Joseph Smith Sermons of 1843
Date: 17 January 1843 (Tuesday)
Location: Old Homestead, Nauvoo, Hancock County, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 155)
This was an interesting day
a day that was appointed by general proclamation for humiliation fasting
& prayer & thanksgiving for the release & delivery we had
received Meetings were appointed in each ward throughout the city I
met at President Joseph Smith,s & we had an interesting time Br
Joseph spoke to some length on the Kingdom of God & the Baptism
of John, he said the Kingdom of God was set upon the earth in all ages
from the days of Adam to the present time whenever there was a man on
earth who had authority to administer the ordinances of the gospel or
a priest of God & unto such a man God did reveal his will concerning
the Baptism of John. It was the Baptism of repentance unto the remission
of sins for the receiving of the Holy Ghost & it was the gospel
Baptism, These were questions which had been in debate for many years
& in some degree among the Saints, He also spoke upon the subject
of honor & dishonor &c.
Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 155-59)
22d Sunday President Joseph
Smith delivered an interesting discourse at the Temple to
an interl
As touching the gospel &
Baptism that John preached I would say that John Came preaching the
gospel for the remission of Sins he had his authority from God &
the oricles of God were with him & the Kingdom of [God] for a season
seemed to roll
I know what I say, I understand my mishion & business God Almighty
is my shield & what Can man do if God is my friend I shall not be
Sacrafised untill my time Comes then I shall be offered freely, all
flesh is as grass & a governor is no better than other men when
he dies he is but a bag of dung I thank God for preserving me from my
enemies I have no enmity I have no desire but to do all men good I feel
to pray for all men we dont ask any people to throw away any good they
have got we ownly ask them to Come & get more what if all the world
should embrace this gospel they would then see eye to eye & the
blessings of God would Be poured out upon the people which is my whole
soul Amen.
Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 159)
This A.M. Joseph preached in
the Temple. subject arose from two questions proposed from a Lyceum.
1st Did John Baptize for remission of sins? 2nd Whether the kingdom
of God was set up before the day of Pentecost or not till then? To the
1st Q. he answered, "he did" It is acknowledged of all men that
John preached the gospel & must have preached the 1st principles,
if so he must have preached the doctrine of Baptism for the remission
of sins for that is the 1st principal of the Gospel and was ordained
before the foundation of the world. I next give my own testimony because
I know it is from God. On the 2nd question He said Where the oracles
of God are revealed there is the kingdom of God. Wherever the oracles
of God are & subjects to obey those oracles there is the kingdom
of God. What constitutes the kingdom of God? an administrator who has
the power of calling down the oracles of God, and subjects to receive
those oracles no matter if there are but 3,4, or 6 there is the kingdom
of God &c.
Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 159)
Joseph's words 1843 No Generation
was ever saved or destroyed upon dead testimony neither can be; but
by Living
Wherever the Oracles of God
are received & found there is the Kingdom of God
The Kingdom of Heaven was set
up before the days of Christ.
Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 159)
Sunday January 22d Preached
at the Temple on the setting up of the Kingdom.
Date: 29 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 160-62)
Sunday January 29 meeting on
floor of the Temple Joseph Read the parable of the prodigal Son after
prayer by John Taylor, then singing by the Quoir
I feel thankful to Almighty
God for the privilege of standing before you this morning it is necessary
that the hearers should have good & honest hearts as well as the
speaker I aim to address you on the important subject of the Prodigal
Son
2 Items I wish to notice Last
sabbath.-2 questions saying of Jesus coming John-a greater prophet
than John 2nd. least in the kingdom of God greater than he.-
some so blind they wont see.
I dont expect I can work Miracles enough to open
greatest prophet. What constituted
him.-no prophet, if do no miracles John did no miracles.-
How is it John was considered
one of the Greatest of Prophets? 3 things
1st he was trusted with a divine
mission of preparing the way before the face of the Lord.-Trust before
or since? no man!-
2d. He was trusted & it was required at his hands to baptize the son of Man. Who ever did that? who had so great a privilege & glory?-son of God into the waters of baptism & beholding the Holy Ghost-in the sign the form of a dove-with the sign of the dove.
instituted before the creation
Devil could not come in sign of a dove.-Holy Ghost is a personage
in the form of a personage-does not confine itself to form of a dove-but
in sign of a dove. = No man holds this book [Bible] more sacred than
I do.-
3d. John at that time was the
only legal administrator holding the keys of Power there was on Earth.
the Keys the Kingdom the power the Glory from the Jews Son of Zachariah
by the holy anointing decree of heaven these 3 constituted him the greatest
born of woman.
He that is least in the Kingdom
is greater than he? who did the
He that is considered the least
among you, is greater than John! that is myself.-
another question, Law &
prophets were until John-since which time the kingdom of heaven is
preached & all men press into it.-
additional proof-to what-I
offered you on the last sabbath. that that was the beginning of the
Kingdom
Prodigal Son.-when you have
heard go & read your bible if the thing are not wring true.-
great deal of speculation.
Subject I never dwelt upon-understood by many to be one of the intricate
subjects-Elders in this church preach.-no rule of interpretation.-what
is the rule of interpretation? Just no interpretation at all.
understood precisely as it read.-I have Key by which I understand
the scripture-I enquire what was the question which drew out the answer.-
National. Abraham. &c as
some suppose 1st place dig up the root-what drew out the saying out
of Jesus? Pharisees & scribes murmured! this man receives sinners
& eatheth with them this is the key word.-to answer the murmuring
& questioning of [that] Saducees & Pharisees had is it this
man as great as he pretends to be. & eat with publicans & sinners.-Jesus
not put to it so but he could have found something of the kind discerned
it for nations.-Men in an individual capacity. all straining on this
point is a bubble.-Boy Boys say ought to be hanged can tell it to
you.
big folks Presbyterians. Methodists.
Baptists &c-despise the ignorance & abomination of this world.-
this man receiveth sinners-he
spoke this parable. what man of you having an hundred sheep & 100
saducees & Pharisees If you pharisees & saducees. are in the
sheepfold. I have no mission for you sent to look up sheep that are
lost will back him up-& make joy in heaven.-hunting after a
few individuals laying it on his Shoulder-one publican you despise.-one
piece of Silver-the piece which was lost-Joy in found of the angels
over one sinner that repenteth so righteous they will be damned any
how you cannot save them rain off from a gooses back-Great I. little
you-
certain man had two sons &c.-am
a poor publican a sinner-humbled themselves. spending their bread
& living &c Ill return to my fathers house. to Jesus you pharisees
so righteous you cannot be touched.-I will arise &c claim not
be a pharisee or saducee. I claim not to be a son do not let me starve-nothing
about Ephraim Abraham-is not mentioned. all that is meant is brought
to bear upon the pharisee. saducee. the publicans & sinners, Eldest
son, pharisees & saducees murmuring & complaining-because
Jesus sat with publicans & sinners-father came out & entreated
when John came baptized all. when Jesus come they were angry & would
not go in. dealing of God with individuals men always Righteous always
have access to throne of God eats in his fathers home If we interpret
this to national, view where is the eldest son?
likened the kingdom to an old
womans milk pan-how could Jesus take the kingdom from those who bore
no fruit & give it to another.-is an apple tree no longer a tree
because it has no apples? parable of Prodigal son spoken to illustrate
this distinction-from the moment John's voice was first heard he
was the Prunner on the earth entitled to salvation. on the earth.
Servants of God of the last
days myself & those I have ordained, have the priesthood & a
mission-to the publicans & sinners-& if the Presbyterians
& [two lines left blank].
are in the kingdom. if they
are not righteous-what is the result. they are sinners & if they
reject our voice they shall be damnded.
If a man was going to hell
I would not let any man disturb him.-while we will be the last to
oppress we will be the last to be driven from our post-peace be still
bury the hatchet & the sword.-the sound of war is dreadfull in
my ear. any man who will not fight for his wife & children is a
coward & a bastard.
Mohemetans, Presbyterians,
&c if ye will not embrace our religion embrace our hospitalities.
Date: 29 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 162-63)
the next sabbath he (Joseph) asked and answered
1st How was John the greatest prophet ever born of a woman
2d How was Christ
Ans to 1st His greatness consisted
in 3 things 1st His appointment to prepare the way before the Lord
Jesus Christ 2nd His privilege to Baptise him or induct him into
his Kingdom 3d His being the only legal administrator in the affairs
of the Kingdom that was then on the Earth consequently the Jews had
to obey his instruction or be damned by their own Law & Christ fulfiled
all righteousness in becoming obedient to the the Law which himself
had given to Moses on the mount and thereby magnified it and made it
honorable instead of destroying it.
Ans to 2nd Query Christ was
least in the Kingdom in their estimation or least entitled to their
credulty as a Prophet but as in Truth greater than John
{The Holy Ghost cannot be transformed
into a Dove but the sign of a Dove was given to John to signify the
Truth of the Deed as the Dove was an emblem or Token of Truth}
Date: 29 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Times and Seasons4
(15 May 1843):200 (Words of Joseph Smith, 163)
The Mormons have not yet completed
their great Temple, and have no commodious place of worship, but the
apostles and elders preach in private houses on the Sabbath, and at
other times, though I seldom attend these latter meetings; but when
the weather will admit, they meet in the grove, or on the rough floor
of the basement of the Temple, and then the prophet frequently preaches.
On one of these occasions I heard him preach concerning the prodigal
son.
After naming his text, the
prophet remarked, that some one had asked him the meaning of the expression
of Jesus, "among those born of the woman there has not arisen a greater
than John," and said he had promised to answer it in public, and he
would do it then. "It could not have been on account of the miracles
John performed, for he did no miracles; but it was,
First, Because he was
trusted with a divine mission, of preparing the way before the face
of the Lord. Who was trusted with such a mission, before or since?
No man.
Second, He was trusted,
and it was required at his hand, to baptise the Son of Man. who ever
did that? Who ever had so great a privilege or glory? Who ever led the
Son of God into the waters of baptism, beholding the Holy Ghost
descend upon him in the sign of the Dove? No man.
Third, John, at that
time, was the only legal administrator, holding the keys of power there
was on the earth. The keys, the kingdom, the power, the glory, had departed
from the Jews; and John, the son of Zechariah, by the holy anointing,
and decree of heaven, held the keys of power at that time."
Date: 29 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 164)
Pres. Joseph Preached in the
Temple on the Prodigal Son and showed that it did not refer to any nation,
but was mearly an answer to the remark "he recieveth the sinners and
eateth with them," the Temple was crowded with people.
Date: 29 January 1843 (Sunday)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 164)
Meeting. Prodigal Son.
Date: 16 February 1843 (Thursday Afternoon)
Location: Shokoquon, Henderson County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 164)
3 [P.M.] Elder Hyde prayed
I preached to a large & attentive audience 2 hours from 19 Rev-10
verse & shewed them that any man who denied his being a prophet
was not a preacher of righteousness. they opened their eyes & appeared
will pleased. & had good effect.
Date: 21 February 1843 (Tuesday Morning)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 164-68)
11 [A.M.] went to Temple found
Bro Hawes preaching about Nauvoo house. Mr Woo[d]worth spoke say something
in vindicating my own character. {commenced under peculiar circumstances.
have made all contracts for Nauvoo house. was employed to build from
the commencement. some brick on hand. most ready to start brick work
one says can you give me something to eat? I'll try. another says
I will have my pay. "Go to hell & get it" said I. I have set
me down to a dry Johncake & cold water and the men who have worked
with me no man shall go onto my poverty stricken foundation to build
himself up. for I began it & will finish it. Not that public spirit
here as in other cities dont deny revelation if the Temple and Nauvoo
house are not finished you must run away.-when I have had a pound
of meat or quart of meal I have divided with the workman. (pretty good
Doctrin for paganism said Joseph) have had about 300 men on the job-the
best men in the world. those that have not complained I want them to
continue with me. & them who hate Mormonism & every thing else
thats good I want them to get their pay & run away}
Joseph say, well the pagan
prophet has preached us a pretty good sermon this morning-I dont know
as I can better it much-to break off the yoke of oppression, and say
what he is a mind to. that the pagans and the pagan prophets to feel
more our prosperity is curious. I am almost converted to his doctrine.
"he has prophecied if these buildings go down it will curse the place."
I verily know it is true. Let us build the temple. there may be some
speculations about Nauvoo house. say some-some say because we live
on the hill we must build up this fort on the hill. does that coat fit
you Dr. Foster? pretty well! put it on then. this is the way people
swell like the ox or toad. They come down under the hill among little
folks brother Joseph how I love you-and get up opposition & sings
names to strangers & scoundrels &c I want all men to feel for
me. when I have shook the bush-& bare the burden, and if they
do not-I speak in authority in the name of the Lord God he shall be
damned,-people on the flats are aggrandizing themselves. by the Nauvoo
house. who laid the foundation of the Temple. Bro Joseph in the name
of the Lord. not for his aggrandizement but for the good of the whole
Our speculators say our poor
folk on the flat are down & keep them down. how the Nauvoo house
cheats this man & that man-say the speculators. they are fools
ought to hide their heads in a hollow pumpkin & never take it out.
the first principle brought into consideration is aggrandizement, some
think it unlawful-but it is lawful while he has a disposition to aggrandize
all around him. false principle, to aggrandize at the expense of another.
every thing God does is to aggrandize his kingdom how does he lay the
foundation? build a temple to my great name. and call the attention
of the great. but where shall we lay our heads-an old log cabin I
will whip Hiram Kimball & esq Wells and every body else over Dr
Fosters Head, instead of building the Nauvoo house build a great many
little skeletons-see Dr Fosters mammoth skeletons of Dr Foster rising
all over town but there is no flesh on them. personal aggrandizement.
don't care how many bones-somebody may come along & clothe them.
elephants; crocodiles &c eaters. such as grog shop &c-card
shops &c-those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.
The building of N. House is just as sacred in my view as the Temple.
I want the Nauvoo House built
it must be built, our salvation depends upon it. When men have done
what they can or will for the temple, let them do what they can for
the Nauvoo House. We never can accomplish our work at the expense of
another. There is a great deal of murmuring in the Church-about me,
but I don't care any thing about it. I like to hear it thunder. to
hear the saints grumbling.-the growling dog get the sorest head. If
any man is poor and afflicted. let him come and tell of it.-&
not complain or grumble
finishing Nauvoo House like
a man finishing a fight. if he gives up he is killed-if he holds out
a little longer he may live.-a story. a man who will whip his wife
is a coward. I fought with a man who had whipped wife. still remembered
he was whipped his wife. I whipped him till he said enough.-hang on
to the Nauvoo house thus & you will build it. & you will be
on Pishagah & the great men who come will pile their gold &
silver till you are weary of receiving them. & if you are not careful
will be lifted up & fall and they will cover up & cloak all
your former sins & hide a multitude of sins & shine forth fair
as the sun &c
those who have labored &
cannot get your pay be patient, if you take the means which are set
apart let him he will destroy themselves if any man is hungry let him
come to me & I will feed him at my table
if any are hungry or naked
dont take away the brick &c but come & tell. I will divided.
& then if he is not satisfied I will kick his back side
there cannot be some fire without
some smoke. well if the stories about Jose Smith are true, then the
stories of J C. Bennett are true about the Ladies of Nauvoo. Ladies
that the Relief Society was organized of those who are to be wifes to
Jos Smith. Ladies you know whether it is true. no use of living among
hogs without a snout. this biting and devouring each other. for Gods
sake stop it.
one thing more. political economy.
our duty to concentrate all our influence to make popular that which
is sound & good. & unpopular that which is unsound Tis right
politically for a man who has influence to use it as well as for a man
who has no influence to use his, from henceforth I will maintain all
the influence I can get. in relation to politics I will speak as a man
in religion in authority. if a man lift a dagger to kill me, I will
lift my tongue.-when I last preached, heard such a groaning I thought
of the paddys ell[?] when he tried to kill him could not contrive any
way so he put it [in] the water to drown him. and as he began to come
to-see said he what pain he is in how he wigles his tail.-the banks
are failing & it is the privilege to say what a currency we want.
gold & silver to build the Temple & Nauvoo house. We want your
old nose rings & finger rings & brass kettles no longer. if
you have old raggs-watches-guns go and peddle them, & bring
the hard metal, if we will do this by popular opinion you will have
a sound currency. send home bank notes-& take no paper money.
& let every man write his neighbor before he starts to get gold
and silver.-I have contemplated these things a long time, but the
time has not come till now to speak till now
I would not do as the Nauvoo
House committee has done, sell stock for an old stone house where all
the people who live die. & put that stock into a mans hand to go
east and purchase rags to come here & build up Mammoth bones with
as a political man in the name
of old Joe Smith I command the Nauvoo committee not to sell a share
in the N House without the gold or silver. excuse bro Snider he was
in England, when they sold stock for stone house.-I leave it
the meeting was got up by N[auvoo House] Committee the pagans. Roman Catholics. & Methodist & Baptist shall have peace in Nauvoo only they must be ground in Joe smiths mill.-I have been in their mill I was ground in Ohio. & York States a presbyterian smut machine-& last machine was in Missouri & last of all I have been through Illinois smut machine & those who come here must go through my smut machine & that is my tongue.
{Dr Foster remarked much good may grow out of a very little, and much
good may come out of this. If any men accuse me of exchanging N[auvoo
House]. Stock for Rags &c. I gave a $1000 to this house & $50
to relief society & some to Fulmer to get stone to build Joseph
house. & I mean to build Joseph a house & you may build this.
& I will help you I mean to profit this. & will divide the mammoth
bones with you. I am guilty of all I have been charged.-I have signed
my name to a petition to have Wm H. Robinson to have the Post Office.-I
did not know a petition for Joseph Smith.-}
Joseph [said] I thought I would
make a coat. it don't fit the Dr. only in the P[ost]. office if it
does fit any one let them put it on. The bones are skeleton and as old
Ezekiel said I command the flesh & the sinews to come upon them
that they may be clothed.
Blessing by Bro. P. P. Pratt.-
Date: 21 February 1843 (Tuesday Morning)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 168)
President Joseph Smith arose
& Addressed the meeting as a Christian Prophet &
addressed
Date: 12 March 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 168)
Joseph preached 14 John-in
my fathers house are many mansions.
Date: 12 March 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: Brigham Young Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 168)
Br. J. Smith feeles unwell
. . . Br Joseph Preach from the 14 Chapter of St John at 10 oc am he
taut menne grait and glorious things.
