three is that we are exalted and brought back persons in the Trinity—the Father, Son, into the presence of God, and become as and Holy Ghost. Well, these three are it were, gods, then we can form some idea called one, are they not? Yes, they concerning our Father and God. We are are called one. Jesus prays that all instructed, and we believe, that all of us his disciples may be made one, as he who believe in Jesus Christ, in his suf- and the Father are one. If ever that ferings and death, and receive the ben- prayer is answered, then, in one sense efit of his atonement, will, if we remain of the word, there would only be one faithful, be exalted into the presence of God, but, in another sense of the word, that being who is our Father, and that there would not only be three, but a we will be made like unto him, and be great many personal beings called gods. crowned with glory, and shall have the Let us for a few moments refer to that privilege of sitting down with the Son glorious saying in the revelations of St. upon his throne, as he has overcome, and John. In the visions of eternity that has sat down with his Father upon his were shown to John, he beheld things throne, and that we will become one with that were to take place in future gener- him, as he is one with the Father. We be- ations. Among other things that were lieve we will be perfected, purified and shown to him, were the one hundred cleansed in him, and made not only the and forty-four thousand, standing on sons of God, but grow up unto him in all Mount Zion, who had been redeemed 320 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. from among men. Who were they? Let that he dwells in tabernacles and tem- us look at the inscription that John says ples, and so forth. I do not know, but that was written on their foreheads. That in my teachings in years past, where will tell us that the name of their Father teaching upon these two distinct sub- was written there. What was his name? jects, I may have left an impression upon God, translated into the English lan- the minds of the people that I never in- guage. Ahman in the pure language. The tended to convey in reference to the qual- Father's name John saw inscribed on the ities, perfections, glories and attributes foreheads of the hundred and forty-four of these personages, for attributes al- thousand who were singing the new song ways do pertain to substances, you can- before the Lord. What would you think not separate one from the other. At- if you were to have the future opened tribute cannot exist without substance; to you as John had, and could see these everywhere it shows its bearing and re- men with the word God, inscribed in lation to substance and person, and if bright and shining characters upon each in any of my preaching or teachings I of their foreheads? Would you think that have ever conveyed the impression that God was making fun of them by putting attributes could exist separate and apart such an inscription there? Would you from substances I never intended to do suppose the inscription was a mere form so. I do not know that I have ever de- without any meaning? No: every man clared any such in my writings. I have permitted to see these things would at said that God is love, and that he is truth once say, "they are gods having been re- because the revelations say so. I have deemed, and made like their Father." said that he oftentimes represents him- This is what we believe. Then, when we self by his attributes. The same as when come to personality, we not only believe he says I am in you; but he does not in our personal Father, in His Son Jesus mean that his person, his flesh and bones Christ, and in the Holy Ghost, as person- are in us. When Jesus says I am in the ages, but we also believe that in the eter- Father, he does not mean that his per- nity of eternities, in the heaven of heav- son is in the Father. What does he mean? ens there will be innumerable millions He means that the same attributes that of persons who will occupy that exalted dwell in his own person also dwell in the station—each one being a personal god, person of the other. I think I have heard as much so as the God of this creation— this doctrine taught from the commence- the Father of our spirits is. ment, by the authorities of this Church, and I think it is taught, more or less, If time permitted, we might bring up now, almost every Sabbath day. We are the revelations of heaven, given in these exhorted to develop and perfect those at- days as well as anciently, in regard to tributes of God that dwell within us in the representations which God has given embryo, that we may more and more ap- of Himself, not only representing him- proximate to that high state of perfection self by his person, but also by his at- that exists in the Father and the Son. tributes. But this is a subject upon which Attributes belong, in all cases, in this we do not feel to dwell at this time. Suf- and all other worlds, to personages and fice it to say, that God has said that he substances, and without personages and is light and truth; that he is a spirit: substances, they cannot exist. TEMPLES IN ANCIENT AMERICA, ETC. 321
In the "Kingdom of God," published commanded that we shall live by every in October, 1848, I have set forth the word that proceeds from the mouth of personality of the Father and the Son, God, for says the revelation, "the word of and the glorious attributes that pertain God is truth, and whatsoever is truth is to each. And again in many of my writ- light, and whatsoever is light is Spirit, ings, to which I might refer, and could even the Spirit of Jesus Christ. And perhaps give the page, I have taught the the Spirit gives light to every man that same thing, and my views today con- comes into the world; and the Spirit di- cerning this matter are just the same as rects every man through the world who they were then, and then the same as will hearken to it. And he that hearkens they are now; only I think, by search- to the voice of the spirit comes to God, ing more fully, I have progressed and ob- even the Father. And he teaches him of tained some further light and informa- the covenant which he has renewed and tion more than I had twenty or twenty- confirmed upon you for your sakes, and five years ago. I do not know, that, not for your sakes only, but for the sake in my remarks this morning, concern- of the whole world." ing the atonement, and the personalities and glorious attributes of God, I have Now, I want to abide in that. If the varied in my views from those of the rest word of the Lord is truth, and whatever of the authorities of the Church. If I have is truth is light, and whatever is light I hope they will correct me and tell me is spirit, I want to embrace it, and hold wherein I am wrong, for it is my desire, fast to it. Again, he says, when giving a and ever has been, to go in accordance revelation to the servants of God: "That with the revelations of heaven, to abide which you hear is the voice of one crying in the word of God, and to have that word in the wilderness—in the wilderness, be- abide in me. cause you cannot see him—my voice, be- We are taught that the words of cause my voice is Spirit; and my Spirit is truth have power. The word of God truth; and truth abides forever and has we are commanded to live by. In one no end." I desire to abide in it forever and of the revelations we are taught and ever. Amen. 322 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
ORIGIN OF MAN AND ATTRIBUTES OF DEITY—PHILOSOPHERS AND ASTRONOMERS
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ERASTUS SNOW, DELIVEREDATTHE FOURTEENTH WARD ASSEMBLY ROOMS,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,JAN. 20, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
"And God said, Let us make man in mission of our Lord and Savior Jesus our image, after our likeness: and let Christ, believe also the words of the them have dominion over the fish of the Apostle Paul, speaking of him in this sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over wise: That he was in the likeness of his the cattle, and over all the earth, and Father, and the express image of his per- over every creeping thing that creepeth son. And the accounts we have of Je- upon the earth. sus represent him as being physically "So God created man in his own im- and in all essential parts, in the like- age, in the image of God created he him; ness of man. That he ate and drank, and male and female created he them. partook of the elements that enter into "And God blessed them, and God said the composition of our earthly taberna- unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and cle, that he was subjected to pain and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and to the infirmities of our flesh, and that have dominion over the fish of the sea, he suffered all things that we are sub- and over the fowl of the air, and over ject to in the flesh; that this mortal- every living thing that moveth upon the ity was subject to pains and penalties earth." Gen. i, 26, 27, 28. of death in him, as well as in mankind "This is the book of the generations of generally. In this particular his divine Adam. In the day that God created man, origin did not exempt his mortal taber- in the likeness of God made he him."— nacle from the laws that govern our Gen. v, 1. flesh, only in that, the Spirit from on "Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by High was given him without measure, man shall his blood be shed: for in the and he had strength to withstand ev- image of God made he man."—Gen. ix, ery form of temptation, and was able to 6. obey the law pertaining to his existence Those who believe in the Christian here without committing sin. Other- religion, and in the divinity of the wise there was, so far as his person and ORIGIN OF MAN, ETC. 323 outward appearance was concerned, no by most of the Protestant sects, both in essential difference between him and Europe and America; Deity is described Adam's race generally. by them as "a spiritual immaterial sub- There are a great variety of ideas stance." This word substance is used in and notions prevalent in the world at connection with the word "immaterial." the present time, pertaining to the ori- A spirit immaterial, and yet a substance! gin of man, and attributes of the De- I have never yet found a philosopher that ity. There seems to be an instinct in was able to describe a substance that man everywhere among all nations and was not material. The idea of a Deity peoples to worship a superior being. In that cannot be located anywhere, that this particular Christian nations are not has no form or substance, or materiality, an exception. True, in heathen coun- and described as a spirit! It is the best tries, a variety of images, representa- definition, to my mind, of nothing at all, tions of Deity are set up for the peo- like the quaint familiar phrase, "a foot- ple to worship, or to pay some defer- less stocking, without a leg." ence unto them, as unto Deity. But If we believe there is any truth in the thinking portion of all these nations the writings of Moses, the Patriarchs, who encourage these various representa- Prophets and Apostles, and the teach- tions of Deity, do not for a moment ad- ings of Jesus, if we would indeed be con- mit that these gods, as they are some- sistent Christians and receive the writ- times called, made by man's hand, of ings of the fathers, and believe what was wood and stone, or other material, are said unto them, we must believe that really gods, or that they are worshipped man is made in the image of God, and as gods; but only the embodiment of the consequently that we are of the same idea of a Deity, a representation of a su- species as the gods. However childlike perior being. And the fact of this pre- and feeble we are in this condition of vailing sentiment of mankind and the mortality, we are nevertheless descended universal necessity of doing homage to from the gods, made in their image and a superior, however crude and indefinite after their likeness. this idea is, and however varied in the And when Luke, in giving us the ge- minds of men in the different nations nealogy of Jesus Christ, traces his lin- of the earth, yet, taken as a whole, it eage back through his mother to David, is the impress of Deity upon all that who was the son of Jesse, and so on, he bear his form in the earth, recogniz- traces his descent until he reaches Abra- ing him as Deity; as a Superior Being. ham, who was the son of Terah, and so With many Christian sects of our time, on to Noah, who was the son of Lamech; and for generations past, the idea of De- and when he reaches Adam, the first of ity has seemed to be very undefined. our race, he says of him, "which was Many philosophers and divines have at- the son of God." Oh, says one, we are tempted to describe Deity. We have it told that Adam was created, not born. set forth in many Christian catechisms This is something I am not disposed to and articles of faith. God was a being dwell upon much at this time. You can without body, parts or passions. This, think of this as you please, whether he for many generations has been taught by was created or born, or whether a man, the Established Church of England, and because he is born, is not created. I 324 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. do not understand the term creation as earth assumed its position among the meaning something suddenly made out planets, and began to perform its revo- of nothing. I believe man that is born lutions, and the earth was so far com- is as much created as the thing which is pleted as to assume its position among made in a mold and turned out to dry, the heavenly orbs, and perform its revo- which we call an adobie. It matters not lutions as now, present modes of reckon- whether it takes a few minutes to make ing time could not be appointed to man— it, or a longer period—it is created or either our days or months or our years, made. And the term create I understand all of which are determined by the revo- to be synonymous with the verb to make, lutions of the earth upon its axis, and the and what is made is created, and what is moon around the earth, and the earth organized is formed. And when it is writ- in its orbit around the sun. But what ten that God formed man in his own im- is the rule or measure of time by which age and likeness, it does not describe the God reckons his labor and work? Is it time or manner, but simply the fact of the time measured to the inhabitants of having made or created man in his own Mars or the little planet Mercury that image. describes its revolution around our sun in less than three months, and counts It has been ofttimes expressed by the out four of its years while we upon the religious teachers of the Christian world, earth are counting one? Or is it after that God created all things in six days, the time appointed for a more distant and on the seventh day he rested. We orb of our system, that is 160 or more read in this first chapter of Genesis, that of our years, in performing their revolu- in six days the Lord created the heavens tions around the sun, thus counting out and the earth. Now modern scientists its single year? Or were the days reck- attempt to confute this history given by oned after the great cycle of the multi- Moses, by demonstrating that the earth tudes of systems moving in space around has been formed through the operation the common center. of a long process of natural laws, and Philosophers and astronomers have that it never could be brought into its not lived long enough upon this earth, present condition in six days. Of course, or kept a record of the heavenly bod- those who reason thus assume that the ies long enough to make any calcula- days here spoken of were periods of the tion of the length of this period. There same duration as the days counted out is, however, one saying of Apostle Pe- to us by the revolution of the earth on ter which reads—"Be not ignorant of this its axis, every time it turns upon its axis one thing, that one day is with the Lord and marks the day and night. But I as a thousand years, and a thousand must be allowed to call attention to this years as one day." But whether that has one fact, that in the beginning of this any reference to the days that Moses history Moses tells us that when God speaks of, in which the Lord was en- first organized or created the elements gaged in the formation of this earth, of this earth, that it was without form we are not told. But be the periods and void; that is to say it was with- longer or shorter, which the Lord called out its present form, and that darkness six periods, or days, in which he did was upon the face of the abyss. Then his work, is of very little importance how were the days reckoned? Until our to us. Nor is it worth our time to ORIGIN OF MAN, ETC. 325 question or contend with geologists or end, it is beyond the reach of human ken. modern scientists as to the duration of But we accept the effect; we are here; these periods. It is a fact that the earth the creation is a reality. We see a vari- exists, and that it has its sphere in which ety of solid rocks, and ask, How are they it moves, and that it is appointed for formed? Geologists undertake to tell us, the abode of man, and that we are here, and they refer us to the Book of Na- and the fathers have told us we have de- ture. But they are like other schoolchil- scended from the Gods. And that when dren; they make a great many mistakes God said to his associates, let us make in reading. What they read correctly is man in our image, after our likeness, he correct; what they read incorrectly is in- was not alone. And as Paul said, "there correct. "It is as it is, and it can't be any be gods many, and lords many," but so far tisser." And it is folly for geologists, or as we are concerned, there is given unto any other class of scientists, to assume us one God, even the Father of our Lord that they know it all, or that they have Jesus Christ. And it matters not how read the Book of Nature from beginning many more, nor where they are located, to end, and comprehend it through and nor what might be the extent of their through. power and dominion. We cannot compre- Mr. Darwin, and a kindred school of hend it, we are mere infants, compara- modern philosophers, would fain try to tively speaking, our ideas just beginning impress upon us their theory of evolu- to learn how to shoot; we are striving to tions, and would have us believe we are grasp the little within our reach, and we descendants from, and only a little in ad- find we can but grasp a little; and it is in vance of our ancestor, the monkey; and vain to attempt to look back to the begin- that other inferior grades of animals are ning, if there is any, or to look forward aspiring to become monkeys; they fail to the end, it there is an end. But we to demonstrate their theories, simply be- are taught that the works of God are one cause they are not demonstrateable. eternal round, and there is neither be- We see an endless variety in the cre- ginning nor end. ations before us, variety in every species of animal life, and in every species of We may jocosely ask ourselves the the vegetable kingdom, and the same question, Which was first the goose or may be said of the heavenly bodies. And the egg? And again, Does the pump- so far as man is concerned, though ev- kin produce the seed, or does the seed idently of a common origin, yet the va- produce the pumpkin? You can answer riety is almost as great as the num- the question just as you please, either ber of individuals; and though the gen- in the affirmative or negative, and ei- eral features of the face are substan- ther or both would be, in one sense, tially the same, yet that variety is so correct. But say you, "That is not great that no two can be found ex- enough for us, we want to know where actly in every respect alike. No mother and how the first pumpkin was pro- that has produced from her womb twins, duced." That is something we cannot tell, however near they may approach each nor any other mortal being; you might other, was ever at a loss to discern some just as well ask, when the last pump- difference by which one could be dis- kin will be produced. It is something tinguished from the other. Nor even that is absolutely incomprehensible, be- in the vegetable kingdom can we find cause there is neither beginning nor this law of endless variety violated, nor 326 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. yet in the animal kingdom. Where do why not fly upwards, or to the left or you find any species except man en- right, his mind was being led on from dowed with the capacity of subduing the this simple observation to the compre- earth, and controlling the elements upon hension of one truth after another until it? Moses tells us that God said unto he was able to give to the world the laws man, "have thou dominion over the earth of gravitation; and from that to search- and subdue it, and exercise dominion ing out the laws governing the plan- over all the lesser species of animal life, ets, so that astronomers today can make and over the fruits and herbs which shall mathematical calculations of the future be given to you for meat." Has any other movements of the heavenly bodies, with branch of the animal kingdom done this? much greater accuracy than the superin- When man is first ushered into being, tendent of the Utah Southern Railroad he seems more helpless than the calf or can calculate the speed of his train. Was the goat, but in his progress and develop- this inspiration or was in invention? ment he exhibits the power of the Gods; When the fathers that labored to he seizes the elements, and commands bring forth and develop truth, whether them into form and shape to suit his con- scientific or religious—for I hold all truth venience, and to serve his purposes; not to be both scientific and religious; in only does his superior intelligence cause other words, true religion embraces all the king of beasts, and all branches of truth, for it emanates from God, who is the animal kingdom, to crouch beneath the fountain head of all truth, or in other him, but every element found to exist is words, who is in possession of all truth at his service; by reason of this divinity that is possible for us to reach at least. in him, in its exercise and development, And for me to say that he has got to the he chains the lightning, and makes it end, I would no more attempt to say it, his servant to flash his thoughts or man- than to say that you or I have got to the dates over the earth; he touches the end. It is not for me, in my imagination steam and makes it a motive power to and folly, to place any bounds to or drive waft him over land and sea. He makes a pin to lariat the gods to. all the elements within his reach sub- serve his purposes, and he invents the But we see that this being called means by which he controls and han- man, said to have been formed in the im- dles them. I use the word "invent" be- age of God, that he possesses the power cause it suits the pride and vanity of a of improvement, of advancement, ad li- man a little better; but the more appro- bitum, and who shall set the bounds to priate term, I should say is, inspiration, the advancement and improvement of for no great truth was ever revealed to man any more than the gods of eter- man that was not an inspiration. And nity? The Apostle Paul, in his letter to when Watt's, watching the trembling of the Philippians, says, "Let this mind be the tea kettle lid, caused by the power in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: of steam, conceived the idea of utilizing Who, being in the form of God, thought that power, was it invention or inspira- it not robbery to be equal with God." "Oh tion? When Newton, on seeing the ap- blasphemy!" the narrow, contracted bigot ple fall from the tree, by questioning in will cry, "Blasphemy! Paul, you naughty his mind why it should fall downwards, fellow, you had better take that back." ORIGIN OF MAN, ETC. 327
