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"The True Points of my Doctrine"

W  isdom from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Known as Strangites)

"Yea, and I will also bring to light my gospel which was ministered unto them, and, behold, they shall not deny that which you have received, but they shall build it up, and shall bring to light the true points of my doctrine, yea, and the only doctrine which is in me." Doctrine and Covenants 10

From the Writings of Samuel E. West

Redacted by Thomas H. Durand

Elders in Latter Day Zion

If any man preach any other gospel than that which I have preached, he shall be cursed;"  
_(Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 366)_

# Contents

Scriptures and Truth 3

Trinity and Christendom 8

Kingdom and the True Church 9

Grace and Salvation 9

The Next World and Degrees of Glory 11

Eucharist 13

Pre-Mortal Existence 14

Purpose of Life 15

Prayer 16

End Times 17

Revelation 20

Fellowship 21

Repentance 21

Apostasy and Restoration 21

Baptism 22

Faith and Dedication 23

Teaching and Evangelization 26

Priesthood 28

Politics and Secularism 30

Latter Day Prophets 33

Marriage and Family 35

Obedience 36

Love and Charity 37

Stewardship and Tithing 38

Sabbath 39

Word of Wisdom 39

Jesus the Christ 40

Satan 42

The Corporate Church 42

Zion and The Gathering 43

Sectarians 48

Last Dispensation 49

Israel and the Jews 50

Holidays 50

Persecution 50

Contentions 53

Celestial Law 54

Righteousness 55

The Godhead 57

Prophetic Succession 57

Death 58

Temple Ordinances 60

Mary and the Birth of Christ 62

Atonement and Ransom 63

Learning and Study 65

Kings, Lawgivers and Apostles 65

Gifts of the Spirit 67

Sin and Forgiveness 68

Visions 68

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# Scriptures and Truth

The more we pray, study, and discuss the gospel and doctrinal subjects the more it is evident that we must study to be true latter day saints. "15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Tim. 2) Before we can claim to embrace the truth we must have an open mind and invite the truth into our lives. "21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (1 Thess. 5)

Truth is truth regardless of its source. In Zion's Reveille it is written, "Brother Smith makes some remarks, and exhorts the elders not to buy, or encourage the sale of the books published by the Brighamite leaders, as he says they contain many errors, and false doctrine, and some of them had been voted down at a general conference in the days of Joseph. We, however, believe that whatever truth they may have published is as true as if it had been published by the greatest saint that ever lived; and while the elders continue humble they will be able to detect the error." (Vol. 2, No. 14, p. 58/110)

We have the greatest library of doctrinal books of any generation before us. We have the books of Scripture plus all of the great writings found in the official church journals plus writings by such inspired men as our late Bro. Lloyd Flanders plus we have innumerable other good books. Bro. Strang took great pride in his library. The more we learn the more we learn just how little we really do know and should have an earnest desire to learn all we can. A mind is a terrible thing to waste.

Bro. Strang had no problem in publishing anything that was true; regardless of the source. The articles of P. P. Pratt most likely had a broad circulation. I have a copy of his Voice of Warning. Benjamin Winchester did not follow James; but, his tract on the Priesthood is almost entirely true. The Brighamites, on the other hand, censure most material; as there is much to demonstrate their false doctrines.

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If a person accepts the Bible as the word of God, it follows that we must accept the teachings of Jesus as taught in the Bible. "33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matt. 6) If we desire to be counted among members of the kingdom of God, we must abide by the rules of the kingdom. "13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." (Matt. 7) According to the Bible the gospel is that gate. "16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." (Rom. 1)

The problem is that the gospel was not given in word alone. "5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake." (1 Thess. 1) Belief in Jesus or a sincere desire to be counted with the believers requires walking even as Jesus walked. "6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1 John 2) "21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." (Matt. 7) "1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber." (John 10)

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The Book of the Law was lost to the Jewish nation at the time of the Babylonian Captivity in 588 BC. I don't have all my books with me. It seems Jeremiah hid the Ark of the Covenant containing the original plates of the law in the cave. See the Apocrypha. All of the public copies of the Book of the Law were destroyed. The Book of the Law was not available when the Septuagint translation was made. Fortunately, in 600 BC Lehi brought a copy of the Book of the Law to Zion. Joseph was not permitted to translate the Book of the Law because he was not of the tribe of Judah and the people were not worthy to have it translated for them. "19 Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph [Book of Mormon], which is in the hand of Ephraim [Joseph Smith], and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah [Book of the Law which is in the hand of Judah], and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand." (Ezek. 37) It seems God in His plan did not intend for the Book of the Law to be translated until after the death of Joseph and the split by Brigham Young. This left Brigham honoring "the venerable day of the sun."

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The law was first given to Adam. We know this because Cain violated the law. A Book of the Law was most likely kept through the lineage of Adam until the Egyptian Captivity. Moses restored the Book of the Law. The signed copy on the two tables of stone was kept in the Ark of the Covenant. Public copies were made for use by the Priests. Before the Babylonian Captivity in 588 BC a Prophet of God (Jeremiah?) buried the ark in a cave in the mountains (see the Apocrypha). The public copies were destroyed because the book was held as to holy to fall into the hands of heathens. Fortunately, in 600 BC, Lehi obtained a copy of the Book of the Law with other plates of Laban. There were two works to be realized by Prophets in the last days. "19 Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph [Book of Mormon], which is in the hand of Ephraim [Joseph Smith], and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah [Book of the law in the hand of Judah], and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand." (Ezek. 37) Joseph was not permitted to translate the Book of the Law, the sealed record, the complete Book of Mormon, and possibly other works. James, being of the tribe of Judah, was given the Book of the Law to translate. The sealed record is reserved for James.

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How did J. J. Strang get the Plates of Laban for the Book of the Law of the Lord?" He was given the plates by an angel and after translating the Book of the Law returned the plates to the angel. There were two works to come forth in the last days. "19 Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph [Book of Mormon], which is in the hand of Ephraim [Joseph Smith], and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah [Book of the Law], and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand." (Ezek. 37) It was through the translation of the Book of the Law that the original Sabbath was restored and Brigham Young was left honoring "the venerable day of the sun." Only the Book of the Law contained the original Decalogue given to Moses. The Ten Commandments of the pagan Christians leave out the second most important commandment. "39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." (Matt. 22)

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I am sure when you read the Book of the Law you will understand why it is the most important book of Scripture. It was lost shortly before the Babylonian Captivity in 588 BC. Fortunately, Lehi brought a copy with him to Zion in 600 BC. Although it was among the plates recovered by Joseph, it was not for Joseph to translate. Joseph was of the tribe Ephraim and therefore translated the stick of Joseph. James was of the tribe of Judah so was qualified to translate the Book of the Law.

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The Book of the Law was written by the finger of God, signed by Him, and placed in the Ark of the Covenant. Public copies were made of parts of the law for the Priests to use in instructing the people. The first law given to Moses was the pure spiritual law. When Israel fell into idolatry and other evils, they were placed under a code of carnal commandments and the Levitical Priesthood was organized to administer it. This was to place Israel under a taskmaster until Jesus. "17 Think not that I am come to destroy the [spiritual] law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil [the carnal law]. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." (Matt. 5)

Lehi brought a copy of the Book of the Law with him. James translated those parts which apply to this time. He did not translate the carnal law. Almost half of the Book of the Law is written for the time when the kingdom will again be established with dominion. There are only parts of the second half which directly apply to us today. When James returns, the whole book will be used. "11. For by this Law shall men be judged in the portion of Joseph: God will give it to you, that you may possess it for an everlasting dominion." (Book of the law, p. 205)

When translating books of an earlier time, it is proper to use current terminology. The identity of Jesus was known by Adam. "15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." (Gen. 3) Satan bruises the head of man through death of the mortal body. Jesus was to bruise his heel by living a perfect life in which Satan could have no power over Him; including death of the physical body. Thus, Jesus was given power by God over our resurrection.

"1 In the beginning was the Word [Jesus], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God [of this creation]. 2 The same was in the beginning with God [the Father]. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made." (John 1) Thus, we find in Genesis 1, "26 And God said, Let us [God and Jesus] make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth." In the Old Testament a tetra gram was used instead of Jesus. A Catholic Priest made it to read Jehovah. Joseph Smith used the name Jesus Christ when he translated 2 Nephi (between 559 and 545 BC); and many other places. "19 For according to the words of the prophets, the Messiah cometh in six hundred years from the time that my father left Jerusalem; and according to the words of the prophets, and also the word of the angel of God, his name shall be Jesus Christ, the Son of God." (2 Nephi 25) "23 Behold, Jesus Christ is the name which is given of the Father, and there is none other name given whereby man can be saved." (D&C 18 given in June, 1829)

James noted that the Book of Mormon was the worst grammatical book to reach a second edition. He also noted that was necessary because the translation was not for the wise but for the poor and uneducated of his day. It was really a great sign in favor of the Book of Mormon. Joseph was capable of having the book edited.

James only translated those parts of the law which apply to the last days. The added law given to Moses was not translated; as it was fulfilled with Jesus. There are new laws and commandments given through each new Prophet. Joseph gave those things which were to open the dispensation. James added to the laws given to Joseph. We learn line upon line, and precept upon precept. The two Prophets compliment each other. The law as translated by James will be used in the next major dispensation. "3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain [kingdom] of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem." (Isa. 2; Micah 4:1)

About half of the book addresses the dominion. Every first degree Apostle, Lawgiver, is also a King. Moses was a King in Israel. He held dominion in the kingdom. The kingdom was a theocracy. The ministers of the gospel were also ministers of the civil law. With revelations and commandments directly from God, it is the perfect system. It does not allow for injustice. James was given the first dominion in the last days. "8 And thou, O tower of the flock [James J. Strang], the strong hold of the daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem [July 8, 1850]. 9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud? is there no king in thee? is thy counseller perished? for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail. 10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to [spiritual] Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies." (Micah 4) The term "first dominion" means there is to be a second.

Jesus was a King; but, could hold no dominion because the Jews were being held captive. When Jesus returns He will stand as King over the entire earth. "13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. 16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS." (Rev. 19) He will be the King over all Kings called and ordained of God. All kings and governments of man will be eliminated. David was an inferior King. That is, he was a High Priest and not a Prophet. Only first and second degree Apostles are Prophets and Kings. David will once again stand as King in Israel. Only an Apostle, Prophet, and King can stand at the head of the people. Brigham Young was only a third degree Apostle. James will stand again as King in Zion; as will Joseph. See the article, "The Tribe of Joseph" in The Evening and Morning Star, Vol. 1, p. 41. "But a seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and unto him will I give power to bring forth my word unto the seed of thy loins; and not to the bringing forth my word only, saith the Lord, but to the convincing them of my word, which shall have already gone forth among them." Joseph wrote this applied to him. James, though, will be given a second dominion. The kingdom will be revealed in power. See Book of the Law, p. 171, vs. 13 – 15.

The plates were given to James by an angel of God—the same way they were taken from Joseph. James unearthed the Voree Plates on the Hill of Promise. See "James J. Strang, Prophet like unto Moses," The Voree Record. The plates of the Book of the Law were taken back by an angel of God. The Voree Plates remained among the saints until the 20th century when a sister showed them to a Brighamite Elder and they disappeared. The "sealed record" is reserved for James to translate at a future time.

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The Book of the Law was part of the plates recovered by Joseph Smith. The Book of Mormon was reserved for Joseph; as he was of the seed of Joseph. The Book of the Law was reserved for one of the tribe of Judah. Bro. Strang was of the tribe of Judah. "19 Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph [Book of Mormon], which is in the hand of Ephraim [Joseph Smith], and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah [Book of the Law], and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand." (Ezek. 37) After translating the Book of the Law, the plates were returned to the angel who delivered them to James. The Voree Plates were kept among the saints it seems until the early 1900's when a sister loaned them to a Brighamite and never got them back.

The original was written by the finger of God on the two tables of stone. This was the spiritual law given to Adam. When Moses returned from the mount and found Israel in various forms of wickedness, he broke the tables. Moses later returned to the mount where he was given not only the original spiritual law but also an added temporal law. This made a change in the priesthood in Israel. The Melchisedec Priesthood was taken away from Israel; except for those who were called as Prophets and Kings in Israel. The Holy Spirit was withdrawn from the people and they were left with an added temporal law that was to be a taskmaster until Jesus. Although this temporal law was fulfilled in Jesus, the Jews failing to accept Him remained under the added law. "17 Think not that I am come to destroy the [spiritual] law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil [the added law]. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the [spiritual] law, till all be fulfilled." (Matt. 5) Moses made an autographed copy of the law which was kept with the tables of stone. Public copies were made for use by the priests. Before the Babylonian Captivity in 588 BC, the Ark of the Covenant was hid in a cave and the public copies of the Book of the Law were destroyed; as it was considered to holy to fall into the hands of the heathen (Gentiles).

Bro. Strang translated only the spiritual law that applied to our time and season. There were only a limited number of the smaller 1851 Edition; as it was intended for use only by the priesthood. The 1856 Edition was never completed before the death of James. The saints carried the unbound sheets with them when they were driven from Beaver Island. The first two signatures of 16 pages were either lost, or they were never printed. The original book also included the penalties for violating the law. This part of the law was not included in the public copies from which James translated the Book of the Law.

While the first half of the book (through page 167) addresses the entire last days, a considerable portion of the last half addresses the dominion and the inheritance system. Bro. Strang was given the first dominion in the last days. "8 And thou, O tower of the flock [James J. Strang], the strong hold of the daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem. 9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud? is there no king in thee? is thy counseller perished? for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail. 10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies." (Micah 4) Unfortunately, the Gentiles rejected the will of God and Bro. Strang was taken.

Many prophesies tell of him returning shortly before the day of the Lord to gather the small remnant of worthy saints to a place of refuge. See the Book of the Law, page 171, verses 13 – 15; and pages 203 and 204, verses 1 – 11. Bro. Lloyd Flanders wrote that this gathering would be administered through men and angels and there would be many from foreign lands.

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Bro. Strang did not derogate the Book of Mormon. He included six sections of "Collateral Testimony of the Book of Mormon," by Apostle John E. Page, in the Gospel Heralds. He also quoted many times from the Book of Mormon. The question is one of doctrine. There have been those in the church that took the references from the Book of Mormon and interpreted them to mean the Father and the Son are the same personage. They considered Father as the spirit and the Son as the tabernacle of one and the selfsame god. This error is made clear in the Book of the Law.

"1 And now Abinadi said unto them: I would that ye should understand that God himself shall come down among the children of men, and shall redeem his people. 2 And because he dwelleth in flesh he shall be called the Son of God, and having subjected the flesh to the will of the Father, being the Father and the Son- 3 The Father, because he was conceived by the power of God; and the Son, because of the flesh; thus becoming the Father and Son- 4 And they are one God, yea, the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth." (Mosiah 15)

It is true that Jesus is the Father and the Son of this creation. He is the father because He was the creator. "1 In the beginning was the Word [Jesus], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God [of this creation]. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him [Jesus]; and without him was not any thing made that was made." (John 1) He is the Son because of His ordination to the highest office of the Melchisedec Priesthood. "5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee." (Heb. 5)

This type of doctrinal error is what Bro. Strang was trying to avoid. The Book of Mormon has always been taught among the followers of James J. Strang. At the time Joseph translated the Book of Mormon, it was the most accurate book of Scripture. Joseph, though, had to write it in the ancient style of writing which the people of that time understood. Bro. Strang wrote, "16. The publication of the Book of Mormon is the first epoch in the public attention to the dispensation of the fullness of times. Aside from literary defects and editorial and mechanical blunders, it is the most extraordinary Book of this productive and progressive age." (Book of the Law, p. 246, read entire section) Bro. Strang wrote of the Book of the Law, "And being made by the same spirit by which the words were originally written [and because of James's education], it is beyond doubt as perfect as the language will admit of." The Book of Law resolves all questions relative to the Godhead (although I do not fully understand the Holy Spirit).

The abridged Book of Mormon translated by Joseph contained only a small part of the original book. During the restoration of all things, the original and complete Book of Mormon will be joined with the rest of Scripture; including the books of the children of Israel. Judah, Israel, and Joseph will all have to be restored. Knowledge will abound like a flood covering the earth.

# Trinity and Christendom

My heart grieves deeply for the so-called Christians about us. The Prophet Jeremiah wrote, "19 O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall come unto thee from the ends of the earth, and shall say, Surely our fathers have inherited lies, vanity, and things wherein there is no profit. 20 Shall a man make gods unto himself, and they are no gods?" (Jer. 16) They almost universally worship the Trinitarian god invented in Babylon and adopted for Christian worship by Constantine. Constantine also adopted "the venerable day of the sun" for them to honor in place of the Sabbath. Most LDS churches also honor the sun god. The translation of the Book of the Law was possibly the greatest achievement of the latter days.

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In Lecture Three (Doctrine and Covenants) he (Joseph Smith) went into detail that only the Father is GOD. Jesus was the beginning of this creation. He was the only spirit (intelligence) begotten of the Father. All other things in this creation were the work of Jesus in liaison with the Father. "1 In the beginning was the Word [Jesus], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God [of this creation]. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made." (John 1) GOD had no beginning and has no end. "6 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed." (Mal. 3) Jesus became the Lord of this creation through a perfect life (in which Satan had no accusation), His resurrection from the dead, and receiving all power over this creation from the Father.

The King Follett Address was recorded by four different men. None of them recorded the false doctrine of Brigham Young that God was once a man like us and had a father, grandfather, etc. On Oct. 8, 1854, Brigham stated, "... so we had a grandfather or we would have had no father, and our grandfather had a father and grandfather and great-great-great- grandfather so far back there is no beginning - They always existed on some world - and when this world was made - our God who is Adam came and commenced the peopling of it - Though he is God and had lived and died and had been resurrected on some other planet - and obtained his exaltation and begat the Spirits of children enough to people this world." (John Pulsipher account of same discourse. Quoted from The Teachings of President Brigham Young, Vol. 3, 1852 \- 1854, Comp. and Ed. by Fred D. Collier, Collier's Publishing Co., October 1987, p. 369)

Brigham went further, "Brother Pratt... could not believe that Adam was our God or the Father of Jesus Christ. President Young said that He was that he came from another world & made this and brought Eve with him." (WWJ, Sept. 17, 1854) The greatest commandment ever given to man was to love God. We cannot love either that which we do not understand, or that which exists only in the imagination of man.

#  Kingdom and the True Church

Through the restoration by Bro. Joseph and continuation by Bro. Strang we have been given the Melchisedec Priesthood and knowledge of the gospel of Christ. Consider for a moment what a great blessing this is. Of all the people on the earth we have been given the blessing of becoming a member of the church of the firstborn; and the opportunity to inherit the greatest blessings after this mortal life.

The sectarian churches (including LDS) live by the word of men. Their leaders are appointed by the will of man and not by the spirit of prophecy—the testimony of Jesus. Bro. Strang wrote, "We do not claim authority in virtue of numbers We have never yet subscribed to the doctrine that the voice of the people is the voice of God, or that men are made prophets by the will of man [or ministers by the voice of man]. We know very well that Christ was rejected by the voice of the people." (Gospel Herald, Vol. 3, No. 71, p. 26/338) Having the Melchisedec Priesthood among us in these last days is a blessing more wonderful than the mind can comprehend. Had Bro. Joseph and Bro. Strang not been willing to offer their blood for the kingdom, all would have been lost.

It was written in the Zion's Reveille (Vol. 2, No. 20), "He that works for God, works for Zion; he that works for himself only, cares nothing for God or his Zion. He that builds on the faults and fall of others only builds to be faulty and fall himself. True principles only will stand the day of burning, and the crash of the elements. The church of anti-Christ stands on its numbers and wealth. The church of God (whether many or few) stands on its faith and virtues. If the religion of Christ, as taught in the scriptures, is not an exact science, what is it?"

