JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

IDEAS HELD BY THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS WINNING THEIR WAY—TERRITORIAL PROSPERITY—"MORMONISM" NOT FAVORED OF THE GOVERNMENT—LATTER-DAY SAINTS TO SAVE THE GOVERNMENT—GOOD COUNSEL ON MANY POINTS.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDATTHE ANNUAL CONFERENCE, SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY MORNING APRIL 7, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

It is somewhat unexpected to myself and will be poured out upon us. It is a that I have the opportunity, this morn- great relief to one who has been absent ing, of appearing in your midst. Impor- for any length of time, mingling with the tant business demanded my return to world, to have the opportunity of asso- this city for a short time; but in conse- ciating with you, my brethren and sis- quence of certain responsibilities devolv- ters; at least I esteem it as such. I never ing upon me at Washington, it seemed turn my face homewards without experi- imprudent for me to leave and come encing joy and gladness at the thought of here. A week ago last Friday morning once more being reunited with you. I scarcely thought it possible that I could get away; but during the day I was fa- I never in my life have had a deeper vored in making such arrangements that interest in the welfare, in the pros- I felt I could leave with safety, for a few perity and in the advancement of the days at least. And I immediately started cause with which we are identified, than for this city by way of Philadelphia. at the present time. This feeling has I am glad to have the opportu- rested with great weight upon my mind; nity of meeting with so many of I feel we are living in a most im- my brethren and sisters, of beholding portant era of time. I feel that the your faces, of listening to the instruc- mission assigned unto us is one that tions which have been given, and in we, at the present time, scarcely be- sharing in the spirit that has been gin to comprehend. The most important 2 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. results that are to flow from it have nated, have had a wonderful effect upon scarcely begun to dawn upon our minds. the human mind throughout Christen- At least personally this is my feeling. dom. If those of you who have had ex- When I contemplate the immensity of perience in the world, who have arrived the field of labor that lies before us, the at middle age, will let your minds revert evils and wrongs that have to be cor- to the time when you first heard these rected, as I believe, through the agency principles, and will compare the condi- of this people, as also the reforms that tion of human thought at that time with have to be effected and to be carried out the condition of human thought today, successfully, it seems to me that as the I doubt not you will agree with me in days roll around, I begrudge the passing saying that, although men and women hours; I feel as though the days are en- have not become Latter-day Saints, nor tirely too short, and that I should like to have the mass of mankind received the live for a millennium to help those with religious truths in their entirety, as they whom I am associated to bring to pass were taught by Joseph, and as they have the great, the important, the soul-saving been taught by those who succeeded as well as body-redeeming plans that are him, yet there has been a very visible to be carried out in order to bring to pass and a marked advancement by men and the designs of Providence in relation to women all over the world wherever the man and the earth. Elders of this Church have traveled. So Already the Latter-day Saints can see that it is not in the baptism of people, that the leaven that has been planted it is not in the gathering of the people by the Gospel has been doing a grad- together alone that we are accomplish- ual work in effecting important changes. ing great results; but it is in teaching It may be thought of a people confined the world the principles that God has re- to these mountains, numbering no more vealed to us, and gradually indoctrinat- than we do, that our influence must ing the mind of mankind, to some ex- be necessarily very limited, and that tent at least, uplifting them from the we can accomplish but very little. But prejudices and the darkness and the ig- the ideas that have been propagated norance in which they have been en- by the Latter-day Saints, though they shrouded to a higher plane, to breathe have not converted as many to our faith a purer and a freer spirit of inquiry in as they should have done, have had a religious and scientific thought. Much, most wonderful influence upon the re- however, remains to be done, and it de- ligious, the philosophic and the scien- volves upon us, as a people, to discharge tific world. Ideas that men now believe our duty, each one of us, as though the in and receive readily, Joseph Smith entire responsibility devolved upon us. was persecuted and denounced for pro- And herein, probably, there is as much claiming. And while there are mil- fault to be found with us as upon any lions who do not believe that he was other point—a non-recognition by the a Prophet of God, or that the prin- Latter-day Saints of the fact that God ciples he taught were revealed from holds us, each one of us, individually re- God, there is no mistaking the fact that sponsible; for there is assigned unto ev- his teachings, that the truths he ad- ery man and every woman an individ- vanced, and the ideas which he dissemi- ual labor which he and she must per- IDEAS HELD, ETC. 3 form. For myself, I know that the influ- selves from their financial difficulties, ence of one man rightly exercised is po- Utah Territory occupies, it may truly be tent for good; or, if improperly exercised, said, the unique position of being out for evil, upon his fellow man. Each man's of debt: no Territorial debt to speak of, life, each man's conversation, each man's no county debts. Notwithstanding the deportment and walk before his fellow innumerable temptations that have ex- man, wields an influence that he most isted, and that our officers might have probably does not begin to comprehend, succumbed to, we are, I am happy to say, or understand. And if we all understood free from debt, and also the most lightly this, and acted accordingly, living up taxed community now within the con- to the light and knowledge we possess, fines of the government. When I men- just think of the influence that we, as a tioned these facts to President Hayes, he united body, could wield among the in- remarked: "Your position is certainly an habitants of our land, and in fact among enviable and unique one." This is con- the inhabitants of the whole earth. ceded upon all hands. In our own neigh- boring territories, take, for instance, I look upon our position, politically, as Wyoming, the people of which are justly one that is most important, far more im- proud of their position, because they portant than that of any other commu- have comparatively little debt; yet their nity with which I am acquainted. To- taxes are 2 1/2 higher than ours; and day it is conceded upon all sides, and so with all our neighboring territories. the fact is not disputed by intelligent Our percentage of illiteracy is lower than persons, that the Latter-day Saints, or, that of any of the territories, and also to speak more properly, the people of than many of the states; not but that the Utah Territory, occupy a position supe- illiteracy of Utah ought to be lower still, rior to that of any other Territory within for there is room for great improvement the confines of the Union. This is con- in matters of education. We have 1,200 ceded. And for temperance, for frugal- miles of telegraph line owned in this Ter- ity, for economy, for good government ritory; we have upwards of 300 miles of and for submission to the law (if I may local railroad, not counting the Union except that relating to plural marriage, and Central Pacific railroads. This is the which is in violation of the constitu- condition of this Territory. If we take tion, and which was passed as a blow the statement of the last Federal cen- at our religion), for the honest admin- sus respecting our population, and ap- istration of financial and governmental ply the ratio of increase during the pre- affairs, for the preservation of good or- vious decade—that is the increase from der and the maintenance of peace, and 1860 to 1870—to the last eight years, it for the promotion of education; on all will be seen that Utah has a population of these points, it is conceded if we are of at least 150,000. But our ratio of in- not superior, at least we are the equals, crease has been greater during the last of any other people of our Republic. eight years than the previous ten. The While the eastern states are burdened States are divided into Congressional with debt and groaning under local tax- districts, at the present time, with a pop- ation, with failures of no mean magni- ulation numbering about 135,000; that is tude occurring continually, and men not to say, a district having a population of knowing what to do to redeem them- that number is entitled to a member of 4 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Congress. In this Territory our popula- as it is, we will apply the same rule tion is in excess of that number. No Ter- and divide 150,000 by five; how many ritory has ever applied for admission into does it leave? Thirty thousand. We will the Union with so many advantages as say there are thirty thousand men in ours. In 1789, the Federal Constitution Utah Territory who have attained their was adopted, and we became a consoli- majority, and one-tenth of this num- dated Republic. This was 89 years ago. ber are polygamists, What do we have We have lived in this country upwards left? Three thousand men. And for of one-third of that time. It might be three thousand men, the Congress of thought, then, that with such a length- the United States say that the bulk of ened experience and advantages, with the people shall not have their political such capacity for self-government, with rights. Does it not seem as though by such a developed and lightly taxed Ter- the action of Congress in this respect, ritory, with such good order and free- that they are uplifting a doctrine com- dom from debt, that Utah would be wel- paratively obscure, when you take into comed into the union of states. Why consideration the forty millions of peo- are we not? Because we are "Mormons." ple that live under the flag of the United That embodies the whole reason. If we States—and giving it national impor- were split up into factions, if we were tance? This is one of the most extraor- fighting, party against party, if drink- dinary instances of fatuity that I ever ing saloons and houses of ill fame were recollect reading of in any history; yet through all our settlements, and if we such a thing is done, and this is the only were heavily in debt, not having even reason that can be truthfully and cor- the requisite population, and were not rectly assigned for the refusal, on the "Mormons," we would be admitted into part of the nation, of admitting Utah as the union of states. What is the rea- a State. In spite of all we can say and do, son assigned for it? "We do not want there seems to be a determination to give to countenance polygamy. If we admit this doctrine of plural marriage a na- Utah, we sanction, to a certain extent, tional and a worldwide importance, like polygamy." This is the reason assigned. everything else connected with this peo- Suppose, for instance, that one man of ple. It has been advertised and talked every ten among these "Mormons" is a of as though it might be the practice of polygamist, are there any more than twenty millions of people, instead of that that? If there are I do not know it. I of three or four thousand men. have never taken the census, but in the range of my personal acquaintance, as I Now, I say that we have to teach the have scanned them, I think that there world a lesson in this direction. A people are not one-tenth of the men in this Ter- patiently pursuing their course, with- ritory who have attained their majority out murmuring, without rebelling, with- who are polygamists. And we will say out rising in riotings, when receiving a there are 150,000 people in the Terri- denial of their legitimate and constitu- tory, how many of them are men? If tional rights. Such a spectacle as this is we apply the same rule of ascertaining worthy of admiration, especially when it this that we do to other communities— is understood that not an officer within and it will not apply to ours be- the confines of our Territory can hold cause our children are in excess; but an office of Federal appointment, if it IDEAS HELD, ETC. 5 be known that he is a "Mormon," or constituency; and who is looked upon as scarcely if it be known that he is even fa- a man of national reputation, and who, vorable to the "Mormons." As soon as the in his private life, is considered most ex- office of Postmaster becomes worth hold- emplary, for no other reason than that he ing, the Mormon Postmaster, who may was mingling with the "Mormon" people, have held it when it did not pay him for treating them as his fellow citizens, was his labor, is turned out and somebody removed from office. else is put in. The Marshal, the Secre- tary, the Governor, and Judges and all of I allude to these things not to find the Federal officials were appointed dur- fault particularly, not to embitter your ing the last administration from those feelings because of treatment you have who were known to have no sympathy received, this is not my motive; but to with the "Mormons." It was as much as call to your attention the fact that among our present Governor could recently do other things we have to teach this na- to retain his position, because he was tion and show to the whole world is that, accused of favoring the "Mormons," be- although largely in the majority in this cause it was believed that he favored a Territory, we have learned the great and people he was sent to govern. This is most important lesson that a citizen can most extraordinary when you think of it; and should learn, namely, that of obe- but the most surprising thing connected dience. I am glad that this is the case. with it is, that the people thus imposed I am glad to know that the Latter-day upon should bear it with the forbear- Saints are setting an example to their ance and equanimity that the Latter- fellow citizens all through the union in day Saints manifest, under these cir- this respect. Will this continue? Shall we cumstances. continue to live as we are living today— You remember our last Governor. He denied rights to which we are entitled? started out thinking he had been sent We shall, doubtless, for a time, until, here to govern this Territory and the in the Providence of the Almighty, we people of the Territory as his fellow cit- shall be enabled to assume the position izens. He was disposed not to know that rightfully belongs to us, and receive the difference between a Mormon and a those rights to which we are fully enti- non-Mormon; he was disposed to travel tled. The time will come, and it is not through the Territory and mingle with far distant—although we may occasion- the people, attend their public gather- ally get tired waiting, and may ask our- ings, and talk to them, as he would were selves, how long will it be delayed—but he in any other place. This he did, and it let me say to you that the signs of the was brought against him as a crime, as times portend for us a much greater de- a reason why he should not continue to gree of liberty than we possess today, hold office. And an important official no or even than we have dared to antici- less a person than the Assistant Secre- pate. And as I have said often—for I tary of the Interior, was sent to find out have never failed to declare it—that the whether these things were really true. Latter-day Saints or "Mormons" as we And this officer of the government, a gen- are called, expect it to be their destiny to tlemen, who is acknowledged to be effi- uphold constitutional liberty on this con- cient, and who had served three terms in tinent, and to preserve our government Congress with credit to himself and his and the forms thereof from overthrow 6 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. and destruction. I have been taught from bare thought of their repetition. Had my boyhood that this was to be the des- it not been that the great civil war had tiny of the Latter-day Saints, and this been so recent, and the recollection of its people have been trained in the same be- horrors was so vivid, especially among lief, and we train our children to look for- the Southern people, undoubtedly there ward to it, and to cherish the love of civil would have been a conflict of arms before and religious liberty in their hearts, tol- the President could have been seated in eration for all men of every creed, of ev- the presidential chair. But men shrank ery nation, of every language and of ev- from the dreadful arbitrament of war ery color, that all the sons and daughters and they preferred to submit even to of Adam, without exception, who dwell what they believed to be wrong, agree- upon this broad land, may enjoy the in- ing to a compromise as being better than estimable blessing of liberty, and that war. it will be our favored and honored des- Our position, as a people, in many re- tiny, in the course of human events, un- spects, is one for which we can be ex- likely as it may appear today to be the ceedingly thankful. We can congratu- case, to preserve constitutional liberty in late ourselves that we are in these moun- this land, which God has said shall be a tains, a land of liberty, a land of free- land of liberty to all those who are righ- dom. No man, that is a man, can breathe teous who dwell thereon. I have said, this air and be a slave. When he looks and I firmly believe, that the day will upon those towering mountains, lifting most assuredly come when the people of their grand and lofty peaks to heaven, these mountains will become a great fac- and he breathes the pure air of freedom, tor in the settlement of differences, in and his lungs expand with it, he feels as the preservation of human rights in the though he never could bow to slavery, nor future, in the great contests which seem his children after him. There is a race ready to burst upon us at any moment. springing up in these mountains whose You contemplate the condition of the influence and power, sooner or later, East today! The elements of destruction must be felt in shaping the future of this are widespread in society, and instead of nation. There need be no fear about this. being smothered and allayed, they are Let us pursue the course marked out for more or less fostered and harbored, and us, submitting, if necessary, to wrong, are fast maturing; and when certain con- but never failing to protest and contend, tingencies arise, they are likely to burst nevertheless against it; let our contin- forth, and that, too, to the death and mis- ued protest go forth, that we understand ery of many souls. Think of the feeling our rights, and that we are disposed to that existed thirteen months ago, when maintain them, as far as we can with- it was not known who would be the Pres- out violence. Let us continue to pursue ident of the United States, or whether our course patiently and unitedly, pre- we would have another President or senting an unbroken front to the enemy, not. That was a time when the mem- having no traitors within, no factions, no ories of the late war were forced upon strifes or bickerings, burying our little the attention of earnest and thought- piques and feelings, having the one great ful men. They remembered the blood and grand object to accomplish, namely, and sacrifices and dreadful horrors of the establishment of truth and righ- that struggle, and they shrank from the teousness upon the earth, that eventu- IDEAS HELD, ETC. 7 ally a place and people may be found young men growing up in our midst who worthy of Him who will come, and whose ought to be, but are not married. While right it is to reign. And in pursuing faith- I do not make the remark to apply to in- fully and diligently the course which God dividual cases, I am firmly of the opin- has marked out, you may depend upon ion that a large number of unmarried it that the day star will arise, and the men, over the age of twenty-four years, dawn of that glorious day will be wit- is a dangerous element in any commu- nessed by all that share and engage in nity, and an element upon which society this labor. But how many labors de- should look with a jealous eye. For every volve upon us, and how they accumu- man knowing himself, knows how his fel- late and crowd upon us. The labor of low man is constituted; and if men do not lifting up the people and uniting them, marry, they are too apt to do something furnishing suitable work for the unem- worse. Then, brethren, encourage our ployed and for our sons and daughters, young men to marry, and see that they that there may be no idleness in our are furnished employment, so that they land, that there may be no need of any can marry. Union societies to be organized, arraying And then there is the education of labor against capital. How necessary it our children. O, that we could bestow is that we should listen to the words of upon them, in every sense of the word, wisdom and instruction which have been a proper education, so that they might given, counseling us to so organize our- become the peers of any people. Our selves and arrange our temporal affairs, children are noted for their brightness of that there may not be a single individ- intellect. Teachers say, who come from ual throughout our land, who desires to the east and the west, they never saw work, go unemployed, but that all may children receive knowledge with more have this blessed privilege, for when men ease than the children of these moun- labor they keep out of mischief. You re- tains do. We should take all the pains member the old proverb—"An idle man's in our power to educate our children, brain is the devil's workshop." We want furnishing them the best facilities, that to banish idleness, how shall we do it? our daughters and sons may be educated By organizing, and every President of and accomplished. And at the same time Stake and every Bishop making it the teach them to labor. I tell my daughters study and object of his life to furnish that I want them to learn to wash, and employment to every man under his im- sew, and cook, and become the best of mediate presidency who may desire it. housewives; and that I do not care then And thus we will preserve ourselves, how much else they may know about mu- and our sons will find employment at sic and other accomplishments, that they home, instead of scattering abroad, go- may be fitted to mingle with and feel at ing hither and thither: and our daugh- home in the best society. Girls as well as ters, too, will then find husbands who boys ought to be so trained as to confer will be in a position to maintain them dignity upon labor; and the idea, preva- honorably and properly, and thus mar- lent among some people, that because riage be promoted in the land. Our boys, girls are accomplished they are spoiled when they arrive at years of maturity and unfitted for labor, or to do house- and can take care of a wife, should get work, ought to be frowned down. married, and there should not be a lot of Let us think of these things after 8 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. we separate and go to our homes; and bless this people, how can we elevate let us endeavor to carry in our breasts them and make these multitudes of chil- the spirit of this Conference, and dif- dren growing up in our midst more use- fuse the same among the people not ful, so that they can be ornaments to so- present. And let us so live that the ciety? desire may continually well up in our hearts, not how can we aggrandize our- I pray the Lord to bless us and pre- selves, but how can we enrich this serve us in the truth, in the name of Je- community, how can we benefit and sus. Amen.

INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE—APPARENT MIRACLES EASILY PERFORMED WHEN NECESSARY—DISOBEDIENCE BRINGS CALAMITY—FULFILLMENT OF PROPHECY.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, SUNDAY AFTERNOON,JUNE 23, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I will call the attention of the con- der the soles of your feet in the day that gregation to a portion of a prophecy by I shall do this, saith the Lord of hosts." Malachi, which will be found in the last On arising, and on opening the Bible, chapter of the Old Testament. I happened to open to the words which "For, behold, the day cometh, that I have just read, which were spoken shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, through Malachi, one of the last of the yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be ancient Prophets. They are words very stubble: and the day that cometh shall familiar to the Latter-day Saints, for burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, their attention has been often called that it shall leave them neither root nor to them. In reading the prophecies branch. of the holy Prophets, we expect that "But unto you that fear my name that portion of them which has not shall the Sun of righteousness arise with already been fulfilled, will take place healing in his wings; and ye shall go in its time and in its season. We forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. do not read the Scriptures as most of "And ye shall tread down the the inhabitants of the earth do, think- wicked; for they shall be ashes un- ing that they must be spiritualized. INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE, ETC. 9

There are scarcely any of the prophe- never think of putting a different con- cies but what this generation, as well as struction upon their sentences, and some of the past generations, interpret claim that they did not mean what they as meaning something altogether differ- had written. When, therefore, the an- ent from the reading of them. They look cient Prophets predicted that "the day upon inspired men as saying one thing cometh, that shall burn as an oven," and meaning another, and the only way and that "the proud, yea, and all that to ascertain what meaning they really do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the wish to convey is to get an uninspired day that cometh shall burn them up, man to give some other meaning entirely saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall different from the literal construction of leave them neither root nor branch"— the words of the inspired writer. There we must believe that the Prophet meant are but few individuals, comparatively precisely what he said. When we read speaking, among the nations of Chris- in the Book of Genesis about the rains tendom, who differ from the prevalent which fell from the heavens, causing a belief, namely, that the Bible is a book flood of waters to deluge the earth, in to be understood only by the learning fulfillment of a certain warning message and wisdom of man, that the uninspired which had previously been preached to preacher, who may be highly educated the people then living, by which they after the manner of men, is a great deal were swept away and drowned, we must better qualified to interpret the things of believe that the inspired writer who God, than he or they through whom they penned the words, described the event as were spoken. The Latter-day Saints, it occurred, so far at least as the gen- who may have been similarly trained, eral facts are concerned, and that the were more or less disposed to entertain flood spoken of was a literal body of wa- such views; but when they embraced ter, and that it did prevail upon all por- the everlasting Gospel, and received of tions of the earth. I do not say that the Holy Ghost, even that Spirit by the flood did prevail, at the same mo- which the Scriptures were written, they ment, upon all the face of the earth; were corrected in their judgments, and but before the floods abated, every part learned that the word of God would all be of the solid portions of the earth that fulfilled, which have not already come to were habitable, were covered by the wa- pass, and that they are to be understood ters. How this was accomplished is not in the same light, and in the same sense given by the inspired writer, but is left as we would understand the writings for us to conjecture. The Lord has a of uninspired individuals, when plainly great many ways and means by which and clearly written upon any special sub- he could bring about an event of this na- ject. This is something that every ordi- ture. For instance, how easy it would narily intelligent man, without any book be to drown all the inhabitants of the learning whatever, is abundantly able temperate and arctic regions, by just to do, especially when simple language, merely stopping the earth from rotat- easy of comprehension, is used. For in- ing on its axis. Unless there should stance, when we get letters and commu- be another miracle performed to prevent nications from our friends abroad, we the waters that are heaped up around the equatorial regions from flowing 10 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to the polar regions, they would neces- of the earth. There are various ways sarily, as the earth began to cease or ro- by which this could be accomplished. tate more slowly in its axial revolutions, How did the Lord cause fire in ancient cause the waters of the equatorial region times to break out among the children to flow towards the two polar regions. of Israel, when they transgressed his It is an easy matter for a mathemati- holy laws, and when they murmured and cian to demonstrate the depth of the wa- complained against God? Fire was sent ters in any part or latitude of our globe, forth from his presence we are told, and should such an event take place or hap- rested upon the tabernacle; he was in the pen. The waters in receding from the tabernacle, and his cloud was over the great equatorial region would cover up tabernacle; and fire went forth from this the great mountains on our east, and we, center, or the place where the Lord chose in this altitude, would be buried under to manifest and show forth his glory, and water at least over a mile in depth. I do it destroyed many of the people. You not say that this was the manner which may say, "But this was a supernatural the Lord took in "breaking up the foun- fire that proceeded from the presence tains of the great deep." There may have of God, from the tabernacle, consum- been other causes unknown to us; but ing thousands of transgressors." I would to say there never was such an event is ask, cannot the same Being who was something entirely unwarranted. Still, able to produce this destruction by fire it may be said, this would not cover all upon a few thousand individuals cause the solid portion of the earth, but leave it to be more extensive and more uni- the equatorial land still further elevated versal in its operation? Has he not the above the ocean, and if all the lands of same power to produce a supernatural the earth were to be under water, how fire over all the earth; even to the con- could that be accounted for? Very eas- suming of "all the proud, yea, and all ily. Cause the earth to rotate on its axis that do wickedly;" burning them up lit- more swiftly than what it now does, say erally, their bodies becoming as "ashes," for instance, in one-half the time—in 12 as a farmer would set fire to and burn hours instead of 24—and you would bury up the stubble of his fields? Well, you up all the equatorial lands of our globe. say, "If we admit that the first was su- How easy a matter it would be for the pernatural, that God did actually burn Lord to cause the earth to rotate more the transgressors among Israel by fire, swiftly, and then again to rotate more we are willing to admit that the same Be- tardily, and produce the effects ascribed ing that could do this upon a small scale, to the flood. could perform a similar work on a uni- versal scale." That is very reasonable to When therefore, we read that the admit. But then, perhaps the Lord may earth was once depopulated, except a not see proper to do this work of burn- few individuals, who were saved in ing in the latter days altogether upon a the ark, why should it be thought a supernatural principle; he may, perhaps, thing incredible that the Lord should bring it about by certain physical forces again depopulate our globe, not by a or laws, by certain changes that may be flood, but by devouring fire. It may wrought upon our elements; for the Lord be said that we cannot see how a uni- holds in his own hands all the elements, versal fire can prevail over all the face and not only those of this little globe of INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE, ETC. 11 ours, but all the elements that compose the same proportion that the light is in- the universe; they are in his hands, he creased; or, in other words, supposing can give instructions and they are made that our thermometers, when standing subservient in the accomplishing of his at a hundred degrees Fahrenheit, should great and wise purposes. Now, there is be increased to 700 degrees Fahrenheit, in the very air which we breathe, and what would be the effect? A general which all animated beings, more or less, conflagration over the whole face of the breathe, and by which they live—a prin- globe would be produced, thereby fulfill- ciple of heat; and when this heat in its ing ancient as well as modern prophecy. latent form is evolved, or comes forth But we will pass on. It is not for from the constituents of the atmosphere, us, unless we have some definite instruc- would there not be a sufficient amount to tions by the word of God, to tell how He is produce this revolution upon the earth? going to accomplish His great purposes. Is there not sufficient heat not only to It is sufficient for us to know that he will burn up the wicked and the proud, but do it. We are told this burning is to be to cause the very elements of our globe universal, so far as all the proud, and to melt by its intensity? Thus fulfilling all that do wickedly are concerned. It another prophecy which says, "The hills seems, then, it is to be one of the last melted like wax at the presence of the destructions of the wicked. Prior to this Lord;" and yet another prophecy, which there will be numerous destructions, by says, the mountains shall flow down at way of earthquakes, plagues, hailstorms, His presence like melted substance; run wars, etc., that will prevail and that will like rivers, in consequence of the inten- sweep away millions from the face of our sity of the heat, connected with the el- globe. But the great judgment that is to ements of which our atmosphere and cleanse the earth from all sin, is to be by mountains are composed. the element of fire. "But," inquires one, Again, independently of the latent "do you think there will be many in that heat which is connected with the atmo- day, that will be proud and wicked? Will sphere of our globe, is He not able to they not be mostly converted, and con- cause the great center of our system, the sequently escape this great conflagra- sun, to give forth more heat, sufficient to tion, as Noah escaped being drowned?" consume the wicked and melt the earth I will answer this by repeating another by its intensity? Yes. I recollect read- prophecy, that now occurs to my mind, ing in one of the prophecies of Isaiah, in recorded in the 24th chapter of Isa- relation to this matter. I recollect read- iah. This man of God saw the period ing too in the Revelation of St. John that of time when the earth should reel to men should be scorched with great heat and fro like a drunken man; and he (Rev. chap. 16, verse 8). It was to be saw that glorious day when the Lord of one of the great judgments of the lat- Hosts shall be about to reign in Zion and ter days, as seen by that inspired man. Jerusalem. And among other things he And Isaiah, in speaking on this subject, saw in vision was that the earth became says, "Moreover the light of the moon defiled under the inhabitants thereof; shall be as the light of the sun, and the "because," says the Prophet, "they have light of the sun shall be sevenfold," etc. transgressed the laws, changed the ordi- Suppose the heat should be increased in nance, broken the everlasting covenant." 12 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Plainly showing that they were to be a that twinkle in yonder heavens, and also corrupt, people; a people who, for in- the heat which proceeds from their bod- stance, would change the ordinance of ies. Now, if he can produce such intense baptism, from immersion to sprinkling heat by such bodies as our sun; if he or pouring, or doing it away altogether, can cause the surrounding worlds to be and in the same manner changing the heated and to receive a certain temper- various ordinances of the Gospel from ature by the radiation of light and heat; the original form in which the Lord re- if the sun can produce such a high tem- vealed them. He says, through the perature upon our earth, existing some mouth of His Prophet, that the peo- 90 millions of miles away, why not the ple who should be guilty of this great Lord be able to produce a greater light wickedness should be visited with fire; and heat if necessary, to sweep off the "the inhabitants of the earth are burned, wicked, and to cause the earth in a mo- and few men left." This is a little more ment, as it were, to feel the power of definite. We learned through Malachi, that heat, even to its melting like wax that they should be destroyed both root before his presence? But, you may ask, and branch—no branch of wickedness, "Why not this heat destroy the righteous, no roots of wickedness left; but it does as well as the wicked? Have not the not give us the proportion, between the righteous often times been burned at the righteous and the wicked. But Isaiah stake? Have they not been consumed to gives us a little further clue to this mat- ashes, by the power of the wicked? And ter. To the query, how many are to be why should this intense heat, of which overtaken by this last great and over- you are speaking, which is to destroy the whelming judgment, Isaiah would an- wicked root and branch, not affect the swer, "the inhabitants of the earth are righteous as well?" Let us explain. Be- burned, and few men left." What, only fore this day of burning, there will be no a few persons to be converted, only a righteous on the earth. Not one? No, not few to receive the true Gospel, and be one. "What is to become of them?" The prepared for the coming of the Bride- Apostle Paul informs us that, "The Lord groom; only a few people to escape this himself shall descend from heaven with awful desolation? So says the Prophet a shout, with the voice of the archangel, Isaiah; that is, few in comparison to the and with the trump of God; and the dead great and numerous population of our in Christ shall rise first: Then we which globe. Even some few millions would are alive and remain shall be caught up be few compared with the twelve hun- together with them in the clouds, to meet dred millions that inhabit the earth. Isa- the Lord in the air." It seems, then, that iah, in the same chapter, in describing the righteous that sleep in their graves the glory of his personal reign on the are to arise at this time, to be caught earth, says that "Then the moon shall be up with those living on the earth, who confounded, and the sun ashamed," be- will be sufficiently righteous. Now, sup- cause of the superior light that will at- pose they should not ascend to meet the tend the presence of the being who is Lord, but should remain on the earth, to reign in Zion and Jerusalem. The and he saw proper to preserve them Lord causes the natural light of the from this devouring fire, could he do sun and the heat thereof; he causes it? Certainly, and on the same principle the natural light of the other luminaries INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE, ETC. 13 as he preserved the three Hebrew chil- will be changed in a moment; and after dren in the midst of fire. We are told, in that time there will be no more mortal- connection with this remarkable preser- ity upon the earth. "But," you may say vation of life, that there was not so much again, "we can hardly believe these great as the smell of fire on their garments, miracles will take place as you say, ac- neither was a hair of their heads in- cording to prophecy." Supposing you can- jured, while some of the wicked, when not, does your unbelief make the predic- they were in the act of casting these tions of the servants of God without ef- young men into the furnace, which had fect? Supposing, for instance, we should been heated seven times hotter than was disbelieve excepting eight souls, as was usual for them, were devoured them- the case with the antediluvian world, selves. Yet the righteous were spared, would our unbelief subvert the word of receiving no harm whatever. Now, that God. No. The Lord is a God of mira- same God who did preserve the three cles, or in other words, he is a God of Hebrew children in the midst of the power and he operates upon the mate- most terrible ordeal which they passed rials of our globe, according to his own through, could preserve the righteous on good will and pleasure. When he burns the earth if he saw proper to do so. But up the wicked, when he causes the ele- he will take them up into the cloud, and ments to melt with fervent heat, when he they will be with him when he comes. causes the mountains to flow down and But, you may say, "Have you not said melt like wax before his presence, all this that when he comes the sun will hide does not destroy one particle of matter, his face in shame, etc., therefore will but only changes matter from one con- not that glory which surrounds the per- dition to another. There is not a parti- sonage of the Savior consume the righ- cle of the materials of our globe that will teous after they are taken up?" Not at be annihilated, they will all exist; and all; they will not be subject to the de- although the time should come that the vouring element of fire, even though they intense heat should be such as to dis- have not as yet been changed to immor- perse the materials of our solid globe and tality; for the time for the righteous who convert the great and mighty deep into remain alive, to be changed, will be as gaseous substances, and separate the el- much as a thousand years after they de- ements, and the water should cease to scend upon the earth; after there shall exist as either steam or water; although have been generation upon generation the time should come when the hydro- here upon the earth; then, at the sound gen and the oxygen, which possess the of the last trump the Apostle Paul in- great bulk of the water upon our globe, forms us, that those who are righteous should become gasses, yet the Lord could shall be changed in the twinkling of an reorganize these elements, so scattered eye. They are not to undergo this change, in space, by his power, bringing them when Jesus comes at the beginning of together again by his law and by his the thousand years' reign, but after the word, making a new world, and creating thousand years are ended at the sound a new heaven, and a new earth, wherein, of the last trump, which shall awaken says the Apostle Peter, shall dwell righ- and call forth the sleeping nations of teousness. This new earth, which is the wicked from their graves, then the to be created, is not to be inhabited by righteous, who remain in the flesh, the disobedient and wicked, as is now the case with the present world; there 14 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. will be an entire change in the condi- and none but the righteous left. tion of the earth, and also in the con- Our modern Prophet, Joseph Smith, dition of the human family, the curses when he delivered his prophecies, the of the fall will not be found in either, Lord spoke through him, and we do and consequently there will be no more not need any uninspired man to get up mortality upon the new creation, nei- and tell what the Lord meant, when He ther sorrow, nor weeping; neither will spoke through him. For instance, our there be any more death; for the for- Prophet spoke of this same day of burn- mer things will have passed away, and ing; it is referred to by him in many all things will become new. There will places in the Doctrine and Covenants, be but one government, not several hun- which book I hold in my hand. Has the dred different forms of government, but Lord undertaken to spiritualize, in giv- one form will prevail upon the new cre- ing these new revelations? No; but he ation, inhabited by immortal beings. All has told us the facts in the case. For these changes are what the Latter-day instance, in one place speaking of the Saints are looking for. We do not read Lord's coming, it says the wicked shall these prophecies and then undertake to be destroyed out of the earth, and that change them, and tell our hearers that the righteous shall be caught up, in the they must be understood to mean some- same manner as the New Testament de- thing else, in some spiritual sense. We scribes it. And then it speaks of the righ- do not tell them that this day of burn- teous also coming down after the wicked ing is a day in which wickedness is to be are destroyed. There is a promise made cleansed from the earth by the purifying to the Latter-day Saints as well as to influence of the Spirit of God, and that the former-day Saints. The Lord said, all the people are to be converted, and in 1831, to the Prophet Joseph, in a therefore, the earth will be inhabited by revelation given before a general confer- none except the righteous; and that that ence, and written by a scribe in pres- portion of the Scriptures referring to the ence of the conference, that among other wicked becoming ashes under the feet great things that should take place, the of the righteous, means something en- Saints should possess the earth for their tirely different from the literal reading, inheritance in this our day, and that and that their sins will all be consumed, all wickedness should cease. I make and that they will be righteous and will a promise, saith the Lord, and this is all walk upon the new earth free from my covenant with you, and your chil- sin. No, but when we speak of devour- dren after you, that you shall have a ing fire burning as an oven, we expect it certain land that I will give unto you, will be fire; we expect it will be intense for an inheritance, and you shall pos- heat; and when he says it will consume sess it in time, while the earth shall all the proud and all that do wickedly, we stand, and shall possess it again in eter- do not expect there will be a wicked man nity, never more to pass away. If the or woman left upon the whole earth; and Latter-day Saints want to know where when it says there shall neither be root this promise is found, let them read nor branch left of them, we do not expect the revelation given on the 2nd of Jan- there will be found a vestige of wicked- uary, 1831. It was a revelation given ness in any corner of the earth however when we were but a small people, before remote; but that all will be consumed there was any gathering of the Saints; and in fact, when there were only a INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE, ETC. 15 few individuals gathered in the house go numerous changes. A partial change of Father Whitmer, the place where the will take place when Jesus comes, at the Lord first organized His Church. There, beginning of the thousand years' rest; we were informed, that the Lord in- then a still further change, after the Mil- tended to give a certain portion of this lennium should pass, when the great continent to the Latter-day Saints, and last trump should sound, awaking the to their children after them, for an ev- nations of the wicked from their sleep- erlasting inheritance. This was con- ing graves. I then read in the Scrip- trary to our former faith, when we were tures of truth that God would create a Methodists and Baptists, and when we new heaven, and a new earth, and that were Presbyterians and professors of the on this new creation should dwell righ- different denominations, before we came teousness. I also read of a holy city, into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- called the New Jerusalem, which should day Saints; we were taught then, that come down upon this new earth, and our home was away in yonder heavens, that God himself should be among those away in some distant part of the uni- righteous people who should inhabit that verse, beyond the bounds of space, if any- holy city. And I also read that the for- body can comprehend where that is; I mer things should pass away, and that never could. And yet enlightened Chris- all things should become new. I read, too, tians sing about it. Before I became con- that not only the New Jerusalem should nected with the Church of Jesus Christ descend on this earth, but another city of Latter-day Saints, I often attended the called the Holy Jerusalem, whose dimen- meetings of the Methodists, the Baptists sions and architecture are described, and and the Presbyterians; and I well re- that because of the glory that should ex- member that this sentiment was embod- ist there, the inhabitants thereof should ied in one of the favorite hymns sung not have need of the light of the sun, by the Methodists. They had a very nor of that of the moon, nor of the stars; good tune to the words, and being but for God himself should dwell there with a boy at the time, I could not but think them, and he would be their light and it the very best kind of religion. I never their glory. And that those two great mistrusted the truthfulness of the senti- cities which are to descend upon this ment, because I too had entertained the new earth are to be the great capitals belief that we were going to take an ev- of this new creation, inhabited by im- erlasting farewell to earth, and that we mortal beings—the Saints of God that were going to be wafted and wafted un- have lived in the various dispensations til we got beyond the bounds of space, of this world. This was something new there to find a heavenly place, adapted to to us; and it was contrary to our sec- our heavenly condition. But when I com- tarian notions and views, and the sec- menced to reflect and search the Scrip- tarian teachings about the future condi- tures for myself, I found that although tion of man, and the earth we live in. the tune was sweet and the singing was Yet, when we come to compare the new beautiful, yet there was no truth in it; doctrine of the new revelation, with that I found that the "Saints' secure abode" laid down in the Old and New Testa- was not beyond space, but that it was on ment, we find a perfect agreement. For this our earth. And for how long? For instance, let our minds revert back to the all eternity. But the earth has to under- days of the Patriarchs, and we find Abra- 16 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. ham, after leaving his native country, in a great cemetery, as it were, where he obedience to a direct command of God, saw a vast quantity of bones which were dwelling in a new land called Canaan, very dry, the flesh having crumbled to now known as Palestine; and while dust. And the question was put to him, there, we learn of the Lord conversing no doubt to try his faith, "Son of man, with him, and promising him and his can these bones live?" Ezekiel was not an seed "the land of Canaan, for an ever- infidel, he did not say it was impossible, lasting possession." What does this all nor that there could be no such miracle, mean? Did Abraham ever inherit any but he said, "O, Lord God, thou knowest." of that land? Not a foot of it. He did He was willing the Lord should know all buy a place—a burying place for himself about it, and that he should display his and kindred; but he did not realize this power provided he saw proper to do so. promise, the possession of the land of Then the Lord commanded him to proph- Canaan, but on the contrary, he counted esy, using these words: "Prophesy unto himself a stranger and pilgrim in that these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry very land. And not only Abraham, bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus but his descendants have failed to real- saith the Lord God unto these bones; Be- ize this promise. The martyr Stephen, hold, I will cause breath to enter into who lived many centuries afterward, just you, and ye shall live: And I will lay prior to his death, in bearing testimony sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh to the people who stood before him, con- upon you, and cover you with skin, and cerning Abraham, said, referring to this put breath in you, and ye shall live; and promise of the Lord, that he did not re- ye shall know that I am the Lord." And ceive so much as to set his foot on, dur- after he had thus spoken, the Prophet ing his lifetime. Nevertheless, the Lord tells us that "there was a noise, and be- promised him the whole of the land, to be hold a shaking, and the bones came to- for an everlasting inheritance, for him- gether, bone to his bone." They did not self and his seed after him. The Apos- make any mistake, such as one bone tle Paul, speaking of the same thing, belonging to a certain tabernacle unit- says, that "they all died in faith, not ing with that of another; but each bone having received the promises, but hav- joined its fellow bone, and sinews and ing seen them afar off." How far? Thou- flesh and skin covered them, and thus sands of years after they should sleep in the tabernacles were formed. But there the tomb. They looked forward in faith to was as yet no life in them. Therefore the vast futurity, being persuaded of the he was commanded to prophesy again, truth of the promise; but they saw that and say to the wind: "Thus saith the before they could inherit the promised Lord God; Come from the four winds, land, they would have to seek a city, that O breath, and breathe upon these slain, was in the heavens, and there to dwell, that they may live." He did so "and the until the due time of the Lord should breath came into them, and they lived, bring them in possession of their inher- and stood up upon their feet, an exceed- itance. The Prophet Ezekiel saw the way ing great army." This was a vision of in which they should come in possession the resurrection—the resurrection of the of it, as is recorded in the 37th chapter ancient patriarchs and prophets of God, of his prophecy. The Spirit of the Lord and all the righteous of Israel. took him into the midst of a valley— INTERPRETATION OF SCRIPTURE, ETC. 17

It seems from the record, that the burning. The graves of the Saints will Jews, in the days of Ezekiel, had formed be open just before the fire sweeps over an idea very similar to that of many of the nations to consume the proud, and our Christian friends now living—they all they that do wickedly; and they will had got rather infidel in their views; they be opened at the sound of the trump had begun to say in their hearts, re- by the Archangel. And the Saints will ferring to their fathers, "Our bones are come forth; for then the face of the dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut Lord will be unveiled, then the heavens off for our parts;" or, in other words, will be parted as a scroll, then will be our forefather, whose children we are, seen the prophets of God, and all the and whose names are held in sacred re- righteous who have not yet arisen from membrance by us, are all dead. The their graves, and they will appear in the promises have not been fulfilled and we clouds of heaven with the Savior. Abra- are cut off from the part of our inheri- ham will be there, Isaac and Jacob will tance, and how is it possible now that be there, and all the ancients of whom they can come to pass? They were of the children of Israel, in Ezekiel's days, similar mind to the Sadducees—they did said, "Our bones are dried, and our hope not believe in the resurrection. But the is lost," will all be there, ready to enter Lord, in order to encourage them in the into the possession of the earth as their belief that it would be fulfilled, gives inheritance. "Blessed are the meek," the interpretation of this vision. I have says our Lord in his sermon on the heard the Methodists give their version mount. And what is the peculiar bless- of this vision. Whenever there was a ing of the meek? "For they shall inherit revival among them, I have seen them the earth." Did they formerly inherit the get down on their knees and exclaim, O earth? No; they wandered about, in the Lord, make a shaking among these dry days of the Apostles, in sheepskins and bones; believing that the sinners were goatskins, finding shelter from the in- the bones, and the resurrection, the con- clemency of the weather, and conceal- version of sinners. The same interpre- ment from their persecutors in the soli- tation is given by a great many of the tary dens and caves of the mountains. A Christian sects of the day. But hear- great many infidels and sectarians can- ken, O Latter-day Saints, to the Lord's not believe that this promise can ever be interpretation, and judge between them: literally fulfilled, because they did not "Behold, O my people, I will open your realize it in the day of their mortality. graves, and cause you to come up out But Jesus says, they shall "inherit the of your graves, and bring you into the earth;" this includes too, all the Gentile land of Israel." What can be plainer than Saints that have, and that will embrace that? And which is the better of the two, the gospel, among all peoples, and na- the Lord's interpretation or that of the tions, and kindreds and tongues, for all sects of the day? such become Abraham's seed and heirs This promise will most assuredly according to the promise. What promise? be fulfilled, the patriarchs, and their The promise made to Abraham. To in- seed who are worthy, will come into herit the earth. Hence all people who possession of the inheritance. But are baptized into Christ, whether Jew when? It will be about the time, or Gentile, bond or free, male or fe- or a little after, this great day of male, and who are true and faithful 18 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to him, have Abraham for their father; life, I have given every green herb for and they, with him and the patriarchs, meat." The grass, and the herbs, and ev- will inherit the earth, when wickedness ery green thing were their food. And ceases to exist. Adam and Eve ate fruits and vegetables, It is then that the enmity of the not animal flesh. The whole earth will beasts of the field as well as that of all be restored; and man will be restored; flesh will cease; no more one beast of and not only upon man, but upon all prey devouring and feasting upon an- flesh the Spirit of God will be poured other that is more harmless in its na- out and they will eventually be restored ture; no more will this enmity be found to all that was lost by the fall of our in the fish of the sea, or in the birds of the first parents. Then the knowledge of God air. This change will be wrought upon will cover the whole earth, as the waters all flesh when Jesus comes; not a change cover the great deep. And then the an- to immortality, but a change sufficient to imal creation will manifest more intel- alter the ferocious nature of beasts, birds ligence and more knowledge than they and fishes. In those days the lion will eat do now, in their fallen condition. Indeed, straw like the ox; he will no more be the we have a declaration, by John the Rev- terror of the forest, but will be perfectly elator, that when this time shall come, harmless, and gentleness will character- they will even know how to praise God. ize all the wild and ferocious animals, as He says, "And every creature which is well as the venomous serpents, so much in heaven, and on the earth, and under so that the little child might lead them the earth, and such as are in the sea, and play with them, and nothing should and all that are in them, heard I say- hurt or destroy in all the holy mountain ing, Blessing, and honor, and glory, and of the Lord; all things becoming, in some power, be unto him that sitteth upon the measure, as when they were first cre- throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ated. For it will be remembered that ani- ever." What? The animal creation en- mals did not devour one another until af- dowed with language? Yes, a language of ter the fall, neither was there any death, praise, saying something concerning the until after the fall. What did they eat, Lamb that was slain, and about his glory then? The Lord said, "To every beast of and excellency. What a beautiful cre- the field, and to everything that creep- ation this will be when all these things eth upon the earth, wherein there is are fulfilled. Amen. AN IMPORTANT AGE, ETC. 19

AN IMPORTANT AGE—CLOSE QUESTIONS—A WORD WITH THE BISHOPS—ALSO THE SEVENTIES—HONOR THE SABBATH.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, SUNDAY,JULY 7, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I have been very much interested, as organization of his Church and kingdom, no doubt all of you have who have at- by the continuous manifestation of his tended this Conference, in the principles Holy Spirit, daily imparting faith to the that have been taught here. It is true a human family who are humbly and dili- very great many have not been present gently seeking to observe his laws and to to hear the things that have been spoken keep his commandments. of by the Elders of Israel, and the Apos- The Lord has a work to perform upon tles of the Lord, during this Conference. the earth; and the ancient Priesthood There has been a number of reflections, who have lived upon the earth, and no doubt, in relation to principles ad- who now live in heaven, have also a vanced by the various speakers; a great work to perform. And this Gospel and many plain truths have been enumer- this kingdom has been introduced that ated; but we need, as has been stated, there might be a Priesthood upon the continual awakening up to a sense of our earth to operate with God and with the duty, and to a realization of those great Priesthood in the heavens, for the ac- responsibilities which devolve upon us. complishment of his purposes, for the redemption of the living, even all who We are living in a very important desire to love the truth and work righ- age of the world, when great events teousness, and for the salvation and re- are about to transpire, and the Lord demption of the dead; that the pur- has called upon us to perform a very poses of God from before the founda- great work in our day and genera- tion of the world may be carried out, tion. He has sent forth a revelation and that the laws, principles, rules and of his will; He has restored the an- government as they exist in heaven, cient, the everlasting Gospel; He has may be taught to man upon the earth; restored the Holy Priesthood; He has and that through the operation and co- manifested himself by the opening of operation of the heavenly Priesthood the heavens and communicating his will, and the earthly Priesthood, and God by the ministration of angels, by the the Father, and Jesus the Mediator of 20 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the new covenant, an organization may devices and desires of our hearts; we are take place, a union be formed, truth de- here as Jesus was here, not to do our own veloped, and a kingdom established that will, but the will of him who sent us—not the will of God may be done upon the to speak our own words, but the words earth as it is done in heaven. And this is of life, under the inspiration of the Most what Jesus taught his disciples to pray High, so that Zion may be instructed in for. "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be the principles of righteousness, and that done on earth, as it is in heaven." But she may comprehend the laws of life, and we cannot do the will of God as it is be able to fulfill her destiny on the earth. done in heaven, until he reveals it; we cannot know the will of God in heaven, Ye Latter-day Saints, this is why this until he reveals it to man on the earth. Church was organized; this is why the And then, as it requires the powers and Priesthood was organized; this is why the spirit and wisdom of God to man- messengers have been sent, and are now age and direct and control the affairs in being sent, and will continue to be sent the heavenly worlds, and to regulate his more abundantly to the nations of the kingdom there, so it requires the same earth. And it is proper and right, in our power, the same wisdom, the same light Conferences, to reflect upon these things, and intelligence to carry on his purposes and upon the duties and responsibilities here, and to establish his kingdom on the devolving upon us, and to ask ourselves, earth. And hence, for this very purpose, Are we fulfilling the requirements of the he has commenced to reveal himself to great Eloheim? It has been asked here the human family, and also for the pur- by brother Brigham, who has just spo- pose of organizing the everlasting Priest- ken, whether this kingdom will fail. I tell hood. Do we know what that means? you in the name of Israel's God it will not A Priesthood that administers in time fail. I tell you in the name of Israel's God and through all eternity; a Priesthood it will roll forth, and that the things spo- that is under the guidance, direction and ken of by the holy Prophets in relation control of the Almighty; a Priesthood to it will receive their fulfillment. But to whom he will communicate his will, in connection with this I will tell you an- make known his designs, through whom other thing: A great many of the Latter- he will accomplish his purposes, build day Saints will fail, a great many of them up his Zion and establish the kingdom are not now and never have been living of God on the earth. And it is for this up to their privileges, and magnifying purpose that the kingdom of God is es- their callings and their Priesthood, and tablished; it is for this purpose that the God will have a reckoning with such peo- various organizations of the Priesthood ple, unless they speedily repent. There are put in order; it is for this purpose is a carelessness, a deadness, an apathy, that men are ordained and set apart to a listlessness that exists to a great ex- fulfill the various duties and responsi- tent among the Latter-day Saints, and bilities devolving upon them, at home there never was a stronger proof of this or abroad as the case may be. It is than that which was exhibited here yes- not to seek after our own gain, or in- terday. I asked myself, as I looked over terest, or emolument, or to satisfy the the empty benches, Where are all the AN IMPORTANT AGE, ETC. 21

Bishops? Have they not time to attend until the kingdoms of this world shall be- the Quarterly Conference? Oh, shame come the kingdoms of our God and His on such men! Are they worthy to hold Christ; and he will rule forever and ever. a place in the Bishopric, and associate I was reminded, yesterday, of a para- with the Holy Priesthood of God? They ble made use of by the Savior in his day. are desecrating the holy principles by "Then shall the kingdom of heaven which they ought to be governed. Where be likened unto ten virgins, which took are their Counselors, I asked myself, and their lamps, and went forth to meet the where are the Priests and Teachers and bridegroom. Deacons? Is there no interest manifested "And five of them were wise, and five in the Church and kingdom of God, or in were foolish. the Zion he is about to establish? Not "They that were foolish took their much with many of them. Where were lamps, and took no oil with them: these thousands of Seventies and High "But the wise took oil in their vessels Priests and Elders? The great majority with their lamps. of them were not here; but today they "While the bridegroom tarried, they are, and I thought I would talk to them all slumbered and slept." while here, and not when absent. Are the I thought that part of it was pretty things of God of so small importance— nearly fulfilled; for very nearly all of are the issues of life, the destinies of the people belonging to this stake were the world, and the salvation of the liv- caught napping. By and by, or to quote ing and the dead of so small importance, the words of the text: that we cannot afford time to spend a "And at midnight there was a cry day once a quarter in attending to the made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; duties of our office, in representing our go ye out to meet him. different districts, and in fulfilling the "Then all those virgins arose, and duties of our priesthood and the obliga- trimmed their lamps. tions God has placed upon us? I tell you, "And the foolish said unto the wise, ye Elders of Israel, who neglect these Give us of your oil; for our lamps are things and who shirk your duties, God gone out. will remove your candlestick out of its "But the wise answered, saying, Not place, and that speedily, unless you re- so; lest there be not enough for us and pent. And I say so to the Bishops, and I you: but go ye rather to them that sell, say so to all Israel who hold the Priest- and buy for yourselves. hood. We are not here to do our own will, "And while they went to buy, the but the will of our Heavenly Father who bridegroom came; and they that were sent us. God has placed an important ready went in with him to the marriage: mission upon us; he expects us to fulfill and the door was shut;" and the oth- it. If we treat it lightly and neglect our ers did not, and—that's all. And there duties, he will remove us and others will is another Scripture to which I will re- take our crown. But he is not going to fer. Jesus says: "Many are called, but allow His kingdom to be overthrown, for few are chosen." And there are many it will roll forth and spread and increase other peculiar Scriptures in relation to this matter. I will refer to another one. "Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied 22 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. in thy name? and in thy name have cast ing men in the various quorums for the out devils? and in thy name done many last 40 years; and what for? Merely wonderful works? to give them a place and position and "And then will I profess unto them, I the priesthood? No, I tell you nay; but never knew you: depart from me, ye that that holding the holy priesthood you may work iniquity." Or in other words, Depart magnify it and become the saviors of from me, I never approved of you. Who, men. But is it not the case with a great my brethren and sisters, do you think many of our Elders and Seventies, that these Scriptures refer to? Some will say they are trying how little they can do to to the Gentiles; but I have quite another save themselves and preserve a stand- opinion about it. There are men before ing in the church; instead of how much me today who have prophesied in the they can do? Why, all the heavens are name of God, who have cast out devils waiting for our operations; the Gods in in the name of God, who have healed the the eternal worlds and the fathers of the sick in the name of God, and done many departed spirits—the holy priesthood be- wonderful works in the name of God; hind the veil, are all waiting for our op- but they are not keeping his command- erations, to see what we will do. And we ments, nor magnifying their priesthood; are found slumbering and careless and they are tampering with sacred things, indifferent, willing that anybody should and God will hold them to an account perform the work of the Lord, if we will for it; and if they expect they can serve be left out. I tell you, in the name of mammon, the world and the devil, at the God, that he will give you your wish; same time, they are making a grand mis- he will leave you out, unless you speed- take. God will say to them, "I never knew ily repent. "Be not deceived; God is not you." Now I shall be there, and you will mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, be there; and I warn you, in the name of that shall he also reap. For he that Jesus, to repent of your sins, and humble soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap yourselves, and from henceforth magnify corruption; but he that soweth to the your priesthood and honor your God. Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life ev- How is it with our various quorums erlasting." But what are the duties of and authorities, and how is it with these Seventies, so many of whom are many of the Bishops? They do not care before me today? As I read it, it is to much about things whichever way they be under the direction of the Twelve, and go. They have time to attend to their to be on hand to go to the nations of merchandising and trading and busi- the earth, as messengers, and to pre- ness operations and pleasures, but they pare themselves for that purpose. We have not time to attend to the cause sometimes talk about the work we have of God nor the interests of the flock, done. A very few men, comparatively, over whom he has placed them. But have done this work, and the great ma- if they cannot find time, God will find jority have done next to nothing. How a people that will find time to attend many nations are yet unwarned, and to his affairs. We have been engaged know nothing about the principles of sal- for years, but more especially of late vation? Our fathers are anxious about years, in organizing the church more them, looking to us to carry the word perfectly. And we have been ordain- to them. O shame upon the Elders of AN IMPORTANT AGE, ETC. 23

Israel, especially upon the Seventies who and power of God to be manifested in Is- are called specially to this work. I re- rael, and the Spirit of God to be poured ceived a letter from one of our Elders out upon Israel and upon the Elders a short time ago, who is out laboring thereof. And I pray God, the Eternal in the ministry, faithfully and diligently, Father, to waken up these Elders, that in which he writes something like this: the spirit of their mission may rest upon "If you can send me two or three Elders them, and that they may comprehend here, I shall be very much obliged; if the their true position before God. Seventies or Elders would not consider Now, I would not have said these it too much trouble to come here." What? things before a public congregation, if I Too much trouble for the Elders of Israel had not said them before you frequently to proclaim the words of life and salva- in your priesthood meetings. But it is tion to their fellow men, and to magnify time we were waking up to a sense of the their calling and priesthood? O shame on position we occupy before God; for the such Elders and such Seventies and such day is not far distant when we will hear High Priests; shame on them. God, I tell of wars and rumors of wars; not only you in the name of God, will hold you re- rumors of wars, but wars themselves— sponsible for these things. And yet that nation arrayed against nation and seiz- man's statement was pretty nearly true. ing one another by the throat, and If a man goes on a mission, he thinks blood will flow, and general carnage will he is accomplishing a wonderful thing. spread through the lands, and if you We used, in former years, to think it our do not magnify your callings, God will duty, regarding it as one of the things hold you responsible for those whom you which God required at our hands. We might have saved had you done your held ourselves in readiness all the time. duty. How many of you can say, My gar- And some of us who have never been ments are clean from the blood of this abroad will begin to talk of the great generation? I speak in behalf of the work we have performed. How we ap- nations and the people thereof, and the ples swim, don't we? To tell what we honest in heart who are ignorant of God have done, when perhaps hundreds and and his laws. He has called upon us to thousands of brethren who have never enlighten them, and to spread forth the been abroad on a mission in their life- truth, and send forth the principles of time would consider it a great calamity the Gospel, and point out the way of life. to be called to go on a foreign mission. And it is for us to attend to these things, that we may secure the smiles and ap- I am talking plainly, but it is true be- probation of God. fore God, and you know it is true, and But we are careless and thoughtless; I know it is true. And I say to you and, as has been already remarked, we Seventies and you Elders, Awaken up! pay very little attention to the Sabbath God has placed the priesthood upon you, day. Some would rather go on these Sun- and he expects you to magnify it, and day excursions, and take their families not be all the day long, and year after with them, leading them in the paths year, singing, "Lullaby baby on the tree that lead to death, then they would bring top, When the wind blows the cradle will them to the house of God. But let me rock." we want something else; we want say to all such, that as sure as you do some manhood, and some priesthood these things you will have to feel, and 24 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. that keenly too, the result of your acts, to be twenty times better than we are and they will follow you in time and all today. And if we, as Latter-day Saints, eternity. And I call upon you, ye Latter- were to strictly observe the Sabbath day Saints, to repent of your iniquities, day, and pay our tithes and offerings, and keep the Sabbath day holy, set it and meet our engagements, and be less aside as a day of rest, a day to meet to- worldly minded, be united in temporal gether to perform your sacraments and and spiritual things, Zion would arise listen to the words of life, and thus be and shine, and the glory of God would found keeping the commandments, and rest upon her. And it would not be long setting a good example before your chil- before all nations would call us blessed. dren. Let us do that which is right, honor But we are slothful and careless and in- our God and magnify our calling, and the different, and we neglect our duty and Spirit and blessing of God will rest upon the responsibilities that devolve upon us. us. But if we do not these things, his I pray that God may enlighten our Spirit will depart from us, and we be left minds, and lead us in the paths of life; to ourselves. God will not be mocked by and that we may honor our calling and his people, or by any other people; but we our God; that we may be found worthy to shall reap the reward of our doings. be associated with the just on the earth, We talk about being a good peo- and with them obtain an inheritance in ple. Well, we are when compared with the kingdom of God, in the name of Je- the rest of the world; but we ought sus. Amen.

PLURAL MARRIAGE—FOR THE RIGHTEOUS ONLY—OBEDIENCE IMPERATIVE—BLESSINGS RESULTING.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOSEPH F. SMITH, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY MORNING,JULY 7, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I naturally shrink from the task of ing in listening to the remarks of addressing a congregation in this house, Brother Cannon. We cannot but feeling as I do my inability to make my- be delighted with the testimony self heard. that has been given in our hearing, I have been interested this morn- and that we are continually receiv- PLURAL MARRIAGE, ETC. 25 ing from many sources, which go to prove We are not ashamed of our domes- that the world can do nothing against, tic relations, so far, at least, as they ex- but for us. Even their attempts to slan- ist in accordance with the principles of der and misrepresent us, and their un- the Gospel, nor does any right-minded righteous attacks on the principles of our man or woman feel in his or her heart religion have ever tended to excite in- to shrink in any manner from the most quiry and investigation into the facts, rigid exposition of correct views in rela- which cannot but result beneficially to tion thereto. It is true that in common us as a people. I say, the efforts of with mankind generally, we do not like our enemies against us have ever had a our faults made public, we shrink from tendency to cause people who desire to that, and it is natural that we should. arrive at the truth, to inquire into the It is very proper that we should feel a real condition of things. The more peo- reluctance to have our weaknesses and ple interest themselves in this direction, imperfections exposed to the world, or the more truth they will learn, and we even to our neighbors. This feeling is a court such investigation, for there is cer- very proper incentive to us to continue in tainly nothing connected with us, as a the work of self-improvement, until we religious community, in consonance with shall overcome the weaknesses we have the gospel we preach, that we should be inherited, living nearer to the principles ashamed of, or that should not be known of life and salvation which we have re- by all men. It makes no difference with ceived. But the errors of man affect not the truth how much we are wrongfully in the least the principles of the Gospel accused; nor will it permanently injure of the Son of God. You show me a man us. If we sustain injury or suffer loss by who has embraced the Gospel in its en- the misrepresentations and evils mali- tirety, in faith and practice, and I can ciously promulgated about us by our en- then point to a man who has overcome emies, it can only be such injury and loss the follies and weaknesses of the flesh; as will be temporary, for when the facts or show me a man who is trying to live do come out, and people learn the truth, according to these principles, and I will so much the more good will be accom- show you a man who is trying to over- plished in our favor, and so much greater come his weaknesses. Hence there can injury to those who are the authors of the be no blame attached to the doctrines of falsehoods concerning us. We want noth- our faith, because of the infirmities and ing hidden or covered up, neither can we shortcomings of mankind; but we should respect any principle or individual that rather attribute such weaknesses to will not bear the daylight and the most their proper source—the defectiveness of careful investigation. Since 1830, the El- man, or to his failure, at least, to comply ders of this church have been faithfully with those principles which are calcu- endeavoring to promulgate the gospel lated to correct every evil, and to estab- which we have received to every na- lish man in righteousness. It is perhaps tion and people, without distinction as to a difficult thing for us, under the cir- race or color that would receive them; in cumstances in which we are placed, the other words they have diligently sought traditions of the fathers clinging to us, to "expose 'Mormonism'" to the world. the practices of the world before us, and the temptations to evil so continually 26 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. surrounding us, at all times to live the know, but which we do not observe. religion of Jesus Christ as perfectly as Herein lies our great sin. The condem- we should or otherwise might. It is no nation of the world, when the Savior doubt difficult for us to overcome our fol- commenced his mission among men, was lies, to forsake the traditions of the fa- that light had come into the world, but thers, to eschew the practice of sin, to they loved darkness rather than light, be patient in suffering, to endure priva- because their deeds were evil. This prin- tions and trials of our feelings, while we ciple applies with equal force to us in possess so little, as we do, of the Spirit this dispensation. If we had remained of the Lord, and the knowledge of the without the Gospel, we would not be un- truth. But we need not be discouraged der condemnation. But now that light because of this, nor because we see faults has come into the world; now that truth in each other, for no man is perfect; all and the authority of God have been re- men have, more or less, the shortcomings stored, we cannot longer remain without incident to humanity. We need not falter sin, unless we obey this Gospel so re- or be discouraged because of this, for per- vealed, and practice our profession. haps it would not be possible for one who There is a great deal said about our was perfect in all good to remain in the plural marriage by the outside world, midst of this corrupt, and perverse gen- and sometimes it is referred to by the eration. Still it would seem good if we Latter-day Saints at home. I fancy some- had a few among us who were really per- times that not only is the world with- fect, whose example we could see, whose out knowledge in relation to this princi- precept we could learn, and whose foot- ple, but many of those who profess to be steps we might follow. We might then Latter-day Saints are far from possess- be the better able to perfect ourselves. ing a correct understanding of it. Still we will do well to emulate the good In the first place, it is a principle that that are in our midst, and to observe savors of life unto life, or of death unto those great truths we have already re- death; therefore it is well for those who ceived in part, which in their fulness are have embraced the Gospel to obtain a able to save us unto the uttermost. We knowledge in relation to this matter. It shall not be cast off, my brethren and sis- is a principle that pertains to eternal life, ters, for those sins which we ignorantly in other words, to endless lives, or eter- commit, which are the results of mis- nal increase. It is a law of the Gospel understanding in all honesty before the pertaining to the celestial kingdom, ap- Lord. The difficulty does not lie here; plicable to all gospel dispensations, when the danger lies in our failing to live up commanded and not otherwise, and nei- to that which we do know to be right and ther acceptable to God or binding on man proper. For this we will be held respon- unless given by commandment, not only sible before the Lord, for this we will be so given in this dispensation, but par- judged and condemned unless we repent ticularly adapted to the conditions and and forsake our follies, and our unwill- necessities thereof, and to the circum- ingness to obey the light and the knowl- stances, responsibilities, and personal, edge which we have received. There are as well as vicarious duties of the peo- some plain, simple truths which we do ple of God in this age of the world. God has revealed it as a principle particu- PLURAL MARRIAGE, ETC. 27 larly suited to the nature of the work eous judgment: but to condemn the we are called to perform, that it might Gospel or the Saints, because of his acts, be hastened to its consummation. It would be unjust; yet the cause he mis- is a righteous principle, not an unrigh- represents suffers wrong because of his teous one. It is a pure and holy princi- connection with it. A man's acts may ple; and, therefore, persons, either male justly be considered as resulting from his or female, who have not the desire in principles. We judge a tree by its fruits. their hearts to become pure and righ- The fruits of the Gospel are good; he that teous, have no business to practice it, for has actually embraced the Gospel will do it cannot be practiced acceptably before good, only so far as he may err, or depart God on any other principle than that of therefrom. Hence, it is difficult to sepa- purity and righteousness, therefore no rate a man's actions from his principles. wicked, unjust or impure person can en- There is no difficulty, however, in ter into the law of celestial or plural mar- this matter to those who always bear riage without incurring the displeasure in mind, that evil and corrupt practices of the Almighty and his own condemna- are not the results of obedience to the tion before the Lord, unless he speedily Gospel, but of disobedience, and of the repent of all his impure motives and de- perversion of the truth. If we would signs. A man that is not honest in his keep this in our minds we would not cast heart, who does not desire to be just and blame upon the principles themselves impartial, even as God is just and im- when we see or hear of men, who should partial, has no business in plural mar- represent them, do wrong; but we would riage; and before he enters into the prac- rather say, the man has departed from tice of that principle he needs to repent, his principles and gone into error. It is to learn wisdom, to get the Spirit of God, he that is defective, through not prac- to get understanding in relation to the ticing what he professes; the principles purpose God has in view in regard to this are good and holy, and he himself would principle; that he may go into the prac- become so too, if he would but practice tice of it understandingly, that his heart them. and mind may be set upon practicing it in righteousness. It is a difficult mat- It is precisely so in relation to our do- ter, I am aware, to distinguish between mestic relations. We see trouble in fami- the actions of a man and the principles lies occasionally, not any more so in plu- in which he professes to believe. A cor- ral than in single families. There is no rupt, ungodly hypocrite can do more in- reason why there should be any differ- jury in the midst of a people, in a given ence between the husband and wife, or length of time, correspondingly, than a husband and wives, in the midst of this host of upright men can do good. Send people, if all are disposed to obey the an Elder to preach the Gospel among principles and doctrines of the Gospel. It the nations, and let him degrade him- is only by the practice of these principles self, dishonor his priesthood and calling, that we can avoid the disturbances that and he will bring more reproach upon occur in families, or among mankind. We the cause misrepresented by him, than must learn and obey correct principle, twenty good men could remove. Because or we will ever be in turmoil and confu- people generally look at the man. To sion, and in antagonism one towards an- judge him by his acts would be right- other. Where differences exist in families 28 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. they are traceable directly to some cause. that a man with one wife, sealed to him I want to impress upon the minds of my by the authority of the Priesthood for hearers that the cause of such evils it time and eternity, will receive an exalta- not traceable to the practice of any prin- tion as great and glorious, if he is faith- ciple which God has revealed touching ful, as he possibly could with more than these matters, but to the nonobservance one. I want here to enter my solemn of them; and this is true in relation to protest against this idea, for I know it every principle of the Gospel. Some- is false. There is no blessing promised times it is the fault of the man, some- except upon conditions, and no blessing times of the woman, and oftener of both, can be obtained by mankind except by but never the fault of the principle. The faithful compliance with the conditions, principle is correct, great, ennobling and or law, upon which the same is promised. calculated to bring joy, satisfaction and The marriage of one woman to a man for peace, if we would but observe and prac- time and eternity by the sealing power, tice it as we should. But in order to according to the law of God, is a fulfill- do this we must get wisdom and under- ment of the celestial law of marriage in standing. These, by many, are acquired part—and is good so far as it goes—and only through long experience. We begin so far as a man abides these conditions as children, we have to learn precept by of the law, he will receive his reward precept, line after line, here a little and therefore, and this reward, or blessing, there a little, which is good, provided we he could not obtain on any other grounds profit by that which we learn. Men must or conditions. But this is only the be- be just, so also must women, in relation ginning of the law, not the whole of it. to these matters. All must be just one Therefore, whoever has imagined that he towards another; also forbearing and pa- could obtain the fullness of the blessings tient, cultivating largely that Christian pertaining to this celestial law, by com- attribute called Charity, in order to get plying with only a portion of its condi- along peaceably with our neighbors, our tions, has deceived himself. He cannot do brethren and sisters, as well as with our it. When that principle was revealed to wives, husbands and children. We are the Prophet Joseph Smith, he very natu- all imperfect, we have to learn by littles rally shrank, in his feelings, from the re- as we pass along, profiting ofttimes by sponsibilities thereby imposed upon him; that which we suffer, yet often repeating foreseeing, as he did in part, the appar- the same errors. When we find ourselves ently insurmountable difficulties in the overcome in a fault, that should be set way of establishing it, in the face of popu- down as an example for future time, if lar opinion, the traditions and customs of possible, never allowing ourselves to be many generations, the frowns, ridicule, caught in the same predicament again. slander, opposition and persecution of Thus profiting by the experience we gain. the world. Yes, this man of God, who Some people have supposed that dared to meet the opposition of the whole the doctrine of plural marriage was world with bold and fearless front, who a sort of superfluity, or nonessen- dared to dispute the religious author- tial to the salvation or exaltation of ity and accumulated learning and wis- mankind. In other words, some of dom of the age—who dared everything the Saints have said, and believe, for the truth, and shrank not even from PLURAL MARRIAGE, ETC. 29 the sacrifice of his own life in testi- its going out as a doctrine of the church, mony of his divine mission, shrank, in it would have been presented in a some- his feelings, from the weight of the re- what different form. There are personal- sponsibility of inaugurating and estab- ities contained in a part of it which are lishing this new innovation upon the es- not relevant to the principle itself, but tablished customs of the world. But he rather to the circumstances which ne- did not falter, although it was not until cessitated its being written at that time. an angel of God, with a drawn sword, Joseph Smith, on the day it was writ- stood before him and commanded that ten, expressly declared that there was a he should enter into the practice of that great deal more connected with the doc- principle, or he should be utterly de- trine which would be revealed in due stroyed, or rejected, that he moved for- time, but this was sufficient for the oc- ward to reveal and establish that doc- casion, and was made to suffice for the trine. time. And, indeed, I think it much more To put this matter more correctly be- than many are prepared to live up to fore you, I here declare that the princi- even now. When the time came to in- ple of plural marriage was not first re- troduce this doctrine to those who were vealed on the 12th day of July, 1843. It worthy in the church, God commanded was written for the first time on that the Prophet and he obeyed. He taught date, but it had been revealed to the it as he was commanded to such as were Prophet many years before that, perhaps prepared to receive and obey it, and they as early as 1832. About this time, or were commanded to enter into it, or they subsequently, Joseph, the Prophet, en- were threatened that the keys would be trusted this fact to Oliver Cowdery; he turned against them, and they would be abused the confidence imposed in him, cut off by the Almighty. It need scarcely and brought reproach upon himself, and be said that the Prophet found no one thereby upon the church by "running any more willing to lead out in this mat- before he was sent," and "taking liber- ter in righteousness than he was himself. ties without license," so to speak, hence Many could see it—nearly all to whom he the publication, by O. Cowdery, about revealed it believed it, and received the this time, of an article on marriage, witness of the Holy Spirit that it was of which was carefully worded, and after- God; but none excelled, or even matched wards found its way into the Doctrine the courage of the Prophet himself. and Covenants without authority. This article explains itself to those who under- stand the facts, and is an indisputable If, then, this principle was of such evidence of the early existence of the great importance that the Prophet him- knowledge of the principle of patriarchal self was threatened with destruction, marriage by the Prophet Joseph, and and the best men in the Church with also by Oliver Cowdery. being excluded from the favor of the When the revelation was written, Almighty, if they did not enter into and in 1843, it was for a special pur- establish the practice of it upon the pose, by the request of the Patriarch earth, it is useless to tell me that there Hyrum Smith, and was not then de- is no blessing attached to obedience to signed to go forth to the church or to the law, or that a man with only one the world. It is most probable that wife can obtain as great a reward, glory had it been then written with a view to or kingdom as he can with more than 30 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. one, being equally faithful. trine, but are prevented, or cannot en- Patriarchal marriage involves con- ter into the practice of it?" I reply that ditions, responsibilities and obligations every man and woman will receive all which do not exist in monogamy, and that they are worthy of, and something there are blessings attached to the faith- thrown in perhaps, on the score of the ful observance of that law, if viewed only boundless charity of God. But who can upon natural principles, which must so justly expect to obtain more than they far exceed those of monogamy as the con- merit? All the judgments of God are ditions, responsibilities and power of in- not given unto man. What we do not crease are greater. This is my view and learn relative to the salvation of our testimony in relation to this matter. I souls which are our bodies and spirits, believe it is a doctrine that should be in this probation we will have to learn taught and understood. in the eternity which lies before us, for we cannot be saved without knowledge. The benefits derived from the righ- "But what if we never get knowledge?" teous observance of this order of mar- Then we never will be saved. riage do not accrue solely to the husband, Suppose we live and die without but are shared equally by the wives; not knowledge? Then, if we ever obtain sal- only is this true upon the grounds of obe- vation we will have to get it in the next dience to a divine law, but upon physi- world, as the Antediluvians did, who re- ological and scientific principles. In the jected the Gospel as preached unto them latter view, the wives are even more by Noah and were destroyed by the flood, benefited, if possible, than the husband sent to the prison house to be punished physically. But, indeed, the benefits for their disobedience and other wicked- naturally accruing to both sexes, and ness, and in the meridian of time re- particularly to their offspring, in time, ceived knowledge by the proclamation of say nothing of eternity, are immensely the Gospel, as preached unto them by greater in the righteous practice of patri- the Savior while his body slept in the archal marriage than in monogamy, even tomb, without which they would forever admitting the eternity of the monogamic have remained ignorant of God, his gov- marriage covenant. ernment and laws, in a lost condition. Man may receive great reward, ex- All men must obtain salvation upon their altation and glory by entering into own merits, for by our works shall we the bond of the new and everlasting be judged, and by them justified or con- covenant, if he continue faithful accord- demned. ing to his knowledge, but he cannot re- It is a glorious privilege to be per- ceive the fullness of the blessings unless mitted to go into a Temple of God to be he fulfills the law, any more than he can united as man and wife in the bonds of claim the gift of the Holy Ghost after holy wedlock for time and all eternity he is baptized without the laying on of by the Authority of the Holy Priesthood, hands by the proper authority, or the re- which is the power of God, for they who mission of sins without baptism, though are thus joined together "no man can put he may repent in sackcloth and ashes. asunder," for God hath joined them. It "But," says one, "how will it be is an additional privilege for that same with good men who believe the doc- man and wife to reenter the Temple PLURAL MARRIAGE, ETC. 31 of God to receive another wife in like are written, or are yet to be revealed, it manner if they are worthy. But if he is not likely however, that he will take remain faithful with only the one wife, his seat with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, observing the conditions of so much of or share in their promised blessings. the law as pertains to the eternity of This law is in force upon the inhab- the marriage covenant, he will receive itants of Zion, and he that is qualified his reward, but the benefits, blessings to obey it cannot neglect or disregard and power appertaining to the second it with impunity. But it must be ob- or more faithful and fuller observance of served in righteousness. The command- the law, he never will receive, for he can- ment is "be ye righteous as your Father not. As before stated no man can obtain in heaven is righteous; be ye holy as he the benefits of one law by the observance is holy." of another, however faithful he may be in Why did the Son of God make this re- that which he does, nor can he secure to quirement of his disciples, seeing that it himself the fullness of any blessing with- is so universally believed by the world, out he fulfills the law upon which it is that man cannot be righteous at all? Did predicated, but he will receive the bene- Jesus require anything inconsistent or fit of the law he obeys. This is just and impossible? No, he did nothing of that righteous. If this is not correct doctrine kind. All that he commanded us to do, then I am in error, and if I am in error I we can accomplish by the help of the want to be corrected. Holy Spirit; but we cannot do it our- I understand the law of celestial mar- selves. Therefore if we will seek for the riage to mean that every man in this Holy Spirit, the gift of wisdom and un- Church, who has the ability to obey and derstanding from God, we may practice practice it in righteousness and will not, these principles of righteousness, and shall be damned, I say I understand it they will make us righteous even as God to mean this and nothing less, and I tes- is righteous, in the sphere in which we tify in the name of Jesus that it does are called to act. We will fulfil the law, mean that. But what will become of him and receive the blessing, exaltation and that cannot abide it? Says the Lord, reward which will follow; if we do not, we "whoso having knowledge have I not will fail of the reward. commanded to repent? And he that hath not understanding, it remaineth with me This is very simple reasoning, I ad- to do according as it is written." In other mit. Critics would say, these are ax- words he that is without understanding ioms that need not to be told. If we do is not under the law, and it remains for wickedly, we will be punished; if we do God to deal with him according to his righteously, we then receive blessings at own wisdom. If a man acknowledges the hands of God. that he is incapable, or disqualified by May God bless you, and keep us all in a lack of knowledge, wisdom or under- the path of righteousness, and enable us standing to obey this law, when it re- to live the religion we have received from mains with God to deal with him accord- Him, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus. ing to those principles of justice which Amen. 32 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

GRATIFYING POLITICAL AND GENERAL MATERIAL CONDITION OF THE SAINTS—EMPLOYMENT FOR THE POOR—ENEMIES FOILED—PLURAL MARRIAGE.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY MORNING,JULY 7, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

It is with much pleasure I meet with to have peace, to have joy and to have the Latter-day Saints this morning; it satisfaction of mind; and this I can tes- was a great pleasure to me yesterday to tify I have had. But still absence from sit and listen to the remarks which were the society of the Latter-day Saints is a made by the brethren who spoke, and to great deprivation; at least it is to me. the testimonies which they bore; and I trust that the same spirit which rested upon them while addressing us yester- With regard to our condition politi- day, will be upon us, speakers and hear- cally, I do not think it would be inap- ers, today. propriate for me to allude to it casually, I can appreciate the privilege we en- although it is Sunday. There probably joy in meeting in these quarterly confer- never was a time since we have been ences, perhaps more so because of my in these mountains when we were in lengthened absence from home, than I a better political position than we are could were I constantly in your midst. today. Notwithstanding all the efforts After a person has been deprived of which are being made against us to de- food, many of you know how good it stroy our liberties, to embarrass us in is to sit down to a well-spread ta- our progress and to malign us, the peo- ble. I do not know that the Latter- ple who reside in these mountains have day Saints are exactly in this condi- gained and are gaining a credit which tion. There are privileges we need and in many respects is very gratifying to which we can enjoy, even when away those who love the truth. It is a diffi- from the body of the Church, which en- cult thing to condemn an entire people, able those who are thus separated to and make the world believe that those rejoice in their religion and its bless- who manage a Territory such as ours, ings. It has been a rule of my life, the affairs of which are so well managed, since I was old enough to comprehend and are in so healthy and thrifty a con- the truth, to so live that the Spirit of the dition, are a wicked people. And so far Lord would be my companion, and thus as my observation has extended, I think GRATIFYING, ETC. 33 we are being better understood. There they would vote for Utah's admis- is one thing particularly that I have no- sion whenever the question should be ticed, that where men and women have brought up, provided they had a voice visited this Territory, with scarcely any in the matter. However, as far as this exception, they speak favorably of what is concerned I think sometimes it is a they have seen. I have endeavored to matter of comparatively small moment. urge men of national standing, men who It is true we have looked to our admis- hold high positions in the Government, sion to statehood as likely to greatly re- to visit Utah. And I may say that some lieve us, and to bring about a better con- of the warmest friends we have, while dition of affairs throughout our Territory. they do not sympathize particularly with But the conviction has grown upon me in our religious views, but are tolerant and watching the progress of events, that our desirous that we should have our rights being kept in a territorial condition to in common with other people, are those the present time has been attended with who have visited this Territory and have great advantage to us as a people. The seen us in our homes, and have had experience we have gained under this opportunities of witnessing the changes condition of affairs is an experience that that have been effected in this desert is necessary to us, and without which land by our residence and labors. we could not so well, in my opinion, ful- As to the time when we shall be- fill the destiny assigned to us. I believe come a state, concerning which consid- there is an overruling Providence in all erable is said by outside parties, as these affairs; I believe the Lord is watch- well as by ourselves, it is difficult at ing over this people, and that he is con- the present time to say anything defi- trolling and shaping events and circum- nite respecting it. I believe, however, stances, and managing everything con- the time will come, and that too before nected with the affairs of this nation, long, when certain exigencies of a polit- and our affairs as part of the nation, with ical character will arise that will make a view to accomplish his great designs the vote of Utah necessary in decid- and purposes. And whenever it shall be ing national questions, and under those wisdom in his sight that we should have circumstances it would be important to our political condition changed and our have Utah as a state. In fact it is al- Territory become a State, it will be ef- ready acknowledged that had Utah been fected. And it will come, too, as easily admitted as a state when Colorado was, as other changes that have been wrought that all this difficulty which has occurred out and that at one time seemed exceed- connected with the presidential election ingly improbable. So that it is not nec- would have been entirely settled; indeed essary that we should become excited or it would not have arisen. This is now impatient or indulge in too much anxiety conceded. But this experience comes too concerning such things, but leave them late to be of any benefit in correcting in the hands of Him who has up to the the injustice which we suffered, and to present time controlled all things for the be of any avail in the presidential con- good of his people and for the bringing to test which is now past; but it may have pass of his own purposes. some effect in the future. There are I consider our condition today in many, a great many men of both polit- these mountains the best condition ical parties who have said to me that that we can occupy. When I travel 34 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. through the States and converse with nature of things, monopolize large bod- gentlemen who are familiar with the af- ies of land to the exclusion of their fairs of the nation through its length and poorer neighbors. This is an advantage breadth, I never arise from such conver- to the people of this country. The na- sation without feeling impressed more ture of our surroundings compels us to than ever with the excellence of the cir- occupy small holdings and the result is cumstances which surround us. It is true our land is better cultivated, there is a we have a desert land, that it is a land more widespread ownership of the soil requiring excessive toil to make it fruit- than you will find in any part of these ful and habitable for those who live in United States; that is, there are more it. The grass does not clothe our hills men holding land and owning and occu- spontaneously; our Territory is not fa- pying it, in this country, in proportion vored with the rains of heaven to make to the entire population, than you can it green with verdure: our fields would find elsewhere. The result, is a condition be barren indeed, if it were not for the of independence you cannot find else- labor of irrigation and the constant ef- where. At the present time, in the west- forts of the husbandman. In this re- ern States especially, men are greatly spect our country differs very much from concerned about the element known as every other place east of us. In trav- Communism, which has taken posses- eling through the broad prairies of Illi- sion of the minds of a numerous class nois, with the continuous fields of grain; of the people. The working classes are and through Iowa and Nebraska, so far becoming very dissatisfied, and men are as Nebraska is settled, and contrast- trembling for fear of what will come upon ing the ease with which those lands are the nation. One of the strongest argu- cultivated, compared with the toil re- ments that was made in favor of keep- quired in this mountain region, I could ing up the United States army up to its not help thinking that if we were per- present numbers was, that there would mitted to live in so goodly a land, un- probably be riots in large cities and in der favorable circumstances, we would populous centers, which would require soon convert it into an Eden. But in the presence of the military acting as po- the providences of the Almighty we were lice to quell. And had it not been for driven out and led to this land, and the this evil the army would have been cut Lord has showed unto us, and is show- down. But a good many men were anx- ing to the inhabitants of the earth, that ious to have it increased, deeming it nec- when a people will do that which He re- essary for the preservation of life and quires of them, that he is abundantly property. When we reflect upon this it able to sustain them and make their shows how changed have become the af- labors successful. He has done this in fairs of our nation, when it is deemed leading us to this country, and in sus- necessary to appeal to military power taining us since we came here. Our con- to maintain good order in the Republic. dition in many respects is far superior There can be no surer sign of the de- to those who live in those favored lo- cay of a republic than when human life calities to which I have referred. We and property and liberty cannot be sus- have a healthy land; we have a land that tained by the masses of the people, and the Lord has blessed and made fruit- the military power, the ranks of which ful as the result of our labors. It is a are filled with hired soldiers, has to land in which men cannot, from the very GRATIFYING, ETC. 35 be appealed to sustain good order in the in the direction in which we are going. midst of the people. Let such a state of I have no doubt many of you would things continue and there would soon be be surprised if you knew the interest an end of true republicanism. that is being taken, outside of our Ter- In this respect we also have our dif- ritory, in our affairs. When the news of ficulties. The business of furnishing em- the death of President Young reached the ployment for our poor people, so that our east, there was, I might say, a general streets shall not be filled with idle men expectation that rival claimants to the and boys, has no doubt pressed, and will power he wielded would arise, that dis- continue to press itself upon the minds sensions would ensue and that the work of the leading men of this Territory. But of disintegration would commence and in comparison with the magnitude of this the speedy overthrow of the system soon question elsewhere, it seems to sink into follow. I suppose I have been spoken to insignificance here. It is a matter of hundreds of times upon this point; and small moment, comparatively speaking, men seem surprised that this has not in this Territory; because the great bulk been the result. Many have said to me, of the people have employment, and can "Your affairs seem to go on prosperously, easily furnish themselves with employ- notwithstanding the death of your great ment. However, this is a matter that leader." Yes. "Well, we scarcely expected should receive attention and from those, this would be the case; we have heard so too, who care for the people and have much said through the newspapers con- their welfare at heart. No doubt every- cerning the probability of dissensions in thing will be done that should be to pre- your midst and quarrels over the leader- serve good government throughout this ship, that we were expecting you would Territory, and throughout all these val- have trouble." I have told them invari- leys which are inhabited by the Latter- ably that President Young had all his day Saints. The fact is, the time will lifetime acknowledged that the qualities come, concerning which there has been and powers he possessed he owed to so much said in the past, when it will what the world call "Mormonism;" that devolve upon the people of these moun- he was not the creator of "Mormonism," tains to maintain good government, to but he himself was the product of it, and uphold constitutional rights; and we are that this would continue to increase, no receiving the training necessary to fit matter how many leaders might die or and prepare us for that great and glo- pass away. The results which have fol- rious destiny. I have no doubt that the lowed the decease of President Young day will come, and come speedily, when have given to thinking men a higher idea Utah will be looked to, as an example of the strength and power of this system. of good government, and that the con- It assumes a different position in their dition of affairs in this Territory will minds. The idea now begins to prevail be pointed to as an example for other that it is not entirely dependent upon communities and other societies to imi- the life or the ability of any single in- tate with advantage to themselves and dividual; and I think the death of Pres- the country at large. There is every ident Young has had the effect also to inducement therefore for us, as Latter- cause men to pause, and to look upon day Saints, to continue to persevere the work a little differently. He was the 36 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. target at which every arrow was aimed, hostility against the truth; I do not think he was the object of every plot and that Belial has lost any of his hatred to scheme; every combination for evil had the Lord; but the Lord in his wisdom has for its object, his destruction or his em- permitted a feeling of this kind to grow barrassment. His withdrawal from the up, and is overruling it for his own pur- scene spoiled these combinations, and pose. brought these plots to naught. To this I attribute the quiet of the past season. I have said the eyes of the people are Although I have often been at Wash- upon us; they are watching us and great ington for the past 20 years, and have hopes are entertained concerning us by spent a considerable portion of my time many people who are not of us. We are there for a number of years past, I have looked upon as the pioneers in many re- never seen less of the disposition on the forms. The ladies, as you are aware, part of public men to take adverse mea- have lately been agitating in Congress sures against the people of Utah Terri- their question—Woman's Rights. Among tory than there has been this season. other ladies who argued their cause be- The feeling has been to let us alone for fore the general committees of the Sen- the present; and although there were ate and the House, was a sister of the emissaries sent down from here who la- Rev. Henry Ward Bencher—Mrs. Is- bored very diligently to stir up feeling abella Beecher Hooker, a lady of charac- and to secure action against the peo- ter and great ability. It was most grat- ple of Utah, their efforts scarcely cre- ifying to me to hear the tribute that ated a ripple upon the surface of politi- these ladies paid to the women of Utah; cal affairs, and they attracted no atten- not that they sympathized with plural tion outside of the committees, to whom marriage, for they disavowed their sym- they addressed themselves. Though it is pathy with it; but they begin to recog- unpleasant upon some accounts to have nize, as they never have until quite re- men there who are circulating all man- cently, the true position that the men ner of falsehood about the people of Utah and women of this Territory occupy upon to gain their ends, they have their uses. this question. Indeed, I heard more They create discussion. They stir one up, than one say, and among them was one and their presence and opposition fur- very prominent lady, that if there had nish opportunities to talk to committees to be a choice, she would prefer plu- and members about Utah affairs, which ral marriage than to have the condi- otherwise the Delegate would not have. tion of affairs which exists in their com- Such discussions made things lively in munities. There seems to have been a the committee rooms, but, outside of the good deal of light thrown upon this sub- committees there was not a feeling that ject: and our sisters here, through their I could discover particularly hostile to publication, the "Woman's Exponent," as Utah. This is a remarkable condition of well as other channels of communica- affairs; and I attribute it in part to the tion, have greatly aided in this matter. effect that the death of President Young Their efforts are commendable, and are has had upon the public mind through- already beginning to have their good ef- out the entire country. fects in the States among their sisters; I do not think there is any less and I am pleased to be able to bear this GRATIFYING, ETC. 37 testimony. When the question of legis- as it is termed, is agitated, the better lation for Utah was argued, the commit- it is for us; the more it is fought, the tee rooms were thronged to listen to my more it is written against and talked argument upon the subject; and on one about, the more that Congress is stirred occasion two ladies took part in the dis- up to take steps against it, the better the cussion against the bills urged by our en- principles of our faith are understood; emies and in favor of the rights of the because there are some men and some women of Utah. A knowledge of the women who reflect upon these things, true condition of affairs in this Terri- and who will contrast that which they tory is gradually growing, and although hear of us, with that which exists in their it may be but slowly, it is of faster growth midst. And when they see a man stand than we generally imagine. This is es- up boldly and say, "We believe in plural pecially true of that much abused prin- marriage; we do not believe in prostitu- ciple called plural marriage. It is be- tion; we do not suffer women to become coming recognized in its true light, and the slaves of men's lusts; but believe people are beginning, as I never heard they ought to become honored wives and them before in my experience, to talk mothers, and that children ought to be about it and reflect upon it, often allud- educated and provided for and called by ing to it in a way that shows that a better the name of their father, and at their understanding of the subject is steadily father's death his property be equally spreading among the people. And there divided among them even though their is a reason for this: this question has mothers should be plural wives." When been so much agitated. It is a remark- they hear this, they cannot help think- able fact that every publication against ing about such a condition of affairs; and this doctrine of the Latter-day Saints has they say, there is a moral courage which the effect to spread the knowledge of it these people evince in this matter that is among the people and it makes men and admirable. I have had it said to me of- women reflect upon it. Our efforts alone ten times, by both sexes, that it is better would not be attended with the results that we should live as we do, than such that are now witnessed. But every man practices as exist elsewhere should come that has published articles against it, or in our midst. lectured or written books or made any ef- So that, as has often been said, every- fort against it, has helped to propagate thing done against us is overruled for the the knowledge of it; they have been mis- good and spread of the work of God. sionaries in its favor. And no true doc- The subject of plural marriage is trine need ever fear being assailed and always an interesting subject, and it denounced; for it will emerge from the is made still more so by the con- conflict brighter and better understood stant attacks made upon it, and the than it otherwise would appear. Every misrepresentations made concerning it. man who has gone down to Washington Whenever people meet with a Latter- from here to fight us has made men in day Saint, it is almost sure to be Congress think about us and talk about the first topic broached. The opin- us, and has made editors write about ion which some entertain who take us. They have, without designing it, their views from the slanderous re- helped to disseminate a knowledge of our ports published about us, is that we cause. The more the "Mormon" question, are a licentious people, who take wives 38 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to gratify lust. Such persons, if reason- people or they are the most foolish in ably honest, are soon made to reflect and the world. No one ever charges them to modify their views by asking them a with a lack of shrewdness or prudence. few questions. A prominent gentleman Such a charge would be utterly at vari- with whom I recently conversed, enter- ance with all their known characteris- tained that opinion. I said to him, after tics. If they were not a conscientious peo- conversing a little while: Sir, you believe ple, with strong moral and religious con- the people of Utah are bad and licen- victions, they would not risk becoming tious, and that they degrade women by martyrs, as they do, for the sake of mar- their system of plural marriage. Let me rying women, when, if they followed the ask you, if their purposes were only sen- usual practice of the age, they could get sual, have they any occasion in this day them without marrying. to marry women? Could they not accom- He frankly acknowledged that what I plish sensual ends much easier, cheaper, had said had given him a new view of the and without creating any especial re- case, and he admitted that if the grati- mark by not marrying women and not fication of sensual desires were our ob- caring for and educating and legitima- ject, we could reach that without mar- tizing their children? There are prac- riage and without exciting any particu- tices which prevail in society, and which lar odium. The fact is, illicit connections are not unpopular if a certain degree of are winked at and overlooked by very secrecy be observed which a licentious many people in the world while they are people could avail themselves of, with- kept from public knowledge; they only out the trouble, care, expense and re- excite scandal and unfavorable comment sponsibility of marriage. What is the when the parties to them are so unfortu- crime of which the people of Utah are nate as to become known. accused? It is that of marrying women! A reply of Bro. Hooper and myself, It is not that of seducing or debauch- which we are credited as having made ing them. All the pains and penalties to inquirers who were curious to know inserted in bills before Congress for the respecting our domestic relations, is of- punishment of the "Mormon" people are ten quoted and created some amusement affixed to the marriage of women. This is in Washington City. Both of us have made a crime, and because of it, it is pro- doubtless made remarks similar to that posed to punish men. Not one word of quoted; the reply, however, is not origi- condemnation, nor penalty of any char- nal with us, but with Bro. Horace S. El- acter, is proposed for the seducer, or the dredge. Upon one occasion, while pur- vile betrayer of female innocence; he is chasing machinery in the East, he called to walk up to the polls and vote un- upon a firm in Providence, Rhode Island, challenged; but the man who marries to whom he brought a letter of introduc- women, and maintains them honorably tion. One of the members of the firm, and virtuously, sustaining family and after carrying him in his carriage to see parental relations in all purity and sa- the various objects of interest in the city, credness, is to be disfranchised and vis- brought him back to his place of business ited with other pains and penalties! You and introduced him to his partner. This will perceive, therefore that the "Mor- gentleman had a number of inquiries to mon" people are either not a licentious make respecting Utah and its people, and soon learned that Bro. Eldredge GOD'S POWER, ETC. 39 was a "Mormon." After stating that he people of God. I want to see us be come a understood that the "Mormons" believed strong people, strong in our virtues; look- in marrying more than one wife, to which ing after our children, and bringing them bro. Eldredge replied in the affirmative, up in the fear of God, and teaching them he asked if he himself had more than good morals and good precepts; whilst one, to which he again responded affir- we endeavor to put down those evil prac- matively. He then asked how many he tices that are creeping in, such as smok- had. To this bro. Eldredge replied: "I ing and chewing tobacco, using the name have such a plenty of my own that I have of the Lord in vain, and also profane and no occasion to trouble my neighbors'; and improper language, and to see that our that is more than a great many in the boys and girls are educated in everything land of steady habits can say." This was a that will make them great and noble. It home shot. His partner laughed heartily. is the great desire of my life to see this Knowing the other's character, he could people become all that the Lord desires appreciate its applicability to him. After us to be. But when I saw how few there getting his reply, the gentleman had no were in this Tabernacle yesterday, few more questions to ask, and soon made an compared to the attendance this morn- excuse to go out. Many who have heard ing, I felt the reproofs that were made by of this reply, think the idea embodied in brothers Pratt and Woodruff were well- it a capital one, for it is not uncommon timed, and ought to be taken to heart by in many places for other men's wives to all of us, and the disposition be encour- receive attentions which should be only aged to be more attentive to our duties. tendered to them by their husbands. I desire greatly to see this peo- That the Lord may bless you, and ple prosper and increase in everything bless all who belong to His Israel, is my which will make them the favored prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

GOD'S POWER IN ALL THINGS—KINGDOM OF GOD—COOPERATION, A STEPPING STONE TO THE UNITED ORDER—POLITICAL ECONOMY—NATIONAL TROUBLES—MISSIONARY LABORS—SCHOOLS AND TEACHERS.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDAT LOGAN,SUNDAY AFTERNOON, AUGUST 4, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I have been a good deal inter- am very much pleased to see you meet ested in the remarks made by my in this beautiful house, and in pos- brethren; and in connection with them, I session of the privileges you enjoy; 40 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. and you have a right to enjoy them, be- position and relationship to the cause you have made them yourselves. Almighty. And then again, you did not make them Some of the brethren who have ad- yourselves, only as God assisted you. I dressed you have spoken upon our polit- think there is a modern Scripture which ical rights, which is all very correct. It reads: "Against none is his wrath kin- would be a poor thing indeed, if, after dled, save those who do not acknowl- God has gathered us from among the na- edge his hand in all things." And there tions of the earth to place His name upon are some other principles connected with us, and to establish and build up His these matters that are of a good deal kingdom upon the earth, we should be of importance to us. One of the old under the necessity of calling in the devil prophets, in speaking of the people and to help us to do the Lord's work. It is their relationship to God, says: "The one of those incongruities which the rea- Lord is our God, the Lord is our king, sonably intelligent and reflective mind the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our will necessarily disown. We are gathered lawgiver, and he shall rule over us." If here, not in the interests of any politi- we could really place ourselves in this cal party or any essential organization, position, and feel that we live in God, other than that which God dictated and that we move in God, and that from him ordained. Why are we here today? It is we derive our being, and that he holds because the heavens have been opened, the issues of life, and every blessing we because angels have appeared, because enjoy whether of a temporal or spiri- the revelations of God's will have been tual nature, either referring to this world made known to man, it is because God or the world to come, proceeds from and the holy angels, with the eternal God. If we, as a community, could com- priesthood, have thought proper to man- prehend our position in regard to this ifest in these last days the fullness of grand, leading, and very important fea- the everlasting Gospel, which Gospel has ture of our faith, we should be prepared been proclaimed to us in the different na- to receive greater blessings at the hand tions from whence we came. And hav- of the Almighty, and be prepared also ing yielded obedience to its first princi- to magnify that great and holy priest- ples we have gathered here. We did not hood which he has placed upon us. We come here as being associated particu- should be prepared more understand- larly with any colonization scheme; we ingly to build temples, and to operate in did not come here because of the rich- them; we should be prepared to stand as ness or fertility of the soil; we did not saviors upon Mount Zion, and to oper- come here because there was gold and ate with God and the holy angels, and silver in our mountains. We had no such with apostles and prophets who have idea. We came here because we believed lived before, and with the holy priest- that the Lord had restored the ever- hood in the eternal worlds, as well as in lasting Gospel; because he had renewed this world, for the accomplishment of the the everlasting covenant; and because purposes of God for the redemption and he had sent forth the proclamation, salvation of the living and the dead; for "Gather my people together, those who the salvation and exaltation of ourselves, have made a covenant with me by sacri- our progenitors and our posterity. But fice," and because we had been baptized we need to realize and comprehend our into Christ, and put on Christ. This is GOD'S POWER, ETC. 41 the reason of our being here; and, there- our children frequently think they are fore, as Latter-day Saints, it becomes our much smarter than their parents. They first and most paramount duty to build would think nothing at all of taking hold up the church and kingdom of God upon of a razor and cutting their fingers with the earth. it, or running over rough and danger- Now, we all believe this. And there is ous ground. We are, in many respects, a number of duties that seem to devolve a good deal like them. We see in part naturally upon us, such as to prepare and comprehend in part; and some of us buildings like this, that we may meet have been so long steeped in the super- in to attend to the worship of God; and stitions and traditions of the age, and to build temples in which to administer are imbued with false religions and po- the ordinances of God. Who for? The litical ideas and notions, and so inocu- living and the dead: for ourselves, our lated by the world, that we hardly know progenitors, and our posterity. And that what is right and what is wrong. We we might operate and cooperate with the want a little of God in the kingdom of priesthood behind the veil, in the accom- God, a little of man, and, I am sorry plishment of his purposes toward the hu- to say, a little of the devil in the king- man family. This is the kind of labor we dom of God, so that we might all mix are engaged in. But I occasionally think up together and be hail fellows well met, we are something like the disciples who God and all creation together. That is lived in the days of the apostles on the not the calculation of the Almighty. He Asiatic Continent. It is said of them, that has called us together; what to do? Let they saw in part, and prophesied in part, me tell you what the prophet said: "I and of course comprehended in part. But will take you one of a city, and two of they thought then, and we think now, a family, and I will bring you to Zion." that when that which is in part is done And what will he do with those he gets away, and that which is perfect is come— there? "And I will give you pastors ac- and which the Lord is trying to intro- cording to mine heart, which shall feed duce as fast as he can—then shall we see you with knowledge and understanding." as we are seen, and then we shall know Who would give them pastors? The Lord. as we are known; then we shall com- One of the prophets, in speaking of this prehend as God comprehends in relation time, when people should be very much to all of these subjects which we have better than we are today, says: "And they been reflecting upon and praying about. shall be all taught of God." But some of But we only comprehend in part at the us would like a little infidelity with it, a present time. We are something like our little of this world's politics, a little of the little children—when they begin to walk theories of men, and a little false tradi- a little, they make awkward stumbles, tion with it; and it is difficult for us, with oftentimes falling down and scratching all our traditions and erroneous training themselves. Our Father watches over which we have inherited from our forefa- us, the same as our mothers did when thers, and which we have been brought we were babies. You all know what up in from our early childhood, to divest watchful care a fond mother bestows ourselves from them, and listen to the upon her little child; how anxious she pure word of God, and be governed by is about its safety and welfare. But 42 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the laws of life. upon us; very little parts indeed. How many of our Bishops are there who do We talk sometimes about the thing not comprehend really and truly that we call the kingdom of God. Now, if they hold their priesthood from God? it is the kingdom of God, it is not the That they administer in the cities of kingdom of man; it is not our kingdom Zion, or ought to, by virtue of that priest- only so far as we are subject to its laws, hood; and therefore ought to be fathers which are the laws of God. We have over the people over whom they preside, made attempts lately, under the direc- having self and its interest in abeyance, tion of our venerable and respected Pres- laboring as good shepherds in the in- ident Young, who has left us and gone be- terests of their flocks, and thus operat- hind the veil, to organize the church of ing in it according to their ability; but a God, and this organization has spread, great many do not comprehend the posi- more or less, through the Territory. But tion of things in relation to these mat- it is a good deal with us as it was with ters. If a man is appointed a Bishop, the boy in Salt Lake City. A stranger, is it that he may aggrandize himself? walking along, said, "Boy, are you a Mor- No. Is it that through his position he mon?" The boy answered: "No, sir, I am may monopolize certain interests? No. not, but dad is." "Oh, he is?" "Yes, sir; It is expected of him that he will oper- but he does not potter much at it." It ate in the interest of the church of God, is a good deal so with many of us. We and more especially in the interests of have our individual affairs and our own the community over whom he presides. operations, which occupy our attention, That is the way I understand this mat- and we have little time to attend to the ter; and these are some leading features, things of God. We have an organization by which a Bishop ought to be governed. of our priesthood; we have our stakes or- And in our Bishop's Courts, when cases ganized with President, with High Coun- are brought before them, they ought to cil, with Bishops and their Counselors, be as free from partiality in their judg- and Priests, Teachers and Deacons; and ments as the Gods in the Eternal worlds we have our Seventies' Quorums, our are, and feel to administer justice and High Priests' Quorums, and our Elders' righteousness, and seek for the Spirit of Quorums; all of which are in accordance God to actuate and govern them in all with the order that exists in heaven. But of their decisions. And the same spirit how little many of us think of this. Yet and feeling ought to actuate in the High we are doing pretty well, as has been re- Council. They are making a record of marked here. I have no feeling of com- which there is a record kept in heaven; plaint in my mind about the doings of the and so are the Bishops. And when you people generally. I think that you have are administering in any of these offices, manifested a zeal, liberality and gen- God will hold you to an account, and erosity in the building of this house, that the priesthood on the earth will hold you is praiseworthy and commendable; and to an account; and you are now writ- I think you have manifested the same ing a history in indelible characters that in the progress that is exhibited in the never can be erased. If for every word building of your temple here. But these and secret act all men shall be brought are only very small parts of the duties to judgment, how much more will the of this priesthood which we have taken public acts of public men be brought GOD'S POWER, ETC. 43 into account before God and before the cally and in their spirit and essence, un- holy priesthood. til we can bring about the thing that Here, for instance, is the President God designs, for men are not prepared and his Counselors, who preside over for these things yet in full. But we this Stake. They ought to feel interested are in part, as they of old prophesied in in the welfare of every man, woman and part, and understood in part; and by and child in the Stake, so far as they come by that which is perfect in relation to under their observation; and these men, these matters will be introduced. Joseph by virtue of their high calling, ought to Smith tried to introduce this order, but be full of life and the Spirit and reve- such was the corruption, covetousness, lations of God, to comprehend things as fraud and injustice of men, that he found they are presented to them and that they it almost impossible to do it. This was may administer justice in righteousness, the idea he conveyed, if not the precise and rule over the people in that way and words that he used in speaking upon this manner that will secure the favor and subject. We have made various attempts approbation of the Most High; always to do what the Prophet Joseph tried to seeking first the interests of the kingdom do. In some places they are doing very of God and the flock that God has given well, and in other places very poorly; them the oversight of. I can tell you this much about it, it is Now I will mention some things here pretty hard work to make sheep out of that my attention has been called to, in goats. Did any of you ever try it? Let me regard to union, and union of effort. We quote you a passage of our Savior's: "My have had a great deal said about the sheep hear my voice, and I know them, United Order, and about our becoming and they follow me."—"A stranger will one. And some people would wish—Oh, they not follow, but will flee from him: how they do wish, they could get around for they know not the voice of strangers." that principle, if they could! But you And he prayed to the Father concerning Latter-day Saints, you cannot get around them: "Holy Father, keep through thine it; you cannot dig around it; it will rise own name those whom thou hast given before you every step you take, for God me, that they may be one, as we are." is determined to carry out his purposes, "That they all may be one; as thou, Fa- and to build up his Zion; and those who ther, art in me, and I in thee, that they will not walk into line he will move out also may be one in us: that the world of the way and no place will be found for may believe that thou hast sent me." Or, them in Israel. Hear it, you Latter-day in other words, God sent him and his Saints, for I say to you in the name of Is- people knew it and knew him, but the rael's God that it is a revelation from the world believed it not; but when this one- Most High, and you cannot get around it. ness should be brought about, the world There seem to be difficulties in the way would know it. And when we become at present; but we shall surmount these. one in all things, our condition will be The only way for us to do now, in con- a spectacle for God, angels and men to sideration of the weaknesses and infir- gaze upon with delight: and the world mities with which we are surrounded, is then will know that God is with us, and to do the very best we can, and advance that we are his Israel, and that he is our those interests as near as we can, practi- guide, our shield, our deliverer. 44 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

There are some things that Brother priesthood, and you all labor unitedly, Lorenzo Snow is doing that are very with singleness of heart before God. And creditable; but it is not the United Order. what would be the result? You could He is working with the people something not be preyed upon by outsiders; you after the same principle that our sisters would have no middlemen living off you, teach the little ones how to walk; they and what speculations might be entered stand them in a sort of chair which rolls into would be in the interest of the com- along, and the babies appear delighted, munity. And then you could operate in they think they are walking. But we regard to your farming interests, and have not learned how to walk yet. And the disposing of your grain, and cattle, then there are other institutions scat- sheep, etc. And operating and cooper- tered throughout the Territory, having ating together, you will be able to form the same laudable object in view, many a phalanx in this valley that will be- of them have most excellent principles come a power in this part of the land. among them, and they manifest a most And then if you could go to work and admirable spirit; but they only see in manufacture your own leather and cloth, part, and know and comprehend in part. and make your own boots and shoes and And you here are doing pretty well in harness, and your own wearing apparel, some things; but some of you are like it men's and women's wear, as they are was said by President Young of Brother doing in Brigham City, a great deal of Snow, that he had got the folks into the remunerative employment could be fur- United Order without their knowing it. nished your own people, and it would be You have hardly got one foot in yet; but the means of putting trades in the hands you are aiming at progress, and are mak- of many of your boys; and by and by ing some little advancement. For in- you could became a self-sustaining peo- stance, I hear you have a kind of com- ple. The people of the world compre- mercial business here in connection with hend this principle that we are striving some other interests that you are trying to accomplish among ourselves. There to unite on. This is very proper, and it has been quite a talk lately about some- is proper that your president should dic- thing that has existed in France. You tate in such matters; it is his business will remember that in the late war with to do it, and it is your duty to be gov- Germany, the French nation was badly erned by such principles and follow such beaten, and an enormous debt was the instructions as may be given in regard to result, which the French Government these things; and keep together, and let has since paid. And how? The first this individualism be held in abeyance, Napoleon, in his day, introduced what and let us feel that we are all holding the was called at that time the "Continen- holy Priesthood, and that we should, as tal System," which meant nothing more brethren, operate in the interests of the nor less than home manufacture. Ev- church and kingdom of God. I suppose ery encouragement was extended to the these things could go on and increase, people of that nation to raise and man- and everything in regard to your com- ufacture everything possible, that they mercial relations could be operated with might become independent of other na- one common consent, under the proper tions for their sustenance. And this authority and administration of the was the secret of their success in pay- ing their indebtedness incurred by the GOD'S POWER, ETC. 45 late war. We have had enough talk traveled hundreds of thousands of miles about these things; the only thing left to accomplish that object. But some of is to contrive in all our various settle- us are getting whiteheaded. As I was ments, to introduce such things, gradu- saying to one of my wives a little while ally and according to circumstances, as ago, Your head is getting a little grey, but will subserve the interests of the peo- mine is not (it is white). And it is so with ple and make them self-sustaining. And many of the Twelve; they have got past then let the people throughout the Ter- that some time ago. But the Twelve went ritory do the same thing, and we shall out, and were always ready to go out, and be progressing in the march of improve- are today if required. And I will say of ment, and get, by and by, to what is my brethren who are around me, I do not called the United Order. But I will tell know of a better set of men in existence, you one thing you can never do—unless nor could I tell where they can be found. you can get the United Order in the I will bear this testimony concerning my hearts of the people, you can never plant brethren of the Twelve. They are ready it anywhere else; articles and constitu- to do what God requires of them at any tions amount to very little; we must have time. Now, we have had a great many this law, which is the law of God, writ- honorable men among our Seventies, our ten in our hearts. Many men associated High Priests and Elders, who have gone with these institutions do not act in good forth with alacrity, as have the Twelve, faith. I have seen men unite with them, filled with the spirit and power of their thinking that they could get a very easy calling, feeling to rejoice all the day long, living by preying upon the people who and sing, hallelujah, the Lord is our God; were more confiding and honorable than they have been the means of gathering themselves. Will such men be blessed? the House of Israel, as they are today in No, they will not but the curse of God these mountains. Shall they have credit will rest upon them for trying to pervert among Israel? Yes, and so will they his purposes; and it would have been bet- have credit before God and the holy an- ter for them never to have entered into gels. But the Presidency, or the Twelve, such connections. These have been some or the Seventies, or the High Priests, of my reflections in relation to these mat- or the Elders, never could have done it, ters. unless God had been with them. They We have here Seventies and Elders. went forth in the name of God, bearing I wish to talk a little upon some things precious seed; and they returned again associated with their callings, for there rejoicing, bringing many sheaves with are a great many of them present to- them. And God will hold all such men day. I suppose the great majority of in honorable remembrance in time and the brethren here are either Seventies, through all eternity. But a great many High Priests, or Elders—three promi- are getting like myself, they are getting nent quorums in the church and king- old; and we cannot expect them always dom of God. Now then, what are we to be going. But then, they have a lot called to do? What, for an instance, of boys growing up, and we expect the is the duty of an Apostle? We used boys to step forward and take the place of to understand it to be our duty to go their fathers, and try to do something in to the ends of the earth and preach the Gospel; and I may say we have 46 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the interests of the church and kingdom there are some things that make it ex- of God upon the earth. tremely difficult for men sometimes to We have been passing through quite a perform the kind of missions that they scene for some time past, and the world did formerly, owing to age, infirmities, generally has, especially the European and circumstances. Yet I have frequently nations, since about 1873. There was, as felt ashamed when I have seen the acts was termed, a financial panic, and it has of many in these quorums to which I grown worse and worse until the present refer, when they have been called upon time; and trouble seems to be spreading to go on missions. One has one excuse, and growing among the nations, and is and another, another. It was easier some permeating the nation with which we are twenty years ago to raise two or three associated. It is now workmen against hundred men than it is now among all employer—labor versus capital, and vice those thousands in Israel. How do you versa, instead of union, harmony, fellow- account for this? Partly in consequence ship, and sympathy, which ought always of an apathy that exists in the different to exist between man and man. And we organisms of the priesthood; and partly have felt a little of the effects of the mon- from circumstances with which we have etary crisis here. Then the grasshop- been surrounded. We have been grap- pers have paid us a visit now and then; pling with these difficulties in common and the codling moth is among us, and with others; and the Lord has placed us some parts of our valleys have suffered in this position to try us to see what ma- considerably from winter frosts. And I terial we are made of. Or, to use a com- have thought sometimes that if the peo- mon saying, to see who would be found ple did not understand that God ruled, at the rack, hay or no hay. But the gen- they would find out by and by; for I be- eral feeling seems to be—and I suppose lieve that all these things are used by it is so with us in Salt Lake and other the Lord to bring the people to reflec- places—that we would rather go to the tion. And if I read my Bible aright, judg- rack when there was plenty of hay. But ments are first to begin at the house there is such a thing as having faith in of God. And if judgments are to com- God. I will tell you how I have viewed mence at the house of God, where are the these things. A great many have been wicked and ungodly to appear? There thrown into circumstances that, without is a terrible time approaching the na- distressing their families, it would be ex- tions of the earth, and also this nation, tremely difficult to pick themselves up worse than has ever entered into the and go on missions. We did not use to heart of man to conceive of—war, blood- think about this; but there should be shed and desolation, mourning and mis- in this, as in other things, a coopera- ery, pestilence, famine, and earthquakes, tion, a united order if you please. We and all those calamities spoken of by have found, in looking over some of our the prophets will most assuredly be ful- affairs, that these pinching times have filled, and they are nearer by forty years reached to England. And lately when than they were forty years ago. And it our Elders have returned home after is for us, Latter-day Saints, to under- having been absent two or three years, stand the position we occupy. Among they themselves not having the means the honorable men I have referred to, to pay their way home, have had to GOD'S POWER, ETC. 47 give their notes for the money; and the "ding" it into him; and perhaps by your consequence was they would return with continued teasing and worrying him, he a load of debt upon their shoulders. The may hearken to your prayers. And I will Council have considered this matter, and risk it, if the sisters get after him. decided to cancel such indebtedness; it Now after making excuses of that amounted to some $50,000; and then kind, we cannot excuse everybody. There we contrived with Brother Staines and are lots of able-bodied men who, if they the Presidency in Liverpool, to try to could only have a little more faith in God, make such arrangements that when our and could realize the calamities that brethren returned home from missions, are coming upon the earth, and the re- they shall come free. How do you feel? sponsibilities of that priesthood that God All who are in favor say aye. [The congre- has conferred upon them, they would be gation said aye.] We do not want Elders ready to break all barriers and say, Here to feel pressed down or embarrassed, I am, send me; I wish to benefit the hu- but, if possible, to be relieved; and we man family. If Jesus came to seek and are aiming to accomplish this. And when save those who are lost, let me be pos- they are away, it is not proper that they sessed of the same spirit. And if the should feel worried and concerned about Twelve, the High Priests and the Sev- their families at home; and therefore we enties, who are now aged, have done will call upon our brethren here who pre- these things, let me also do it; I am side, to see that the families of the mis- willing to enter into the harness and do sionaries are looked after, that they may all that God requires at my hands. I not suffer. I hear men sometimes pray tell you, my brethren, in the name of God to bless and provide for the families God, that right among the nations of Eu- of those on missions, and in their prayers rope, where many of you have come from, they are ever mindful of the poor. This there will be some of the bloodiest scenes is all very well so far as it goes, but it that you ever read of; and God expects does not go very far. My feelings are, you to assist in warning the nations, and never to ask the Lord to do anything I in gathering out the honest in heart. would not do myself. If I were a woman— Then when you come back, having ac- but then I am not, you know, and I do complished a good mission, you can say, not know much about it; but if I were a "My garments are clean from the blood woman, the wife of one of our mission- of this generation." Many of you cannot aries abroad, I would much rather have say that now, therefore I wish to remind a sack of flour, a little meat, some but- you of these things, that you may reflect ter and cheese, a little firewood or coal, upon them, and prepare yourselves for and a little cloth for myself and family, the work that is before you. than all the prayers you could offer up Another thing that has been referred for me. And if you want to see these to here—about our schools and educa- folks taken care of, you must see to it tion. God expects Zion to become the yourselves. And you sisters of the Relief praise and glory of the whole earth; so Society, do not give your husbands any that kings, hearing of her fame, will rest until these families are all provided come and gaze upon her glory. God is for. And do not spare the Bishop if they not niggardly in his feelings towards us. are not provided for but go after him and He would as soon we all lived in palaces as not; but he wants us to observe 48 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. his laws and fear him, and standing ments before his death for the endow- as messengers to go forth to the na- ment of a college in this neighborhood, tions; clothed upon with the power of and the brethren acting as trustees in the priesthood which has been conferred the matter are feeling interested, and upon us; seeking "first the kingdom of are taking steps for the accomplishment God, and his righteousness;" seeking of that object. And that object is, as I first the welfare and happiness of our understand it, to afford our own children fellow men, and God will add unto us greater facilities to become learned, and all the gold and silver and possessions that they also have the privilege to learn and everything that may be good for us trades, and agriculture, and horticul- to receive. I was going to say, perhaps ture, and become progressive, intellec- more than would be good for us. But all tual and informed in regard to all these these things shall be added, for no man things, and that they may comprehend that forsakes father and mother, houses the earth on which we stand, the mate- and lands, wives and children for God rials of which it is composed, and the el- and his kingdom, but what shall receive ements with which we are surrounded. in this world a hundredfold, and in the And then, by having faith in God, we world to come life everlasting. This was might stand as far above the nations in true anciently, it is true today. This be- regard to the arts and sciences, politics, ing the case, we ought to foster educa- and every species of intelligence, as we tion and intelligence of every kind; culti- now do in regard to religious matters. vate literary tastes, and men of literary This is what we are aiming at; and if and scientific talent should improve that there is anything good and praiseworthy talent and all should magnify the gifts in morals, religion, science, or anything which God has given unto them. Educate calculated to exalt and ennoble man, we your children, and seek for these to teach are after it. But with all our getting, we them who have faith in God and in his want to get understanding, and that un- promises, as well as intelligence. I was derstanding which flows from God. talking with Bro. Maeser, who is princi- Bro. Smith said his time was up; pal of the Brigham Young Academy, in mine is more than up. Provo. I saw the students go through their various exercises in the several Brethren and sisters, God bless you. classes, and I was congratulating him Let us love one another; let us seek to upon the success, when he remarked— promote one another's welfare. And let "There is one thing, Pres. Taylor, I will the Bishops and the Relief Societies, and guarantee, that is, that no infidels will the Young Men's and Young Women's As- go from my school." He would teach them sociations, and our mechanics and man- the Gospel, and inculcate its principles, ufacturers, and also our merchants, and which are so far advanced of infidelity, all hands, operate in the interests of the that it would have to hide its hoary head whole for the welfare of Zion and the in shame before the light, glory, and in- building up of the Kingdom of God upon telligence that comes from God, and that the earth; and the blessings of God will exist in all his works, and that fools begin to rest upon us, Zion will begin to do not comprehend. I am pleased to arise, and the glory of God will rest upon know that Pres. Young made arrange- her. Amen. THE SAINTS PROSPERED, ETC. 49