Date: 2 April 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 168-70)
P.M. Joseph preached on Revelations
chap. 5. he called on me to open the meeting. He also preached on the
same subject in the evening. During the day president Joseph made the
following remarks on doctrine. "I was once praying very ernestly to
know the time of the coming of the son of man when I heard a voice repeat
the following 'Joseph my son, if thou livest untill thou art 85 years
old thou shalt see the face of the son of man, therefore let this suffice
and trouble me no more on this matter." I was left thus without being
able to decide wither this coming referred to the beginning of the Millenium,
or to some previous appearing, or wether I should die and thus see his
face. I believe the coming of the son of man will not be any sooner
than that time." In correcting two points in Er Hydes discourse he
observed as follows, "The meaning of that passage where it reads 'when
he shall appear we shall be like him for we shall see him as he is'
is this, When the savior appears we shall see that he is a man like
unto ourselves, and that same sociality which exists amongst us here
will exist among us there only it will be coupled with eternal glory
which we do not enjoy now. Also the appearing of the father and the
son in John c 14 v 23 is a personal appearing and the idea that they
will dwell in a mans heart is a sectarian doctrine and is false"
In answer to a question which
I [William Clayton] proposed to him as follows, 'Is not the reckoning
of gods time, angels time, prophets time & mans time according to
the planet on which they reside he answered yes "But there is no angel
ministers to this earth only what either does belong or has belonged
to this earth and the angels do not reside on a planet like our earth
but they dwell with God and the planet where he dwells is like crystal,
and like a sea of glass before the throne. This is the great Urim &
Thummim whereon all things are manifest both things past, present &
future and are continually before the Lord. The Urim & Thummim is
a small representation of this globe. The earth when it is purified
will be made like unto crystal and will be a Urim & Thummim whereby
all things pertaining to an inferior kingdom or all kingdoms of a lower
order will be manifest to those who dwell on it. and this earth will
be with Christ Then the white stone mentioned in Rev. c2 v17 is the
Urim & Thummim whereby all things pertaining to an higher order
of kingdoms even all kingdoms will be made known and a white stone is
given to each of those who come into this celestial kingdom, whereon
is a new name written which no man knoweth save he that receiveth it.
The new name is the key word.
"Whatever principle of intelligence
we obtain in this life will rise with us in the ressurection: and if
a person gains more knowledge in this life through his diligence &
obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world
to come. There is a law irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundation
of this world upon which all blessings are predicated; and when we obtain
any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it
is predicated.
"The Holy Ghost is a personage,
and a person cannot have the personage of the H. G. in his heart. A
man receive the gifts of the H. G., and the H. G. may descend upon a
man but not to tarry with him.
He also related the following
dream. "I dreamed that silverheaded old man came to seem me and said
he was invaded by a gang of robbers, who were plundering his neighbors
and threatening distruction to all his subjects. He had heard that I
always sought to defend the oppressed, and he had come to hear with
his own ears what answer I would give him. I answered, if you will make
out the papers and shew that you are not the agressor I will call out
the Legion and defend you while I have a man to stand by me. The old
man then turned to go away. When he got a little distance he turned
suddenly round and said I must call out the Legion and go and he would
have the papers ready when I arrived, and says he I have any amount
of men which you can have under your command.
[This dream took place on March
9, 1843 and is found in the Joseph Smith diary under March 11.]
Er Hyde gave this interpretation
"The old man represents the government of these United States who
will be invaded by a foreign foe, probably England. The U. S. government
will call on you to defend probably all this Western Territory, and
will offer you any amount of men you may need for that purpose.
Once when prest. Joseph was praying ernestly to know concerning the wars which are to preceed the coming of the son of man, he heard a voice proclaim that the first outbreak of general bloodshed would commence at South Carolina-see Revelation [D&C 87]
The sealing of the 144000 was the number of priests who should be anointed
to adminster in the daily sacrifice &c. During Prest. Joseph's
remarks he said their was a nice distinction between the vision which
John saw as spoken of in Revelations & the vision which Daniel saw,
the former relating only to things as they actually existed in heaven-the
latter being a figure representing things on the earth. God never made
use of the figure of beast to represent the kingdom of heaven-when
they were made use of it was to represent an apostate church.
Date: 2 April 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 171-72)
1. P.M. attended meeting. Joseph
read 5th Chapter of John
God never made use of the figure
of a beast to represent the kingdom of heaven.-Beasts 7 eyes Priesthood.-this
is the first time I have ever taken a text in Revelation.-and if the
young elders would let such things alone it would be far better.-then
corrected Elder Hyde as in private. [We here include the text of the
corrections made to Orson Hyde]
after breakfast called on Sister
Sophronia 10 A.M. to meeting. Elder Hyde Preached 1 epistle John 1.
chapter 1st 3 verses-when he shall appear we shall be like him &c.
he will appear on a white horse, as a warrior, & maybe we shall
have some of the same spirit.-our god is a warrior.-John 14.23-it
is our privilege to have the father & son dwelling in our hearts.
. . . dined at Sophrona's
& soon as we arrived.-Elder Hyde I am going to offer some corrections
to you. Elder H. replied-they shall be thankfully received.-When
he shall appear we shall see him as he is. we shall see that he is a
Man like ourselves.-And that same sociality which exists amongst us
here will exist among us there only it will be coupled with eternal
glory which glory we do not now enjoy.
14 John 23.-the appearing
of the father and of the Son in that verse is a personal appearance.-to
say that the father and the Son dwell in a mans heart is an old Sectarian
notion. and is not correct.
There are no angels who administer
to this earth but who belong or have belonged to this earth. The angels
do not reside on a planet like this earth. but they reside in the presence
of God-but on a Globe like a sea of glass & fire. "Sea of glass
before the throne, &c." where all things are manifest past present
& to come.-The place where God resides is a great Urim and Thummim.
This earth in its sanctified & immortal state will be a Urim &
Thummim for all things below it in the scale of creation, but not above
it.-related the Dream written on page 3d Book B Interpretation By
O. Hyde-[The dream referred to is located at the beginning of the
second volume of Joseph Smith's Diary under the date 11 March 1843
and is as follows:]
A dream, then related.
Night before last I dreamed that an old man come to me and said there
was a mob force coming upon him, and he was likely to loose his life,
that I was Lieut General and had the command of a large force, and I
was also a patriot and disposed to protect the innocent & unoffending.
& wanted I should assist him. I told him I wanted some written documents
to show the facts that they are the aggressors, & I would raise
a force sufficient for his protection, that I would cal out the Legion,-He
turned to go from me, but turned again and said to me. "I have any
amount of men at my command
old man.-Government of these
United Stats, who will be invaded by a foreign foe. probably England.
U. S. Government will call on Gen Smith to defend probably all this
western territory and offer him any amount of men he shall desire &
put them under his command.
I prophecy in the Name of the
Lord God that the commencement of bloodshed as preparatory to the coming
of the son of man. will commence in South Carolina,-(it probably may
come through the slave trade.)-this the voice declared to me. while
I was praying earnestly on the subject 25 December 1832.-
I earnestly desired to know
concerning the coming of the Son of Man & prayed, when a voice Said
to me, Joseph , my son, if thou livest until thou art 85 years old thou
shalt see the face of the son of man. therefore let this suffice &
trouble me no more on this matter-
Date: 2 April 1843 (Sunday Evening)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 172-73)
Meeting 7 eve resumed the subject
of the beast.-shewed very plainly that Johns vision was very different
from Daniels Prophecy-one referring to things existing in heaven.
the other a figure of things which on be on the earth whatever principle
of intelligence we attain unto in this life. it will rise with us in
the resurrection, -and if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence
through his obedience & diligence than another he will have so much
the advantage in the world to come.-
There is a law irrevocably
decreed in heaven before the foundation of the world upon which all
blessings are predicated and when we obtain a blessing it is by obedience
to the law upon which that blessing is predicated.
again reverted to Elders Hyde
mistake. &c. the Father has a body of flesh & bones as tangible
as mans the Son also, but the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit.-and
a person cannot have the personage of the H G in his heart he may receive
the gift of the holy Ghost. it may descend upon him but not to tarry
with him-
What is the meaning of the
scriptures. he that is faithful over a few things shall be made ruler
over Many? & he that is faithful over Many shall be made ruler over
many more?
What is the meaning of the
Parable of the 10 talents? Also conversation with Nicodemus. except
a man be born of water & of the spirit.--I shall not tell you?-
Closed by flagellating the audience for their fears.--& called upon Elder Hyde to get up & fulfil his covenant to preach 3/4 of an hour.--otherwise I will give you a good whipping.-
Elder Hyde arose & said
Brothers & Sisters I feel as though all had been said that can be
said. I can say nothing but bless you.-
Date: 6 April 1843 (Thursday Noon)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 173-76)
The first day of the Jubilee,
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. a special Conference
assembled on the platform of the Temple, or . . . rough floor of the
basement, at 10 o clock A. M. the sun shone clearly. & was very
warm & pleasant. Scarce a speck of snow is to be seen except on
the north side of Zarahemla Hill. is considerable but the ice was about
2 feet deep in the river west of the temple & north of that point;
& south of that the channel is clear of ice, -the walls of the
temple are from 4 to 12 feet above the floor of the conference.-
President Joseph was detained
by a court . . . President B. Young had charge of the meeting.
&
10 mi before 12 President Joseph
Smith & Elder [Sidney] Rigdon and O. Hyde arrived the floor was
about 3/4 covered with listeners-12 o clock O. Pratt gave way &
Joseph. rose to state the object of the meeting. It is my object to
ascertain the standing of the first presidency. (as I have been instructed)
I present myself for trial, I shall next present my councillors for
trial. -3d. to take into consideration the sending out of the twelve
or some portion of them or somebody else to get means to build up Nauvoo
House & temple 4-Elders will have the privilege of appeals from
the different Conferences to this if there are any such cases. -It
is important that this conference give importance to the N. House. as
a prejudice exists against the Nauvoo House in favor of the Lords House-
There is no place where men
of wealth & character & influence can go to repose themselfs
Are you satisfied with the
first presidency, so far as I am concerned, or will you choose another?
If I have done any thing to injure my character in the sight of men
& angels-or men & women, come forward tell of it & if
not ever after hold your peace.
President B. Young arose &
nominated Joseph Smith to continue as the President of the church. Orson
Hyde 2 dd it.-voted unanimously. -Such a show of hands was never
seen before in the church. -Joseph returned his thanks-to the assembly.
& said he would serve them according to the best of his ability.
Next president Joseph Brought
forward Elder Rigdon for trial. Br Young nominated Elder Rigdon to continue.
2d by O. Hyde . . . voted, (in general
Joseph presented Wm Law for
trial. Moved by B. Young. 2d By Heber Kimball in name Lord
Voted unanimously that Hyrum
Smith retain his office as Patriarch . . . .Hyrum said the Lord bless
the people. &Elder Rigdon said so too. -
Joseph said I do not know any
thing against the twelve. if I did I would present them for trial.
It is not right that all the
burdens of the Nauvoo House should rest on a few individuals-and we
will now consider the propriety of sending the twelve to collect means
for the Nauvoo House. -there has been too great latitude in individuals
for the building of the Temple to the exclusion of the Nauvoo house.
It has been reported that the Twelve have wages $2.00 per day for
their services
Let this conference institute
an order to this end & let no man pay money or stock into the hands
of the twelve except the payer transmit the account immediately to the
Trustee in trust. & no man else but the twelve have authority to
act as agents for the Temple & Nauvoo House. -
I will mention one case. he
is a good man. that man's name is Russell. he had been East on business
for his brother. & took money belonging to the temple & put
it in the bag with his brothers money. 2 or three days after his return
he called on his brother for the money, but his brother thought he had
paid out too much money-- & he would keep the church money to make
good his own.-I called to see Russell about the money, and he treated
me so politely I concluded he never meant to pay-Bro. Russell said,
that his brother said he should not be out of money again. There was
$20. of the church money, & some dried apple for the Prests.
I propose that you send moneys
for the temple by the twelve some or all; or some agent of your choosing
& if you send by others & the money is lost, tis lost to yourselves.--I
cannot be responsible for it.
It is wrong for the church
to make a bridge of my nose in appropriating church funds. -The incorporation
required of me securities. -which were lodged in the proper hands-Temple
committee have
so long as you consider me
worthy to hold this office, it is your duty to attend to the legal forms
belonging to the business. -My desire is that the conference Minutes
go forth, to inform all branches of the order of doing business. &
the twelve be appointed to this spicial mission of collecting funds
for the Nauvoo House. -
When I went to the White House at Washington & presented Letters from Thomas Carlin. Van Buren said Thos Carlin. Thos Carlin Who's Thomas Carlin? I erred in spirit; -& I confess my mistake, in being angry with Martin Van Buren for saying Thos. Carlin is nobody.--let it be recorded on earth and in heaven that I am clear of this sin. -
There has been complaint against the Temple Committee. -for appropriating
the church funds to the benefit of their own children. to the neglect
of others who need assistance more than they do. -
I have the complaint, by Wm
Clayton. Wm Clayton called, Says I have to say to the conference. I
am not so fully prepared to present
I am able to prove that property
used to a great extent. I am able to prove by the books that Cahoon
& Higby have used property for their own families-to the exclusion
of others. -Joseph said Let the trial of the Committee be deferred
to another day-then let. the Lion & unicorn come together-day
after tomorrow. Mr Clayton can have the privilege of bringing his books
to the trial. -Moved and Seconded- voted that the twelve be appointed
a committee to receive & gather funds to build the Nauvoo House.
with this proviso, that the twelve andtu
President Young remarked he
should never give receipts for cash. except such as he put in his own
pocket for his own use but wished this speculation to stop.-&asked
if anyone knew any thing against any one of the Twelve, any dishonesty.
I know of one who is not. -And referred to Muzzling the ox that treadeth
out the corn. -
Joseph Said, I will answer
Bro Brigham,--let the twelve spend the time belonging to the temple
for to collect funds--and the remainder of the time they may labor for
their support. -The idea of not muzzling the ox that treadeth out
the corn is a good old quaker song. I have never taken the first farthing
of church funds for my own use till I have first consulted the proper
authorities, & when there was no quorum of the twelve or high priests
I have asked the Temple Committee who had no business with it. -Elder
Cutler said it was so. -Let this conference stop all agents in collecting
funds except the twelve.-
Date: 6 April 1843 (Thursday Noon)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 173-76)
This day was a special conference
the saints assembled in the Temple soon after 9. I was appointed to
take minutes. About 11 prest Joseph arrived and proceeded to business.
He first stated the object of this conference, viz. 1st. To ascertain
the standing of the first presidency 2nd. To take into consideration
the propriety of sending some of the Twelve into the branches abroad
to obtain funds for building the Nauvoo House. 3rd. To give a chance
to those Elders who have been disfellowshiped or had their licenses
taken away in the branches to have a re-hearing & settle their difficulties
He then spake on the importance of building the Nauvoo House stressing
that the time had come to build it. and the church must either do it
or suffer the condemnation of not fulfilling the commandments of God.
He next presented himself &
was unamisiously voted president of the whole church. Next his councillors
Ers Rigdon and Wm. Law. and afterwards Er Hyrum who was voted with a
hearty aye. He blessed the people in the name of the Lord.
The next business was appointing
the Twelve on their mission &c. He showed the injustice of Ers collecting
funds for the Temple in as much as they rarely brought them here. The
conference must contrive some measures to put the Twelve under bonds,
for a true return of monies received by them &c.
Date: 6 April 1843 (Thursday Afternoon)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 177)
[The meeting began at 3 P.M.,
and Hyrum Smith spoke before the Prophet arrived.]
Joseph followed. I want the
Elders to make hono[ra]ble proclamation abroad what the feelings of
the presidency are.-I despise a thief above ground. He would betray
me, if he could get the opportunity if I were the biggest rogue in the
world, he would steal my horse when I wanted to run away, then read
proclamation of the Mayor on stealing. dated 25 day March 1843.-"Wasp".
No. 48" Many observation confimatory & said, enough Said. for
this conferece on this Subject.-
Elders have a privilege to
appeal from any decision of a branch to know if they shall retain their
office or membership.
Necessary I explain concerning
Keokuk it is known that the Gov of Iowa has posted a writ for me on
affidavit of Boggs. he still holds that write as a cudgel over my head.
(U.S. Attorney told me all writes issued thus were legally dead.) I
said that is a stumper & I will shew them a trick the Devil never
did. that is leave them. every man who wishes to cast out economically
with regard to futurity.-let them come over. leave as soon as they
can settle their affairs without sacrifice let them come & we will
protect them & let that government know that we don't like to
be imposed upon.-
about the first of August 1842
Mr. Remick came to my house, put on a long face, said he was in distress,
about to loose $1400 do a theft of 300 at Sheriffs Sale. said he the
sale takes place to-morrow.-I have money in St Louis.-next morning
he called. I did not like the looks of him but thought I he is a stranger.
I have been a stranger. & better loose 200 than be guilty of sin
of ingratitude. took his note. on demand The. day I was taken I asked
him for the money.-You ought to have it said he but, I have not got
my money from St. Louis. I have a curious plan in my mind. I will give
you a quit claim deed of the land you bought of Galland & give notes
to Gallands notes
Those who have deeds to those
islands from the chancery of Iowa, have as good tittle as any, but the
settlers under the Laws of Iowa. thfrom
Dr Galland said those Islands
don't belong to any body, they were thrown out of U. S. Survey. hence
no man had a claim & it was so considered, when I come here.-
My advice to the Mormons, who
have deeds & possessions, is fight it out, you who have no deeds
or possessions let them alone.-touch not a stick of their timber.
Deeds given by court of chancery, warrants, & defend against all
unlawful claims-It is a 1/2 breed, it an anomaly, without form &
void, a nondescript. if they have your note, let them come here &
sue you then you can carry up your case to the highest court.-So long
as the Laws have a shadow or tittle, it is not right for the
Mormons to go & carry away the wood In the name of the Lord God,
I forbid any man from using any observations of mine, to rob the land
of wood.-
Moses Martin has been tried
& had fellowship withdrawn by the church at Keokuk
The question has been asked
can a Member not belonging to the church bring a member before the high
council, for trial? I answer No! I ask no Jurisdiction in [local] religious
matters I merely give my opinion when asked. If there was any feelings
at Nashville because I gave my opinion, there is no occasion for it..
I only advice the brethren to come from Iowa, & they may do as they
please about coming. If I had not actually got into this work, &
been called of God, I would back out. but I cannot back out. I have
no doubt of the truth. were I going to prophecy I would prophecy the
end will not come in 1844 or 5 or 6. or 40 years moreJesus
I prophecy in the name of the
Lord God.--& let it be written. that the Son of Man will not come
in the heavens till I am 85 years old 48 years hence or about 1890.-then
Read 14 Rev. 6 verse another angel fly in the midst of heaven; for the
hour of his judgment is come. to extermination-from the commencement.
commence when angel commences preaching this gospel 1 day-10000 years.