We have been blessed above all people on the earth to receive a correct knowledge of God and Jesus. The next greatest blessing we received was to be called of God to enter the church of the firstborn. Soon, Jesus will return, "8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; 10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) IN THAT DAY." (2 Thess. 1) Before the great and terrible day of the Lord, those who are found worthy among the saints (about half) are to be gathered to a place of refuge to wait out the storm. It will be a time more terrible than the Great Flood. Then the worthy will greet our Lord when He returns.

# Grace and Salvation

But, as our late Bro. Lloyd Flanders wrote, "Those who gamble their eternity on Grace without works: are kidding: but they are kidding only themselves and friends: God will judge them by their works: Grace guarantees a resurrection to every soul; but it does not guarantee Eternal life: only Immortality: and that immortality can be spent among those 'filthy still': those who do works required (Baptism, etc.) may fall short: but if a real effort was made: Grace balances the scales for the True believer."

There are no bad saints. Saints of God are bound to live according to the will and laws of God. Those who will not are "deported" from the kingdom. Those who do not endure faithful to the end cannot inherit the celestial kingdom in eternity. The waters of baptism wash away all prior sins. There are saints who are slothful. Those who are not faithful can inherit only the terrestrial glory in the resurrection. The opportunities are beyond human comprehension.

Only a few ever enter the kingdom of God during mortal life. There are several articles in the official church journals on this subject. Before Adam walked on the earth we all existed only as spirits. Satan rebelled against God and was cast down with a third of all the spirits (stars) never to have a physical body. Imagine what a terrible punishment this was. Those who receive the Holy Ghost and are given that assurance of spiritual truth and then turn against it will become sons of perdition, inherit the second death, and spend eternity with Satan only as spirits. One of the most important subjects in this life should be learning the will of God and walking even as He walked. Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon were given a vision of eternity. "40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead." (1 Cor. 15)

Only those who are members of the church of the first born have the opportunity to be raised in the celestial glory and inherit the earth with God and Jesus in eternity. The honorable men/women of the earth who accept the gospel in the spirit (after death) will live on the earth during the Millennium; but, cannot live on the earth after it becomes the new earth in its celestial glory. They will inherit the Terrestrial glory. All others enter eternity in the telestial. Imagine the wonder of being like God. This does not mean that we will entirely like God because there is only one GOD. It does mean that we will enjoy the greatest blessings in eternity. Joseph taught that we will be able to travel from one planet to another as easy as walking next door. Imagine having the earth as our footstool and the Universe to enjoy. We have been blessed above all people on the earth. If the oceans were ink, we could not write enough praises for the opportunity that we have been given. I say opportunity; as only those who endure faithful and obedient to the end will be saved in the celestial. Our late Bro. Lloyd Flanders wrote, "Those who gamble their eternity on Grace without works: are kidding: but they are kidding only themselves and friends: God will judge them by their works: Grace guarantees a resurrection to every soul; but it does not guarantee Eternal Life: only Immortality: and that immortality can be spent among those 'filthy still.' Those who do works required (Baptism, etc.) may fall short: but if a real effort was made: grace balances the scales for the true believer."

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Jesus opened a dispensation of the gospel to the spirits in prison while He was in the grave for three days. Those individuals who were honorable men/women of the world and accept the gospel in the spirit will be have the opportunity to join the other saints for the Millennium. They will, though, have to be baptized for the dead before they can cross over the great abyss.

Those who continue to refuse the will of God and obey the gospel will continue with the spirits in prison until the end of the Millennium. Satan will be loosed for a short season; gather men from all over the earth to war, and fire from heaven will destroy all mortal life. The unjust will then be resurrected and man will enter eternity. There will be a new heaven and new earth. The earth will enter its celestial glory. The righteous will inherit the earth with God and Jesus. We are not told where those who inherit the Terrestrial glory will reside. It is very possible those who inherit the telestial (distant) glory will be among the stars.

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In Christianity, there are only two basic schools of thought concerning the basic requirements for salvation. Of course, most don't even know what they are saved from or what they are saved to. When Adam partook of the forbidden fruit he violated a law of God and fell under the judgment of death. His spirit was returned to Jesus to await the resurrection. There would be no hope for man ever receiving another physical body, unless another man lived a perfect life and therefore did not fall under the judgment of death. We do not know why Jesus spent three whole days and nights with the spirits in prison (while his mortal dead body lay in the grave). We do know that since Satan held no power over Jesus, the Father had to raise Him from the dead. This next resurrected body will be immortal.

Jesus commanded all men everywhere to repent since there were none other without sin and the only path to eternal life comes through repentance. "30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent," (Acts 17) "4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins." (Mark 1) Remember the teachings of Jesus to Nicodemus? "5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3) Jesus, although He was without sin, He had to obey this commandment. Had he failed, He would have remained alien to the kingdom of God. Baptism of water and the spirit is like a naturalization process for citizenship in this country. Every country/kingdom has laws (although they may not be enforced) that specify the path to citizenship. We know that without repentance and baptism no man can share the grace of God that grants forgiveness of sins for the unbeliever.

#  The Next World and Degrees of Glory

Those who die outside of the kingdom are taken to the spirits in prison (inappropriately termed hell). Here they have the opportunity to hear and obey the gospel. "6 For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit." (1 Pet. 4) Jesus opened a dispensation of the gospel to the spirits in prison while his physical body lay in the grave. Our works in mortal life follow us after death. Those who lived an honorable life—but did not know God and obey the gospel—but, accept the gospel in the spirit have the opportunity to inherit the terrestrial glory. Those who know God and Jesus, accept the gospel during mortal life, and live faithful and obedient have the approbation of inheriting the earth in its celestial glory (the new heaven and earth). All others inherit the telestial glory. "40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead." (1 Cor. 15) The Catholic Heaven is nothing more than pagan hell. The unbaptized, pagan Roman Emperor converted Christianity to paganism. The god that Constantine adopted for Catholics to worship is nothing more than the Trinitarian god of paganism invented by Nimrod, King of Babylon. Constantine was a loyal follower of the sun god. So-called Christians still honor the sun god every Sun Day. They even worship the birth of the sun on December 25th, as if it was the birth day of Jesus.

The difference in glory is compared to the sun, moon, and stars. It is critically important for those who understand the true path to eternal life to walk even as He walked. Those who are for-ordained to hear the gospel in mortal life have the greatest opportunity ever afforded to man. A friend once told me that we should live every day as if it was our last; because it could be.

After death our spirit returns to Jesus for judgment. "5 Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth." (Ps. 31) "7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it." (Eccl. 12) Those who died as members of the kingdom of God and endured faithful and obedient to the end are taken to the bosom of Abraham to await the resurrection. The rest are taken to the spirits in prison (hell). This is the heaven and hell envisioned by pagan Christianity. It is only for a brief time from death to the resurrection.

Jesus said, "2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you." (John 14) There are three degrees of glory in the resurrection. "40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead." (1 Cor. 15) The glory of the sun (celestial) is one. Those who are resurrected into the celestial glory will inherit the earth with God and Jesus in eternity. See Revelation 21 and 22.

It is important to note that spiritual opportunity does not end with death. Jesus opened a dispensation of the gospel to the spirits in prison while His mortal body was in the grave. "6 For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit." (1 Pet. 4) Knowledge of life and eternity is a mystery to sectarian Christianity. Only through the restoration by Joseph Smith and by a vision given to him and Oliver Cowdery do we have a correct understanding of these principles. Those who are not given (or chose not to accept) the gospel in mortal life, if they live an honorable life, have the opportunity to be resurrected in the terrestrial glory. All others inherit the telestial glory. Those who modify their behavior to be able to live by a higher law progress upward. Only those who desire to remain "evil still" will remain in the telestial glory.

The following article on "Heaven" is by J. S. Comstock in the Gospel Herald, Vol. 4, No. 157, pp. 308/896 and 309/897.

Where is heaven? Is it a local place? And in what does its joys consist? Is it the expanse of the sky? or is it the region of the blessed? Is it a place, a dominion, a kingdom or country, separated from every jar, every discord, and every pain? If so, who can tell where that place is, and point out to us the sure practical way to get there? Since I have been in this world of wretchedness and want I have always been hearing much about the happiness of another place called heaven.

I have been acquainted with a multitude, professedly bound for that place: some pointing in one direction, and some in another; some very tenacious of some peculiar doctrine, without which none could get there; others of some particular ceremonies to be observed; others have concluded that doctrines and ceremonies are useless, further than the strict observance of a good moral life; some seem to think it necessary to organize in companies, appoint officers, institute ordinances, make laws, and hire some one to take the lead, and point out the way; others equally as well organized, with different doctrines and ceremonies, have also a teacher hired who points another way for heaven, and thus disputes all other companies, claiming to himself the exclusive right of teaching the truth in the matter, and guiding men to heaven.

Amidst these contradictions many have got bewildered, and not willing to allow so many wrong as must necessarily be, if but one way only be the way to heaven, have been driven to this sure alternative, that heaven cannot be a local place, and as God resides there, he consequently has no local residence. But, the consequent doctrine growing necessarily out of this conclusion makes God unable to move from one to another place, consequently one place is as much heaven as another. Hence the wide spread notion has arisen that the kingdom of heaven must be in the hearts of the saints. And in support of this idea there may be some apparent plausible deductions drawn from the scriptures, like the following: "Know ye not that your bodies are the temples of the Holy Ghost?" If any man defile it, him shall God destroy.

Again, "he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him." And again, though his throne be fixed on high, yet on earth he has a mansion too, and with the humble and contrite heart is his delight, &c. But notwithstanding all this, and much more that might be said, this truth is clear, that the Savior said, I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go away I will come again, and take you unto myself, that where I am ye may be also. Now it is evident that the Lord is gone away from this place up to where he was before, consequently can move from place to place. And in order to fulfill his word must come to earth again, and receive to himself his chosen people. And their dwelling must be somewhere in some place, and that place will be heaven, or kingdom of God, and none be permitted to enter it but they that do his commandments. Consequently it will be unlike any country or society now upon the earth, and perhaps quite unlike the hearts of most, if not all, professors of religion now living.

Therefore it might not be a safe directory to point the inquiring mind, who might be seeking the kingdom of heaven, to look into the hearts of believers to find it, neither into his own heart, lest he be deceived. However honest he may be, "he that trusts to his own heart is a fool." No doubt but many who are zealously seeking for heaven in various ways, will find themselves sadly mistaken, should they get there, and altogether unfitted to enjoy it, and would choose rather to go to their own place, that was more congenial to their ideas of heaven and happiness. For instance, God's only son, when he was here, was rebuked for a supposed breach of the law, by those too who claimed to be guides in the way to heaven, and he said, "my Father worketh hitherto, and I work."

Here then was an example of a work done in heaven, and of what God himself was doing. How could such dictators be happy in heaven, were they to arrive there with that spirit of rule, unacquainted with the employment that constitutes heaven an abode of bliss? What a sad change must be necessary in order to prepare them to receive with joy instructions, and behold constantly practiced that which they ever stood ready to rebuke upon the earth.--The invisible things of God are clearly manifested by the things he has made. So that from a correct observation of the work of creation, and of the redemption by Jesus Christ, we may form some just conceptions both of the character of God and of the happiness of heaven.

We are not to suppose that the character of Christ will be changed when he appears in judgment, after what was manifested by him while he was here upon the earth. But what he was yesterday he is to-day, and will be forever. It is thought by many that when the good man dies he goes immediately to heaven. Perhaps this idea may be correct, according to their views of it. The first description of heaven on record locates the place above the earth, in the open firmament, where the waters are divided from the waters. But Paul speaks of a man being caught up to the third heaven. And inspiration, I think, makes mention of a place called the heaven of heavens. And some suppose the third heaven is the place from whence the new Jerusalem will descend to the earth when the tabernacle of God shall be with men thereafter forever.

If so, where is the christian philosopher that will contend that heaven is not a local place, and one too that can be moved to some other place, especially when he allows the words of inspiration that declare the heavens shall depart as a scroll when it is rolled together, as well as the earth pass away? But the same inspiration tells us that mount Zion shall never be removed. They that trust in the Lord are as mount Zion, which shall never be removed. So that the sum of the matter seems to rest in this conclusion, viz., that heaven is the place where God not only resides, but presides, and his law is perfectly observed by all the inhabitants of the place. Consequently no ill can happen to any one.

One reason we know so little about heaven is, that so few have returned from that place to give information upon the subject. Another still greater reason is, we are unprepared for much of such intelligence as Jesus Christ, our great High Priest, could have told that generation that were contemporary with him, and perhaps did tell his disciples many things that were not transmitted to posterity. And even the disciples themselves could not bear as much as he was disposed or ready to say to them. Thus he speaks: I have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. And again : If I have told you earthly things, and you believe not, what if I should tell you of heavenly things ?

One said he saw heaven open and angels ascending and descending upon the son of man. Who believed it? Stephen said he saw the heavens open, and Jesus sitting at the right hand of God. Here is good testimony of location, both of heaven and of God. Who disbelieves it? What is testimony good for if it weighs nothing in our minds? Not only was it local, but within sight of an inhabitant of this earth, who was prepared to view it. Angels from heaven used to frequently visit the inhabitants of earth in former days.

But I think it will be observed upon close examination that those individuals who welcomed them were such as were most ready and willing to entertain strangers, and to treat them hospitably, that were thus highly favored of God. Their names are worthy of remembrance, for the example of succeeding generations. And that it is possible for such visits to be yet enjoyed we need only credit the testimony of the Apostle Paul, who said, be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Hebrews xiii. J. S. C.

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Those who obey the first principles of the gospel but fail to endure faithful and obedient during mortal life will be resurrected in the terrestrial glory. Those who were honorable men/women of the earth and accept the gospel in the spirit will also inherit the terrestrial glory and not sent to everlasting punishment. Those who choose to remain filthy still will inherit the telestial glory or a kingdom without glory. Those who were sons of perdition in mortal life will suffer the second death and be sent with Satan and his followers to live far from this creation and will remain spirits for all eternity.

This plan of salvation is both reasonable and in conformance with the teachings of the Bible and latter day Prophets. You have been given the greatest opportunity ever given to man. You can be a part of the celestial glory and inherit the earth, be "like" God, and travel the universe. Here is an approbation afforded to none others—only to you my friends and those like you. Those who treasure the pleasures of the world more than those of the Spirit and are not valiant in the testimony of Jesus will begin eternity in the terrestrial glory. What a loss! My prayers are with you.

# Eucharist

The Eucharist unites us with the sacrifice made by Jesus. "53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you." (John 6) This holy ordinance can only be blessed by one holding the Melchisedec Priesthood. It can be administered by Priests of the Aaronic Priesthood. Those who partake of the Eucharist with a pure heart and continue faithful and obedient will be established in righteousness and grow up into everlasting life.

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# Pre-Mortal Existence

There are blessings after this life that is beyond the comprehension of the human mind. We have to think of ourselves in eternity. This mortal life is like a snap of the fingers compared to our total life. We all existed as spirits before the foundations of earth. A third followed Satan and was cast down never to have a physical body. Imagine the horror of such a judgment. There is no allowance in the law of God for rebellion. Those few who were actively loyal to God and Jesus were for-ordained to various spiritual missions in mortal life. "4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated [for-ordained] us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will." (Eph. 1) Some were called to missions as great as a Prophet. "5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." (Jer. 1) The body [members] of Christ has many parts and many missions. When we fulfill the mission given to us, we are promised the greatest rewards after death.

Temporal activities are partly a product of for-ordination and partly the result of our own decisions. Many people in the world never have an opportunity to move up the social ladder. Mary and I sold our house to raise enough money to get my pilot certificates. Then I worked full-time while attending college. I have pursued many temporal activities. Thankfully, God called me for the mission He had prepared.

Spiritual opportunities are the sole result of our works when we lived only as spirits—for-ordination. "4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated [for-ordained] us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will." (Eph. 1) These are very few during mortal life from Adam to the return of Jesus that is offered membership in the kingdom of heaven. "13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." (Matt. 7)

Another essential area of understanding is where this mortal life fits into the plan of God for this creation. Jesus was the first and only spirit organized by the Father for this creation. He was the beginning. Then, through Him came the rest of this creation. "1 In the beginning was the Word [Jesus], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God [of this creation]. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made." (John 1) "13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven." (John 3)

During this spiritual estate Satan rebelled against God and was cast down with a third of all the spirits to never have a physical body. Only a few were loyal followers of Jesus. These were for-ordained to hear the gospel during mortal life; and some were for-ordained to various missions. "4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated [for-ordained] us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will." (Eph. 1) "5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." (Jer. 1) "13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." (Matt. 7)

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(Are there pre-existent spirits?) - Yes. I could provide many quotations from Scripture for you; but, just think about it. How can we justify one man being given the Spirit to understand truth and another not? Read Genesis 1. It is the story of the spiritual creation. How do we know? "4 These are the generations of the heavens and of the earth when they were [spiritually] created, in the day that the LORD God made the earth and the heavens, 5 And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew: for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was not a man to till the ground." (Gen. 2) The physical creation of man came later. "7 And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." (Gen. 2) The spiritual opportunities in this life are the result of our works during the time we lived only as spirits. A third of these followed Satan and was cast down never to have a physical body. In the end they will be cast off never to associate with the rest of creation.

Remember, Jesus was the beginning of this creation. "14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God." (Rev. 3) "13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven." (John 3) "5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." (Jer. 1) "4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated [for-ordained] us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will." (Eph. 1)

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In mortal life, the kingdom is only opened to those who were loyal to God and Jesus during our life as spirits. "4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated [for-ordained] us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will." (Eph. 1) This is the greatest opportunity ever afforded mortal man; as it opens the way to enter the celestial glory when we are resurrected.

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We learn line upon line and precept upon precept. Men are called to understand God, Jesus, and the gospel only through for-ordination. During our existence as spirits Satan rebelled and a third of the spirits followed him. They were cast down never to receive a physical body; and will be cast off from the rest of creation. Those who were loyal to God and Jesus during that time are given the opportunity to understand the gospel in mortal life and have the opportunity to become a member of the church of the firstborn. "4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will." (Eph. 1) "11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God." (1 Cor. 2)

# Purpose of Life

The greatest missions required the greatest sacrifices and offer the greatest rewards. We are told, "6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1 John 2) Jesus was afforded special protection during the years before He began His mission. Two things were required before He could begin His mission: (1) He had to be born of water and the Spirit (confirmed into the kingdom of God), (2) He had to be called and ordained to the highest office of the Melchisedec Priesthood (that of Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver). He then called all of the other officers of that priesthood to preach the gospel and administer the saving ordinances of the gospel. "11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." (Eph. 4)

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I am always fascinated by the sectarian Christians who teach of their converts being saved; but, never address the real meaning of life and death. For us, our creation started with the beginning. Jesus was the beginning, the first spirit brought into existence for this creation and by Him all of this creation was organized. We lived for a long time only as spirits while the earth was being prepared for our physical life. During this time Satan rebelled against God and thought to stand at the head of the people. For this great sin he and his followers (about a third of all the spirits) were cast down never to have a physical body. Consider the severity of this punishment! It has been written that another third of the spirits just sat on the fence and only a few were loyal followers of God and Jesus. After the earth was prepared, Adam became the first man to have his spirit joined with a physical body; and Eve became the first woman. When they ate of the forbidden fruit, it changed the composition of what flowed in their veins to blood and they became mortal. This not only brought mortality on the human race; but, it brought the ability of Adam and Eve to have children. Although Satan realized a great victory, it was short lived when Jesus lived a perfect life and Satan lost his power of death over Him and through Him the rest of mankind.