THE SAINTS PROSPERED—RESTORATION OF THE GOSPEL—SHOULD LISTEN TO INSTRUCTION—GOD'S GIFTS TO THE CHURCH—SALVATION FOR THE DEAD—EXAMPLES BEFORE CHILDREN.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT ANGUS M.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,AUGUST 25, 1878

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I have listened with deep interest them, which were being tolerated, and to the instructions we have received which were antagonistic to the truth. through Elder Teasdale this afternoon; And while there the Lord favored him and rejoice in being numbered with the with heavenly manifestations, among people of God. I have just returned from which was that of an angel flying in a trip through the southeastern portions the midst of heaven, the bearer of the of our Territory, having visited localities everlasting Gospel to every nation and that, five years ago, were barren and un- tongue and people. And after this he fruitful, and where frosts were known says he heard another voice, saying, to appear every month in the year; and "Come out of her, my people, that ye be finding these places cultivated by our not partakers of her sins, and that ye re- people, and their crops in a flourishing ceive not of her plagues." condition, and the crops themselves ac- We have received the Gospel; the An- knowledging the overruling hand of God gel Moroni brought it, and with faith- in tempering the elements for their good, fulness he delivered it to the Prophet I have felt to magnify God in my soul; Joseph. He watched the record for cen- and I return to you, my brethren and turies with increasing care that he might sisters, with heartfelt gratitude to our reveal unto us the lost knowledge of the heavenly Father, in thus blessing the Gospel in its purity. God has taken land and the elements for the good of his one of a city and two of a family, and Saints. And this is only an additional brought us to Zion, and he has taught testimony to me that God lives and rules, us the principles of his Gospel, and the and that Jesus is indeed the Christ. testimony of his servants, who were in- We have been called out from the strumental in his hands of introducing world, to be separated from the world. those principles of divine truth to the When John the Revelator was on the world, was sealed by the blood of his Isle of Patmos, he beheld the dark- anointed. When our enemies have ex- ness that the churches indulged in, pelled us from our homes, and deprived and realized that they would drive the us of the sustenance we had provided, Priesthood from the earth because of God has blessed the endeavors of his peo- the errors that had crept in amongst ple in cultivating the soil, and he has 50 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. rebuked the destroyer, and where sand tinue to rely upon him. Witness the ex- and aridness seemed to prevail, the tent of our increasing population, and earth has been made productive, and we the multiplicity of our settlements, as have reaped abundance. When our en- well as the prosperity that has attended emies have sought to follow us, he has us on every hand; and then ask ourselves rebuked them, and the divisions which the question: Are we possessed of the they would introduce in our midst, to same humility, of the same love, and of enfeeble us, he has caused to be visited the same undying devotion, as when our upon those who have sought to destroy enemies were driving us from the rear, us. The Lord has said through Isaiah, and apparently nothing but destitution "The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass unto starvation presented our front. Je- his master's crib," and they will come sus once said to his Apostles, when he where they are used to be fed. We have saw some of his disciples forsake him, been fed by the hand of God, we have "Will ye also go away?" But Peter an- been succored in the hour of our deep- swered him and said, "Lord, to whom est distress; he has made us strong out shall we go? thou hast the words of eter- of weakness, he has blessed us beyond nal life." Then, if we now begin to idolize our most sanguine expectations. He has our possessions, the creations of our own taught us the principles of eternal life; hands, under the blessings of God, what and has taught us to turn our hearts to profit is it to us in our having been led the fathers, as our fathers' hearts have of the Lord to this land? Wherein, I ask, been turned towards us, lest he should are we profited, if we turn a deaf ear to smite the earth with a curse and we not his words. Has he not said through Paul, be permitted to inherit it. as recorded in the 4th chapter of Eph- Lehi, when he led his little family esians, that he has placed in his church from Jerusalem, was shown of the Lord apostles, prophets etc. What for? "For that he would lead him to a land of the perfecting of the saints, for the work promise, a land that was choice above of the ministry, for the edifying of the all other lands. The Almighty blessed body of Christ: Till we all come in the his posterity, and they enjoyed peace unity of the faith," etc., remaining in and plenty until they became envious to- this condition until that which is per- ward each other, and their hearts were fect is come. And when we shall have filled with hatred towards God. Lehi arrived at that state of perfection, see- was told that this land should be con- ing as we are seen, and knowing as we secrated as a blessed land to his pos- are known, we shall not need Prophets terity and they should continue to en- to teach us, for we will then see alike, joy it and possess it, and that the dwelling in the presence of God. Then, pure in heart should dwell upon it, but shall we turn a deaf ear to the voice of the corrupt in heart should not possess Prophets before we become united, be- this land in peace and prosperity. He fore we see eye to eye? If we do we shall led us to this land when we were op- prove ourselves no better than the world pressed, when we were wounded and af- of mankind whom we have left. We have flicted, when we were bleeding and hun- come here and demonstrated that the gry and naked; and here he has suc- Lord has blessed us—for he has demon- cored us and fed us, promising to be strated this to our heart's content; he has our Father and Friend if we would con- THE SAINTS PROSPERED, ETC. 51 given us wives and children, pledges of his heart was drawn out in sympathy to- an eternal union that is to exist between wards them; and he never rested until he us and them forever. Our children are prevailed with God to rescue them from the offspring of the Almighty, they are their bondage. And when his mission to placed under our guardian care to be in- deliver his people was made known to structed in the principles of eternal life; them, and when he had obtained their they should be taught that they are cre- confidence, did they hearken to his coun- ated in the image of God, that they owe sels? And when he had so far led them allegiance to him, and that they have on their way to the wilderness, the Red not come upon the earth to do their Sea before them, the forces of Pharaoh own will, but the will of their Father in in rear of them, with no chance of escape heaven. It is said and understood by on either hand, did they relent and want us that Jesus will come and take unto to retrace their steps, or did they fol- himself the people that are prepared to low their leader, he acting as a God unto meet him. What is our condition? We them? They followed the man whom it are anxious to bless the earth we oc- has pleased God to place at their head, cupy; we are anxious to nourish and between Him and them, and they never cherish our flocks and our herds. We questioned him, they knew there was say our prosperity depends upon these no salvation for them only through him. things, and that they are created for our And he led them to liberty; he led them sakes, that they were created for man, to prosperity; he led them to the favor of to be subject to him, and that our chil- God, and with uplifted hands, while his dren will succeed us in the possession mortal strength endured, he plead their of them. How important that they be cause with the Lord. filled with intelligence; how important it is that we endeavor to keep open com- God has given us Apostles; he has munication between God and our chil- given us homes that are beautiful to dren, how important it is that we see look upon, and lands that are productive that they receive a good sound education, and fruitful; and he has made us gra- and that they have proper associations, cious and precious promises in that eter- and that they are early impressed with nal union with our wives and children, truths calculated to make them immor- restoring us to the society of our fathers tal and bring them everlasting joy and in favor with God. He has placed great happiness, and that they do not become and glorious blessings within our reach, infidel and ungrateful in their hearts. but has first called upon us to erect sa- Moses was raised under peculiar circum- cred edifices to his name in which to re- stances, having been taught in all the ceive them. Shall we, my brethren, with- learning of the Egyptians—a people who hold our substance and the labor of our were estranged from God and received hands necessary to complete this work? the best education that the Court of If we do we shall be found in the condi- Pharaoh could afford. But did his heart tion of those that Jesus came to. What become alienated from God, his kindred did he say to them on a certain occa- and people? No, he learned to love them. sion? "It is written, My house shall be And as he saw them plodding and la- called the house of prayer; but ye have boring under the most unpleasant and made it a den of thieves." And he further adverse circumstances to make brick, said: "I send unto you prophets, and wise 52 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. men, and scribes: and some of them permitted to do for themselves while liv- ye shall kill and crucify." Why? "That ing in the flesh. Let us lay our hand upon you may come all the righteous to and never cease our labors until the blood shed upon the earth, from the Temples of our God are erected, and our blood of righteous Abel unto the blood fathers' hearts are warmed into their of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye knowing that their children are laboring slew between the temple and the altar." for their redemption. Infidels say, this is injustice, why should Our fathers, for many generations, they be condemned and held answerable knew not the Gospel. Hireling minis- for the blood of their forefathers who ters preach, and have preached for years, were slain before they came into exis- what they conceive to be the truth. But tence? These very men had the chance God has, in our day, spoken from the to redeem them. The Messiah himself heavens; he has proclaimed the regener- stood before them inviting them to be ation of the human family, the redemp- taught in these principles of salvation. tion of Zion and the establishment of His The burden of his soul was to draw men kingdom in power. And he has told us to him that they might be fed with the that he would make us instrumental to bread of life. "Come unto me, all ye that this end. Then if we would have our are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. sons be faithful, and not infidel in their Take my yoke upon you, and learn of hearts, let our acts conform with our doc- me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: trine, let them understand from our con- and ye shall find rest unto your souls. duct and the spirit within us, that we For my yoke is easy, and my burden is love God more than we love anything on light." Would they do it? No. But on earth; that we revere His Apostles, from the contrary, they took John the Bap- the fact that we listen to their counsels tist and slew him; and they took Jesus and carry out their instructions. And I and crucified him. Why? Said they, will tell you, my brethren, that our chil- "His blood be on us, and on our chil- dren will respect and honor us; and when dren." Part of the Savior's mission was we sleep we will be numbered among the "to preach deliverance to the captives," blessed dead who die in the Lord; we will which he did when he passed to the other rest from our labors, and our works will side of the veil. They rejected the Gospel, follow us. There is no consistency in our and therefore would not go into the tem- acts when we say, we will receive this ple to administer in the ordinances on principle or doctrine, and reject another. behalf of their fathers who had not the If we have the Spirit of the Lord within opportunity to hear the Gospel through us, we well know, as has been said, that the Savior, and could not pass through Jesus is the Christ; but if we lose claim the ordinances of His house; and they to the Holy Spirit we can no longer tes- took part with their enemies and with tify that Jesus is the Christ and that His those who slew the Prophets, and con- Apostles are his ministers. And when sequently they were under this condem- once bereft of this we enter into temp- nation. The work that was required at tation, and by and by fall into darkness, their hands is required of us, namely and will be found walking in bye and for- to perform ordinances for our fathers bidden paths, and our sons and daugh- and forefathers which they were not ters begin to view us with distrust, and THE SAINTS PROSPERED, ETC. 53 they say in their hearts, "Surely, father ceive that a separation must sooner or must have lost faith, for he does not prac- later take place among us? This work tice what he once professed." in which we are engaged is the kingdom of God, and those who are found keep- As I have said, we have left our ing the commandments of God will be homes; for what? To be taught, to be possessed of His Holy Spirit, they will instructed by the servants of the Lord, know the voice of the good shepherd, and in other words, to do the will of God, the place where they have been fed, and and not of man. And the Lord's man- them he will separate from the ungodly, ner of instruction is to give line upon the disobedient and the wicked even as line, precept upon precept, here a little a shepherd divideth the sheep from the and there a little, until we become per- goats. The Holy Spirit is given to men, fect in the knowledge of his laws. Under who have rendered obedience to the re- these circumstances we will not refuse to quirements of the Gospel, to enable them go and proclaim the Gospel to the world to comprehend the will of the Father, of mankind, without purse or scrip; we or that they may know the voice of the will not refuse to contribute of our sub- true shepherd; and it is only by con- stance to build temples to His name, nei- stant watching, living the lives of pu- ther will we reject any of the counsels rity and uprightness and carefully es- of the Almighty. Are we not to have chewing evil, that we can retain it in the full liberty of our agency? Yes; and our hearts, as our guide and revelator, we are to be responsible for our con- after we have received in the way pre- duct, just as much as Moses was when scribed. Peter was enabled to say, in an- he undertook to rescue his brethren from swer to a question put to him by the Sav- bondage. There is a danger of becoming ior, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the fainthearted. You remember what Je- living God." It was by virtue of the Spirit sus said: "As the days of Noah were, so of God which he possessed, that he was shall also the coming of the Son of man enabled to say this, nothing but it could be. For as in the days that were before reveal that knowledge to him. And it the flood they were eating and drinking, was against this Spirit he said the gates marrying and giving in marriage, until of hell should not prevail; and it is this the day that Noah entered into the ark, same Spirit, that enabled Peter to say And knew not until the flood came, and that Jesus was the Christ, enables us to took them all away; so shall also the declare that these men who preside over coming of the Son of man be." How is us are His Apostles, servants of the liv- it today? Only a few consult the Spirit. ing God. But let a man, possessing this Has he not likewise said, the kingdom Holy Ghost, indulge in drinking, profane of heaven shall be likened unto ten vir- the name of Deity, or violate in any way gins, five of them wise and five foolish. his covenants, will he then enjoy its light Has he not said the kingdom of heaven and influence? No; the Spirit of the Lord is like unto a net which is cast into the dwells not in the tabernacles of such sea, it gathers of all kinds of fishes, and men. What is their condition? They may that when the net is brought to shore, a be found in groups and on street corners, separation takes place? I would ask if it idling away their time, and assailing the is difficult for Latter-day Saints to per- characters of those God has called to lead 54 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. us, ever ready to cast doubt into the cepts of their fathers and mothers, and minds of the honest; while their chil- they will say, I will return to the God dren, as a general thing, become like of my fathers, the communion of whose unto them—distrustful, disobedient, and spirit I enjoyed in childhood before I in time alienated from God. There is only knew sin. And they will repent of their one way by which we can ensure eter- folly, and like the Prodigal Son of the nal life, and that is by abiding by all the Scriptures, they will learn to appreciate counsels of God, seeking to cherish in our the good by the things they suffer. Let us hearts the quiet, peaceable influences of not be filled with jealousies, and vanities the Holy Spirit, which will grow within and strifes. Let us cherish in our hearts us until we become fully developed, per- the peaceful influences of God; they will fect men and women, in the likeness and lead us to be good fathers, good hus- stature of the Lord Jesus. And our chil- bands, to be good sons and good daugh- dren will also partake of this influence. ters, and to be good wives and mothers; Will they all do so? They will, unless and the blessings of the Almighty will they are inclined to be willfully wicked, rest upon us, and peace will flow unto us, or we neglect to afford them such care and prosperity will attend us, and our and attention as is due to them. children will inherit these blessings af- We know it is essential we should ter us. And when the days of calamity be faithful in all things: pay our and the justice of God overhangs the na- tithes and offerings, and let children tions, our children will be found with oil be witnesses of our faithfulness to God in their lamps, prepared for the coming and His kingdom, and although they of the Savior. may wander for a season from the true path, their hearts will warm to- May God help us so to live that this wards us in days to come, and they may be our happy lot, is my prayer, in will remember the examples and pre- the name of Jesus. Amen. THE CHURCH PARTIALLY IN THE UNITED ORDER, ETC. 55

THE CHURCH PARTIALLY IN THE UNITED ORDER—PERPETUAL EMIGRATION FUND—BEING EDUCATED TO A FULLNESS OF THE UNITED ORDER—COOPERATION AT BRIGHAM CITY—UNION IN ELECTIONS—EDUCATION OF THE YOUNG.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDAT OGDEN, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,SEPTEMBER 22, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

As has been remarked, by others, I perty we had to help each other out of have been very much interested in the the State, until there should not be a remarks which have been made. They person left there, that wished to come are things in which we are all concerned. away. We fulfilled it; and yet, properly They are part of our religion, part of our and technically speaking, we were not faith, part of the principles of the Gospel in the United Order, but we were stim- which we have embraced; and as I stated ulated by the principles of union, liber- at the priesthood meeting yesterday, so I ality and communion, if you please. We repeat now, for my part I do not know did the same thing, when in Nauvoo, af- how to get around them if I would. I ter the Prophet Joseph was killed, and cannot find any loophole whereby I can mob violence again prevailed, and pros- be excused. It is true, as remarked by ecution, tyranny and persecution were brother Snow, we are not now called rife. We had to leave that country. Was it upon to enter into these things in their because we had injured anyone? No. Be- fullness and perfection, but we are called cause we had violated any law? No. Be- upon to make steps towards it. We have cause we had interfered with anybody's been partly in the United Order, many rights? No. Because we were trouble- of us, but we have not known it. For in- some in the community? No; but be- stance, I remember the time, and many cause we were Latter-day Saints and be- of you do, so far back as Far West, in Mis- cause we chose to believe in a religion re- souri, when we were surrounded with vealed to us by God, and which the peo- difficulties and had to leave the State ple would not let us do and live in peace in consequence of persecutions and the among them. What next? We met in intolerant feeling and persecution that the Temple of the Lord, and there, with existed there. We agreed among our- uplifted hands before God, we entered selves to help one another, to use all the into a covenant that we would help one means, all the teams and all the pro- another out with our means, as we had 56 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. done in the State of Missouri; and as we gration Fund the sum of about one mil- were coming to this country we would lion dollars, without interest; and if the not rest until there should not be a interest were added it would be about Latter-day Saint there who desired to double that amount. That is one thing come to this land. Did we fulfill that? We wherein we have failed in part to make did; we carried it out to the very letter; good our agreement; but a great many we fulfilled our covenants and sent our have met their obligations promptly and teams back year after year, until there honorably. I wish we could say the same was not one left in that country that de- of all those who have been assisted by sired to come to Zion. Was not this a this Fund. I hope that those who are still United Order? Yes it was, in part, and owing for their emigration will be led to we have done a great deal of the same reflect upon these things, and consider kind of thing since we came here. So the situation of the brethren who are soon as we fulfilled that covenant, we now in the same position as they them- organized a Perpetual Emigration Fund selves were some years ago. Company, under the direction of Pres- This is a principle of union which has ident Young, having for its object the been abused; but it is right, and shall we gathering of the poor from distant lands; cease our endeavors in this direction be- and thousands and hundreds of thou- cause it has been abused by thoughtless sands of dollars were subscribed and or dishonest men? No, we will try and used for that purpose. It was organized do what we can, with the aid of the Lord, on a wise principle, not exactly what to deliver scattered Israel from the op- you would call the United Order; yet it pression and poverty under which many was an order calculated to benefit our are suffering. I would remark that of poor brethren to bring them from their this sum now due to the Fund, there is distant homes to unite with us in Zion. quite a large amount that has been ad- Many of you present remember when we vanced by the Church to help out the sent our boys with our teams, loaded poor. And if you were to hear the let- with provisions to bring them from the ters that I receive, if you were addressed frontiers. I am very sorry to say that and supplicated and importuned as I am a great many of them have not lived up from time to time in relation to these to the principles of that order in making things, describing the terrible conditions good their indebtedness, as it was cal- and poverty under which the people are culated they would do in order to make laboring, you would feel that if common the fund perpetual in its operations, us- honesty could not induce you to meet ing the same means to bring others here your obligations, that at least the sym- who were situated in a condition simi- pathies of human nature would prompt lar to that of themselves. I say again, I you to extend to others that same kind- am very sorry to have to say that a great ness that has been extended to you. We many have failed thus far to repay the should reflect upon these things, and at amount used to emigrate them, although least try to make them right. in very many cases they are abundantly But to return to the United Or- able to do so. Brother Carrington, who der; when the Bishops in those days is President of the Fund, informs me came around to you and informed that there is now due the Perpetual Emi- you that so many men and teams, THE CHURCH PARTIALLY IN THE UNITED ORDER, ETC. 57 with the necessary provisions, were cated to that standard yet; but we are needed to go east to bring in the poor aiming at it, and in some places the peo- Saints, they were furnished. The Presi- ple are entering into it, not exactly ac- dency and Twelve made the calculations cording to any particular law laid down and apportionment of those teams. They in the Doctrine and Covenants, but ap- were then handed to the Bishops, and proaching it as near as circumstances they called upon you, and you furnished will admit of it, in the present state of from one to two hundred, and as many society and with our present surround- as five hundred started out in one sea- ings. The great majority of the peo- son. I think this looked very much like ple today who have gone into Arizona the United Order. Many of you, per- are approaching as near as they can to haps, have gone yourselves, or else you what we term the United Order. Brother have sent your boys to perform this la- Snow has been operating for quite a bor; and you did not let praying for them while in that way, and the result is suffice, but you sent them food, and you that today in that little out-of-the-way felt as we ought always to feel for one an- settlement, Brigham City, notwithstand- other. We have done a great many such ing the many difficulties it has had to things. Now we are called upon to build cope with, having had its woolen factory temples. Are we doing it? Yes. I sup- burned down as well as quite a number pose there are today upwards of 500 men of other damaging misfortunes, there is engaged in building temples throughout not a man, woman or child that wants the Territory. So taking the temple at labor there but what can get it. I wish Manti, in Sanpete Valley, the temple in we could say the same of all the settle- Salt Lake City and the temple in Logan, ments of this Territory. I think we should Cache Valley, all these things are going be in a better position than we are today. on just about as well as we could rea- In Brigham City the people make their sonably expect, and the people are con- own cloth, their own boots and shoes, tributing of their means and their sub- and almost everything they need to sus- stance quite as liberally as we could ex- tain themselves, having upwards of forty pect. Is this the United Order? Why, industrial departments all in running or- yes. What are we doing it for? For our- der. Well, but you say, "the prices they selves? Yes. For anybody else? Yes; have to pay for their goods are altogether for our fathers and mothers, uncles and too high, and what a pity that is." Shall aunts, and for those we do not know any- I tell you why they fix their prices at a thing about. We are building them be- high rate? It is because the people are cause God has commanded it, and be- desirous to have big wages. If they all cause the ordinances of God will be per- agree among themselves to fix the prices formed in these houses; and so far as of their goods at certain rates, who is in- this is concerned, we are in the United jured by it? I can tell you how it is with Order. Now, then, we have tried to in- them. The carpenter says to the shoe- troduce home manufactures, a combina- maker, See here, you have charged me tion of effort, not, as has been remarked, very high for those shoes, and the shoe- strictly according to the plan laid down maker says, Yes, but then you charged in the Doctrine and Covenants; we me very high for my doors and sash; have not got to that yet, we are while the farmer charges very high not prepared for it, we are not edu- 58 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. for his wheat and flour. It makes no clining years, perhaps somebody with material difference whether they charge the same spirit will take care of us when fifty cents or ten dollars, so long as they we get old and infirm. Is not that a good agree among themselves. A man work- spirit? I think it is; I think it a right kind ing there is asked how much he gets a of feeling, a feeling we should all have day; Oh, three and a half and four dol- one towards another, all being bound to- lars a day. That is pretty good wages gether by the bonds of the everlasting for a common hand, especially for these gospel, which makes us love one another times, you know. And he feels pretty as God loves us; and feel for one an- well in telling you this part of it; but other's welfare, and pursue that course he does not tell you how much the other which will tend to bring about these re- folks get. Can a man get a house built? sults. In Cache County, in Davis County, Yes. Why? Because they have the ma- in Tooele County, and other places, they sons and carpenters, etc., and the ex- are trying to establish the same order pense attending it is charged to his ac- of things as fast as they can. Here is count. Then, if he wants to get butter, Brother Farr, he went to work, with oth- he does not put his hands in his pockets ers, and built a factory; he ought to be to feel for the money, for perhaps there sustained by the Latter-day Saints. They would not be any there if he did; but he should take their wool to him; and if he puts his hand in his pocket for an order, charges you a big price for his cloth, do which procures him his butter. Then, if with him as they do in Brigham City; he wants a hat, he can get it; and the you charge him a big price for your wool. same may be said of furniture, and so on But let us sustain one another, and place all through the chapter. I think this is a things on a proper basis, and not be gov- pretty good united order, and I think if erned by the rules of the Gentiles. Gen- we could have these things all over the tileism and Mormonism do not fit very Territory, we should be doing much bet- well; the things of God and the things ter than we are. And I certainly cannot of the devil never did and never will fit but praise the course that Brother Snow well. Tanneries are being introduced in has pursued in relation to these matters. many places among us; and a very good In a place called Orderville, too, they article of leather is being manufactured, are doing very well; they have things from which boots and shoes and harness pretty much in common, and there is are made. The first thing started in re- a good, kind and a generous spirit pre- lation to these things was cooperation. vailing among them. I remember talk- President Young told us it was the will ing to a sister, who was quite an accom- of God that we should enter into it; and plished lady, and on seeing an old man we did, but we made awful bungling at it, there, who was quite infirm, tottering the same as we have with a great many along, I said to her, What kind of em- other things. But is it right to cooper- ployment do you put such people to. She ate? Yes. But we find people beginning answered, that she did not think it nec- to pull off in their own interests. If we essary to put such a man to any employ- go on a little further in the way we are ment; he has seen a great many years going, we shall take a retrograde path, of hard toil, and if we can feed him and instead of going forward. But the ship of clothe him and take care of him in his de- THE CHURCH PARTIALLY IN THE UNITED ORDER, ETC. 59

Zion is onward; the "little stone" is hewn professing to be governed by correct prin- out of the mountain without hands, and ciple, deal with them in the same way, will roll until it fills the whole earth; and let those wrongs be righted and evil and under the direction of God we have eradicated. a duty devolving upon us as his Priest- hood, to carry out his will upon the earth. But we do not want to find fault nor And shall we, because of individual in- cast reflections on our brethren in the terests and personalities draw off from Co-op., nor on those out of it; but merely things that God has ordained? I say to touch upon some important principles no, never! No, never! But let us unite necessary for building up of the king- closer together, and harmonize our tem- dom of God upon the earth. As I have poral interests, until we shall manufac- said, we took a vote yesterday, and the ture everything we need to make us in- brethren agreed to sustain cooperation, dependent of the world. and I would like to know from this con- We took a vote at the Priesthood gregation, whether you will sustain co- meeting yesterday, and so far as I could operation as directed by the Priesthood discern, the brethren all voted to sustain or not. All that are in favor of doing so, cooperation, and that those in the mer- hold up the right hand. [The congrega- chandise business will purchase of the tion voted unanimously.] Let us stick to co-op. our covenants, and get as near to correct But some may say, have not the coop- principles as we can, and God will help erative organizations made many blun- us. We want to be united in other things ders? Yes, they have, and in many in- as well—in our elections, for instance, we stances acted very foolishly. But shall should act as a unit. Other men are not we give up the principle of cooperation ashamed to use their influence and oper- because of the unwise acts of a few in- ate in behalf of their party; why should dividuals? We do not act thus in re- we? As American citizens, have we not gard to other matters. We baptize men the same right? Yes, we have. Then let into the Church, and lay our hands upon us be one and operate as one, for God them that they may receive the Holy and his kingdom. And let us, as we are Ghost, and after they have thus been told in the Doctrine and Covenants, se- blessed with the light, spirit and power lect the wisest, the most prudent, intel- of God, many of them act very foolishly, ligent men, and put them in office, and violate their covenants, and transgress maintain them in it. That is the way for the laws of God. Shall we, therefore, us to do; not be pulling apart, each one repudiate baptism and the laying on of pursuing the devices and desires of his hands because of their folly and wicked- own heart. The members of the Church ness? Certainly not. The Lord has pro- of England pray to the Lord every Sun- vided a way to purge the Church, and day to forgive them for following the de- those men are dealt with according to vices and desires of their own hearts. the laws of the Church, and are rooted Are we in the Church and Kingdom of out. This is the way that we ought God? Are we instructed of God? If we to manage in our temporal affairs. If are let us honor our calling, and show to the people do wrong, deal with them God, to angels, and men, that we are true according to the laws of the Church, to our trust that he has conferred upon and if the cooperatives do wrong, us; and go on in the good work and aim 60 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. at more union. And while we have done of nations, and of kingdoms and govern- a great deal of good, let us try to do more. ments, and with everything calculated to And in regard to schools and the educa- exalt, ennoble, and dignify the human tion of the young, I would endorse most family. We should build good commodi- emphatically what brother Cannon has ous schoolhouses, and furnish them well; said in relation to this matter. We have and then secure the services of the best committed to our care pearls of great teachers you can, and thus "Train up price; we have become the fathers and your children in the way they should go." mothers of lives, and the Gods and the Solomon said, if you do, "when they are Holy Priesthood in the eternal worlds old, they will not depart from it." have been watching us and our move- ments in relation to these things. We do not want a posterity to grow up that I am very pleased to find out that will be ignorant, depraved, corrupt, and there is a great deal of interest mani- fallen, that will depart from every prin- fested in regard to our youth. I see three ciple of right; but one that will be in- of our brethren here—brothers Goddard, telligent and wise, possessing literary Evans and Willes; they have been out and scientific attainments, and a knowl- visiting some of the settlements in the edge of everything that is good, praise- interests of the Sunday Schools; I wish worthy, intellectual and beneficial in the to encourage such men in their labors, world, and become acquainted with the for they fully realize that a great mission earth on which we stand, and the ele- has been committed to them, to teach the ments of which it is composed, and by youth of this people. And then, there is which we are surrounded, and know how our Young Men's Mutual Improvement to control them and manage them, and Associations; they are very good institu- how to put to the best use everything tions, and we have some very excellent that comes within our reach. And above young men, that are rising up and going all other things, teach our children the among the youth, calling upon them to fear of God. Let our teachers be men study and understand the laws of God. of God, imbued with the Spirit of God, And all the Elders of Israel ought to sus- that they may lead them forth in the tain such men in their operations. And paths of life, and warn them against then the ladies associated with the Relief the various evils and iniquities that pre- Societies have rendered themselves very vail in the world, that they may bear efficient. Let them operate for the good off this kingdom when we get through, of all, and as mothers in Israel, let them and be valiant in the truths of God. be united and lay aside every petty jeal- Teach them how to approach God, that ousy and little feelings that are wrong, they may call upon him and he will and be one; and let the Bishops assist hear them, and by their means we will them, as well as the Young Ladies Mu- build up and establish Zion, and roll tual Improvement Associations, in their forth that kingdom which God has de- labors in the interest of the female por- signed shall rule and reign over the na- tion of society, and all objects of mercy tions of the earth. We want to pre- and charity, or anything that comes pare them for these things; and to study within their reach. And I say, God bless from the best books as well as by faith, you, sisters, and lead you in the paths and become acquainted with the laws of life that you may prove yourselves THE CHURCH PARTIALLY IN THE UNITED ORDER, ETC. 61 worthy of the highest trust committed to pare to go forth to the nations of the your care. And throughout all of our in- earth to proclaim to them the words of stitutions, let us sustain the right and life. Never mind what people can do put down the wrong and be valiant for among us, we ask no odds of them. God the truth, asking no odds of this world, is with Israel if Israel will only be with for God is on the side of Israel, and he God. And if the world will only treat us will defend us if we obey his laws and fifty percent as well as we have treated keep his commandments. Are we going them, it is all we ask of them; and if to be broken up? Will this plan of our en- they won't, we will still continue to do emies, spoken of by brother Cannon, be them good. And when the day comes accomplished? No. Will this people fail that all men will be brought to justice, of their mission? No, but many of them we want to feel conscientiously free from will, and many of them will be rooted the blood of this generation. Do we want out. But the work of God will go on, and the aged and infirm to go and preach the Zion will progress; and if we can put our- Gospel. No. Had there been time yes- selves in the harness to fulfill the various terday, I would have very much liked to obligations devolving upon us, God will have heard the brethren of the priest- be with us and will lead us in the right hood express their feelings; but I would path. We want everybody to perform say to you, High Priests, get together their duties, in all the various branches and humble yourselves before God, seek of the Priesthood, every man to operate unto Him for wisdom to guide you in for God, and not in his individual inter- all your operations, and prepare your- ests. This is what we ought to strive for, selves to magnify your offices in the var- and to be on the side of Zion and operate ious duties of your calling, which is re- for the welfare of Israel and for the es- ally that of presiding, that when changes tablishment of righteousness. We want may take place in the present Stakes, or our Seventies and High Priests to wake other Stakes may be organized, you may up, and our young Elders and middle- be prepared as President and council, as aged Elders to feel the responsibilities of Bishops and council, as High Councils, the mission that rests upon them. The or whatever office you may be called to world has to be evangelized, the Gospel fill. And I would say the same to the has to be proclaimed to all nations. God Seventies and also to the Elders, pre- has laid it especially upon the Seventies, pare to magnify your callings. Let us with the others to assist them. And we humble ourselves before God, and purify call upon the Seventies and High Priests ourselves and walk in uprightness be- to wake up, to assume the responsibil- fore him and live our religion and mag- ities that devolve upon them, and pre- nify our calling, and be quick and active pare themselves to do the work of God. and diligent and energetic in the perfor- For instead of being through and hav- mance of our duties, and the power of ing finished our work we are only just God will rest upon the Priesthood, and beginning to prepare ourselves for the they will be prepared to go to the na- conflict. Wars and rumors of wars are tions to proclaim the Gospel message to beginning to sound in our ears; the ter- all peoples. rible day is fast approaching, and God I do not know how many we will requires it at our hands that we pre- want to call at our approaching con- ference; I have had applications for 62 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. twenty to fill missions in the South- everything required of us. We will build ern States, besides a great many other our Temples and be Saviors on Mount places, but whether few or many be Zion, and the kingdom will be our Lord's. needed, we must be in readiness at all times and under all circumstances God bless you and lead you in the to magnify our Priesthood and to do paths of life. Amen.

THE BOOK OF MORMON—PROMISES TO THE LAMANITES—OBJECTS OF THE RECORD—THE BOOK OF ABRAHAM—GIFTS TO THE CHURCH—BENEFIT OF IMMEDIATE REVELATION—THE GREATER THINGS SHOWN TO THOSE WHO RECEIVE THE RECORD—THE VISION OF MOSES—THE CREATION, ETC.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDATTHE THIRTEENTH WARD ASSEMBLY ROOMS,SUNDAY EVENING,AUGUST 25, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

There is a sentence in the Book of Nephites, who was righteous; his nation Mormon (p. 510), that has come to my having been destroyed a few years before mind, which I will read, "And whoso re- he penned this sentence. It is true a few ceiveth this record, and shall not con- of his nation had deserted and gone to demn it because of the imperfections the opposite nation—the Lamanites, and which are in it, the same shall know a few had fled at the general destruction; of greater things than these." This pas- but they were hunted by the Lamanites, sage from the Book of Mormon is one and were destroyed as a people. Mo- that I do not remember having cho- roni, being a Prophet of God, would not sen as a foundation of any special re- join that nation in their wickedness and marks. It is one that applies directly idolatry, and the only way he could pre- to the present generation—the people serve his life was to keep himself se- that should live on the earth at the time creted and hidden from the knowledge of that the Lord our God should bring forth the Lamanites. While concealing himself this record, and affording them the op- from his enemies, he finished the record portunity of reading its contents. They of the Book of Mormon. The latest date were written by the Prophet Moroni, who which he gives in the record is 420 years was the only man of his nation—the THE BOOK OF MORMON, ETC. 63 after the birth of Christ, according to the they should become a peaceable, and also signs that were given on this American a white and delightsome people. These continent, concerning his birth. Thirty- are the predictions given in the Book of six years prior to this time his nation Mormon as some of the objects of the was destroyed in what we term the State bringing forth of that record in the last of New York, around about a hill, called days. And among other objects that the by that people the Hill of Cumorah, Lord had in view was, that he might en- when many hundreds of thousands of lighten the minds of the people in re- the Nephites—men, women and chil- gard to the Gospel in all its plainness dren, fell, during the greatest battle that and fulness, with all its promises, bless- they had had with the Lamanites. For ings, gifts and ordinances; so that the 36 years this prophet of God kept him- people, the Gentiles, to whom this record self hid, and wrote as he was prompted should be sent, might have no excuse by the spirit of inspiration, and finally for rejecting it, and also that the Gospel hid up the plates of gold, containing the might be established in the earth in its records in the Hill of Cumorah, with purity, according to ancient prophecies. the promise which the Lord gave him Another object was, that he might build that these records should come to light up his church among the Gentiles, if in the last days, that He himself would they should believe in this record and bring them forth by his own wisdom in the preaching of His servants when and power. And he also tells us his ob- they should be sent forth in the last days ject, namely, to benefit the Gentiles who among them, testifying to its truthful- should occupy this American continent— ness. In speaking of this work which the Promised Land, as they term it; and the Lord is doing in the earth, we some- also for the benefit of other nations of times call it the Church of God, and we Gentiles to whom the book should after- also speak of it as the kingdom of God. wards be sent; and when they should It is both, God himself being the King; reject it, the Lord would cause it to be not a civil power, not a civil government published to the remnants of the Laman- in the earth, for we already have es- ites inhabiting this country, whom we tablished here upon this choice land a call American Indians, which shall be government wherein all classes of reli- the means of revealing to them the his- gious people may worship God as they tory of their forefathers, and also cer- please; but the Lord intended among tain promises made to them as a branch these various religions and ecclesiastic of the house of Israel, setting forth that denominations, to have a peculiar de- many of their descendants should be- nomination, a peculiar people, a peculiar lieve the record when it should be made church, which he denominates his king- known to them, and that they should dom, and himself as the great lawgiver be instructed in the things of God, and in this kingdom. Another object was that the curse, which has degenerated them men might have more faith than what to their present low condition, should they had been in possession of in the for- be removed, and that they should lay mer generations of apostasy and wicked- down their weapons of war, and that they ness, and that the faith which the an- should cease to war and commit mur- cient Saints exercised might again dwell ders, and thefts and robberies, and that in the hearts of the children of men. For 64 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. instance, a power of faith, through our more fully than what is described in the repentance and through our obedience book of Genesis, giving an account of a to the ordinances of baptism, to receive great many occurrences and events that that greater and miraculous baptism of transpired before the flood, also giving the Holy Ghost. And that this gift, this us much information of the Gospel that baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost which was taught in those early ages, and giv- should be given to all the members of the ing us some very important prophecies, Church of God, should put them in pos- reaching down to the present period of session of certain gifts, which no other the world, and also prophecies that reach people on the face of the whole earth down still further, from the present day should have or know anything about, to the end of the world. These are providing the members of the Church not the only revelations, given through were worthy to possess them. I will this great modern Prophet. The Lord name, in short, the various gifts that brought to light sacred records from the the Lord intended to be given to this Catacombs of Egypt. After several hun- people. In the latter days, when this dred men had wrought and toiled for record should be brought forth, he in- many months in digging down one of tended, in the first place, to raise up a these vast structures, they entered into great and mighty Prophet, to translate its interior; they found a great num- the divine book. This was fulfilled be- ber of mummies—the bodies of persons fore the rise of the Church about 50 years that had been preserved since the cata- ago. This Prophet who was raised up to comb was built, and some eleven of these perform this work was permitted to take mummies, well preserved, were taken these records out of the hill where Mo- out by these men, and they finally fell roni had deposited them some 420 years into the hands of a person named M. H. after Christ. This Prophet was spoken Chandler. They were sent from Egypt of in the records, and the work that he to Ireland, where it was supposed he should perform was also spoken of. And resided, but learning that he resided in notwithstanding his youth and inexperi- America, they were sent to him. After ence in regard to the learning and wis- receiving the mummies he began to take dom of the world, he proved himself a off some of the ancient covering or wrap- great and mighty man of God; he not ping, and to his astonishment he found only was the instrument in the hands of upon the breast of one of these mummies God of bringing to light the Book of Mor- a record written upon ancient papyrus in mon, but also received numerous other plain characters, written both in black revelations which are contained in this and red inks, or stains, or colors. And book called the Doctrine and Covenants, the mummies and the records were ex- a book that contains nearly as much hibited by Mr. Chandler, in New York, reading matter as the Book of Mormon; Philadelphia, and many of the Eastern and besides these you will find that States of our Union; and thousands of many of the revelations were given by people saw them, and among them many him which are found in what is called learned men; and these characters were the new edition of the Pearl of Great presented to them, and not infrequently Price, published by the Deseret News Of- was Mr. Chandler referred to "Joe" fice, which gives a knowledge of things Smith as they used to term him, who, that took place in the creation much they said, pretended to have translated THE BOOK OF MORMON, ETC. 65 some records that he found in the west- that he would not sell the writings, un- ern part of New York, and that if Mr. less he could sell the mummies, for it Chandler would go and see him per- would detract from the curiosity of his haps he would translate those ancient exhibition. Mr. Smith inquired of him characters. Many of these references the price which was a considerable sum, were made with the intention of ridi- and finally purchased the mummies and culing Mr. Smith; but it so happened the writings, all of which he retained that in traveling through the country in his possession for many years; and he visited Kirtland, Ohio, where the they were seen by all the Church that Prophet Joseph Smith resided, bringing saw proper to visit the house of the the mummies and the ancient papyrus Prophet Joseph and also by hundreds of writings with him. Mr. C. had also ob- strangers. tained from learned men the best trans- The Prophet translated the part of lation he could of some few characters, these writings which, as I have said, is which however, was not a translation, contained in the Pearl of Great Price, but more in the shape of their ideas with and known as the Book of Abraham. regard to it, their acquaintance with the Thus you see one of the first gifts be- language not being sufficient to enable stowed by the Lord for the benefit of them to translate it literally. After some His people, was that of revelation—the conversation with the Prophet Joseph, gift to translate, by the aid of the Urim Mr. Chandler presented to him the an- and Thummim, the gift of bringing to cient characters, asking him if he could light old and ancient records. Have any translate them. The prophet took them of the other denominations got this gift and repaired to his room and inquired among them? Go and inquire through of the Lord concerning them. The Lord all of Christendom and do not miss one told him they were sacred records, con- denomination. Go and ask the oldest taining the inspired writings of Abra- Christian associations that are extant; ham when he was in Egypt, and also go to Italy, headquarters, and ask the those of Joseph, while he was in Egypt; man that holds the greatest power and and they had been deposited, with these authority in the Romish Church, "Can mummies, which had been exhumed. you translate ancient records written in And he also enquired of the Lord con- a language that is lost to the knowledge cerning some few characters which Mr. of man?" "No," he would say, "we can- Chandler gave him by way of a test, not, it is out of my power to do it." Go to see if he could translate them. The to Russia, inquire of the heads of the Prophet Joseph translated these charac- church of the Greek Catholics, if they ters and returned them, with the trans- can do this; and they will give you, sub- lation to Mr. Chandler; and who, in stantially, the same answer. Then try comparing it with the translation of the the later, the present day denominations, same few characters by learned men, inquire of every one of them, beginning that he had before obtained, found the with the Lutherans and the Calvinists, two to agree. The Prophet Joseph having and the Church of England, and then put learned the value of these ancient writ- the same question to all of the branches ings was very anxious to obtain them, that have sprung from them; as well and expressed himself wishful to pur- as to those that have come into exis- chase them. But Mr. Chandler told him tence by other means; and the univer- sal reply of the Christian denominations, 66 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. numbering some 400,000,000, would be religions of the world do not even pro- that they have not the power to do it. fess to be in possession of. Let me can- Ask them if they pretend to possess su- didly enquire, which is the most pleas- pernatural power from God, to accom- ing in the sight of God, for people to ob- plish a work of this nature; and they will tain the great and precious things which all tell you that God has never bestowed come through the operation of the Holy such power upon any of their minis- Ghost, or for people to have no informa- ters. And then, if it were possible, ask tion, no instruction for some seventeen the 400,000,000 of Christians, scattered hundred years, only what they could throughout Asia, Europe, America and glean out of the writings of some of the the islands of the seas, if a man can be ancient Seers, or Prophets, or Revela- found among them endowed, as ancient tors, or Apostles, who have lived and seers were, with the gift to see, or as who have died centuries ago? Perhaps ancient revelators were who told future strangers might claim that they have the events, what should befall men and na- writings of those favored men of God, tions and their final destiny; and the uni- and that they need no more, and that versal reply will be, O, no, such things all the generations of men since the days are all done away. Here then the very that such men of God fell asleep needed first gift that the Lord set in his church, no further instruction than that which is a peculiar gift so far as the religions of was given to former-day Saints. The the world are concerned, not peculiar so strangers present will readily concede far as the Church of Christ is concerned, this to be the sentiment, the belief and but so far as the religious world in the testimony of all, or nearly all the reli- four quarters of the earth is concerned, gious people upon the face of the whole we have something which they have not earth. You also know if you have read got, and something that is in accordance the history of Christendom for seventeen with the Bible. What man, I would ask centuries past, that their belief and tes- further, among all the religions of the timony in this respect have been sim- earth, for the last seventeen centuries, ilar to those entertained by Christian- has possessed the Urim and Thummim, ity of today. Now, I ask again, which the gift that would constitute him a seer is the more Godlike, which is the more and a revelator? There may have been in accordance with the Bible, for a peo- some seventeen thousand million of peo- ple to enjoy the same gifts that were en- ple that have passed off from our globe joyed by the people of God in earlier dis- without such gifts being among them; pensations, or to be obliged to depend and they were gifts given to the people of upon someone else's gift who has long God before the advent of the Savior, and ago passed away? Now, any consistent that were enjoyed by his servants that religious man will give his testimony on lived contemporary with him and with religious affairs independent of the tra- those who lived after he had performed ditions of his fathers, and would say in his mission to the earth, and ascended to his own mind, it is more consistent for us heaven. Then, in speaking to strangers, to have Revelators, Prophets, Seers and I would say, you must give us credit of at Translators inspired from heaven in our least professing to have these great and Church, it is more in accordance with the important gifts, gifts which all the other Bible to be in possession of those gifts ourselves than to depend upon Reve- THE BOOK OF MORMON, ETC. 67 lators and Seers of former ages. I do that of another. All these things concern not suppose for a moment that there is every head of a family; therefore, if he any consistent person but that, if left had the spirit of revelation, if he could to his own reasoning, would say that go and inquire of the Lord, if he found it this is certainly the more reasonable and to be the whisperings of his spirit which the more consistent; and especially when course to pursue in temporal matters, the Bible is referred to, in which there what a great blessing it would be for is nothing limiting the generations that him; and then not for that one person have lived upon the earth for seven- only, but for all his sons as they grow up, teen centuries in regard to these gifts. and for his wives, if he have a number It is more consistent then when God of wives. The Lord used to give revela- should raise up a Church he should have tion not only to the head of a family, but Prophets, Seers and Revelators in that also to a man's wives. Read, for instance, Church, inspired men, men that can re- what the Lord revealed to the wives of ceive the word of the living God, upon all Jacob, how he used to reveal a great subjects that should come before them many things to Rachel, a great many which might concern the people. How things to Leah, a great many things to many millions of questions and matters Bilhah, and a great many things to Zil- of more or less magnitude might be cited pah. These four wives were revelators; for which no instruction could be found they were prophetesses; they were indi- in the Bible that would be at all suitable viduals that could inquire of the Lord, to the circumstances. Take any one in- and obtain an answer from him; and we dividual among the many of the human have their revelations recorded in the family, and you could find thousands of Scriptures. We call their revelations the things, pertaining to his individual wel- Word of God to them. What a benefit fare and temporal circumstances, that he it would be for a man who had three or could never learn out of the Bible. The four or half a dozen wives, who could Lord guides and directs the temporal as receive the word of the Lord in relation well as the spiritual affairs of his people; to their several duties; how calculated it he always has done so. How many thou- would be to produce peace, and union, sands of things does a single head of a and salvation in the family and house- family need to know, in regard to his own hold. And what great comfort it would temporal circumstances, what course be for a man if he had several wives, and he should take most pleasing to the knew by the spirit of revelation how to Almighty, whether to pursue this course deal in relation to all his domestic and or that branch of business, or whether temporal affairs, according to the mind to pursue some other branch of busi- and will of God. Again, how great would ness, wherein he might do the most good; be the benefit to a body of people—to and wherein he could glorify God most; say nothing of households and families— and which would be the greatest bless- located for instance, in one region of the ing for his household and family, and country, a people who were united to- wherein he could please the Lord and gether according to the law of God, de- live more uprightly and more godly, and siring to advance each other's welfare more consistently and honestly, by pur- and happiness, and each man was re- suing one branch of business rather than quired to love his neighbor as himself; a 68 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. people who knew how to so conduct their land. Hence by a few words of revela- temporal affairs that each man's neigh- tion given through a Prophet of God, that bor might be benefited as well as himself; lived in their midst, millions of people and each one looking not only for his own were saved alive. welfare or that of his own household, but If we trace the history of the people of for the welfare of the whole community, God we shall find it a history of revela- with whom he was associated, produc- tions of God to man given for the purpose ing at last that unity and oneness which of directing them as individuals, as fam- the Lord requires in the numerous reve- ilies, as neighborhoods, as tribes and as lations which he has given. peoples, directing them in regard to their It requires revelation then; it re- temporal affairs, as well as concerning quires revelation for one single branch the great matters that pertain to a fu- of the church located in one region of ture state of existence. the country; how much more necessary, I mention this in order to refer to the when there are numerous branches, and text which I have taken. He that re- that those branches should know their ceives this record, and shall not condemn duties in regard to one another, that they it because of imperfections that are in it, might not work against one another's in- the same shall know of greater things terests in any way or manner, but on the than these. That is, they shall know of contrary, labor for the mutual benefit of greater things than what are contained all the branches of the Church and King- in the Book of Mormon. The Book of dom of God, and thus preserve means, Mormon contains some wonderful things even as Joseph did in Egypt. Joseph was about the colonization of this country a man that sought after riches, he ad- soon after the flood, the history of a cer- vised King Pharaoh to seek after riches, tain nation that lived here some sixteen by building storehouses, and procuring or seventeen centuries; then of another as much of the surplus grain as he could, nation that succeeded it, and that lived during the seven years of plentiful har- here some 600 years before Christ, and vests which he foretold, and to store down to the time that the records were it away for future use. Some people hid up. Great things, historically, are re- might have supposed, if they had lived vealed in this book; great things are re- in that day, that Joseph was a great vealed in it concerning prophecies that speculator, and wanted to take advan- are yet to take place, and that have al- tage of the people, getting rich him- ready taken place—when this record was self at their expense. But the Lord di- translated. Not only this, but it con- rected this; he gave a revelation, clearly tains the Gospel of the Son of God. I showing what would be necessary for mean the first principles of the Gospel— the salvation of the Egyptians and also the principles of faith in God and in his the children of Israel who were sojourn- Son Jesus Christ; repentance—turning ing in the land. Hence we perceive away from sin, from all unrighteous- it was necessary to get revelation in ness; baptism by immersion in water regard to temporal matters, and that for the remission of sins; the gift and without it the famine would have come power of the Holy Ghost to be shed upon them unawares and destroyed forth upon those who should receive this hundreds of thousands of people, and record—that is, receive its truths and they would have perished over all the obey them. It does not mean those THE BOOK OF MORMON, ETC. 69 who should read this record and not the bringing forth of the Gospel from perform the things that are contained among the Gentiles. The persecutions therein; the promise is not extended to that they should endure are predicted them. "Whoso receiveth this record," in the Book of Mormon. It is a great that is, receives the Gospel therein con- thing, it is a wonderful thing. In fact tained, will assuredly believe in Christ; it is just what Isaiah said it would be will assuredly repent of his sins; will as- in prophesying of the Book; he said it suredly be baptized for the remission of should be a marvelous work and a won- his sins; and will assuredly be confirmed der. But the people who should re- by the laying on of hands for the re- ceive this record should know of greater ception of the Holy Ghost. No man or things. What greater things have we woman that fails to comply with these learned? We might have searched the things that I have named—believes and Book of Mormon from beginning to end, receives the record; they may pretend to and we never could have learned the per- believe the record, they may say it ap- fect organization of the Kingdom of God pears to be a very good record, and it upon the earth, such as we now find it speaks as if it might be true; but un- in the midst of this people. We might less they do receive it, by obeying its or- have read in the Book of Mormon about dinances, and its institutions, and com- the Melchizedek priesthood, as it existed plying with the principles of the Gospel, among the Nephites; we might have read they would not be entitled to the promise of the Aaronic priesthood such as also recorded in the words of my text, "They existed in this land; and we might, too, shall know of greater things than these." have read about the first principles of I would ask, if the Latter-day Saints the Gospel and about Twelve Apostles know of anything, greater than that chosen among the ancient Nephites; but which is contained in the Book of Mor- do we read of the manner in which the mon. What a wonderful thing the Book Nephites were organized after they were of Mormon is, to be brought forth by baptized and received the Holy Ghost? an angel sent from heaven to be trans- No. Why? Because the Lord saw proper lated from the ancient languages of this to withhold this from us, deeming it country into our English language, to proper to reveal it through the patri- have the Urim and Thummim given to arch Joseph, whom he would raise up, the translator by which the words were as something greater than the Book of translated. What a great and wonder- Mormon should contain; showing that ful thing the Book of Mormon is so far as there were to be Twelve Apostles in our its prophecies are concerned, so far as its day. Did the Book of Mormon inform us history and its doctrine are concerned; that we were to have Twelve Apostles? and so far as its predictions of those No. The Lord therefore gave greater things which are immediately in the fu- things to this people who believed the ture are concerned, what a great bene- record that had come unto us, by re- fit it has been to us Latter-day Saints to vealing directly that we were to have read our own history before it comes to raised up in this dispensation twelve pass. men, called Apostles, and that they I might take up a whole discourse should go forth and preach his Gospel, in showing how the Book of Mormon first to the Gentile nations, and, when has been fulfilled since it has been the times of the Gentiles should be ful- translated up to the present time, in 70 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

filled, they should go forth and preach words and then dropped it. The people, His Gospel to the scattered remnants of to whom he was writing may have known the house of Israel. This was taught all about the subject he so casually re- when the revelation was given soon after ferred to, if they did, the knowledge they the last part of the Book of Mormon was possessed was not handed down to us. translated; that the Lord would raise up But the Lord, on the 16th day of Febru- a Church; that he would call twelve men ary, 1832, poured out His Spirit from on and send them forth as Apostles, that he high while Joseph was engaged in the would build up his Church among the work of translating another record, and Gentiles first; that he would, when their also upon his scribe, and they saw in vi- times were fulfilled, send them to the sion the celestial world, and they were house of Israel, to bring that people back commanded to write a portion of the to a knowledge of the Gospel. things which they saw; to write about the greatness and power and majesty Now this was new information to the and the knowledge of the people who people. They at first learned the Book of inherit the celestial world. And they Mormon, and having learned it, having were also shown, in the same manner been taught concerning what God taught the terrestrial world and the inhabitants ancient Israel on this land, then the Lord thereof and their glory, and what their revealed unto them greater things ac- condition would be in the eternal worlds; cording to the promise in our text by and then they descended also in their telling them what should be done di- vision and beheld the lesser or telestial rectly in our midst. glory, and they saw the inhabitants that Then again, what could we learn dwelt there and comprehended the laws from either the Bible or Book of Mor- by which they were governed. Some mon in regard to three glories—the ce- of these things they were commanded lestial, the terrestrial and the telestial to write, while there were things which glories? What did we know concern- they beheld which they were strictly ing those that should inhabit these var- commanded not to write, as the world ious worlds of glory? Nothing at all. It was not worthy to receive them. Nei- was merely referred to in Paul's writ- ther was the Church, at that time, pre- ings, that there were three glories, "one pared to receive a full knowledge con- glory of the sun, and another glory of cerning these things. But that portion the moon, and another glory of the stars: which they were permitted to write they for one star differeth from another star wrote, and it has been printed now some in glory. So also is the resurrection of 40 years for the Saints and for the in- the dead." But Paul left us here; he did habitants of the world to learn concern- not tell us anything about the celestial, ing the future condition of all those that or anything about terrestrial, or teles- shall pass out of this state of existence tial glories; he told us nothing about behind the veil. the inhabitants of these worlds, nor any- Here, then, were greater things thing about the laws by which these dif- made manifest than those in the ferent glorified worlds were governed, Book of Mormon, or those in the but merely referred to them in a few Bible. Whoso receives this record THE BOOK OF MORMON, ETC. 71 and shall not condemn it because of and the Lord showed unto Moses the imperfections, the same shall know of works of his hands in relation to the var- greater things. "But," says one, "what ious creations that he had made. And imperfections could there be in the writ- when Moses began to inquire of the Lord, ings of an inspired man?" I will tell you. the Lord said unto him, No man can be- Imperfections may creep in through the hold all my works, except he behold all printing press, unless there was some my glory; and no man can behold all my expert person to examine the printing glory, and afterwards remain in the flesh of the Book. There might be imper- upon the earth. Here, then, Moses began fections creep in through the persons to understand that it was not for him as that recorded these things—Moroni and a mortal personage to cast his eyes forth the various prophets that preceded him and behold all the infinite creations of who wrote upon the plates. Imperfec- the Almighty dispersed through bound- tions might occur through the omission less space; but the Lord was willing that of some words. But one of the Prophets he should know in part. And Moses, says, he knew of no imperfection in the when he saw the glory of God, and the record; nevertheless, the Lord knew all, things with which he was surrounded, therefore, he said, judge not, lest ye be pertaining to the planetary system, he judged; judge not with harsh judgment, began to wonder and marvel, as you and lest ye be judged harshly—that is un- I would do if we had the privilege of gaz- righteously. Probably the individual in ing in vision upon the works of God. And reading the first edition of the Book of while he was marveling at what he had Mormon from the hands of the printer, seen, the Lord for some reason, withdrew knew of no error so far as the printing from him, probably to try him, to see if was concerned. But when we came to he would be faithful to him. And when examine the first edition, and even all the Spirit of the Lord was taken from the editions, we found some few little im- him, and the glory of God had withdrawn perfections that were introduced chiefly from him and the Lord himself had de- of a typographical nature. Well, those parted from before him, Moses was left who will not condemn the work of God to himself. O how weak! He fell to the because of such little things, have the earth, and for the space of many hours promise that they shall know of greater he did not receive his natural strength. things than these. The Latter-day Saints And when in this weak, fallen condition are witnesses. You have upon your he exclaimed, I know now that man is shelves the Book of Covenants and Com- nothing; and he began to call upon the mandments, the revelations of heaven; Lord to restore his strength. And Sa- you also are in possession of the Pearl tan, we learn, took advantage of Moses of Great Price, containing the vision of on this occasion, while thus left to him- Moses, that great and glorious vision self, and came and stood before him, and which he received on the mount, reveal- said, Moses, son of man, I am the Only ing to him the history of the creation of Begotten, worship me. Moses looked the world. The Lord saw proper to de- upon Satan and perceived the difference scend upon a certain mountain before at once, between the glorious person- Moses, and showed himself to him, and age that had appeared to him a short the glory of God rested upon Moses so time before, and the personage of Satan. that he stood in the presence of the Lord; 72 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

And Moses in looking upon this strange and tell me concerning this earth, and visitor said, Where is thy glory, that I the inhabitants thereof, and also the should worship thee? Behold, I could not heavens, and then thy servant will be look upon God, save his glory were upon content." He thought that if he could me. But I can look upon thee in my natu- not behold other worlds, if he had not ral state. Having said so much to him, he the privilege granted to him of looking commanded him to depart; but being so upon more glorious creations, it would be weak his faith was not strong enough to a satisfaction for him to look upon this prevail against Satan, hence he did not earth and also the heavens. But what leave at his bidding. Moses then called was the Lord's answer to him? "The upon God, and Satan began to tremble heavens, they are many, and they can- and the earth began to shake; and Satan not be numbered unto man; but they are went upon the earth, and commanded numbered unto me, for they are mine. Moses, saying, I am the Only Begotten, And as one earth shall pass away, and worship me. But Moses still called upon the heavens thereof even so shall an- God for strength, and the Lord heard and other come, and there is no end to my answered his prayers; and he then com- works, neither to my words." But, said manded Satan, in the name of the Only the Lord, "I will reveal to you concern- Begotten Son, to depart; and he was re- ing this earth upon which thou stand- buked from his presence. And again est, and also the heaven belonging to Moses lifted up his voice to heaven and the earth, and you shall write the words cried to the Lord, and the glory of God which I speak to you." This is the way began to come upon him; and the Lord that Moses obtained what is now called stood in his presence again, and Moses the book of Genesis, which gives an ac- was again filled with his glory. And while count of the creation. How did we learn he was filled with the glory of the Lord he of these things? By way of fulfillment beheld all the earth and the inhabitants of this promise, contained in the words thereof, and there was not a particle of of our text: "Whoso shall believe in this the earth withheld from his vision; he record, and shall not condemn it because saw every particle of it. He beheld it not of its imperfections, the same shall know by the natural vision, but by the Spirit of of greater things than these." Here then the living God. we have come to a knowledge of the great and grand vision given to the Revelator Moses not only saw the whole of this Moses. God communicated to Moses con- beautiful creation in its entirety, but he cerning the creation of the heavens and doubtless beheld the laws by which every this little earth upon which we dwell. particle is governed by the law of gravi- He tells us that darkness came upon tation or electricity or heat; Moses com- the face of the great deep, after the prehended it. He was then desirous to earth was created. What was there be- know how the Lord created the earth, fore this darkness came upon the face as well as other heavenly bodies; but of the great deep, after the earth was would the Lord grant his desires in created? What was there before this full? No; because it was not for mortal darkness came, can anyone tell us? A man to know so much. But Moses still great many religious people, without any plead with the Lord in this language: reflection, have supposed there was no "Be merciful unto thy servant, O God, light, from all eternity, until about six THE BOOK OF MORMON, ETC. 73 thousand years ago; that then the Lord dry land to appear. The dry land he created the sun, moon and stars, they re- called earth; the gathering together of ally think that that was the first time the waters called he seas. How did he from all the endless durations of past do this? He may have done it by a direct eternity that there was any light. I mean miracle, or he may have done it accord- a great many ignorant people. But ac- ing to certain laws which he controlled, cording to the revelation given to Moses, and which were always under his con- there was light before the foundations of trol. How easy it would be for him to take this world were laid, before God caused this globe of ours that was entirely cov- darkness to come over this great deep; ered by water, and set it in motion, and after he created the heavens and the cause it to rotate upon its axis. Would earth, then God spake and said: Let not this cause the waters to be gathered there be light; and there was light. And together from the equatorial regions to as we are told, the evening and the morn- the two polar regions—the Arctic and the ing was the first day. Why does it begin Antarctic seas, and in the intermediate with the evening and not with the morn- regions, and thus leave the dry land in ing? Because darkness reigned, the Lord the equatorial regions? having caused darkness to reign over the whole face of the earth. How he did it, Then again how easy it would be for in what way he produced it is not re- him to compress the solid portions of the vealed. At any rate, it is not said in the earth at the poles and cause the same book of Genesis that the sun was per- to bulge out above the equator. Or in mitted to shine forth, or that the moon other words, to do this also by law, by gave its light on the first day; but that causing the earth to turn more swiftly was something which was permitted to than it does at the present time, which take place on the fourth day instead of would give a greater diameter through on the first day. What then was it that the equator than at the poles. existed before darkness came over the There are many things in the new face of the deep? Was it sunshine? I translation besides the vision and reve- think not. It was that probably which is lation in regard to the creation, written connected with all creations in their first by Joseph Smith, which are far greater formation—self-luminous matter. Dark- than anything contained in the Bible, or ness was then made, but how we know in the Book of Mormon, or in the Doc- not; it might have been by causing the trine and Covenants. I bring up these light associated with those materials to things in order to show you that God has become latent in the substance—not per- fulfilled his promises to the present time, mitted to shine forth. How long this by giving us greater knowledge concern- darkness continued is not revealed. How ing the creation of our globe. long it was before the Lord said again, "Let there be light; and there was light," The Prophet Joseph Smith revealed is not revealed. to us that all the materials of our globe, Again, we find that the solid por- and all the materials of the universe, are tions of the earth were entirely cov- eternal in their nature, that their sub- ered with water, for the Lord com- stance is eternal, not created out of noth- manded the waters to be gathered to- ing, according to the vagaries and foolish gether to one place; and commanded the ideas of the religious world. The Lord 74 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. told us that he created the earth out of the Book of Mormon, or Doctrine and of materials that previously existed; he Covenants, or the revelations of which told us that these materials were eter- I am speaking, I suppose I should have nal in their nature, and of everlasting been probably an infidel, so far as re- duration. In what condition have these gards the religious sects; I could not have materials been for the last, say millions believed them, if I had suffered my mind of ages—for instance, as many millions to reflect. But when I come to learn and of years as there are sands upon the understand that God has nowhere spo- seashore? Have they been lying dor- ken in all the revelations that he has mant without any control of law? Were given, that he ever made so much as one there no electric principles or laws to particle of this earth out of nothing; and govern them, was there no heat con- when I found that God has never hinted nected with them, or was there no latent or revealed any such thing; but, on the principle called light, neither a gravitat- contrary, that he organized the world out ing power in connection with these ma- of pre-existent materials that were eter- terials? I have no doubt in my own mind nal in their nature, then I could reflect but what there have been laws from all back with our learned philosophers and eternity—or if you do not wish to call suffer my mind to go back just as far as them laws, call them forces, call them they dare go in their theories, and then powers, call them by any name which go back to all eternity beyond that which may suit you—that have controlled these they go, and say, these materials were materials; and then again these laws or in organization, and say worlds were be- forces have also been under the control ing organized, and different conditions of a wise, supreme intelligence from all were taking place, and laws were being eternity to the present time. How many given for all these vast ages of the past, organizations the materials of our earth and still reconcile it with the revelations have undergone before they were orga- God has given in these latter times. Sci- nized according to the revelations given ence and true religion never can possi- to Moses, are not revealed. How many bly contradict each other. There never worlds they had entered into prior to was any truth in science that would con- that time; how many conditions existed tradict any principle of revelation that through the millions of ages of past du- God ever revealed to man. Why? Be- ration are nowhere revealed. A great cause true science is founded upon a true many learned men are beginning to see understanding of the laws and forces of that the materials of our globe have been nature. But who ordained from time in existence, as they say, for millions of to time these laws of nature in connec- ages. Some of them have made calcu- tion with the universe as we now behold lations in regard to how many millions them? It was the Lord whom we serve, of years since such and such phenomena the great Supreme Ruler of the universe, took place, in regard to certain materi- who organizes and disorganizes accord- als of which our earth is composed; and ing to his own will and pleasure. He because they have discovered some of garnishes the heavens in his wisdom these things, they have, in the weakness and builds the vast superstructure of and foolishness of their minds, began to the universe, as a very handiwork. He doubt the Mosaic history, concerning the brings into life and being new worlds creation. I presume if I had never heard THE BOOK OF MORMON, ETC. 75 and disorganizes them, scattering the el- foundation of the world. Who among the ements, and again brings them together wise, and the great, and those who have by his power or by the laws he has or- studied as far as human wisdom can at dained, and by his laws makes new cre- present reach; who among them can tell ations, new worlds, and new universes, the origin of life? Who among them can and inhabits them with myriads and tell the origin of this intelligence in man, myriads of intelligent beings. This is the this reasoning power, and this percep- work of the great Supreme Ruler of all tive faculty, that enables man to grasp things. not only a great many things pertain- This we find out by reading the first ing to the laws connected with their own two chapters of Genesis, as revealed little earth, but enables him to launch anew, and many other things, of which out into the regions of space for hun- we were profoundly ignorant, until God dreds of millions of miles and find out raised up this youth, this unlearned and understand many things that gov- Prophet of the nineteenth century, to ern worlds afar off. Is there no man that bring these things to light. By revela- can tell the origin of this Intelligence? tions given in ancient days, and renewed Let the trained collegiate mind, whose through this young Prophet of God, we lifetime has been occupied in study, come learn that we, ourselves, did not begin forth and tell us how man obtains the to exist when we were born into this first principle of knowledge, how came state of existence; we learn that we are of knowledge to be connected with mat- higher origin than that assigned by poor, ter, how came knowledge connected with unbelieving man. Contrast the ideas of flesh and bones, and blood, and skin, the last few centuries with the ideas that and sinew? That knowledge—that intel- God has revealed from heaven. They ligence is Godlike; God is the author, he would make man look for his origin down is father of our spirits, and we were be- to the very reptile and the worm that gotten before this world rolled into ex- crawls upon the earth, and to the fish of istence. Once we dwelt in the presence the sea—as the first father, the first ori- of our Father; once we were enabled to gin, the first oyster. Such is the reason lift our songs of praise in the celestial of the learned of the last few centuries— world, from which we emigrated; once the evolution theory; in other words, that we dwelt in the society of an innumer- which you learn from books, the creation able convention of angels, upon a world of man's folly and foolishness. But when that had passed through its stages, its we learn through the revelations of God ordeals, the same as this world is pass- that instead of man's coming up from ing through its various mutations. That the poor worm of the dirt, he descended celestial world from whence we came, is from that being who controls the uni- more perfect than this earth, it is orga- verse by his power; that he descended nized after a celestial order, a higher or- from that being who is the fullness of all der and glorified by the presence of im- knowledge, and who sways his scepter mortal, glorified, celestial beings. That over more planetary systems than there is our home, from that world we came. are sands upon the seashore. We are Here is our dwelling place for a sea- his offspring, we are his sons and his son; to that world we will return, to daughters, we are his children, he has that being by whom we were begotten begotten us, and we existed before the we will render an account; he who is our 76 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Father will require us to give an ac- that which has come to us through the count of our doings in this probation. Abrahamic record taken from Egyptian We must meet him, and behold him, in papyrus, or that which is contained in all his glory, in all his power, in all his the vision of Moses, revealing to him the majesty, and greatness, and superior ex- history of the creation of the world. All cellency and with that infinite knowl- these will be as a drop in the bucket edge of which he is in possession; we in comparison with the eternal knowl- must appear before him to give an ac- edge that will yet flow down from heaven count of our doings while shut out from upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints his presence on this little world. before this generation shall pass away. The earth will be filled with the knowl- Here then is another thing in which edge of God, as the waters cover the the Lord has fulfilled our text. He has great deep, and the things of all nations told us of our pre-existence; he has told will be revealed. The records of old that us of the glory and the greatness of our were kept by the people of Asia, who ancestor, even the Supreme Being; he have since dwindled into savages by rea- has told us when we existed, that it was son of the transgressions of their fathers; before this world was brought into exis- and those that have been kept by the tence. Are not these greater things than ten tribes of the north countries, where are contained and explained in the Book they have lived for over 25 centuries; of Mormon or the Bible? It is true the and those records that have been kept Book of Mormon barely alludes to the by the people of the City of Enoch, giv- pre-existence of man, without explaining ing an account of the dealings of God it. Jesus, before he appeared in the flesh, with ancient Zion, will all come forth to showed his spiritual form to the brother help fill the earth with the knowledge of of Jared; it was not a body of flesh and God, as the waters cover the great deep. bones; but a spiritual form, like the im- And John, when upon the Isle of Pat- age of man. He said unto the brother mos, saw things in vision, which were of Jared, Seest thou, that thou art cre- commanded to be sealed up, and they ated after mine image? And he further are yet to be unsealed; and in this way says, All men in the beginning have I cre- we shall receive knowledge upon knowl- ated after the image of the body of my edge, revelation upon revelation, con- spirit; that is the spiritual form occupied cerning not only the six or seven thou- by him. All men and women in the be- sand years of the earth's temporal ex- ginning were created by Him, and there istence, but concerning the materials of never was a person, there is not anyone the earth before it was made, and the now living, and there never will be a man elements and materials, and all things or woman, but what was in the begin- pertaining to the future earth that is ning created in his image. to be created when the elements of this I do not know but what I am occupy- earth shall be dissolved and pass away ing too much time, I will briefly say, how- into space. There is nothing too great ever, before closing, that certain records to be withheld from the Saints of God which God has promised to bring to light in the last dispensation of the fulness of in his own due time, will far exceed any- times. Hear what the Prophet Joseph thing that has been revealed through Smith said, when confined in Liberty the Book of Mormon or the Bible, or Jail. As well may the puny arm of man LABORS AND EXPERIENCE, ETC. 77 attempt to stop the waters of the Mis- tion with ours. How, I know not; in what souri River, as to try to prevent the way, I know not. There will be telescopes, Almighty from pouring down knowl- microscopes and other instruments dis- edge upon the Latter-day Saints. It covered in these systems, that will so far will come; it will come like a mighty outstretch the discoveries made at the flood, it will come like a mighty ocean, present time, that all these things will and there will be no mental darkness dwindle into insignificance, and when upon the whole face of the earth. The the inhabitants of one system can con- laws by which the earth is governed, verse with those of another, and when by which the materials were governed, there shall be communication between by which intelligence produces intelli- all the creations that God has made with gence, by which one material cleaves to the present creation we inhabit, and another, and by which all the various when the Lord shall bring forth Zion out mechanisms are performed, will be re- of all the creations he has made; then, vealed in their times and in their sea- I think, we shall begin to look back in sons. And then the Lord will not stop astonishment at the littleness of the dis- there; but he will unfold other systems coveries of the learned of the 19th cen- and heavens that shall come into connec- tury. Amen.

LABORS AND EXPERIENCE OF THE ELDERS—THE WORK SCARCELY BEGUN—THE POWER OF UNION—TEMPORAL SALVATION NECESSARY AS WELL AS SPIRITUAL—COOPERATION AND THE UNITED ORDER.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDATTHE SEMI-ANNUAL CONFERENCE, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,APRIL 6, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

The speaker read from the Doctrine and make him feel his own nothing- and Covenants (new edition), commenc- ness, it is to stand up before such an ing at the 24th paragraph, and ending at audience as is here assembled, to at- the 33rd paragraph, of section 58. tempt to speak to them and to instruct them. We have, however, something be- This is a great people, and if any- sides our own strength to rely on; if thing would be likely to appall a man it were not so, I should not be here. 78 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

The promise of the Lord is that when we all familiar with, as a people; we have assemble together as we have this day, studied the lesson from the beginning and as we are now assembled, he will and have become familiar with it in al- give unto us that portion of his word and most all its details. We have traveled, we his counsel as shall be suited to our cir- have preached, we have borne testimony cumstances, so that every soul shall eat to this work; we have helped to gather of the bread of life and go away satisfied, the people together, organizing them, be- and rejoice in the privilege he may have fore doing so, into branches, into confer- had of coming together as we now are. ences, into missions, and then have or- ganized them into companies to travel This work in which we are engaged by sea, to travel by land, to bring them embraces more and more. The older to the gathering places which have been I grow the more I become acquainted appointed. With these labors the Elders with its magnitude, with the responsi- of this church have obtained great fa- bilities that are connected with it, and miliarity; they have become experts in especially the responsibilities which rest preaching spiritual salvation, in preach- down upon those who are the chosen ing the first principles of the Gospel of leaders of the people. the Lord Jesus Christ; in telling the We know, as was testified to this people how they shall be saved from morning, that this is the work of God, their sins, and what they shall do to that God has laid its foundation, that obtain the promises of God connected God has chosen the men who are asso- with obedience to this Gospel. And we ciated with it and who are in authority have, in coming to these mountains, ob- connected with the work, to fill the situ- tained considerable knowledge concern- ations which they occupy. We know also ing other matters. Probably today a that he has restored the authority that man would not be open to the charge was once enjoyed by man, by which men of egotism, of being vain concerning the are enabled to act in the midst of the people, were he to say that, to take people in Christ's stead. And knowing the Latter-day Saints, the men of this these things we are encouraged as a peo- church, and in no other body of men of ple and as individuals to press forward the same numbers will you find men of and to help establish that cause which he such experience in preaching, in trav- has revealed to the earth. But there are eling, as missionaries, as Elders, in or- many things connected with this work, ganizing the people, in handling compa- with its advancement, with the binding nies of large bodies of men and women of the people together, with the carrying and laying the foundation of settlements, out of the great designs which God has in building cities, in developing coun- revealed for the salvation of the children tries, and in organizing systems of gov- of men; which press upon our attention ernment in those countries. I do not and cause us to exercise every faculty know that I am open to the charge of our minds in thinking, in pondering of being vain concerning the Latter-day upon and in giving shape to measures Saints when I make this statement— that shall result in the greatest good to that in all the earth, among all the in- this great people. habitants of the earth, you cannot find so large a body of principal men familiar The principles of the Gospel we are with spiritual things, familiar with tem- LABORS AND EXPERIENCE, ETC. 79 poral things, familiar with the handling overthrow. You can scarcely talk with of large bodies of people and organiz- a thinking man upon these subjects, a ing them and dictating their labors and man who takes in, to the extent of his planning for their temporal salvation, vision, all the evils which threaten our and for their good government, as you nation, without having him acknowledge will find in the midst of these mountains that the future, in many respects, looks and numbered in the Church of Jesus exceedingly dark, and that it is some- Christ of Latter-day Saints. what doubtful whether the republic can be preserved as it is at the present. And yet, after making this statement, With all these facts, then, before us, we stand, as it were, at the very thresh- it is well for us today, assembled as we old of our work, just at the door of it; are in this general Conference, to take we have scarcely accomplished anything into some consideration our own condi- compared to what remains to be done tion, the circumstances which surround connected with the work devolving upon us, and examine them in the light of in- us. We have made a beginning, it is true, telligence and wisdom, as He has given we have solved some problems; but there it to us, and whether we should not take is an immense amount of work to be done steps to preserve our existence, and not by us as a people, and especially by those only preserve, but perpetuate it, and to who act in our midst in the capacity of increase our power, and to cause that leaders. The highest qualities of states- work with which we are identified to con- manship are needed and called for; the tinue to progress and to fulfil its high highest qualities that men and women and glorious destiny. possess that make them capable of plan- There is one principle which I think ning for nations devising schemes and in mentioning everyone will see the plans that will not only save a town or power of, and that is union. It is a a small community of people, but that trite saying, often repeated, that union will extend to nations the means of sav- is strength. Certainly we have proved ing them from national peril and from the truth of this saying through the long evils that menace the existence of every or short period, as it may be, of our ex- power that now exists upon the face of istence as a people. There is no peo- the earth. ple today with whom I am acquainted You look abroad today among the in- who has proved so satisfactorily as we habitants of the earth and see their con- have throughout our past experience, dition, see the evils with which they are the value of union. It is that which afflicted and which threaten the down- makes us, numerically a weak people, fall and the overthrow of nations and we a strong people; it is that which makes need not to go beyond our own land to us one hundred and fifty or one hun- gain experience in this matter, and to as- dred and sixty thousand, or perhaps certain the danger which besets this re- two hundred thousand people through- public, the most glorious nation, and the out these mountains north and south, most glorious form of government that a power in the land; and a power cer- exists upon the habitable globe. How tainly which there is more said about many times it is said that this repub- than any other power, probably, in ex- lic cannot stand, that evils are working istence. Divide us up, segregate us and undermining the fabric of govern- into denominations, into factions, and ment, and which threatens its speedy what would we amount to? Nothing; 80 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. our strength would be dissipated, we off the earth, if they could. would be enfeebled, and nothing partic- When the church moved to Kirtland ularly would be said about us more than and the people began to gather together is said about thousands and millions of to go to that place to settle, you will others from whom we are separated. It see by reading the history, the fear that was the union of the Latter-day Saints was produced. And you read the history which in the beginning created opposi- of the settlement of the people in Jack- tion against us, brought it to the surface, son County and you will see the same and made it moving when there were manifestations, only more violent, un- but fifty or less members of the church. til such a spirit was engendered that The very fact that a new principle of the mob succeeded in driving the peo- union had been brought to light, through ple from the county. You can trace it which these fifty men and women were through all the history of this people to united as the heart of one, was sufficient the present time. It has been the union to arouse opposition and create to a cer- of the Latter-day Saints that, as I have tain extent, fear. Sectarian influence was before said, aroused opposition, crystal- brought to bear against us. "Our creed lized it and made it as effective as it is in danger, our sect is in danger, our has been against us. Had we been a di- place is in danger, if this people with this vided people, had we been quarrelling union should gain a foothold among us." among ourselves, had there been fac- Alarm was felt in the ranks of the vari- tions among us and jealousies among our ous sects, and they felt that, although a leading men, you would not have seen power insignificant and weak as it were, this opposition, neither would you have it should be fought and its existence ex- seen the credit that has been given to tirpated, if possible from off the earth. us, nor the power that this people have Hence the opposition it met with in the wielded in the earth to the present time. beginning. A few weeks old, like a lit- You would not have seen this spectacle— tle trembling, puny infant not able to this inspiriting spectacle of 12,000 peo- walk, not able to speak or make itself ple assembled under one roof to worship felt. Yet the very existence of the in- God according to the dictates of their fant aroused fear, as great fear as that own consciences and the revelations of which animated Herod of old when he is- God, and partaking of the Lord's Supper, sued an edict for all the firstborn male as we are today. You would not have seen children of Israel to be slain. It created these valleys peopled from Idaho in the terror in the land; and all because a cer- north to Mexico in the south with settle- tain babe of Bethlehem had been born, ments of people of one faith, of one be- and he hoped, in issuing this cruel edict, lief, worshipping God in the same man- to destroy this man-child and with him ner and calling upon him unitedly to the power which he feared. So it was bestow upon them the same blessings, in the beginning of this work, when it and laboring for the same objects. The was weak and feeble it created in the value, therefore, of union we, as a peo- minds of those who watched its birth ple, have demonstrated as no other peo- and its aftergrowth a feeling of fear, and ple now living have. And I leave you they were determined to destroy it from to your own reflections to imagine what LABORS AND EXPERIENCE, ETC. 81 we would be without it. Everyone can plish our spiritual salvation and the des- think for himself, or herself, upon this tiny of our Father and Creator with- subject, and can draw his or her own out also connecting with it temporal sal- conclusions. But as we are united and vation, temporal acts, the performance have been spiritually, it is not the de- of temporal labor. Hence, as I have sign of God, as is clearly manifest in his said, it should occupy some portion of revelations, plainly spoken through his our thoughts, it should be considered by word, and deeply impressed by his Holy us; and as I have remarked, we have Spirit upon every heart belonging to this not come out of our present location church, that this alone is not the object for purely spiritual performances, but of our organization as a people. It was to lay the foundation of a system that not for spiritual salvation alone that the should stand forever, that should be con- word of the Lord came to us to gather nected with man's existence here upon out of Babylon; it was not for spiritual the earth, both his spiritual and his tem- salvation alone that the Elders of this poral existence, a work that should affect Church traversed sea and land for so everything connected with man and his long a period, gathering the people to- relationship to his fellow man. gether at such an expense of time and A great many of the Latter-day means; it was not for spiritual salvation Saints have failed, as I have sometimes alone that we have suffered the attacks thought, to grasp this idea, to grasp the and the violence of mobs, that we left our idea that the Lord was founding a great homes in the east—the pleasant places nationality—if I may use such a lim- that many left, and crossed these dreary ited phrase as that; it limits the idea to wastes, and planted ourselves in these call it a nationality. The Lord is gath- mountains. There was something more ering out from every nation, kindred, than this embodied in the idea; there tongue and people a community, out of was something more than this embod- which he intends to form for himself a ied in the effort. There was temporal kingdom, not an earthly kingdom, but a salvation also connected with the spiri- kingdom over which he will preside in tual salvation that had been extended to the heavens; a kingdom that should be us. I use the term "temporal salvation," based upon purely republican principles because it is better understood probably upon the earth; and therefore not a king- than any other term I could use. My dom in the strict sense of the word, so training has led me to blend the two, it far as its earthly location is concerned; being difficult for me to draw the line of but a republic. And for this purpose, demarcation between the temporal and as the Latter-day Saints have believed spiritual; but in many minds there is a from the beginning, the Lord raised up distinction. I use the phrase, therefore, the founders of our nation and inspired that those who are familiar with it will them—George Washington and others— understand my meaning. Temporal sal- to do the work that they accomplished, in vation is as necessary, according to the laying the foundation of a form of govern- faith of the Latter-day Saints, in its time ment upon this land under which that and season, as spiritual salvation. Of kingdom that he should establish should course spiritual salvation occupies the grow and flourish and extend itself with- first, and ought to be foremost within out interfering in the least degree with every heart, but we cannot accom- the genius of the government. And this 82 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. is the work in which we are engaged; this tion of their responsibility in this direc- is the labor that should occupy our atten- tion. It is right and proper that we tion, and as I have said, we should take should do so. There is no good reason warning by that which we see around us why a man should imagine that he has on every hand—the decay, the disinte- fulfilled the requirements more accept- gration of the various governments and ably, more approvedly in preaching this powers, and organize ourselves so that Gospel, than in laboring, after the peo- we can preserve ourselves, and grow and ple have been gathered home, for their increase and add to the power we al- salvation in temporal things. ready possess. I believe our people are beginning to take higher views of the There is a subject that has occupied organization with which they are con- a great amount of thought, and has been nected, and consequently higher views of dwelt upon very frequently in our pub- their own individual responsibility and lic assemblies for the past few years; I the labor that devolves upon each one refer to that of the United Order. There as an individual. We see more of this have been some attempts, in fact I may spirit manifested. The Elders have ever say many attempts at organization with evinced a willingness to go forth at the a view to its more complete carrying call of the proper authorities to preach out. There is another principle con- the Gospel and perform labors of this nected with this that has been in force character for the public good; but it has also upon our attention for many years been a difficult lesson for us to learn that past, namely, the system of cooperation it was equally binding upon us, as ser- in temporal matters. We have felt to vants of God, that we should labor in a very great extent the importance of temporal matters with the same devo- this; I believe the spirit, of it has rested tion and the spirit of self-abnegation that upon the Latter-day Saints. When you we did in laboring to preach the Gospel. look back a few years, by way of con- There seemed to be a higher calling in trasting our condition then with our con- the mind of man associated with spiri- dition today, you will perceive, doubt- tual matters; it seemed to be more dig- less, there has been a great change ef- nified; it has seemed to be more wor- fected among us in regard to this mat- thy of men's gratuitous labor, than to ter. There has been considerable thought labor with their hands or brain for the among the people concerning it; a great temporal advancement of the work and many have reasoned upon it for them- for the temporal salvation of the people. selves, and have become thoroughly con- I believe that you will all have noticed vinced of the importance of the principle. that there is a change taking place in In this a good work has been done, be- many minds in regard to this, and many cause it is an exceedingly difficult thing men are beginning to take a different to leaven the whole mass of people, like view—in fact they have done for years; this people who inhabit these valleys, probably some never had any other view, to leaven them with correct ideas and but a great many who have had differ- have them understand them. If the ent views, who have imagined that it First Presidency of the Church compre- was their duty to look at these tempo- hend a principle, and the Twelve com- ral matters, are beginning to take dif- prehend it, but the people fail to compre- ferent views, to take a higher concep- hend it, you can readily understand how LABORS AND EXPERIENCE, ETC. 83 difficult it would be to make that prin- successfully, and we are on hand to carry ciple practical and operative. The lead- it out." I do not know from your ex- ing men, then, have carried the whole pressions, whether I state your feelings people upon their shoulders, so to speak; correctly or not on this point; but I if under those circumstances anything state that which I believe, that which I has to be done it is to be done upon am impressed with in connection with their faith and influence alone. But my brethren and sisters, wherever I when you can get the thinking men and meet them, and whenever this subject or women throughout our community to topic comes up for discussion or mention. understand and realize the importance There is one thing, brethren and sisters, of the principle, the victory is won, the that must strike us all as being right and work then is comparatively easy of ac- proper; and that is to throw our efforts in complishment. And this has been a sub- one channel, to make our influence felt ject of congratulation to me in my feel- as an entire body and not as I have re- ings, that notwithstanding the many er- marked, to divide ourselves and scatter rors, notwithstanding the many failures, our influence so that it will be unfelt. notwithstanding the lack of success in I have endeavored to describe to you many directions, the principle of cooper- the influence we wield because of our ation, the principle of uniting ourselves union in spiritual matters. The same together in the United Order has been remark will apply exactly to our union reflected upon, has been cogitated and in temporal matters. Let this people discussed in all the circles of this people be united in temporal matters; let it be and at their firesides, until it may be said known that we work together for one an- an understanding of it permeates the en- other's good, that we labor, as a people to tire mass of the people, as a people; and benefit the whole and not the individual, there is scarcely an argument needed in and that our influence is in this direc- talking about it now to convince those tion; and I tell you that the same influ- who are the most stubborn and reluc- ence, the same power, that wield now as tant in giving adherence to the principle. a spiritual organization will be felt in our When you hear any opponent to the prin- temporal affairs, in our financial affairs, ciple express himself nowadays, it is in in all the affairs in fact which attract our this way: "It is an excellent principle, if attention. we could only carry it out properly." The One great object we should aim to principle is conceded, its correctness is reach, that we should aim to accomplish, assented to; it only remains now for us is to make ourselves independent in re- to carry it out properly, in order for us gard to manufactures. We have had, to gain the confidence and the support of the last week, considerable conversation those who are doubtful upon that point. with leading men from various parts of And I think this a great work accom- this Territory concerning this principle plished. It seems to me that the Latter- of cooperation. Notwithstanding some day Saints today are in this position: differences of opinion upon some points, "Tell us what to do and how to do it. You upon this one point that I have endeav- leading men, tell us how we can operate, ored to set before you in my last few how we can unite together. Devise the sentences, there has been an unanim- plan, suggest how it can be carried out ity of feeling and opinion, that is of the imperative necessity of our being united 84 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. in our business matters, in our finan- a report was made by the President and cial matters and work to sustain each Secretary of that Institution, which I other and build each other up. I am per- think was most gratifying to all present suaded that a great amount of good will upon that occasion. I have been famil- result from these interviews and from iar with the institution since its incep- the measures that will be adopted. I tion. I think I can truly say that at no have felt that it will be a most excellent period since its organization was it ever thing for us to have a permanent orga- in so good condition, having so few li- nization of our best businessmen, and abilities to meet as it has today. It is the most practical men, from all parts in a sounder, healthier and more pros- of our Territory, acting in the capacity of perous condition than it has ever been. a board of trade, whose duty shall be to I allude to this because it is called the look after our manufacturing, mercantile Parent Institution. In Box Elder County and other interests; and should there at where Brother Snow presides, he took any time be anything wrong in our sys- the profits of their mercantile business to tems of doing business, tending in the start the branches of manufacture that least to prevent perfect union, that the are now in successful running order. Our necessary measures might be devised to institution has done much in a similar remedy these things and bring about a direction. It has carried many a strug- concert of action upon all hands. Now gling enterprise; it has been the beast you have heard it stated frequently that of burden for almost every institution those who are engaged in home manufac- and every establishment and railroad al- tures do not receive the patronage that most in the country. It has accomplished they should do, that our home manu- an immense amount of good, far more factories were not treated properly, that than the mere paying of dividends, al- those engaged in them did not receive though it has done this to a surprising the sympathy of businessmen, and that extent. Those who invested their means the masses of the people were not dis- seem to have become the most discour- posed to patronize then, I think there is aged. Therefore, in alluding to it in this at the present time but little cause for manner, it is in justice to it, and in jus- statements of this kind; in fact I have tice to those especially who have all the not heard of them of late. But if we time, over and again, kept their shoul- had such an organization as this—and I ders to the Institution, sustaining it and understand that Pres. Taylor is think- bearing it up to the best of their abil- ing seriously of having it a permanent ity. You all know, who have attended con- organization—then if there were any- ferences in past times, how much Presi- thing of this character that needed cor- dent Young was interested in this mat- rection, if there was a struggling institu- ter; not so much in the sale of merchan- tion that needed help, by making a req- dise as in the principle of cooperation. uisition to this Board of Trade, it per- And he and others have stepped forward haps could receive the support it needed, repeatedly, and have sustained it in the and be placed upon a firm footing in our midst of the people, when otherwise it midst, and perhaps be able to sustain it- would have gone down. I allude to this self and live. because it comes in the line of my re- Already the stockholders of Z.C.M.I. marks, in the thread of my argument, as it is called—Zions Cooperative so to speak. To be successful we ought, Mercantile Institution, met, and LABORS AND EXPERIENCE, ETC. 85 instead of dividing asunder and draw- it is this we are endeavoring to do. Can it ing one from another, to cling closer to- be found fault with? Undoubtedly there gether; it is of the utmost importance are many things in our organizations that all our financial matters should be that are defective; but it is our duty, if conducted in a way to contribute to the there be faults, to correct them. If there influence of the whole people; it is of the be wise men among us let them come for- utmost importance that we should take ward; let us see their wisdom, and not steps to develop in our midst something retain it to benefit one, but let it be used of a home character. Steps have already to benefit the whole. There was not any been taken, as some of you know, in the more obligation upon President Young, establishment of a tannery, and in con- when he was alive, or upon the Prophet nection with it a shoe manufactory. I Joseph when he lived, than there is upon was exceedingly gratified to learn from us individually; that is looking at it in the report that nearly $100,000 of home one light. You and I all expect to share manufactured goods, besides a large list if faithful, the same glory that they will of small articles, the value of which was attain to. Every man and every woman not estimated, had been sold during the in this audience comprising this body of last half year by the Cooperative Insti- Latter-day Saints, expect, if found faith- tution. I am informed that this was the ful, to share with those who have gone purchase price, the price at which they before—the righteous and holy, and be- were sold would of course amount to still come heirs of God, and joint heirs with more. This speaks well for home manu- Jesus Christ; that is, attain to the very factures, sold by one institution. highest glory. If this be our aspiration, It is an easy thing to tear down; our hope and anticipation, we should any man no matter what his knowledge, work for that, we should labor for it. In no matter what his experience can pull the words of the revelation I have read down; a fool could set fire to a build- in your hearing, "He is a slothful ser- ing; a few fools could set fire to a city vant that waits to be commanded." A and consume the works of man that had man may do, and he should do many cost hundreds of years of labor. It re- things of his own free will in the exercise quires no wisdom for a man to criti- of his agency. And if there be wisdom cize the acts of another man. It is in the breast of any man that has not even said that a fool can ask questions been brought to light, let it come forth that could not be answered by the wis- to the light that we may have the bene- est men. Unwise people can criticize fit of it in causing to be effected a more plans and schemes, the creation of wise perfect organization of this people. For I and experienced heads; that is a com- tell you we have a perfect organization in paratively easy matter for persons to do. view, and nothing short of it will satisfy But it requires great wisdom to orga- us. The Twelve have all had it at heart, nize; it requires great wisdom to create and they are bound by the covenants of measures that will bind a people of di- the Holy Priesthood and by the responsi- versified interests together; of varieties bility which rests upon them, and upon of views, dissimilar habits and to some him, who is the President of the Twelve extent, of training, and to bring them and of the Church. I say we are bound together, and bind them together, and by these covenants and these signs of re- make one people of them, it requires the highest qualities of wisdom, and 86 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. sponsibility, and to labor today, and labor the north to the south, from east to west, tomorrow, and labor continuously un- until we shall comprehend the whole til eternity shall dawn upon us for the family of God our Heavenly Father, grad- more perfect organization of this people ually diffusing the blessings we enjoy in their temporal affairs. And as for divi- in these valleys throughout the entire sion, we want it not; disunion, we want it earth, until the whole earth shall be ben- not. We do not want to see the Elders of efited and blessed by our organization Israel fall asunder, dividing this people and by our existence upon it. and leading them away from the union These are some of the responsibili- that should characterize us. We say that ties that devolve upon us as a people. any man that does it is not of God; the Shall I live for myself? God forbid that man that does it is not inspired by the I should live to spend my time and ex- Spirit of God, and has not the love and ercise the talent I may possess for my prosperity of this work at heart. personal benefit, or for the benefit of my We are struggling now, the elements family alone. Why? It is unworthy of are chaotic. In some respects we are en- any man or any woman to live for self deavoring to gather together. Dealing in alone; to pile up our benefits and com- merchandise is a small matter, and yet forts for our own luxury and aggrandize- it lies to a certain extent at the founda- ment. God forbid that we whom God has tion of our business; therefore we talk chosen, we whom he has called and in- about it; but merchandising is a small spired by his Holy Spirit, and blessed matter compared with the work of orga- with the everlasting Gospel, and upon nizing the people to get them to manu- whom he has placed his Holy Priesthood, facture and to furnish labor, that there and called us to be saviors of men, I may be no idle among us, that every boy say God forbid that we should do this, and every girl, and every man and every that we should settle down and think en- woman in this community shall find em- tirely of self and build up self, and let ployment; and that measures may be de- our sphere of usefulness be limited to vised to use their labor and talent and our own family, extend not an inch be- ingenuity for the welfare and prosper- yond our own household and our own ity of this people for the elevation of the family circle. God did not choose us for whole; not for the elevation of a few indi- any such purpose, he did not reveal him- viduals, but for the uplifting of the entire self to us for any such object; but he has community, and the whole human race chosen us to be his missionaries in the out of ignorance, out of vice and from vi- earth, to be the pioneers in laying the cious habits, and everything degrading, foundation of that great work that shall lift us up, until we shall stand as man stand forever, that shall swallow up all and woman could in the divine presence, the works and powers of man, all the filled with that divinity which we inherit organizations of man, shall swallow all from our Heavenly Father; and govern up and comprehend them all within it- and control the elements with which this self. He has called us to this high and earth is so abundantly endowed, for our holy calling; and it should be your aim happiness, for the happiness of our pos- and it ought to be my aim to labor for terity, for the happiness of the entire hu- the general good. To starve ourselves? man family as far as they reach—from No. Neglect ourselves? No. Let our LABORS AND EXPERIENCE, ETC. 87 families go uncared for? No. This is not and in your store, in your fields and in necessary, that is the other extreme. I your flocks, and herds, in your wives and have no right to have a family and ne- children, in your husbands, in your fa- glect them; but on the other hand I am thers and mothers, in your brothers and under obligation to look after them, to sisters and all your organizations; the treat them properly and give them every blessings of God will descend, like the advantage in my power. When I became dew distilled from heaven, and rest upon a father I took upon myself that respon- you, and all that bless you will imbibe sibility, and it is a serious one, that is, and cherish the same spirit. Now, these I should educate my children and train things are pressing upon us. We have them up in a proper manner, and see everything against us, the whole world that they do not go hungry or naked. it may be said, are ready to pass judg- But I have another duty, a duty that ment upon us; but yet there are many reaches out beyond the family circle, a who oppose the work of God who do so duty I owe to my fellow creatures. It because they have not understood it, and is my duty to use my surplus strength such people, many of them will yet be and surplus means for their good, to en- gathered in and numbered among us. deavor to make them better for my ex- This work is not for this little handful istence; because I have been born that of people, it is for the whole earth and the earth will be better for it, that men all the inhabitants thereof and the day and women will be better because I have will come when the lessons taught by lived. And it should be that the world the Latter-day Saints will be approved will be better, because this Church has by those who are not Latter-day Saints. been organized, that the world will be When the good government maintained better for our existence as an organiza- in the midst of the people of God will be tion. And it should be the aim of ev- copied after, and we will be looked to as ery man in this Church, of every Bishop exemplary. and every President of Stake and every I pray God to bless you, to pour Counselor and officer of whatever name out his Spirit upon this Conference and or calling; it should be his aim to la- upon all who shall speak and all who bor for the salvation of the people. And shall hear and all who are kept away the Apostles above all, it devolves upon from the Conference that the same spirit us, it is the covenant, as I have said, of may run through every heart; for I tell the priesthood we have received; and it you, my brethren and sisters, it is in rests upon us, and it requires us to la- vain we labor, unless God is with us, bor to combine and unite the interests in vain we assemble unless his Spirit of this people. And we beseech you, in is poured upon the people to make Christ's stead, brethren and sisters, be them to comprehend and to soften their ye united, put away bickerings, put away hearts. It is a need greatly to be strifes, put away all those causes of di- desired that God's Spirit will descend vision whether they are real or imagi- upon the Latter-day Saints. Oh, that nary, and be united as a people, and I tell it might be poured out in power and you in the name of Jesus, as one of his break and rend asunder the darkness Apostles if you do this, the heavens will that beclouds our minds, that we may be open to you and the blessings of God see the things of God as they really are, will descend upon you, in your basket and sense fully the responsibilities we 88 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. are under as individuals before him. of. We approach nearer to heaven cor- And I believe that it will be poured respondingly as we live the Gospel re- out more and more, and the bless- vealed to us. It is a precious Gospel, it ings that we have yearned for and is a Gospel in which there is contained which we have prayed for and that we every requisite to make men and women have so much desired in our hearts, happy, and to produce a heaven upon and for which we have built Temples, earth; and if we will obey it and carry these blessings will descend upon us, it out there will be more blessings con- and the angels will be nearer to us, ferred upon us. And that this may be the and the heavens will be more open case, is my prayer, in the name of Jesus. to our cries and to our supplications Amen. to bestow upon us the blessings there

CONSISTENCY IMPERATIVE—THE GOSPEL IN CONFLICT WITH MAN'S FALLEN CONDITION—SHOULD LOVE OUR ENEMIES—THE "GOLDEN RULE"—NECESSITY OF THE HOLY GHOST—EVERY TREE KNOWN BY ITS FRUITS.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SEPTEMBER 15, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

[The speaker commenced by reading do not, then our claim to his name is the 7th chapter of St. Matthew, com- baseless and may be treated with con- mencing at the 7th verse] There are tempt. many important principles embodied in The Lord Jesus has caused to be left these few verses which I have read in on record certain principles, certain doc- your hearing, and they are especially ap- trines, a plan which has been properly plicable to us as Latter-day Saints, a peo- called the plan of salvation; and He re- ple professing to be the disciples of the quired in ancient days when upon the Lord Jesus Christ. We claim the holi- earth clothed in mortality, that those est of names, and certainly with such who professed his name and to be his professions as we make, there should be followers, should believe in and prac- holiness of life corresponding to those tice those principles and doctrines. If professions. If we are called the disci- they did not, they ceased to be his fol- ples of Jesus, the followers of the Son of lowers and they soon left him. His God, and have any claim to that name doctrines came in contact with many or title, we should exemplify in our lives things that were popular in the day and the principles which he taught; if we age in which he lived; his teachings CONSISTENCY IMPERATIVE, ETC. 89 came in contact with the follies, the they shall see God. pride, and the selfishness of men, then, "Blessed are the peacemakers: for and in this respect they have not they shall be called the children of God. changed a particle. They come in con- "Blessed are ye, when men shall re- tact today with the selfishness of men, vile you, and persecute you, and shall with men as found in what is termed say all manner of evil against you falsely, their natural condition, or more properly for my sake. speaking, their fallen condition. And "Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for this is one reason for the unpopularity great is your reward in heaven: for so of the doctrines of Jesus. He taught persecuted they the prophets which were mankind a higher life, the means of at- before you." taining to a better condition; and to re- And in another place in the same quire the assistance of the Holy Spirit chapter, he says: which he promised to bestow upon those "Let your communication be, Yea, who kept his commandments to enable yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more them to carry out in a proper manner than these cometh of evil." the principles he imparted to them. If And again he said, "Resist not evil: he had taught man to gratify all his in- but whosoever shall smite thee on thy clinations; to indulge in every selfish de- right cheek, turn to him the other also. sire; that self-denial and self-abnegation And if any man will sue thee at the law, were not necessary, it is probable that and take away thy coat, let him have he would have had many more follow- thy cloak also." These were peculiar doc- ers than he did have; and his doctrines trines. Who is there among men natu- doubtless would have been more popu- rally that could practice them? Why if lar than they were. But this was not a man were struck on the cheek by an- the case. The Savior started out teach- other man, the natural impulse would ing men at the beginning of his min- be to knock him down, if he could; to isterial career the most pure and god- return evil for evil. If a man sued an- like principles, principles which were not other at the law and took his coat, would understood and practiced by men gener- he be inclined to give his cloak also? ally, which were more heavenly, which No he would contend for his coat. And seemed to be more fitted for a more ex- again: "And whosoever shall compel thee alted race of beings than for man in his to go a mile, go with him twain"—go with fallen condition. Hear what he says: him two miles. "Give to him that as- "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for keth thee, and from him that would bor- theirs is the kingdom of heaven. row of thee turn not thou away." This "Blessed are they that mourn: for sort of teaching came directly in con- they shall be comforted. tact with man's fallen nature. It is "Blessed are the meek: for they shall the same today, and yet they are the inherit the earth. teachings of the Son of God, they are "Blessed are they which do hunger the principles which he taught; their and thirst after righteousness: for they practice he required then, and he re- shall be filled. quires the same today. "But I say unto "Blessed are the merciful: for they you, Love your enemies, bless them that shall obtain mercy. curse you, do good to them that hate "Blessed are the pure in heart: for you, and pray for those which despite- 90 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. fully use you, and persecute you; That in our city to publish alms doing that ev- ye may be the children of your Father erybody might know how benevolent we which is in heaven: for he maketh his are; that it might be carried by the wings sun to rise on the evil and on the good, of lightning and published to the world and sendeth rain on the just and on the what generous people we are. This city unjust." of Salt Lake does this very thing. "Take In order then to be the children of our heed," says the Savior, "that you do not Father in heaven, we must love our ene- your alms before men, to be seen of them: mies, we must bless them that curse us, otherwise ye have no reward of your Fa- we must do good to them that hate us, ther which is in heaven." You get your and pray for them who despitefully use reward when you get the praise of men. and persecute us. Now mark how point- His teaching was to do good by stealth, edly the Savior puts this to those who that it might not be known, and that are listening to him: "For if ye love them men might not get honor from their fel- which love you, what reward have ye? do low men. "Therefore when thou doest not even the publicans the same? And if thine alms, do not sound a trumpet be- ye salute your brethren only, what do ye fore thee, as the hypocrites do, that they more than others? do not even the pub- might have the glory of men. Verily I say licans so?" The wicked love one another, unto you, They have their reward. But that is they at least affect to do so. It is when thou doest alms, let not thy left natural for man to love those who love hand know what thy right hand doeth: him; it requires no effort, it comes easy. That thine alms might be in secret: and It requires no particular superiority in a thy Father which seeth in secret himself man to love his friend. But the Savior re- shall reward thee openly." The whole of quires more than this; the requirement these teachings are full of instruction, is that he shall not only love his friends and indicate the character of the Savior and brethren, but he shall love his en- and the nature of the Gospel which he emies. He shall not hate his enemies, preached. he shall not hate them that despitefully Here is another saying: "Take no use and persecute him, but shall pray for thought for your life, what ye shall eat; them, allowing the feeling of forgiveness neither for the body, what ye shall put to reach after them. This feature you will on. The life is more than meat, and the find exemplified in the Savior's entire body is more than raiment." This kind of life. Up to his last moments when upon teaching did not suit mankind, it came in the cross suffering the agonies of death, contact with their ideas, and with their and although possessing all power, in- traditions, and the manner in which they stead of using that power by way of re- had been taught. It was the praise of the venge upon those who so cruelly treated world that they sought; it was to be seen him, he submitted himself meekly into of men that they worshipped, and it was their hands, and cried, "Father, forgive to be seen of men that they gave alms. them; for they know not what they do." And they loved those that bestowed fa- He thus set all men an example which vors upon them, that were kind to them. they should imitate. They invited the rich to their feasts It is common now, it is common and not the poor. Jesus commanded among newspapers, and it is common his disciples to invite the poor and not CONSISTENCY IMPERATIVE, ETC. 91 the rich, as they could invite themselves. clinations, having conquered the weak- In fact, he taught doctrines that laid the nesses of our fallen natures sufficiently, axe at the root of all selfishness, and, so that the Gospel that He taught shall if carried out, that would destroy it en- be exemplified in us as it was in him. tirely, leaving no vestige of it in the hu- "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, man bosom. Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of I have already read to you the great heaven;" it is not all those who will say rule that the Savior taught: "Therefore unto him in that day, "Lord, Lord, have all things whatsoever ye would that men we not prophesied in thy name? and in should do to you, do ye even so to them: thy name have cast out devils? and in for this is the law and the prophets." Let thy name done many wonderful works?" us Latter-day Saints ask ourselves this It is not all of these whom the Savior will afternoon, partaking as we are of the recognize and acknowledge, and whom Sacrament, eating the bread and drink- he will admit into his presence and into ing of the cup in remembrance of the his kingdom; but it is those that do the body and the blood of our Lord and Sav- will of his Father in heaven; it is those ior; let us ask ourselves—and I include that enter into the strait gate and that myself with all of you, for I preach to my- walk in the narrow way, and that perse- self as much as I do to anyone of this con- vere unto the end, denying themselves gregation upon these points—do we re- and overcoming every evil inclination, member this golden rule that the Savior and bringing their dispositions into com- gave? Do we endeavor, when dealing in plete subjection to the mind and will of any way or manner whatever with our God, bringing forth the fruits of righ- brother or our sister, to put ourselves in teousness; for every tree will be known his or her position and say in our hearts, by its fruits. No corrupt tree can bring that which I do to my brother or to my forth good fruit; no good tree can bring sister, or am about to do, is just what I forth evil fruit. No Latter-day Saint, would that he or she should do to me? Do that is, a true Latter-day Saint, will we think of this? Do we carry it out? Or bring forth the fruits of unrighteousness do we think about ourselves, and forget or wickedness. No professed Latter-day about our brother and sister, unmindful Saint who is a hypocrite, who is not of of their interest and the rights and the God, can bring forth fruit that will be claims which they have upon us? acceptable unto him. I know how we Well, now, I know, that situated as feel as a people. The general feeling in we are it is somewhat difficult to carry our hearts is that we have borne witness out these principles properly in their per- unto the Father and unto the Son and fection, and that there has to be wis- unto angels and unto all the earth, by dom used. But nevertheless, here is the course of life we have taken in joining the standard to which we are required, this Church, and in taking upon us the as Latter-day Saints and as disciples of name that has been hitherto so ignomin- Christ, to attain to. We must attain to ious, in taking up our cross; and because it. Just as sure as we live, if we do of our obedience to the Gospel of the Son not attain to it, where God and Christ of God there is scarcely doubt in our are we never can come; we could not minds respecting our future condition, dwell in their presence unless we have that we are almost sure to enter into the the same spirit, the same feelings and in- 92 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. celestial kingdom of God and sit down been taught by the Elders of this Church with the Father and the Son, and with from the beginning, that men should the Prophets and Apostles who have have faith in God; and it is as true to- gone before. I am sensible of the fact day as it was anciently that faith with- that this feeling is general. And I be- out works is dead. It is necessary that lieve there is no people of the same num- men should repent of their sins, and it is ber who are entitled to this feeling, than not only necessary to repent of, but to for- the Latter-day Saints are. I say this be- sake those sins and be baptized for the cause there is no people who have en- remission of them, and that they should dured so much for their religion; and receive the laying on of hands, accord- they have witnessed to the heavens and ing to the apostolic pattern, for the re- the earth their willingness to forsake all ception of the Holy Ghost, and without things for its sake. They have taken no which no man can see God, nor dwell thought of their lives; they have taken in his presence, nor prepare himself to no thought in times past as to what they dwell there. Man needs it all the time should eat, as to what they should drink, to be with him to assist, to guide him, or as to what they should wear, and they acting as a monitor to him. The El- have held themselves ready to sacrifice ders of this Church have testified that their all for the Gospel of the Son of these things are necessary and essen- God. But there are other duties, there tial to salvation in the kingdom of God. are other obligations resting upon us as It is just as necessary now as in an- a people besides these to which I have re- cient days that men should take a cer- ferred. And it is necessary we should live tain course in order to receive certain a Godly life after we have done all these blessings, and this is the great cause things. After we have prophesied, after of the disunion and the variety of opin- we have done many wonderful works, af- ions which exist in the religious world ter we have received the Holy Ghost and today. It is because men have departed cast out devils, it is essentially necessary from the truth as it was originally; it we should do other things, and that is to is because they have changed the ordi- carry out in our lives the principles of our nances of the Gospel and broken the ev- Lord and Master. And upon these points erlasting covenant as foretold by Isaiah. we need continued instruction and re- And hence, when you travel through the proof; we need continued warning least world of Christendom today, you find ev- we should be overcome by the spirit of ery variety of religious belief. You can the world and become self-deluded by scarcely conceive of a doctrine that is not imagining that our case is a good one, entertained. There is but one Christ, and our condition is a sure one, and that we Christ is believed in, or at least men pro- are secure of eternal life. We should al- fess to believe in him. But they have ways remember that which the Apostle some three different kinds of baptism, Paul says—"Wherefore let him that thin- and I have heard of more. There are as keth he standeth take heed lest he fall." many methods of approaching the Savior There are none of us in so secure a posi- and obtaining remission of sins, almost, tion but what we may do things that may as there are sects and denominations; displease the Father. and all professing to be followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, as though the Lord It is necessary, as the world have were the author of confusion, as though CONSISTENCY IMPERATIVE, ETC. 93 the Lord were the author of strife. Hence that all flesh are equal in the sight of it is that there is so much infidelity, so God; that he that works righteousness much atheism, and so many men that is acceptable to God in every generation deny God; for they can see nothing ad- among every people; that God does not mirable or desirable in the professions confine his mercies and providences and of Christianity, as it is called. And why blessing to one generation, or one peo- so? Because men have strayed from ple, or one nation, but that he is God the truth; it is because they have for- over the whole earth; that his salvation saken the faith and doctrine taught by is as boundless as eternity, and his hand the Savior; and having departed from is over all his handiwork—that is, over it, of course they are left to themselves. all his creations. That he was the God of Every reformer that has arisen has pre- Adam and those who lived contemporary sented some new form of doctrine; he with him; was the God of Noah and was has enunciated some new ideas, or ideas mindful of him and those who lived con- which he thought were new. He promul- temporary with him who feared him and gated some new teachings, and has not kept his commandments; and also of the failed to draw some followers, according Savior and the Apostles; and he is the to his popularity. same God today as he was yesterday, the The Latter-day Saints believe that same God in this year of our Lord one the Lord has spoken from the heav- thousand, eight hundred and seventy- ens. And this appears to be very ob- eight, as he was in the first year of our jectionable. I remember the time, in era; and that he has not changed or my boyhood, when it was thought the grown old, that his eyes have not grown worst thing—that is, before the princi- dim, or his arm less powerful to save ple of plural marriage was taught. It today than it ever was. And this doc- is very often said now, "If you were trine appeals to every human being as not polygamists, and did not believe in divine truth, as the revelation of nature polygamy, there would be no trouble. You to man—if you may use the word nature, are a pretty good people, you 'Mormons,' if you do not like the word God—that all if you would only get rid of your pecu- men of every generation are equal be- liar institutions we could got along with fore God; and it is a doctrine that runs you." It seems to be but a few years ago through all the teachings of every in- when we were not known generally as spired man through all the ages. And I believers in plural marriage, and what would not give a fig for a religion that was the objection to us then? "You 'Mor- did not teach it, nor a system that did not mons' believe in new revelation, and we recognize it. It is not worthy of a place in do not know what kind of revelation you a man's belief. may get: you may profess to receive a We believe, then, that God has re- revelation and get a false one, and we vealed himself to man again, for his do not know what may be the result; it own purpose, to accomplish his own is a dangerous doctrine." Well, it is a design and to prepare a people for dangerous doctrine for the wicked world. the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. But think of it. What is there about For we believe he will come, that he the doctrine of revelation—continuous will come to reign upon the earth revelation from God, that conflicts with and to establish righteousness and up- the Gospel as taught in ancient days? root iniquity, and carry out the doc- Why, we are taught in the Bible trine I have read in your hearing; 94 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. and establish an order of society that theless feel thankful for the degree of shall have for its basis eternal truth, union that we have attained to through- some of the principles of which I have out these valleys. I am thankful for read to you. We believe he is coming these my brethren and these my sisters. for this purpose and to destroy all those When I see their union and course of man-made systems, and this inequal- life and the disposition they manifest ity, and this fraud, and all wickedness in the midst of the temptations which that prevails. He will do it, better than surround them, I feel thankful that the Kearney, better than Labor Unions or Gospel has been restored and for the Working-men's Leagues. He will do it power it has upon the hearts of those better than any man-made institution. with whom I am associated. To me the In fact the whole of them will be over- spectacle is one that fills me with thank- turned by him; and he will introduce a fulness and admiration to God, when plan by which every man will recognize I see these elements gathered to these the value of his brother man, a plan by mountains from so many different na- which the poor can rejoice, and which tions and peoples, notwithstanding our will prevent the oppressor and the evil- peculiarities and original differences of doer and the strong hand of Wealth from faith and of language, education and controlling and governing the earth, as training, to see them dwell together so is the case today. And it is for this peacefully as they do, loving one another purpose that the Gospel has been re- and ever ready and willing to do good to stored; and we have commenced to prac- each other; not to the extent probably we tice some of the principles calculated to should do or that we are required to do, bring about this condition of affairs. Im- for in too many instances we forget our- perfectly we admit, very imperfectly; but selves and partake too much of the spirit nevertheless the principles themselves of the world. But I am thankful, as I are true and are perfect, however imper- have said, for that which I do witness, fectly they may be believed in and car- for the union and love and disposition ried out by those professing to be the fol- to deny ourselves, and the reverence we lowers of them, and, as I have said, the have for God and sacred things and also Lord has restored the ordinances in their the regard we have for his Priesthood. ancient power and in their ancient pu- This Gospel to which I have referred, rity; and the results we see before us to- if taught and believed in and practiced day, to a certain extent, in this Territory. by the inhabitants of the earth, would We are partially united; and I thank God revolutionize the face of society; it would for it; I praise him every day of my life change the affairs of the earth, as we that my lot is cast among this people, witness them. Instead of one man laud- and that I am counted worthy to be a ing it over his fellow man, as though member of this Church. However hum- he were made of better clay, as though ble my station may be, I still feel that I he were made of porcelain, while his would have abundant cause for thanks- neighbor was made of common stuff, giving in the fact that I am a member of and thinking himself entitled to better this Church and that through member- board and bed and finer clothes, and ship I have a claim to the fellowship of to live in greater ease, instead of feel- this people. Imperfect as we are, I never- ing that way, when the principles of the Gospel are practiced by us in their en- CONSISTENCY IMPERATIVE, ETC. 95 tirety, we will get rid entirely of these spirit takes possession of him, and his feelings, and we will seek to carry out joy, his peace and happiness take their that which he has commanded his ser- flight. vants, namely to love your neighbor as Why, brethren and sisters, it is good yourselves; and not to profess to do it; for us on this the Lord's day to leave but do it. And when we trade with our business, leave our workshop, leave our neighbor, instead of taking advan- our counting houses, leave our stores tage of him and of his ignorance and ne- and our fields and farms, our gardens cessities, trade with him as we would and cattle, and the other things that en- want him to trade with us under simi- gross our attention during the six days lar circumstances, and mete out to him of the week, and come here on the Lord's evenhanded justice, as we would wish Day, and ponder upon his Word and on him to do to us were our positions re- the doctrines given unto us, and trea- versed. These are lessons required of us sure them up in our hearts, and seek in the Gospel; to learn them and prac- them a practical application in our lives tice them, and then struggle with our as fast as we can. And the more a man weakness—for these are weaknesses of seeks to do this, the more he labors in our nature—and they come in contact his own individual interest. In one sense with this sort of doctrine, these heav- it makes but little difference, and will enly and advanced principles which Je- make but little difference to me what sus taught when upon the earth. your fate may be. It is true it would It is an easy thing to tell a true add to my happiness to see and know Latter-day Saint from one who only pro- that my friends were saved and exalted fesses the religion; it is an easy thing to in the presence of our Father; but the tell a false Prophet from a true Prophet; great duty devolving upon you and me, it is easy to tell where a man gets his is to see that we are individually saved. doctrines from, whether from beneath or It is not for me to watch and scrutinize from above, by the fruits that they bring and comment upon you, having my at- forth. The doctrines of the Lord Jesus tention directed to your weaknesses, and Christ bring peace; they bear testimony then say, "There is Brother So-and-So; to every man's soul who practices them how unworthy he is;" or "There is Sister that they are true. And if a man wants So-and-So, look at her conduct, and what to know whether God lives and whether poor management she has in her house- Jesus is his Son, and had a right to teach hold; and how she treats her household." the doctrines accredited to him in the It is not for you or me to do this one to an- Bible, let him practice those doctrines, other, but it is for each one of us to look at and he will find out for himself that they ourselves and examine our own hearts, are true, because there will be a spirit look at and scrutinize our own conduct that will bear testimony to him of their doing that which is right in the sight of truthfulness. He will have the spirit of God ourselves. heaven, the spirit of peace, the spirit of Are we individually complying with love, of charity, of patience and forgive- those requirements which Jesus gave ness, and the spirit of joy in his heart. his apostles? If we are, it is well But when he believes them and comes with us. If we are not it mat- in contact with them, there is another ters not how many others are doing 96 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. wrong, it does not help my case or excuse righteous, it produces a feeling within you in the least degree. But it is for me him of commiseration for others, and the to do right myself; it is for me to carry spirit of charity takes possession of him, out and practice in my life the principles and undoubtedly a prayer ascends from revealed, and which I know to be true; his heart to God in behalf of him who had and then whether those on the right or given way to weakness desiring the Lord those on the left do wrong, it makes no to deliver him that he might not be left difference so far as my individual sal- to be overcome by the adversary. There vation is concerned. And this is practi- is too much talking among us about one cal religion. If I were to sit down and another. If we perceive a weakness in begin to relate to some of my neighbors a brother or a sister, instead of talking the faults of another neighbor, do you about it, we should rather pray for him think that would add to my perfection? or her; it would be much better for us. If No, it would tend to make me more con- we are so perfect that we need no help temptible in the sight of God, and in the ourselves, let us exercise faith for those sight of all men more just and upright who are not in so good condition, and than myself. Therefore it is our duty to pray the Lord to help them, that they indulge in and practice self-examination, may be enabled to overcome. and self-condemnation if necessary. The man that looks at himself in the light of the Spirit of God, and who is a hum- The Lord bless you, brethren and sis- ble man, will not find much fault with ters, and help us to be that which we his fellow man; for the presence of his profess to be, not only to be Latter-day own faults arise before him continually Saints in name, but in word and deed, when he sees another man's weaknesses, exemplifying the principles of our reli- and instead of filling him with self-pride gion in our lives; which I ask in the name and self-justification and feeling self- of Jesus. Amen. GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES, ETC. 97

GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES—THE CORRUPTION OF THE ADMINISTRATION—ITS TREATMENT OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS—THE JUDGMENTS OF GOD UPON THE WICKED—OPPOSITION TO POLYGAMY—PREPARATION FOR COMING EVENTS.