What, to exhort your brethren to culti- cannot do it, nobody ever did, and nobody vate the same mind and feeling, and de- ever will, simply because there is no end. sire and ambition, as were in Christ Je- And if you want to know which pump- sus, who, when he found himself in the kin produced the first seed, and which form of God, thought it not robbery to seed produced the first pumpkin, we say be equal with God! What an idea! Does that neither you nor anybody else can not every father expect his son to grow tell, they cannot point to the time when up and become his equal? And does not there was either one or the other. But every son born aspire to become like his there was a time when we began to ex- father? And the child looks in the face ist, was there not? Yes. Our spirit? of the mother, as the dearest creature Yes. Our earthly form? Yes. Will there it knows anything about, regarding her be a time when our bodies will cease? perhaps as perfect; her word is law, it Oh, Yes; that is something of daily occur- knows no other. "Let this mind be in you, rence, mankind coming and going. And which was also in Christ Jesus." And as so with all the creations of our hands. he thought it not robbery to be equal This house, in which we meet, when with God, when he found himself in the was this created? Oh, about 15 or 20 form of God, don't you think differently. years ago. Still the philosopher will tell Why? Shall we not rob him? Oh no, we you that the trees from which the lum- could not do it. Giving does not impov- ber was sawn, must have been hundreds erish him, withholding does not enrich of years old. Oh, to tell me that this him. He is able to impart that which house was made only 15 or 20 years he possesses, if we are capable of receiv- ago, I know better; my knowledge of tim- ing, and as fast as we are ready to re- ber teaches me that the very trees from ceive, he is abundantly able to impart; which the lumber was made, were sev- he is not impoverished, while we are en- eral hundred years old. And the geol- riched; while we have waxed greatly, he ogist will take you to the hills or along has grown no less. And this he has or- the beach and point out to you the evi- dained for those whom he has formed in dences in nature of the long periods that his image and likeness. But, says the must have elapsed since the formation world, "These are things we cannot com- of the sedimentary rocks, to say noth- prehend." Very true, we cannot see the ing about the primary rocks. And they end of it; but we can see a little of it, if will tell you that the period alluded to we cannot comprehend the whole. We in Moses, in the history of Adam, and may stand and look upon the chain, re- to the creation is scarcely a cipher com- volving and endless, and as it turns we pared with the period in which these el- may count the links, but we cannot find ements of the earth have been coming the end of it, neither can we tell the be- into shape. What is all that to do with ginning. But we see the links, and it the great grand principle? We will say is a matter of very little importance to that the component parts of every im- us whether we know or not how many plement formed by the ingenuity and la- links compose the chain, as long as we bor of man are far older than the imple- see that the eternal is one eternal round. ment itself. A lady who makes a pound- We need not to try to find the end, we cake, does it perhaps in a few hours; but the man that has not seen it made, and who knows not the source from whence it 328 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. came, sees a raisin in the cake." Oh (says that they return. And although we may he), madam, how old is this cake?" "I not know whither they have been, or made it yesterday," is the reply. "Oh, whence they came, the time they have but madam, this raisin grew on some made, etc., the crew that manned them, vine surely, and my knowledge and ex- and the captain that steered them, and perience teaches me that vines do not the power behind them, all that com- grow in a day." But, the lady insists mands them, know all about it. And that she made the cake yesterday, say- yet our own observations should teach ing, "If you wish to know how I com- us that there was somebody that di- pounded it, step into my kitchen and you rected them, their movements were not will readily learn all about it." By and the work of chance, but of design; that by we may be permitted to step into the others perform their work and somebody Lord's kitchen or laboratory, there per- has purposed it. And although we may haps commence to take lessons in these not be able to measure the distance of matters, as we now may by stepping into the heavenly bodies, nor comprehend the the ironmaster's shop, there to learn how extent of their revolutions, we see and he takes the different classes of ore, and know enough to convince us that they by putting them through a certain pro- are all regulated by and subject to law; cess they are formed into pig or railroad so that their laws are so well understood iron. He speaks, he directs, and out as frail mortal man, that even the num- comes his material at his command. We ber of them can be counted, and their go into his shop and learn how this is movement understood, and their times done; we have not got far enough yet to and periods calculated. know how these materials were brought Now, would not a man be as sense- together, how they were compounded. less to say, there is no God, as to say, But it is enough for us to know that it there is no shipmaster that guides the has been done, and that somebody has course of the vessel, and no shipowner done it; and we might as well say the that controls them. Their periods are ap- railroad iron had no creator, nobody to pointed by him who lists to direct them. design it, or command the elements to go So with man. As the Apostle Paul has together, as to say there is no God, be- said: "He giveth to all life, and breath, cause we have not the privilege of going and all things. right straight into his laboratory to find And hath made of one blood all na- out how he commanded the elements to- tions of men for to dwell on all the face gether. We go down to the sea coast of the earth, and hath determined the of old Salem or Boston; we see ships times before appointed, and the bounds start out to sea properly officered and of their habitation." manned, under sail or steam, or both. What is the fountain from which we In the course of a month, the same ves- drink knowledge, is it from books? I sels return to port; and by and by they say yes, if we have within us the in- make another voyage, in about the same spiration that enables us to cull the time. We see other ships start out, and it good from the bad, the truth from the is a much longer or shorter time before error, storing up that which is worth they return. We know not where they retaining, and casting away the dross. have been or the several orbits in which For we find that books are ofttimes they have been moving, but we know a labyrinth of folly and human weak- ness; for men write as they talk, and they talk as they think. And when ORIGIN OF MAN, ETC. 329 they think wrong, they talk wrong and a little beyond his fellows in his the- write wrong. What is the standard of ory of God, and eternity and immortal- truth? Our Father and without him ity and godliness, and his theory of hu- there is no sure standard for us. Though man associations and morals. He was there are many of our own species before a little in advance of the men of his us, that are advancing, that are climbing time, and therefore they could not en- onward and upward in the scale of intel- dure it. "Let him be slain, and let his ligence and power, and we are striving people go to the wall!" What is the mat- to follow after and learn of them, yet the ter? "O, they marry their wives! They fa- inspiration of the Almighty is the only ther their children, they honor and care true source of knowledge. As Job says, for them, instead of casting them into "But there is a spirit in man: and the the mire and filth of the streets to per- inspiration of the Almighty giveth them ish! The women they marry they take understanding." It is the candle of the truly to their bosoms, and love, honor Lord, and his spirit lights it. Proud, and cherish, and sustain and bless them, haughty, self-conceited men, do, often ig- instead of secretly stealing around, more nore this source of knowledge, and when like low, crouching brutes than men, to they are recipients of his grace and in- seduce the fair daughters of Eve; and spiration, their hearts are too proud to when they have gratified their lust, cast acknowledge it. And if any have been them off and their offspring, to be for- inspired a little ahead of them, or have ever looked upon with reproach. O, you been favored with one idea in advance Latter-day Saints, we can't endure you! of their own, they, in their pride and You will not descend to a level with us, bigotry, rise up and resist it. Thus we congressmen are after you, we will it was when Galileo, whose mind had teach you morals! No matter how many been susceptible to the inspirations of mistresses you may have, we do not en- the Almighty, revealed to the world that ter any complaint against that phase the earth moved upon its axis. "Blas- of it, the bills we have introduced are phemy!" they cried; and the power of not intended to prevent your having and the Romish Church was brought to crush keeping as many courtesans as you may the boy. And so it has ever been when choose to, but it is to prohibit your mar- prophet, seer, revelator, philosopher, or rying them!" sage has given utterance to inspiration Brethren and sisters, I will not detain beyond his fellows; opposition was rife you longer. God bless you. Let us be men against him. "We cannot stand this in- and women, true to ourselves, true to our novation! Away with! Kill him, we can't God, true to the holy religion we have endure it!" This is why the seed of Abra- received, and by and by, those who now ham killed the ancient prophets, and scorn, revile, abuse, belie, defame, and why they persecuted Jesus: and it is also seek to trample us in the dust, will honor the selfsame reason why the prophet our memory and bless our children. Joseph Smith was martyred; he went That heaven may protect us is my prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen. 330 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
PARABLE OF THE VINEYARD—THE GRADUAL ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH—DUTIES OF OFFICERS—UNION IN ALL MATTERS ADVANTAGEOUS AND INEVITABLE—POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS GROWTH.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDATTHE ANNUAL CONFERENCE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY MORNING,APRIL 7, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I will call the attention of this large vants, has been organizing his Priest- assembly to the latter part of a very im- hood. We speak of the Church being or- portant and extensive parable recorded ganized on the 6th day of April, 1830, in the Book of Mormon. and of it consisting then of only six mem- The speaker read from the Book of bers. No one could expect that with Mormon, commencing at the 128th page. that very small number there could be a very perfect organization. But so far as I have read these words of the an- there were individuals introduced into cient prophet, to whom it seemed good the Church, on the day of its organiza- unto the Lord to reveal his purposes and tion, the Lord gave a revelation concern- designs in regard to the inhabitants of ing their duty. And after the Church this earth, by means of the trees of the had extended forth its borders, and a vineyard, calling the house of Israel, the few hundred individuals were gathered literal descendants of Israel, the natu- unto it, in the year that it was orga- ral trees of his vineyard; and the other nized, a still further organization took nations, whom we term Gentiles, as the place; and it was but a few years until wild branches of the wild olive tree. the Church stood forth in a more perfect I have read only a small portion of the organization then it had on the day of its latter part of this extensive parable, that foundation. Twelve men were called to part which more particularly relates to be Apostles according to a certain pre- the great work which we, as Latter-day diction given some ten months before Saints, are now performing in the earth. the organization of the Church. About Forty-eight years ago, yesterday, af- this same period of time the first sev- ter this Book had been printed mak- enty elders were chosen, which perfected ing known this great parable to the the organization still more. And also in people, the Church arose, consist- those early days the High Priesthood, af- ing of only six individuals. From ter the order of Melchizedek, was made that time until the present, as the manifest more fully and men were or- Church has grown and extended its dained to that order of priesthood. In borders, the Lord through his ser- those early days also the Lesser Priest- PARABLE OF THE VINEYARD, ETC. 331 hood, or the priesthood after the order unto one body, that there may be a most of Aaron was made manifest more per- perfect union from the highest officer in fectly in the eyes of the people, bishops the Church down to the lowest member; were called and their duties defined, re- that there may be no disunion, no di- quiring them to manage, in conjunction vision of feeling or sentiment in regard with the higher authorities, the tempo- to doctrine or ordinances or in any of ral concerns of the Church. This orga- the principles pertaining to the Gospel nization continued to increase and grow, of the Son of God; and that there may and become more and more perfect, un- be no division in our political ideas and til finally, temples were built to the name sentiments, but that a perfect oneness of the Lord, when the duties of these may exist in the heart of every male and various councils of priesthood were, in a female, from the grayheaded old man greater degree, made manifest before the down to the little child, that one feeling people. The teachings were many that and one spirit may pervade the whole were imparted in those days, and a union body, that they may be equal and bring began to exist among the Saints of God, forth the natural fruit again. That is such as had not been known among the the object; that is the reason why you inhabitants of the earth for many long behold the organization such as now ex- generations. ists throughout all these mountain re- After the completion of the Temple at gions. When has the Church, from its Kirtland, and this more perfect organi- commencement exhibited what we now zation had been established, the Saints behold in all parts of our land—stakes of God began to increase and multiply of Zion having jurisdiction over every to that extent that the Lord saw proper branch in the Church in these moun- to place them in a country and land tains, and over every family and every by themselves, where they could have individual. And every one of these stakes a chance to enlarge their borders, to has its presiding officer with his two lengthen the cords of their habitation, to counselors; and is also composed of num- break forth on the left and on the right, bers of wards over which bishops, with and where there might be a majority in their counselors are appointed to pre- the land, and where they might have the side. privilege of serving the Lord their God, according to the dictates of their con- What is the duty of the presiding of- science. ficers of these stakes? To see that all Thus you see our Heavenly Father things under their watchcare are con- has been at work among this people, and ducted according to the order of God, to with this people, for almost one half of a look to the spiritual concerns first, that century, bringing together, gathering the pertain to their stake, and to see that branches of the wild olive tree from the the high priests, the seventies, the el- distant nations of the earth and grafting ders, the priests, the teachers, and the them in and making them, as it were, deacons are all doing their respective du- one body, on this great western hemi- ties, according to the requirements of the sphere. Most High; and then they act as the You may ask, what great purpose presiding authority and power over the the Lord has in thus organizing his bishops that may be in the several wards people, year after year. The an- of their stakes, seeing also that they are swer is, to accomplish a very impor- in the performance of their duty, in re- tant object, namely to make them like lation to temporal matters. And then 332 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. all the other authorities under these pre- American government? Wherein, I siding officers of stakes are to see that would ask, would it be contrary? Is there those, under their immediate watchcare, any principle connected with our govern- are performing their duties, according to ment that would forbid us, as a people, the laws of heaven which have been re- becoming so united? Does the constitu- vealed for our guidance. tion of our country in any one particular When all things are in proper work- prohibit American citizens from uniting ing order, and when every bishop is liv- and casting a solid vote in favor of any ing his religion, and has the spirit of eligible candidate who may be regularly his bishopric resting upon him, and he nominated, say for the position of Presi- fully understands the nature of his du- dent of the United States? I know of no ties, everything in regard to temporal af- such restriction; there is none. fairs will move like clockwork, and there Supposing, then, that all the states of will be no running down, as it were, this union at the next general election, of the clock, no deranging of the ma- should, without one dissenting voice, chinery, but every part will fulfil that conclude in their own minds to vote for which is required of it in relation to its one and the same individual, making particular calling, and all these various him our president, what part or portion quorums of priesthood will strive to stir of the Constitution of our country would up the people to a oneness in regard be violated by such a united effort? None to spiritual things; thus we keep spiri- whatever; because it is the privilege of tual and temporal things running par- the people to unite or divide as they may allel to each other, connected more or choose, there being no compulsion one less together. So that the whole church way or the other. becomes like unto one body, they be- Which is calculated to produce the come equal. "And the root and the top greatest good, union throughout all the thereof is equal." Indicating, when these states, concentrated not only upon the things are carried out strictly, that the president, but upon the governors, and branches will not have power to over- all of our political officers, or disunion run and grow beyond the strength of and party strife. Everybody would cer- the root; neither would the roots have tainly agree with me in saying that power to outgrow the branches. The hus- union in such matters would be the bandmen trimmed up the trees of the best calculated to promote the interest vineyard, and they pruned them; or in and common good of our government other words, the servants of the Lord and people; that to be without a sin- teach the people, and instruct them, so gle dissenting voice in our election af- that they may become one in all things. fairs from Maine to Texas, from the What! become one in our views in re- Atlantic to the Pacific, all concentrat- gard to politics? Why not? One may ing themselves upon the officers they say, If you undertake to carry out such want, and then vote for them unani- views of union in regard to political af- mously would be carrying out the form fairs, you will all vote the same ticket; of the American government in its per- there will be no division nor disunion fection. But our fathers, who framed throughout all the Church organization, that Great instrument of nationality— and would not such a state of things that instrument by which all classes be antagonistic to the genius of our of people are protected in their rights PARABLE OF THE VINEYARD, ETC. 333
—provided for disunion, if the people Presbyterians, or any other religious so- should feel disposed to introduce it. ciety throughout the confines of this Showing that they were permitted to dis- great republic, from striving with all sent and vote for as many candidates as their might to vote with one heart and they may choose to nominate. one mind, both in regard to their politi- cal and their church affairs. But in the Church of the living God, That is what we are striving to do. according to the oneness required by the We are laboring in faith and with much Lord of heaven, we should act unitedly assurance, that the day will dawn upon in all things. Some may have an idea Israel, when this people will attain to a that if we are only united about some perfect oneness, so much so that not a of the spiritual things of the kingdom dissenting voice will be heard or raised, that is all the union needed among us. in regard to things religious or secular, I do not know of any one principle, or from one end of the Territory to the other. subject, connected with the building up This union exists in the eternal and advancement of the kingdom of God worlds. If you should dwell there for the upon the earth, upon which we have a period of ten millions of ages, you would right to be disunited. The law of God see no dissension among those who dwell is of such a nature, when complied with in yonder celestial worlds. If the affairs strictly, as to unite us not only in the of a celestial world were divided into dif- first principles of the Gospel—faith, re- ferent departments, calling one political pentance and baptism, and confirmation, and another religious, and so on, you and upon doctrine and spiritual things would find the whole body, both religious generally, but also in regard to the cul- and political, vote for the same ticket, if tivation of the earth, the raising of flocks I may be allowed the expression; they and herds, manufacturing, and all kinds would be agreed, of one heart and one of mechanical business, and also with re- mind. This oneness among the people of gard to our political affairs and every- God must be attained in this world, in thing with which we have to do here order that His purposes may be brought in this temporal probation. There are about, respecting man and the earth on some great political parties very much which he lives. united, and how diligently they strive to How much reason have we to rejoice make themselves still more united. The that our fathers, a little over a century Republican and Democratic parties vie ago, began to consider the importance of with each other in their efforts to elicit being free and untrammeled in regard to the sympathy of a majority of the peo- their religious ideas and opinions; and ple, in order to become the dominant that by having their feelings so deeply party. Hence the great number of po- impressed upon their minds, they were litical agents, that go forth throughout enabled to get out that great instrument the country stump speeching, as well of liberty which guarantees to this great as other means that are resorted to for nation today civil, political and religious this purpose. Is there anything in the rights. Constitution of our country prohibiting Our enemies would try to frighten them from striving to bring about dis- us, by representing before the Congress union? No, not in the least. Neither is of the United States there is a union there anything written that would for- among those Latter-day Saints, and bid the Methodists, the Baptists, the that all vote one way. Supposing we 334 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. admit this to be true, ought not Congress proper place, that they may bring forth to rejoice exceedingly to think that there that fruit which was most precious to the is one portion of the people under the flag Lord from the beginning and the fruit be- of this great and glorious republic, that come like unto one body. And the roots have strength of mind sufficient to be and the top thereof were equal. And united on politics. I presume the Repub- the blessings of the Most High began to lican party of our government, that has be made manifest upon the fruits of the some hundreds of thousands united with vineyard, and they began to grow and ex- them, rejoice exceedingly to think that tend themselves, their branches spread- they have as much union among them ing upon the face of the whole earth. as they have; and it is their constant la- What will be the final result of all this? I bor and study to use and devise every will answer in the words of Daniel the means in their power to maintain and, prophet: "I beheld until the kingdom, if possible, increase this union. And so and the greatness of the kingdom under we intend to use every lawful (not unlaw- the whole heaven, was given unto the ful) means in our power to keep the peo- saints of the most High." And what be- ple united upon one platform, religiously came of the other kingdoms, empires, re- and politically, and also in every other publics and governments, generally in- position in which we may be placed. stituted by men? I will again answer Remember the parable I have read you in the words of the same prophet: in your hearing, which was printed in "They became like the chaff of the sum- the Book of Mormon, before we had mer threshingfloors; and the wind car- on existence as a Church. The ser- ried them away, that no place was found vants labored in the vineyard with for them." Amen. their mights. What for? To prune up the trees, to graft them into their
REMARKS.