When we enter this mortal life, the first eight years are a conditional period for us to learn the will and law of God and learn the importance of growing in perfection and living by the will of God. Satan learned that violating the laws of God can bring great consequences. "36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." (Matt. 22) If men would condition their behavior in accordance with these two commands, there would be no war, no poverty, and mankind would live the happiest life possible during mortal life and in eternity. "21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him." (John 14)

Those loyal followers of truth before this mortal existence are given an opportunity to hear the gospel, enter the kingdom of God, and if faithful and obedient to the end of life to have their spirit taken to the bosom of Abraham after death of the physical body. The spirits of all others are taken to the spirits in prison (hell)—a hidden place. Those who endure faithful and obedient to the end are to be resurrected in what the Apostle John termed the "first resurrection." There were many resurrected after Jesus was resurrected and the resurrection is most likely a continuing project. John's "first resurrection" will be the culmination of all who have earned that great privilege. They will spend the Sabbath of Creation (1,000 years) with Jesus and the saints of God on an earth restored to its original paradisiacal glory. Satan and his followers will be sent to the bottomless pit.

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Remember it was always God's plan to bring the greatest happiness to man that He was able. Adam walked in a garden of paradise. As man departed from the will of God, he brought curses upon himself. When he became ripened in iniquity, he was destroyed (except for a few). The first major destruction was by water. The next is to be by fire, famine, and pestilence. When Joseph Smith was given a vision of this time, he had to take it in parts because it will be so horrible.

Our hope is in circumcising our hearts to live by the will of God. A remnant of the Melchisedec Priesthood remains. Joseph taught that as long as one of these officers remains, the gate into the kingdom of God is open. By obeying the gospel and living, "...by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" (Matt. 4:4) we can have hope. If we run the good race, we can win the prize. If we are counted worthy, we will be gathered with the elect and possibly survive the desolation that is even now at our doorstep.

# Prayer

Bro. Strang wrote that he prayed three times a day; but, if he had to live among the gentiles that he would pray all day long. Developing a regular steady habit is essential to progressing in a spiritual base. Study will also reinforce the desire to live by the will of God.

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Good prayer is sincere and earnest prayer to the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the name of Jesus Christ. Joseph Smith wrote in Lecture Three of the Lectures on Faith that this requires a correct understanding of the being, character, attributes, and perfections of God. It is prayer in total and complete faith. "5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. 7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord." (James 1) Since sectarians Christians pray to the God of Mystery, Babylon they cannot expect to receive any answer to their prayers.

Answers to prayers are as varied as the prayers. If we pray for that which we can obtain on our own, God has no reason to answer. If we pray for that which is not edifying, God cannot answer. Answers do not always come in the way that we expect. We could pray that a person afflicted would have their pain removed. Their death would fulfill this prayer. Remember that God will not make us do anything and Satan cannot; although both can have significant influence upon mortals. Pray and prayer is noted about 500 times in the Quad. "29 The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous." (Prov. 15) "9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination." (Prov. 28) "16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5) "12 For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads." (D&C 25)

We should examine ourselves everyday to discover if have transgressed either laws of commission (thou shalt not) or laws of omission (thou shalt). If we have caused harm to any person, we should go to that person at the earliest opportunity and try to resolve the injury. If we have sinned against God, we should confess to Him, repent of the error, and do our best to correct the erroneous behavior in the future. We should keep our heart pure to the will of God.

# End Times

Soon, Jesus will return, "8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power." (2 Thess. 1)

Exactly 40 years after the Jews rejected Jesus; the Roman Army fell upon them and killed over ninety percent of them. The rest were taken as slaves to Rome and Egypt. It seems the major dispensation to the Gentiles (over the whole world) ended in 1967, after the six-day war. "24 And they [the Jews] shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." (Luke 21) It has been 40 years since that prophecy was fulfilled. A minor dispensation to some of the people seems to have been opened when Elder Munyora returned to Africa. Thousands accepted the gospel. Then many wondered onto dark paths and were lost. There have been a few in Zion; but, again our adversary was able to lead most of them on to dark paths. The next major event will be the gathering of the saints to a place of refuge (see Book of the Law, p. 171 and p. 203). Soon, it appears the time called "today" (23 Behold, now it is called today until the coming of the Son of Man, and verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a day for the tithing of my people; for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming." D&C 64) will end, opportunity for people of the world to enter the kingdom of God will be gone, and those saints found worthy will enter a time of survival. There is to be no rainbow for a year which will indicate the state of the atmosphere after the mountain on fire strikes the earth. Matthew 25 was written to this generation. Warn all who you are able of the coming desolation; and advise them of the good news that escape is possible.

Josephus was an ecclesiastical historian contemporary with Jesus. He noted the prophecies of Adam were still extant in his day. "They also were inventors of that peculiar sort of wisdom which is concerned with the heavenly bodies, and their order. And that their inventions might not be lost before they were sufficiently known, upon Adam's prediction that the world was to be destroyed at one time by the force of fire, and at another time by the violence and quantity of water, they made two pillars; the one of brick, the other of stone: they inscribed their discoveries on them both, that is case the pillar of brick should be destroyed by the flood, the pillar of stone might remain, and exhibit those discoveries to mankind; and also inform them that there was another pillar of brick erected by them. Now this remains in the land of Siriad to this day." (Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews, Chapter 2.)

Apostle W. W. Phelps wrote in the official church journal in June 1832, "WITH the help of God, the first number of the Evening and the Morning Star, comes to the world for the objects specified in its prospectus, which was published last winter. That we should now recapitulate some of its leading objects, and briefly add a few remarks, will naturally be expected; and we cheerfully do so, that this generation may know, that the Star comes in these last days as the friend of man, to persuade him to turn to God and live, before the great and terrible day of the Lord sweeps the earth of its wickedness. That it comes not only as the messenger of truth, to bring the Revelations and Commandments of God which have been, but to publish those that God gives now, as in days of old, for he is the same God yesterday, to-day and forever; and is, after he was taken up, as mentioned in the first chapter of Acts, he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen, what possible reason is there to suppose that he would neglect to do likewise now--before he comes in his glory; before he gathers his elect, (the house of Israel; see Isaiah 45:4). and even before John the Revelator must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings? (see Rev. 10.) We know of no reason in the bible. That it comes as the harbinger of peace and good will to them that serve the Lord with a determination to have a part in the first Resurrection, and finally become kings and priests to God, the Father, in the celestial kingdom, where God, and Christ is, and where they will be for eternity; and where will be also, the general assembly of the first born, the Church of Enoch, who walked with God and built up Zion in the first days, which Zion and Enoch the Lord translated to paradise before the flood; but Isaiah says: Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring AGAIN ZION. That it comes according to the will of God, from those who are not ashamed to take upon them the name of Christ, and walk lowly in the valley of humiliation, and let the solemnities of eternity rest upon them: knowing that the great day of the Lord will soon usher in the Sabbath of creation, for the rest of the saints; that the Savior may reign his thousand years of peace upon the earth, while Satan is bound. That it comes in meekness and mercy to all mankind that they may do works meet for repentance and be saved in the first resurrection, and afterward dwell with the spirits of just men and made perfect in the celestial kingdom, which transcends the glory of the terrestrial as much as the terrestrial transcends the telestial, or the telestial transcends the prison of the imperfect. That it comes to bring good tidings of great joy to all people, but more especially the house of Israel scattered abroad, that the day of their redemption is near, for the Lord hath set his hand again the second time to restore them to the lands of their inheritance; ready to receive the Savior in the clouds of Heaven. That it comes to show that the ensign is now set up, unto which all nations shall come, and worship the Lord, the God of Jacob, acceptably. That it comes when war, and the plague or pestilence, as it is called, are sweeping their thousands and tens of thousands, to show that the days of tribulation, spoken of by our Savior, are nigh at hand, even at the doors. That it comes to repeat the great caution of Paul: Beware lest any spoil you, (the disciples of Christ,) through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men and the rudiments of the world. That it comes to prepare the way of the Lord, that when he comes he may have a holy people ready to receive him. That it comes to show that no man can be too good to be saved, but that many may be too bad. That it comes to declare that goodness consists in doing good, not merely in preaching it. That it comes to show that all men's religion is vain without charity. That it comes to open the way for Zion to arise and put on her beautiful garments and become the glory of the earth, that her land may be joined, or married, (according to the known translation of Isaiah,) to Jerusalem again, and they be one as they were in the days of Peleg. Thus it comes.

"Man, being created but little below the angels, only wants to know for himself, and not by another, that, by obeying the commands of his Creator, he can rise again, after death, in the flesh, and reign with Christ a thousand years on the earth, without sin; be changed in the twinkling of an eye, and become a king and a priest to God in eternity--to forsake his sins, and say: Lord, I am thine! The first words of which we have account, that Jesus Christ, spake, concerning the things of eternal life, were: Suffer it to be so now: For thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness. Then he was baptized; and truly, if it became the Savior of the world, holy as he was, to be baptized in the meridian of time, to fulfill all righteousness, how much more necessary it is for man, to be baptized upon the very eve of the Sabbath of creation, to be saved? Let the heart answer the head, that the body may save the soul. As this paper is devoted to the great concerns of eternal things and the gathering of the saints, it will leave politics, the gainsaying of the world, and many other matters, for their proper channels, endeavoring by all means, to set an example before the world, which, when followed, will lead our fellow men to the gates of glory, where the wicked cease from troubling, and where the weary will find rest. That there may be errors both in us and in the paper, we readily admit, and we mean to grow better, till, from little children, we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ, which we pray may be the happy lot of thousands, before he comes with the hundred forty and four thousand that are without guile."

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The dispensation of the fullness of times is a near mirror image of the dispensation of the meridian of time (under Jesus and the Apostles). Before Jesus opened the major dispensation to the Jews, a minor preparatory dispensation was opened through John the Baptist. It seems another preparatory dispensation to the Gentiles has been opened today; and there have been some in Zion that have been called into the kingdom. The gospel was never taken to Africa. When all in that area—that were for-ordained to hear the gospel have been called—it appears the initial gathering will begin, and then the desolation promised to fall upon the earth will become a reality.

"8 And thou, O tower of the flock [James J. Strang], the strong hold of the daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem [July 8, 1850]. 9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud? is there no king in thee? is thy counseller perished? for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail. 10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies." (Micah 4)

When the angel (s) ordained Bro. Strang, he said, "15. While the day of the wicked abideth, shalt thou prepare a refuge for the oppressed, and for the poor and needy. Unto thee shall they come, and their brethren who are scattered shall come with them; and the destruction of the ungodly shall quickly follow; for it already worketh." (Book of the Law, p. 171)

It seems that Bro. Strang will return before the day of the Lord to gather the worthy saints before the desolation. According to revelations given to Bro. Strang, it seems Beaver Island will be the most likely gathering place. "6. And I asked him, What meaneth all this? And he said unto me, Thou art carried away in the spirit, and brought to this land in the midst of waters, in the north country, that the Lord might show thee what he will do hereafter. For here shall be a stake and a corner stone of Zion, for the strengthening of her curtains round about. Here shall the house of Manasseh and the house of Ephraim and the Gentiles build a house unto me, and bow down to me therein. For the sons of Jacob shall lay the foundations thereof, and therein shall they worship their God. And to this house shall the thousands of the house of Israel come, when the ice melts at the north. And there shall they meet their brethren in peace, and God shall be in the midst of them." (Revelation given on August 25, 1846)

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We are already in the days of tribulation. "4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows." (Matt. 24)

The just are to be gathered to a place of safety before the dreadful day of the Lord. When the desolation begins it will be, "as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. 28 For wheresoever the carcase [gathering place] is, there will the eagles [worthy saints] be gathered together." (Matt. 24:27) "26 And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. 27 They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. 28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; 29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. 30 Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed." (Luke 17)

The desolation will most likely begin with an asteroid (comet) strike. The earth it seems will enter a type of nuclear winter for a year. "15 And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men." (Rev. 9) The Law tells, "The Saints of former days have sat in judgment upon them; they have judged the earth, and the nations thereof shall not be spared: fire goeth before: famine followeth after; and the pestilence shall waste them." (p. 203)

Joseph Smith taught there would be no rainbow in the year that Jesus returns. This would be natural if the earth was in a type of nuclear winter. Only a third of Israel is to survive. "9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God." (Zech. 13) The Gentiles seem to be divided into two groups. The first group is descendents of Rome and the ten kingdoms of Europe. These persecuted Israel, killed over 90 percent, and placed the rest in slavery. "15 For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen ["goi" Gentile]: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head. 16 For as ye have drunk upon my holy mountain, so shall all the heathen drink continually, yea, they shall drink, and they shall swallow down, and they shall be as though they had not been." (Obad. 1) There seems to be a second group of Gentiles known only as heathens. It is written that it will go well with these. This seems to those who never received the gospel in the flesh. The others fall under judgment because they had the opportunity to learn the will of God. Jesus will return, "8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power." (2 Thess. 1)

"9 Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; 10 And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: 11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. 12 And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in." (Isa. 58)

It seems there will be a preparatory gathering of the worthy remnant. Then will come a year of desolation: fire, famine, and pestilence. The army of world will come upon Jerusalem and take half the city. Then, the Lord will return to fight for His people, destroy the army, and restore Israel as the elect of God. The army of the Lord, some 200,000,000 immortals will destroy all evil remaining on the earth (Rev. 9:16). Next is the restitution of all things; which will take generations when Jesus comes to build Zion again.

# Revelation

The Believers Privilege was published in the Gospel Herald, No. 103, p. 209/521. "The Gospel's glory is, that it is the ministration of the Spirit. The great privilege of believers is, that the Lord manifests himself to them as he doth not to the world. When he manifests his authority in the command, it is then powerful; when he manifests his goodness and truth in the promise, it is full of sweetness; when he manifests his wrath in the threatening, it awes the soul; when he manifests his glory in the fact of Christ, it is ravishing, reforming, attracting."

Imagine being "like" God. Imagine having the Universe as your field of dreams. Imagine having all the wonders of the Universe at your command. Who can put a value on such wonders? Joseph Smith said that it will be as easy to travel to another planet as it is to walk next door to your neighbor. "114 But great and marvelous are the works of the Lord, and the mysteries of his kingdom which he showed unto us, which surpass all understanding in glory, and in might, and in dominion; 115 Which he commanded us we should not write while we were yet in the Spirit, and are not lawful for man to utter; 116 Neither is man capable to make them known, for they are only to be seen and understood by the power of the Holy Spirit, which God bestows on those who love him, and purify themselves before him; 117 To whom he grants this privilege of seeing and knowing for themselves; 118 That through the power and manifestation of the Spirit, while in the flesh, they may be able to bear his presence in the world of glory. 119 And to God and the Lamb be glory, and honor, and dominion forever and ever. Amen." (D&C 76) Contemplate the wonders of the celestial glory. Run the good race and the prize can be yours; but, it is a straight and narrow path requiring much in this inferior existence. Satan is succeeding in claiming his own. Soon it will be time for Jesus to claim His kingdom on the earth and reign as the King of Kings.

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We need to praise God every day for the wonderful blessings of knowledge and understanding which He has given to those who walk even as He walked. "13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come." (John 16) There is no other people on the earth that knows God, has a legitimate claim to the Melchisedec Priesthood, and obeys the gospel. Yesterday on TV a news program noted that the Mormons are the only people in this country who have had an extermination order rendered against them by the US Government (in Missouri). This country was also party to the murder of James J. Strang. Is it any wonder that in the above revelation Bro. Strang was told, "...for the nations that set the foot upon their [Lamanites] necks will be cut off that they be no more a people."

# Fellowship

There are some who are standing alone with no direct fellowship. It is a difficult thing. Still, I would prefer to stand alone holding to the rod of iron than to be counted among the throngs who are walking down the dark path to the abyss. The more we are able to communicate the more we can fellowship and help each other. All of us need the support of each other. "22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently." (1 Pet. 1)

# Repentance

Circumcision of the heart is appreciating our fallen state and deliberately changing our behavior to comply with the will and laws of God rather than the delights of the world. You wrote that you wondered what your job is on earth. You have been given the wonderful opportunity to enter the kingdom of God and become a shepherd in Zion in this life and in eternity. You can escape the terrible desolation that is even now at our doorstep. "26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matt. 16)

#  Apostasy and Restoration

There is no doubt that the Christian church fell into apostasy very soon after the death of the Apostles. The Bible, ecclesiastical historians, and church leaders all agree. The power of the gospel is the Melchisedec Priesthood. Jesus did not begin His mission until He was ordained to the highest office in the Melchisedec Priesthood—Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver. He organized the kingdom of God on earth with all of the officers of the Melchisedec Priesthood. Without their administration of the ordinances of gospel, none can enter into the kingdom of God. "11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists [High Priests]; and some, pastors [Elders] and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." (Eph. 4) You have been called of God to understand God, Jesus, and the gospel.

The Papacy was the final form of the beast. Only Rome has been synonymously identified as the city of seven hills. "9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. 10 And there are seven kings: five are fallen [Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and Greece], and one is [Pagan Rome], and the other is not yet come [pagan Christian Rome begun by Constantine]; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space [325 – 476]. 11 And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth [Papal Rome], and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition." (Rev. 17) This last form of the beast came into existence in 570 AD when the Bishop of Rome thought to stand as God on earth and head of the whole church. From that time not one person entered the kingdom of God for 1260 years. "5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. 6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. 7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations." (Rev. 13; see also 12:6, 12) "11 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: 12 And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it." (Amos 8)

The gospel and Melchisedec Priesthood were to be restored at the end of the 1260 years. "6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people." (Rev. 14) Exactly 1260 years after the organization of the Papacy, on April 6, 1830, Joseph Smith claimed to have been ordained as an Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver; and organized the Church of Christ. Only LDS organizations make any claim to having the Melchisedec Priesthood. If there was no restoration, no one can enter the kingdom of God.

"5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3) "5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism." (Eph. 4) Jesus recognized this power of the gospel or authority from God to administer the ordinances of gospel by organizing the kingdom with all of the officers of the Melchisedec Priesthood (Eph. 4). "22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection." (Acts 1)

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The Bible, ecclesiastical historians, and church leaders agree that the Christian church fell into apostasy and had only a dead form left. "3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day [return of Jesus] shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; 4 Who [the Popes] opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God." (2 Thess. 2) "11 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: 12 And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it." (Amos 8) "19 O LORD, my strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall come unto thee from the ends of the earth, and shall say, Surely our fathers have inherited lies, vanity, and things wherein there is no profit. 20 Shall a man make gods unto himself, and they are no gods?" (Jer. 16)

"The rites and institutions, by which the Greeks, Romans, and other nations, had formerly testified their religious veneration for fictitious deities, were now adopted, with some slight alterations by Christian bishops, and employed in the service of the true God." (Mosheim, Ecclesiastical History, Century 4, Part 2, chap 4:1, 4)

The Church of England admitted of this apostasy in the Homily Against Peril of Idolatry. "So that laity and clergy, learned and unlearned, all ages, sects, and degrees of men, women, and children of whole Christendom--an horrible and most dreadful thing to think--have been at once drowned in abominable idolatry; of all other vices most detested of God, and most damnable to man; and that by the space of eight hundred years and more."

# Baptism

If we are seriously concerned about entering the kingdom of God, we must follow the same path that Jesus took. He was baptized of water because John held divine authority from God. He received the Holy Spirit either when it descended upon Him after his baptism of water, or when angels came and ministered to Him. He had to be born of water and the spirit and be ordained to the Melchisedec Priesthood before He was authorized by God to preach the gospel. Before anyone can enter the kingdom of God, they must search for a person having a valid claim to the Melchisedec Priesthood.