1000 years as 1 day.-41 yrs 8 months.-only 6 years from the voice,
saying, if thou live till thou art 85. years old. Hosea 6th chapter
after 2 days &c 2520 years which brings it to 1890.-the Son of
man never will be, never can be till the judgments spoken of for this
hour are poured out, which judments are commenced.-
Paul says ye are the children
of the light--& not of the darkness, that that day should not overtake
us as a thief in the night.-it is not the design of the Almighty to
come upon the earth & crush it & grind it to powder he will
reveal it to his servants the prophets. O what wondrous wise men there
are going about & braying like-like as ass cry O, Lord, where
is Joe Smith-Jose Smith.-whare-O Away up on the top of the topless
throne aha. can &c-
Jerusalem must be rebuilt.-&
Judah return, must return & the temple water come out from under
the temple-the waters of the dead sea be healed.-it will take some
time to build the walls & the Temple. &c & all this must
be done before Son of Man will make his appearance; wars & rumours
of wars. signs in the heavens above on the earth beneath Sun turned
into darkness moon to blood. earthquakes in divers places,
oceans
Date: 6 April 1843 (Thursday Afternoon)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: James Burgess Notebook
(Words of Joseph Smith, 180-81)
Remarks on the comeing of the
Son of Man by Joseph Smith the Prophet. Made in Nauvoo Christ says no
man knoweth the day or the hour when the Son of Man cometh. This is
a sweeping argument for sectarianism against Latter day ism. Did Christ
speak this as a general principle throughout all generations Oh no he
spoke in the present tense no man that was then living upon the footstool
of God knew the day or the hour But he did not say that there was no
man throughout all generations that should not know the day or the hour.
No for this would be in flat contradiction with other scripture for
the prophet says that God will do nothing but what he will reveal unto
his Servants the prophets consequently if it is not made known to the
Prophets it will not come to pass; again we find Paul 1st of Thesslonians
5th Chapter expressly points out the characters who shall not know the
day nor the hour when the Son of Man cometh for says he it will come
upon them as the thief or unawares. Who are they they are the children
of darkness or night. But to the Saints he says yea are not of the night
nor of darkness of that that day should come upon you unawares. John
the revelator says 14 chap 7th verse that the hour of his judgments
is come the are precursers or forerunners of the comeing of Christ.
read Matthew 24 Chap and all the Prophets. He says then shall they see
the Signs of the comeing of the Son of Man in the clouds of Heaven.
How are we to see it Ans. As the lighting up of the morning or the dawning
of the morning cometh from the east and shineth unto the west-So also
is the comeing of the Son of Man. The dawning of the morning makes its
appearance and gradualy becomes larger until every eye shall see it.
Shall the Saints understand it Oh yes. Paul says so. Shall the wicked
understand Oh no they attribute it to a natural cause. They will probably
suppose it is two great comets comeing in contact with each other
It will be small at first and
will grow larger and larger until it will be all in a blaze so that
every eye shall see it. Joseph Smith the Prophet.
Date: 6 April 1843 (Thursday Afternoon)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 181)
Joseph said when he was asking
to know of the time of Christs second Coming he obtained for answer
me son if thou shalt live until thou art Eighty five years old thou
shalt see the son of man on Earth Joseph was born in Sharon Windsor
County Vermont Dec 23 1805. He is therefore now 37 years old last Dec
which leaves 48 years yet to transpire until the time[e] of Promise
that Joseph should see Christ.
Date: 7 April 1843 (Friday Morning)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 182)
President Joseph rather hoarse
from speaking so long yesterday-said he would use the boys lungs to
day.-[and after the trial of the Temple Committee] President Joseph
stated that the business of the conference had closed. & the remainder
of the conference would be devoted to instruction-it is an insult
to the meeting to have people run out of meeting Just before we close.
if they must go let them go 1/2 an hour before. No Gentleman will go
out of meeting Just at close.
Date: 7 April 1843 (Friday Afternoon)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 182)
4/45 Joseph said to complete
the subject of Bro. Pratt's. I thought it a glorious subject with
one additional idea
Date: 7 April 1843 (Friday Afternoon)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 182)
During Conference Orson Pratt
gave a Lecture upon the Second advent of Christ in connexion with the
resurrection & to refute the argument of the transition of matter
He said that Only about 3/4 of the matter contained in one creature
could be converted to the use of another Joseph said No fundamental
principle of one creature can be changed to another Creature.
Date: 8 April 1843 (Saturday Morning)
Location:
Source: William Clayton Report
(Words of Joseph Smith, 182)
Pres't Joseph called upon
the choir to sing a him and remarked that "tenor charms the ear-bass
the heart." After sing the President spoke in substance as follows.
I have three requests to make
of the congregation the first is that all who have faith will exercise
it, that the Lord may be willing to calm the wind. The next is, that
I may have your prayers that the Lord may strengthen my lungs so that,
I may be able to make you all hear. And the next is, that I may have
the Holy Ghost to rest upon me so as to enable me to declare those things
that are true.
The subject I intend to speak
upon this morning is one that I have seldom touched upon since I commenced
as an Elder of the Church. It is a subject of great speculation as well
amongst the Elders of the church as amongst the divines of the day;
it is in relation to the beast spoken of in Revelations. The reason
why it has been a subject of speculation amongst the Elders, is in consequence
of a division of sentiment and opinion in relation to it. My object
is to do away with this difference of opinion. The knowledge
of the subject is not very essential to the Elders.with
seventenis
When God made use of the figure
of a beast in visions to the prophets, he did it to represent those
Kingdoms who had degenerated and become corrupt--the Kingdoms of the
world, but he never made use of the figure of a beast nor any of the
brute kind to represent his kingdom. Daniel says when he saw the vision
of the four beasts "I came near unto one of them that stood by, and
asked him the truth of all this." The angel interpreted the vision
to Daniel, but we find by the interpretation that the figures of beasts
had no allusion to the Kingdom of God. You there see that the beasts
are spoken of to represent the Kingdoms of the world the inhabitants
whereof were beastly and abominable characters, they were murderous,
corrupt, carnivourous and brutal in their dispositions. I make mention
of the prophets to qualify my declaration which I am about to make so
that the young Elders who know so much may not rise up and choke me
like hornets. there is a grand difference and distinction between the
visions and figures spoken of by the prophets and those spoken of in
the Revelations of John. None of the things John saw had any allusion
to the scenes of the days of Adam or of Enoch or of Abraham or Jesus,
only as far as is plainly represented by John and clearly set forth.
John only saw that which was "shortly to come to pass" and that
which was yet in futurity (He read Rev. ch. 1 v. 1) Now I make this
declaration, that those things which John saw in heaven, had no allusion
to any thing that had been on the earth, because John says "he saw
what was shortly to come to pass" and not what had already transpired.
John saw beasts that had to do with things on the earth, but not in
past ages; the beasts which he saw had to devour the inhabitants of
the earth in days to come. The revelations do not give us to understand
any thing of the past in relation to the Kingdom of God. What John saw
and speaks of were things which were in heaven, what the prophets saw
and speak of where things pertaining to the earth. I am now going to
take exception to the present translation of the bible in relation to
these matters. There is a grand distinction between the actual meaning
of the Prophets and the Present translation. The Prophets do
notand to the inhabitants
that that being
thethem
The popular religionists of
the day say that the beasts spoken of in the revelations represent Kingdoms.
Very well, on the same principle we can say that the twenty four Elders
spoken of represent beasts, for they are all spoken of at the same time,
and represented as all giving
Ye Elders of Israel hearken
to my voice and when ye are sent into the world to preach, preach and
cry aloud "repent ye for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand repent and
believe the gospel." Never meddle with the visions of beasts and subjects
you do not understand. Er Brown when you go to Palmyra dont say any
thing about the beast, but preach those things the Lord has told you
to preach about, repentance and baptism for the remission of sins.
(He here read Rev. ch 13 v
1 to 8) The spiritualizers say the beast that received the wound was
Nebuchadnezzar, but we will look at what John saw in relation to this
beast. The translators have used the term "dragon" for "devil".
Now it was a beast that John saw in heaven, and he was then speaking
of "things that were shortly to come to pass." and consequently
the beast John saw could not be Nebuchadnezzar The beast John saw
as spoken of in the 13th chapter
Date: 8 April 1843 (Saturday Morning)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 187-89)
3 requests.
1st that all who have faith will pray Lord to calm the wind. for as
it is now. I cannot speak.
2 that the Lord will strengthen
my Lungs.
3rd that I may have the Holy
Ghost.
The subject which I shall speak
from is the beasts spoken of by John.--I have seldom spoken from the
revelations & I do it now to do away divisions & not that the
knowledge is so much needed.-- knowledge is necessary to prevent division
although it may puff up it does away suspense. in knowledge is power,
hence Gods knows how to subject all beings he has power--over all.
should not have called up this
subject if it had not been for this old white head before Father Brown.
I did not like the old man being called up before the High Council for
erring in doctrine.-- why I feel so good to have the privilege of thinking
& believing as I please.
They undertook to correct him
there (whether they did or not I don't care)
Rev. 5 Chap 8 verse.--Father
Brown had been to work & confounded all christendom, that these
were figure John saw in heaven to represent the different kingdoms of
God on earth. he put down Sectarianism, & so far so good.-- but
I could not help laughing that God should take a figure of a beast to
represent his kingdom consisting of Men.--To take a lessor figure to
represent a greater. old white head you missed it that time. By figure
of Beasts God represented the kingdoms of the world.--Bear. Lion &c.
represented the kingdoms of the world. Says Daniel for I refer to the
prophets. to qualify my observations. to keep out of the wasp nests
or young elders.
The things John saw had no
allusion to the day of Adam Enoch Abraham or Jesus--only as clearly
specified & set forth to John. I saw that the which was lying in
futurity. Rev. 1.1.--read is key to the whole subject
4 beasts. & 24 Elders which
was out of every Nation.--it is great stuffing, to stuff all nations
into 4 beasts & 24 Elders things which he saw had no allusions to
what had been--but what must shortly come to pass.--Rev is one of the
plainest books god ever caused to be written-- what John saw he saw
in heaven--that which the p
They saw figures of
beasts.--they, Daniel did not see a lion & a bear. he saw an image
like unto a bear.--in every place.--John saw the actual beast itself.--it
was to let John know that beasts existed there & not to represent
figures of things on the earth.-- The prophets always had interpretations
of their visions &c God always holds himself responsible to give
revelations of his visions & if he does it not, we are not responsible.-
speculators read not, fear
they shall be condemned. if God has given no Rev
How do you prove John saw creatures
in heaven? C 5. V 11. revelation. 13 verse every creature which was
in heaven and on the Earth I John saw all beasts in heaven. for I expect
he saw the beasts of a 1000 forms from 10,000 worlds like this, the
grand secret was to tell what was in heaven. God will glorify himself
with all these animals.-
says one I cannot believe in
salvation of beasts. I suppose God could understand the beasts &c,
in certain worlds== the 4 beasts Were angels there. don't know where
they come from, they were inteligent inteligent.--but my Darling religion,
says, they meant something beside beast.--then the 24 elders must mean
something else:--4 beasts meant Buonpart & Cyrus. &c. then the
24 elders meant the kingdoms of the beasts. It is all as flat as a pancake
What do you use such flat and
vulgar expressions for being a prophet? because the old women understand
it, they make pancakes. the whole argument is flat. & I don't
know of any thing better to represent the argument.-
there is no revelation any
where to show that the beasts meant any thing but beasts.
O ye Elders of Israel hearken
to my voice & when ye are sent into the world to preach, tell them
things you are sent to tell. declare the first principles, & let
mysteries alone lest you be overthrown.-
Father Brown when you go to
palmyra say nothing about the 4 Beasts. Danl. [Revelation] C. 13. 2
verse--some say Deadly wound means Nebuchadnezzar --Constantine &
the catholic now for the Wasp nest.--preists & Dragon for Devil
they have translated beast in heaven--it was not to represent beast
in heaven--it was an angel in heaven who has power in the last days
to do a work--all the world wondered after the beast, & if the
beast was all the world, how could the world wondered after the beast?
When the old devil shall give power to the beast to do all his mighty
works all the world will wonder-
Who is able to make war with
the beast? says the inhabitants of the earth. if it means the kingdom
of the world it dont mean the kingdoms of the Saints.--who is able to
make war with my great big self.-- The Dragon.--we may interpret it.--&
it is sometimes Alpelyel [Apollyon]. 9 verse 12 chap.--key word.--independent
beast. abstract from the human family.--(25 minutes past 11. lungs failed.
the wind blew briskly.) I said more than I ever did before except once
at Ramus. & then the little apostates [?] stuffed me like a
certain
Date: 8 April 1843 (Saturday Morning)
Location:
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 189-90)
Josephs Sayings At the 1843
Conference The reason why God is greater than all others IS He knows
how to subject all things to himself Knowledge is Power A beast is never
used to represent the Church BUT man in his degenerate state having
become like brute Beasts
None of Johns beasts refer
or apply to any thing previous to Christ except it is specified (Quoted
Rev 4-1)
The Revelator John saw THINGS
in Heaven Beasts women &c The Prophets on Earth in vision saw (as
the Hebrew says) the images of Beasts Rev 5 13th Proves that
John saw Beasts in Heaven and heard them speak praise to God
do not know what Language they speak.
Date: 8 April 1843 (Saturday Morning)
Location:
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 190)
Various little items of business
attended to and a discourse from the president on Rev.
Date: 9 April 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 190)
Joseph remarkd that some might
have exptectd him to preach but his heart & lungs would not admit.
Joshua Grant will occupy the stand a while followed by Amasa Lyman.
Date: 13 April 1843 (Thursday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 190-93)
I most heartily congratulate
you on your safe arrival at Nauvoo. & your safe deliverance from
all the dangers & difficulties you have had to encounter but you
must not think your tribulations are ended.
I shall not address you on
doctrine but concerning your temporal welfare inasmuch as you have come
up here assaying to keep the Commandments of God I pronounce the blessings
of heaven & earth upon you. & inasmuch as [you] will follow
counsel & act wisely & do right these blessings shall rest upon
you so far as I have power of
we do not present ourselves
before you as any thing but your humble servants. willing to
be
we shall dwell on your temporal
welfare on this occasion. In the 1st place. where a crowd is flocking
from all parts of the world of different minds, religions, &c. there
will be some who do not live up to the commandments; & there will
be designing characters who would turn you aside & lead you astray.
speculators who would get away your property. therefore it is necessary
we should have an Order here, & when emigrants arrive to instruct
them concerning these things.
If the heads of the Church
have laid the foundation of this place, & have had the trouble &
of doing what has been done--are they not better qualified to tell you
how to lay out your money & than those who have had no interest
&c-
Some start on the revelations
to come here & get turned away & loose all, & then come,
and enter their complaints, to us when it is too late to do any thing
for them the object of this meeting is to tell you these things &
then if you will pursue the same courses you must bear the consequence.
There are sevrl objects in your coming here--one object has been to
bring you from Sectarian bondage Another from National bondage, where
you can be planted in a fertile soil, We have brought you into a free
government, not that you are to consider yourselves outlaws, by free
government we do not mean that a man has a right to steal rob, &c
but free from Bondage. taxation--oppression. free in every thing if
he conduct himself honestly & circumspectly with his neighbor--free
in a Spiritual capacity.-- This is the place that is appointed for the
oracles of god to be revealed.
If you have any darkness you
have only to ask & the darness is removed. tis not necessary that
miracles should be wrought to remove darkness Miracles are the fruits
of faith. "how shall we believe of him of whom &c we
have not heard. I.E. inasmuch as I have resumed leading before I
faith comes by hearing the word of God. & not faith by hearing &
hearing by the word &c If a man has not faith Enough to do one thing
he may do another, if he cannot remove a Mountain he may heal the sick.
where faith is there will be some of the fruits. all gift & power
which were poured out from heaven were poured out on the heads of those
who had faith. You must have a oneness of heart in all things, You shall
be satisfied one way or the other with us before you have done with
us--there are a great many old huts here but they are all new our city
is not 6 or 700 years old as those you come from, it is only a 4 year
old not a 4 but 3 year old. we commenced building 3 years last fall.
there were few old settlers--I got away from my keepers in Missouri
& run & come on these Shore, & found 4 or 500 families &
I went to work to get meat & flour folks were not afraid to trust
me, I went to work & bought all this region of country. & I
cried Lord what will thou have me to do? "& the answer was build
up a city & call my saints to this place!" & our hearts leaped
with joy to see you coming here. We have been praying for you all winter,
from the bottom of hearts, We are glad to see you--we are poor--&
cannot do by you as we would, but will do all we can.-
Tis not to be expected that
all can locate in the city.--there are some who have money & will
build & hire others. those who cannot purchase. lots can go out
in the county. the farmers want your labor.--no industrious man need
suffer in this land.-
the claims of the poor on us
are such that we have claim on your good feelings for your money, to
help the poor. & the church debts also have their demands to save
the credit of the church. this credit has been obtained to help the
poor. & keep them from starvation &c. those who purchase church
lands & pay for it, this shall be their sacrifice.
Men of 50 & 100,000 dollars
who were robbed of every thing in the State of Mo." are laboring in
this city for a morsel of bread, & there are those it
suppose I sell you land for
$10 per acre & I gave 3.4.5.pr acre. then you are speculating says
one. yes, I will tell you how. I buy others lands & give them to
the widow & the fatherless.-
If the speculators run against
me they run against the buckler of Jehovah.--God did not send me up
as he did Joshuua
God will deal with you himself. & will bless or curse you as you do behave yourselves. I speak to you as one having authority that you may know when it come & that you may have faith & know that God has sent me.
The lower part of the town is the most healthy. In the upper part of
the town the Merchants will say I am partial &c. but The lower part
of the town is much the most healthy. I tell you in the name of the
Lord.--I have been out in all parts of the city at all times of night
to learn these things.
The Doctors in this region
dont know much; & the lawyers when I spoke about them began to say
we will renounce you on the stand.--but they dont come up & I take
the liberty to say what I have a mind to about them.
Doctors won't tell you
where to go to be well. they want to kill or cure you to get your
money.--Calomel Doctors will give you Calomel to cure a sliver in the
big toe & does not stop to know whether the stomach is empty or
not.--& calomel on an empty stomach will kill the patient. &
the Lobelia doctors" will do the same. point me out a patient &
I will tell you whether calomel or Lobelia will kill him or not. if
you give it, The river Mississippi is healthy unless they drink it.
& it is more healthy than the spring water--dig wells from 15 to
30 feet and it will be healthy.
There are many sloughs on the Islands from were Miasma arises in the summer, and is blown over the upper part of the city. but it does not extend over the lower part of the city.--
All those persons who are not used to living on a river, or lake or
large pond of water. I do not want you should stay on the banks of the
river. get away to the lower part of the city. back on the hill-- where
you can get good well water.--if you feel any inconvenience take some
mild physic 2 or 3 times & then some good bitters.-
if you can get any thing else
take a little salts & cyenne pepper-- if you cant get salt take
peconia, or gnaw down a butternut tree, eat some boneset or hoarhound.