DISCOURSESBY BISHOP L. W. HARDY,ELDER ERASTUS SNOW,PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATA MEETING HELDIN NEPHI, ON WEDNESDAY EVENING,MAY 15, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
BISHOP L. W. HARDY ten minutes time, which I propose to de- Brethren and sisters, I am pleased vote to the subject of Tithing. to meet with you, and to see so many Tithing is a law of God which we present. I am requested to occupy are required to obey, and it is bind- REMARKS. 335 ing upon all the Latter-day Saints, the Tithing, but our offerings too, that our poor as well as the rich. In some poor may be fed and clothed, and their places the widow, who depends upon the hearts made glad. It is just as binding Church for support, pays one-tenth of upon us to look after our poor, as it is her income as Tithing. And this course to be baptized for the remission of sins. I would recommend to all in similar cir- How do you think, brethren, the Lord cumstances, for it is only in compliance would regard us if the cries of the widow with the law that we can expect to ob- and the orphan, the aged, and the halt tain the blessings promised. And the and the blind, were to ascend into his poor woman herself is not the only one ears, while we heed them not? I tell you that is blessed by taking this course, but he would not own us as his people, nei- her children, if she has any, are taught ther could he pour out his blessings upon a lesson that will not be forgotten, and us. Then pay your Tithes and your offer- they will always have pleasure in its con- ings, and be blessed. Attend your fast templation, as long, at least, as they are meetings, and bring in your offerings in worthy the name of Latter-day Saint, say the time thereof, that the poor may re- nothing of the influence for good which joice and feel that they are not neglected. she wields among those of more favor- Why, if every man and woman fulfilled able circumstances. It is not the amount his and her duty in this respect, your of- that we pay, but it is the honest Tithing, ferings would be piled up so high that paid willingly and in the faith and spirit there would not be poor enough to eat of the Gospel, that the Lord requires, no them, and you would be sending up to matter how small it may be; and then, Bishop Hunter asking him to send you on the other hand, it matters not how some poor people to eat them up. We large. The Savior, when on a certain oc- are a blessed people, we enjoy peace and casion he sat near the treasury, looking plenty, while millions of our fellow be- at the people how they cast in money— ings today know not what it is to enjoy ei- and we are told that many that were rich ther. But supposing we all were prompt cast in much, but, notwithstanding, the and faithful in paying our Tithes and of- poor widow who came along and threw ferings, how do you think it would be in her two mites, which only make a far- with us? Why, He would be mindful of thing, contributed, he said, more than his promise to fulfil it; He would "open to they all. "For all they did cast in of you the windows of heaven, and pour you their abundance; but she of her want did out a blessing, that there would not be cast in all she had, even all her living." room enough to receive it." And further, The Lord acknowledges the honesty of he says to those who comply with this the heart by providing for and blessing law, "I will rebuke the devourer for your us with the necessaries and comforts of sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits life; and he will continue to do so, as of your ground," etc. Then pay your long as we fear and obey him with all Tithes and your offerings, that the bless- our might, mind and strength. He will ings of God may be upon us and our land, not fail in the fulfillment of his promises, and upon our orchards, and that the inasmuch as we are found worthy before hearts of the poor may be made to rejoice, him. It is not only our duty to pay our and that Temples may be reared to his 336 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. holy name, and the work of the Fa- to invest it in any branch of business, ther may go on to its consummation. I one-tenth of the profits arising therefrom doubt, my brethren, whether a man can is due as Tithing; or should he have save himself, much less prove a savior to money loaned out on interest, on every his dead, who neglects to Tithe himself. dollar so accumulated the sum of ten Well, I see that my time has expired. God cents belongs to the Lord, in accordance bless you. Amen. to his law regulating the Tithing of his ELDER ERASTUS SNOW people; and so on, this law strictly ap- plying to our income derived from every I propose to continue the subject that source. has been alluded to. It is not, as some verily suppose, the In a very early period of the his- Tithing of what you may have left af- tory of this Church, when in its infancy, ter deducting all of your expenses; or the Lord said unto us, in a revelation in other words, after spending all you which is contained in the Doctrine and can. There are some calling themselves Covenants, "He that is tithed shall not Latter-day Saints who try to appease be burned." In several of the revelations their conscience in the belief that Tithing the subject of Tithing is referred to in a means the tenth of what may be left af- general way; but the special revelation ter deducting all expenses, which would on that subject was given at Far West, amount to this: "What we cannot spend Missouri, in July, 1838, in answer to the we will give a tenth of that as our question, "O Lord, show unto thy ser- Tithing." How much, my brethren and vants how much thou requirest of the sisters, do you think the Lord would get properties of thy people for a tithing." if all of us felt and acted so? This is And by this revelation we learned that not the law of Tithing; all who aim to we were required to consecrate all of our comply with it after this manner deviate surplus property for the purposes men- from its true reading. We are required tioned therein, and after doing that, to to pay the tenth of our increase, or inter- pay annually one-tenth of our increase. est, or income, which is our Tithing, and This means increase from every source. which is necessary for the general wel- For instance, if a man depend only upon fare in building Temples, sustaining the the labor of his own hands, then one- Priesthood, administering to the poor, tenth of his earnings would be his law- etc., while we retain the nine-tenths for ful Tithing. But if in addition to this the sustenance of ourselves and families, he possess teams or employ other labor, etc. then the increase of such labor should Brother Hardy expressed himself also be Tithed. Again, if he should be doubtful whether men who ignored this engaged opening up farms, building or law of Tithing could save themselves, making other improvements, thus ac- much less save their dead. I will here cumulating a surplus around him, one- say, that when this law of Tithing was tenth of the increase of such property revealed, in 1838, the Lord said, "This would be due, as Tithing, as well as a shall be a standing law unto them for- tenth of his labor combined. Then again, ever," and "shall be an ensample unto all should part of his surplus property be the stakes of Zion." And we are also told in such a condition as to enable him that all who observe not this law should REMARKS. 337 not be found worthy to abide among the to add to the remarks of Brother Hardy. people of God. And the Lord further That we may be more diligent and says, "If my people observe not this law, faithful in the observance of the laws of to keep it holy, and by this law sanc- God than in the past; and that through tify the land of Zion unto me, that my faith and good works we may be able statutes and my judgments might be to see as God sees us, and be Latter- kept thereon, that it may be most holy, day Saints indeed and of a truth, is my behold, verily I say unto you, it shall not prayer. And by thus placing ourselves be a land of Zion unto you." This was the in a condition to receive, we will see if word of the Lord to his people at that he does not fulfil his promise, by opening early day, and it has never changed, but the windows of heaven and pouring out a is in force to this day and will remain blessing such as we can hardly contain. so forever. Unless certain conditions are Amen. complied with, this chosen land cannot PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR be a land of Zion unto us. After this law was given unto us we I am pleased to have the opportu- were driven from Missouri, and we built nity of meeting with the brethren in this a Temple at Nauvoo. And when that place. As we are only making a pass- Temple was so far completed that a bap- ing visit, being on our way to Sanpete, tismal font could be established in the we have not time to make very long basement, and the Latter-day Saints be- speeches. I have been interested in the gan to have access to the same, the remarks which have been made, and I Prophet Joseph instructed the brethren presume you have been also. in charge, to the effect that none should In regard to our religion and our be allowed to participate in the privi- feelings about tithing, and in fact ev- leges of the House of God excepting those erything else, we need to act conscien- who shall produce a certificate from the tiously before God, and as honest men, General Church Recorder, certifying to without any equivocation of any kind. the fact that they had paid up their In regard to our doctrine and the prin- tithing. How many of these old Saints ciples we believe in; in regard to our have yet preserved among their old pa- deal and intercourse with all men ev- pers certificates of this character, is- erywhere; in regard to our associations sued by Brother Wm. Clayton. And with our families and with one another, should any have had access to the priv- we ought to really be what we profess ileges of the House of the Lord either to be—Latter-day Saints. And not only on behalf of themselves or their dead, have the profession, but seek to posses without having complied with this law, the principles that all good Latter-day thus securing unto themselves, in a le- Saints ought to be in possession of, and gal and proper way, the right of the Tem- which are our privilege to possess. It ple, they would be like thieves and rob- is quite possible that we may deceive bers that enter not into the sheepfold one another; but it is not always that by the door, but climb up some other we succeed in doing that. We often way. And the time will come when such try, but we make a poor out at it, for persons will be treated as thieves and people generally are not so much de- robbers—bound hand and foot and cast ceived as we may think. It is true out again. This is the testimony I wish they may not say anything, but at the 338 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. same time they keep up a loud thinking quit. We profess to have faith in God, about it. But if we do manage to de- and that it is our duty to call upon him ceive each other we cannot deceive God. morning and evening. If I did not believe And what is the use of making a profes- that the Lord would hear me, I would not sion of anything unless we carry it out. trouble myself about calling upon him. Why are we here? Because we embraced But I do believe that the Lord says: "Ask, the Gospel, and because we believed this and it shall be given you; seek, and ye was the land of Zion. Why do we at- shall find; knock, and it shall be opened tend to Temple ordinances? Because we unto you: For every one that asketh re- believe they are ordained of God, and ceiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and are necessary for our welfare and the to him that knocketh it shall be opened. welfare of our progenitors. Why do we Or what man is there of you, who if his build temples? Is it to appear liberal to- son ask bread, will he give him a stone? wards these institutions, in the eyes of Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a our brethren? It should not be. But it serpent? etc." Jesus tried to impress this should be because we believe it to be a principle upon the people in his day; but duty devolving upon us, and because, as it is difficult for us at times to realize it. Elders in Israel, the Lord expects us to And again he instances the widow and do it, because it is a part of the plan of the unjust judge, showing that by con- salvation ordained of God for the living tinual prayer, importuning the Father, in and the dead; and because it is expected the name of Jesus, in faith that he will to carry out his purposes in regard to hear us, our prayers will not be in vain. the world in which we live, and that we We should feel that God is our Father should operate and cooperate with the and that we are his children, and that he Priesthood behind the veil, in all sincer- has promised to listen to our prayer, and ity and honesty before God in all that that we are called upon to be obedient we do to this end, for as one of old said, to his will and to carry out his designs. in contemplating these things, "Hell and And then we ought, in order that our destruction is without a covering before prayers may be effectual, perform the thee," and how much more so are the various duties devolving upon us, such hearts of the children of men. And how as have been referred to, and we should pleasing it is to operate with our Heav- be honest and honorable in our dealing enly Father in all sincerity; how pleas- one with another. If we try to defraud ing it is to feel that God is our Father, our brother, how can we expect God to and that we are his children, that we are bless us in that, for he is a child of our his covenant people, and that we are en- Heavenly Father just as much as we are. gaged doing his work. We should be hon- And being his child he feels interested in est with ourselves, honest with our fam- his welfare, and if we try to take advan- ilies, honest with each other and honest tage to the injury of the Lord's child, do with our God, and in all the various rela- you think he would be pleased with us? tions of life. Formerly, according to the Mosaic law, if The subject of tithing has been re- a man stole anything he would make him ferred to. We profess to believe in restore it four fold. That was a law of it, and therefore we should carry it carnal commandments and ordinances. out. If we do not believe in it, let And we are living under a more ele- us be frank enough to say so, and REMARKS. 339 vated law, and occupying a higher po- kindness and with regard, not allowing sition than the Children of Israel did. our love to wear out. We might have We want to be just and generous to each been a little foolish in our younger days, other, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God when doing our courting, paying to much with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, attention to the object of our affection, and with all thy mind, and with all thy whereas, by and by, we pay too little at- strength." This we are told is the first tention. We should so live that our love commandment. And the second is like for each other can increase all the time unto it, namely, "Thou shalt love thy and not diminish, and have charity in neighbor as thyself." Do we do this? If our bosoms so that we may bear with we did, then how pleasantly we could one another's infirmities, feeling that we come before the Lord. Yet, if we were are the children of God, seeking to carry living our religion, possessing the light out his word and will and law. And then and intelligence of God, we would do so. treat everybody right. What, the Gen- But, to go a little further, quoting from tiles? Yes, certainly; it would be a pity the injunction of Paul: "Be kindly af- if we could not afford to treat everybody fectioned one to another with brotherly honorably and right. These "damned love; in honor preferring one another." Gentiles," as you are sometimes pleased Could you go that, do you think? There to call them, are the children of our would first have to be a little change Heavenly Father. What was the Gospel among some of us. Yet those were the introduced into the world for? What was principles taught by some of the former- the promise made to Abraham? "In thy day Apostles, and it is just as true to- seed shall all the nations of the earth day as it was then. There is something be blessed," not cursed. What was the very pleasing in these things; and if we mission that Jesus gave to his disciples? could only carry them out how pleas- "Go ye into all the world, and preach the ant it would be; we would have confi- gospel to every creature." What, to the dence in every man. We sing sometimes Gentiles? Yes; were not you among that something like this—and we sing it quite class when the Gospel reached you? Yes, glibly too: "When every man, in every you were, and if the elders had not gone place shall meet a brother and a friend." out to preach the Gospel you would not Do you ever remember hearing folks sing have been here. Well, shall we treat men that? If we were one and all, so united aright here. Certainly; but that is not to as to inspire that confidence in all our say you shall be governed by any of their acts and doings, so far as we were con- meanness or corruption. God sends us cerned in our immediate vicinity, every to teach, not to be taught or to be influ- man would meet a brother and a friend; enced by anything improper or impure; and the same would also be said of our he sends us to elevate the standard of sisters. These are the kind of feelings truth and to act the part of a friend to the Gospel ought to inspire in our hearts: all men, but not to be partakers of their love for one another, a feeling of interest sins, or mix up with them in their vice in one another's welfare and so fulfil the and contentions; but preserve our bodies law of Christ—the law of the Gospel. and spirits pure together, that we may And then men should feel right to- be the children of God without rebuke in wards their wives and treat them in the midst of a corrupt and perverse gene- 340 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. ration. What would I do with the hun- warm in the spring you begin to plow, gry? I would feed them. What, if they and when you cast in the seed you do were not good people? Yes, you and I can not expect to reap on tomorrow; but you well afford to treat everybody right. God wait, and by and by the grain begins makes his sun to shine on the evil as well to shoot, and everything looks beautiful as the good, and he sends his rain on and green, and when it commences to the just and the unjust. But do not de- head out, you begin to talk about the har- scend to their evils and wickedness and vest. There is, however, an overwhelm- corruptions, nor to the evils and wicked- ing power, which is the power of God, at ness of those who call themselves Latter- the back of it, which gives life and vital- day Saints, who are not, who do not keep ity to all nature; and it moves gradually the commandments of God. and slowly, but surely. We want to grow in grace and in the knowledge and love of God in the same way. I am a believer in the things the We have commenced to build up the brethren have been speaking about, they Kingdom of God, and like the grain of are matter of fact principles. There are mustard seed, which is the smallest of all some Christian people in this world who, seeds, it will grow and extend until the if a man were poor or hungry, would say, whole earth shall be full of the knowl- let us pray for him. I would suggest a edge of God, and the kingdoms of this little different regimen for a person in world become the kingdoms of our God this condition: rather take him a bag of and his Christ and he will reign forever. flour and a little beef or pork, and a lit- We will try to be united, and purify tle sugar and butter. A few such comforts ourselves and purify our families, and will do him more good than your prayers. purge out iniquity from our households. And I would be ashamed to ask the Lord We will try to have a conscience void of to do something that I would not do my- offense towards God and man. We will self. Then go to work and help the poor try to magnify that priesthood God has yourselves first, and do all you can for conferred upon us. And we will go on them, and then call upon God to do the from truth to truth; from intelligence to balance. So with the building of our Tem- intelligence, and from wisdom to wisdom ples and everything else. Never mind so until we see as we are seen and know as much about the prayers; prayers are all we are known. We will operate together, very well in their place. There is an old and with all Israel and with the gods in saying which is not without meaning; it the eternal worlds, and with the patri- is "Yankee doodle, do it." Let us do some- archs, prophets and apostles, and all the thing and feel that we are men among holy men of God who have lived before men, and that we are prepared to fill the us, in assisting to bring to pass all the de- various responsibilities devolving upon signs of God of which the prophets have us, and then things will move along right spoken, and in building up the Zion of enough. We get excited sometimes and God, in redeeming the earth and estab- want to do everything in a rush. Why the lishing the kingdom of God thereon. world was not built in a day, neither does May God bless you and lead you in winter change into summer in a day, it the paths of life, in the name of Jesus. takes time. When it begins to get a little Amen. UNITED ORDER, ETC. 341
UNITED ORDER—TITHING—COOPERATIVE LABORS IN BRIGHAM CITY.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER LORENZO SNOW, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,OGDEN CITY, SUNDAY AFTERNOON,APRIL 21, 1878.
REPORTEDBY JAMES TAYLOR.