Before Jesus began His ministry He went to John for baptism of water because John held divine authority to baptize with water; but, not of the Spirit because that is a power of the Melchisedec Priesthood. After the temptation, Jesus was ordained under the hands of the Father to the highest office of the Melchisedec Priesthood as Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver. Holding this highest office, He also held the office of High Priest. "4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he [the Father] that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. 10 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec." (Heb. 5) He then organized the kingdom with all of the officers of the Melchisedec Priesthood because without a legitimate claim to this priesthood no one can enter the kingdom of God. "11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists [High Priests]; and some, pastors [Elders] and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." (Eph. 4)

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Before a person is worthy of baptism they must have a correct understanding of God and Jesus. They must then have faith in God, Jesus, and the officers of the kingdom who God has called. They must repent of their sins and come to God as a little child. They must be born of water and the Spirit by one holding the Melchisedec Priesthood; and receive the holy Eucharist at their hands. This is the gate into the kingdom which few find.

When Bro. Strang became interested in the restoration and the truth of Joseph's calling, he walked 400 miles from Burlington, Wisconsin, to Nauvoo, Illinois, where he was baptized and confirmed by Joseph about a week later. Then he was ordained an Elder under the hands of Hyrum Smith. It is within your ability to fly to Shreveport, pray and discuss the path of light, and be baptized and confirmed into the kingdom. This should not be taken lightly as it then requires faithfulness and obedience to the will and laws of God the rest of mortal life; but, the reward is beyond human comprehension—to be like God. "17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together." (Rom. 8) Here is the great opportunity to escape the desolation that is coming very soon upon the world, greet Jesus when He returns, live during the Sabbath of Creation, and inherit the earth in its celestial glory with God and Jesus in eternity.

# Faith and Dedication

Before any serious discussion of spiritual truth can be affective a person must admit that it is the single most important thing in their lives. Joseph Smith wrote that we should spend our time day and night searching for the kingdom, for the will of God, and for the gate into the kingdom. It is certain that if there is a God, He has established rules for our behavior and a way into the kingdom for those qualified during our prior life as only a spirit. If we want to understand spiritual things, we must pray to the true and living God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. We must study, reason, and prove all things. Truth has no fear of investigation; but, our lives in eternity depend on our works during mortal life

The first rule is the same as always: put God first in our lives. Put love first. I cannot say that I do not place Mary on nearly an equal footing; and many times ahead of other things. She is my better half. The rule in spiritual guidance is to maintain a positive mental attitude. You may have Bishop Fulton Sheen's book on the subject. Living for the common good will, in the long term, will bring greater happiness than living for us and letting the delights of the world take precedence. We are only in this mortal life for a brief moment; and yet, our lives in eternity are greatly affected by how we govern our lives in this probationary estate. If we live by love, our lives will be happier now and in eternity. God made love the foundation of His laws.

Unfortunately, most of the world is totally ignorant of the true God and His will. They were not loyal during their prior existence. They will have to be destroyed before peace can reign in the world. So much for the terrorists! Their time is getting very short.

Put your faith in God, trust in the word of God, and walk even as He walked. Soon, it will no longer be called today. "23 Behold, now it is called today until the coming of the Son of Man, and verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a day for the tithing of my people; for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming. 24 For after today cometh the burning--this is speaking after the manner of the Lord--for verily I say, tomorrow all the proud and they that do wickedly shall be as stubble; and I will burn them up, for I am the Lord of Hosts; and I will not spare any that remain in Babylon. 25 Wherefore, if ye believe me, ye will labor while it is called today." (D&C 64) Most of the gentiles in that dispensation failed. We have a difficult race to run; but, the prize is more than worth the effort. Bro. Joseph wrote from Liberty Jail with the others, who were unjustly imprisoned, "May the grace of God the Father, and the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, rest upon you all, and abide with you for ever; and may faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity dwell in you and abound, so that you may not be barren or unfruitful." (Times and Seasons, Vol. 1, p. 99)

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We must be able to hold to the rod of iron (law and love) in spite of all the trials and persecutions we must face. Even in the worst of times there are blessings to remember. Only a few are to called into the kingdom and inherit eternal life. Everyone needs to contemplate the rewards given to those who endure faithful and obedient to the end of this mortal life. "7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son." (Rev. 21) Think about this. "22 For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off. 23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way." (Ps. 37) "40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead." (1 Cor. 15) "18 But blessed are the poor who are pure in heart, whose hearts are broken, and whose spirits are contrite, for they shall see the kingdom of God coming in power and great glory unto their deliverance; for the fatness of the earth shall be theirs. 19 For behold, the Lord shall come, and his recompense shall be with him, and he shall reward every man, and the poor shall rejoice; 20 And their generations shall inherit the earth from generation to generation, forever and ever." (D&C 56)

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It is difficult to stand alone holding to the rod of iron (law of God). Jesus said, "37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." (Matt. 10) This is very difficult. I have gone through a similar experience with the corporation church. I would still prefer to stand alone, if necessary, and hold firm to the rod of iron than to walk on the broad and easy path to destruction. "28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell." (Matt. 10) The Lord has said, "The reward of the righteous is with me, and unto the faithful are the promises."

I was asked "how can we prepare?" It is always difficult to appreciate a major event. Noah preached 120 years but saved only his own family. Lot tried to save the people of Sodom; but, they were content and Lot barely survived with his daughters. Jesus warned the Jews that Jerusalem would be destroyed and there would not be one stone left upon another of the temple. In 70 AD, exactly forty years after the closing of the Jewish dispensation, the Roman Army made this a reality. The account is given by Josephus.

Action requires motivation. The wheel won't move unless it is pushed. When the Holy Spirit is at work within us, we feel a driving force that makes us yearn for knowledge and understanding. We have the greatest treasure of Scripture and gospel literature of any generation before us. We are told, "15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Tim. 2) "21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (1 Thess. 5) How do we prove all things? Some depend on their emotions and what they perceive as being the Spirit of God. I heard of people testifying they know Brigham Young was a Prophet by the Spirit. Joseph advised us that there are many great and powerful spirits loosed upon the world, but not all are good. He advised us to try the spirit. How do we do this? "20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." (Isa. 8)

Our late Bro. Lloyd Flanders wrote, "...Joseph Smith had his first manifestation at the age of 14 years: and was commanded NOT TO JOIN ANY CHURCH. It is why he received such a miserable education in the miserable schools of the early 1800s. He was born in 1805: and when he completed the manuscript of the Inspired Version: he was 28 years old: yet his formal education amounted [to] less that third grade. He and his brothers: especially Hyrum (who died with him) and Don Carlos who died in his early twenties (With a ministry behind him back to the age of 16) had a veritable passion for learning: which is a mark of the work of the Holy Spirit: in those whom God has foreordained: (David: Fore-ordination applies to those whose work is secular also) and so many men have had this yen for learning: Abraham Lincoln, for instance. If you ask why: Well, I guess the best answer is: That the 'Glory of God is Intelligence.' When men get acquainted with the Gospel: and get a taste of Truth and Logic: they want more: and the best sources are: God, Good men & Good books: in that order: but we do not all have the Faith to learn too much DIRECT from God: we lack the necessary humility."

There is going to be a great opportunity for those who have prayed, studied, and learned principles of truth to teach others when the earth becomes the dominion of our Lord. "11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people." (Isa. 28) The land of Zion will become the inheritance of the seed of Joseph. From an article in The Evening and Morning Star (Vol. 1, No. 5) it is evident that Bro. Joseph will return to lead a dispensation to the seed of Joseph. "But a seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and unto him will I give power to bring forth my word unto the seed of thy loins; and not to the bringing forth my word only, saith the Lord, but the convincing them of my word, which shall have already gone forth among them." (See 2 Nephi 3:11) Joseph taught this prophecy applied to him.

We must purify our lives and separate ourselves from the evil works of the Gentiles. "6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1 John 2) The whole Bible is a testimony that the largest portion of the people walk in their own ways and will be destroyed when they become ripe in iniquity. "In this way, while we are taught from the revelations, and guided by the Holy Spirit, we are strengthened, and grow up in all things, into him who is our head, even Christ; and when the rains descend, and the floods come, and the winds blow, we shall not be harmed neither moved. But if we deviate from his word, and hold not his sacred oracles carefully, we have not the assurance of his protection from the storm of the enemy, who is stirred up in great anger, knowing he has but a short time. It requires much time and study to learn all the commandments of the Lord but when we have learned them, they will profit us, for they are sure." (Evening and Morning Star, Vol. 1, p. 90)

It takes an even greater desire to walk according to the will and commandments of God. Most people are content with their religion as long as it does not require any really special effort on their part. The dispensation under Joseph failed because the people would not sacrifice according to the will of God. The dispensation under James failed for the same reason. If we are to be found worthy in the sight of God and be gathered to a place of refuge, we must be prepared by being true representatives of the faith. Joseph wrote, "We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul--We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things."

The perverted Christians about us commit every manner of evil. "1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." (2 Tim. 2)

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I grieve and pray for our children. They are being raised among the most evil generation of men since Noah. God said, "Though shalt not kill." Yet, there are wars almost around the world. "6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows." (Matt. 24) We saw over 200,000 people lose their lives in Indonesia. The US is spending billions of dollars on a war they cannot win. Only God has the right to declare a war. Bro. Strang taught that any that become a part of the unjust wars of man are guilty of murder. If they do not confess and repent of their involvement, they will surely spend the last farthing in hell. Those raised under the law cannot be forgiven in this life. "15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him." (1 John 3) This greatest sin against this law is "thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." We have millions of young women killing their unborn child. There are also more news items of women actually killing their own children.

God established a family relationship which must be obeyed. "24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." (Gen. 2) Now this country is standing for the rights of same sex marriage. Under the added law given to Moses, the people were allowed to get divorces. "8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so." (Matt. 19) "32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery." (Matt. 5) Wasn't this the same practice conducted by those before the great flood? Sodom created a society of free sex; as it is in this land today. The people in Africa tried this and have suffered with about ten million dead of AIDS and as many children are homeless with no one to provide for them. "17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you." (2 Cor. 6)

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If we want to be counted among the worthy and be saved from the storm in a place of refuge, we must pray, study, stand as bold defenders of truth, and walk even as He walked. Every saint of God is tried and refined to be able to stand pure before the Lord. The straight and narrow path has many obstacles strewn along the way. We have the greatest opportunity ever given to man. The Prophets all sought to see the day of the Lord, to be on the earth when our Savior returns. There will be events more horrible than you can imagine before peace is restored to the earth. When Jesus returns, it will be "8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power." (2 Thess. 1)

#  Teaching and Evangelization

I begin any conversation on religion with an understanding of the importance of following the will of God. If there is a question about the existence of God, it can be easily addressed simply by looking about us. Everything in creation is perfect in its own order. There are no freaks; except by genetic deterioration.

Religion is not a subject that most people feel comfortable discussing. James taught that religion will one day be taught as a science. Theology properly defined is that revealed science that treats of the existence, attributes, and perfections of God, of our duty toward Him, and of our duty to our fellow man.

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Religious beliefs are some of the deepest of attitudes. This is why religious persecution is severe. It is written that the Catholic Church murdered about ten million people for religious differences. The United States is the only country that issued an extermination order against a religious group based solely on discrimination. Unless a person is willing to put their beliefs on the table and "prove all things," any discussion becomes more of a controversy than a discussion.

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A correct understanding of God and His will toward man is the most important subject we ever face during mortal life. The first step is a correct understanding of God and Jesus. "3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." (John 17) Jesus said, "37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment." (Matt. 22)

When we observe all the various religions in the world, we find that only in Judaism is found a God who was living and conversed directly with man for thousands of years. "15 And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations." (Ex. 3) Most likely the best discussion of the true attributes, character, and perfections of this God is found in the "True God" in the Book of the Law translated by James J. Strang. The law was translated from a copy of the law contained on the tables of stone. It is the best and most direct explanation of the true and living God.

After the Jews rejected Jesus and had Him killed by Roman Law, a gospel dispensation was opened to the Gentiles. They had been raised on paganism since the days of Noah. Nimrod, King of Babylon, invented a new god: the Trinitarian sun god that was adopted throughout the mystery religions. After the death of John, God stopped speaking directly to man through His holy Prophets because they rebelled against Him. "1 Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear." (Isa. 59)

Constantine made paganism the official religion by converting Christianity to paganism. He was a loyal follower of the sun god and took the Trinitarian doctrines of the sun god and used them as the foundation for his new Catholic Church simply by giving them Christian names. He turned the real Jesus, who was of the seed of Abraham (through the male line), of the tribe of Judah, and of the house of David through his father Joseph into a demigod born of a virgin like pagan gods. These doctrines have been adopted by nearly all of so-called Christianity. It is no wonder that the true and living God of Israel has not communicated with them.

There was to be a time of 1260 years when the gospel and priesthood of God was to be taken entirely from the earth and no one would be able to enter the kingdom of God. "11 Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD: 12 And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it." (Amos 8) This period began with the organization of the final form of the beast: Papal Rome. "9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. 10 And there are seven kings: five are fallen [Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and Greece], and one is [Pagan Rome], and the other is not yet come [Pagan Christian Rome begun by Constantine]; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space. [325 – 476] 11 And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth [Papal Rome], and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition." (Rev. 17)

Since this total absence of knowledge of God was to last 1260 years, it follows that the gospel and Melchisedec Priesthood would be returned to earth at the end of that period. "6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people." (Rev. 14) Exactly 1260 years after the organization of the Papacy in 570 AD, Joseph Smith organized the Church of Christ with knowledge of the true and living God, the Melchisedec Priesthood, and the gospel on April 6, 1830. God once again spoke directly to His people.

The problem was that the people would not live by laws which were given to them through Joseph. This was a major factor in his martyrdom. The same hour that Joseph was murdered in Carthage Jail, James J. Strang was ordained to the same office as Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver (although he was 400 miles away and could have no way of knowing of Joseph's demise accept through divine correspondence). But, the people once again preferred their own will over the laws of God and James was taken. There was no successor. The Gentiles were given two opportunities to live according to the will of God and rebelled.

Fortunately, a very small remnant of the Melchisedec Priesthood was passed down to this generation. James ordained L. D. Hickey one the Twelve Apostles, who ordained Samuel Martin a High Priest, who ordained Lloyd Flanders a High Priest, who ordained me an Elder. It is only through the Holy Spirit that any person can have a true understanding of God and Jesus.

Once we have a correct understanding of God we can examine the various religions to discover which of them (if any) worship that God. The entire sectarian Christian world followed after the Trinitarian sun god of paganism. This leaves only the latter day saints as the only ones who worship the mighty God of Jacob. After the murder of Joseph, the church split into three groups: (1) the Strangites, (2) the Twelvites, and (3) the Rigdonites. Joseph had provided four revelations that stated in the event of his being taken from the earth that he would "appoint another" in his stead and that his successor would be ordained under the hands of angels. James J. Strang was the only person who claimed both a calling from Joseph (in the Letter of Appointment) and an ordination at the hands of angels. Brigham Young claimed in the official church journal that Joseph would never have a successor. This would, of course, make Joseph a false prophet. Two and a half years later, Brigham appreciated the fact that the Church of Christ must have a Prophet at its head. Since God did not call him to the office, he had his followers take a vote of man to be their First President. Then he changed the identity of God. He claimed that God was once a man like us and that we can become a God like Him; and that Adam was actually the eternal heavenly Father and Eve was a wife from another planet. The followers of Sidney Rigdon soon considered him to be false and followed a man by the name of Bickerton. That left the followers of James J. Strang as the only people on the earth with a correct understanding of God.

This one fact is sufficient to establish that the true followers of James J. Strang are the only people on earth with an understanding of God, Jesus, and the will of God. It is evident from the Bible that the Melchisedec Priesthood is required to administer all of the required ordinances of gospel. "5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3) "53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you." (John 6)

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What is a Christian? I receive email regularly stating that Mormons are not Christians, or asking if Mormons are Christians. Four things are required to be correctly called a Christian: (1) he/she must have a correct understanding of God and Jesus, (2) he/she must follow the life style taught by Jesus, (3) he/she must recognize Jesus as the "anointed" of God, and he/she must be a member of the kingdom of God.

When Constantine organized his universal church, Christianity was a growing sect although it represented only ten percent of the population of Rome. He understood that its teachings outweighed those of the mystery religions of his day. He could not, though, give up the doctrines of paganism which were deeply rooted in his religious beliefs. He adopted the demigod doctrine of paganism to make Jesus God born of a virgin. The whole New Testament is a witness that Jesus was the beginning of this creation and not God. He is only the God of this creation by walking only on the path of light during mortal life. "18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." (Matt. 28) Jesus was of the seed of Abraham, the tribe of Judah, and the house of David through his father Joseph according to the first section in Matthew 1. Those who worship Jesus as a virgin born demigod who was God incarnate are not Christian.

Look about the Christian community around you and you will see the prophecies of the Bible being fulfilled. "1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." (2 Tim. 3) This country is so full of violence and free sex that it is ripened for destruction. Homosexuals are given more rights than those who live according to the laws of God on marriage. This is a land of murderers; as any who join military service are guilty of murder. This is called patriotism in this country and little children are instructed to pledge their allegiance to a flag rather than to God. Those who violate the laws of God are not Christians. "6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1 John 2)

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I spent many days walking from door to door trying to spread the warning and the good news; but, none were earnestly and honestly seeking the truth that could bring them the greatest blessings in eternity. There are no blessings without sacrifice. "6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1 John 2) In my 68 years I have observed that most people lack the ability of independent thinking and in-depth problem solving. They simply follow those in whom they put their trust. They want an easy way out of the problem of death. In advertising no one tries to change attitudes. Unless we are willing to put our beliefs on the table and "prove all things," we have no claim to possessing the truth. There are millions who testify that Brigham Young was a Prophet. There are millions who testify they are saved simply by accepting Jesus as their Savior. "21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." (Matt. 7) "14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? 17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone." (James 2)

# Priesthood

We have, then, to examine the various religions to discover who has a legitimate claim to the Melchisedec Priesthood. The noted ecclesiastical historian, Eusebius (a contemporary with Constantine), wrote that the office of High Priest remained for only a short time after the Apostles. We do not know how long the office of Elder remained. It is evident that all knowledge of the Melchisedec Priesthood was lost to sectarian Christianity. It was restored by Joseph Smith and continued by James J. Strang; and passed down to this generation. We are told, "6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1 John 2) Jesus obeyed the law which He provided to the world in His day. He was born of water and the Spirit; and partook of the holy Eucharist. Once a person is a member of the kingdom, it becomes his/her responsibility to live by the laws of the kingdom. "10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love." (John 15)

Those who are called to the Melchisedec Priesthood will continue to preach the gospel to those in the spirits in prison and later to those in lower glories until all who are not in the celestial glory fail because they are filthy to the bone. We are the only people in the world with a correct understanding of life, death, and eternity. Our real being is a spirit. We were brought into existence by Jesus; and lived as spirits for a considerable time while the earth was being prepared for us. Satan rebelled against God and with his followers was cast down never to have a physical body. It seems there was only a few that remained faithful and obedient during that estate. These are called to the kingdom during mortal life and to special missions. "5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations." (Jer. 1) After the mortal body dies, our spirit is taken back to Jesus for judgment. Those who entered the kingdom and remained faithful and obedient are taken to the bosom of Abraham to await the resurrection. All others are taken to the spirits in prison (hell) to await their resurrection. Those who accept the gospel in the spirit and are baptized for the dead will be resurrected in the first resurrection and live on the earth with Jesus for the Sabbath of Creation. Those who knew God and obeyed the gospel during mortal life have the opportunity to inherit the earth in the celestial glory. Those who obey the gospel in the spirit will inherit the terrestrial glory. All others cannot share in the grace of Jesus and receive forgiveness for their sins, come forth in the second resurrection, and inherit the telestial glory in eternity. We have truly been given a gift that is more wonderful than our minds can comprehend. Praise God and Jesus!