SUBSTANCEOFA DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON HYDE, DELIVEREDAT MOUNT PLEASANT, SANPETE COUNTY,UTAH, ON SUNDAY MORNING,NOVEMBER 3, 1878, SAIDTO HAVE BEENTHE LAST DELIVERED BY HIM WHILE LIVINGINTHE FLESH.

REPORTEDBY UNKNOWN.

I am much gratified this morning, my in its bearings. Any crack or deformity brethren, sisters and friends, to meet of the elegant mirror becomes the more with you in this Tabernacle in Mount conspicuous by contrast—so the cracks, Pleasant, in the capacity of a two day's splits, and crookedness in our general meeting. From the numbers present be- government become the more glaring fore me, I am led to conclude that a and unwelcome in the eyes of the gov- deep and abiding interest dwells in your erned. hearts; and you have come here to in- Great effort has been made to ferret crease your zeal, and add intelligence to out the guilty parties and bring them your present stock of knowledge pertain- to punishment who were engaged in ing to the kingdom of God. the horrid Mountain Meadow massacre. I hope and trust that you may not be Had this been done in the spirit of justice disappointed; for it is, bona fide, my in- and truth, free from that animus and ex- tention to lay open to your view, in plain, treme desire to criminate the whole Mor- simple, and unmistakable language, the mon Church, that effort would have been facts that are presented to my mind, for I praiseworthy and highly commendable; desire all to hear and to understand, es- but conducted as it has been thus far, it pecially those who may not be fully con- will go down to the shades, covering with versant with the English language. odium the conductors of that campaign. The government of the United States, In contrast with the foregoing, I on paper, is an institution approach- will now refer to the horrid massacre ing as near perfection as any gov- at Haun's Mill, in Missouri, wherein ernment ever ordained by man; but seventeen peaceable, quiet, and unof- when its administration drifts into fending citizens, were shot down, in the hands of unscrupulous and dis- cold blood, and their bodies thrown honest politicians, it becomes an en- into an old well; and for what? I gine of oppression and very unequal am at the defiance of the whole world 98 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to show that it was for anything, ex- To the shame, dishonor and disgrace of cept for the crime of being "Mormons." the nation be it spoken; and when they I would here ask this government, how ask the cause of the whirlwinds, torna- much military and judicial investigation does and cyclones, that sweep through was had to ferret out and bring to pun- the land, they are respectfully referred ishment the perpetrators of that bloody to Haun's Mill, Carthage Jail and to the deed, to say nothing of the wholesale treatment generally of the "Mormons" in banishment of an entire community by Missouri and Illinois for the true and force of arms, and the sequestration of faithful answer. their property and inheritances? How does this compare with the claims of the The Prophet Isaiah, 60th chapter, government to justice and equal rights? 12th verse, utters this strong sentiment: Again, my hearers, I will refer you "For the nation and kingdom that will to the murderous assault made on not serve thee shall perish; yea, those Joseph and Hyrum Smith, John Tay- nations shall be utterly wasted." They lor and Willard Richards, in Carthage may ask, Are we to be so humiliated as jail. These men were untried and uncon- to serve the "Mormons" whom we have demned, incarcerated within the walls despised, persecuted and rejected? They of a strong prison, and no danger of es- can take the other horn of the dilemma if cape; yet a band of disguised men, about they choose, and be utterly wasted. Wis- one hundred and fifty in number, as- dom however would suggest that our en- saulted the prison and slew Joseph and emies move slowly and cautiously. Hyrum Smith, and seriously wounded John Taylor with musket rifle balls; and For one, I have no objection to any as every man is to be held innocent un- and all federal officers coming here to ex- til proven guilty, they remain innocent, ecute the laws, impartially in the spirit because never proven guilty, nor could of justice and truth. I say, they have they be proven guilty, by any truthful ev- my cordial good will to do so. But when idence. they come full of wrath, with a deter- It was said that some kind of legal mination to immortalize their names by proceedings were instituted in this tragic squelching out "Mormonism," pandering affair, yet not with a view to convict and to the prejudices of an ungodly age, I punish, but with the intention to place cannot find language sufficiently strong a bar against all future proceedings that to express my disapproval and contempt might be undertaken and prosecuted in for their administration—wresting laws good faith. Thus the Prophet of God from the known intention of the Legisla- and Patriarch of the Church were cruelly ture, and applying them by certain tech- murdered, to the great grief of their nu- nical twists, to take the advantage of a merous friends, and to the joy of a Chris- people who labor day and night to con- tian nation. form to the revelations of God. Popular clamor crucified the Sav- ior, and a popular outburst of indig- Polygamy is a subject that greatly ag- nation murdered the Prophet of God itates the public mind at the present day. and his brother, and amid fire and Some men in their depraved zeal to pry storm, cannon balls, swords and bay- into every secret of polygamy with a view onets, were the "Mormon" people com- to expose it, know no limit to their efforts pelled to flee into the wilderness. to accomplish their hellish purpose. The GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES, ETC. 99

Supreme Ruler above has not yet relin- through Pennsylvania may be consid- quished all his rights, nor indeed any ered as a slight reminder; nor has Mis- of them, on our little planet to the sons souri altogether escaped. We are now of earth, though they hold a very pre- living in the days of a "marvelous work carious dominion by sufferance, "only he and a wonder." Our enemies are about to who letteth will let, until he be taken be checked up in their career of burning out of the way." Pestilence and famine, strange fire upon the altar of God. earthquake and wars, whirlwinds and The Elders of this Church, my cyclones, fires and floods, besides ac- brethren and sisters, have faithfully la- cidents innumerable are being called bored during the last half century in al- into requisition to remove all obstacles; most every nation on the globe, to warn "For the nation and kingdom that will the inhabitants of their duty and to tell not serve thee shall perish; yea, those them the consequences of their not com- nations shall be utterly wasted." The plying with it. It is true, that by the help day of spiritualizing and daubing with of the Lord, we made many converts, yet untempered mortar has gone by. It few in comparison to the numbers who is stubborn, self-evident facts that we rejected our message. We can, therefore, have to grapple with, and should be with propriety say, we are unprofitable set forth in a light that all may under- servants; yet the Lord wishes to test our stand. Polygamy is a principle revealed fidelity, our fortitude and our patience, from heaven with a commandment to en- knowing that the world would not be ter into it practically. The principle is converted by the preaching of the Gospel, abundantly corroborated in the ancient hence his design was to "send forth judg- scriptures, approved of God and sanc- ment unto victory;" and when the judg- tioned by all righteous men; and he who ments of God wax hot in the land, many labors to overthrow this principle, fights people will say, "Come, let us go up to against Jehovah and makes himself a the mountain of the Lord, to the house shining target, courting the arrows of of the God of Jacob," and so they will the Almighty upon his head, heart and "come like clouds, and like doves to their country. Would to God, that I could, con- windows," and Zion's gates be ever open, scientiously, make an exception here of and Zion will not always be oppressed our wise and learned judges, attorneys, for their kings will yet "become our nurs- juries and marshals; but conscience for- ing fathers, and their queens our nursing bids it. The same consequences will mothers." follow against the fighting against any commandment that God has given, or We shall not always, my hearers, be that he may give. The consequences of under the necessity of reasoning with the judicial war waged against the late the skeptical and technical unbeliever, to Brigham Young are not yet canceled; but persuade him to be saved; for a power the hand of the destroyer has already will be manifested in the land more po- begun his work, though in a compara- tent than man's reasoning. tively mild and gentle form. Churches I wish to ask you, my brethren and of various denominations, that have al- sisters, two important questions: ways been barred against our preachers, are being opened by the hand of Provi- 1st.—Why our unprecedently lib- dence as the cyclone that recently passed eral harvest of grain this year? 100 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

2nd.—Why does the spirit of the Lord teachers as any of our neighbors; but rest down upon our Elders, directing even allowing the children of this world them to explore the eastern, southeast- to be wiser in their generation than the ern and southern countries with the view children of light, it is no reason that I of finding suitable places for new loca- should adopt them as my instructors. I tions and settlements? now write a clumsy, illegible hand. Many Ans. to first question—That we may men can write my name with much more be prepared to lay up a surplus against style and elegance than I possibly can do; coming troubles. yet, if they should attach my name to a Ans. to second—To open the way to bond or promissory note for any amount, receive the multitudes flocking to Zion, it would not be my signature and could having heard that God is with us, and create no binding obligation upon me; desiring to escape the scourges by enlist- but the learned and accomplished gen- ing under the aegis of "Mormon" protec- tleman who attached my name to the tion; and shall we escape the scourges of instrument might be proven guilty of the Almighty if we foolishly part with the forgery and subject himself to punish- surplus gifts that heaven has granted us ment. Jesus says: "Every plant, which in trust for other purposes, and that too, my heavenly Father hath not planted, before the time? If the people of Utah shall be rooted up." will listen to wise counsels, there will be There is another important feature, no famine here arising from the refusal my friends, connected with this subject of the soil to yield her fruits; but there that I cannot allow myself to omit. In may be danger of famine by the rapid in- the great rush of people to the Saints crease of population from abroad, espe- in the last days, all sorts, sizes, and of cially if the stores provided by the hand both sexes, will rush in upon us to es- of Providence be foolishly parted with be- cape the wrath of the elements, which fore they may be needed to meet this ex- will render a time of purification and igency. A word of caution to the wise vir- cleansing, actually necessary. The chaff gins is sufficient; but bray a fool in a mor- must be blown away, and they who laid tar, and he is a fool still. Under the pro- us waste must go forth from us. The fession of great piety and deep solicitude wicked and the ungodly must be far for the redemption of our children from away. Now, what agencies must be em- the influence of "Mormonism," many al- ployed to accomplish this important part leged charitable enterprises have been of the program? It is out of my power put on foot in the shape of opposi- to inform you as to what means may tion schools, to decoy them into their be called into requisition to effect this traps. They ensnare some of the children object. We know, however, that wind of our apostates, and some apostates has something to do with the scatter- who claim that they find better schools, ing of chaff. The departure of the un- and better teachers under the supervi- godly from amongst the Saints may be sion of sectarian priests, than they do voluntary in many cases. I have been amongst the "Mormons." This claim is informed by those who claim to know, made through a disposition to depreci- that a certain lady in this Territory built ate "Mormon" institutions and to elevate up a large fire in the room where she sectarianism. We have just as good in- lived, fancied that that fire was the stitutions of learning and as competent most desirable and lovely place in all the GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES, ETC. 101 world, and plastered herself with tar lives—devote yourselves to earnest from head to foot, laid herself down on prayer in secret and in your families the fire, and literally roasted herself to a and allow not the cries of the poor to chip. reach the ears of Jehovah against you. She was said to be an aged lady, and Omit not the duty of patronizing every I presume that God can make even hell institution or learning among the Saints, itself or any intermediate bad place look whether day or evening schools, or Sun- as inviting to a wicked person as a bit of day schools. Defeat not the designs of cheese in a trap to a hungry mouse out- the Almighty by fooling away the fruits side, but the majority of the departures of the earth, knowing that we are placed will be involuntary. But suffice it to say here, not to do our own will, but the will that something will occur, in a providen- of him by whose goodness we live; and tial way, that will cause sinners in Zion we should be willing to be used in doing to tremble, and fearfulness to surprise good, building temples, places of edu- the hypocrite. It will, probably, be some- cation and in learning to manufacture thing that will appear terrible to the un- what we need. righteous, and will be all the nerves of Notwithstanding all the alleged im- the righteous can endure. proprieties of the Saints, and charges In conclusion, I will here say to brought against us—the errors and you my brethren and sisters and wrongdoings of any of its members—the to the Saints generally: Set your entire Church is a revelation from the houses in order and know that a eternal God to the world at large, and is right spirit has dominion over you their standard reared in the mountains and things and dwellings and over all and he who fights against it or against things under your jurisdiction. Let any of its acknowledged members, fights the blood of the covenant be freely against his Maker and toucheth the ap- sprinkled on your door posts and ple of his own eye. Now, my brethren lintels—a deep rooted union exist in and sisters I bless you, in the name of your hearts and practiced in your the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 102 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

THE PERPETUAL EMIGRATING FUND—HOW TO SETTLE DIFFICULTIES—SHOULD BE GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF GOD—COOPERATION AND BROTHERLY KINDNESS—THE PROPER TRAINING OF CHILDREN.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDAT OGDEN, ON SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I am pleased to have the opportunity alluded to before, and which will serve to meet with the Saints here; and I have to make plain my meaning, I refer to been quite interested in the remarks the operations of the Perpetual Emigrat- you have heard this morning from Bro. ing Fund. There has been a very large Joseph F. Smith. There are a great many amount expended for the gathering of principles associated with the Gospel of the poor Saints to this country. Have the Son of God; and Bro. Joseph has any been pressed by that Fund for the presented some things that are quite in- payment of what they owe it? No. Yet teresting and then there may be a few there are many of you who have gone things said on the other side of the ques- with your teams—if you have not gone, tion that are equally true. Those doc- you have sent them—to assist this peo- trines he has taught are true; they are in ple. What for? Because you felt it in accordance with the spirit of the Gospel. your heart to do it, and because you We ought always live with reference to were called upon to do it, and because eternity, feeling full of kindness, benev- you were doing it in obedience to a com- olence, charity and long-suffering to all, mand of God. You not only furnished respecting always the motives and cir- teams, but you furnished provisions for cumstances of others. Then on the other the emigrating Saints. Now they, on the hand while we do that, it is not right for other hand, covenanted and gave their others to take advantage of that benevo- notes for the payment of this indebted- lence because a man is a good man and ness, which if paid according to promise, an honorable man, a man that fears God would have been used to emigrate other and who is lenient, kind, merciful and Saints similarly situated. Was it right forgiving, it is not right for others to take for you to bring them here and to sup- advantage of such goodness and praise- ply them with food, etc.? Yes. It is worthy actions; there are two sides to right for us to engage in such enter- all these matters, the question of debtor prises? Yes, because the Gospel requires and creditor is not all on one side. I it at our hands, and the love of God and will mention a thing here which has been the love of our brethren. This was done THE PERPETUAL EMIGRATING FUND, ETC. 103 in good faith. Should not this be met? up those fraternal relations that should There are a million of dollars due today exist between brother and brother. Then on this account. Is it right that it should do you believe in owing people and not be so? No. Have these debtors been paying them? No, I do not. I be- pressed, or has anybody seized them by lieve in meeting engagements honorably the throat, saying, Pay me what thou and honestly before God. But will men owest? Not that I am aware of. Have be blessed for being forgiving? Well, I they been dragged before courts of jus- think so. And I think that, as Latter- tice? No. But still the debt remains un- day Saints, we will have a good chance paid; and there is a question that arises of obtaining quite a blessing on account in my mind. Will it remain there, un- of our forbearance in relation to those til it removes itself or not? This is a having obligations before referred to; for little on the other side of the question, there is, as I have said, a million of dol- and this is not a small thing either, and lars owing among the people, and I do it is something we are all familiar with. not think they have been pressed to pay If this matter has not been pressed, it it. But I wish people would do nearly makes the obligation none the less sa- right. I wish they would act honorably cred. We are told to pay our debts, to and uprightly and consistently and prop- meet our obligations, to deal justly and erly, and all meet their obligations and righteously one with another. And I wish pursue an upright course. But there is we had no debts to pay; I wish we could again another question to be adjusted in so live as to keep out of debt and meet this matter. It is not the value of the our obligations day by day. But then money alone nor how it will affect me; we do not do this; if we did we should but how are others affected by it? A per- be much better and more pleasantly sit- petual fund was established, which fund uated and feel more comfortable in our contemplated a continual help, a contin- feelings and dispositions. And if peo- ual return of the money loaned and per- ple do not do these things, what then? petual fund kept always on hand, for the There is a way appointed by the Lord, assistance of those requiring aid. This and that is to adjust them before the fund was not designed as a gift, but as bishops' courts. We as Latter-day Saints a loan; but now it happens that this ought to be governed by the laws of the fund is crippled, because men have not church and not by the laws of the land, returned their loans. It is not there- until the law of God is complied with. fore a matter as between ourselves, but How far would you take them? Just as one that affects hundreds that are very far as the law of God prescribes. If a man much worse off than those who owe these sin against another is it good and chari- debts. The cry is continually coming table and kind to forgive him? Yes. Now, to our ears for help. The poverty, dis- I will speak of myself. I never sued a man tress, and trouble in Europe are on the either before our own courts or any other increase, and we have continually to courts. Why? Because I never thought hear the wails of the poor; they look to the thing worth enough; I never thought us for help, but those debtors have got money and property worth enough to go their means and are using it. There to law about. I think so yet, I think is another cry; it is not those debtors it rather too small an affair to break being oppressed by us; but the un- 104 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. gathered poor being defrauded by those the means that God has appointed. We who have borrowed money and do not think, as Latter-day Saints, that the return it. It may become quite a ques- laws of God are a little in advance of tion as to how far we are justified in per- the laws of the land; and, in fact, it is mitting those who have been assisted, not an infrequent thing for men not be- by this public fund by withholding what longing to our Church to express them- they justly owe, to block the wheels of the selves desirous to bring their cases for institution and deprive others, who may trial before our High Council, believing be more meritorious than themselves, of they could get better justice than they obtaining that relief which is justly their could before the courts of the world; I due. But do you believe in being grasp- believe it with all my heart. Latter- ing? No. Do you believe in covetousness? day Saints, we ought to be controlled No, I do not. I think that as Latter-day by correct principles; and if anybody is Saints we ought to have our minds fixed sinned against, we have our remedy. If on something else—something more el- the brother that Brother Joseph F. Smith evating, more exalting, more honorable, has referred to, instead of cherishing and more in accordance with the position and harboring those unpleasant feelings, we occupy and the principles we profess had gone to his brother who had given to believe in. him offense, and told him that his feel- As this subject has been broached, I ings were hurt at some word he had wish now to speak a little in regard to spoken, and he thought he would come our manner of doing business. We are and talk the matter squarely to him, mixed up a good deal at present—you, that little affair would have been settled, here in Ogden, are especially, and we and good feelings would have existed be- in Salt Lake are too—with Gentile in- tween them. But then, supposing after stitutions, and their practice is strictly being so waited on, your brother would upon the ground referred to by brother not hear you, it would then be proper to Joseph, "an eye for an eye, and a tooth wait on him again, taking with you an- for a tooth, pay me that thou owest," other brother; and if he still persisted to etc., which in one sense is all very cor- manifest hard feelings, it would then be rect; but there is a better way to settle proper to report him to the Church, and difficulties, which is by mixing up with let the matter be brought to the notice of it a little charity and benevolence, and the Teachers or the Priests, as the case then it does very well. But when we might be. If he refuse to hearken to their talk about "popping men through" the counsel, let a charge be preferred against courts who do not do thus and so, as him to his Bishop who, with his coun- has been referred to, I tell you what you selors, should hear and decide the case should do, whenever a man would at- according to the evidence, with all long- tempt to "pop" you through the courts suffering and humility and justice and of the law of the land, you should "pop" prayer before God, to guide him in his de- him through the courts of our Church; cision. And when they operate together you should bring him up for violating in this way, such things will be disposed the laws of the Church, for going to of aright. And if either party should law before the ungodly, instead of using be dissatisfied with the decision, an THE PERPETUAL EMIGRATING FUND, ETC. 105 appeal could be taken to a higher court— from the High Council, and Brother the High Council. And when that body of Richards, in a Church capacity, might be men sit upon the case and render their one to consider the case, then that would decision in the matter, and if the brother be all right. refuse to hear them, what then? He is I speak of these things to show what cut off the Church. "But (a man may say) our duties are, and the position we oc- it is a matter of dollars and cents, and if cupy. Do you remember what the Apos- a man owe me $5,000, I cannot afford to tle Paul said when talking to some of lose it, and what recourse have I?" Bring the former-day Saints on this subject? him up before the Church, and if he will The people to whom he addressed him- not listen to the counsel of the Church self were doubtless like some of our easy- authorities, let him be dealt with by this going brethren, who are always in trou- council. And what will be the result? He ble a good deal, and are always wanting will be severed from the Church. "And to "pop 'em through." Says he, in the 6th am I to lose my money?" No, not nec- chapter of Corinthians, "Dare any of you, essarily so; he is outside of the Church, having a matter against a brother, go to and now you can "pop him through" by law before the unjust? Do you not know the law, if that be the term you use. that the saints shall judge the world? And this is why we take such pains in and if the world shall be judged by you, electing our representatives to our leg- are ye unworthy to judge the smallest islature. We try to select good men in matters? Know ye not that we shall order that we may have good laws en- judge angels? how much more things acted, and then we try to get good Pro- that pertain to this life? I speak to your bate Judges. Brother Richards here is a shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise Probate Judge, and is he a good man? I man among you? no, not one that shall think he is. Is he an Apostle? Yes. Well, be able to judge between his brethren? would it be right to take your case to him But brother goeth to law with brother, as a Probate Judge? No; if you were to, and that before the unbelievers. Now we would deal with you for your fellow- therefore there is utterly a fault among ship. You say, "That's a curious doctrine." you, because ye go to law one with an- You have agreed to be governed by the other. Why do ye not rather take wrong? laws of the Church, and I mention this to why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to show you what would be right in regard be defrauded?" etc., and is it not said too, to principles of that kind. And if after in speaking of the Twelve, that they shall summoning the parties referred to before sit upon twelve thrones, and shall judge the Bishop's Court, and from there the the Twelve Tribes of Israel? And does case be carried before the High Council, not the Church today possess the same and then he would not do right, the con- officers as it did anciently, and are they sequence would be that he would be cut not set apart by the revelation of God, off from the Church, and then you would and ordained by the holy Priesthood to be at liberty to summon him before occupy this position? Are these men not Brother Richards, as a Judge of Probate. competent to judge of the comparatively But there possibly might be an appeal trivial things associated with this life? And yet you will take your brother before 106 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. ungodly men to be judged of them. I tell of this good feeling of brotherhood about you the hand of God will follow you if you which Brother Joseph has been speak- do it. And we do not want any such thing ing so pleasantly. Jesus says: "Blessed done by any calling themselves Latter- are the meek: for they shall inherit the day Saints; and Israel cannot do such earth. Blessed are they which do hunger things with the approbation of God, or and thirst after righteousness: for they the councils of his Church. And I will shall be filled. Blessed are the pure in give you fair warning, and I call upon heart: for they shall see God." That is Brother Peery here, who is President of of more value a great deal than dollars this Stake, to carry it out, that when he and cents, if you could but understand finds any Latter-day Saint under his ju- it. It is worth ten thousand million times risdiction going to law with his brother more, for they perish with their using. before the ungodly, to bring him up and You brought nothing into the world; you deal with him for his fellowship. This can take nothing out. By and by, and a is a correct principle before God; and little space of ground six feet by two is all as Saints of God we should be governed you will want, and your money and your by his laws, and not by the laws of the property you will leave for others to han- world. But these laws are made and dle. "Blessed are they which do hunger provided for our protection, and when it and thirst after righteousness: for they is proper and right we can make use of shall be filled." Blessed are whom? The them in common with other citizens. But liar, the hypocrite, the thief, the rogue, we have laws among ourselves, and all the debauchee? No; but "Blessed are the honorable men among us will submit to pure in heart: for they shall see God." the decisions of our Church authorities, Let us hunt after these things, and seek and those who are not honorable we do to possess more of these principles which not want, and we will cut them off. were taught and inculcated by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I attended your monthly priesthood We have introduced among us the meeting yesterday. I find there has been kingdom of God. What is meant by a little feeling about the districting of it? The law, the rule, the government your city, which ought not to exist. We of God. Now, the Lord has laid down sometimes get a little zealous in those a perfect law in relation to our tem- local matters, each has his own ideas, poral affairs and we would not see so and is desirous of carrying them out. much squabbling among us if we could I do not know that I have any idea of carry it out. I refer to what we call my own about these matters. I am de- the United Order. But we cannot bear sirous to ascertain the will of God, and it, it seems too much for us, as much if I know that, I want to do it regard- as we talk and boast of our intelligence less of my opinion, that does not amount we cannot come to some of these lit- to much. But if we can know the will tle principles of the Gospel. Some of of God and understand the principles of us can manage to pay our tithing, and life, and then abide by them, all will be some of us cannot. And then some of well. And as to what imaginary line us can believe a little in cooperation, or district you live in, I do not think it and we think that it is a terrible stride; makes much difference. We want a little to me that is one of the least things THE PERPETUAL EMIGRATING FUND, ETC. 107 that God ever instituted among men and by their religious views, nor put our chil- I sometimes think if we cannot do that dren under their teachings. We want we had better quit. Talk about being to look after the education of our chil- Gods and organizing worlds; why if we dren and see that they are placed under fail in such a comparatively small un- proper teachers and receive proper train- dertaking, I do not think we have faith ing, and not be placed in the hands of the enough to drag a sitting hen from her enemies of the Church and kingdom of nest. If we cannot be united in some of God. these little things, how can we in greater Now brethren if we are Latter-day things? We were talking about the prin- Saints, let us be consistent with our be- ciple of cooperation in our priesthood lief and profession. I profess to be a meeting; and I thought I would refer to Latter-day Saint, and I believe in the it here. And we are getting up County doctrines that the Lord has revealed to or rather Stake organizations through- us with all my heart; and I do not care out Zion. And we want in all of our tem- who knows it. Now I am told in the rev- poral affairs to deal justly one with an- elations to bring up my children in the other. We want to sustain cooperation, fear of God. I believe that this king- and then we want cooperation to sus- dom which the Lord has set up will grow tain us. It is not all on one side; there and increase until the kingdoms of this are two sides. If we sustain cooperation, world will become the kingdoms of our we will call upon cooperation to sustain God and his Christ. And this you be- us; and all the settlements throughout lieve as well as I do. We believe in the Territory will be represented, just celestial glory; and we believe in ter- the same as the Saints today are repre- restrial and telestial glory; or in other sented in the Church through the Pres- words, we believe there will be a sepa- idents of Stakes, and we will try to do ration finally of the good from the bad. right ourselves, and then we will try and Now we are engaged gathering together, see that they do right. We will sustain or separating ourselves from the world them with good, honest efforts, and we and building our temples and adminis- want square up and down operations on tering in them for the living and the both sides, carrying out the principles of dead, and we spend millions of dollars in cooperation honestly and truthfully be- the accomplishment of this object, that fore God and man. This is what we ex- we may become united and linked to- pect and we expect it from your Presi- gether by eternal covenants that shall dent, his Counselors and also from the exist in all time and throughout eternity. Bishops and from all the people. And if And then, when we have done all this go you cannot do this never talk about mak- and deliberately turn our children over ing worlds. to whom? To men who do not believe The world is opposed to us. They the Gospel, to men who, according to say they are not. Well, would you your faith, are never going to the celes- injure them? No; I would not hurt tial kingdom of God. They will get as a hair of their heads or deprive them big a glory as they are prepared for, but of any right they enjoy, either reli- they are not going there. And you will gious or political. We want to treat turn your children over to them. And all men kindly and with due respect; you call yourselves Latter-day Saints, but we do not want to be governed do you? I will suppose a case. You 108 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. expect to be saved in the celestial king- Well, the time is passing, but before dom of God. Well, supposing your expec- closing, I wish to say a word or two in tations are realized, which I sometimes regard to this cooperation in temporal doubt, and you look down, down some- things. They are very little things, but where in a terrestrial or telestial king- they form a kind of stepping stone to- dom, as the case may be, and you there wards other and more important events. see your children, the offspring that God A closer union which we shall expect to had given you to train up in his fear, to inaugurate by-and-by, but which we are honor him and keep his commandments, not prepared to yet. But for the time and perceive that between you and them being it is expected that as honorable there is a great gulf, as represented by men and women, we will honestly and the Savior in the parable of the rich truly carry out our covenants in regard man and Lazarus. And supposing they to these little temporal things; and let us could converse with you—which, how- be one, for the Lord has plainly told us, if ever, they could not do—but if such were ye are not one, ye are not mine. If ye are the case, what would be their feelings to- not mine, whose are ye? You can figure wards you? It would be, Father, mother, that up just as you please. These are the you are to blame for this. I would have facts in relation to this matter, we are de- been with you if you had not tampered sirous to bring about these things. What with the principles of life and salvation for? For the sake of making money? in permitting me to be decoyed away No. Money is of little importance where by false teachers, who taught incorrect truth is concerned. I would not care if principles. And this is the result of it. all the money was out of existence, but But then I very much question men and I do care about the principles, and the women's getting into the celestial king- laws of God, about men being what they dom of God who have no more knowledge profess to be, and not hypocrites, belying about the principles of life and salvation their profession. We expect to see these than to go and tamper with the sacred things carried out in honesty and truth, offspring, the principle of life which God because it is the order which God has entrusted to your care, to thus shuffle it introduced as a steppingstone to some- off to imbibe the spirit of unbelief, which thing in the future. We build temples leads to destruction and death. I very and administer in them. How? Precisely much doubt in my mind the capability of according to the revelations which God such people getting there. We had bet- has given to us; but when it comes to our ter look after ourselves a little. God has temporal affairs, we would ride over and given us light and he expects us to be almost totally ignore the laws which he governed by it. In speaking of Abraham has given to us to govern them. Jesus he says, "I know him." What do you know says, "In vain you say to me Lord, Lord, of him? That he will fear me. What else? and do not the things which I say." And "That he will command his children af- I say, In vain you will say, Lord, Lord, if ter him, and they shall keep the way you cannot attend to these little things; of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; and those who will not, God will shake that the Lord may bring upon Abra- out from among his people. Now hear ham that which he hath spoken of him." it, ye Latter-day Saints! and "Be not de- WE SHOULD NOT BOAST, ETC. 109 ceived; God is not mocked: for whatso- feel that we are here to build up the king- ever a man soweth, that shall he also dom of God and not ourselves, to estab- reap. For he that soweth to his flesh lish the principles of righteousness and shall of the flesh reap corruption; but of truth and the laws of heaven, and he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the not our ideas and theories; for through Spirit reap life everlasting." We should the ordinances of God and through obe- be governed by correct principles in the dience to his laws come the blessings of fear of God; and should righteously, up- God to Israel in time and through all rightly, and virtuously preserve our bod- eternity. ies and spirits pure, and keep all the laws of God and seek to comprehend God bless you and lead you in the his will in regard to all things, and paths of life, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

WE SHOULD NOT BOAST OF SUPERIORITY OVER OUR FELLOW CREATURES—GOD IS INTERESTED IN THE WELFARE OF ALL MANKIND—THE RELATION AND AMENABILITY OF ALL MEN TO THE LAWS OF GOD—WE SHOULD BE COURTEOUS TO THOSE WHOSE VIEWS DIFFER FROM OURS—THE SERVANTS OF GOD ARE MESSENGERS OF SALVATION—THE RESTORATION OF THE PRIESTHOOD—THE JUDGMENTS OF THE ALMIGHTY—ABSURD THEORIES OF LEARNED MEN—ONLY THE RIGHTEOUS AMONG THE SAINTS WILL BE SAVED IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATTHE QUARTERLY CONFERENCE OFTHE SALT LAKE STAKEOF ZION, INTHE SALT LAKE THEATER,SUNDAY AFTERNOON, JAN. 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I have been interested in listen- and instruction that has been presented. ing to the remarks that have been made by the brethren who have ad- There is a feeling prevailing more dressed us during this Conference: and or less among all the branches of I propose myself to offer a few re- the human family, that the nation or flections that have passed through my people to which they belong is supe- mind while listening to the teaching rior in many respects to others, either 110 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. in government, in morals, in science, in ings of men everywhere. One of the old manufactures, in the arts or in religion, apostles in speaking upon these things, as the case may be, and the Latter-day says, "God hath made of one blood all na- Saints are not without this sentiment. tions of men for to dwell on all the face We feel that God has blessed us more of the earth, and hath determined the abundantly with wisdom and knowledge times before appointed, and the bounds regarding himself, his ways, his laws and of their habitations; That they should in relation to eternal things, through our seek the Lord, if haply they might feel obedience to his will than he has others, after him, and find him, though he be and that we are moving in a higher plane not far from every one of us." It is fur- than the rest of the sons and daughters ther said, "that we are all his offspring," of Adam. Admitting this to be correct, and again, "that he is the God and the there is nothing whereof we as individu- Father of the spirits of all flesh;" and con- als or as a people ought to boast. If we sequently he is interested in the welfare have received any intelligence or knowl- of all the human family, everywhere— edge pertaining either to the present or among all peoples, all nations, all kin- the future, it has been solely through dreds and all tongues. the communications that God has been pleased to make known to us. For nat- Now if this be the case, which we urally we are very like other men—not have no reason to doubt—then he is in- much taller, not much shorter, not much terested in all the human family, and more intelligent, not much more igno- will try to promote their welfare and rant, than they are. There is not so great happiness so far as he is capable of do- a diversity among peoples as some imag- ing, according to certain laws by which ine, other things being equal; it may be he himself is governed, as well as all well for us to reflect a little on the posi- things in creation, and the learning we tion we occupy in relation to others, in have heard so much about is simply relation to our God, in relation to the a knowledge of some principles associ- world in which we live and the peoples ated with those laws which are gener- by which we are surrounded; to reflect ally denominated the laws of nature. In upon the past, the present, and the fu- relation to the nations or peoples the ture; and to comprehend, if possible, our Lord will do as well by them as they true status before the Almighty and be- will let him, and as far as the laws by fore all men. which he is governed will permit, just It is indeed true that God has con- the same as we would towards our chil- ferred upon us many great and pe- dren. We fathers and mothers, have culiar blessings for which we are in- children; they do not always do as we debted to him; but at the same the would like to have them do; but we wish Lord feels interested in the welfare of to look over their frailties and imperfec- all men, and all peoples of all nations, tions as much as possible; but when it of all creeds and all religions—not in comes to certain points, then both father their religions as religions, but in the and mother have to stop. If our chil- people who profess to believe in them; dren violate the laws of the land, they and he is acquainted with the pecu- have to be judged by those laws and we liar ideas, habits, dispositions and feel- cannot prevent it, neither should we try WE SHOULD NOT BOAST, ETC. 111 to. Still our feelings are drawn out to- unthankful, unholy, Without natural af- wards our families, and it is right and fection, trucebreakers, false accusers, in- natural they should be, for these pater- continent, fierce, despisers of those who nal feelings are planted in the human are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, breast by the Almighty. It is therefore lovers of pleasures more than lovers of proper that we should have affection and God; Having a form of godliness, but to manifest kindness, forbearance and denying the power thereof." This is spo- long-suffering towards all our children ken of as being one of the greatest evils and all those with whom we are asso- that could exist among men. ciated. God has this kind of feeling to- wards his children; and it is a portion of As I before stated, we have a regard the spirit that emanates from him that for our children, and God has also a re- prompts this affection and regard for our gard for us. We wish to train our chil- offspring. dren in the way we wish them to go; These things are connected also with other people wish to do the same. Talk other matters. We try to look after the about the Catholics, Methodists, Pres- welfare of our children; we try—that is, byterians, Baptists and other denomina- those who are not utterly depraved—to tions, no matter what their ideas or feel- lead them in the right paths, and to ings may be, no matter how inconsistent influence their minds and their morals and foolish we may regard their man- and to teach them correctly both in re- ner of worship, yet many of them are lation to religion, education and morals, quite sincere in trying to benefit their as well as secular matters, in order children. And God is sincere in trying that they may become intelligent men to promote their happiness and welfare and women, capable of sustaining them- as well as he is ours, both in regard to selves, that they may improve the tal- this world and the world to come. And ents God has given them, and that they hence he will do the best he possibly may be able to comprehend some few can with all peoples. But as I stated of the laws, at least, by which the cre- before, being governed by law, he can ations, the worlds are governed and the only treat them "according to the deeds principles by which we are surrounded done in the body, whether those deeds be in this world, as also a knowledge of good or evil." And when that judgment the laws of life. This is all very proper; takes place all men will have to abide and it is also proper that men should its award; there is no appeal from it. cultivate pleasant relations and have a No court to which they can have access good kind feeling towards others. One whereby they can change the decree of of the greatest evils alluded to in holy the Almighty. The Lord knows this and writ that, it is said, would develop it- he has prepared certain classes, so to self in the last days is thus delineated: speak, in his school here upon the earth "in the last days perilous times shall for his people and for all the world. And come. For men shall be lovers of their he has provided a means of instruction own selves," instead of having that kind, for the inhabitants of the earth, look- brotherly, affectionate feeling towards ing upon them as eternal, immortal be- others, they shall be "lovers of their ings, having to do with time and eternity. own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, But all things, as I remarked, are under blasphemers, disobedient to parents, the influence, control and government 112 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of law, just as much as the planetary should be courteous and charitable to system with which we are connected is all, and not find fault with men because governed by law. It makes no differ- they do not comprehend things as we un- ence what a few of us may do, or how derstand them. But try to understand the world may act, the sun rises and our true position and the relationship we sets regularly, the earth revolves upon sustain to our heavenly Father, to his its axis, and so it is with all the plan- laws, to the peoples with whom we asso- etary systems; there is no confusion, ciate, and to the world in which we live. no disorder in any of the movements We read of many prominent men who of the heavenly bodies. They are gov- have existed in the world in various erned by a science and intelligence that ages. For instance, there was Adam, is beyond the reach of men in mortal- Seth, Enoch, Methuselah, Noah, Abra- ity; yet they move strictly according to ham, Moses, the Prophets, Jesus and certain laws by which all of them have his disciples, the people who came to been, are and will be governed. And this continent, Ether, and the brother of these laws are under the surveillance Jared, Lehi and Nephi, Alma, Moroni, and control of the great lawgiver, who and many other prominent individuals manages, controls and directs all these who held intercourse with the Almighty, worlds. If it were not the case they would who were placed by the Lord in a po- move through space in wild confusion, sition whereby they could receive com- and system would rush against system, munications from him, could learn his and worlds upon worlds would be de- will and teach it to others. We look stroyed, together with their inhabitants. upon these men as great men, and justly But they are governed by a superhuman too, as wise men, as intelligent and phil- power, by a spirit and intelligence that anthropic men; as men who were in- dwells in the bosom of the Gods, about terested not only in their welfare, but which mankind knows but very little. in the welfare of the peoples by whom It is so with regard to all the forces of they were surrounded and the world in nature—the earth on which we stand, which they lived. These men did not the elements of which it is composed, come as the censors of the world; they the air we breathe, the water we drink, did not come to aggrandize themselves, and everything in nature is governed to build themselves up, nor to control strictly according to immutable, eternal, or coerce others. What was the great unchangeable laws, practical, philosoph- blessing conferred upon Abraham? "In ical, and strictly scientific, if these terms thee shall all the families of the earth are preferred; but they are, nevertheless, be blessed;" not cursed, not destroyed, placed there by the Almighty. not annihilated; but as a messenger of Now, in regard to the world, and God, as the elect of heaven, as a man the position we occupy in it. There whom he had chosen to accomplish his is something peculiar about the re- work, and whom he would use through lationship we sustain to the world those principles that existed in eternity of mankind with which we are sur- to pour blessings upon fallen human- rounded. It is not proper for us to ity. That was the feeling which was be censorious, to upbraid people for manifested, as I understand it. It is things that they do not comprehend true that Abraham, when a parcel of and that are beyond their ken; we thieves came along in the shape of a WE SHOULD NOT BOAST, ETC. 113 confederation of kings, and took away by the revelations of God and by the in- his nephew and others, and despoiled telligence that God gave to him. His them of their goods, that he gathered to- labor was especially a message to de- gether his household, pursued them and liver Israel from bondage and unjust op- smote many of them, and delivered those pression. He brought them out, and they designed to oppress and brought the God worked with him. And when their captives back again to their own places. enemies pursued them, he protected And when he had done it, what then? them; he opened the sea and made the Why, said they, Abraham you have done waves stand up while they passed over a good deed, you have delivered us and dry-shod. Some of these philosophical brought back this spoil, take what you people—I do not call them scientists, but please. But he told them that he did not ignoramuses—say, that is contrary to the want any of it: "You were injured, robbed laws of nature. But it is not contrary to and despoiled, and carried captive: these the laws of God, nor the power of God, men came upon you and fraudulently de- for he can do things just as he pleases, spoiled you of your goods; and here is my and manage them according to his own nephew, Lot, who is an honorable man will and purposes; and he is acquainted and one in whom I am particularly inter- with other laws in nature, of which men ested, and I was only doing for you what are ignorant. Moses, we are told, was one man ought to do for another; I will a stranger in a strange land, where he take none of the spoils. Here are these saw a bush that burned with fire and the young men who were with me, you may bush was not consumed (it might be said give them what you like, but you shall that this was contrary to nature's laws not have cause to say that you made also); and a voice spoke to him which pro- Abraham rich." ceeded from the bush, telling him to take Prominent men who were the descen- the shoes from off his feet, for the ground dants of Abraham acted in the same way; whereon he stood was holy; also telling true benevolence makes all cosmopoli- him that he was a chosen messenger of tans. It has been the feeling, the de- the Lord to accomplish a certain work. sign of all good men to benefit their fel- And the Lord taught and instructed him. low men; and even the philosophy of And Moses went before the king of Egypt the heathen has advocated this to a cer- and the powers thereof, and delivered tain extent. What was the message of the message that God had given unto Moses when he was sent as a deliv- him. It was not a very agreeable mes- erer to the children of Israel, whom the sage for them to hear, nor a very pleasant ungodly Egyptians had oppressed and one for him to communicate. But he was made slaves of? He, as the sent of a man of God and had the fear of God God, delivered a message, Thus saith the before him; the Lord had selected him Lord, let my people Israel go. A mes- as an instrument, and although com- sage of mercy to Israel, and not even in- prehending his weaknesses he shrank jurious to the Egyptians, unless opposed not from the responsibility, but went by them. Did he deliver them by any forth in the name of Israel's God to per- inherent wisdom or intelligence in him? form the commission committed to his No, but by the power of the Almighty, care, and he delivered the Israelites. 114 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

It is true they were rebellious and igno- "Go ye into all the world, and preach rant, and it is true they were self-willed, the gospel to every creature. He and many of them were very corrupt; it that believeth and is baptized shall be is true they could not endure the light of saved; but he that believeth not shall the blessings of the Gospel; and it is also be damned." If they were condemned, true that when God would have made if they suffered the wrath of God, it of them a kingdom of priests they could was not because they had not life and not receive that priesthood, nor be gov- salvation held out to them; it was be- erned by its influence. He then took from cause they rejected that life and salva- them the Melchizedek Priesthood, leav- tion through the preaching of his word ing them the lesser or Aaronic Priest- and the atonement of his only begotten hood, because they would not and were Son. Was there anything injurious in not competent to magnify the duties of this? No, nothing of the kind. It was the greater, and of that they were nec- in the interests of humanity; it was for essarily deprived. What then? God did the welfare of the world; it was to teach the best he could with them, as he has man, through those heavenly principles done with every nation and every people; which he had communicated, the laws of he, however, sent prophets among them God, to put them in possession of those from time to time. rich treasures of eternal life, opening the Now we will pass on. What was the kingdom of heaven to the believer who message that Jesus came to proclaim to would obey his laws and be governed by the people? A message of destruction? them. This is the message that God has A message of death? A message of con- always proclaimed to the people. demnation? No, no; it was a message When Joseph Smith came, what did of glad tidings and great joy to all peo- he preach? Just the same as all the oth- ples. And what did he tell his disciples ers had done. Was it because of any pe- to go and preach? Destruction to all peo- culiar philosophy, or any remarkable in- ple? No; his commission to them was: telligence that he had in and of himself "Go ye into all the world, and preach in the first place to comprehend those the gospel to every creature." Where? To principles that he revealed? No. It is all the world. And what was the na- true that he was a chosen instrument ture of that Gospel? Faith in the Lord of the Almighty for that purpose; it is Jesus Christ, repentance and baptism true that being one of the seed of Abra- for the remission of sins, and the lay- ham, that peculiar blessing belonging to ing on of hands for the reception of the him. It is true that Abraham in former Holy Ghost, which would place men in years through his genealogy was made a position whereby they could have com- acquainted with the rights pertaining to munication with God their heavenly Fa- the priesthood, and that Joseph Smith ther, having a hope blooming with im- had those rights in common with Abra- mortality and eternal life that entered ham, being one of his seed. And it is true within the veil, whither Christ their that he was selected for this purpose; forerunner had gone. Hence it was a but until the Lord made himself known message of mercy, salvation and exalta- unto him and revealed his purposes, tion to all people who would receive it. he knew nothing about the things of WE SHOULD NOT BOAST, ETC. 115

God any more than you or I did. I free will." Would you curtail anybody know this for I have talked with him in their religious rights? Not by any upon these subjects. Well, what was means; I would leave them with their the nature of his mission? It was to God. If they cannot comprehend, or restore the ancient Gospel; it was to comprehending have not the inclination bring forth the record of the Gospel to obey correct principle, I would leave upon this continent, which the people them with their God, in whose hands who lived here in former years had for- we all are, and in whose hands are the feited, because of their transgressions; issues of life and death. If men do it was that the stick of Joseph in the not love the truth we cannot help it; hands of Ephraim might be united with if men become corrupt and unrighteous the stick of Judah, in their testimony, and full of infidelity we cannot help it, evidence, prophecies, doctrines and or- we did not place them in that position, dinances, developing correct principles, it is their own act. Can you find a set that things as they exist in the heav- of men today in the wide world, men ens might be made more plain to men who are filled with more philanthropy upon the earth, and that in the mouth and benevolence, or greater benefactors of two or three witnesses every word to mankind than these Elders who are should be established. Was it to con- around me? You cannot find them on this demn the world? Not unless the world little earth; you cannot find men any- rejected it. What was the Gospel Joseph where that have and will make the sacri- taught? Just the same as that which Je- fices for principle that the Elders of this sus and his disciples taught. He called Church have done. I see those around me upon the people to repent and be bap- that have traveled hundreds and thou- tized in the name of Jesus for the remis- sands of miles without purse or scrip, in sion of sins, and they should receive the the midst of persecution, contumely and Holy Ghost. And did he and his brethren reproach, to deliver the message of life to go forth and preach this doctrine? They the people, because God had commanded did. And was the promise they made ful- it, and because they were desirous to filled to those who believed and obeyed? promote the weal and happiness of the It was; and you are my witnesses to- human family. How have they been day that these things are true, it hav- treated? Just as Jesus was treated; just ing been made known to us by the Holy as his Apostles and just as the prophets Spirit of promise, the Holy Ghost, which of old were treated. Men have always takes of the things of the Father and re- killed the prophets and stoned those who veals them unto man. And is anybody were sent to them. But then what of harmed by this? What is injured? Whose that? That is all the worse for those rights are interfered with? Whose prin- who did this; they have the hardest row ciples are trampled underfoot? Nobody's! to hoe, for they as well as we have yet Is anybody forced to obey this Gospel? to appear before the Judge of the whole No! Has anybody been coerced into any earth, and he will say, I called but you measure pertaining to these matters? refused; I stretched out my hand but No! It has always been proclaimed and you heeded it not; hence, "I will laugh is today, "It is all free grace, it is all 116 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. at your calamity; and will mock when Christ are they cannot come. your fear cometh." That is the way he God has made use of various means, puts it. I offered you light; I offered in various ages of the world, to teach you truth; I offered you intelligence; I and lead men in the right path. He sent desired to promote your happiness, your forth his servants in different ages into well-being, but you would not have it, the vineyard, and gathered a few here and therefore you are left without ex- and a few there who would obey his law, cuse. Are they his children? Yes. Does he that they might be saved in his king- feel sorry to see them act that way? Yes; dom. And what, let me ask, have the but he cannot help it, he is governed by other people of the world to do with it? law, and those laws are inexorable and They would not listen to the words of life; just and they cannot be departed from. can the messengers of God help it? No, they cannot. Theirs is not a very envi- What next? As eternal beings we all able position. It was not a very pleas- have to stand before him to be judged; ant thing for Moses to go to the Egyptian and he has provided different degrees of king to tell him the message he had to glory—the celestial, the terrestrial, and bear, nor to see the plagues roll on one the telestial glories—which are provided after another. But God set him to work according to certain unchangeable laws at it, and he did it. It was the Lord that which cannot be controverted. What will managed that matter; he was simply the he do with them? For those who are instrument. Who was it that inspired ready to listen to him and be brought the prophets to predict many things that under the influence of the Spirit of God were very unpleasant to the ear? It was and be led by the principles of revela- God. Could they have helped it? No. And tion and the light of heaven, and who when Joseph Smith came, for instance, are willing to yield obedience to his com- could he help being born? No. And be- mands at all times and carry out his ing born, could he help being called by purposes upon the earth, and who are the Almighty? No. He had either to do willing to abide a celestial law, he has the thing that God required at his hand, prepared for them a celestial glory, that or not do it, and have suffered the con- they may be with him forever and ever. sequences; and if he had not done it oth- And what about the others? They are ers would, for God's work is destined to not prepared to go there any more than be performed. But he did his part of it, lead is prepared to stand the same test and did it well and faithfully, and I know as gold or silver; and there they cannot it, for I was there when he was killed go. And there is a great gulf between by some of our highly reverend Christian them. But he will do with them just as brethren. well as he can. A great many of these You Elders of Israel who meet to- people in the world, thousands and hun- gether in the capacity of a Conference, dreds of millions of them, will be a great you have had the priesthood conferred deal better off through the interposition upon you. Where did it come from? of the Almighty than they have any idea From the Lord. The Aaronic Priest- of. But they cannot enter into the ce- hood was delivered by John the Baptist, lestial kingdom of God; where God and who held it in former times upon the WE SHOULD NOT BOAST, ETC. 117 earth. He communicated that to Joseph men; to combat priestcraft, statescraft, Smith and Oliver Cowdery. And then oppression, fraud and iniquity of all Peter, James and John, who had oper- kinds, and to introduce among men those ated in the Melchizedek Priesthood in pure and holy principles by which the their day, came and conferred it upon Gods are governed in the eternal worlds. them, then the apostleship was orga- It is not for you and me particularly; nized, and then the order of the priest- the Lord could get along very well with- hood was manifested unto us as it exists out us, if we could without him. But in the heavens. Why? That we might God, and the holy priesthood behind the be put in possession of principles that veil, that have lived and operated upon emanate from God, and that we might the earth, and who operate in eternity, be able to act our part in carrying out felt interested in regard to the things the purposes of God; not only pertain- that we are connected with, and inter- ing to ourselves, but more especially to ested in the welfare of the world. We the nations of the earth, and then to op- talk about the wisdom of men. What erate for the dead as well as the living. true wisdom or intelligence has man that Had we anything to do with it particu- he receives not from the Almighty? I larly? I did not introduce it, neither did will tell you what the wisdom of men Brigham Young, nor Parley P. Pratt, nor will come to by and by, and it is not Orson Hyde, nor Heber C. Kimball, nor so far in the future as many people Joseph Smith; no man introduced it, only think, "when the wisdom of the wise as God gave it. Joseph Smith was made shall fail, and the understanding of the use of as an instrument in introducing it; prudent shall be hid," their power and and then having organized the Church in glory will fade, and you will see their all its various branches, with Presidents, thrones totter to their base; it is not long Apostles, Patriarchs, High Priests, Sev- before you will see war, desolation, car- enties, Elders, Priests, Teachers, and nage and death run riot through the na- Deacons, with Bishops and High Coun- tions, plagues, pestilence and famine de- cils, and all the various organizations of populating the earth. And then where the Church. These things were given will their wisdom, philosophy and intel- us for what? To gratify our ambi- ligence be? Men get a little smattering of tion? To enable us to ride over and knowledge and philosophy, and of some trample under foot our fellow creatures? of the lesser laws that God has planted To place power and authority upon us? in nature, and they give glory to them- No, not for any individual affair, not selves, as did the Babylonish monarch for any man's emolument or aggrandize- who said, "Is not this great Babylon, ment. Although there is nothing more that I have built?" They do not know honorable, nothing more dignified, noth- that they are poor, blind, foolish, igno- ing which a man ought so much to aspire rant, naked, destitute, and in the way to, as to be a servant of the living God, of death. The nations of the earth, and to be commissioned by him to do his with their false philosophy, with their work upon the earth. And what is it wealth, their corruptions, their power for? To spread correct principles among and might, will become, by and by, like the chaff of the summer's threshingfloor 118 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. before the wind, as represented by the ing of God waited in the days of Noah, Prophet Daniel. Why? Because eternal etc." What did he preach? The Gospel. justice cries to the great God in relation And what is it he has told us to do to- to all the people of the earth. That is day? Not only to preach the Gospel and the reason, and because of their own acts gather the people, but to build Temples. and of their own corruptions. Hear what What for? To administer in them. Who the Lord has coupled with his commis- for? For the dead who have died with- sion to his servants in this our day, and, out a knowledge of the Gospel, that they when he said it, he said that which is might participate with us in the bless- verily true; Go forth and bear your tes- ings which they had not the privilege of timony to the world; and after your testi- enjoying on the earth. We are doing this; mony cometh the testimony of war and of hence we are doing more than preaching fire, and of sword and bloodshed, and the the Gospel to the living; we are making waves of the sea heaving beyond their preparations for saving the dead, accord- bounds, etc. He gives them fair warning, ing to the word of God. and they heed it not; but these things Reference was made this morning to must and will most assuredly come. the wisdom and learning of the world. I What next? Does he destroy them don't know where it is. I have traveled for their good sometimes? Yes. After quite extensively in various parts of the Noah had preached the Gospel to the earth, and I must say that I have not antediluvian world, and after their cup met with their intelligence. I tell you of iniquity was full, and Zion and her what I have met with very frequently; I cities had fled, then followed the judg- have witnessed a great deal of ignorance, ments of God; then came desolation and superstition and wickedness, and any destruction. And why this wholesale amount of corruption, and notwithstand- sweeping out of existence of humanity? ing the little advancement that some few To stop them from propagating a cor- have made in the true principles of sci- rupt species. Was not that right? Yes ence, what do they know of things as it was. He said, I will cut them off; I they exist before God? I told a few sci- will prepare a prison for them, in which entific gentlemen whom I happened to they shall be confined for generations, meet with a few days ago, a few things where they shall not have power to prop- that Joseph Smith, that unlettered, ig- agate their species; for these pure spir- norant boy told me in regard to the heav- its in the eternal worlds shall not be enly bodies and certain things associated contaminated with their corruptions: I with them, and when I had done so, one will take them off the earth, and I will of them said, Mr. Taylor, those are some raise up another people. And He did of the most comprehensive ideas I ever do it. What then? He was still merci- heard in my life. I said these ideas are ful. When Jesus was put to death in the from Joseph Smith, that unlearned man; flesh, he remembered them. "He went," but God gave them to him by revelation. says Peter, "and preached unto the spir- Another remarked: I have read a good its in prison; Which sometimes were deal and studied a good deal; but I have a disobedient, when once the longsuffer- great deal to learn yet. Was it anything I WE SHOULD NOT BOAST, ETC. 119 knew? No, I simply told them something referred to this subject before, but it that Joseph Smith told me. We have will not hurt to repeat it again) quite a a great many ignorant, learned fools; number of professed philosophers called but when you meet sensible, intelligent on me and presented so many foolish, men, as these were, they will acknowl- dreamy, intangible, mysterious, incom- edge principle when it is presented to prehensible ideas and visionary theories, them. But many men have not the un- that I thought of all the ignoramuses I derstanding to do it. Talking about sav- ever met with, they beat all. They have ing themselves, who among the philoso- a certain kind of bread in that city, a kind phers can save themselves? Who knows of light cake, which they make there. It anything of God or heaven? They know a is so light that you could blow it away very little of the earth whereon we dwell, with a breath, and you might eat all day much less do they know of things per- of it and not be satisfied. A brother who taining to the heavens or of God or of was there visiting me asked if I knew the eternity. And let me tell them further- name of that bread. I said I did not know more, that no man knoweth the things the French name for it, but could give it a of God, save by the spirit of God—or, to name. What name would you give it, he use the text as it is given: "For what man asked? Well, I said, you may call it phi- knoweth the things of man, save by the losophy or fried froth, just as you please. spirit of man which is in him? even so Professor Huxley, in visiting Niagara the things of God knoweth no man, but Falls, made some remarks which I re- the Spirit of God." And they cannot get member were published and copied ex- that spirit without first obeying the first tensively in the papers, to the effect that principles of the Gospel of Christ. Talk here was another evidence afforded of about their intelligence, it is a curious the many thousands or millions of years sort of intelligence to me. What do they (I forget the number now) that it had do when they have to grapple with the taken to wash away the rocks below sting of death, and when it stares them these falls. And this evidence was ad- in the face? Why, they take a leap in the vanced in support of geological ideas. I dark. And this darkness is the end of thought to myself; yes, professor Hux- all their philosophy and all their science. ley is a very learned man. I wonder And the little they do know in divining if he knew that rock was once in a fri- the laws of God is only with regard to able, plastic condition, when, by the force some very few of the fundamental prin- of the watery element the soft stratum ciples of those laws that God has planted might be disintegrated, excavated and everywhere throughout the universe and removed by the washing process in per- I do not therefore have that reverence for haps a very few days. We have seen their theories, notions and vagaries, nor large gaps washed away out of some of do I attach that importance to their in- our ditches in a few hours. Such are com- telligence that some people do. mon occurrences here. If a change were I remember on a certain occa- to take place in the elements comprising sion, while in Paris, France, (I have such washouts, which might very easily 120 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. occur here as elsewhere, and they be- things in the name of God; but it is sim- come petrified, the same condition of ply an act of blasphemy. This means you, things would exist as may be seen at Ni- Latter-day Saints, who heal the sick, agara Falls, and some other philosopher cast out devils, and do many wonder- hereafter might expatiate on the years it ful things in the name of Jesus. And took to remove so much rock. If we have yet how many we see among this peo- to submit to their theories, we should re- ple of this class, that become careless, ally be in a sorry condition. I, for one, and treat lightly the ordinances of God's will not fall down and worship at any house and the priesthood of the Son of such shrine. God; yet they think they are going, by We talk about our organizations; are and by, to slide into the kingdom of God. they right according to the order of God? But I tell you unless they are righteous Yes. Will they exist in the heavens? and keep their covenants they will never Yes. Are we all magnifying our calling? go there. Hear it, ye Latter-day Saints! No; we are not. We have indeed a sort Hear it, ye Seventies and High Priests! of skeleton fixed up; but I think some- "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall times it needs flesh on the bones and he also reap. For he that soweth to his the breath of life, the spirit of the living flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; God breathed into it. We need to real- but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of ize the position we occupy and the du- the Spirit reap life everlasting." You have ties devolving upon us. We see this in the priesthood, and if you do not mag- almost everything around us associated nify that priesthood God will require it with the Church and kingdom of God. at your hands. He expects us all to be While many men are diligent and their alive and energetic, honoring our call- whole hearts are engaged in the work of ing, our priesthood and our God, for he God, there are a great many astride of expects it of all of us. Now hear it, for the fence, saying Good Lord and Good as sure as God lives it will be so. It Devil, not knowing whose hands they will not be "how we apples swim!" You will fall into. And yet they are High must swim yourselves; for every man Priests, and Seventies and Elders. What "will be judged according to the deeds will be the condition of such! We are done in the body." If you aim at a ce- told that, "Many will say to me in that lestial glory, you must have a celestial day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied spirit and be governed by it. You must in thy name? and in thy name have be honest, virtuous and benevolent; you cast out devils? and in thy name done must be men full of the Holy Ghost, mag- many wonderful works?" Yet to all such nifying your calling, and honoring your he will say, "I never knew you: depart priesthood, if you would obtain an en- from me, ye that work iniquity." You say, trance into the kingdom of God. And so that means the outsiders. No, it does not. in regard to the sisters, they stand pre- Do they do many wonderful works in the cisely on the same ground. What are name of Jesus? No; if they do anything, we to do? To listen to and be guided by it is done in the name of themselves or the world? No; but to regulate our tem- of the Devil. Sometimes they will do poral and spiritual affairs—things per- WE SHOULD NOT BOAST, ETC. 121 taining to time and things pertaining to and to be clothed upon with the power eternity, according to the influence, the of God and with the light of revelation, law, and direction of the Almighty. that they may stand forth as his mes- sengers to the nations: and then by and Let us come again to this intelligence. by, after having cleared their garments Who would know today anywhere in the from the blood of this generation, to go world how to build a temple that would and administer for the dead in the tem- be accepted of the Lord? Nobody. Who ples of the Lord, and keep laboring and would know how to administer in them doing until God shall have accomplished acceptably to him when built? Nobody. his purposes. Let them bring forth their wise men, if What else are you going to do? To they have any, and tell us how we shall build up the kingdom of heaven upon obtain an inheritance in the kingdom of the earth, where the voice of God shall God. This is something they cannot do. rule and where the law of God shall have Why? Because they have not the Gospel; the dominion, and where men shall be and it is the Gospel that brings life and instructed with laws of heaven and be immortality to light, and this is the kind taught of God. A great many revelations of intelligence we are after. To redeem and changes have yet to take place, we and save the living and the dead; to build have got to put ourselves in a position up the Zion of our God, that a people may to be guided and directed of the Lord in be prepared who shall be pure in heart, temporal as well as spiritual things, or and prepared to associate with the intel- we will never obtain that glory for which ligences around the throne of God. many of us are looking. Well, what shall we do? Do right, These are some things associated following the counsels of those who are with our duties and responsibilities. placed over us. Follow the counsel of Have the apostles duties to perform? the Twelve, you whose business it is to Yes. Does God require it at their hands? do it; follow the counsel of your bish- Yes! If they do not do it, will he hold ops, you who live in the wards, and you them guiltless? No. Have the Seven- bishops follow the counsel of the presi- ties? Yes. What are they? To go to the dents of Stakes, and you presidents of nations of the earth as bearers of the Stakes seek for and follow the coun- Gospel. That is your duty, you Seven- sel of the Twelve. And you people, be ties; and if you do not do it God will re- taught of your teachers; and you teach- move your candlestick out of its place. ers, get the Spirit of the Lord that you Do you hear it, you Seventies? And may teach aright, and you Seventies and you High Priests and Elders, God has Elders prepare yourselves to go to the not conferred the priesthood upon you nations of the earth. Say, here am I, to dream about, to trifle or tamper with send me; I am on hand, I am ready to or treat it with contempt: he will spew fulfil my duty and to magnify my call- you out of his mouth unless you take an- ing, and with the help of the Lord I other course, many of you. God expects will lift up a warning voice to my fellow his message to go to all nations, and the men. And as High Councils to sit in judg- priesthood ought to be seeking after God ment with honesty, truth, fidelity and 122 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. integrity, without fear or favor of any you can; unite yourselves together and man to act and administer in righteous- be one, and never mind their ideas and ness. And you Bishops, act as fathers feelings. God has called us to be one, to over the flock of Christ, that you may be united; and that man who tampers magnify your calling, and that in your with the Gentiles and with their vices judgment you may seek for the inspira- and follies will go down to death. We are tion of the Almighty, that you may ad- sent to teach the principles of life, not to minister justice among the people; that be taught of them; and we are required righteousness may prevail in Zion, and to be governed by the principles, laws, that it may spread and grow and in- intelligence and truth that come from crease, that the glory of God may rest God, that we may magnify our calling, upon us, and that we may rejoice to- build up His kingdom, gather together gether in the fullness of the Gospel of the elect, save the living and redeem the peace. And will it go on? It will. Will dead, and then when we get through, the kingdom spread? It will, "until the unite with the assembled throng in the kingdoms of this world shall become the Celestial kingdom of God; and honor and kingdoms of our God, and his Christ; praise and glory and power and majesty and he will reign forever and ever." And and dominion be ascribed to Him that about the wicked and the ungodly, pro- sits upon the throne, and to the Lamb, tect yourselves against them as well as forever and ever. Amen.

REMARKS ON UNION.

MADEBY ELDER CHARLES W. PENROSE, INTHE OGDEN TABERNACLE,JANUARY 19, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I am more than pleased this morn- has been presented to us this morn- ing to have the privilege of assem- ing by Brother F. M. Lyman. I bling with you, to see the faces of so have thought upon it a great many many of my old friends, and to en- times in reflecting upon the condi- joy the blessings of the Spirit of God tion of the Latter-day Saints and the and the instructions of this Conference. prospects that lie before them, and I believe we realize to a great ex- in viewing also the apathy and care- tent the importance of the subject that lessness of a great many, and the REMARKS ON UNION, ETC. 123 influx of the people amongst us who are perfectly correct. not of our faith. I have sometimes al- The great necessity for us as Saints of most dreaded the consequences that may God is to become really and truly united, ensue, unless we become more united in not only in thought, but in our faith and our feelings and efforts to build up the desires and sympathies one toward an- Kingdom of God and to maintain the lib- other, and in our fellowship as brethren erties that God has bestowed upon us. and sisters in Christ. We must cherish The people of Ogden are peculiarly sit- an active, living faith, showing our faith uated. A great many people have come by our works in our efforts to arrive at a here who are not of our faith, some good perfect union. I see the necessity of this people and some not so good. But their in our political affairs. When I look back sympathies and feelings both religious at the last election, I am reminded of and political are dissimilar to ours; they the few votes, comparatively, that were are not of us, their interests are not iden- cast in this city. This shows something tical with ours, and although they may wrong. What is it? There is a careless- seem for the time to be friendly and to ness growing upon the people, and we have an interest with us in our local perceive it to some extent in our religious affairs, yet our experience has demon- affairs and public meetings, but we see it strated to us the truth of a certain saying more clearly when it comes to voting, for of our Lord Jesus Christ, "He that is not many who have a right to vote stay away with me is against me; and he that gath- from the polls. We call the attention of ereth not with me scattereth abroad." It our brethren and sisters to these mat- would seem in our history that some- ters, and say to every Latter-day Saint times this was not the case, some people who has the right of franchise, it is your having come among us whose feelings duty to vote. The franchise is not given appeared to be in consonance with ours to us as an ornament or plaything, but and who were friendly disposed towards as a power to be used with our best judg- us, but their faith not being our faith, al- ment in the maintenance of truth and though their views to some extent were liberty. The spirit of the Gospel is the in harmony with ours, yet we have found spirit of liberty, the Gospel itself is the in our experience that these words of the perfect law of liberty; and every move Savior held good even with them. Some- that may be made, having for its object thing is sure to arise to draw the divid- the maintenance of liberty, we ought to ing line; some circumstance transpires regard in the light of the Gospel, in the which places them where they belong, light of duty. and they then occupy their true posi- There is a great deal of talk, and has tion. They are outside the covenant of been for years past, of separating re- the Gospel, and their sympathies and ligion from politics. I believe that we feelings and faith cannot be identified need a little more religion in our pol- with ours. They are of the world, we itics than we already have, and I be- are not; we have come out of the world. lieve that if there were more true re- This may seem strange to some; but it ligion in politics throughout the world is true as God is true. Christ laid this it would be better for humanity. I rule down, and we shall find that it is am certain that it is absolutely nec- essary for us who have come here, 124 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. having separated ourselves from the vote for our municipal officers or oth- world, for the purpose of building up the erwise, we must go there as Latter- kingdom of God, in order to accomplish day Saints, to be true to our religious this to permit our religion to enter into covenants; we cannot say, religion, you our lives and govern us in all we do, stand aside, I am a politician today. We whether it be secular or religious. We must be Latter-day Saints all the time, cannot act separately, singly and alone; in every act of our lives. And this care- the Spirit of the Lord, which is the spirit lessness in regard to voting we must get of the everlasting Gospel, should dictate rid of; we must understand that the ex- us in all we do in a public as well as a ercise of the franchise is required of us, private capacity, and when we are so in- and knowing this we should have the fluenced we will act with a due regard manhood to use it; and the sisters who to the interests of our brethren and sis- enjoy the privilege of voting, should un- ters. We did not come here for gold and derstand that the same obligation rests silver, no matter how much of these pre- upon them as well as upon the men. This cious metals there may be hid up in the blessing is given to them to be used for mountains around us. We did not come the good of their brethren and sisters, here for flocks and herds, for houses and for the benefit of the community of which lands, for orchards and vineyards, or for they form a part. substance or earthly wealth of any kind. It is necessary that we be as one, one All these of course we desire to obtain, in spirit and acts, and we must aim all and it is a blessing to have them, for with the day long for the accomplishment of them we can the better assist in rolling the work entrusted to us. Every member forth the kingdom of God; but the acquir- must be alive and continue to be alive. ing of such wealth was not the object we The sign of life is motion, but a great had in coming here; it was rather to build many of the brethren and sisters appear up a better system of society and estab- to be either dead or asleep in regard to lish upon the earth that divine order that these matters. We must do better if we exists where our Father dwells, a few would preserve ourselves from the bur- of the principles of which have been re- dens which the people of Tooele County vealed to us through the Prophet Joseph have had to bear and are now bearing; if Smith. We came here, in other words, to we would maintain our liberty and keep find out the will of God, and then do it. the balance of power, we must exercise We must keep that object before us all the powers conferred upon us, and if we the time, no matter in what capacity we do not, we shall have to reap the con- act, whether as members of the Church sequences. This union we talk so much or as members of society, whether we about, and which we say is essential to act in political or religious matters, we our strength, how shall we increase it? must keep the fact before us that the For we need an increase of union, par- main object of our lives is to establish the ticularly in some places. We will take kingdom of God upon the earth, that He Ogden, for instance, how shall we estab- whose right it is to reign may rule. And lish union and preserve it here? I have when we go to the polls, whether it be to thought there is one thing that needs to be impressed upon us, and that is har- REMARKS ON UNION, ETC. 125 mony of feeling and of thought between each other's minds, and the only way to the heads and the body of the people. In harmonize the difference of opinion that order to establish that and continue it, may exist among us, is to so live that there needs to be an identity of inter- the light of the Spirit of God can shine ests in our hearts. It will not do for our in our hearts. Some men are quick to brethren, when they meet each other, perceive a truth; others are slow. Some to shake hands and enter into a formal men will grasp at an idea and compre- conversation, and then, when they sepa- hend it in a moment, while it takes oth- rate, have something evil to say of each ers a long time, simply because they are other. We must try to establish real har- slower of intellect, or because they do not mony; the head must be in harmony with happen to see from the same standpoint the feet, and the spirit that is in the as we do. We must be patient, and try head should flow to the extremities of to convince one another when we hap- the body. We must try to establish an pen to disagree. How? By threats and essential union. Not merely a grasp of denunciations? No; but by real forbear- hands and a tying together by rules, but ance, the same as God exercises towards the binding of heart to heart, that the us. Do we ourselves carry out His pur- spirit may have free course, run, and be poses as He has revealed them! I think diffused among the people. And in order not. I confess I do not. I can see the stan- to establish this, I have thought that we dard of righteousness, of nobility, and have need to be frank and free, and open purity before me, but, alas! I know I one to another. I do not believe in that have not reached it; yet I want to keep on kind of discussion which produces con- striving until I get up to that standard, tention, which comes from the devil; but and I believe these desires are in your I do believe in that free speech which es- hearts. God exercises patience towards tablishes mutual understanding, tends us, and this is the spirit we must exer- to bind men together, and produces true cise one towards another, until we can be affinity. We should be bound together brought to see eye to eye. There will be by essential union—a union of heart and a time when the watchmen upon Mount soul. How can this be brought about? Zion will sing together with perfect har- By being true and honest one towards mony. "Thy watchmen shall lift up their another, that there may be real confi- voice; with the voice together shall they dence in our midst. Because one man sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when may differ from another, even though the Lord shall bring again Zion." But the with one called to preside over him, is Lord will never bring Zion from above that to say that such a man is rebel- until Zion from beneath is prepared to lious? I think not. There should be a dis- meet it. tinction between honest difference and Then I would say, let us cher- stubbornness and contention. We cannot ish forbearance and let us be frank all see alike yet, neither is it expected and encourage frankness; I do not that we should in our present imperfect mean contention, that is a very differ- condition. As there is a difference in ent thing and comes from a different each other's countenances, so there is in source. There is an essential union and there is an apparent union. I 126 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. would not give a fig for the last, but make contracts in writing, and almost the first is worth all we possess. If we before the ink is dry they break them. only appear to be united and bound to- If we make a promise to perform a piece gether and the bands should once be bro- of work, we should try to keep it, even ken, separation would ensue, all would if it appears to be to our injury. If we be confusion and the strength we pos- promise to pay a brother, we must do it or sess would be wasted; but if we take make it right with him, and not try to ex- such a course as will enable us to see cuse ourselves by saying, "Oh, it is only a alike and act alike, we will have verita- brother;" whereas, if it were a "Gentile," ble strength. Then let us try to estab- we would very likely keep our promise. lish such a union by being free and frank We must be true to our words under all with and true to each other. To illustrate circumstances and to all persons; if we my idea: A lady gets a new bonnet, and borrow, we must pay our debt; if we can- she meets a lady friend and asks how not possibly do it, we must give our cred- she looks. "O how nice!" says the latter, itor the best satisfaction we can. When "it suits you admirably; it becomes you we meet with one another, and agree to so much." She turns around when her carry out certain measures, let us do it, friend is gone, and says to another lady, or not promise to do it. And when we "What a fright she looks in that poke of a meet together in our meetings, and any bonnet!" So men will be friendly to each measures are brought forward in which other's faces and false when their backs the public are interested, or nominations are turned. We should be free and frank are to be made for any of our public of- and outspoken; but that is not to say we ficers, and we feel that we cannot agree should be unwise and abrupt in our ex- with the measures proposed, or have just pressions, because we are very sensitive cause to oppose the nominations, do not and easily get offended. We may even sit mum in the meeting, and as soon as drop an innocent remark, which a per- it is over commence to kindle the spirit son may take umbrage at and feel that of opposition among our brethren. In all we are his enemies when we are in real- our political matters, if the elders and ity his friends, and the same feelings are the people get together and come to a likely to result from joking, when really clear understanding with regard to the no offense is intended. men who are to occupy certain positions, But the greatest cause of disunion in the manner that I have alluded to, I is promise-breaking. One of the evils cannot see how there can be any division, that is spoken of to be prevalent in the or how those who are not of us, who are last days is that men should become in the minority, can expect to succeed in "trucebreakers;" this is, they should be electing opposition candidates to fill our guilty of making promises only to break public offices. It cannot be done. We have them. I believe it can be truthfully said the majority in numbers, and if we have of some who call themselves Latter-day a thorough union of power, our strength Saints, that they give their word to a will be preserved. But our weakness brother, and almost before the breath is in our carelessness and apathy. We is cold they falsify their promise; they REMARKS ON UNION, ETC. 127 have the right to do good, the right to she would like to see her husband do vote, but do not exercise it. quite as much as any other woman's hus- band, and not only in religious matters When we disapprove of any man put but in all things for the welfare of the up to occupy any position, let us be community of which we form a part. Let sure in our minds that what causes that us all be active members of the church disapprobation is not any private pique and let us all be active members of the against him. We have no right to vote body politic—let us be real, live Latter- against a man from our private feelings. day Saints, and let the spirit of the If a man be put up for public position, Gospel flow to every part, that all may be and we have a private pique against him, invigorated, particle clinging to particle, that should not weigh a feather. A man is for when each particle clings to the other put up because he is considered fit for the particles this is the sign of life in a man, position, and when the majority agree but when particles seem to have a desire upon a certain person, we should fall into to separate, that is indicative of dissolu- line, the minority should give way to the tion, that mysterious change which we majority. And when we disagree with our call death; when we pull apart that is a brethren, it should not be because of any sign of spiritual death in the midst of the private feelings. One may say, "Oh, I do Latter-day Saints. not want that man." Why? "Well, he said I desire to see the church and king- so and so against me, or he did not do so dom of God alive in all its parts; I de- and so for me." It is not a matter whether sire to see every member imbued with you like a man personally or not. The the spirit of God, and every man hold- question is, is he fit for the position. Is ing the holy priesthood feeling that spirit he the right man for the place? Do the and power that belong to it, for I know majority of my brethren want such and there is virtue, and power and strength such a man? If so, I will wave my dif- in it. I know that it is a reality. I ferences and vote for him who is con- know that when a man is ordained sidered best fit for the position. These to the holy priesthood, if he seeks for things are of far more importance than the spirit of his calling, he can draw many of us think they are. In times nearer to God than he could without past we have had the balance of power it; I know he can do more good to hu- in our elections, and all things have gone manity with it than he could possibly on smoothly whether we have voted or do without it. I know that the priest- not. But the time will come when the hood of God is effective; that there is life thing will be more evenly divided, and and vigor in it, and that through it a we must get in the habit of exercis- man has access to God the Eternal Fa- ing every power that God has conferred ther, and has power to help his fellow upon us for the building up of his king- man. We should be a nation of kings dom and for our mutual benefit. When and priests unto God, a royal priest- a bishop of a ward calls upon a man hood, a peculiar people, zealous of good to perform any public duty he should works. This is what we should be, my be willing to step forward to do his brethren and sisters. And here, in We- part; and every woman should feel that ber County particularly, where the out- 128 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. side element seems to be gathering, and every day, and we will seek the soci- which is naturally aggressive, always ety of our brethren rather than shun ready to try and wrest from us our vested them; but, on the other hand, if we har- rights, it behooves you to be earnest and bor hard feelings in our hearts with- sincere and united, and to be diligent out divulging them or seeking relief, we in your efforts to hold for God and his may depend upon it that it will, if al- kingdom those rights and liberties which lowed to go unchecked, result in a sep- he has given to us. God intended that aration from the very men for whom his people whom he has gathered to this we today profess fellowship, and in our land should possess it, and that they own overthrow and death. We are chil- should not be ruled over by their ene- dren of the covenant, and should be mies, as long, at least, as they are in bound together by the influence of the the majority. Then shall we give up our Holy Ghost, whose ties are stronger than strength to the minority who desire to those which exist between man and wife; take away our rights, and who have tried that influence will make us one, even all the day long to destroy our best men? as the earth is one, though composed I think we will not; I think we will be of millions of atoms. In the beginning, more energetic and cling to one another, we are told, God spake, chaos heard, and, if we have differences we will try to and worlds came into order. The scat- settle them. Brethren, if you have hard tered particles came together and they feelings against a brother, go to him like were solidified, consolidated, and this a man, and tell him that he has done little earth now rolling in space shows so and so, and that it is your desire to the effects of this real essential union of have the thing straightened out; and if parts. God has spoken to the chaotic par- you cannot make it right yourselves, call ticles of humanity; he has gathered us to your aid the services of a teacher, and together to this place to make us one; rather let us sacrifice our feelings than and we should live together and work allow that genial spirit which belongs to together, and present a strong phalanx true brotherhood to be crushed out of our of power, as real brethren and sisters hearts. Let every man and woman in in very deed, that the spirit of union this congregation today feel that any dif- may be in our hearts, and in every deed ficulties they may have had with their and act, which should be made in each brethren or sisters shall be buried from other's interest, and not for individual- today, and shall not be harbored any ism and self. The spirit of individualism longer. Say in your hearts, before I will is, every man for himself; the spirit of have anything rankle or tarnish my feel- the Gospel is, every man for his brother; ings, I will go to my brother or to my sis- and it is this influence that prompts a ter and confess my weakness and thus man to say, "Let me love the Lord my get rid of it. And if we will be free and God with all my heart, and with all my frank and honest, and say what is in soul, and with all my strength, and let our hearts, without fear or favor, there me love my neighbor as myself, and seek will be more union in our midst, and his interests as well as my own." This the Spirit of God will dwell with us, and is the Spirit of God; it is the spirit of we will see new beauties in our religion the everlasting Gospel; it is the spirit of ALL THINGS GOVERNED, ETC. 129 peace, and joy, and consolation and com- tween us and the Priesthood of God. Let fort, and there is real, true happiness in us be united in all things, and when the it. What a miserable feeling it is not to time comes for us to vote for our munic- be able to meet a man frankly and cor- ipal officers, let us have a clear under- dially. How different when friends and standing beforehand, and then unite on brethren meet. Their countenances at it; and I will promise you that if you will once brighten, and there is a glow and do your part, God will do his part, and we warmth which bespeak their feelings for will come off more than conquerors. And each other; it is a feeling of joy and sat- the day will not be far distant when the isfaction, and those who possess it desire Priesthood of God will have the balance to bless and do good to their fellow men. of power, and the rule and dominion now I feel the importance of these simple in the hands of the wicked upon the face truths; they are necessary to our growth of all the earth will be taken away from as a community, and to our progress as the corrupt and the wicked, and given individuals. God has revealed them for unto the hands of the Saints of the Most our guidance and salvation, both tem- High God, and he will reign forever and porally and spiritually. Let us ponder ever. Amen. upon them, and let nothing come be-

ALL THINGS GOVERNED BY LAW—ALL INTELLIGENCE AND BLESSINGS HAVE EMANATED FROM GOD—MAN'S FREE AGENCY SHOULD NOT BE INTERFERED WITH—THE OPPONENTS OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO TEACH OUR CHILDREN—NECESSITY OF ALL BEING SUBJECT TO LEGITIMATE AUTHORITY.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDAT BOUNTIFUL,DAVIS COUNTY, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,DECEMBER 1, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I am pleased to meet with the remarks that have been made by Saints in this place; and I have the brethren who have spoken to been very much interested in the us this morning as well as this 130 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. afternoon. I think they have laid before There is order in all the creations of us many good and precious principles God. The planetary system by which we which will result in our good, if we can are surrounded and with which we are only appreciate them and be governed by associated is governed by the strictest them. principles of law; all those magnificent We are living in a very eventful day, bodies move in their several orbits in the in a time that is pregnant with great midst of the power of God, sustained and events; and it is necessary that we pre- directed by his Almighty hand. And ev- pare ourselves so that we may be able to erything in nature is also governed by conform ourselves to the circumstances law. with which we are surrounded, and to Today we can talk of railroads and fulfil the various duties that devolve steamboats. I remember the time, and upon us individually and collectively. many of you old people also remember, The brethren who have addressed when there were no such things in exis- you have spoken more particularly upon tence. Well, but did not steam possess temporal things—a subject which is very the same properties five thousand years appropriate and important, because, al- ago as it does today? Yes it did; the prop- though we may believe it is right, proper erties were precisely the same but we and profitable for us to be united in tem- did not understand it, that's all. The poral matters, whatever our faith may principles were the same, and there is be we do not quite carry it out. We an eternal law by which all these things make a stagger at it, but we do not are governed. The same thing applies seem to appreciate fully the position we to electricity. You remember very well occupy, and it is very difficult for men when it took several months to send a to comprehend these things. We have message to Washington and receive an established organizations in the several answer; now we can do it in as many Stakes, which are all very well so far minutes. But did not that principle al- as they go; they are the framework— ways exist? Yes; but man did not know the bones, and sinews and arteries and how to avail himself of it. I remember flesh (comparing them with the human the time, too, very well when there was body); they are very beautiful and sym- no such thing as gas, when whale oil metrical in all their parts. But they need was used, which produced a light that the Spirit of God to breathe upon them just about made darkness visible. We to quicken them with its lifegiving vi- knew nothing about kerosene, or gaso- tality, energy and power, that they may line, or gas or any of these superior ar- fulfil their various functions as living, tificial lights; but then the principles ex- breathing and intelligent powers, that isted then as they do now, but we did we may truly comprehend the position not understand them. We did not com- which we occupy in these various stakes, prehend the position of things and it is both officers and people, and we all of only quite recently that some of these us may be active and alive and ener- discoveries have been brought into op- getic in the pursuit of those principles eration. The art of photography has which God has developed as necessary not been long known. When I was a for our present and eternal happiness. boy people would have laughed at you ALL THINGS GOVERNED, ETC. 131 if you had talked of taking a man's like- may shake them up together, but soon ness in a minute's time; yet it is done. each one adheres to his own element. Did not light always possess the same The sisters sometimes say they have properties? Yes, but man did not under- good or bad luck, as the case may be, in stand it. The same thing applies to the the making of soap; but in reality there is mineral world, the vegetable kingdom, no luck about it, for you would find that the animal creation, and all the works of if you have the same properties equal in God. They are all governed by certain strength and quantity, using the same laws. The vegetables which you grow process, that the same results would here, how were they organized? God or- be reached ninety-nine times out of ev- ganized them and placed them upon the ery hundred, and you would find that earth, and gave them power to propagate you could afford to throw the other one their species; so also with regard to the in too—the conditions being the same. animal creation, as well as birds, fishes, And so it is with the various miner- insects, &c. als in all their organizations and condi- We talk sometimes about our tempo- tions. They assume certain forms and ral things. If we could understand things they are known by geologists by their as God does, we should not be much trou- shapes, etc., and they are always true to bled about them. If for a moment we re- them. And so it is with all the elements flect upon all the creations that live upon with which we are surrounded in the at- this little globe—those that move in the mosphere, in the earth and in the water. air, the waters and on the land, we find We think we have learned a great deal, there is a wisdom, an intelligence that but if we did but know it we are only provides for all. There is a prescient and at the foot of the hill; and when we are an omnipotent power that governs, con- able to comprehend things as God does trols and shapes the affairs of this world we shall comprehend a great many prin- according to the counsel of his will, and ciples that have never entered into our especially so in all matters pertaining to hearts to conceive of, although we are the human family. As one nation rises surrounded with those materials and are up and another falls, it is by his power even treading them under our feet. To that it is done. Nations and peoples may speak of these laws, God himself is gov- be in prosperity for a short time, but one erned by law, and the Priesthood in the touch of the finger of the Almighty and eternal world are governed by law, just they wither, crumble and decay. Change as much as his works are. Our earth rolls succeeds change in human affairs, but upon its axis and we have day and night, the laws of God in everything are correct summer and winter, seedtime and har- and true in every stage and phase of na- vest. When men comprehend the laws ture, everything on the earth, in the wa- by which the planets are governed they ters and in the atmosphere is governed can tell you to a quarter of a second when by unchangeable, eternal laws. There an eclipse will take place, and when our are some bodies that will unite; there earth will be in conjunction with other are others that will not unite. You can- planets. Why? Because they are gov- not, for instance, mix oil and water; you erned by eternal laws. There are a great 132 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. many things by which we are governed better than the fowls?" He watches over of which we know very little and with all, he cares for all, he is interested in which we have very little to do. For all; and in him we live, move and have instance, I will mention the flowing of our being. the blood. What has man to do with What next? Are we mortal? Yes. that? Nothing; still it flows and courses Are we immortal? Yes. Have we to through the body. I have noticed an aged do with time? Yes. We have also to person, and seen his pulse begin to fal- do with eternity. We are the offspring ter, as though the machinery of life were of God; and God in these last days has about to stand still, after having been in seen fit to place us in communication motion for perhaps sixty or one hundred with himself. He has, through the rev- years, during which time the pulse had elations of himself and of his Son Jesus continued to beat without any action on Christ, by the ministry of holy angels his part, day and night, asleep or awake. and by the restoration of the holy priest- There is another principle that God has hood which emanates from God, and by planted within us, which we call breath- which he himself is governed, placed us ing. We continue to breathe, and what ef- in a position whereby we can fulfil the fort of the will does it require? No more object of our creation. The world gen- than it does to cause the blood to flow. erally are not situated as we are; they We are machines; God has made us and do not comprehend things as we do, and he is our Father. He has planted within hence in many instances they feel very us the breath of life and we continue to bitter and acrimonious towards us. What inhale and breathe day after day, month is the matter? They do not understand after month, and year after year. And our position; and we did not understand when that stops, what then? Just the these things until they were communi- same as when the blood ceases to circu- cated to us by the Spirit of the living late in our veins—we pass away. And God, and we could not, nor can any man yet these emanate from God, and they obtain a knowledge of these things only are planted within us and we have noth- by the laws which God has laid down. ing much to do with them. We have or- There may be lightning in abundance, gans, and it seems as if the Lord plays but it cannot be used for the convey- in them; in his hands is the breath of ing of intelligence from place to place life, and in him we live and move from only as it is governed by law. If you day to day and from year to year, be- communicate to any part of the world cause he suffers us to. He once said to through this means, you must have the his disciples: "Take no thought for your wires laid and the instruments prop- life, what you shall eat; neither for your erly connected and adjusted, and then body, what you shall put on. The life is you must know how to operate them; more than meat, and the body is more if you don't know how to do this your than raiment. Consider the ravens: for labor is in vain—the wire, the instru- they neither sow nor reap; which nei- ments, etc., are useless. You might pos- ther have storehouse nor barn; and God sess a most magnificent steam engine, feedeth them: how much more are ye but unless charged with steam, of what use could it be? But let the fire and ALL THINGS GOVERNED, ETC. 133 water be put to it, and have a good en- first place in the one great principle that gineer to manage it, and you may then God had revealed himself to the human travel from your settlement here to Salt family and had restored, the everlast- Lake City or to Ogden quite rapidly. But ing Gospel, and that with it came all without these things would the engine be these other things—apostles and high of any use? None whatever. priests and elders and patriarchs and There are certain eternal laws that bishops and high councilors and all the have existed from before the foundation various organizations of the Church and of the world. There has been a priest- kingdom of God as they now exist upon hood also in existence always, and hence the earth, all occupying their own pe- it is called the everlasting priesthood, culiar place and position. What for? and it administers in time and in eter- For the building up of a something that nity. That priesthood has been conferred is called Zion or the pure in heart. upon man together with the right of the What for? For my aggrandizement? Gospel; and we are told how man can For yours? For my individual interests get into possession of the Holy Spirit of or for yours? No. But in the inter- God, and how he can be placed in com- est of God and of Jesus the Mediator munication with God, just the same as of the New Covenant, of Adam and of you would place one town in commu- all the ancient patriarchs and apostles nication with another by means of the and men of God who have lived before, electric wire. We are told how to do both on the Asiatic and American conti- that, and that is by faith in the Lord Je- nent, with the powers that exist in the sus Christ; by repentance and baptism heavens that may be revealed through for the remission of sin, and by having the medium which He has appointed to hands laid upon our heads for the re- men who dwell upon the earth; that we ception of the Holy Ghost. This is a might stand in and occupy our true po- way which God has appointed—an eter- sition before God, not acting and oper- nal law which man cannot gainsay nor ating of ourselves or by ourselves or by depart from any more than they can from anything inherent in us or by virtue of any other law of God. He has given any intelligence with which we individu- us other views in relation to these mat- ally may be endowed, but by that alone ters. He has revealed things concern- which God communicates. To whom are ing the relationship that exists between we indebted for the light we have to- husband and wife, between children and day? Some might say to Joseph Smith. parents, and between the various quo- Yes, as the instrument, but primarily rum organizations of his church. He to God and the Priesthood behind the has placed in our power certain prin- veil. Could Joseph Smith have revealed ciples which are the offspring of God, anything if it had not been communi- which have emanated from him, in re- cated to him? No. Could Brigham gard to endowments and anointings and Young? No. Could anybody else? No; no other intelligence which it would not be man can reveal anything pertaining to proper to speak of at the present time. these matters only as it is given to him, Where did all these originate? In the and he is permitted by the Lord, who 134 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. is the Author of all light, intelligence and fairs of which we have heard so much knowledge which we, his children, pos- today. Should I wish to control any sess. And he has gathered us together man? No, I would show him the right for the purpose of instructing us that we way. Should I feel indignant at the fol- may operate with him and by him and lies of men and wish to destroy people? through the intelligence which he im- No. David, we are told, prayed to the parts, in building up his Zion of the last Lord that his enemies might be sent to days. The world say we are exclusive. We hell quickly; Jesus said, when suffering cannot help that. Are we exclusive? To a at the hands of cruel men all that hu- certain extent, yes. For instance, I know man nature could endure, "Father, for- there is a law which God has given. Can give them; for they know not what they I ignore that law and expect blessings do." I like the latter better than the for- from God? No. Can you? No, you can- mer. Who are the people of the world? not. Can men climb any other way into They are the children of God. If they are the favor of God than that which he has not heirs with God and joint heirs with appointed? No, they cannot. What will Jesus Christ, they are all his offspring. you do? We will try and help the Lord to And what is he going to do with them? do the very best he can for them; and we The very best he can; and we will try and will do the best we can for them. One help him do it. We will set them good thing we can do, and we are set apart patterns; we will teach them by precept many of us for that purpose, and that and example better ways, and seek to the is to go and preach the Gospel to every Lord for wisdom to govern us, and then creature. This the Lord requires at our try and benefit them. But shall we al- hands, especially we Seventies, Elders low them to destroy us? No. Shall we al- and Apostles. We can do all that is in low our children to be taught by them? our power for the people in this way. No, never by them, for they know not And what next? Can we make them the way of life, and are enemies to God believe? No. Can we make them obey and his laws. God has given unto us the Gospel? No. We would not if we children, and he not only expects obedi- could, because if there was any force ence from us, but expects us, as he did made use of for the accomplishment of Abraham, to command our children af- that object, it would only result in evil ter us to obey the Lord. Then do not let instead of good. We are told by Joseph us give them over to the powers of dark- Smith that, "No power or influence can ness to be taught by the enemies of God or ought to be maintained by virtue of and His people. But let us study their the priesthood, only by persuasion, by interests, both for time and eternity, and long-suffering, by gentleness and meek- set them good examples, and keep them ness, and by love unfeigned; By kind- from the contamination of the world. I ness, and pure knowledge." They are heard a statement of a circumstance said not to be exercised by force. This is to have transpired in one of those schools the way I look at these things, and I in Salt Lake City, which was something take the same view of our temporal af- ALL THINGS GOVERNED, ETC. 135 like this; A teacher interrogating the you know? "That he will fear me and children of a certain school asked—Who command his children and his house- is the great false prophet of the 19th cen- hold after him, etc." We want to be very tury? In answering, a child mentioned careful about training our children. We John Taylor. I was a little amused at should act honestly before them; for if it; although I suppose it was intended they see father or mother act dishon- that they should have given the name of estly, the children will be likely to fol- Joseph Smith, but the little one made a low their example. We should be care- mistake. But what of the idea of our chil- ful, too, not to be found speaking harshly dren attending the schools of people who or using hard words in their presence. teach and catechize them in this way? But rather do as the old lady used to do Don't you think it rather humiliating? I when teaching school; when the children think we are descending very low when would come to a word they could not pro- we can submit to their tuition. We do nounce, she would tell them to skip it not want to partake of their feelings nor and call it a "hard word." Let our lives contract their ways, nor to be degraded and actions and conduct bespeak that we with either their social or religious prin- are men of God, that we are acting up- ciples, but at the same time we wish to rightly and righteously and performing do them all the good we can. If they the will of God upon the earth. lie about us, never mind that; we can Well, now, a little further in relation stand all they can say about us. Would to these things. Shall we benefit? Yes, we we want to injure them? I hope not. will do all the good we can. But if men We ought to deal with and treat every- lie and become fraudulent, and delight body aright, acting justly and honorably in abominations and are void of princi- with all. But then we do not want them ple, then we will say, with him of old, to be our teachers. They would think "My soul, enter thou not into their se- they were doing God's service if they cret; and mine honor, with him be not could by any influence lead us astray. thou united." We are gathered here for What will the Lord do with them? He the express purpose of carrying out the will put the more worthy of them in a purposes of God; the world, however, do terrestrial kingdom, and the other class not understand it. But I tell you what will inherit a telestial kingdom, but they they will do, by-and-by. You will see will never get into the celestial king- them flocking to Zion by thousands and dom, unless it be through the medium tens of thousands; and they will say, of that priesthood conferred upon us by "We don't know anything about your re- the Lord. Then do we wish our children ligion, we don't care much about reli- to be taught by those who would seek to gious matters, but you are honest and degrade and lead them to another and honorable, and upright and just, and a lower place than that we hope to en- you have a good, just and secure gov- joy? Certainly not. What was said of ernment, and we want to put ourselves Abraham, speaking of his children? The under your protection, for we cannot feel Lord says, "I know Abraham." What do safe anywhere else." There is a scripture 136 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. which says, the time will come "when he of our hearts; the revelations of God that will not take up his sword to fight will be unfolded and we shall feel in against his neighbor must needs flee to our hearts to exclaim, O, God, let me Zion for safety." And they will come. But go forth to lift up a warning voice for we must prepare ourselves; we have got thy judgments are approaching, the na- to have the invigorating influence of the tions are shaking, thrones are tottering Spirit of God to permeate all of our or- and will be cast down, and wars and ganizations, all feeling that we are un- commotions are spreading abroad, and der the guidance and protection of the I want to go and snatch those who are Almighty, every man in his place, and honest "as brands from the burning;" so every man according to the order of the that when I have accomplished my work priesthood in which God has placed him. I can feel that my garments are spotless Does a bishop expect the members of his from the blood of all men. This is the ward to be subject to him? Yes. Should kind of feeling we should have and be they be? Yes. And should not they them- governed by. As for these other matters selves be subject to the President of the of a temporal nature before referred to, Stake? Yes. Then if the President of a if we cannot cooperate together and do Stake expects obedience from those un- it honestly and in good faith, as this is der him, he must be subject to those over one of the very best things that can be him. The Priests, Teachers and Deacons required of us, it is very little that we in their place, the Bishops in theirs; the can do. We should cultivate the Spirit of Presidents of Stakes in theirs; the High God ourselves; we ought to drink freely Priests, Seventies, and all others, mag- of that water which the Savior told the nifying their respective callings, filling woman of Samaria that he was able to the positions they occupy, holding them- give to her, even that water that would, selves as minute men, clothed upon with "be in her as a well springing up to ev- the power of God and the holy priesthood erlasting life." We have drank already which rests upon them. And when more at that well; it remains now for us to of that spirit is in existence among the permit it to bubble and burst forth, to elders of Israel, they will feel the word of flow and spread its revivifying influence God like fire in their bones, and they will all around. We ought to have a heaven desire to go forth carrying the word of life upon earth—to be really the Zion of our and salvation to their fellow men who God, the pure in heart, each one seek- are scattered throughout the earth. A ing another's welfare. "Thou shalt love good many are beginning to feel like that the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with now, the fire is beginning to burn a lit- all thy might, with all thy soul, with all tle more, and if we continue to fulfil our thy strength; and thy neighbor as thy- duties—and do not go and ask people to self." We have hardly got to that yet; but believe something we can hardly believe supposing Paul were to come along and ourselves; but go full of faith, seeking all say a little further—each one preferring the while unto God for more intelligence, his neighbor. That part of it we will his Holy Spirit will beam upon the altar let alone awhile. But if we could feel we are the children of God, all animated by that same Holy Spirit, producing ALL THINGS GOVERNED, ETC. 137 peace and joy, and all welded together in milar are we that you can hardly find two one common brotherhood, in the bonds people alike. I do not want everybody to of the everlasting Gospel, all operating think as I do. I am willing to grant ev- with God and the holy priesthood who eryone a great amount of leeway in re- have lived in other ages, to carry out his gard to these things; but I would like purposes upon the earth, and assisting to see everybody do right and cleave to to redeem the earth and establish his God. And as for a great many other lit- kingdom, never more to be thrown down. tle things, I care very little about them. If we could feel like this, we should drop Let men treat their wives kindly; and our individuality and self-esteem a little, then you wives can afford to treat your we should seek to do not our own will, husbands the same, can't you? Let all but the will of Him who sent us. cultivate charity and forbearance, and I find that the time is passing. In how much better it will make you feel! conclusion let me say, brethren, love Children, obey your parents; and par- one another, be kind to each other; if ents treat your children kindly, and let you have difficulties, settle them hon- us all seek to do the will of God upon orably. I do not know a man upon the earth. May God bless you, brethren the earth that I have a solitary feeling and sisters, and lead you in the paths against. I would not entertain such feel- of life; and may God help us all to do ings, because they make one feel mis- right, and may the fear and blessing of erable. Forgive one another; bear with God rest upon all Israel and upon all that one another's infirmities. We are not love the truth everywhere, and may our all alike. Our faces are different, our enemies be confounded in all their plot- habits are different, although made of tings against Zion, in the name of Jesus the same material and possessing the Christ. Amen. same kind of an organization. So dissi- 138 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

REMARKS.

REMARKSBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, ATTHE FUNERAL SERVICESOF BROTHER DIMICK B.HUNTINGTON, INTHE 16TH WARD MEETINGHOUSE,SALT LAKE CITY, ON SUNDAY MORNING,FEBRUARY 2, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

There are a great many things as- existence. For quite a long time it has sociated with human existence that call been known by his more intimate friends upon people to reflect. We came into that he was shortly to leave. I visited the world, and people are coming into it him not long ago myself, and had a very in a continuous stream—children are be- pleasant interview with him, and since ing born as all of us were in our turn; then I never thought of his living long; and whilst some are coming into the in fact I expected to attend his funeral as world giving pleasure to their parents we are now doing. But there was no com- and friends, there are trials, anxieties, punction of feeling —no desire to con- cares and perplexities attending the nur- tinue to live; but he felt as though he ture of the babe and the care of youth un- had accomplished the work that was as- til they arrive at years of maturity. Then signed him. Speaking to him, as I some- comes the struggles of life with all its at- times do to our aged brethren on some tendant cares and responsibilities. occasions, I said, "Well, Brother Dimick, With us particularly the greatest you are about leaving, and, when you thing that we think of associated with go carry my best respects to our friends the welfare of our youth is that they be- who are already there, and tell them I come acquainted with the principles of will continue to do the best I can in the truth, with the order and organization of hope of by and by meeting with them." the kingdom of God, that they compre- And that is about the way that I look at hend in some measure the laws of life these things. We have our entries into and prepare to live for the future that is the world, our struggles in the world, before them. and when we get through with these, and Brother Huntington has lived a the weary wheels of life stand still, then great length of time associated with we pass into another state of existence. this church and kingdom, and has ar- The Gospel has revealed to us some of rived to what is often termed "the the most glorious, exalting, ennobling sere and yellow leaf," when it is and encouraging principles; and when expected, according to the common we are in possession of these principles course of humanity, that people must and the feelings they produce, there is no leave and go into another state of REMARKS. 139 terror in the approach of death. I have power and strength of the living God. seen the time myself when I could have They feel that they have a work to per- died just as easy as not if my time had form, and doing that work they realize come, and would just as soon have done that God is with them and that all will so as not, and I do not feel much other- be right, whether it relates to this world wise today. or the world to come; that is the feeling There is something very interesting which the Gospel of the Son of God in- in all the affairs of human life, espe- spires in the hearts of those who live up cially is there associated with us as a to its requirements, obey its demands, people. Brother Huntington has been and fulfil the various duties devolving with us for a great many years, and has upon them. passed through many trying scenes with It is not with them simply a per- the church in Missouri and elsewhere, sonal matter. The Latter-day Saints feel and while they are not of the most pleas- as though they occupy a peculiar po- ant nature to contemplate, at the same sition in the world—that God has se- time they serve to show the faithfulness lected them from among the nations of and integrity of those who have been as- the earth and gathered them together sociated with them. I see around me a that he might place his name among good many of the brethren who, by ex- them; and that in the coming struggle, perience, know all about these things, in the great revolutions that shall tran- and I see too that their hair, like mine, spire upon the face of the earth, it will is getting—I will not call it gray, but a be for them to manage, to direct, to con- little white. Some people felt sorry for trol and adjust, and under the influence us when enduring these things, but we and guidance of the Spirit of the liv- did not feel sorry for ourselves, nor do ing God, to promulgate the principles we today. Some felt as though it was of eternal truth to all people, that all impossible to bear up under the con- mankind may have the opportunity of tinued struggles that we had to pass listening to the great and glorious prin- through; but the Latter-day Saints had ciples that God has revealed to them, no such feelings. They reflected upon that they may be inducted into the laws the future and upon those great princi- of life and comprehend the principles of ples of eternal life which God had given truth as they exist in the bosom of God; unto them, and these thoughts stimu- and holding the priesthood in all its var- late us with hope and joy today; and ious forms, organizations and powers, as the effervescent affairs of time slide they feel that they are associated with and pass away the Saints of God re- the priesthood on the other side of the joice in the knowledge that an inheri- veil, who are interested in their welfare, tance which is incorruptible, undefiled, in the progress of the work in which and that fadeth not away, is reserved they are engaged, and in the accomplish- in the heavens for them. And they feel ment of the purposes which God has de- also that they have been called, and cho- signed from before the commencement of sen, and elected by the Almighty to help the world. This is the kind of feeling to establish his kingdom on the earth, that the Latter-day Saints are inspired to introduce among men those princi- with who comprehend their true posi- ples that exist in the eternal worlds tion. And hence there are organizations and to maintain them by the Spirit, the of High Priests, Seventies, Elders and 140 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. others, whose duty it is to go to the for the accomplishment of these things. nations of the earth to proclaim to all We are here not only to proclaim sal- peoples the glad tidings of salvation. vation to the living, not only to intro- And whilst men ignorantly, and without duce the principles of law, and govern- knowledge, seek to persecute, proscribe ment, and religion, and everything cal- and interfere with the rights of Israel, culated to exalt and ennoble man upon the God of Israel stands forth as their the earth, until the kingdoms of this defender and will protect them under earth shall grow and increase, and be- all circumstances, and every arm that is come the kingdoms of our God and his raised against them will fall, and every Christ, but we are here also to redeem power that is marshaled against them the dead, to build temples and admin- will crumble to pieces, for he will as- ister therein, and to accomplish all the suredly take care of his people, and pro- various works that God requires us as tect them in every emergency. his servants to attend to. And when one And when we comprehend these after another of our friends passes away, things, we realize that we are here not what of it? It is only the ordinary course to do our will, but the will of the Fa- of nature, and it makes very little differ- ther who sent us. We are here to in- ence whether a man be on this side of troduce those eternal principles that ex- the veil or on the other. Brother Dimick ist in the bosom of the Almighty; we has gone where paralysis cannot strike are here to build up the Church and him any more, where sorrow and sigh- kingdom of God upon the earth, and to ing with him are passed, and where ev- form a nucleus through which and by erything is pleasant, joyous and happi- which the God of heaven can work, op- fying, and where he can rejoice with his erate, lead, dictate, and control the af- brethren who have gone before him. Do fairs of all men. He has introduced a lit- we feel to sorrow because of the change? tle leaven which will by and by leaven No, not in the least. We feel about this the whole lump. And although wars, as you, my brethren and sisters, did in commotions, troubles, difficulties, blood- years gone by, when leaving your friends shed, plagues, pestilence and famine will and, perhaps families, to gather to Zion, stalk over the earth, the nations totter and as your friends did in seeing you and fall, thrones be cast down and the take your departure. They would shake powers of the earth be shaken, yet God you heartily by the hand and say: "Well, will protect Israel, he will maintain his I am sorry you are going and yet I am people, if they will cleave to him and glad, and I will try to follow you as soon obey his laws and keep his command- as I can." That is about the feeling. It ments; and we are here to introduce is an ordeal that God has placed upon and establish these heavenly principles all men, and we have got to meet it, and that exist with God, and to teach the having met it, like all other things, we principles of life to the people, that all are prepared for what follows. mankind may have the opportunity of But let us speak of the living, for hearing and knowing of the great things it is with those actualities we have that God has revealed for the salvation now to do in relation to things that of the human family. We are here, then, are transpiring. Sometimes people REMARKS. 141 will say, "Don't you feel a little scared mandments, live our religion, and pur- about things now?" referring to inimical sue a proper course, all will be well with legislation. Not much; at least I do not. us in time and through eternity. I do not know that it makes my knees Brother Huntington for many years tremble much. I feel as pleasant, joyous, was associated with the High Council; comfortable and happy today as at any he has gone now to associate with the other time; all is right. Men cannot do councils above, and with the various or- as they please. God rules in the heav- ganizations of priesthood that are eter- ens; and the Prophet has said, "Surely nal, endless and everlasting. And we, by the wrath of man shall praise thee: and and by, will follow to join our quorums, the remainder of wrath shalt thou re- our friends and associates who have gone strain." It is His duty to take care of His before. Saints, and why need we trouble much about it? We have children, and it is our I am reminded of an item in Brother duty to take care of them; and it appears Dimick's written request, desiring that that they are not much concerned where only his good deeds should be spoken of their dinner or their clothes come from; at his funeral, and also of a remark by they believe that "daddy" will take care Brother Taylor, in referring to it, that of that. we should not speak anything but good As regards brother Dimick, it is all of our friends whether living or dead. I right with him. I would say to him, am really astonished sometimes to wit- "Peace to his ashes," and I would say ness the hard feelings and rancor that to his family and friends, "Be comforted, exist among men. They come—I do not peace be multiplied to you, and have con- know where they come from; yes, I do fidence in God and all will be right." And too, they come from beneath. The fruits by and by you will pass along, and we of the Spirit of God are love, peace, joy, will come and see you if you do not come gentleness, long-suffering, kindness, af- and see us; that is, we will bury you if fection, and everything that is good and you do not bury us first. And by and by amiable. The fruits of the spirit of the we will all be on the other side of Jordan, devil are envy, hatred, malice, irritable- singing "Hallelujah, hallelujah: the Lord ness, everything that tends to destroy God omnipotent reigneth." mankind, and to make them feel uncom- Let us seek to do right. That is the fortable and unhappy. The fruits of the main thing for us Saints to do. I do Spirit of God are love, and peace, and joy not fear the world, nor any of its af- in the Holy Ghost; and the man that says fairs or influences, or powers, or any he loves God and hateth his brother, is a of its intrigues, nor anything it can de- liar, and the truth is not in him. I do not vise; for God will take care of his peo- care who he may be, or what his name, ple if they do right. The only fear or where he lives. This is the way I read that I have is, that people will for- the Scripture, and the way the Gospel sake their God, and lose faith in him teaches me. "By this shall all men know and his promises, and be found serv- that ye are my disciples, if ye have love ing the evil one instead of serving the one to another." Even an outside poet has Lord. If we fear God and keep his com- sung: 142 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

"Then speak no ill, a kindly word Can we have associated on the earth below. never leave a sting behind," etc. Let us be governed by these princi- God bless the family of Brother ples, and cleave to everything that is en- Huntington—his wives and children and nobling, that we may be associated to- grandchildren, and all pertaining to him. gether in the bonds of fraternity, love and To his children I would say: follow the affection, live our religion, keep God's example of your father, and God will commandments, and cultivate his holy bless you and save you ultimately with Spirit, and the spirit of kindness, af- him in his kingdom. And may God help fection, love and fraternity among our- us all to be humble and diligent in keep- selves; so that when we get through ing his commandments, that we may be with our affairs on this earth, we may saved in his kingdom, in the name of Je- meet with joy all those with whom sus. Amen.