I will read, this afternoon, a few clearly to our understanding the mind verses of the revelation commencing on and will of God, teaching our duties and page 345 of the new edition of the Book obligations, and what is required at our of Doctrine and Covenants: hands. And, on occasions of this kind, "1. Verily I say unto you who have as- when we are assembled together to learn sembled together that you may learn my the will of God, it is of importance that will concerning the redemption of mine we exercise faith, and have the spirit of afflicted people— prayer, that the Lord will cause some- "2. Behold, I say unto you, were it thing to be said that will instruct, and not for the transgressions of my people, give us such information and knowledge speaking concerning the church and not as will be of use and service in our daily individuals, they might have been re- walk and under the circumstances that deemed even now. surround us. "3. But behold, they have not learned to be obedient to the things which I re- quired at their hands, but are full of all manner of evil, and do not impart of We need assistance. We are liable to their substance, as becometh saints, to do that which will lead us into trouble the poor and afflicted among them; and darkness, and those things which "4. And are not united according to will not tend to our good, but with the as- the union required by the law of the ce- sistance of that comforter which the Lord lestial kingdom; has promised his Saints, if we are care- "5. And Zion cannot be built up un- ful to listen to its whisperings, and un- less it is by the principles of the law of derstand the nature of its language, we the celestial kingdom; otherwise I can- may avoid much trouble and serious dif- not receive her unto myself. ficulty. "6. And my people must needs be chastened until they learn obedience, if it must needs be, by the things which they suffer." I wish to remind my brethren We are told in these verses which I and sisters, in the first place, that have read, that the Saints in former days we are dependent for our informa- were driven from the land of their pos- tion and intelligence upon the Spirit sessions because they lacked that union of God, which may be in us, if prop- which was necessary for their safety and erly cultivated, a spirit of inspira- salvation, and to preserve them upon tion, of revelation, to make manifest this land which the Lord designed to give 342 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. them for an inheritance. They were not to be observed. The system of union, united according to the union which was or the Order of Enoch, which God has required by the celestial law. And we are taken so much pains to reveal and make told here that Zion cannot be built up manifest, has been, and is, for the pur- upon any other principle or foundation. pose of uniting the Latter-day Saints, the This is the subject that concerns every people of God, and preparing them for Latter-day Saint, and is well worthy of exaltation in his celestial kingdom, and deep reflection, and we should seek the also for the purpose of preparing them spirit of inspiration, that we may under- here on this earth to live together as stand it properly, and how it may, per- brethren, that they may become one in haps, effect us in our present situation. all matters that pertain to their worldly affairs, as well as their spiritual inter- There are principles which are re- ests, that they may become one—one in vealed for the good of the people of God, their efforts, one in their interests—so and clearly manifest in the revelations that there shall be no poor found in the which have been given; but in conse- midst of the Latter-day Saints, and no quence of not being more persevering moneyed aristocracy in the midst of the and industrious, we neglect to receive people of God, but that there should be the advantages which they are designed a union, an equality. Before this Church to confer, and we think, perhaps, that it was organized, in April, 1830, there were is not necessary to exert ourselves to find given revelations touching the United out what God requires at our hands, or Order; and from the day the first reve- in other words, to search out the princi- lation was given in regard to these prin- ples which God has revealed, upon which ciples, there have been given a great we can receive very important blessings. number of revelations making the prin- There are revealed, plainly and clearly, ciple of the United Order very plain to principles which are calculated to ex- the understanding of those who wish to alt the Latter-day Saints, and preserve comprehend them. The principles and them from much trouble and vexation, system have been pointed out in vari- yet, through lack of perseverance on our ous revelations very distinctly, so that part to learn and conform to them, we the Saints might not err. The Lord has fail to receive the blessings that are con- shown us that he considered this or- nected with obedience to them. These der no small matter, but a subject of principles of union, which the Latter- vast importance; so much so, in fact, day Saints in former times ignored, and that he has pronounced severe penal- in consequence of disobedience to them, ties on those who disobey its principles, were driven from Missouri, are called and promised most important blessings by different names—United Order, Or- to those who receive it and conform to its der of Enoch, the principles of Union of requirements. Doc. and Cov., page 327, the Celestial Law, etc. When we search 276, 258, 264. the revelations of God in regard to them, The Latter-day Saints, no doubt, we see that wherever the Gospel of the have made very great improvement, Son of God has been revealed in its ful- and advanced considerably beyond ness, the principles of the United Or- the point the Saints reached when der were made manifest, and required they were in Missouri, and were UNITED ORDER, ETC. 343 chastened in consequence of their not there is a people of God, the principles of having conformed to the principles of the United Order are applicable, if they union, as required; but when we see would receive and obey them. Some have these sacred principles disregarded, to thought that the United Order was to be a certain extent, so much as they are, kept only by the people who should go we wonder why it is so, and how it is up to the land of Missouri. Now this, that they are so much neglected, so much I believe, is incorrect. It would seem ignored—principles of such vast impor- very singular that the Latter-day Saints, tance to our exaltation and glory, and for when they receive the Gospel, should not our safety, and on account of disobedi- have the privilege of uniting themselves, ence to which the Lord could not sustain according to the principles of the celes- and defend his people in the State of Mis- tial law, and that Jackson County should souri, but suffered them to be overcome be the only place where this law might and expelled by their enemies. be observed. I shall not have time to The Lord, when he counseled that pursue this subject so particularly as I Jackson County should be purchased by would wish, I will simply refer to some the Saints, was very strict in regard to revelations in regard to the matter. the manner in which they should observe In Kirtland, Ohio, there was a United the principles of union; and he called Order established under the direct influ- one of his servants, and told him that he ence and instructions of Joseph Smith. would make him an example in regard He received revelations from the Lord in to what would be required of those who regard to this subject. And there was should go up to the land of Missouri to not only a United Order established in receive their inheritance. That was Mar- Kirtland, but there was also a United tin Harris. (Doc. & Cov., sec. 58, page command of God to be established in 203, verses 35 and 36.) The Lord said: a locality about fifteen or twenty miles "It is wisdom in me that my servant Mar- from Kirtland, in a town called Thomp- tin Harris should be an example unto the son. And the Lord gave his servant, Ed- church, in laying his moneys before the ward Partridge, the first Bishop of this bishop of the church. And also, this is Church, revelations and important in- a law unto every man that cometh unto structions in reference to organizing a this land to receive an inheritance; and Branch of the Church into the United he shall do with his moneys according as Order in that township. And Edward the law directs." Partridge needed these instructions, be- Now, here is one of the first prin- cause it might well be understood that ciples of the United Order, and it was he, of himself, would not be able to made and ordained a law by every per- understand the mind and will of God son, and everyone was required to ob- touching what was required according serve it, who should be privileged to go to the principles of the celestial law. to the land of Missouri to receive an in- Therefore, the Lord told him it was nec- heritance. But this, I think, will ap- essary that he should receive instruc- ply, not only to those who should go to tions in these principles. And he gave the land of Missouri, but to the peo- him instructions, and told him that it ple of God in every land. Wherever was necessary that the people should 344 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. be organized there according to his law, that they should not give their daugh- otherwise they should be cut off. And ters to the sons of aliens, neither should he told him, furthermore, that it was they take the daughters of aliens to their their privilege to be organized accord- sons. Well, when Ezra made this dis- ing to the celestial law, that they might covery, and found that the people had be united upon those principles. And been intermarrying to quite an extent, also, in this revelation, he told Edward he was in consternation. He sat down, Partridge that he should have the privi- plucked the hair from his head, and his lege of organizing, for this was an exam- beard from his face, and rent his gar- ple unto him, in all other places, in all ments; and called upon his God to forgive other churches. So it was not confined to the people. Well, finally, the prophets, any particular locality, to Kirtland, nor and chief men were called together and to Thompson, nor to Jackson County; but had a consultation; and then the peo- in that revelation it was told the Bishop ple were called together, and they had a that this should be an example unto him very grievous time in making the thing in organizing in all Churches. So that right wherein they had transgressed this wherever Edward Partridge should find holy law; and however unpleasant the a Church, he would have the privilege of requirements were in regard to making organizing them according to the United this right, it was considered absolutely Order, the Celestial Law, or the Order of important to have the blessings of God, Enoch. and be approved of him. Now, I do not Now, we might ask ourselves, would say, when we come back again to our sub- it be supposable that there could be any ject, the principles of the United Order, transgression or that we would offend that this might be our position with ref- God in ascertaining what the United Or- erence to our obedience to it. But I would der is, and then conforming ourselves to say this, however, that if these principles its requirements, as near as possible? of the United Order were so important in In the days of the Prophet Ezra, former days, and the Lord by some thir- the Jewish nation, for many years, had teen revelations or more, has made them been in captivity, and in transgression, manifest to his Saints, and the results of and been permitted to be destroyed, and disobedience were such as we see, why driven from their locations by their en- should we not consider them of some im- emies. Well, Ezra, on a certain oc- portance at the present time? And would casion, saw proper to bring them to- the Lord find fault with the people, if the gether and build Jerusalem that had Latter-day Saints would strive with all been thrown down. The Lord aided him their hearts to conform to them? And in this work; and after they had been would we not feel ourselves better pre- successful in building the walls, they pared to go back and build up Jackson commenced reading the laws and rev- County, the Center Stake of Zion? Would elations of God; and they found that we expect to go back unless we complied the people were in great transgression, with the law in all things, and in conse- and in disobedience to a very impor- quence of disobedience to which, the peo- tant and sacred law, and that was ple were expelled from that country? in regard to their intermarriages with aliens. They discovered that there had It is argued by some that when been a law given in the days of Moses, the principle of tithing came in, it UNITED ORDER, ETC. 345 superseded the principles of the United higher principles. There is nothing more Order. The law of Moses was given to be elevating to ourselves and pleasing to a schoolmaster, to bring the people to a God than those things that pertain to the knowledge of the Son of God, and induce accomplishment of a brotherhood. Wise them to obey the principles of the fulness men, for centuries, have sought to bring of the Gospel. The higher law was given this about, but without success. They to the children of Israel when they were had not the ability, the wisdom, the in- first delivered from Egyptian bondage, telligence, nor the authority, to bring the but in consequence of their disobedience, people up to that standard, that they the Gospel in its fulness was withdrawn, could become a united brotherhood. All and the law of carnal commandments their efforts were ineffectual. But the was added. Now, do you imagine that Lord will be successful; and he will pre- there would have been any wrong if the pare the Latter-day Saints that these people wanted to find the principles of principles will be in their hearts when the higher law and obey them as near as they go back to Jackson County. Remem- circumstances would admit? Do you sup- ber, while the Gospel in its fulness was pose it would have been wrong to search observed by Alma and his brethren, and out the fulness of the Gospel, while living by many thousands in different ages of under the Mosaic law? But, in the Book the world, they lived under the Mosaic of Mormon we find this point more fully Law, and cannot the Latter-day Saints illustrated. We find that the inhabitants under the law of tithing, observe the ful- of this continent had a knowledge of the ness of the gospel? If we allow that fulness of the everlasting Gospel and we are under the principle of the law of were baptized for the remission of sins, tithing, is there any harm in our comply- many generations before Jesus came into ing with the principles of the United Or- the world. We find that Alma was bap- der? tized in the waters of Mormon, and some I am aware that it is unpleasant in four hundred and fifty other individuals. the ears of some individuals, to hear Alma, by his energy and perseverance, about the principles of the United Or- had discovered the fulness of the Gospel der, but take the Latter-day Saints, gen- and obtained revelations from the Lord, erally speaking, throughout the vari- and the privilege of observing the Gospel ous settlements of this Territory, their in all its fulness and blessings. Do you hearts seem to be drawn out in refer- think the Lord was angry with them? ence to this principle. When President They were under the Mosaic law, and yet Young first came into these mountain considered it a blessing to observe the valleys, he was impressed with the im- higher law. portance of this principle, and he took the first steps for the accomplishment of this union. There are hundreds and Now I will say in regard to the mat- thousands of individuals that came into ter of tithing, I think that law was given these valleys at that time, who con- to the Latter-day Saints, one object being formed to the first principles of this to prepare them for, and conduct them union. There are many of us that con- to, the United Order, that they might not secrated all that we possessed, and this fall into the same error as the people who is the first step in regard to the United were driven from the State of Missouri, Order. It is very possible that there but gradually be inducted into these may have been some neglect in carrying 346 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. forward this principle, as, perhaps, we the support of their families, was to be might have done. This I would not say put in the Lord's storehouse, for the ben- particularly, but there may have been efit of the whole Church. This is what fault in us, in this matter in not carry- is required of every man in his steward- ing out what we commenced. In things ship. And this is a law that is required to that pertain to celestial glory there can be observed by every man who belongs to be no forced operations. We must do ac- the Church of the living God. [Book Doc. cording as the Spirit of the Lord oper- and Cov., p. 234.] Now, this is one of the ates upon our understandings and feel- main features of the United Order. We ings. We cannot be crowded into matters, are not going to stop here, in these val- however great might be the blessing at- leys of the mountains. Many of us expect tending such procedure. We cannot be to go forth and build up the Center Stake forced into living a celestial law; we must of Zion; but before we are called, we must do this ourselves, of our own free will. understand these things, and conform to And whatever we do in regard to the them more practically than many of us principles of the United Order, we must do at the present time. do it because we desire to do it. Some We are told in one of these revela- of us are practicing in the spirit of the tions that it is necessary that we should United Order, doing more than the law be equal. If we are not equal in tempo- of tithing requires. We are not confined ral things, we cannot be equal in spiri- to the law of tithing. We have advanced tual things. Men on whom God has be- to that point that we feel to soar above stowed financiering ability are the men this law. Now, we have thousands and that are wanted at this time—that God tens of thousands, and I might say mil- wants, and whom he would wish to call lions of dollars, that have been appropri- to step forth in the accomplishment of ated by the Latter-day Saints in various this great union. Now we call men at directions. We have appropriated tens of our conferences and send them forth to thousands of dollars for the gathering of preach the gospel to the nations of the the poor and the building of tabernacles, earth. They go forth in the strength and and for many other things that might be power of God, depending upon the Holy mentioned. When we do this, we act up Spirit, to assist in the accomplishment to one of the principles that pertain to of the work. In regard to the building this United Order. up the kingdom of God here at home, The Lord, in Kirtland, established a persons who have the ability are the United Order. He called certain individ- ones who should step forward in things uals, and united them by revelation, and that would lead the Latter-day Saints to told them how to proceed; and every man this union. It would be of more value who would subscribe fully to the United to them than all the things of earth. Order will proceed in the same manner. The blessings of God upon them in time He told those people and the Church afar and eternity would well repay them to off, to listen and hearken to what he re- step forth and labor for the Zion of God. quired of men in this Order, and of ev- We are told that the priesthood is not ery man who belonged to the Church called to work for money, but to establish of the living God—that all that they Zion. What a lovely thing it would be if received above what was necessary for there was a Zion now, as in the days of UNITED ORDER, ETC. 347
Enoch! That there would be peace in Now, we are trying to do something our midst and no necessity for a man in Brigham City in the direction to this to contend and tread upon the toes of order; but there seems to be the great- another to attain a better position, and est difficulty with ourselves, when we advance himself ahead of his neighbor. come to these temporal affairs. Our old And there should be no unjust competi- ideas of things have a wonderful influ- tion in matters that belong to the Latter- ence over us, that it seems a difficult day Saints. That which creates division matter to break the crust, and conform among us pertaining to our temporal in- wholly to the requirements of the United terests should not be. The Lord consid- Order. We have arrived at certain points ered this union a matter of importance, of union in our city; but I do not wish and he uses strong expressions in refer- to speak about our affairs there in any ence to it. Speaking in regard to those spirit of boasting, for when I consider who should disobey the principles of the the sacredness of these principles, and United Order after receiving it, the Lord the importance of them, I feel my insuf- says, "I have decreed in my heart, that ficiency and unworthiness. To engage any man among you that shall break in this labor seems to be a great and the covenant by which you are bound, sacred undertaking. President Young he shall be trodden down by whomso- used to say, "Why, up there in Brigham ever I will." [p. 337.] And he says, City Brother Snow has led the people in regard to some parties who turned along, and got them into the United Or- away from this principle, "I have cursed der without their knowing it." But I can them with a sore and grievous curse." see many things that we are very short He says in another revelation, showing of accomplishing. We have not entered the sacredness of this order, "Therefore into the fulness of the principles of the a commandment I give unto you, and United Order, but we talk about them, he who breaketh it shall lose his stand- and many of us try to conform to them, ing in the church, and be turned over to and get the spirit of them in our hearts. the buffeting of Satan." [p. 258.] These Now we number about three thousand are severe penalties, but it is in conse- souls, and we have moved along so far quence of his desire to prepare a peo- as this—I presume it is a little further ple for celestial glory. Now, shall we than you have in Ogden—there is but say that these matters do not pertain to one store in our city where imported us, and that we shall leave them until goods are bought, and this belongs to we go back to Jackson County? I have the people. Now that is considered to- sometimes thought that if the Latter- wards a union in a people of three thou- day Saints did not open their eyes and sand, to be agreed to do their trading in attend to these things very strictly, we one place—that there should be one mer- should hardly escape these afflictions, cantile establishment. Now, you have but be persecuted as were our brethren more than one store in Ogden. Then, in Missouri. After the instructions we we have united a little further; we have have received during the last forty years, but one tannery in our city of a pop- shall we say that we cannot conform ulation of three thousand. We have to these principles? Shall we say that but one shoemakers' establishment— we shall ignore these glorious principles an association of shoemakers, consist- that pertain to this exalted brotherhood? ing of about thirty persons. There is 348 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. no competition in this business. I sup- business. Some eighty or one hundred pose you have more than one in Ogden; persons are engaged during the lumber- but you are a greater people than we are, ing season. The mills are owned by several times over. They all purchase the people, and there is no competition. their boots and shoes at this industrial There is but one millinery shop in that department, and thus the men engaged city, and it is sustained by the people. in this business are sustained by the peo- You have more than one here; perhaps ple, according to their covenants; and you ought to have. There is but one tai- there are no other shoemakers in that lor's shop in Brigham City, and the peo- locality. Well, we have united together ple employed in that business are pa- on another point, that is, in a woolen tronized by the whole people. I might factory and sheepherd. We met with a mention a great many other businesses, loss of some fifty thousand dollars in the but will leave that subject now. burning of our factory, and the destruc- Now, for the people in Ogden and the tion of our crops by the grasshoppers. people in other settlements, it would be There are no rich people in Brigham a good thing to unite together to sup- City, but the people, through their union, ply themselves with their clothing, food, have erected another building, much bet- furniture, building materials, and with ter than the one destroyed. We ex- everything that pertains to their com- pect to have the factory in operation fort and convenience, without being un- about the first of July. This shows some der the necessity of employing, or using, proof of the advancement of the people. those things that are imported. You have This achievement is not in consequence a great many wide-awake, financiering of the people there having money; but men in Ogden, very intelligent men, who this work—this amazing work, as I con- are full of wisdom and stir, and have the sider it—has been accomplished in con- principles of the Gospel in them. You sequence of the advancement that the are ahead of the people of Brigham City people have made in this union. Well in this respect, but we are ahead of you we have but one blacksmith shop in that in some other respects. In proportion city; some twelve or fifteen work in this as a man possesses a knowledge over establishment, and the people sustain his brethren, we should be more anx- them in their operations. Those en- ious to accomplish good for Zion; and he gaged in the various branches of labor should be the one to set a proper example feel confident that the people will patron- for the union of the people. I believe if ize them, and carry out what they have the Latter-day Saints would go forward agreed in this particular, and they do and establish the United Order in their not trouble themselves about any other midst more than they do, the Lord would employment, or business. There is but more abundantly sustain and bless us, one furniture shop in Brigham City, and and provide remedies against the evils to the people sustain those engaged in that which we are exposed—persecution and business. I suppose you have more than difficulties from outside, that we will not one. There is but one tin shop, and it is talk about today. patronized by all the people of Brigham City. There is but one lumbering de- The sisters here in Ogden are ac- partment there, and the people sustain complishing considerable in regard to the parties who are employed in that the United Order. They are uniting UNITED ORDER, ETC. 349 themselves together to do a great work. I economy of God's system by which men do not know but what they, in connection and women can be exalted spiritually. with others, will be, more or less, the sal- The same with regard to temporal af- vation of Zion; and it is a good thing for fairs. We should establish the principles them to persevere, and for some of the of the United Order, that give every man brethren to follow their good example in a chance to receive these temporal bless- this respect. ings. I do not say that it would be proper A great deal might be said in regard to give a man just baptized the fulness of to the principles of the United Order, the Priesthood at once. Neither would it that I do not feel to talk about this af- be right to give a man who has just come ternoon, but I do feel to urge on those from the old country the home and pos- brethren who have the means and are sessions of him who has been here and in circumstances, to search out the mind labored and toiled for years to accumu- and will of God in regard to these mat- late them. It would not be right for the ters, and let us try to build up Zion. Zion possessor to step out of his house, and is the pure in heart. Zion cannot be built let the one who has never labored and up except on the principles of union re- toiled go in and take his place; but this quired by the celestial law. It is high man who has got the blessings of God time for us to enter into these things. It around him, should be willing to sacrifice is more pleasant and agreeable for the a portion of his surplus means to estab- Latter-day Saints to enter into this work lish some industry, that this poor man and build up Zion, than to build up our- can work and obtain a good remunera- selves and have this great competition tion for his labor, that he can see com- which is destroying us. Now let things fort and convenience before him, by per- go on in our midst in our Gentile fash- severing as he has done who has been ion, and you would see an aristocracy thus blessed. This is the spirit and aim growing amongst us, whose language to of the United Order, and that we should the poor would be, "we do not require endeavor to establish. We should employ your company; we are going to have our surplus means in a manner that the things very fine; we are quite busy now, poor can have employment and see be- please call some other time." You would fore them a competence and the conve- have classes established here, some very niences of life, so that they may not be poor and some very rich. Now, the Lord dependent upon their neighbors. Where is not going to have anything of that is the man who wants to be dependent kind. There has to be an equality; and upon his neighbors or the Tithing Of- we have to observe these principles that fice? No! He is a man, and is the image are designed to give everyone the priv- of God, and wants to gather the means ilege of gathering around him the com- around him, by his own, individual ex- forts and conveniences of life. The Lord, ertions. Blessed of God, are we, who in his economy in spiritual things, has have surplus means, and we should be fixed that every man, according to his willing to employ those means whereby perseverance and faithfulness, will re- such individuals may have, as before ceive exaltation and glory in the eternal mentioned. The United Order is not worlds—a fulness of the Priesthood, and French Communism. It is not required of a fulness of the glory of God. This is the those who possess the means of living to 350 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. expend those means among those who Take the Book of Doctrine and know nothing about taking care of and Covenants, trace the subject of the preserving them. But let no man be United Order, and you will find it ex- oppressed and placed in circumstances plained fully. And there need not be any where he cannot reach forth and help difficulty in regard to what is required at himself. our hands. Well, I wanted to say a few things by way of suggestion to the brethren. May we so live as to be worthy of a May God bless his people in Ogden. standing in the presence of God. Amen.