Few things are clearer in the Bible than the necessity of being called by the spirit of prophecy and being ordained by one who holds authority from God. "14 Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery." (1 Tim. 4) "22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection." (Acts 1)

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It is true that I put great emphasis on succession in the priesthood. During the days of Joseph and James a priesthood certificate would often be recognized because it would be signed by someone that was known. I was ordained an Elder by our late Bro. Lloyd Flanders. As that would mean little to many people, I provide the unbroken lineage back to James. James ordained L. D. Hickey one of the Twelve (third degree Apostles), who ordained Samuel Martin a High Priest, who ordained Lloyd Flanders a High Priest.

It is important because the gospel came not in word alone. "5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake." (1 Thess. 1) The word of the gospel is the principles of the gospel (faith, repentance, baptism) and the power of the gospel is the Melchisedec Priesthood. Jesus restored the Melchisedec Priesthood and set the house of God in order with all of the officers of this priesthood. "11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists [High Priests]; and some, pastors [Elders] and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." (Eph. 4)

When these were called of God through the spirit of prophecy and ordained by one holding at least as high an office, the powers of that priesthood were bestowed upon the recipient. "19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Matt. 16) "22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection." (Acts 1)

Those who are faithful in their offices can be recognized by their works. All who are inspired of the Spirit teach alike. Each generation is given information relative to that generation. I have been given many pieces of information that previous generations did not understand (except the Prophets and they were constrained in what they could teach). Of High Priests, James wrote, "They who are faithful in the calling, have the gift of prophecy. Hence High Priests are frequently spoken of under the name of Prophets." (Book of the Law, p. 225) The works of Joseph proved those of James and the works of James proved the works of Joseph. All Prophets of God teach alike on the same subject. There were many things that Joseph was not permitted to do during his dispensation. We learn line upon line and precept upon precept.

Those who are not faithful, but have not had their authority removed by a proper tribunal, still possess the priesthood. If they continue unfaithful in life, they will be judged accordingly after death.

After James was shot, the murderers from Mackinac drove the saints from the islands and stole all of the property they could not carry on their backs. Some of the Apostles tried to gather the saints; but, to no avail. Prophecy is clear. "8 And thou, O tower of the flock [James J. Strang], the strong hold of the daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion [July 8, 1850]; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem. 9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud? is there no king in thee? is thy counseller perished? for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail. 10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to [spiritual] Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies." (Micah 4) James knew from the beginning of his ministry that he would have to offer up his own blood to seal his testimony; as did Joseph before him. Yet, he never faltered in his ministry.

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There is immutable evidence in the Bible to prove that a person must have faith in God, Jesus, and the priesthood, that each must repent and follow the will of God, that each must be born of water to free him from his own personal sins, that each must be born of the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God and receive a gift of the Holy Ghost, that each must partake of the Eucharist, and that each must continue faithful and obedient to the end of mortal life.

The gospel, though, did not come in word alone. "5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake." (1 Thess. 1) The power of the gospel is the divine priesthood called of God and ordained by one holding that priesthood. Jesus went to John for baptism of water because John was a Priest of the Levitical Priesthood and held divine authority to baptize with water. Jesus, though, held no authority from God. He was of the tribe of Judah. It was necessary for Jesus to be called by the spirit of prophecy and be ordained by one holding that priesthood. Jesus could not violate this law. He was ordained an Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver like unto Moses under the hands of the Father. "4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee." (Heb. 5)

Jesus then set the house of God in order by calling all of the other officers of the Melchisedec Priesthood because only these officers are given divine authority to baptize with the Spirit and administer the Holy Eucharist. "11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists [High Priests]; and some, pastors [Elders] and teachers; 12 FOR THE PERFECTING OF THE SAINTS, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." (Eph. 4)

So as soon as Satan was successful in destroying the Prophets and Apostles (all were martyred except John by 69 AD), he attacked what remained of the holy priesthood. "17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." (Rev. 12) "10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." (Rev. 19)

#  Politics and Secularism

There is a secular progressive movement in the US to destroy Christianity and its values. Free love is running rampant in our schools—even in grade school. Surely, they are becoming ripened ready for destruction. They will die even as those in the great flood. "26 And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. 27 They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. 30 Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed." (Luke 17)

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I had a discussion recently with one our brothers concerning the law of the land. It was Brother Strang's position that we are responsible for living according to the law of the land; except when that law violates the law of God. When this country had the draft, that law violated the law of God; as anyone who participates in the military becomes a murderer as part of that force. I was fortunate in that I had asthma and was given a 4-F classification. Other good saints like David and Timothy Flanders spent two years working in hospitals for the government. My cousin George Mead refused the draft. It seems he had been weak in the faith and could not provide sufficient evidence to prove that he was a conscientious objector. He did make a good testimony when he spent two years in prison. In more recent years, though, he wrote me that he was not sure that the testimony of Bro. Strang against military service was actually a doctrine of the church. Bah! I have written many times on this subject; although it should not be necessary. Bro. Strang covered the subject sufficiently in the Book of the Law, p. 29. Several of the so-called high priests of the corporate church were formerly members of the armed services. Murder is an offense which cannot be forgiven during this life; when a person is familiar with the law of God. We teach others by our works. "18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. 19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?" (James 2) I do not understand how anyone could believe that God would call a murderer to stand as a High Priest in His kingdom. Bruce Flanders even taught from the pulpit that it was permissible to join the military. Not one of the so-called high priests of the corporation church has made a testimony through word and works that joining the military is a very grievous offense.

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Romney is having problems running for President as a Mormon. He would like to make himself appear much like any other sectarian Christian. The truth is that if he was a true Mormon the differences are considerable. It is true that we do not believe in the Trinitarian god of sectarian Christianity. The evangelicals are going to give him a hard time over that issue. Brigham Young actually taught that Adam was God Almighty and Eve a wife from another planet. That teaching exists is the Utah church today. The Utah LDS are murderers. Jesus and Joseph Smith were pacifists. Bro. Strang taught that any that join a military force without a prophecy from God are guilty of murder. Strange how leaders of the corporation church, headquartered in Artesia, New Mexico, joined the military and Bruce Flanders actually taught it was appropriate from the pulpit. Brigham sent 500 men to join the military in the war against Mexico. They have been murderers ever since.

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This country is being taken over by the secular progressives. It is their belief that nothing is wrong as long as you take pleasure in that behavior. Many criminals are simply released back on the street to repeat their criminal behavior. This is truly a ripening in inequity. God declared that all people who live in this Promised Land must live by His law. The Jaredites thought them wiser and lived by their own will and pleasures of the world. They all died. The Nephites thought to do the same. They all died. Now the mass of people in this country do the same. In Boulder, Colorado, the students of a High School were told by a panel of "experts" that they should experiment with sex and drugs. The average student now does so between 12 and 14 years of age. "9 Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and he shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it." (Isa. 13)

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James J. Strang taught that we should not become involved in politics or in war. An easy way to see the turn of Christianity to paganism is in war and oppression. Killing is the most grievous sin against man. It is permitted by the law of God only under a direct commandment of God through His holy Prophets, or in protection of your own life. Constantine, who was the author of pagan Christianity, murdered his wife, his son, his nephew, and thousands of others. He established the law of heresy whereby anyone who did not accept the doctrines of his new Catholic Church could be tried and sentenced to death.

Speaking of the Brighamites, James wrote, "Though they may call the government 'Devil,' and then help fight its battles, we do not. We neither meddle with war or politics. Not one of us entered the army. Not one in a hundred casts a vote." (Gospel Herald, Vol. 3, No. 95, p. 155/467) This was not an isolated teaching. Jesus was a pacifist as was Joseph Smith and all men of God. The Nephites were not permitted to go to war against the Lamanites except on their own land and under direct command of God—the same as Israel.

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"I believe that the measures taken against the Christians in the first two centuries were the pure and simple reflection of the keep aversion and resentment aroused in the ruling class and most of the middle class of Rome by the sectarian's behavior, which was politically and socially culpable; indifferent to national traditions, going to the extreme of renunciation of their earthly country as transient and utterly imperfect: abstention from public life: refusal to bear arms in time of war: alien concepts of family relationships: refusal to worship the emperors [they refused to vote or hold office]." (The Life of Jesus, Marcello Craveri, p. 308)

James wrote that he would never had any association with politics had it not been that without his association the saints would have had no legal representation. They were constantly persecuted by the people of Mackinac. Read what James wrote in the Book of the Law (pp. 28, 29) on "Thou shalt not kill." I would not want to work for the government in any capacity related to the military. It is God who calls men to work in His kingdom. David was guilty of many sins including the killing of Uriah. Yet, God still blessed him. It is not for me to judge those who were part of the military in ignorance of the law of God. When many were resurrected after Jesus, the bones of David remained in his sepulchre. The Lamanites had killed many of the Nephites when one group, the Anti-Nephi-Lehies, repented, buried their swords, and were converted. "15 Therefore, we have named all the cities of the Lamanites in which they did repent and come to the knowledge of the truth, and were converted. 17 And it came to pass that they called their names Anti-Nephi-Lehies; and they were called by this name and were no more called Lamanites." (Alma 23)

Those who know the law of God and rebel against it by becoming part of the military, cannot be forgiven in this life and not until they pay the last farthing. It is the same with all sin. Jesus told the prostitute, "Go, and sin no more." If we live in sin, we cannot be a temple for the Holy Spirit. That is not to say that men do not sin; but, that they must repent and change their behavior. Apostle John E. Page compared the church to a great moral hospital.

(H)ow did James come to stand for and serve as a Michigan Senator (?)? This seems to go against his own counsel. Can you explain this a little more?" As I wrote, he said that he would have had no association had it been possible for the saints to have legal representation. It was not his desire; but rather out of necessity. After he left office, there was no legal representation for the saints and their enemies in Mackinac were able with the help of the captain of the US Steamer Michigan to assassinate James. His murderers were taken to Mackinac given a mock trial (so they could never be tried again) and released.

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Zion will never fall to outsiders. When I was young there was a fear that Russia might try to conquer this country. In a revelation given to the Prophet James in February, 1851, it is written, "6. And now, O Daughter of Zion, the land of robbers, the empire of many nations, shall gather her troops against thee, to look upon thee, and to defile thy dominion: but they have now known the thought of the Lord; neither have they understood his counsel; for he shall gather them as sheaves of the floor." (Book of the Law, p. 204) Bro. Strang wrote that this country would fall from within. The Secular Progressive Movement is having a great impact on our society. It is hard to imagine the changes just within my life.

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James J. Strang wrote many times against politics and war. He wrote in the Pastoral Letter published in the Zion's Reveille, Vo. 2, No. 2, p. 7/59: "Still more earnestly do I warn and admonish you against taking part in the wars and fighting's of the nations of the earth. In the present war between the United States and Mexico, where our own country is pursuing successful conquest of an enemy, at whose hand she has suffered many injuries, long and unredressed, the occasion may seem to justify a belligerent position; but it should not be forgotten that God has not decreed the war, and its conquests are still but added to the stronger of the oppressive. In this nation saints are persecuted and slain, and all manner of evil is spoken against them for righteousness sake. They have been robbed and plundered, and the powers that be have winked at it. They have been exiled from an entire state. Their complaints were laid at the feet of the judge, and he would not hear them; then they laid them at the feet of the governor, and he refused them redress; finally the Prophet Joseph, his Counselor Sidney, and Gen. Robert D. Foster, an high priest, went to Washington, and laid their complaints at the feet of the President and in the halls of Congress and were told that they could do nothing for them. There they bore a faithful testimony, and have become witnesses at the judgment seat of God, who hath sworn that he will [page 8/60] "vex the nation." So though God uses this nation to chastise the Mexicans for all their wickedness and their high-handed oppressions of the seed of Joseph (as he used Babylon to chastise Israel in days of old) yet the people whom they conquer shall be as poison in the veins of the nation, and the spoils of conquest shall be the seed of future wars. Apparent success shall end in destruction unless they make speed to put off their own sins; Since this faithful testimony was before the prophet had been slain for the testimony which he bore in a public prison, in charge of public officers, and no effort has been made to bring the murderers to justice. Beneath the altar of God he cries continually, " How long, O Lord, Holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on those that dwell on the earth." And in the end of their probation God is waiting on the nation that they may "turn unto him, and repent of all their evil deeds, and no more slay the prophets, but hearken unto them;" and if they do it not, his fierce anger shall fall upon them and all that are joined with them. Therefore as you give your testimonies against wars and fighting's see that you engage not in them, and suffer a curse with those that make them.

"It is meet also that the Saints shall not mix up in the turmoil of politics. It is preferable that you take no part even in elections in ordinary cases, leaving all such matters to others. But while you thus leave both the making and the administration of the laws to others, scrupulously avoid breaking them; "for he that keepeth the laws of God hath no need to break the laws of the land; wherefore be subject to the powers that be, until He reigns whose right it is to reign, and subdues all enemies under his feet. Behold the laws which ye have received from my hand, are the laws of the church; and in this light ye shall hold them forth. Behold here is wisdom. \--D. & C. sec. 18, p.5.

"Finally, brethren, give no heed to backbiters and tale bearers, especially those who are accusers of their brethren. But remembering that as there have been apostates, false teachers, and those who bear false witness and speak evil of things they understand not in all ages of the world, so there shall be until the coming of Christ in flaming fire to take vengeance on all who know not God.

"Be steadfast in every good work, not driven about by every rumor. The grace of god our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Accept this sincere greeting and testimony from your fellow-servant. James J. Strang."

James did become involved in politics after the gathering was moved to Beaver Island. The people had no representation and the only way was for James to run as a Michigan representative. Jesus taught against war many times. It does not seem your civil service in any way conflicts with the law of God; accept in pledging allegiance to the flag. We do not make an issue with the children; but, simply have then say under their breath "I do not." Our only allegiance is to our Father in heaven.

# Latter Day Prophets

I send you my greetings in the name of our late Prophet and Great Restorer, Joseph Smith. He spent his life dedicated to the work of God; and when called upon gave his life as a testimony of the truth of his mission and the works which he realized. He was not only a great Prophet; he was a great American legend.

He only realized the first part of the mission that he was given before Adam walked on the earth. His first mission was mortal and was to restore the Melchisedec Priesthood, the gospel, the Book of Mormon, and introduce the Lamanites to their progenitors.

He will soon return to realize the second part of his mission. "For Joseph truly testified, saying: A seer shall the Lord my God raise up, which shall be a choice seer unto the fruit of my loins. Yea, Joseph truly said, thus saith the Lord unto me: A choice seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and he shall be esteemed highly among the fruit of thy loins.--And unto him will I give commandment, that he shall do a work for the fruit of thy loins, his brethren, which shall be of great worth unto them, even to the bringing of them to the knowledge of the covenants which I have made with thy fathers. And I will give him a commandment, that he shall do none other work, save the work which I shall command him. And I will make him great in mine eyes: for he shall do my work. And he shall be great like unto Moses, whom I have said I would raise up unto you, to deliver my people, O house of Israel. And Moses will I raise up, to deliver thy people out of the land of Egypt. But a seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and unto him will I give power to bring forth my word unto the seed of thy loins; and not to the bringing forth my word only, saith the Lord, but to the convincing them of my word, which shall have already gone forth among them. Wherefore, the fruit of my loins shall write; and the fruit of the loins of Judah shall write; and that which shall be written by the fruit of thy loins, and also that which shall be written by the fruit of the loins of Judah, shall grow together, unto the confounding of false doctrines, and laying down of contentions, and establishing peace among the fruit of thy loins, and bringing them to the knowledge of their fathers in the latter days; and also to the knowledge of my covenants, saith the Lord. And out of weakness he shall be made strong, in that day when my work shall commence among all my people, unto the restoring thee, O house of Israel, saith the Lord." (The Evening and Morning Star, See 2 Nephi 3)

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After the children of Israel were taken captive in Egypt, and most likely adopted many of their evil works, God did not speak to them for 400 years. About 400 years before Jesus, they turned to iniquity again and God stopped speaking to them. When the Gentiles rejected the gospel and turned to their pagan traditions, God no longer called Prophets to speak to them. The gospel and Melchisedec Priesthood were entirely taken from the earth for 1260 years. From the time the Papacy was organized in 570 AD until Joseph Smith God did not speak directly to man. The Gentiles were given another major dispensation under Bro. Joseph and Bro. Strang; but, they failed to live by the laws of God that were given to them. The prophets were killed and the people left as others before them.

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It was not Joseph who held out (on some teachings to the Saints); but, the Lord. When the people refused to live by every word that proceeded out of the mouth of God, the Spirit was withdrawn and many teachings were never given to them. This was partly rectified by James J. Strang. Yes, there were many things (like the Decalogue and The True God) that were given to the Strangites but not under Joseph. Brigham Young perverted all of the basic tenants of the LDS faith. God had promised, "45 And if my people will hearken unto my voice, and unto the voice of my servants whom I have appointed to lead my people, behold, verily I say unto you, they shall not be moved out of their place." (D&C, 124) In 1846 Brigham Young was cut off the original church and he and his people were driven out of Nauvoo. There are still many things yet to be revealed.

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Both Joseph and James were mortal men who did the best they could under the circumstances in which they lived. Joseph fell into some errors in the administration of the church and that was one factor that led to his martyrdom. In the Letter of Appointment Joseph wrote, "I bowed my head to the earth and asked only wisdom and strength for the Church. The voice of God answered, my servant Joseph, thou hast been faithful over many things and thy reward is glorious; the crown and scepter are thine, and they wait thee. But thou hast sinned in some things, and thy punishment is very bitter. The whirlwind goeth before, and its clouds are dark, but rest followeth, and to its days there shall be no end."

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If James was not a Prophet as he claimed, Joseph Smith was a false prophet. Joseph gave four revelations that in the event of his impending death that HE would "appoint another" (singular) in his stead. The only direct appointment ever made by Joseph was the Letter of Appointment, written on June 18, 1844, and kept in Yale University Library. The law of God requires that a first degree Apostle—Prophet and Lawgiver—be ordained under the hands of an angel. As this is the highest office on the earth, none can ordain another to this office while in mortal life. James claimed to have been ordained under the hands of an angel the same hour that Joseph was murdered; although he was 400 miles away and did not learn of that fact until July 9, 1844.

Brigham Young made many changes to church doctrine. He had every member of his followers re-baptized (they could never claim in eternity of being members of the kingdom of God). He invented a new God; and by not following Bro. Strang his followers still honor "the venerable day of the sun." He was also the inventor of many secret combinations. There are no secrets with God. All things that are given for a particular time and season are for all to appreciate. Secret combinations are addressed many times in the Book of Mormon. "22 And there are also secret combinations, even as in times of old, according to the combinations of the devil, for he is the founder of all these things; yea, the founder of murder, and works of darkness; yea, and he leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord, until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever." (2 Nephi 26)

It was Brigham Young who invented sacred words, passwords, handshakes, and the rest. He even made marriage a secret ceremony in which the initiates are required to wear special underclothes. I have not made a study of all these secret devices. "33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." (1 Cor. 14)

Joseph could not give the Apostles keys above those of a third degree Apostle. The claim the Apostles received keys to lead the church is false on its face. Joseph was the only one authorized to receive revelations and commandments from God. When Brigham set up his church, he did so with twelve heads rather than one as the law of God requires. It was not until December 25, 1847, that Brigham admitted that his church was in "an unorganized condition" and the people had to select a First President.