DISCOURSE BY ELDER ORSON PRATT.

DELIVEREDINTHE NORTH BRANCH MEETING ROOM, OFTHE LONDON CONFERENCE, ON SUNDAY EVENING,MARCH 9, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JOSEPH MAY, OF SHEFFIELD.

It is with pleasure, brethren and sis- of information which the Lord has re- ters, that I rise before this small assem- vealed from on high in different periods bly to address them upon such subjects of the world's history, as well as in our as may be put into my heart. However own day; information that is of the great- much learning and information may be est importance to the human family; in- in the possession of a speaker it does formation that has relation to our eter- not matter, God is able, by his Spirit, nal happiness and welfare in the world to make use of the most unlearned, if to come, if we can but obtain enough of they will but seek unto him, and have the spirit of truth to impart that infor- faith in him, that he can speak through mation to our minds. them to the edification of the people We, Latter-day Saints, are living who hear. We have a vast amount in a peculiar age of the world; we DISCOURSE BY ELDER O. PRATT. 143 are called by the Almighty, by new rev- to bring forth a sacred record of a branch elation. We have not taken this name of the house of Israel, a record, in upon ourselves, it is a name the Lord other words, of a remnant of Israel, who gave by direct revelation through the inhabited the great western continent. prophet and seer, Joseph Smith. The Their records were brought forth by this Lord spoke to him, as he always did to boy, this young, unlearned, uneducated those who were sent forth to build up youth. He did not attempt to estab- his Church on the earth; hence, this lish the Church while translating those Church has not been built upon the opin- records. This was the first duty required ions of men, neither upon the learning at his hands—namely, to translate from of men, neither upon the doctrines and the plates of gold, which he discovered, covenants of men; but in the very begin- by the aid of an instrument, called the ning, before there were any Latter-day Urim and Thummim. This sacred in- Saints, or true Church, the Lord gave a strument was used in ancient times to revelation regarding the time when the inquire of the Lord. This young man Church should be organized. A few had continued the work of translation from believed, a few had repented, a few had the autumn of the year 1827, until 1829, been baptized for the remission of their as time and circumstances would per- sins, and a few had been confirmed, by mit. He was a man whose father was the laying on of hands, for the gift of in poverty, and consequently a portion the Holy Ghost. They were organized of his time had to be occupied by him- into a Church by commandment, and on self in laboring to obtain the necessary the same day that they were thus or- comforts of life; but he, after some two ganized, the Lord pointed out the du- years and a half, succeeded in finish- ties of the members, and also of the of- ing and printing the record, a record ficers of the Church. It was also revealed which contains about 600 pages. Af- that in the Church of the living God ter this record was translated, and the there should be inspired apostles. We did manuscript placed in the hands of a cer- not assume the apostleship ourselves, we tain printer in Palmyra, State of New did not pick up this information in and York, and after it had been printed, and of ourselves, but the Lord gave revela- the Lord had prepared all things, he then tion respecting it. And, indeed, there gave commandment to this young man is not one doctrine believed in or prac- to organize the Church, that is, to estab- ticed by the Latter-day Saints, but what lish the Latter-day kingdom spoken of by the Lord our God has given revelation Daniel, the prophet, on the earth, and upon that subject or that doctrine. In gave the name by which the same should the first place, before the establishment be called—namely, "The Church of Jesus of the Church, the Lord intending to set Christ of Latter-day Saints." up his kingdom again on the earth, made In regard to our forms of Church preparation for it by raising up a boy—a government, we are also guided by young man, unlearned in the schools of written and printed revelations. We theology. This youth was inspired from were not left to ourselves, to conjec- on high. God sent his holy angels to ture, or merely to base our opinion, minister to him, and gave him power in regard to what the various duties of the officers of the Church are, but 144 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the Lord did distinctly point out the duty the sun and the moon should endure— of an apostle, telling us that that was one that is, when men were acknowledged of the officers of the Church, that it is sufficiently worthy, to have that priest- his duty to receive revelation—to receive hood on the earth. It has never died communications from the heavens, as out. It has been in the heavens all the the apostles did in ancient times, and to time. Death takes no authority of a administer in all of the ordinances of the divine nature, from any human being, doctrine of Jesus Christ, and to regulate when it is once conferred upon him, if the Church and watch over the same, he is faithful until death; consequently and to administer in all spiritual things. there were persons in the heavens who The Lord also pointed out the duties held that priesthood, but no one upon the of Elders, and of the lesser priesthood. earth, no one that ever pretended to have Now we should not have known anything it, among the Christian denominations. about, what is termed, the "lesser priest- And the Jewish people, who pretend to hood," if it had not been for new reve- have the Levitical priesthood, rejected lation. We read about two priesthoods and do still reject the true Messiah, con- in the Bible; one was called, the "higher sequently, their priesthood is null and priesthood" the priesthood after the or- without authority, and they could not, der of Melchizedek; the other was called, therefore, administer baptism, for the re- the "lesser priesthood," or the priesthood mission of sins, as John the Baptist did, after the order of Aaron, the Levitical the forerunner of Christ, who held that priesthood, some would term it. But we priesthood. knew nothing about these things, only so There was no other way, therefore, for far as the Lord revealed them. There this priesthood to be established again were none to take us by the hand, and on the earth, only for it to be sent say to us, "we have the priesthood of the down from heaven; and the Lord did Church, we can teach you what the du- this. Without it, all of our ministra- ties of the respective officers are," but tions would have been in vain. We could these things had to be learned anew. not have officiated, without some kind of authority, or priesthood. How did The Lord did not see proper, at the the Lord restore it? In answer to hum- first, to give us the fulness of the author- ble, solemn prayer, before the Church ity that he afterwards revealed. He gave arose, the Lord sent his angel, John the us the lesser priesthood. And how did he Baptist, to two of his servants, namely, do it? It was not on the earth. You might the translator of the work, and also the have searched all the various Christian scribe who was writing from his mouth. churches, built up among all the nations, This angel came, and laid his hands and you could not have found among upon their heads, and ordained them, any of them, what is termed, the "lesser unto the same priesthood which he him- priesthood," after the order of Aaron, and self held. They were also instructed, by yet we are told, in the Jewish record that angel, concerning the nature of the (the Bible), that the priesthood of Aaron duties of that priesthood. They were is an "everlasting priesthood," that it told that they should baptize the peo- was intended to be continued while ple, as John did in ancient times, for the DISCOURSE BY ELDER O. PRATT. 145 remission of sins, but they had no power, ized, for there are many things besides by this priesthood, to lay their hands these first principles of the Gospel I have upon baptized believers, that they might named, that are essential duties neces- receive the Holy Ghost; that authority sary to be practiced amongst the peo- did not belong to the lesser priesthood, ple of God. After they were thus or- but required a greater power than the ganized and confirmed by the laying on Levitical priesthood, to administer that of the hands, and became members of divine ordinance, for the baptism of the the Church, then it became necessary, Holy Ghost. Therefore these persons that there should be other officers, as could, as yet, only baptize in water; but leaders, and guides, and persons, hold- they sought diligently, knowing from the ing different authority, to administer in Bible, and also from the Book of Mor- their respective callings, among the peo- mon, which they were translating, that ple and hence, deacons, teachers and el- the laying on of the hands for the gift ders were given, and after a while bish- of the Holy Ghost, was a sacred and ops. Now, we had but little knowledge holy ordinance, and that without it, the of the duties of bishops. We knew what Church could not be organized on the the sectarian religionists expressed, in earth. Knowing this, they pleaded be- regard to bishops, that they were to ad- fore the heavens, that God would conde- minister principally in spiritual things, scend to give them a higher priesthood, but the Lord gave us altogether a differ- that would enable them also to admin- ent view of this subject, from what we ister in those higher Gospel ordinances. had learned from sectarian religion. He The Lord heard their prayers, and three gave by revelation, the duties of bish- heavenly personages were sent to them. ops, that they were to hold the pres- What authority did these three angelic idency of the Aaronic priesthood, that personages hold? They held the apos- they were to administer in all tempo- tleship. They were the ancient apos- ral things, and not spiritual things only. tles, Peter, James and John, three of the And finally other officers were pointed most conspicuous of the ancient apos- out, from time to time, as the Church in- tles. They were sent as ministering an- creased and among these, the Lord had gels. They also conferred upon them told his servants, about a year before the the apostleship. The apostleship holds organization of the Church, that there this higher priesthood, after the order of would be Twelve Apostles appointed, Melchizedek, a priesthood greater than and that the Lord should designate to that of Aaron; and hence, when they re- them, who these Twelve Apostles should ceived the apostleship, or this divine au- be. These Twelve, in due time, were thority, they were commanded to call the called and ordained, by the command- baptized believers together, and lay their ment of the Almighty, and they also hands upon them, and confirm upon had their duties specified by revelation. them the gift of the Holy Ghost. Their duties were more particularly, to see that the gospel was preached to ev- In this way the Church was or- ery nation, and kindred, and tongue, ganized, on the 6th day of April, and people, upon the face of our globe; 1830, in Fayette, Seneca Co., New first, to carry it to the Gentile nations, York, or rather began to be organ- and after we had completed our mission 146 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to the Gentiles, then our calling and du- receive it; and when they shall account ties would be to the house of Israel scat- themselves unworthy of the kingdom, tered in the four quarters of the earth. unworthy of eternal life, unworthy of the message which God has sent to them, We have been now almost one half a and shall persecute his servants and his century, in fulfilling the first part of our people all the day long, and shall close up duty, namely, in publishing the Gospel to their sanctuaries, their Churches, their the Gentile nations. chapels, their meetinghouses, and their We have sought diligently, year af- places of worship against this message, ter year, to publish glad tidings of great and when it can no longer find place joy, to all the different peoples on the among them, so as to bring them to face of the earth, so far as the govern- a knowledge and understanding of the ments, and the laws of the respective truth, the Lord will, after a while, des- governments, of these nations would per- ignate by revelation, and say unto his mit the Gospel of the Church of Christ, to servants, "It is enough. You have been be established amongst them. We have faithful in laboring in my vineyard, for sought diligently, therefore, to perform the last time;" for it was the decree of our mission to the Gentiles. We have heaven, that this shall be the last time, not gone to the house of Israel, because that he will labor in his vineyard. It that was not the commandment. We is the eleventh hour, the last warning were commanded of the Lord our God, that will be given to the nations of the to preach to the Gentiles first, to warn earth, first to the Gentiles, and then to them, to testify to them that their times the House of Israel. are nearly fulfilled; and that then the When they shall render themselves Gospel of the kingdom should be turned unworthy of this great and joyful mes- from among them, and transferred over sage, that has been presented to them, to the house of Israel. We have been the servants of God will, as I have al- faithful, I believe, in England, in Wales, ready stated, have it revealed to them, in Scotland, in Ireland, and upon the to confine no longer their mission to the Continent, among the European nations, Gentiles; but they will receive a commis- so far as their laws would permit, and sion from the Almighty to go to the scat- also among the various States of the tered remnants of the House of Israel, American union, and in the British do- wherever they may be located. minions, the Canadas. And we have The American Indians are the de- tried to be faithful in carrying out our scendants of a remnant of the tribe of testimony also to the British Colonies Joseph with a mixture of the descen- in India; and also in the Southern por- dants of one of the kings of Israel of tions of Africa; and also at Gibraltar, and the tribe of Judah; hence, Judah and in South Australia, and New Zealand Joseph are mixed together, and God and in all those various countries, try- will send his servants among them, and ing to warn the Gentile nations, concern- they will receive the records of their ing that which the Lord our God is be- fathers. They will believe in those ginning to do here on the earth. Hav- records, which their forefathers kept by ing established his kingdom, he offers it inspiration, and believe in the revela- first to these Gentile nations, if they will tions that are contained therein. It DISCOURSE BY ELDER O. PRATT. 147 is their Bible, the same as the Old and to be thankful, when he does hear the New Testaments are the Bible of the prayers of his servants, when he does Jews, that lived at Jerusalem. heal those who are sick, when he does show forth his power as in ancient times, They, the Indians, will not reject it, in these spiritual gifts and blessings, but obey it, and practically receive it, which belong especially to the Gospel of and become a powerful branch of the his Son. But when I speak of the Lord House of Israel. The servants of the Lord making bare his arm in the eyes of all the will also be sent to the Jews, some of nations, I have reference to that what whom are here in London. Some are which is predicted in this book, called mingled with the various nations of Eu- the Bible, when the waters will again be rope. Many hundreds of thousands of divided, and Israel will go through dry- them are in Asia and among all nations. shod, as they did in ancient times. When These Jews must be warned, when we the great deep will have a highway cast get through with the Gentiles; and they up through the midst of it and Israel will will begin to believe in Christ, accord- pass through it dry-shod. When I men- ing to the prophecies, that are contained tion about the Lord making bare his arm in the Stick of Joseph. They will be- in the eyes of all the nations, I have ref- gin to believe in the true Messiah and erence to that tremendous power, that is gather unto their land, the land of Pales- specified by the Ancient prophets, which tine; and there will be many of the peo- will be made manifest before all people, ple of Israel, that are scattered upon the all governments, nations and countries Isles of the sea—on the Pacific Isles— upon the face of the whole earth. Israel who will receive the work; and the Lord will return with power. Will God be with will perform in their midst, miracles, them when they return? He will. He will and signs, and wonders, and make bare go as literally before their camp, as they his arm, just as is prophesied by Isaiah go out from among the nations, as he did in bringing about his covenants to the in ancient times when he brought them House of Israel. And he will make bare out from that one single nation of the his arm very differently from what he Egyptians. Then there was a display of has done among the Gentiles; for among great power, great signs, great wonders. the Gentiles, he has, it is true, healed The Lord condescended to talk with men the sick; he has opened the eyes of the from heaven. He descended upon Mount blind; he has caused the tongue of the Sinai and his voice was heard, like the dumb in some instances, to sing; and he voice of thunder, by the numerous multi- has healed them of various diseases; and tudes of Israel that were gathered at the there has been a certain degree of the foot of the mount. power and gifts of the ancient Gospel, Upon that mountain he manifested manifested as in ancient times, among his power by causing it to trem- the ancient Gentile Churches. But I do ble exceedingly, his lightnings and not call this the making bare of the arm thunders were seen and heard and of the Almighty in so great fulness as therefore this was making bare his it is predicted in the Jewish record, the arm in very deed: and from that Bible. It is making bare his arm in some day to this, Israel when scattered small degree. And we have great reason among the nations, and when they 148 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. wish to speak of the greatness of their house of Israel. And when we get God and magnify his great and holy through warning the Gentiles, the name, still refer to the signs and won- proclamation which the Lord has given ders that were wrought in delivering us, shall be delivered to Israel in the their fathers from the land of Egypt, in islands of the sea and among the vari- dividing the waters of the Red Sea. They ous nations; and they shall gather home still refer to the cloud they saw over their to the land of their inheritance. Then camp by day, and to the shining of the Jerusalem shall be redeemed and a tem- flaming fire by night. They still refer to ple established upon its former founda- the numerous revelations, given to them tion in the holy land. Then the nations while they so sojourned forty years in the of the earth will see a fulfillment of our wilderness. They still refer to the waters words. We have told them for the last of Jordan which were divided, as they forty-nine years that the Lord God had went into the land of Palestine. commenced a work to prepare the way before the face of his coming, to prepare a But that was only a display of the people to endure his presence, to gather power of the Almighty before the na- his people from the four quarters of the tions that were in that immediate vicin- earth into one, in order that they might ity. There is a day coming when this be prepared against the day when the will be manifested over all the face of the veil of eternity shall be rent, and the earth, when the Lord God shall organize voice of the Lord shall be heard unto the the camps of Israel among the various ends of the earth. Then they shall be- nations and bring them home to their hold a fulfillment of our words, they shall own lands. then know of a surety, if they do not be- Ezekiel, the prophet, being filled with fore, that there is a God in this work, the spirit of inspiration, and looking that he has commenced a proclamation forth by the power of that spirit to that and message for the last time, to prepare time when they should be brought back the way before the face of the coming of and assembled into one body, in the his Son from the heavens. wilderness, says that the Lord should But before that great day shall come, plead with them face to face, like as he let me foretell, before this people, that plead with their fathers in the wilder- which they may look for, that which ness and the land of Egypt. (See Ezekiel will most assuredly come to pass, and xx.) So we see there is a day of that which will eventually cause their power coming, and a day of wonders ears to tingle, and the sound thereof and a day of mighty deeds, when the will cause them to tremble exceedingly, power of the Lord, in great judgment, namely, the judgments that are decreed will be upon the nations of the wicked; by the Almighty, to be poured out upon and also when his glory shall be upon the nations of the Gentiles, that do not his covenant people who shall be re- repent. stored to their own lands. The mes- While this message is going forth, sage with which we are now entrusted in your midst, it is a time of com- is a part of the great and last warn- parative peace, it is a time when the ing message to the nations of the earth, Lord our God is granting unto you first to the Gentiles, and last to the the proclamation of mercy, and has DISCOURSE BY ELDER O. PRATT. 149 given you peace in your homes, peace actually sending their manufactures to among yourselves; no civil wars are rag- this little island; and the people here are ing in your midst, though there are some beginning to purchase American goods foreign wars that occasionally disturb and manufacture in preference to their the peace of the people; but the Lord own. This cuts off in your country a great has been specially favorable to the peo- many of the manufacturing establish- ple of this island, while the proclama- ments, and you have a surplus popula- tion has been sounding, during the last tion, of many millions, thrown as it were forty-three years in your midst. But this out of employment, who can scarcely get will not always continue. You may be sufficient to sustain themselves from day assured, that there is a change coming to day. Is this state of things going to get as you may be assured of the fulfillment better? No, it will not, there may be pros- of anything that has ever been spoken, perous times for a short season, but they by the mouth of the ancient servants of will soon pass away; and such times are God. A change is coming over the po- coming, such as this nation has not ex- litical affairs of these nations. Great perienced, neither they, nor their forefa- Britain will not escape. What will be this thers for many generations. change? There will be various causes I might go on and tell you many that will bring it about. One change things, in relation to the consequences will be this, which you, without being of people being thrown out of employ- prophets, can by a little reflection, un- ment. I might portray it, but I do not derstand for yourselves. You know that wish to harrow up the people, in regard England, for many years past, has been to this matter. You yourselves can see, the great manufacturing nation for the that when people are pinched, for the whole world. They have looked to you for want of bread, for the want of clothing, your manufactures and such merchan- for the want of the necessary comforts of dise has been carried unto all parts of the life, and are driven to desperation, you earth; and this has kept your workmen can judge for yourselves what must be and poor people employed. They have the state of things that will ensue. I have had abundance to do the most of their no need to portray them. But I would time. You have sent forth a vast amount say to the Latter-day Saints who have of your manufactures to the continent been taught these things for many years, of America, to the people of the United gather out from this nation. And inas- States, but the scene is changing; for any much as we have pointed out the way person, with a little reflection, can see of escape and shown you that the Lord that the change is already beginning to has provided in regard to these matters, come, and that too very readily. The na- for all that will believe in him, and re- tions, to whom you have exported your pent of their sins, and obey the gospel, products, are beginning to manufacture do not be dilatory, do not be slack, do for themselves. This cuts off the trade not be extravagant in your expenditures, with Great Britain. but strive to lay up means, and so far The American nation is beginning as you possibly can, by being faithful, to manufacture for themselves, and and serving the Lord your God, gather not only themselves, but they are out from these countries; for a day 150 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of great tribulation is coming, a day this difference, that the Egyptians did of desolation, a day wherein the coun- not have the same length of time to con- try will be revolutionized, wherein the sider the message which you have. They poor and the afflicted, and the needy, only had a few days, and if they would re- will contend earnestly for the lives of pent and receive the word which Moses themselves, and their little ones, instead and Aaron delivered to them, well and of seeing them perish by hundreds and good; and only a short time, a very few thousands in the streets. And inas- days were allowed them to decide this much as such a day is coming, Latter- matter. You have had a portion of a day Saints, it would be far better for whole generation. Your times are not you, to be out of the country, than in quite yet fulfilled, and hence you have it. And would to heaven we could sound had the privilege to consider it from your this message, not only to the Latter- childhood up to middle age, and some day Saints, but to every good, upright, of you from middle age to old age, to honest-hearted soul, throughout Great see whether you will receive the latter- Britain. That they might take warning, day message which God has sent or not. and escape, before the terrible time shall Now, the consequences will be, if you come. receive it, you will save yourselves by Now let me point out some other fleeing out from the midst of this na- things which will occur, before the com- tion. You will save yourselves and your ing of the Son of Man. The Lord has a children temporally speaking as well as controversy among all the nations of the spiritually. On the other hand, if you Gentiles. He has sent to them a warn- do not receive it, the Lord, who is long- ing. He has sent his servants to proph- suffering, will, after he has borne with esy to them. He has sent them to preach the people all the day long, withdraw and bear record of the truth. He has sent his servants from your midst. When them to call upon the nations to repent, that day shall come there shall be wars, both high and low, rich and poor, re- not such wars as have come in centuries ligionist and non-religionist, priest and and years that are past and gone, but people, for all of them to repent and re- a desolating war. When I say desolat- ceive the Gospel in its fullness, and not ing, I mean that it will lay these Eu- only to do this, but to gather out from ropean nations in waste. Cities will be these nations. Will they hear? They will left vacated, without inhabitants. The not. We know they will not; but this does people will be destroyed by the sword not justify us in being slack in delivering of their own hands. Not only this but our message. We have a responsibility many other cities will be burned; for placed upon us, and that responsibility when contending armies are wrought up we must fulfill, whether the people hear, with terrible anger, without the Spirit or whether they forbear, we must warn of God upon them, when they have not them, so that they shall not have any ex- that spirit of humanity that now char- cuse, when the tribulations shall come acterizes many of the wars amongst the which I have named. nations, when they are left to them- The Lord, therefore has a contro- selves, there will be no quarter given, versy among them, the same as he no prisoners taken, but a war of destruc- had with the Egyptian nation, with tion, of desolation, of the burning of the DISCOURSE BY ELDER O. PRATT. 151 cities and villages, until the land is laid gave the revelations to his servant desolate. Joseph Smith in regard to these mat- That is another thing that will come ters, will fulfil every jot and every tittle before the coming of the Son of Man. that has been spoken, concerning that What about my own nation—the nation. What then will be the condition American nation? What can I say more of that people, when this great and ter- than I have said in times that are past? rible war shall come? It will be very dif- They have had a great desolating war; ferent from the war between the North a war between the North and the South and the South. Do you wish me to de- in which many hundreds of thousands scribe it? I will do so. It will be a war of were destroyed. This war was foretold neighborhood against neighborhood, city twenty-eight years before it took place; against city, town against town, county the very place where it should com- against county, state against state, and mence was marked out by the Prophet they will go forth destroying and being Joseph Smith, that young man of whom destroyed and manufacturing will, in a I have spoken. By him it was designated great measure, cease, for a time, among that the revolution should commence in the American nation. Why? Because in South Carolina, and it did so. By him these terrible wars, they will not be priv- it was pointed out that this war would ileged to manufacture, there will be too be great and terrible, and it came to much bloodshed—too much mobocracy— pass although twenty-eight years inter- too much going forth in bands and de- vened, before it commenced. These rev- stroying and pillaging the land to suffer elations and prophecies have been pub- people to pursue any local vocation with lished by hundreds of thousands and any degree of safety. What will become of circulated in your midst here in Great millions of the farmers upon that land? Britain. The people are not altogether They will leave their farms and they will ignorant about these matters; they have remain uncultivated, and they will flee been forewarned. But what about the before the ravaging armies from place to American nation? That war that de- place; and thus will they go forth burn- stroyed the lives of some fifteen or six- ing and pillaging the whole country; and teen hundred thousand people was noth- that great and powerful nation, now con- ing, compared to that which will eventu- sisting of some forty millions of people, ally devastate that country. The time is will be wasted away, unless they repent. not very far distant in the future, when Now these are predictions you may the Lord God will lay his hand heavily record. You may let them sink down upon that nation. "How do you know into your hearts. And if the Lord this?" inquires one. I know from the your God shall permit you to live, you revelations which God has given upon will see my words fulfilled to the very this subject. I read these revelations, letter. They are not my words, but when they were first given. I waited over the words of inspiration—the words twenty-eight years and saw their fulfill- of the everlasting God, who has sent ment to the very letter. Should I not, forth his servants with this message to then, expect that the balance of them warn the nations of the earth. The should be fulfilled? That same God who Book of Mormon contains many of these 152 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. predictions. This book has now been from the face thereof." That was literally printed forty-nine years, and the prophe- fulfilled. After living upon that land till cies contained in it are being fulfilled nearly the close of the fourth century of with great rapidity; and every predic- the Christian era, they fell into wicked- tion yet in the future, recorded in that ness and were destroyed, with the excep- book, will be fulfilled literally, accord- tion of a few who went over to the oppo- ing to the words that are spoken. The site army. Lord our God has already destroyed two And the Lord also made a similar de- great and powerful nations that once oc- cree, recorded, too, in the same book, cupied the western hemisphere, because in regard to the present great populous they fell into wickedness and would not nation called the people of the United repent. We have a record of this. The States. They must perish, unless they first nation he brought upon that hemi- repent. They will be wasted away, and sphere, were a people from the Tower of the fullness of the wrath of Almighty Babel. They were led by the hand of the God will be poured out upon them, un- Lord. They were located upon the north less they repent. Their cities will be left wing of that continent, and they became desolate. A time is coming when the a great and powerful nation. They in- great and populous city of New York— habited the land for some sixteen or sev- the greatest city of the American Repub- enteen centuries after they came from lic, will be left without inhabitants. The the Tower of Babel. But the Lord made houses will stand, some of them, not all. a decree, when he first led them forth They will stand there, but unoccupied, to that land, that if they or their de- no people to inherit them. It will be the scendants should fall into wickedness, same in regard to numerous other cities, and would not repent, that he would or, in the words of the Lord, "I will throw visit them with utter destruction. He down all their strongholds; and I will did so. About 600 years before Christ, execute vengeance and fury upon them, that great nation was entirely swept even as upon the heathen, such as they off by the judgments of Almighty God, have not heard." It will all be fulfilled. and their bones were left bleaching upon But there will be a remnant who will be the plains and mountains of that land— spared. It will be those who repent of left unburied by the numerous armies their sins; it will be those who believe in that went forth slaying and being slain, the Lord Jesus Christ, and are willing to and another colony was brought from obey his commandments, willing to hear- Jerusalem in their stead, being a rem- ken to his voice, willing to be baptized nant of the tribe of Joseph. The same for the remission of their sins, willing to decree was passed respecting one branch be born of the spirit, or receive the Holy of that colony, that was made regarding Ghost by the laying on of hands, willing the first nation. Said the Lord to them, to walk uprightly and honestly with all "Inasmuch as you keep my command- men, and justly one with another. ments, you shall prosper in the land; but These and these only will be inasmuch as you keep not my command- spared, for it is the decree of Jeho- ments in the land, you shall be destroyed vah; and this is not all. We have DISCOURSE BY ELDER O. PRATT. 153 thus far, only told you that which will my God." "Surely I will not worship take place upon the people of Great crocodiles, nor serpents; neither will I Britain, upon the European nations, and worship the sun, or the moon, for there upon the people in the United States. is a God manifested among that people, But great tribulations will also be among Israel, who is worthy of the natures and all of the nations of the earth, who will attributes of a God. I will cast my Gods not repent. They will be wasted with var- to the moles and bats, and I will worship ious judgments; but the heathen will be the God of Israel." Then will be fulfilled spared longer than these Gentile nations that which was spoken by the prophet who have had the scriptures in their Ezekiel, "then shall the heathen know midst, but would not obey them. that I the Lord am God." And it will come to pass, after that period, when Jesus You have had the Bible multiplied by shall have raised all the righteous from millions of copies, and circulated in al- their graves, that he will descend with most every family. You can read it at all the hosts of heaven accompanying your leisure. You can see the glorious him, and will stand upon the Mount of light of truth, recorded in these prophe- Olives, and he will go out of Jerusalem, cies, in these doctrines, in these heavenly and the Jews will go out to the mount and holy principles, and yet in the face to meet him and will acknowledge him of all this light, knowledge, truth and di- as their Messiah and King; and then it vine revelation, you reject the servants shall come to pass, that the heathen na- of God, reject the ancient Gospel, when tions will also more fully recognize him it is preached in its fulness, refuse to re- as the true and only God. Then will pent of all the iniquities and abomina- be fulfilled that which is written in the tions into which the nations are fallen. last chapter of Zechariah, that every na- It is because of this, of the light that tion round about Jerusalem, shall come the nations have in their midst, which up from year to year, to worship the they will not receive that the Lord will King, the Lord of hosts, at Jerusalem, visit them first; and when he has vis- and also to keep the Feast of Taberna- ited and overthrown them, he will lay cles. There will be a great many of those his hand heavily upon the heathen na- solemn assemblies and feasts that were tions in Asia, and also those who are in commanded in ancient times, that will Africa, and they will be visited with se- be reestablished in the midst of Israel vere judgment, but they will not be ut- when they shall return. And the Lord terly destroyed. A portion of the hea- Jesus will be there. His Twelve Apostles then nations will be redeemed. Why? who wandered about with him, while he They will see the power and glory of was in the flesh, will be there; and they God that will be manifested among the sit upon twelve thrones, and assist our tribes of Israel, who will be gathered out Lord and Savior in judging the twelve from their midst and return to their own tribes of Israel. But Jesus will have a land. They will see the glory of God throne as well as these twelve disciples. manifested as in ancient times and they Where will be his throne? A temple is to will say, "surely Jaggernaut is no longer be reared in ancient Palestine where it 154 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. formerly stood. Ezekiel saw it in vision, shall come forth from their graves to and he describes the building of that reign as kings, and to eat and drink at house when it shall be complete, and the table of the Lord. "What?" some he saw the glory of God coming by the might exclaim, "eat and drink after the way of the East, and this glorious per- resurrection from the dead?" Yes, did not sonage entered through the East Gate of Jesus eat and drink with his disciples af- that temple, and entered into the tem- ter he came forth from the tomb? He ple; and Ezekiel, being full of the Spirit did. He ate the broiled fish and the of God, was picked up and carried into honeycomb, in their presence. Immor- that court, where Jesus had entered, and tal beings can eat if they choose to do so. he heard a voice speaking unto him, Be- Hence it is written, "You that have fol- hold, the place of my throne, where I will lowed me in the regeneration," meaning dwell in the midst of the children of Is- these twelve disciples, "inasmuch as you rael forever, and they shall no more de- have followed me in the regeneration, file my name, but I will dwell with them you shall sit upon twelve thrones and forever. shall eat and drink at my table, and you This will be a glorious period. It will shall judge the twelve tribes of Israel." be a time when all will know who the That will be better than to be judged by true God is, and who is commissioned imperfect mortals. Men who are called to speak in his name, and to declare his here to be judges are not always perfect truths among the people—if we do not in their judgment. They err; the best of find it out before. If we will not repent them, the wisest of men may err in their of our sins; if we will harden our hearts, decisions. But not so with these great that the Spirit of God has no place within judges that come forth out of the tomb, us, to reveal to us the truth, we shall raised to immortality, clothed with light know then who it is that will be saved. as with a garment, purified and made We shall know then, that there is a Lord white before God. Their minds are full God, and that he is in the midst of Is- of intelligence, and it beams forth from rael, and his throne is among them, and their countenances, and they know how he will reign over the house of David, to judge by the Spirit that is upon them, and all Israel, forever and ever. Do you and their decisions will be in righteous- not suppose that the Twelve Apostles, ness. who were with him, who suffered per- secution, and finally the most of them How pleasant it would be to walk into were martyred—do you not suppose that one of those beautiful rooms that will be they will have thrones? John the Reve- constructed in the temple of our God at lator saw the thrones of those that were Jerusalem, and behold the beautiful ta- beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and ble spread, on which the luxuries of our for the word of God; and he says, they earth shall be served to those immortal will sit upon these thrones as judges. So beings, and then to see the Master, the there will be twelve thrones built, when great King, the Lord of Lords and King the temple of God is built in Jerusalem, of Kings rise up and minister to his dis- beside the throne of the Messiah, for ciples; wait upon them; setting them an these twelve men to sit upon, when they example. He that is immortal and as DISCOURSE BY ELDER O. PRATT. 155 far above mortality as the heavens are heard them singing a new song, a glo- above the earth, condescending to ad- rious song. About what? Their future minister to their happiness. Would not glory and their future happiness and this be delightful? Who, that has any their future home. Where? On the earth. desire for holiness, and purity, and hon- What? People in heaven singing about esty, and virtue in his heart, would not coming to the earth? Yes. When it is be enraptured at the thought of having redeemed it will be a glorious mansion, the privilege of being an invited guest, to it will be a glorious world, it will be go in, even if you did not sit down to the worth living on; and it will be sancti- table; to see them when they were par- fied, and the knowledge of God will cover taking, with their Savior, of this feast? the earth as the waters cover the deep. And these will be the men that will be All beings will have knowledge. All peo- with Jesus when he descends upon the ple will have understanding. They will Mount of Olives, after the graves of the comprehend the things of God, and per- just have been opened. In the resur- form them. The Lord will make this rection, they will come forth immortal, earth one of the most glorious habita- eternal, clothed upon with the fulness of tions, inasmuch as the people will pre- that glory that pertains to the celestial pare themselves for it, one of the most kingdom. They will also reign as kings glorious habitations that can be given and priests here on the earth. To some to men. It will be peopled by immortal of the raised Saints there will be given beings throughout eternity. But before ten cities to rule over. To others there that it will have to die. The earth will will be given five cities to rule over, ac- have to pass away the same as our bod- cording to their works here in this life. ies do, and the dust thereof be mingled All will not have the same power. All in a chaotic form. But that same be- will not have the same rule. The Twelve ing who organized the earth will again shall have twelve thrones—one throne speak, and eternity will again hear his each, to judge the twelve tribes of Is- voice, and the materials of our earth rael. The tribes will need judging, during will come together again, and when it the whole thousand years they live on unites them in one, and forms them into the earth; they will need judges in their a world, it will be a glorious world, a midst, to make manifest unto them that habitation for immortal beings; for kings which is important for men, and women, and for priests, and for those that have and children, to know. been faithful to the end. They will dwell upon it, and the generations of their These twelve men who are appointed children will dwell upon it, till they be- to judge these twelve tribes of Israel come sufficiently numerous to need an- cannot be as it were the judges over other creation. What generation? Gen- all the earth at the same time. They erations do you say, Mr. Pratt? Do you cannot be everywhere present at the mean to say that these immortal beings same moment, and hence there will be are going to have posterity? I do. I other judges, other men of God, those mean just what I say. Those who are who are accounted worthy in the sight accounted worthy to inherit this earth, of the Most High. Hence we read in when it shall be made heavenly, celes- the Revelation of St. John that he tial beings will people the earth with 156 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. their own offspring, their own sons and ed among those sons of God, whom the their own daughters; and these sons and Lord speaks of to the patriarch Job. these daughters which will be born to "Where wast thou," speaking to Job, these immortal beings, will be the same "when I laid the cornerstone of the earth, as you and I were before we took these when all the sons of God shouted for joy, mortal tabernacles. Now do you under- and the morning stars sang together?" stand it? How were we then? Perhaps Job where were you at that time? He was some stranger present may ask, "What among them; he was there, perhaps he position did we occupy before we took did not remember it, any more than we these mortal tabernacles?" We were in do. This is a principle that was taught the presence of God the Eternal Father. in ancient times. God is the Father of We were with our Elder Brother. Who our spirits, God is the author of all the is he? The scriptures say that he was intelligences that have ever come into Christ. The scriptures say that he was this world. He begat them. He is called our Lord and Savior Jesus, "the first- the Father of Spirits. Have we to be- born of every creature." Indeed! Does come like him? What is the promise that mean his birth in the stable? No. Latter-day Saints? What is the great Do the scriptures really say that? Yes. promise made to all Saints, ancient-day Who are the others that were born? It Saints, as well as Latter-day Saints? The was all the human family, who were once promise is that they shall become like in the celestial kingdom from whence him. In what respect? Like him with our spirits came, when they took pos- an immortal body. He will purify these session of these mortal tabernacles. As vile bodies of ours and fashion them af- Jesus came down from the Father, be- ter his own body, cleansed from sin and ing the eldest of the family, and took prepared to dwell in his presence, hav- upon him a mortal tabernacle, even so ing immortal bodies of flesh and bones have his brethren and sisters come from as our Savior has; and if there is no end the same region of glory, and have taken to the increase of our Savior's kingdom, upon them mortal tabernacles to follow there will be no end to the increase of the in his footsteps, if they will. As he kingdom of his younger brethren. Here was with the Father, before the founda- then, we see the propriety of what I, a tion of the world was laid, so were we, little while ago, stated, that this earth and all the rest of the human family. I will become a habitation of immortal be- don't mean this flesh, these bones; I do ings and there shall be no more death not mean the mortal part of man, but nor sorrow, for the former things have I mean that being that is within these passed away and all things have become flesh and bones. I mean that being that new. They will spread forth and mul- feels, that reflects, that thinks, the be- tiply as the stars in yonder heavens or ing that is godlike in its nature, inas- as the sand on the seashore, that cannot much as it keeps the commandments of be numbered by mortal man. These off- God. That is the being that lived, before springs will be spirits, not bodies with these mortal tabernacles were framed. flesh and bones, till they have proved We were there when the foundations of themselves as we have done, when they the earth were laid. We were number- shall be sent upon a new earth, and DISCOURSE BY ELDER O. PRATT. 157 receive tabernacles the same as we have marriages performed by human author- done, and if they are willing to keep ity, marriages that are necessary in hu- the laws of God, as the Saints keep man governments, or governments es- the laws of God, they will also be re- tablished according to human laws, but deemed, and there will be a mansion pre- all such marriages, and institutions, and pared for them, namely, the world that ordinances will crumble away, with hu- is erected for their habitation. Thus cre- man governments, and after the resur- ations will be multiplied upon creations, rection they have no force. But that a universe of worlds will be constructed which is of God will endure forever and for the kingdoms of our God, all becom- ever. Marriages that are ordained of ing or being subject to him that sits God are eternal. What he has joined upon the throne, who sways his scepter together never can be plucked asunder, over all worlds and dominions, and we if the two persons shall remain faithful in connection with him will reign upon to their covenants, and faithful to the thrones and in our mansions, that are Lord their God. Hence eternal marriage given unto us. Hence, says the Apostle was ordained by him for the purpose of Paul, the man is not without the woman multiplying intelligent beings after we in the Lord, neither the woman with- leave this world. No marriage in the out the man. People may think they next world. This is the world for all ordi- can get a fulness of celestial glory, with- nances as well as the ordinance of mar- out having a wife. They may think so, riage. If you want to be baptized, do it but they will be mistaken. The Lord here. No such thing as being baptized for our God ordained that the male and fe- yourselves in that world. If you want to male should be united for eternity. A be confirmed, have it done here, for there marriage covenant for time alone, is not is no confirming there. If you want to the order of heaven. God designed that partake of any of the ordinances of the man and woman, being immortal beings, Lord our God, this is the place for us should be each other's companion, hus- to attend to them. Hence it is written, band and wife, while eternal ages shall that they neither marry nor give in mar- roll around, and to enjoy all that is in- riage in that world. Why? Because it is tended for them in the eternal worlds. supposed that people will have secured This is the object that the Lord had in to them, in this life, all that pertains to view. These marriages that are cele- their future exaltation and glory; and if brated by the Gentile nations are well that thing be neglected here, such place enough in their places. They do very well themselves in a condition not to occupy for those who have no knowledge of the the fullness of the glory, ordained before truth. They do well enough for those who the foundation of the world, to be given have no knowledge of the Gospel. They to the sons and daughters of the Most are human marriages, or, in other words, High. Amen. 158 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

THE NATURAL WEAKNESS OF MEN—THE NECESSITY OF CHARITY—THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH THE GOSPEL WAS REVEALED—THE SPIRIT THAT SHOULD PREVAIL REGARDING COOPERATIVE INSTITUTIONS—THE FOLLY OF DISSENSION.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDAT KAYSVILLE, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,MARCH 2, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I am pleased to have the opportunity and after we embraced it, these natural of meeting with the Saints in this place. infirmities still followed us. We have had I have come to talk with you, and to have difficulties and trials, and have passed a little visit; to tell you how I feel, and to through many circumstances calculated learn how you feel, and how things are to perplex and annoy, and caused, too, moving generally. many times, by the unkind acts of oth- I desire to talk a while on some of ers. And then we ourselves have not the plain principles of "Mormonism," as always been the most considerate and we used to understand them in former kind one towards another. And then times, and as we understand them to- we have not always done exactly right, day when we reflect and use our judg- ourselves being the judges, and other ment dispassionately. Our feelings and people were of the same opinion. And ideas are not much different from what hence we have experienced, to no incon- they used to be. Many of us started in siderable extent, little annoyances and this work many years ago, and we en- difficulties, for which we have no one tered into it because we believed it was to blame but our own folly and weak- true, and that the principles taught and ness. And this too, in many instances, inculcated were from God; and when it because when we had done wrong, we came to us, we received it as a mes- failed to go to God and our brother whom sage from God to us. These were about we had offended, making acknowledge- the sentiments that we entertained some ments and asking forgiveness. And in twenty and thirty, and as long as forty- too many instances difficulties that have five years ago; and I suppose the ma- arisen have been allowed to run on to jority of us have still the same ideas of our injury and annoyance, and we have the work that we then entertained. Be- been sometimes ready to ask, "Is this fore we embraced the Gospel, we were Zion?" "Yes, this is Zion." What, with beset with the weaknesses of the flesh, all of our infirmities, weaknesses and THE NATURAL WEAKNESS OF MEN, ETC. 159 follies? Yes. I think that Jesus, when bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so upon the earth, said that, "the kingdom can no fountain both yield salt water and of heaven is like unto a net, that was fresh." And says the Savior, in speaking cast into the sea, and gathered of every of men, "Ye shall know them by their kind." That is the way my Bible used fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, to read; how does your's read? Some or figs of thistles?" I find many curious of those were good fish, fit for any mar- things, and you must excuse me if I do ket; others rather small, poor eating, and not preach a very connected sermon; we perhaps a little bony and horny. And will talk over some matters of fact, as we being gathered together as we are from would in a fireside chat. different nations, with various customs, We all of us want to be good Latter- habits and traditions, with all our pecu- day Saints; we all want to secure the fa- liarities and odd notions, we, as a matter vor and approbation of God, and when of course, do not agree in many partic- we get through with this life, we all ulars, and hence difficulties sometimes want to be numbered among those who arise in our midst. Sometimes some of will secure a celestial inheritance. This us keep these things to ourselves, and is the general feeling of the people I sometimes they leak out; but if they were am talking to today. We sometimes not there, they could not come out; could pray, "Thy will be done on earth, as in they? When there's nothing bad in, noth- heaven." And then we sometimes make ing bad can come out. And I believe Je- little mistakes in our intercourse one sus will bear me out in his saying, "Out with another, and we sometimes go to of the abundance of the heart the mouth him we have offended, asking forgive- speaketh. A good man out of the good ness; and then we pray the Father, say- treasure of the heart bringeth forth good ing, "Forgive our sins, as we forgive them things: and an evil man out of the evil that sin against us." Is not this so, my treasure of his heart bringeth forth evil brethren? And would you like to be things." Then again, there is another cu- measured in that half-bushel? But if rious Scripture which James makes use when you pray after this manner, you do of: "The tongue is a little member, and not forgive your neighbor his trespasses, boasteth great things. Behold, how great could you feel as our red brethren say, a matter a little fire kindleth." It "set- "honest Injun?" Would it be consistent teth on fire the course of nature; and with your profession to ask this favor of it is set on fire of hell." That is a pecu- God, when you yourselves are not will- liar expression. What do you think it ing to grant the same to one another? I means? "Therewith bless we God, even believe you will readily agree with me the Father; and therewith curse we men, in answering that in the negative; but which are made after the similitude of at the same time, if any of you have God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth any doubt concerning it, you can eas- blessing and cursing." And then, rea- ily reduce it to a mathematical basis, sons the apostle, "Doth a fountain send and so decide. "But," says one, "there forth at the same place sweet water and should not be any of these things in bitter? Can a fig tree, my brethren, Zion." I agree with you. In the first place, you should not do wrong, or harbor or 160 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. sustain it when done; neither should might place his name among us, and that your neighbor. And what then? Is this his priesthood might be organized, that Zion? Yes, so we say. Have I got a trea- men thus ordained might be prepared to sure? Yes, but we are told that it is held establish his kingdom and reign on the in "earthen vessels," which are subject to earth. But we find men in the priest- all the weaknesses, infirmities and fol- hood, yes, in all grades of the priest- lies, incident to humanity. Now this is hood, who are weak. Is there anything the fact, and God would exalt us and astonishing in that? Oh, no. Go back, place us on high among men, and pour for instance, to the days of Jesus, and upon us intelligence, and give unto us you will read of some men who were knowledge of his will and his law, and rather of an aspiring turn, and one of he would like to prepare us as a people them got his mother to assist him. Said that would acknowledge his hand in all she, "Grant that these my two sons may things, and be submissive to his will, and sit, the one on thy right hand, and the who would say, both by precept and ex- other on the left, in thy kingdom." She ample, "Thy will be done on earth, as in might just as well have added, that she heaven." I would like we should do this, herself would like to occupy some im- but then we have not done it. And we feel portant position. But the Savior told sometimes as though we cannot do it, her, saying, "Ye know not what ye ask;" and sometimes as though we won't do it. such a position "is not mine to give, but But if we could submit ourselves to the it shall be given to them for whom it law of God, and to the order of God, and is prepared of my Father." Then there to the priesthood of God, and that Priest- was another circumstance, in which Pe- hood submit itself to the law of God, ter made himself conspicuous. Jesus and all be under his guidance and direc- was telling them of approaching trouble, tion, Zion would arise and shine, and the and intimating what would take place glory of God would rest upon her, and the approaching night, against which Pe- the power of God would be manifested in ter boldly demurred, saying, "Though all our midst, and we would see and compre- men shall be offended because of thee, hend things we never dreamed of. yet will I never be offended." Whereupon I find, in examining things, that we Jesus said unto him, "Verily I say unto are human in every sense of the word. I thee, That this night, before the cock look at myself, for instance. Am I per- crow, thou shalt deny me thrice." Peter fect? No, not by a long way; neither could not believe it; but he did just as are my brethren of the priesthood of the the Savior said he would do. Was he various quorums. And I look at peo- weak? Yes, after the manner of men. ple, male and female, generally, and am If he had said, Lord, though all men be forced to the same conclusion respecting offended because of thee, I will not, ac- them. We do not come up to the stan- cording to my present feelings, nor will dard, we fail to fulfil the requirements I at all if thou wilt give me power to which God makes of us. carry them out. But he felt sure that We have had an idea, which is he could stand side by side with the Sav- quite correct, that God has gathered ior under all circumstances, but he could us from among the nations that he not. He did not look so very valiant THE NATURAL WEAKNESS OF MEN, ETC. 161 when the trial came; it is easy enough at all; but I would rather feel like saying to talk about it in the distance, at least to them, as the old lady who was teach- much easier than to meet it and over- ing school said to her children—"When come it. But were these two brothers, you come to a hard word and you cannot whose mother made such a request of Je- spell or speak it right, pass over it and sus, bad men? No; but she had a notion call it a hard word." I was a little amused that she would like to see her sons occu- this morning, you know I have heard of a pying such a position, and probably they little of your foolishness, and I find that would not have objected to it themselves; we are all in the same box, all tarred this we are not informed of. Then was with the same stick. And when listening it right in Peter to say he would stand to these things, one of the brethren re- by his Lord? How often have we said it? marked to me that this is a good people. I will not condemn anybody, but merely What, and still do these foolish things? speak of that thing to bring forth for Yes, there are none of us so very bad af- good, and exhibit men as they were and ter all, when you come to shake us up, as they are. Was Peter a weak man? No; we do not mean to be bad. But notwith- but he was not without the infirmities of standing, many foolish things have ex- human nature, and when the trial came isted among us. The Priesthood some- he faltered a little. After all I do not times have not done exactly right; and think the mistake so grievous, all the cir- then the people have not been without cumstances considered, for he was sur- blame, and consequently we make all rounded by, and speaking to, a riotous, kinds of curious errors. Now, I would like corrupt and bloodthirsty people, only he if we could go at it, act "honest Injun," had said he would not do it, but he did and get right to the bottom of things, and it, that's all. Was Peter valiant for the then go as near right as we can, being truth? He was. Was he imprisoned for guided by the principles of the Gospel, the truth? Yes. Did he proclaim against and not influenced by the follies of men. vice and advocate virtue? He did. And The fact of our having some amongst did he go forth and feed the lambs and us who have weaknesses, does not make flock of God? Yes; and he acted every untrue any of the laws of God which way becoming to a man of God, and fi- he has revealed unto us, neither does nally suffered a martyr's death. Shall it affect our belief in them. We still we find fault with either of these men? believe that the priesthood emanated No, we love them for their good deeds, from God; and that he has instituted and for their fidelity and integrity, and it for the benefit, salvation and exalta- the great work which they accomplished tion of the human family. And as a in their day, in bringing forth the truths proof of this we are here today, and the of the everlasting Gospel. Shall we con- reason of our coming here is that God demn our brethren here with like weak- raised up and inspired men to go forth ness? No. What did you call them? Some and preach the Gospel to every nation, of them very weak sisters; some of them and we heard such men preach and be- very foolish and some very ignorant. lieved their message. Says Jesus, "My We won't make use of any hard words sheep hear my voice, and a stranger they 162 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. will not follow, but flee from him for they of the earth, but it would take me too know not the voice of strangers." Was long to talk about that this morning; suf- it the Priesthood that did it then? Yes fice it to say that the scripture is be- and no. It was they in obedience to the ing fulfilled, which says, "I will take you commandments of God that went forth, one of a city, and two of a family, and I but it was the power of God in them, will bring you to Zion: And I will give and the power of God operating upon our you pastors according to my heart, which hearts that led us to the truth; and had shall feed you with knowledge and un- God not operated with them they could derstanding." And this is why we are have done nothing, and unless God had here. He designed that here his Priest- revealed from the heavens the princi- hood should be organized, that his will ples of the gathering and the priesthood and mind should be made known here and power thereof and sealed that upon and his power made manifest. And it is Joseph Smith, and he in turn conferred expected that we will not barter away or the same upon his brethren, they never trample under our feet this knowledge could have got this people here, as they when we get it, but use it in a proper are today. You all know that this is a manner; and in order for us to do so we fact when you give the matter thought must comprehend our position and un- and reflection. We learn from the Doc- derstand the relationship that exists be- trine and Covenants that on a certain tween us and God and his kingdom. It occasion Jesus and other heavenly mes- is true our organization has been greatly sengers appeared to Joseph Smith and perfected of late, but then there needs to Oliver Cowdery, and among them was be a great many other developments and Moses, who conferred upon them the much more willing obedience and sub- keys of the gathering, which should ex- mission to the law and word of God. It tend to all Israel, and also bring back is, "Not every one that saith unto me, the ten tribes. And my brethren, let Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom me say to you, that if the Lord had not of heaven; but he that doeth the will of sent us these keys in the manner he did, my Father which is in heaven." Let me you would not be here today. But that quote a little further. "Many will say principle was unlocked, and when you to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we received the Gospel you received it, be- not prophesied in thy name? and in thy cause it is a part of the Gospel, and the name cast out devils? and in thy name consequence was you wanted to gather done many wonderful works? And then and you hardly knew why. You used to I will profess unto them, I never knew sing the songs of Zion in far-off lands you: depart from me, ye that work in- with much earnestness, and the gath- iquity." Or in other words, you are not ering was the theme of your conversa- my sheep, I have never approved of your tion and also your preaching, and in your actions. Who does this scripture refer dreams you have many times seen your- to? Is it the unbelieving Gentiles? I self among the Saints of God, long before think not; I don't think they can cast you managed to get here. The Lord as out many devils, at least I never heard we well know has an object in thus gath- of their having done so, I have never ering his people from among the nations THE NATURAL WEAKNESS OF MEN, ETC. 163 heard of their having prophesied or done bishops, or any individual? No, but it any wonderful thing in His name. No, is in the interest of God and humanity, it does not mean them at all; it refers to to assist in establishing righteousness those who once held the priesthood, and upon the earth, and union and fellow- instead of honoring it, tampered with ship one with another, and to elevate us it, losing its power and efficiency and in the scale of society, and that we may also the Holy Spirit by treating lightly stand head and shoulders in all other the things of God and violating their matters, as we now do in regard to our covenants with him. Although they once religious sentiments, that Zion may be enjoyed the power to work miracles by the head and not the tail, and that God virtue of their priesthood, they no longer may be honored by us and through us possess it; but as "the dog is turned to his and among us, and that we may in very own vomit again; and the sow that was deed be the "Zion of God," which means washed to her wallowing in the mire," so the pure in heart. have they turned to error and wrongdo- ing; and to such men the Savior will thus Now if I talk a little plainly upon address himself. some of our secular affairs, I trust you It is not because a man holds the will not be offended, you surely will not priesthood or whether he be or may have as long as I confine myself strictly to the been an apostle, a high priest, a sev- truth, will you? Well, we have talked enty, an elder, a president or bishop, and one time and another, a good deal about may have had power with God in former the United Order, and also about co- times, doing many mighty works in his operative institutions; let me ask the name, but it is they who not only are good people of Kaysville, what have we thus favored and blessed but who endure done in that direction, how much have faithful to the end, that shall be saved we entered into them? As the Indian and owned by our Lord. would say, describing it by the size of There are some things that strike my his thumbnail, about so much. Do we mind that I will refer to. I do not know believe in these movements? Some of of a time when there was a more per- us do, and some do not know whether fect organization of the priesthood on the they do or not. Some of us would be- earth than there is today. There may lieve in them much more readily if they have been in the days of Enoch, and would make us rich, and give us promi- there may have been upon this conti- nence and position among men. I will nent in those days when there were no tell you, Latter-day Saints, that unless rich nor poor, but when they had all we can enter into our cooperative insti- things common among them, and every tutions and the United Order with sin- one dealt justly one with another; but I gleness of heart and pure motives, as the do not know, because there is not among Elders do when they go forth to preach us any record of the fact. And what is the Gospel, because it is God's command, this organization for? Is it for my in- your efforts will be of small avail. We do dividual interests? I do not so under- not want to stop and ask, Is there money stand it. Is it in the interest of the in it? Is it his will, his law and prin- Twelve? I think not. Or in the interest ciple? When we combine our interests of the presidents of Stakes or any of the on this principle, and work to it, we will 164 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. succeed and prosper. But in too many in- to improve upon our present condition, stances our cooperative institutions have always keeping in view the object to be jumped the track. What, the big Co-op? gained, dealing honestly upon a fair ba- Yes, and little Co-ops too. Have you got sis and correct principles, then we will a Co-op here? No, you have not. Do succeed and things will move on pleas- you know of any? We find little institu- antly, and we shall be a united people, tions they call Co-ops in most of our set- owned and blessed of the Lord. It was tlements, but when you come to inquire on this principle that the Nephites be- into affairs connected with them we gen- came a prosperous, a blessed and happy erally find, that, instead of their being people; it was not because one was a run in the interest of the community, and little smarter than another, or through with a view to build up the kingdom of his smartness taking advantage of his God, a few individuals represent the Co- neighbor; it was not that a man was op, who are the ones who are benefited a good financier, that he should "fi- by it. That is the trouble. But is the nancier" other peoples' property into his principle right? Yes, if you can live it, own pockets and leave them without. dealing honestly one with another; but if I will relate here an anecdote which you cannot, you need not try it, for in- comes to my mind. A smart young stead of giving satisfaction, it will only man had just returned from college, and be a disappointment. But I will promise at table he wished to show his par- the Latter-day Saints that if they will ents what extraordinary advancements go into these things allowing God to dic- he had made. "Why, father, says he, tate in the interests of Israel and the you can hardly conceive of the advance building up of his Zion on the earth, and I have made." "Well, my son," says the take themselves and their individual in- father, "I am sure I am glad to hear terests out of the question, feeling they you say so, and I trust you will make a are acting for him and his kingdom, they great man." There happened to be two will become the wealthiest of all peo- ducks on the table for dinner, and this ple, and God will bless them and pour young man proposed to give his father out wealth and intelligence and all the a specimen of his smartness. "Now," blessings that earth can afford; but if he says, "you see there are only two you will not, you will go downward, and ducks, don't you?" "Yes," answered the keep going the downward road to disap- father. "Well, I can prove to you that pointment and poverty in things spiri- there are three ducks." "Can you," says tual as well as temporal. I dare proph- the father, "that's quite extraordinary re- esy that, in the name of the Lord. That ally, how can you do it?" "Well," says is the way that I look at these things, the son, "I will show you. That's one?" and that is the way I figure them up, "Yes." "And that's two?" "Yes." "Well, two and not in the light of every man look- and one makes three, don't they?" "Quite ing for gain from his own quarter. These so," says the father, "it is very extraor- things are stumblingblocks in the way dinary, and to show how much I appre- of the people, and have been for some ciate it, I will eat one of these ducks, time. Well, what shall we do? Why, and your mother will eat the other, and do the best we can, and keep on trying we will leave the third for you." Some of THE NATURAL WEAKNESS OF MEN, ETC. 165 our "financiers" have made this kind of not be in a big hurry; do not break your discovery, but when it comes to the prac- necks; go at it quietly, and start one in- tical thing they, like the boy, have got dustry and then another, and make your to fall back on father's duck or mother's leather, and your harness and shoes, and duck. This kind of proficiency may be prepare to raise silk. Brethren, operate all very well in its place, but then we together, and sisters operate together, have no place for it; we want to act hon- and let all act in the welfare of each estly and begin right, and then carry it other, that all may be encouraged and out right. Let the big Co-op straighten benefited. The presidency of this Stake itself out, and then the little Co-ops do ought, and all ought to unite with them, the same, and let us stick to one an- in producing everything as far as pos- other and all act one with another, and sible, and as fast as possible, that you lay aside our scheming; and let us have require among yourselves; and also find honest, honorable men, Elders of Israel employment for every man and woman who have at heart the building up of and child within this Stake that wants God's kingdom, to do our business, who to labor. That is what you should do, will act for the welfare of all. That is Brother Smith. That is the way I read my doctrine on that point. I can see these things. And then we should not plenty of faults in these things, but we try to hunt up anything against one an- will let them go, they are the weaknesses other, and our little weaknesses, for we of humanity, and they carry with them all have enough of them, God knows; and their own reward. If people do right, I would say if I were one of them, Tom, if the right stands by them and sustains you cry quits, I will; Mary, if you will for- them; if they do wrong it works them give me, I will forgive you; and Dick, if down, down, down. Men cannot afford you will overlook my faults, I will over- to do wrong if they could but understand look yours; Susan, if I have done wrong, their true position. A few dollars, a lit- please forgive me. Let us try, one and tle land, a few houses, a few of the com- all, to straighten up, and get up a good forts of this short life, cannot be com- common surprise, a brotherhood and sis- pared to the glory laid up for those who terhood, that we may be one; and then if are true and faithful. But I am afraid we are desirous to help one another, and it will be said of some of those, as was pray God for his spirit to enlighten us, said of the rich man, "Thou in thy life- we will go and improve in these things; time received thy good things, and like- and we will go on from truth to truth, wise Lazarus his evil things: but now he from wisdom to wisdom, and from intel- is comforted, and thou art tormented." ligence to intelligence, and God will help We do not want anything to cling to us us, if we will help ourselves by taking a but what is right, and honest, and truth- course to accomplish these objects. ful, and whenever we can act for the benefit of all, then we are doing right, There is another thing I want to free from this narrow, contracted feeling talk about, and that is the priest- and this personal, selfish, aggrandizing hood. What is your idea about it? spirit. Do you not think you can get up Don't you think that the priesthood something of that sort if you try? Do should rule in spiritual things, and 166 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the other "hood" in temporal things, or baptized for our dead; what avail would how do you fix it up? I don't know. that have been if God had not directed it? What other "hood" do you call it? It is Do you think you are going into a Temple not brotherhood, nor sisterhood, perhaps to accomplish anything except God direct you may call it divisionhood. Is that the it? No; what you might do would amount right way, do you think? Let me talk to nothing at all. upon some of the first principles upon this subject. To whom are we indebted for the knowledge of the principles of God has established his Church, and truth which we possess today? To Joseph we sometimes say his kingdom. What Smith, to Hyrum Smith, to Oliver Cow- do we mean by "the kingdom of God?" dery, to Sidney Rigdon, Brigham Young I wish somebody would tell me what or the Twelve? I think not. We are in- we mean by using that term. There is debted to God for this knowledge, from the Church of God and the kingdom of the fact that the time had come, in the God. The Church, of course, refers more councils of heaven, that it was neces- particularly to spiritual things, and the sary to start the latter-day work, and kingdom to temporal rule and govern- to prepare a people, gathering them to- ment and management and to tempo- gether to build up Zion and establish ral affairs. If it does not, what does it the kingdom of God upon the earth, that mean, I would like some one to tell me? His will might be done upon the earth We sometimes preach about "the king- as it is done in heaven. And if God doms of this world becoming the king- and the Priesthood with him had never doms of our God, and his Christ," don't turned the key, and given their consent we? Will the kingdom of God be the to have these things done we would have kingdom of men? I think not. What been in the dark, everyone of us; or in does it mean, then, where it says, if we other words, we would have been where keep the laws of God, we need not break we came from—on the other side of Jor- the laws of the land? Because the laws dan, or somewhere else. At any rate, of Gods are so much more pure and el- we would not have been here. Do you evated, so much more adapted to the not think it would have been well for wants and situation of humanity, that the Lord to have come down to consult we walk right over everything of that our opinion about these things first? But sort; and it is nothing comparatively for he did not do it, and we knew noth- us to do; what is required we can eas- ing about it until the elders brought us ily do it, and a great deal on the back word. Then we had nothing to do about of it. But when the will of God shall it, did we? We knew nothing about it un- be done on earth as in heaven, and the til God sent the messengers among us, kingdoms of this world shall become the did we? I think not. Did we know any kingdoms of our God and his Christ, how more when we came here? Who of us will it be done? I have heard lots of you knew how to build temples or thought preach this: "Out of Zion shall go forth about such thing? None. Who knew the law, and the word of the Lord from how to administer in them! None, not Jerusalem." Shall it? O, yes. Do you even Joseph or any other man, until mean to say that is in the Bible? Yes, and God revealed it. We talk about being what is the meaning of that scripture? THE NATURAL WEAKNESS OF MEN, ETC. 167

The law cannot go forth from Zion un- such shameful operations as you had less it is made in Zion, can it? Who here, and you would have spent your is going to make that law? And who time much better doing something else. is going to give the word of the Lord What next? Some thought there was a from Jerusalem? How are these things little pressure, that they were not prop- to be accomplished? Are we to have a erly represented. I do not know how lot of opposition Tickets to do it, do you this was, but I am inclined to think it think? You that feel you can manage was a little hasty. I think it would things without the priesthood, try it and have been much better and very much see how far you will go. Go back to your more in keeping with our profession, if ordination and baptism, go back to the the leaders could have been got together, spreading of the Gospel through the land and acted in unanimity and good feeling, and the pouring out of intelligence upon all anxious to sustain the principles of the priesthood, and God ruling and dic- right and to select for office those who tating, and "The Lord shall be our judge, are good, virtuous and competent men, the Lord shall be our king, the Lord shall and men who are capable of filling offices be our lawgiver," said Israel, "and he with honor, and then do it unanimously. shall reign over us." Was not that the But as soon as a feeling to crowd is man- way we used to talk? I had a visit from ifested on one side, the feeling on the some of your folks during the session of other side, when expressed is, if this is the Legislature. How was it, and which going to be the way, we will buck against was right? None of them was right, just that, and if we cannot get our rights with as it was when the Prophet Joseph asked the priesthood, we will fall back upon our the angel which of the sects was right political rights as men, and we will frus- that he might join it. The answer was trate you in your operations if we can. that none of them are right. What, none Now both are wrong. There should have of them? No. We will not stop to ar- been a free and full consultation on the gue that question; the angel merely told one hand, the right of all respected, and him to join none of them, that none of on the other I would rather submit my- them were right. Anything wrong here? self a thousand times, even to an impo- Yes, considerable. There wants to be per- sition than to act as you did—to speak fect freedom about all these matters, the plainly, if a bishop wish to crowd on me, feelings of our brethren should be con- I would let him crowd. I could stand it sulted. A bishop has not the right to if he could. I am instructed to be obedi- crowd or oppress, the priesthood is not ent to the priesthood, and if he would do given to him for that purpose; but every- wrong he might do it, but I would not. thing should move on harmoniously, and Two wrongs never make a right. I will the wishes of the people should be con- not say how far you were wrong, but I sulted and respected. I understand there will say you both were wrong, and that was a little crowding in your election af- another course would have been much fairs, you were not more than ten min- better and more satisfactory and praise- utes getting through your business. It worthy. What is the result, you men is better to take ten days, than to have who would fall back on your reserved 168 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. rights? The first thing that you do is you know? No. But the sheep per- to persuade the people to give up their haps thought they were in bondage and rights and franchise. If God gives us cer- wanted to get out; the lead sheep jumps, tain rights, and we trample them under perhaps into a mire-hole, it does not mat- our feet and throw them away to suit ter, they all follow the leader. some little ideas of our own, we are very Let us operate together as men, as foolish and deserve to be chastened. If Saints. If you have got to have elections, I had thought the bishop was wrong, I meet together honestly and consider and would have gone to him and talked to talk plainly, with a view of accomplish- him respectfully, and seen if things could ing the welfare and good of the whole. not be modified. But you take the other We cannot elect everybody, we cannot all way and brusquely say, "I will show you: be officers, we cannot make magistrates, Here, Tom, Bill, Ned, get up your team mayors, councilors and aldermen of you and see what a devil of a fuss we can kick all. But as long as we have good and com- up." And you are elders in Israel, and petent men for office, that is all I care you are engaged in building up the king- about, and we have plenty of them, and dom of God, are you? Pretty elders you we should all pull one way—a long pull, are! Pretty kingdom builders you are, and a strong pull and a pull altogether. using all the influence and power of your They have had quite enough of divi- priesthood to pull down and destroy the sion in Tooele County. When the time kingdom by attacking the rights of the came for the people of that County to people and bartering them away, sending be represented in the Legislature, their a petition to the Legislature asking that representative was in California, and body to take away your rights, for you do when matters of importance pertaining not want them. And this done by Elders to that County were pending, they had in Israel. I feel a little ashamed of you, no one to represent them. Then again, and when I heard it, said, "Tell it not in they elected a County Superintendent of Gath, publish it not in Askelon." What, Common Schools, and was he there? No, high priests, seventies and elders con- he was off somewhere, and they could spiring to take away the people's rights? not get any of his school money. Would That's the way I figure it up. And why you like to be in the hands of such men? all this? To show others we are free men. You would soon want to get back again, Are we free? Yes, free to do right, but and you would feel a little like Esau not to do wrong. Have we all rights? did, after he had sold his birthright; he Yes, we have rights to do right, but we sought to get it back with tears, but could have, every one of us, covenanted to be not regain its possession. Our strength true to God and his cause, have we not? lies in our union, but our union alone And when we depart from that we do would not accomplish much unaided by wrong. You have lots of sheep here, and God; and He will help us if we are united you have doubtless seen them sometimes in the accomplishment of his purposes. make a break: one will start, and the I will now refer to some other others follow and away they go. Where things. We have Relief Societies are they going? They do not know. Do here, and we should encourage them. THE NATURAL WEAKNESS OF MEN, ETC. 169

We brethren, you know, should assist our he, "what does this mean, I find it full of "female brethren," and we should have greenbacks?" She quietly answered him the loyalty and patriotism to do it all saying, "I thought you were very gener- times and under all circumstances; and ous and a little extravagant, and I was when they are seeking to do a good work, afraid there would come a time when help them all we can. And if they are we would need money; so I put away so trying to get together a little wheat, let much a week in the Bible." He blessed us help them, it will not do us much his wife, and I think she was the better harm, and possibly we may find it by man of the two, and perhaps should have and by of advantage to us. The women worn the breeches. Now we may find a are not always such fools as we men time when we may need this wheat that sometimes take them to be. I am re- our sisters are storing up; let us not be minded of a circumstance which I will re- too confident about our affairs, and do late. There was a certain lady who had what we can by way of helping them. I a husband who was very free and gener- am pleased to witness the spirit mani- ous, would give away anything he had; fested by our sisters generally. I hear she saw that he was a little too liberal that you are going into silk culture, and and careless, and that there evidently am glad of it. The Legislature appro- would come a time when he would be in priated $1,500 to help our sisters, sim- a pinch. So she asked him one day if ply because they were our sisters and be- he would not allow her a certain amount cause they were trying to do good. You to keep house. "O, yes, how much do go to work and help them here, and help you want?" "So much a week." He gave about all these things, and do all you can. her quite a liberal allowance, so much You are a little famous in some of these that she could manage to keep house and parts—in Farmington I believe, they pro- put away a certain portion every week; fess to be in advance of everything in the she put her savings in the Bible, until silk line. by and by it amounted to quite a sum, And then with regard to our educa- and the Bible was full of greenbacks. tional pursuits, let us do all we can in Some years afterwards there came a fi- that direction. Some people talk about nancial crisis, and the husband was trou- the means it takes; why money is not to bled. The wife readily perceived the be compared with intelligence. I wish we change in her husband's countenance, had our own textbooks, published by our- and she asked him to tell her the cause selves and read by our children. I think of his trouble. He told her that he had such things are indicated in the Doctrine a note coming due, and he was afraid and Covenants. Then let us have our he could not meet it. She tried to en- high schools, that our children may be courage him by telling him to have faith taught in the common branches, that we in God, and referred him to the good, may be as far ahead of the world in re- old Book, telling him to read it, that he gard to literacy, mechanism, the arts and might get some comfort from it. She sciences, and everything else, as we are handed him the Bible, and as he opened now in regard to religious principles. it and turned over the leaves the bills began to drop out. "Why, Susan," says I am also glad to see our Young 170 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Men's and Young Ladies' Mutual Im- it's not all right. provement Societies doing so well. It will And now I will turn teacher before be well for you to come together as con- I close. Have any of you hard feelings joint societies once in a while; it will af- against your neighbor? If you have, go to ford an agreeable change, as well as do him, not in a captious, quarrelsome way, much good. I met with a very intelligent but as a friend. For instance—"Thomas, gentleman a few days ago, who told me you and I have had a little difficulty; I that he had attended one of the Young thought I would come and talk the mat- Men's meetings, and was astonished at ter over and see if we cannot settle it." the intelligence and talent displayed. He But if Thomas will not be reconciled, said that he had not seen the like any- then take a third party with you, some- where among young people. body whom you think would have more We should not only try to excel in lit- influence with him than yourself, and if erary institutions, but in mechanism as he still refuses to yield, let him be re- well. We must unite together and make ported to his bishop, and if he will not lis- our leather, and our boots and shoes, ten to the Church, let him be considered our harness and our implements of hus- as a "heathen man." Mary, Helen, Susan, bandry, and everything we need for our how is it with you? Any little unkind use, until we become self-sustaining, and feeling existing between you? Do you feel import nothing more than is absolutely as though you can be good sisters, and necessary, and then we shall find full em- treat one another right? Then seek one ployment for all our people. another's welfare, as the Scriptures say: I have perhaps said enough. Hus- "Be kindly affectionate one with another bands, love your wives; treat them with brotherly love; in honor preferring kindly; bear with their frailties and im- one another." You say that is rather hard; perfections, and love them as you used well, but you had better do it. We are told to do when you went a courting them; to love our neighbor as ourselves. If we it would do you good, many of you, to can do this, and then prefer our neigh- do your courting over again. Wives, bors to ourselves, and if there is a lit- treat your husbands right; do not "nag" tle advantage put it on their side, we not with them and find fault, but be full of only fulfill the law and the prophets, but kindness and try to make your homes the Gospel. Let us cultivate the spirit a heaven. Children, obey your par- of love and kindness, and let every lit- ents, and treat them right. And par- tle unpleasantness be buried, let us for- ents, you that have servants, treat them get the election difficulty and our neigh- right, pay them honest wages, and deal bor's difficulty, and be one, brethren and with them on honorable principles. And sisters together, united in building up in your deal one with another, be hon- Zion and establishing the Kingdom of est and manly; do not seek to take ad- God upon the earth. vantage one of another. Do not come and tell what a splendid bargain you Brethren and sisters, God bless have made, unless the other party made you and lead you in the paths of as good a bargain as you did; if he life, and God help you to do right. did, it's all right, but if he did not, And I ask an interest in your pray- THE GROWTH OF ZION, ETC. 171 ers, that I may be able to do right, and they the people, and everything and be guided by the Lord in the in- work harmoniously together, and all of terests of Israel; and that my brethren us do right, no matter where it cuts. Do of the Twelve and the presidency of right and pay our tithes and offerings your Stake, together with all of the and be free before God, angels and men. brethren, may be aided and blessed of the Lord, and be enabled to sustain God Praying God to bless you and lead you and His kingdom and every principle of in the paths of life, in the name of Jesus. right, and then the people sustain them, Amen.

THE GROWTH OF ZION—BENEFITS OF SEEKING COUNSEL FROM THE MORE EXPERIENCED.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER BRIGHAM YOUNG, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, ON TUESDAY MORNING,APRIL 8, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

The privilege that we enjoy of meet- quainted with each other than ever be- ing together again in Conference I be- fore within my recollection. Our general lieve is highly appreciated by the Latter- assemblies bring us together, and pleas- day Saints. The dry details of our ant reunions are made, and the good reports are somewhat tedious I am Spirit of God being disseminated among aware; but no doubt many are inter- us makes us feel more like the children ested in the reports of their several of one common parent than when we are Stakes, for there is a feeling in the widely dispersed and seldom behold each hearts of this people that causes inter- other's faces. est to be felt for all the stakes of Zion, Many reflections have passed and I believe that the present organiza- through my mind during this Con- tion together with the reports that are ference. I have listened with in- made quarterly, semi-annually and an- terest to the remarks which have nually are drawing the people together been made, and to the reports which in their interests. We are better ac- have been read. Zion is growing, 172 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

financially and in numbers. It is won- on whom I could rely to instruct me in derful! I was astonished, as well ac- regard to these thing. It is true, I might quainted as I have been with this peo- read the Congressional Record, in which ple for the number of years that they the speeches of our statesmen are pub- have inhabited these valleys, to know lished; I might go to hear them deliv- that one-third of the entire population ered, and exert myself otherwise to in- of this Territory—as far as the Latter- form myself; yet though through dili- day Saints are concerned—are children gence and perseverance I might acquire under eight years of age. But such is very considerable knowledge of this kind the fact. These reports do not take in of business, yet I would lack a most im- the entire population of this Territory. portant part, namely: the experience, There is quite a number of children over and I would willingly and gladly avail eight years of age who have not been myself of the teaching of an experienced baptized and consequently they are not man. If I were to start in the business represented in these reports. I presume of law, it would be reasonable to sup- that there are hundreds, if not thou- pose, of course, that I, like the seventy sands, of cases in the midst of the Latter- men or more who follow that business day Saints where we have neglected to in this city, would have a smattering of administer the ordinance of baptism to legal knowledge; but like them too, if our children, who, according to the rev- a more experienced man were to come elations of God, ought to be numbered along, and especially if he were a genius among the members of this Church. The in his profession, I would gladly learn instructions which we have received are of him and it would afford me pleasure plain and pointed; perhaps I may not be to listen to him. This is the case in all a competent judge for all mankind, or for things. Suppose a member of my fam- my brethren, yet to me they are full of ily is sick; I am at once prompted with a the inspiration of the Lord and are cal- desire to consult some experienced nurse culated to lead and guide his children in who is more competent than myself in the path of everlasting life. And it does administering such things as one in that seem impossible to me for any man, or condition ought to receive. Perhaps a fin- any set of men, to refute the testimonies ger of one of my children may need am- that have been borne to this Conference. putating. I might take an ax and cut it It is proper and consistent that we off in my way, but I could not do it like look for counsel to those who are ad- our Dr. Anderson for instance, a man vanced in the knowledge of the Gospel. who is a skilled surgeon. I would natu- We should do the same in regard to law rally yield my way to theirs in regard to or politics. If I were to go to Washing- these things. And so it is through all the ton among the politicians of the coun- branches of business transacted in this try and set myself up as a politician, life—the influence, opinion or knowledge pretending to understand all the ins of somebody else controls or affects that and outs of political life as, say, one of ours. of the representatives of our nation, I Today we may be acquainted would find myself greatly deficient, and I with a man who is really excellent would gladly seek some experienced man in his profession, but another man THE GROWTH OF ZION, ETC. 173 comes along who can surpass him, and enced mechanic? Or in politics or law the former is glad to learn of the lat- or surgery, by men who are farther ad- ter. And so we may follow it through vanced in those professions than my- until we come to the subject of religion. self? Certainly not. And besides this But the moment that subject is touched the Spirit of God which I have received men rise up, no matter how ignorant which is an unmistakable guide, bears they may be with regard to the principles witness to me that it is right for me to which are calculated to exalt mankind, be taught of them and that their teach- and say, "I must think for myself; no ings are the teachings of heaven to the man must be trammeled in those mat- children of men, and that they are calcu- ters; every man must have the privilege lated, if lived up to, to lead men back into of worshipping God according to the dic- the presence of God the Father. Yet I, tates of his conscience." So say I, but I in connection with this whole people, am do know, and we have indubitable evi- accused of yielding my own will and free dence of the fact that the men who stand agency to an overbearing priesthood, at the head of this people are skilled in thus becoming their dupes and slaves. the things pertaining to the building up This is in short, the judgment generally of the kingdom of God in the last days. passed on the Latter-day Saints by the This fact is proven to the satisfaction of American nation. And while they say the Latter-day Saints, to those at least, this of us, their better sense would tell who have followed them the last 15 to them that they do the same in law, in 30 years. We know that they under- morals, in mechanism, in politics, etc., stand more about these things than we directly, and in religious matters they do do. When questions arise, whether in the same indirectly. Well, for one—and politics, finance, morals or law, requir- in saying this I speak the sentiments of ing the judgment of sound and experi- this whole people—I intend to follow the enced men, or when circumstances arise men appointed and ordained of God to in our individual lives which are perplex- lead and direct his Saints, as they fol- ing and of such a nature as to exhaust low Christ. "Know ye not," says the apos- our ability, we naturally seek the coun- tle, "that to whom ye yield yourselves to sel of these our brethren; and our ex- obey, his servants ye are whom ye obey; perience has proven them to be masters whether of sin unto death, or of obedi- of the situation; that they are skilled ence unto righteousness?" in their profession and abundantly able May the blessings of God rest upon to direct us. Why should I not fol- this people and the peace of heaven be low the leaders whom God has placed with them in all of their locations and over me? Why should not this privi- settlements, and give unto us strength lege be granted me? Is it more incon- to continue faithful in the cause of truth, sistent in me showing my principle and that we may do our part towards the desire for right in following these men building up of his kingdom, and at last than in acquiring the art of mechan- be saved with the faithful, is my prayer, ics, in being taught by a more experi- in the name of Jesus. Amen. 174 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

OPENING OF THE LAST DISPENSATION—DEVELOPMENT OF THE WORK OF GOD—SENDING FORTH MISSIONARIES—USEFULNESS OF THE SISTERS—IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATIONS—EDUCATION—COOPERATION.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, TUESDAY AFTERNOON,APRIL 8, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I will state that I feel very much nine years since the Church of Jesus obliged to my brethren for the generous Christ of Latter-day Saints was orga- feeling manifested to myself. Permit me, nized. There were then, as you heard however, to say, with regard to some of stated and as we very well know, six these ideas presented to the Conference members organized. There were how- by Brother George Q. and which he has ever, more than six persons in the said, he has frequently presented to me Church, as was remarked by Brother and others of the Twelve, that while I Snow, the organization being effected for duly appreciate the feelings and views of the purpose of legal recognition, still my brethren, and am not ignorant of the there were only a very few, and as the proprieties of life, individually I would spirit of revelation rested down upon not wish to change my position. Per- God's servant Joseph in these early days, sonally I care nothing about the outside who like Adam, Moses, Abraham, Jesus, show, the glitter and appearance of men; Jared, Nephi, Moroni and others, had but I do care about the great eternal the heavens unfolded to his view, and al- principles associated with the Church though the Church was so few in num- and Kingdom of God upon the earth. And ber the principles and purposes of God as has been stated, it was some time be- were developed fully to the vision of his fore I could make up my mind to accept mind, and he gazed upon the things that a proposition of this kind. And I accept are to transpire in the latter days as- it now simply in the capacity of your ser- sociated with the dispensation that he vant for Christ's sake for the benefit of was called upon by the Almighty to in- the Kingdom of God and that all things troduce. He learned by communication may be conducted in a proper manner. from the heavens, from time to time, of the great events that should transpire in Now we will let this pass, and talk the latter days. He understood things about something else. that were past, and comprehended the I have been very much interested various dispensations and the designs in the remarks that have been made of those dispensations. He not only at this Conference. It is now forty- had the principles developed, but he OPENING OF THE LAST DISPENSATION, ETC. 175 was conversant with the parties who former ages. And thus he commenced officiated as the leading men of those to organize the Church with all its var- dispensations, and from a number of ious offices under the direct inspiration, them he received authority and keys and guidance and revelation of the Lord. The priesthood and power for the carrying First Presidency was pointed out, the out of the great purposes of the Lord in Twelve were also pointed out and des- the last days, who were sent and com- ignated, and these quorums were or- missioned specially by the Almighty to dained. The high priesthood was orga- confer upon him those keys and this au- nized however before these other quo- thority, and hence he introduced what rums took shape. Then there were the was spoken of by all the prophets since quorums of Seventies, then the quorums the world was; the dispensation in which of Elders, then the Bishops, then the we live, which differs from all other dis- quorums of Priests, Teachers and Dea- pensations in that it is the dispensa- cons, together with the High Councils tion of the fulness of times, embracing and all that we know about these things. all other dispensations, all other powers, He taught us all that we know about all other keys and all other privileges them; God taught him. Hence in the and immunities that ever existed upon various organizations of the several quo- the face of the earth. At that time he rums of priesthood whether it relates was a feeble youth, inexperienced, with- to the Melchizedek, Aaronic or Leviti- out a knowledge of the learning of the cal priesthood, all of these, together with day. But God put him in possession of the duties devolving upon each, were that kind of intelligence, and what may given by the Lord. And hence the church be termed a scientific knowledge of all that we are associated with is called things pertaining to this earth, and the the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- heavens, if you please, which was alto- day Saints. Hence Jesus Christ is the gether ahead of all the intelligence that medium through whom we are to ap- existed in the world. He commenced proach the Father, calling upon him in as opportunity presented by following the name of Jesus; for there is no name the education he had received from the given under heaven, nor known among Almighty, by teaching the principles of men, whereby we can be saved but the life and salvation, the principles of the name of Jesus Christ. And although they everlasting Gospel, by conferring upon do not do it now, yet the time is ap- others that priesthood which had been proaching when to him "every knee will conferred upon him, and by organizing a bow, and every tongue confess that he state of things that was after the pattern is the Christ, to the glory of God the of the heavens, that was calculated to Father." And hence the religion we pro- live and grow and increase, that had the fess is one that has been given us from principle of life and vitality within itself, the heavens. We cannot dispense with and that was calculated to draw together it; we cannot dispense with any part of the honest in heart and assimilate them it. It is not of man, but from the Lord in their ideas and views and feelings God, our Heavenly Father, through our and faith, and empower them to oper- Lord Jesus Christ, making use of his ser- ate with him and with the Lord and with vant Joseph and those whom he should the holy priesthood that had existed in call by revelation as the instruments 176 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to carry out the purposes of God upon and as we ever were in all the days the earth. The priesthood we have re- of our lives, for guidance, for support, ceived we received not of man nor by for revelation, for the Spirit of God to man, but by revelation. And laterly Pres- guide us that we may not make any false ident Young, a little before his death, or- steps; but as a people we must mag- ganized all the various branches of the nify the Lord our God in our hearts and Church into Stakes, with the officers honor him and observe his laws and keep thereof, carrying out the design of God his commandments. There has quite a and his revelations to Joseph Smith; and change taken place since this Gospel was placed them upon the foundation that introduced, as the thousands of people was first laid by Joseph Smith under the who inhabit these valleys sufficiently at- immediate revelations of the Lord. And test. And if we continue to progress in God expects it at our hands that we mag- faith, in union, in intelligence, in virtue, nify our calling, and that we cleave unto in purity, in knowledge, and especially him as his servants upon whom he has in the knowledge of God and in the ob- conferred this priesthood. He expects it servance of his ordinances, the work of at our hands that we shall magnify it, the Lord will continue to roll with ten- and not operate according to our peculiar fold rapidity. We are just commencing notions, but according to the will and law our labors, and are just getting ready to and guidance and revelations of God in perform the work that God has laid upon all things and under all circumstances; our shoulders, and are just commencing for we are here as Jesus was here—not to perform the work that God intends us to do our own will, but the will of our to accomplish; everything that has been Heavenly Father who has sent us, and prophesied by all the ancient prophets, who has called us to this high calling, as contained in the Bible and the Book of and has made us to sit together in heav- Mormon, and those things predicted by enly places in Christ Jesus. Joseph Smith, and every other prophet In accordance with the order of God, of God, will as surely be fulfilled as we the Twelve, the Seventies, the High are here today, without any faltering, or Priests and Elders have been abroad flagging, or hesitation. among the nations of the earth, deliv- ering the testimony which God gave to We go on and attend to many things. them, and the Spirit and power of God Our organizations are very good; but we has operated with us in our ministra- need, I think sometimes, the breath of tions; and the results of these operations life from God breathing into them all and these labors, and the faith and the through, that the Spirit and power of self-abnegation and self-denial and the the Most High may be in our midst, and desire to do the will of God, and the tes- that the power and blessings of God that timonies that have been borne, are man- come through the ordinances may be in ifested in the Saints gathered today as our midst, and that the power and bless- we are in the valleys of the mountains. ings of God, that come through the or- These things have been brought about dinances may be imparted to us; and by the interposition of the Almighty; we such will be the case if we are faithful in are, as such dependent upon him today, the performance of the duties devolving OPENING OF THE LAST DISPENSATION, ETC. 177 upon us. It is not with us a question pose there are no less than 500 men en- of what we shall eat, or what we shall gaged today in building Temples in this drink, or what kind of houses we shall Territory. Some people would consider live in; it is not a matter of so much im- this quite a tax upon them, and, I may portance as it is to be doing the will of say, we have some who call themselves God, to have our hearts engaged in his Latter-day Saints who have a little of service, to feel that we are building up this feeling, not much, but a little of the Zion of the Lord of Hosts, to feel that it. But men who feel right, they feel we are recognized of the heavens, to feel that they and all they have belong to the that we are associated with the priest- Lord; they feel that they are on hand to hood behind the veil who have lived and perform the work of God, to build up his operated in time and are now operating kingdom, to operate with him and with in eternity; for they without us cannot the holy priesthood, and to prepare Tem- be made perfect, neither can we without ples to administer for the living and for them be made perfect. We need their as- the dead; that we may indeed be not poor sistance from the heavens, and we ought and helpless dolts; but feel that we are to seek it all the time. saviors upon Mount Zion, and that the kingdom is the Lord's. Let me speak of this not only to the There is a good feeling manifested Twelve, but to the presidents of Stakes among the brethren and also among the and their counselors, and to all men sisters, who are quite as zealous in most holding authority, to seek to God, seek interests as the brethren are. Notwith- for wisdom, seek for faith, and learn to standing the immense labors we are per- approach God, that we may draw down forming in our building, for we are do- blessings from heaven and partake of ing a good deal, we are not unmindful of that faith which was once delivered to other matters. There is constant labor the Saints. We are trying to do some going on in the Temple at St. George, things and are doing them pretty well. with very little intermission, and a corps Do I wish to find fault? No. Or to cen- of persons steadily engaged administer- sure anybody? No. But I wish everybody ing in the ordinances of the Lord's House would so live and act that they would there; while in these other places, as you not censure themselves, that their minds have heard read over, according to the fi- would not condemn them; for if your own nancial accounts pertaining to the Tem- hearts condemn you, God is greater than ple being built in Manti and Logan— your hearts. there has been expended in a short time We are doing pretty well. We are on these two Temples nearly two hun- building our Temples, and there is a dred and fifty thousand dollars. The laudable spirit manifested in relation to brethren have taken hold of it with a these things generally. Do all do it? will, and there seems to be a feeling No. Have all this spirit? No. I wish among many of them to see who shall they had; but then we would be expect- do the most, instead of who can do the ing too much perhaps. But there is a least. And notwithstanding this there is growing interest in these things, which about fifty thousand, I think, in round I am glad to give the Saints credit for. numbers, more tithing paid this last And in speaking of our Temples, I sup- year than there was before these things 178 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. commenced. I speak this for the credit who are honorable and upright men, and of the Latter-day Saints. Honor, as the full of the Holy Ghost; and when such Scriptures say, to whom honor is due. men go they go with our faith, carrying And I am pleased to see a spirit of with them our esteem and love and affec- that kind grow and increase among the tion; and if they need anything, we will brethren. give it to them. If their families need There has been a good deal of care be- anything, we will have them looked af- stowed on the sending forth of missionar- ter, we will feed them and clothe them ies whom we have sent forth among the and take care of them, and consider that different nations abroad and to this na- they are our brethren and not that they tion. There is a duty devolving upon the are poor, miserable paupers, or that their Twelve and the Seventies especially, to wives and families are a trouble to us; we see that this work is performed; and we want to do away with all such feelings. have been alive to this matter, and have Let us cultivate the spirit of magnanim- aimed to call men that would not be em- ity and kindness, and as the Lord blesses barrassed or perplexed in their minds, us, let us bless others; and that is all the but such as would go forth as the ser- things of the earth are worth. Do good vants of the Living God, who would not, to all men, especially to the household of when they got about two hundred miles faith. And by and by, as was the case for- from home, commence to think when it merly, those who go forth weeping, bear- would be time for them to return; and ing precious seed, will return rejoicing, the fruits are fast beginning to be borne bringing their sheaves with them. in the European, the Scandinavian and other missions, and also in the United Furthermore, we have an auxiliary States. And we wish it to be understood among our sisters here. Brother Geo. Q. among the Elders and Seventies that we Cannon represented how they were im- do not want men to go on missions who posed on in many lands and how they look upon it as a painful duty for them had been. Why should they be? Are to fulfill; we would rather such men stay they not our mothers? Are they not at home. But he that hath a desire to our wives? Are they not our sisters? preach the Gospel to the world, whose Are they not our children? Should we life is upright, pure and virtuous, and not protect them? Do we profess to be who is capable of presenting the prin- in the image of God, holding the holy ciples of the Gospel to the world; he is priesthood of God, and then would we the kind of man we are desirous to send. treat the fair daughters of Zion with con- We do not want anybody to go simply be- tempt, or permit them to be injured or cause it might be thought that a mission imposed upon in any way? God for- would do him good, or that it might save bid. They are flesh of our flesh, bone of him from some evil he might be likely our bone; they are our helpmeets, and to fall into. We do not want men to go our associations and our relations with abroad representing the Captain of our them ought to be pleasant and agree- salvation to reform themselves; let the able and with all long-suffering and fi- work of reformation be done at home. delity. And then the sisters should turn We want men to preach the Gospel round and help to bless one another, and OPENING OF THE LAST DISPENSATION, ETC. 179 act as our teachers are doing in other trustees! We want none of these things. respects—teaching their sisters, looking Let others who fear not God take their after the poor and assisting the bish- course; but it is for us to train our chil- ops in the performance of their labors. dren up in the fear of God. God will hold And the Relief Societies which have been us responsible for this trust. Hear it, you organized have been of very great ben- Elders of Israel and you fathers and you efit to the Saints of God. And I say, mothers! Talking about education, as God bless the sisters, and inspire them I said before, Joseph Smith knew more with more of that heavenly spirit, that in regard to the education than all the they may assist their husbands and their philosophers and scientists of the earth; brethren and their children—their sons and he knew it by the revelations of God. and their daughters—to promote correct We want to get together to train our chil- principles, to stem the tide of iniquity, dren up in the fear of God, to teach them and to promulgate virtue, truth and pu- correct principles ourselves, and place rity among the Saints of God. And I them in possession of such things as will would say, it is the duty of the bishops lead them in the paths of life. and presidents of Stakes to assist them all they can, which I believe they gener- I find it is time for me to quit. I ally do, to carry out everything that is feel to thank you for your attendance at good and praiseworthy. this Conference, and for the kind of spirit There is another class of people that has been manifested here. And among us doing a great deal of good; to thank the members of our choir who that is our Mutual Improvement Asso- have made for us sweet music; and I ciations; both Young Men's and Young would say that our choir is a credit to Women's. How much more pleasant it our Territory and to our people. And fur- is to see our youth grow up in the fear thermore they are meeting together for of God, trying to instruct one another in the purpose of cultivating the art of mu- the principles of life and salvation, than sic, and that we may be organized and be to see them ignore the laws of God. How more perfect in relation to these things. pleasing to us! How pleasing to God and the holy angels! Let us encourage these I would like to have said something things, and instruct our sons and daugh- about our Sunday Schools. I do not be- ters, that they may grow up in intelli- lieve we are behind any people on the gence, virtue, purity and holiness before face of the earth in relation to these mat- the Lord. ters. I am informed by the general Su- And then we want to study also perintendent that we have 29,000 chil- the principles of education, and to get dren attending Sunday Schools; and I the very best teachers we can to teach would not be afraid to say that that is our children; see that they are men more than attend the Sunday Schools and women who fear God and keep in all the Territories put together, out- his commandments. We do not want side of Utah. (A voice from the stand— men or women to teach the children "And in half the States.") Some one re- of the Latter-day Saints who are not marks, and in half of the States. I do Latter-day Saints themselves. Hear it, not know how that is. But they do say you Elders of Israel and you school- our children are Utah's surest and best 180 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. crop. Let us try to train them up in the a Board of Trade in a number of the fear of God, that we may have his bless- Stakes, and expect to perfect them in all ing to be with us. the Stakes, that the whole people may be I would like to have said something, represented at our general board. Then too, about our cooperative associations. I we expect to spread and grow in man- am pleased to inform you that the Coop- ufactures of all kinds, that we may be- erative Institution of this city is doing re- come a self-sustaining people, a people markably well; it is on a solid foundation who shall be independent, under God, of and everything is moving along pleas- all other powers. antly and agreeably. We have organized I will not detain you. God bless Is- for some time a Trade's Union, through rael, and all that bless Israel, and let our which all the people of Utah can be rep- enemies be confounded. And God grant resented. And while the Co-op calls upon unto us power to serve him and observe us to sustain them, which is right and his laws that we may have a claim upon proper, we want the Co-op to sustain his blessings, and at last obtain eternal us. There are two sides to this question, life in his kingdom, in the name of Jesus. hence we have an organization called Amen.

PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE—THE RISE OF THE LATTER-DAY WORK—ORGANIZATION OF THE CHURCH—ITS SUBSEQUENT PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT—THE MANNER OF CALLING GOD'S SERVANTS—DUTIES OF CHURCH OFFICERS—THE SAVING POWER OF TRUTH—THE DISOBEDIENT AND IDLE CONDEMNED—LIBERALITY OF THE GOSPEL PLAN.

DISCOURSEBY APOSTLE ERASTUS SNOW, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, ON SUNDAY MORNING,APRIL 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

In the 24th chapter of Matthew our and putteth forth leaves, ye know Savior uses a figure in speaking to his that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, disciples, illustrating the signs of the when ye shall see all these things, times in which we live. know that it is near, even at the "Now learn a parable of the fig doors. Verily I say unto you, This tree; When his branch is yet tender, generation shall not pass, till all PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE, ETC. 181 these things be fulfilled." which contains the fulness of the ever- lasting Gospel, was first revealed to him The rendering of this 24th chapter of in the Hill Cumorah, nearly 56 years Matthew is somewhat imperfect in King have passed away; it is 49 years since the James' translation; the events connected organization of the Church was effected with the destruction of Jerusalem and in conformity with the laws of God, and the dispersion of the Jews seem to be in- in accordance with the laws of New York; termingled with the events that were to that is to say, the rule established by the precede and accompany the second ad- laws of New York governing the organi- vent of the Savior. In the new translation zation of religious bodies and to comply of this chapter by the Prophet Joseph with the statutes and to give it tangi- Smith, which may be found in the Pearl ble form. The 6th day of April was se- of Great Price, the difference is made lected by revelation as the day on which very plain, and the figure of the fig tree this church should be organized. The and the second coming of the Son of Man question is asked by some, were there and the generation referred to therein only six believers who had received the is made applicable, not to the period of testimony of the Prophet and been bap- the destruction of Jerusalem, but to the tized for the remission of their sins on time of the second coming of the Son of that day? I answer, there were many Man. And the new translation reads, more. Why, then, was the number six in speaking of the putting forth of the made to figure in the organization? I an- fig tree and the signs that should pre- swer in this respect: the same as under cede the coming of the Son of Man, "Ver- the statutes of Utah cooperative associ- ily, I say unto you, this generation, in ations must have at least six to unite in which these things shall be shown forth, the formation of any such association be- shall not pass away until all I have told fore it can incorporate. But any num- you shall be fulfilled." From the read- ber not less than six might unite and ing of the new and correct rendering, it organize themselves into a religious as- will be seen that, instead of the things sociation to enjoy the rights and privi- spoken of being fulfilled in the genera- leges of the law as such religious bod- tion in which the prophecy was made— ies. This number was selected, how- which is the inference—the application ever, from among the believers on this is transferred at once from the genera- occasion to conform to the requisitions of tion in which the Savior was speaking to the statutes. This is, therefore, the an- the generation who should witness the niversary of the day on which the organi- signs of the times therein set forth. zation took place, or commenced rather It is now more than 51 years since to develop itself. And from that time, the plates from which the Book of Mor- as the body of the Church increased, mon was translated were committed by the Priesthood in its various branches the angel Moroni, to the hands of Joseph has developed itself into the organiza- Smith, who was raised up to be a tion as we now behold it in the earth. prophet, seer and revelator to the nine- There were no twelve Apostles at that teenth century, and to lay the founda- date; the material from which to draw tion of this church and kingdom upon them had not been gathered. There were the earth. And since that sacred record, no seventy Elders; the material from 182 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. which to make them was not yet on cons were defined in that revelation, hand. There were no High Councils, given in that day, known as the arti- no Bishops' courts, nor quorums of High cles and covenants of the Church. El- Priests, Elders, Priests, Teachers or Dea- der seemed to be a generic name embrac- cons. There was no classification of the ing all the branches of the Melchizedek organization of the priesthood as there priesthood, from the Elder proper to the is today. Neither was there any orga- Apostle, namely the Elders, High Priests nization of the Stakes of Zion, for there (after the order of Melchizedek), includ- was no material of which to make them. ing High Councilors, Seventies, Apostles It was indeed but the shooting out of and First Presidency. This also corre- the earth, as it were, of the plant, like sponds with the language of the Apos- the mustard seed, which is a small plant tle Peter, in his exhortation contained in at first, having but a single stalk; and his first general epistle: "The elders who as it rises and receives strength and are among you I exhort, who am also an sends down its roots and spreads forth elder." Still he was an Apostle and was its branches, from one branch another ranked as the chief Apostle in his day, grows out and shoots forth. And so holding the keys and presidency to bind from day to day, and from month to on the earth and loose in heaven; but month, and from year to year did the he ranked himself among the Elders, for Lord reveal through the Prophet Joseph this term seemed to be a general appel- Smith, line upon line, precept upon pre- lation for all classes of the Melchizedek cept, here a little and there a little, re- priesthood. In a similar manner also vealing to the people the order of the the term "priest" was used among the priesthood and the order of Zion and Jews under the operation of the law of her government, her institutions and Moses, and subsequently in the Chris- the classification of the priesthood under tian church for those who officiated in the two great heads—the Melchizedek the lesser or Levitical priesthood; and and the Aaronic or Levitical priesthood, this term included the presiding priest or with their various subdivisions and quo- Bishop who was called under the Jewish rums. It was not till the year 1835, dispensation the Chief or High Priest. in the month of February, that the quo- But there were lesser organizations or rum of the Twelve Apostles and the quo- subdivisions under the term of Priest, rums of the Seventies were organized in Levite, Nethenims, etc. this Church. These were drawn prin- There is one feature through all cipally from those tried men who com- the organizations of the Church of posed Zion's camp. There was a revela- Christ and all the administrations of tion given in this same year showing how the people of God, and that is: "No a High Council should be organized in man taketh this honor unto himself, Kirtland, and shortly after another was but he that is called of God, as was organized in Missouri; and it also de- Aaron." This declaration of the Apos- fined the laws governing the High Coun- tle Paul is borne out by history both cil and Stake organizations. At first, ancient and modern. And the same when the Church was organized on the writer says in another place, speak- 6th day of April, the general duties of ing of those who are called to preach the Elders, Priests, Teachers and Dea- the Gospel and of the faith that is be- PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE, ETC. 183 gotten in the hearts of the people over them in the Lord. And for the same through hearing the word of God: "Faith reason those who officiate in the more cometh by hearing, and hearing by the extended spheres, such as presidents of word of God." But in the new transla- Stakes, high councilors and all Stake au- tion that passage reads: "Faith comes by thorities, are put before the people in hearing the word of God." Another Scrip- their several Stakes in conference as- ture reads: "How shall they believe in sembled, for their approval, their confi- him of whom they have not heard? and dence and support; otherwise their ap- how shall they hear without a preacher? pointment has not the same force and And how shall they preach, except they effect upon the people. In like manner be sent?" The idea I wish to convey is those who may be selected by the work- this: That all the various offices assigned ing of the Holy Spirit through the proper to the servants of God in his Church authorities, to preside over quorums, are and Kingdom are assigned to them and nominated for this calling and are sub- not in and of themselves and of their mitted to the members for their sanction own choice, not at their own instance, and confidence. And then come the gen- but at the instance of the Holy Spirit eral authorities, who preside over and manifesting itself through those who are minister in the affairs of the Church in appointed over them in the Lord, as all the earth. These general quorums Aaron was called to the priesthood, re- are not local, are not limited to any par- ceiving his appointment by the manifes- ticular Stake or quorum. Their busi- tation of the will of God through Moses, ness is to see that the Gospel is preached his brother. There is another princi- to the whole world; to impart counsel ple in connection with this, laid down by the spirit of revelation according to in the revelations of God, namely: that the spirit of their apostleship and call- all things shall be done by common con- ing, as special witnesses and messen- sent. And therefore, where there is a reg- gers to the world of mankind. These ularly organized branch of the church, are the First Presidency, and the Twelve ordinations to the priesthood shall not Apostles and the Seventies, whose call- be made without a vote of approval of ing and duty is to labor under the direc- said church. Now this must be under- tion of the Twelve and bear the gospel stood in the spirit in which it was given, to all nations and to regulate the af- to apply not particularly and specially fairs of the Church in all the world. to every individual who may be admit- These general authorities are therefore ted into a quorum of priests, teachers or brought before the general conference deacons, so much as those who may be assembled, for their approval and for called to preside over the people in the them to uphold and sustain by their faith capacity of a Presiding Elder; a bishop and prayers; and in like manner are or a bishop's counselor, and also priests, they presented at the several Stake con- teachers and deacons, whose labors and ferences so as to reach the masses of duties may be required in that partic- the people, to insure the confidence and ular branch of the Church, they must prayers of the whole people, for whom be sustained by the votes and prayers they minister, and whose eyes are upon and confidence of the people as well as them, who are criticizing their teach- by the appointment of those who are ings, their walk and conversation be- 184 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. fore God and man. For God proposes them that they should respect and honor to deal with His Church as a whole, the civil law, and governors in their and as a whole to hold them responsi- places, and judges and officers in their ble to work the works of righteousness condition of life, whose duty it is to and to defend the faith of the everlast- preserve order and maintain peace and ing gospel committed to them, and to pu- protect the rights and privileges of all rify and sanctify the whole Church and alike, religious or irreligious, believer see that evil is put away from our midst, or unbeliever, saint or sinner; for reli- whether it be in the family circle or pri- gion with all its accompaniments and vate walks of life, or in its high offi- everything pertaining to it is a mat- cials and those who minister in public ter of conscience between man and his capacities; in like manner he requires of Maker, and for the exercise of which them to see that all our organizations he is held alone responsible to his God and municipalities are in a wholesome and unto his co-religionists, who place condition, and are administered with in- themselves under its guidance and con- tegrity and uprightness before God and trol. But the civil power extends its pro- the people. And as mouthpieces of the tection to all alike. One of the great Almighty and as watchmen upon the evils that has afflicted mankind has been walls of Zion, God requires of us his ser- the bigotry of religious priests, and the vants, the Apostles, the Elders, the Pres- blind superstition of religious zealots, idents of Stakes, and the Bishops every- who seem to have lost sight of this prin- where, not only to minister in their sev- ciple, the government of our Heavenly eral callings in a church capacity, but Father over his children, that in his ef- also to instruct officers of every kind en- forts to exalt his children he has never trusted with the municipal affairs of life, resorted to force or attempted in any that they may be found faithful in mag- wise to coerce the human mind. The nifying the law and discharging the trust light of truth, like the glorious light of reposed in them in secular affairs as well the sun, shines unobstructed, free to all; as ecclesiastical; for civil organizations and all are at liberty to draw a veil and powers of civil government are also over their faces if they choose, or shut appointed and ordained of heaven for the themselves up in a dungeon and lock welfare of mankind, for the protection of out the rays of the sun, or they may all flesh. And those children of men who walk out in the sunlight, open their win- may not accept the doctrines of Christ dows and let it into their dwellings; so and the priesthood, its administrations, is the free light of heaven imparted to counsels and decisions in the secular af- all the sons of men. The Lord has re- fairs of life; yet if they are disposed to served to himself, however, the right to obey good, wholesome rules of society call unto judgment all his children for in their civil capacity, as such are en- the manner in which they make use of titled to protection. And it is more es- the opportunities and privileges afforded pecially for the benefit of this class of them. "This is the condemnation," says mankind that civil governments are es- the Savior, "that light is come into the tablished among men and recognized in world, and men love darkness rather heaven. It was with this view that Paul, than light, because their deeds are evil." in his epistle to the ancient Saints, told So many people walk in darkness at PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE, ETC. 185 noonday, when the light of heaven shines wickedness for gain; darkness reigns in in its glory and effulgence they are sur- their hearts, and they become the chil- rounded in darkness. When the light dren of disobedience, hating the light be- comes to the righteous they will hail it cause their deeds are evil. Truth needs gladly, and though it may be at first in no constraint; it exercises its power and the distance, they will mark it as they dominion over the children of men by would the dawn of the morning star, or a virtue of its excellence, its beauties, its light shining in a dark place, and they attractions, its loveliness, the good fruits will give diligent heed to it as it ap- that flow from its observance, the peace proaches, until they enter into its ef- and happiness that attend it; the fruit fulgence and glory. Such is the expe- of truth and righteousness is delicious rience of the Latter-day Saints; such is above all other fruit. The strength and the experience of those who love the light power of Jehovah are with the good and rather than darkness and who are wait- virtuous of all His children; His power ing for the salvation of Israel; they re- and His love are made manifest through ceived the testimony of Jesus when it the truth; order and peace are the fruits was first sounded in their ears. Hun- of the laws and regulations that He pre- dreds and thousands in different parts scribes, and which recommend them- of the world have witnessed the dawn of selves to the intelligent or thoughtful this light, have heard the sound thereof children of men, and the results thereof in the distance, have gone in search of are only peace, union, fellowship and it, have captured the first ray that pen- love. Even the penalties that are at- etrated their minds and followed it un- tached to the laws of heaven prescribed til it has led them finally to the pos- in the Gospel of the Son of God, are session of eternal life. These are they not instruments of vengeance, of wrath whose deeds are good. Though they may and indignation, with a view to the ut- have erred in many things because of ter destruction of the children of men. false doctrine and the traditions of men But rather the instruments of restraint and the fog that beclouded their minds upon the evil deeds of the wicked and un- and the minds of their fathers, yet since godly, to deter them from encroachment the truth made its way to their hearts upon the righteous, in their evil course they embraced it gladly, and they have of self-destruction. Even the damna- loved and followed it still. While, on tion of hell, threatened in the Scriptures the other hand, those who love darkness upon those who continue in their unbe- rather than light, because their deeds lief and disobedience, is but the natu- are evil, are fighting against the light ral fruit of their unbelief, and neglect of and will shun it when it approaches, the blessings that were held out and de- like the thief at the approach of the of- signed to be bestowed upon them. The ficer of the law, and conceals himself same may be said of the indolent and in darkness. So with those who love the slothful of the children of men in a evil, who have abandoned themselves temporal point of view. When the Lord to wickedness, who have given them- says to his people, here is a beautiful selves up to hypocrisy and to the lust earth I have formed for you, and there of the flesh, and who sell themselves to are the elements within your reach—the the enemy of all righteousness to work 186 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. grasses, the streams of water which flow themselves as dark as they were in the pure as the breezes of heaven, free to all; natural world. He who is filthy, then here are the animals, I place them un- will be filthy still, and he who refused der your control; and here are the trees to be enlightened, will be found to be in bearing fruit, and the grain and vegeta- darkness still, yea, in outer darkness, be- bles containing seed in themselves; go cause he despised the light and fought forth now and occupy the land, cultivate, against it, because his deeds were evil; improve, embellish, ornament and grat- he finds association with kindred spirits ify your eye, your taste, and satisfy your who like himself refused to obey, refused wants, eat, drink, and be merry, plow to put forth their hands and partake, and the ground, cast in the seed, and I will rejected the proffered gifts of heaven. send you the rains to water the earth, Their punishment is that of ceaseless re- and make it fruitful to reward your toil; morse, fully conscious of blessings cast and this covenant I make with you, that off and rejected, which blessings others so long as you see my bow in the heav- are permitted to enjoy, but which they ens, seed time and harvest shall never are not, because of their sins and trans- fail you. "But," says the sloth, "I will not gressions, and their own neglect of the do it, I wish to go and lay me down under means of grace. Their torment is the the shade of the trees in the hope that torment of the damned, and it is like some kind soul will bring me a little wa- the smoke that ascends up forever and ter to quench my thirst, and then bring ever; among them is found weeping and me some fruit, and put it into my mouth, wailing and gnashing of teeth, to use and then wag my jaws, or I lay me down the language of the Scripture. But for and die." Our Father says: "Then die like what? For blessings lost, for opportu- a fool; the penalty is your own, and the nities gone, for privileges ignored, for eternal mandate of heaven shall not be the means of grace, for glory and ex- revoked to indulge your idleness." And altation once within their reach, which the same may be said of all those who they, in their pride, would not receive, disbelieve in Christ, and who reject the for being deprived of the presence of God words of life when they are proclaimed and the Lamb, and the holy angels and in their ears without money and with- the sanctified ones, and of the keys of out price, and the ordinances of heaven immortality and eternal life and ever- made free to all. Those who disbelieve, lasting increase vouchsafed to the obe- they perish, and what is the condemna- dient, while they are doomed to perpet- tion they bring upon themselves? The ual darkness, which they have chosen condemnation of the sloth. He perishes in lieu of the blessings of the faithful, in his idleness; they in their ignorance and in which condition they will live to and their utter disregard of the means prey upon each other and to work out of grace, losing all the precious things the same evil passions which they de- that others enjoy who put forth their lighted to indulge in while in the flesh; hands and partake of the tree of life. the devil, who deluded them, will rejoice And when they die and go hence, they over their downfall, and will reign over will wake up in the spirit world, finding them until, peradventure, the time shall come when the long-suffering and mercy BLESSINGS OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 187 of an indulgent Father shall cause him and in their behalf. to send messengers from the terrestrial or celestial world, as the case may be, to Such is the beauty and extent of the see if there are any among them who, plan of salvation which God has revealed by their sad experience, have learned to his children on the earth. And truly it to appreciate the light, and are yearn- is as Paul has said of it—good news, glad ing for a better condition. And if they tidings of great joy revealed to all people; do, the offer of salvation may again be joy to the righteous, and will be a joy to made to them, and they, through the all people who appreciate it, henceforth means that our Savior has wrought out and forever. And that we as a people for them, and through the ordinances of may be worthy of it, walking in the light, the House of God, and the servants and and that our pathway may grow brighter handmaidens of God who may be called and brighter until the perfect day, is my priests and priestesses, to administer for prayer in the name of Jesus. Amen.