A MARVELOUS WORK—ANGEL VISITATION—THE BOOK OF MORMON—EVIDENCE CALCULATED TO EXCITE FAITH—TESTIMONY NOT ALWAYS TO SALVATION.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, SUNDAY AFTERNOON,JUNE 16, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
A very strange thing has happened formed an idea in their own hearts that in our day—a work that is considered angels were no more to minister to the by the Latter-day Saints, and by all human family. No messages from heaven people, to be a marvelous work and a to be sent by them; no voice of the Lord wonder; something almost entirely un- to be heard again speaking to man on expected by the great mass of the hu- the earth; no more revelations to be man family, something which our fathers given; no more Prophets to be raised were not looking for has happened in up, and no more Seers and Revelators the land. What is it? God has sent to make known and proclaim the will an angel from heaven. What, an an- of heaven to the people. Such were gel in the latter days come from heaven! the traditions of our fathers; such were Yes. What a strange thing! How dif- the traditions of some two or three hun- ferent from the traditions of our fa- dred millions of people, calling them- thers, for seventeen centuries past! Tell selves Christians. Speak to them about people of this generation that God has more of the word of God to be given sent a holy angel communicating his to the human family, the universal idea will to man, and they will be ready and exclamation of the nations of Chris- to laugh you to scorn. They have tendom would be, "the canon of Scrip- A MARVELOUS WORK, ETC. 351 ture is full." Who told them this? From tion from the heavens." Have I not ex- what source did they get their informa- pressed before this congregation, the tion? Did the Lord ever reveal this to real ideas of the two or three hundred them, or is it a creation of their own millions of Christendom, so called, that imagination? Did you ever hear a single live in the various civilized nations? individual, even the most learned and Now let us go back to the real prin- wisest of them, prove this assertion by ciples of the Gospel, to find out whether the divine writings? Did you ever hear of they countenance and embrace the visi- any lay member, minister or priest, hav- tation of angels. History informs us, that ing substantiated these ideas and tradi- before the flood angels conversed with tions in accordance with Scripture and men, as one man would with another. reason? Never, never. And the sim- And we find that Abraham and Enoch ple reason why is, because they have no conversed with God; and through faith proof or evidence to sustain their posi- Enoch was translated from mortality to tion. There is not a man living, how- immortality. At the time of the deluge, ever learned he may be, however famil- we learn there was one man upon the iar with the Scriptures of divine truth he earth that received new revelation from may be, that can bring one idea, by way heaven, and that he and seven others of proof, to support these traditions. And who believed on his word, were the only yet, how general and universal these ones worthy to be spared from the ter- things have been circulated among the rible judgment which, for the time be- nations, and imbibed by the human fam- ing, put an end to wickedness upon the ily as though they were real truths! earth. A Revelator was spared—the only When the Latter-day Saints came man among them who could commune forth forty-eight years ago, testifying with the heavens, and receive informa- that God had sent an angel from heaven, tion from on high. how unexpected, how strange to this After the days of the flood, we learn generation! Say they, "The Lord once that the Lord made to Abraham, Isaac had a religion on the earth, and an- and Jacob, great and most precious gels were included as part and portion promises—promises concerning things of the blessings connected with it; but of eternity and things of the earth. now we do not need them." Why? "Be- These men were called and esteemed the cause we are so enlightened. We have "friends of God;" they were perfect in studied the Scriptures and become so their day, and they were Revelators, to effectually acquainted with them, and whom angels came and ministered the also with science and everything else, words of eternal life. They were the that we do not need further instruc- only ones who received instruction from tion from the Almighty; we do not need heaven by new revelation, and who were Prophets in our day to foretell the fu- counted worthy in that day to enjoy the ture; we do not need Revelators to come divine approbation, and to be called his forth and manifest to us the word of friends. God. Why, we are so enlightened! The So likewise we may come down blaze of Gospel light is shining forth to the days of Moses, and the chil- so brilliantly, we can get along with dren of Israel who were in Egypt. human learning without any revela- Did the Lord bless them? He did. 352 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
In what way? By speaking himself, and Savior of the world. also by sending angels to administer in We find that after Christ had estab- their midst; by communicating revela- lished his Church, that angels contin- tion by day and by night while the chil- ued to minister; and one of the Apos- dren of Israel sojourned in the wilder- tles, on a certain occasion exhorted the ness; by revelation they were taught former-day Saints to be careful to en- in all the ordinances, and by revelation tertain strangers; for in so doing some they journeyed; and when the Lord com- had entertained angels unawares. And manded them to pitch their tents, they we find that, during the first century of remained in such a place until another the Christian era, angels frequently ap- revelation was given. Angels communi- peared; and revelations were also given cated the things of God to that people, by the gift and power of the Holy Ghost after they were brought to the Promised which rested upon the Apostles, for the Land, and from generation to generation guidance of the Church. Paul also tes- the Lord sent forth his angels to min- tifies of angels in this wise: "Are they ister among his people. Prophet after not all ministering spirits, sent forth to Prophet was raised up in their respective minister for them who shall be heirs of generations to declare the word of the salvation?" Showing to us clearly and Lord in the midst of all Israel; and such plainly that these celestial inhabitants men were regarded as the mouthpieces of heaven—these pure sanctified beings of God. And so it was continued until a that dwell in the presence of God were few centuries before Christ. Then came a sent forth as authorized ministers of God day of darkness; then came a time when, to those who should be heirs of salva- because of the wickedness of the peo- tion here upon the earth. But by and ple, no angels were sent, no Revelators by, after the first century of the Chris- or Prophets were raised up in the midst tian era, the heavens became as brass of the people. The consequences were, over their heads again. The voice of in- the people were left to themselves with- spiration was heard no more, neither did out the guidance of new revelation, and the voice of angels salute the ears of mor- instead of building up and establishing tals. No visions among the people, the the kingdom of God, they created man- veil of darkness that hung over them, in made systems, dividing off into sects and consequence of the Lord's withdrawing parties, such as Pharisees, Sadducees, his ministering agency from the earth, so Essenes, etc., numbering a great many befogged their minds, that they could no different denominations. And they es- longer gaze upon the glorious future. tranged themselves so far from the ways This state of apostasy continued, un- of God, and became so wicked, and Sa- til about the last half century of the tan had so much control over them, that Christian era, and it prevailed more when Christ came preaching to them the or less among all people. And the everlasting Gospel in all its simplicity priests, to whom the people looked for and plainness, he found them in such a spiritual light and instruction, have condition as to love darkness rather than persisted one and all in teaching the light, and they were fully prepared to people, from generation to generation, imbrue their hands in the blood of the that the Bible was full, that the canon of scripture was closed, and that it was no more necessary for A MARVELOUS WORK, ETC. 353 angels to communicate with man, nor angel spoken of, has flown from heaven that the miraculous gifts and graces, to earth, parting asunder the veil of that once adorned the Church, should be superstition, ignorance and doubt, and continued. The people settled down to bringing with him from his celestial this belief without any evidence or tes- abode, glad tidings of great joy, duly au- timony of its truthfulness and it became thorizing man on the earth to preach the a widespread and popular tradition: and same to all peoples of every nation. This the children even down to our day, have Gospel committed by the angel has been inherited these notions and traditions preached among many nations wherever of their fathers without once question- they would receive the bearers of this ing them; they are born in the children, heavenly message, there the voice of in- as it were, and they are educated and spired men has been heard; and this mis- trained in this belief, and hence it has sionary labor has been faithfully prose- become deeply rooted, and most difficult cuted during almost one half of a cen- for them to rid themselves of. tury. And the Gospel will be preached But again the long, long silence has until every nation and tongue and people been broken, again the voice of angels upon the face of our globe shall have the has saluted the ears of mortal man, and privilege of hearing this glorious angelic that too in fulfillment of a prophecy ut- message. tered by John the Revelator, while un- "But," says one, "this is your testi- der banishment upon the Isle of Patmos. mony; you say that an angel has come, While there suffering for the gospel's but we do not know it; you say that sake, the Lord showed unto him by vi- he has brought the everlasting Gospel, sion, things that should take place upon but we do not know it. What evidence the earth. And among other things have you to give us, that we may know that passed before him, he saw that, af- for ourselves that an angel has really ter a length of time the darkness that come bearing this message?" I will tell would necessarily follow the rejection you how you may prove it, how every of the Gospel by both Jew and Gen- son and daughter of Adam now living tile, and that must come upon the face may know whether there has been a of the whole earth, would be gradu- divine message, called the everlasting ally dispelled by a heavenly communi- Gospel, sent from heaven to the inhab- cation from God to man. And from the itants of the earth by a holy angel. Do 14th chapter of Revelation we learn the the will of your Father in heaven; call manner in which this message should upon his name, and inquire of him, say- come from the courts of heaven. John ing in your hearts: O Lord, hast thou in- speaks of the event in this wise, "And deed sent forth from the heavens thine I saw another angel fly in the midst of angel, according to the prediction by thy heaven, having the everlasting gospel servant John, bringing to man on the to preach unto them that dwell on the earth the everlasting Gospel? And hast earth, and to every nation, and kindred, thou commanded it to be preached to and tongue, and people, Saying with a every people, nation and tongue under loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to the whole heavens? If you do this in him; for the hour of his judgment is all honesty of heart and purpose, you come," etc. Strange as it may seem, this may all know for yourselves. "What! 354 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. does the Lord give us knowledge in our in the State of New York, where he day by seeking unto him in prayer?" Why should find these ancient records— not? Did he not anciently, in every dis- plates of gold, containing the everlasting pensation from the beginning down to Gospel, which was anciently preached the closing up of the first century of the among the inhabitants of this conti- Christian era, impart a knowledge con- nent. He obeyed; he went and found the cerning the truth? He did; and that same records in the very place which had been God that gave a knowledge to his people shown him in vision by the angel. Was anciently, will give a knowledge to you, there any possibility of Joseph's having provided you will comply with his will. been deceived? We say, No; the circum- "But," you may say, "in order that we stances were such as to preclude the pos- may put such a question to the Lord, we sibility of any such deception. The an- would like to have some testimony, suffi- gel also told him that with these plates cient at least to encourage us in making there was an instrument called the Urim this inquiry." I do not know how much and Thummim, which would enable him you want. So far as external evidence is to translate the records into our lan- concerned, he gave abundance of it be- guage. Joseph accomplished the work fore this Church arose. The Lord did of translation between the years 1827 not suffer the Book of Mormon to be sent and 1830, through the use of this in- forth to the nations to be published to all strument, which had been hidden up people, until he gave a testimony to cer- with the plates. Could he be deceived, tain individual witnesses. How many? when he got the plates before him, in- Four persons at least—the translator of tently looking upon the peculiar char- the book, Joseph Smith, and three other acters engraved upon them, and also persons, Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery, upon that most singular instrument, the and David Whitmer. They knew of a Urim and Thummim? Every man of com- surety, and have given their testimony in mon sense, possessing the least degree of the beginning of this record. Here, then, judgment, will at once say that it was not are four witnesses. What does Jesus say? possible, under these circumstances, for "That in the mouth of two or three wit- him to be deceived; that the testimony nesses every word shall be established." given is true, and the message divine, or He saw proper, however, to give four. else he was a bold impostor, a man that "But," inquires one, "may not these four came forth purposely to deceive the peo- witnesses have been mistaken?" Let us ple. examine into the nature of their testi- Now in regard to the other three wit- mony, to see if there is any possibility nesses. They testify that in the year of their being mistaken. Joseph Smith, 1829, after the plates had been trans- one of these witnesses, testifies that the lated, that an angel of God appeared angel came down from heaven, and that unto them, clothed in light and glory, his countenance was like lightning, and and holding these plates in his hands, the glory of God shone round about him. turned them over leaf after leaf, showing And the angel told him to go to a certain them the characters engraved thereon. hill, not far from his father's house, in And they also say that while they stood the town of Manchester, Ontario County, gazing upon this heavenly being, clothed in his glory, in the act of showing them these gold plates, they heard a voice out of the heavens proclaiming to A MARVELOUS WORK, ETC. 355 them that the plates had been trans- besides the three referred to, also be- lated correctly, by the gift and power of came witnesses to this work. And their God. And what they saw and heard they published testimony is, that they saw bear testimony to, which is addressed to the plates and handled them, and they all peoples of every nation to whom this saw the peculiar writing thereon, which record—the Book of Mormon—should go. they say had the appearance of curious Let me ask, Was there any possibility and ancient workmanship. And notwith- of their being deceived? If there was, standing some of these witnesses have then we might say all men of ancient fallen by the wayside, having been over- times who professed to have seen angels come by the power of the Adversary, ren- were deceived themselves. But I do not dering themselves unworthy of the fel- see that anything could be more posi- lowship of the Latter-day Saints, not a tive. The promise had been given that single one of them has ever been known there should be three witnesses raised to deny the testimony which they have up to bear testimony of the truth of borne concerning this marvelous occur- these records, which purport to be a his- rence. Here, then, are twelve witnesses. tory of the aborigines, or the ancient Is- Is not this external evidence sufficient to raelites, that inhabited this country. The satisfy every inquiring soul whose heart Lord did send the angel; they saw him is honest before the Lord? But, I will come down from heaven; they saw the refer you to still more. When this work light and glory that radiated from his was first published, the Lord called upon countenance; they heard the words of these men to go forth among the peo- his mouth; they saw the plates in the ple, proclaiming the Gospel which they hands of this heavenly personage, and themselves had received, promising that they could distinguish the characters en- all who would yield obedience thereto graven thereon; and they also heard the should receive the Holy Ghost, which voice of the Lord commanding them to should confirm, to the entire satisfaction bear testimony to all peoples of what of the believer, the testimony of these they had seen and heard. They could not Elders. And when this Holy Spirit de- have been deceived, it was utterly impos- scended upon such people, they knew sible. for themselves that these men were ser- Then here are four witnesses, all vants of the living God, and that the bearing testimony to the divinity of this power that rested upon them was indeed work. And, as I have already quoted to the Holy Ghost, of which they had read you, the Savior has said, that every word in the Scriptures. How did they know shall be established by the mouth of two this? Because it manifested divers gifts. or three witnesses. The Lord, therefore, It enabled them to lay their hands upon did not raise up this Church, he did not the sick, rebuking in the name of Je- commence the organization thereof until sus the disease, and the sick were re- he had given sufficient evidence to a suf- stored to health. You may say imagi- ficient number of witnesses to commence nation had something to do with this; the establishment of this work. the sick imagined themselves better, and Again, Joseph Smith was com- consequently they got better. But let me manded of the Lord to show these testify that little infant children, not ca- plates to eight other persons who, pable of exercising the powers of ima- 356 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. gination, have been healed in the same the fact? There can be no excuse for manner, and by the same power, which those who hear and reject the testi- was the power of Almighty God mani- mony and teaching of the Elders of this fested through his servants. And these Church, for the cry has been raised these first Elders of the Church were thus many years, and it cannot but have a enabled to convert to a knowledge of striking effect upon all honest-hearted our faith, multitudes of people who, like people, because of its singularity and themselves, could bear testimony to the fairness, for the promise is, if you have divinity and truthfulness of this latter- sufficient faith to call upon God and ask day work, having received the convinc- him, you yourselves may obtain a testi- ing assurances of this Comforter, which mony, and you can receive that which su- bears record of the things of the Father. persedes faith or belief—you can know of And in this manner this whole commu- a surety that he has indeed visited the nity have received the knowledge they earth again in these the last days by his testify of, and hence we become, to use a angels, and that Joseph Smith was and Biblical term, a great cloud of witnesses, is a Prophet of the living God, and that whose testimony is in force to the whole the doctrines we teach are not of man but world, whether they receive it or reject of God; and they will prove the savor of it. life to those who obey, and of death to I have now laid before you evidence those who reject them. sufficient to excite the principle of faith Therefore as I said in the commence- in your hearts, provided you have a ment of my remarks, a marvelous thing genuine desire to know of the doctrine has occurred in the land! A wonder- we teach, as to whether it be of God ful work has made its appearance! The or man. You have the testimony of heavens no longer keep silent! Prophets twelve men to begin with, besides the again are heard among the people! The testimony of scores of thousands of men inspiration and power of the Holy Ghost and women that have received the Holy rests upon the servants of God, and his Ghost through obedience to the require- power is made manifest among the var- ments of the Gospel, whose knowledge of ious nations again, as in olden time, in this latter-day work enables them also healing the sick, causing the lame to to testify to the truth of it. And the walk, the blind to see, and the deaf to testimony of this people speaks as with hear, and in pouring out his Spirit upon the voice of thunder to all nations and the children of men, as he did in former tongues, to the effect that God has spo- dispensations of the world! ken from the eternal worlds, and that he has sent his angels again to earth to Is not this, then, sufficient to wake commit to man the everlasting Gospel. up the honest-in-heart among the peo- If so remarkable a testimony of twelve ple? If it is not, then I know of noth- men, together with the united testimony ing that is likely to do it. Will it be of a community so large as we are, is by the fulfillment of the Prophets, that not sufficient to create faith in your have been spoken of by the former speak- hearts that God has indeed commenced ers? When the hand of judgment shall be his great and marvelous and strange laid upon the nations, and the fierceness work and a wonder in our day, then what of his wrath be made manifest, wast- would awaken up the people to a sense of ing away the disobedient and the wicked, FAITH, ETC. 357 and the earth becomes depopulated of wicked people, the Antediluvians, were all excepting the righteous? This will sinking in the waters, they could then be a testimony they cannot resist. But say, "I know that Noah is a Prophet, and such testimony will not always be unto that the message he has declared in our salvation. It will be the testimony of ears for these many years is divine." But judgment that will overwhelm them, in alas! It was too late; they rejected the a time, too, they think not of; a time message, paying heedless regard to it as when they will be crying all is peace well as to him who preached the Gospel and safety—lo! sudden destruction is to them; they would not call upon God at their doors; and thus the Scriptural in all honesty of heart, but they con- saying will be literally fulfilled, "As the sidered Noah deceived; they obeyed not, days of Noah were, so shall also the com- and were destroyed by the mighty flood. ing of the Son of man be," etc. When Amen. that unfortunate, but disobedient and