Those who have money come to me & I will let you have lands &
those who have no money if they look as well as I do I will give you
advice that will do you good 12 1/4.--I bless you in the name of Jesus
Christ Amen . . . Joseph gave notice that Bro Gardner wanted 2 or 300
hands ditching--a good job.-
Date: 13 April 1843 (Thursday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 194)
Spent the day visiting friends
& attending Meeting at Temple to hear from Pres Joseph Counsel to
Emigrants in relation to settling-- &, Speculation &c.
Date: 13 April 1843 (Thursday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Jounal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 190)
The New emegrants assembled
at the Temple & received an interesting discourse from President
Joseph Smith which was truly interesting to the Saints in general.
Date: 13 April 1843 (Thursday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 190)
Meeting of Emigrants at temple
office.
Date: 16 April 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 194-97)
Meeting at the Temple. A. M.
10 . o. C
Joseph read Bro. Pratts letters
to the Editors of "T. & Seasons" concerning the death of Lorenzo
Barns. remarked he read it because it was so appropriate to all who
had died in the faith.-- Almost all who have fallen in these last days,
in the church, have fallen in a strange land, this is a strange land.
to those who have come from a distance. we should cultivate sympathy
for the afflicted among us.
If there is a place on earth.
where men should cultivate this Spirit & pour in the oil & wine
in the bosom of the afflicted it is this place. and this spirit is manifest
here, and although he is a stranger & afflicted when he arrives,
he finds a brother & friend ready to administer to his necessities.--another
remark, I would esteem it one of the greatest blessings, if I am to
be afflicted in this world, to have my lot cast where I can find brothers
& friends all around me. but this is not thing referred to it is
to have the privilege of having our dead buried on the land where god
has appointed to gather his saints together.--& where there will
be nothing but saints, where they may have the privilege of laying their
bodies where the Son will make his appearance. & where they may
hear the sound of the trump that shall call them forth to behold him,
that in the morn of the resurrection they may come forth in a body.
& come right up out of their graves, & strike hands immediately
in eternal glory & felicity rather than to be scattered thousands
of miles apart. There is something good & sacred to me. in this
thing. The place where a man is buried has been sacred to me.--this
subject is made mention of In Book of Mormon & Scriptures. to the
aborigines the burying places of their fathers is more sacred than any
thing else.
When I heard of the death of
our beloved Bro. Barns it would not have affected me so much if I had
the opportunity of burying him in the land of Zion. I believe, those
who have buried their friends here their condition is enviable. Look
at Joseph in Egypt how he required his friends to bury him in the tomb
of his fathers.--see the expense & great company &
I have said, father, I desire
to be buried here, & before I go home, but if this is not thy will
not
I will tell you what I want,
if to morrow I shall be called to lay in yonder tomb. in the morning
of the resurrection, let me strike hands with my father, & cry,
my father, & he will say my son, my son,--as soon as the rock rends.
& before we come out of our graves.
& may we contemplate these
things so? Yes, if we learn how to live & how we die when we lie
down we contemplate how we may rise up in the morning and it is pleasing
for friends to lie down together locked in the arms of love, to sleep,
& locked in each others embrace & renew their conversation.
would you think it strange
that I relate what I have seen in vision in relation this interesting
theme. Those who have died in Jesus Christ, may expect to enter in to
all that fruition of Joy when they come forth, which they have pursued
here. so plain was the vision I actually saw men, before they had ascended
from the tomb, as though they were getting up slowly, they took each
other by the hand & it was my father & my son. my mother &
my daughter, my brother & my sister when the voice calls, suppose
I am laid by the side of my father.--what would be the first joy of
my heart? where is my father--my mother--my sister. they are by my side
I embrace them & they me.
It is my meditation all the
day & more than my meat & drink to know how I shall make the
saints of God to comprehend the visions that roll like an overflowing
surge, before my mind.
O how I would delight to bring
before you things which you never thought of, but poverty & the
cares of the world prevent. but I am glad I have the privilege of communicating
to you some things, which if grasped closely will be a help to you when
the clouds are gathering. & the storms are ready to burst upon you
like peals of thunder. lay hold of these things & let not your knees
tremble. nor your hearts faint. what can Earthquakes do. wars. &
tornados do? nothing.-- all your losses will be made up to you in the
resurrection provided you continue faithful. by the vision of the almighty
I have seen it.--More painful to me the thought of annihilation than
death. if I had no expectation of seeing my mother Brother & Sisters
& friends again my heart would burst in a moment & I should
go down to my grave. The expectation of seeing my friends in the morning
of the resurrection cheers my soul. and make be bear up against the
evils of life. it is like their taking a long journey. & on their
return we meet them with increased joy.
God has revealed his son from
the heavens. & the doctrine of the resurrection also. & we have
a knowledge that these we laylive
Then let them sink down; like
a ship in the storm. the mighty anchor holds the storm so let these
truths sink down in our hearts, that we may even here begin to enjoying
that which shall be in full hereafter. Hosanna. Hosanna. Hosanna, to
Almighty god that rays of light begin to burst forth upon us even now.
I cannot find words to express myself I am not learned. but I have as
good feelings as any man. O that I had the language of the archangel
to express my feeling. once to my friends. but I never expect to
see
when others rejoice I rejoice.
when they mourn I would mourn-
to Marcellus Bates. let me administer comfort, you shall soon have the company of your companion in a world of glory-- & the friend of Bro. Barns.--& all the saints who are mourning. this has been a warning voice to us all, to be sober & diligent & lay aside mirth & vanity & folly.--& be prepared to die tomorrow. (preached about 2 hours)
. . . Presst. Joseph said as president of this house. I forbid any man's
leaving this house just as we are going to close the meeting. he is
no gentleman who will do it. I don't care who it comes from.--if it
were from the King of England. I forbid it.-
Date: 16 April 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 197-98)
President J. Smith Addressed
the assembly of the saints at the temple of the Lord upon the subject
of the saints
thatfrie
Date: 16 April 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 198)
Heard Pres. J preach on the
ressurection shewing the importance of being buried with the saints
& their relatives in as much as we shall want to see our relatives
first & shall rejoice to strike hands with our parents, children
&c when rising from the tomb.
Date: 16 April 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 198)
Forenoon meeting in the Temple
Pres Smith preached on the resurrection &c.
Date: 16 April 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: In Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 194-97)
Brother Wd [Willard Richards]
says he has heard the sweetest sermon form Joseph he ever heard in his
life.
Date: 6 May 1843 (Saturday)
Location: Prairie East of Nauvoo, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 199)
9 1/2 Mounted, with staff.
Band & about 12 ladies. led by Emma. & proceeded to the General
Parade of the Legion east of My farm on the Prairie & had a good
day of it except very high wind.-Marched the Legion down Main St.
& disbanded about 2 oclock P.M. after a short speech on the Prairie.
there were 2 United States officers Present & General Swazey from
Iowa.-In my remark told the Legion when we have petitioned those in
power for assistance they have always told us they had no power to help
us, damn such power.-when they give me power to protect the innocent
I will never say I can do nothing. I will exercise that power for their
good. So help me God.
Date: 6 May 1843 (Saturday)
Location: Prairie East of Nauvoo, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 199)
General Joseph Smith addressed
the Legion a few m[in]utes with warmth & lively feeling-expressed
his perfect satisfattion with the Legion-& noticed the same expressed
by two United States officers (names unknown)-Speaking of power in
relation to our country & the innocent,-he said that those who
held power when applied to by those who were suffering, received in
answer "We cant do any thing for you," damn such power,-if
I have power, & am called on by the innocent Sufferer I swear I
will use by the great God I will use that power for them-& not
Say I cant do any thing for you-I can do something-& I will!
Date: 6 May 1843 (Saturday)
Location: Prairie East of Nauvoo, Illinois, USA
Source: Nauvoo Neighbor
1 (10 May 1843) (Words of Joseph Smith, 199-200)
On Saturday last we had a general
parade of the "Nauvoo Legion," according to previous appointment.
There were not so many spectators present as there would have been if
the weather had been more favorable. It was very cold and windy throughout
the day. The Legion however looked well, better than on any former occasion;
and they performed their evolutions in admirable style.
General Arlington Bennet was
prevented form being present, as was anticipated, in consequence of
sickness.
The officers did honor to the
Legion, many of whom were equipped, and armed, cap-a-pie. Many
ladies on horseback honored us with their presence, and we observed
that the men were in good spirits; that they had made great improvements,
both in uniform and discipline, and from what we saw, we felt proud
to be associated with a body of men which in point of discipline, uniform,
appearance, and a knowledge of military tactics, are the pride of Illinois,
one of its strongest defences, and a great bulwark of the western country.
Two officers of the regular
army were present, and expressed great satisfaction at our appearance
and evolutions. Lieutenant General Joseph Smith, delivered a spirited
and patriotic address on the occasion, which was received with enthusiasm
by both officers and men. He was followed by General Swazy of Iowa,
in his usual good style.
Date: 14 May 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Yelrome, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 200-202)
Sunday The meeting was opened
by Singing, & Prayer By W Woodruff Then Joseph the Seer arose &
said It is not wisdom that we should have all knowledge at once presented
before us but that we should have a little then we can comprehend it.
He then read the second Epistle of Peter 1st Ch 16 to last vers
& dwelt upon the 19th vers with some remarks Ad to your faith
Knowledge &c The principl of knowledge is the principle of Salvation
the Principle can be comprehended, for any one that cannot get knowledge
to be saved will be damned. The Principl of Salvation is given to us
through the knowledge of Jesus Christ Salvation is nothing more or less
than to triumph over all our enemies & put them under our feet &
when we have power to put all enemies under our feet in this world &
a knowledge to triumph over all evil spirits in the world to come then
we are saved as in the case of Jesus he was to reign untill he had put
all enemies under his feet & the last enemy was death Perhaps there
are principle here that few men have thought of. No powerWhile
Now their is some grand secret ther[e] & keys to unlock the subject
Not withstanding the Apostle exhorts them to make their Calling& election
Then I would exhort you to
go on & continue to call upon God until you make your Calling &
election sure for yourselves by obtaining this more sure word of Prophesy
& wait patiently for the promise until you obtain it Many other
very useful remarks were made on the occasion by Joseph the Seer.
Date: 14 May 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Yelrome, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Brigham Young Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 202)
Herd Br Joseph Smith Preach.
Date: 16 May 1843 (Tuesday)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Journal
Tuesday 16. Went to see Pres. J. who ordered me to prepare for Carthage I returned home & got ready & started about 11 oclock in the New Carriage with prest. J. George Miller, Eliza Partridge, Lydia Partridge & J.M. Smith Loran Walker drove. We called at Carthage & saw Styles, Backenstos & others. Tarried about 15 minutes & started again for Ramus where we arrived about 3 S oclock. We stayed at W. G. Perkins. Prest. J. & I went to B.F. Johnsons to sleep. Before we retired the Prest. gave bro Johnson & wife some instructions on the priesthood. He put his hand on my knee and says ``your life is hid with Christ in God, and so is many others.'' Addressing Benjamin says he ``nothing but the unpardonable sin can prevent him (me) from inheriting eternal glory for he is sealed up by the power of the priesthood unto eternal life having taken the step which is necessary for that purpose.''
He said that except a man and his wife enter into an everlasting covenant and be married for eternity while in this probation by the power and authority of the Holy priesthood they will cease to increase when they die (ie. they will not have any children in the resurrection), but those who are married by the power & authority of the priesthood in this life & continue without committing the sin against the Holy Ghost will continue to increase & have children in the celestial glory.
The unpardonable sin is to
shed innocent blood or be accessory thereto. All other sins will be
visited with judgement in the flesh and the spirit being delivered to
the buffetings of satan untill the day of the Lord Jesus.'' I feel
desirous to be united in an everlasting covenant to my wife and pray
that it may soon be. Prest. J. said that the way he knew in whom to
confide, God told him in whom he might place confidence. He also said
that in the celestial glory was three heavens or degrees, and in order
to obtain the highest a man must enter into this order of the priesthood
and if he dont he cant obtain it. He may enter into the other but that
is the end of his kingdom he cannot have increase.
Date: 17 May 1843 (Wednesday Morning)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 202)
At 10 Prest J. preached on
2nd Peter Ch 1. He shewed that knowledge is power & the man who
has the most knowledge has the greatest power. Also that salvation means
a mans being placed beyond the powers of all his enemies. He said the
more sure word of prophecy meant a mans knowing that he is sealed up
unto eternal life by revelation & the spirit of prophecy through
the power of the Holy priesthood. He also showed that it is impossible
for a man to be saved in ignorance. Paul had seen the third heavens
and I more. Peter penned the most sublime language of any of the apostles.
Date: 17 May 1843 (Wednesday Morning)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: Samuel A. Prior Statement,
Times and Seasons 4 (15 May 1843):198 (Words of Joseph Smith,
202)
He commenced preaching, not
from the Book of Mormon, however, but from the Bible; the first chapter
of the first of Peter, was his text. He commenced calmly and continued
dispassionately to pursue his subject, while I sat in breathless silence,
waiting to hear that foul aspersion of the other sects, that diabolical
disposition of revenge, and to hear that rancorous denunciation of every
individual but a Mormon. I waited in vain-I listened with surprise-I
sat uneasy in my seat, and could hardly persuade myself but that he
had been apprised of my presence, and so ordered myself but that he
had been apprised of my presence, and so ordered his discourse on my
account; that I might not be able to find fault with it, for instead
of a jumbled jargon of half connected sentences, and a volley of imprecations,
and diabolical and malignant denunciations heaped upon the heads of
all who differed from him, and the dreadful twisting and wresting of
the scriptures, to suit his own peculiar views, and attempt to weave
a web of dark and mystic sophistry around the gospel truths, which I
had anticipated, he glided along through a very interesting and elaborate
discourse, with all the care and happy facility of one who was well
aware of his important station, and his duty to God and man, and evidencing
to me, that he was well worthy to be styled "a workman rightly dividing
the word of truth," and giving without reserve, "saint and sinner
his portion in due season"-and I was compelled to go away with a
very different opinion from what I had entertained when I first took
my seat to hear him preach.
Date: 17 May 1843 (Wednesday Evening)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 203)
In the evening we went to hear
a Methodist preacher lecture. After he got through President Joseph
offered some corrections as follows. The 7th verse of C 2 of Genesis
ought to read God breathed into Adam his spirit or breath of life, but
when the word "ruach" applies to Eve it should be translated lives.
Speaking of eternal duration of matter he said. There is no such thing
as immaterial matter. All spirit is matter but is more fine or pure
and can only be discerned by purer eyes. We cant see it but when our
bodies are purified we shall see that it is all matter.
Date: 17 May 1843 (Wednesday Evening)
Location: Ramus, Illinois, USA
Source: Samuel A. Prior Statement,
Times and Seasons 4 (15 May 1843):198 (Words of Joseph Smith,
203-204)
In the evening I was invited
to preach, and did so.-The congregation was large and respectable-they
paid the utmost attention. This surprised me a little, as I did not
expect to find any such thing as a religious toleration among them.-After
I had closed, Elder Smith, who had attended, arose and begged leave
to differ from me in some few points of doctrine, and this he did mildly,
politely, and affectingly; like one who was more desirous to disseminate
truth and expose error, than to love the malicious triumph of debate
over me. I was truly edified with his remarks, and felt less prejudiced
against the Mormons that ever. He invited me to call upon him, and I
promise to do so.
Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 204-206)
10 1/2--Joseph arrived and
after pressing his way through the crowd and getting on the stand said
there were some people who thought it a terrible thing that any body
should exercise a little power. & said he thought it a pity that
any body should give occasion to have power exercised. and requested
the people to get out of their alleys, and if they did not keep them
clear he might some time run up and down & might hit some of them.
& called on Bro. Morey to constable to keep the alleys after singing
Joseph read 1st chapter 2nd Epistle of Peter, William Law prayed. singing
again.
when I shall have the opportunity
of speaking in a house I know not. I find my lungs failing--it has always
been my fortune almost to speak in the open air to large assemblies.
I have not an idea there has
been a great many very good men since Adam There was one good man Jesus.--Many
think a prophet must be a great deal better than any body else.--suppose
I would condescend. yes I will call it condescend, to be a great deal
better than any of you. I would be raised up to the highest heaven,
and who should I have to accompany me. I love that man better who swears
a stream as long as my arm, and administering to the poor & dividing
his substance, than the long smoothed faced hypocrites
I don't want you to think
I am very righteous, for I am not very righteous. God judgeth men according
to the light he gives them.
we have a more sure word of
prophecy, whereunto you do well to take heed. as unto a light that shineth
in a dark place
we were eyewitnesses of his
majesty and heard the voice of his excellent glory--& what could
be more sure? transfigured on the mount &c what could be more sure?
divines have been quarreling for ages about the meaning of this.
rough stone rolling down hill.
3 grand secrets lying in this
chapter which no man can dig out. which unlocks the whole chapter. What
is written are only hints of things which existed in the prophets mind.
which are not written concerning eternal glory.
I am going to take up this
subject by virtue of the knowledge of God in me. which I have received
from heaven.
the opinions of men, so far
as I am possessed
Columbus and the eggs.--Ladder
and rainbow. like precious faith with us--add to your faith virtue &c.
another point after having all these qualifications he lays this injunction.
but rather make your calling & election sure--after adding all this
virtue knowledge &. make your calling & sure.--what is the secret.
the starting point.--according as his divine power which hath given
unto all things that pertain to life & godliness.
how did he obtain all things?
through the knowledge of him who hath called him.--there could not any
be given pertaining to life knowledge
salvation is for a man
to be saved from all his enemies.--until a man can triumph over death.
he is not saved. knowledge will do this.
organization of Spirits in
the eternal world.--spirits in the eternal world are like spirits in
this world. when those spirits have come into this [and] risin &
received glorified bodies. they will have an ascendancy over spirits
who have no bodies. or kept not their first estate like the devil. Devils
punishment, should not have a habitation like other men. Devils retaliation
come into this world bind up mens bodies. & occupy himself. authorities
come alone and eject him from a stolen habitation
design of the great God in
sending us into this world and organizing us to prepare us for the Eternal
world.--I shall keep in my own bosom. we have no claim in our eternal
comfort in relation to Eternal things unless our actions & contracts
& all things tend to this end.-
after all this make your calling
and election sure. if this injunction would lay largely on those to
whom it was spoken. how much more then to them of the 19. century.-
1 Key Knowledge is the power
of Salvation
2 Key Make his calling and
Election Sure
3. it is one thing to be on
the mount & hear the excellent voice &c &c. and another
to hear the voice declare to you, you have a part & lot in the kingdom.-
Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Howard and Martha Coray
Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 206-208)
A Sermon by the Prophet Joseph
Smith. On Election.