BLESSINGS OF THE GOSPEL ONLY OBTAINED BY COMPLIANCE WITH THE LAW.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER LORENZO SNOW, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, SALT LAKE CITY,MONDAY MORNING,APRIL 7, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

"And when Abram was ninety years "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your old and nine, the Lord appeared to Father which is in heaven is perfect." Abram, and said unto him, I am the In occupying a short time this morn- Almighty God; walk before me, and be ing, I desire an interest in your faith and thou perfect." prayers. In connection with this I will quote We learn that the Lord appeared part of the words of the Savior in his ser- to Abraham and made him very mon on the Mount, as contained in the great promises, and that before he last verse of the 5th chapter of Matthew. was prepared to receive them a cer- 188 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. tain requirement was made of him, that discipline of the mind and heart in or- he should become perfect before the der to obey this commandment. And al- Lord. And the same requirement was though we may fail at first in our at- made by the Savior of his disciples, that tempts, yet this should not discourage they should become perfect, even as he the Latter-day Saints from endeavoring and his Father in heaven were perfect. to exercise a determination to comply This I conceive to be a subject that con- with the great requirement. Abraham, cerns the Latter-day Saints; and I wish although he might have had faith to to offer a few remarks by way of sugges- walk before the Lord according to this di- tion, for the reflection of those whom it vine law, yet there were times when his concerns. faith was sorely tried, but still he was The Lord proposes to confer the high- not discouraged because he exercised a est blessings upon the Latter-day Saints; determination to comply with the will but, like Abraham, we must prepare our- of God. We may think that we can- selves for them, and to do this the same not live up to the perfect law, that the law that was given to him of the Lord work of perfecting ourselves is too diffi- has been given to us for our observance. cult. This may be true in part, but the We also are required to arrive at a state fact still remains that it is a command of of perfection before the Lord; and the the Almighty to us and we cannot ignore Lord in this case, the same as in ev- it. When we experience trying moments, ery other, has not made a requirement then is the time for us to avail ourselves that cannot be complied with, but on of that great privilege of calling upon the other hand, He has placed for the the Lord for strength and understand- use of the Latter-day Saints the means ing, intelligence and grace by which we by which they can conform to His holy can overcome the weakness of the flesh order. When the Lord made this re- against which we have to make a contin- quirement of Abraham, He gave him the ual warfare. means by which he could become quali- fied to obey that law and come up fully Abraham was called to leave his kin- to the requirement. He had the privi- dred and country. Had he not com- lege of the Holy Spirit, as we are told the plied with this requirement, he would Gospel was preached to Abraham, and not have been approved of the Lord. But through that Gospel he could obtain that he did comply; and while he was leav- divine aid which would enable him to un- ing his home, he no doubt was living in derstand the things of God, and with- obedience to this divine law of perfection. out it no man could arrive at a state of Had he failed in this, he certainly could perfection before the Lord. So in refer- not have obeyed the requirements of the ence to the Latter-day Saints, they could Almighty. And while he was leaving his not possibly come up to such a moral father's house, while he was subjecting and spiritual standard except through himself to this trial, he was doing that supernatural aid and assistance. Nei- which his own conscience and the Spirit ther do we expect that the Latter-day of God justified him in doing, and nobody Saints, at once will or can conform to this could have done better, providing he was law under all circumstances. It requires doing no wrong when he was performing time; it requires much patience and this labor. BLESSINGS OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 189

When the Latter-day Saints received with this command of God, especially the Gospel in the nations afar, and when seeing that he has placed within our the voice of the Almighty to them was, to reach the means of accomplishing this leave the lands of their fathers, to leave work. This I understand is the mean- their kindred as Abraham did, so far as ing of the word perfection, as expressed they complied with this requirement, so by our Savior and by the Lord to Abra- far they were walking in obedience to ham. A person may be perfect in regard this law; and they were as perfect as men to some things and not others. A person could be under the circumstances, and who obeys the word of wisdom faithfully, in the sphere in which they were acting, is perfect as far as that law is concerned. not that they were perfect in knowledge When we repented of our sins and were or power, etc.; but in their feelings, in baptized for the remission of them, we their integrity, motives and determina- were perfect as far as that matter was tion. And while they were crossing the concerned. Now we are told by the Apos- great deep, providing they did not mur- tle John, that "we are the sons of God, mur nor complain, but obeyed the coun- but it does not appear what we shall be: sels which were given them, and in every but we know that, when he shall appear, way comported themselves in a becom- we shall be like him; for we shall see ing manner, they were as perfect as God him as he is." "And every man that hath required them to be. this hope in him purifieth himself, even The Lord designs to bring us up into as he [Christ] is pure." The Latter-day the celestial kingdom. He has made Saints expect to arrive at this state of known, through direct revelation, that perfection; we expect to become as our we are His offspring, begotten in the Father and God, fit and worthy children eternal worlds, that we have come to this to dwell in his presence; we expect that earth for the special purpose of prepar- when the Son of God shall appear, we ing ourselves to receive a fullness of our shall receive our bodies renewed and glo- Father's glory when we shall return into rified, and that "these vile bodies will be his presence. Therefore, we must seek changed, and become like unto his glo- the ability to keep this law, to sanctify rious body." These are our expectations. our motives, desires, feelings and affec- Now let all present put this question to tions, that they may be pure and holy, themselves. Are our expectations well and our will in all things be subservient founded? In other words, are we seeking to the will of God, and have no will of to purify ourselves? How can a Latter- our own except to do the will of our day Saint feel justified in himself unless Father. Such a man in his sphere is he is seeking to purify himself even as perfect, and commands the blessing of God is pure—unless he is seeking to keep God in all that he does and wherever his conscience void of offense before God he goes. But we are subject to folly, to and man every day of his life. We doubt- the weakness of the flesh, and we are less, many of us, walk from day to day, more or less ignorant, thereby liable to and from week to week, and from month err. Yes, but that is no reason why to month, before God, feeling under we should not feel desirous to comply 190 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. no condemnation, comporting ourselves time in Abraham's life, however, which properly, and seeking earnestly and in must have been very trying; in fact all meekness for the Spirit of God to anything more severe can scarcely be dictate our daily course; and yet there conceived of; that was when the Lord may be a certain time or times in our called upon him to offer as a sacrifice his life, when we are greatly tried and per- beloved and only son, even him through haps overcome; even if this be so, that is whom he expected the fulfillment of the no reason why we should not try again, great promise made him by the Lord; but and that, too, with redoubled energy through manifesting a proper disposition and determination to accomplish our ob- he was enabled to surmount the trial, ject. There was the Apostle Peter, for and prove his faith and integrity to God. instance, a man valiant for the truth, It can hardly be supposed that Abraham and a man who walked before God in inherited such a state of mind from his a manner that met with his divine ap- idolatrous parents; but it is consistent to proval; he told the Savior on a certain oc- believe that under the blessing of God casion that though all men forsook him he was enabled to acquire it, after go- he would not. But the Savior, foresee- ing through a similar warfare with the ing what would happen, told him that on flesh as we are, and doubtless being over- that same night, before the cock crowed, come at times and then overcoming until he would deny him thrice, and he did so. he was enabled to stand so severe a test. He proved himself unequal for the trial; "Let this same mind be in you," says the but afterwards he gained power, and his Apostle Paul, "which was also in Christ mind was disciplined to that extent that Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, such trials could not possibly affect him. thought it not robbery to be equal with And if we could read in detail the life of God." Now every man that has this ob- Abraham, or the lives of other great and ject before him will purify himself as God holy men, we would doubtless find that is pure, and try to walk perfectly before their efforts to be righteous were not al- him. We have our little follies and our ways crowned with success. Hence we weaknesses; we should try to overcome should not be discouraged if we should them as fast as possible, and we should be overcome in a weak moment; but, on inculcate this feeling in the hearts of our the contrary, straightway repent of the children, that the fear of God may grow error or the wrong we may have commit- up with them from their very youth, and ted, and as far as possible repair it, and that they may learn to comport them- then seek to God for renewed strength to selves properly before him under all cir- go on and do better. cumstances. If the husband can live Abraham could walk perfectly before with his wife one day without quarreling God day after day when he was leaving or without treating anyone unkindly or his father's house, and he showed evi- without grieving the Spirit of God in any dences of a superior and well-disciplined way, that is well so far; he is so far per- mind in the course he suggested when fect. Then let him try to be the same the his herdsmen quarreled with the herds- next day. But supposing he should fail in men of his nephew, Lot. There came a this his next day's attempt? That is no BLESSINGS OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 191 reason why he should not succeed in do- the child shall die an hundred years ing so the third day. If the Apostle Pe- old." And in another scripture we are ter had become discouraged at his mani- told that the age of the infant shall be fest failure to maintain the position that as the age of a tree, and that it shall he had taken to stand by the Savior un- not die until it shall be old, and then der all circumstances, he would have lost it shall not slumber in the dust but all; whereas, by repenting and persever- be changed in the twinkling of an eye. ing he lost nothing but gained all, leav- But in those days people must live per- ing us too to profit by his experience. The fectly before the Lord, for we are told in Latter-day Saints should cultivate this the same passage, that "the sinner," in- ambition constantly which was so clearly stead of being favored, "being an hun- set forth by the apostles in former days. dred years old shall be accursed." When We should try to walk each day so that we once get it into our minds that we our conscience would be void of offense really have the power within ourselves before everybody. And God has placed through the gospel we have received, to in the Church certain means by which conquer our passions, our appetites and we can be assisted, namely, apostles, and in all things submit our will to the will prophets, and evangelists, etc., "for the of our Heavenly Father, and, instead of perfecting of the saints," etc. And he has being the means of generating unpleas- also conferred upon us his Holy Spirit, ant feeling in our family circle, and those which is an unerring guide, standing as with whom we are associated, but assist- an angel of God at our side, telling us ing greatly to create a little heaven upon what to do, and affording us strength earth, then the battle may be said to be and succor when adverse circumstances half won. One of the chief difficulties arise in our way. We must not allow that many suffer from is, that we are too ourselves to be discouraged whenever we apt to forget the great object of life, the discover our weakness. We can scarcely motive of our Heavenly Father in send- find an instance in all the glorious ex- ing us here to put on mortality, as well as amples set us by the prophets, ancient the holy calling with which we have been or modern, wherein they permitted the called; and hence, instead of rising above Evil One to discourage them; but on the little transitory things of time, we too the other hand they constantly sought often allow ourselves to come down to the to overcome, to win the prize, and thus level of the world without availing our- prepare themselves for a fulness of glory. selves of the divine help which God has The Prophet Elijah succeeded. He so instituted, which alone can enable us to walked before God that he was worthy overcome them. We are no better than to be translated. And Enoch was found the rest of the world if we do not culti- worthy to walk with God some 300 years, vate the feeling to be perfect, even as our and was at last, with his people, taken Father in heaven is perfect. up to heaven. This was the exhortation of the We are told that in the latter Savior to the former-day Saints, who days, "There shall be no more thence were a people of like passions and an infant of days, nor an old man who were subject to the same temp- that hath not filled his days: for tations as ourselves, and he knew 192 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. whether the people could conform to it see our young people take a course that or not; the Lord never has, nor will he the light and intelligence of God can require things of his children which it beam in their countenances, that they is impossible for them to perform. The may have a correct understanding of life, Elders of Israel who expect to go forth and be able to live above the follies and to preach the gospel of salvation in the vanities of the world and the errors and midst of a crooked and perverse gener- wickedness of man. ation, among a people who are full of May God bless you, brethren and sis- evil and corruption, should cultivate this ters, and pour out His Holy Spirit upon spirit especially. And not only they, but you, that you may be blessed in all your everybody, every young man and woman acts, in your incomings and your out- belonging to this Church who is wor- goings and in the performance of ev- thy to be called a Saint, should culti- ery duty, and be blessed in calling upon vate this desire to live up to this require- the Almighty, that His Spirit may be ment that their consciences may be clear in you as a well of water springing up before God. It is a beautiful thing, ei- to everlasting life, to guide you in His ther in young or old, to have this ob- fear through all the scenes of life, is my ject in view; it is especially delightful to prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

MANIFEST BLESSINGS OF GOD TO THE SAINTS—PROPER EDUCATION OF THE YOUNG—INFIDELITY THE RESULT OF IGNORANCE.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER MOSES THATCHER, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, TUESDAY AFTERNOON,APRIL 8, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

In trying to address so large an things that we, as Elders in Israel, audience, I earnestly desire an inter- should always be pleased to speak est in the prayers of my brethren of, and particularly in this the case and sisters, that the few remarks I in reference to the kindness of our may offer may be dictated by the Father in heaven towards us as a Spirit of God. There are many people. We are permitted to dwell MANIFEST BLESSINGS OF GOD, ETC. 193 in peace, surrounded with the blessings man in chaining the lightning, thus mak- of life and liberty, having pleasant homes ing it to serve his purposes; and while it wherein to dwell, and God to be our Fa- was the work of man that molded and ther and Friend. When I look around fashioned the metal into the wire over upon the homes of the Latter-day Saints which intelligence is transmitted by the and see how the elements have been power of electricity, I would help to lead changed and made so propitious, en- their minds beyond, so that they may abling us to produce food and clothing, comprehend that the material of which the necessities and many of the luxuries that wire is composed was the creation of life, my heart is exceedingly grateful, and work of God, and that the electric- for I must confess there is no land with ity itself is at the bidding and mandate which I am familiar where the blessings of the great Jehovah. of God are so abundantly bestowed as in I believe, my brethren and sisters, if our own. It appears to me that every we take proper pains in the education of bud is not only willing, but does blossom, the young, employing the right kind of and where seed by man is sown broad- men and women to be their preceptors, cast in the ground it comes forth, bear- that instead of the seeds of infidelity be- ing twenty, thirty, or fifty fold. This, my ing sown in their minds, we will have brethren and sisters, is not the result of faith, and in that faith we will have the the work of man; but it is the blessings of manifestations of power. our Heavenly Father. And how any hu- In talking with the learned of the man being can look upon the mountains world we find that they have but a faint by which we are surrounded, and gaze conception of God and Godliness. Were upon the beautiful fields and smiling na- you to tell them that they hate God, ture seen on every hand, and not be able or that the carnal mind is at enmity to acknowledge God in all these things is against God, they would not understand beyond my comprehension. In speaking you. And yet, when we come to the ac- to the young people particularly I have tual facts, we find that the learned and had sometimes pleasure in referring to many professors of Christianity really do the works of man, comparing them with hate God. I do not mean to say they the works of God. And while I believe hate the God they themselves picture it proper for us to look with pleasure in their own minds; but that they hate upon the accomplishments of art and sci- and fight against him whose attributes ence, and upon the skilled workmanship and character are portrayed within the of man, yet I would have our young peo- lids of the Bible. The Supreme Ruler ple always realize that God is the orig- of the universe, the Creator of the heav- inator; I would have them understand, ens and the earth, is not only the tender as the arts and sciences are being de- and loving Being that the pious Chris- veloped and new discoveries are being tian of the 19th century pictures him brought out by what we call the genius to be—he is not only willing to love of man, that God understood all these and cherish and save the human fam- things before they were made known ily, but he is also a Being of justice and to us. And while having them admire judgment, having always power enough and wonder at the grand achievement of to inflict punishment upon the breakers of his laws. Yet modern divines think 194 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. with horror of a God who would inflict the predictions therein recorded. If they punishment, on the plea that such would would do this with prayerful hearts and be revengeful; and yet, neither they nor with the wisdom God may give them, any of our professed Christian friends there will be little or nothing to fear from would for a moment find fault with the the readings of infidel works. I take the judge of an inferior earthly court for broad ground that in infidelity is igno- passing judgment on a criminal, though rance. You meet the infidel and you will it might lead even to the loss of the life find him as a general thing, ignorant in of a fellow creature. regard to that which is laid down in the Having but a very short time to oc- Bible, which he claims to disbelieve. It cupy this afternoon my remarks must has been so from the beginning. It is a necessarily be brief. But before closing truth that has been uttered on many oc- I feel to bear my testimony that here in casions by the servants of God, that it is Utah is a people who are trying to serve easier and more natural for mankind to the Lord. And I testify too, that Joseph believe a hundred falsehoods than to ac- Smith was and is a prophet of the liv- cept a single truth. It must be apparent ing God, chosen of Him to open up the to all, that it is more in harmony with last dispensation to man—the dispensa- our fallen nature to do wrong than to do tion of the fulness of times; and that his right. Let six boys be taken, for instance, successor, Brigham Young, was an apos- and be carefully taught in the principles tle of the Lord Jesus, and a prophet, seer of morality, virtue and truth; and an- and revelator. And I feel to bear my tes- other six in the follies and wickedness timony that this same power and rev- of the world and see which of the two elation rests upon his servant, Brother sets will make the most rapid progress, John Taylor. If we would live for the those in the right, or those in the wrong? light of God's Holy Spirit we might see All will readily agree with me that im- not as with eyes through a glass darkly, morality is more easily acquired than the but with eyes that see clearly having also virtues, and hence we may conclude that ears capable of hearing, and hearts full we are in a fallen world, and that we to understand. have the battle against sin to fight. It is our duty, as young men, as middle-aged men and as aged men to May the blessings of God rest down bestow great care and attention on the upon the Latter-day Saints. And by way education of the young. It is not par- of conclusion I will say, if we want to ticularly the duty of the father, as I dream dreams or see visions, it is our understand it, to place in the hands privilege to do so, but we must first of his son the writings of Payne and purify our hearts and seek to love the other infidel authors unless they fol- Lord our God with all our might, mind low up the reading of such works with and strength, and our neighbor as our- good sound argument, and then place selves; and to do unto others as we the Bible and the Book of Mormon in would have others do unto us. And per- their hands to be read and studied, mit me to say that in all my experi- and, when necessary, correctly explained ence in life I have found as yet but one showing wherein the Lord has wrought thing that can afford true happiness and out the literal fulfillment of many of true enjoyment, and that is a conscious- INFLUENCE OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS, ETC. 195 ness of keeping the commandments of health to attend us and ours, which was God. And if we, Latter-day Saints, the case years ago in the primeval days will live near unto him, he will be of the Church. If we have lost any of near unto us. And instead of having these blessings it is not through any to call in physicians to minister to the fault in the Lord, or that there is less members of our families when sickness power and efficacy in the priesthood we makes its appearance, the power of God bear, but rather in our own lack of faith will be upon us in such rich abundance in the promises made to the faithful. as to enable us to rebuke it from our Amen. dwellings, and to invoke the blessings of

INFLUENCE OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS—THEIR MISSION—THE MARRIAGE RELATION—CAPITAL AND LABOR—RELIGIOUS LIBERTY.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,APRIL 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

In some respects I would prefer to is a spirit connected with the assembling sit and listen to my brethren speak, together of a large body of people, such and to partake in quietude of the spirit as we witness today, that must affect of this Conference, than I would to those who are sensitive to impressions, speak myself. But there is a duty de- and especially when one has been ab- volving upon me I presume, the same sent among strangers, to feel that he is as upon my brethren and I desire to home among his friends, among a people the best of my ability to discharge who are his brethren and sisters, whose that duty. The sight of so many peo- faith is his faith, and who are laboring ple, the singing, the speaking of our and struggling to accomplish the same brethren this morning and the spirit that objects that he himself has in his heart. I I felt when I entered this building to- rejoice exceedingly, my brethren and sis- day almost overpowered me. There is ters, this day in your midst, and I am an influence, there is a power, there 196 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. thankful for the delightful circum- slime, from the mire, and from the abject stances by which you are surrounded. I ruin into which, in too many instances, am thankful that the prospects before they are plunged, to contemplate hu- you are so promising, so full of hope and manity in its better aspects, humanity in so delightful to contemplate. It is true its noble appearances, with its Godlike we have had sickness, we have had many attributes, with its powers for good, its deaths, this has been a cause of regret. capability of accomplishing great results. But death is unavoidable, and with it There is something in the very fact of a all we are in much better circumstances people believing in God in these days of and more favorably situated than the atheism and utter infidelity that brings generality of the children of men. The men to serious contemplation. They say Latter-day Saints are rapidly becoming very frequently that it is fanaticism, but a great and important people. The influ- there is something about fanaticism that ence that attends us is being more widely is healthy, refreshing, invigorating in its felt; our power for good is increasing, our example, for no man ever accomplished strength, our union and the other quali- anything on this earth, without exposing ties that we possess, and which we have himself by his actions, his earnestness manifested through our career, are be- and enthusiasm and zeal, to the charge ing more recognized every day. It has al- of fanaticism. I am willing we should be ways been a favorite idea of mine, that called fanatics. I have a right to be a fa- no single human being who chooses to natic if I wish to be, as long as my fanati- exert an influence for good among his cism does not interfere with the rights fellow men, ever spoke or ever acted in of my fellow man. That is a barrier be- vain—without making his influence, his yond which my fanaticism should not be example, his words, have an effect upon allowed to go. those with whom he has been brought in contact. If this be true concerning It is refreshing to see a people who an individual, how much more truth is not only believe in God, but who are will- there in it when applied to an assem- ing to show their belief by suffering for blage of individuals, and to a community, his cause—to leave their friends, to leave to hundreds of communities, to a great their homes, to suffer exile, persecution, people stretching through these moun- privations, hardships, and even death for tains and filling these valleys? We have the sake of God, for the sake of religion, not lived in vain. We have not sought for the sake of principle. What would to exhibit lives of temperance, of indus- life be if it were not for such people and try, of frugality, of self-denial, lives of for such characters? Why, their pecu- righteousness with the fear of God be- liar lives illume the somber darkness of fore our eyes, nor have we lived these ages; they are bright spots in history. lives during the last 49 years, without When we look back and recall the men the effect being felt, not only upon those who have suffered and died for princi- by whom we are surrounded, but by the ple, even if they died wrongfully, we find world at large. There is something con- something about their heroic lives that nected with the example of such a people is glorious to contemplate. And when a that elevates men and women from the whole people can be found, such as are in INFLUENCE OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS, ETC. 197 these mountains, who are capable of make his sons and daughters better making the sacrifices which they have qualified, better equipped for the great made, there is something, as I have said, struggle of life and better able to per- in their example and in their lives that form their part in this glorious work influences men, that impresses them, that God has established than himself; and that causes them, whatever their that is one thing the parents of the ris- feelings may be respecting the belief of ing generation of these mountains can these people, to feel a profound and do. I have never felt as I do today, heartfelt respect for them; for no man or and as I have recently, of the great im- woman properly constituted ever failed portance of our training and educating to respect devotion to principle, moral our children to the greatest and best ad- courage and the qualities that are exhib- vantage, that nothing shall be left un- ited in the lives of the Saints; I therefore done on our part to prepare them for the say, we have not lived in vain; we have great work which they have to perform. not preached in vain; we have not suf- This is a labor that we can accomplish. fered in vain; we have not protested in It does not depend so much upon the vain. The fruits of these labors of ours knowledge of books; a great many people which apparently have been so long in imagine that only books are necessary coming, will be reaped in the great har- for education; but the man is best edu- vest yet to be reaped upon the earth. cated, in my opinion, who has thought I feel to speak these words of en- the most, and that correctly. So far as couragement to my brethren and sisters, theology is concerned, we have been able, many of whom feel probably that their by the blessing of God, the light of the obscure lives and struggles, their contest Holy Ghost, and the power of truth, to with poverty, their humble and eventful go forth unlearned, illiterate, and un- histories are sometimes of so little value prepared, so far as worldly education is that they are comparatively worthless in concerned, and by virtue of the knowl- the earth. I say to the humble strug- edge that comes down from above, the gler, to the man or woman who may be elders of this Church have gone forth content with poverty, whose life may be and met the world of Christendom. I uneventful in his own estimation, who do not speak in vanity, nor in the spirit may be hidden from the popular sight of boasting when I say they have never and may not figure on the world's stage, been vanquished. The learned, the ed- I say to every such person, as a Latter- ucated, the professed theologians when day Saint, You have a great and impor- they have met the elders of this Church tant mission to perform, and if you per- with the Bible in their hands, have been form the duties devolving upon you prop- compelled to retreat before the power of erly, your influence will be felt; and in truth proclaimed by uneducated but in- the days to come, in that great day of God spired men. Is our mission accomplished Almighty, your worth will be fully recog- by having done this? I feel that we as a nized, and you will shine as a jewel in people are only on the threshold of the the kingdom of our Redeemer. great work that lies before us. We have There is one thing that every par- an immense field of labor stretched out ent can do. He can endeavor to before us. When you look ahead and try 198 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to see its limits, the field of usefulness, old follies, and freedom of thought has which stretches out before this people taken place in our midst; but the great called Latter-day Saints, is beyond the labor that devolves upon us is to edu- reach of human vision; it is illimitable, cate ourselves, and then we can soon stretching out in the far distant future. educate the rest of mankind, for as I Is there a wrong upon the earth to be have said, our example is felt; the influ- righted? If so, it is our bounden duty ence of it goes forth and bears its fruit to attempt its correction. Is there a among other people. But it is a most false principle extant? It is our bounden difficult thing to get these Latter-day duty to seek its eradication. Is there Saints to understand the principles that tyranny in the world, tyranny of the are as plain as the noonday sun—that body, tyranny of the mind, physical or they should receive readily, and why? mental tyranny? It devolves upon us as Because, as I have said, they are heirs Latter-day Saints to overthrow it. Are of the traditions of centuries that have there social problems to be solved? Who come down through the dark ages. It is shall solve them? Who can do so? Re- a wonderful thing to do what we have move the Latter-day Saints from the done respecting woman. Look at what field, and who can solve these problems monogamy has done. Look at its effects; which are pressing themselves upon the trace its influence from the death of the attention of all thinking people? The Apostles, or soon afterwards, down to whole earth is full of violence, wrong, this the nineteenth century, and what do oppression, misgovernment, and a thou- we behold? Why, in every generation a sand other evils which I cannot now enu- large percentage of our sisters has been merate. It devolves upon us, as fast consigned either to that nameless con- as we can reach these things, to cor- dition of which it is a shame to speak, rect them, to remove them. In the first or have died without ever knowing the place we have got to correct and remove joys of maternity. When I think of it, them from our own midst. It is a slow when I read the history of the boasted labor to train a people, brought as we civilization of the Greeks and the Ro- are from every nation, educated in every mans, and think of the boasted civiliza- creed, speaking almost every language tion of our day, inherited from these na- and heirs of every tradition. There is, tions, and witness its effects, I wonder false or true, wedded to us old customs how man, standing up in the face of and the evils of ages, which have been heaven, dare look at woman and talk transmitted from generation to genera- about being her protector. Read the his- tion until they have formed a strong part tory of the sex and of the frightful evils of our very being. It is a slow work, which have been brought upon our sis- I say, educating a people such as we ters through man's accursed traditions are. We have been at it now 49 years, and evils. If it were to be told to another and we can scarcely perceive, that is, people differently situated to us, with in comparison with that which lies be- different traditions to us, they could not fore us, the growth and the development believe that intelligent man would en- which have been made. But we have tertain for one moment, or that women grown, our minds have been enlarged, themselves, in view of what their sex has we have become emancipated from many INFLUENCE OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS, ETC. 199 suffered, would cherish and cling to the husband; each would be perfect, for the wretched traditions that have prevailed man is not perfect without the woman, in Christendom and to a certain extent nor the woman without the man. We yet prevail in our midst. turn in and make a law, such as pre- I know I am touching now upon what vailed at one time in Rome that every many people consider a tender spot. Say man shall marry a wife. Such a law they, "The decision of the Supreme Court was made at Rome at one time; it was has arranged all this." Yes, but it will aimed at celibacy. It was aimed at a cer- not stay arranged. Let me tell you, that tain class as the law of 1862 was aimed wrong may prevail and right may appar- at us. One was enacted to prevent mar- ently be crushed; but right must at last riage, the other to compel marriage, that prevail and claim its own in spite of laws, no class of men should grow up in the of decisions, of mandates, and every- community without wives, and that no thing that man can utter. I am talking woman should be allowed to forsake man now not respecting law; I am not talk- and become a nun. We have such a law, ing respecting tradition; I am not talk- say in this tabernacle. That answers ing about "Mormon" plural marriage or very well. Every woman is provided with patriarchal marriage; I am talking about a husband, and every man with a wife. men and women, brethren and sisters as But after a while somebody comes along such. Come let us reason together; let us and says, "I do not like this law, it is op- talk together, not as religionists, not as pressive; I know, for instance, where it "Mormons," not as monogamists, not as works very badly; I know men who do not polygamists, not as citizens of Christen- want to have wives." They prefer a sin- dom, but as men and women, the chil- gle life, and they succeed after a while in dren of God, as brethren and sisters of repealing the law, as they did in Rome. the one family. Let us talk together face The law is repealed and men are at lib- to face, in plainness, in simplicity, with- erty to marry or not as they please. On out allowing tradition to have weight the top of this another law is enacted, with us, to blind our understandings. It in effect that every man shall have but is in this spirit that I wish to talk upon one wife, and shall not be permitted to this subject. take two or more wives. The women, of Here is a family, a family composed course, have to do just as the men say, of men and women, and we will say they cannot compel the men to marry this tabernacle contains this entire fam- them, but must wait until they are in- ily of God upon the earth, for the vited to marry. This law suits a great sake of illustrating the point. Here many individuals. Many men say, "I pre- are men and women in equal num- fer not to have a wife and especially if bers and equal proportions, one sex not you will only make a law confining the outnumbering the other—a man for a men to marry but one wife each. I like woman and a woman for a man, no sur- that very well, because I will not then be plus of women, no surplus of men. If under the necessity of keeping a wife. If I they were to marry, each would have want a partner, an associate, I can have a partner, each man would have a one without being at the trouble or ex- wife and each woman would have a pense of keeping her as such. Because if 200 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. you confine marriage to one man and now then, the plan that I have to propose one woman there will necessarily be a to our family is this, that every man shall share of the women who cannot be mar- marry until all the women are married, ried; that is, if the sexes are equal in until every woman that wants a husband numbers. Then I can do as I please. I shall have one, so that the men who will know the confiding nature of woman; I not marry shall not have a class of un- know how she loves, how she clings to married women, to prey upon, to com- the object of her love. This will be my mit violence with, or to prostitute. Now," opportunity." But what shall be said re- says he, "if you let all these men and specting the women. The men so far women marry, there will be some women as they are concerned, have the right who will not want to marry, but that pro- to marry or not as they please. But portion will be very small; and by this here is a large percentage of the women means you will arrest this dreadful evil who by this law are to a certain extent that is growing in our midst." deprived from marrying, even suppos- Now let me put this to you; let us rea- ing the sexes to be equal. A civil com- son upon this, face to face, as I have said. motion arises. Men go to war, they go Which will be the better plan? According to sea, they engage in commercial pur- to my judgment, speaking as one of this suits, they leave their homes, they en- family, not as a member of Congress, not gage in hazardous occupations. The re- as a "Mormon" but as one of the family sult is that though in the beginning the I have described. The latter law is far men and women were equal in numbers, superior to the other. I would say, as a by the effects of war, and of engaging in father, if I had a family of that kind, by hazardous pursuits which women do not all means let my daughters marry, let ev- follow, the men die and are killed, and ery woman have a husband that wants the women survive and outnumber the one. Then if every man marries a wife, males. The operation of a law then, such they will only have a wife apiece; but if as I have described, increases the hard- there should be any of the boys that do ship, increases the percentage of those not want wives, the girls would not nec- who are not married and who have no op- essarily go without husbands. portunity of marrying. Here comes along I consider our false tradition upon a man after witnessing the evils that this subject one of the greatest evils at have grown up among his brothers and the present time that exists upon the sisters, and says, "I have a plan to sug- earth. It has come down to us from gest which I believe will cure the evils the Greeks and Romans, than whom that exist among us. I see that a dread- a more abominable lot of people never ful vice called prostitution has crept into lived upon the earth. To read their our midst, and arising from it are dread- books is enough to make a man with ful diseases, diseases that I cannot de- the least feeling of modesty blush and be scribe, so appalling are they that the ashamed of his race. Yet they are in- very thought of them makes the heart re- troduced into our literature. Whoever coil with horror; they have appeared in reads Horace, Sallust, and numbers of our family circle and they are destroy- those authors, well knows how full of ing our young men and women. And corruption they are. Not only crimes, INFLUENCE OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS, ETC. 201 but crimes against nature were justified habitation for man; that He possessing, by some of the best and most noted of as we know he does, infinite wisdom, has Greek philosophers, and were practiced placed men and women, his sons and by Sophocles, Socrates, and others; and daughters, upon the earth in the midst yet this is the philosophy that has come of evils such as I have briefly alluded down to us. They had a class of women in to, and provided no remedy therefore. I their midst who were regularly compen- could no more believe it than I could be- sated and sustained as courtesans; they lieve this light to be darkness. But I were maintained in order that the purity do believe that in the bosom of the Fa- of the domestic circle might be unpol- ther there is wisdom to create all, to luted. And this has come down to us in carry out all, and to make this earth a Christendom, in Europe and America to heaven, where peace, love, joy and hap- the present time. The fairest of Earth's piness shall prevail, and where there daughters fall yearly sacrifices to the shall be no sin, no sorrow, no heartrend- abominable lusts of men. How is the do- ing or pain, where man and woman will mestic circle preserved in monogamous dwell together in perfect peace, love and countries today? It is only preserved at harmony, and children grow up in purity the expense of this class to which I have with every heavenly surrounding. referred, by these priestesses of human- ity, blasted for the sins of the people, liv- ing short lives and carrying with them I have said, probably, enough on this the effects of man's abominable lust. subject. I merely wish to point out and Now I do not want to talk today about to show that certain evils exist and that law; I do not want to talk today about they need correction. How shall they its effects in relation to this subject— be corrected? Who shall point out the the subject of "Mormon" patriarchal mar- remedy? I believe God has done it, and riage; I do not want to talk about the he will continue to do it; he will bring law of 1862, nor the decision of the to pass in his own way and in his own Supreme Court of the United States af- due time all the corrections necessary to fecting it; but I want to deal with the change all this. This subject of itself, facts that stare us in the face. Shall affecting as it does the happiness, wel- we correct these evils? "O," says one, fare and prosperity of the human fam- "they always existed." Out upon such ily, is one of almost overshadowing im- doctrine; we do not believe it. I can- portance. But there are other evils under not believe that the Great Creator, he which mankind groan. There are evils in who formed the universe, who placed regard to wealth and the management of the sun in the center of our solar sys- property, the organization of capital and tem and caused those planets to revolve the organization of labor, the relations, around it; that that being who created that labor shall bear to capital, and cap- these things, and produced order out of ital to labor. There are questions of this chaos, who said, "Let there be light: and kind that press themselves upon the at- there was light;" who called forth out of tention of statesmen, and upon the at- chaos the elements from which our earth tention of every man of thought and re- is formed and created it as a glorious flection, and he sees there is room for 202 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the exercise of the most profound wis- be maintained, the principle, that ac- dom, and the greatest talent in order tuated the founders of our government, that these things may be corrected. It when they laid the foundation stone devolves upon us, Latter-day Saints, to thereof, that in matters of religious con- help to accomplish this work. It devolves cernment no man has a right to step be- upon us, and will devolve upon us more tween his fellow man and his God. I particularly in the near future, to main- may worship idols; I may burn incense tain upon this continent and through to idols; I may worship the sun and pay this broad land pure republican institu- adoration to him, the great luminary of tions, constitutional liberty in its broad- day; I may do other things which may est sense. For the day is not far distant seem equally improper, but have I not when the power such as is growing up in the right to do these things under our the mountains will be needed. Conflict of constitution? Was it not the intention parties, an increase of party feeling, an of the framers of our form of govern- increased disposition to take possession ment that every man should have this of power by any means, no matter what right? Certainly it was; and it can be it might be, are becoming general in the clearly proved that this was their inten- United States. This is so self-evident tion, that this was the spirit that actu- that no man, unless completely wedded ated and prompted them. to the idea that this nation will exist in In Salt Lake City, if the "Mormons" perpetuity, can fail to see for himself that had supreme control—I say "Mormons," there is a crisis approaching in the af- I ought to say Latter-day Saints—if they fairs of our nation. Already the feeling had supreme control from our north- prevails that in order to accomplish cer- ern boundary in Idaho, to the southern tain things fraud is justifiable. Money boundary, Arizona, and from our east- is used to an extent in the accomplish- ern boundary, Colorado, to our western ing of certain results in government af- boundary, Nevada; if we had supreme fairs, and in politics that you, as a peo- control and undisputed possession of this ple who live in these mountains, have land, without the right of dominion over scarcely any conception of. And this is in- us being questioned, we would have no creasing. What the end will be is not dif- authority under the constitution under ficult to foretell. Republicanism ceases which we live to say to any human be- to be republicanism whenever fraud en- ing within these confines how he should ters into the decision of questions and worship, what he should or should not the will of the people cannot be properly do in order to please the Creator. If the ascertained. Chinaman should come here and build So far as religious liberty is con- a Joss house and burn incense to Joss, cerned we have fought that battle if he prostrate himself in adoration be- thus far with tolerable success; but fore the images that he thinks repre- we have yet to contend still more sents his deity, we have no right in the for greater liberty, not for ourselves world to interfere with him. If an In- alone, but for every human being gersoll should come here and say that that dwells upon this land, from the he did not believe in any God at all, east to the west and from the north and he could carry his feelings into prac- to the south. The principle must tice, we would have no right to interfere INFLUENCE OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS, ETC. 203 with him. Under the circumstances I Chinaman comes in your midst, teach have described, he would have a perfect your children to respect him. When any right to believe in God or not. We would other man of any other creed, race or have no right to interfere with a man color takes his abode among you, teach who, believing his priest has power to your children to respect his form of wor- remit his sins, would enter the confes- ship. And if they go to the church of sional chamber for the purpose of hav- the Catholics or that of the Presbyteri- ing them forgiven; or with the Episco- ans or of any other sect, teach them to palian who may choose to sprinkle his behave themselves and treat everybody infant, or the Jew because he believed with civility and kindness, and that it is in circumcising his infant child, or with none of their business how these sects the Baptist because he believed in bap- worship, teach that they violate good or- tism by immersion. But supposing that der and good law when they in any way a man should come along that believes make light of religious exercises. I would it his right and in accordance with his whip a boy for it quicker than for any- religious convictions to marry more than thing else. That is the freedom I believe one wife, and he takes care of his wives in; that is the freedom I mean to teach to and provides for them properly accord- my children and to all men so far as my ing to his religion, believing that in the voice and influence extend; that is the eternity to come he will dwell with them. freedom I mean to contend for and, as I Some of us may think that his ideas of have said hundreds of times to leading heaven are very materialistic; we may men of this nation, I will, if necessary, think him a very foolish man for hav- take my sons and make them swear that ing such a belief, and especially for go- they will stand by and maintain this lib- ing to the expense of keeping three or erty as long as they live and contend for four wives; these may be the popular it and teach their children after them to ideas about him, but if he carries out contend for it also. I believe in the fullest his belief from a religious standpoint, liberty upon these points. We have been he has a perfect right to do it in the accused of exclusiveness. Our hearts face of God and even under the consti- have many times warmed towards "Gen- tution of our land. The Parsee and fire- tiles," as they are called. We have ex- worshipper and men of kindred belief tended the arms of kindness thousands may yet come to this land of liberty; and and thousands of times to them, as our I tell you if the spirit of the Constitution history has proved. We have been full be maintained, as the Latter-day Saints of that disposition. But how have our will yet maintain it, they will have a advances been met? Let those in this perfect right to worship their God ac- tabernacle and those who are familiar cording to the dictates of their own con- with such matters read the newspapers. sciences without any to molest or make I have had people visit me at my house afraid. The only time that these men where every attention and courtesy can be interfered with will be when their would be shown them, and they would religious acts interfere with the rights leave and perhaps through reading and liberties of their fellow men. Hear newspaper articles consisting of abom- it, ye Latter-day Saints! When John inable lies, would go away and betray 204 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. those who had received and treated them of all the races of men and of every creed kindly and hospitably and so often has and nationality. When he establishes his this been the case that I have almost kingdom it will protect all in their equal sworn I will never do it again. It is not rights; I as a Latter-day Saint, will not because we have unkind feelings. The have power to trample on my fellow man time will come when we will have power; who may not be orthodox in my opin- at present we are in the minority, and ion, because I am a Latter-day Saint; nor it pays for scribblers to write about us will my fellow man to whom I am het- and hold us up to ridicule. But suppose erodox, have the power to trample upon the Latter-day Saints had control; sup- me. Does not that look right? That is the pose their ideas were fulfilled, that is, kind of kingdom we have to contend for; that we, as it is destined we shall be, that is the kind of kingdom we have to were the people who uphold Constitu- establish, and it is already provided for tional government upon this continent, in the Constitution given unto us by God, who restored the government to its prim- and through the glorious labors of the fa- itive condition when all the political par- thers who laid the foundation of this gov- ties shall have fallen into chaos; would ernment, who were inspired and raised we feel at liberty to say that none but by our Almighty Father for this express the Latter-day Saints should be elected purpose. There is no liberty that a hu- to offices of trust and responsibility? No. man being can desire, neither is there a Joseph Smith set the pattern; he taught right that can be exercised properly, that the brethren who were with him bet- we do not have under the Constitution of ter ideas; you well-informed Latter-day our land. It needs no amendment about Saints know that there are two pow- it; it is broad enough, if interpreted in its ers which God has restored in these the true spirit, to cover the individual, the last days. One is the Church of God, continent, and the entire globe and fur- the other the Kingdom of God. A man nish freedom for all. may belong to the Kingdom of God and yet not be a member of the Church of Now, Latter-day Saints, if you have God. In the Kingdom of God, using it had narrow views I will tell you to put in a political sense, there may be hea- them aside. I do not mean by this you thens and Pagans and Mahommedans must take everybody into your houses. and Latter-day Saints and Presbyteri- There is the difference. I have seen Pres- ans and Episcopalians and Catholics and ident Young scores of times acting upon men of every creed. Will they legislate the spirit to which I have alluded. He for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- has invited strangers to our social par- day Saints alone? Will the laws that ties and houses and extended courtesies they enact protect us alone and not pro- to them because it was wisdom to do tect others? No. Why? Because God so. But a great many of the Latter- is the Father of the Latter-day Saints day Saints are so ignorant upon these as well as of every human being; God points that they do not know when to is the father of all, is the father of the stop. There are some so ignorant that Chinaman, the Hindoo, the African, the they would in the spirit of kindness let a European, the American; is the Father man come into their homes and become INFLUENCE OF THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS, ETC. 205 so familiar that he would try to lead of attempting to push myself among the astray some member of their family. Can people without proper introduction. I you not see that these are acts of folly, have gone in their midst many times, but that we are not required, because of the have never been a sharer of their kind- liberality we should cherish and culti- ness and confidence only as such confi- vate, to throw down every barrier and al- dence was established by acquaintance. low vice to stalk through our cities and So in our midst; a man can come prop- enter into our family circles to pollute erly recommended, he is at home. He can the purity that should prevail there. Can have time enough to establish his name you not see, Latter-day Saints, however and to show to the people what kind of young, however uninformed you may be, man he is. Then he will be received as can you not see that to allow this liberty he should be, having that respect shown would be wrong? Therefore we ought to to him that is due. discriminate. Nowhere in good society has a man the entree without proper in- troduction. If a stranger were to come I have talked a great deal more than to me bearing lines of introduction from I intended. I hope what I have said may a friend of mine, I would, if necessary, be blessed to your profit. If I have said go with him to the bank and endorse a any unwise thing, forget it. If I have said note for him, because I would be per- any improper thing, I hope it will pass fectly secure in doing so. But supposing a from your minds, and that which is good, stranger were to come to me for the same cling to you. Cleave to virtue, to purity, favor, without an introduction, I would to everything that is good, that will ele- not be under the slightest obligation to vate you and make you a better people. do as he wished, though I might do so Above all let me say to you, let us get rid as an act of charity, but of course under of old traditions as fast as we can, and such circumstances I should not be ex- learn from the Lord, and be taught by his pected to do more than this. And if I were holy spirit. That God may grant this is to go among strangers I would not think my prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen. 206 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

FATES OF THE ANCIENT APOSTLES—WORSHIP OF THE TRUE GOD—HIS CREATIONS AND HANDIWORK—PROPHECY.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER C. W. STAYNER, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,MAY 25, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

In rising to address the congrega- tence recorded, involving the most tion this afternoon, a brief passage of important truths for the benefit of Scripture is suggested to my mind, as mankind. In order to reach clearly the the basis for such remarks as I may correct significance of the passage we make. It is the latter part of the sev- have read, let us first consider by whom enth verse of the fourteenth chapter of it was uttered, and inquire into the cir- the Book of Revelation, and reads as cumstances under which it was recorded. follows: "and worship him that made History tells us that the venerable Apos- heaven, and earth, and the sea, and tle John who wrote the Book of Reve- the fountains of waters." Believing with lation, was sentenced by the Emperor the ancient Apostles "that no prophecy Domitian of the Roman Empire, to be of scripture is of any private interpre- scalded to death in a cauldron of boil- tation; but holy men of God spoke as ing oil; that this cruel sentence was car- they were moved by the Holy Ghost," ried out as fully as it was in the power and that "all scriptures were written for of men to execute it. The cauldron our profit and learning that we through of oil was heated to boiling heat, and faith in them, might have hope." I am the great apostle was submerged in the firmly convinced that the words of the scalding fluid, but through Divine in- text have a profound significance; for al- terposition he was delivered like Daniel though it is acknowledged that the sa- from the "lion's den," and Shadrach, Me- cred writings contain the most sublime shach and Abednego from the "fiery fur- language, and furnish the most poetic nace," by the power of that God, whom quotations, still I do not believe that he served and obeyed; so that he suf- those holy men sought to round off their fered no harm and simply looked like he sentences, simply for the sake of the had been anointed. The cruel Emperor music they would afford to the ear of was so enraged at this wonderful deliv- the reader; but that beneath all the po- erance, that he instantly sentenced the etry and sublimity of the language, there doomed Apostle to banishment on the is a beautiful meaning to every sen- Isle of Patmos. While in exile in accor- FATES OF THE ANCIENT APOSTLES, ETC. 207 dance with this sentence, St. John was made heaven, and earth, and the sea, made the happy recipient of the most and the fountains of waters." But why wonderful visions of things to come to did he not call attention to some of the pass in the future history of the world. great things in the unseen world; why Enwrapped in heavenly vision he beheld, not refer to the hosts of heaven or the among other important matters, an "an- majestic glory of God, as he sat upon gel fly in the midst of heaven, having the his throne; or any others of the numer- everlasting gospel to preach unto them ous existences that create joy or won- that dwell on the earth, and to every na- der "behind the veil?" No doubt, because tion, and kindred, and tongue, and peo- the angel could see prophetically that ple, Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, when the time should arrive for him and give glory to him; for the hour of his to deliver his heavenly message, at the judgment is come," and then the words hour of God's judgment, the whole world of our text, "and worship him that made would have reached what may be called heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the a scientific age, an epoch of "Material- fountains of waters." Thus then we find ism," a time when the universal scientific this text was the enunciation of an an- thought would be centered on that which gel; and as the time when this angel was material in its character; and that was to come is plainly shown to be at people would be more devoted to search- a most important crisis of the world's ing out the matters of the visible world, history, "the hour of God's judgment," it than the hidden mysteries that lay be- may well be supposed he did not waste yond the veil. Hence he called atten- time in poetic fancy or simply the ele- tion to the things which were most en- gant rounding of periods, but that every grossing their thoughts. He saw that word he uttered carried with it a depth men would reach, as they have done, of meaning, and was in every way calcu- some conclusions concerning the plan- lated to impress those to whom he was etary bodies, and establish some theo- sent, with the importance of his mes- ries, the correctness of which has in cer- sage. What then was his reason for using tain instances been proved, as particu- this particular language? Why did he not larly shown in the precision with which close without uttering the last words? eclipses are predicted, that frequently Or why did he not call the attention of occur within a minute, and even a few earth's inhabitants to some other pecu- seconds of the time designated. Al- liarity of the Divine greatness? First though men have discovered compara- because it is customary with the Lord tively little with regard to such matters, and his angelic messengers to gener- and even in our own solar system are ally give some reason for the require- at a loss in some things, still enough ments made by them; God is ever will- has been discovered to create wonder- ing to show his children why we should ment and inquiry as to the origin of the obey his commands; we find his doc- worlds that "roll upon their wings" in the trines reasonable, his requirements rea- firmament, and I believe I shall be en- sonable, and his revelations reasonable; dorsed by the highest scientific author- hence the angel added by way of reason- ities when I say that they acknowledge able argument, "and worship him that the existence of a master intelligence that organizes, sustains and controls 208 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the universe. But who or what that find it in a pure condition originally, but power and intelligence is, they do not we ascertain that it is rendered impure comprehend, neither can they without by being breathed. Through passing he should reveal himself unto them. But through the lungs it becomes so highly when the inquiry arises as to who is this carbonized that it is unfit for our use; organizer the voice of the angels comes the large infusion of carbonic dioxide it ringing down the cycle of time, "Wor- receives through the process of respira- ship God, who made the heavens," for, tion, renders it poisonous to men and as the Psalmist gives it, "The heavens animals; but strange to say it is then declare the glory of God; and the fir- in the most proper condition to nourish mament showeth his handiwork." How the life of the vegetable kingdom. Plants charming it is to contemplate the beauty thrive on it, and vegetation generally, re- of the heavens, and then think of the ceives its chief nutriment from that im- discoveries that have been made; con- purity which animals could not endure. cerning light, for instance. How won- Scientific experiment has proved that a derful it is! To think that light, travel- sprig of mint placed in a bottle of air ing, as scientists assert, from the sun to rendered impure by respiration or putre- the earth in eleven minutes, a distance faction, will so absorb the impurity, and that would occupy a cannon ball twenty- nourish itself on the unwholesome car- five years in transit; and yet, notwith- bonic acid gas, as to again render the standing its velocity, it is so composed air sufficiently pure to sustain human as not to harm in the least degree the and animal life. Thus we find that the tenderest of animal or vegetable sub- atmosphere which would otherwise be- stances; the minutest plant—the most come unfit to sustain our lives, is puri- delicate flower is blessed by its influence, fied, and at the same time is enriching and not in the least injured by the ra- us through the medium of the vegetable pidity of its motion. How is this accom- creation, from which we derive much of plished? By the particles of which it is our support and sustenance. composed being so minute as not to of- Then think of the richness of our fer any resistance to the slightest sub- fields, of the mineral wealth in these stance. And yet a single sunbeam, which huge mountains, of the beauties to be no one can paint or define, looking so seen and studied in the floral creation, of innocent and colorless, is found to con- the grandeur of earth's scenery, and the sist of seven colors, and will penetrate capacity of the soil to support its won- the deepest darkness and reveal all ex- derful population, think of what is on isting objects in their proper and actual the earth's surface, and consider what is form and color. The beneficial effects discovered in its deepest recesses; and of the sun's light cannot be too highly when the inquiry arises as to the origi- appreciated, and, in contemplating its nator of these blessings, and men of sci- blessings we are constrained to "wor- ence and reflection ask who and what ship God who made the heavens." Let is the controlling power that bestows us now consider the earth; take for in- and regulates all these things, the loud stance the atmosphere which we breathe voice of the angel comes down through and by which we are sustained. We the ages, "Worship God who made the earth!" Then there is the mighty FATES OF THE ANCIENT APOSTLES, ETC. 209 ocean that covers such a large portion provided for our happiness, we still hear of our globe. Now, some people have the voice of the angel as he cries, "wor- thought that there was too great a pro- ship God who made the sea!" There is portion of our earth covered by water; still another branch of the subject to but scientific men, who have thought which we must briefly refer, and that deeply on this subject, declare that if is the "fountains of waters." What can there were any less, there would not be be more delightful than a fountain, or sufficient to furnish moisture for the fer- spring of pure water? Up in these glori- tilization of the land. Here, then, is an ous mountains which have inspired the element prepared, from which, through Saints with a love of liberty, we can see the action of the atmosphere, the mois- and hear the rippling brook as it es- ture is drawn up into the clouds, and, capes from a bright, cold, pure spring what is very wonderful, it is not emptied in the nook of a canyon or the crevice out in torrents, to ravage and destroy of a rock! How is it formed and sus- by its furious impetuosity, our fields and tained? We find that through the process gardens, but is carried in the clouds as of evaporation before alluded to, mois- they are gently wafted by the wind, and ture is drawn from the oceans and lakes beautifully distributed in grateful show- up into the clouds; some of these clouds ers, to refresh and nourish the crops of pass over the mountains, and deposit the husbandman. Then, again, see the sheets of snow, and showers of rain in provision for preserving those large bod- the canyons and on the mountain sides. ies of water, called seas, so that they These sink into the crevices between may not become putrid and malarious; the rocks, and here and there burst they are strongly supplied with salt, and forth in bubbling springs of fresh wa- thus turned into brine, which preserves ter which feed the rivulets and streams, the water in a wholesome state. Upon and form the creeks that descend to the surface of the seas are the vessels of the land in the valleys, then pass into the commercial world, laden with trea- rivers and finally return to the bosom sure, and down in those almost unfath- of the oceans and lakes from whence omable depths are found endless vari- they came, there to be again preserved eties of the finny tribes, that delight to till again evaporated. But one pecu- dwell there, and are so useful to man. liarity we should notice here, and that The sea is their home, from the small- is, the water in these springs is fresh est specimen that floats near the sur- and sweet, although the bodies of wa- face, to the huge leviathan that lashes ter from whence it is evaporated are the ocean in his fury. They are per- salt. Here we live on the borders of fectly adapted to live there, and the el- the Great Salt Lake, yet did you ever ement is specially fitted to supply their notice any saline flavor to the springs necessities. Then, too, beneath its sur- and streams sustained by the evapora- face we discover beauteous and precious tions from the lake? No, and yet this gems for the adornment of the person; is a body of water having the strongest providing even for the pleasures and saline character in the world! What a fashionable tastes of "them that dwell glorious provision to have pure fresh wa- on the earth." And when we ask what ter in constant supply! And how beau- intelligence and beneficent power has tiful to contemplate is the present fertil- ity of these valleys! When we look back 210 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. to the time when those grand old pio- us with a chain of material evidences, neers set their feet on this soil, and real- of the existence and goodness of the De- ize its past barren, arid condition, we are ity, that cannot be successfully denied. led to thank God, "who made the foun- But I would still fail in the performance tains of waters;" and we can see the lit- of my duty this afternoon, if I should eral fulfillment of his word through the close without touching upon the subject ancient prophets, that he would "turn of spiritual evidences that are furnished the dry ground into water springs," and in such rich abundance from the very "make pools in the desert;" we see that commencement of the world's history to "fountains of waters" have sprung up in the time when God revealed himself to unexpected places, to enable this dry and Joseph Smith, a young boy of fourteen unpromising soil to yield an equitable re- or fifteen years of age, unskilled in the turn for the toil of the laborer; and we sciences, and unlettered in the learn- can now say that indeed the "Desert has ing of the world. God revealed to him been made to blossom as the rose." In not only the fact of Divine existence, but short it seems that "the heavens, and the even how he became God; that it was earth, and the sea, and the fountains of through living up to correct principles, waters" have formed a grand combina- and by developing within himself every tion to introduce their united evidences sublime sentiment that had its origin in of the Divine existence—and the rich Di- truth. He taught him how the people vine dealings with mankind. Through "who dwelt on the earth" might also be the ages that are past every method con- thus exalted to be angels of God, and fi- sistent with the perfection of omnipo- nally Gods themselves; how they could tence, has been adopted to impress man scale the ladder of intelligence step by with reverence for the Deity; angels from step, till they finally overcame all evil, the heavens declare the glory of God, and and sat down at the right hand of the the music of the spheres as they per- "Majesty on high." Read and consider form their wonderful course in the firma- the beautiful prophecies in the Book of ment, invite our attention to his glorious Daniel! Read his florid account of the handiwork; God has written his being on wonderful visions given to him, of the the imperishable rocks, has recorded the method he was commanded to adopt in existence of Deity in the granite moun- order that he might be worthy to re- tains and among "the everlasting hills;" ceive them. How he was required to if we "go down into the depths of the sea, fast, "to eat no pleasant food;" to sub- he is there;" and at his bidding, "foun- sist on flowers and other innocent kinds tains of waters" burst forth in fertiliz- of vegetation; and then ponder over his ing streams, to nourish the barren soil prophecies, and the prophecies of an- that it may bring forth its rich fruit for gels recorded by him, especially concern- the sustenance of the Saints. Thus the ing the four beasts, which represented heavens in their glory, the earth with the four great kingdoms of the world, its rich blessings, the seas upon which Babylon, the kingdom of the Medes and we ride, and the "fountains of waters" Persians, the Macedonian Empire, and that supply us with an element with- the Roman power. Read his prophe- out which we could not live, furnish cies concerning the last days; and com- FATES OF THE ANCIENT APOSTLES, ETC. 211 pare them with the writings of Gibbon nineteenth century when I think that and other historians whom while they scientific men, and learned people can be denounced God and religion, and de- induced to impute to those holy servants clared the prophets were impostors, ac- of God other motives than the advance- tually recorded the most literal fulfill- ment of God's purposes in the earth. But ment of their glorious predictions; and I do not condemn the caviler by any it will be found by those prophecies and means, or consign him to endless tor- their recorded fulfillment, that Daniel ments; no, I regard him as being of great and his colleagues were not simply writ- use and of infinite importance to soci- ers of poetry for the amusement of them- ety; he, acting like the tempestuous el- selves and their neighbors, but that they ements, promotes a healthy condition of were ministers of God, chosen to warn the atmosphere, and stirs up the great mankind of the great things that should ocean of thought; this leads us to re- come to pass on the earth, long cen- flect and consider, and while investigat- turies after those prophets should be ing more closely the works of God, we are called behind the veil. God has painted apt to come to right conclusions and be the history of the world in the rich more firmly established in the principles colors of prophecy, and mankind, un- of truth. der Divine Providence has sculptured its fulfillment in the marble of history. May God add his blessing, is my The two records are before us, and I prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. am ashamed of the intelligence of the Amen. 212 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

DEFINITE IDEAS CONCERNING GOD—HOW TO WORSHIP HIM ACCEPTABLY—RESTORATION OF THE GOSPEL—ITS PREPARATORY MISSION.

REMARKSBY ELDER CHARLES W. PENROSE, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON MAY 25, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I have listened with a great deal of cellent remarks, the command is given pleasure, my brethren and sisters, to the "to worship him that made heaven, and remarks of Elders Stayner. There are a earth, and the sea, and the fountains of great many arguments which might be waters." In the explanation which has adduced from the material universe to been given to us it has been made clear establish the fact that a divine hand has that the words which have been read in formed the worlds; and I think there are our hearing were to be uttered by an few people, even in this skeptical age, angel of God; they were to be spoken who altogether repudiate the idea of a at a period in the world's history, some grand Creator of the universe. This is time in the future of the day in which called an age of infidelity. It is a fact that the Apostle John saw the vision referred there is very little real faith in God upon to. In the 4th chapter of the same the earth. There is very little knowl- book (Revelation), and the first verse, edge concerning God in the world, and you will find that having seen a num- there are some people who altogether re- ber of events portrayed before his mind, pudiate the idea of the existence of a John says: "After this I looked, and, God; but I believe they are in number behold, a door was opened in heaven: very few indeed. But while there are few and the first voice which I heard was as who entirely reject the existence of Deity, it were of a trumpet talking with me; there are a great number of people in the which said, Come up hither, and I will world who have no definite idea concern- shew thee things which must be here- ing God, concerning his ways, his deal- after." All we read in that Book of Rev- ings with mankind, or concerning the elation, after the first verse of the 4th right manner of worshipping him and of chapter, describes events to transpire af- learning from him. ter these things were seen. And if we In the text which Elder Stayner take the trouble to read the whole of that has read this afternoon, and from book, we will find that John was shown which he has made some very ex- the dealings of God with man, age after DEFINITE IDEAS CONCERNING GOD, ETC. 213 age, down until the time that this angel Now this may be a rather startling should come to the earth. Says the Apos- declaration to make in the face of all tle: "And I saw another angel fly in the Christendom, in the face of the hun- midst of heaven, having the everlasting dreds and thousands of Christian minis- gospel to preach unto them that dwell ters of the various Christian denomina- on the earth, and to every nation, and tions, who spend their time, their talents kindred and tongue, and people, Saying and ability in preaching what they call with a loud voice, Fear God, and give and perhaps believe to be the everlasting glory to him; for the hour of his judg- Gospel; and in the face of the millions of ment is come: and worship him that the earth who think they do worship God made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and give glory to that Being who made and the fountains of waters" (Rev. xiv, the earth, and the seas, and the foun- 6, 7). According to this prediction, just tains of waters. But here is the text, before the hour of God's judgment—that here is the language of Scripture given time which all the prophets of God have by inspiration. We must believe the dec- foreseen and prophesied of, just before laration to be divine, or not believe it at the grand consummation, just before the all. The Apostle John saw in the vision time when the Lord should come to judge that at a certain time the angel was to the quick and the dead—this angel was come again to earth and reveal, or re- to come to the earth with the everlast- store anew the everlasting Gospel, the ing Gospel; and that Gospel was to be true Gospel, by which alone man can re- preached to every nation, and kindred, ceive a fulness of salvation in the pres- and tongue, and people. Now, what does ence of God the Father. that presuppose? To every reasonable There are millions of people living mind, that the people of every nation, today upon the face of the earth who and kindred, and tongue upon the face of believe that a divine hand formed this the earth were destitute of that Gospel. world, and that he is also the Creator For, if the Gospel was already there, al- of the universe; but they know nothing ready preached by any nation, kindred, certain about that Being. Notwithstand- or people, there would be no need for the ing the boasted knowledge and intelli- angel to reveal it anew to mankind. And gence of the 19th century, the world to- further, if there were people living upon day knows nothing concerning this di- the earth who did worship God aright— vine Being. While most of them admit that is, the true and living God, not the the fact of his existence, yet at the same God of the heathen, not the God of men's time he is to them as he was to the Athe- imagination, but the God that made the nians to whom Paul preached on a cer- heaven and the earth, the sea and the tain occasion—an "unknown God." If this fountains of waters—if people dwelling is not the case, who is there that can tell upon the earth were already worship- us anything about him? What he is like? ping that God aright, there would be Where he dwells? What are his purposes no need of a heavenly messenger to with regard to the people of the present leave the courts of glory to come to age? Which is the right way to approach the earth to call upon them to do so. him that we may learn to know him for 214 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. ourselves? he is only one; that there are three dis- We read in the Scriptures that in tinct personages in the Godhead, yet olden times men communed with this di- only one personage, and that this be- vine Being, that he walked and talked ing is without body, without parts and with men in the flesh, and revealed him- without passions. Here, then, we have self to them. But he is neither seen nor an imaginary being composed of three heard of men today, and what is even parts, who yet is only one without any worse, none seem to know how to ap- parts. We are told further that one of proach him to learn of him as his ser- these bodiless, passionless beings with- vants did in earlier times. But some will out parts had a body, and that he was say, "We have no need of such commu- a man in all points as we are, possess- nications now, for we have the writings ing like passions, but that he sinned not. of these men; they approached him, and This is a strange attempt at descrip- they have written books containing his tion of a divine Being. I do not wish to words which have been handed down to take up the time in further reference to us; we have no need to approach God these absurdities, you can read them in as they did." But who can tell us how the Athanasian creed, and in the thirty- to read this Bible aright? These people nine articles which all Episcopal minis- who say they have no need of revelation ters must subscribe to before they can re- do not agree as to what those prophets ceive "holy orders." meant when they wrote these things. Take the minister of one Christian de- We read in the Bible: "For a man in- nomination, for instance, and get him deed ought not to cover his head (when into conversation with a minister from he prayeth), forasmuch as he is the im- another Christian denomination, each of age and the glory of God: but the woman these men of course professing to be- is the glory of the man" (1 Cor., xi, 7). Ac- lieve that the Bible is a divine record cording to the Scriptures, when you see given to us for our guidance in spiri- a perfect man, as far as man can be per- tual things; and in a very short time you fect in this imperfect condition which we will get them into a quarrel. Take half now occupy, we see a being in the im- a dozen men from half a dozen Chris- age of Deity. When Jesus Christ, who tian denominations, each professing to died that we might live, appeared on the be called of God to explain his word, and earth, we are told that he was "the im- you will find that all of them have dif- age of the invisible God," and "the ex- ferent views and ideas concerning that press image of his (the Father's) person." which the prophets wrote. Ask any one So much indeed, was he like his Father, of these Christian ministers to tell you that when one of his disciples asked him anything about God, and after exhaust- to show them the Father, he answered ing his store of language in trying to do him saying, "He that hath seen me hath so he will wind up thus: "God is incom- seen the Father," giving us to understand prehensible." There is an attempt to de- that the Son inherited the likeness of scribe God in the Episcopalian prayer his Father. Some read it to signify that book. We are told in that book, which he was the same person; but the Savior contains the articles of the faith of that says again, "My Father is greater than body of people, that God is three and yet I." The words of Jesus to Mary in the DEFINITE IDEAS CONCERNING GOD, ETC. 215 garden are significant on this point: "Go mountains to learn of the ways of God to my brethren, and say unto them, I and to walk in his paths. It seems, then, ascend unto my Father, and your Fa- that the angel was not to bring his mes- ther; and to my God, and your God." sage for nought; there was to be a peo- And at the baptism of the Savior we ple among all these nations who would find that the Holy Ghost descended upon receive the message and who would re- him, and that the voice of the Father spond to it; and in consequence of that was heard out of heaven, saying, "This response they would leave their homes is my beloved Son, in whom I am well and would come from the East and from pleased;" showing that there were three the West, and God would "say to the distinct substances—the Son coming up north, Give up; and to the south, Keep out of the water, the Father speaking not back: bring my sons from far, and my from heaven, and the Holy Ghost de- daughters from the ends of the earth." scending. And they would go up to the mountain In regard to this divine Being. The of the Lord to be taught in his ways and Son is the firstborn in the spirit, the to walk in his paths; that they might be only begotten in the flesh, sent into the prepared for the day when the "law of world to die for the sins of the world. God would go forth from Zion, and the How can the people of the earth learn word of the Lord from Jerusalem." And anything concerning him? And which the work was to continue; for accord- is the right way to worship him? Says ing to another prophet, the time shall the Catholic minister, "Here is the way, come when "they shall teach no more the only way." "No," says the Episco- everyman his neighbor, saying, Know pal minister, "here is the way." Says the ye the Lord: for they shall all know Methodist, "No, you are both wrong, we me, from the least of them unto the have the true way." Against these as- greatest of them, saith the Lord." How sertions the Baptist minister enters his shall this be brought about? "And they protest, saying, "All these are wrong, shall be all taught of God." The Lord ours is the way." And so with all the var- is to teach them; they are not to be ious sects and parties that exist upon taught by the enticing words of man's the earth. Let us bear in mind now wisdom, but as God spake to the peo- that the angel spoken of by John was ple in olden times, so he is to speak to come from heaven and call upon ev- to them in the latter times. He said ery nation and tongue to worship this he would raise up shepherds after his Being, the true and living God. And own heart, who should "feed them with not only call upon them to do so, but to knowledge and understanding;" not with bring the everlasting Gospel, by which speculative ideas, notions springing from man can learn of God and walk in his their own minds, but with the truth ways. And it is very evident what they from the true and living God, sent down would do, from the predictions of other from on high. Jesus, when upon the prophets. We read in the writings of Isa- earth, made a remark very pertinent iah, also in the writings of Micah, that to this point; said he: "And no man in the last days there should come a peo- knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither ple from all the nations of the earth, who knoweth any man the Father, but the should gather together in the tops of the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will 216 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. reveal him." The inhabitants of the earth walk therein might find rest for their will never come to a knowledge of the souls; but it appears the great bulk of true God, they will never know how the people would say, "We will not walk to approach him, they will never know therein." how to obtain knowledge and intelli- I bear my testimony to this congrega- gence from him, unless they walk in tion, that in the times in which we live, the way his Son shall point out. He which are just preceding the coming of stands between us and the Father; he the Son of man in the clouds of heaven, is the Firstborn, the Mediator, chosen with power and great glory, to accom- from the creation of the world. He per- plish all things spoken of, God, the Eter- formed the work on the earth which he nal Father, has spoken from the heavens was sent to do. "Thou hast loved righ- by his own voice, revealing his Son, and teousness, and hated iniquity: therefore has sent holy angels committing the ev- God, even thy God, hath anointed thee erlasting Gospel to men who have been with the oil of gladness above thy fel- commissioned and ordained of God to go lows." He stands as a Mediator between to all the world to preach it as a wit- God and man. When we approach God ness before the end comes. I bear my we must do it through the Son. Who testimony that as soon as that Gospel can tell us how? We hear the cry, "Come reached my ears in a distant land, I re- to Jesus," in every camp meeting. We ceived it and obeyed it. That is, believing are told by the preachers of every Chris- in the truth thereof, I repented sincerely tian denomination to, "Come to Jesus." of my sins before God, and went humbly But how are we to come? The ways and submitted to the ordinance of bap- pointed out are different and various. tism for the remission of sins, receiving I am reminded right here of a saying that ordinance from men ordained of God of the Prophet Jeremiah:"Thus saith the to preach this Gospel. That having been Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and buried in the water in the likeness of the ask for the old paths, where is the good death of Christ, and raised again in the way, and walk therein, and ye shall find likeness of his resurrection, I received a rest for your souls. But they said, We witness from God that my sins were re- will not walk therein." "The old path," mitted. I bear my testimony this after- what is that? The everlasting Gospel noon before God and angels, and before which the angel was to bring. "Enter this congregation, that I received a re- ye in at the strait gate," says the Sav- mission of my sins, through the atone- ior; "for wide is the gate, and broad is ment of the Lord Jesus Christ, in obe- the way, that leadeth to destruction, and dience to his ordinances. The hands of many there be which go in thereat: Be- the servants of God were laid upon my cause strait is the gate, and narrow is head, and I received the Holy Ghost— the way, which leadeth unto life, and few that same Spirit which God gave to the there be that find it." There is but one prophets, that same Spirit which rested way into the sheepfold; he that climbs upon John upon the Isle of Patmos, that up any other way will be accounted as same Spirit by which holy men of old "a thief and a robber." The angel was wrote and spoke as they were moved to bring the old way; that those who upon by the Holy Ghost; and that Spirit is the same yesterday, today and for- DEFINITE IDEAS CONCERNING GOD, ETC. 217 ever. It takes of the things of the Fa- fountain of their being, a testimony by ther and makes them plain to the hu- which they may know that he lives, that man mind; it makes things past clear to they are walking in his ways, and learn the understanding of man, and it lifts up how they can approach him acceptably. the curtain of futurity and shows things to come. It is the Spirit of prophecy, Some people may think that it does the testimony of Jesus; it is the light of not matter how people worship, that God God to the human soul. And as natural will accept of their worship, anyhow. But light discloses to the vision of men the from what we read of His dealings in the objects of the material universe, with- Bible, we find it a matter of the great- out which none can discern them, so the est importance. Abel, for instance, of- Holy Ghost is the light of God which re- fered to the Lord that which God com- veals to the spirits of men the things of manded; Cain offered what he pleased to eternal life, and without which men can- give. Abel's offering was accepted, Cain's not understand the things of God. It was rejected. Cain slew Abel in conse- is because of the absence of this divine quence, and the spirit manifested by him light that the world lies in darkness in has been perpetuated to this day. God regard to their Father and God; this is has marked out the way by which he may why men, notwithstanding their learn- be worshipped. He has ordained certain ing, their scientific discoveries in the ma- ordinances through which certain bless- terial universe, cannot comprehend the ings are to come; and the blessings of things of God. Man by searching can- God will not come except by means of the not find out God. He can reveal him- ordinances. Those who obey these in the self to mankind, but must do it through way that God has ordained invariably the Son, and obedience to the Gospel receive the blessings; for spiritual laws of his Son is the only way of salvation. are as fixed and unchangeable as are the There is no other, and no name given un- laws of the material universe. No man der heaven whereby man can be saved expects to reap oats from sowing wheat. but the name of Jesus Christ. A mere That which a man soweth, that will he form of worship avails nothing; we must also reap. If he sow to the flesh, of the obey the commandments. "Not every one flesh he may expect to reap corruption; that saith to me, Lord, Lord, shall en- if to the Spirit, of the Spirit life everlast- ter into the kingdom of heaven; but he ing. By walking in the way that God has that doeth the will of my Father who ordained, every man can know and re- is in heaven." This Gospel is restored ceive for himself the testimony promised. to the earth, and everybody may know And this people who are here inhabiting it for themselves. We are not depen- these valleys of the mountains knew for dent upon the words of Joseph Smith; themselves before they left their homes we need not depend upon the Twelve in the old world, that they had received Apostles who received their ordination and obeyed the Gospel brought from the under his hand. Every man and every heavens by means of the angel described woman and every child who have come by the Apostle John, it was in obedience to years of accountability can receive to the requirements of that Gospel that direct from the Lord, direct from the they left their homes to come here to 218 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. learn more of his ways, to walk more which put them in motion and arranged perfectly in his paths, and to prepare them in such perfect order that one themselves for the great day of the Lord world should not rush against another, that is nigh at hand. This Gospel is and causing the whole universe in all its sent to prepare the way before his com- beautiful variety and adaptation to move ing, to be preached "as a witness" that in perfect order and harmony; as we rec- all mankind may know that God has ognize the Divine hand in these mate- sent it. How about the people who will rial things, the physical objects of the not hearken unto it? They feel as Cain universe, so we can recognize it in spir- did when he learned that his offering itual things. We acknowledge God in all was not acceptable—he desired to slay things; we know that he lives, that in Abel; and this is the feeling that has him we move and have our being, that been manifested towards the Latter-day he is the same yesterday, today and for- Saints from the beginning. We have ever, that he changeth not; that he com- come out of the world, and the world munes with his children today as he did hates us, and many seek to destroy us. five or six thousand years ago. The God What harm are we doing to the people of Abraham is the God of the Latter-day of the earth? We have come away from Saints. As he guided and directed him them; we have sought the wilds of this and delivered him from his enemies, so once desert country that we might wor- the Almighty's hand has been and is over ship God according to the dictates of our us, and will continue to guide and deliver conscience, and we are here trying to us, inasmuch as we continue to carry on serve him with all our hearts. We have his work. many imperfections, but we are trying to obey the Lord in his appointed way; and because we have accepted this way, Now I say that all people may re- the way ordained of God, those who will ceive these blessing if they will walk in not walk therein are stirred up to anger the narrow way. But they must believe against us; they circulate all manner of in Christ, and repent of their sins by evil reports concerning us, and like the putting them away; they must be bap- ancient Saints, we are "everywhere spo- tized in a proper way; they must re- ken against." They endeavor to stir up ceive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of strife in our midst, and failing to divide hands of men ordained and authorized us they gnash their teeth in anger, seek- of God, which Spirit will bring them en ing to bring all kinds of evil upon us. But rapport with the Lord; and then if they God will rule and overrule for the good of will seek the interests of his kingdom His people, and accomplish His ends and they have a claim upon his blessings, and purposes. in proportion to their righteousness be- In the midst of these trials we fore God, so shall their communion be. recognize the hand of God, as we But although they are baptized and con- see it in relation to the material el- firmed members of the body of Christ, ements which have been referred to yet, unless they continue to walk be- this afternoon; just as much as we fore God, continue to be taught of him, understand that there is a control- continue to obey the divine word, they ling hand which guides the destinies of will not enjoy much communion with the the earth, which formed the planets, Father. But if they strive to "live by ALL INTELLIGENCE COMES FROM GOD, ETC. 219 every word that comes from the mouth of Lord Jesus. God," their minds will become more en- lightened, the Holy Ghost will increase I bear my testimony to what has within them and their path will grow been said by Brother Stayner and the brighter and brighter, even to the per- Gospel of Jesus Christ which the angel fect day. God will speak by his Spirit has brought, and pray God to bless this direct to their hearts; and when he re- congregation, that all who are here, may veals anything through his appointed be able to learn of him and walk in the servants, every word will find an echo good old way, that they may know how in the hearts of those who have re- to worship and obey the true and living ceived this Spirit, and the people will see God, even him who made the heaven, eye to eye, for they will become united and the earth, and the sea, and the foun- as one, as a band of brethren and sis- tains of waters, and finally come into his ters, to roll forth the purposes of God, presence and be crowned with a fulness to prepare the way for the feet of the of his glory. Amen.

ALL INTELLIGENCE COMES FROM GOD—LIFE AND IMMORTALITY BROUGHT TO LIGHT THROUGH THE GOSPEL—GATHERING—TEMPLE BUILDING—THE ELDERS MESSENGERS OF SALVATION TO THE NATIONS.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATTHE 17TH WARD MEETINGHOUSE, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,DECEMBER 15, 1878.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

We meet together from time to time our religious views that differs materi- to attend to the worship of the Almighty, ally from those of many others. The Lord because we think it is proper for us to has revealed unto us his will, or law; he pay due respect unto the Lord God, our has given unto us a knowledge of the heavenly Father; we assemble ourselves principles of truth and righteousness; for the purpose of praying to him, of and he is seeking by the means he has singing his praises, of speaking of prin- appointed—the medium of the everlast- ciples, doctrines, ordinances and other ing Gospel, to prepare us for the events matters in which we are individually and that will necessarily take place in a collectively interested, all of which is short time, and to enable us to introduce more or less connected with the worship among men those pure, holy and heav- of our God. enly principles which exist with the Gods There is something associated with in the eternal worlds, and to prepare 220 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. us, through the medium of the Gospel, years ago the world knew much less than to operate with him and with the holy we know today. I can remember the priesthood that has existed in former time very well when there was no such ages, in the development of the pur- thing as steamboats. I remember sail- poses of God upon the earth. It is a ing across the Atlantic more times than great and important work in which we one when no such thing as a steamboat are engaged, and we need continually was used for that purpose. I remem- the direction and the guidance of the ber the time, too, when there were no Almighty; for it stands to reason, when such things as locomotives or railroads; we reflect upon it, that no man, as is spo- and many of you know very well how it ken of in the Scriptures, can know the was in regard to the telegraph, the pho- things of God unless they are revealed tograph and a great many other things. to him by the Spirit of God. We talk They are simply certain principles that of these things sometimes rather flip- exist in the laws of nature that have been pantly, and probably, in many instances unveiled to us; but there are thousands without due reflection. But when we of other things that we know very lit- look upon man as he is organized, and tle about. And then what do we know the limit and bounds of his intelligence, about the future? What do we know and then reflect upon the position that about the heavens that are above us? We he sustains to the Almighty, we shall can get some scanty ideas and we boast find that there is nothing very mysteri- very much of them, but really there is ous in these remarks, but that there is not very much to boast of when we re- a great amount of truth and reason as- flect upon these things. These things are sociated therewith. For instance, men simple principles that we have become know very little about themselves, or acquainted with through study and re- about the things of man or how to control search by chemical analysis and the de- their passions and habits and the vari- velopment of eternal laws. We are sim- ous evils with which they are surrounded ply becoming acquainted with some of and have to combat. They know very lit- the principles that exist in nature. The tle about the true condition of man and question necessarily arises, who placed his relation to God, to the world, to the those principles there? Who organized past, present, or future, as is evidenced this earth on which we dwell and man by the position of the world everywhere upon it and all creation as it exists? wherever we turn our attention. We are Some superior intelligence, or power— beginning to find out some few things we call it the power of God. "By faith we in relation to the laws of nature and understand that the worlds were made the earth on which we dwell, but our by the power of God, so that things which knowledge of these things is very small are now seen were not made of things comparatively, and yet we boast some- that do appear." There is not a particle times quite freely of our intelligence. But of the human system but what is full when we reflect on our true position, we of intelligence and displays forethought, know very little in reality even about prescience, design, skill and creative the world in which we live, or about the power; and everything bespeaks the properties of matter or the elements with handiwork of a wise, intelligent, omnipo- which we are surrounded; and yet a few tent Creator, or God. When a little boy ALL INTELLIGENCE COMES FROM GOD, ETC. 221

I used to ask myself, Who am I? Where the meaning of this strange phenomena, did I come from? What am I doing here? the whys and wherefores in relation to And why am I here? etc. These things these matters? Nobody. We have pecu- still puzzle us, at least many of them liar feelings and sensations in common do, yet these are thoughts we cannot with all men in regard to the future. But help reflecting upon. We see children what are the views, ideas and feelings of born into the world, and we see spring men generally in relation to these mat- and summer, autumn and winter follow ters? And if they have views, what is each other in regular succession, and we the source of their intelligence? What ask ourselves, By what power were these scientist, philosopher, or divine can un- things brought about? Why are we here, ravel to us many of these mysterious and what is the object of all these things principles which we see every day ex- which we see around us? Not to say any- hibited before us? It is very difficult thing about the worlds with which we for man to comprehend, and nothing as are environed. For speaking of ourselves, I said before, but the Spirit which or- we are only a speck in creation; there ganized the creations of God can reveal is nothing to or of us scarcely, or in the those principles and give us a knowl- world we inhabit, in comparison to the edge of that fitness of things as they ex- myriads of worlds with which we are sur- ist in the mind of the Creator, of our rounded. relationship to God and to each other Now we frequently want to know the and the world in which we exist and the object of our existence and why we are worlds that are to come. Nothing but here; and the Saints will still go a little superhuman intelligence, even the inspi- further by asking, Why have we to bat- ration of the Almighty, can reveal these tle with the affairs of this world, and to things. We have ten thousand ideas, no- struggle, to be tried and tempted? And tions and feelings; the world is full of ev- we go still further and ask, when we see ery kind of theory in relation to these our friends pass away from this state matters. But what does it amount to? of existence one after another, and the We may theorize as much as we please, body that was once full of life, animation but unless we receive some communica- and vitality now lying helpless and void tion from the beings possessing intelli- of life, and our minds reach back into gence superior to anything mortal, that the years that are past and we think of are associated with these vast creations the thousands of millions, yea, of myri- and know something of their origin and ads who have inhabited this earth and object, what can we know? We need who have gone into another state of ex- communication with and revelation from istence, and we are led to ask ourselves, God enlightening us thereon, or we shall Why is it thus? And we are led to ask still be in the dark and know nothing ourselves further, Why are we thus sit- concerning the future and many things uated? And why should we thus come of the present and past. Some of our po- into life, have an existence and then fade ets in rather beautiful metaphor point and decay? And it is proper that we us to some place "beyond the bounds of should have such thoughts and such re- time and space," where we are to look flections. Who can unravel these things? forward to a heavenly place, the Saint's Who can tell us upon natural principles secure abode. There is something very 222 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. pleasing about such reflections, but at the principles of truth that have been the same time there is something very revealed to us. The world generally foolish. I do not know how or upon treats these things very lightly. The rea- what principle we are to get beyond the son is they do not comprehend them, bounds of time and space; it is beyond my and therein lies the difficulty. And we comprehension, and I very much ques- only know them in part and see them in tion whether the person who wrote it part and comprehend them in part; but could; in fact I know he could not. We without communion with the Almighty sing sometimes, too, about "singing our- we certainly should not have understood selves away to everlasting bliss." What anything at all about these things. There is this and where is it? How shall we is something very peculiar in the world enjoy it and under what circumstances? and we as well as others are sometimes Certainly those who talk about these apt to be quite narrow and contracted things display no intelligence. We can in our ideas pertaining to the world in never comprehend anything about these which we live and the people with whom things but by the revelations of God ei- we are surrounded. We are told that "the ther made directly to us or to us through manifestation of the Spirit is given to ev- others. ery man to profit withal." And I would Now we Latter-day Saints are state further that all true intelligence indebted—I was going to say to Joseph which men possess in regard to the laws, Smith, for what knowledge we have; but nature and their operations, as well this would not be strictly true, for we are as any moral, scientific or philosophical not indebted to him or any other man ideas we may form that are correct pro- for the knowledge we possess; we are ceed from the same source, whether ac- indebted to the Lord, and the Prophet knowledged by men or not. And further- Joseph was made use of by him as the more, whatever correct religious ideas medium to reveal, in the midst of the that the world possess in relation to the chaotic mass that existed in the world, future state, proceed from that portion the principles of life, light and intelli- of the Spirit that is given to every man gence and the laws by which the Gods to profit withal—not unto us only, but to are governed in the eternal worlds, to every man, and to the influence of that teach us what course we should pursue, Spirit all men are indebted for the degree that we might act wisely, prudently and of honor and integrity that exists among intelligently, and comprehend the po- men. It is true there is very little com- sition we occupy here upon the earth, paratively, but for the amount there is and the relationship that subsists be- they are indebted to God just as much tween man and his Maker, and that we as we are. The Apostle Paul, on a cer- might understand things pertaining to tain occasion, said that God had not left the future as well as things pertaining himself without witness. This is a gen- to the present. And the religion we have eral principle that exists everywhere and had unfolded to us is to prepare us to among all mankind. But there is another take part in these things both in this principle which is separate and distinct world and the world to come; to teach from that, and that is the principle us how to approach our Maker and to that brings men into closer communion get further knowledge of his laws and ALL INTELLIGENCE COMES FROM GOD, ETC. 223 with the Almighty. And what is that? had communication with him. It was It is the Spirit of the Lord in a more through that that Enoch understood the eminent degree, and is called in the principles of heaven, and applied those Scriptures the Holy Ghost. How do to his position, and it was by that power men obtain that? Through a certain and through that principle that he, with medium that God has appointed, viz., the cities in which he lived, was trans- by faith, repentance, baptism adminis- lated, as well as the thousands who lived tered by proper authority, and laying on then and also after that time were trans- of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. lated; it was through the principle and Now the Lord has had his "witness" upon power of the Gospel that brings life and the earth in different ages of time. When immortality to light. It was through the he has had this witness the Gospel has same principle that Noah was saved; he generally been associated therewith; it is had communication with God, who re- a part and parcel of the great program. vealed to him what was coming on the There is a very foolish idea prevailing in earth and the results of it. God warned the world, that there was no such thing him and prepared him and told him what as the Gospel until Jesus came. It is to do and how to do it, and he pursued the greatest folly in creation. No Gospel the course given him, and he received his until Jesus introduced it! Say you, "Do reward. It was through that principle not the Scriptures say that life and im- that Abraham comprehended God and mortality are brought about through the had revelation and communication with Gospel?" Yes. "And did not Jesus intro- him, for without it he would have known duce the Gospel?" Yes. "Well, then, if nothing about God. But he understood, he came and introduced the Gospel, why through the records of his fathers, of cer- do you say that they had the Gospel be- tain privileges that are mentioned in his fore?" They always had the Gospel when- history—certain privileges pertaining to ever men had a knowledge of God. It himself and his progenitors, which he is the Gospel that brings life and im- traced clear back to the days of Adam, mortality to light; it is the Gospel that by which he learned that he was an heir places man in a position to obtain a just to the holy priesthood; and when he as- knowledge of God and of the eternities to certained this he sought an ordination come, of their position on the earth, and from the Lord. And when he was per- of their position as it will be hereafter. secuted for his faith he left the land in It is that very principle that brings, as which he lived, and he did so at the in- we are told, life and immortality to light. sistance of the Lord: "Get thee out of thy And if you will trace out the records of country, and from thy kindred, and from either the Book of Mormon or the Bible thy father's house, unto a land that I will or those of any people that have lived show thee." And the Lord greatly favored upon the earth, and find anywhere a him and blessed him, and said unto him: people that had a knowledge of life and "I will bless them that bless thee, and immortality, then I will point you out curse him that curseth thee: and in a people that had the Gospel. It was thee shall all the families of the earth through that principle that men before be blessed." Was that so? Yes, it has the flood had a knowledge of God and 224 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. been fulfilled. Let us look at this for do? He restored the fulness of the a moment and see whether it has or Gospel that they had forfeited, because not. Who were Isaac and Jacob? Did of their former transgressions. What they have communication with God? Yes. next? We go to the promise made to How did they obtain it? Through the Abraham, which was that in him and medium of the Gospel and through the in his seed all the families of the earth promises made to their father Abraham. should be blessed. Moses, as I have And when Israel was in Egypt who deliv- said was of his seed, and he was the ered them? Moses. And who was Moses? deliverer of the whole of that nation. A descendant of Abraham. Did he lead And who were the prophets that ex- the people out of Egyptian bondage? Yes; isted among ancient Israel? They were God manifested his power in their be- descendants of Abraham; and to them half. Did Moses have the Gospel? Yes, came the word of God and the light of and so did Abraham. The Apostle Paul revelation. Who was Jesus? After the says, in his epistle to the Galatians, "that flesh of the seed of Abraham. Who were God foreseeing that he would justify the his Twelve Apostles? Of the seed of heathen through faith, preached before Abraham. Who were the people that the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In came to this continent—Lehi and his thee shall all nations be blessed." The family, about 600 years B.C.? Of the Israelites had the Gospel preached to seed of Abraham. Who were the Apos- them in the wilderness; but, as the Apos- tles they had among them that spread tle says in speaking of them, "The word forth among the millions that then lived preached did not profit them, not being upon this continent? Of the seed of Abra- mixed with faith in them that heard it." ham. Who was Joseph Smith? Of the But Moses did lead some of them into the seed of Abraham; and he, we are told, presence of God—those who were pre- was to be the son of Joseph, and should pared to receive it; the others, when they himself be called Joseph. And he was heard the thunders and saw the light- raised up for what purpose? To injure ning and heard the voice of God, they or destroy mankind? No; but to bring said unto Moses, "Speak thou unto us, life and immortality to light through the and we will hear: but let not God speak Gospel. He, like other prominent men of with us, lest we die;" we are not prepared God, came in the fulness of times to do for this glory, for this kind of manifesta- the work which the Lord had appointed tion which has been given unto us. unto him, being called of God and taught Well, they were foolish; they de- of God; and being thus taught he pos- parted from correct principles, they vio- sessed an intelligence second to none on lated the laws of God and therefore in- the earth. He introduced principles, that curred his displeasure, and his Spirit no philosopher, or scientist, or all the was withdrawn from them, and the wisdom of this world combined was capa- Gospel was taken from them and they ble of developing; neither was it possible were left under a law of carnal com- for anybody to bring to light such prin- mandments, and the law was given them ciples, unless through the revelations as a schoolmaster, we are told, un- of God—principles of truth, principles til Christ came. And what did Christ of intelligence, principles which affect ALL INTELLIGENCE COMES FROM GOD, ETC. 225 man in time and in eternity; principles should that do for them? It should take which affect the world in which we live; of the things of God and show them unto principles which affect thousands and them; it should bring life and immor- myriads that have lived before; princi- tality to light; it should place them in ples of salvation that extend to all na- communication with the Lord; it should tions and all peoples living or dead, per- enable them to comprehend principles taining to time and pertaining to eter- that no man could comprehend nor ever nity. ought to comprehend, without the Spirit; In what manner were these princi- it should bring to their remembrance ples to be made known? How were men things that were past; it should lead to get acquainted with these things? By them into all truth, and it should show being brought into communion with the them things to come. Was it so? Yes. Did Lord. And how was this to be done? they have that Spirit? Yes. The spirit Jesus, when upon the earth, ordained of prophecy? Yes. The spirit of revela- and set apart others and told them to tion? Yes. Did they have the ministry of go into all the world and preach the angels? Yes. Was the vision of all truth Gospel. What Gospel? That Gospel that open to their mind? Yes. They compre- brings life and immortality to light; that hended the manifestations of God until Gospel that brings men into communica- the winding up scene, and until the dead tion with their Maker; that Gospel that small and great shall stand before God, will show us who we are and what we and until this earth shall not only be are, and why we are here, and the ob- redeemed but become celestialized, and ject of our existence, and what lies be- celestial beings inhabit it. They under- fore us. Jesus said to his disciples in stood these things and prophesied and his day, "Go ye into all the world, and wrote about them. Is it so with our preach the gospel to every creature. He Gospel? Precisely the same. Have we that believeth and is baptized shall be had these things communicated to us? saved; but he that believeth not shall We have. Have the Elders been called be damned. And these signs shall fol- upon to go forth to the nations of the low them that believe; In my name shall earth to call upon people to repent and be they cast out devils; they shall speak baptized as in former times? They have. with new tongues; They shall take up Have most of you heard this Gospel serpents; and if they drink any deadly preached among the different nations of thing, it shall not hurt them: they shall the earth? You have. Have you received lay hands on the sick, and they shall it? Have you obeyed it? Yes. Did you recover. And, lo, I am with you al- receive the Holy Ghost accompanying it? ways, even unto the end of the world." You did, and you know and can bear tes- Was he with them? Yes. How did they timony of it. It is the selfsame Gospel; preach? They called upon the people and why the same? Because it is the ev- to repent and be baptized for the re- erlasting Gospel, not something started mission of their sins. Who did? Men eighteen hundred years ago. Says John; authorized of God and commissioned of "I saw another angel fly in the midst him, and not by somebody else. And what then? If they did this, they should receive the Holy Ghost. And what 226 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to Zion." What will you do with them to preach unto them that dwell on the when you get them there? "I will give earth, etc." What Gospel? The ev- you pastors according to mine own heart, erlasting Gospel; the Gospel that ex- which shall feed you with knowledge isted with the Gods before this world and understanding." "Saviors shall come rolled into existence or the morning stars upon mount Zion," says another, "and sang together for joy; the Gospel that the kingdom shall be the Lord's." Very was preached to Adam and which he peculiar expressions and very significant preached to his posterity; the Gospel some of these remarks are. Yet they were that was preached by Enoch and Noah, made by men when under the influence by Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and all of the Holy Ghost, the spirit of revela- the ancient prophets; the Gospel that tion which unfolded to their view things was preached by Jesus and his Disci- that should transpire in the latter days ples when he commanded them to go which is emphatically, what is called in and preach it to all nations; in fine, the the Scriptures, "The dispensation of the Gospel that brings life and immortality fulness of times," when he would "gather to light. It can be said of us as of them together in one all things in Christ, both of whom it was said, "Ye have been bap- which are in heaven, and which are on tized into one baptism, and have all par- earth; even in him." He would gather taken of the same Spirit." Did they? Yes. his people in one to commence with, and It was not many baptisms, it was not hence our position today in these val- many faiths and many ideas and many leys of the mountains. Why are we here? notions; but it was "One faith, one Lord, We came here because it was according and one baptism, and one God who is to the eternal purposes of God that we above all, and through all, and in you should gather together; and because God all." has restored this principle among other There are a great many things as- principles through the ministration of sociated with these principles in which holy angels, and by the manifestation of the children of men are very deeply in- his power by the revelation of his will terested and in which more especially through the ancient priesthood that ex- the Latter-day Saints are very, very isted upon the earth. And what made deeply interested. The Lord has gath- us gather together? You could hardly ered us from among the nations of the tell, many of you, if I were to ask you. earth, just as he told some of his ancient I know very well that when you received prophets, who wrote it, that he would this Gospel in foreign lands you could not do. And one of them while wrapped rest until you gathered to Zion; and there in prophetic vision gazed upon the pur- was a correspondent feeling among the poses of Jehovah in relation to this gen- Saints here to help to bring about these eration, and saw the people of God gath- things. Before the railroad across the ering together, exclaimed: "Who are plains was built, you used to send out these that fly as a cloud, and as the your teams, as many as five hundred at doves to their windows?" And another a time. What made you do it? It was the says: "I will take you one of a city, and spirit of the gathering that associated two of a family, and I will bring you ALL INTELLIGENCE COMES FROM GOD, ETC. 227 itself with the latter-day dispensation, if No. We feel a pleasure in it. And then there were time I might tell you how pe- when we build our temples we feel a culiarly some people were moved upon. pleasure in administering in them, not The Prophet Joseph Smith and Oliver only for ourselves, but for our fathers Cowdery baptized each other. Why? Be- and mothers and those of our progeni- cause John the Baptist appeared and tors who have died without the Gospel, conferred upon them this priesthood, and then to help to save all that have and they went and administered in it. been worthy of salvation that have ever Why did Joseph Smith and others lay lived upon the earth. And we have got hands upon men for the reception of the to continue our labors in this direction, Holy Ghost? Because Peter, James and we have only just commenced; and if this John, who held the keys of the priest- little thing troubles men, all the conso- hood and of this Gospel in former days lation I can give them is that they will conferred that power upon them and be worse troubled yet. If others know they operated in it. Why did the people not what we are doing, we do; we know feel inclined to gather? Because Moses in whom we have believed, and conse- who was at the head of the gathering dis- quently we operate in these things. pensation and to whom the keys of this Now then, what shall we do? Con- dispensation were given, came and con- tinue to do good; continue to live our ferred upon them the power to gather religion; continue to carry out the pur- the house of Israel and the ten tribes poses of God; continue to humble our- from their dispersion; and when you re- selves before the Lord and cultivate his ceived this Gospel you received this as a Holy Spirit that we may comprehend his part. This dispensation of the fulness of laws and know his will concerning us. times embraces all other dispensations You have received the Holy Ghost. Now that have ever existed upon the earth, I will tell you a piece of instruction that with all their powers. That is the reason Joseph Smith once gave me, and it won't you desired so to gather together, and for hurt you. Said he, "Elder Taylor, you these peculiar impulses which many of have received the Holy Ghost: now fol- you could not account for. low the leadings of that spirit; and if Why do we build temples? Because you do, by-and-by it will become in you a Elijah appeared and conferred the pow- principle of revelation that you will know ers of his priesthood which were to "turn all things as they come along and under- the heart of the fathers to the chil- stand what is right and what is wrong in dren, and the heart of the children to relation to them." That is just as appli- their fathers." And why do you expend cable to you if you can receive it and live so much—even your enemies are com- up to it and enjoy it. plaining because of the millions of dol- Well, what are we? We ought lars that are used in the erection of tem- to be the Saints of God without re- ples. Why do you do it? Simply be- buke in the midst of a crooked and cause God has commanded us to do it perverse generation. We ought to and we know it and because the spirit be full of charity, of brotherly kind- attending this peculiar work rests upon ness and affection and love one to- us until we feel its impulses in our very wards another and love towards all bones. And is it a trouble to do it? men. We ought to feel as our heavenly 228 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Father does. What does he do? "He be organized and to be prepared to oper- maketh his sun to rise on the evil and ate in all things according to the mind on the good, and sendeth rain on the and will of God. If we are Elders we just and on the unjust." He will save all should seek to magnify our calling in ev- men to such a degree of salvation and ery particular, and put away from us ev- exaltation as they are capable of receiv- ery evil and satisfy ourselves that we are ing; but he cannot bestow upon people accepted of God, living so that it will be what they are not prepared to receive. a pleasure as well as a duty to carry out There is a celestial glory and a terres- the will of God in all things. If we are fa- trial glory and a telestial glory; "There is thers, we should treat our children prop- one glory of the sun, and another glory of erly and train them in the fear of God; we the moon, and another glory of the stars: should treat our wives with mercy and for one star differeth from another star tenderness and with love; we ought to in glory. So also is the resurrection of bear with their infirmities and sustain the dead." But there is, we must bear them in the pathway of life, pour joy and in mind, a celestial glory which is one, happiness into their bosoms, and help and there is a terrestrial glory which is them to bear the struggles and difficul- one, etc. And we want as Latter-day ties that they have to cope with. If we are Saints to comprehend the position we oc- wives, we should try to make a heaven cupy; and while God has conferred many of our homes. And as children and as great and precious privileges upon us, parents and as Latter-day Saints and as we want to appreciate them and honor Elders of Israel, we should seek by the them. Are we Seventies? We ought to prayer of faith to fulfil the various duties be full of light and life and the power that devolve upon us, that we may honor and spirit of the Living God and feel our God, magnify our calling and fill the that we are messengers to the nations of measure of our creation here upon the the earth; we ought to feel the word of earth, and purge ourselves from all un- God burning like fire in our bones, feel- righteousness, and be full of love, kind- ing desirous to go and snatch men from ness, generosity and philanthropy, and the powers of darkness and the chains also full of honesty, of truthfulness and of corruption with which they are bound, integrity, feeling in our hearts to say, O and lead them in the paths of life. We God, search me and try me and prove ought to be prepared to go forth weep- me, and if there is any evil in me, help ing, bearing precious seed that we might me to purge it out from me, and help me come back again rejoicing, bringing our to honor and magnify my priesthood and sheaves with us. If we are High Priests, every duty devolving upon me. And as we ought to magnify our calling in that fathers and mothers we should never ut- portion of the priesthood and to prepare ter a word or do an act that we should be ourselves for the duties and responsi- ashamed for God, or angels, or our chil- bilities that are devolving upon us as- dren to hear or see. And if we will do sociated with that priesthood, that we right and cherish and cultivate the spirit may be prepared according to the revela- of God to the extent that it can prevail tions we have received in regard to these and predominate in our midst, we will subjects, to preside over and among see Zion arise and shine, and the glory the different Stakes when they shall of God will rest upon her. THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST, ETC. 229

God help us to do right and pre- the living and the dead, and be saved ul- serve our purity, keep his laws and timately in his celestial kingdom, hav- lead us in the paths of life, that while ing fought the good fight, finished our we live upon the earth we may op- course, and kept the faith. In the name erate with him in the salvation of of Jesus. Amen.

THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST—ITS OBJECT, PRINCIPLES AND POWER.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER AURELIUS MINER, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, ON SUNDAY,MAY 11, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

The young brethren who have spo- to obtain that power ourselves, in or- ken this afternoon, and who have so re- der that we may overcome every obsta- cently returned from missions to Eng- cle which stands between us and eter- land, have told us something about the nal life. Christ said, "To him that over- Gospel they were sent to preach. By way cometh will I grant to sit down with of a continuation of the remarks which me on my throne." Then if Christ ex- have already been made, I propose to ercised the power of this Gospel, and ask this question: "What is the Gospel?" it was by that power that he over- The Apostle Paul declares the answer in came the principle of evil, which has the following language: "It is the power ever existed and which ever will ex- of God unto salvation to every one that ist in some form upon some of the cre- believeth." Believeth what? Believeth ations of God, we must in like manner that God is; that Jesus Christ died and and by like means accomplish for our- rose again, and opened the way, provided selves the same result. In this strug- the means and devised the plan whereby gle he conquered; in obedience to cer- man may be delivered from the power of tain principles he acquired power by evil. This Gospel, then, being the power which he overcame and attained to eter- of God, it is the power by which God nal life. This principle comes to us as the acts. If we secure salvation we shall have same means to gain the same end. But what are these principles which, if we 230 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. adopt them, and practice them in our and that those who have taught them lives, will enable us to attain to this have been inspired by the same senti- exalted position and power? These ment, the same truth? But suppose brethren have told you that they are I should find some who were teaching made manifest in the teachings of the el- that 2 and 2 are 3, or that 2 and 2 ders of Israel. How do we know this? are 6; I would at once say, Some of you Ministers of other denominations will are wrong, all cannot be right, certainly tell us that they have the truth, the way not. What would be the conclusion in and the life; that they preach the Gospel, our minds? That some had been taught the word of God to the people. But they imperfectly; that those who had been propose different plans, teach different taught that 2 and 2 were 3, or 5, had systems. One will teach us one system, been instructed by teachers who did not another a different one. If you go into understand the principles they essayed the old country especially you will hear it to advance. And the conclusion would be upon the streets, "Only believe in Jesus correctly drawn that there were systems and you are saved." Other systems hold of error being taught, and that all were that it is all free will and all free grace in error except those who proclaimed the on the part of God and ourselves. An- doctrine that 2 and 2 are 4. This figure other sums up the doctrine in this form: of 2 and 2 are 4—3-6, may be appropri- "You will and you won't, you shall and ately applied to the teachings of the re- you shan't, you will be damned if you do, ligious world; for we find one class who you will be damned if you don't. It makes profess to be the teachers sent of God, no difference on the part of the individ- who declare to us one set of principles, ual what he thinks or believes, so far as another class who declare another set of appertains to his salvation." principles, or doctrine, diametrically op- Why this difference in the religious posed to the first; we find a third oppo- world? God is not the author of confu- site to both; and continuing our research sion, or of conflicting doctrine and prin- until we traverse the entire globe, we ciples. Go into the scientific world, if find that there are several hundred dif- you please, and range through the field ferent denominations professing to wor- of exact sciences, and what do you find ship God according to his laws, all differ- there? If I were to ask the enlightened ing more or less in their doctrines, disci- people of all nations what is the prod- pline and forms of worship. There being uct of 2 multiplied by 2, they would all but one Lord, one faith, and one baptism, tell me 4. Why? Because the answer we discover that some have been and is understood to be correct; they have are teaching a doctrine that 2 and 2 are been taught it and they have demon- some number other than 4. That some strated it in the practical operations of are preaching something that is not "the life. There is no dispute, then, that power of God unto salvation," but a sys- 2 and 2 are 4 the world over. Why tem embracing the doctrines and pre- this universal declaration of this one cepts of men. Such a system is devoid of truth? Is it not because all have been the power of God, and is not that system taught a correct principle? That they which will bring salvation to the human have all been taught the same doctrine, THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST, ETC. 231 soul. It is not that system which will im- these same principles and law, we obtain part to individuals the knowledge of the salvation and power to become Gods, true God, and of his Son Jesus Christ. even the sons of God. And in observ- It is not that system which will bring ing these principles and laws, we but fol- man up from the condition of sin and er- low the advice of Paul which he gave to ror to the great plan of righteousness, the Saints in his day: "Let this mind be and truth. A system revealed from God in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: alone can accomplish such results. But Who, being in the form of God, thought where can we find these principles of the it not robbery to be equal with God." Gospel, this power of God revealed to What, humanity attain to the dignity of mankind, if it be revealed at all, that the God? Yes; if we are the sons of God, men may know that 2 and 2 are 4 for why not attain to something of the honor themselves, that they may know that the and dignity by inheritance with our Fa- power of God is unto salvation unto all ther? But how shall we do this? This that believe and obey. It is written in Gospel, which these brethren have been this Bible, and we sometimes refer to it teaching in distant lands, points out the as authority to those who do not compre- system which brings to us this power of hend the higher law, or rather have not God. And what is it? It is said that to understood that law of which this book those who believe it, it will become the is but the exponent. Just upon the same power of God unto salvation. And what principle that I may ask an individual do you mean by salvation? Deliverance what is the product of 2 multiplied by 2, from the power of sin, which is death, and he tells me 4. But if I were to ask and thus attain to eternal life. How shall him to demonstrate the 42nd proposition we triumph over the power of death? By of Euclid, he would answer me that he believing in Jesus Christ; believing that knew nothing at all about it. This is he is, and that he is the rewarder of simply a higher law, an advanced princi- all that diligently seek him. How can ple of knowledge; the plan by which the we hear except there be a preacher, and power of God is obtained is a progres- how can that individual preach except sive system in its enunciated principles he be sent of God? And if he be sent and doctrines. With this system we go of God, will he not proclaim unto us the on from step to step, as Paul declares the doctrine of God? Will he not proclaim "righteousness of God is revealed from the doctrines of Christ if he be sent of faith to faith;" or in other words, that the Christ, and is taught of him? But if he power of God was and is increased upon be not sent of him and taught of him, himself by his obedience to an eternal then he takes the honor unto himself, law, and thus became the King of kings and is unworthy to be called an Apos- and Lord of lords. Jesus Christ also, in tle of the Lord Jesus Christ, an ambas- obedience to this eternal law, obtained sador of heaven bearing the words of that power by which he triumphed over eternal truth. But how may we know sin and all the opposing powers of evil, these things? We know that 2 and 2 and attained to his exalted position are 4, this fact is demonstrated in our at the right hand of God. Practicing daily transactions. How may we obtain this power of God, which shall be unto 232 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. us salvation? By doing the will of the Fa- particle of instruction they needed, for he ther, by following diligently the instruc- cannot be accused directly or indirectly tion of the Apostle Peter, given on the of leaving his work half done. For, says day of Pentecost: "Repent, and be bap- Christ, What more could I have done tized every one of you in the name of that I have not done? He gave them Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, all the instruction needed to go forth as and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy teachers and ministers to all nations and Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and peoples. After Peter told these people to your children, and to all that are afar what to do, what fulfillment of promise off, even as many as the Lord our God was to follow obedience to his instruc- shall call." And he further says, "Save tions? "And ye shall receive the gift of yourselves from this untoward genera- the Holy Ghost." That is the promise, tion." What did he tell them to do? To is it? Peter, have you not made a mis- repent. They already believed in Je- take? Have you been telling us that sus, for he had preached Christ to them, 2 and 2 are 4, or that 2 and 2 are 6? and they were pricked in their hearts He has told us the truth presumedly. and they cried out, "Men and brethren, How may you know? Oh, says one, the what shall we do?" Peter did not tell promise was only to the Apostles and them to come to an anxious seat to be those to whom they preached. But the prayed for. No, there was a work for promise was not confined to them; it was themselves to do. What do you mean an extended promise, "And to your chil- by repentance? Forsaking all evil, turn- dren, and to all that are afar off, even ing away from all unrighteousness; "Let as many as the Lord our God shall call." him that stole steal no more;" let him How many has the Lord called? Read that was drunken drink no more, etc.; the 1st verse of the 50th Psalm: "The overcome all your sins by righteousness mighty God, even the Lord, hath spo- and obedience to the law of God. Re- ken and called the earth from the rising pent, then, every one of you. What, of the sun unto the going down thereof." all these good men who had come up to Read also the 17th verse of the last chap- Jerusalem? Yes, a new dispensation had ter of Revelation: "And the Spirit and now been ushered in. "Repent." What the bride say, Come. And let him that else? "And be baptized every one of you." heareth say, Come. And let him that is What for? "For the remission of sins." athirst come. And whosoever will, let Is there no other way, Peter, by which him take the water of life freely." Are not we can get our sins remitted? He has you, my hearers, as well as the whole of not declared any other; if there were he mankind, included in this general call? ought to have told them, for they asked The promise is, then, to you. "But sup- him a most important question, and he posing I do come in obedience to the tes- preached by command of the Savior and timony, borne by these young men this was taught of him for forty days prior afternoon, how shall I know for myself to his ascension, and it is to be pre- that I shall have done the will of God?" sumed that Christ gave to him, in con- I answer, do the things that they say nection with his fellow Apostles, every and you shall know whether the doctrine they preach be of God or whether they THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST, ETC. 233 speak of themselves. For know ye that put their hands in their pockets and as- if the promise be not fulfilled to you, sist them to the extent of their means, the Lord speaks not by them or by any- their sympathy will not amount to a hill one else. If a promise has been made of beans. The Savior gave and observed by the Great Jehovah to the children of this form of doctrine, and if he taught not men upon certain conditions, and those a correct system let us do away with it conditions be performed upon their part altogether; for if he is not the author of and the promise be not realized, then our salvation, who is? There is no name know ye that the God of heaven never given under heaven whereby man must made that promise. But, said Christ, be saved but the name of Jesus Christ, they did not believe him in his day. And and if we do not preach the form of doc- they asked him how they should know trine he taught where shall we find it? whether the things he taught were true or not. He told them to do the things which he commanded. And you, my What is the promised result of obedi- friends, can know in no other way. This ence to this counsel of Peter ? "You shall is a practical work. Is there no the- receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." What ory about the Gospel? Yes; but the shall be the result of the reception of theory is worth no more than the the- that spirit? Christ told his disciples that ory of anything else; it is the practi- it should bring all things whatsoever he cal part we want, that which brings had said to them to their remembrance. benefit and blessing; that which comes And was it to bring to memory only the like the old Yankee to the man who fell things which had been heard? Or was it from his horse and broke his leg. Said to reach back into the vista of the past some of the spectators who had gathered and unfold to us some knowledge of our around, I am very sorry for this man, he pre-existent state? Why not, since the has a large family and their only sup- spirit comprehends from the beginning port will now be taken away from them. to the end? But is that all it was to The old Yankee, it will be remembered, do? He also said that it should lead us said, I am sorry for him just ten dol- into all truth. Then we have the great lars, how much are the rest of you sorry; teacher who teaches by the spirit of rev- and handed over the money. That ten elation that 2 and 2 are 4 in every part of dollars was worth more to the injured the known world, and to all people. You man than all the sympathy in the uni- have the same teacher now that taught verse. And if the Gospel does not come you in England or Russia or China or with blessing and benefit, with intelli- America, or wherever the human family gence, power and exaltation to the hu- exists, that spirit will lead you into all man family, it is of no practical bene- truth; and if we are in possession of that fit; and if of no permanent benefit it spirit we will be taught the same doc- is not worth our time to meddle with. trine and the same principle and will all So the Latter-day Saints may feel sorry tend according to our faithfulness to the for the poor people in England, whose same degree of exaltation. Thus shall deplorable condition has been described you know that God lives, thus shall you to us this afternoon by the brethren know that Jesus Christ is the Son of who have just returned from missions God. And this by the revelation of that to that country; but if they do not spirit which shall lead and guide you into 234 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. all truth. What else can it do? It and he who has the spirit of prophecy shall show you things to come; and if has the testimony of Jesus. Then you were peradventure to declare any mankind may ridicule the idea that of these things you would become a prophets are no more upon the earth; it prophet. This would be a terrible thing, is tantamount to saying, "that we know to become a prophet! But Moses said not God, and are without hope in the when Joshua wanted him to rebuke cer- world." And who can know the Father tain ones and forbid them from proph- but by the revelations of the Son, and he esying in the camp of Israel, after ask- unto whom the Son may reveal him? ing him if he was jealous for his sake, It seems then that this Holy Ghost "I would that all the Lord's people were is full of intelligence, full of knowledge, prophets," because it would imply that full of power, and is the acting minister they had obeyed this form of doctrine, of God throughout all the dominions of that they were living in constant com- the great Jehovah. That spirit reveals munion with the Holy Ghost, it would to man that Jesus is the Christ, and be to argue that they were living accord- Christ reveals the fact of the existence, ing to the doctrine of John when he said, power and glory of his Father. And this "Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth is the order. And how shall we know this not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not fact? By rendering obedience to the or- God. He that abideth in the doctrine dinances, and then you can know it for of Christ, he hath both the Father and yourselves. It is no great trouble; a lit- the Son." How shall they know that Je- tle cold water will not hurt any of you. I sus is the Christ? Only by the testimony presume there are many in this congre- of the Holy Ghost. For, says the Apos- gation who have been buried in the wa- tle Paul, "No man speaking by the Spirit ter of baptism when the ice has had to be of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that cut, and they will tell you that by obeying no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, these simple forms of doctrine they have but by the Holy Ghost." Did Paul tell the received for themselves, by the laying on truth or not? No man can say know- of hands of the Elders, this Holy Ghost, ingly that Jesus is the Christ but by the and that it has borne record to them of power and revelation of the Holy Ghost; the Father and the Son. Is not the exper- and no man ever obtained this knowl- iment worth trying? Is not the prize of edge in any other way, or ever will. It sufficient value to induce you to sacrifice is the plan God has designed, and if we the follies of the world to put on Christ? would come unto him we must do so in Shall we not run the race that is set be- his own appointed way. We must run fore us? Shall we not do and perform the race that is set before us, and not at- the acts which bring unto us the power tempt to prescribe the rules of the race- of God? track ourselves. Let us therefore so run But is this power acquired only that we may gain the prize at the end by acts or words? Let us see what of the race. In order to secure this we the Savior says. You remember that must conform to the ordinances of the a certain man brought his son who Gospel which comprise this testimony was possessed of a devil to the Sav- which is given by the power of the Holy ior that the Savior might cast the Ghost, which is the spirit of prophecy; devil out as the Apostles had failed THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST, ETC. 235 to do so. The Savior, it will be remem- how this power is obtained. To believe bered, gave them a severe rebuke upon only? No. Belief only would be worth- that occasion saying in substance: How less; belief followed by works under the long shall I be with you as a teacher and direction of the Holy Spirit, which is the you be so thickheaded that you will not power of God, brings forth the power learn these principles which I teach from of faith. Have you Elders of Israel day to day? How long shall I suffer you found yourselves in the same condition to be my disciples, and how long shall I as these disciples, when called upon to have to be with you as your teacher be- perform a similar act, and if you have did fore you learn these things? Bring the you know the reason why? Learn the an- boy to me. The father obeyed and by swer from the lips of the Savior. Do you that power which had been developed fast and pray according to the ordinances in Christ by obedience to law he com- of this system, through which the power manded the unclean spirit to come out of God is obtained? If you have not, then of the tabernacle of the boy and to de- your ministrations were in vain because part from him and it obeyed him. The you failed to comply with the conditions. disciples felt the rebuke, and when op- Are the promises to men in an individual portunity presented itself they asked the capacity? In one sense, yes; in another, Savior why they could not cast out the no. When the conditions prescribed are evil spirit. And Jesus answered and said complied with, then the fulfillment of the unto them, "Because of your unbelief: for promises must be forthcoming, for God verily I say unto you, If ye have faith cannot lie. Is it the individual that acts as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say then? No. He is simply the represen- unto this mountain, Remove hence to tative; it is the ministering servant of yonder place; and it shall remove; and God who acts, not in his own name but nothing shall be impossible unto you." in the name of his principal, by virtue of What? I have heard ministers say, yes the power behind the throne. Just the you can remove mountains by utilizing a same as the Judge upon the bench or lot of Chinamen. But shall we thus cur- the Police upon the street. Do they act tail the power of faith for it is a princi- in their own name? No, but are repre- ple of power and not simply a volition of sentatives of a power from whom they the will. It was by the power of faith hold their commissions. So they who that God created the heavens and the minister in the holy ordinances of the earth. And if God could by the power of Gospel, minister not in their own name, faith organize these vast planets which but by virtue of the authority of their revolve in most perfect order through commission. For how can men preach space, if, I say, that he could do this by the Gospel except they be sent, and sent the power of faith, how great a portion of God to declare his Gospel, so that their of that power would it take to remove words may be the words of God to the the Wasatch range? Not a very large people? Then the exhortation of the El- proportion. Said the Savior to his disci- ders of Israel is, Repent, every one of ples in answer to their inquiry: "howbeit you, and be baptized for the remission this kind goeth not out but by prayer and of your sins and the promise is that you fasting." Then we have a clue from the shall receive the Holy Ghost, which will declaration of the Savior himself as to 236 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. lead and guide you into all truth; it will thereof. His knowledge comes to us with bring things past to your remembrance, an assurance which is stronger and more and it will show you things to come. It convincing than the seeing of the eye, the will enlighten your minds and will lead hearing of the ear and the handling of you step by step, giving line upon line, the hand put together. For it is as Paul precept upon precept, here a little and says, the sure word of prophecy, which there a little. But owing to the weak- is more satisfactory evidence to the hu- ness of the flesh and the weaknesses of man mind than all other evidences com- our fallen natures that are ever present bined. And it comes to us with such with us, we learn slowly. But by perse- convincing power that it cannot be gain- verance in the warfare against sin we sayed. And hence these young Elders continually increase this power within stand up and say they know the things us, which though gradually developing to be true whereof they testify by the will ultimately become in us a principle gift and power of the Holy Ghost. And of revelation and prophecy, sufficient to they tell us that they have obtained this enable us to hold converse with God and knowledge by obeying this simple form of to receive wisdom and knowledge from doctrine, which is so plain that a wayfar- the great fountain of intelligence. The ing man need not err therein if he sets Gospel does away with all narrow con- his heart to do the will of God. Are they tracted feelings; it widens the range of narrow, contracted in their feelings? If thought as well as ennobles the mind; it so why do they spend their time in go- makes us feel that God is our father, that ing forth to labor in the vineyard of the the world is our home and that mankind Lord without compensation, except that are our brethren, all the sons and daugh- which comes from God and the satisfac- ters of God; and I am not benefited by tion of knowing that they are doing the crushing you nor you by crushing me, will of Heaven? They preach not for but that we are only exalted in the scale hire nor divine for money but go forth of being by acts of intelligence and good- and preach the everlasting Gospel to all, ness; and that as we increase in knowl- calling upon the people everywhere to edge so do we increase in the power of repent and be baptized for the remis- God. sion of their sins, promising them in the The government of God upon the name of him who commissioned them, earth is denominated as his priesthood, that when these requirements are com- as is declared by Paul in his letter to plied with in all sincerity they shall re- the Romans, is the power of God made ceive the gift of the Holy Ghost, which known and that which may be known shall give them to understand and know of God is manifest in them who hold for themselves that 2 and 2 are 4, that this priesthood, for God hath shewn it God lives, that Jesus is the Lord; all be- unto them. The knowledge of God comes ing taught by this Spirit will know and then through the priesthood which has understand alike. Ignorance will depart been established upon the earth; and the and knowledge will increase and abound salvation of the human family through and to all there will be but one Lord, one the administration of the ordinances of faith, and one baptism. Amen. this Gospel by the power and authority THE GOSPEL AS PREACHED BY THE SAINTS, ETC. 237

THE GOSPEL AS PREACHED BY THE SAINTS—OPPOSITION BY THE WORLD TO THE DIFFUSION OF TRUTH.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE G.BYWATER, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY AFTERNOON,JUNE 29, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

We are assembled here this afternoon of its fundamental principles, several of as a congregation of worshippers; we its divine ordinances and very many of have come together to worship God ac- the hopes that inspired and caused to cording to the dictates of his word; ac- heave with heavenly emotion, and de- cording to the revelations of his divine light the bosoms of the purest men and will, as it has been made known to the women of this age, or of ages preced- people of the Latter-day Saints. We rep- ing this of ours, were principles that had resent a faith, a spiritual constitution, been re-revealed in ages and dispensa- an organization of ideas which incorpo- tions gone by. But we claim to have re- rates our sense of duty, our duty to our ceived this Gospel in the dispensation God and our duty to our fellow men. in which we live as a new revelation; This is not a new occasion; this is not a not new principles, but a new revelation new announcement. We have existed as of old principles, of ancient doctrines, a people in the midst of the nations of of institutions that the greatest bene- the earth for a third of a century. Our factors, philanthropists and humanitar- doctrines are not new, our principles of ians that ever graced the human race, which these doctrines are composed, are were more or less made familiar with. not of the 19th century; they are not the We are here today, beloved friends, as outgrowth of the intelligence of this age; the result of the operations of the min- they are not the products of that intellec- istry of this Gospel, as a people occu- tuality which is by many regarded as the pying this section of country called the biggest standard of advancement, as the Territory of Utah. We are fruits, we most elevated platform of thought. Our are results of the ministry of reconcil- principles are from eternity to eternity. iation brought forth through the mis- The Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, sion of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in which is the name commonly applied to its fulness and primitive purity in the the religion we profess, was preached day and age in which we live, and to aforetime unto Abraham; was revealed us as a people when we thus address unto our fathers, the ancients. Many each other and reiterate these truths in each other's hearing, we are not an- 238 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. nouncing that which we do not under- an evidence of its divine character and stand, but we simply do so to remind heaven-born nature, or for the proofs of each other, to stir up our thoughts, to put its practical result as to ourselves. We into activity our reflective powers and can, my friends, examine our own ex- calling forth those intellectual energies perience; we can review, each individ- which are awakened by the revelation ual one of us, the several chapters which of these principles of life and immortal- each day's acts, conversations and the re- ity in the development of our faith, and sults of our labors as individual mem- to stir up our minds, that they may be- bers of this body ecclesiastical and of come more pure and to bring to our re- this Church militant, and see what have membrance things that are past, as well been the fruits which these principles as cause to pass before our minds the have borne in our lives, and moreover circumstances, the duties and the inci- see how far we have conformed to those dents of the present, and thus carry with conditions upon the blessings of the sec- us the history we are creating, and pro- ond birth, the regeneration of the human duce by the combined action of our past heart under the inspirations of the spirit and present labors those results which of the Lord have been vouchsafed, and the Gospel in its entirety and its power see whether our professions are profes- and influence exercises over the heart sions merely, whether they are simply of man in bringing to pass that human wordy acknowledgements or whether we regeneration so long spoken of by the preach those most practical of sermons prophets; so long ago sung of by the in- in the actions of our lives, in the prac- spired psalmist and the songsters of Is- tices of our everyday conduct, so as to rael, which should characterize the fea- verify the correctness of our testimony tures, that would mark the development and to justify our friends and ourselves of God's purposes in this humanity, in in the conclusion that we are honest and this great mass of intelligence, which he sincere in the worship of the Lord our has created and given a conscious exis- God according to the revelations of his tence to upon the earth. will. In speaking in this manner, my Brethren and sisters, we have re- brethren and sisters, I desire to do so ceived revelations from God, the unbe- as making a few preparatory remarks to lief of the world respecting those reve- what may be said by my brethren who lations to the contrary, notwithstanding. may follow after me, as I shall not oc- We have received those glorious truths cupy your attention but for a limited por- pertaining to the regeneration of man, tion of time this afternoon. I wish to say, pertaining to his further development however, in addition to what I have al- and to his final and complete redemp- ready said with reference to the charac- tion; or, in other words, to use, perhaps, ter of the Gospel, that we need not look language more familiar to some minds, to any other source for an evidence of the the more perfect development of man. divinity of the mission in which we are We have received those glorious princi- engaged, the divinity of the revelations ples; we have accepted them in the sim- which have been entrusted to us in this plicity of our hearts as truths from God, dispensation of the fulness of times, for and we have realized in our individual THE GOSPEL AS PREACHED BY THE SAINTS, ETC. 239 experiences that our testimony is true; being, by a conscious being, by a being that the principles we have embraced possessed of consciousness of the qual- are true; that they have verified them- ity of the ego feeling, and when the com- selves in our experiences and verified plement of his intellectual faculties are the promise made by our Redeemer in not impaired; when they are awakened the declaration to his disciples: "And to a beautiful exercise by the laws of ye shall know the truth, and the truth thought, by the force of principle, by the shall make you free." "If the Son there- impress of objects, and when the man is fore shall make you free, ye shall be free awakened as a thinking intellectual be- indeed." Our principles are simple; they ing, he is unavoidably open to receive a are perspicuous; they are clear; they are portion of the inspiration which they in- self-evident: they become self-evident to herit; and the more advanced he is, the every mind capable of perceiving the re- more elevated he becomes in the plane lation which these principles bear to our of intelligence, the greater will be his conditions of life, including the physical susceptibility and capability to receive and mental. of that inspiration; and the more he in- The plan of human redemption, dulges in the contemplation of the higher which we call the Gospel of the Son of and loftier aims of life, the more value God, is composed of principles and doc- he attaches to every principle of morality trines that are pure, that are in per- and virtue, to every principle of revela- fect harmony with every want of our na- tion from God, to truth of every kind and tures, with every rightful desire, with ev- more especially those truths that have ery legitimate unfoldment of our being, an immediate bearing upon his present physical or mental, material or spiritual, condition, as well as those truths which whichever terms we choose to select to affect his future state. express the materiality or spirituality of our being. I repeat, that the Gospel of the Son of God contains every provision and is enriched with every quality, is en- There is much of the knowledge that dowed with every element necessary to has been conferred upon the family of the perfect enjoyment of all the powers man, there is much of that intelligence of man and of all the capacity with which and understanding which man has been he is endowed for the development of his brought into possession of that we can- power and intelligence. not use immediately in regulating our af- In speaking upon this subject, my fairs socially, or in any other work in the brethren and sisters, we are led to structure of society. But the principles the further consideration of the eter- to which I am now directing your atten- nity of our being; we are conducted tion; the principles of the Gospel of Je- thereby into premises which spread sus Christ, are fundamental principles; out on the right and on the left; they are cardinal elements, they are the we are guided in our reflections un- foundation stones, if you please, of the der the inspiration of principle—for ev- great superstructure of humanity; they ery truth possesses its own principle reach the fundamental conditions of its of life, its own quality of power, its being; they possess the virtue of delv- own characteristic energy, and when- ing down into the most intricate recesses ever that truth is received by a sentient of our natures and of causing to well up 240 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. from our inmost natures those quali- logy there were greater incongruities, ties and excellencies, those virtues, those yet it must be remembered that they deeds which are praiseworthy and of were not so far advanced as to be able good report, and command veneration, to perceive their errors, and if they were those deeds which have adorned the lives devoted and sincere in the course they of all men who have made themselves pursued, living up to the best light they benefactors to their race, and who have possessed, I, for one, cherish with fond shone as the reformers and regenera- remembrance the memories of such peo- tors of society. No matter by what name ple. they have been called, if they have done But there is a very anomalous mental good in any capacity or sphere; if soci- state existing in the midst of the human ety today owes anything to the past, to family, which is not a new one, however. the great motor force that has affected It is the constant battle that is being the interests of humanity or guarded the waged by antiquated theories and prin- conditions of its welfare, or has directed ciples, which are perhaps established in its energies in any degree to produce a the hearts of the majorities, whenever condition that is desirable in the history a new truth is introduced to the world; of our race, we owe it to that class of whenever a principle that has not been men, we owe it to men that have been recognized distinctly as such has not en- firm and true to their convictions of what tered into the constitution of their own was right; we owe it to men who have religion, philosophy, politics or science. stemmed the current of popular preju- Whenever a new truth is introduced, the dices or who have dared to row against stubborn and inflexible conservators of the stream of popular opinion; we owe antiquated notions and ideas are unwill- it to men who have sacrificed the good ing to widen the area of their thoughts, will of those who were floating with the and extend the boundary of their reflec- tide of popularity, and to men who have tions still outward. And it is refresh- stood firm and true and inflexible to their ing when we discover one here and there convictions of right. Have there been the world over entertaining the sensible such men? Yes, my brethren and sisters. views expressed in the language of Hum- I rejoice that through the sable dark- boldt, the German naturalist: "Weak ness, that through the almost impene- minds complacently believe that in their trable clouds that intervene between us own age humanity have attained to the today and the ages of the past we can culminating point of intellectual great- see glimpses, scintillas of light that il- ness, forgetting that by the internal con- lumed time, and I revere and honor the nection existing among all natural phe- memories of such men who did what they nomena, in proportion as we advance, could to fulfil the purposes of their Great the field to be traversed acquires addi- Creator, the Father of the human race, tional extension, and that it is bounded and the Creator of all things that are. I by a horizon, which incessantly recedes honor their memories. If they were not in before the eyes of the inquirer." How the possession of so much truth as those forcibly true, how substantially correct who followed them; if their philosophy are these words spoken by this no- was not as sound, and if in their theo- ble man, one of the brightest minds of THE GOSPEL AS PREACHED BY THE SAINTS, ETC. 241 the 19th century! Are we able to extri- which brings life and immortality to cate ourselves from these thoughts, from light, and we are confronted with the this dwarfed condition of ideas? No, I cry of "fools," "fanatics," and a very great fear not. And is it not as true today as number of uncomplimentary terms. But it ever has been, that whenever an in- I have long ago, my friends, come to the dividual or a community of individuals conclusion that there is a great deal said introduce into the world any principle when there is a very little meaning to be or doctrine which they conceive to be in drawn from what has been said in rela- the most perfect accord with the princi- tion to these men. They are "as sounding ples of truth already revealed, they are brass, or a tinkling cymbal." sure to be met with the same old cry; We, as Latter-day Saints, have em- the same weapons of warfare that are braced the Gospel of Jesus Christ. What strewn around over the battle grounds is that Gospel? It is faith in God; it is of the ages are eagerly clutched by some an avowed confession of the existence of of the sturdy veterans who will grab at a Deity, that there is a supreme intel- anything—infidel, skeptic, heterodox, fa- ligence that not only governs, but built natic, immoral, and it matters not what the universe, the great architect of the the odium attached to such words may heavens. We believe in his existence; be, as long as they think they can be used that he is a rewarder of all them that to arrest the progress of truth, of princi- diligently seek him. We believe in the ple, of doctrine which has not been incor- Lord Jesus Christ, his only begotten son, porated in their views. who came into the world in the merid- We talk about our progressive en- ian of time to announce the message of lightenment; we talk of our advancing mercy, who proclaimed principles of eter- intelligence; we speak eloquently of the nal truth, who made known the con- march of intellect, and yet we are free to ditions whereby mankind could attain condemn every effort that is made by the salvation, could elevate himself by the world's most staunch advocate of human means provided in this great scheme progress, in feeling after the foundation of man's redemption from his low es- of society, in feeling after the founda- tate, that he might ascend the ladder tion of faith, in seeking to determine the that Jacob saw, having its feet placed soundness or the unsoundness of prin- upon the earth and its top reaching to ciples, and if we discover that our fa- heaven, whereby he might climb round thers ate sour grapes, and we their chil- after round, receiving line upon line, pre- dren have had our teeth set on edge, cept upon precept, here a little and there we wish to administer some panacea a little, until he shall become a perfect to remove the difficulty, to change the man in Christ Jesus our Lord. We be- elements that are sapping the founda- lieve then in Jesus Christ as the Sav- tion of that society which we are try- ior of the world. We believe in the ing to build up, and supply its place gospel he received and the principles with elements of a homogeneous tex- of that gospel which have been handed ture, of a more durable fiber, and re- down to us by Matthew, Mark, Luke and construct it upon the basis developed by John, the four historians who compiled the principles of the everlasting gospel, the history of his ministry and recorded 242 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the principles he taught. We believe that they have the message of life and them to be eternal truth; we believe salvation revealed from the heavens, them to be essential to the salvation which is the power of God unto salva- of mankind. We believe in repentance tion to all that believe and obey, and of all past sins; a genuine and sincere ask these men permission to preach to repentance—not a professed repentance, them and their people the Gospel of the but a repentance which need not to be meek and lowly Jesus, this same once repented of; a repentance which brings despised Nazarene, in their pulpits or forth fruits meet for repentance, namely lecture platforms, and they at once ex- a forsaking of sin, a forsaking of every press themselves fearful least we should evil habit of which we have a knowledge inoculate them with this dreadful conta- of their being evil, turning away there- gion. What do we preach? The selfsame from and seeking to the Lord our God principles that Jesus taught. We do not with full purpose of heart, adorning our take it as expressive of a high and lofty lives with his doctrine, with his sacred mind to be combative, to court discus- precepts and principles, believing that sion, but we are at the defiance of the "The fear of the Lord is the beginning unbelieving world to prove one principle of wisdom; and before honor is humility." of our fundamental doctrines, revealed We believe in baptism for the remission to us in this age by Joseph Smith, or by of sins and in the laying on of hands for Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world, the reception of the Holy Ghost. that is not in perfect harmony with the Now, we believe all this and much highest conceptions and the most pure more. Our doctrines have been before natures the world ever had, and is not the world for many years. Our Church in perfect consonance with the declara- works contain a very full and clear ex- tions of holy writ. We have had men con- position of our views in relation to our tradict us, we have had people tell us faith, in relation to our principles af- that we are duped and led astray, but fecting our life here and hereafter, and their simple assertions are of no weight yet we discover, my friends, that we are or value unsupported by legitimate argu- unpopular, that we are not to be in- ment. Our doctrines are biblically pure, cluded among the Christian elements of they are doctrinally sound according to society; we are considered Pagans, hea- the embodiment of divinity contained in thens, outlaws, barbarians, an immoral this most ancient of books, called the and reprobate race. And let me ask, Bible; not only our first principles, but all how was it in the days of Jesus, this other principles pertaining to it, includ- great prototype of human perfection, this ing our social institutions, which is the great master teacher of the purest of great bone of contention with the moral- all truth? Our Christian ministers to- ists of our day. I dare not permit myself day speak eloquently from the pulpit to to talk upon this question at the present their congregations, telling them that time. I am so thoroughly disgusted with there is no name given under heaven the rottenness and the canting hypocrisy whereby man can be saved but the name of society, and with the infidelity of its so- of Jesus; and yet when men go forth as cial relations, and with the entire degen- our Elders do, declaring in all soberness eracy of the morality of our age, to talk THE GOSPEL AS PREACHED BY THE SAINTS, ETC. 243 upon this subject, particularly with men who are opposed to the progress of hu- who have jumped at conclusions and who manity, who are stereotyped in their have reached them without measuring views, who make no advancement in every step they have taken, without ana- that path of the righteous which shines lyzing the elements of the doctrines they brighter and brighter unto the perfect call in question; but we can say in meek- day; but I fear more for our own ne- ness of heart and in confidence, without glects, our own selfishness, our own hypocrisy and without a zeal that is not yielding to the depravities of human na- in accordance with knowledge, but with ture, our own backslidings from God and a zeal that is being fanned into a glow the covenants we have made, than any- that becomes honest men, that we know thing else. I have no fear of the final tri- our doctrines are of God and the whole umph of truth; I do not shake or tremble world who oppose its principles lie in the while contemplating the results of the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of in- great work which the Lord has recom- iquity. menced in this dispensation, which is I feel grateful, my brethren and sis- one of the many dispensations which ters, that we have a religion that is self- have preceded it, for God will so conduct sustaining; that we have a faith whose the issues of his work, the labors of His foundations are God and heaven, whose Priesthood, the operations of His min- bulwarks are immutable, indestructible istry and the final consummation of His truths. We may fight them as did the purposes as to cause to be torn asunder ancients; our enemies may fight those all false systems, false politics, false re- doctrines as did the unbelieving Jews, ligions, false philosophy and false bonds and the surrounding unbelieving Sad- and obligations of society; and in the ducees and Pharisees, and the various place thereof he will fill the earth with discordant faiths, during the ages that true and correct knowledge. Then every are past; but truth, like the diamond, is man in every place shall meet a brother unchangeable in its nature, it is unbe- and a friend; then no man shall have dimmed in its own eternal luster. You need to say to his brother, Know ye the may heap upon it the odium of grosser Lord, for all shall know him, from the materials; you may endeavor to con- least to the greatest. This will be the fi- ceal it from the gaze of the world or nal result; this will be the finish, the con- cover it up in reproach, it is a diamond summation of the purposes of Jehovah in still, and like truth, it will one day tri- perfecting the earth and the sanctifica- umph and conquer, and roll forth in its tion of his children who dwell thereon. own, naked and unborrowed luster and They shall no more see as through a brightness and vindicate its own claims. glass, darkly, but face to face; becoming So it will be with the truth of the Gospel heirs with God and joint heirs with Jesus we have embraced. We have received it Christ to a kingdom and government in from God, and we have but one thing which dwelleth righteousness and peace. to fear. I am not afraid of the prej- This will be the final triumph, fight it udice of the world; I am not afraid of who may. the influences that are and might be I will conclude my remarks, thank- brought to bear against us by people ing you for your attention, and feel- and communities or the universal world ing pleased for the opportunity of 244 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. expressing my feelings with regard to And then we shall learn one day that all the great, latter-day work. Let us carry things work together for the good of them out the oft-repeated precept of President that love God; that truth is mighty and Young, which he reiterated in our hear- will prevail. And that this may be the ing: "Brethren and sisters, live your reli- result of the experience of each and ev- gion;" "Fear God and keep his command- ery one of us, is my prayer, through Je- ments; this is the whole duty of man." sus Christ. Amen.

SLAIN FOR THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS—FUNERAL RITES OF JOSEPH STANDING.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, ON SUNDAY MORNING,AUGUST 3, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JOHN IRVINE.

I will read a portion of the 23rd chap- found in the 6th chapter of the Revela- ter of St. Matthew, commencing at the tion of St. John: 34th verse: "And when he had opened the fifth "Wherefore, behold, I send unto you seal, I saw under the altar the souls of prophets, and wise men, and scribes: them that were slain for the word of God, and some of them ye shall kill and cru- and for the testimony which they held: cify; and some of them shall ye scourge And they cried with a loud voice, saying, in your synagogues, and persecute them How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost from city to city: That upon you may thou not judge and avenge our blood on come all the righteous blood shed upon them that dwell on the earth?" the earth, from the blood of righteous Very unexpectedly I have been Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of called upon to make a few remarks Barachias, whom ye slew between the to you this morning. Naturally I temple and the altar." would prefer to sit still and to re- There is another portion of Scrip- flect upon the sad event that has ture which I will read. It will be called us together. It is plain from SLAIN FOR THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS, ETC. 245 the reading of these passages of Scrip- its power, and communicating unto them ture that you have heard, that innocent the mind and will of heaven. Every gen- blood—the blood of the servants of God, eration who have the privilege of hear- of the prophets, of the wise men, of the ing the pure Gospel of Jesus preached in scribes, all those who have the testimony its fulness are held to a similar account- of Jesus, who are the bearers of the word ability. Their position is different to that of God—when shed wickedly, remains as of the generations who do not have that a heavy debt to be atoned for at some pe- privilege. The generations that inter- riod by the inhabitants of the earth. Also vened between the time that Zacharias that in the days of John the Revelator, lived and the coming of the Son of Man in one of the apostles of the Lord, in the the flesh, were not held to the same strict visions which he saw it was made man- accountability as the cotemporaries of ifest that there were yet more lives to the Savior. Why was this? Because be offered up for the cause of truth be- they did not have the truth in its ful- fore the blood that had been shed could ness revealed unto them; they did not be avenged upon those that dwelt upon have the prophets and apostles and righ- earth. It doubtless seemed strange to teous men in their midst to communi- the inhabitants of Jerusalem when Je- cate unto them the will of heaven, as sus said unto them that all the righteous the generations in which the Savior lived blood that had been shed in past gener- had; and for the same reason the gen- ations from the blood of righteous Abel erations that have lived since the death to Zacharias, son of Barachias, should of the Savior, and since the visions that be required of that generation. There John the Revelator had, are not held were reasons for this which he well un- to the same accountability as this gen- derstood. There are reasons existing eration, unto whom the fulness of the now and that will continue to exist and everlasting Gospel has been revealed. operate, why the blood of those who When God communicates his mind and have been slain for the word of God and will unto his children by the medium the testimony of Jesus in ancient days, of angels, by the medium of prophets, should be avenged upon some generation by the medium of holy men whom he in the future, from the time that John has raised up, those who hear that tes- spake and wrote the revelation he had timony, those unto whom that message received. Jesus said when he was upon is communicated, are held to a strict ac- the earth: "And this is the condemna- countability to obey the same or be held tion, that light is come into the world, in great condemnation for their rejection and men loved darkness rather than of it. If you will read the history of God's light." They were held to a strict account- ways of dealing with the children of men ability after light was revealed. The gen- throughout all ages, you will find that eration in which he lived were held to a it is invariably the case that judgments stricter accountability than any preced- and calamities, the fiery indignation of ing generation, because he himself, the the Almighty, always follow the rejec- Son of God, was in their midst, perform- tion of his truth, when that truth is pro- ing mighty works, preaching the Gospel claimed by his authorized servants, such of the kingdom in its purity and in as are apostles and prophets. If Nineveh 246 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. had not heard the voice of Jonah, the disregarded by those who heard them. Ninevites could not have been held to the The Lord does not look upon men accord- same accountability as those to whom ing to their numbers; the importance the word of the Lord had been pro- of his work and his dealings with the claimed; and when prophets arose in children of men is not to be measured the midst of Israel, prophets whom God by the number of those who adhere to raised up to declare his word, when the principles that he proclaims. When the children of Israel repented of their Joseph Smith stood alone, when he had sins and obeyed the warning voice of only two or three followers, and he de- the servants of God, then the blessings clared unto those by whom he was sur- of God always followed their obedience. rounded that God had spoken to him But on the other hand, when the chil- from the heavens, that God had revealed dren of Israel rejected the testimony of the everlasting gospel in its ancient pu- the servants of God, when the prophets rity and power, that God had sent his preached in vain, when they testified holy angels to him, and that those an- and warned the people without the peo- gels had laid their hands upon his head, ple obeying their testimonies or their and upon the head of Oliver Cowdery, warnings, then invariably the judgments and ordained them to the everlasting of God followed, his anger and indigna- Priesthood, his testimony was as bind- tion were kindled against that people or ing upon those who heard it as if mil- generation, it rested down upon them lions of men had testified to the same and in many instances to their destruc- truths. His testimony was binding from tion. the moment that he commenced to bear This is our position today. In this it to those by whom he was surrounded, respect the Latter-day Saints occupy a and the accountability of the people who unique position in the midst of the in- listened to him and heard his voice, and habitants of the earth. Men wonder heard his testimony, began from the mo- very frequently at the testimonies that ment that he opened his mouth and we bear. They express surprise that bore testimony of these things. And a people so few in number as we are, so it has been from that day unto this, should imagine that there is so much im- wherever the Elders of this Church have portance attending the testimonies that gone and have borne testimony to the we bear, or the Gospel that we preach. inhabitants of the earth respecting the But it is a remarkable fact, abundantly work that God has commenced—from sustained in the history of God's deal- that very moment the condemnation of ings with the children of men, that he the generation commenced if they did does not hold mankind guiltless because not obey these testimonies and warn- there are only a few who are the ora- ings. This seems to some minds scarcely cles of truth in their midst and who have what it ought to be, that is, it seems to the authority to proclaim that truth. If many that we attach too much impor- there was but one prophet on the face tance to what one or two men might say, of the earth, and he had no followers, when we assert that condemnation fol- but stood alone in the midst of the na- lows their testimony; but there is this to tions of the earth, his warnings would be be considered connected with the testi- followed by terrible results if they were SLAIN FOR THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS, ETC. 247 mony of God's servants in ancient days, they hear a man stand up and proclaim as in the days in which we live: God in the power and authority of the priest- has not left the inhabitants of the earth hood, and in all solemnity, that God has without a witness, God has not left them spoken from the heavens, that God has without some testimony which they can revealed the everlasting gospel, that God obtain to assure them that the words of has established his church in its ancient God's servants—that is the true servants power and in its ancient purity, that God of God—which they hear are from him. has endowed man to go forth and admin- When he called Joseph Smith and Oliver ister in the ordinances of life and sal- Cowdery, and when he sent his angels vation as in ancient days? What is the to lay their hands upon their heads to duty of the inhabitants of the earth un- ordain them to that priesthood which der such circumstances? had been withdrawn from the earth, he also sent his Holy Spirit to accom- Situated as the world is today, there pany their words and to seal the testi- is no voice from God. You travel through- mony with power upon the hearts of all out the whole of Christendom and there that were honest, and who prayerfully is an unbroken silence reigning between sought for a knowledge from God con- heaven and earth; no voice to disturb the cerning the truth of their words. When solemnity of eternity. Go visit all the dif- Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery laid ferent churches, and all the ministers of their hands upon other men's heads and the various denominations, and talk to ordained them to the same priesthood them who profess to be the followers of which they had received from heaven, Jesus Christ; ask them, "Do you know God confirmed the ordination by bestow- anything about God? Has God communi- ing the Holy Ghost upon them, and cated his mind and will to you?" And the when they went forth and proclaimed universal answer from all sects is "No, the truth, the Holy Ghost accompanied revelation has ceased, God no longer their words, and those who were de- speaks to man; we depend upon his writ- sirous of knowing from God respecting ten word in the Bible for our knowledge the truth of their testimony had the op- of God. We are divided into sects, we are portunity of receiving a knowledge di- split up into parties, we have all our own rect from heaven that it was of God, and way of worshipping God, but there is no on this very account condemnation com- voice from God, there has been no rev- mences because light hath come into the elation from God to disturb the silence world, and when men reject it they re- of ages, since the death of the Apostles, ject it because they love darkness rather and our knowledge concerning the plans than light. God does not hold people and purposes of God is derived from the accountable for that which they do not Bible." This being the case, then, what is know, or that which they have not had an the duty of the inhabitants of the earth opportunity of knowing. Where there is when a man comes as Joseph Smith did, no law, there is no transgression. Trans- and as the Elders of this Church are do- gression commences when the law is re- ing, proclaiming the truths which I have ceived and men reject it. What is the alluded to? Why, they being in ignorance duty of the inhabitants of the earth when of God, they having no revelation from 248 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

God, they not having heard the voice of obey this gospel when they heard it angels, they being split up into parties preached in its simplicity and its purity and sects, and divided and quarreling amongst the nations of the earth. Well, respecting the points of doctrine which now, will this generation escape condem- Christ revealed—they being in this posi- nation? I say unto you, nay. There will tion should humble themselves and ask be a heavy condemnation fall upon this God, in the name of Jesus, and in mighty generation because of their inattention prayer to reveal unto them whether the to these things. Judgments and calami- testimony of those men who come with ties will be visited upon the inhabitants this new revelation be true or false. That of the earth in consequence of neglect- is the duty of every living soul upon the ing the word of God written in the Scrip- face of the earth who hears the testi- tures, and also the word of God to his ser- mony of God's servants concerning this vants in these days. The Prophet Joseph truth, and there never has been, from Smith, his brother Hyrum, and numbers the time that Joseph Smith made his of others have been slain. What for? first proclamation until this day, the 3rd Why, said the mob who killed him, be- of August, 1879, a time when a man who cause they could not reach them by law. took this course did not receive a wit- They were brought before courts, Joseph ness from on high, the testimony of Je- Smith particularly, as you all know, from sus Christ, that these truths, proclaimed time to time, but they failed to find any by the servants of God are divine and cause of condemnation against him, and from heaven. Wherever the Elders of at last his blood was shed. He sealed this Church have gone and lifted up their his testimony with his blood. Like other voices in humility, in meekness, call- apostles and prophets, he laid down his ing upon the inhabitants of the earth life as a witness before God and before all to repent—and they have gone to many men of the truth of the testimony that he lands and spoken in many languages— bore. Others have done likewise. and the people have repented and sought unto God in the name of Jesus Christ We have met here today on this for a testimony of the truth, there has mournful occasion to pay the last rites, never been a single instance where they to offer the last testimony of respect to have failed to receive that testimony; not the remains of one who has in like man- one. Who have rejected this gospel? The ner laid down his life for the truth, one indifferent, those who would not take of the many who have been slain for the the trouble to investigate it, those who testimony of Jesus and for the word of would not take the trouble to bow in sub- God which he bore. Was there anything mission before the Lord and ask his tes- wrong in the testimony that he declared timony concerning it, those who thought when he lived? Was it wrong to call upon it beneath them, those who have been men to repent of their sins, to be bap- too proud, or too rich or too well situ- tized for a remission of them, to have ated or who, for some other reason, have hands laid upon them for the reception failed to take any interest in this work; of the Holy Ghost? Was it wrong to en- these are they who are not members treat men to forsake sin and to lead bet- of this Church and who have failed to ter lives, to be more pure, more holy, to SLAIN FOR THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS, ETC. 249 live near unto the Lord, to seek knowl- him. He did not think how, by stay- edge from God, to contend for the faith ing at home and attending to his busi- that was once delivered to the Saints? ness, he could benefit himself and re- If these things were wrong, then our ceive worldly advantages; none of these brother, whose remains are before us, things were thought of, but the very mo- was guilty of wrong. This was the ex- ment he was called to go from home he tent of his offense and no more. He dropped everything, although in some- endeavored to persuade men to lead what feeble health and although he had purer, holier lives, and proclaimed that already filled an honorable mission, he the days of God's judgment was near at felt it his duty to go when he was called, hand. He went forth to declare these to go without purse and without scrip, principles, filled with zeal, filled with without hope of earthly reward, putting good desires, exemplary in his life, pure his trust in God, laboring with unselfish in his conversation, the admiration of all zeal for the salvation of his fellow men, who knew him, the joy of his father's and thus he labored until he fell a victim household, an example to all his asso- to the ungodly hate of those who knew ciates of the same years, and even to him not, who understood not the objects those older than himself, a young man for which he labored, and the purpose of whom we all had great hopes, whose which animated his noble heart. future we thought was bright. In read- ing his letters, in listening to the ac- counts of his labors, in hearing from Who shall mourn today? The Latter- his co-laborers, we could not help feel- day Saints? No. Who shall mourn today? ing gratified. We indulged in bright an- The family and friends of Elder Joseph ticipations for his future, not because of Standing? No. It would be difficult and his birth, not because his parents were it would not be right that we should re- rich, not because of any extraordinary press the natural emotions of our hearts, talent which he possessed, not because that we should stifle those natural af- of any earthly advantages, but because fections; it is right and proper that we in his youth he humbled himself before should shed sympathetic tears, allow the God and attained a knowledge concern- heart's affection to flow out in this man- ing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and burn- ner and receive relief by the tears that ing with zeal, he had a heartfelt de- are shed. But there is no cause for grief sire to proclaim the great truths which today in this Tabernacle. A servant of God had revealed to him, to a fallen God who has occupied a faithful position, world and tried to save the children of who has been true, who has been up- men from the pit into which they were right, who has been blameless, has fallen likely to be engulfed. The same spirit a victim—a victim to that hate that the that animated the breast of the Savior, adversary of souls seeks to instill into animated the breast of Joseph Stand- the hearts of all the children of men who ing, that is, he had a portion of that will be led and guided by him, and the same spirit. He did not count bodily fa- men who have to mourn today are those tigue anything, he did not count toil any- who have been guilty of this foul deed. thing, he did not take into consideration The land that ought to mourn is the land his health, the feebleness of his frame; that has been drenched with his blood. none of these things had weight with If the Governor, the Judges, the Legis- 250 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. lature, and the other officials of the been cast out as evil, there is no crime, State of Georgia feel as they should there is no evil of which men could be they will not rest satisfied until there guilty that we have not been accused shall be atonement made, and the guilty of, and we all know how falsely and wretches who took part in this great with how little foundation we have been crime shall have been brought to justice. charged with these things. This is part But it will be a most extraordinary thing of the results that we have to meet in es- if such shall be the result. Not but what I pousing the truth. The man that holds believe the Governor is an upright man, his life dear, that values it more than and, so far as I am acquainted with him, the truth is unworthy of the truth. If would do everything in his power to pun- we value house, if we value lands, if we ish these murderers; but there are other value good name, if we value property, if influences at work that are stronger than we value self, if we value even life itself the influence of the Governor, there are more than we do the truth we are un- prejudices harder to conquer than any- worthy of the truth. But God has given thing else that can be met with and there unto us the truth; it is worth more than are hundreds, and probably thousands all else beside. He has revealed himself of people who think that in killing the to us. When we pray to him we know "Mormons" they are doing God's service. that he hears us. When we ask him for Shall we hate them for this? No; they a blessing that we need we have the tes- are to be pitied. Men who indulge in timony from on high that he hears our such feelings carry with them in their prayers, that he is willing to answer and own breasts their punishment, and they grant unto us the righteous desires of will experience a still more severe pun- our hearts. These things compensate for ishment before they get through. the loss of all other advantages; we have My brethren and sisters, when we this consolation which our persecutors embraced this Gospel, those of you do not have. who were old enough to comprehend it, The Prophets who have preceded us doubtless took into consideration all the have been slain generation after gen- consequences that might follow; those eration; they have passed away. The who were not old enough, or who have Savior and his apostles likewise passed been born in the Church have had expe- away, the work, the foundation of which rience enough upon these points to see they laid, having been overcome and de- and understand what the results of the stroyed by the adversary from the face espousal of the truth are likely to be. It of the earth. They foresaw that for a cost the Savior his life. It cost the greater long time ahead, apostasy would follow portion of his apostles their lives. It cost their labors and administrations, and a every prophet almost that has lived his sorrowful thing it was for them to con- life for proclaiming the truth. It has cost template: but in our case it is different. the best blood of this Church and this We live on the threshold of a new era; the generation to lay the foundation of this work that God has established in our day Church. We have been mobbed, we have shall never be given to another people. been driven, we have been persecuted, The priesthood which God has restored, we have been hated, our names have the authority by which men can ad- SLAIN FOR THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS, ETC. 251 minister in the ordinances of God—that alike faithful in this work. priesthood shall never be taken from the That his companion, Elder Rudger earth. Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, Clawson is alive and in our midst to- David Patten and other martyrs may day, is due to the wonderful providence fall, Brother Joseph Standing among the of God. My belief has been that had rest, their blood may be shed, and the the mob commenced their whipping they blood of others yet living may yet be shed would both have been killed. The death to confirm the testimony that has been of Brother Standing doubtless saved borne, but though this is the case, there Brother Clawson's life. is this to console us who live, to console I pray God the Father to comfort your us in contemplating the future for our- hearts, to pour out the spirit of consola- selves and our posterity after us, and it tion and peace upon the family and upon is that there is no power on earth, nor all the friends of the deceased. I pray in hell that can destroy the church that for his enemies and for those who have God has established, nor obliterate the shed his blood. I would not do them any priesthood from the earth again as it was harm if I could. There is not in my bo- obliterated in ancient days. It was neces- som, nor should there be in the bosoms sary when this Church was started that of the Latter-day Saints who have the angels should come to restore that which true spirit of the Gospel resting upon was taken away, the everlasting priest- them, a feeling to revenge. We ought hood, but there will be no future neces- to be and I think we are, far uplifted sity for this. We are at the threshold of above such feelings, and if we do not a thousand years of peace, we are en- have we should have the feeling which gaged in laying the foundation of that Jesus had when he was upon the cross work which shall stand forever, not only and led him to say, "Father, forgive them; the thousand years but as long as time they know not what they do." They had shall last and as long as the earth it- treated him with the greatest ignominy, self shall endure. This is the consola- treated him as if he had committed the tion we have that our predecessors did greatest crime, but in his dying hour he not have, and we can rejoice in the con- could implore the blessing of his Father templation of the glorious future of this upon them. And so we may upon those work. As for Brother Standing, no hero who seek to destroy this work. They could wish to die a more glorious death think they are doing God service; they than his. He will be crowned among the are actuated by a spirit of which they glorious army of martyrs, as one who know nothing. They are to be pitied, was willing to lay down his life for the they are to be mourned over, and the day truth without shrinking, without fear, will come when, as we comprehend the without faltering when the time came. sufferings of those who did these deeds, He has borne a noble and untiring tes- our souls will swell with pity and com- timony all the time to the truth of God, passion and sorrow for their wretched and there is in store for him a glorious condition. I pray that the Spirit of the crown along with those who have been Gospel may rest down upon all of us, 252 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. and that the peace of heaven may which I ask in the name of Jesus. Amen. be and abide in all our hearts,

SLAIN FOR THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS—FUNERAL RITES OF JOSEPH STANDING.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,SUNDAY MORNING,AUG. 3, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I wish to make a very few remarks on rights, is only a figment, an exploded the present occasion; and I desire that theory; and we may say, how has the order and quietness may prevail. glory of this nation become sullied! How has the fine gold become dim! How have We are met today on what may be the high and noble principles that in- termed a very sorrowful occasion. We spired the founders of this nation, in see before us the body of a murdered whose breasts burned the spirit of free- man, cut off in the bloom and flower of dom been desecrated, and those glori- his youth, with brilliant prospects before ous principles for which they battled him of a useful and glorious future. It is been trailed in the dust. And what a sorrowful to reflect that men in a land of miserable showing we have before us liberty, a land that boasts of its enlight- of the efficacy of those sacred princi- enment, its religious liberty and its lib- ples for which the founders of those in- eral institutions, should be guilty of im- stitutions battled and died. It is sor- bruing their hands in the blood of an up- rowful to reflect upon it. And on the right honorable man because he dared to other hand it is a matter of pride to worship God according to the dictates of Latter-day Saints to see one of our youth his own conscience and to teach his fel- firm and unshaken in the principles of low man the ways of life. It is a sorrow- our holy religion, and ready to main- ful reflection to feel that liberty is only a tain them in the midst of fanaticism and name and that protection and even equal hate even unto death. Pride, indeed SLAIN FOR THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS, ETC. 253 mingled with sorrow. Pride to see stated, the truths of the everlasting the heroism of the dying martyr, and Gospel; he believed them with all his poignant grief for his loss, and more es- heart and advocated them, going forth pecially have we met here to sympathize as a messenger of life clothed with the with his parents, the family and friends, Spirit of the living God. But this gener- and to mingle our tears with theirs, and ation does not like the truth, and indeed to reflect that although he died, he died the generations have been very few that with the harness on, he died battling for have not rejected the truth when it has the principles of the everlasting Gospel; been proclaimed to them. Stephen said he died maintaining those eternal truths in his day, "Which of the prophets have as they have emanated from God our not your fathers persecuted? and they heavenly father; and that having died have slain them which showed before of he still lives and is numbered with those the coming of the Just One of whom ye who are beneath the altar, crying, how have been now the betrayers and mur- long, O Lord, holy, just and true, wilt derers." They lauded the dead prophets, thou not avenge us of our adversaries? but killed the living ones. He has gone. Peace be to his ashes. Many of the people today are actu- I would rather by ten thousand million ated by the same malignant feelings, not times be lying where he is than be in knowing what spirit it is that incites the position of those who imbrued their them to fight against and feel inimical to hands in his blood, who, wherever they the principles of the everlasting Gospel. may be cannot help seeing and feeling And were Jesus here today, appearing as the horror of their fiendish act—their he did before, meek and lowly as the Sav- hellish deed, and they will go down to the ior of the world, preaching the same doc- grave execrated as murderers and men trines, there would be as loud a cry by who have no friends or hope either in the professed Christians throughout this time or in eternity. land as there was in the land of Judea by That young man has gone where oth- the Scribes and Pharisees: "Crucify him, ers have gone whom I have seen leave crucify him! Let him be crucified," and this earth under circumstances of a very there are many in our midst today who similar nature. I was with Joseph and would imbrue their hands in our blood, Hyrum Smith when they were killed; as those murderers in Georgia did in the and then, their murderers tried to dis- blood of this young martyr, if they dared patch me too, and came very near do- do it. ing so. They shot at me and hit me a number of times. But I am here yet; I God has committed to us the prin- suppose my time had not come. That ciples of truth, and has commanded is all right, however. They have gone, us to proclaim them to the ends of and this our brother has followed, and the earth, and regardless of conse- that is all right too, so far as he is con- quences and in the name of Israel's God cerned. His father here, I have been ac- we will do it and let all Israel say, quainted with for upwards of forty years; "Amen." (The vast congregation, as with and his son, whose remains now lie be- one voice, responded, "Amen.") We are fore us, was born in this city; he is one not scared of bonds, imprisonment or of our boys. He received, as has been death. A few days ago they were talking 254 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. about putting me in prison because I He will sustain his Israel. Our course chose to decline to betray a trust commit- is onward; and purity, virtue, truth, in- ted to me by this people, and turn over tegrity, the laws of God and equality to them certain properties entrusted to to all men is our motto, and protection my care. I said, You may take me to to every honest man under all circum- prison, gentlemen; I am ready, but I am stances. We are friends of God and the not ready to forsake my principles, I am friends of humanity. Like Brother Can- not ready to betray my people, I am not non, I do not mourn over the departed going to barter away my honor nor the dead. He has gone to associate among things that God has communicated to me an honorable band who dared during and that his people have vested in my their lifetime to do their duty, and who hands. I can afford to go to prison if you battled valiantly for the cause of truth. can afford to send me there; I can stand Here is Brother Rudger Clawson, who it if you can. These are my feelings. was with Brother Standing when he was The same feeling exists in our midst shot. The mob threatened his life and that laid that young man low. Men leveled their guns to take it. He calmly may clamor for our property; they may folded his arms and looking his adver- clamor for our blood just as much as saries in the face told them to shoot. But men have at any other time: but in they did not do it. God preserved him, the name of Israel's God Zion will go that's all. Here is Brother John Mor- on and prosper; the principles of truth gan, who has labored and traveled ex- will prevail; the things that God has tensively in that region of country. He committed to us we will bear off tri- and Brother Standing as one of his co- umphantly, God being our helper, and laborers had preached the Gospel and there is no power in this land, nor in succeeded in baptizing a number of peo- any other land, nor on this side of hell ple. This had aroused the feeling of op- nor in hell itself that can prevent it. position in the hearts of some, and the If we will cleave to God and do our reason they were opposed to these things duty and purge ourselves from unrigh- was because people believed the Gospel, teousness and live our religion and keep and they did not want them to. That's His commandments, Zion will arise and all. Did they hurt anybody? No. Are shine, and the glory of God will rest upon they honorable men? Yes. Did either of her. And when this nation and other na- them interfere with the rights or privi- tions shall crumble to pieces, Zion and leges of anyone? No. For what then was the glory thereof will extend from na- this young man killed? Because he dared tion to nation, and it will continue to to believe in God, and dared to proclaim spread and grow until the kingdoms of that God had revealed himself in these this world shall become the kingdoms of latter days as he did in former days. Be- our God and his Christ, and every crea- cause he dared to tell the people to re- ture in heaven and on the earth will pent of their sins and be baptized for be heard to say, Blessing and glory and the remission of them, promising all that honor and praise and power, and might would do so that they should receive the and majesty and dominion be ascribed to Holy Ghost. What a great crime for him Him that sits upon the throne, and to to die for! That is what I am sorry for. the Lamb forever. In God is our trust. SLAIN FOR THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS, ETC. 255

I am sorry to see that vindictive and re- temples and administer in them, honor vengeful spirit existing among mankind. the Lord our God and keep his command- We have very different feelings from this, ments; and by and by, when the dead as our history from the beginning abun- shall hear the voice of the Son of God, dantly proves. David, you know, on a and come forth, that young man, with certain occasion, feeling angry with the Joseph and Hyrum Smith, whom I saw people by whom he was surrounded be- butchered by a mob, while under the pro- cause of their wickedness, prayed that tection of the law—under the protection God would send them to hell quickly. Je- of the Governor of the State, who pledged sus, while suffering the agonies of death, his honor and the faith of the State to me exclaimed, "Father, forgive them; they and to Dr. Bernhisel, that if we would go know not what they do." How much bet- there without any arms, that we should ter the latter is than the former. Let be protected; and soon after we had com- us cultivate that spirit. But while we plied with his request, these men were do that, do not let your enemies think murdered in cold blood. These are things you are asleep; but woe to those men I am personally conversant with. Well, who fight against Israel. In the name what of them? They are gone to min- of Israel's God, they shall be wasted gle with the Gods, so has Brother Joseph away, and you may write it down and see Standing. Brother Standing (addressing whether it comes to pass or not. And let the father of the deceased), do not be all Israel say, "Amen." (Again the congre- troubled, your son is all right. I am glad gation responded, "Amen.") But Zion will to see the care that has been manifested arise and shine, and the glory of God will by Brothers Clawson and Morgan in re- rest upon her. gard to getting the body of their fellow Brother Standing (the speaker laborer here that we might have an op- turned and addressed himself to the fa- portunity of paying the last tribute of re- ther of the deceased, who was seated on spect to this our departed brother, who the stand), it is right you should mourn; was faithful to the end, and who will re- it is right that you and your family and ceive a crown of light and glory among friends should be sorrowful and possess the Gods in the eternal worlds. those feelings of sympathy; but your son has gone to prepare a place for you, that where he is, you may be also. Brethren, let us be faithful to God, What do you propose to do? To let us live our religion, keep his com- do good to all men as far as they will mandments, treat everybody well, even let us; but to prevent them from rob- all men who do right; treat them well bing us and interfering with us, as and be kind and just to them whether of God gives us power; and maintain our your faith or not; but do not allow those rights, the rights of freemen, the rights miserable miscreants that exist in our that God has committed to us, and midst to have dominion over you. We honor our priesthood and calling and must maintain our rights—rights that still go to the ends of the earth and are guaranteed unto us by the constitu- proclaim the unsearchable things of the tion of our country and which God has kingdom; gather together the honest given to us; and if we do this he will in heart from among all nations, build stand by us. Amen. 256 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

THE INTEREST OF HUMANITY SHOULD BE OBSERVED.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE OGDEN TABERNACLE, ON SUNDAY,MARCH 2, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I thought I would come down and the medium of Joseph Smith. The work talk with you a little this morning. I that we are engaged in is associated with am pleased to hear the remarks made the interest of all humanity—all men by Brother Joseph F.; they are very well that have ever lived, those that now live, worthy of all acceptation by all good and those that will live, and the salva- men. We indeed, as he said, are en- tion of the living and the dead is mixed gaged in a great work—the ushering up with these matters. in of the dispensation of the fulness We are not here for the purpose of of times, wherein it has been decreed looking after our own individual affairs thousands of years ago, that God would and interests, or to carry out our own "gather together in one all things in peculiar notions or feelings associated Christ, both which are in heaven, and with any of our interests or the inter- which are on earth; even in him." And for est of any particular party or clique, or this purpose he has manifested himself; anything of that kind. But the Priest- for this purpose the Son of God has man- hood of the Son of God has been man- ifested himself; for this purpose those ifested in the interests of God, in the holy prophets, referred to in the revela- interests of the heavens, and in the in- tion read to you by Brother Joseph, man- terest of all humanity; embracing all ifested themselves; for this purpose the people and extending to all nations and heavens and the intelligences around the tongues. The Lord has gathered us to- throne of God are united; for this pur- gether for the express purpose of form- pose the Holy Priesthood that have ex- ing a nucleus, an organism, a people to isted in the various dispensations of time whom he could communicate and reveal are interested, and for this purpose those his will, and to whom he could make who held the keys of the several dispen- known his designs, and among whom he sations that have passed, have brought could establish the principles of eternal those keys and conferred them upon truth and the light, intelligence, rule and the Church of the latter days, through law of God, as they exist in the eternal THE INTEREST OF HUMANITY, ETC. 257 worlds. This is why we are gathered here together, as we are here and as they are today, if we can comprehend it. over this Territory, according to the im- pulses originating from the Spirit of God, Jesus, when here upon the earth, had which has operated and worked upon our a people and called them his sheep. Said minds and brought us together as we are he, "My sheep hear my voice, and they here today. know me, and they follow me: And a Now then, what was this for? To stranger will they not follow, for they preach first the Gospel of repentance and know not the voice of a stranger." And baptism for the remission of sins, and again he says while supplicating the Fa- the laying on of hands for the reception ther, "I pray for them: I pray not for of the Holy Ghost, to be followed by the the world, but for them which thou hast gathering together, etc. And what was given me; for they are thine. Neither it for? That we all might be baptized pray I for these alone, but for them also into one baptism, that we all might par- which shall believe on me through their take of the same spirit, that we all might word; That they all may be one; as thou, be brought into communication with the Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they Almighty and derive wisdom and intel- also may be one in us: that the world ligence from the same fountain, hav- may believe that thou hast sent me," ing "One Lord, one faith, one baptism, that they may have evidence of a union One God and Father of all, through all, that exists nowhere else in the world and in you all." When Jesus sent forth of the love and affection of those godly his servants formerly he sent them to principles that cement and bind men to- preach this Gospel. When the Father gether, which nothing but the power and and the Son and Moroni and others came spirit of revelation can do; that they to Joseph Smith, he had a priesthood may have evidence of something more conferred upon him which he conferred exalting, more ennobling, and which will upon others for the purpose of manifest- unite and associate men together in in- ing the laws of life, the Gospel of the Son dissoluble bonds of eternal truth accord- of God, by direct authority, that light and ing to the laws of God; that there may be truth might be spread forth among all evidence in existence in the world that nations. There was a number of men se- thou hast sent me, and that the princi- lected by the Savior anciently, to whom ples that thou hast given me have been he said: "Ye have not chosen me, but revealed to them and that they are to be I have chosen you, and ordained you." governed by them: "thine they were, and What to do? To do the things you have thou hast given them me." seen me do, as I have come to do what That was the feeling that existed I have seen my Father do. The words in former times among the Saints of which I speak, I speak not of myself; but God, and these were some of the teach- the Father who dwells in me, he doeth ings unto them. The sheep have been the works. scattered abroad among the nations of Now then, we have got a priest- the earth to whom this communica- hood organized here upon the earth, tion has been sent, and thousands have as there was one organized in the heard and obeyed the voice of the good days of Jesus, only with this dis- Shepherd and have gathered themselves tinctive difference—that that was a 258 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. dispensation of God to them; this we live all points tempted like as we are, yet in is the dispensation of the fulness of without sin." He endured everything times, embracing all other dispensations possible for mortal to endure on the and times and powers and authorities earth. Finally, when the last struggle that have existed upon the face of the came, said he, "Father," if thou art will- earth, in the various ages, from the com- ing, "if it be possible, remove this cup mencement to the present time. Herein from me: nevertheless not my will, but it differs from others. Hence we are re- thine, be done." What were his feelings quested to gather together, something in the midst of all this sorrow? Did which they were not commanded to do. he give railing for railing, contumely for We are told to build Temples: they were contumely? No, he did not. David, you not. We are told to administer for the know, prayed that God would send his living and the dead, which ordinances enemies to hell quickly. He was quite were only performed then to a very lim- in a hurry about it, as we are some- ited extent. We are called upon to build times. Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; up not only the Church, but the king- for they know not what they do;" they are dom of God, and to introduce the rule ignorant, they are foolish, and blinded and government of God upon the earth. through superstition; they comprehend We are here just as Jesus was, not to do not thy laws, they know nothing of my our own will, not for the purpose of car- mission. Father, forgive them. I admire rying out our own ideas or theories, but the sentiments and feelings of the Sav- to do the will of God who sent us. That ior under such circumstances, very much is the way Jesus preached: "For I came more than those of David. down from heaven, not to do mine own As I understand it we are called upon will, but the will of him that sent me." to be saviors. And as saviors of men, Sometimes it was trying and perplexing, endowed with the holy priesthood, we sometimes it was hard to endure; but should, with one feeling and spirit, op- he did endure and suffer it, and he ac- erate together in the interests of Zion; complished the work he was sent to do. we ought to humble ourselves before God But sometimes when struggling with the and seek for His Holy Spirit to lead us powers of darkness, and environed with in the right path, that all may compre- the corrupt and ungodly, he gazed upon hend His law, and that we may operate and comprehended the gravity of the sit- together in the interests of Israel, and in uation and things before him, it so oper- the building up of the Kingdom of God ated upon him, that in mortal agony he upon the earth; and every other feel- sweat great drops of blood. "For it be- ing and idea ought to be esteemed sub- came him, for whom are all things, and servient to that, and that ought to be by whom are all things, in bringing many the first, leading, guiding, and control- sons unto glory, to make the captain of ling sentiment of all the elders of Israel, their salvation perfect through suffer- and especially of those who take the lead ings." "For we have not an high priest in Israel. which cannot be touched with the feel- We get tried sometimes, and we ing of our infirmities; but one who was in sometimes try one another; and we sometimes feel as David did on a certain occasion, when he exclaimed: THE INTEREST OF HUMANITY, ETC. 259

"For it was not an enemy that reproached what a happy thing it would be if we me; then I could have borne it: neither could follow in his footsteps in that par- was it he that hated me that did magnify ticular! But we have our weaknesses himself against me; then I could have hid and infirmities in common with all men. myself from him: But it was thou, a man It is incident to humanity, and the de- mine equal, my guide, and my acquain- vourer is at work seeking to destroy, to tance." contaminate, to corrupt and defile, and Did you ever know it is necessary to lead men down to perdition, to pro- that we should be tried in all things? If duce discord and envy, hatred and strife, you do not, you will find it out before you and every evil that proceeds from that get through, and we are not through yet source. Shall I tell you its fruits? Envy quite. In this connection, I am reminded is one; hatred is another; malice is an- of what I heard the Prophet Joseph say, other; uncharitableness is another; evil speaking more particularly with refer- speaking is another; and so on—all these ence to the Twelve, "The Lord will feel things proceed from an evil spirit; and after your heartstrings, and will wrench it is said, "That to whom ye yield your- them and twist them around, and you selves servants to obey, his servants ye will have to learn to rely upon God and are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto upon God alone." Has he done it? I think death, or obedience unto righteousness." he has pretty thoroughly. The Prophet Men sometimes falter? Yes, sometimes himself was tried about as much as any- they think they are strong; but no man body I know of, and his Brother Hyrum is strong unless he be strong in the Lord. had his full share, the Twelve also have No man is sustained only as God sus- been tried as much as any men that I tains him; and if he does not sustain know of, and a great deal more than you him, I would not give much for his ideas know anything about. He furthermore or position. We sometimes think we are said, "If God could in any other way more strong and that we can do a great deal. keenly have tried Abraham than by call- So thought Peter on a certain occasion— ing upon him to offer up his son Isaac, he at the time when Christ said to his dis- would have done it." And as I have said, ciples, "All ye shall be offended because Jesus himself sweat great drops of blood, of me this night." But Peter answered and in the agony of his suffering cried him, saying, "Though all men shall be of- out, "My God, my God, why hast thou for- fended because of thee, yet will I never saken me?" And why is it thus? We are be offended." The Savior doubtless ap- told by one of old, "For it became him, preciated his feelings, but knowing bet- for whom are all things, and by whom ter than he the frailty of humanity, he all things, in bringing many sons unto said unto him, "Verily I say unto thee, glory, to make the captain of their sal- That this night, before the cock crow, vation perfect through sufferings." "For thou shalt deny me thrice." Did he do it? we have not an high priest which can- Yes, he did; but Jesus did not get angry not be touched with the feeling of our in- with him, nor begin to upbraid him and firmities; but was in all points tempted speak angry words to him. He knew too like as we are, yet without sin." Oh, well the weakness of mortal man, and he 260 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. knew it before that time. But he says, every principle of righteousness that is "Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me calculated to draw the feelings and af- more than these? He saith unto him, fections of men, that they may see the Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love truth and know it for themselves, and thee." If you love me, if you are my that they may know also that we are friend and my disciple, "Feed my lambs." their friends, acting for the welfare of all That was not very hard to do; he had men, living and dead, and in the inter- been called for that purpose. "He saith est of the Church and Kingdom of God to him again the second time, Simon, upon the earth. And where this prin- son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith ciple does not exist, there is something unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that wrong, the principles of the Gospel are I love thee. He said unto him, Feed not lived up to. For God is love, and my sheep." And the third time the Sav- they that dwell in God, dwell in love; and ior put the same question to Peter, and "If a man say, I love God, and hateth which on being answered as before, he his brother, he is a liar," so said the said to him, "Feed my sheep." What is word of God formerly, and it says today. the duty of the Apostles, the Presidents God is love, and they that dwell in God, of Stakes, the High Priests, and Seven- dwell in love. They are surrounded by ties, especially of those that are gener- that element, it is the fountain of life ally presiding? If Jesus was here, he within them. Jesus said to the woman would tell you to lay aside your non- of Samaria, whom he asked to give him sense, your follies and weaknesses, and drink, "Whosoever drinketh of this water act more like men and Saints, and go to shall thirst again: But whosoever drin- work and "Feed my sheep." Said he, "If I keth of the water that I shall give him be lifted up, I will draw all men to me," shall never thirst; but the water I shall not that I will rule with an iron hand, not give him shall be in him a well of water that I will trample upon them, not that springing up unto everlasting life." If we I will let you see that I possess power will live so as to be entitled to drink of and authority; but "I will draw all men the well streams that flow from the foun- to me." That will not be accomplished tain of all light, all these little, narrow, until the time spoken of when every contracted, bygone influences, will van- knee shall bow, and every tongue shall ish like the dew before the rising sun, be heard to say, "Glory, honor, majesty, and the light, the Spirit and revelations and power, be unto him that sits upon of God, will rest upon the priesthood, and the throne, and to the Lamb forever;" Israel will be one and his priesthood one, but it will be done through the influ- and they will fight side by side in the de- ence of the Gospel, through its cement- fense of truth, and in the maintenance of ing and harmonizing influences, through those principles calculated to exalt men the aid of the Almighty and the opera- through all time and all eternity. tions of the holy priesthood combined to- gether, united as the heart of one man These things referred to by Brother in the accomplishment of the purposes Joseph F. are too small for men of God; with kindness and brotherly af- to have anything to do with. It fections, with long-suffering and with might be excusable in babies, but THE INTEREST OF HUMANITY, ETC. 261 for men to be engaged in such things is a providing you will teach me the Lord's shame upon the priesthood, and an out- prayer." To this the minister agreed and rage upon the holy principles that God said, "Repeat after me and say, 'Our has been pleased to reveal to us. That Father which art in heaven—'" "What!" is the way I look at these things. And says the man, "is God your Father and it is a trick of the devil to decoy and de- my Father, too?" "You must repeat what I stroy, to divide and disrupt, and to lead say," said the minister, "Our Father," etc. men down to perdition. What would be "What," said the man, "my father and the result if these things are carried out your Father?" "Yes, yes." "Then," broke in a little further? The whole head would the man again, "is he indeed my Father be sick and the whole heart faint. I say, as well as your Father?" "Yes," replied shame on the Elders of Israel! Shame the minister, "but you must repeat my on men holding the holy priesthood that words." "Well, what a rascal you must be cannot be united and operate together in to try to cheat your poor brother in this the interest of the Church and the King- way?" We should all feel that God is our dom of God, but must drag in their mean, Father, and that we are all brethren and low, contemptible ideas and notions, for- sisters. There are none of us very big; in getting the high calling with which they fact we are all very little when you come are called. to know all about us. None of us can do What shall we do? Why, lay them anything except the Lord helps us, and aside and repent of your foolishness, if he does not help us, we, as a certain and forgive one another of your hard lady said, are "all poor, miserable, inde- speeches and words, and your rash and pendent sinners." There is none of the hard treatment made use of to produce "big I and little you" amongst us. We stings, trouble and annoyance among should have a common sympathy one for men; and study from this time hence- another, and feel a kindly regard for the forth one another's feelings, and act the lowest of God's creations, and especially part of a brother and friend one towards for the Saints of God, no matter what another, live your religion and keep the position they occupy. If any are in er- commandments of God. How did Je- ror, try to reclaim them by kindness; if sus teach his disciples to pray? When they have a bad spirit, show them a bet- you pray, say, "Our Father which art in ter one; if any do not do right, do right heaven." What? I must tell a little story yourselves and say, "Come follow me, as here. There was a poor man once called I follow Christ." Would not that be the upon a minister for assistance; the min- right course to pursue? I think it would; ister tried to cheat him, and would not that is the way I understand the Gospel. give him what he had agreed to for some We do not, any of us, have the priesthood labor performed by him; the man was for self-aggrandizement, or to be used not very well suited about it. The min- to oppress, or take advantage of any- ister, it would seem, was one of those body, or to use improper language; but fellows who, if he could squeeze a lit- with all kindness and long-suffering and tle out of the poor man, was quite will- forbearance and with love unfeigned. ing to do it. "Well," said the man, "I I will read from the Doctrine and will take what you offer me, although it is not what you agreed to give me, 262 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Covenants something bearing on this, exercise unrighteous dominion. Hence from page 386. many are called, but few are chosen. No power or influence can or ought to be "Behold, there are many called, but maintained by virtue of the priesthood, few are chosen. And why are they not only by persuasion, by long-suffering, chosen? Because their hearts are set so by gentleness and meekness, and by much upon the things of this world, and love unfeigned; By kindness, and pure aspire to the honors of men, and they knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge do not learn this one lesson"—just the the soul without hypocrisy, and without very thing I have been talking about— guile—Reproving betimes with sharp- "That the rights of the priesthood are in- ness, when moved upon by the Holy separably connected with the powers of Ghost; and then showing forth after- heaven, and that the powers of heaven wards an increase of love toward him cannot be controlled nor handled only whom thou hast reproved, lest he esteem upon the principles of righteousness." Do thee to be his enemy; That he may know you think that God will give power to any that thy faithfulness is stronger than the man only to carry out his own contracted cords of death. Let thy bowels also be full or selfish purposes? I tell you he never of charity towards all men," not of envy, will, never, no never. "That they may be not of hate, not of faultfinding, but "be conferred on us, it is true; but when we full of charity towards all men, and to the undertake to cover our sins, or to grat- household of faith, and let virtue garnish ify our pride, our vain ambition, or to ex- thy thoughts unceasingly; then shall thy ercise control or dominion or compulsion confidence wax strong in the presence of upon the souls of the children of men, in God; and the doctrine of the priesthood any degree of unrighteousness, behold, shall distill upon thy soul as the dews the heavens withdraw themselves; the from heaven." Then shall you feel the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when power of the Holy Ghost resting upon it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood you and its influence penetrating your or the authority of that man." soul, and then it will grow and spread until its influence extends everywhere; We think sometimes, we are standing and then will men respect, esteem, and in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; and venerate you for your fidelity and for so we are. But there is no priesthood of your adherence to the truth. "The Holy the Son of God that authorizes one man Ghost shall be thy constant companion, to oppress another or to intrude upon and thy scepter an unchanging scepter of his rights in any way. There is no such righteousness and truth; and thy domin- thing in the category; it does not exist; ion shall be an everlasting dominion, and as it is said—"Behold, ere he is aware, without compulsory means it shall flow he is left unto himself, to kick against unto thee forever and ever." the pricks, to persecute the saints, and These are great truths for us to to fight against God. We have learned by reflect upon. And in connection sad experience that it is the nature and with this I wish to say, we not disposition of almost all men, as soon only need to have confidence in men, as they get a little authority, as they but we must exhibit that confidence. suppose, they will immediately begin to "Be kindly affectionate one to an- THE INTEREST OF HUMANITY, ETC. 263 other with brotherly love; in honor pre- Elder Lorin Farr then made the fol- ferring one another," not preferring our- lowing statement: selves, but "in honor preferring one an- President Young spoke to me, as other." This may be a hard lesson for Mayor, either once or twice—I think it some to learn, but we have got it to learn, was twice—wishing to know if Ogden or we never shall be fitted to hold any im- City would let him have the "Union portant position in carrying out the de- Square" for the purpose of making a signs of God, in building up His Church Utah Central Railroad Passenger Depot, and Kingdom on the earth. We want to saying that if he could obtain it for this feel a free interchange of that union one purpose he would also make of it an with another, not for one man to stand up ornamental square, suitable for a sum- among his fellows as though he were un- mer resort; which I believe he fully con- approachable, and say to others, "Stand templated doing, and would have done, off, I am holier than thou." Nothing of or have made the necessary provisions this kind; but entertain a kindness, a for it to be done, had he known he was sympathy and a desire to promote the so soon to leave us. I have no doubt happiness and welfare of all men, just as in my mind but what he intended to God does. He causes his sun to rise on make a very nice public resort of it, the evil and on the good, and he sends and believing so, I laid the matter be- his rain on the just and on the unjust. fore the City Council, informing that body that President Young had a claim on this city which arose in this way: when he located Ogden City, between the forks of the two rivers, there was There is something I thought I would then a very desirable farm here which refer to in order that it might be known was owned by Father Bingham, contain- and properly understood. There is a ing 160 acres more or less. The Pres- feeling generally entertained that Pres- ident intimated to Father Bingham his ident Young, in his lifetime, got posses- design of locating a city hereabouts, and sion of a certain square here in Ogden that he knew of no situation so good wrongfully. Certain things are continu- and suitable as that commanded by his ally being originated by certain minds, farm and proposed to purchase his farm and rumors get circulated, and it is for that purpose. Father Bingham con- too often the case that people do not sented to the proposition, the purchase stop to consider as to their truthfulness, was affected, President Young paying and in many instances conclusions are for the land out of his own pocket, and formed, and I would venture to say that turned it over to the city. I supposed, in nine cases out of every ten such con- as one of the members of the City Coun- clusions are wrong. Brother Lorin Farr cil, that that piece of land belonged to is present: he was Mayor at the time the city and belonged to the Church, as this land in question was transferred to President Young belonged to the Church. President Young, and is conversant with I thought so, and we all thought so, the whole transaction. I will therefore and there was no thought given to it. call upon Brother Farr to come forward It passed along for about twenty years and relate the same fully, yet concisely, in that way. It is true, I sent down that you may be apprized of the facts. to President Young at one time the 264 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. sum of sixty dollars of City money to I will here take occasion to remark apply on the interest then due on the that when I gave this explanation at our money he advanced for the purchase of Caucus meeting lately held in Ogden, the land—the money we sent to him was that a gentleman, an editor from the the proceeds of City lots which we sold East, afterwards spoke to me about it, at five dollars each, which about paid and in telling you what he thought about the expense of surveying and recording, the matter will illustrate my feelings in leaving a small part of pay for President regard to it. He said—that is before this Young. It was understood that he was land jumping—I think that you did noth- to have his pay sometime. I think I sent ing more than right, I think President down a small amount of money another Young has done enough for this people, time, but the amount I do not now re- and he richly deserved that square, and member. I laid this matter before the you would not have exceeded fairness to City Council, stating to that body how have given him more than that ten acres President Young looked at it, and I told for the 160 acres which you say he pur- them I thought it quite right and proper chased and turned over to the city for that President Young should have his city purposes. pay, but that I disliked very much to give President Taylor then resumed, the up the square; but, I said, seeing that stand. Some people will say "Oh, don't President Young intended to make of it talk about it." I think a full, free talk is an ornamental square, I would consent; frequently of great use; we want noth- without the other consideration I was in ing secret nor underhanded, and for one favor of sending a committee to wait on I want no association with things that President Young to ascertain how much cannot be talked about and will not bear he paid for the land previously owned investigation. I wanted to hear Brother by Father Bingham, and refund him the Farr's statement about this affair, and money with ten percent interest. I re- I wanted you to hear it, because out quested the Council to appoint such a of such things, unless properly under- committee; but some differed from me, stood, a great many misunderstandings while a few, I believe, favored my sug- arise. I have heard it stated that Presi- gestion. We agreed, however, seeing dent Young had exacted too much in get- that President Young had advanced the ting possession of this ten acre square; means to buy the location of our city, I wonder now if any of you speculat- and actually purchased and possessed ing men had owned this 160 acres of it, which probably no other man but he land in this locality if you would have could have done, and that he had re- been satisfied to take ten acres of this quested the City to deed him the square swampy land for it? There is no de- in payment of his claim, and that he cent man anywhere that would object had proposed to beautify it for the ben- to anything of that kind, neither Jew, efit of the public, we concluded to deed Gentile, or Mormon, and such unpleas- him the square; and when the time of antness frequently arises from a mis- filing the land came, which was shortly comprehension of affairs. Had Presi- afterwards, President Young filed upon dent Young, because he was President the square and got his deed for it. of the Church, no right to have pay for that which belonged to him? And THE INTEREST OF HUMANITY, ETC. 265 if he furnished 160 acres of land and got rect, and Brother D. H. Wells car- sixty dollars for it, I think nobody was ried the flag when it was surveyed.") injured very seriously in giving him ten Brother Herrick testifies to its correct- acres in lieu of it. Some of you would ness. (Brother Wells said, "I am also have thought your toes were trodden on conversant with the fact; I carried the pretty heavily had you been required to flagpole when this square was laid out.") trade on any such terms. I heard a man Brother Wells also bears testimony to say not long ago, when something per- the same thing, he carried the flag- plexing occurred, he did not know what pole when the Square was surveyed. I excuse to make about it. I said to him, a want these matters understood, open right needs no excuse, and an excuse will and above board; we have nothing to not make a wrong right. We want facts, conceal from anybody. But there was and when we get them let us appreciate some inattention manifested by your lo- them, and lay aside our nonsense which cal authorities—for the general author- so frequently arises from our misconcep- ities of the Church have nothing to do tion of things. with it; this place through neglect, was not entered at the time the city en- There is another thing I wish to re- tries were made, and because of this fer to pertaining to your local officers. I technicality some of the City Councilors have heard it said that the City Council seemed to object to the Church hav- was in trouble about the land on which ing two-and-half acres of the ten acres, the Tabernacle stands, because it was which was all they asked for, and that, thought the Church would get the ben- too, on behalf of the citizens of Ogden, efit of it. Why? Because they have occu- by paying for it what it had cost the city, pied it so long. Who for? For the Church the same as they have done with pri- generally? No; but for the local church vate individuals, I believe as provided by in this place. The Church, as a Church, law. But somebody seems to think that has bought a part of that square above somebody is injured. Who is injured? If referred to, and has paid the estate for it. the Church had ten acres and only de- Brother Joseph F. Smith and Brother F. sired two-and-half acres, or if they de- Richards here are cognizant of the fact, sired the whole of it, I don't think it as auditors. I refer to the land where our any great stretch of liberality of anybody, Tithing Office stands; but this other mat- and I do not see why anyone should be ter is something that pertains to your- at all exercised about it. They will say, selves and not to the Church. You have What will the Gentiles say? No hon- had this for upwards of twenty years. orable Gentile would say it is wrong, (Brother Joseph F., addressing himself to or take any exception to it, and as for President Taylor, said: "This place was those who are not so, we do not care designated by President Young, when anything at all about them. That is the city was first laid out, as a place to my idea. Somebody said the City Coun- build a meetinghouse.") I am informed cil had given two-and-half acres to some that this place was designated by Pres- outside religious sect. Well, if they had ident Young, when the city was laid it to spare, who cares? We do not want out, as a place for Church purposes. to be pinched up in a nutshell. But (A voice from the stand—"That's cor- then, I think the Latter-day Saints have 266 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. just as much right to lands surveyed and world? Salvation. What was the promise owned by them upwards of twenty years to Abraham? "In thee and in thy seed ago, as the Gentiles to receive a free gift. shall all the nations of the earth be I do not know why this kind of feeling blessed," not cursed. The priesthood of should exist, and therefore I speak of it. God was not given to curse men or de- We are all one, or ought to be; and there- stroy them, but to bless them. fore I speak of these things as they have Again, we are told to go and preach been presented to me. Is there anything the Gospel to every creature; and there wrong in that? Again, here the Seven- is a great deal of pains being taken to do ties, I understand, have given a large this. What is it? The Gospel of life and hall over to the city. Anything wrong in salvation. Is it free to all? Yes, free as that? No, not if they felt able to do so. I the streams that pass your city, and all would not think it very good policy, how- are invited. Some do not like it. What ever, to give such a hall away and then of that? We cannot help that; we are go- be left without any place to meet in. But ing to perform the work that God has set then it belonged to them and they have us at, and we will treat all men right. done it, and who cares? I don't. But if When they come here, as strangers in the city has got things of that kind from our midst, will we treat them right? Yes. the Seventies, if they have done an act of Do they treat us right? Not quite. Will that kind, why not the city turn around we be liberal and generous and kind? and be a little generous? Can't the city Yes; I would give to every man of what- be as generous and kind? Who are the ever name, or creed, or color, all his city? I suppose you are, along with a rights without his ever asking for them; few outsiders. Brother Richards men- we need no plot, or intrigue, or anything tioned to me, as Trustee-in-Trust, that of that kind. We expect to build up and there were five acres of land here, join- establish the kingdom of God, that will ing the schoolhouse, in the lane, saying, contain in it, admiration, protection of "We would like to get it, for we wish to the virtuous and good among all nations. use it for the purposes of a high school or The time will yet come when he that will academy." I said, "I will mention it to the not take up his sword to fight against brethren of the Council." We have since his neighbor, must needs flee to Zion for turned it over. Whose business is it? The safety. All those who are not fond of city is not injured, and the Church is not. blood and carnage and desolation, if they I mention these things that we may have want to be preserved will flee to Zion. a proper understanding of them, and not Have we not got to have a Zion for them be found talking about things we do not to flee to? Yes. And what is Zion? The understand. I feel very liberal towards pure in heart. We want to organize in the liberal class of Gentiles; but do I feel such a way, and advocate and maintain liberal in my feelings to every miserable such correct principles, that they will be- "unprincipled man?" No. But to the good, come the admiration of all honest men, and virtuous, and upright everywhere. who will feel that they can be protected and find safety and an asylum in Zion. What was our message to the What of that? Are we going to follow THE INTEREST OF HUMANITY, ETC. 267 them then? No, no, no, we are not. Are aiming at the celestial glory. We believe we going to be governed by their no- they will get as big a glory as they are tions? No, we are not. Are we going looking for, but it will not be that which to mix up with their Babylonish ideas? we anticipate; therefore we don't want No, we are not; we are going in for Is- them to train our children and lead them rael and for the Church and kingdom of down to death. We want to manage these God, but we will protect every man in things ourselves, but injure nobody. Is his rights so far as God gives us power anybody injured by it? No. "I cannot see to do so, but we will not mix up with as you see," say some. All right, we can- their iniquities, their frauds and corrup- not help that. Would I find fault with the tions, that they are seeking in many in- City Council because they give a burying stances to crowd in upon us; we want ground to some who prefer to have their to be free from these evils, and put our dead by themselves? No, not if you have trust in the living God and cleave to the it to spare; but on the other hand, don't right and the truth. If a man is a good let us shut out our own people and our man, won't I treat him right? Yes; but own interests, but maintain every right at the same time, our moral and social wisely, to the building up of the kingdom ideas are very different, and while I ac- of God. We will be as generous as the cord to them all the civil liberties that world dare to be; and we expect the prin- any reasonable men should want, I do ciples of the everlasting Gospel will go on not wish to be governed by his standard and increase until the kingdoms of this of morality, nor do I wish him to teach world become the kingdoms of our God my children. Why? Simply because I and his Christ. do not wish them perverted. No Gen- I say to those men who may have tile or reasonable man would find fault any differences, settle them like men and with me for that. He does not want me to don't act the baby anymore, but conduct teach his children my faith. All right, he yourselves as servants of the Most High can keep them away, and I want to keep God. And may he enable you to do so and mine from his influences. Why? Because bless us all and lead us in the paths of we are associated with things that are life, is my prayer in the name of Jesus. eternal in their consequences. We are Amen. 268 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

NECESSITY OF REVELATION—EVIDENCES OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST—THE FUTURE OF THE SAINTS—PLURAL MARRIAGE.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, ON SUNDAY MORNING,JULY 20, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JOHN IRVINE.

I am greatly pleased this afternoon at If there is any peculiarity about what having the opportunity of meeting with the world calls Mormonism, or that the Latter-day Saints, and of listening to which we term the Gospel of the Lord the testimonies that have been borne by Jesus Christ as taught by his Church, Brother Staines in relation to this work. that I admire, that I love, that causes me I, also, have been absent for some length to feel thankful unto God; it is the pe- of time. Upwards of 34 weeks ago I left culiarity which reference has been made this city to go east; I have been back by Brother Staines, namely, that William twice during that period for a few days, C. Staines, or George Q. Cannon, or any and it is a great pleasure and I may say other man or woman however humble, a delight to me to have the opportunity who is connected with this Church, has of being here to listen to the instruc- a right, according to the promises of tions, to the singing, and to partake of our heavenly Father, to receive revela- the Spirit that prevails in this Taberna- tion from him when needed. I would not cle; to me it is the spirit of home, it is give much for a religion, the revelations the spirit of peace, and I have more de- of which were confined to two, three, light and satisfaction in mingling with four, or perchance twelve men. It would the Latter-day Saints than I have un- not recommend itself as the religion of der any other circumstances. They are that Being who is the Father of all, who my people. Their religion is my reli- has created all, and who has placed us gion. Their God is my God. Their fu- all here upon the earth as his children. ture is the future in which I hope to This feature to which I refer is one of share. If they be prosperous I hope to the most delightful characteristics of the be prosperous. If they have adverse cir- Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Brother cumstances to contend with I expect to Staines has referred to the Prophets share in them; and it is this knowledge of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, and which Brother Staines has spoken that to others who have stood in prominent prompts these feelings to which I refer. places in this Church, who have re- NECESSITY OF REVELATION, ETC. 269 ceived revelations from God; and who hour if that were the case. It would fall imparted these revelations to the peo- to pieces, there would be no power, no ple. Of what value, of what special value, cohesive power, to hold it together. The would these revelations be to those to strength, the power, the cause of the per- whom they were imparted through the petuity of this work, the marvelous char- medium of these men, unless they had acter of its operations throughout the na- some means of testing their truthful- tions of the earth, the wonderful attrac- ness? What a terrible condition we tiveness of this Gospel, the secret of its should be in if God, in his providence, great success in foreign land, preached were to confine his knowledge in that by illiterate men, consists in the fact way—if we were required, as some imag- that God the Eternal Father, reveals his ine mankind are required, to submit to mind unto every honest soul who humbly the teachings of their fellow men and to seeks for it. Not to one man, not to accept and practice them because those three men, not to apostles, not to bish- men say they are from God! Imagine ops, not to high priests, not to seven- the condition of the Latter-day Saints if ties, not to elders alone, but to every this were the case! Imagine the con- humble soul who in sincerity, and with dition of the whole world if one man a broken heart and contrite spirit, bows stood prominent, or three men, or twelve himself or herself in secret before the men, or fifteen men, stood prominent, throne of the great Eternal, and in hu- receiving revelations from divinity and mility asks, in the name of Jesus, for a conveying these revelations to the chil- knowledge to be imparted to him or to dren of men, with the requirement that her whether it is the truth he or she has those who received them should sub- heard. This is the secret of the success of mit to them as the voice of God, and this work. This is the cause of its won- the people themselves be destitute of derful power and the attractiveness it any means of testing the truthfulness has for the hearts of the children of men. of these revelations, except so far as This is the reason that illiterate men, they might appeal to their reason and going forth bearing testimony of these to the sense of right that is begotten in things, have been so successful through- them! Now, a great many people who out all the nations of the earth where are not acquainted with the Church of they have been, and it is this that draws Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and them, as we have been told this after- the teachings of that Church—and I do noon by Brother Staines, by thousands not know but some who are members of from foreign lands and causes them to that Church—imagine that this is the come to this land and to assimilate with nature of the organization of the Church those already here; until we have in of Christ, and that this is the man- this Territory of ours, throughout these ner in which knowledge is conveyed to valleys running north and south, east the people, and in which the require- and west, a people unexampled, and, in ments of the people are submitted to many respects, unlike every other people by the people. Why this Church could that we know anything about. Why, in not stand, could not have endured the this last company, which came in a few trials and afflictions and the opposi- days ago, the members of it spoke some tion to which it has been exposed, one 270 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. seven languages. I remember a com- place could not be heaven. Is it not pany of Saints leaving Liverpool while I reasonable to suppose, then, that if the was there, the members of which spoke spirit of heaven rests down upon a peo- nine different languages. They were ple, that they will be united, that they Latter-day Saints gathering up from var- will love one another, will die for one an- ious lands, some from Switzerland, from other, if necessary? Why, certainly. If I France, from Great Britain, and from the were to start out today in search of the various nations of Europe, all coming to- Church of Jesus Christ, if I did not know gether, singing the songs of Zion in their of its existence upon the earth, I would own languages, bearing testimony that expect to find a people united together, a God had revealed to them in their own people who loved one another, and who language the truth of this, the everlast- brought forth the fruits of the Gospel of ing Gospel. With such a spirit they come Jesus as he taught it. I would expect to these mountains, they scatter among to find a people who gave an exhibition the people already here, they become ho- in their lives of those heavenly truths mogeneous. We have here a oneness of taught by Jesus when he was upon the feeling and purpose, a oneness of spirit, earth. And until I found such a people and a oneness of sentiment and of heart, I would despair of finding the Church of that you may look for in vain elsewhere Christ. Men might perform miracles be- throughout the whole earth. I sometimes fore me, and say a great many wonderful think we overlook those great and glori- things unto me, but unless I could find ous blessings that God has given to us. a people with the love of Christ in their We overlook too frequently the spirit of bosoms, united together as the heart of oneness that has been poured out upon one man, a people who loved one an- this people. Men ask for a sign; they other, I do not think I could, with the say, "Where are the evidences of the di- knowledge I have, recognize them as the vinity of the work you believe in? You people of Christ, or as the people of the say that you preach the Gospel of Je- Church of Christ. For the evidences that sus; you say that you are the people of they were that Church, it would not be in God." Why, could there be any greater profession alone I would seek. It would evidence given of the divine character of not be in their Sunday service alone. It this mission than is witnessed in the ef- would not be in the sermons that were fects of this Gospel upon the people who preached in their tabernacles, or meet- embrace it? We are led to expect that inghouses, or churches alone. It would heaven is a place of unity, a place of not be in any of these things alone that I love; that there is no quarreling, no lit- would seek, but it would be in the fruits igation, no strife in heaven; no man war- of the Gospel as I found them exhib- ring against his fellow men, no man ex- ited in their daily life, in their conversa- alting his creed and his ideas as superior tion, in their associations, one with an- to the creed and the ideas of his neigh- other. If I found a quarrelsome people, bor; all dwelling in peace and in love. if I found a people fighting one with an- That is the idea of heaven that has been other for their rights, if I found a peo- taught to us in the Bible. Anything else ple taking up weapons of war against would not be heaven; any other kind of each other, no matter by what name they NECESSITY OF REVELATION, ETC. 271 were called, no matter how high- drink liquor, did not get drunk; I would sounding their professions, I would say, probably find they did not take the name these cannot be the people of Christ; of the Lord in vain, did not go to law these are not the fruits which the Gospel one with another, but were averse to it, of the Lord Jesus Christ brings forth. and were in favor of promoting peace, But if I found a people who were hum- and that because of this they offended ble, meek, lowly, willing to endure wrong lawyers, judges and others. If I were rather than do wrong; if I found a peo- to look at the material aspects of the ple persecuted for righteousness sake; if city, I would find a beautiful city, laid I found a people of whom all men spoke out and planned with wisdom, laid out evil, though their lives were not evil, by somebody who knew something of life though their conduct was humble and and what was proper for society. If I pure and they were disposed to love one made further inquiry I would learn that another and dwell together in peace, I a few years ago, before the advent of would begin to say, here are some of the so-called civilization in the midst of the signs, some of the fruits of the Gospel Latter-day Saints, that from the Idaho of Jesus Christ. I must stop here. I line in the North to the Arizona line in must examine into this matter. I must the South, there were no liquor saloons, look after these people, and see whether no drunkenness, and profanity was pun- they are the people of whom I am in ished; but in every settlement and in search. If I were to come into this val- every house, throughout the length and ley of Salt Lake and find a people pro- breadth of the land, prayers ascending fessing to belong to the Church of Je- morning and night to the God of heaven, sus Christ of Latter-day Saints, were I on behalf of themselves and their chil- trusted to report I would be inclined to dren, and on behalf of the honest in say they cannot be the people they pro- heart throughout all the nations of the fess to be. Why? Because all manner earth. If I happened to be there when a of evil is spoken against them. Is there company came in, and in mingling with any crime in the black catalogue of crime that company asked what brought them of which they have not been accused? to this land, I would be told in Norwe- Is there any evil which people can per- gian, in Swedish, in Danish, in German, petrate with which they have not been in Italian, in Welsh, in English, in Pol- charged and declared guilty? If I were to ish, in Dutch, in French, that each of be disheartened by reports, I need only these men and women had obeyed the stop in Salt Lake City, or in Utah Ter- Gospel as it was taught to them by the ritory, to have that feeling; but if I re- Elders who had been sent to them, and membered that those in Christ Jesus are that in answer to prayer they had re- sure to suffer persecution, and that, "If ceived a testimony from the Almighty for they have called the master of the house themselves that they knew this was the Beelzebub, how much more shall they Gospel of Christ, that they were com- call them of his household?"—I might, if manded of God to gather out from the I bore that fact in mind, stop and exam- various nations, and that in response to ine further. If I looked around me and in- that commandment they had come out quired concerning the Latter-day Saints, and were here. These would be the I would probably find that they did not 272 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. things that would be told to me. If I were the whole earth. This Gospel of the king- to inquire among them respecting other dom has to be preached to all nations, matters, I would find that they believed and then will the end come. It is not, in this book (the Bible) in its entirety, not therefore, with any feeling of pride be- a part, not in isolated parts of this book, cause of these being the doctrines be- some parts of this book, some parts sep- lieved in and practiced by the Latter- arated from the rest, but in its entirety, day Saints that I allude to them in this in its doctrinal parts. I would find that manner, but because God, in his infinite they believed that God was the same to- mercy, has revealed the Gospel to the day as he was yesterday, that he is a God inhabitants of the earth, because it is of revelation, a God of truth, a God who taught again by divine authority. How could hear and answer prayer. I would could you account for it in any other find that they believed in the organiza- way? Tell me, if there be philosophers tion of the Church as it was in ancient or wise men here. Men say it is delu- days, God having first set in the Church sion, men say it is imposture, men say apostles, prophets, teachers, etc. I would that the building up of this system is find further that they were contending, the result of fraud. Most extraordinary as James commanded the Saints to do in results of fraud, if this be fraud! Men his day, earnestly for the faith once de- going out without purse or scrip, as in livered to the Saints, a faith by which ancient days, and preaching the ever- the mighty works concerning which Paul lasting Gospel, baptizing people, and the speaks in the 11th chapter of his epis- spirit of unity and love resting down tle to the Hebrews were accomplished. I upon them, accompanied by the Spirit of would find that they were contending for God, which testifies, as we have heard this faith that they believed in the signs this afternoon from Brother Staines, as following them that believe; that they it had testified to him, that this is the were contending for them, contending for Church of Christ, that this is the Gospel that faith; and teaching their children of Jesus which they have embraced. Peo- to exercise it to the greatest possible ex- ple may think, people may talk about the tent. Now, where else upon the face of delusion of the Latter-day Saints. Why, the earth could I find a community teach- to believe that these results which we ing and practicing these things! I have see are the product of fraud, or impos- been, in my time, a somewhat extensive ture, would require far more credulity traveler. I have mingled with a great than faith to believe them to be from many people, in a good many lands, and God. Where is there a peculiarity of the I confess to you today, I have never seen ancient Church that is not possessed to- a people who answered this description, day by the Latter-day Saints? Can one except the Latter-day Saints. I do not say be mentioned? Can a doctrine or a prin- this out of vanity, or by way of boasting, ciple be mentioned that was contended because this Gospel is intended for every for in the ancient Church, that is not person, not only for those who are Latter- contended for and sought after today by day Saints today, but for every honest the Latter-day Saints? Were they perse- man and woman throughout the face of cuted? Then it is quite certain we can NECESSITY OF REVELATION, ETC. 273 claim a blessing, if it so be that persecu- industry, our union, and all the qualities tion brings blessings. Were their names that have made this wilderness blossom cast out as evil? Then we can claim with until it is the admiration of every visitor, them the same results, if blessings at- the joy of every traveler—all these things tend any such thing. "Oh, but," says are obscured, and with many people lost one, "they were good people, the Apos- sight of, before the idea, imagined by tles in ancient days were good people, very many, that Brother Brigham was but you Mormons are a very wicked peo- a vile impostor, that all those who have ple." Why, do you imagine that if they been associated with him are no bet- had considered Jesus a very good man, ter, and that it would be doing God ser- a very holy being they would have cruci- vice to destroy them from the face of the fied him between two thieves? No. The earth that the people who are deluded populace, when Pilate wanted to have by them might be free from the influence him forgiven because of the feast of the which they wield over them. Oh, gener- passover, cried out: "No; release to us ation of blind—I was going to say fools, Barabbas, the murderer, the vile per- but shall I use such a phrase? But is son. Let him be released, but crucify there not evidence sufficient before the the Christ; let his blood be upon us and eyes of this generation of what has been our children." They were willing to risk done in the past, in the persecution of the consequences, because they believed righteous and holy men, in the killing him to be a vile impostor. Do you think of them, in the shedding of their blood, that Peter and Paul, one of whom was that men cannot learn that there is such beheaded, and the other of whom was a thing as a man being a good man, a crucified with his head downward—do virtuous man, a pure man, and yet be you imagine that in killing them the Ro- maligned by the enemies of purity and mans thought they were killing good, in- virtue, as in the days of Christ? This nocent, pure men? Certainly not. They generation will have a great deal to an- were hated just as much as we are hated. swer for in consequence of this thing. Of course they thought they were doing As Latter-day Saints, we have been ac- God service, as many think they are do- cused of every crime. It has been told of ing God service today in persecuting the us that we were ready to commit mur- Latter-day Saints. They thought they der at any time, in order to serve our were doing the world some good by rid- own ends, that we were ready to shed ding the earth of such impostors as Pe- the blood of the innocent, and that this ter and Paul. Their eyes were blinded to feeling to destroy life existed among us, their goodness and to their virtues. Such when at the same time, throughout these things were hidden from their sight. wild mountains and secluded valleys life They could only say they were delud- has been more safe, property more se- ers of the people, that they led people cure, than in the streets of the best man- astray, and as impostors were worthy aged cities in the Union. There never has of death. And so it is throughout this been a day since we came beyond these Territory. The virtues of the Latter-day mountains that travelers could not pass Saints are not perceived. Our temper- from the North to the South, and from ance, our frugality, our perseverance, our the East to the West, and through all 274 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. parts with perfect security. There never secution than to turn and practice any of was a day, when the Latter-day Saints these things ourselves. lived alone in these valleys, that a I am looking for a great change to woman would be insulted either by word take place in our circumstances. The na- or by gesture, night or day, whether an tion of which we form a part looks with old lady or a young lady, in traveling more interest upon us as a people than from one end of our Territory to the upon any other part of the United States. other. Can this be said of us today? Cer- There is no people, no community, within tainly not; but it was the case a few years the confines of our Republic concerning ago throughout these valleys, and let me which there is so much interest felt as say to you it will yet be the case. the Latter-day Saints. Men's eyes are di- I sometimes think that if we were rected towards us. I believe we are be- one-twentieth part as bad as we are ac- coming better understood. The comple- cused of being, it would be very un- tion of this railroad, which was supposed healthy throughout this country for a to be the death knell to Mormonism, the good many who are now unmolested. discovery of these mines, which we our- I know this, that no other community selves rather disliked, those things that would have born one-twentieth part the many supposed would be the means of insult and injury that we have submit- destroying this people, have now been in ted to so quietly. What has caused us operation for years, and with what re- to do it? Is it because we are inca- sult? With this result, so far as my ob- pable of feeling, or that we do not un- servation extends—a better knowledge derstand our rights, or that we do not concerning this people, and the circum- want them, that we suffer ourselves to stances which surround us; a more ex- be imposed upon? No, it has not been be- tended knowledge of our land, and all the cause of these things. Our bosoms have difficulties we have had to contend with. burned, probably, with the fire of indig- I have remarked this in Congress my- nation, as much as any people on the self, that whenever I want to accomplish face of the earth could under such cir- anything in connection with our Terri- cumstances. What has retained us? Sim- tory, I always find men who have been ply the knowledge that these men are ig- here and who have seen for themselves norant, and I believe that the Latter-day and formed their opinions accordingly, Saints have partaken of that spirit which ready to do anything in reason that I Jesus had when he hung upon the cross. ask. Intercourse has had the effect to re- It has been somewhat in that spirit that move prejudice. There are people in this the Latter-day Saints have acted. It country who fear us. The very fact that would have been easy for them to have they do fear us by their refusing us our acted otherwise had they chosen to do so. rights, not only shows that they do not It may be said they were restrained by understand us, but it is a recognition on fear. It has not been through the fear of their part of our power; and as such we man, but the fear of God has restrained should accept the denial of these rights this people. It is far better for us to suf- to which we are fully entitled. Gover- fer wrong than to do wrong; it is better nors, judges and other officers are sent to endure evil, ignominy, shame and per- here, in the selection of whom we have no NECESSITY OF REVELATION, ETC. 275 voice whatever. Even if they were all received. If man is not as virtuous as honest, patriotic, fair and just men, their woman, then it is because man has not selection without our voice is an injus- profited by what he has been taught. tice, but which no people can bear bet- Do you think that a daughter should ter than we. We are, however, learning be expected to be more virtuous than a lessons which will be of immense impor- son? Do you think that the girls of a tance to us in days to come; for as sure family should be more chaste than the as the sun shines, as sure as God lives, boys? Certainly not. One of the great- so sure will this people called Latter-day est crimes, the greatest, with the excep- Saints become a governing people. It tion of the shedding of innocent blood— is an inevitable consequence in the very and it is a doctrine that is taught by the nature of things. We possess all the ele- Latter-day Saints, and should be taught ments to make a strong, mighty, govern- by every man in his household—that can ing people. There is therefore a great fu- be committed, is the seduction or defile- ture in store for us, and to prepare us ment of the weaker sex. There can be for that future it is necessary that we no greater crime committed, except the should pass through the furnace of afflic- shedding of innocent blood, and people tion, that we should feel the hand of op- thus taught, what will they be? Why, if pression, and that we should feel the ef- they observe such teachings, they will be fects of injustice, so that when it shall be- strong, vigorous and mighty. Can you re- come our turn, as undoubtedly it will in press such a people? Will the sending the very nature of things, we shall know, of a few men to prison for breaking the by the treatment we have received, how law of 1862 destroy this work? Will the to temper justice with mercy, to extend to entering of a suit against the executors others that which has been denied unto of the estate of the late President Young, us, and the value of which we have well or the Trustee-in-trust of this Church de- known. You cannot keep down a people stroy this work? Why, the men who say like this. I do not say this to flatter you, so have failed to read history. They do because you have many faults. We know not understand anything connected with them, and I do not think we are afraid to human progress and with human pow- tell you your faults, and to tell our own ers, if they flatter themselves with such faults. But a people possessing the qual- opinions as these. All these things inten- ities of the Latter-day Saints must grow sify the people, they add to our strength. and become powerful. Union is strength. As to plural marriage, in dealing with Love will prevail, it is a great power that great question, as it is called, if I on the earth, and added to this there had been anxious to extinguish or re- are integrity, frugality, temperance and press it, I would never have allowed virtue—for there is virtue in this land— it to have received the attention it has there is chastity here. In these moun- done. There has been a complete mis- tains, amongst this people called Latter- conception as to the best method of deal- day Saints, if virtue is not cherished next ing with this question. Why, this an- to human life, it is because people are cient practice, practiced by a few peo- not living up to the teachings they have ple in these mountains, has been lifted into national importance. Mormonism 276 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. has become famous, because of the prac- question of polygamy, would let it alone ticing, by a portion of the people, of this severely. If he wanted it exterminated doctrine, until the whole earth resounds he would not take George Reynolds and with the talk of "the Polygamy of the send him to prison and make him a hero, Mormons," as though the Mormons were instead of a felon. Such a proceeding half the people of the United States. In only had the tendency to make people fact, if they numbered twenty-five mil- cling to their faith and be willing to suf- lions instead of two hundred thousand, fer for it. If plural marriage be divine, they could not have received more atten- as the Latter-day Saints say it is, no tion. This is a grand mistake in states- power on earth can suppress it, unless manship on the part of those who want to you crush and destroy the entire people. put down Mormon doctrines. If men un- But supposing it is not divine, as many derstood statesmanship they would let people say it is not, supposing that it is the question pass, but instead of that not of God, do you not think the forty mil- they are determined to give us world- lions can afford to let it alone? If their po- wide notoriety, to uplift us before the sition be true do you not think they are world, and by their foolish acts make safe to do more among the 200,000 peo- people suffer as martyrs for that princi- ple who believe, and a portion of them ple. Most unwise. It reminds me of an in- practice it, by moral force than by perse- cident mentioned in Macauley's history cution and violence? I think so. Now we of England. He drew a contrast between will see which is the best policy. I do not the policy of James the Second and his believe in being defiant. Men that marry successor, William. You all know that more wives than one should be able to James was looked upon as an old impos- bear the penalty of it if there be any at- tor, and that ultimately he was expelled tached thereto, or they should not take from the throne. There was a Bishop in them. A man that enters this Church James' day who seemed very anxious to ought to be able to die for its princi- attain some object, and he annoyed the ples if necessary, and certainly should king so much that the king got it into be able to go to prison for them with- his head that the Bishop wanted to be out crying about the matter. If you are a martyr, and, said James, "I am deter- sentenced to prison for marrying more mined he shall be one." Macauley con- wives than one, round up your shoulders trasts this policy with that of William and bear it like men and no murmur- under similar circumstances. William ing about it; prepare yourselves to take was a wise ruler, and there was a man the consequences. We know that for the who did something similar to him in Gospel in ancient days many laid down his day, and acted offensively, as the their lives with joy, that the great Cap- Bishop did to James, his father-in-law. tain of our salvation was crucified, and He, too, seemed anxious to be a mar- that nearly all the prophets perished by tyr, and, said William, "I am equally violence. If we expect, then, to be one determined he shall not be gratified." with them, and inherit the same glory In this we see the difference between that they do we should be prepared to the statesmanship of the two kings; endure the consequence of adhesion to, and a true statesman, dealing with the and our advocacy of the truth; and so we RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS, ETC. 277 should in regard to every doctrine I am trespassing on your time. May we have embraced. We have em- the Lord bless you, fill you with the braced certain doctrines. They are Holy Ghost, and keep you a holy people, unpopular. Still if we are men we and enable you to overcome all evil, is will be prepared to endure all the my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. consequences, whatever they may be, Amen. and make no fuss about them. But

RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS—PRE-EXISTENCE OF MAN—FIRST PRINCIPLES OF THE GOSPEL.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOHN MORGAN, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,AUG. 17, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JOHN IRVINE.