FAITH—FULFILLMENT OF PROPHECY—RESTORATION OF THE GOSPEL—PRIESTHOOD.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER WILFORD WOODRUFF, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY,JUNE 30, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
There is a principle that I feel dis- ciple of faith to the present day. For posed to say a few words on, in connec- by faith Joseph Smith received the min- tion with what brother Rich has been istration of God out of heaven. By saying, and that is the principle of faith. faith he received the records of Nephi, and translated them through the Urim [The speaker then read the 11th and Thummim into our own language, chapter of Hebrews.] and which have since been translated I have taken the liberty of reading into many different languages. By this catalogue of blessings which ancient faith he made the foundation of this men of God obtained through the princi- Church and kingdom, just as much as ple of faith; which principle is as much Noah, by faith, built the ark, and re- needed today by the people of this gen- ceived the fulness thereof. By faith eration, as by any people at any age of he prophesied, leaving a record, a tes- the world. We might continue the chap- tament which has been given through ter of results and operations of the prin- his mouth to the inhabitants of the 358 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. earth, and which contains the revela- as fast as time and opportunity admit of. tions of God yet to be fulfilled. The testa- God lives. These revelations which have tor is dead, but his testament is in force been given through men who were in- to all the world. By faith the Elders of spired of the Holy Ghost, will have their this Church left their homes and fami- fulfillment, even if the results should lies, and went, when called upon, to for- effect the destruction of the generation eign nations without money and with- now living. When Jesus brought the out learning or experience, to preach the Gospel to his father's house—the Jews, Gospel of the kingdom without price to they rejected him and the words of life this generation, and warning the inhab- he taught them. He found them in- itants of the earth of the judgments of tently looking forward to the coming of God which await the world, and which their Shiloh in the person of a king, a must overtake the wicked. Faith is nec- ruler who should possess great power, essary on the part of the Latter-day even power sufficient to deliver them Saints, say nothing about the outside from the Romish yoke. They never once world, in order to read and believe the dreamed that he would appear in their records of divine truth which have come midst as the babe of Bethlehem, who unto us; and it requires faith on the part should be born in a stable, and cradled of the Christian world to really believe in a manger, a man who should know sor- this record, the Bible—to believe that row, and who should be acquainted with the Lord, through his servants, really grief, and who should choose as his dis- means what he says, and says what he ciples illiterate fishermen of low degree. means. It requires faith on the part of And although he was their Savior King the Latter-day Saints to perform their who would have redeemed them, and de- duties acceptably before God, for we, in livered them, and given unto them the this dispensation, must walk by faith Gospel of peace and of liberty, yet they and not by sight, just as much as the in their vanity and pride despised him, people of God in any previous dispensa- and persecuted him, and at last shed his tion. And this principle we should exer- blood. But was there a word ever uttered cise and live by. Some of the revelations by him concerning their Temple or na- which God has given unto us point to the tion but what met with its fulfillment to future condition of the world, and fore- the very letter? The history of the Jews, tell what must shortly befall the world which chronicles the days of their glory of mankind. These predictions were ut- and power, when they held the Urim tered by holy men as they were moved and Thummim, the ephod, the Priest- upon by the Holy Ghost; and although hood, and when they offered sacrifice, the men themselves have passed away, taken in connection with the prediction not one jot or tittle of their words will of Jesus foretelling their downfall and fail in their fulfillment. Notwithstand- dispersion, is of itself sufficient to teach ing all the unbelief and infidelity of the every infidel mind that there is truth modern world, there is not a man living in the revelations of God to man. The that can place his finger upon the first Jews have been trampled under the feet revelation of God to man, from the days of the Gentiles for the last 1,800 years, of father Adam to the present time, but fulfilling, too, what Moses said of them; what has had or is having its fulfillment FAITH, ETC. 359 and they have been overthrown as a na- on the earth, and gather together the tion, and led captive unto other nations, house of Israel to the valleys of these and are held in scorn by the Gentiles everlasting hills, according to his de- even to the present hour. And you may cree to old father Jacob; and his seed begin at the beginning, taking, for in- have yet to make this western desert to stance, those great cities that figured blossom as the rose, bringing forth "the anciently in their splendor and magnif- fir tree, the pine tree, and the box to- icence, and which were built to defy all gether, to beautify the place of my sanc- time, such as Nineveh, Thebes, Tyre and tuary." The whole history of this people Sidon, Memphis and Babylon. Where has been foretold by the prophet Isaiah, are they, and what became of them? thousands of years ago; and it has been a They are gone, their history buried as if steady growth from the commencement it were, in oblivion, and that too in fulfill- to the present. And will the Lord stop ment of prophesy. Yes, the words of some here? No; whether men believe or not, poor honest prophet or apostle raised this Zion so often spoken of in holy writ, up to declare the Gospel to the inhab- has got to arise and put on her beauti- itants thereof, but whom they despised ful garments; these mountain vales have and rejected, have met with their fulfill- got to be filled with the saints of God ment, and the disobedient and wicked and temples reared to his holy name, have passed away to be judged accord- preparatory to the time when "the Gen- ing to the deeds done in the body. And tiles shall come to thy light, and kings you may trace the history of the world to the brightness of thy rising." And this from father Adam to the present time, time will come when the nations are fully and I can defy any man to point to warned by the preaching of the servant a single prediction, uttered by inspired of God, and his judgments commence to men raised up of God, but what has or be poured out upon the world, in fulfill- will come to pass in its time and sea- ment of the revelations of St. John. Faith son. And if the Gentiles today would then is what the unbelieving world needs read these revelations of God, and exer- to exercise in God and in his revelations cise faith in them, they would no longer to man; but as I have said, whether we wonder when they come among us, to do it or not, our unbelief will never turn see these valleys, for 600 miles, filled the hand of God to the right or the left. with cities and towns, gardens and or- God has restored again his Gospel. chards, temples and tabernacles, and He has raised up men and commanded with comfortable dwellings. But the them to go forth and preach it to the fact is, unbelief has overwhelmed the world, and they have been engaged do- Christian world, and man has spiritu- ing so now for nearly half a century, ever alized the Scriptures until there is no since the organization of this Church. faith in him, and he has no faith in It was organized by revelation, with God, nor in the literal fulfillment of his prophets, apostles, pastors, teachers, revelations to man. That is what ails helps and government, and the princi- the world today. The predictions of the ples of it were taught by revelation, the Bible never would have been fulfilled, same as Jesus and the Apostles taught had not the Lord, in these last days them, there is no change whatever. The raised up a prophet as an instrument in Lord never revealed but one Gospel to his hands to again establish his Gospel the inhabitants of the earth, in any 360 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. age of the worlds, nor never will; the Gentiles, and all he has ever done from Gospel is the same yesterday, today, and the beginning has been performed by forever, and the principles thereof are and through the power of that Priest- faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, believing hood, which is "Without father, with- that he is, and that he lived and died out mother, without descent, having nei- as a ransom for the sins of the world; ther beginning of days, nor end of life," and baptism for the remission of sins, and the administration of his servants being immersed and buried in water, by holding this priesthood is binding, be- one having authority of God, that you ing the savor of life unto life or death may rise in newness of life, in fulfillment unto death. It was by virtue of this of the testimony of Jesus, and then re- priesthood the twelve apostles anciently ceive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of went into the world to preach the Gospel, hands confirming the believers members and it was because of this priesthood of his Church. And when you are born which they held that men, in rejecting of the water and the Spirit, you can en- them, rejected Him who sent them and ter into the Kingdom of God, and being consequently brought upon themselves born of the Spirit, you can see the King- condemnation. Light has again come dom of God. And such believers, when into the world; but men love darkness they receive the Holy Ghost receive the rather than light because their deeds are inspiration and revelation and light of it. evil. Hence condemnation rests down Our eyes and ears may be deceived by upon the world, for the consequences of the cunning and machinations of man; rejecting the Gospel must overtake the but the Holy Ghost never deceives any- world in this the last dispensation, just body. It bears record of the Father and as much as they did in former ones, in the Son, and it bears record in the Gospel the days of Noah and Lot and those of to those who possess it. The Lord never the Savior. had a church on the face of the earth, As I before stated, so say I again, from its first organization until today, the Gospel of Christ requires faith all unless that church was organized by rev- the day long, for no man can continue elation, with prophets and apostles, pas- faithful to the end without it. God has tors, teachers, helps and governments set his hand a second time to build up endowed with the Holy Priesthood—that that kingdom which Daniel was permit- power delegated from God to man, which ted to see in vision, and to establish authorized him to act for God; and with- that Zion in the mountains which Isa- out this Priesthood no man, from the iah saw. He has set his hand, for the day the world rolled into existence, has last time, to gather together all things any right to administer in any of the or- which are in heaven and on earth which dinances of his holy house, neither has are in Christ, unto himself. The day any man a right to that Priesthood save has come when the Lord has sent forth he be called of God as was Aaron who, a proclamation to warn the nations to we are informed was called by revela- prepare for his second coming; and the tion. What is the priesthood for? It signs of both heaven and earth all indi- is to administer the ordinances of the cate the coming of the Son of Man, which Gospel, even the Gospel of our Father is near at the door. No man knows the in heaven, the eternal God, the Elo- day or the hour when Christ will come, heim of the Jews and the God of the but the generation is clearly pointed out, the fig tree is leaving, and great FAITH, ETC. 361 changes are near at hand. Great Baby- deeds done in the body, and for the oppor- lon is coming in remembrance before tunities which we have of informing our- God, and the Lord has called upon the selves of the will of God concerning us, inhabitants of the earth who are very which if we allow to go unimproved, we wicked, to repent of their sins and turn cannot be held guiltless. It certainly be- unto him. The generation in which we comes us, who have named the name of live is a wicked and an adulterous gen- Christ, to walk uprightly before God, for eration, and wickedness and abomina- we cannot escape his chastening hand if tion of every kind are increasing, and the we reject the light we have received. Our earth has commenced to groan under the condemnation will be far greater than evil practices of man. The heavens are in those who never embraced the princi- pain over the disobedience and unrigh- ples of the Gospel, if we apostatize, or teousness of the children of men, and the through indifferent carelessness we al- angels, we are told, are waiting in their low the cares and things of this world places in the Temple for the time to come to choke down the good seed planted, when they will be called upon to go forth we have "tasted the good word of God, and reap down the earth. Judgments and the powers of the world to come;" await the world, but they heed not, and we "know the Master's will," and if we apparently do not care. With fire and do it not we will be "beaten with many sword the Lord will plead with all flesh, stripes." The religious world talk about and as the prophet has said respecting nonessentials, there are no such things this event, "the slain of the Lord will be existing in the Gospel of the Lord Je- many;" and these things will overtake sus. He requires us to obey the same the world in an hour when they expect laws that he himself obeyed, and which them not, when they will be crying peace, he taught in his day. Why did he go into but alas, peace will have departed from Jordan to be baptized of John? To ful- them, and they left to devour and destroy fil all righteousness. It was a righteous each other. All these things are foretold law, it belonged to him, and his exam- and many of them are written in these ple is in force to all the world. No man revelations given in our day, and they are can enter into the kingdom of God ex- already being fulfilled before our eyes; cept he is born of the water and of the and they will continue to be fulfilled, un- Spirit. Men may be judged and their bod- til all that is spoken of shall have come ies lie in the grave until the last resur- to pass. Therefore, I want to say to rection, to come forth and receive of a the Latter-day Saints: exercise faith in telestial glory, but no man will receive God, and exercise faith in his revela- of the celestial glory except it be through tions, and read them and ponder over the ordinances of the House of God. Je- them, and pray earnestly that you may sus performed that act that he might set have a correct understanding of all that the example; he was the way for others God has revealed, that you may grow to follow. The Jews, as I have said, re- in the light and knowledge of God, and jected him and the Gospel he brought see the importance of living your religion to them, and they shed his blood. and of living uprightly before him; for all They have been paying the penalty of men, both Jew and Gentile, Saint and their misdeeds for the last 1,800 years. sinner, will be judged according to the It costs something to shed innocent blood, it costs something to shed the 362 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. blood of prophets and apostles. And I hand of God has guided this Church from have sometimes taken the liberty, before its incipiency to the present time. God strangers as well as Latter-day Saints, will continue to direct its affairs, and to express my views in regard to shed- there is no power on the earth or under ding the blood of Joseph Smith and other the earth that can ever stop its progress, prophets. It has cost this nation four for he himself, has decreed that the Zion years' war, laying in the dust nearly a of the latter days shall never be over- million and a half of men, and it has thrown; but on the contrary, as he has also cost millions upon millions of dol- said through the mouth of the Prophet lars, creating a debt which it will never Isaiah, "For the nation and the kingdom live to pay. This is the faith of Wilford that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, Woodruff, and I think I have a right to those nations shall be utterly wasted." exercise my faith in this matter. I say Pretty strong doctrine to be taught by a then, it costs something to shed the blood humble man of God. Nevertheless, time of righteous men in this as well as in pre- will bring it about and it is not in the vious generations. power of man to prevent it. I am a be- My testimony is that judgments liever in revelation. I am a believer, from await Babylon, judgments await the the crown of my head to the soles of my Christian world, and if people will read feet, with every particle of spirit in me, their Bible, they will see these declara- that God will bring about, literally and tions written down, and these judgments to the very letter, all that he has spoken will increase until the world is cleansed through his servants, ancient and mod- from wickedness. And I say to all the ern. world, Repent of your sins, and be bap- tized for the remission of them, that you By way of concluding my remarks I may receive the Holy Ghost by the laying wish to bear testimony to this congrega- on of hands, and be saved in the king- tion and to the strangers present, that dom of God. Without complying with Joseph Smith was a prophet of the liv- these requirements, you nor I can never ing God; he was raised up by the Lord, go where God and Christ dwell, worlds and laid the foundation of this Church. without end, for these things have been He lived to accomplish the work he was made known to us by ancient and mod- raised up to do. He received the keys of ern prophets. the Priesthood from under the hands of Therefore, yours, as well as my eter- Peter, James and John, and those per- nal destiny, our future position through- taining to the gathering of scattered Is- out the ages of eternity, depend upon the rael, from under the hands of Moses, the few hours, the few days, the few weeks leader of ancient Israel. Elijah, or Elias, we spend in the flesh. If I ever obtain also visited him and bestowed upon him a full salvation it will be by my keep- the keys to "turn the hearts of the fa- ing the laws of God. If I sin against thers to the children, and the heart of God and man, I shall have to foot the the children to the fathers," which was in bill; it will be so with you and with fulfillment of a prediction by the Prophet the whole world. This is the Gospel of Malachi. He also received the keys of Jesus Christ; this is the Zion of God, the Aaronic Priesthood under the hands and what you see already accomplished of John the Baptist, which Priesthood in this desert land is really in fulfill- pertains to the temporal government ment of the revelations of God. The of the Church. After performing his THE HEAVENS, ETC. 363 work he sealed his testimony with his his calling and Priesthood here below. blood, passed behind the veil, and he with his brethren who have also gone, May God bless you, my brethren and is still engaged in carrying on the sisters and friends, with his Holy Spirit, same great work. He still labors by and give you faith in him, and in his rev- virtue of this Priesthood which he re- elations, that you may be led to do his ceived on earth, and which he will will while you live upon the earth. But continue to hold, worlds without end. whether you live to be thus favored or And this will be the case with ev- not, my testimony is that they will have ery faithful man of God who magnifies their fulfillment. Even so, amen.