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If James was not a Prophet as he claimed, Joseph Smith was a false prophet. Joseph gave four revelations that in the event of his impending death that HE would "appoint another" (singular) in his stead. The only direct appointment ever made by Joseph was the Letter of Appointment, written on June 18, 1844, and kept in Yale University Library. The law of God requires that a first degree Apostle—Prophet and Lawgiver—be ordained under the hands of an angel. As this is the highest office on the earth, none can ordain another to this office while in mortal life. James claimed to have been ordained under the hands of an angel the same hour that Joseph was murdered; although he was 400 miles away and did not learn of that fact until July 9, 1844.

Brigham Young made many changes to church doctrine. He had every member of his followers re-baptized (they could never claim in eternity of being members of the kingdom of God). He invented a new God; and by not following Bro. Strang his followers still honor "the venerable day of the sun." He was also the inventor of many secret combinations. There are no secrets with God. All things that are given for a particular time and season are for all to appreciate. Secret combinations are addressed many times in the Book of Mormon. "22 And there are also secret combinations, even as in times of old, according to the combinations of the devil, for he is the founder of all these things; yea, the founder of murder, and works of darkness; yea, and he leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord, until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever." (2 Nephi 26)

It was Brigham Young who invented sacred words, passwords, handshakes, and the rest. He even made marriage a secret ceremony in which the initiates are required to wear special underclothes. I have not made a study of all these secret devices. "33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." (1 Cor. 14)

Joseph could not give the Apostles keys above those of a third degree Apostle. The claim the Apostles received keys to lead the church is false on its face. Joseph was the only one authorized to receive revelations and commandments from God. When Brigham set up his church, he did so with twelve heads rather than one as the law of God requires. It was not until December 25, 1847, that Brigham admitted that his church was in "an unorganized condition" and the people had to select a First President.

# Marriage and Family

I received an email from a woman this week asking my advice concerning their desire to bring another wife into their household. I advised her that there is nothing in the law of God prohibiting polygamy. It was a very common practice in earlier times. We, though, have been commanded by God to keep the law of the land to the extent that it does not violate the law of God. The law of God does not require polygamy, it only allows such. She responded and advised me that they would no longer consider that type of relationship. I am very proud of her since it is common practice to do anything the mind can imagine in the way of sexual relations.

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When the law of inheritance was reinstated, the status of polygamy was restored as it was from Adam to Jesus. Monogamy was introduced into Christianity from paganism. God never forbad polygamy; although He gave strict rules for its administration. "1 And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach. 2 In that day shall the branch of the LORD be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel. 3 And it shall come to pass, that he that is left in Zion [America], and he that remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be called holy, even every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem." (Isa. 4) Remember, most of the men will die in the wars of the time.

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(Celestial marriage) is an invention of Brigham Young. The term is not found in Scripture or in any of the official church journals under Joseph. It is a vicious tool determined to bind men and women to the Brighamite church. Marriage between two members of the kingdom is for time and eternity and not like the pagan marriage "until death do us part." Should both husband and wife live faithful and obedient to the will and laws of God they have the promise of the celestial glory. The marriage is not celestial; it is the glory of the husband and wife that become celestial. "40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead." (1 Cor. 15)

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There is absolutely no evidence that Joseph practiced polygamy; except as possibly invented by the Brighamites. His wife Emma testified on her death bed that she was Joseph's ONLY wife. James did not practice polygamy until after the law of God was given (Book of the Law); which made provisions for such. It has been said that James quit translating the Book of the Law for a week after translating that section. Although he, at first, disagreed, it was not for him to decide; as it was the law of God. It did not require polygamy; but, provided for its use as in older days.

Brigham Young taught the spiritual wife system. He began that before the death of Joseph and was stopped. Bro. Strang taught strictly against the spiritual wife system. Under this system a woman can be married spiritually to more than one man. They are still sealing women in Utah to Joseph Smith. It is an abominable form of adultery. More, Brigham taught that these wives would continue to bear seed after death. Even worse, he taught the more wives a person has the higher the celestial glory he will obtain. Joseph taught there is only one glory in the celestial.

# Obedience

For us to receive the greatest blessings in this life and in eternity we must abide by the laws of God. "6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked." (1 John 2) These laws provide us with a tool to know when we are walking on the path of light (love and law). God built His law on love. The happiest condition for man is when he is involved in a truly loving relationship. "44 If so, his faith and hope is vain, for none is acceptable before God, save the meek and lowly in heart; and if a man be meek and lowly in heart, and confesses by the power of the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Christ, he must needs have charity; for if he have not charity he is nothing; wherefore he must needs have charity. 45 And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 46 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail- 47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him." (Moroni 7)

The path of law and love brings the greatest happiness to man. Violating the laws can appear to bring happiness; but, it is short-term and in eternity will bring great reprobation. In 588 BC, before the Babylonians took Judah captive, the Prophet Jeremy hid the ark containing the tables of stone, on which God wrote the law, in a cave where it could never be found except by direction from God (2 Maccabees 2). All of the public copies of the law were destroyed; as the law was felt to be too sacred to fall into the hands of the heathen. One copy, twelve years earlier, was taken from Jerusalem by the Prophet Lehi and brought to Zion where it was recovered by Joseph Smith with other plates. Through the Prophet James J. Strang that most sacred of holy writ was translated and handed down to us. What a wonderful blessing!

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How did the LDS Strangite church 'not live by the law of God'?" They followed their own will the same as the church under Joseph Smith. They were commanded to have all things in common; as it was in the days of Jesus. They would not. They were then commanded to keep the law on tithing and build up the kingdom. They would not. They were commanded to be a gathered people. They would not. "37 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! 38 Behold, your house is left unto you desolate." (Matt. 23)

In the revelations given to James they people were constantly warned "unto the faithful is this promise." "I will remember you in mercy and in blessings IF ye serve me... IF they will not hearken unto thee, they shall be cast out from among my people... IF my people will build a house unto me according to my commandments... IF they will diligently serve me, and give heed unto all my words... IF my people will cease all their contentions... IF my servants serve me; and upon the Hill of Promise shall ye build a hall... IF ye do all these things, dominion shall be given unto you... IF they will hearken to my word when it comes to them... IF they harden not their hearts... IF this people will turn unto him, and repent of all their evil deeds, and no more slay the prophets which he sendeth unto them... IF ye are not one, ye are none of mine... IF ye do these things, I will give you strength that your enemies shall not prevail over you... IF ye will therefore possess these things, remember my law, to keep it... IF ye will not live by it, the promise is not unto you. It is a vain thing for you to witness my word, IF ye will not regard it, to live by it... will give them the kingdom, IF they abide in well doing... IF they do not redeem and preserve it, they must be afflicted with sore affliction. IF they are faithful unto me, my strength shall shield them and prosper them... IF they do not walk in my ways more perfectly, I will yet cast them off... They that are of the flock hear his voice. IF not, they go astray to destruction... IF ye uphold him in faith and confidence and prayer... IF they had obeyed me... For your enemies shall be upon you, and ye shall flee before them, IF ye turn not to me to be faithful...IF ye remember the Lord your God, whose name is great and glorious, and keep his statutes... IF ye neglect these sayings the day of your redemption approacheth not... IF they do it not, his fierce anger shall fall upon them and all that are joined with them... IF we do not PRACTICALLY conform to gospel principle, their influence is lost on us.... It is vain to talk about or to hope for the fullness of the spirit of God, or the establishment of His kingdom, IF we will not make our religion a practical reality, by doing the things we teach... IF we give not willingly, He will not suffer us to possess what He requires... IF ye are not equal in earthly things, ye cannot be equal in obtaining heavenly things... IF you will that I give unto you a place in the celestial world, you must prepare yourselves by doing the things which I have commanded... IF, after all the buffetings and persecutions you have endured for receiving the faith, and the perils you have passed through in coming to this country, you should still throw yourselves under the authority of a mere MAN MADE priesthood, and trust your salvation to the administrations of men merely elected by the people... IF ye labor with all your mights... IF my people will hearken unto my voice... IF they will not hearken unto my voice... The blessing of their God shalt thou put upon them, and his curse upon evil doers, IF, after being oft rebuked, they repent not... IF they scatter, the ungodly of the world shall swallow them up."

# Love and Charity

We are also told the second greatest commandment is to love our brethren as much as we love ourselves. Jesus gave a discourse on this generation in Matthew 25. "44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me."

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Jesus taught many times the necessity of living our religion. Joseph Smith wrote, "We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul--We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things."

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A wolf watches for the weak to attack—so does Satan. The slightest weakness and be turned against us. If we do not exist in pure spiritual love, we have already lost. The Apostles complained of the anti-Christ's of their day. Joseph and James both suffered severely by the apostasy of many in their day. Satan will do anything in his power to lure saints to his side and lead them down to hell. "24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect." (Matt. 24)

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We are told to live as brothers and sisters in a bond of pure spiritual love. "22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently." (1 Pet. 1) "44 If so, his faith and hope is vain, for none is acceptable before God, save the meek and lowly in heart; and if a man be meek and lowly in heart, and confesses by the power of the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Christ, he must needs have charity; for if he have not charity he is nothing; wherefore he must needs have charity. 45 And charity suffereth long, and is kind, and envieth not, and is not puffed up, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, and rejoiceth not in iniquity but rejoiceth in the truth, beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 46 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, if ye have not charity, ye are nothing, for charity never faileth. Wherefore, cleave unto charity, which is the greatest of all, for all things must fail- 47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him." (Moroni 7)

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The Scriptures identify one characteristic of man that is more Godlike than any other: Love. "22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently." (1 Pet. 1) "9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God." (Matt. 5) "5 And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for the work. 6 Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence." (D&C 4)

# Stewardship and Tithing

Tithing has been a law of God since at least Abraham. There have been two systems for assisting the kingdom. As a member of any country, it becomes the responsibility of each to support that country. It is no different in the kingdom of God. The most severe system was adopted by Enoch. God has said many times that if we cannot be equal in our temporal affairs, we cannot be equal in spiritual things. Jesus held to this law of common ownership, noting that if a person desired eternal life it was necessary to share alike. "16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? 21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me." (Matt. 19)

Joseph Smith introduced the same system in his day; but, the people were not able to live by it. They were then given the system of tithing. When a person enters the kingdom they are to give a tenth of their possessions to the kingdom; and then ten percent of all gain thereafter. This was the rule that was to exist until the return of Jesus. "23 Behold, now it is called today until the coming of the Son of Man, and verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a day for the tithing of my people; for he that is tithed shall not be burned at his coming." (D&C 64)

The Prophet James used both systems. Those who desired the celestial kingdom were advised to become a part of the Order of Enoch where all things were held in common. James wrote in the church journals many times about the failure of the saints to pay their tithing. When the saints would not live by the law of God, the Prophet was taken from them, they lost all of their possessions, and they were left with the clothes on their backs on docks in Milwaukee and Chicago.

It is a difficult issue today because we have no Prophet and no Bishop. This does not seem to relieve us of the obligation to support the kingdom which we seek to inherit after mortal death. Each must evaluate their own situation and what opportunities exist to promote the kingdom and assist the saints who are in need. People always seem to be able to afford those things they desire the most. "19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (Matt. 6)

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There is no storehouse at this time or bishop so are tithes being neglected. What also is meant by "increase"? Without a Bishop there is no administrator for the collection of tithing. It is a free will offering. Everything that is given in Zion is going to the building up of the kingdom in Africa. The major Gentile dispensation was closed in 1967 after the six-day war. "24 And they [Jews] shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." (Luke 21) It seems a minor preparatory dispensation has been established today similar to that under John the Baptist. When this work is completed, the gathering must follow and then the desolation.

The first principle of property was to have all in common. This was the practice under Jesus. Joseph attempted to establish the order of Enoch; but, the people were too greedy to abide by the will of God. In its place God established the law of tithing. The people were to give ten percent of all their property to the common fund when they entered the kingdom. After that they were to give ten percent of the increase in property. They failed at this and other laws and Joseph was taken. James established the order of Enoch; but, only a few were able to live by this celestial law. "If ye are not one in your temporal things, you cannot be one in spiritual things." The people failed again under James and the consequences were the same; except the Gentiles were not given another Prophet.

# Sabbath

Jesus could not violate the law on the Sabbath. "21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth." (1 Pet. 2) If Jesus had sinned, Satan would have held power over Him (death); and he could not have been the first fruits of the resurrection. There is both the spirit of the law and the word of the law. There are situations when it would appear the word of the law is violated; but, the spirit of the law is obeyed. Every Priest violates the word of the Sabbath; but, it is his duty to preach the gospel on the Sabbath and therefore he keeps the word of the law. Jesus was Lord of the Sabbath because the law as given to man in this creation came through Jesus in liaison with the Father. "22 Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers;) and ye on the sabbath day circumcise a man. 23 If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day? 24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment." (John 7)

The Book of the Law certainly does have a section on the Sabbath. See "The Decalogue," page 22 and 23. See also "Feasts," page 291. The basic requirement is that the Sabbath be a day of rest and that a holy convocation be held. Labor that is required (such as on a dairy farm) is permitted; but labor for hire is not. It is important to note that recreation in not forbidden.

What is required to abide in the law of the Sabbath. I would first refer everyone to the Book of the Law of the Lord. See the "Decalogue," page 22; and "Feasts" on page 291. The first requirement is to observe the Sabbath as a holy day of the Lord which is to be a day of rest. It is also a day for a holy convocation in remembrance of the creation and all the blessings which we have been given. There are times when the spirit of the law outweighs the word of the law. Every Priest violates the word of the law; as does anyone who has duties that can be performed on the Sabbath. Such should keep the spirit of the law by offering up our prayers and thanks to God during the whole day.

# Word of Wisdom

The Word of Wisdom is exactly that. It would be like a word on poison. Drink poison and you are most likely to die. "1 A Word of Wisdom, for the benefit of the council of high priests, assembled in Kirtland, and the church, and also the saints in Zion- 2 To be sent greeting; NOT BY COMMANDMENT OR CONSTRAINT, but by revelation and the word of wisdom, showing forth the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all saints in the last days." (D&C 89) The Lord had hoped the people would prepare themselves by keeping the whole law of God so they would be prepared to enter the celestial glory. They failed and the promises were lost. My father said the best rule in one of moderation. Studies have indicated small amounts of wine and beer is good for the body. There is noting to indicate that smoking is anything but bad for the body.

I do not see that violation of the Word of Wisdom is a constraint for baptism. It was not given as a law; but, as a guide to good health. A person must have a proper knowledge of God and Jesus, a fundamental knowledge of the law of God, commit himself to living by the will of God (circumcision of the heart), and repent of former sins to be a candidate for baptism. When a person is baptized and cleansed of sin, it is essential to then make every effort to live by the law of God. Baptism is vain for a person that persists in sin. Apostle Page compared the church to a great moral hospital where people are healed of the failings of mortal life.

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The Word of Wisdom is just that. "1 A Word of Wisdom, for the benefit of the council of high priests, assembled in Kirtland, and the church, and also the saints in Zion- 2 To be sent greeting; not by commandment or constraint, but by revelation and the word of wisdom, showing forth the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all saints in the last days." (D&C 89) There is no doubt that great physical benefits are realized by following those admonitions.

I do not feel that it is my place to condemn any who fail to abide by those provisions. My father used to say that the best course to follow is one of moderation. There is no doubt that smoking cause's lung cancer and that many die every year for using tobacco. Today, it is a matter to be resolved by each person individually. There are far greater evils that men have entered into than not following the specific letter of the WOW. Our greatest duty is to live as brothers and sisters in true spiritual love. "30 Behold, the Lord hath forbidden this thing; wherefore, the Lord God hath given a commandment that all men should have charity, which charity is love, and except they should have charity they were nothing. Wherefore, if they should have charity they would not suffer the laborer in Zion to perish. 47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him." (Moroni 7)

# Jesus the Christ

The term "Christ" is not a proper name. It means "anointed." The Melchisedec Priesthood had been lost about 400 years before Jesus was born. Jesus restored the Melchisedec Priesthood. "22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people." (Acts 3)

After forty days in the wilderness, "the tempter came to him." (Matt. 4:3) "11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him." What did they minister? Jesus was called and ordained as an Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver like Moses. "18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised." (Luke 4) "17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matt. 4) Those who do not recognize Jesus as an Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver holding the highest office of the Melchisedec Priesthood are not Christians.

Jesus taught, "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3:5) Jesus went to John the Baptist for baptism of water because John was a Priest of the Levitical Priesthood and held authority from God to baptize with water. John, though, could not baptize with the Spirit. "11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire." (Matt. 3) After being ordained to the highest office of the Melchisedec Priesthood, Jesus was empowered by God to preach the gospel and administer all of its saving ordinances. He then called all of the other officers of the Melchisedec Priesthood. "11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists [High Priests]; and some, pastors [Elders] and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." (Eph. 4)

Like John the Baptist, without the Melchisedec Priesthood none can enter the kingdom of God. No one can claim to be a Christian who is not a member of the kingdom of God. It is like an illegal alien in the US calling themselves US citizens. We have been blessed above all other people in having a correct understanding of God and Jesus. We have the law of God and through the Holy Spirit we can obtain an understanding of the will of God concerning our mortal life. "13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come." (John 16) We learned through the latter day Prophets that Jesus was a Prophet and a Lawgiver. "10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love." (John 15) Through a remnant of the Melchisedec Priesthood we have been given an opportunity to enter through the gate into the kingdom of God and be members of the church of the firstborn. "13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." (Matt. 7) We have been blessed above all other people in the world. We have been given that great opportunity to enter the kingdom and inherit the celestial glory in eternity. Of all the people in the world we can be truly be called Christians.

Jesus clearly taught, "5 ...Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3)

Apostle Samuel Graham published an article in the Gospel Herald, Vol. 4, No. 154, on "Baptism a Saving Ordinance." "I shall now inquire, who are the subjects of this ordinance? We have the answer obviously in the language of the Apostolic commission: 'Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.' Matt. xxviii. 19, 20. None will deny that the word corresponding to teach in the first instance, in which it occurs in this passage, signifies to disciple all nations; that is, to bring them by faith into the school of Christ, in which they are to learn his will.

"The persons, then, whom this commission warrants to be baptized are scholars of Christ, having believed in him for salvation. If this needed confirmation, it has it in the record of the commission by Mark, xvi. 15, 16: 'Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved; and he that believeth not, shall be damned.' Here the persons whom Matthew calls disciples, Mark calls believers."

"There is no power on earth to abrogate this command. No, till the end of the world it will remain a duty for all who believe to be baptized on their confession of sins and belief in the gospel. And I will further add, that no man has ever yet entered the celestial glory of God the Father, without faith, repentance and baptism for the remission of sins. And I may further say that no man ever will enter there. As many as attempt to climb up some other way will be esteemed as thieves and robbers. Let all the world know that this is the command of him that sweareth and changeth not; that man must be born of the water and of the spirit, and that too on a belief of the gospel, and continue to walk in all the commandments blameless, or he cannot be saved in the glory of the sons of God. SAMUEL GRAHAM."