I will read within your hearing this hearers, that such things may be said, afternoon the 19th, 20th and 21st verses such principles brought forth, as will be of the 3rd chapter of the Acts of the for our mutual good and benefit, and Apostles— acceptable to our Father and God. I "Repent ye therefore, and be con- have often thought in connection with verted, that your sins may be blotted out, our services here in the Tabernacle, that when the times of refreshing shall come it should be a testimony, not only to the from the presence of the Lord; Latter-day Saints, but to strangers who "And he shall send Jesus Christ, may visit us, in regard to the work in which before was preached unto you: which we are engaged, the manner in "Whom the heaven must receive un- which our preaching is done. Elders til the times of restitution of all things, come into the congregation with no an- which God hath spoken by the mouth of ticipation whatever of being called upon all his holy prophets since the world be- to address the people. During the week gan." they have possibly been engaged in their In endeavoring to address those various avocations as farmers, as arti- who are present this afternoon, I sans, as mechanics of various grades desire that I may have an inter- and kinds, as merchants, and in the dif- est in the faith and prayers of my 278 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. ferent walks of life, and they possibly receive, did not accept, and did not be- come to the meeting and into the con- lieve. On the contrary, they used every gregation with their minds filled with means in their power to thwart the car- the business of the previous week, when rying out of the designs of the Savior, the they are called upon to stand before a bringing forth of the principles and the congregation of one, two, three, five, or promulgation of the ideas and doctrines ten thousand people, and preach to them that Jesus and those by whom he was the words of eternal life. A congrega- immediately surrounded proclaimed. As tion of that size elsewhere in the Chris- the result of this opposition, which lasted tian world, to edify, to instruct them, a considerable length of time, this man, would require considerable preparation Jesus of Nazareth, was taken by the pop- upon the part of the minister. But it is ulace, and by the Scribes and Pharisees not so with us as a people. Elders are and ministers and high priests of that called to the stand without a moment's day, and crucified; and said they, "Let warning, or time to prepare what they his blood be upon our heads, and the may have to say, or what they may be heads of our children;" considering it bet- expected to say; and it looked strange ter that one man should perish than that to me when I first entered a congrega- the whole nation should be led away. tion of the Saints and saw this manner They considered that if they allowed this of procedure. It doubtless looks strange man to go on, the whole world would fol- to many today who visit us. But we rely low after him; therefore, this heresy, this on the promises of our Savior, though delusion, this gigantic wrong, that had made many hundreds of years ago. We sprung up, must be done away with, and consider these promises still good and in the only way to do it was to kill Jesus, force, and that in the hour we are called whom they looked upon as an impostor. upon to proclaim the words of eternal As a result they crucified him, doubt- life he will give unto us words to speak; less anticipating that that act would stop we shall speak by the inspiration of that the work that he had started; that from spirit which leads, guides and directs us the day of his crucifixion, his follow- unto all truth. ers would dwindle and fall away, and In the passages that I have just read, that the delusion he had been preach- especially in the 21st verse, reference ing would no longer be heard on the face is made to Jesus Christ of Nazareth, of the earth. Well, to a certain extent who had come forth in the day and they were correct in this. Peter, doubt- age in which these words were spo- less, as prophet, seer, and revelator, saw ken, in a lowly manner, from the city this feature in the future. In telling them of Nazareth, proclaiming certain prin- that they had crucified the Christ, the ciples, certain ideas, and certain doc- Savior of the world, he reminded them trines. As it happened, these princi- that the heavens must receive this man. ples, ideas and doctrines were not pop- He could no longer dwell with them in ular in the section of country in which the flesh. He had come forth and was he was preaching at that particular born upon the earth; was baptized; the time. He taught certain doctrines to Holy Ghost came upon him in the bodily the people, which the mass of mankind by whom he was surrounded did not RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS, ETC. 279 form of a dove; he was crucified, buried this time. Isaiah tells us that the and resurrected, and had ascended into time should come when the earth should heaven. Naturally his friends and fol- mourn and fade away and languish. lowers would ask the question, How long Why? "Because they have transgressed is he to remain there, throughout all the the laws, changed the ordinance, and ages of eternity? Oh, no, for at the time broken the everlasting covenant." of his ascension, when his disciples stood Certain principles were advanced looking at him ascending on high, there when Jesus was upon the earth. They stood two angels by their side, who said, were advanced by him and by his fol- "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gaz- lowers, the disciples, and those who be- ing up into heaven? this same Jesus, lieved in his mission. Prominent among which is taken up from you into heaven, these principles that were advanced was shall so come in like manner as ye have the principle that he advanced in regard seen him go into heaven." They had the to himself. He spoke of his having come promise given unto them from the lips from the Father; and Peter, in speaking of holy angels, that in like manner as of this matter in one of his epistles, says: he had ascended in a body of flesh and "Who verily was foreordained before the bone, in like manner should he return foundation of the world." Going further to the earth. Peter then informs us how back into history, as we have it here in long he is going to remain from the earth, holy writ, we find that God had spoken informs us what length of time he is to to some of the prophets in times of old abide in the heavens, "Whom the heaven in regard to the same principle. Said must receive until the times of restitu- he to Jeremiah, "Before I formed thee in tion of all things." the belly I knew thee; and before thou It must be, then, that something camest out of the womb I sanctified thee, would have to be taken from the earth and I ordained thee a prophet unto the to enable the bringing about of a resti- nations." Again, we find in the writings tution. As, for instance, it would be im- of Job, speaking of the organization of possible for a man to restore back to me the world, that "the sons of God shouted something I had never been in posses- for joy when the foundation of the earth sion of. It would be impossible to re- was laid." Again, one of the writers in turn back to the earth something that holy writ, in speaking on this subject, the earth had never possessed. It would said: "Then shall the dust return to the be impossible to restore back to the hu- earth as it was: and the spirit shall re- man family that which they had never turn unto God who gave it." I take it as possessed. Then, to make a restitu- a logical consequence, that it would be tion, it must be that there would be re- impossible to return to a place where we stored back to the earth certain things, had never been; that it would be impos- certain principles, certain doctrines, cer- sible to return to God, if we had not been tain ideas, that had once been extant in his presence. on the face of the earth. Others of I find in the passages that I the apostles and prophets, seers and have quoted an allusion to the pre- revelators of the Lord Jesus Christ in existence we have had, similar to that their day and age looked forward to which Jesus taught of himself when 280 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. he was upon the earth. As he and his dis- enjoy pleasure. As, for instance, we hear ciples passed along the road they found people speak in regard to those of their a man who had been blind from his household who have passed away from birth. The disciples referred to Jesus their midst. They have buried the body and asked, "Who did sin, this man, or of flesh and bone, and it may molder his parents, that he was born blind?" If away in the grave, yet they feel to say, the result of the blindness was the sin "The spirit has gone behind the veil, and of the man, certainly that sin must have when we go there we expect to meet." been committed before the birth in the We also find that the so-called followers flesh. It is scarcely possible that a man of the Lord Jesus Christ today, in talk- would have to be punished in this way ing on this subject, assert that the spirit in the expectation of his committing a has gone to a place of punishment, where sin. That idea is reserved for men in the it is punished, or that it has gone to a nineteenth century. We as a people know place of enjoyment, where it can enjoy. that men, in hundreds and thousands of In other words that this spirit within cases, are judged and condemned before us is something that is tangible, some- they are proven guilty. That idea, how- thing that can reason, something that ever, is not promulgated by divine au- can sense and feel pain or enjoy plea- thority. I find, then, in these passages, sure. In other words, when we come a proof of the pre-existence of these spir- to examine this matter, when we come its of ours which inhabit our taberna- to ascertain the truth in relation to it, cles, those that I see before me this af- we find that the spirit that inhabits this ternoon, as well as my own. I find in body, the spirits that inhabit the bod- all parts of the world that we have any ies of the human family, is the intelli- knowledge of, or wherever I have had the gent part of them—it is the part that re- privilege of coming in contact with the ceives light and knowledge; it is the part children of men, that there is what we that was created before the foundations call death comes to them; and I find that of the earth were laid, and which has they almost universally agree—although come upon the earth to tabernacle in the Sadduceeism does to a certain extent ex- flesh, and when we have done with this ist in the Christian world today—that body of flesh and bone, the spirit, as far when we bring this body of flesh and as light and knowledge is concerned, re- bone, this outward covering of the spirit, tains its identity and its knowledge. One there is a spirit that has inhabited that very erroneous idea that has crept into body that goes somewhere, if you please; the minds of the human family, and one that when it leaves this earth it exists that we find traditioned in the minds of as a spirit, or has an existence outside of our children, is this: A kind of vague, this body of flesh and bone. And I also indistinct impression that when we lay find, as a general thing, that the human down this body of flesh and bone we family recognize that that spirit has in- lay down the frailties and imperfections telligence, and I moreover find that the of this life. Not if the words of this great mass of the Christian world believe book (the Bible) are true, for we find that that spirit has not only intelligence, that those spirits, after having gone be- but that it can suffer pain, and can hind the veil, according to the Apostle RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS, ETC. 281

Peter, had to be preached to: "For for this with the ideas of that day and age of the cause," says he, "was the gospel preached world. Said these wise men of the Phar- also to them that are dead, that they isees and Sadducees, "Why, these doc- might be judged according to men in trines clash with our particular, or pe- the flesh, but live according to God in culiar ideas, and if we admit them for the spirit." They needed to be preached one moment, the fabric we have built up to, to enable them to live according to here will tumble to the ground; we can- the Spirit of God, and as we find in not stand it." It is true they could not the preceding chapter, Peter says, "By contend with Jesus and his apostles in which also he went and preached unto argument; and I have always said that the spirits in prison; Which sometime any man, any set of men, any govern- were disobedient, when once the long- ment, I care not who they are, or what suffering of God waited in the days of they are, who resort to brutal force to Noah." And I often think that, in con- convince their opponents that they are nection with this matter, if many of our wrong—I say that those who do so are men in Israel would stop and reflect for almost certain to be in error. They have a few moments in regard to this point it run out of argument, and any govern- would be a benefit to them; that if they ment that will force men in regard to be- would but understand and comprehend lief, political or religious, I consider that that the habits and the weaknesses in that government, or the people who en- which they indulge, the frailties to which gage in such a thing, are out of argument they become accustomed, and that are on their side, they have no longer any not right, that they go with them into argument to sustain themselves, and re- the spirit world, there to be repented of, sort to force to carry their point. In that or turned from, they would hesitate be- day and age of the world, those men who fore becoming addicted to many of the opposed Jesus and his apostles ran out of things they do, seeing that the habits argument, and as a result they say, "We they have contracted will remain eter- will take the life of this man." nally with them, unless they are re- We find other principles that were pented of. But repentance here or repen- taught by our Savior when he was upon tance there must come before progress or the earth. One of these was faith, exaltation will ever reach them, worlds a very important principle in the plan without end. All the thoughts and the of salvation. Another was the prin- acts we indulge in here, the ideas that ciple of repentance, and I have often we obtain, the principles that we be- thought, in coming in contact with the come partakers of, are eternal in their human family, that one of the rea- nature, and they will stay and abide with sons today of the discord and confu- us throughout the eternities to come, sion that reign in the midst of the chil- for good or for evil. There are certain dren of men is because they have not laws, certain rules, a certain system of truly repented. It is true, there is a order, which controls, leads and guides form of repentance indulged in by many all this great plan. These principles millions of the human family—a kind were taught by the Savior when he was of repentance that moans and groans upon the earth. They were not popular, and cries and laments over the sins however, because they did not chime in that they have committed, but they go 282 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. and do the same thing tomorrow. That is of Judea that were listening to him, that the kind of repentance that Paul meant "the promise is unto you, and to your when he said: "For godly sorrow wor- children, and to all that are afar off, even keth repentance to salvation not to be re- as many as the Lord our God shall call." pented of: but the sorrow of the world The promise was unto those that were worketh death." There is a kind of sor- afar off. It makes no difference in regard row that needs not to be repented of, and to nationality, kindred, or race, and to- which consists in turning away from all day, if God calls any man to obey him that is evil, from all that is wrong or in- and keep his commandments by going correct in the sight of God and of holy an- into the waters of baptism, this promise gels and of all good men. is just as good as it was on the day of Pen- Jesus taught also the principle of tecost when the Holy Ghost was poured baptism, and I have no doubt in my out so mightily upon the apostles. We own mind that he foresaw the fact that find an instance in connection with this the time would come when the princi- ordinance in the Acts of the Apostles. ple of baptism as he taught it would be The Apostles, when at Jerusalem, heard perverted and changed. Paul undoubt- that Samaria had received the word of edly foresaw that time, for says he, "The God, and that Philip had been attend- time will come when they will not endure ing to the ordinance of baptism, after the sound doctrine; but after their own lusts people had repented—but by repentance shall they heap to themselves teachers, they did not receive the Holy Ghost. You having itching ears; And they shall turn know repentance in the Christian world away their ears from the truth, and shall today brings the gift of the Holy Ghost. be turned unto fables." We find many Peter and John went down to Samaria fables in the world today in regard to and prayed that they might receive the the principle of baptism. The baptism Holy Ghost. But did praying bring it? that Peter taught was widely different No. "Then laid they their hands on them, to the baptism taught by the Christian and they received the Holy Ghost." This world today. Said he, "Repent, and be was an ordinance instituted by our Lord baptized every one of you." What for? and Master, taught and preached by him "For the remission of sins." Today bap- and his apostles, for the reception of the tism is not practiced with that object in Holy Ghost. But that ordinance today, in view, by any means, by those who pro- the midst of the Christian world, is ob- fess to have the Gospel of Christ. They solete; it is no longer considered neces- baptize for a form, for the answering sary. I suppose that in this day of en- of a good conscience. I find that the lightenment of the nineteenth century, baptism that Peter taught, that John with their wisdom in regard to mecha- taught, had for its object the remission nism, in regard to discovery, in regard of sin, and another very important prin- to invention, they have found out some ciple was to follow this baptism, for said shortcut method whereby they can work Peter emphatically, "Ye shall receive the out their salvation without the help of gift of the Holy Ghost." And for fear that the Lord, and consequently have taken there would be those who would per- upon themselves to do away with this vert and change and turn away from this principle, he told the thousands RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS, ETC. 283 principle of the Gospel. thing else turns up, and so they are tossed to and fro by every wind of finan- We find that one of the blessings that cial doctrine; consequently I am led to should be given to those who received believe that they have not received this this great and glorious gift should be gift. the gift of wisdom. If, however, we are I also find that this gift will show to judge the so-called wise men of the unto us things that are to come. Well, present day, we can only conclude that it is true we do find people talking about they are certainly not in possession of it; things that are to come. We had a man they certainly cannot be in possession of recently who published a little book in it, or they would not take the course that regard to great calamities that are com- many of them do. It should give unto ing. By what authority did he speak? them wisdom, but you do not find wis- By what privilege did he enunciate these dom in their midst, and no faith in this ideas, and where did he obtain them? ordinance of the Gospel. What is the rea- Did he get credit for them? Yes; the son today that this nation, for instance, world gives him credit. But did God does not go into the waters of baptism? speak through that man? I should judge Because they have no faith that God will not, if we are to take as evidence all keep his promise and remit their sins by the belief and the doctrines of the man. that ordinance. What is the reason that Again, when we go abroad in the midst the sects of the day omit the ordinance of this nation and the nations of the of the laying on of hands for the recep- earth we ask, "Have you wise men in tion of the Holy Ghost? Because they your midst who can foresee and foretell do not believe that the God of Israel will events that are to come?" "No," say they, keep his promise; they have got no faith "we have nothing of that kind; we do not in him. What is the reason that, in the believe today in any man having that midst of want and misery that is brought gift," and I well remember the startled about by sickness, they do not adminis- look a gentleman gave me when, in con- ter to the sick by the laying on of hands versation on this principle, I told him as commanded? Because they have no that the gift of the Holy Ghost revealed faith to believe that God will keep his unto man things that were to come. He promise. Consequently, I am led to be- at first seemed very pleasantly struck lieve that in all this there is a lack of with the idea. He was a member of wisdom on the part of the people; they a church and lived in a Christian com- have not received the gift of the Holy munity in which there were thousands Ghost, which leads, guides and directs of good Christian people. While talk- them into all truth. That it does not do ing I asked him, what would be the re- this to the wise men of this nation and sult if he professed such a thing. "Why," to all the nations of the earth, is an ev- said he, "I certainly think they would kill ident fact from the many blunders they me. They would not let me live here make in their political work, in their fi- a week if I were to profess anything of nancial schemes, for today one scheme is the kind." "What?" said I, "in the midst raised up whereby the national debt is of this Christian community, with Bibles to be paid; tomorrow another man comes all around, with Bible associations, with forth with his ideas; next day some- ministers of the Gospel calling upon 284 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. people to be saved, and with the fact that of restitution arose and began to make the Savior preached this doctrine, and its influence felt on the earth what was yet when you follow his instructions they the result? History but repeats itself. As would take your life?" "Yes," said he, "I it was in the days of Noah so shall it be verily believe they would." Well, I can in the coming of the Son of Man, in the also believe they would, too, from what days of the restitution of all things. And little experience I have had in the Chris- when it came to pass that God raised up tian world, consequently I am led to be- his prophet on the face of the earth and lieve that they lack the possession of this sent his angel from the courts of heaven principle, that they have not received to restore these things to the children this gift. And I sometimes liken it in this of men, these great and glorious prin- way in my meditations in regard to it; ciples that had been lost, the same op- said John, "That was true Light, which position, the same character of opposi- lighteth every man that cometh into the tion came forth. The principle of faith, world." I understand every person on the to a great extent, had been lost from the face of the earth has this lamp in his pos- face of the earth, and when it was re- session, but I ask you as reasonable be- stored back it had to be a restoration of ings, what benefit is this lamp to them the same faith precisely that was had in unless it is lit up? Would a lamp, in a times of old, the faith that would cause dark room be of any benefit to a man if he men to obey the principles of the ever- had no means of lighting it, or any means lasting Gospel despite all the opposition whereby to touch the light to cause it to of the powers of darkness, of earth and shine? None whatsoever, he would be hell combined, that might be arrayed just as well without the lamp. It must be against them. There was restored back lit up, and the difficulty with the world to the earth the correct principle of re- today is they may be in possession of that pentance, of turning away from wrong- lamp but it has not been lit up, whereas doing. There was restored back to the it was lit up within the prophets of the earth the correct principle of baptism for living God in days gone by, and as Peter the remission of sins. There was restored could tell these people, comforting them back to the earth the ordinance of the in regard to these matters, "Whom the laying on of hands for the reception of heavens must receive until the time of the Holy Ghost. There was restored back the restitution of all things, which God to the earth the authority to act in these hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy different offices, and as John the Baptist prophets since the world began." It was held the keys of the office of baptism for by the lighting up of that lamp within the remission of sins, he was sent back to Peter that taught him in regard to this the earth in this day and age of the world great event that was to come at the resti- as a messenger of God to restore this tution of all things. Well, when the day principle to the earth. "But," says the of restitution came, what was the re- Christian world, "We don't believe it." I sult? When the morning sun of the day wonder what difference that makes? I wonder if it makes any difference? I wonder if that will have any influence upon the fact? If John did really come, RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS, ETC. 285 though every man and every woman, sive, unpleasant and disagreeable, with- every soul that exists upon face of the out convincing us; it would be an un- whole earth, should refuse to believe heard of proceeding if they were to say, save the one to whom it was sent, yet "Well, we will put you in prison and fine it is binding upon them so far as the you if you do not acknowledge that there proclamation reaches them. Believe it is no lake." But just as unheard of is the or not, it still remains a fact, a princi- proceeding made against us today, and ple of truth; and when man, vain man, for years gone by, in regard to these prin- stands up and tells what he believes; ciples we advocate; we know as a people, what difference does that make? None as well as we know that Salt Lake ex- whatever, with all due respect to their ists, that God has spoken from the heav- belief whatever that may be; we as a ens in these the last days. Talk about people today know for ourselves that the convincing men to the contrary in regard authority to baptize for the remission of to these matters! I am sometimes led to sins has been restored to the earth by marvel at the folly of men in regard to the return of the proper personage, and these things, and it looks like presump- the Latter-day Saints are well versed in tion on their part to talk and act as they regard to these matters. "How do you do. I am willing to talk kindly, courte- know these things; how do you obtain ously, and agreeably with any man in re- this knowledge?" I have had men ask me gard to these principles, and when he in coming in contact with strangers to tells me there is such a place as Om- our belief. In replying to that question aha, and says, "I have passed through let us turn back to the sayings of the Sav- it, I know there is such a place, or that ior. Said he, "If any man" (he did not there are certain stations on the railroad bind it to a dozen, a hundred, a thou- here," I am willing to believe him; I do sand or ten million), "will do his (the fa- not contradict him and when I tell him ther's) will, he shall know of the doctrine, that I know for myself of the truth of my whether it be of God, or whether I speak religion, I expect he will treat me courte- of myself." The Latter-day Saints have ously in regard to that matter. But our gone into the waters of baptism, have re- expectations in that respect are not al- ceived the laying on of hands, and they ways realized. We are often answered know for themselves that these princi- very peculiarly; we are often met with ples that I have been speaking to you very peculiar arguments. I take it for about this afternoon are true, and I have granted, however, that it is no argument often looked on the matter in this way: to disprove a principle to libel the charac- would it not be a very unheard of and ter of believers in that principle. The af- peculiar proceeding for say fifty, or 100, ter character of Judas did not prove that or 500 wise men from the east to come his evidence of Christ was incorrect. The here and try and convince us there was denial of Peter did not prove that Jesus no lake out there, never had been, that was not the Christ. The character of a it was all a mistake and a myth, that man has nothing to do with the princi- we were deceived in regard to it, and ple that may be advanced. I do not care when they had pushed their argument, where truth comes from; I do not care to such a length as almost to be offen- 286 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. who preaches it; I do not care if the devil change." "Well," said I, "there is no use himself enunciated a principle of truth, you and I talking if that is the case, that it is truth all the same, and you cannot ends the conversation." Now, I consider change or alter it. I do not care how wise such reasoning as the height of foolish- the man is, how long the prayer he may ness. Let us, as honest men and honest make, or how reverend he may look, if women, lay down all prejudice and mal- he tells a lie, it is a lie, and you can- ice, and examine the principles of truth not change or alter it. Thus it is we and righteousness as they are placed be- as a people look upon the principles of fore us, and as the light and intelligence truth, those principles that led to light of the Holy Spirit will show them unto and knowledge, and it is time that peo- us, for they will lead and guide us back to ple laid down the foolish idea of striving the presence of our Father and God. The against such things. Let us sit down for a truth will hurt no man. The principles moment and examine in detail principle of truth the Latter-day Saints preach to after principle, and I will say to you that the nations of the earth, the principles if any man on the face of the earth will that the Elders have carried to the na- show me that I am in error on any prin- tions, are the principles whereby the hu- ciple, I will leave it that very hour, and man family can be saved if they will no longer claim it as a principle. Will ev- but hearken to them. These principles ery man do as much to me? Many will, are not for a few, the plan God has re- and many will not. I remember the case vealed is for all. These principles are of a minister who came to visit me. I revealed that God's kingdom may be es- wished to be fair with him, and I desired tablished on the earth in righteousness, that he should be equally so with me. and they shall lead, guide, and control I said, "Now we are alone in the room, untold millions of the human family that there are no witnesses here; but I will have dwelt and shall yet dwell upon the make a contract with you. Here is the earth. We as Latter-day Saints should Bible; we will hunt for truth, and wher- have broad and philanthropic views in ever I find truth you are to acknowledge regard to these things. What if our it, and wherever you find truth I shall names are cast out as evil? What if do the same." "No," said he, "I won't." they do strike us, or contend in regard "Why not?" said I. "Oh," said he, "you to these matters? Read the history of the might spring some trap. We have a cer- past, and what has been the result? Take tain discipline to go by; we have got a individuals, take the men who have con- creed of faith and you may try to catch tended against the kingdom of God in the me in some trap." "But," said I, "if you last half century, and what has been the are wrong in your creed or faith, don't result? Take the plans, and the untold you want to be put right?" "Oh," said thousands of plots and projects that have he, "it is the faith of my fathers, it is been brought forth for the overthrow of the faith they died by, it is the faith of the Church of Christ, and where are they my grandfather, my great grandfather; today? for generations back they have lived and "Gone glimmering among the things died by it, and I cannot afford to make a that were A schoolboy's tale of other days The wonder of but an hour." PRACTICAL NATURE OF THE GOSPEL. 287

Gone no longer to be remembered; for- these things, and as was said in times gotten from the face of the earth and of old, let us "seek first the kingdom their projectors with them. How long of God, and his righteousness; and all will men continue in their foolishness, these things shall be added unto you." striving against the bucklers of Jeho- We want to set our faces to the building vah? Why, just so long as the Lord lets up of the kingdom of God. To the spread- them, no longer. We as the people of ing and promulgation of the principles God, recognize the hand of God in re- thereof not only throughout the valleys lation to these things, and we want to of the mountains, but throughout the na- prepare and fit our minds for an exalted tions of the earth. And will the oppo- view in relation to the workings of the sition we have to meet stop it? Not by kingdom of God. We want to put away any means. It will but add fuel to the the "penny wise and pound foolish" ideas fire, until the blaze will grow higher and that many of us have in regard to these higher until all the nations of the earth things as not becoming us as Latter- shall see it, and Zion shall be set upon a day Saints. I am not finding fault; but hill, which may God grant in the name of we want to look upon these principles Jesus. Amen. with great and noble minds; we want to shape our lives in connection with

PRACTICAL NATURE OF THE GOSPEL.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,JULY 27, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

There is a little time remaining, truth of any nature or name, whether which I am requested to occupy. it be scientific, or moral, or reli- The theme of the Gospel is one gious, that is not comprehended within that can be dwelt on for a great the scope of the Gospel of Jesus length of time and yet not be ex- Christ. Therefore, those who em- hausted; for according to the views brace the Gospel, as has been said, of the Latter-day Saints the Gospel start upon the path of progress, the embraces all truth, and there is no end of which no one can see; it 288 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. is not given to human beings to com- are taught, and apply them in our lives, prehend; it extends into eternity, and our visit today to this Tabernacle would comprehends the wisdom and power and be of very little profit. It is for this the knowledge of eternity. It has of- purpose that the Gospel has been re- ten been remarked respecting our meet- vealed, it is for this purpose that it ings in this Tabernacle, by persons who is taught, it is for this purpose that have not been accustomed to our form the Holy Ghost has been promised and of worship and our method of instruc- poured out, that those who receive it tion, that we very frequently dwell upon may become better men, may become a great many subjects that other people better women, may become more pure, do not deem appropriate to the Sabbath. that the evil that seems to be natural There is a reason for this; it is found in to us in consequence of our fallen con- the fact which I have stated—that the dition, may be overcome and uprooted, Gospel of Jesus Christ comprehends all and put away from us. Will those who truth; and therefore everything neces- believe and practice the Gospel be dis- sary for the promotion of a man's hap- honest? Certainly not. Will they take ad- piness, for the enlargement of his views vantage of their neighbors? Will they tell and his mind, and for the development falsehoods concerning their neighbors? of all his being, physical and mental, ev- Will they indulge in slandering and tat- erything of this kind should be treated tling and backbiting? Will they be envi- upon at the time and the season when it ous, or filled with malice or jealousies? is needed. I do not, myself, value a re- Not if they practice the Gospel; not if ligion that confines its teachings to the the spirit of the Gospel rests down upon Sabbath, that does not enter into the ev- them will they do any of these things. eryday life of those who profess it. Such If they do, they will be checked in their a religion people may put on as they do feelings, the Spirit of God will reprove their Sunday apparel, and wear to the them, and if they live as they should, meetinghouse; and when the day passes, when they bow down at night to ask par- doff it as they do their apparel, and as- don for the acts of the day that have sume their everyday practices. But the been improper in the sight of God, it will religion of Jesus Christ should be taught bring to their remembrance, and show and practiced by those who believe it, to them in plainness where they have every day of the week and in all the come short on these points, and they will pursuits of life. And in this respect I have the spirit of repentance, and will sometimes think that we, as Latter-day seek to put such things away far from Saints, come short of doing that which them. In this way they will progress. is incumbent upon us. We allow our re- Now, this is not required of us on this ligion to be too theoretical, and do not day alone—the first day of the week, the practice it to the extent that is required day of worship set apart for us to come by the teachings of the Gospel. It is together; but it is required on Monday, very well for us to come today and lis- and on Tuesday, and so on until Sat- ten to the discourse we have heard, and urday. This work of self-improvement, rejoice in the spirit of it; but if we do under the influence and power of the not take with us the principles which Gospel and Spirit of God, should go on PRACTICAL NATURE OF THE GOSPEL. 289 every day we live, and it should be a con- contrite spirit, what will be the effect? stant subject of thought with us when Why, we will confess our faults to him, we rise in the morning and lie down because they will be plain in our sight, at night: Wherein have we come short we will see ourselves in the light of the of obeying the principles of the Gospel? Spirit of God, and the spirit of repen- Have I done any injury to my fellow tance will rest down upon us. Suppose man? Have I grieved the Spirit of the we bow down before him because it is Lord? Have I neglected some duty? Have the custom to do so, in a formal man- I said that which I ought not to have ner, worshipping him with our lips while said? Have I done that which I ought our hearts are far from him, repeating by not to have done? Have I been just, rote certain sentences we have learned, have I been merciful, have I been up- and to the use of which we have be- right? Have I allowed any thought, any come accustomed, will such an offering feeling to enter my heart concerning my be acceptable in the sight of God? Cer- neighbor, concerning some of my asso- tainly not. He desires that those who ciates that I should not entertain? If I worship him shall worship him in spirit have, then it is my duty, if I believe the and in truth, and that they shall confess Gospel and desire to practice its princi- their sins not only to him, but, where ples, to repent of that, to confess it. they have wronged each other, to one an- There was a time when God required other. It is my duty, if I have wronged of his people the sacrifice of animals. my brother, to go to my brother and con- They brought their animals and they fess and ask his forgiveness. If I wrong were offered up as sacrifices, and they my sister, it is my duty to do the same. obtained the remission of sins by that If I do wrong to my God, it is my duty method. This was required under the to bow down before him in humility and law of Moses; it was required until the confess in contrition of spirit the wrong I coming of the Son of God, until he made have done and beseech him in the name his great sacrifice for man. But what of Jesus to forgive my sins. And this is does God require of us? Is it that we a duty that rests upon us as Latter-day shall bring animals and offer burnt of- Saints. ferings unto him? No, he does not make These are some of the practical parts that requirement of us today, but this of our religion, and, as I have said, not is the sacrifice required of us: he asks to be practiced today alone, today, the us that we shall come to him with bro- first day of the week, the Sabbath, but ken hearts and with contrite spirits. If to be practiced tomorrow, and to be car- we do he will accept of us, our offerings ried out in our lives, in our daily in- will be like the offerings of Abel, accept- tercourse one with another; to be meek able in his sight; but if we go to him as and lowly in heart, seeking the Spirit Cain did, our offerings will not be accept- of Jesus, willing to suffer wrong rather able to him, and he will reject them. But than do wrong; not to be rude, not to if you and I and all who profess to be be harsh, not to be unfeeling, or un- the followers of the Lord Jesus will bow kind in our intercourse with our families, down before him with humble hearts, but to carry with us the spirit of meek- each of us with a broken heart and ness and of love, that when we enter our 290 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. homes we shall be welcomed with glad- fect in his sphere, as God is perfect in his ness, our children shall delight in our sphere. He should be free from fault. If visitations as they would in the visita- he have a fault he should seek daily and tion of an angel if they knew one was hourly to correct it, and not rest satisfied coming. How many are there of the as long as he is aware of the existence men in this assembly and of this Church of a fault until he conquers it, pleading who, when they enter their houses, en- with the Father in the name of Jesus for ter with scowls on their faces, bring- strength to overcome his weakness, for ing all their cares with them, intruding power to put it away, carrying with him upon the serenity of their families, mak- the spirit of love, the spirit of serenity, ing their presence disagreeable to all, the spirit of peace, that when he appears instead of going in with gladness and in society, no matter where he may be, peace and carrying with them the con- all who come in contact with him may solation that should attend their pres- feel his influence and feel purified and ence always? Their wives are perhaps strengthened by his example and by his fretful from overwork, their nerves af- words and by his very presence. And fected by the toils of the day, or the this is what God designs we should be as heat, causing them to be in an irritable Latter-day Saints. Tattle about one an- mood, and when the two come together other; backbite, slander and speak evil under such circumstances they produce of one another; are such things proper friction, bad feeling and offenses follow. for Latter-day Saints? No. They should Is it a man's duty, or right, or privi- be banished from our society and from lege, to carry his cares into his family our households. Our children should be and disturb the peace and serenity exist- taught better. When they speak evil of ing there by relating his troubles? Cer- anyone they should be checked and told tainly not. When his foot rests upon the if they cannot say something good con- threshold of his door, no matter what his cerning their fellows, to say nothing. In- difficulties, or perplexities may be, he stead of finding fault there should be should enter with the spirit of peace in charity, which covers a multitude of sins. his heart and with the love of God burn- Instead of looking at the faults of oth- ing within him. If there is irritability ers, they should be taught to look at existing, his presence should be sooth- their own faults. And they are numer- ing to every member of his household, ous enough; we have plenty of them to and particularly in talking with his chil- keep us occupied closely all our time, dren, they should feel the influence of with all the prayer and all the faith we his presence; and if there should be any can exercise before God. Our own faults, improper feelings existing, they should our own sins, our own shortcomings are be calmed as disturbed and ruffled wa- sufficient to occupy our entire atten- ter is by pouring oil upon it. A Latter- tion, without thinking about those of our day Saint! Think of the nature of the neighbors, or ever speaking about them. name. A Saint of God! Why, he should Those who bear the priesthood have the be next to an angel; the most perfect of right, and it is their duty to adminis- the human family. He should be per- ter reproof and to point out faults; but PRACTICAL NATURE OF THE GOSPEL. 291 it is for the members of the Church to Brother Stayner remarked that if he look to themselves. Let any member of could be the means of saving only one the Church who thinks he has plenty of soul, how great his joy would be. Yes, time after attending to his own faults to that is true. And if that soul should be attend to his neighbor's, examine him- himself alone, his joy will be great. But if self; let him bow down before the Lord he should be the means of saving another and ask for the Holy Spirit to be poured soul, his joy would be still greater. But out upon him, so that he can see himself the greatest work we can do is to so live in his true light; and if he does not arise that we ourselves shall be saved, that satisfied that it will take all his time to our own acts shall be correct, and our correct his own weaknesses and follies it will and desires and passions be brought will be very strange. into subjection to the will of God. There is no work that I know of so great and Then, are we honest one with an- important to me as this. A man may per- other? Do I do to my neighbor in my deal- form a mission; he may do innumerable ing with him as I wish him to do to me? If good works; his name may be heralded I do not, then I do not carry out the prin- throughout the Church and to the na- ciples of my religion. If I take advantage tions of the earth, and the people may of his ignorance, of his inexperience or accept it as that of a great and mighty of his circumstances—it may be he is in man; but if that man does not conquer a strait place, and he is compelled to do himself and live in strict accordance with something that he would not do if his ne- the principles of the Gospel, his posi- cessities did not press him, do I perform tion will only increase his condemnation. my duty to him as a Latter-day Saint! If Far better is the condition of the hum- I take advantage of him, then I do not ble, the obscure man, the man unknown treat him as I would like to be treated out of the limited circle of his immedi- if our positions were reversed. Does the ate associates, who is without fame, but spirit of greed enter into my heart, and I who does live his religion, who practices think, "Now, here is an opportunity for the principles of the Gospel as they are me to make something, or getting the taught by the Lord. Far better is the advantage;" if it does, then I am not a condition of that man than the other, if Latter-day Saint in that respect; I do not he does that and the other man neglects carry out the principles of the Gospel of to do it. This Gospel of ours is a prac- Jesus Christ, I fail in being that which I tical Gospel. It is not like our Sunday profess to be, and I have cause to repent apparel, to be put on today and put off truly and sincerely, and ask forgiveness tomorrow; it ought to be carried with us of the Lord and my brother. in all the transactions of life, applied to This work of self-improvement, under everything we think, we say and do, and the power and influence of the Gospel always be remembered by us. And then of Jesus Christ, is a work given to each what sort of people will we be? We will of us. It should be the great work of be people whom the Lord will delight to our lives; it should be the chief thought bless; and who will have his Spirit and of our hearts. There is nothing greater. power resting down upon us. And no 292 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. matter how much we may be maligned they would not be happy. The man who and spoken evil about, we shall have lives near to God who has the Spirit of the consolation of knowing from the Lord God, be he ever so humble, is a happy that we are right, that we have done that man; and without it, there is no true which he requires, and that we have his happiness. blessing and his approval. This is worth It should be our constant study to more than everything else that can be live so that the Holy Spirit will always brought about. With the experience I dwell with us, that when we arise in the have had in my life I would rather have morning our minds and our hearts may the grace of God, the sweetness and hap- be as clear as the sky when there is no piness, the blessing and comfort of his cloud in it, that we feel at peace with Spirit and be in poverty as great as that God and man. It should be the aim of of the wild Indian of our mountains than every one professing to be a Latter-day to dwell in palaces and revel in luxury Saint not to leave his chamber in the and ease without that grace and Spirit. morning until he comes out feeling that I have tested this to my entire satisfac- spirit of peace, with his brow unruffled tion, tested it under circumstances when with care, with a consciousness of having I have proved that a man can be as communed with God and that he knows happy as an angel—that is, as happy in his standing with him. When he leaves his sphere, in doing the will of God in his chamber having that spirit, he will the midst of poverty and difficulties. It diffuse joy and gladness throughout his is not these external circumstances that entire household. Should anything oc- are the sources of happiness. Of course it cur to disturb the serenity of a Latter- is right and proper we should take care day Saint he ought to step aside and ask of the bodies God has given unto us, just God in the name of Jesus to remove it as much as our spirits, that they should and to pour out the spirit of peace and be kept clean, that our clothing should consolation upon him to fill his heart. At be comfortable and our habitation suit- night too, the same Spirit of peace should able. God has given unto us wisdom be sought for. The thoughts, the words and power to do this, and he has placed and the actions of the day should be re- the elements around us, and he would viewed, and forgiveness of wrong should condemn us if we did not use them for be sought for, then a man can retire in our comfort and blessing. But they are peace; and then if God in his providence not the only things needful. You may should call him home during the night he pile up money until you fill this Taberna- would feel at peace with Him and with cle and its possession would not make a all men. In this manner we should live, man happy. You may give men carriages and if we do not live in this way we fail and horses, houses and lands and every- to be what we profess to be. thing of this character, but unless there That God may help us so to live, is my is the spirit of happiness within them prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen. THE WORK OF THE RESTITUTION, ETC. 293

THE WORK OF RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS—FUTILITY OF THE EFFORTS OF ITS OPPONENTS—SHOULD NOT CHERISH ANIMOSITY TO ENEMIES.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER CHARLES W. PENROSE, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY, ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON,AUG. 17, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

There are a few minutes remaining, of him, has also been made manifest to which I am requested to occupy; and the Latter-day Saints; in the day when while doing so I earnestly desire that I the great work which will prepare the may be inspired by the spirit that gives earth and the inhabitants thereof for its light and intelligence to the human mind Prince, its rightful lawgiver and King, and makes plain the things of God, so has commenced upon the earth. I rejoice that what I may say to you may be prof- and thank God with all my heart that itable and edifying. I am identified with this people, that I I rejoice very much that I have the have received the spirit of this work; that privilege of living upon the earth, at I have been able to understand these the time when God has commenced the principles and doctrines and that I have great work spoken of by all the holy cast in my lot with the people who are prophets since the world began; when engaged in the work of preparing them- the times of restitution have commenced; selves for the coming of the Lord. when God has begun to restore to the The times of restitution which have inhabitants of the earth, the doctrine been alluded to this afternoon by Brother and principles which were revealed to Morgan, and which the Apostle Paul the people anciently, by which they were speaks of in the words which have brought into communion with the Fa- been read in your hearing, are of the ther; when the holy priesthood, or the very greatest importance to all peo- authority given from God to man to ple, who live upon the earth to under- act in his stead, has been restored to stand. Every prophet by whom God the earth; when the gifts and bless- has spoken since the world began has ings which were enjoyed by the ancient had some foresight in regard to this Saints have also been restored; when work. When we take up the Bible the knowledge possessed by the ancients we find all the prophets whose words of the manner in which God could be are recorded therein speaking of the approached so that they might learn great work of God in the latter days; of 294 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. the great day of the Lord; of the time prehension of these same things. When when righteousness should prevail, and we take up the Bible or the Book of Mor- iniquity should cease; of the time when mon and read of the restitution to come, misrule should be cast down, when the we can see it as the prophets saw it; for kingdoms of this world that have ruled in the same spirit that rested upon Isaiah unrighteousness should lose their grasp and Jeremiah and upon Nephi and Mo- upon the children of men, and in the roni and others of the prophets that lived place thereof the kingdom of God should upon this continent, rests upon the peo- be established; of the time when the ple of God in these latter days. The same curse which was placed upon the earth evidences are open to our vision, and we in the beginning should be removed, and know as sure as we know that God lives when instead of the thorn and the brier that the day is close at hand when those should spring up the fig tree and the events spoken of will transpire upon the myrtle tree; of the day when the ani- earth. mosity between man and man and be- tween mankind and the brute creation, should be taken away; when the lion and We are living in a time of great the lamb should dwell together; when wickedness, of great corruption and evil the spirit of destruction should cease and of numerous kinds; they are widespread the Spirit of the living God prevail over upon the face of the earth, and the in- the face of the whole earth, and the habitants thereof have turned from the way be prepared for the coming of its Lord in a great degree, according to the rightful ruler, "He whose right it is to Scripture which has been quoted: "They reign" and who will rule "from the rivers have transgressed the laws, changed the to the ends of the earth;" of the time ordinance, and broken the everlasting when that wicked one "who tempted our covenant." God has withdrawn himself first parents in the beginning, who in- from the children of men. Darkness has troduced evil and death into the world, covered the earth and gross darkness the and who has ever since made it his aim people. While they boast of living in an and object to usurp the control of the age of Gospel light, they are really and earth," shall be bound, and with all his truly shut out from communion with the hosts be banished from the earth and Lord. No prophet's voice is heard in their this whole creation be rid of his influ- midst; no seer discerns the things of God; ence, and when the Spirit of God will no angel from the courts of glory bears be poured out upon all flesh. This pe- a message of glad tidings to man. The riod has been foreseen and has been al- heavens are as brass over their heads. luded to in much plainness by many They have no answer when they pray, of the prophets upon the eastern hemi- or rather when they say their prayers, sphere and also upon the western con- for it may be truly said of them in the tinent; their words were recorded and words of the Lord through Isaiah, they have come down to us through the Bible "draw near me with their mouth, and and the Book of Mormon. with their lips do honor me, but have The spirit which God has been removed their hearts far from me, and pleased to pour out upon us in some their fear toward me is taught by the degree opens our minds to a com- precepts of men." "Therefore," says the THE WORK OF THE RESTITUTION, ETC. 295

Lord, "behold, I will proceed to do a mar- from my early childhood to believe in. velous work among this people, even a When the sound of the Gospel reached marvelous work and a wonder: for the my ears I believed; and having bowed wisdom of their wise men shall perish, in obedience to its ordinances, I received and the understanding of their prudent a testimony for myself of its truthful- men shall be hid," while to the weak and ness, and that testimony has never de- despised and poor of the earth whom God parted from me. I know by the power has gathered from the nations he has re- and gift of the Holy Ghost that God vealed his will and the precious things lives. I know that Jesus is the Christ, of his kingdom; and they are preparing the Son of the living God. I know by themselves for the great events that are the same Spirit that God Almighty has to transpire in the near future. sent his angels in these the last days to God has commenced the great work Joseph Smith and others, for the pur- of restitution of all things by restor- pose of commencing this work of the ing the Gospel in its primitive simplic- restitution of all things. I know that ity, and every principle and ordinance work has begun to be ushered in. I belonging thereto, with the authority know that the power of God is being and power to administer therein. Ev- manifested on the earth, that the same ery man that has lived upon the earth power which rested upon the former-day in past ages, who has held the keys in Saints, rests down upon the Latter-day any dispensation of God's mercy to man, Saints. I know that the former-day ordi- has come down from the place whence nances have been restored, and the spirit he has gone, and restored those keys; and the power thereof. I know it for my- they have all brought their priesthood, self, because I have experienced it and their authority, and the spirit and power realized it. I know there is a way to ap- belonging thereunto, and ordained liv- proach the Eternal Father and learn of ing men to the authority which they him. I know that those who seek aright themselves held. And the reason why in the way appointed, find an answer we know this is true, is because God to their prayers, and that the promise Almighty has made this manifest to ev- made by the Savior is true: "Ask, and ery humble soul who has bowed in obe- it shall be given unto you; seek, and dience to this Gospel. Our testimony ye shall find; knock, and it shall be does not depend upon Joseph Smith; it opened unto you." And in bearing my tes- does not depend upon Brigham Young; timony to the truth of these things, I it does not depend upon John Taylor, or say what most of this congregation know, upon the council of the Twelve Apostles, and what the great majority of the peo- which is now the presiding quorum in ple throughout this Territory could tes- the Church. I pin my faith to no man's tify to, as well as thousands more who sleeve; I am a believer in the Scrip- are scattered upon the face of the earth, ture which says, "Cursed be the man who are longing to gather to these moun- that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh tain vales. We have not come here for his arm." I obeyed this Gospel because the mere purpose of enriching ourselves I believed it was true, through read- in gold and silver, in flocks and herds, or ing the Scriptures, which I was taught houses and lands, things which perish in 296 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. their handling, but to become rich in the menced to restore in the latter days. imperishable things of eternity, which The Lord has restored that in connection we can obtain here in the way appointed with other principles, and it is a truth of God, and about which the world know which this people can testify to, whether nothing. others believe it or not. God is the au- People wonder why it is that the lead- thor of it, and if men choose to fight ers of this people are still upheld by the against the Lord, let them fight; it is God unanimous voice and vote of the Latter- and them for it. I bear my testimony day Saints, and why it is that we have that God Almighty has revealed this doc- faith in them and cling to them, in spite trine of celestial marriage, or marriage of all that is said against them. They for eternity, including the doctrine of plu- do not understand the secret spring that rality of wives. He made this manifest moves this work. The power that unites to the Prophet Joseph Smith, and has and guides us does not rest in any man revealed it to thousands by the gift and or any set of men, neither in this won- power of the Holy Ghost. But these are derful organization, but in this eternal, only the beginnings of things. We have unerring Spirit which God has shed forth come here to learn of God's ways and to in our hearts through obedience to the walk in his paths. "Our fathers have in- Gospel, by which we can approach Him herited lies, vanity, and things wherein and learn of Him for ourselves. there is no profit." They have been fed We have gathered to these mountains upon husks, while the kernel was not that we may aid in this great work of with them. They have been taught by restitution. We are building these Tem- the traditions of men; they have been ples that the Lord may come and restore led by theologians who knew not God, further powers and keys and knowledge who could not describe him or explain pertaining to the holy priesthood, which his laws to the people, for they knew not has been held in reserve, for we have of Him themselves, and how could they, as yet only received the droppings of the when according to their own admissions shower to come; we have but received a the voice of prophecy had ceased, and few things compared with what remains God would no more speak to the children to be revealed. There is not a princi- of men. ple nor a blessing referred to in these We have come out from the traditions Scriptures, which has been enjoyed by and false theories of our fathers, and the Saints of any former time, but what gathered here that we may learn of God. the Lord our God will restore and be- And God has organized his Church, and stow upon his people of the latter times, we are receiving line upon line and pre- the times of the restitution of all things. cept upon precept, here a little and there This doctrine of celestial marriage that a little, for our profit, to prepare us for creates such a stir in the world, is only the things to be manifested in the fu- one of the doctrines believed in and prac- ture. And if we would only live up to the ticed by the ancients, and that, too, un- things that He has revealed to us; if we der the immediate sanction and direc- would be as pure and virtuous, and hon- tion of the Almighty, that God has com- est and upright, and conscientious and THE WORK OF THE RESTITUTION, ETC. 297 patient, and long-suffering and charita- way God has appointed. As we are living ble as we are commanded to be in the in these momentous times, it behooves revelations the Lord has given unto us us to be what we profess to be—Saints. in these latter times, we would be bet- We are called to be Saints; whether we ter prepared for the great things yet to are Saints or not is another thing. Many be unfolded. If the people called Latter- are called, but few are chosen. And why day Saints desire to receive further of are they not chosen? Read the Book of these great things which have been kept Doctrine and Covenants; find out your hid from the world for generations, let own weaknesses, your own failures, your them live up to the principles already own omissions as well as commissions. revealed—let them be Saints in very Find out wherein you have ceased to do deed. As they have come out from the that which you ought to do, and have world bodily, let them be separated from done that which you ought not to have the world in spirit. Let them be temper- done, and repent. Repentance is needed ate, chaste and true; let them be hon- to be taught to the Latter-day Saints as est and honorable with all men; let them well as to the world; for we are called live up to their agreements and fail not with a holy calling, and if we do not live to keep their promises one with another, up to our professions, it were better we always remembering, with due regard, had never made them. Let us return to their sacred covenants and solemn obli- the Lord, and the Lord will return to us; gations to the Lord. And thus they will his Spirit will be manifested in our midst come up near to Him, and as a natural to a still greater degree, and His gifts consequence the Lord will draw near to and blessings will abound. Our sick will them, his Spirit will be upon them, and be healed as in times past. We have seen God will fight their battles and overcome the sick healed instantaneously. The their enemies, and break off every yoke. lame have been made to walk, the dumb For the Lord is nigh at hand and not afar to speak, the blind to see and the deaf off. He has commenced the great work of to hear, by the power of God through the restitution, and will roll it on to its con- administrations of the servants of God. summation. He will restore every power The gifts of tongues, prophecy, dreams, and every gift and grace, every key, reve- faith, discernment, and every gift and lation and inspiration that has ever been blessing spoken of in the Bible as hav- enjoyed by the ancient Saints. Is that ing graced the primitive Church, have all? No, my brethren and sisters, it is been enjoyed by the Latter-day Saints in not all; for after God has restored ev- this latter-day Church, and we are wit- erything that has been lost, He will, in nesses thereof. God has been near to us, this dispensation, reveal things kept hid- and we have felt his presence in our pub- den from the foundations of the world. lic assemblies and in our private abodes. He will reveal them "to babes and suck- Peace has reigned in our hearts, and we lings," to the children born in Zion who have felt like praising Him with all our are heirs to the holy priesthood, trained souls for His goodness. up in the way they should go, not trained Now the Lord will be still nearer up as some of our children are, but in the to us if we practice our religion and 298 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. be Saints in very deed; and our own eyes advertise our cause all over the world; will be open to discern the work of God attention will be drawn to our Elders among the nations. We have already be- who are traveling throughout the world gun to comprehend the purposes of the preaching the Gospel, and they will be Almighty. God's hand is over all, and the better able to bear their testimony he will smite down the oppressor and and gather out the honest. They may break every yoke. He will destroy the fight this work as they please; they may tyranny that still exists in the world, malign and stigmatize this people, and and the way will be open for the ser- heap all manner of reproach upon them; vants of the living God to go to every they may imprison and even kill the bod- nation, kindred, tongue and people, as ies of some of its most faithful advocates, messengers of the truth and to gather but the facts still remain that we are out the seed of Israel, and the work of engaged in the work of restitution; that God will roll forth, and every effort of God has commenced it; that God is with our enemies will only tend to accelerate us, and will remain with us as long as its progress. There are societies formed we are true to him as his servants; and here to oppose this work and to bring no power on earth or in hell will stop his trouble upon us. What have their efforts purposes. The nations of the earth are in so far amounted to? Those that have con- his hands; the governments of this earth cocted their schemes to misrepresent us he considers as a very little thing, and and to bear false witness against us and by and by he will laugh at their calamity to malign us, how much have they ac- and mock when their fear cometh. The complished? They have been the means kingdoms of this world, with all their of helping to kill one faithful youth, who, pomp and glory, will, in the own due time in common with many of his brethren, of the Lord, be humbled in the dust and was engaged publishing to the world the be broken to pieces; and then will come principles of our religion. And besides the kingdom of our God, and he whose this, they have been the means of incit- right it is to reign will rule from pole to ing mobocrats to drag a few inoffensive pole and from shore to shore. aged people from their homes and beat But let us not cherish animosity in them nearly to death, because of their our hearts against those who are plot- belief. Let those plotters look upon their ting against us. While we stand up for work and see what they have accom- our civil rights and the liberty to which plished! How much satisfaction these we are entitled by virtue of the Consti- ladies, these "Christian" ladies and gen- tution of the United States, and stand tlemen must have in their labors! How firm, shoulder to shoulder, in vindica- much will this do to stop the progress tion of our religious rights, and help of the work of the Almighty? Not any- to maintain for others the rights which thing at all; it will only tend to roll it on we claim for ourselves, let us not cher- to its consummation and final triumph. ish anger, or animosity, or revenge, in The Lord will so overrule in behalf of our hearts. But let us take the words his people as to turn the intended evil of the Lord Jesus Christ for our guide, into good. Their efforts to overthrow and try to be patient and long-suffering, "Mormonism," as they term it will simply even as God is. And the Lord will fight THE WORK OF THE RESTITUTION, ETC. 299 our battles, and those who fight against truth will prevail and our enemies will us by and by will be brought to shame be confused. The time is not far distant and confusion as they always have been. when God will sweep the earth, as with And let those who love to lie about the a besom of destruction, of all that rebel Latter-day Saints, lie on; there is a place willfully and intentionally against him prepared for them, and we will leave and his work; he will cleanse the earth them in his hands. Ye who wish to lie, lie from pollution and establish righteous- on! Do your work, fill the mission you are ness thereon. Men shall then be found engaged in as did Judas of old; but as for beating their swords into plowshares us, we will serve the Lord; we will keep and their spears into pruninghooks; na- his commandments; we will battle with tion shall not lift up sword against na- the evils in our natures, entailed upon tion, neither shall they learn war any us through the errors of our forefathers; more, but every man in every place shall we will learn to govern ourselves and our meet a brother and a friend. And this households in the fear of God, and while same spirit of peace will also produce a we are engaged in battling with evil and change upon the brute creation, accord- corruption God will be on our side, and ing to the words of prophets who lived who shall prevail against him? "A lit- centuries ago, and the earth itself will tle one shall become a thousand, and a be blessed, the curse be removed there- small one a strong nation: I the Lord will from, and he whose right it is to reign hasten it in his time." will come and rule in the midst of his Now, we are here in the valleys of people. these mountains to aid in this great work of bringing to pass the restitu- I have occupied sufficient time. I tion of all things; let us take hold of thank God, as I said in the beginning, for the truths revealed to us and practice the privilege of being a Latter-day Saint; them in our lives, that we may be- I thank God for the privilege of being come a holy people unto the Lord, faith- here in the valleys of these mountains, ful, true, honorable, upright, chaste and helping to bring forth this great work of pure, fit for the companionship of the restitution. And by the help of God we angels. And the Spirit of the living will cleave together as a band of brethren God shall have free course among us and sisters, to serve the Lord our God no and the gifts of the Gospel will abound; matter what may come. Amen. 300 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

POWER AND EFFECTS OF THE GOSPEL—ANTAGONISM BETWEEN LIGHT AND DARKNESS—NECESSITY OF GOD'S JUDGMENTS UPON THE WICKED.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,JULY 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I have been very much interested in have we had revealed unto us those great listening to the remarks made by my and eternal principles in which the in- brethren both this morning and after- terests of a world are concerned, past, noon. And I feel with the aid of the present and future. Almighty, like making a few remarks We have had a good deal spoken unto myself. us pertaining to the Gospel of the Son We are living in a peculiar day and of God and the power and blessing asso- age of the world, in a time that has ciated therewith, as well as arguments been spoken of by prophets, seers, rev- advanced and scriptures quoted to show elators and apostles, by men who have the various manifestations of the Spirit been inspired by the Spirit of the liv- of God in other ages. But the Gospel it- ing God and who comprehended the pur- self is a principle of revelation, and with- poses and designs of God in relation to out revelation we can have no Gospel; the world on which we live; in relation for we are emphatically told that life to the people who now live upon it, to and immortality are brought to light those who have lived upon it in the var- by the Gospel; that through its influ- ious ages of time and to those who will ence men are able to comprehend the live upon it, and who have had a general position and relationship they sustain conception and manifestation of the var- to each other, and to God, to the past, ious events that should transpire asso- to the present and to the future and ciated with what is termed in scripture, can alone comprehend the final destinies "the dispensation of the fulness of times," of man. The Gospel is a living, abid- in which God would gather together all ing, eternal principle. And hence when things in one, whether they be things in John on the Isle of Patmos, wrapped in the heavens or things on the earth. As a prophetic vision gazing upon the events commencement of this operation he has that should transpire in the latter days, communicated his will again to man, and saw, among other things, "another angel by revelation of that will, by the open- fly in the midst of heaven, having the ev- ing of the heavens, by the ministering erlasting gospel to preach to them that of holy angels and by the voice of God dwell upon the earth," not a new Gospel, POWER AND EFFECTS OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 301 not some new theory or principles or And hence, say the scriptures, you have dogma; but the everlasting Gospel, as it all been baptized into one baptism. And had existed with the Gods in eternity— what else? You have all partaken of the the medium through which God con- same spirit, as Jesus says, "that they veys intelligence to the human mind; the may be one, even as we are one: I in principle by which Gods are governed them, and they in me, that they may be and all nations controlled, the everlast- made perfect in one." And hence those ing Gospel. who have obeyed the Gospel—although This principle has been referred to as in many instances they do not compre- being a personal thing in which every- hend it in all its bearing, and very few body that is brought in contact there- do, in fact we only see as through a glass with and obeys its requirements is made darkly, see in part, know in part, proph- a participator and becomes one of the esy in part, and comprehend in part un- vast multitude that has existed, does ex- til that which is perfect shall come and ist and will exist in seeking to carry out that which is in part shall be done away, the purposes and designs of God in re- that we may all then see as we are seen, lation to the welfare, happiness and ex- and know as we are known. But al- altation of the human family. There- though we have not arrived at that con- fore, the relevancy of the remarks we dition, yet all who have received the Holy read, such as we have heard today, call- Ghost through obedience to the laws of ing upon the people to repent and be bap- God and the ordinances thereof, admin- tized in the name of Jesus Christ for the istered by men holding authority, know remission of sins and they should receive for themselves not only that this is the the Holy Ghost. Who? Those who re- work of God, that this is the church and pent, those who believe, those who obey, kingdom of God and that we are engaged those who are governed by the princi- in establishing and bringing to pass the ples contained in the Gospel of the Son things that have been spoken of by the of God. And what should that do for holy prophets since the world was. They them? Take of the things of God and know at least that they have passed from show them to them, and bring them into death into life, the Holy Ghost bear- communion with the Lord Jesus Christ ing witness thereof. That is the case and with the Father and into communion of every individual who has lived his with the holy angels and prophets who religion, keeping the commandments of lived before, enjoying the same Gospel, God. They realize this and know it for the same light, the same intelligence, the themselves, and consequently it is, as same spirit and the same power; that has been referred to, with everyone a they might be one with each other, one personal thing. That principle is not for with the ancient apostles, prophets, pa- somebody else; it is for ourselves, and if triarchs and men of God who have lived we follow the leading of that spirit and in the different ages; one with the Lord grieve not the Spirit of God, whereby Jesus Christ, operating together for the we are sealed to the day of redemption, one great purpose of Jehovah pertain- that spirit will grow and increase in us, ing to the welfare, happiness and exalta- and we shall add to our faith virtue, and tion of the world and the people thereof. to virtue knowledge, and to knowledge 302 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. brotherly kindness, to brotherly kind- with men himself, organized his church, ness charity, and so forth; increasing in established his priesthood, endowed men every good word and work until we shall with authority, placed them in positions see as we are seen and know as we are and gave them power to act; and they be- known. This is to be brought by the came priests of the Most High God, the Gospel of Jesus Christ—the everlasting dispensers of salvation to a fallen world, Gospel. and the medium through which he com- Now this is a personal thing, it be- municated intelligence and knowledge of longs to each one individually to every himself, his laws, and of his eternal pur- man, to every woman, to every boy, to poses pertaining to the human family. every girl who has arrived at the years And hence, in former times, he said to of accountability. If they are living their his disciples, "Ye have not chosen me, but religion and keeping the commandments I have chosen you;" go ye forth then and of God they have the Spirit of God within proclaim these tidings to all people. And them that bears witness unto them that what else? And take care also of the flock they are the children of God, even heirs of Christ, watch over my sheep. And of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ hence, when he said to Peter on a certain our Lord. occasion, after he had manifested his Now then, we come to other things. weakness and infirmity, "Simon, son of This eternal principle of which we speak Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? is not to be confined to ourselves alone. He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou It reaches out and seeks to bless, and knowest that I love thee. He saith unto while being blessed it seeks to commu- him, Feed my sheep." A second and a nicate the same to others; it seeks to third time he asked the same question. advance and promote the welfare of hu- A second and a third time he was an- manity in all conditions in every sphere swered in the same way. One thing and among all people, just as God does, was to spread forth the light of truth, for it emanates from him, and he is the to preach the Gospel, to unfold the prin- God and Father of us all, not only of ciples of eternal truth; and then when the Latter-day Saints, but all other peo- people had received the first principles ple; but having committed to us the true of the Gospel, to teach them and more riches of eternal life, he expects us to fully instruct them in the principles of communicate the same to others. And eternal life. And hence the necessity of hence in former times he said unto his the priesthood. And what is that? The disciples, "Go ye into all the world, and rule and government of God through the preach the gospel to every creature. He medium of which men whom he selects that believeth and is baptized shall be and chooses, which he has done in the saved; but he that believeth not shall different ages of time, are duly autho- be damned." Also, "Let your light so rized and qualified to proclaim his will shine before men, that they may see and administer his ordinances. There is your good works, and glorify your Fa- more than one priesthood spoken of in ther which is in heaven." But he has the scriptures. There is one especially prepared men for the accomplishment associated with the Gospel which Paul of this work. In former times, both on this continent and the continent of Asia and other places, he communicated POWER AND EFFECTS OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 303 speaks of as being without beginning of and Elias did the same thing; both of days or end of years; or, rather, he speaks them held the priesthood, and now they of a man, Melchizedek by name, who come to administer to Jesus; having ex- was without beginning of days or end isted in the eternal world, they come of years, and he abides a priest forever. again to earth and administer to him and Some people have thought that he was to Peter, James and John on the moun- a very singular kind of character, with- tain. Why? Because they held the ev- out father and without mother. However, erlasting priesthood, that administers in that is very easily comprehended when time and eternity. you are made acquainted with the princi- I again turn to the Bible, and find in ple. In the Levitical priesthood, they had the Revelation of St. John there was a to prove by the records that they were great and mighty personage presented literal descendants of Aaron and of the himself to him, arrayed in glory, magnif- tribe of Levi, before they could be ad- icence and power. And John fell down mitted to the priesthood. But speaking to worship him. Said he, "See thou do of this, the Melchizedek priesthood, he it not." Why? Who art thou? "I am thy said it was without father and mother. It fellowservant, and of thy brethren that is an organization independent of these have the testimony of Jesus." I am one considerations, and those who have it of thy fellowservants, the prophets that abide priests continually, and administer lived upon the earth, that ministered in both in time and eternity. What, does it time and operated as thou art now do- continue so long? Yes. How do you know? ing, seeking to carry out the will of my By the revelations of Jesus Christ. For Father; having held the priesthood and your information I will take the scrip- ministering therein in time, I am now tures for it, and examine for a moment continuing to administer this everlast- some principles there developed. ing priesthood, which is associated with the everlasting Gospel. Well, so much for this. We will let it pass. I find that when Jesus was upon Now then, what is the position we the earth, he, on a certain occasion, occupy? We have had the same things took Peter, James and John with him restored to us through Joseph Smith, to the top of a mountain; and he was by the revelations of God the Father transfigured before them, and Moses and and his Son Jesus Christ, and Moroni Elias appeared before them. And Pe- and Mormon, and Peter, James and ter said: "Master, it is good for us to John, and John the Baptist and oth- be here: and let us make three taber- ers who communicated the same and re- nacles; one for thee, one for Moses, vealed things pertaining to the priest- and one for Elias." For whom? "One hood they held, and conferred authority for thee." Who else? "One for Moses." upon him, and he upon others, to ad- What was Moses doing there? "And minister in regard to these great and one for Elias." What was Elias doing eternal principles. And hence we have there? Where did these strangers come our church organized upon this basis, from, both having existed generations our presidency, our apostles, our seven- before. They held the priesthood in time. ties, our high priests, our elders, our Moses preached the Gospel in time, high councils, our bishops and their 304 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. counselors, our priests, teachers and heaven to be on the side of Israel, and deacons, and all the various organiza- all hell to be opposed to us; and we will tions of the church and kingdom of God. risk the consequences under any circum- What else? The edifying of the body of stances. Christ. Edifying the body of Christ? Yes. Go and preach the Gospel to all nations. We talk about the Saints; are they What then? Gather them together. What good people? Yes, many of them are very then? Says the prophet Jeremiah, "I will good people. And the balance of them? take you one of a city, and two of a fam- Well, some of them are sinners; some of ily, and bring you to Zion: And I will them the meanest of men you can find give you pastors according to mine heart, anywhere. How is this? It is exactly which shall feed you with knowledge and in the way the Scripture says. I think understanding," and "edify the body of it says: "The kingdom of heaven is like Christ," that they may be prepared to unto a net, that was cast into the sea, fulfill their destiny and magnify their and gathered of every kind." And so it calling on the earth. But what then? is among us, and so it has been and so We go to work to build temples. What it will be. If we take the history of the for? That we may administer therein. ages past, it has been precisely so. The For whom? For the living and for the very first start we read that Adam had dead, that as the scriptures say, "Sav- two sons, one Cain, and one Abel. Abel iors may come up on mount Zion; and was a man that feared God, but Cain the kingdom be the Lord's." And that by did not. That is like some of us here. gathering together a nucleus of people Some of us fear God, and some of us do from among the various nations of the not; and those who do not always con- earth, we may be under the influence of sider they are injured or oppressed, or the Spirit of the Lord, united together in there is always something wrong; they one and through the medium of the holy labor under an immense amount of dif- priesthood and our union and commu- ficulty; but the good folks sing, Hallelu- nion with God, we may go to work and jah, hallelujah, the Lord God Omnipo- operate with the apostles, prophets, pa- tent reigneth, and will reign until he triarchs and men of God who have lived puts all enemies under His feet; and they in the different ages of the world, and feel peaceful and rejoice in the Lord of with God and with Jesus, the Mediator of hosts. Cain thought he was injured be- the New Covenant that we may operate cause the Lord did not accept of his sac- with them in the accomplishment of the rifice, and he thought his brother had purposes of God pertaining to the salva- something to do with it, and his jealousy tion of the living and the redemption of prompted him to slay him, and he did so. the dead. That was rather a bad start when you These are some of the works that come to look at it. According to the Bible, we are engaged in and expect to be there were only two of them; and the engaged in, and expect to carry out, wicked man was left to represent what? and to do the things that God re- Outside of Adam, God's creation on the quires at our hands, and we ex- earth, for at least one hundred and pect God and the holy angels and thirty years, except that Adam had other the priesthood behind the veil and all sons. That, however, we will not talk POWER AND EFFECTS OF THE GOSPEL, ETC. 305 about today. Well, the Lord came along their power to do evil. after a while, and, says he, "What have you been doing? Where is thy brother I have heard some people say that Abel?" He replied, "I do not know any- they thought it was very hard for God thing about him, I am not my brother's to do such a thing. I think it would keeper." Says the Lord, "The voice of have been very cruel on his part if he thy brother's blood crieth unto me from had not done it. Why? Because man is the ground; and because thou hast done a dual being, associated with time and this thing, I will set a mark upon thee, eternity, being in possession of a spirit and thou shalt be a vagabond upon the as well as a body; and as God is the God earth;" and so will every man be who and Father of the spirits of all flesh that fights against Zion; and if anybody does ever did exist or will have a being on not believe it, let him try it, and he the earth, it was necessary under certain will find out before he gets through that circumstances, that he should operate in there is a God that rules in the heavens, his judgment upon the wicked whenever and that he is all the day long crying, they should become as corrupt as they "Touch not mine anointed, and do my did at that time. Why so? For God is prophets no harm." And said he on an- the God and Father of the spirits of all other occasion, "Whoso shall offend one flesh and all flesh at that time had cor- of these little ones which believe in me, it rupted itself. And would it be just for were better for him that a millstone were those unborn spirits to have to come and hanged about his neck, and that he were inhabit bodies of those unclean and cor- drowned in the depths of the sea." This rupt people and have to suffer the judg- is how I read the Bible. ments of God? No, it was not just; and I find in tracing out the scriptures, it would be very reasonable for them to that from the beginning there have ex- say, "Father, look at that world of peo- isted two powers—the powers of light ple; see their crimes, their degradation, and the powers of darkness; that both their iniquity, their theft and robbery, these things existed in the heavens be- their murders and whoredoms and ev- fore they came here, that the powers of ery kind of evil; they have left the good darkness were cast out, and thus became and have gone to the bad, and the imagi- the devil and his angels. This antago- nations and thoughts of their hearts are nism, then, existed before, and it is nec- evil; Father, is it proper that we should essary it should exist. It is necessary have to go there and inhabit such low, men should be tried and purged and pu- fallen, degraded bodies as they possess, rified and made perfect through suffer- and thus not have a fair chance upon ing. And hence we find men in the dif- the earth?" "No," says he, "it is not; and ferent ages that have passed through tri- I will destroy them and raise up an- als and afflictions of every kind, and they other people." And hence, he destroyed had to learn to put their faith in God, and them. But was the spirit of antagonism in God alone. Such was the wickedness to God extinct by this act? No, it still and corruptions of men in the early ages continued to operate. We find, for in- that it was necessary that God should stance, that in the days of Job the sons sweep the face of the earth by a flood, of God met together before the Lord, and in order that men might be deprived of that Satan was among them. This may 306 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. seem strange, that the devil should be him in the earth, a perfect and an up- permitted to move among the sons of right man, one that feareth God, and God, but nevertheless it was so. And the escheweth evil? and still he holdeth Lord conversed with him, asking him if fast his integrity, although thou movedst he had considered his servant Job, who me against him, to destroy him with- was a perfect man, etc. "O yes," Satan out cause. And Satan answered the remarked, "I know all about him; but al- Lord, and said, Skin for skin, yea, all low me to have a rap at him. Job does not that a man hath will he give for his fear God for nought. You have made a life. But put forth thine hand now, and hedge around him and fenced him in; un- touch his backbone and his flesh, and der those circumstances who would not he will curse thee to thy face. And the serve God? I would if you would serve Lord said unto Satan, Behold, he is in me so." "You may try him," says the Lord. thine hand; but save his life." Then Sa- The devil took his leave; and the next tan smote Job with boils, from the crown thing we hear of is a series of troubles of his head to the souls of his feet; and that befell this good man. We are told he set his friends upon him, and they that the Sabians and Chaldeans, as they accused him, and his enemies taunted do here sometimes, fell upon his oxen him, and finally his wife came along and camels and took them away, and when he was in this miserable condi- that they spared not the herdsmen, but tion, and said, "Dost thou still retain slew them with the edge of the sword. thine integrity? curse God, and die." But This report had no sooner been made to Job answered and said unto her, "Thou him when another followed, represent- speakest as one of the foolish women ing that fire had fallen from heaven and speaketh. What? shall we receive good destroyed his sheep and their herdsmen, at the hand of God, and shall we not re- save only the one who brought the in- ceive evil? The Lord gave, and the Lord telligence. And while he was speaking, hath taken away; blessed be the name we are told that another messenger ar- of the Lord." This was his feeling; and rived, informing his master, Job, that it is pleasant to feel that way after all— while his sons and daughters were feast- much better than the other way. He said ing in their elder brother's house, a great further: "Though he slay me, yet will wind from the wilderness blew up and I trust in him." And why? Because he smote the house until it fell, killing the had the everlasting gospel. What! Job young men. But withal, Job's integrity had the Gospel? Yes, to be sure he had. was not shaken. "Naked," said he, "came How do I know? Because the Gospel I unto the earth, and naked shall I re- brings life and immortality to light; and turn thither: the Lord gave, and the he had a knowledge of that. And hence Lord hath taken away; and blessed be he says, "For I know that my redeemer the name of the Lord." Again, there came liveth, and that he shall stand at the a day when the sons of God assembled latter day upon the earth: And though together before the Lord; and the devil after my skin worms destroy this body, also presented himself. And the Lord yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom said unto Satan, "Hast thou considered I shall see for myself, and mine eyes my servant Job, that there is none like shall behold, and not another; though FUTILITY OF THE MACHINATIONS OF THE WICKED, ETC. 307 my reins be consumed within me." this world shall become the kingdoms of That is the kind of feeling he had; our God and his Christ; and he will rule that is the kind of feeling we want to pos- forever and ever. Whilst those that set sess, and feel that God is ours and we are themselves and run against the bosses his, and that we are associated with his of Jehovah's buckler, shall find that they Church and his kingdom, and are doing have God to cope with, and that they his will and carrying out his purposes are but potsherds of the earth, and that upon the earth. And it is all the same they will wilt and wither and die and be with us then, whether in peace or war; damned. There is no power on earth that nobody need have any trembling in the can hurt Israel as long as they shall be knees, for no power can harm the Saints found doing what is right, obeying the of God if they continue to be followers of commandments of God, keeping their that which is good. The Psalmist says, covenants and preserving themselves in "Surely the wrath of men shall praise purity and honor before him. thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain." He will turn and over- God bless you and lead you in the turn, until ultimately the kingdoms of paths of life, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

FUTILITY OF THE MACHINATIONS OF THE WICKED—THE WORK OF GOD CANNOT BE STAYED.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,AUGUST 24, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JOHN IRVINE.

I have listened with great pleasure those great and eternal principles, which to the remarks that have been made our Father in heaven has revealed for by the brethren who have addressed us, the salvation, the blessing and exalta- and I thought that I would arise and tion of the human family. Men compre- add a few remarks myself to those al- hend very little of these things. And fur- ready given. It gives me pleasure always ther they know very little about us and to meet with the Latter-day Saints, to our faith, our practice and our doings. talk with them and hear them talk of I was pleased to hear Brother 308 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

John H. Smith make the remarks he did rality to us! Now, we can talk to one an- concerning himself, as regards his pu- other, I can talk plainly to the Saints, be- rity, his virtue, singleness of heart, and cause we profess more, but it does not do his desire to do good. I wish all the for such characters to come and preach Latter-day Saints could say and do the morality to us; they had better go home same. I wish they were all actuated by and attend to their own affairs. the same principle of honor, of truth, of But we are expected to do right and to integrity, and of virtue; and I would say take a proper, consistent, upright, virtu- that if there are those who are not they ous and honorable course, and then we are hypocrites, they are not the repre- need not fear any evil. Talk about per- sentatives of the principles of truth, of secution, why, yes. Will they persecute these great and glorious principles which you? Yes. Will they hate you? Yes. God has revealed to us, but they are a Will they rob you? Yes, and thank God disgrace to their profession. for having the privilege. And what will we do? Try and prevent them, God be- God expects us, at least, to be moral. ing our helper. Will they traduce you? He expected the Jews under the Mosaic Yes, that is, if their words are of any dispensation to be moral. They were account, but they are not much; these also to have faith in God, as we pro- low, degraded, infamous characters do pose to have faith in him when living un- not believe one another, and we do not der the law. They were told to commit believe them. Consequently, we have no murder, they were told not to covet very little odds to ask of this class of a man's house, or his wife, or his land, people, nor in fact of the world, or any- or his ox, or his ass, or anything that thing that is in the world. We fear belonged to him. I wish the Latter-day God and know no other fear, for God is Saints would incorporate this always in our friend, and our protector, and he is their creed. It is hopeless to suppose the only friend that we know anything the Christians will. But I do hope to about in this world. He will take care see the Latter-day Saints governed by of us. We will commit our cause to him, those high and noble principles which and ask no odds of this world, in any they propose to have faith in. But as shape they can fix it. They may ful- regards the world they know very little minate their decrees, and Mr. Evarts about these things. They talk sometimes if he please may call upon a number of about the impurity of the "Mormons." European nations to assist the United What! Men wallowing in filth, corrup- States to regulate the morals of a small tion, rottenness and infamy! Men and people numbering about two hundred women who are the murderers of their thousand here, among upwards of forty own infants by the thousands before or millions—he may call upon these Euro- after birth. Who violate incessantly pean nations to assist the United States their marital covenants, who do not to regulate the morals of this people up know the difference between right and in these mountains, if it pleases him. wrong! Men who would seek to despoil But what a magnificent spectacle com- other men of their goods, their prop- ing from such a source as it does! Why, erty and possessions and women of their there is more corruption in Washington virtue, and then come and preach mo- in one day than there is in Salt Lake PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, ETC. 309

City in twelve months, Gentiles thrown let all Israel say, "Amen." (The whole in! But we certainly all of us need our congregation as with one voice re- morals more or less correcting. sponded, "Amen"). We know what we In relation to these matters, how- are doing, whether other people do or ever, we care very little about them. not. This kingdom that has been spo- We have a work to perform that God ken of will roll on. The word of the Lord has commanded us to attend to, and we has spoken it thousands of years ago. It shall do it, hear it all ye ends of the will continue to roll on, and woe unto earth! We will do it in the name of that man or that people who set their God, nor can this nation, nor any other hands to fight against Zion, for God will nation stop it! Hear it! Publish it to be after them. That people or nation will the ends of the earth! Write it down be wasted away. He will maintain the and see if it does not come to pass. I rights of this people, if they will fear him prophesy it in the name of Israel's God, and keep his commandments. Amen.

PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST AND RESTORATION OF THE GOSPEL COMPARED—OPPOSITION TO REVELATION—GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT—POLYGAMY—HUMAN LAWS FOUNDED UPON THE REVEALED LAW OF GOD—CELESTIAL MARRIAGE PROMINENT IN THE LAW AND THE PROPHETS.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER FRANKLIN D.RICHARDS, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, HELDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,OCTOBER 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JOHN IRVINE.

In contemplating the condition of the the people of the United States in a po- work of the Lord as it is on the earth to- litical point of view, and without un- day, and as we have had to contemplate dertaking to review the various periods it from the light of history in its existence of the earth's history, and the relation- in former periods of time, we find a very ship which the work of God at different striking analogy exists. times has sustained to its inhabitants, it I scarcely need tell my congre- may perhaps be enough to refer to one gation this afternoon that we as a circumstance in the days of our Savior. people bear a significant relation to When John the Baptist had gone forth 310 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. among the people of Palestine, telling they stirred up the fire until the North them that the kingdom of heaven was were at enmity and hostility against the at hand and calling upon all who enter- South, and the South were at enmity and tained faith in his mission to come and hostility against the North. We well rec- be baptized—it appears that he created ollect what were the consequences of the quite a sensation among the people, in- recent terrible conflict that devastated somuch that all they of Jerusalem and and demoralized so much of our beloved Judea and the regions round about went country. While this fanaticism was rag- forth and were baptized by him in great ing in the North, and silent preparations multitudes, as recorded in Mark, i, 8. for defense were going on in the South, This had a political effect upon the rulers none seemed to consider the cost of hun- of that day, and when John was followed dreds of thousands of lives, or the taxa- by Jesus and his wonderful works, they tion necessary to pay a few hundred mil- began to say—"If we let him thus alone, lions of war debt, and still less the de- all men will believe on him: and the Ro- moralizing influences thereby fastened mans will come and take away our place upon the country. and nation." It was very directly a mat- ter of political significance and impor- About the same time, or very soon tance. after, when the Elders began to preach I recollect that some fifty years ago, the Gospel in that region, I recollect that in the days of my youth, and in the there arose quite a sensation about this land of the Puritans, I used to hear people that professed to have new reve- and to see aged matrons as well as rev- lation. It seemed to strike these same erend ministers wringing their hands conscientious, religious people with con- and lifting up their eyes with holy hor- sternation that anybody should dare to ror, because there was a great evil in the say that God would now reveal himself land called slavery. They could scarcely to the human family; that it was the eat or drink in peace, or worship God most impious blasphemy to preach that with the spirit and understanding, by the priesthood had been restored, or to reason of a terrible sense of condem- assert that the Holy Ghost was given in nation resting on their consciences— the latter days, or that the gifts of the because their brethren in the South- Spirit were made to abound among the ern States believed in slavery. This children of men. No indeed; it was not came to be worked up by the preach- to be tolerated any more than the doc- ers in the pulpits, by the politicians in trine of slavery. There were here and their stump speeches, by the parents of there a few, though but very few in pro- households, and fulminated by the press, portion to the general population, that until in nearly every class of society did receive this very alarming doctrine there was a continual stir and sensation among those professing religious belief about slavery in the Southern States. in the mission of our blessed Redeemer. This terrible evil had become one of It will be borne in mind that at the time such vast importance that it must some I now speak of, the doctrine of plural- day bring a national scourge, and in ity of wives had not been heard of as a their great anxiety and horror over this, doctrine of the Church in the last dis- and their determination to put it away, pensation; but it was the gifts of the PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, ETC. 311

Spirit, it was the doctrine of present rev- of the body politic." That was his political elation, it was the terrible repulsive idea faith in regard to this one of the twins. that there could be a man raised up in President Buchanan was elected with a our day who should be a prophet that clear understanding that the abolition of should bring again the word of the Lord polygamy was one of the jobs he was un- and speak his mind and will to the peo- dertaking. He tried his hand at this first, ple, that created a fresh outburst of pious but on finding that it took two years for indignation in the minds of those who his army to reach the field of their oper- were so devout, and who claimed to oc- ations, and then in their decimated con- cupy the "cradle of liberty." dition were dependent upon polygamists for subsistence, the prestige of the cam- It was but a short time after this— paign dwindled down to what was com- stepping along rather rapidly in the his- monly known as the "contractor's war on tory of events—till the doctrine of plural- the Treasury." ity of wives was revealed to the Saints, When, in 1860, the Republican party away in the West, on the banks of the came into power, it assumed the obli- Mississippi, though not publicly pro- gation which President Buchanan had claimed until 1852, in Utah. But the failed to discharge in regard to the "twin sound of this sacred scriptural doctrine, relics;" and, to avoid repeating the mis- when it came to be made known, seemed take which he had made, turned its at- the very acme of all that was corrupt, tention to the other twin. This soon fur- abominable and ungodly, and they who nished occasion for a recall of the re- professed to believe in the doctrine of maining troops in Utah to the other field polygamy were not deemed fit to live on of conflict. the earth. Consequently, if I were to I feel more interest in narrating these take a text to preach from, I would take facts, because our rising generation, as "Where are we now?" well as many Saints who have immi- grated to our midst from abroad, are not About the year 1854, or 1856, the familiar with the circumstances, which terrible odium of these two principal have brought us to our present position. doctrines, and polygamy especially, had A little patience and I will notice some of attached such a political hold on the the circumstances attendant upon what minds of the religious community, that has been done, and perhaps we may they were prepared to place these as judge therefore what has to be done, if two planks in the party platform, which it ever gets done at all. was to be adopted as a ground upon Formerly, the Representatives which a President was to be elected. and Senators from New England The celebrated Senator Douglas, after went to Washington laden with pe- we had come out from the midst of titions to Congress to abolish slav- the people and come into the wilder- ery in the District of Columbia, even ness, a thousand miles from any settle- more strongly than priest and people ment of civilization, announced to the have recently been asking Congress country that if he were made a candi- to abolish polygamy. Ex-President date for the presidency of the United John Q. Adams presented lengthy States, his opinion was that "the loath- petitions containing thousands of some ulcer must be cut out from the side names on many yards of paper, and 312 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. became known as the Member who man- fied, or condemned. Their great an- ufactured public opinion by the yard. cestor said they should be servants of These applications were repeated year servants among their brethren, mak- after year. Be it remembered that the ing their servitude the fulfillment of District of Columbia is not a State, prophecy, whether according to the will but is governed by direct legislation of of God or not. Congress. And what was the result of But where are we today? We the strenuous and powerful efforts of the find slavery disposed of, but what of most brilliant and profound statesmen of polygamy? This question is assuming the North, contested, of course, by the proportions which seem to overshadow best statesmen from the South? The us so completely that even John Chi- result was that slavery was not abol- naman gets no special consideration in ished in answer to the petitions of the Utah. Northern people, but it continued a po- About the time of the "Bull Run litical question, and became a power- Stampede," in 1862, when officers, raw ful factor in the politics of the coun- recruits, and congressmen fled from the try. If an anti-slavery State was ad- battlefield and took shelter in the Capi- mitted into the Union from the North, tal, Congress passed a law making plu- a pro-slavery State was admitted from rality of wives, bigamy, or polygamy if the South. Compromises were made be- you please, a penal offense. Now it tween parties for the admission of cer- should be distinctly understood that this tain States, until some of the Southern offense is not sinful because Congress States declared for secession, and on the has made it penal. There is no ungod- question of their right to do so the war liness in it, because God has revealed commenced, and not on the direct ques- it, he has commanded it. Congress of tion of the abolition of slavery. the United States says that it must not be permitted. Well, then, "Where are From the firing of the first gun the we today?" What have we to expect? demon of war seemed to inspire the con- This law has been passed—although we tending parties with the most bitter en- had hoped that Congress and the nation mity and rancorous hate towards each had sufficient virtue, enlightenment, lib- other, while multitudes met their near erty, and the spirit of the Constitution kinsmen in mortal combat. Year after of the fathers left among them, that year the war raged, till the Southern they could see that this was not a sin armies were recruited by their slaves; or an evil—yet we find they have closed the Treasury of the nation was rapidly their eyes against this, and have deter- depleting; fierce engagements and wast- mined that it is sin, while corruptions ing disease had done their work; and re- of every kind are permitted to be car- cruits were enlisted for three years, or ried on in the country, such as pros- till the end of the war, and President titution, feticide, infanticide, etc., that Lincoln, by proclamation, abolished the because we have embraced the faith of slavery of several millions of negroes, not Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, we must as a political measure, but as a mea- be demolished or give up our religious sure justified by the exigencies of war. I faith. The highest court of the nation state these facts without any argument has declared polygamy unconstitutional, as to whether slavery should be justi- yet in its nature it is the only potent PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, ETC. 313 remedy by which to eradicate the so- prepared and having made such a reck- called social evil, with all its concomi- oning? Jesus says in one of his parables, tants, from the land. Yet they cannot see "Which of you, intending to build a tower, it, and they declare that all who engage sitteth not down first, and counteth the in polygamy shall suffer from two to five cost, whether he have sufficient to fin- years imprisonment and not exceeding a ish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the $500 fine. foundation, and is not able to finish it, all Now I want to place it clearly be- that behold it begin to mock him, Say- fore you, my hearers, that this is no ing, This man began to build, and was longer the business of a party, it is to- not able to finish." Now that is about the day the voice of a nation. Mr. Secretary way with us. There is no use our laying Evarts in his circular letter sent to min- the flattering unction to our souls that isters in foreign countries, says in the government is not going to do this. We last clause that "this government has de- have got an example of what they have termined to prosecute polygamy to the done to the Southern States, and have extent of the law and to eradicate the in- no doubt they are just as ready and will- stitution from the country." These are his ing to do that much to abolish polygamy words. That is authority so far as author- among us if God will let them. They ity from the United States government have come to that point. They have pro- goes. We find the same thing reiterated nounced against polygamy and are ready in the charge to the grand jury in this to invite, hire and bribe men's wives to city, a short time ago, that the voice of aid in the conviction of their husbands, I forty to fifty millions of people must have have no doubt of it; you need not have. its rule and that one hundred thousand They are here telling us plainly that this must be sacrificed or as many of them as is their business, and we need only to insist on the doctrine of polygamy. That look around us and see where we are to- is about where we are today. Now I ask day. my brethren and sisters—are you pre- Now, as regards this matter, nobody pared for whatever comes on this ques- need tremble at all. I do not think tion? Did you when you entered into that any who have received the Holy the waters of baptism make up a reck- Spirit, and learned of the revelations of oning what the Gospel of Jesus Christ Jesus Christ, and know of their influ- was worth? Have we considered that it ence, need fear, or that anybody's heart was worth fathers and mothers, broth- who is faithful before God, need be any ers and sisters, houses and lands, wives heavier than it is in the habit of being, and children, and our own lives also? If or that their faces need be any longer we did not we figured up wrong, for he than they are used to be. Not at all; that is not willing to forsake all things we must look upon this as only a part and make them secondary to a whole- of the "all things" we agree to endure souled belief in and faithful obedience to for the Gospel's sake and our salvation. the Gospel, is not worthy of it. I ask Now, they may go to law, and fix up, my brethren and sisters who have come as we see already, packed juries, just from the antipodes of the earth to this such as they want, so that no Latter-day place for the Gospel's sake, if you came Saint who is a believer in the Gospel of 314 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Jesus Christ, whether he believe in be religion. polygamy or not, can have any place In the days of Jesus, their Senate and among them, or any say as to who are House of Representatives, their supreme innocent or who are guilty. We have evi- and lesser courts were comprehended in dence that they will do all this and hav- the Sanhedrin, or Chief Council, which ing done this much, it would be very was an institution of the Jewish govern- easy for them next winter to fix up such ment to determine all matters, secular laws concerning juries and testimony as or religious. In our day, although there will enable them to carry out what they is no law except the law of God that de- have undertaken. We give them credit termines what we may accept as reli- for all this, and we have evidence they gion, and what we shall not, there is a will do it, from the fact that the Consti- principle which I call your attention to, tution has been no limit to their former that will enable us to understand our po- enactment. Indeed, it has virtually been sition in relation to each other and to cast overboard, and liberty taken to en- our fellow men. I may perhaps illus- act any such laws as might be desirable trate this best by stating a circumstance to carry favorite measures, and it will which took place a few years ago, while be just as consistent for them to do any- I was in Europe. A gentleman from one thing they please in regard to polygamy; of the European States had emigrated to and thus one thing after another, until this country and had become an Amer- they shall have attained the object which ican citizen. He returned to his na- they have determined to accomplish. tive country to attend to some business. While there that government undertook The true issue of this question is not to enforce from him some act of subor- exactly between us individually and the dination, as though he were still a sub- courts, or the government. The issue is ject of that government. What was the between the two governments. If they result? The government of the United who make us offenders are at a loss to States, when appealed to, informed the know which is the higher law, they will authorities of that land that his rights as have plenty of time to find out. It is a an American citizen must be respected. violation of both the letter and the spirit We see, then, that when a difficulty arose of the Constitution, and of good and true that abridged this man's liberties, the re- government of this nation, that there sponsibility was upon the parent govern- should be any law made that should re- ment of asserting and maintaining the strict our belief or practice of any reli- rights of this man's citizenship. The au- gious doctrine, which does not infringe thorities of Europe as well as America upon the rights of others. The Constitu- lauded the wisdom of Daniel Webster in tion expressly says that, "Congress shall this case, and the man was delivered. make no law respecting an establish- Now, in our case, the govern- ment of religion, or prohibiting the free ment has determined that polygamy exercise thereof." Neither is there any- shall be abolished, but the govern- thing in the Constitution that tells Pres- ment of heaven had previously deter- idents, Congressmen, Judges or juries, mined that polygamy should be estab- what shall be religion, or what shall not lished, and that sin and wickedness shall PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, ETC. 315 be rooted up; that men and women shall in and of itself; it presumes no decep- have the right to obey that higher law in tion or fraud; it infringes upon no other their marital relations. rights, but vests additional rights in This is our position, this is where we him who accepts the heavenly doctrine, are today. We have accepted this doc- whose Author has said, "It shall be vis- trine, this principle of faith from the ited with blessings and not cursings, and Lord Jesus Christ, and we, or some of with my power, saith the Lord." It can- us, have lived it more than thirty years not therefore be malum in se, but is in this Territory. And in the matter of only malum prohibitum, by the Act of our appeal, inasmuch as the government Congress. is determined to eradicate this item of our faith, and us with it, of course, and inasmuch as we can get no redress there- from, our appeal must be to the govern- With this view of the subject before ment of heaven, to which we have vowed us, what have we to do? What is our priv- allegiance. Jehovah will hold a con- ilege and our duty in the premises? It is tention with this nation, and will show that we draw near to God, the Author of them which is the higher and eternal our faith, in humility and in obedience to law, and which is the lesser and more all his requirements, remembering our recent law. While they are carrying on covenants sacredly before Him, that our this high-handed proceeding, regardless cause may reach His ears, and when He of life, liberty, or the pursuit of happi- sees our trouble He will in His own good ness, the God of heaven and earth will time step forth and deliver us. We have notify the earthly government that the erred and sinned more or less, some of rights and liberties of His citizens must our children may have departed from the be respected and maintained. way of the Lord. If we have violated the The whole procedure is inconsistent, Sabbath, taken the name of the Lord in and utterly at variance with the fun- vain, or violated any of our covenants, it damental principles of law. The great is time for us to turn to the Lord and do legal apostle, Blackstone, has plainly so no more. If we do this, He in his own stated, and every lawyer knows, that due time will say, "Hitherto shall thou human laws and governments are pro- come, but no further: and here let thy fessedly derived from, and founded upon proud waves be stayed." While, then, we the revealed law of God, which he see all the blandishments of civilization gave to Moses on Mount Sinai, and ev- among us, while we see all the troubles ery man of them who rejects the rev- that human governments can make, in elations of Jesus Christ, must know our view we have only to trust in God as that he is condemning himself in the Daniel did. Notwithstanding the edict of thing he professes to allow. The eter- the King, he worshipped the True and nal law of celestial marriage and plu- Living God. So must we. And perad- rality of wives stands out with sin- venture all these things must happen to gular prominence in all the law and us. There are a great many among us prophets, and is evidenced in the per- who say, "Lord, Lord," and do not pre- sonal humanity of our Lord Jesus Christ. tend to do the things which God requires Plurality, as believed and practiced of us. We have to keep the command- by the Latter-day Saints, is no crime ments of God, we have to sense it, and to 316 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. learn the lesson in all sobriety. Have the devil, that they may show sooner or we any time to waste with these outside more fully to the heavens when the pur- characters? Have we any time to dally pose and measure of their wickedness is around grog shops and play in billiard full. As to the ultimate establishment saloons? No, my brethren and sisters, we of truth on the earth, there is no ques- have not. It is our duty to be alive to our tion. The prophets have all prophesied work, day by day, knowing that the eyes of it, the angels have looked forward to it of God are upon us. It is He that will do with glorious anticipation, and we have all things marvelously well for us; it is the testimony of the Holy Ghost that this He that will fight our battles for us. Then work shall be accomplished. The thing the only way for us to gain deliverance is for us to do is to live true and faithful to to remain devoted to his service, that we our religion, irrespective of what may be may help to build up His kingdom, and going on around us. be found worthy of that assistance which He has promised to render us in the time That the Lord may inspire us by his of need. Spirit to be faithful to our duty, to draw There are two sides to this ques- near to him, leave the wickedness of the tion. Peradventure it may be nec- world alone, and sanctify ourselves be- essary that our enemies should fore him, is my earnest prayer, in the carry out the works of their father, name of Jesus. Amen.

THE WORK OF GOD CANNOT BE HINDERED—THE UNITED STATES TO BE AFFLICTED BY JUDGMENT.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, HELDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,OCTOBER 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

I have been interested in listen- to find that good old-fashioned Mor- ing to the remarks of the brethren monism, or Latter-day Saintism this afternoon, and I am thankful is not altogether dead yet—that THE WORK OF GOD, ETC. 317 there is a little of it living in the bo- law of God to me." The United States soms of the Saints, in our speakers, and Supreme Court, however, since that time in those who hear. The Methodists, you has made it a law of the land, that is, it know, used to have a prayer to the ef- has sanctioned it; it was not sanctioned fect that, "His Spirit might pass from at that time, that question was not then heart to heart as oil passes from vessel decided. We are here today, gathered to- to vessel," and I have thought that that gether according to the word and law of kind of a spirit has been exhibited more God and the commandments of God to or less here today, whether we have any us. "Gather my saints together unto me," Methodists among us or not. says one of the old prophets, "those that We have come here, as has been have made a covenant with me by sacri- stated, to worship Almighty God in ac- fice." "I will take you," says another, "one cordance with his commands. Most of of a city, and two of a family, and I will this congregation were good citizens be- bring you to Zion: And I will give you fore they came here. Some are from the pastors according to mine heart, which various parts of Europe and from other shall feed you with knowledge and un- parts of the earth, and a great many derstanding." Now, the servants of God from different parts of the United States. in these last days have been sent out as They were good citizens and observed they were in former days to gather the the laws of the land to which they be- people, and the Lord has given us this longed. They have observed every law law—the law of polygamy—among other of the United States, except one that things, and I know it before God and can was made on purpose to make them dis- bear testimony of it, if nobody else knows obey God, and therefore, so far as polit- it. I know that it came from God, and ical affairs are concerned, and the du- that God is its author. But there are ties pertaining to citizens of the United hundreds and thousands of others who States, they have been maintained in have a knowledge of the same thing; but their integrity up to the present time. I I speak of it in this wise to testify before remember being asked in a court here God, angels and men, before this nation some three or four years ago—I do not and all other nations that it came from remember the time precisely, but the God. That is the reason that I speak of it, court seemed to be very fond of inter- that I may bear my testimony to you and fering with religious matters, it was not to the nations of the earth. Now, then, always so; but I suppose civilization about the result of it; that is with God has extended—I was asked, "Do you be- and with the people. It is for us to do lieve in obeying the laws of the United the will of God; it is for the Lord to bring States?" "Yes I do, in all except one"— about the results in his own way. But one in fact I had not broken that. "What thing I can assure all men, in the name law is that?" "The law in relation to of Israel's God, that neither this nation, polygamy." "Well, why do you except that nor any other nation, can do anything one?" "Because," I replied "it is at vari- against the truth, but for the truth. Do ance with the genius and spirit of our in- their very best, help themselves as they stitution; because it is at variance with may, they cannot help themselves in re- the Constitution of the United States; and because it is in violation of the 318 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. gard to these matters, for the Lord will they are not at all surprised. Were we say unto them, as he did unto the waves surprised when the last terrible war took of the mighty ocean, "Hitherto shalt thou place here in the United States? No; come, but no further: and here shall thy good Latter-day Saints were not, for they proud waves be stayed." Now, that is how had been told about it. Joseph Smith the thing is. The prophet in another had told them where it would start, that place says, "Surely the wrath of man it should be a terrible time of bloodshed shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath and that it should start in South Car- shalt thou restrain." He will manage the olina. But I tell you today the end is other. He will put a hook in the jaws of not yet. You will see worse things than men and of nations, and lead them just that, for God will lay his hand upon this as he pleases. They are all in his hands, nation, and they will feel it more ter- as we are in his hands. ribly than ever they have done before; Need we be surprised that people there will be more bloodshed, more ruin, should feel inimical to the Gospel of Je- more devastation than ever they have sus Christ? No. Need we be surprised seen before. Write it down! You will that men, as the scriptures say, "should see it come to pass; it is only just start- wax worse and worse, deceiving, and be- ing in. And would you feel to rejoice? ing deceived?" No. We have preached No; I would feel sorry. I knew very it—I have preached it upwards of forty well myself when this last war was com- years in this nation and in other nations. mencing, and could have wept and did Need we be surprised that they should weep, over this nation; but there is yet trample under foot the Constitution of to come a sound of war, trouble and dis- the United States? No; Joseph Smith tress, in which brother will be arrayed told us that they would do it. Many against brother, father against son, son around me here knew long ago that they against father, a scene of desolation and would do this thing and further knew destruction that will permeate our land that the last people that should be found until it will be a vexation to hear the re- to rally around that sacred instrument port thereof. Would you help to bring it and save it from the grasp of unrigh- about? No, I would not; I would stop it teous men would be the Elders of Israel! if I could. I would pour in the oil and When, therefore, we see these things the wine and balm and try to lead peo- progressing need we be astonished? I do ple in the right path that will be gov- not think we need be. Some of our people erned by it, but they won't. Our Elders you know, who are a little shaky and get would do the same, and we are sending how? Why a little astride of the fence, them forth doing all that we can, select- and say, "good Lord and good devil," not ing the very best men we can put our knowing into whose hands they will fall; hands upon—men of faith, men of honor, when they see some of these things tran- men of integrity—to go forth to preach spiring they are filled with amazement; the Gospel to this nation and to other but men who understand themselves, nations. And how do they receive them? and who are in possession of the gift of Not long ago they killed one and mobbed the Holy Ghost and the Spirit of the liv- others. Well, we cannot help that. They ing God, are looking for such things and are in the dark; they do not realize the THE WORK OF GOD, ETC. 319 position they occupy; they know not the kingdom of Babylon, who were his what spirit they are of. But it is our enemies. Job, when tried, maintained duty to have our bowels full of compas- his integrity, even as against God, and sion extended to them, to send forth the said, "Though he slay me, yet will I trust message of life. But when our Elders go in him;" and he further said, "I know among these people they have to take that my redeemer liveth, and that he will their lives in their hands and trust in stand at the latter day upon the earth: the living God. Nevertheless, we need And though worms destroy this body, yet not be afraid, we need not be troubled in my flesh shall I see God." The three about any of these matters. "Fear not Hebrew children could not be made to them which kill the body, but are not bow to the image set up by the King able to kill the soul: but rather fear him of Babylon; but rather than deny their which is able to destroy both soul and faith chose the penalty of the fiery fur- body in hell." Yea, I say unto you fear nace, in which they walked accompanied Him; and we feel today, while we would by the Son of God. Jesus came to do submit to every ordinance of man that is the will of his Father, and though in do- just, equitable and right, observe every ing it he sweat great drops of blood, and law and interfere with no man's rights, begged of his Father to let the cup pass we are not ignorant of the fact that it if possible, yet "not my will," he said, is unjust for legislatures and courts to "but thine, be done;" and when groan- make and enforce laws to entrap and ing in mortal agony he cried, "My God, destroy us; that a magnanimous and my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" just government would protect all its cit- And though he could have commanded izens; but we feel, at the same time, twelve legions of angels, who would have that the Lord is our God, the Lord is obeyed him, yet in obedience to the man- our Judge, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the date of his Father, he quietly said, "It is Lord is our King, and he shall rule over finished," and gave up the ghost. us; and all that feel like saying that, say, "Amen." (The vast congregation re- sponded, "Amen.") And this nation may yet learn that It is an historic fact, written in let- under no fictitious pleas, as used by the ters as of living fire, that neither na- Babylonish nation against Daniel and tions, peoples, emperors, kings, or pres- others, can they pervert or overthrow idents, nor the combined powers of the the faith and religion of the Latter-day earth, are able to regulate the con- Saints; and that no legislative enact- science or change the faith of man. ment, nor judicial rulings, can pluck Noah maintained his faith alone, as from the mind of man his undying faith, against that of a world. Abraham or legislate away the scrupulous exac- could not be swerved by the most un- tions of an inexorable conscience. The natural and forbidding circumstances. rack, the gibbet, the faggot, and death Moses, at the behest of God, alone with- in all its horrid forms has never accom- stood the power of Egypt's king and na- plished this, nor never will. And in free tion. Daniel unflinchingly bowed his America, the land of boasted toleration, knee to Israel's God, in the face of it will be as impotent under the guise of a prohibitory regal decree, passed by liberty as it has been in other ages un- the intrigues of the combined powers of der the name of despotism. And Con- 320 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. gress to cover their shameless infrac- their flocks. As was remarked by one of tion of the Constitution of the United the brethren, when Jesus was crucified, States, which guarantees religious lib- Pilate and Herod could be made friends. erty to all—in order to avoid the odium of When Mormonism is to be opposed, all religious persecution which naturally at- men, or at least a great many men, can taches itself to them, may pervert an in- unite in opposing it. And they want to stitution of God by misnaming polygamy go before the people and tell them that and calling it bigamy and not religion, they have rooted out slavery, and now and though the Supreme Court of the they are after Mormonism, and won't United States may confirm their acts, yet you religious fanatics join in? No, ex- there are more than one hundred thou- cuse me, I mean, you pure and holy re- sand persons who know better than they ligious people, who are so humble and do, who will declare that polygamy is a possess so much of the spirit that dwelt part of their religion and a command and in the lowly Jesus, won't you help us revelation from God. to do this thing—won't you vote for us These are our feelings and we will try because we are doing this thing? Why, to acknowledge the Lord in all things. bless your souls, they would not hesitate And then, on the other hand, we do to sweep us off the face of the earth to not wish to treat anybody disrespectfully. get elected. That is their feeling. They Have we any quarrel with this nation? care nothing about human rights, liberty, No; they are seeking to quarrel with us; or life, if they can bring about the re- don't let us give them the opportunity. sults desired. They would despoil, de- They are like the boy strutting along the stroy and overthrow this people to ac- street with a chip on his shoulder, ask- complish their own end. Well, the other ing us to knock it off. But we won't party, it is true, would not be very well knock it off; but let them strut. It is suited about it, but they would not care true they try all they can to annoy and to see it politically. However, it is for us provoke us—that is, a few mean men to do the best we can. We have got to put do, although that is not generally the our trust in the living God. We might feeling of the nation, but is confined in ask—Will they derive any benefit from great measure to religious fanatics and any course taken against the Latter-day corrupt politicians, some of them holding Saints? No! A thousand times no!! I tell positions under government, are trying you that the hand of God will be upon to stir up strife. What for? Well, they them for it, and every people, be it this want to get a certain "ticket" elected. nation, or any other nation, that shall A great amount of this "fuss and feath- lift up their hands against Zion shall be ers" that we have today is simply a po- wasted away; and those that want to try litical ruse in the interest of party poli- it let them try it, and it is them and their tics. What for? Why, the brethren have God for it. But it is for us to fear God, told you. Mormonism is very unpopular, to keep his commandments; we can af- and if they can only do something that ford to do right whether other people can will be in opposition to Mormonism it or not. Respect all men in their rights, will satisfy the howling priests through- in their position, and in their privileges, out the land, and a great many of politically and socially, and protect them PROGRESS OF THE WORK OF GOD, ETC. 321 in the same; but be not partakers of dens of infamy and expose them to the their evil deeds, of their crimes, nor their world. We won't have their mean- iniquities, that you have heard spoken ness, with their feticides and infanti- about here today. We do not want them cides, forced upon us. And you, sisters, to force upon us their drinking saloons, don't allow yourselves to become contam- their drunkenness, their gambling, their inated by rustling against their polluted debauchery and lasciviousness. We do skirts. Keep from them! Let them wal- not want these adjuncts of civilization. low in their infamy, and let us protect We do not want them to force upon the right, and be for God and his Christ, us that institution of monogamy called for honor, for truth, for virtue, purity and the social evil. We will be after them; chastity, and for the building up of the we will form ourselves into police and kingdom of God. Amen. hunt them out and drag them from their

PROGRESS OF THE WORK OF GOD—INTRODUCTION OF EVILS BY THE WORLD—UNCONSTITUTIONAL INIMICAL MEASURES—PLURAL MARRIAGE NOT CRIMINAL—INTOLERANCE DENOUNCED.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER ORSON PRATT, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE,HELD INTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,OCTOBER 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

By the blessing of our Heavenly Fa- calculated upon, looking at the subject ther, we are permitted once more, un- naturally, as natural men. But con- der circumstances of peace, to assem- templating the subject spiritually, we ble ourselves here in this large taber- might have expected to see what we nacle, in the capacity of a semiannual now behold—a great people assembled Conference, in the 50th year of the his- from many nations, occupying the cen- tory of this Church. A few months tral portion of this great north wing more, and this Church will have seen of the western hemisphere. We, as a the history of fifty years. Great and people have made during the first half wonderful has been the progress of the century, or nearly so, of our existence, Church during this period of time; far great and rapid progress, far beyond beyond anything that we could have that of some of the former dispensations 322 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. which have been introduced into our jected it. Individuals, however, in all the world. It is a matter of astonishment States, have seen proper to receive the with me, that so many people have re- divine warning, and have mostly gath- ceived the divine message which God has ered to these mountains, and are located communicated to the human family in among these everlasting hills. Who were our day, when we consider that the gen- they that first redeemed this desert? eration, or people, who should live just Were they a mixed people, those belong- prior to the coming of the Son of Man ing to the Latter-day Saints and those in his glory were described as a people unconnected with them? No; it was the such as did exist in the days of Noah. united efforts of a poor and afflicted peo- It will be remembered that the message ple, who had already been driven from of that good man did not receive much their houses five times while they dwelt attention, in his day; but a very few, in in the States. They came here almost fact, believed in his message. I have of- barehanded, so far as property was con- ten times thought how discouraging it cerned. They came to an undesirable must have been to that good old prophet, country; they came to a location that was to prophesy to that generation—to fore- marked upon our maps as "the Great tell concerning the great judgment that American Desert;" a country that had was to happen to them, to point out the scarcely been penetrated by white men. only means of safety for those who de- We began anew in this country, and it sired to escape, laboring diligently for was by the labor of our hands, being so many years, and then to find only strengthened by the Almighty, that we seven individuals besides himself righ- opened up these rugged canyons, and teous enough to receive the message. penetrated into these mountains, and How discouraging! If this message had obtained timber to build our houses and been treated with the same indifference, to fence our fields; it was by the united we can readily imagine how discourag- labors of the Latter-day Saints, that we ing it would have been to Joseph Smith, constructed water ditches and canals for as a prophet and revelator, to labor for the purpose of irrigating the land, in- perhaps a hundred years and only make stead of depending upon the rains of seven converts. As regards numbers, heaven, and thus commenced a new sys- then, those who have obeyed the Gospel tem of farming, at least as far as our message in our day, have become very experience was concerned. It was by numerous, compared with those that re- the labor of the Latter-day Saints alone, ceived the message in the days of the and not by the labor and capital of Gen- flood. Not merely one family of persons, tiles. These beautiful ornamental shade but hundreds of thousands have been trees were placed out in front of our gathered into this latter-day Church. houses, to beautify and adorn the streets, The divinity of a message does not, how- by the labor of the hands of the Latter- ever, depend upon the numbers who re- day Saints, and not by the aid of Gen- ceive it. Numbers has nothing to do with tiles. It was the Saints who estab- the subject. The Lord our God has sent lished these beautiful orchards that are forth his servants in this great dispen- seen, not only in this great city, which sation; he sent them first directly to our well might be termed a city of orchards, own nation; they, as a people, have re- but in almost all other large towns and PROGRESS OF THE WORK OF GOD, ETC. 323 cities throughout this great desert. It come among us, and all this that they was by the labor of our own hands might have the privilege of entering on that schoolhouses were erected in all the record that they were the great ones countries and settlements of our Terri- that established these facilities, and that tory; all this too, at an early stage of our made the desert to blossom as the rose. settlements here, the education of our youth, being among the most prominent What, let me ask, have our Gen- and important steps calculated to bene- tile neighbors that have come among fit the people. It was by the labors of our us done? They have done some good own hands that academies and buildings things; they have introduced some very for high schools were established in var- bad things. I speak now according to ious portions of the Territory, as well my own individual feelings upon this as our common schoolhouses. It was by subject. Before they came we had no the labor of our own hands that chapels grog shops in the various towns, and vil- and meetinghouses were located in all lages, and cities in our Territory, to con- our settlements throughout this moun- vert a temperate people into confirmed tain region. It was by the labor of our drunkards. We had no such institu- own hands that the desert was made to tions; but as soon as they came this prod- blossom as the rose. uct of what they call civilization was in- By and by, after we had fulfilled troduced into our midst, wherever they and about accomplished this work, hav- could obtain a foothold. So much for this ing formed numerous settlements and kind of civilization that has been intro- built numerous dwelling houses, and duced into the midst of this people. What planted out numerous ornamental trees else? Years and years passed by, before and established extensive gardens, and the Gentile population began in any de- began to raise grain, fruits and veg- gree to come into our Territory, during etables in great abundance; after we which safety attended our habitations. had done all these things, fairly open- We could leave our doors open at night, ing up the Territory, that outside pop- in summer time, to be benefited by the ulation began to pour in. Who was mountain breezes; now we have to lock it, then, that opened up the coun- our doors, and bolt down the windows. try so that our Gentile friends might Why? Because that thing called civi- come into it, and of causing prosper- lization has come into our midst, which ity to prevail in our midst? It was renders it unsafe for our habitations to the Latter-day Saints. Who was it that be thus left open. What else? For- made feasible the grading of the Union merly we could wash our clothes, as we Pacific Railroad through these rugged do weekly, and hang them out upon the mountains—the most difficult work on lines, letting them remain there if nec- the whole of its construction? It was essary for one or two days and nights, the strong arms of the Latter-day Saints, without the least danger of their being our mountain boys; they continued the taken away. Dare we do these things road some hundreds of miles; tunnels now? Can we expect safety now? No. had to be cut through huge moun- Why? Because Gentile civilization has tains, and rough and precipitous places come into our midst, that which we for- were made smooth, and the way pre- sook, when we left the lands from which pared that our Gentile neighbors might we emigrated. It has come to us; and 324 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. these are the disagreeable things which and turn them loose upon the commu- the Latter-day Saints have to encounter. nity. This is another feature of what they term "civilization." We might go on and But it has been said, and even pub- name Sabbath breaking, lying, misrep- lished that it was not the Latter-day resenting, quarreling, stealing, and so Saints that introduced the blessings that forth, but we have not time to dwell on are enjoyed today by the inhabitants of all these subjects. this Territory; that it was some other We came here as a religious people. people. I am trying to portray these We had a civil government, and a reli- things precisely as they are. gious government; we had civil authority What else? Our streets are filled, and ecclesiastical authority, before the not only with drunkards, by introduc- Gentiles came here in any great num- ing these liquor saloons in nearly all bers. Both of these principles of gov- parts of our Territory, but we see fight- ernment were in existence in this Ter- ings, blasphemy, threatening life, etc., ritory in the early rise thereof. The re- in all the places in the Territory, wher- ligious, in this Territory, seemed to be ever this outside "civilization" has ap- very much united, with a very few excep- peared. There may be some few excep- tions. We all believed in the same doc- tions among the Gentile elements. We do trines. But says one, "Is not this in op- not wish to pronounce all the outsiders position to the principles of our govern- who have taken up their abode among ment, for all the people to be united?" us being of this character, but we speak I do not know of anything in any of the of these things in general terms. There principles ordained by the revolutionary are good men and women who were not fathers that requires division in a rep- among the early settlers of this country, resentative form of government. They that have come here since the way was make provisions, in case there should opened, and since prosperity prevailed be division; but never founded the gov- over this desert; we do not speak against ernment with an express determina- them, but against that class that have tion that there should be division, ei- introduced these evils into our midst. ther in their religion or in their poli- We might speak of other things, such as tics; it is not a necessary concomitant houses of ill fame—something that was to the form of our government. Our not known in our country and something government and the principles thereof that the youth and the rising generation could be sustained without any violation grew up to manhood without knowing whatever, if the forty millions of people anything about, only as they happened were all of one faith. If they were all to read of them occasionally in some of democrats, or any other political faith, the Eastern papers. Do they now ex- still the government would not be vio- ist? Yes. Who brought them here, and lated. But they made provisions, in case who sustains them after they have come? there should be divisions. Thank God, Undertake to put these things down by that in this Territory we have supported law, and every exertion is made to re- a Republican form of government, with- tain these sinkholes of corruption in the out being under the necessity of impress- land. Writs of habeas corpus are issued ing upon the people that they should in order to free those bad characters, be divided. We do not impress any PROGRESS OF THE WORK OF GOD, ETC. 325 such thing upon their minds. It is no Now, I do not believe this anti-republican part of the Republican government to idea, though it was published in this be divided. You can all vote the same city last week, from a person in high way at the polls; you can all believe the authority—a Federal officer of our Ter- same religion and yet be good citizens ritory. Supposing for instance, there of the United States. What? Can they were only ten religious men, living in all be Presbyterians, and at the same the United States that believed a cer- time be good American citizens? Yes. tain doctrine, according to Bible pre- Can they all be Methodists, and yet be cepts, and all the rest believed some- good American citizens? Yes. Can they thing else, differing from that; have this all belong to one political party, with- great majority a right to oppress these out any to oppose them, and yet be good ten men? They have no such right. American citizens? Yes. Why? Be- The Constitution of our country has pro- cause there is nothing in the Constitu- vided for that minority, to believe as they tion of our government that requires the choose to, so long as they injure no one population to believe different doctrines, by their belief, and so long as they in- according to their religious notions and jure no person by practicing that be- ideas—nothing that requires them to be lief. Supposing that the Presbyterians politically divided, in their feelings. But should insist, in their Church capacity, they are divided. The people of all na- that sprinkling with water was to be the tions are divided; and good wholesome only mode of baptism, that should be ob- laws, for the most part, have been estab- served by the members of their denom- lished by Congress, and by the various ination; have they a right to do this? States of our Union, making provisions Yes. But supposing that forty millions for this divided state of society, giving to of people, who were not Presbyterians, every person the privilege of believing as should denounce that system as crimi- he or she may see proper to do in regard nal, on the ground that it was not in ac- to their religious ideas, and to carry out cordance with the doctrines of the Bible, their sentiments by practicing their reli- and consequently it would be a crimi- gion also, as well as believing; and that nal practice to blaspheme the name of the majority should not, because they Trinity by sprinkling a few drops of wa- happen to be the majority, oppress the ter and call that baptism; and supposing minority. Arguments have been made they should succeed in getting Congress by statesmen, judges, and others pro- to pass a law against sprinkling, be- fessing great intelligence something like cause it was criminal according to their this: that the Latter-day Saints are a ideas; and supposing that the persons people of only about 150,000; while the who introduced that mode of baptism United States are a people, numbering should be brought up by that law to be forty or forty-five millions. Therefore, judged by it, and should be found crim- say they, the great majority—the forty inals, according to that law of Congress; or forty-five millions of people—should, and supposing that the Supreme Court or they have a perfect right to oppress of the United States were to confirm you, Latter-day Saints, because you are the action of the lower court, on this the minority in your religious views. matter; ought such persons to be con- demned as criminals? No. You would say 326 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. that they have a right to sprinkle; I human sacrifices, the heathen widow would say the same, however much I that is burned upon the pile, is criminal. might differ from the Presbyterian prac- Why? Because it is something that our tice, in my own mind; however much I nature at once denounces to be criminal, might look upon that act as abominable and it is also denounced as such by the in the sight of heaven; however much I laws of heaven, by the laws of God; but might consider it to be criminal before not so in regard to many other things. God, yet I would say they had a consti- For instance, one day out of seven is set tutional right to sprinkle; so in regard to apart as a day of rest; and under the law all other divisions so far as religious sen- of God, in ancient times, it was consid- timents are concerned. Wherein those ered criminal to gather a bundle of sticks divisions of political or religious senti- on that day, for the purpose of making a ments do not harm the neighbor, do not fire; and the person who was found doing harm society, do not harm families, or so was condemned to death. Now if there the nation at large; a law, passed by men, had been no law concerning that mat- has nothing to do with it, what courts ter, all Israel would have made no dis- might decide to the contrary notwith- tinction between the sacredness of days. standing. All would have been alike to them. Why? These are my views as an individual. Because there was nothing in their own I do not pretend to set these things forth minds or consciences that would perceive as your views or the views of the people such an act to be criminal. But when generally, but my own individual views the revealed law of God came, making on this subject. it criminal, it then became so. So in re- Now in regard to plurality of wives, gard to many of these religious princi- why is that a crime? Only because ples, observed among the heathen. They Congress passed a law making it crim- are criminal, and any person acquainted inal. Does the Bible make it criminal? with the law of God is compelled to pro- No. Does the Book of Mormon make it nounce them as such. But then, shall we criminal? No. Does the Doctrine and condemn anything that the conscience Covenants make it criminal? No. Why does not denounce to be criminal, that is it criminal? Is there a law of our na- the law of God does not denounce as ture that makes it criminal? No. There criminal; shall we get our Congress to are some things that are criminal in and make a law declaring it criminal, so that of themselves, and we cannot think of those that break that law shall become them only as such, and as we by our own criminals? I cannot see it. I am so ob- consciences know them to be criminal. tuse in my understanding and my mind And for instance, stealing property that is so blunted, that I really cannot see belongs to our neighbors. That we look any sense in a law of that kind, whether upon as being criminal. We would not passed by Congress or a congressional wish our neighbor to steal our property. power of all nations combined; it makes Again violence done to another person no difference, so far as my mind is con- to rob him of his property, that is some- cerned. thing which is criminal in itself. Taking I have read the speeches of mem- life like the heathen, who offer up their bers of Congress, in which they have PROGRESS OF THE WORK OF GOD, ETC. 327 made the contrast of Bible polygamy their religious views are concerned), to with some of the heathen worship which renounce any part of their doctrines be- is denounced by the Bible. Why not con- cause Congress has denounced it? No. I trast everything else pertaining to reli- can do no such thing. If they wish to re- gion in the same way? Why not pass nounce them or forsake them, they are a law, prohibiting that religious people at liberty so to do, and be accountable called Jews, from practicing the Mosaic to God, and be disfellowshipped from the law of circumcision, inflicting fine and Church, because of their disbelief. "O," imprisonment if they persist in following says one, "you would disfellowship your the Bible custom? Simply, because they members and thus bear upon them?" are not hated as the "Mormons" are. "We Certainly we would. Have we not the must have a law expressly framed for right to do so? What denomination is these Mormons; we must pass a law that there, in these United States, but has the will catch them. But in order to make right to disfellowship their members for the people think we are not unjust, we anything they please, if they go accord- will make it general throughout all the ing to their own creed and documents? Territories." I do not know of any denomination that I believe in the great principles laid does not enjoy this right. I claim no more down in the American Constitution; I be- for myself, nor for my brethren, in re- lieve in religious freedom, religious be- gard to these matters, than they claim lief, religious practice. I believe in ev- for themselves, nor any more than the ery principle guaranteed in that docu- Constitution guarantees to all. ment. Well, supposing then that they We have the right, therefore, to say, should send me, as an individual, to that if a man denounces any part or por- prison because of my belief or religious tion of his religion that we will disfellow- practice; would that alter my belief? No. ship him; or that if a woman shall do Would, say, five years in the penitentiary the same, that we deal with her in like change my belief? No. If they were to manner. And we have the right to disfel- inflict the full penalty of the law upon lowship members of our Church, for any me in every respect, how much would transgression of the laws of God. And they succeed in converting me that my this has nothing to do with the great belief and practice were a crime in the principles of right and wrong established sight of God? Not one iota, forty-five mil- by our American government. But I will lions of people to the contrary notwith- leave this subject. standing. Why? Because although I am We have assembled here in our semi- in the minority, I am protected by the annual conference, what for? To take Constitution just as much as though I into consideration any subject that may were in the majority; I am an Ameri- be for the advantage and well-being of can citizen and I have the rights of an the whole. That is one object. To give American just as much as though I be- advice and counsel to the people of God, longed to the majority. Well, then, what that may be under the sound of our do you say, shall I renounce my religion, voices. To get the united sanction and because of this law? No. Shall I ad- voice, with uplifted hands to the Most vise the Latter-day Saints (an indepen- High God, in sending forth missionar- dent people to do as they please so far as ies to the various nations of the earth. 328 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

What for? To convert them to the ever- sailing across the great ocean. Or could lasting gospel. we not keep our peace so long? Would it We have been told by a circular let- be difficult for the Latter-day Saints to ter, which has been issued officially, and shut up the fire of truth in their hearts, sent to various nations, that because so that no one would know them to be the people believe in the doctrines of Latter-day Saints for ten long days? I the Latter-Saints in Germany, in Scan- expect that would be the difficult part of dinavia, in Great Britain, etc., that the the undertaking. We feel to rejoice so in United States are very anxious to get the Gospel, in the great plan of salvation, all these governments to band together that we can hardly hold our peace for ten against what? To prevent the religious days; though if it were really necessary, I people who believe in these doctrines think some of us could manage to do so. from emigrating from their own lands, Well, supposing we landed safely, and to the land of America. Will these gov- held our peace, and should take the rail- ernments respond? Will they aid the road cars for Chicago, say, whose busi- great government of the United States, ness is it? And supposing we concluded to persecute religious people by trying to then to take the cars for Omaha, whose prevent them from emigrating from one business is it? And at Omaha, suppos- country to another? I do not know but ing we should get it into our heads to what they may; it is very doubtful, in come further west, and should then pur- my mind, whether they will go back to chase a ticket for Ogden, have we not the the old dark ages of persecution, and be right to do so? Is our government going united as Herod and Pilate were, in pre- to employ runners and spies to find out venting religious people from emigrating every man's religious views, who passes to other nations. It would be difficult, over the various railroads? I am inclined under the color of consistency, to hinder to think not; I do not believe they have it. How are they going to know whether reached that stage yet. emigrants are Presbyterians, Baptists, But now concerning the justice of Methodists or Latter-day Saints, when these matters. Supposing that we they embark at European ports to come do preach what the world calls "Mor- to this great continent of America? Or monism" from the time we embark, un- how are they going to know what reli- til the time of our landing, because we gion they belong to? Are they going to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, be- have their ambassadors, their consuls, cause we believe in repenting of our and great men, appointed on purpose, sins, and because we believe in bap- paying them large salaries, and instruct- tism by immersion for the remission ing them to be at every port, and also of sins, and because we believe in the to make every man swear, when he em- plural order of marriage, as taught in barks on board of a vessel, that he is not the Bible, have they the right to shut a Latter-day Saint? down the gate against us? When I Now, I do not believe they are say a right, I mean a Constitutional going that far; and if they do not, right. Is not this country open to all how easy a matter it would be for nations? Is it not called by every peo- emigrants, to say nothing about ple, "the asylum of the oppressed of all their religious sentiments, while nations?" They have not yet passed a THE CHURCH FOUNDED, ETC. 329 law forbidding the Chinaman from sands come swarming to our land? I do emigrating to this country. Have not. I cannot believe that the good sense the Latter-day Saints sunk down so of the American people can tolerate such far beneath heathenism, that we persecution. Amen. must have the gate shut down upon us, and heathens by tens of thou-

THE CHURCH FOUNDED UPON THE ROCK OF REVELATION—FAITHFUL SAINTS CANNOT BE MOVED BY PERSECUTION.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER LORENZO SNOW, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, HELDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,OCT. 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JOHN IRVINE.

I have been very much interested in into the foundation upon which we the remarks of Brother Orson Pratt. ground our hopes—our hopes in regard to our property and in regard to our I wish during the short time that I oc- ability to accomplish the commandments cupy the stand to make a few observa- of God and withstand the temptations tions in reference to the foundation upon that will be presented to try our faith, which we have established our faith and and overcome the difficulties that may belief in the principles of the everlasting come in our way in the path of our Gospel which we have espoused, and to progress. In preaching the Gospel in see what means the elders of the Church the days of the apostles there were cer- of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints em- tain things that followed their labors, ploy in establishing these principles in that inspired individuals that received the hearts of the people in the vari- the doctrine from their hands that filled ous nations where they are proclaim- them with great confidence in regard to ing the fulness of the Gospel. It is those principles as is shown on a cer- well perhaps in view of the surrounding tain occasion where one of the Apos- circumstances, and in consideration of tles uses language like this: "Our gospel the difficulties that arise in our midst— came not unto you in word only, but and which may possibly try our faith— also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, to examine occasionally more closely and in much assurance." The people 330 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. who had received the Gospel were re- thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will minded of the peculiar blessings and build my church; and the gates of hell powers that attended it in its admin- shall not prevail against it." That is, istration. When the disciples were or- upon the rock of revelation, for the na- dained by the Savior and sent forth to ture of the Gospel is such, that when it proclaim the Gospel to the world, they is proclaimed and honestly obeyed, in- were told that certain blessings and as- dividuals receive a testimony in regard surances should follow its administra- to the divinity of the doctrine. This was tion. On another occasion it was said confirmed on the day of Pentecost. Pe- by the Savior, when people were anxious ter in preaching to the people said, "Re- to know in regard to the divinity of his pent, and be baptized every one of you mission, he told them that if they would in the name of Jesus Christ for the re- do the will of God they should know of mission of sins, and ye shall receive the the doctrine. And again, on a certain gift of the Holy Ghost. For this promise time when his disciples came together, is unto you, and to your children, and he asked them what the people said in to all that are afar off, even as many as relation to him, the character that they the Lord our God shall call." This gift gave him, and the feeling he had pro- of the Holy Ghost is a different prin- duced among them in regard to the di- ciple from anything that we see mani- vinity of his character. He was informed fested in the sectarian world. It is a prin- that the people had various ideas and ciple of intelligence, and revelation. It views in relation to it. Some thought is a principle that reveals things past, that he was one of the prophets that had present and to come, and these gifts risen, that he was Elias or Jeremiah, of the Holy Ghost were to be received or John the Baptist that had been be- through obedience to the requirements headed. In the midst of this confusion of the Gospel as proclaimed by the El- of ideas, however, there was one individ- ders of the Church of Jesus Christ of ual that had obtained correct informa- Latter-day Saints in these days. It was tion on the subject, and from a quarter upon this rock that their faith should be that every person that receives the ful- grounded; from this quarter they should ness of the Gospel is privileged to ob- receive a knowledge of the doctrine they tain a perfect knowledge of its divinity. had espoused, and we are told by the Turning to the disciples he said, "But Savior, "that the gates of hell should not whom say ye that I am? And Simon prevail against them." Thus the Church Peter answered and said, Thou art the was organized upon the principle of rev- Christ, the Son of the living God." Now, elation. In it were placed "first apos- he had obtained a revelation in regard tles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teach- to the character of the Son of God. He ers, after that miracles, then gifts of had not obtained it through the obser- healings, helps, governments, diversi- vance of the miracles that Jesus had per- ties of tongues." Thus God placed in his formed. He had not obtained it from kingdom and in his Church those things any other quarter or source save from that were according to the mind and God the Eternal Father. Jesus told him will of heaven, according to the laws of that, "flesh and blood hath not revealed the celestial world. In another place it unto thee, but my Father which is we are told that God gave gifts unto in heaven. And I say unto thee, That men. "And he gave some, apostles; THE CHURCH FOUNDED, ETC. 331 and some, prophets; and some, evange- themselves before the world and say that lists; and some, pastors and teachers." they have been authorized of God to ad- Now for what purpose were they given? minister certain ordinances to the peo- We are told that they were given, "For ple through which they may receive rev- the perfecting of the saints, for the work elation from God? Anyone announcing of the ministry, for the edifying of the a doctrine of this kind would soon be body of Christ." How long were these found out if he were an impostor—he gifts to continue? We are told they were would place himself in a very danger- to continue, "Till we all come in the unity ous position, and would soon be discov- of the faith, and of the knowledge of the ered if he held no such authority. Our Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto elders, however, dare take this position. the measure of the stature of the ful- We have taken this position for nearly ness of Christ." These were the princi- fifty years. God has sent his holy an- ples taught by the apostles, and when gels from heaven and restored the au- they went forth among strangers they thority to man to administer the ordi- could say, "We have authority to admin- nances of the Gospel, and through these ister in the ordinances of the Gospel; the gift of the Holy Ghost now confers but you cannot know these things ex- upon man a knowledge in regard to the cept you receive this knowledge from the divinity of this work. Now, we talk about eternal world. We profess to have this people succumbing because of their infe- authority, but you are not acquainted riority in numbers or because they are with us, you do not know our charac- partly in the minority. That may be all ter. We require you to repent of your very well providing it is simply man's sins and to be baptized for a remission work. We can very well see that in such of the same, and then you shall have case 150,000 could not expect to pros- a knowledge of the truth." These are per or succeed in opposition, or in hold- the declarations of our Elders in these ing principles that are in conflict to those days; it is by this means that the peo- of 45,000,000 of people. Noah could not ple are gathered here from the various expect to succeed against a whole gen- nations of the earth. Here we have a eration while his doctrine was accepted people from England, Denmark, Swe- only by seven individuals, providing it den, France and from almost all the na- had been only man's work. Neither could tions of the earth. Why are we gathered Moses when he proclaimed his message into these mountain valleys? Why have expect to have succeeded against the we left our homes in distant lands? Be- Egyptian government and its influence cause we realize the truth of the gospel had he not been inspired and had au- as proclaimed by the Elders. We have re- thority from God. It is not that one man ceived the gift of the Holy Ghost, which or set of men should proclaim principles has revealed to us this knowledge; and as divine and demand their acceptance it is because of this knowledge that we unless he have authority beyond that are here today. Where in all the world of man. If, therefore, the Elders of Is- can you find a class of ministers that rael have been authorized, if they have dare take the position our Elders do? received authority from the Almighty Where is the man or the set of men to proclaim these principles, then it that can be found that dare to present will be very easy to understand who 332 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. will succumb in the end. If it is the work built is the rock of revelation—upon the of God we may expect very well what rock that Jesus said He would build His will be the result. There was a law in church, and the gates of hell should not the days of king Nebuchadnezzar that all prevail against it. We have not received nations should bow to the golden image this knowledge through flesh and blood, which he set up; it was made obligatory we have not received this testimony from upon every individual that he should not man, we have not received it through the offer prayer to the God of heaven. Well, reading of the Bible, New Testament or what were the results? It is very easy Book of Mormon, but we have received to see; it is very easy to see what will be it through the operations of the Holy the results at all times when God has a Ghost, that teaches of the things of God, work to accomplish in the midst of a peo- things past, present and to come, and ple. When men of integrity, men of hon- that takes of the things of God, making esty, receive a knowledge of any princi- them clearly manifest unto us. You can- ple, divine principle, when they receive a not take this knowledge from us by im- manifestation of the Almighty concern- prisonment or any kind of persecution. ing the truth of any work or any doc- We will stand by it unto death. trine, it is a very difficult matter to de- And now all the Latter-day Saints stroy or force that knowledge from them. have to do, all that is required of us to You cannot do it by imprisonment, you make us perfectly safe under all circum- cannot by any method of torture. So in stances of trouble or persecution, is to regard to the people called Latter-day do the will of God, to be honest, faith- Saints. Inasmuch as they have received ful and to keep ourselves devoted to these doctrines in various nations where the principles that we have received; do the Gospel has been proclaimed, and right one by another; trespass upon no inasmuch as they have received a divine man's rights; live by every word that pro- manifestation of the truth of these prin- ceedeth from the mouth of God and his ciples, we do not expect when they come Holy Spirit will aid and assist us under here to these mountain valleys that they all circumstances, and we will come out are to be frightened out of these things, of the midst of it all abundantly blessed because a man's religion is more dear in our houses, in our families, in our to him than life. Has anybody received flocks, in our fields—and in every way a revelation to the contrary? Has any- God will bless us. He will give us knowl- body received a revelation that Joseph edge upon knowledge, intelligence upon Smith was not endowed with power from intelligence, wisdom upon wisdom. on high, or that the Elders of Israel May God add his blessing upon this have not been authorized to preach this people. May we be faithful to ourselves, Gospel? No; but we can bring thou- faithful to all the principles we have re- sands of individuals that have received ceived, seeking one another's interests revelation that these things are true; with all our heart, and God will pour out thousands upon thousands. Well, then, his Spirit upon us, and we will come off the foundation upon which the Church victorious in the end, which I ask in the of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER, ETC. 333

THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER PERSECUTION—FALSE TEACHERS POPULAR—SAINTS SHOULD NOT RETALIATE UPON THEIR ENEMIES—THE SAINTS WILL HAVE POWER TO ROOT OUT EVIL—APPROACHING REVOLUTION IN THE EARTH.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER GEORGE Q.CANNON, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,OCTOBER 6, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JOHN IRVINE.