THE HEAVENS FULL OF INTELLIGENCE—GOD HAS REVEALED PORTIONS OF THAT FOR THE WELFARE OF HIS CHILDREN—REASONING FROM SCIENCE TO SACRED THINGS—ALL DIVINE LAW UNCHANGEABLE.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, SUNDAY AFTERNOON,JUNE 16, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
As has been remarked by one of the notions, but according to the principles of speakers, a great deal might be said eternal truth as it exists in the bosom of upon the principles of the gospel of the God, or is manifested by his eternal laws. Son of God. The heavens and the earth are full of intelligence, and God rules He has from time to time revealed over and directs the affairs of nations his will to mankind, and he has in these as well as those of individuals and peo- last days revealed himself to the human ple; and whatever may be our pecu- family and the men to whom he has re- liar notions or ideas of other men and vealed himself in the different ages, com- their profession, the time will come, and prehend all the principle of truth and the is not far distant when the secrets of laws of God alike, so far as they were all hearts will be revealed, and when understood by them, having been taught all of us, Latter-day Saints and oth- by the same Lord and instructed from ers, Jews and Gentiles, peoples who now the same source, and had intelligence live, those that shall live and those who from the same fountain, they have com- have lived, will be judged, not accord- prehended, according to the positions ing to their peculiar theories, ideas, or which they have occupied, and so far 364 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. as revealed unto them, alike, whether tures here upon the earth, that the light, they were things pertaining to the living, effulgence, glory and intelligence that or the dead, or to the various kingdoms exists with him and with those by whom that exist in the eternal worlds, telestial, he is surrounded, has been little under- terrestrial or celestial as the case might stood by man upon the earth, grovel- be, and as it may have been revealed ing in the midst of darkness, weakness unto them; but no man in any age of the and imperfections. Combating contin- world has understood anything pertain- ually with evil and with the powers of ing to God and godliness only as it has the adversary it seems almost impossi- been revealed unto him by the Lord. "For ble for man to foster and maintain these what man knoweth the things of a man, high aspirations and feelings which the save by the spirit of a man which is in gospel alone can inspire, placing man in him? even so the things of God knoweth his true position before God, and caus- no man, but by the Spirit of God." And ing his anticipations and hopes to ascend hence it is impossible under certain cir- to those high, magnificent and glorious cumstances, for mankind to judge cor- principles that exist in the bosom of God, rectly of these principles. For although and in the bosom of those intelligences the Lord has given unto every man a por- with whom he is surrounded. Nothing tion of his Spirit to profit withal, no mat- but light and revelation, nothing save ter who he may be, or what clime he may the manifestations of the Spirit of God, live in, yet at the same time, if he does nothing but communication from him not improve upon this manifestation of can bring man into relationship with the Spirit of God, and cultivate correct him. It is impossible. And hence the the- principles, it would be impossible for him ories, wild notions, erratic views and pe- to comprehend the things of God. culiar feelings that prevail among men, Jesus, when upon the earth, said, yes, among the wisest of men—among "My sheep hear my voice, and know me statesmen, and kings, and emperors, and and follow me; but a stranger will they potentates, and governors, and rulers, as not follow, for they know not the voice well as among divines, priests and peo- of a stranger." It may appear singular, ple; and how different the sentiment! and it does to the minds of many when How widely apart are the religious be- they reflect upon the various dispensa- liefs, forms of worship and ordinances of tions of God to man, and the position all of them! What peculiar darkness is that the various nations of the earth manifested in relation to these things, have occupied in the different ages of in comparison to many other things with time. All men have knowledge, more which we are acquainted! or less, and feel a reverence for the Di- When we talk about practical mat- vine Being, which is manifested in var- ters of fact, the laws of nature and of ious terms of worship. But there are matter, the motions of this and other few men, comparatively, who have un- planets; or when we reflect upon the derstood correctly the relationship, that various organizations of matter, and of exists between God and man. Such man, and of the brute creation, we has been the power of the adversary, see and comprehend in part concerning and so profound has been the dark- the laws by which they are governed. ness of the human mind, and so great And although we may speak in differ- the disparity between God and his crea- ent languages, yet at the same time we THE HEAVENS, ETC. 365 arrive, in a great measure, at the same ries and notions; they are almost too conclusions in regard to most of these simple for them to bow unto. What is prominent facts; we agree in regard to it? Jesus said to his disciples in for- these matters. But when we come to Je- mer times, "Go ye into all the world, and sus and God, we are altogether dissim- preach the gospel to every creature. He ilar. What is the matter? We do not that believeth and is baptized shall be comprehend the law, we have not been saved; but he that believeth not shall taught by the same rules, the principles be damned." He gave unto them power of instruction are not within our reach, to lay their hands upon believers and we wander in the dark and act foolishly impart to them the Holy Ghost, which and ignorantly in relation to these mat- placed them in communion with God, ters. But if we were taught in these and whose faith, as we are told, "en- schools as we are taught in the schools tered within the veil; Whither Christ of science, and art, and literature, we their forerunner had gone." And still the could comprehend things alike; and not words that these men preached, as Jesus until we have a teacher, not until we himself expresses it in referring to the have those who are competent to teach, same thing, were not his own, but the Fa- who understand the laws of life and the ther that dwelt in him; he did the works. principles of salvation, can we, no matter And we are told that when those ancient what our intelligence otherwise may be. men of God preached, their words went Until then we shall have to grope in the with power and with much assurance, dark, live in the dark, and when we leave and the Spirit of God and with the Holy this world we must, according to the say- Ghost, to the convincing of those who de- ing of an eminent philosopher, "take a sired to know the truth and be governed leap in the dark." We comprehend noth- thereby. What was the result? This con- ing of our origin, of the object of our ex- fusion heretofore existing among them istence, or of our destiny; neither can we departed; they were no longer split up comprehend it unless God reveals it. into sects and parties, but, they had "One Lord, one faith, one baptism, and He has, as before stated, in different one God, the Father, of whom are all ages of time manifested his will to cer- things;" precisely the same as we have in tain individuals, and he has sent them all the works of nature, in all organized forth to make known his will to the matter. There are certain eternal, unal- human family. And they declare cer- terable, unchangeable laws by which it is tain principles, simple in themselves, yet governed; and no chemist or philosopher emanating from God, which are calcu- can change these laws; they are eternal, lated to enlighten, to impart intelligence; inexorable, and always produce the same to bring him into relationship with the results. Almighty, to give him a knowledge of We think these things correct upon God, of the Savior, of his own being and natural principles; why not in re- the object of God in creating the earth gard to these higher principles which and man upon it, and also of the destiny God has revealed to the human fam- of the earth, the world in which we live, ily? We read of men in former times and all its inhabitants. who said they gazed upon the Lord; These things, however, are almost they saw him, and his train filled too simple for the human mind, mys- the Temple. But says one, "I do tified and befogged by false theo- not believe it." Who cares whether you 366 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. do or not? That does not invalidate suppose I should want it to go in some the fact. Your ignorance in regard to other way, would it go? No. Should I these matters does not affect in the least, blame the maker then? Certainly not; the great truths of God. And unless in fact, you might consider me a fool you yourselves have had some revelation for not carrying out the maker's instruc- to show you that this statement is in- tions. And when God points out a path correct, it is foolishness in any man to whereby we can obtain a knowledge of dispute these principles thus communi- him and of his laws, that is the way to cated. We understand these things, hav- receive it, if we receive it at all. ing obeyed the law. What do you under- The laws of matter and of mechanism stand? What does man know? Nothing, are unchangeable, and so are the laws only some few principles pertaining to pertaining to life, and also the medium of the laws of nature. Who organized these communication between God and man. laws? That very being whom we affect And hence Paul, after speaking some to despise. Who organized the universe? time to a congregation that he was ad- Who makes this planet and other plan- dressing, said the words that we speak ets revolve in their several orbits, and by unto you, we speak by the power of God what influence and power are they gov- and by the Holy Ghost, and with much erned? By a power far greater than we assurance. And then in speaking of these know anything about. What can we do? things, he says, Ye are my witnesses. Where is there a philosopher that can or- Who? Those who received his word and ganize a blade of grass, or a grain of sand obeyed it. You are my witnesses, as also producing the material to make it from? is the Holy Ghost that bears witness of You cannot find them. The great Cre- us. He had the living witness within ator, who governs and regulates these him; and they among themselves had and other systems, has given a law to this evidence. And John, in speaking to man telling him how to approach him, some of his disciples said, "But ye have and showing him the means whereby he an unction from the Holy One, and ye can obtain intelligence from him; and he know all things." "Ye need not that any is able to carry out that law, for he com- man teach you: but the same anointing prehends it. And what is it? Why, "Re- teacheth you all things, and is truth, and pent, and be baptized every one of you is no lie." And in speaking to the people, in the name of Jesus Christ for the re- Paul said, "Which hope we have as an an- mission of sins, and ye shall receive the chor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, Holy Ghost." And what shall that do for and which entereth into that within the you? It shall take of the things of God veil; Whither the forerunner is for us en- and show them unto you. But you would tered." learn it in some other way, would you? This, Latter-day Saints, is your priv- You cannot do it. That is the way God ilege. You have embraced the same has appointed, and man may exert all Gospel; you have been baptized into his influences and bring into requisition the same baptism, have partaken of all his talents and powers, but he never the same hope, and are in posses- can obtain it only in the way which God sion of the same spirit. Do not al- has appointed. I have a watch. The man low your feelings to be overturned; do who made it tells me if I would keep it not give way to the follies and delu- going, I must wind it up every day. But sions of men, nor to the powers of OPPOSITION TO GOD, ETC. 367 darkness, but maintain your integrity brighter and brighter until the perfect before God in all fidelity; and live day. your religion, keeping the command- ments of God, and your faith will be God bless you and lead you in the as the faith of the just, that shines path of life, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
OPPOSITION TO GOD AMONG MANKIND—RELIGIOUS INTOLERANCE A CONSEQUENCE—INFIDELITY THE RESULT OF DEPARTURE FROM REVEALED ORDER—THE UNITED ORDER.
DISCOURSEBY COUNSELOR DANIEL H.WELLS, DELIVEREDINTHE PROVO MEETINGHOUSE,SATURDAY MORNING,JUNE 1, 1878.
REPORTEDBY JOHN C.GRAHAM, FROMTHE TERRITORIAL ENQUIRER.
There is an opposition to the Lord There will come a time, however, in the having on the earth a people, called by history of the Saints, when they will be his name and doing his will. It has tried with peace, prosperity, popularity been so from the beginning. The Lord and riches. never had a people who were received The world look with terror toward with open arms by the world, admired, that period when the Lord's purposes cherished and respected; on the con- in regard to building Temples predom- trary they have been persecuted or to- inates, when universal peace is estab- tally destroyed from off the earth. The lished, and the scepter of righteous- wicked have invariably prevailed over ness is wielded. The world would not the good; it might almost be said that like any religious power to predominate the first bad man killed the first good on the earth, and rightly, too, consid- man. The Latter-day Saints have had ering the tyranny and despotism that the same experience to pass through, have marked the history of religious and when a time of comparative peace rule. We find, in days past, that vari- has come around, as it has sometimes, ous religious influences have swayed the they are apt to ask, "What is the mat- scepter in a most unrighteous manner, ter? Have we lost our faith, that the made captive the human will, and men Adversary should thus let us alone?" have been forced to yield submission 368 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to the most oppressive measures. The Besides this intolerance there is an- religious wars have been more terrible other reason why religion has become in their effects, caused more bloodshed so distasteful to many people, and why and sorrow, than all the others put to- the nations have eschewed religion from gether. A gradual but sure relief from their councils. Because these teachers religious rule and dictation has been and professors of religion are without the brought about, until the nations of the knowledge of God, and their ideas and earth are made free. No wonder, then, doctrines have been so far different to that the people look with ill favor upon the written word, that reasonable peo- any one religious element gaining ascen- ple say, "Humbug!" and fly to the other dancy over the other. As the old staying extreme and become infidels. After wit- goes, "A burnt child dreads the fire." nessing the strife and variety of forms, In this country there is no religious and being unable to gain assurance from power predominating, but now that the such sources respecting the realities of kingdom of God is established this oppo- the future, they say, "We don't know any- sition is brought about and is felt even thing about it; we'll live good moral lives to a greater extent than before. The and all will be well." world is jealous of its growing power and, The greatest difficulty the elders hence, its bitter and unrelenting opposi- have to contend with in the world is this tion. So opposed have men been to the wide-spreading infidelity, brought about increase and spread of religion as a po- by the assumptions of so called religious litical power that in many places no per- teachers. Now, the Lord has restored his son holding a religious office has been Holy Priesthood, his mind and will—the permitted to hold a position of trust or glorious Gospel which is "the power of profit under the government. It was God unto salvation," and fearful of los- for this same reason that the name of ing what power they hold over the minds God is not mentioned in the Constitu- of men, these self-elected teachers and tion of the United States. The Puri- priests have combined to oppose it. Now, tan Fathers suffered from religious op- in order to understand the principles of pression, and rather than be made to the true and everlasting Gospel, we must bow the head or the knee when men- look at them by the spirit of God, for "the tioning the name of Jesus Christ, or be- things of God knoweth no man, except by ing compelled to place the cross on their the Spirit of God." A man cannot under- churches, as was and is still customary stand the things of man with the spirit with the Roman Catholic church, they of a horse or an ox; then how can a man sought elsewhere that toleration they understand the things of God except by could not obtain in their native land; the spirit of God—a higher grade of in- but singular to say, after the lapse of telligence. By that Spirit, the Bible, with time, when the colonies were founded, all its apparent inconsistencies, is made they were unwilling to accord unto oth- plain to the human mind. People have ers of different faiths to their own, that misconstrued, have turned the truth into religious freedom for which they them- lies and perverted the Gospel of Christ. selves had forsaken fatherland, and ex- When a Latter-day Saint has conformed pelled from the colonies all who differed to the ordinances of the Gospel and re- with them in a religious point of view. ceived the Holy Ghost, the Bible has OPPOSITION TO GOD, ETC. 369 seemed a new book to him, although, in for all positions of life. People can, his childhood he may have perused its through these agencies, acquire supe- pages over and over again. The light rior intelligence to administer in the and intelligence of the Spirit has beamed things of this world, and it must be done upon his understanding, so as to enable before the eternal riches are conferred him to form a just and correct conception upon this people, because the light of of its sacred truths. heaven is superior to that of the world. Through the great variety of forms, The kingdoms of this earth are to be- systems and creeds, infidelity has been come the kingdoms of our God and his brought about. The true plan, as re- Christ. I look for this government to vealed to the Latter-day Saints, is suf- come through the Holy Priesthood, and ficiently ample to save all men, but the to exercise power in temporal, political plans and creeds of men are not am- and all other things—a government that ple to any great extent, even if they will extend to all men their rights and were true. Take the Catholics, for in- privileges. stance; they consign to perdition all but Confusion reigns over the face of the themselves, contrary to the meaning of whole earth. Look at the combinations the term Catholic, which is universal; and warfare being waged one against but they have become sectarian. The another; capital against labor, and la- plan designed in our pre-existent state bor against capital, there are thousands has been ignored, but in this dispensa- of broad acres lying uncultivated, and tion it has been restored and we can see yet men are going without bread to eat. wherein it is ample to provide for the sal- We hear of organizations parading the vation of the children of men. It is to be streets, with banners on which are in- preached to all nations, and those who scribed the words, "Give us Bread, Labor will accept it may be redeemed and ex- or Blood!" There should be no strikes for alted. Then why should people be afraid higher wages—no strife between capital of the government of God? It is bound to and labor. The labor of men should com- come and rule. When it is established in mand a subsistence, and if everything is its greatness, glory and power it will be regulated, as it would be under the gov- the most efficient and complete govern- ernment of God, there would be no hard ment on the face of the earth. People are times, no complaints, no strikes, no war- afraid of the government of God, even fare. some Mormons (I will not say Latter-day Saints), lest some man or men get undue There is plenty of unoccupied land in authority. Some persons in the Church this country and any man can get a piece think that an Apostle or a Bishop has of it. "But," says one, "I have no team, no right to interfere in temporal things; nor seed to plant, and no money with that their business alone is to look after which to buy either. What can I do?" You the spiritual affairs, and their temporal can take up a piece of land, get your cit- affairs they can attend to themselves. It izenship papers; and the moment you do is very possible some of these men un- so, you have the right to file upon it, and derstand financial matters better than have two or three years in which to pay the servants of the Lord; but it should for the land. No other person can go to not be forgotten that the spirit of God the Land Office and take that land away and the Holy Priesthood will qualify men from you. In order to get a start, you 370 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. can work for your neighbor and for your of the people think that the Lord is not labor get the privilege of using his team, showing the signs of his coming; they get plough and seed, and afterwards attend disheartened; they expect to see some to it yourself. You have then bread great apostle come from heaven with the enough for yourself and family for one mysteries of the Kingdom. Now the year. A man, by this course, forms church and kingdom of God is to be built the nucleus of his prosperity, wealth up by our practical efforts. Industry and comparative independence. Subse- should be employed in Zion, and the la- quently he gathers around him the com- bor of the people ought to be put to the forts of life; he gets a cow, a pig or two, best possible practical use. This has ev- and a few chickens. This position in life erything to do with the kingdom of God, is much more self-reliant and indepen- and this is where we require revelations dent than employment by the day, week of God—to teach us how to build up his or the month in cities or overcrowded temporal work. We do not raise feed business centers. There, when a day's la- enough for our teams; we do not cultivate bor stops, the supply stops: but when you as much as we ought, and do not know have your own source of supply, and your how to cultivate that that we have. All labor temporarily fails, you still have these things should be known, as they plenty of grain, and other produce of the tend to the building up of the kingdom of farm by which you can get along. God. We require intelligence to guide the President Young gave more houses cultivating hand. I contend it is build- to the poor than all the societies in ing up God's kingdom to make a yard of the world, and laid the foundation of cloth, to build schoolhouses, to cultivate a great nation—a kingdom—even the the earth, and to practically apply every kingdom of God. All these stakes of conceivable plan of life necessary for our Zion are strengthening with the saints common subsistence; and in order to ac- of God. Is it the outsiders who come complish these things we must have in- here to Utah that build up the coun- telligence that comes from heaven—that try? No; the material prosperity of is, if we desire to exceed our fellows. Un- Zion is alone attributable to the labors til we know how to properly accomplish of the Saints, guided and directed by and apply all these things, the Lord will the Almighty. It is they who are to be never hand over to us the riches of the found in the nooks and corners—in all earth. As it is we have not sufficient directions—wherever there is a spring of the Spirit of the Lord to entitle us to or a bit of land—building up, making this great blessing. As soon as he finds the earth bring forth its products, and out he has got a people who will hold strengthening and enlarging the borders what he gives, he will bestow it, and of Zion. It does my heart good to see when he knows that they will apply it the settlements extending, even to the to his glory. Why could not we estab- remote corners of the Territory. Besides, lish the United Order among the peo- this class of the Latter-day Saints, who ple? Because we did not know how to are branching out and developing re- do so, and I have not seen a man who mote sections of the country, are gener- knew how, and for the reason that we ally the most faithful, hardworking and were not prepared to receive it. When industrious of the community. Some the Lord finds he has a people who will NO SALVATION IN IGNORANCE, ETC. 371 not give them over to the devil and waste luxuries; still we would suffer much in- them, then he will bestow the eternal convenience. There are a great many riches, but this will not be done, and can- things we would have to do without, and not be done consistently, until he has a if the thread were cut we would have to people who will use them for the glory of do a great many things that we now ne- his kingdom. glect to do. We should not be forever I think the Saints are on the road of dependent on Babylon. Call them little improvement. Their labors are being di- things if you please, but they are as es- rected to the welfare of Zion; but there sential to the building up of the kingdom is yet a great deal of unemployed labor as they are to any other kingdom on the that can be made available to that end. earth. Wickedness is permitted only to We should open up new industries, when try men and women—to prove their in- others fail to employ all the material at tegrity. If we could have learned and ac- command. When one branch is overdone, complished all things just as well in the open up another and thereby find the spirit world as here on the earth, do you means of employment for those in need think the Lord would have sent us to this of it. It has been thought that labor- world of sorrow and wickedness? Jesus saving machinery and railroads have in- had to pass through these ordeals, in or- jured us. It is not so; men should go der to get an exaltation. Then let us ap- at something else, and so keep on, con- ply our labors to the circumstances and stantly turning our attention to some- requirements which surround us, and thing that will pay better and accomplish serve God—if we believe there is a God— more. and use all our abilities for the accom- The time will come when the thread plishment of his purposes, that we may will be cut, but I think we could pass on to glory, and exaltation in his live if the thread were cut tomor- kingdom, which may God grant. Amen. row. We can produce everything, except perhaps what are called the
NO SALVATION IN IGNORANCE—REVELATION OF CALAMITY—THIS WORLD NOT A BAD ONE; SUITED TO ITS PURPOSE—UNBELIEF OF MANKIND—THE SAINTS WILL LIVE.