Every man goes to his own place
2 Peter 1. Ch--Judas transgression by fell that he might go to his own
place. there is one glory of the sun another of the moon & another
of the stars as one Star differetheth &c. so also is the resurrection
of the dead. Brethren I am not a very Pieus man. I do not wish to be
a great deal better than any body else. If a Prophet was so much better
that any body else was he would inherit a glory far beyond what any
one else would inherit and behold he would be alone, for who would be
his company in heaven. for
What is salvation. Salvation
is for a man to be Saved from all his enemies even our last enemy which
is death and
The design of God before the
foundation of the world was that we should take tabernacles that through
faithfulness we should overcome & thereby obtain a resrection from
the dead, in this wise obtain glory honor power and dominion for this
thing is needful, inasmuch as the Spirits in the Eternal world, glory
in bringing other Spirits in Subjection unto them, Striving continually
for the Mastery, He who rules in the heavens when he has a certain work
to do calls the Spirits before him to organize them. they present themselves
and offer their Services-
When Lucifer was hurled from
Heaven the decree was that he Should not obtain a tabernacle not those
that were with him, but go abroad upon the earth exposed to the anger
of the elements naked & bare, but ofttimes he lays hold upon men
binds up their Spirits enters their habitations laughs at the decree
of God and rejoices in that he hath a house to dwell in, by & by
he is expelled by Authority and goes abroad mourning naked upon the
earth like a man without a house exposed to the tempest & the storm-
There are some things in my
own bosom that must remain there. If Paul could say I Knew a man who
ascended to the third heaven & saw things unlawful for man to utter,
I more. There are only certain things that can be done by the Spirits
and that which is done by us that is not done with a view to eternity
is not binding in eternity. Oh Peter if they who were of like precious
faith with thee were enjoined to make their Calling & Election sure,
how much more all we There are two Keys, one key knowledge. the other
make you Calling & election sure, for if you do these things you
shall never fall for so an entrance shall be administered unto
you abundantly into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord & Savior
Jesus Christ. We made known unto you the power & coming of our Lord
& S. J. Christ were Eye witnesses of his Majesty when he received
from God the Father honor & glory when there came such a voice to
him from the excellent glory, this is my beloved Son in whom I am well
pleased. this voice which came from heaven we heard when we were with
him in the holy Mount. We have also a more sure word
of prophecy whereunto give heed until the day Star arise in your
hearts this is
T
Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 208)
Jseph said may 21st Sabbath
Salvation is for a man to be saved from all his enemies The 1st chapter
of 2d Peter is hints of things which are nowhere written. There are
things which pertain to the Glory of God & heirship of God with
Christ which are not where
The mortification of satan
consists in his not being permitted to take a body. He sometimes gets
possession of a body but when the proven authorities turn him out of
Doors he finds it was not his but a stolen one
Our covenants here are of no
force one with another except made in view of eternity.
Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: James Burgess Notebook
(Words of Joseph Smith, 209)
First Chapter second Epistle
of Peter. The first four verses are the preface to the whole subject.
There are three grand Keys to unlock the whole subject. First what is
the knowledge of God, Second what is it to make our calling and election
sure. Third and last is how to make our calling and election sure. Ans,
it is to obtain a promise from God for myself that I shall have Eternal
life. that is the more sure word of prophecy. Peter was writing to those
of like precious faith with them the Apostles First to be sealed with
the Holy Spirit of promise that is the testimony of Jesus Second how
is he to get that Holy Spirit; Ans except a man be born again he cannot
see the Kingdom of God; second except a man be born of water and the
spirit he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. Ques. What is it for
a man to obtain salvation Ans, It is to triumph over every foe or ascend
far above all enemies for the last enimey to conquer is death and until
that is done you have not obtained salvation J. Smith Prophet. Nauvoo.
Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: James Burgess Notebook
(Words of Joseph Smith, 209)
A large Congregation of Saint
assembled at the temple & was addressed by President Joseph Smith
upon the same subject that he spoke upon at Lima on the 14th in which
was interesting in the heist degree.
Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 209)
A.M. attended Meeting at the
Temple P. Joseph Smith preached from 1 Chap. 2d Peter "we have a more
sure word of prophesy &C" spoke about two hours.
Date: 11 June 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 209-212)
10 A. M. at the Temple Stand.
Hymn by the Quire. Read 23 Matthew. P. P. Pratt Prayed. Singing.-
Matt. 23. 37. Subject presented
me since I come in this house.-- I a rough stone, the sound of the hammer
& chisel was never heard on me. nor never will be. I desire the
learning & wisdom of heaven alone. Have not the least idea but if
Christ should come and preach such rough things as he preached to the
Jews, but this Generation would reject him for being so rough. I never
can find much to say in expounding a text.
never is half so much fuss
to unlock a door if you have a key or when you have not. or have to
cut it out with a jack knife.-
O. Jerusalem. &c. whence
are in the curse of Allmighty God that was to be poured out upon the
heads of the Jews? That they would not be gathered. because they would
not let Christ gather them. It was the design in the Councils of heaven
before the world was that the principle & law of that priesthood
was predicated upon the gathering of the people in every age of the
world. Jesus did every thing possible to gather the people & they
would not be gathered and he poured out curses upon them Ordinances
were instituted in heaven before the foundation of the world
of
that is only your opinion Sir--say
Sectarians.--when a man will go to hell it is more than my meat &
drink to help them to do as they want to.
where there is no change of
priesthood there is no change of ordinances says Paul. If god has not
changed the ordinances & priesthood, howl ye sectarians, if he has
where has he revealed it. have ye turned revelators? then why deny it?
Men have thought many things
insolvable, in the last days, that he should raise the dead. Things
have been hid from before the foundation of the [world] to be revealed
to babes in the last days.
there are a great many wise
men & women to in our midst to wise to be taught. & they must
die in their ignorance and in the resurrection they will find their
mistake.
Many seal up the door of heaven
by saying so far god may reveal & I will believe.--heirs of God.
&c.
ordinance of the baptism. God
decreed before the foundation of the world that this baptism should
be performed in a house prepared for the purpose.-
Spirits of prison.--the Holy
Ghost reveals it. Spirits in the world of prison
I will turn linguist. Ma[n]y
things in the bible which do not, as they now stand, accord with the
revelation of the holy Ghost to me.-
Ponder. "this day thou sha[l]t
be with me in paradise. Paradise. Modern word. don't answer to the
original word used by Jesus.--find the origin of Paradise--find a needle
in a hay mow.-- here is a chance for a battle ye learned man.--Said
Jesus. for there is not time to investigat this matter. for this day
you will be with me in the world of Spi[ri]ts. & then I will teach
you all about it. & Peter says he went & preached to the world
of Spirits. so that they would receive it could have it answered by
proxey by those who live on the earth &c.
gathered you for baptism for
the dead washing anointings, &c.--said Jesus to Jews. At one time
God obtained a house where Peter was[hed] and anointed &c on the
day of pentecost. criticise a little further Hell, modern term. burning
lake of fire and Brimstone. I would make you think I was climbing a
ladder when I was climbing a rainbow.--who ever revealed it. God never
did. Hades. I will hunt after Hades as pat did for woodchuck. Sheol--who
are you? God reveals. means a world of spirits.--I don't think so
says one. go to my house I will take my lexicon--&c--a world of
departed spirits. disembodied spirits all go.--good bad & indifferent.--
misery in a world of spirits is to know they come short of the glory
others enjoy--they are their own accusers one universal heaven.-- &
hell. & supose honorable & virtuous & whoremonger--all huddled
together.--judged according to deeds done in the body.--shame, shame--thus
we can mint & anise & cumin and long prayers. but touch not
the law, as Peter tells us-
Paul says caught up to 3d heaven,
& what tell that Lie for Paul.--Sun Moon & Stars--many mansions--all
one say Sectarians.--They build hay wood & stubble, build on the
old revelations without the spirit of revelation or Priesthood. if I
had time I would dig into Hell. Hades. Sheol. & tell what exists.-
Heaven of Heavens could not
contain him. he took the liberty to go into other heavens.--I thought--
Father--Son & H. Ghost all stuck into one person.--I pray for them,
father that we may be one--All stuffed into one God--a big God:
Peter--Stephen saw the Son
of Man. Saw the son of man standing on the right hand of God.--3 personages--in
heaven who hold the keys.--one to preside over all.
If any man attempt to refute.
what I am about to say after I have made it plain let him be accursed.
as the father hath power in himself so hath the sun [son] power in himself
to lay down his life.-
the son doeth what he hath
seen the father do. &c--take his body & stuff it into the father.
Gods have an ascendancy over
the angels angels remain angels.--some are resurrected to become god.
by such revelations as god gives in the most holy place.--in his temple.
let them who are owing tithing pay it up. & bring stone.-
What did Judge Higby--if those who are owing would bring stone we could get the walls to the roof this fall as easy as to let it down."
closed about 12-
Date: 11 June 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 212-14)
A large assembly of Saints
met at the Temple & were addressed by President Joseph Smith He
took for the foundation of his discourse the words of Jesus to the
Jews how oft would I have gathered you together as a hen gathereth
her chickens under wings But ye would not &c. He then asked what
was the object of Gathering the Jews together or the people of God in
any age of the world, the main object was to build unto the Lord an
house whereby he could reveal unto his people the ordinances of his
house and glories of his kingdom & teach the peopl the ways of salvation
for their are certain ordinances & principles that when they are
taught and practized, must be done in a place or house built for that
purpose this was purposed in the mind of God before the world was &
it was for this purpose that God designed to gather togethe the Jews
oft but they would not it is for the same purpose that God gathers together
the people in the last days to build unto the Lord an house to prepare
them for the ordinances & endowment washings & anointings &c.
one of the ordinances of the house of the Lord is Baptism for the dead,
God decreed before the foundation of the world that that ordinance should
be administered in a house prepared for that purpose. If a man gets
the fullness of God he has to get [it] is the same way that Jesus Christ
obtain it & that was by keeping al the ordinances of the house of
the Lord. Men will say I will never forsake you but will stand by you
at all times but the moment you teach them some of the mysteries of
God that are retained in the heavens and are to be revealed to the children
of men when they are prepared, They will be the first to stone you &
put you to death. It was the same principle that Crusified the Lord
Jesus Christ. I will say something about the Spirits in prision, theire
has been much said about the sayings of Jesus on the Cross to the thief
saying this day thou shalt be with me in paradise. The commentators
make
Hades shaole paradise, spirits
in prision is all one it is a world of spirits, the righteous &
the wicked all go to the same world of spirits but says one I believe
in one hell & one heaven all are equally miserable or equally happy,
but St Paul informs us of three glories & three heavens he knew
a man caught up to the third heavens, & Jesus said their were many
mansions in my Fathers Kingdom Any man may believe Jesus Christ is good
& be happy in it & yet not obey his commands & at last be
cut down by his righteous commandments A man of God should be endowed
with all wisdom knowledge & understanding in order to teach &
lead people, The blind may lead the blind & both fall into the deatch
together; Their is much said concerning God the Godhead &c the scripture
says their is Gods many & Lords many, the teachers of the day say
that the father is God the Son is God & the Holy Ghost is God &
that they are all in one body & one God Jesus says or prays that
those that the father had given him out of the world might be made one
in us as we are one, but if they were to be stuffed into one person
that would make a great God, If I were to testify that the world was
wrong on this point it would be true Peter says that Jesus Christ sat
on the right hand of God any person that has seen the heavens opened
knows that their is three personages in the heavens holding the Keys
of Power. As the father hath power in himself so the Son hath power
in himself, then the father has some day laid down his body & taken
it again so he has a body of his own--so has his son a body of his own
so each one will be in their own body. Many of the sects cry out O I
have the testimony of Jesus, I have the spirit of God But away with
Jo Smith he says he is a Prophet But their is to be no Prophets nor
revelations in the last days; But stop sir the Revelator says that the
testimony of Jesus is the spirit of Prophecy So by your own mouth you
are condemned.
But to the text why gather
the people together in this place For the same purpose that Jesus wanted
to gather the Jews, to receive the ordinances the blessings & the
glories that God has in store for his Saints. And I would now ask this
assembly and all the Saints if they will now build this house &
receive the ordinances & Blessings which God has in store for you,
or will you not build unto the Lord this house & let him pass by
& bestow these blessings upon another I pause for a reply
Date: 11 June 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 215)
attended Meeting at the Temple
weather very fine moderately warm. heard J. Smith preach from Math [Matthew]
"Oh Jerusalem, Jerusalem &c, how oft would I have gathered you,
as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings & Ye would not,
behold your house is left unto you desolate &c
President Joseph Smith bore
testimony to the same saying that when he was a youth he began to think
about these things but could not find out which of all the sects were
right he went into the grove & enquired of the Lord which of all
the sects were right he received for answer that none of them were right,
that they were all wrong, & that the Everlasting Covenant was broken==he
said he understood the fullness of the Gospel from beginning to end--&
could Teach it & also the order of the priesthood in all its ramifications
==Earth & hell had opposed him & tried to destroy him, but they
had not done it==& they never would.
Date: 11 June 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 215)
Joseph said The reason why
the Jews were scattered and their House left unto them Desolate was
because they refused to be gathered that the fullness of the Priesthood
might be revealed among them which never can be done but by the gathering
of the People also also The Order & Ordinances of the Kingdom were
instituted by the Priesthood in the council of Heaven before the World
was The words Prison Paradise & Hell are different translations
of the Greek Hades which answers to the Hebrew Shaole the true translation
of which is "The world of spirits where the righteous & the wicked
dwell together.
Date: 11 June 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Eliza R. Snow Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 215-16)
Last sunday I had the privilege
of attending meeting and in the forenoon listening to a very interesting
discourse by Pres. J. Smith He took for his subject the words of the
Savior to wit. "O Jerusalm thou that killest the prophets and stonest
them that are sent unto you! How oft would I have gatherred you as a
hen gathereth her chickens under her wings and you would not!" He
beautifully and in a most powerful manner, illustrated the necessity
of the gathering and the building of the Temple that those ordinances
may be administered which are necessary preparations for the world to
come: he exhorted the people in impressive terms to be diligent--to
be up and doing lest the tabernacle pass over to another people and
we lose the blessing.
Date: 11 June 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 216)
Meeting all day Joseph P[reached].
Date: 24 June 1843 (Saturday)
Location: Dixon, Lee County, Illinois, USA
Source: Manuscript History of
the Church (Words of Joseph Smith, 216)
I addressed the assembly for
an hour and a half on the subject of marriage; my visitors having requested
me to give them my views of the law of God respecting marriage.
Date: 30 June 1843 (Friday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 216-222)
I require attention. I discovered
what the emotions of the people were on my arrival to this City, &
I have Come here to say, how do you do to all parties & I do now
say How do you do at this time. I meet you with a heart full of gratitude
to Almighty God & I presume you all feel the Same I hardly Know
how to express my feelings I feel as strong as a Gient[giant] I pulled
sticks with the men Coming along & I pulled up the Strongest man
there was on the road with one hand & two Could not pull me up &
I continued to pull untill I pulled them to Nauvoo I will pass from
that subject then There has been great excitement in the Country &
since these men took me I have been cool & dispassionate through
the whole: thank God I am now in the hands of the Municipal Court of
Nauvoo & not in the hands of Missourians, It has been discussed
by the great & wise men layil
To give you an account of my
Journey, I will give you an anecdote that may be pleasing A
few
In speaking of my Journey to
Nauvoo I will relate a circumstance when Mr. Cyrus Walker first Came
to me they said I should not speak to any man & they would shoot
any man that should speak to me An old man came up & said I should
have Council & said he was not afraid of their pistols & they
took me from him, & I had an opportunity to have killed him but
I had no temptation to do it to him nor any other man, my worst enemy
not even Boggs in fact he would have more hell to live in the reflection
of his past life than to die. My freedom commenced from that time the
old man Came to me & would talk to me we Came direct from Papa grove
to Nauvoo we got our writ directed to the nearest Court having authority
to try try the Case & we Came to Nauvoo It did my soul good to see
your feelings & love manifest towards me I thank God that I have
the honor to lead so virtuous & honest people to be your leader
& lawyier as Moses to the Children of Israel Hosannah, Hosannah,
Hosannah, Hosannah to the name of the Most High God I commend you to
his grace & may the Blessings of heaven rest upon you in the name
of Jesus Christ Amen
Furthermore if Missouri continues
her warfare & continues to Issue her writs against me & this
peopl unlawfully & unjustly as they have done & our rights are
trampled upon & they undertakew
After this interesting &
decisive address was delivered in the presence of about seven or eight
thousand the multitude dispersed & went to their homes.
Date: 30 June 1843 (Friday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 222-25)
1/2 6. Joseph commenced a lecture
on the stand. to Many thousands By how do you do. I meet you with a
heart full of gratitude to almighty God. I am well, hearty, strong as
a giant. while on the road I pulled up the strongest man. Then they
got 2 men and they could not pull me up. I have pulled mentally till
I have pulled Missouri here.
There has been a great excitement
in the country. I have been cool & dispassionate through all. Thank
god I am now a prisoner in the hands of the Municipal Court & not
of a Missourian
It was not so much my object
to tell my afflictions &c as to speak of the Habeas Corpus. so that
the minds of all may be corrected & know & publish that we have
all power.--there is a secret. the city has all power that the courts
have. given by the same authority the Legislature. I want you to hear
o Israel this day. if this power is not sufficient we will claim the
Cons higher powers. the Constitution of the State & the United.--I
have dragged him here by our hand. & will do it again but I swear
I will never deal so mildly again.
Be cool be deliberate. be wise,
and when you pull do it with sweepstakes. my lot has always been cast
among the warmest kind of people.
The time has come when the
vail is torn of from this state. & let us mingle with the people
of Ills. I should have been torn from with the expense of life &
blood if I had asked I brought them prisoners. and committed them as
prisoners not of chains but of kindness to her from whom I was torn
I have no doubt I shall be
discharged. by the court the writs are good for nothing. without form
& void.--before I will be dragged again bef
I wish the lawyer who says
we have no powers in Nauvoo may be choked to death with his own words
dont employ any
Go ye into all the world preach
the gospel. & he that believeth in our chartered right may come
here & be saved. & he does not shall remain in ignorance.
one spiritual minded circut
Judg--& several fit men.
Esquire Walker I have converted
to the truth of Habeas Corpus. I got here by law write that Just as
it should be.
in the midst of all your indignation.
use not the hand of violence. for I have pledged my honor.-will you
all support my honor. YES universal, by the audience. I have
proof of your attachment.
when oppression arises again
I have learned we need [not] suffer as we have. we can call others to
our aid. Shall the prophecy of our enemies. "we will establish our
religion by the sword." be true? No.