"5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake." (1 Thess. 1) Every kingdom must have officers to administer its laws or anarchy reigns. Jesus could not begin His ministry until He fulfilled the law on baptism. The key which sectarian Christians overlook is that before Jesus began His ministry He was called of God and ordained to the highest office of the Melchisedec Priesthood the same as Moses. "22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people." (Acts 3) After Jesus had been tempted of Satan, "angels came and ministered unto him." (Matt. 4:11) What did they minister? Jesus was called and ordained to the Melchisedec Priesthood. "4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. 10 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec." (Heb. 5) After this ordination, "From that time Jesus began to preach." (Matt. 4:17) Jesus made it clear that none could enter the kingdom of God without the administration of one holding a valid claim to the Melchisedec Priesthood. "11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists [High Priests]; and some, pastors [Elders] and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ." (Eph. 4)

#

# Satan

Living in this last generation, Satan will do everything in his power to deceive even the very elect. I receive correspondence from men around the world claiming to be prophets and leaders of the people. One this week told of God appearing to him and giving him 24 additions to the Ten Commandments. Some were totally false and the others evidently not of God. Satan can appear as an angel of light; as can his followers. He not only offers false prophets and teachings as this man from California; but, he uses every trick he knows to lead the saints from the path of light. We have been warned, "3 The land shall be utterly emptied, and utterly spoiled: for the LORD hath spoken this word. 4 The earth mourneth and fadeth away, the world languisheth and fadeth away, the haughty people of the earth do languish. 5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. 6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate: therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left." (Isa. 24)

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Satan first destroyed the head of the church. "5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne." (Rev. 12) Then Satan destroyed the holy priesthood. "17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." Finally, he declared war on all of the saints of God. This was simply a matter of natural consequence; as the gentiles had returned to their pagan roots. As this power was given to Satan for 1260 years, it is evident that the gospel and priesthood would be restored after that time. "6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people." (Rev. 14)

# The Corporate Church

The mainstream church that had been followers of James J. Strang was led by Satan into a most grievous error that fulfilled this prophecy of Isaiah. They reorganized their church. In 1961, they elected to start a new church under the laws of man—a corporation church. Whenever an organization incorporates, it gives up its former identity and by law must append the "Inc." to the name every time it is used. Vernon Swift taught from 1961 to 2000 that the church and the corporation were two separate identities. Then in 2000 he taught that his church was the same as the corporation—it is the corporation. The only record maintained by Vernon is a record of members of the corporation. The corporation is only an arm of the US Government. There have been many who swallowed Vernon's deception. For further evidence I went on line and requested a legal opinion at www.justanswer.com--a leading legal opinion firm that has offered over three million legal opinions. Mr. Ed Johnson responded to my query. He is an MSA, GPHR, CMU (2003) and has received 100% feedback on 2357 legal questions on the Internet. He is an international HR consultant, has done post graduate studies of Immigration, employment, labor, PA Law/Arbitration. He answered, "Dear Samuel, For this question we defer to IRS regulations. The formed unincorporated entity would have a tax id number. A new number must be applied for when the company now incorporates [in 1961]. You are correct, that the incorporated entity now is the legitimate entity [for corporation members]. However, it is possible for the corporation and the unincorporated to co-exist and continue to operate separately. It would have to be shown that the INC was an alter-ego of the unincorporated organization, which it is not." When an individual incorporates, they maintain their original identity; but not so for an organization.

They have established a new church, separated themselves from the unincorporated church organized by Joseph Smith, transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, and broken the everlasting covenant. They now have a new order of the priesthood to stand as their head in violation of the laws of God; and a new man-made Constitution to govern the people and stand in rebellion to the laws of God. I fear greatly for these people. I offer you this information only to offer a great warning that Satan will do anything to stop the progress of the kingdom of God. On 11/25/69, he (Lloyd Flanders) wrote Vernon again, "I regret ever having had the slightest thing to do with the charter for the Church: I regard it is a serious mistake ON MY PART: and I have repented of it and asked God's forgiveness." Unfortunately, most people were not made aware of Bro. Lloyd's teaching and depended on others for their decisions—not being personally capable of making difficult decisions by themselves. "39 And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?" (Luke 6) "13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men." (Matt. 5)

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The By-Laws of the corporation church became the Constitution of that church. Bro. Strang wrote the Constitution of God's Kingdom is the Decalogue (Book of the Law, p. 38). This new spiritual law invented by man placed a Council of presumed High Priests as the head of that church; as the RLDS also did when they re-organized as the Community of Christ. Bro. Strang taught in the Book of the Law that only first and second degree Apostles can stand at the head. Not even third degree Apostles hold an office high enough to stand at the head. This Constitution also established itself as the law by which its members were to be governed without reference to the Book of the Law of the Lord. As stated by Isaiah, there were only a "few men left."

# Zion and The Gathering

When the people of Zion murdered the latter day Prophets, they brought a curse upon themselves. Before the great desolation, there is to be a great gathering of the people by Bro. Strang to Beaver Island. When Bro. Strang was ordained as an Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver, the angel (most likely Jesus) told him, "15. While the day of the wicked abideth, shalt thou prepare a refuge for the oppressed, and for the poor and needy. Unto thee shall they come, and their brethren who are scattered shall come with them; and the destruction of the ungodly shall quickly follow; for it already worketh." (Book of the Law, p. 171)

On August 25, 1846, the Prophet James received a revelation from God concerning Beaver Island. In that revelation he was told, "4. And upon this land where thou standest shall the gospel of the kingdom be established among the Lamanites, and from thence shall it go forth to their tribes. And blessing and honor and great glory shall be on those that teach them, for he will make their arm strong, and their bow shall abide in strength, and they shall not bow to the oppressor; and the power of the Gentile shall not be on them, for the arm of God shall be with them to support. "5. And here shall the Lamanites come to learn the law of the Lord their God, who hath preserved them, that they be not utterly destroyed. And other barbarians shall come also, and shall learn ways of holiness; for the Lord their God shall teach them, and his people shall instruct them, and shall go forth as ministers of truth unto all people. "6. And I asked him, What meaneth all this? And he said unto me, Thou art carried away in the spirit, and brought to this land in the midst of waters, in the north country, that the Lord might show thee what he will do hereafter. For here shall be a stake and a corner stone of Zion, for the strengthening of her curtains round about. Here shall the house of Manasseh and the house of Ephraim and the Gentiles build a house unto me, and bow down to me therein. For the sons of Jacob shall lay the foundations thereof, and therein shall they worship their God. And to this house shall the thousands of the house of Israel come, when the ice melts at the north. And there shall they meet their brethren in peace, and God shall be in the midst of them."

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Before the return of Jesus the wheat (the small remnant of the saints of God) is to be gathered to the barn and then the chaff burned. Only a third of Israel will survive. "8 And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, saith the LORD, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein. 9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God." (Zech. 13) The gentiles who are descended from the ten kingdoms of Europe will be almost totally destroyed; as they destroyed over ninety percent of the Jews in 70 AD. "15 For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen ["goi" also translated gentile]: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head. 16 For as ye have drunk upon my holy mountain, so shall all the heathen drink continually, yea, they shall drink, and they shall swallow down, and they shall be as though they had not been." (Obad. 1)

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Why did so many walk away from JJ Strang?" I do not know who you are referring to. The kingdom continued to be built up until the time of his death. There are always those who think themselves wiser than God and walk on their own dark paths. "13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." (Matt. 7) "8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?" (Luke 18)

You might as well ask why so many walked away from Moses, Jesus, or Joseph Smith. It was estimated there were about 200,000 that adopted the LDS faith during the time of Joseph. Yet, as I recall there were only about 5,000 that gathered with the saints in Nauvoo. Many are called but few are chosen.

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You asked, "Will the Saints eventually gather to Voree, Beaver Island, or any other Stake of Zion?" Prophecy tells of a gathering before the return of Jesus to a place of refuge (most likely Beaver Island) from the desolation that comes before Jesus' return. Much of the information given in the revelations given to James is yet future. The angel told James at his ordination, "15. While the day of the wicked abideth, shalt thou prepare a refuge for the oppressed, and for the poor and needy. Unto thee shall they come, and their brethren who are scattered shall come with them; and the destruction of the ungodly shall quickly follow; for it already worketh." (Book of the Law, p. 171) Read the Revelation of James, August 25, 1846. Most of this is yet future. "5. And here shall the Lamanites come to learn the law of the Lord their God, who hath preserved them, that they be not utterly destroyed."

It appears that all of the stakes of Zion will be re-established. In the Letter of Appointment two time frames are identified for Voree and Nauvoo. "But I will again stretch out my arm over the river of waters, and on the banks thereof shall the house of my choice be. But now the city of Voree shall be a stronghold of safety to my people, and they that are faithful and obey me I will there give them great prosperity."

The center stake of Zion is Independence. "8 He had reference to those whom God should call in the last days, who should hold the power of priesthood to bring again Zion, and the redemption of Israel; and to put on her strength is to put on the authority of the priesthood, which she, Zion, has a right to by lineage; also to return to that power which she had lost." (Utah D&C, 113)

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The record of the Apostles included the "Lamentations of [Apostle] Warren Post." "Where is Zion? When will she put on her beautiful garments? When will she be redeemed?

"Zion, and the Daughter of Zion, are words that often occur in the Scriptures. I have often pondered over those words, and fancied while reading of Zion, that it was some hallowed spot almost Celestial: sometimes Zion [a] small mountain, on which stands part of the Ancient City of Jerusalem, passes for this holy Zion. Zion when referred to as a place of gathering, signifies a place of righteousness. Often it means the pure in heart. According to prophecy ancient, and modem, America is the land of Zion; and was given by the Almighty to the Children of Joseph for an everlasting possession. Missouri is the State in which is found the center of Zion, and in Jackson County is the place that God designated as the very place where the Temple should be built, and the city around the Temple is called the New Jerusalem. God has declared it by the mouth of the prophet Joseph. Kirtland (Ohio) was appointed one of the Stakes of Zion, and was to be a strong hold for the Saints, for the span of five years. The prediction was fully verified: and then wickedness sprang up, where it ought not, and the prophet of God was voted out of the Temple. The Saints went from that place to Missouri, and remained but a few years, before they fell into divers sins, and God suffered them to be scourged; and driven from the State. Soon after, another stake was appointed in Illinois called Nauvoo. There was a beautiful Temple built according to the pattern shown unto the prophet--but before the Temple was finished, the people again practiced divers sins, & the prophet was taken from them, and soon nearly all that were called saints, were expelled from Nauvoo, and went into a salt land, and not inhabited. From 1830, until 1844 the prophet led the people, until they became numerous, numbering nearly two hundred thousand souls: the people became vain in their imagination, and were lifted up in pride; and practiced their abominations; therefore the Lord caused them to be removed out of their place. Nine days previous to the death of Joseph, he appointed J. J. Strang as his successor. He also appointed Voree in Wisconsin as a city of refuge & place of peace and safety for the Saints. Soon after the administration of James commenced, there was another Stake appointed on Beaver Island, called the comer Stake of Zion. There the Kingdom of God was more fully organized in 1850, in the presence of four hundred witnesses. There we expected deliverance from oppression, and from all our enemies: there we receive the promise of everlasting inheritances. We hoped the prophet would continue with us, until the coming of the Son of God. The people again sinned and came short of the promises. On the 16th day of June 1856 the prophet was shot; but lived an example of patient sufferings until the 9th of July 1856: making a period of 12 years that he presided over the Church.

"Has Zion yet put on her beautiful garments? Does her light now shine? Is there any King in her: Has she any lovers: Where are they?

"O Lord God thou knowest. Who hath known the mind of the Lord, and who hath been his counselors? How mysterious are his judgments. And his ways past finding out! Zion's lovers have nearly all forgotten her! She has become a hiss and a by word unto her enemies: Her children have forsaken her, and dwell among strangers. Her King is murdered, her Princes banished. Murderers can inherit King's palaces, and vile apostates, possess Princes' dwellings! How long before the time to favor Zion will come? When will she be clothed in her beautiful garments? Behold all joy is turned into mourning: the apparent light into darkness: the voice of joy and melody is no more heard in the streets, they that praised the Lord in the dance, have departed far from her!

her Sabbaths are not kept,

her feasts & offers neglected;

and no more do we hear the voice of our King in her sanctuary, nor Apostles and high priests instructing the people on her Sabbaths: no elders, priests, teachers, & deacons to comfort the saints, & strengthen the weak visit the sick, & comfort the afflicted.

"No more do we hear the Elders warning the Saints to flee out of Babylon; to come out from among the ungodly & be clean, even all that bear the vessels of the Lord! Has the Lord utterly cast away his covenant people: even all that remained faithful to the words of the Prophet? O Lord forbid. For who would stand before thee? Who could dwell in they presence? O Lord help us to walk in a straight way wherein we shall not stumble. We realize O Lord that thou wilt have a pure people to serve thee: thou canst not look upon sin with any allowance, where thou hast so often sought after, and entreated thy Saints, to hear thy word and obey. O Lord we learn from thy word, that thou didst cast off thy people in the days of old, because they would not listen to thy reproof, because they were unsteadfast and perfidious in thy covenants: because they despised thy counsel, & set at naught thy judgments. Thou changes not, thou art no respecter of persons. May we take heed unto thy word, which is quick and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul & spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts, and intents of the heart. O Lord help us to bring up our children in thy fear; so that our Sons may be like olive plants that have grown up in their youth; and our Daughters like chief corner stones, that are polished after the similitude of a palace. Zion will prosper when her children shall put away every strange god from among them; and love, and serve the living and true God. Covetousness and pride, jealousy, ambition, and lust; have caused divisions, & contentions among us; which things the Lord hates: for he has often told us by the mouths of his prophets; that except ye are one, ye are none of mine. God delights in being honored; but his holy name is every day blasphemed: God requires of his people; that the strong, should bear with weak; that they should help to bear each others burdens. But the strong have trodden down the weak, & have sorely oppressed them. God requireth that men should live by every word which proceedeth out of his mouth: but men cleave to their abominations, and indulge freely in the things which are forbidden. O Lord we have sinned, we have done wickedly: unto us belongeth shame and confusion of faces: whilst unto thee belongeth righteousness and peace forever.

"O God our Father, turn away thine anger from us, and remember once more the covenant, made with thy people! O Lord remember again the day that thou didst give the Kingdom unto thy saints, which is everlasting! Remember again the promises made unto our fathers, and suffer not strangers to rob us of the dominion; let fear take hold of our enemies; for behold their eyes have looked upon Zion in unrighteousness, they despise dominion, are not afraid to speak evil of dignities, they have shed innocent blood, they have robbed the widow, and the fatherless! Let sudden destruction come upon them, suffer them not to escape the vengeance of thy wrath, for they have despised thy Law. Even many that have known thy law, & have witness to its truth; have turned there from, and joined hands with the ungodly to drive thy saints from their inheritance.

"O Lord 'tis not for any righteousness which we have done, but for thy great names sake, and the promises made unto our fathers, that we desire to be delivered out of the hands of strange children, even those that thou hast already condemned.

"O Lord they have despised thy word, they have refused to obey thy gospel, they have killed thy Prophets, and Saints; they have persecuted thine Elders and servants, when sent with messages unto them: therefore I beseech thee O God, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to let fall thine indignation upon them . Suffer not the heathen to make derision of thy people, and utterly disregard the authority which thou hast conferred upon those that hold thy Priesthoods. Let such as thy saints have cursed, in righteousness; be accursed; and such as they have blessed, let them be blessed: Thou knowest O Lord that our desires have been to serve thee; notwithstanding in consequence of the weakness of the flesh, we have often strayed from thee. Bring us again into thy fold into the land of our inheritances. May we again hear the voice of the true Shepherd that will call us into thy fold. Grant that thy law may be written in our hearts, that it may be our chief delight to serve thee. Separate our sins as far from us, as the East is from the West, and let the light of truth shine forth in us, and the day star arise in our hearts. Let thy Holy Spirit lead [541 us in thy ways: then we will teach transgressors thy ways, and sinners will be converted unto thee.

"Now therefore hear thy servant O Lord when he maketh confession unto thee, and (supplicate) thy name and in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit we will ascribe all praise, honor, glory, and dominion forevermore. Amen." (pp. 49 – 54)

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A curse fell upon Zion. There were a couple attempts to gather the saints; but, to no avail. With no Prophet to stand at the head, the Church of Christ was lost. The kingdom of God and the Church of the Firstborn remained. Several branches were established from Michigan to Colorado. L. D. Hickey made several missions trying to build the kingdom as did Wingfield Watson after him (who was ordained a High Priest by Apostle Hickey). Apostle Hickey also ordained Samuel Martin a High Priest. Bro. Martin did his best to hold the saints together and made several missions to the various branches. Samuel Martin ordained Lloyd Flanders a High Priest who with his half brother, Hallie, tried to build the kingdom during the late 1920's; as did several others. He died in 1984; and evidently was the last High Priest.

The final tragedy in regards to the church occurred in 1961. Under the leadership of Vernon Swift of Artesia, New Mexico, most of the saints re-organized their church into a corporation. A corporation is a fictitious entity that exists only as a function of the US Government. This is why neither Bro. Joseph, nor Bro. James ever incorporated the church; although they were both able. When a group incorporates, it loses its former identity. The corporate church by its own Certificate of Incorporation "has absolutely no connection, ties, agency or affiliation with any other religious society [including the church organized by Joseph Smith]." The only record of membership that has been maintained is that of the corporation. In 2000 Vernon announced his church and the corporation were one in identity.

The Bible tells of this falling away in the last days. "5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. 6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate: therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left." (Isa. 24) The Book of Mormon supports the Bible. "32 Wo be unto the Gentiles, saith the Lord God of Hosts! For notwithstanding I shall lengthen out mine arm unto them from day to day, THEY WILL DENY ME; nevertheless, I will be merciful unto them, saith the Lord God, if they will repent and come unto me; for mine arm is lengthened out all the day long, saith the Lord God of Hosts." (2 Nephi 28) The Doctrine and Covenants tells of the same. "28 And when the times of the Gentiles is come in, a light shall break forth among them that sit in darkness, and it shall be the fulness of my gospel; 29 But they receive it not; for they perceive not the light, and they turn their hearts from me because of the precepts of men. 30 And in that generation shall the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled."

(Utah D&C 45)

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This very small remnant is to be gathered to a place of refuge before the great and terrible day of the Lord. "8 And thou, O tower of the flock [James J. Strang], the strong hold of the daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion [July 8, 1850]; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem. 9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud? is there no king in thee? is thy counseller perished? for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail. 10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to [spiritual] Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies." (Micah 4)

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There is to be a gathering of the elect shortly before the return of Jesus. "12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." (Matt. 3) See Book of the Law, p. 171, verses 13 – 15. I will quote v. 15. "15. While the day of the wicked abideth, shalt thou prepare a refuge for the oppressed, and for the poor and needy. Unto thee shall they come, and their brethren who are scattered shall come with them; and the destruction of the ungodly shall quickly follow; for it already worketh." Then will come the great and terrible day of the Lord. Prophecy indicates a third of Israel will survive; and most likely less than ten percent of the nations whose roots go back to Rome. In 70 AD, exactly forty years after the end of the Jewish Dispensation, the army of Rome descended on Jerusalem. Over ninety percent of the Jews were killed. "15 For the day of the LORD is near upon all the heathen [Gentile]: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head. 16 For as ye have drunk upon my holy mountain, so shall all the heathen drink continually, yea, they shall drink, and they shall swallow down, and they shall be as though they had not been." (Obad. 1)

It seems this initial gathering, before the desolation, will most likely be to Beaver Island. This is where the "first" dominion was established under James. The next will be established in power. The revelation given to James on August 25, 1846, concerning Beaver Island seems to suggest this (read entire revelation). I quote paragraph 6. "6. And I asked him, What meaneth all this? And he said unto me, Thou art carried away in the spirit, and brought to this land in the midst of waters, in the north country, that the Lord might show thee what he will do hereafter. For here shall be a stake and a corner stone of Zion, for the strengthening of her curtains round about. Here shall the house of Manasseh and the house of Ephraim and the Gentiles build a house unto me, and bow down to me therein. For the sons of Jacob shall lay the foundation thereof, and therein shall they worship their God. And to this house shall the thousands of the house of Israel come, when the ice melts at the north. And there shall they meet their brethren in peace, and God shall be in the midst of them."