DISCOURSEBY ELDER CHARLES C.RICH, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY,JUNE 30, 1878.
REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.
I am thankful to have the oppor- nacle. I trust that I may be able to tunity of meeting with the Latter-day impart a few words of instruction to Saints, this afternoon in this Taber- you, inasmuch as I shall be assisted 372 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. so to do by the Holy Spirit; without this stimulate us to seek after that knowl- aid, I am aware that I would not be qual- edge and wisdom that come from God, ified to speak to your edification. which will enable us, under all circum- We have met this Sabbath day for the stances, to decide between right and purpose of offering up our Sacrament to wrong, and eventually lead us back to the Most High God, to worship him; and His presence. And, having attained to while we are thus engaged, let me re- a portion of that knowledge that we are quest you, my brethren and sisters, to seeking after, we are doubtless willing to call in the wanderings of your minds, and live according to and practice it in our implore His Holy Spirit to rest upon us, lives. For everything that is right and that our worship may be acceptable unto pleasing in the sight of God, is not likely the Lord, and truly beneficial unto our- to produce an evil; on the contrary, its selves; for, as we have learned, all bless- natural fruit is good. By doing right, by ings flow from Him, and that we are de- carrying out the will of God, we injure pendent upon him for every good thing nobody; but on the other hand, we are that we receive. then in a condition to bless and benefit We are a blessed people in having re- others. We have already demonstrated ceived a knowledge of the plan of sal- this fact. We all know that the more vation; for we are in a position to im- nearly we live to the Lord, the better we prove our condition, day by day, by the feel, and the greater the degree of happi- instruction we receive, inasmuch as we ness that exists in our midst, and we ex- are desirous to be found obedient to all ert an influence for good wherever we go. the requirements of God concerning us. I have known people whose religious be- We have commenced to walk the strait lief has led them to imagine that salva- and narrow way which, we are told, leads tion was not to be obtained short of what to the exaltation and continuation of the we term the spirit world. But we have lives, and few there be that find it. The learned that the principles of righteous- fact of our having found the way of life, ness produce happiness in this world as ought to inspire in our hearts a desire to well as in the world to come. learn all that is necessary for us to know So far as the religious world is con- in order to enable us to continue in the cerned it seems to be perfectly under- way, serving our God with all our hearts. stood by all classes and all denomina- I presume these are the feelings of my tions, that it makes but little differ- brethren and sisters present today. You, ence what mode of worship is chosen or doubtless, want to know what the Lord adopted, so that the individuals them- requires of us, in the hope of overcoming selves are suited; the idea as to whether every imperfection and folly, and every the service they aim to render Him be evil that we are subject to while in the acceptable and approved of him or not, flesh. does not seem to be worthy of their con- The Lord has told us in our day, sideration, in fact it is never questioned. through the mouth of his servant Joseph, There were many creeds existing that a man cannot be saved in ig- when the Savior was upon the earth, norance. This one item itself is having for the foundation of their very important for us to continually faith the Old Testament. Since his bear in mind, for it is calculated to day many have had, and do have an NO SALVATION IN IGNORANCE, ETC. 373 existence, and the saying of the Savior according to his will, if done in some is just as applicable today as when he other way, he will not approve of it. The spoke it. "Strait is the gate, and narrow ordinances pertaining to his holy Tem- is the way, which leadeth unto life, and ples must be performed only as he has di- few there be that find it." Jesus told it rected, and in the place that he has com- precisely as it is, and he knew whereof he manded, unless the Lord reveals other- spoke. The Christian world, as a whole, wise. This is consistent with reason. If will find when they get through with this we, for instance, employ people to serve life, that this, as well as many other say- us, we want to dictate their labors, and ings and teachings of the Savior, is full we want them to do just as we wish of significance, and they will find out, them, and not as they may desire to do. too, that it is true, a truth that cannot And how much more so with our heav- be changed or done away. It is not ev- enly Father. If our services be not ac- erybody that will find the gate, neither ceptable to God, we are not serving him; will the creeds of men nor the notions of then whose servants are we? Says the men enable them to find it. God him- Savior, "He that gathereth not with me self has a voice in the matter; he has scattereth abroad." And again, "He that provided the way, it is according to his is not for me, is against me." And the appointment, which is no more or less Apostle Paul says, "Know ye not, that than the plan devised and foreordained to whom ye yield yourselves servants in the heavens and before the founda- to obey, his servants ye are to whom tions of the earth. This Gospel plan can- ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or not be changed or altered; it is the "nar- of obedience unto righteousness?" There- row way" and the only way by which man fore, my brethren, let us duly consider can serve God acceptably. If, therefore, the importance of this, fearing the ser- it be according to the plan that men, in vices we do may not be of "obedience order to become bearers of his message, unto righteousness," and consequently should first themselves obey certain un- lost unto us, and prove to be in oppo- changeable requirements, and then be sition to the will of our heavenly Fa- commissioned of him, before they could ther. We must conform our will unto be authorized to preach his word and his will; the Savior himself did this, and will to their fellow men, and thereby he sought to do no more, nor no less. become virtually his servants, such re- And if we serve him acceptably it must quirements must be complied with, it be as he is pleased to direct, not as we will never do for individuals who dis- might please unless we please to do as regard these requirements and who are he wishes us to do. wholly unauthorized of him, to go forth When we understand the true posi- and act as ministers sent of God to de- tion we occupy as the children of God, clare the way of life to the children of and not of this world, we shall find that men. Neither would it answer for per- we occupy a peculiar position. sons to accept the doctrines of these men, We have to learn something, and however popular and acceptable to man we have to learn through the proper they may be, for God, with whom all of channel what the Lord requires of us; us have to do, will not countenance them. and when we have learned this, we The service we render him must be done must be ready and willing to comply with it, whatever it may be. And if 374 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the world did but know it, this is the required of us, and we have the power mission given unto us to this earth, that to do it; and if we do not do it, surely we might learn, in this earthly School, we shall be found wanting. In compar- things we could not learn elsewhere. ison, we will be like unto the foolish vir- And in order that we may learn cor- gins whose lamps had gone out, and who, rectly we must be willing to be taught by when the time came for them to appear those who are competent to teach, and ready to go forth to meet the Bridegroom, we must accept and study the lessons whom they were waiting for, found they provided for us. had no oil in their lamps; and while Nearly half a century ago, when the they were seeking to renew their stock, Lord first commenced to reveal the prin- the bridegroom came and they were too ciples of salvation to us his children, he late to meet him. There are a great began to tell us what was coming upon many things pertaining to us, Latter-day the earth; he predicted the overthrow of Saints, that should occupy our serious the kingdoms of this world, and he com- attention. It is an easy matter to make missioned and sent forth his servants to mistakes unless we are very careful; and bear testimony of his second coming and if we do make mistakes we will find our- reign on the earth. He told us of earth- selves more or less injured, and astray quakes, of famine and pestilence, and from the right path, and devoid of that of other judgments that must eventu- portion of the Holy Spirit that we other- ally overtake the wicked in their unrigh- wise might enjoy. teousness, and that was said at a time when the world was crying peace. But So far as this world is concerned, people are as blind concerning the fulfill- some people look upon it as a horrid ment of prophecy in these days as they world, a world full of pain, sorrow and were anciently, when the Savior said of suffering. I do not regard it as such. I them, "they seeing see not; and hear- consider it a blessed world, a glorious ing they hear not, neither do they under- world, which affords us very many priv- stand." Such has been the condition of ileges. What other place is there besides all generations, notwithstanding the rev- this world where we can obtain remis- elations, given to them have been plain sion of sins? That ordinance belongs to and positive, and many have been ful- this life and this world and to no other. filled and many are being fulfilled. As And a great many things pertaining to it was with the overthrow of the Jews, this world we can do here, but which so will it be in these last days. The we cannot do after we pass behind the Lord will fulfil his word, and he will ful- veil. If we attend to the duties of this fil all that he has said concerning his life in the time and season thereof, not coming, whether we are prepared or not. leaving undone anything which we are He will overturn the kingdoms of this able to do, all will be well with us here- world, and will establish his kingdom, after; but if we fail in the performance and the world of mankind cannot pre- of our duties here, we certainly shall re- vent it. It is for us to prepare ourselves gret and perhaps mourn our negligence for the dispensation of his providences when we shall have passed away; and by doing right, not by thinking so, or besides we shall then have to depend guessing so, or may be so, but by know- upon others to do things in our behalf, ing what is right. We have the opportu- which we might have done ourselves. Let nity to learn what right is, and what is us improve our opportunities here, and NO SALVATION IN IGNORANCE, ETC. 375 appreciate them as fully we ought to. We are called upon now to build Tem- They are great and glorious, and if we ples. I can say with great pleasure that, not make a good use of them, we will so far as my knowledge extends among certainly be sorry when we pass away, the Latter-day Saints, that they, as a and what makes it more serious is that whole, are willing to perform this la- we do not know when, if ever, we shall bor. We have, through the goodness cease to be sorry. This probation is short, and mercy of God, learned that Tem- and when we shall have done everything ples are for an important use, and that in our power to do, using our very best without them we cannot, in our present exertions to fulfil every obligation and condition, receive certain blessings nec- duty, we shall then no more than be pre- essary to our salvation and exaltation pared. The more we learn and under- in the Kingdom of God. Why so? Be- stand pertaining to the things of God, cause the Lord has ordained that those the more sensible we will become of the blessings shall be administered in such importance of being careful and deter- places, and which, if not performed as he mined, on our part, never to yield to has directed, are without effect. These the spirit of indifference or be guilty of are things that we understand, because committing an act that is wrong. We the Lord has enlightened us through should be astonished if a messenger from his Holy Spirit. It has been a common the eternal world could be influenced to saying in the world that the Latter-day commit an act of folly or wrong. As Saints were led blindly of the Prophet saints of God we ought to be so firm, Joseph; after his death it was said they and have that determination, in connec- were the dupes of the Prophet Brigham; tion with our knowledge, that we could and now it may be said that we yield not be moved by any influence or power blind obedience to President Taylor. But, to do a wrong, however trivial. What is as Latter-day Saints, we understand it is at stake in regard to this matter? Ev- every man's privilege and every woman's erything so far as our exaltation is con- privilege to know for themselves that cerned. This is something that we should these men were and still are servants of think of and bear in mind in all our as- the living God, and that it is, therefore, sociations and situations in life, being God who leads and directs them. And if careful and cautious that we do not pro- any belonging to this church are not sat- duce an evil that will live longer than we isfied on this point, it is because they are do. Seeing that we are all the time sub- not living up to their privileges; and to ject to temptation, and consequently to all such, if there be any, I would say it is do wrong, we ought to be determined in time you were obtaining this knowledge; our own hearts, never to allow any wrong it is time that every man and woman, that we may do to live longer than we claiming membership in the church and do; let us see that no evil, however small, kingdom of God, were enabled to rise finds place in our hearts; but rather cul- up and bear testimony to the world, tivate the good fruit in all of our as- if necessary, that they do know that sociations in this life, feeling thankful God has set his hand to build up his that we have the privilege of laboring kingdom, and that it has been estab- for the cause of right and truth, and lished in the earth in our day, and that of developing these principles within us. we have been permitted to receive it. 376 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.
When we can bear this testimony, it will righteous have been saved, and the dis- not be, "I guess so," or "may be so;" but it obedient destroyed. And we know that will be "Verily, thus saith the Lord." he will bring to pass all that has been I can say now, as I have often said spoken by the mouth of his servants, before you and before the world, that whether the world believe or not. And, as I know for myself that God has estab- the people of God, who have been simple- lished his kingdom on the earth in these minded enough to receive the message days, and that he requires obedience to he has sent unto us, we have the con- the laws of his kingdom and that he not solation of knowing that while wicked- only requires it, but that it is our duty ness and abomination and all who de- to willingly and gladly submit to his will light therein, will be swept away from whatever it may be, for he can require the earth, according to the decree of the nothing of us only that which will be for Almighty, his saints, with their children, our good, and that, too, which we must will live to increase and spread abroad perform in order to purify ourselves to and ultimately fill the whole earth. Let enter into the Celestial kingdom. "Well," us cultivate within us the knowledge of one may say, "But the world do not be- God, by living according to the light we lieve it." I know the world did not be- have received; and let us ever appreciate lieve Noah, when he preached unto them the privileges that this world affords us for the space of 120 years that if they of learning good and evil, and of being did not receive his testimony, the Lord able to distinguish between that which would send a flood of water upon them. is right and that which is wrong. We The world did not believe Jesus the Son have the power, if faithful, to overcome of God, when he told them the future evil and opposition and all the powers of Jerusalem. I know, too, that, so far of darkness, and of sanctifying ourselves as history informs us, the world never before the Lord through his truth, and of has received the testimonies of the ser- preparing ourselves while on this earth vants of God, neither do they believe now to inherit his glorious presence in the what is being preached to them by his world to come. servants. But for all that the Lord has That this may be our happy lot, is my always fulfilled his word, and by it the prayer in the name of Jesus. Amen.