If the Missourians oppress
us more I this day turn the key by au[tho]rity of the Holy Priesthood-
turn the key unlock the door
& motion you not rise up and defend yourselves-
always act upon the defence
but if your enemies oppress you the 2d & 3 time. let it come. &
roar like thunder. & you shall stand forth clean before the tribunal
of any citizens of Illinois deny our right. let them go to hell and
be damned.--I give up my chartered right at the sword and bayonets.
Legislature like the boy saying
daddy, Daddy I have sold my Jackknife got cheated, & want to get
it back again.
what can mobocrats do in the
midst of Kirkpatrickites.--no better than a hunter being in a bears
claw. What could we do with them. dung our garden with them. we don't
want any excitement. but after we have done all.--rise up &
tyrann
defend yoursefss--says a law
in our Charter-- powers, same charter says Municipal court. has power
to enact all laws=. &c dangerous power. because it will protect
the innocent, & put down Mobocrats.--constitution of U. S. say "Habeas
Corpus shall not be denied" Deny me the right of H. Corpus & I
will fight with guns, sword, cannon behind & thunder till I am used
up. like Killkenny Cats. we have more power because we have power to
go behind the writ. & try the merits of the case. I ask in the name
of J. Christ and all that is sacred that I may have your lives &
all to carry out the freedom which is chartered to us.--will you all
help me All hands went up.--Mr Walker shall be presented for the Mormons
sake-
When at Dixon refused an interview
with a lawyer.--turned Markham out doors threatened my life, old gray
headed man raised his [indecipherable] his pony, come with Mr Walker.--&
I had Lawyers &c enough.--writ for Harmon Wilson damage-- assault
& Battery.-
Writ Habeas Corpus got up to
go to ottawa 22 miles Pawpaw grove. thrust out all but Harmon Wilson.
Esq Walker sent Mr Campbell to my rescue.--& came & slept by
me.
Morning certain men wanted
to see Mr Smith. they would not let me an old man come to talk. Missourian,
interrupted. stand off you puke Mr Smith we have a committee in Pawpaw
grove. a court from whence there is no appeal.-
My liberties began from that
hour they lost their pistols.--come come direct to Nauvoo.--when they
began to suspect we were coming they remonstrated. B[r]o Grover came.
Hosanna. Do. Do to Almighty
God who hath delivered us thus far out of the 7 trouble. 6.25-
(Esqr Walker has introduced
as a body of people. the greatest dupes that ever were.--or he is not
as big a rouge as he is supposed to be.--1/4 to 7)
Joseph. I told Mr Warren I
would not discuss the subject of religion with you. I understand the
gospel & you do not. You understand Law I do not
if the Legislature have granted
Nauvoo the right of Habeas corpus &c it is no more than they ought
to have done.--or more than our fathers fought for.
I swear in the name of Almighty
God with uplifted hand the Legislature shall never take away our rights
Ill spill my hearts blood first.-
Date: 30 June 1843 (Friday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 225)
At 4 o'clock a large multitude
were assembled at the grove & about 5 Prest. J. made his appearance
on the stand in company with Cyrus H. Walker Esqr. The general theme
of his discourse tended to enlighten the minds of the public concerning
the powers of the Municipal Court in relation to Habeas Corpus as granted
in the Nauvoo Charter, plainly proving that the municipal court had
more power than the circuit courts inasmuch as the latters power was
limited while that of the former was unlimited. He also said that he
had restrained the saints from using violence in self defense but from
henceforth he restrained them no more. The best of feelings prevailed
during the whole meeting.
Date: 30 June 1843 (Friday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 225)
Lecture at 5 P.M. by Joseph
Date: 2 July 1843 (Sunday Evening)
Location: Front of Red Brick Store, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Manuscript History of
the Church (Words of Joseph Smith, 225-26)
About 6 p.m. The Maid of Iowa
returned to her landing at the nauvoo house, the company who had been
on the expedition on board of her, formed in a procession and walked
up to my office, where they formed a hollow square and sent in a deputation
to me, as soon as I had bid them welcome I opened the window of my office
and requested that no man would leave the ground until I had spoken
to them. My Brother Hyrum and I went into the hollow square and directed
them not to allow their ranks to be broken. I then shook hands with
each man, blessing them and welcoming them home.
I then took off my hat and
related to them how I was brought home to the midst of my friends, and
how I regained my liberty. I feel by the Spirit of the Lord that if
I had fallen into your hands that you would either have brought me safe
home, or that we should all have died in a heap together, at this time,
a well dressed man, a stranger, who had a cloak around him, broke through
the South line of the ranks when the orderly sergeant took the strange
man by the nape of the neck and kicked him outside the ranks telling
him not to come in again; as soon as quiet was resumed I continued my
address to the company . . .
About dusk I dismissed the
company, blessing them in the name of the Lord.
Date: 3 July 1843 (Monday Afternoon)
Location: Grove, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 226)
Joseph spoke. P M.
Date: 4 July 1843 (Tuesday Morning)
Location: At Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 226)
Elder O. Hyde Lectured Lectured
at the Stand at 10 1/2 A.M.-after which Joseph gave a short address
concerning his arrest to correct Reports circulated by Renolds [and]
Wilson-
Date: 3 July 1843 (Monday Afternoon)
Location: Grove, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 226)
10 A M attended at the grove
near the Temple-a large assembly listened to Eld O Hyde-followed
by J. Smith a few minutes.
Date: 4 July 1843 (Tuesday Afternoon)
Location: At the Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 226-28)
At 2 oclock they were again
addressed by Elder Parley P. Pratt in a masterly discourse followed
by President Joseph Smith upon the subject of the late arest & persecution
who clearly vindicated his innocence & showed the corruption of
his pursueers in a tru light. Three Steamers arrived in the afternoon-one
from St Louis one from Quincy & one from Burlington-bringing altogether
about 900 visiting ladies and gentlemen to our City. On the arival of
each boat they were escorted to the Stand by the Nauvoo band and the
escort Companies whare convenient seats were provided & where they
were welcomed by the firing of Cannon which brought to our minds the
last words of the Patriot Jefferson:-Let this day be Celebrated by
the firing of Cannon &c The legion was not out.
The following is a synopsis
of the Address of President Joseph Smith while speaking in his own defence
before about 15 000 souls
If the people will give ear
a momen I will address them, with few words in my own defence as touching
my arest. In the first place I will state to those that can hear me
that I never spent more than six months in Missouri except while in
prison, while I was there I was at work for the support of my family.
I never was a prisoner of war during my stay for I had not made war,
I never took a pistol a gun, or sword & the much that has been said
on this subject is false I have been willing to go before any governor
Judge or tribunal whare justice Could be done & have the subject
investigated. I could not have committed treason in that State while
there I had no controll any whare in themporal things while there but
in spiritual I was driven from that state by force of arms under the
exterminating order of Govornor Boggs. I have never commited treason
the people know vary well I have Been a peaceable Citizen but their
has been a great hugh & cry about Jo Smith
The multitude gave good attention
& much prejudice seemed to be removed.
Date: 4 July 1843 (Tuesday Afternoon)
Location: At the Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 228)
[P.M., after sermon by Parley
P. Pratt] President J. Smith gave a brief relation of his capture-detention-treatment
& trial. (which will be given in full hereafter.) all of which gave
great satisfaction apparently to all parties. & the visitors-as
well as saints. appeared highly gratified.
Date: 4 July 1843 (Tuesday Afternoon)
Location: At the Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 228)
P M P P Pratt occupied the
stand (subject-resurrection & a whole salvation) Some 500 visiters
from St. Louis Quincy Burlington &c. J. Smith spoke about 1/2 hour
of his late arrest & trial-& religion &c good order prevailed
through the day.
Date: 9 July 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 229-30)
Joseph remarked that all was
well between him and the heavens that he had no enmity against any one.
and as the prayer of Jesus or his pattern so prayed Joseph. Father forgive
me my trespasses as I forgive those who trespass against me. for I freely
forgive all Men.--if we would secure & cultivate the love of others
we must love others, even our enemies--as well as friends "why is
it this babler gains so many followers. & retains them"? because
I possess the principle of love, All I can offer the world a good heart
& a good hand. Mormons can testify whether I am willing to lay down
my life for a Mormon; If it has been demonstrated that I have been willing
to die for a Mormon I am bold to declare before heaven that I am just
as ready to die for a presbyterian. a baptist or any other denomination.--
It is a love of liberty which inspires my soul, civil and religious
liberty-- were diffused into my soul by my grandfathers. while they
dandled me on their knees--and shall I want [for] friends? no!
"Wherein do you differ from
other in your religious views?" In reality & essence we do not
differ so far in our religious views but that we could all drink into
one principle of love One the grand fundamental principles of Mormonism
is to receive truth let it come from where it may. --we believe in the
great Eloheim. who sits enthroned in yonder heavens.--so do the presbyterians.
If as a skillful mechanic In taking a welding heat I use a borax &
alum &c. an succeed in welding you all together shall I not have
attained a good object.
if I esteem mankind to be in error shall I bear them down? No! I will lift them up. & in his own way if I cannot persuade him my way is better! & I will ask no man to believe as I do. Do you believe in Jesus Christ &c? So do I. Christians should cultivate the friendship with others & will do it.
"Do you believe in the baptism
of infants"? says the presbyterians.-- No.-"Why." because it
is no where written in the book. communion is not Baptism. Baptism is
for remission of sins. children have no sins.--He Jesus blessed them--do
what you have seen me do--all made alive in christ.
faith & repentance.--we
are agreed.--baptism. yes by immersion. the Hebrew is the root.--to
bury immerse?--Do you believe this no. I believe in being
convert
Holy Ghost by laying on of
hands Evidance. Peter on days of Pentecost. might as well
be
except a man be born again.
of water & of the spirit can in no wise enter into the Kingdom.
Though we or an angel from
heaven preach any other gospel.
Date: 9 July 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: James Burgess Notebook
(Words of Joseph Smith, 230-31)
Remarks on is there to be no
more Prophets. John the Revelator says that the testimony of Jesus is
the Spirit of prophicy. Now if any man has the testimony of Jesus has
he not the spirit of prophecy and if he has the spirit of prophicy I
ask is he not a prophet and if a prophet will he can receive revelation
And any man that does not receive revelation for himself must be damned
for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophicy for Christ says
ask and you shall receive. And if he happens to receive anything I ask
will it not be a revelation. And if any man has not the testimony of
Jesus or the spirit of God he is none of his Christ's namely And if
not his he must be damn'd What are we to understand by a Prophet lt
is his character to predict things that are in the future. I ask what
right has any man or set of men or preist or set of preists to say if
a man will not do so and so he shall be damn'd. Is he not takeing
upon himself or assuming the character of a Prophet consequently he
must either be a true or false Prophet.
In answer to a question asked
by a Sectarian priest namely. How is that you Mormons hold that God
is an omnipresent being when at the same time he is a personage of Tabernacle.
After God had created the Heavens
and the Earth. He came down and on the sixth day said let us make man
in our own image. In whose image. In the image of Gods created they
them. Male and female: innocent harmless and spotless bearing the same
character and the same image as the Gods. And when man fell he did not
lose his image but his character still retaining the image of his maker
Christ who is the image of man is also the express image of his fathers
person so says Paul. For in him Christ dwelt the fullness of the Godhead
bodily. Why because He was the brightness of his glory; and the express
image of his person. Ques. What person Gods person. Hebrews 1st chapter
3 verse And through the atonement of Christ and the resurrection and
obedience in the Gospel we shall again be conformed to the image of
his Son Jesus Christ, then we shall have attained to the image glory
and character of God. What part of God is omnipresent read the 37 chapter
of Ezekiel. It is the Spirit of god which proceeds from him consequently
God is in the four winds of Heaven and when man receives intelligence
is it not by the spirit of God J S Prophet
Date: 9 July 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richard Diary (Words
of Joseph Smith, 231)
Sun 9t July A.M. attended Meeting
at the Temple stand-heard Pres Joseph Smith preach shewing the difference
between the Latter Day Saints & the Mormons.
Date: 16 July 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: At Stand in Grove, West of Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Letter of Willard Richards
to Brigham Young (Words of Joseph Smith, 231)
Sunday 16 Joseph preached all
day.-A.M. 27th Matthew & c.--did not hear him.-"Mans foes
they of his own house.--the Spirit that crucified Christ, same spirit
in Nauvoo. referred particularly to--I wont say who--was it Bro. Marks?--did
not Say.-bro Cole [Cowles]? or bro P.P.P.
Date: 16 July 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: At Stand in Grove, West of Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Letter of Willard Richards
to Brigham Young (Words of Joseph Smith, 232)
16 July AM at Temple stand
heard Pres. Joseph Smith read the 27th Chapt. Math. spoke of the persecution
of the innocent the guilty might go free
Date: 16 July 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: At Stand in Grove, West of Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 232)
Joseph Preached--all day--constituted
Hyrum prophet
Date: 16 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 232)
Joseph said July 16th All Blessings
that were ordained for man by the Council of Heaven were on conditions
of obedience to the Law there of. No man can obtain an eternal Blessing
unless the contract or covenant be made in view of Eternity All contracts
in view of this life only terminate with this Life. Case of the woman
& 7 husbands Luke 20-29 &c Those who keep no eternal Law in
this life or make no eternal contract are single & alone in the
eternal world (Luke 20-35) and are only made Angels to minister to those
who shall be heirs of Salvation never becoming Sons of God having never
kept the Law of God ie eternal Law The earthly is the image of
the Heavenly shows that is by the multiplication of Lives that the eternal
worlds are created and occupied that which is born of the flesh is flesh
that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit.
Date: 16 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 232-33)
P.M. went to the Grove and
heard Pres. J. preach on the law of the priesthood. He stated that Hyrum
held the office of prophet to the church by birth-right & he was
going to have a reformation and the saints must regard Hyrum for he
had authority. He showed that a man must enter into an everlasting covenant
with his wife in this world or he will have no claim on her in the next.
He said that he could not reveal the fulness of these things untill
the Temple is completed &c.
Date: 16 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 233)
P.M. spoke of contracts &
covenants made from life end with life. the necessity of the Temple
that the Servants of God may be sealed in their foreheads.--the 4 Angels
not permitted to destroy the earth till it was done--weather warm &
dry-
Date: 16 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Letter of Willard Richards
to Brigham Young (Words of Joseph Smith, 233)
Said he would not prophecy
any more.--Hyrum should be the prophet--(did not tell them he was going
to be a priest now, nor a King by and by)--told the elders not to prophecy
when they went out preaching-
Date: 16 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 233)
Proposing Hyrum as a prophet--that
he might be (a priest)-- so the hearers tell the story.
Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 233-35)
P.M. Law and prophets were
until John & 16 Luke 16 v. Joseph preached introduction. It has
gone abroad that I was no longer a prophet.--I said it Ironically. I
supposed you would all understand. I[t] was not that I would renounce
the idea of being a prophet. but that I would renounce the idea of proclaiming
myself such. and saying that I bear the testimony of Jesus
No greater love than that a
man lay down his life for his friends. I discover 100s & 1000s--ready
to do it for me.
In the midst of business. &
find the spirit willing but the flesh is weak subject to like passions
with other men.-
although I am under the necessity
of bearing the infirmities of other men, &c.-on the other hand
the same characters when they discover a weakness in brother Joseph.
blast his character &c-all that la2 &c through him to the
church.-he cannot be borne with a moment. men mouth my troubles when
I have trouble they forget it all I believe in a principle of reciprosiprocity-if
we live in a devilish world--&c-
I see no faults in the church.--Let
me be resurrected with the saints whether to heaven or hell or any other
good place--good society. what do we care if the society is good? dont
care what a character is if he's my friend.--a friend a true friend.
& I will be a friend to him friendship is the grand fundamental
principle of Mormonism, to revolution civilize the world.--pour forth
love. friendship like Bro. Turley Blacksmith Shop. I do not dwell upon
your faults. you shall not upon mine. after you have covered up all
the faults among you the prettyest thing is have no faults at all.--
meek, quiet, &c. --Presbyterians any truth. embrace that. Baptist.
Methodist &c. get all the good in the world. come out a pure Mormon.
Last Monday morning certain
men came to me.-- Bro. Joseph, Hyrum is no prophet. he cant lead the
church. you must lead the Church--if you resign I felt curious--&
said--here we learn in a priesthood after the order of Melchizedek--Prophet
priest & king. & I will advance from prophet to priest &
then to King not to the kingdoms of this earth but of the most high
god.
If I should would there be
a great many disappointed in Mo? Law & prophets &c. Suffereth
violence & the violent taketh it by force--heaven and earth shall
pass away. &c says Christ. he was the rock &c.--gave the law
30 Ex. 30.31. and thou shalt anoint Aron &c. last Chapter Exodus
15. and thou shalt anoint them &c.--a title of law which must be
fulfilled. --forever hereditary.--fixed on the head of Aaron down to
Zachariah--the father of John. Zachariah had no child had not God gave
him a son? Sent his angel to declare a son Name John. with the keys.--John
King and lawgiver
The Kingdom of heaven suffereth
violence & The kingdom of heaven continueth in authority.
beareth suffereth violence
How do you know all this gr[eat]
knowledge? by the gift of the Holy Ghost arrested the kingdom from the
Jews of these stony Gentils these dogs to raise up children unto Abraham
John I must be baptized by
you. why to answer my decrees John refuses--Jesus had no legal administrator
before John. No salvation between the two lids of the bible without
a legal administrator
Tis contrary to a Governor's
oath to send a man to Missouri where he is prescribed in his religious
opinions.-
Jesus was then the legal administrator.--&
ordained his apostles.
I will resume the subject at
some future time.-
Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 235-)
Luke 16 chapter 16 verse. The
Law and the Prophets were untill John since then the Kingdom of Heaven
is preached and all men press into it. We will go back to Mount Scinai
where Jesus gave the Law to Moses Exodus 30 chapter 30 verse also the
last chapter 15 verse. The priesthood was given to Aaron and his posterity
throughout all generations We can trace the leanage down to Zachariah
he being the only lawfull administrator in his day and the jews knew
it well for they always acknowledge th2e priesthood. and Zachariah having
no children. knew that the promise of God must fail, consequently he
went into the Temple to wrestle with God according to the order of the
priesthood to obtain a promise of a son, and when the Angel told him
that his promise was granted he because of unbelief was struck dumb.