I have been reminded, while listening fessed to have a knowledge of God, and to Brother Rudger Clawson's remarks, of who really did have that knowledge, or the sayings of the Savior, recorded in the a portion of it, and who were raised up 6th chapter of the Gospel according to St. by him, or called by him, had to suf- Luke, 22nd and 23rd verses— fer persecution. Stephen, the martyr, when he was being stoned at Jerusalem, "Blessed are ye, when men shall hate said to the Jews: "Which of the prophets you, and when they shall separate you have not your fathers persecuted? and from their company, and shall reproach they have slain them which shewed be- you, and cast out your name as evil, for fore of the coming of the Just One"— the Son of man's sake. scarcely a prophet that had ever lived "Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for among them who had not suffered per- joy: for, behold, your reward is great in secution. Even Moses himself, the great heaven: for in the like manner did their lawgiver, the great deliverer of the He- fathers unto the prophets." brew nation, who had led them out by the exhibition of mighty power, several It is frequently remarked concerning times during his career came very near the Latter-day Saints that there being being stoned to death, or killed by the so many stories told about them, there people. It is an evidence, an infalli- must be some truth in some of them; in ble evidence, of truth to have persecu- other words, to use the familiar saying, tion accompany it. It is not that ev- "Where there is so much smoke there eryone who is reviled and who is per- must be some fire." But it is worthy of secuted possesses the truth. This does remark that, from the beginning, accord- not always follow. But there never was ing to the history that has come down to a prophet of whom we have any account, us of the dealing of God with the children raised up in the midst of the children of of men, every man and people who pro- men to proclaim unto them divine truths, 334 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. who did not receive in his life and expe- field to the adversary. Then he had his rience these very things of which Jesus own way. One of the greatest evidences has spoken. They were hated, they were of the bad condition of affairs now ex- separated from the company of their fel- isting in Christendom is the popularity lows, they were reproached, their names that attends what is called the preaching were cast out as evil, they were re- of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. viled, their lives were sought; and this Whenever a preacher is popular in the was especially the case with the Son midst of a wicked generation, or a man of God himself—a Being who spoke as is popular who professes to be a minister never man spoke, whose life was an ex- of truth, you may set it down as a certain emplification of purity, who was with- fact that that man does not preach the out sin, whose doctrines were holy and truth as it exists in Christ. There is no pure, who performed mighty miracles disputing this, if this book (the Bible) be among the children of men, whose work true; if there is any reliance to be placed and labors were accompanied with great in the word of God. As true as there is a power; and notwithstanding these ev- God, and as true as there is a devil, the idences of divinity which accompanied man that preaches the truth to a wicked him, the generation in which he lived, generation will bring about the hatred of and by which he was surrounded, were which I have read in your hearing. This not satisfied until they had slain him. is just as true as that God lives and that It is also recorded that every one of the there is evil to combat, or that Satan has Twelve Apostles, excepting John, died power over the hearts of the children of a violent death. There are reasons for men. Satan knows very well that his this which are made plain in the Scrip- time is short. He knows very well that tures. There are two powers; there is if the truth is proclaimed and believed in God and there is Belial; or in other and practiced by mankind his kingdom words, there is the Spirit of God and is overthrown, that his power will soon there is the spirit of Satan. These two cease. Hence it is that he has aroused in powers, or forces, have been in existence every age and at all times the children of since man was expelled from the garden men to rage against the truth. of Eden. Satan has opposed God. He has contended against goodness and purity. Whether the Latter-day Saints Each of these influences has been oper- preach the truth or not it is for those ating upon the hearts of the children of who hear them and examine their doc- men. When the adversary has succeeded trines to decide; but there is this noted in overpowering the truth, in slaying fact connected with the preaching of the servants of God, in shedding the this truth, as imparted in this system blood of innocence, and the extirpation which we call the Gospel of the Lord Je- of the power and authority which God sus Christ, that wherever it has been had bestowed upon man has been accom- preached it has raised hatred, it has plished, then there has been a lull, there stirred up animosity, it has enkindled has been a cessation of that violence the fires of persecution, it has caused which has attended the proclamation of blood to flow, mobs have been raised, the truth. The extirpation of those who houses have been burned, fields have had authority to proclaim it has left the been destroyed, grain has been burned, THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER, ETC. 335 cattle have been shot down, men and turn upon my persecutors in the spirit women have been expelled from their which they manifest, do I exhibit a spirit homes in the depths of winter, the blood that will bring down the blessing of God of innocence has flowed, and all because upon me? Certainly not; I would be no men and women chose to believe a sys- better than my persecutors. If a man tem of religion that differed from that strike me on the one cheek and I turn which is popularly entertained. And and strike him again, retaliate, give him there is this remarkable fact connected blow for blow, do I by so doing mani- with the persecution of the people called fest that I have received any better spirit Latter-day Saints—and it is the same than the man who struck me? I think characteristic that attended the preach- not. It is very natural, I know, when ing of the Gospel of the Son of God by we are reviled to turn round and revile himself and his Apostles. The chief per- again; when we are struck to turn round secutors, and those who have stirred and strike again; when we are abused up strife in the hearts of the people to turn round and abuse again. This have been popular preachers—have been is the natural prompting of the human themselves, in too many instances, the heart; this is the natural feeling of ev- professed ministers of Jesus Christ. It ery man of spirit—not to submit to indig- was the High Priests, it was the Phar- nity, but to resent it instantly. Our codes isees, it was the religious people in the are all formed upon this. The train- days of the Savior who were his chief per- ing that we have had from our child- secutors, and I am sorry to say the chief hood upward, in the society of the world, persecutions which we as a people have has been that a man who submits to had to endure have had their origin with an outrage quietly is unworthy of the the same class. Why, I am informed that name of man; that the man who sub- one or two, if not more, of those men who mits to be called a liar, or to rebukes, formed the mob that shot Elder Joseph or to abuse quietly, is unworthy of the Standing, were circuit riders; preachers name of man. Now, that is certainly not who professed to have great zeal for holy the teaching of the Savior; all his teach- religion and pure morality. They were so ings are to the contrary. His people are filled with zeal that they could not let to be a meek people. His people are to two young men travel in their country be peacemakers. His people are to leave and preach from the Bible, without mob- the results with him; to submit to these bing them! things quietly, uncomplainingly, that is, As Latter-day Saints this ought to so far as outward manifestations are con- cause us to rejoice. We should not be an- cerned; to pray unto him, to leave it with gry, we should not indulge in the spirit him. He has given unto his people a law of revenge. Such a spirit is foreign upon this subject. If our enemies come to the Gospel. It is our duty to en- upon us, or our families, once, we are dure all things patiently, uncomplain- to bear it patiently and revile not, nei- ingly, and with long-suffering, putting ther seek revenge, and we shall be re- our trust in God, relying upon his arm, warded. If our enemies come upon us awaiting the deliverance which he will the second and third times, we are to bring to pass in his own time and in his bear it patiently, as on the former occa- own season. If I am persecuted and I sion, and great rewards are promised. 336 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

If they come the fourth time, then the tion of affairs which everybody who loved law in ancient days, and as the Lord good order and peace admired. I fre- has revealed it to us, is that they are quently meet with gentlemen who knew in our hands to do to them as we may us a few years ago, who speak of the un- please; but if we then will spare them, favorable change which has taken place we shall be rewarded for our righteous- in our affairs. The Latter-day Saints re- ness. I speak of these things because I alize very fully how great this change know how painful it is to submit to out- has been. Our sons and daughters are rages such as have been heaped upon us. now exposed to temptations of which There are many such committed that are they knew nothing in former years. We almost unbearable, men feel as if they had the power, which we exercised, to could not submit to them; but as I under- control these affairs, but as I explained stand it, it is far better for us to submit here not a great while ago, we have now to these things patiently, and without re- found out that the charter of this city, taliating, and leave the Lord to deal with which we supposed gave unto the mu- them, than to indulge in the other spirit nicipal authorities all the power neces- and the other feeling. sary to control, regulate, and, if neces- There is a great anxiety in the minds sary, prohibit the institutions and prac- of many of the Latter-day Saints re- tices to which I have alluded, is limited specting the future. "How long must in its power to stop the sale of liquor. we submit to such wrongs as we many So the judiciary have ruled. Monster times have to endure?" is a question petitions have been gotten up by the that arises very frequently in the minds women of this city and presented to the of the people. We have been in these City Council, asking for the prohibition mountains nearly thirty-three years— of liquor saloons; but in vain. The City thirty-two years last July. We had more Council are powerless in the matter, be- freedom in some respects the first few cause of judicial ruling. Naturally the in- years we were here than we have today, quiry arises, how long shall these things notwithstanding our growth, notwith- continue? Shall all the hopes respect- standing the numbers of the people have ing the future of this country, respect- increased to so great an extent, notwith- ing the future of Israel, be blotted out? standing the labors that have been per- Are we to be disappointed, and a condi- formed; and there is a natural anxi- tion of affairs be established here which ety in the minds of a great many peo- will perpetuate all the evils existing else- ple as to how long these things will where, from which we have fled? If I go on as they are, and some are al- thought this would be the case I should most discouraged. There was a time be discouraged. If I thought for one mo- when throughout these valleys, from one ment that we should not have power in end to the other, drunkenness was com- the future as we have had in the past paratively unknown. Drinking saloons to maintain righteousness and a righ- were not permitted, gambling saloons teous rule and good order in this coun- were not licensed, nor did they exist; try, I should feel exceedingly discour- other places which I need not name aged. But I do not look for a perpetua- had no foothold, nor existence, in our tion of these evils. I expect the day will midst, and from one end of the Ter- come when this people, if they will be ritory to the other there was a condi- THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER, ETC. 337 true to themselves and the principles nize all these things as likely to accom- which we have espoused, will have plish much good for us. I myself feel it power to control affairs throughout these is important that we as a people should mountains. Shall we do this by violence? be trained; that we should learn those Not at all. By overstepping the bounds of lessons that are necessary to enable us to the Constitution, or of the legal rights of temperately and properly exercise power individuals? Not at all. I do not look for when we gain it; and I have hoped that, any such thing; but I look for the time to by submitting to these things, by en- come when this people throughout these during them—as we have had to do for mountains shall have the power they many years—a lesson would be taught ought to have—the power to elect their to us that neither we nor our poster- own officers, enact their own laws and to ity should ever forget; and that when enforce them; when the majority of the the time should come for us to exercise people shall have the right to say what our full rights as American citizens, we shall be the rule in this land, a right might be able to administer the laws and that has been denied us up to the present govern in such a way that all should time. Why is this right denied us? Partly be protected, that every man of every because of the fears of people who live creed, of every nation, and of every peo- in our midst—their imaginary fears, or ple, should enjoy his rights in our midst their pretended fears. There is a class as perfectly as if he were in full faith of people in these valleys, particularly in with the majority of the people. Not this city and the country round about, the right to do wrong, not the right to who are using every influence in their practice iniquity, not the right to tram- power to prevent the Latter-day Saints ple upon his neighbor, to intrude upon from having the power that citizens of his rights, but the right to do that which the United States have elsewhere. They may seem good in his own eyes, so long say that if we get this power and this as he should not thereby interfere with authority it will be impossible for them the rights of others; the right to worship to live here, that they will have to leave God as he pleases, to call upon him in the land; that there will be such a reign any form that may be acceptable to him of terror, or such a condition of affairs or his conscience, to believe in God, or that no one will be able to endure it, ex- not to believe him if he choose, so long cept the Mormons, or Latter-day Saints, as the belief, practice and rights of his themselves; and by the publication of neighbor shall not be interrupted. Un- such stories as these, by magnifying all til we can reach this condition and en- the trifling things they see done, by call- tertain these views and carry them out, ing attention to plural marriage, and it would not surprise me if we should be by giving a false representation of the kept in subjection. power that is wielded by the leaders of I wish to say for the encouragement the people, and by the circulation of the of the Latter-day Saints, because I have most infamous falsehoods, they create an sometimes thought there was a feeling impression abroad that is unfavorable to of discouragement creeping over some us and to our rights. of the people, that some were letting In the providence of God I recog- down bars and yielding to the influences 338 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. around them and almost giving up in de- strious, be frugal, be chaste, avoid spair, feeling that all that had been spo- drunkenness, avoid wicked society, avoid ken concerning our future is very doubt- taking the name of God in vain, govern ful or not likely to be fulfilled—I there- your speech, be temperate in all things, fore wish to say for the encouragement and you will succeed." What father who of the people today that the time will loves his children does not impress upon come, as sure as God lives, that all that them the importance of these qualities? has been said concerning us will be ful- And these are the qualities that domi- filled. There is a great destiny in store nate among the Latter-day Saints. for this people called Latter-day Saints. They cannot be repressed. Mr. Evarts may issue his circular, he may send to I had occasion to go to a gentleman the nations of the earth, and the ports of here, within a week, to transact some the United States may be closed against business. He has been doing business our emigration. The law of 1862, against here for some years. Without my leading plural marriage, may be enforced with him on at all he said to me, "I never dealt rigor, and everything be done that can with so honest a people as the Mormons. be by those who are determined to check They pay their bills, they meet their en- the growth and development of this peo- gagements; you can rely upon them. Any ple, and yet there is a power connected money that I have lost I have not lost with them that cannot be unless the it through the Mormons." I felt thank- people themselves be extirpated. Any- ful that this man could say this about us, thing short of this will fail, will fail and yet we are not near so honest as we entirely, in accomplishing the stoppage should be, but there is this to be said in of this work. A people such as this, our favor, we are struggling in this direc- with all their faults—and our faults are tion, struggling to be honest, struggling numerous—but possessing such quali- to be truthful. We have raised a stan- ties as are being developed among us, dard which is much higher than we have must rise to the surface and become a attained unto. It is an elevated standard, governing people. Where in the race of but there is this to be said for the people, life, as you witness it among private in- if their standard is high they are strug- dividuals, do the qualities that charac- gling to attain to it. If not done to so terize the Latter-day Saints fail to win great an extent as we ought to do, still it success? We have temperance, frugality, can be said we are struggling to be truth- union, true love, honesty, industry and ful, honest and temperate, and we de- chastity. "No," says one, "not chastity." plore intemperance, profanity, litigation Yes chastity! For among no other peo- and strife, enmity and hard feelings. I ple upon this continent is chastity re- say there is a hope for a people who have spected as it is among the Latter-day a standard of this kind, and especially Saints. Where will you find these qual- so when they have men in their midst— ities fail in being successful? They are as I thank God we have—who are not always successful in private life. If you afraid to tell the people when they do want a man to succeed, if you want wrong, to tell them their faults to their your son to succeed, you say to him, faces and say unpleasant things to them. "my son, be truthful, be honest, be indu- There is one thing about the leading THE RIGHTEOUS SUFFER, ETC. 339 men of this Church; they do not de- bribery in high places rules, when po- pend upon the people for their support. litical parties condescend to purchase It is not necessary for them to tickle votes. The power of a government is their ears by fine speeches and pleasant weakened when Senators, Representa- things. They can say rough things, un- tives, and Presidents get their places by pleasant truths, because they are inde- the use of money. Woe to a nation when pendent; they can live without the aid of this becomes the case. It is doomed and the people by the industry of their own sooner or later it must fall. What is the hands, and they are not afraid of some remark respecting the election of United of their deacons or some of the congrega- States Senators in many of the States? tion taking exceptions to their manner of It is that a man cannot get that posi- speech and cutting off their salary. Why tion except he be wealthy. What does if such unpleasant truths were told, as that mean? Everyone can draw his own have been told to the Latter-day Saints, conclusion. But that is not the worst by ministers of different denominations, feature either. There is disunion and who do you think would give them a call? animosity and the fires of sectional ha- Would they receive a call to some other tred burn fiercely. They may smolder at places and be paid a higher salary? No, times. They may not always appear on their style would be too unpleasant to be the surface. But let the breeze blow and popular. Well I have hope for this people quicken them into life and how fierce the while this is the case, and I pray that we flame burns. shall always have men here who are not It may be asked, What has all this to afraid to tell you and me our faults and do with the Gospel? The Lord has re- warn us of them and reprove us, for "bet- stored the everlasting Gospel for the ex- ter the reproof of a friend than the kiss press purpose of raising up a pure peo- of an enemy." ple upon this land. This American conti- nent is the choicest land upon the face It is not going to be a great while— of the whole earth. God kept it hid- and many of you will see it too—before den until the 15th century that it might there will be a great revolution in the not to be overrun by the people of Eu- earth. Just as sure as the Lord lives the rope or of the rest of the world. He kept day will come when there will be conster- it hidden in darkness and covered with nation not only in foreign nations but in clouds until the set time had come when our own nation. The people of this Re- he could accomplish his purpose and pre- public are actually treading upon a vol- pare the way for the American Republic, cano and they do not know how soon under which his kingdom could be estab- the fires may burst forth, how soon the lished. Could it have been established in governmental fabric of this nation, the Asia, in Europe, or in Africa? No, it re- most glorious the sun has ever shone quired the Declaration of Independence upon, the best that man without the framed by men inspired of God; the Con- priesthood has had upon the earth, shall stitution of the United States framed tumble. And why? Through the cor- and adopted by men whom he had raised ruption of the people. The best gov- up; it required a people who had fought ernment becomes the worst government for their liberty, religious and civil, and when the people become corrupt, when who by his divine blessing had succeeded 340 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. in gaining it and in establishing a free and cast out our names as evil we can form of government. It required such leave our case in the hands of God. We a republican government as we have, can call upon him and ask his blessing, to permit this people called Latter-day and then what difference does it make Saints to be organized, to grow and in- what the wicked think or say about us? crease and become a mighty power. Is None in the least. We do not live for the there anything incompatible with true opinion of the wicked; but if we live as republicanism in the growth of such we should do, if we live for God and pur- a people organized as the Latter-day sue a straightforward course, and then Saints are? Let me say that the men and if our enemies malign us, God will be our women who live in accordance with the friend; he will deliver us and it will be all Gospel are the best people in the world. right with us in the end. "But," says one, They make the best members of society "how do you know God is your friend?" and live above all earthly law, that is Pray to him in faith and you will find constitutional law. Now I take issue, you out. Man may deride and say there is know, with some laws. Some laws are no God, and say that it is all humbug. constitutional, and some laws are uncon- But I know for myself that God lives. I stitutional, but a man who believes in know that when I pray to him he hears and practices the Gospel of Jesus Christ and answers my prayers. If I pray to will live so far above every constitutional him in secret and he rewards and gives law that he will never violate it. He may me the desires of my heart, supposing be guilty of mistakes, he may fall into er- all the rest of the world should say that ror, but there will be nothing culpable in God does not live, does that alter my po- his conduct. sition, or detract from any of the bless- As the people of God, we must be ings I enjoy? Not in the least. It does meek and lowly of heart. We must con- not interfere with them. It is my right fess our sins one to another, help the to believe there is a God, and if another poor, clothe the naked and administer man chooses to believe there is not, then sustenance to those who require it. We that is his business. Shall I quarrel with must cease our backbiting, our strife, our a man because I think my religion is bet- faultfinding, our evil speaking, bearing ter than his? Not at all. If my religion false witness and all other practices of is better than his, why I will show it in this kind, and live as Latter-day Saints my life and not descend to ridicule and should who are worthy of the name, then violence. When people take up pistols we will be the best citizens of the coun- and use violence they give to the world try, the best citizens that can be found, the best proof that their religion is not citizens of whom people will be proud— of God. But that is the way we have that is all good and honest people—and been treated. For believing in the true whom God will bless. These are duties Gospel we must be mobbed, we must that devolve upon every one of us. We have our houses burned, we must be should not be Saints in name alone, but driven from our homes, our children and in deed and in truth, striving to make aged people must die by the way side, our lives an exemplification of the princi- our track being marked with the graves ples we profess, and then if men revile us of them that fall, all because we have DUTIES OF THE SAINTS, ETC. 341 a religion that happens to differ from its proper recognition. Belial, or Sa- the religion of others. It is curious tan, is not going to rule always. His that men will do such things in the end draweth near, and the time is nigh name of religion! Now if you have true when misrule and wickedness shall be religion—as I know we ought to have— banished from the face of the earth. show the world that your religion is what it is proclaimed to be—the Gospel I pray that the blessing of God may of Jesus Christ; show the world that it rest upon us. I pray God to fill us with is a pure, a better and a loftier reli- the Holy Spirit, to inspire our hearts gion than any other, and not with our with pure desires, that we may serve him lips alone, but proclaim it to all, by to the best of our ability and knowledge, our words, and by our deeds, and then which may God grant in the name of Je- the time will come when it will receive sus. Amen.

DUTIES OF THE SAINTS IN TEMPORALITIES—IMPLICIT OBEDIENCE REQUISITE—CHURCH INTERESTS CAREFULLY GUARDED—GATHERING THE POOR—HOME INDUSTRIES.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER JOSEPH F. SMITH, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, HELDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,APRIL 8, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

There is a little time remaining, and them; in adopting and sustaining the as I have been requested I desire to make measures proposed for effectually carry- such remarks as may occur to my mind. ing out the purposes of the Almighty in I have been pleased and edified during relation to the great Latter-day work in the Conference which is now drawing to which we are engaged, and in seconding a close. It has been very gratifying to and sustaining those who are appointed see the large number of people that has to take the oversight of all the affairs of gathered together during the two days the Church, by the voice of the people that have passed. It is evident that the and by the voice of the Lord. In doing Latter-day Saints are interested in the this we are but doing our duty, still it is welfare of Zion, and are prompted to at- ever pleasant to see the people willing to tend to the duties which devolve upon do their duty, and especially so, to see so them, to take that part which belongs to many cheerfully respond to their duty as 342 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. have done so during this Conference. It difficult to bear; but when we enjoy the is certainly encouraging to those who companionship of the Holy Spirit, we stand at our head to see the people rally can and do joyfully perform all the tem- around them, manifesting such faith, poral duties and labors which may be good feeling and love for the work of God righteously required of us. The Lord and for those whom the Lord has in- will not require of his people anything spired with his good Spirit to lead us. It which they are unable to perform. He is an evidence, at least, that in a great will not impose burdens upon his peo- measure, our desires and our hearts are ple that they cannot bear; but if we united. have not the love of the truth and the There are a great many things which light of the good Spirit to guide us, the are necessary for us to consider and so most simple duties and the easiest tasks far as possible thoroughly understand. may seem burdens, too grievous to be Not much has been said during this Con- borne. I have known Elders, who, all ference in relation to our temporal af- their lives, have been "minute men;" fairs, except so far as the reports which they have never stopped a moment to have been read have shown the financial question the calls that have been made and statistical condition of the Latter- upon them, neither have they stopped day Saints. We belong to a temporal to consider their own temporal inter- as well as a spiritual kingdom, and it ests, they have gone and come at the is very necessary that we should take a request of their brethren in the service lively interest in whatever tends to build of the people and the Lord. They have up the kingdom of God, temporal as well had their cares and personal responsi- as spiritual, and spiritual as well as tem- bilities, which have not always been of poral. the lightest character, and which have I have never yet found anyone who taxed their energies to the utmost, or can draw the dividing line between our at least equal to many of those brethren spiritual and temporal interests, nei- who have enjoyed their leisure at home, ther do I expect to. I believe that it spending largely their time and ability is quite as necessary that we should in the interests of themselves and fam- attend to the temporal, as it is to at- ilies. They have had perhaps as many in tend to the spiritual duties which de- family to look after, to feed, clothe, and volve upon us, and vice versa. It will otherwise care for; yet these things have not do to devote all our time to the not been considered, or allowed to stand spiritual part, nor all to the temporal in the way, when duty called them to go alone. We must not run to extremes, forth in the interest of the Church. They but we should carry on the work of the were on hand, like the ready watchman, Lord committed to us, in all its parts, scarcely stopping to think of themselves or bearings. We should have sufficient or theirs. This they have done with of the good Spirit to make the temporal all their hearts, and their labors have labors light and easy to bear. I find that never been regarded as burdensome; but when we have to carry on the tempo- on the contrary, they afforded them joy, ral labors without the Spirit, or the life, pleasure and constant satisfaction. They light, vigor and power of faith, we are apt have not grown weary, they do not think to feel that it is burdensome and hard, or that they have done enough, as some DUTIES OF THE SAINTS, ETC. 343 have thought who have performed a that may be. If we should be called to short mission—that it is now time they preach the Gospel, we will find it a plea- were beginning to do something for sure to preach the Gospel, we will find themselves; they are still ready and will- it a pleasure to respond, for we will feel ing to go or come, or do whatever may that we are enlisted in the service of be required of them, regarding, at all God, for the salvation of souls, includ- times, their duties in the priesthood of ing our own. What is there to compare greater moment than any personal con- with this labor? Can we compare houses siderations. The Lord has blessed them and lands, gold or silver, or the wealth in their labors; he has made their bur- of the earth, to the salvation of the souls dens comparatively easy to bear; they of men? What will a man not give for have not felt the load, but they have gone his own life? And what will it profit a on rejoicing, never failing to accomplish man though he gain the whole world, if the work assigned them, to the best of he at last lose his own soul? These are their ability, trusting in the Lord, at the questions propounded by the Savior, who same time doing all in their power, for is "the author and finisher of our faith." the maintenance of themselves and fam- That which is of the earth is earthy; it ilies. belongs here, we cannot carry it away This is but a sample of what all the when we leave this state of existence, we people ought to be. We should all be cannot possess it beyond the veil, unless willing to labor for the welfare and sal- we live so while here that eventually we vation of the people—to sacrifice our shall be numbered with the Saints of the own desires and feelings for the good Most High God—for it is said that unto of the whole, being perfectly willing to them shall the earth be given, but not do the bidding of the Almighty, with no until they are prepared to "possess it for will of our own but to serve the pur- ever and ever." And then they must re- poses of the Lord. Is this not consis- ceive it from Him who has the right to tent with the pattern set us by the Sav- give. If we do right, therefore, in this pro- ior? Jesus said, "Father, not my will, bation, when "the earth and the fulness but thy will be done." This was the doc- thereof, shall be given to the saints of the trine he inculcated among his followers, most High," we will be numbered among and commanded them to obey; that their those who will inherit it. But that time will should be swallowed up in the will has not yet come. The earth and its ful- and pleasure of the Almighty, that they ness are not ours—if they were we might should feel in their hearts that they are remain here in peaceful possession; but willing to serve God even to the sacri- they are God's, and we are his, what fice of everything, though it should be we have being committed to us, as stew- life itself, "counting all things but dross ards, for a little season; therefore, our in comparison to the excellency of the worldly riches and possessions are but knowledge of Jesus Christ." When we dross compared with our eternal salva- possess the spirit of the Gospel and faith tion. We are laboring for the salvation of in God, as we should, we will have no souls, and we should feel that this is the burdens that will be difficult to bear; greatest duty devolving upon us. There- on the contrary, we will find our "yokes fore, we should feel willing to sacrifice easy, and our burdens light," and it will be a pleasure to do our duty, whatever 344 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. everything, if need be, for the love of posed they had claims upon the Trustee- God, the salvation of men, and the tri- in-Trust, which investigation has proved umph of the kingdom of God upon the they did not have. And in other in- earth, in which we expect to receive out stances, where it has been shown that reward, our exaltation and our crown of the Trustee-in-Trust has claims upon in- life. These are not mere suppositions, dividuals who supposed they were not the chimera of men's brains, or the cun- indebted to the Church. But in all of ning of man's devices; but things which these matters evenhanded justice has have been revealed to us from God, he been sought to be dealt out to the in- having spoken and declared these truths dividual and to the Church; but while unto man in our day. the Church can afford to be liberal in I can testify to you, my brethren and its alms to the worthy and needy poor, sisters, that so far as the Spirit of God and to pay all just demands, or claims manifests to me, all is well in Zion today. upon it, it cannot afford to sanction or The work of God is progressing. The in- allow claims that are not just. And fur- terests of the kingdom are carefully and ther, it is but just and fair that individ- jealously guarded by those upon whom uals should be as prompt, so far as it is rests this responsibility. Zion's welfare in their power, to meet their obligations is the constant theme, meditation and to the Church as it is expected that the prayer. They desire that no interest of Church will be in meeting its obligations Zion shall be allowed to fail, or flag, to individuals. for the want of proper care and timely We do not expect that the rights of attention. The finances of the Church the Church will be disregarded in any are guarded carefully by the Trustee-in- particular. We do not expect that any Trust for the Church. This I can tes- person will indulge, or even admit the tify to, having been more or less inti- feeling that the Church is an institution mately associated with him for the last only to be preyed upon; but we expect six months. I know he has carefully that the people do and will understand looked after the financial interest of the that we cannot afford to deal in any other Church, as well as the temporal and manner than upon the principles of the spiritual welfare of the people, that the strictest justice, righteousness and eq- Church might be protected in its rights uity between man and man, and between as well as individuals, and that indi- the Church and individual members of viduals might also be protected in their the Church, or the individual members rights as well as the Church, that justice and the Church. might be dealt out to all. We have had a very excellent dis- There have been some circumstances course from the President of the P. E. developed and brought to the notice of Fund Company, in regard to the duties the Trustee-in-Trust and the Auditing of those who are indebted to the com- Committee, which have been of a very pany. He has shown the vast amount trying character, both to their feelings that is now owing to that company by in- and to the feelings of the other mem- dividuals who have been assisted to im- bers of the council of Apostles, and no migrate to this goodly land by its means; doubt also very trying to the feelings and the ingratitude, want of charity and of some of the brethren who have sup- dishonor which attaches to individuals DUTIES OF THE SAINTS, ETC. 345 who have been so generously assisted the ungathered, worthy poor. What hon- out of poverty and oppression, and orable person can refuse or neglect to do placed in circumstances to become free such a duty? and independent, and then neglect or fail We are sending large numbers of El- to do their duty in these matters. ders from time to time, to preach the In some instances individuals who Gospel abroad. It is the duty of the have been assisted to Zion by the P. E. Latter-day Saints to assist those Elders Fund, have gathered around them of this on their missions when they need as- world's goods until they have become sistance, or when they are unable to rich, and still their indebtedness to the fit themselves out. Their families too "Fund" remains unsettled. should be cared for by the Church, dur- It is more than probable that these ing the absence of the husband and fa- same individuals would always have re- ther, so far as they are needy or unable mained in poverty had they not been to provide for themselves. Every man is gathered to Zion by the P. E. Fund: thus, in duty bound to do all he reasonably can we see, they are doubly indebted to the to roll on the work of God, to maintain "Fund," first for their deliverance from himself and family and assist to build up Babylon, from poverty and bondage; and Zion. secondly for the wealth and liberty which they now possess. Sometimes a good man is needed to And again they are manifoldly more fill a certain mission, he is well adapted guilty of ingratitude to God and man, be- to the position he is called to fill, or the cause they have withheld from the Fund duty he is required to perform; but he is its just dues—which they were able to poor, he may perhaps have a large fam- pay, and deprived others more worthy ily to maintain, which would require his than themselves from receiving assis- whole time if devoted wholly to that end, tance in the manner they had been as- yet his ability, faith, integrity and other sisted. qualifications peculiarly fit him for the Every man that owes the Fund a dol- duty required, and he is the most avail- lar should realize that it is a just debt, able man to be found. Now what is to be that there are others in the same condi- done? Are we to excuse him because his tion that they were in when picked up by family is large and require his services, the P. E. Fund company and brought to or because of his poverty. Certainly not. this blessed land, that they are praying If the interest of Zion requires his ser- and pleading for deliverance also, and vices, in that direction lies his legitimate that perhaps they are quite as worthy— path of duty. Then it becomes the duty of if not more so—than many who have the Saints to provide for his family and been helped and now owe the "Fund" to see that they do not lack the necessaries an amount which, if all was paid up, of life; and it would not hurt us to see would be more than sufficient to immi- that they enjoyed some of the comforts. grate to this country all the Saints now in Europe. If there is no excuse for the poor, Men but do their duty when they certainly there can be none for the pay their just debts and to do so wealthy, nevertheless the rich are of- in this case they discharge a triple ten so engrossed in their business duty—to the Fund, themselves and to so bound up in worldly affairs, that 346 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. they are but poorly qualified for mission- tion to our increasing faithfulness. Our ary service; the greater the reason why enjoyment of the gifts and blessings they should freely impart of their abun- of the Holy Spirit will increase as we dance in aid of those who are better fit- become more diligent and so will our ted for the ministry when such are called knowledge extend and our title to exal- into the missionary field. It is true the tation and eternal life become more and tithings of the people are for these and more sure. other purposes, and no doubt when all The sending of Elders from year to the rich and poor with one accord hon- year, and thousands of dollars annually estly obey the law of tithing there will be to gather the poor is not all we have to plenty in the storehouse of the Lord, to do. We have home industries to look af- build temples and houses of worship, to ter. We must provide employment for feed and clothe the hungry and naked, our people, that when they are gath- to provide for the aged, infirm and poor, ered home they may not be idle for want to gather the Saints, to send the Elders of remunerative labor. We should es- to the nations of the earth and main- tablish branches of industry from which tain their families while they are gone, we could at least provide for our own and also to purchase the land of Zion necessities and as soon as possible be and redeem the Center Stake and ob- able to export our home productions, and tain possession of our inheritances, or do thus give employment to every faithful any other thing which may be needed, al- Latter-day Saint who is gathered to Zion, though in the beginning God gave a more that individuals may not only become perfect law than that of tithing by which self sustaining but contribute their pro- to accomplish all these things, but the portion to the general good. Saints were not able to abide the higher Our manufactories should be fos- law—and it was temporarily suspended, tered, patronized and protected, and therefore until we know how, and will do their staple wares sought after and pre- better than we now do, our tithings and ferred by the people, even though they our offerings are necessary to carry on were more costly at first. It needs no the work of God. argument to prove to the sagacious and farseeing that this policy will pay the best in the end. These duties should not be consid- While we continue to be purchasers ered a hardship by the Saints. The law of and importers only, we will remain de- tithing is a commandment with promise pendent to, and at the mercy of manu- of reward for obedience. No man ever ob- facturers and exporters from abroad; but served this law but he was blessed in so when we can produce what we need by doing, for God is both able and willing our own industry and skill, from the ele- to fulfill all his promises when the con- ments which so abundantly surround us, ditions are complied with on our part. we cease to import, to be dependent upon Those duties which God requires may Babylon, or the world, we approach inde- seem a burden to the disobedient and pendence, and begin to assume the posi- unfaithful, but to the willing and obedi- tion in the earth which God has designed ent they are sources of blessing, pleasure we should, to lead and not be led, to and delight and are no burden at all. teach and not be taught, to be the "head Our burdens become lighter in propor- and not the tail." DUTIES OF THE SAINTS, ETC. 347

Every Latter-day Saint should be silk, which enters so largely into, and proud to wear homemade clothes, from is so eagerly sought for female apparel, head to foot, and when we begin to and there are thousands of men, women study our best interests, and the inter- and children in Utah, who could as well est of Zion we will do so though it costs as not devote a portion of their time to us more now than to wear the stuffed, its culture, say a month or six weeks in starched, glossed and glittering shoddy the proper season of the year, both to of the world, or even the best the world their pleasure and profit, if they would, affords. Money spent in home manu- and the result would be the production in factures, is money saved to the com- vast quantities of the much coveted arti- munity, it is money laid up for future cle of silk, and an increase of profitable use and benefit at home, while money labor. sent abroad builds up New York, Boston, Sister Zina Young, Father Graves and Philadelphia, Lowell, and the world gen- a few others are interesting themselves erally, all of whom are opposed to the in this industry and are trying to awaken people and the work of God and will only an interest therein in the minds of the return evil to us for the patronage we be- industrial classes, that silk may eventu- stow upon them. ally become a staple product of Utah. So We should be prepared, not only to far, I fear, they have found it rather up- manufacture our own wearing apparel, hill work. The people seem to be eager but also to make all our mechanical and for immediate profit, for present gain, agricultural implements, our household which in too many cases is exceedingly furniture, our building materials, our detrimental to the individual as well as wagons, carriages and equipment, with to the public good. It is difficult to get all that is necessary for the righteous people to look forward, or labor for the and legitimate use of man, that when future; we are all so terribly wrapped up Babylon shall fall we may be prepared and engrossed in the present and in self. for it, and not be found among those who But the culture of silk is gradually be- shall wail and lament because "no man ing extended, I am told, and by and by it buyeth her merchandise any more." will, unquestionably, become one of our I see some of the sisters wearing fine flourishing industries. A little child is hats trimmed with silk ribbon, also silk capable of attending to a large part of shawls, dresses, neckties, etc., which are the labor involved in the production of of their own production and make. This raw silk, and children a little farther ad- is as it should be—"the beauty of the vanced can prepare it for the loom. work of their own hands." May the Lord bless the people. May Perhaps no country in the world the Spirit of the Lord abide in the hearts abounds more profusely than ours, of the Latter-day Saints, and lead them with the real elements of wealth, and continually, is my prayer, in the name of none better adapted to the raising of Jesus. Amen. 348 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

THE TEMPLES IN COURSE OF ERECTION—POLITICAL POSITION OF THE SAINTS—OUR POSITION REGARDING PATRIARCHAL MARRIAGE—THE CORRUPTIONS OF SO-CALLED CHRISTENDOM—HOW THE SAINTS SHOULD LIVE—SUNDAY SCHOOLS, RELIEF AND MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATIONS.

DISCOURSEBY PRESIDENT JOHN TAYLOR, DELIVEREDINTHE TABERNACLEAT PROVO, NOVEMBER 30, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

We have heard a good many great position. We found in both of these and important truths uttered by those places that the people had been very who have addressed us since the com- faithful, diligent and liberal in the pros- mencement of this conference. We have ecution of this work, that is, in build- these conferences appointed for the pur- ing temples to the name of the Lord, pose of adjusting and regulating any that they may go and administer therein matters that may arise in the several and attend to the ordinances of God's Stakes, and for teaching and instruct- house for themselves, and receive those ing the people on all matters pertaining blessings which God has to confer upon to their welfare relative to this world as His people, and administer not only for well as the world to come. themselves, the living, but also for the My brethren of the Twelve and my- dead. We found that a very large amount self have been traveling around consid- of means had been used in both of these erably lately among the people. We valleys, including the districts around, have visited some of the most promi- appointed to assist them in the erection nent Stakes and attended their con- of these temples, and they are build- ferences; among which are the Stakes ing up splendid edifices in both places. of Sanpete and Cache Valley—two of The one in Cache Valley is built of hard the most prominent of the Territory— rock, a species of marble, that will make in which temples are being built. We a very strong wall. There is, however, thought we would like to visit them mixed up with it in different places, some and see the condition of affairs; how very fine sandstone, which they have to they were progressing, what advance- bring from quite a distance. They have ment they were making in these impor- raised the walls of that Temple about tant labors, and then if they needed as- fifty-five feet and are still persever- sistance of any kind we could render it ing. We found also that they were pro- intelligently after enquiring into their THE TEMPLES IN COURSE OF ERECTION, ETC. 349 secuting their work very assiduously in they needed some considerable assis- Sanpete. They have beautiful sand- tance, and we felt it to be our duty to as- stone there of a light color, easy to hew, sist them out of the general fund of the which will make a beautiful structure Church, the same as we do in Salt Lake when completed, almost equal to ours in City; but of course not to the same ex- Salt Lake City, with this difference, it tent. is simply dressed outside. Hence things are progressing rapidly, which evinces a good desire among the Saints to carry They were working in union in a kind out the purposes which God has de- of united order; but not of course fixed signed and which they have engaged up in that order. But as we are op- along with us to perform. erating together in the interests of the In visiting these places we felt a de- Church and Kingdom of God, we deemed sire to see the people that lived in the it quite proper that those places should settlements around. We made an at- receive the necessary assistance; and we tempt to this end before, but could not thought also that that kind of feeling accomplish it because of the pressure and spirit would also be satisfactory to of circumstances that required our at- our brethren of the priesthood and to the tention in the city; but this time, be- Saints generally throughout the Terri- ing at liberty, we visited all the princi- tory, for we are one, or ought to be one pal settlements in Sanpete and Cache in our endeavors to build up the Church Valley, which are quite numerous. We and Kingdom of God. Having enjoyed thought it was proper, seeing they have ourselves very much in preaching and in as good meetinghouses as you have here. mingling among the Saints in the places They have a much larger meetinghouse where we have visited, we thought we in Cache Valley than you have here, and would come to you and do likewise—not I think the one in Ephraim, Sanpete, particularly to talk to you, because you is larger than this—yet they could nei- doubtless have enough of preaching, and ther accommodate all the people, nor get perhaps a little more than you can at- them together, and you could not here. tend to; but in some places the people do We could take some of the houses in not have the same opportunity that you which we have attended meetings, and do here in Provo, for we sometimes slide put most of the people who are seated by many settlements on the road, and in the body of this tabernacle into them. it appears in some instances as though If the Saints wanted to attend confer- they were neglected. We thought in com- ence they could not find room, and con- ing among you we would bring our own sequently we thought it better to visit carriages as we used to in former years, them at their homes, see how they were and go by the highway and visit the folks situated, feel after their spirits and let at their own homes, go into the high- them feel ours; converse with them, ways and byways and try to meet with all preach to them and see what they were the Saints, for we are all one, all having doing. been baptized into the one baptism and We found that in these temple dis- ought to partake of the same spirit and tricts, whilst they had been very en- be governed by those glorious principles ergetic and very generous in their which God has revealed for the teaching feelings in contributing to the work, and exaltation of the human family. Be- 350 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. sides there are a great many circum- people in these valleys of the mountains. stances, transpiring from time to time, We are gathered here because we em- which render it necessary that we should braced the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and be conversant with one another's feel- because of the revealing of that Gospel to ings; that we should understand the Joseph Smith, and because after having mind and will of the Lord, and that we embraced it, we partook of its spirit, and should be prepared to operate with Him because there was associated therewith in the interests of the human family, the principle of gathering. We are gath- in the establishment of Zion and in the ered here under peculiar circumstances. building up of the Kingdom of God on the But our first object was simple obedience earth. I always take pleasure in preach- to the Gospel. There are circumstances ing the Gospel—I have done a great deal growing out of this, over which we seem of it—and my brethren of the Twelve to have very little control, by being gath- feel the same. There is nothing I take ered together in the position we now oc- greater pleasure in than in proclaiming cupy, and composing part of this nation, the Gospel to the nations of the earth, there are certain political duties that and in mingling among and preaching seem to force themselves upon us. We to the Saints of God. Although I cannot came here simply on religious principles now go abroad, yet I can, and so can my to start with, because we had faith in brethren of the Twelve, associate with God, because we had faith in the restora- you—for they feel as I do in relation to tion of the everlasting Gospel; because this matter; we can visit the Saints at we had faith in the gathering together home and talk to them on the things per- of the people; because we had faith in taining to the kingdom of God. the ordinances of the Gospel of the Son There are a great many things asso- of God; because we had faith in the or- ciated also with this Kingdom that it is ganization of the Church and Kingdom proper should be presented to us from of God, and the various offices pertain- time to time, that we may be enabled to ing thereunto throughout all the ram- act and to operate together and be one ifications of the Church. We came to- in our feelings religious, one in our feel- gether therefore in a Church capacity: ings social, and one in our feelings po- but being gathered together as a people, litical; for all these things are mixed up we brought our bodies with us, that is and intimately connected with the po- we brought our souls, if you please, for sition we occupy as the Saints of the the spirit and the body, we are told, is Most High God in the building up of His the soul of man. We brought ourselves Zion here upon the earth. There are here and being here we naturally form things spiritual, there are things denom- an integral part of the United States, inated temporal, there are things also and have become part of what is termed spoken of as being eternal in their na- the body politic of the government. But ture, and all these subjects, in all their we could not help that, and I do not know various ramifications, demand more or that we want to help it. less of our attention. For instance, we We became then organized in a are gathered together here as a peculiar territorial capacity and part and par- THE TEMPLES IN COURSE OF ERECTION, ETC. 351 cel of the government of the United is reciprocal. We need the protection of States; this follows as a natural conse- law wherever we are, or under whatso- quence. ever circumstances we may be placed; and in placing ourselves in this position we are only doing just the same as others There are a great many Saints here of our fellow citizens similarly situated gathered together. I do not know the are doing. This is a matter which has number; it is estimated by some to be grown out of our religious ideas. Our re- from 150,000 to 200,000. How many ligion prompted us to come together; and there are I am not prepared to say. No being together we have become a body matter, however, about that: but we have of men, and being on territory belong- gathered ourselves here. Now, then, it ing to the United States, it becomes nec- is necessary we should be under some essary that we should be subject to its government. Being here in the United laws and usages, according to the pro- States, we, of course, became part of that visions made and stipulations entered government, and, as a necessary conse- into under its jurisdiction and govern- quence, according to the customs and us- ment. These things are all plain mat- ages of this government, we were admit- ters of fact, there is nothing extrane- ted as a Territory. Under these circum- ous or uncommon about them. Further, stances, the government send out certain as American citizens we have certain officers; for instance, a governor is ap- rights, and others have certain rights. pointed and selected by the President of All men in the United States possess the United States, and then sanctioned certain rights which are guaranteed to by the Senate, and he receives his com- them by its Constitution. Again we have mission from the administration of the our legislative officers, provided for by government of the United States, and he act of Congress and passed by the gen- comes here as their representative. Then eral government of the United States. we have U.S. judges, a secretary, a mar- We have our probate courts, also our shal and civil officers, according to the justices of the peace, our selectmen and usages that exist among people situated the various organizations and laws per- as we are in the Territories of the United taining to education, to public schools, States. There are so many representa- and all things as they exist in other Ter- tives of the government who are prop- ritories. But notwithstanding all this erly appointed and authorized according there is one thing wherein we are very to the form and usage that obtain gener- unpleasantly situated, which difficulty ally in the country and in the adminis- arises from the peculiar position we oc- tration of the affairs of this nation. We cupy in regard to our religion. There therefore come under this government is nothing else that I know of. I have and are subject to its laws and receive been in this Church a great many years, its officers. They come among us, which and lived in this nation a great many is very right they should do, according years, and have been a citizen for a great to the forms and usages that exist in many years; but there is nothing that I the United States; and it is our duty to know of excepting that one thing, that treat them properly, as it is their duty to could in anywise be considered objec- treat us properly; the duty in this regard tionable, and that is in relation to our 352 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. views pertaining to plural marriage; who would go round our houses and take there is nothing else in all our acts that advantage of certain circumstances and any man in any part of world can or become informers and implicate you in would attempt to find fault with. No man crime under guise of friendship. All such can justly say this people have been dis- men in any country are despised, and loyal to the Government of the United would be looked upon as scoundrels not States, if they say so they say something fit to associate with honorable people. that is not true, and a great many of There is no one more contemptible than them when they do say it know they are a spy. He is looked upon as the scum of telling falsehoods. We are not turbulent, society and the filthiest dregs of a com- we do not create any difficulty, we do not munity anywhere. We do not want to get up mobs, we do not interfere with associate with such, we cannot, our nat- anybody's rights, socially, religiously, po- ural feelings revolt at it, and while we litically or any other way. We do not in- respect honorable men everywhere, we terfere with a man because his religious say to such characters, "O my soul, come views are not as ours; but on the other not thou into their secret; unto their as- hand, so far as we have the authority sembly, mine honor, be not thou united!" we protect all men. But there are some These are our feelings about such indi- things we have occasion to find fault with viduals. because of men wishing to trespass upon In regard to our religious mat- our rights. We think this wrong, con- ters wherein our social relations are trary to comity, good faith and correct concerned—for these are as much reli- principles, and consequently we speak gious matters with us as anything in- about it, and that is right, we have the stituted among men. Our marriage sys- right to do that. If any man, either in a tem is one of the greatest principles that religious, political or social capacity, tres- God ever developed to the human fam- pass upon the rights of common human- ily, whether men believe it or not. But ity, we have as much right to express our there are many who are not acquainted feelings and to defend our rights as any with these things as we are; they do not other set of men have under the same cir- understand God nor his revelations; and cumstances, and no just man would seek they really, if it came to the point, should to deprive us of this liberty. have nothing to say against us in rela- tion to these matters. But they do not Now then, so far so good. While understand it, neither do they wish to we would respect all honorable men, understand it; because there are a great and would treat them justly and eq- many very corrupt men devoid of princi- uitably, we do not, we cannot respect ple, and they care not what becomes of these miserable men who respect no their future if they can only accomplish man's rights, who would turn and give their present objects. you evil for good, traduce your charac- Now then, did we seek this princi- ter and circulate falsehoods about you ple? No, we did not. Did we ask God and seek to injure you—we cannot look that we might have a plurality of wives? upon them as honorable men. They No, we did not. Was it a matter of our are not so treated among any peo- choice? No. The same God that revealed ple; especially those miserable sneaks to Joseph Smith the first principles of the THE TEMPLES IN COURSE OF ERECTION, ETC. 353

Gospel also revealed unto him the doc- for us to oppose them. But others do trine of plural marriage; it was pre- not know anything about these things, sented to us as a doctrine to be believed consequently they cannot comprehend in and be governed by. Could we help it? our position. Have we done anything What had we to do with it? It is a com- covertly? Not until we were forced to. mand of God; and the question is, Shall I, Some few years ago, I remember being after having embraced the Gospel of the brought before a court to give evidence Son of God, and entered into covenant in a case. I was asked if I believed in with Him to observe His laws and be keeping the laws of the United States. governed by the revelations of His will; I answered, "Yes, I believe in keeping shall I, because of something that is dis- them all but one." "What one is that?" tasteful to me, set up my will and judg- "It is that one in relation to plurality of ment against His, and say, "Why, I shall wives." "Why don't you believe in keep- be despised, I shall be hated;" shall I, ing that?" "Because I believe it is at because of a feeling of that kind vio- variance with the genius and spirit of late the laws of God? No, I cannot do our institutions—it is a violation of the it; neither can you who believe in the Constitution of the United States, and revelation. God gave it to His servant it is contrary to the law of God." Now Joseph Smith and he declared it unto us. this is plain. You could not tell your Now, how was it? The first thing that feelings much plainer. This was before was done, when the word of God came the Supreme Court affirmed the consti- to us to do it—for there was a time af- tutionality of that law. "Well," said a ter this revelation was given when we man to me, "Are you prepared to abide were not permitted to teach this doc- the consequences." "Always," said I, "ev- trine publicly; but as soon as we were in- erywhere." That is straightforward, and structed to do so, Prof. Orson Pratt was in saying this, I only expressed the feel- sent to Washington to publish a paper, at ings of thousands of my brethren and the seat of government, and there pro- sisters. Well, then, whose business is claim our sentiments on plural marriage it? If I do a thing and am prepared to this nation and to the world. This to abide the penalty, whose business is mission he fulfilled—publishing a paper it? Do I interfere with the friends or called the Seer, and lecturing in a hall government of the United States? No. hired for that purpose, several times a They have passed a law for political ef- week. Was there anything underhanded fect which is really intended as a trap about this, or low, or anything antagonis- for us. One would think that a great tic to the interest of this nation or any and magnanimous nation of fifty mil- other nation? It was merely proclaim- lions, could afford to allow a few thou- ing certain principles pertaining to eter- sand people to work out a social prob- nal lives and covenants that should ex- lem, without fear of contamination. They ist through eternity, in our sexual rela- do not understand us, we wish them tions pertaining to our association in this no harm. Many of them know this; world and the world to come. Did we but they cannot always control circum- interfere with the rights of others? No; stances, and many of the members of and if we had any revelations, it was not Congress who were not willing to do any- thing of this sort, were crowded on by 354 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. religious bigotry that prevailed among more pure, in our actions than they are their people, just the same as others in theirs. There is not a country in the were in the days of Jesus. In his day he world today where virtue and the rights, and his followers were maligned as we privileges, honor and chastity of the fe- are. If he ever did any good, how was it male portion of the community are more represented? "Give God the praise: we strongly protected than in this Territory. know that this man is a sinner." And if Now, that is a fact. we do any good somebody else must have the praise instead of us; but if there is The question then arises what shall any harm done, as, for instance, the trou- we do? We are under the painful neces- ble among the Indians, "it is the Mor- sity of protecting ourselves as best we mons that do it!" I suppose if there are may. How did they do in other times— any storms, shipwrecks, wars or blood- how did they do in Rome? We are not shed, in Timbuctoo, among the Zulus, so badly off as some people were in for- Chinese, Japanese, or Europeans, the mer ages. It is said that Christians had Mormons will be represented as having to dwell in caves, and that they were had a hand in them. What position does hunted and dragged from these places this place us in? Do we wish to be gov- of concealment by government spies and erned by the laws of the United States put into the arena, where thousands and and sustain its institutions? Yes, we tens of thousands of people would go to do. But while we are doing this, many see them devoured by wild beasts, and infamous men are misrepresenting us. I have no doubt that many of our pi- But there are many honorable men who ous Christians would like to see a scene have other feelings. I have seen many of that kind. What shall we do? God of them not only in this nation but other has given unto us a law. Shall we obey nations, who possess more liberal and it? We are placed—not by acts of our generous feelings, men of position and own—in a position where we cannot help of all conditions in life. And among the ourselves. We are between the hands honorable men of earth I find there are of God and the hands of the Govern- a great many who look upon us as hav- ment of the United States. God has laid ing been cruelly treated by those who upon us a command for us to keep, He ought to be our friends. Well, now what has commanded us to enter into these shall we do under those circumstances? covenants with each other pertaining Having passed a law on purpose to en- to time and eternity, and has revealed trap us they would now complain be- this law through the holy priesthood and cause we do not run right into the trap the regularly constituted channels which and say, "take us and put us in prison." He has appointed for conveying this in- We are not such big fools yet, we have formation, and we, having been bap- very different ideas to those. If they tized into one baptism and partaken of are ignoring principles that God has re- the same spirit, know for ourselves that vealed to us we cannot help it. If they these things are true. I know they are do not believe our statements, we can- true, if nobody else does. I know it my- not have confidence in theirs; but one self. I cannot help knowing it, and all thing we do know, we are a thousand the edicts and laws of Congress and leg- times more virtuous, a thousand times islators and decisions of courts could not THE TEMPLES IN COURSE OF ERECTION, ETC. 355 change my opinion. I know that it is nations of Europe, and are practicing in- from God, and therefore bear testimony famies which have been the overthrow of it. Now, can I help it? No. The and ruin of many mighty cities, nations question resolves itself into this: having and empires, and which are now the received a command from God to do a loathsome, unnatural, disgusting, damn- certain thing and a command from the ing sins of Christendom. The standing State not to do it, the question is what law of God is, be fruitful and multiply; shall we do? Daniel had a political trap but these reformers are "swift to shed set for him, as we have had for us. An blood," even the blood of innocence; and edict was passed forbidding him to pray with their prenatal murders and other to his God under penalty of death; he crimes, are slaying their thousands and went and opened his window and prayed tens of thousands with impunity, to say in the sight of the community, hence he nothing of that other loathsome, disgust- violated that decree with death staring ing, filthy institution of modern Chris- him in the face. He knew this law was ir- tendom, "the social evil," as well as other revocable, but he was determined to obey infamous practices. We must protest the commandment of God and he did. against feticide, infanticide, and other They cast him into a den of lions, and he abominable practices of Christendom be- played with them as a child would play ing forced upon us, either in the shape of with kittens. There was something to try legislative enactment, judicial decision Daniel's faith in this but God took care of or any other adjunct of so called civi- him. lization. We are American citizens and But there is another feature mani- are not yet deprived of the inalienable fested in this. We notice that King Dar- rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of ius, the victim of a political plot, was happiness. Men express surprise some- very solicitous for the welfare of Daniel, times at the action of the grand jury who for early in the morning he went to sat upon, as I am informed, about 200 the lion's cave and cried, "O Daniel, is cases of polygamy and only found bills the God in whom thou trusteth, able to against three. Why, human nature with deliver thee?" When Daniel replied, "O all its infirmities is not sunk so low as King, live forever. The God in whom at the bidding of an official satrap to I trust has sent his angel, and has de- find indictments to order, without evi- livered me from the jaws of the lions," dence and testimony, and there are very etc. I do not think from the reading few, in view of the above facts, who are of the President's message, that if any sunk so low as to condemn men for mar- of us were cast into the lion's den or rying wives and supporting their chil- into prison, that Mr. Hayes would man- dren, while at the same time they know ifest the interest about us that Darius that their accusers and persecutors are did about Daniel; but then we must re- violating every principle of chastity, and member this difference, that the first of murdering their own offspring. Many these is a Christian; the latter was a men may be very corrupt, and indulge heathen. But outside of these things, I in the vices and crimes of the age; feel to proclaim against the vices of the but all are not hypocrites. Despotic age, whether in this nation or others; for laws require a despot, and not even we as a nation are fast descending as packed juries will always carry them out. low as the most degenerate and corrupt 356 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Now, it becomes a question for us to de- Yet I am sorry that he is not a little cide whether we shall observe the laws more magnanimous, I am sorry he does of God or the commands of men. If I had not possess a little more of these feelings to answer I would answer as I did before that actuated the founders of this gov- the court. When I made that answer this ernment; I am not sorry for the Saints, question had not then been decided by for it is quite necessary that we should the Supreme Court of the United States. have to pass through a variety of things Since then they have sanctioned that in order that, like ancient Saints, we law, hence we are placed in a position a may be made perfect through suffering. good deal like the Christians were in the "For it became him, for whom are all days of Rome, and the Christians now as- things, in bringing many sons unto glory, sume the position of the then heathen. to make the captain of their salvation What shall we do? Shall we trust in perfect through sufferings." "He was in God or in the arm of flesh? Shall we give all points tempted like as we are, yet up our religion and our God and be gov- without sin." Shall we forsake the in- erned by the practices that exist in the stitutions of this country because of the nation which are contrary to the laws of acts of those men? No, we will cleave God? All who are in favor of abiding by to them and sustain them. Shall we de- the laws of God hold up their right hand prive other men of their political rights? (The congregation voted unanimously). No, we will not. Shall we deprive any We find the same feeling throughout the man of his social rights? No, we will Territory. not. Shall we deprive any men of their We wish no disrespect to the govern- religious rights? No, we will not. They ment, for after all I do not suppose we may do as they please in Washington and could get any better treatment from any other places; but we will do right towards other Christian nation than we do from all men. Our motto is, Freedom, Liberty our own, but this is not saying much for and Rights of Conscience to all people; as them. It is a poor thing when so great Brother Parley P. Pratt has it in one of and magnanimous a nation cannot af- his poems: ford to allow 200,000 people to worship "Indian, Muslim, Greek or Jew, Free- God according to the dictates of their dom's banner waves for you." own consciences. This is the kind of feeling we enter- But have we resisted anything else? tain in regard to this subject. We all have No. Have I? No. Have you? I presume faults, and perhaps this government is not. I expect these kind of things—the one of the best governments we could opposition and corruption of men and the have in the world; and we will sustain it. world, under the instigation of the devil, And then, we will contend for our rights who is the enemy of the Saints. What legally, properly, orderly and constitu- then? Do I expect to give up my religion tionally. And then, we will watch those to the devil? I think not. What shall we miserable hounds that come sneaking do then? Shall we abuse the people of into our midst, and tell them to leave; we the United States? No. Shall we abuse do not want a lot of dogs among us. Hon- the President of the United States? No. orable and decent men, men that will do THE TEMPLES IN COURSE OF ERECTION, ETC. 357 right we will maintain all the time. But holy prophets since the world began. this nation is laying the axe at the root Now then, having talked a little upon of the tree and they then will crumble this principle, I will speak about some to pieces by and by. If they can stand it other things associated with our affairs we can. If they can afford to treat us in here, in a Stake capacity, or as Saints, this way, they will soon treat others in say, for I generally talk more to the whole the same way. And they will tear away people than I do to the people of a Stake. one plank of liberty after another, until There are a few things that I wish to the whole fabric will totter and fall; and draw your attention to. You have got many other nations will be cast down a Stake organization, you have a pres- and empires destroyed; and this nation ident and his counselors, who stand in will have to suffer as others will. And the same position to you as the First it will be as Joseph Smith once said, Presidency to the Church. I think you "When all others forsake the Constitu- heard something about that this morn- tion, the Elders of this Church will rally ing. Pray for them. Have they weak- around the standard and save its tat- nesses? Yes. Have you? Yes. Have I? tered shreds." We will come to its rescue Yes. We are in possession of a rich and and proclaim liberty to all men. glorious treasure; but it is contained in What shall we do about many other earthen vessels. We all have our weak- things? Let them alone; "Let the pot- nesses and infirmities; but we will pray sherds of the earth contend with the for those that are appointed to preside potsherds of the earth." The God who over us, that God may bless them. And rules in the heavens is watching over when we bow with our family, with our their movements as well as ours, they wives and children around us, we will are in his hands as we are—he will ask God to bless them and inspire them put a hook in their jaws and lead them with wisdom, that they may manage well in the way they dreamed not of. He all things committed to their care. We will say to them as he did to the proud will not find fault with them, but ask waves of the surging ocean—"Hitherto God, if we think a false step has been shalt thou come, and no farther: and made, to lead them in the right path. here shall thy proud waves be stayed." And we will make things right if we do But it is for us to cleave to God and ob- this, whether they want them or not, for serve his laws and keep his command- God will control them by His Spirit for ments; and then we need fear no evil our good. that may come upon us, "for God will And then, we have bishops among us. make the wrath of man to praise him: We will treat them courteously. Have and the remainder he will restrain." And they weaknesses? Yes, they are men God will bless and protect Israel; he just like we are. "What," say you, "have will lead us forth in the paths of life— you weaknesses?" Yes, lots of them. I not all of us, for as we have heard, we wish I had not sometimes, and then are not all of us doing just right. But again I don't wish so. "Do you ask he will accomplish his purposes and roll the people to pray for you?" Yes, and forth his work and build up his king- pray also for my brethren of the Twelve dom and establish Zion, and bring to that they may be guided by the inspi- pass all the things spoken of by the rations of the Most High, and be led 358 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. and that they may lead others in the with proper respect, but we do not want paths of life; that we may magnify the to go to law with the ungodly. calling God has given unto us and honor it and do good among men, and help to There are other things I wish to build up His Zion. This work devolves speak about pertaining to the interests upon you in your sphere as much as upon of this community. We should educate President Smoot and his counselors and our children properly. I am very glad to the several bishops. Everyone has his find you have one very good institution duties to perform; and if we all do them in this place. You have got those at the we will do pretty well. Listen, then, to head of it that know God, and who in- their counsels. You have a High Coun- still into the minds of their pupils cor- cil, sustain them in like manner, that rect principles and the fear of the Lord, in all their judgments and counsels they and teach them the principles of life; that may do right. And I would say both to they, when they go forth to teach others, the Bishops in their capacity, as common may teach them the same principles that judges in Israel, and to the High Coun- these our brethren teach them—that cor- cil as a High Council, deal justly in the rect principles may spread, grow and in- sight of God; do not bring into deliber- crease, and that while they are obtaining ations any of your own private notions an education in regard to science and the or feelings. Do not, in the name of God, various branches of secular education, seek to pervert judgment or justice. I they may always have before their minds would not give five straws for a man— the fear of God. Well, would you seek for he is not fit to be a high councilor—if knowledge? Yes, as I would for a hidden he would not apply the same judgment treasure. Would you like the people to to his own brother or son as he would be acquainted with the arts and sciences, to anybody else. We need to ask God etc.? Yes. We want to so educate our chil- to give us wisdom in the management dren, and if necessary make sacrifices and direction of these affairs, and then ourselves for that purpose, in order that we ought to have another principle more they may be men and women capable thoroughly enforced than it is among us. of coping intellectually with any persons We have people going to law one with an- that live upon the earth. We are seeking other sometimes, and that before the un- after these things, we are anxious to pro- godly, and the Elders of Israel sanction mote the welfare of all people in regard it. God will hold you to an account, I to these matters, especially those asso- tell you, and He will bring you upstand- ciated with us, that our children may ing when you don't dream of it, and all grow up not only in the fear of God, but they that like to go to law, in the name possess intelligence of every kind. Now, of God they shall have enough of it until these are our feelings in relation to these they are sick and weary—for it will bring matters, and by-and-by, if we do this them down to poverty, ruin, misery and and keep doing it, how will it be? It death, unless they turn around speedily will not be long before we will be as far and repent. Let us honor the institu- ahead of the world in regard to the arts, tions that God has given unto us, honor sciences, mechanism and every princi- the Priesthood, honor our own courts of ple of intelligence that exists upon the justice, and treat all men everywhere face of the earth, as we are in religious THE TEMPLES IN COURSE OF ERECTION, ETC. 359 matters today. Some of our little boys are engaged with us in trying to do a five and six, seven and eight years old good work. Shall we despise them in know very well how to cope with men their labors? No. Who are they? Part that profess generally to be wise men on of ourselves. Do they hold the priest- religious subjects. Some few days ago hood? Yes, in connection with their hus- I attended a Sabbath School exhibition bands and they are one with their hus- in the 17th Ward of Salt Lake City, and bands, but the husband is the head. And witnessed there more intelligence dis- women are so constituted that they are played by the children, male and female, much better prepared to feel after the in regard to religious matters, than I welfare of families than men are. They have ever seen exhibited anywhere in can sympathize with the sisters, for they the whole Gentile world wherever I have are one with them. I remember a certain traveled. I was reminded of a saying of lady said to me in talking about some the Savior's that, "Out of the mouths of things, "You never was a grandmother." babes and sucklings thou hast perfected "No." said I, "I never was. I never had praise." Let us train up our children in that experience." "Well, then, you cannot the right way. That reminds me of an- enter into the feelings of a grandmother." other thing, that is our Sabbath Schools. No, and I never was a wife, and there- You have them here, how extensively you fore I could not enter into the feelings are engaged in them I am not prepared of a wife. But a wife can enter into a to say, but it is a good institution wor- wife's feelings and into a mother's feel- thy of our best efforts, and I would say, ings and they can sympathize with the let us encourage them, let our young and sisters, and pour in the oil and wine and middle-aged men that are talented en- they can teach the sisters correct prin- gage in them, that our children may be ciples, teach them cleanliness, kindness brought up in the fear of God. The school and sisterly sympathetic feelings. They that Brother Maeser and Brother Hardy are doing this to a great extent, therefore are engaged in, in this place, I consider I say God bless the sisters. They are one a model institution, and I say God bless with us in seeking to promote the wel- them and let the blessing and Spirit of fare of Israel. They tell me I was chair- God be with them. Continue in your man when the first Ladies' Relief Society labors as you are doing, and your names was organized in Nauvoo; perhaps I was, will be known in Israel and be handed I do not remember, however, but I am down to posterity as some of the great pleased to cooperate with the sisters. I men of Zion. Let our brethren, too, be desire to see them prosecute their labors interested in these Sunday Schools, and and try to train up young women to be let us get men that fear God—you young good mothers, good housekeepers, good men and Elders of Israel who have the wives, and to cultivate the fear of God Spirit of the Lord—teach the children and to teach their own children to walk and instill the principles of life and sal- in the paths of life. vation into their minds. And then there Then we have our Young Men are other things that are very praise- and Young Womens' Mutual Improve- worthy institutions, one of which is the ment Associations. These are very Female Relief Societies. Our Sisters good institutions. How much bet- ter it is to see our youth engaged 360 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. in the fear of God, meeting together and terfere with my freedom. I think Watts talking over the things of God, medi- says: tating upon them, teaching one another "I would be walking with the wise. good, virtuous, holy principles, than to That I may wiser grow." see them associated with corruptions Well then, and treading in the paths that leads down to death. How much better to "I would not be walking with the teach purity, holiness, virtue, and intelli- fools, Lest I a fool should grow." gence, making them honorable men and But I would seek from men of experi- women, than to see them take a different ence and judgment advice as to the best course. I have been asked sometimes if course to pursue. And as to your freedom there was the priesthood associated with have as much as you please, that is, free- this. No; not particularly; but it is one of dom to do right, not wrong. It is very nec- those helps spoken of in the Scriptures. essary that we be united; and anybody A bishop will not object to being helped that seeks to divide the people is not the by the Relief Societies. Will he object friend of God or man, neither is God his to them visiting the poor? Will he ob- friend; and if he continue to interfere ject to any man or any woman seeking with the happiness and union of the peo- to promote peace, order, virtue, and righ- ple of God, He will not hold him guilt- teousness? No. Who are they? Some are less; but He will remove him out of his Elders, some are Seventies, some High place. There is a providence in many of Priests, and all belong to the several quo- these things. People wonder sometimes rums of the priesthood. These associa- why we have sickness amongst us. The tions are a very creditable thing, in ad- Apostle Paul in writing to the Corinthi- vance, say of our Sunday School opera- ans, in referring to divisions that existed tions. It is leading on to knowledge, or among them, together with their unwor- what we term theology and science, and thiness, when partaking of the Lord's every principle of intelligence. We have supper, says, "For this cause many are a great many good, highminded, honor- weak and sickly among you, and many able young men and women, and I say, sleep." Do you believe a principle of that God bless you in your labors. kind? I do. Let us fear God then, honor You, bishops, I say to you, encourage Him, and keep His commandments. all these things among you, sanction and Another thing, we want the brethren protect them, and do all you can to foster to do, and that is to cultivate a right them. feeling towards the sisters, and towards With regard to our political organi- their wives especially. God has given zation, I would say, we must be united. them to us; treat them well and kindly. Who, I ask, should dictate us? If I was If they have weaknesses—which doubt- here in Provo, and had to do with such less they have—we should bear with matters, the first thing I would do would them, they are the weaker vessel, and be to confer with President Smoot to as- we ought to be strong, and a strong certain whom he would recommend for man ought not to be much afraid of such and such offices. a weak woman. We ought to have "But," say some, that would in- them in our affections, and instead THE SPIRIT AND PRINCIPLES OF THE UNITED ORDER. 361 of returning evil for evil, be kind to them; And if our brother sin against us, tell and if your wives chide you, render to him of his fault when you and he are them kindness in return and love them, alone; and then when you are made ac- and say, this is not exactly right; let us be quainted with your wrong, confess it and friends. And they will turn round and re- repent, and try to do better. And let us ciprocate that kind of feeling. And then live together as brethren and sisters and make their homes as comfortable as you as Saints of God. And do not forget to can, and lighten their household duties call upon the Lord in your family circles, as far as it may be in your power to do so; dedicating yourselves and all you have to and do all you can to unite your efforts God every day of your lives; and seek to together as families. And wives, comfort do right, and cultivate the spirit of union your husbands; speak kind words, and and love, and the peace and blessing of make their homes a heaven. And neigh- the Living God will be with us, and He bors, don't bite and devour one another, will lead us in the paths of life; and we don't tear in pieces one another's charac- shall be sustained and upheld by all the ter, but be united in all things. holy angels and the ancient patriarchs and men of God, and the veil will be- "Nay, speak no ill, a kindly word Can come thinner between us and our God, never leave a sting behind." and we will approach nearer to him, and Let us learn to speak kindly of our souls will magnify the Lord of Hosts. each other, and if we cannot say Brethren and sisters, God bless you, something good of our brother or and lead you in the paths of life, in the our sister, let us hold our tongue. name of Jesus. Amen.

THE SPIRIT AND PRINCIPLES OF THE UNITED ORDER.

DISCOURSEBY ELDER LORENZO SNOW, DELIVEREDATTHE WEBER STAKE CONFERENCE, HELDINTHE TABERNACLE,OGDEN CITY,OCTOBER 19, 1879.

REPORTEDBY JAMES TAYLOR.

As a foundation for a few remarks "Therefore, if any man shall take this morning, I will read the 18th verse of the abundance which I have made, of the revelation commencing on page and impart not his portion, accord- 337, Book of Doctrine and Covenants: ing to the law of my gospel, unto the poor and the needy, he shall, 362 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. with the wicked, lift up his eyes in hell, and mutual improvement in those things being in torment." that pertain to our salvation. For this Also a few verses, contained in the purpose I desire the faith and prayers same book, on page 234, commencing at of all those who believe in looking to the the 3rd verse, which show what is re- Lord for instruction and intelligence. quired of every man in his stewardship. We should realize the relationship "3. I, the Lord, have appointed that we sustain to the Lord our God, them, and ordained them to be stewards and the peculiar position we occupy. To over the revelations and commandments properly discharge the obligations de- which I have given unto them, and which volving upon us, we require supernat- I shall hereafter give unto them; ural aid. The character of the religion "4. And an account of this steward- that we have espoused demands a cer- ship will I require of them in the day of tain course of conduct that no other re- judgment. ligion that we know of requires of its "5. Wherefore, I have appointed unto adherents; and the nature of those de- them, and this is their business in the mands upon us are such that no person church of God, to manage them and can comply with them, unless by assis- the concerns thereof, yea, the benefits tance from the Almighty. It is necessary thereof. that we comprehend, at least in part, the "6. Wherefore, a commandment I give great and important blessings that we unto them, that they shall not give these are to derive, eventually, by complying things unto the church, neither unto the with the requirements of the religion or world; Gospel that we have received. The sacri- "7. Nevertheless, inasmuch as they fices that are required of us are of that receive more than is needful for their nature that no man nor woman could necessities and their wants, it shall be make them, unless aided by a supernat- given into my storehouse; ural power; and the Lord, in proposing "8. And the benefits shall be conse- these conditions, never intended that his crated unto the inhabitants of Zion, and people should ever be required to com- unto their generations, inasmuch as they ply with them unless by supernatural become heirs according to the laws of the aid, and of that kind that is not pro- kingdom. fessed by any other class of religious peo- "9. Behold, this is what the Lord re- ple. He has promised this aid. The de- quires of every man in his stewardship, mands upon us are of a peculiar nature, even as I, the Lord, have appointed or and, as I before said, no man or woman shall hereafter appoint unto any man. could comply with them, unless enlight- "10. And behold, none are exempt ened and sustained by the power of the from this law who belong to the church Almighty. of the living God; "11. Yea, neither the bishop, neither The religion we have received is not the agent who keepeth the Lord's store- a chimera. It is not something that has house, neither he who is appointed in a been devised by the cunning of man, stewardship over temporal things." but it is something that has been re- The short time that I occupy this vealed by the Almighty. It is a fact. morning, I wish to speak in a man- It is something that truly exists. It is ner that will be for our edification something that is tangible. It is some- THE SPIRIT AND PRINCIPLES OF THE UNITED ORDER. 363 thing that can be laid hold of by the from the Lord our God. And it would minds of the Latter-day Saints. It is be simply foolish indeed to expect the something that can be directly under- Latter-day Saints in these days to com- stood, and be fully comprehended, so ply with the celestial law, with the law that there can be no doubt in the mind that proceeds from God, and with his de- of any Latter-day Saint in regard to the signs to elevate the people into his pres- nature and character of the ultimate out- ence, except they were sustained by a su- come of the course that he proposes to pernatural power. The Gospel promises pursue in complying with the demands this. It promises the gift of the Holy of the Gospel he has received. But those Ghost, which is divine in its character, demands are of a nature that perhaps and which is not enjoyed by any other would be almost appalling to the minds people, and which we are told by the Sav- of individuals that were darkened, that ior, should lead into all truth, and in- had no light or understanding in regard spire those who possessed it, and give to the outcome that is expected to be ex- them a knowledge of Jesus, a knowl- perienced by the Latter-day Saints, inas- edge of the Father, and of things per- much as they continue faithful in adher- taining to the celestial world; that it ing to the principles which they have es- should inspire those who possessed it poused. with a knowledge of things to come, and things that were past; and inspire These demands are not of a nature them to an extent that they should enjoy that have no parallel in the history of supernatural gifts—the gift of tongues the people of God. They were required and prophecy, to lay hands upon the in every age and period when God called sick, by which they should be healed. a people to serve him, and to receive his Those who received this Gospel were laws. They were required in the days promised these supernatural powers and of Israel, in the beginning of that peo- gifts, and a knowledge for themselves, ple. They were required of Abraham, that they might not depend upon any Isaac and Jacob. They were required of man or set of men, in regard to the Moses, and of the people that he led from truth of the religion that they had re- Egyptian bondage. They were required ceived; but that they should receive a by all the prophets that existed from the knowledge from the Father that the re- days of Adam to the present period of ligion came from him, that the Gospel time. They were required by the apostles came from him, and that his servants that received their commission by the had the right and authority to admin- laying on of the hands of Jesus Christ, ister those ordinances, so that no wind the Son of the living God, and by the of doctrine should shake them or remove adherents of the religion that the apos- them from the path in which they were tles proclaimed and taught to the people, walking; so that they might be prepared in their day and no man or set of men for the glory that should be revealed, or class of people from the day of Adam and be made participators therein, so to the present time, could comply with that they might endure any trial or af- these requirements, except the people of fliction that it should be the will of God, as they were endowed with power God to be brought upon them, to pre- from on high, which could proceed only pare them more fully for celestial glory; 364 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. so that they should walk not in dark- which was injurious to him, and would ness, but in the light and power of God, render a compliance to all the demands and be raised above the things of the of the Gospel disagreeable or impossi- world, and be superior to the things ble, therefore he told him that he should around them; so that they might walk in- go and sell all that he had, "and give dependently beneath the celestial world, to the poor, and follow him." This com- and in the sight of God and heaven, mandment made the young man feel sad as free men, pursuing that course that and sorrowful. He looked upon riches should be marked out to them by the as the great object in life, as bringing Holy Ghost; that course by which they him the influence of the world, and all could elevate themselves to knowledge things that were desirable; as procur- and power, and thus prepare themselves ing him the blessings and enjoyments of to receive the glory that God proposed to life, and as the means of lifting him to confer upon them, and to occupy the ex- high positions in society. He could not alted position to which God designed to conceive the idea of a person's securing raise them. the blessings, enjoyments and privileges In view of this, Jesus told the young of life, and such things as his nature man who came to him and wished to craved, independent of his wealth. But know what he should do to inherit eter- the Gospel was of a nature that provided nal life, to "keep the commandments." for everything that was necessary to ful- The young man replied that he had kept fil the wants and requirements of man these commandments referred to from and to make him happy. Riches were not his youth upward. The Savior, look- so calculated; and the Lord desired him ing upon him, saw there was still some- to give up these ideas, and to dislodge thing lacking. The young man had kept them from his mind and feelings, so he the moral law, the law given to Moses, might secure him as his servant in all and for this Jesus loved him, but saw things. He desired this man to be wholly that there was one thing lacking. He devoted to his service, and to go into his was a rich man, and held influence in work with full purpose of heart, and fol- the world in consequence of his supe- low the dictates of the Holy Spirit, and rior wealth. Jesus knew that before he prepare himself for celestial glory. But could elevate him, or any other man, to this young man was not willing; it was the celestial world, it was necessary that too great a sacrifice. And the Savior said he should be submissive in all things, upon this occasion, "How hardly shall and view obedience to the celestial law they that have riches enter into the king- of the utmost importance. Jesus knew dom of heaven! It is easier for a camel to what was required of every man to gain go through the eye of a needle, than for a celestial crown—that nothing should a rich man to enter into the kingdom of be held dearer than obedience to the God." The disciples "were astonished out requirements of heaven. The Savior of measure" at this, "saying among them- saw in this young man a cleaving to selves, who then can be saved?" They something that was not in accordance thought that no man could possess riches with the law of the celestial kingdom. and be saved in the kingdom of God. He saw peradventure, a disposition in This was the idea they received from the him to adhere in his feelings to that THE SPIRIT AND PRINCIPLES OF THE UNITED ORDER. 365 remarks of the Savior. But Jesus an- and, as in the days of judges, "every man swered, "With men it is impossible, but is doing what seems right in his own not with God: for with God all things are eyes." We seem to forget that the Lord possible." has distinctly pointed out our duties, and that there is a little book, Doctrine and Now, we want to look and see how Covenants, that God has given by direct this is possible. I have read in the Book revelation in regard to these matters, by of Doctrine and Covenants the revela- which we should be governed; we for- tions that have been given in these days get these things as it is natural for us to the Latter-day Saints, setting forth to forget the things of God. We some- the requirements of God in relation to times think of the many good things that temporal affairs. Here are remarks that we do, and imagine, perhaps, that be- are pretty straight, which I have read, cause of these good acts, we are excus- on page 337—"If any man shall take of able in not bothering ourselves in ref- the abundance which I have made, and erence to some other things that we do impart not his portion, according to the not perform. In giving his revelations to law of my gospel, he shall lift up his eyes us in regard to these matters the Lord in hell, being in torment." Now this is took certain individuals and made them straight language, and looks, perhaps, examples to the Saints, and he wished rather severe. When the Lord revealed the Saints to look upon these individu- his Gospel in these latter times to the als and follow their examples. The Lord world, he commenced teaching the peo- did not propose at first to call upon all ple what was required of them in their the people at once and tell them what temporal affairs, as he taught the young to do in relation to these temporal mat- man and as he taught many others, and ters, because they were very ignorant as the apostles were taught and others and more or less covetous. In March who received the Gospel under their ad- 1830, one month before the organization ministration. The greatest trouble that of this Church, the Lord commenced to has ever been, probably that the Lord instruct, or lay down principles which has had, with the people in any age, should govern the people of God in all has been in reference to their tempo- their temporal affairs. The foundation ral affairs, their financial matters. The was raised as a standard, or beacon shin- Latter-day Saints at the present day, are ing in a dark place, that every Latter- very united in reference to their spiritual day Saint might look at and judge for principles and doctrines. We see eye to himself what would be required. The eye in regard to principles that pertain first revelation that I recollect of that to the doctrinal portion of the religion was given in regard to the temporal obli- we have espoused; but when it comes gations of the Saints, or what should to our temporal, our earthly possessions, be required of them, was given to Mar- and our conduct in relation to them, we tin Harris. You will find it on page seem to be a little confused in reference 111, Book of Doctrine and Covenants. to what is right and wrong, and more Martin Harris was a man who pos- or less, we feel disposed to pursue our sessed considerable wealth, or at least own course in regard to these matters was tolerably well off. The Lord gave 366 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. him a revelation touching temporal af- Elders. It concerned everybody. The fact fairs, the same as Jesus gave the rich in the case was that he took these six El- young man. The Lord said to Martin ders and made them an example to all Harris, "Impart a portion of thy prop- the Saints. The revelation continues: erty, yea, even part of thy lands, and all "Hear the word of the Lord which save the support of thy family." This rev- I give unto my servant Joseph Smith, elation applied simply to Martin Harris, Jun., and unto my servant Martin Har- and not to everybody, only as you con- ris, and also unto my servant Oliver sider it an example to Latter-day Saints. Cowdery, and also unto my servant John But on page 161, Book of Doctrine and Whitmer, and also unto my servant Sid- Covenants, there is a general command- ney Rigdon, and also unto my servant ment in connection with the divine law William W. Phelps, by way of command- which was given in this revelation. It ap- ment unto them. plies to everybody, as, for instance, "Thou "I, the Lord, have appointed them, shalt not lie," is a general command- and ordained them to be stewards ment, and applicable to every Latter-day over the revelations and commandments Saint. Here is the commandment, verse which I have given unto them, and which 55—"And if thou obtainest more than I shall hereafter give unto them." that which would be for thy support, Now this was a matter of some impor- thou shalt give it into my storehouse, tance, especially to these six elders, to that all things may be done according be appointed stewards over those things to that which I have said." In connec- from which should accrue great tem- tion with this subject, we find on page poral advantages. Perhaps some peo- 233 that the Lord called together six of ple might be jealous, or were jealous at his Elders, and gave them command- that time, and supposed that they had ments and revelation, and appointed reasonable grounds to be jealous, that unto them a stewardship: "Behold, and the Lord should bestow such great ad- hearken, O ye inhabitants of Zion, and vantages upon these elders, which they all ye people of my church." Now this might use to the great disadvantage of was quite extensive. "All ye people of my the people of God. But we will discover church." The Lord was going to speak, that these matters were strictly guarded here, something that concerned all the of the Lord, as also would every man who Saints, wherever they might be, whether was appointed a steward in the kingdom in New York, Ohio, Missouri, Indiana or of God be held in check. any other part of the world. "Hearken, "And an account of this stewardship O ye inhabitants of Zion, and ALL ye will I require of them in the day of judg- people of my church who are afar off." ment." Now here is something which concerned Now, perhaps I do not believe as some all the Latter-day Saints, and which the do in regard to the United Order—that Lord considered of vast importance to everybody is to come together and throw everybody worthy to be called by that all their substance into a heap, and then name. He wanted all the inhabitants of come and take of it as they please, or that Zion to pay particular attention to what one man who does not understand tem- he was going to say to these six of his poral affairs at all should be placed as a THE SPIRIT AND PRINCIPLES OF THE UNITED ORDER. 367 steward over extensive concerns. I be- and character as the law of the United lieve that there is an order in these Order. It was added because the people things—a pleasing and an agreeable were not willing to comply with this no- order—and that these things are ar- ble and high celestial law, whereby they ranged by the Lord in such a way that could act according to the light that is in when people properly understand them them, and the power of the Almighty, by they will be satisfied and admire them. which they should be inspired. I read on: It is because we do not get to understand "Wherefore, I have appointed unto the requirements of God that we are dis- them, and this is their business in the satisfied. God fixes these matters up church of God, to manage them and and arranges them in such a way as will the concerns thereof, yea, the benefits tend to the exaltation of every Latter-day thereof. Saint who is disposed to honor them. It "Wherefore, a commandment I give is because of our ignorance that we are unto them, that they shall not give these displeased with the requirements of the things unto the church, neither unto the Lord. world." Now, I believe in the independence Now, was it designed that these six of men and women. I believe that men should go and build fine houses, men and women have the image of God and spread abroad and obtain immense given them—are formed after the image treasures of the earth, independent of of God, and possess Deity in their na- the obligations devolving upon them to ture and character, and that their spiri- other people? There was great lati- tual organization possesses the qualities tude given them, but they were held ac- and properties of God, and that there countable unto the Lord. "I give you is the principle of God in every individ- this latitude to exercise, but, remember, ual. It is designed that man should act you are accountable; and an account of as God, and not be constrained and con- your stewardship will I require of you in trolled in everything, but have an in- the day of judgment." Some of these El- dependency, an agency, and the power ders had seen God and talked with him to spread abroad and act according to face to face, and angels had laid their the principle of godliness that is in him, hands upon their heads. They knew act according to the power and intelli- that there was a God in heaven. This gence and enlightenment of God, that was made clear to them by the power he possesses, and not that he should be of the Almighty, and by angels making watched continually, and be controlled, their appearance unto them, and talk- and act as a slave in these matters. But ing with them as one man talks with an- that the law of God should proceed forth other. Now, when we consider what the from him, and the constitution of the Lord said to these men that were thus Most High God should be in him, and enlightened, and had this wonderful ex- he should act in accordance with that. perience, we see that it required a man And, as the Lord has said—"I will write to be a little careful how he acted in re- my name in the hearts of the people"— gard to these temporal affairs that were the law should proceed forth from their given to him in charge. hearts. "Nevertheless, inasmuch as they And so far as the law of tithing receive more than is needful for is concerned, there is about it, some- their necessities and their wants, it thing that is not of the same nature shall be given into my storehouse." 368 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES.

Now here was wherein they were lim- that he is determined that no man shall ited. But yet in this matter they were left misunderstand him. When he speaks he to their own judgment and philanthropy, speaks in such a manner that there can which should be enlightened. But their be no dispute. He is not satisfied with philanthropy would be the philanthropy telling it over once, he tells it the sec- of God, and their intelligence, the intelli- ond and the third understanding; so that gence of heaven. there can be no misunderstanding in re- "And the benefits shall be conse- gard to the mind of the Lord with ref- crated unto the inhabitants of Zion, and erence to this law of a man's giving all, unto their generations, inasmuch as they except that which is needed for his sup- become heirs according to the laws of the port, unto the Lord's storehouse. An ob- kingdom. servance of this law is what he says is "Behold, this is what the Lord re- required of every man in his steward- quires of every man in his stewardship, ship. So that if the Latter-day Saints even as I, the Lord, have appointed or are appointed unto stewardships, or are shall hereafter appoint unto any man. satisfied to act as stewards before the "And behold, none are exempt from Lord, this law is in force, and this law this law who belong to the church of the they should observe. I believe many do living God." walk in the spirit of this law to a cer- Now this law should continue as long tain extent; and have complied with it, as salvation continued. (See page 337, no doubt in a manner in which they are 1st verse.) It never has been repealed. justified before God, while some, per- The law of tithing could not repeal this haps, have paid no regard to it whatever. law. The law of tithing is a lower law, Some so far ignore these principles that and was given of God. But the law they become very miserly and covetous, of tithing does not forbid us obeying a and gather around them and their fam- higher law, the law of celestial union ilies what they consider they need now, in earthly things. And the fact that and then lay up for future generations, we do not feel satisfied in simply obey- when there is distress around them, and ing the law of tithing shows that it is thousands of Saints in Europe and other a lesser law. Do you feel justified sim- parts who are groaning in poverty, un- ply in obeying the law of tithing? Why, der the iron hand of tyranny, not know- then, do you contribute to our temples ing from day to day where they are go- and to bringing the people from the old ing to obtain a meal of victuals. Yet countries, and to this object, and that, in here are men among us who call them- thousands of ways, after you have prop- selves Latter-day Saints, who do not im- erly and justly complied with the law part of their substance according to the of tithing? The fact that you do these law of the Gospel. I say God is dis- things shows that you are not satisfied pleased with such covetousness, and he in merely obeying the law of tithing. will never prosper the Latter-day Saints In these contributions you are acting who are guilty of such miserly conduct. just as God designed you should act— But as regards the law of tithing, by the light of the Holy Ghost that is in it is in force upon the poor as well you. Now, this law is very distinctly por- as the rich, and it seems that it trayed, and the Lord has made it so plain acts almost unequally in some respects. THE SPIRIT AND PRINCIPLES OF THE UNITED ORDER. 369

There is a widow, whose income is ten also their manner of life, their faith, and dollars; she pays one for tithing, and works; and also of all the apostates who then has to appeal to the Bishop for sup- apostatize after receiving their inheri- port. Here is a rich man who has an in- tances. come of one hundred thousand dollars, "It is contrary to the will and com- and pays ten thousand for his tithing. mandment of God that those who receive There remains ninety thousand, and he not their inheritance by consecration, does not need it, but the poor widow re- agreeable to his law, which he has given, quires much more than she had before that he may tithe his people, to prepare complying with the law of tithing. them against the day of vengeance and Now what would be the operation of burning, should have their names en- the celestial law? The widow has not rolled with the people of God." enough for her support, therefore noth- Now, this might be considered rather ing is required of her by the celestial law, strong language, but this is a revelation or the law of the United Order. This rich of God that we profess to believe. man, with his ninety thousand dollars, "Neither is their genealogy to be kept, continues to increase his riches, pays his or to be had where it may be found tithing fully, and yet wholly disregards on any of the records or history of the the law of stewardship, or the law of church. temporal union. I cannot believe that a "Their names shall not be found, nei- Latter-day Saint is justified in ignoring ther the names of the fathers, nor the the higher law. For, as we have read, "Be- names of the children written in the book hold none are exempt from this law who of the law of God, saith the Lord of belong to the church of the living God." Hosts." There is not a man within the sound of That is, those that were not willing my voice who is exempt from this law, to abide the law of stewardship and con- nor will he ever be until Jesus, the Son secration should be debarred of these of God, comes in the clouds of heaven blessings. It is the same today, and it to set all things right: "Yea, neither the has been so since the days of Adam in bishop, neither the agent who keepeth relation to these matters. the Lord's storehouse, neither he who is Now, when the Lord established this appointed in a stewardship over tempo- Church, he was very anxious to bring ral things." This will apply to the Bish- the people to this order of things; and ops who reported there yesterday, and we find some thirteen revelations in the to every Latter-day Saint. We are un- Book of Doctrine and Covenants, that der this law. We should act in the spirit are given to explain these principles of of this law according to the light of God the United Order—the law of consecra- that is within us. tion and stewardship. Men were to have their stewardship—to have possession of Furthermore, on page 275, we read: property—but they were to hold it as "It is the duty of the Lord's servants of God, not as their own in- clerk, whom he has appointed, to dividual property, particularly, but they keep a history, and a general church were to be made stewards over that record of all things that transpire property, after they had consecrated to in Zion, and of all those who conse- the Lord, and to receive according to crate properties, and receive inheri- their abilities, and manage according tances legally from the bishop; And to the gifts of God that were within 370 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. them in regard to temporal affairs. If Now this was making things secure— a man was capable of managing mer- pretty safe. It might not, perhaps, be as chandise to the amount of one hundred agreeable, unless persons could conceive thousand dollars, it would be proper that the whole plan of this scheme or Order in he should be made a steward over that temporal affairs for men to devote their amount. If a man was not capable of surplus in this way, but with the other managing extensive concerns, it would portion, which we read further on, they be improper to make him steward over would be perfectly satisfied. a large business. But every man would Now, we can easily conceive, that receive a stewardship in proportion to with a vast population of Saints acting his capacity to oversee it for the general under this celestial law, there would be good. an immense treasury filled after a time; In order that there might be no mis- and that there might not be any misun- understanding, the Lord informs us fur- derstanding in regard to this property ther in regard to these matters on page and its use, among those who had thus 237, Book of Doctrine and Covenants. subscribed or bestowed their means, the The Lord took great pains to manifest Lord has made the matter plain by giv- his pleasure in regard to these prin- ing the following instructions: ciples. He called some seven, eight or nine elders, and made them stew- "71. And there shall not any part of ards over property and various depart- it be used, or taken out of the treasury, ments of business, and then told them only by the voice and common consent of how to act. They were to work in ac- the order. cordance with this law, which will be "72. And this shall be the voice and found on page 343, Book of Doctrine and common consent of the order—that any Covenants: man among you say unto the treasurer: "68. And all moneys that you receive I have need of this to help me in my in your stewardships, by improving upon stewardship— the properties which I have appointed unto you, in houses, or in lands, or in cat- "73. If it be five dollars, or if it be tle, or in all things save it be the holy ten dollars, or twenty, or fifty, or a hun- and sacred writings, which I have re- dred, the treasurer shall give unto him served unto myself for holy and sacred the sum which he requires to help him purposes, shall be cast into the treasury in his stewardship—" as fast as you receive moneys, by hun- Now a whole people, enlightened by dreds, or by fifties, or by twenties, or by the principles of High Heaven in re- tens, or by fives. gard to these matters—filled with the "69. Or in other words, if any man Spirit of God, with the spirit of un- among you obtain five dollars let him derstanding, the spirit of philanthropy, cast them into the treasury; or if he ob- every man seeking the interest of his tain ten, or twenty, or fifty, or an hun- neighbor, having an eye single to the dred, let him do likewise; glory of God, putting his means into "70. And let not any man among you the Lord's treasury, and no man say- say that it is his own; for it shall not be ing that anything is his, except as a called his, nor any part of it. steward before God—would be a pil- "71. And there shall not any lar of financial strength, a sublime pic- part of it be used, or taken out ture of holy union and fraternity, and of the treasury, only by the voice equal to the most extreme emergencies. and common consent of the order." Then when any misfortune befalls a THE SPIRIT AND PRINCIPLES OF THE UNITED ORDER. 371 man, such as the burning of his property, fortune. We distrust our neighbors, be- or failure or trouble in his department cause neighbors are not seeking the in- of business, he could go to the treasurer terest of one another. Every man is seek- and say, "I have need of a certain amount ing how he can best help himself. This is to assist me in my stewardship. Have I too much so with the Latter-day Saints. not managed the affairs of my steward- Now, this law, the United Order, was ship in a wise manner? Can you not have given in 1831-2. Men were commanded confidence in me? Have I ever misused consecration of property. Bishop Par- the means put into my hands? Has it tridge, seeing there was some misunder- not been wisely controlled? If so, give me standing, wrote to Joseph for an expla- means to help me in my stewardship, or nation in regard to the matter. Joseph to build up this industry that is needed in answer, says that in matters of con- for the general interests of the whole." secration it should be left to the judg- Well, it is to be given to him. There is ment of the consecrator how much he confidence reposed in him because of his should give and how much to retain for past conduct, and the course which he the support of his family, and not exclu- has pursued. He has due right in exer- sively to the Bishop, for, if so, it would cising his talents according to the light of give the Bishop more power than a king the spirit that is within him. He under- possessed. There should be a mutual un- stands fully the circumstances in which derstanding between them, otherwise it he is placed, and governs himself ac- should be left to a council of twelve High cording to the obligations that rest upon Priests. Now where is the Latter-day him. He is found to be a wise, economical Saint, that cannot see a liberality, a gen- manager; and he is assisted in his stew- erosity, in this matter, and be willing to ardship to the extent of the means that submit to this tribunal. I would be will- he should have. ing to submit to the high council of this Stake of Zion, or the high council of any Now, were the Saints all acting in the other Stake of Zion, and say, "Here is my spirit of these revelations, what a happy property, say how much I ought to re- community we would be! We would all tain for my wives and children, and how be safe, and no man would need remain much shall go into the common property awake at night thinking what he should of the Church." But I think my bishop do for his family to keep them from beg- and myself could settle the business at ging their bread, or going to the Bishop, once. Joseph says in that explanation, which perhaps is only one degree better. "It is not necessary that you should de- And there would be a union that would scend to particulars in regard to these be in accordance with the union of Enoch matters." and his people, when they were taken to I see I am occupying more time than the world above—a union pleasing to the I intended. There are many things that Almighty, and according to the principles should be said in relation to these mat- of the celestial world. ters. The time is now that the Latter-day But now how is it, with us, with Saints should awake. These laws were the people of Ogden and in other given to govern the Saints. The Saints places? We distrust one another. Ev- in misfortune would not obey them, and ery man feels that he has no secu- they were driven out. rity in his neighbor in time of mis- We have been harassed from the 372 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. beginning unto this day, and I fear will sacrifice in accomplishing this work." He be, until we conform to this law, and are called upon them in the fervor of his willing that God shall rule in regard to heart to do this work. And now I call these temporal matters. upon all who hold this priesthood, the I will now say, let every man who presiding officers of this stake, and the stands in an official station, on whom bishops, and the high council, to go forth God has bestowed his holy and divine and feed the flock. Take an interest priesthood, think of what the Savior said in them. Did you ever lose a child, to the Twelve Apostles just before he and the parting struck keenly into your went into the presence of his Father— souls? Transfer a little of this deep feel- "Feed my sheep." And he continued to ing to the interests of the Saints over say this until his apostles felt sorrow- whom you are called to preside, and in ful that he should continue to call upon whose interests you have received the them in this manner. But, said he— holy priesthood. Work for them, and "Feed my sheep." That is "Go forth with do not confine your thoughts and feel- your whole heart, be devoted wholly to ings to your personal aggrandizement. my cause. These people in the world Then God will give you revelation, inspi- are my brethren and sisters. My feel- ration upon inspiration, and teach you ings are exercised towards them. Take how to secure the interests of the Saints care of my people. Feed my flock. Go in matters pertaining to their temporal forth and preach the Gospel. I will re- and spiritual welfare. ward you for all your sacrifices. Do not May God bless you, in the name of Je- think that you can make too great a sus. Amen.

CLEAVE TO LIGHT—COMING OF CHRIST—ABOMINATIONS OF THE WICKED—WELFARE OF THE YOUNG.

DISCOURSEBY APOSTLE ERASTUS SNOW, DELIVEREDATTHE GENERAL CONFERENCE, HELDINTHE TABERNACLE,SALT LAKE CITY,OCT. 8, 1879.

REPORTEDBY GEO. F. GIBBS.

The prophet Isaiah, in speaking of "I also will laugh at your calamity; I the latter-day Zion, made this singular will mock when your fear cometh." remark: The wicked comprehend not the "Now also many nations are gathered things of God; they cannot know them, against thee, that say, Let her be defiled, for they are spiritually discerned. "The and let our eye look upon Zion. things of God," says the Apostle Paul, "But they know not the thoughts of "knoweth no man, only by the Spirit of the Lord, neither understand they his God;" or, in other words, carnal man counsel:" etc., knows not the things of God, neither Again, it has been said con- can he understand them. The unbe- cerning the disobedient who re- lieving world cannot see as the Saints ject and set at nought the coun- see; they walk in darkness, but the sels of the Almighty, through his Saints are the children of light, even servants who are sent unto them: as many as keep sacred their covenants CLEAVE TO LIGHT, ETC. 373 with God. The wicked love darkness pared to meet the bridegroom and to go rather than light, because their deeds with him into the marriage feast; the are evil. This was true of the first cen- foolish virgins took no oil, they were un- tury of the Christian era, when the Sav- prepared, and were consequently shut ior uttered it; it is true today. As the out. This parable is expressly applica- light shone in darkness and the dark- ble to the time of the second coming of ness comprehended it not, so might the the Savior, showing us that however re- same be said today. We are called to be luctant we may feel to admit it, we are the children of light. Blessed are they plainly given to understand that a great who continue in the light, for the day portion of those who are counted virgins, of the Lord will not overtake them as a of the Lord's people, who believe in his thief in the night; but woe unto them coming and who go forth to meet him, that depart from, or reject that light that will slumber and sleep, and be locked out shines in the midst of the darkness, for when he shall come. And it behooves the day cometh and that speedily, when all Saints to ask themselves the ques- they will be overtaken as by a whirl- tion which the disciples asked the Sav- wind. The command of the Lord to the ior when he told them the startling truth Saints is to watch, for we know not the that one of them should betray him— day nor the hour when the Son of man "Lord, is it I?" And all those who are very shall come. The precise time of his com- anxious upon this point will be likely to ing has not been revealed; the prophets be on the watchtower, and not slumber- were ignorant of it; it could not be de- ing in that fatal hour. clared to the apostles of the Lamb, and, indeed, the Savior said that not the an- And again, in the 24th of Matthew, gels, nor even he himself, knew the day he speaks of that wicked servant who or the hour of this important event. And shall begin to say, "My lord delayeth his on taking his final leave of the Twelve, coming; And shall begin to smite his on the Mount of Olives, the question was fellowservants, and eat and drink with put to him—"Lord, wilt thou at this time the drunken; The lord of that servant restore the kingdom to Israel?" They, it shall come in a day when he looketh seems, were wont to regard the Savior not for him, and in an hour that he is as that Being that was to establish him- not aware of, And shall cut him asun- self upon the throne of David, and bring der, and appoint him his portion with to pass all that they had been so anx- the hypocrites: there shall be weep- iously expecting; but he told them it was ing and gnashing of teeth." He expects not for them to know the times and the this of his servants whom he has ap- seasons which the Father had put in his pointed over his house, to give his chil- power. These things have been spoken dren meat in due season. It becomes that the Saints should watch and not fall the apostles, and presidents, and bish- asleep. The same idea is also set forth ops, and all who are called as watch- in the parable of the ten virgins, who men upon the walls of Zion to read the were represented as having gone forth to 24th and 25th of Matthew, giving due meet the bridegroom, five of whom were attention thereto, and to beware, least wise and five foolish. The wise virgins they be found among those unfaithful took oil in their vessels, and were pre- servants who have been appointed to minister in his house and give meat in due season, but who smite their fel- lowservants, and who eat and drink with the drunkard, and otherwise ne- glect their high and holy calling, for re- CLEAVE TO LIGHT, ETC. 373 sponsibility, position and station will not be any protection or safeguard in that 374 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. day. But, on the contrary the greater perform. It becomes us to be very hum- the responsibility neglected, the greater ble, that we may be worthy to be his in- their fall, chagrin and disappointment, struments in accomplishing his designs. and woe when they find their allotted portion among the hypocrites and unbe- lievers.

And the enemies of Zion who want to penetrate our sacred and holy places, and who say in their hearts, Let her temples be defiled; let adventurers, prof- ligates and libertines mingle in their family circles, and break them asunder, and defile the daughters of Zion and break up the holy institution of sacred and holy matrimony, by which they are bound together in the new and everlast- ing covenant for time and eternity; yes, they say, let this covenant be broken, let all who believe and will not deny the laws and commands of God, be ex- cluded from the jury box, from the bal- lot box and from official station. And here comes another wail from a mem- ber of the Cabinet, in the form of a de- cision to the effect that all plural wives, who will not break their covenants with their God and their husband, shall be ex- cluded from the right of homestead and pre-emption; and I doubt not but what everything will be done that Satan can put into their hearts to do to block the wheel, to hedge up the way, in order to test the faith of the righteous and their integrity to each other and the princi- ples of truth. But it must be remembered that God permits it, that they may fill up the cup of their iniquity, that the righ- teous may be proven and tested, even to the core. For God will have a tried peo- ple, and those only who will abide in his covenant, even to the death if necessary, will be found worthy of that glory and ex- altation in his kingdom which we seek after. It is a day of warning, not of many words; it is also a day of sacrifice. God has a controversy with the nations, but first with those unto whom the fullness of the Gospel has been sent. He will work I rejoice in the testimony of the in his own wondrous way his purposes to Spirit manifested by the previous 374 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. speakers during this Conference. My the spirit world. The enemies of Zion earnest desire is that the Spirit may fear this doctrine of the Saints, that spread abroad among all people and "Children are an heritage of the Lord, take deep root in their hearts, not * * * and happy is the man that hath only throughout the Stakes of Zion, but his quiver full of them." This doctrine throughout the earth. Dark clouds may permits the Latter-day Saints to fulfil gather around us from time to time; then the first great command given to Fa- is the time not to fear, but to watch ther Adam and Mother Eve, instead and pray and patiently await the Lord of of adopting that abominable and soul- Hosts to dispel them and cause the sun destroying doctrine of devils, infanti- to shine again upon us; remembering cide and feticide, which is practiced to the vision of Nephi, in which he saw the no little extent in the Christian world, rod of iron which led to the tree of life, which is in open violation to the laws along the turbulent stream of muddy wa- of nature and the law of God to our ter, and through mists and clouds which first parents, to "multiply and replen- at intervals beset his pathway; and that ish the earth." And the practice of this those who clung to it were led safely same doctrine is fast depopulating some through and reached the tree and par- of our older States; besides, it tends took of the fruit thereof, while those who to encourage prostitution; and, strange ceased their hold to the rod of iron wan- as it may appear, a future day will dered off and were lost. yet reveal that among the foremost I have felt the greatest concern for and prominent votaries of this doctrine the rising generation among us; they of devils are those who fight against are far more numerous than our for- Zion and her institution of marriage, eign immigrants. Secretary Evarts and under the hypocritical cant as such the Cabinet need have far less fear con- men as Schuyler Colfax, in his utter- cerning our foreign immigrants than of ance from the balcony of the Townsend those that are constantly coming from House in this city, and Attorney-General CLEAVE TO LIGHT, ETC. 375

Devens, in his argument in the Reynolds using their utmost endeavors to seek it case, in effect, that the plural marriage out by thoughtful study, and by consult- of the Mormons cannot be tolerated, be- ing each other, and by inviting the aid of cause the burning of widows upon the fu- neral pile of their husbands was wrong. There is about as much relevancy and consistency in the argument as there would be to say that the practices of the multitudes of families of this Christian land, who are destroying their own off- spring and taking villainous compounds to induce barrenness and unfruitfulness, must be tolerated and encouraged, be- cause the practices of the Latter-day Saints are filling these mountains with a thrifty population. It is shown by the statistics that our children under the age of eight years are already nearly as numerous as the lay members of the Church. I feel that too much attention cannot be bestowed upon the rising gen- eration. Our young people's Improve- ment Associations, our Sabbath Schools and quorum meetings are all so many aids in the training and education of the young in all that is elevating and praise- worthy. And may God bless them in their earnest efforts to improve the spirits of their fellow men.

There is one thing I wish to call the attention of our presiding officers to, more especially, that of the Presidents of Stakes and their Counselors and the Bishops as their aids and assistants, and that is to give more diligent heed to the temporal condition of the families of the Saints over whom they preside, seeing to it that they are suitably and profitably employed. It is an old adage that an idle brain is the devil's workshop; and we all know that the lack of useful and proper employment is the source of numerous evils. It should be our study to introduce new branches of business, devise means of employment, that none may be idle. This is an important duty required of the leading men in Israel; and so earnest should they be in its performance that they make it a matter of faith and prayer, CLEAVE TO LIGHT, ETC. 375 inventive minds. It is important that our still is, a great tendency among our schoolteachers should not merely be au- youth to seek easy berths; and some- tomatons or parrots in the schoolroom times the acme of their ambition seems by way of impressing a lesson upon the to be realized upon a high stool in a minds of the children, but strive, in an counting room, or behind a counter; they eminent degree, to direct their minds in desire to shun the hardships through a moral and religious sense, inculcating, which their parents passed. That is a by precept and example, due respect for vain delusion, and it is simply foolish- virtue, and everything that is pure and ness on the part of parent or child who noble; having also, as much as practica- indulges in it. It is unwise for parents ble a watchcare over them out of school to entertain this spirit, to be anxious to as in school, laboring to enforce punctu- shield their children from the trials of ality and an honest report, thereby help- life through which they themselves have ing their parents to look after them, so passed; no really sensible man or woman that they may not squander away their would do it. There is no sensible man or time foolishly, as many do in our towns woman in the land that would exchange and cities, lounging around stores and their experience for all the wealth of the other places, acquiring habits that are world. If any would do it, they have calculated to lead away and defile the failed to learn their lesson and profit minds of the youth. The schoolteacher from their experience. Adversity is good who is alive to the true spirit of his call- for all; prosperity few can fear. ing becomes a valuable auxiliary in im- The Presidents of Stakes, with their proving the minds and conduct of our Counselors, and the Bishops as their children, and his or her influence, when assistants, should, when they know properly excited, might be of incalculable of any unoccupied land within their good. borders that ought to be improved There has been in times past, and and possessed by the Latter-day Saints 376 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. get together and select young and of ease and idleness; but break out middle-aged men who are not already and face the realities of life. And provided with good, suitable homes or let no father or mother in their old means of sustenance, organize them age indulge childish fancies, and en- with good and efficient leaders, and send courage these whinings of their chil- them out to occupy those new valleys, dren; but be as courageous as the teaching them to do as their fathers have done—teach them to take out the moun- tain streams, build gristmills, sawmills and factories, raise breadstuff, sheep and cattle, and prepare to live, instead of craving easy berths, and be all the days of their lives dependent upon the will of an employer for a livelihood. There are many places in our Terri- tory east of us, on both sides of Green River, also in Sanpete, Piute and Kane counties, and in the adjoining States and Territories, that ought to be occupied; for the Latter-day Saints cannot be confined to Utah. Everything indicates the ful- fillment of the declaration of the ancient prophet, who said: "Enlarge the place of thy tent, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thine habitations: spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes; "For thou shalt break forth on the right hand and on the left;" etc. In the very nature of things this must be the case; for we are an aggressive people, not to trample on the rights of our fellow man, but to fulfil the pur- poses of the Almighty, and possess and make fruitful the waste places. And as the wicked are wasted away through dis- ease, war and bloodshed, murder, infan- ticide, feticide and the judgments of an offended God, he requires his people to go forth as he shall prepare the way, and possess the land and hold it for God and his kingdom, whose it is, and who will come in due time to reign over it. Fear not to take to yourselves wives and to multiply and replenish the earth, and occupy the unoccupied regions, and leave it not to your enemies while you are clustering around these mer- cantile houses and saloons and places 376 JOURNAL OF DISCOURSES. old hen, who, after scratching for her all people, but especially to the House of brood until they are able to scratch for Israel; and set good examples and mani- themselves, sends them forth to get their fest in all their dealings honesty and in- own living. tegrity, thereby sowing good seed in their We do not wish to be compelled to hearts, that shall in the due time of the call men to this work of settling up the Lord bring forth precious fruit. country; the Twelve and the General We want many earnest, upright Conference have other things to occupy young men also to learn the languages of their time and attention, while this work the natives of the American Continent, more directly belongs to the Presidents and also the Spanish language, which is of Stakes. The Twelve, however, are extensively used in Central and South ready to counsel with these brethren and America as well as Mexico, and which render them all the aid we can. But we is the national language of those coun- don't want the Presidents of Stakes to tries and of the educated natives who ex- think that they can do nothing, leaving ercise dominion over the ignorant Indi- the Twelve to attend to all such things; ans and the mixed races of the Conti- that is part of their calling, as fathers in nent. We expect to call many to labor Israel. We wish the country bordering on among these people, as the Lord may dic- that occupied by the Lamanites settled tate, and we want them to be prepared to by men who know how to behave them- respond when there is a whisper in their selves, and who will befriend that people, ears to that effect. and not shoot them down as we would the wild beasts, without cause or provo- May God bless you, and help us all cation, nor give them occasion to be our to be truly what we are called to be, enemies, to lay in wait to rob and kill; Saints of the last days, to stand before but to cultivate their love and good will the Son of Man when he shall appear, is which is a common duty of all Saints to my prayer, in the name of Jesus. Amen.