And when the set time was come John came forth and when he took up his
priesthood, he came bounding out of the wilderness saying repent ye
for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. he having received the holy anointing
was the only lawful administrator and the jews all knew it for the law
and the prophets was until John since then the kingdom of heaven is
preached and all men press into it! Why! Why because John was the only
lawful administrator and they the Jews well knew it. consequently the
only alternative was for them to yeild obedience to mandates of this
wild man of the woods, namely John or be damned. For all Jerusalem and
all Judea came out to be baptised of John, sadusees, pharasees, Essenees
&c For untill John was the law and the prophets, since then the
kingdom of heaven is preached and all men press into it. The kingdom
of heaven suffereth violence and the violent take it by forse. Now I
will translate a little, the kingdom of heaven hath power and authority
and by that they take or enter legally and lawfully the kingdom of heaven.
J S Prophet
Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 236)
July 23 Joseph said after reading Matt 11-12 & Luke 16-16 Heaven & Earth might pass but not a jot or tittle of the Law should read Exodus 40-15 Anointing of Aaron & his sons and shewed that all the Power & Authority & Anointing descended upon the head of John the Baptist or "The Government shall be upon his shoulders" This was virtually acknowledged by all Judea & they of Jerusalem coming out to be baptised of him & the rendering the Texts is "The Kingdom continueth in authority or Law & the Authority or legality (which belonged to John) took it by force or wrested it from the Jews to be delivered to a Nation bringing forth the fruits thereof.
Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 236)
23 July warm & dry . .
. P.M. J Smith spoke 1 hour & 25 Minutes--Text, Luke 16-16.
Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 236)
Meeting Hyrum-Joseph.
Date: 6 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 236-37)
Zebedee Coltrin prayed. Parley
P. Pratt preached on testimony. after Sermon. Joseph (for he came to
the Stand soon after Parley commenced.) said he would preach his sermon
next Sunday he was not able to day.--would speak of another subject.--the
Election he was above the kingdoms of the world for he had no laws.--I
have not come to tell you to vote this way, that way, or the other in
relation to National matters I want it to abroad to the whole world
that every man should stand on his own merits. the Lord has not given
me Revelation concerning politics.--I have not asked the Lord for it.--I
am a third party stand independent and alone--I desire to see all parties
protected in their rights.--as I have to have
Mr Walker has not hung on to my coat tail to gain his election as some have said. I am going to give a testimony but not for electioneering purposes. before Mr Walker come to Nauvoo rumor come up that he might become a candidate for congress. says I he is an old friend I will vote for him.--when Mr Walker come to my house, I voluntarily told him I was going to vote for him. When I dictated to him the laws of Nauvoo, he received them on my testimony.--the rascals took Walkers & Montgomery security when I was arrested Walker made Reynolds come to me & beg my pardon for abuse he gave me & though his men took the pistols from the rascals, & withdrew all claim to your vote & influence if it will be detrimental to your interest as a people.
Bro. Hiram tells me this morning that he has had a testimony that it
will be better for this people to vote for hoge. & I never knew
Hiram say he ever had a revelation & it failed. Never told Bro Law
to tell my private feelings. (Let God speak and all men hold their peace.)
and I utterly forbid these polotical demagogues from using my name hereafter
forever.-
It is my settled feeling that
if gov Ford erred in granting a writ against me it is of the head and
not of the heart. and I authorize all men to say I am a personal friend
of gov Ford.
A Cap to Parley's Sermon
every word that proceedeth
from the mouth of Jehovah has such an influence over the human mind
the logical mind that it is convincing without other testimony. faith
cometh by hearing.
If 10000 men testify to a truth
you know would it add to your faith? No, or will 1000 testimonies destroy
your knowledge of a fact.? No.--I do not want anyone to tell I am a
prophet or attempt to prove my word I Prophecy in the name of God Almighty
they shall bear off the palm.
Date: 6 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 237)
President J. made some remarks
on the election showing that he had taken no part in it. stated that
Hyrum had had a manifestation that it was for our interest to vote for
Hoge.
Date: 6 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 237)
6 At the stand near the Temple
heard B P Pratt lecture on the principle of evidence-cap_____by Joseph,--that
truth carrys its own influence & reccomends itself &c.
Date: 6 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 238)
Meeting A.M. Parley. Joseph
Hyrum Phelps & Walker.
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 238-39)
Sunday Aug 13th 1843
Joseph Pre. in relation the
death of Judge Higbee
2d. Peter 3d. C. 10.11.v.--Text said he was not like other. men his mind was continually occupied with the business of the day, and he had to depend entirely upon the living God for every thing he said on such occasions.
The great thing for us to know is to comprehend what God did institute
before the foundation of the world.--Who knows it?
we are called this [to] mourn
this morning the death of a good man a great man & a mighty man--It
is a solemn idea that man has no hope of seeing a friend after he has
lost him. but I will give you a more painful thought--the thought is
simple and I never design to communicate no ideas but what are simple
for to this end I am sent.--suppose we have an idea of a resurrection,
&c &c. and yet know nothing at all of the gospel and could not
comprehend one principle of the order of heaven. but found yourselves
disappointed, yes, at last find yourselfes
had I inspiration, Revelation
& lungs to communicate what my soul has contemplated in times past
there is not a soul in this congregation but would go to their homes
& shut their mouths in everlasting silence on religion, till they
had learned something.
Why be so certain that you
comprehend the things of God.-- when all things with you are so uncertain.
you are welcome to all the knowledge &
I do not grudge the world of
all the religion the[y] have got.-- they are welcome to all the knowledge
they possess.
the sound saluted my ears.
we are come unto Mt. Zion. &c. what could profit us to come unto
the spirits of Just Men but to learn, and come to the knowledge
spirits of the Just.
Where has Judge Higbee gone?
who is there that would not give all his goods to feed the poor &
pour out his gold & silver, to the four winds. to come where Judge
Higbee has gone.-
that which hath been hid from
before the foundation of the world, is revealed to babes and sucklings
in the last days.-
The world is reserved unto
burning in the last days--he shall send Elijah the prophet. and he shall
reveal the covenants of the fathers in relation to the children.-and
the children
4 destroying angels holding
power over the 4 quarters of the earth. until the servants of God are
sealed in their foreheads. what is that seal. shall I tell you?
know
Doctrine Election.--sealing
of the servants of God on the top of their heads. tis not the cross
as the catholics would have it. doctrine of Election to Abraham was
in the relation to the Lord. a man wishes to be embraced in the covenant
of Abraham. A man Judge Higbee-- in world of spirits. is sealed unto
the throne, & doctrine of Election sealing the father & children
together.
to the mourner. do as the husband
and the father would instruct you & you shall be reunited.-
I have been acquainted with
Judge Higbee a long time & I Never knew a more tenderhearted man.
The president was much exhausted.
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Howard and Martha Coray
Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 239-41)
Sermon 3thd.
on the death of Judge Higbee.
There is a thought more dreadful
than that of total annihilation That thoughtassurance
died believing that when having
Were I
What consolation have we what
power what reason to expect one thing more than another in eternity
Hebrews 12 ch 22
& 22
Youyou
I would ask again Is there
a word on record that was revealed by those angels and spirits if there
is where is it to be found
Again I enquire what is the
order and organization of the Spirits of the just made perfect Let me
tell you brethren That which is to be revealed which was kept his from
the foundation of the world will be revealed to sucklings and babes
Malachi 4th chapter Behold
the day cometh that shall burn as an oven and all the proud and they
that do wickedly shall be as stubble and they that cometh shall
burn them up Butwi
Now I would ask who know the
seal of the living God Behold the ignorance of the World.
A measure of this sealing is
to confirm upon their head in common with Elijah the doctrine of election
or the covenant with Abraham--which when a Father & mother of a
family have entered into their children who have not transgressed are
secured by the seal wherewith the Parents have been sealed. And this
is the Oath of God unto our Father Abraham and this doctrine shall stand
forever.
Mourners: I exhort you to do
as your Father and husband would direct--be sealed by the servants of
God. Eternal life is to know the only true God and his son Jesus
without which there is no salvation.
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 241)
Joseph. Translation of Malachi
4th-5 . 6 I will send Elijah the Prophet and he shall reveal the covenants
of the Fathers to the children and of the Children to the Fathers that
they may enter into Covenant with each other lest I come & smite
the whole Earth with a curse-
What is the seal spoken of
in Rev 7-3 find it out if you can I will not reveal it now but will
drop an idea that I have never revealed concerning Election connected
with the sealing of the servants of God in the fore or top of the head
Judge Higbee would say that covenants either there or here must be made
in view of eternity and the Covenant sealed on the fore heads of the
Parents secured the children from falling that they shall all sit upon
thrones as one with the God-head joint Heirs of God with Jesus Christ
This principle is revealed
also through the covenant of Abraham and his children This is also the
blessing and consolation of the Mourners----
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 241-42)
Went to meeting heard J. preach
on 2 Peter3.10 & 11 - being a funeral sermon on the death of E.
Higbee When speaking of the passage "I will send Elijah the prophet
&c" he said it should read and he shall turn the hearts of the
children to the covenant Made with their fathers Also where it says
and they shall seal the servants of God in their foreheads &c it
means to seal the blessing on their heads meaning the everlasting covenant
thereby making their calling & election sure. When a seal is put
upon the father and mother it secures their posterity so that they cannot
be lost but will be saved by virtue of the covenant of their father.
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 242)
13 AM attended meeting at Temple
stand heard Pres. Smith preach Judge Higbee's funeral discourse.
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 242)
Meeting Joseph preached Judge
Higbys funeral sermon.
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 242-43)
2 P. M. Joseph as Mayor instructed
the Marshall to keep the Ladies camp ground clear of young men.
the city is enlarging very
fast. we have so many learned men in this city & the height of knowledge
is not to know enough to keep out out of the way. I have been feretting
out grog shops, groceries & beer barrels
Mr Bagby of Carthage. Who has
excercised more despotic power over the inhabitants of this city than
any despot of the Eastern country. I met. He gave me some abusive language
took up a stoen to throw at me I seized him by the throat to choke him
off.
at the Election on the hill
they got a Constable name of King.-I dont know what need there was
of a constable
Old Father Perry said why you
cant vote in this precinct. King took me by the collar to
march
All our wrongs have arisen
under the power and authority of democracy and I have sworn that
I will
I was abused and regulated
at the ground, and there was not a man in the crowd to say-this is
Bro. Joseph. this is the Mayor-
then spoke of the grog shops
and the disturbance of the crowd in the street by Mosseur's grocery.
Warned the grog shop to be scarce after this time. and the peace officers
to take notice of the grog shops and give him reasonable notice.
closed 20 mi.-3-
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 243)
P.M. Prest J. offered some
complaints of the citizens of Nauvoo 1st because some young men sat
on the ladies camp ground and laughed & mocked during meeting He
next spake of Walter Bagby & the little skirmish he had with him
about a week ago he spoke of Esq Wells interfering when he had no business.
He then spake of the abuses he received at the election by King &
the board of Judges. also of the Grog & Beer shops & said he
should rip them up. He then showed that Sidney Rigdon had bound himself
by an oath to Governor Carlin to deliver J into the hands of the Missourians
if he could & finally in the name of the Lord withdrew the hand
of fellowship from him & put it to the vote of the people. He was
cut off by an unamous vote & orders to demand his licence.
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 243)
P.M. Joseph found fault with
the people of the city. some of them concerning Elections.
Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Grove, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 243-45)
10 a.m. President Marks prayed.-
Joseph said 2 weeks to day
something said about Elder Rigdon--vote taken to take away his license.
on account of a report brought by Elder Hyde from Quincy.-
The letter is one of the most
evasive things.--and carries with it a design to hide the truth . .
. .
in answer to Sidney Rigdon
of the 15. inst Thom Carlin.--Has any man been concerned in a conspiracy
to deliver Joseph Smith to Mo? if so who?-- Read 7th Hebrews. Salem
is designed for a hebrew term. it should be Shiloam--which signifies
Righteousness & peace. as it is, it is nothing, neither Hebrew,
Greek, Latin french or any other To all those who are disposed to say
to set up stakes for the almighty--will come short of the glory of god.
To becom a joint heir of the heirship of the son he must put away all
his traditions.
I bear record this morning
that all the combined powers of earth & hell shall not over come
this boy.-
If I have sinned I have sinned
outwardly--but secretly I have contemplated the things of God. told
an anecdote of the Episcopalian priest--who said he had the priesthood
of Aron--but not of Melichisedek--and bore this testimony that I never
have found the man who claimed the priesthood of Melchisidek. The law
was given under Aaron for the purpose of pouring out Judments and destructions.
The sectarian world are going
to hell--by 100s 1000s 1000 000!
3 grand orders of priesthood
referred to here.
1st. King of Shiloam--power
& authority over that of Abraham holding the key & the power
of endless life.--angels desire to look into it, but they have set up
to many stakes. god cursed the children of Israel because they would
not receive the last law from Moses.-
by the offering of Isaac.--if
a man would attain--he must sacrifice all to attain to the keys of the
kingdom of an endless life
What was the power of Melchizedek
twas not P. of Aaron &c. a king & a priest to the most high
God. a perfect law of Theocracy holding keys of power & blessings.
stood as God to give laws to the people. administering endless lives
to the sons and daughters of Adam kingly powers. of anointing.--Abram
says Melchisedek.-- aways I have a priesthood.-
Salvation could not come to
the world without the mediation of Jesus Christ.
how shall god come to the rescue of this generation. he shall send Elijah law revealed to Moses in Horeb--never was revealed to the C. of Israel and he shall reveal the covenants to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children and the children to the fathers.-- anointing & sealing--called elected and made sure without father &c. a priesthood which holds the priesthood by right from the Eternal Gods.--and not be descent from father and mother
2d Priesthood, patriarchal authority finish that temple and god will
fill it with power.
3d Priesthood. Levitical
Priests made without an oath
but the Priesthood of Melchisedek is by oath and covenant. Holy Ghost.
jesus christ--men have to suffer
that they might come up on Mt. Zion. exalted above the heavens--I know
a man that has been caught up to the 3d heaven--& saw.
Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Grove, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards
"Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 245)
A sermon of Josephs Heb 7 chap
Salem is Shiloam
Those who limit the designs
of God as concerted by the grand council of H
I Prophecy that all the powers
of Earth & Hell shall never be able . to overthrow this Boy for
I have obtained it by promise-
There are 3 grand principles
or orders of Priesthood portrayed in this chapter
1st Levitical which was never
able to administer a Blessing but Only to bind heavy burdens which neither
they nor their father able to bear
2 Abrahams Patriarchal power which is the greatest yet experienced in this church
3d That of Melchisedek who had still greater power even power of an
endless life of which was our Lord Jesus Christ which also Abraham obtained
by the offering of his son Isaac which was not the power of a Prophet
nor apostle nor Patriarch only but of King & Priest to God to open
the windows of Heaven and pour out the peace & Law of endless Life
to man & No man can attain to the Joint heirship with Jesus Christ
with out being administered to by one having the same power & Authority
of Melchisedek
Joseph also said that the Holy Ghost is now in a state of Probation
which if he should perform in righteousness he may pass through the
same or a similar course of things that the Son has.
Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Grove, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 247)
A.M. at the Grove. Prest. J.
preached on Hebrews c 7. After reading a letter from Thos. Carlin to
S. Rigdon and making some remarks about it. He shewed that the word
"Salem" is a wrong translation it should be "Shalome" signifying
peace. He prophesied that "not all the powers of hell or earth combined
can ever overthrow this boy" for he had a promise from the eternal
God . He spoke concerning the priesthood of Melchisedek showing that
the sectarians never propossed to have it consequently never could save
any one and would all be damned together. He showed that the power of
the Melchizedek Priesthood was to have the power of an "endless lives."
he showed that the everlasting covenants could not be broken, and by
the sacrifice requeired of Abraham the fact that when God offers a blessing
or knowledge to a man and he refuses to receive it he will be damned.--mentioning
the case of the Israelites praying that God would speak to Moses &
not to Them--in consequence of which he cursed them with a carnal law.
Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Grove, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: (Words of Joseph
Smith, 245-47)
Hebrewes 7 chap. Paul is here
treating of three different preisthoods, namely the preisthood of Aron,
Abraham, and Melchizedek, Abraham's priesthood was of greater power
than Levi's and Melchizedek's was of greater power than that of
Abraham. The priesthood of Levi consisted of cursings and
blessingsOh no
Malachi says that the sons
of Levi shall in the last days offer an offering in righteousness.
Men will set up stakes and
say thus far will we go and no farther, did Abraham when called upon
to offer his son, did the Saviour, no, view him fulfilling all righteousness
again on the banks of jordon, also on the Mount transfigured before
Peter and John there receiving the fullness of priesthood or the law
of God, setting up no stake but coming right up to the mark in all things
here him after he returned from the Mount, did ever language of such
magnitude fall from the lips of any man, hearken him. All power is given
is given unto me both in heaven and the earth. Offering's sacrifice's
and carnal commandments, was added in consequence of transgression and
they that did them should live by them. View him
Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Grove, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 247)
27 Aug attended meeting at
Temple Grove--Letter from Governor Ca[r]lin to Sidney Rigdon read by
Joseph Smith attended with
Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Grove, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 248)
Joseph preached.
Date: 13 September 1843 (Wednesday)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 248)
2 oclock & 10 minutes Joseph
introduced Mr. John Finch of Liverpool England to give an address on
his views of the social system. agreeable to Mr. Owens System 1 evils
society is suffering. 2 causes which produce them. 3 best means of removing
them. Spoke on the first two points Joseph spoke and Finch replied &c
all pleasantly.-
Date: 14 September 1843 (Thursday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 248)
2. P.M. at the temple Stand
John Finch spoke on the 3d principle mentioned yesterday 10 past 3.
Joseph spoke 5 minutes, told an anecdote of Sidney Rigdon. and Al. Cambell
got up a community at Kirtland. big fish eat up the little. did not
believe the doctrine.-&c.
Date: 14 September 1843 (Thursday Afternoon)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 248)
. . . P.M. 2 O'clock at
Temple Grove heard Mr Finch's closing Lecture-Answered by Eld John
Taylor-& Pres Smith continued 4 hours.
Date: 16 September 1843 (Saturday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 248)
20 minutes after 3.-attend
the review and inspection of the Legion with my staff. Gen Derby acting
inspecter. After which I took my part and gave orders.-after which
made a speech to the legion highly satisfied with officers and Soldiers
and I felt extremely well myself.
Date: 17 September 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 249)
was at meeting.
AM
Date: 17 September 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location:
Source: Willard Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 249)
Babbitt. & Blodget preached
and Joseph kept order.
Date: 17 September 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Levi Richards Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 249)
17 . . . PM heard the Rev Mr
Blodget from Mass. Unitarian Preacher. good discourse of religious Liberty
Text "What is Truth" followed by Pres Smith disproving the idea
that persecution causes a good work to prosper-continued his discours
about 1 1/2 hours apeaking of the practice of Medicine-& of Medicine
of Quacks & qualified Doctors-of the use of Med & of the abuse
of Med.-also spoke decidedly agains Dr Brinks practice-spoke in
favor of Doc. Bernhisel-declared that he (J Smith) never lost a patient
where he had been the first &I only one employed & challenged
the congregation to bring instance-they brough none spoke of Lobelia
when the patient was too weak to bear it-as being destructive &
& said calomel would corrode the stomach when it was empty-said
it was a poison-still said it was a med. & useful if used skillfully!!!!!!!!!
Date: 17 September 1843 (Sunday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 249)
P.M. Mr. Blodget the Unitarian
Minister preached was gratified with his sermon in general-but differed
in opinion on some points-on which I freely expressed myself to his
great satisfaction on persecution making the work spreak. by rooting
up a flower garden or kicking back the sun.
Date: 24 September 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 250)
Joseph Preached about 1 hour.
from 2d Chapter of Acts-designed to shew the folly of Common Stock
In Nauvoo every one Steward over their own.-Amasa Lyman & Geo.
J. Adams continued the meeting after preaching Joseph called upon the
brethren to draw Stone for the temple. and gave notice for a special
conference on the 6th Oct. Meeting adjourned on account of prospect
of rain at about 1. P.M.-
Date: 7 October 1843 (Saturday Morning)
Location:
Source: Times and Seasons
4 (15 September 1843): 329-30 (Words of Joseph Smith, 250)
Saturday, 10 o'clock A.M.
Conference assembled and proceeded
to business.
President Joseph Smith was
called to the chair, and Gustavus Hills chosen clerk.
Opened with singing by the
choir, and prayer by elder Almon Babbitt.
The president stated the items
of business to be brought before the Conference, to be,
1st. The case and standing
of elder Sidney Rigdon, counsellor to the First Presidency.
2d. The further progress of
the Temple; after which, any miscellaneous business.
Elder Sidney Rigdon addressed
the conference on the subject of his situation and circumstances among
the saints.
President Joseph Smith addressed
the conference, inviting an expression of any charges or complaints
which the Conference had to make. He stated his dissatisfaction with
elder Sidney Rigdon as a counsellor, not having received any material
benefit from his labors or counsels since their escape from Missouri.
Several complaints were then brought forward in reference to his management
in the Post Office; a supposed correspondence and connection with John
C. Bennett, with Ex-Governor Carlin, and with the Missourians, of a
treacherous character: also his leaguing with dishonest persons in endeavoring
to defraud the innocent.
President Joseph Smith related
to the Conference the detention of documents from J. Butterfield, Esq.,
which were designed for the benefit of himself, (President Smith,) but
was not handed over for some three or four weeks, greatly to his disadvantage.
Also, an indirect testimony from Missouri, through the mother of Orin
P. Rockwell, that said Rigdon and others had given information, by letter,
of President Smiths' visit to Dixon, advising them to proceed to that
place and arrest him there. He stated that in consequence of those,
and other circumstances, and his unprofitableness to him as a counsellor,
he did not wish to retain him in that station, unless those difficulties
could be removed; but desired his salvation, and expressed his willingness
that he should retain a place among the saints.
Elder Almon Babbitt suggested
the propriety of limiting the complaints and proofs to circumstances
that had transpired since the last Conference.
President Joseph Smith replied,
and showed the legality and propriety of a thorough investigation, without
such limitation.
Elder Sidney Rigdon plead,
concerning the documents from J. Butterfield, Esq., that he received
it in answer to some inquiries which he had transmitted to him-that
he received it at a time when he was sick, and unable to examine it-did
not know that it was designed for the perusal and benefit of President
Joseph Smith-that he had, consequently, ordered it to be laid aside,
where it remained until inquired for by Joseph Smith. He had never written
to Missouri concerning the visit of Joseph Smith to Dixon, and knew
of no other person having done so. That, concerning certain rumors of
belligerent operations under Governor Carlin's administration, he
had related them, not to alarm or disturb any one, but that he had the
rumors from good authorities, and supposed them well founded. That he
had never received but one communication from John C. Bennett, and that
of a business character, except one addressed to him conjointly with
Elder Orson Pratt, which he handed over to President Smith-that he
had never written any letters to John C. Bennett.
The weather becoming inclement,
Conference adjourned until Sunday 10 o'clock A.M.
Date: 8 October 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location:
Source: Times and Seasons 4
(15 September 1843): 330 (Words of Joseph Smith, 252)
President Joseph Smith arose
and satisfactorily explained to the congregation the supposed treacherous
correspondence with Ex-Governor Carlin, which wholly removed suspicion
from elder Sidney Rigdon, and from every other person. He expressed
entire willingness to have elder Sidney Rigdon retain his station, provided
he would magnify his office, and walk and conduct himself in all honesty,
righteousness, and integrity; but signified his lack of confidence in
his integrity and steadfastness, judging from their past intercourse.
Date: 9 October 1843 (Monday Morning)
Location:
Source: Times and Seasons 4
(15 September 1843): 330-32 (Words of Joseph Smith, 252)
The business pertaining to
the Temple was then announced by the President as next in order. . .
.
President Joseph Smith presented
and read to the Conference, a communication from Col. Frances M. Higbee,
whose conduct had been called in question, in connection with elder
Sidney Rigdon, and expressed himself satisfied that Col. Frances M.
Higbee was free, even of reproach or suspicion, in that matter.
Conference adjourned for one
hour.
Date: 9 October 1843 (Monday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Times and Seasons 4
(15 September 1843): 331-32 (Words of Joseph Smith, 252-54)
Monday, 2 o'clock, P.M.
Conference reassembled, and
listened with profound attention, to an impressive discourse from President
Joseph Smith, commemorative of the decease of James Adams, Esq., late
of this city, and an honorable, worthy, useful, and esteemed member
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He spoke of the
importance of our understanding the reasons and causes of our exposure
to the vicissitudes of life, and of death; and the designs and purposes
of God, in our coming into the world, our sufferings here, and our departure
hence--that it is but reasonable to suppose that God would reveal something
in reference to the matter--the ignorance of the world in reference
to their true condition, and relation. Reading the experience of others,
or the revelations given to them, can never give us a comprehensive
view of our condition and true relation to God. Knowledge of these things,
can only be obtained by experience in these things, through the ordinance
of God set forth for that purpose. He remarked that the disappointment
of hopes and expectations at the resurrection, would be indescribably
dreadful. That the organization of the spiritual and heavenly worlds,
and of spiritual and heavenly beings, was agreeably to the most perfect
order and harmony--that their limits, and bounds were fixed irrevocably,
and voluntarily subscribed to by themselves--subscribed to upon the
earth--hence the importance of embracing and subscribing to principles
of eternal truth. He assured the saints that truth in reference to these
matters, can, and may be known, through the revelations of God in the
way of his ordinances, and in answer to prayer. The Hebrew church "came
unto the spirits of just men made perfect, and unto an innumerable company
of angels, unto God the Father of all, and to Jesus Christ the Mediator
of the New Covenant;" but what they learned, has not been, and could
not have been written. What object was gained by this communication
with the spirits of the just, &c.? It was the established order
of the kingdom of God--the keys of power and knowledge were with them
to communicate to the saints--hence the importance of understanding
the distinction between the spirits of the just, and angels. Spirits
can only be revealed in naming fire, or glory. Angels have advanced
farther--their light and glory being tabernacled, and hence appear in
bodily shape.
Concerning brother James Adams,
he remarked, that it should appear strange that so good and so great
a man was hated. The deceased ought never to have had an enemy. But
so it was, wherever light shone, it stirred up darkness. Truth and error,
good and evil, cannot be reconciled. Judge Adams had been a most intimate
friend. He had anointed him to the Patriarchal power--to receive the
keys of knowledge, and power, by revelation to himself. He had had revelations
concerning his departure, and had gone to a more important work--of
opening up a more effectual door for the dead. The spirits of the just
are exalted to a greater and more glorious work--hence they are blessed
in departing hence. Enveloped in flaming fire, they are not far from
us, and know and understand our thoughts, feelings and motions, and
are often pained therewith.
President Smith concluded with
exhortations to the church to renew their exertions to forward the work
of the Temple, and in walking before the Lord in soberness and righteousness.
Such is a faint outline of
the discourse of President Joseph Smith, which was delivered with his
usual feeling and pathos; and was listened to with the most profound
and eager attention by the multitude, who hung upon his instructions,
anxious to learn and pursue the path of eternal life.
Date: 9 October 1843 (Monday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 254-55)
Conference Cutler Cahoon &
Hyrum spoke on the temple. P.M. Joseph preached funeral Sermon of Gen
James Adams-- All men know that all men must die.--What is the object
of our coming into existence then dying and falling away to be here
no more? This is a subject we ought to study more than any other. which
we ought to study day and night.--If we have any claim on our heavenly
father for any thing it is for knowledge on this important subject--could
we read and comprehend all that has been written from the days of Adam
on the relations of man to God & angels. and the spirits
of just mencan knowThe spirit
Judge Adams had some enemies,
but such a man ought not to have had an enemy. I saw him first at springfield,
when on my Way from Missouri to Washington. he sought me out when a
stranger. took me to his house. encouraged & cheered me & give
me money-- when men are prepared. they are better off to go home.--
Bro. Adams has gone to open up a more effectual door for the dead.-
Flesh and blood cannot go there
but flesh and bones quickened by the Spirit of God can If we would be
sober, & watch in fasting and prayer, God would turn away sickness
from our midst. Hasten the work of the temple. and all the work of the
Last Days. Let the elders & saints do away light mindedness and
be sober.-
Date: 9 October 1843 (Monday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: James Burgess Notebook
(Words of Joseph Smith, 254-55)
A great many men suppose there
is no difference between a spirit an angel an
Date: 9 October 1843 (Monday Afternoon)
Location:
Source: William Clayton Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 254-55)
P.M. at the conference Prest.
J. preached Judge Adams funeral sermon. The people were well edified
and a very good feeling prevailed throughout.
Date: 15 October 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 255-58)
11 A.M. Cool. calm, cloudy.
stand east end of the temple. singing Prayer By P. P. Pratt. Joseph
preached.
It is one of the first principles
of my life & one that I have cultivated from my childhood, having
been taught it of my father. to allow every one the liberty of conscience.
I am the greatest advocate
of the Congress of United States there is there on the earth. in my
feeling the only fault I can
I believe the bible, as it ought to be, as it came from the pen of the
original writers. as it read it repented the Lord that he had made man.
and also God is not a man that he should repent.--which I do not believe.--but
it repented Noah that God made man.--this I believe. & then the
other quotation stands fair.--if any man will prove to me by one passage
of Holy writ, one item I believe, to be false. I will renounce it disclaim
it far as I have promulgated it.--
The first principles of the gospel as I believe. first Faith. Repentance.
Baptism for the remission of sins, with the promise of the Holy Ghost.
Hebrews 6th. contradictions
"Leaving the principle of the doctrine of C. if a man leave the principles
of the doctrine of Christ how can he be saved in the principles? a contradiction.
I dont believe it. I will render it therefore not leaving the
Priesthood of the doctrine of crist. &c. Resurrection of the dead
& eternal judgment.
one thing to see the kingdom.
& another to be in it. Must have a change of heart to see the kingdom
of God. & subscribe the articles of adoption to enter therein.
no man can not
I prophecy in the name of the Lord God anguish & wrath & [indecipherable] & tribulation and the withdrawing of the spirit of God await this generation. until they are visited with utter destruction. this generation is as corrupt as the generation of the Jews that crucified Christ. and if he were here today & should preach the same doctrine he did then why they would crucify him. I defy all the world & I prophecy they never will overthrow me till I get ready
on the economy of this city.--I think there is to many merchants among
you more wool and raw materials & the money be brought here to pay
the poor for manufacturing--set our women to work & stop this spinning
street yarn and talking about spiritual wives.--Send out your money
in the country, get grain, cattle flax .--&c
I proclaim in the name of the
Lord God that I will have nothing but virtue & integripity &
uprightness.-
We cannot build up a city on
merchandize. I would not run after the merchants, I would sow a little
flax if I had but a garden and.-- lot.
the temporal economy of this
people should be to establish manufacturing and not to take usury for
his
when you get food return if you have a mind to.-
some say It is better, say some to give [to] the poor than build the
temple.--the building of the temple has kept the poor who were driven
from Missouri from starving. as has been the best means for this object
which could be devised
all ye rich men of the Latter
Day Saints.--from abroad I would invite to bring up some of their money
and give to the temple. we want Iron steel powder.--&c--a good plan
to get up a forge[?]. bring in raw materials, & manu[f]acturing
establishments of all kinds.--& surround the rapids-
I never stole the value of
a pinhead or a picayune in my life. & When you are hungry and steal,
come to me & I will feed you.-
the secrets of masonry is to keep a secret. it is good economy to entertain stranger, to entertain sectarians. come up ye sectarian priests. of the everlasting gospel, as they call it & they shall have my pulpit all day.
wo to ye rich men. give to the poor. & then come and ask me for
bread, away with all your meanness & be liberal we need purging,
purifying & cleansing you have little faith in your Elders get some
little simple remedy in the first stages--if you send for a Dr at all
send in the first stages
all ye Drs.-who are fools
not well read do not understand the human constitution. stop your practice.-
Lawyers who have no business
only as you hatch up. would to God you would go to work or run away.
1/4 past 2. closed-
Date: 15 October 1843 (Sunday Morning)
Location: Temple Stand, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 255-58)
Meeting 1/2 Joseph P[reached].
3 1/4 economy of Nauvoo.
Date: 12 November 1843 (Sunday)
Location: At Temple, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: William Rowley Diary
(Words of Joseph Smith, 258)
As a matter of course we felt
a desire to behold the Prophet Joseph-on the following day (Sunday)
we proceeded to the Temple (then in an unfinished state) to hear him
preach we were gratified in seeing & hearing him on that occasion
& we soon felt & knew we were listening to one that had not
been taught of men-So different were all his thoughts & language.
Date: 29 November 1843 (Wednesday Afternoon)
Location: Upper Room, Red Brick Store, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Manuscript History of
the Church (Words of Joseph Smith, 258-59)
Joseph Smith, the Mayor, made
some remarks, and his Appeal to the Green Mount Boys was read by William
W. Phelps.
. . . P. P. Pratt offered to
deliver the president's appeal to the "Green Mountain Boys" to
all the large towns in New York if he could have a copy. The President
offered a copy, and it was voted that Elder Pratt shall have the mission
granted him, and voted in addition that he go to all the towns in Vermont.
. . .
The Mayor spoke; said he rose
to make a confession, that he used all his influence to prevent the
brethren from fighting when mobbed in Missouri. If I did wrong I will
not do so any more. It was a suggestion of the head, he would never
do so again, but when the Mobs came upon you, kill them; I never will
restrain you again but will go and help you. . . .
Mayor spoke again if I do not
stand with those who will stand by me in the hour of trouble and danger,
without faltering I give you leave to shoot me.
Mayor read a letter in reply
to one he wrote to Henry Clay . . . .
Motioned by Joseph Smith that
every man in the meeting who could wield a pen write an address to his
mother country--carried
Mayor read the Memorial to
Congress--The State rights doctrine are what feed mobs,--they are a
dead carcass, a stink and they shall ascend up as a stink offering in
the nose of the Almighty.
They shall be oppressed as
they have oppressed us, not by Mormons but by others in power, they
shall drink a drink offering, the bitterest dregs not from the Mormons
but from a meaner source than themselves. God shall curse them.
Adjourned till next Monday
evening early candle light.
Date: 29 November 1843 (Wednesday Afternoon)
Location: Upper Room, Red Brick Store, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 259)
4 P.M. A meeting of citizens
at the assembly room to appoint a committee to get subscribers to the
memorial &c Joseph present.
Date: 4 December 1843 (Monday)
Location: Upper Room, Red Brick Store, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Joseph Smith Diary,
by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 259)
I spoke 2 1/2 hours on Missouri
persecution. the government in gen. men & measures &c. to a
crowded & select congregation Many could not get admission 2 Missourians
present.
Date: 4 December 1843 (Monday)
Location: Upper Room, Red Brick Store, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Nauvoo Neighbor
1 (6 December 1843) (Words of Joseph Smith, 259)
A public meeting was called
on Monday evening for the purpose of reading a memorial to congress,
for the purpose of seeking redress for grievances sustained in the State
of Missouri. . . .
At an early hour the house
was crowded to overflowing, and great numbers had to go away for want
of room.
As soon as the meeting was
opened, they called for the reading of General Smith's "Appeal to
the Green Mountain Boys;" which was read by W. W. Phelps after which
P. P. Pratt read an address to the "Empire State" of New York, and
Dr. Richards was called upon to read the memorial before alluded to.
General Smith then arose, and
in his happy eloquent, masterly manner, delivered one of the most powerful
interesting addresses that we ever heard; he spoke for two hours and
a half, and was listened to with breathless silence by all present.
To attempt to give even a faint outline would be superflous, suffice
it to say that all were gratified, instructed and riveted to the spot.
Two gentlemen from Missouri were present on the occasion and we think
that if they possessed the least spark of intelligence, the vivid, glowing
color, in which the inhuman deeds of Missouri, was painted, must have
made them feel that they were living on a polluted soil, and associated
with a degraded bloody herd.
His address to the Green Mountain
Boys is a masterly piece, and will be read (as it was listened to) with
great interest; we shall probably publish it hereafter.
Date: 9 December 1843 (Saturday)
Location: Corner of Main and Water Streets, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 260)
Their was a meeting of the
Citizens in general & the ordinance passed yesterday was read before
the multitude & speaches made by several persons the last of which
was President Joseph Smith who gave an interesting address to the assembly
spoke of our persecution, the manner that our rights & liberties
had been trampled upon & that it was time it was stoped, they all
sanctioned the speach of the general & were dismissed in god order
& returnd to their homes.
Date: 9 December 1843 (Saturday)
Location: Corner of Main and Water Streets, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Nauvoo Neighbor 1 (20 December 1843) (Words of Joseph Smith, 260)
[After remarks by John Taylor]
General Joseph Smith briefly addressed the meeting; he dissented entirely
from the opinion of the Attorney General, and observed that it was stated
in the charter that the Legion was a part of the militia of Illinois,
and that his commission declared that he (General Smith) was the Lieutenant
General of the Nauvoo Legion, and if the militia of the State of Illinois,
and as such, it was not only his duty to enforce the city ordinances,
but the laws of the State when called on by the Governor. He also stated
that he had been informed that the Chief Magistrate of Missouri had
it in contemplation to make another requisition on the Governor of Illinois
for him, Joseph Smith.
Date: 18 December 1843 (Monday)
Location: Upper Room, Red Brick Store, Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal
(Words of Joseph Smith, 261)
President Smith made an eloquent speech upon the subject manifested mercy towards his enemies when they were in his power but he lifted up his hands towards heaven & declaired that if Missouri Came against us any more he would fight them & defend his rights.
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