When Jesus returns, it will be "8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power." (2 Thess. 1) Jesus will bring again Zion. At "8 Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the LORD shall bring again Zion. 9 Break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the LORD hath comforted his people, he hath redeemed Jerusalem." (Isa. 52) Zion (in Independence, Missouri) and Jerusalem will be built again as the possession of the people of God. The entire land of Zion includes North and South America. "3 And it shall come to pass, that he that is left in Zion, and he that remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be called holy, even every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem: 4 When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning." (Isa. 4)

Independence, Missouri, will become the New Jerusalem. It seems James will stand as King (with dominion) in Zion and David in Judea; with Jesus standing as King of Kings (appointed by God). The nations of the earth will all fall. This country had an active part in the killing of the latter day Prophets. This Promised Land is very special. Those who live on this land are required to live according to the law of God. The Jaredites fell into iniquity and were totally destroyed. The Nephites fell into iniquity and were totally destroyed. Now the people of this country have fallen into all manner of iniquity. James prophesied that it would fall from within.

"16 Moreover the LORD saith, Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, and making a tinkling with their feet: 17 Therefore the LORD will smite with a scab the crown of the head of the daughters of Zion, and the LORD will discover their secret parts. 18 In that day the Lord will take away the bravery of their tinkling ornaments about their feet, and their cauls, and their round tires like the moon, 19 The chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers, 20 The bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs, and the headbands, and the tablets, and the earrings, 21 The rings, and nose jewels, 22 The changeable suits of apparel, and the mantles, and the wimples, and the crisping pins, 23 The glasses, and the fine linen, and the hoods, and the vails. 24 And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and burning instead of beauty. 25 Thy men shall fall by the sword, and thy mighty in the war. 26 And her gates shall lament and mourn; and she being desolate shall sit upon the ground." (Isa. 3)

As all of the House of Israel is re-established on the earth, Zion and Canaan will again be their inheritance. Those before Abraham (remember Moses first looked toward the west when he climbed the mount toward the Promised Land), the seed of Joseph, and the Gentiles will inherit Zion. The righteous seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will inherit the original land of Canaan. Of the heathen nations that never had the opportunity to hear of the true and living God and the gospel it is written that it shall go well with them (I don't remember the quote).

# Sectarians

Life and death has been a mystery to the people of the world. When Constantine organized the Catholic Church, his creed stated, "Whosoever will be saved, before all things it is necessary that he hold the Catholic faith. Which faith, except every one do keep whole and undefiled, without doubt he shall perish everlastingly." What a cruel god they do worship. We all lived together as spirits before this mortal life. "13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven." A third of all spirits followed Satan and was cast down never to have a physical body. After the Millennium and short season they will be cast off with the sons of perdition to spend eternity as spirits with no association with the rest of this creation. Only a few were loyal followers of God and Jesus. These receive the gospel in mortal life and are given the greatest opportunity. If they obey the gospel and endure faithful and obedient to the end, they have the promise of inheriting the earth in the celestial glory in eternity. Those who are the honorable men of the earth, with the saints who in life were not valiant in the testimony of Jesus, will begin eternity in the terrestrial glory. Those who remain filthy still at the end of the Millennium will inherit the terrestrial glory or a kingdom without glory. "40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead." (1 Cor. 15)

The sectarian Christian churches of today have no comprehension of life, death, and eternity. They have never had a Prophet to lead them and have never been given a dispensation for baptism of the dead. They would, as the Catholic Church, leave their generation to perish everlastingly. They have no appreciation that the gospel is being preached to the spirits in prison (hell) and that Jesus opened a dispensation of the gospel to them during the three days His physical body lay in the grave. When the final harvest dispensation is opened, there will be another dispensation for baptism of the dead. "18 For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: 19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison." (1 Pet. 3)

The relatively new gospel of salvation by faith makes a mockery of the law of God. Every country has laws that must be obeyed and officers to enforce them. The entire Bible is a testimony of the necessity of keeping the laws of God. North America is the north country of Scripture. It was where the Adam and Eve walked in the Garden of Eden. It will be the inheritance of the sons of God before Abraham, the seed of Joseph, and the daughter of Zion. The New Jerusalem will be located at Independence, Missouri. The thought that people can inherit eternal life without obeying the laws of the kingdom is pure mythology. "19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?" (James 2) "7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." (Rev. 21)

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"9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth [Rome]. 10 And there are seven kings: five are fallen [Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and Greece], and one is [Pagan Rome], and the other is not yet come [Pagan Christian Rome under Constantine]; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space [325 to 476 AD]. 11 And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth [Papal Rome], and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition." (Rev. 17) The final form of the beast is Papal Rome which was organized in 570 AD. Exactly 1260 years later Joseph Smith organized the Church of Christ on April 6, 1830.

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There were early reformers who tried to change some of the evil in the Christian church; but, they were all killed. Only Martin Luther, who had the support of European Kings, was able to stand up against the Pope. Of course, he was excommunicated; and could have no claim to divine authority. His solution was to declare than men could be saved by faith alone. Although this was a basic doctrine, it was not really enforced as the clergy remained in power in those churches.

"4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; 5 One Lord, one faith, one baptism." (Eph. 4) Luther, in effect, changed the gospel of Christ by removing any possibility of a claim to divine authority. "6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed." (Gal. 3)

One lie leads to others. When Luther lost all claim to divine authority, he had to change the gospel. It was not until 1830 (coincidence?) that a woman in Europe started the Evangelical Movement. The Protestant churches tried to retain some semblance of teaching principles of righteousness. The Evangelical Movement placed all emphasis on simply taking Jesus as our Savior and we are saved. Bah! "16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? 17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. 19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?" (James 2)

# Last Dispensation

When John the Baptist opened a minor preparatory dispensation six months before Jesus, it is likely he was the last righteous Priest of the Levitical Priesthood. The only promise given to the last gentile dispensation was that the Levitical Priesthood would not be taken from the earth. When John the Baptist ordained Joseph, he was told, "1 Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; and this shall never be taken again from the earth, until the sons of Levi do offer again an offering unto the Lord in righteousness." We have been extremely blessed in having a remnant of the Melchisedec Priesthood by which it seems a minor dispensation has been opened again. It most likely will not be long before the elect are gathered and Jesus returns, "8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power." (2 Thess. 1)

# Israel and the Jews

The possession of Israel by the Jews is a prelude of greater things to come. In the day of the Lord they will become His people once again. Then all of Israel will be gathered on heaven and on the earth in the restoration of all things. "37 Behold, I will gather them out of all countries, whither I have driven them in mine anger, and in my fury, and in great wrath; and I will bring them again unto this place, and I will cause them to dwell safely: 38 And they shall be my people, and I will be their God." (Jer. 32) Jesus is not returning to Rome, London, or San Francisco. He is returning to Jerusalem and His elect (including the small remnant of the daughter of Zion).

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About a year after the death of Solomon, Israel was divided into the children of Judah and the children of Israel. The children of Judah included the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, and half of Manasseh, and Ephraim. As Judah was the largest tribe we find these tribes noted as the children of Judah and the other (ten lost) tribes as the children of Israel. "12 And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth." (Isa. 11) "14 Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be said, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; 15 But, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north [Northern America], and from all the lands whither he had driven them [South America]: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers. 16 Behold, I will send for many fishers, saith the LORD, and they shall fish them; and after will I send for many hunters, and they shall hunt them from every mountain, and from every hill, and out of the holes of the rocks." (Jer. 16)

It was not entirely uncommon for the various tribes of House of Israel to intermarry. Joseph, of the tribe of Judah, married Mary, of the tribe of Levi. The only way a person can know for sure their lineage is through revelation. Joseph was told by revelation that he was of the seed of Joseph and especially of the tribe of Ephraim. James received a similar revelation that he was of the tribe of Judah. This lineage was as necessary as that of Jesus. "19 Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph [Book of Mormon], which is in the hand of Ephraim [Joseph Smith], and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah [Book of the Law], and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand." (Ezek. 37) The Gentile abridgement of the Book of Mormon had to be revealed to the Gentiles at the opening of the Gentile dispensation. It also provided another testimony of the truth of Jesus and of the doctrines in the Bible.

# Holidays

Those who honor Sunday, Christmas, and Easter offer honor to Satan. We often use traditional holidays as a time for the family to get together; but not in observance of those pagan holidays. We keep the only Sabbath sanctified by God. "15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you." (2 Cor. 6)

# Persecution

James J. Strang, George J. Adams, and William Marks (the Presidency) wrote "A Testimony to the Nation;" including the President, Congress, and people of the nation on April 6, 1850. It is recorded in the Gospel Herald, Vol. 5, No. 180, p. 92/1000. Governor Boggs of Missouri issued an extermination order against the saints based solely on religious discrimination. "In accomplishing this expulsion ten thousand persons, men, women and children, were plundered of their possessions, exiled from their homes, and driven in destitution, hunger and want, in mid winter, to a distant land, passing much of the way in the midst of hostile foes, who not only refused them shelter and food, but kept them in continual danger. ...For all these wrongs the laws and institutions of the country offer us no redress. ...We further ask that you, by some public act, condemn in behalf of the nation the martyrdom of the saints and their exile from some of the States. Unless you do this, will posterity and God hold the nation guiltless of the blood of saints and prophets? What evidence has ever yet been given that the nation sanctions not the deed? How has she washed her hands of this blood? ...We further ask that you take such measures, whether constitutional or by a peaceable change of the forms of government, as shall secure redress for these wrongs, and the punishment of the aggressors. Less than this there can be no excuse for doing. The government which cannot or will not prevent such crimes does not deserve to continue; and it would be distrusting the justice of the Most High to believe he would not destroy it."

In the last regular issue of the Northern Islander, James published an "Apology for the Mormons" in which he again pleaded for equal rights under the laws of the US. "But these things admonish us that we are not to expect peace or protection in the midst of the people who have done us this iniquity. Both by the commandment of God and from the necessity of our situation, we are seeking a home in a land where religious sects and political parties are far removed from us, a land uninhabited.

"We have not been suffered to live with other men. Shall we not be permitted to live alone? God made the earth for all men. Of the vast all he has given us a few little islands. They are the work of his hands; not man's. Why should man sell God's work?

"For nine years our communities have dwelt here in peace among themselves. The few small schisms which have arisen, have yielded to the ordinary course of discipline, and the wrong doers have either amended or departed from among us, doing us very little injury, except as they were abetted by public officers, religious boobies, the newspaper press, and bands of lawless men. Yet we are pursued from day to day with continual threatening. An effort is continually made to convince us that we are to have no rest forever.

"Three times have we fled before our persecutors, because we would not repel injuries by force. We understand by the word of God that it is our duty to flee no further. We do not learn from the divine writings that it is our duty never to resist evil deeds.—The time has come when forbearance is no longer a virtue.

"While men around us have for years threatened us with fire and blood, and we only asked legal justice, they have been continually commended for the forbearance, and we continually menaced with invasions, expatiation and death.

"We have ceased to take to ourselves any trouble about these matters. We have known for years what our persecutors seem so anxious to impress upon us, that, when the public vengeance is waked up the law will not protect us and that among an angry people innocence is no shield.

"We do not expect Governor or President to protect us against mobs. We live in the continual assurance that any one of us might be murdered in a neighboring county, and not a magistrate could be induced to issue process against the murderer.

"Yet we trust in God. We walk in conscious security. We laugh in bitter scorn at all these threats. And we tell these wolf hounds, marshal your myrmidons, and send them along, to make a spoil of beauty and booty, as soon as you please. We bid them a bloody welcome to hospitable graves; over which, each year, we will pile stones, with a muttered curse, against the day of the resurrection of damnation.

"We will neither purchase temporary peace and future calamities by dishonorable trafficking with political jugglers, nor will we yield our homes to enemies. If we live, here will we live. If we die, here will we die, and here shall our bones be buried, expecting in the resurrection of the just to possess the land forever, and dwell with the righteous during the lifetime of the Eternal.

God judge between us and all men. Saint James, June 1, '56."

On June 16, 1856, the U. S. Steamer Michigan docked at Beaver Island. Captain McBlair sent a messenger to Mr. Strang to come on board as he had done in the past. Two apostate Strangites, Thomas Bedford and Alexander Wentworth, were waiting on the dock. When James stepped on the dock, they both shot him. The boat's surgeon came on shore and pronounced the wounds mortal. The assassins immediately ran back on board. The sheriff sought their delivery; but the captain refused. They were returned to Mackinac, given a mock trial (so they could not be tried again), and were released. Once again, with the help of the U. S. Government a Prophet of God was martyred by assassins. Bro. Strang was taken back to Voree, Wisconsin, where he died on July 9, 1856. The saints were driven from the islands, their property stolen, and they were scattered.

Apostle Chidester was with Bro. Strang when he died. He wrote Apostle Post, "You inquire what to do. His direction was for every man to take care of his family and do the best he could till he found out what to do. You will understand when you receive this how to act, as well as any of us; you have it second hand, I had it from his own mouth. You state that you left word with your folks to go to Voree, they have not been here and we know not where they are, but expect they followed you."

Apostle Post gave an account of the murder of Bro. Strang in the "Record of the Apostles of James." "The conduct of the mob which consisted of about 60 ruffians, gathered from the regions round about; and the suffering of the Saints in consequence of the cruelty of the mob, is beyond the power of description. On the 8th of July the balance of the faithful left the Island on board the Steamer Buckey State, (which was chartered by H. D. McCulloch for that purpose,) for the several Ports up the Lake. On the 9th of July the Prophet James died. He was buried by his friends, who deeply mourned the death of their Prophet & King. Thus ended the life of James the beloved of the Lord. He was 43, years, 3 months, and 18 day old. He bore his sufferings with great patience, & as far as we know as innocent as a lamb, and had patience like Job, & meeker than Moses, and the wisdom of Solomon. Since the days of Jesus Christ upon the earth, there has been none to excel him. He was carefully trained while under his parents; and after being called of God to obey the gospel, being initiated into the Church and Kingdom by the prophet Joseph, and ordained by Hyrum the Patriarch, he was careful in observing God's law, and keeping his commandments, as man could be. He has translated the Book of the Law of the Lord, & caused it to be printed; which Law is to be kept by the Saints, until everlasting righteousness is brought in. The prophet was faithful unto his friends, & too merciful unto his enemies for his own safety. We are now left without any higher in the Priesthood than the Quorum of the Twelve, (unless God retains Joseph the land in his calling.) He did not tell who should succeed him as the Chief Shepherd of the flock; neither did he instruct the Apostles as to their duty, any farther than to take the best care of their families they could, until it was shown them what to do. Some of the Twelve attempted to get up a conference on the 6th of October (same year) and but few attended, & there was not much done for the relief of the Church.

Again on the 6th of December there was another Conference appointed; but the poverty of the Saints, and the inclemency of the weather, prevented there being much done at that Conference. The Saints being anxious to obtain the word of the Lord, concerning them, and the cause of Zion, proposed a fast: and the last day of the year 1856 was kept by some of them as a day for fasting and prayer. The day was not kept, only by a few, for the people are determined to do what seemeth right in their own eyes. There were five of the Apostles, that met together (viz) L. D. Hickey, L. D. Tubbs, J Pearce, J. Hutchins, & W. Post on the 10th of Feb. 1857, in the wilderness 6 miles from Racine, and there prayed and communed with each other all night. We became satisfied, that the Twelve could not lead the Church without a Prophet; and concluded to take care of ourselves & families; and when occasion offered; minister to the necessities of the Saints, according to our abilities, until we have the word of the Lord to guide us on to other duties. This is truly a time of mourning, & fasting; for God has chastened us sorely for our sins, & we know not the extent of our sins, for God has not shown them unto us. The faithful among us are determined to wait upon the Lord, and trust in his Mercies: for his mercy endureth forever." (pp. 44 – 46)

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There is a great lesson to be learned from the persecution, killing, and scattering of the people and Prophets of God. A calling to be a member of the church of the firstborn is the greatest blessing that a person can receive during mortal life. There are no blessings, though, without sacrifice. Each person entering the kingdom must change their life style, circumcise their heart, and desire to live by the word of God. Every person that is confirmed into the kingdom is bound by an everlasting covenant to love God accept Jesus and obey His commandments. "11 And I give unto you a commandment, that ye shall forsake all evil and cleave unto all good, that ye shall live by every word which proceedeth forth out of the mouth of God." (Utah D&C 98) The saints during the lives of Bro. Joseph and Bro. James were warned numerous times to live by the law of God. Read the blessings and curses found in Deuteronomy 28. "1 Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear." (Isa. 59) We can either learn from the punishments that were suffered by former saints, or we can walk according to the desires of the flesh and perish. The children of Judah suffered 70 seventy years in Babylon for disobedience to the Sabbath. "If ye will therefore possess these things, remember my law, to keep it... If ye will not live by it the promise is not unto you. It is a vain thing for you to witness my word, if ye will not regard it, to live by it." (Revelations of James)

# Contentions

There will always be some differences of opinion on minor issues. "21 But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince." (Dan. 10) These should only be very minor in nature. God has commanded us many times to be as one; and if we are not as one, we are none of His. Discussion is essential, controversy is inexcusable. Bro. Lloyd Flanders wrote that no latter day saint has a right to feel hurt. First, it denies the very foundation of saintly behavior. "22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently." (1 Pet. 1) Second, we are examples to the world. If there are contentions among ourselves, how is the world to know us? One of Satan's greatest tools is to divide and conquer. Bro. Strang had a lot of problem with saints getting involved in hearsay and gossip. We must always remember that the love given to us must be shared.

"22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: 23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. 24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. 26 And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them." (John 17)

"30 ...the Lord God hath given a commandment that all men should have charity, which charity is love, and except they should have charity they were nothing. Wherefore, if they should have charity they would not suffer the laborer in Zion to perish." (2 Nephi 26) "47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him. 48 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, pray unto the Father with all the energy of heart, that ye may be filled with this love, which he hath bestowed upon all who are true followers of his Son, Jesus Christ; that ye may become the sons of God; that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is; that we may have this hope; that we may be purified even as he is pure." (Moroni 7)

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I had a question about keeping secrets. Things are often kept in secret because they are not good. "2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God." (2 Cor. 4) It is evil to keep a secret concerning something that is evil (or an evil deed). "16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. 19 Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; 20 Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins." (James 5)

Secrets often lead to conspiracies to hide the truth or commit sin. These secret combinations to either hide truth or to commit an evil deed are things we should avoid. "22 And there are also secret combinations, even as in times of old, according to the combinations of the devil, for he is the founder of all these things; yea, the founder of murder, and works of darkness; yea, and he leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord, until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever. 23 For behold, my beloved brethren, I say unto you that the Lord God worketh not in darkness." (2 Nephi 26) Errors must be viewed as opportunities. All men sin in one way or another. It is far better to save a brother and to lose one.

Secrets also lead to confusion. "33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." (1 Cor. 14)

Many swords are two-sided. Since God is no respecter of persons and Jesus learned of the infirmities of the flesh, He will be a just judge of all. "10 But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: 11 For there is no respect of persons with God. 12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law." (Rom. 2) "13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: 14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. 18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures." (James 1)

# Celestial Law

The celestial law is a perfect law. Enoch and the city of Enoch were able to live by a celestial law and were taken into heaven. Jesus not only lived a celestial law, He offered Himself as a natural sacrifice to become the first fruits of the resurrection and be given power over our resurrection.

The celestial law requires that we have all things in common. God said, "If are not equal in your temporal affairs, you cannot be equal in your spiritual affairs." Joseph Smith tried to establish a celestial order; but failed. In its place the people were placed under the law of tithing until Jesus returns. James J. Strang established the Order of Enoch; but, only very few ever lived by this law.

"22 But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect." (Heb. 12)

In the vision given to Joseph and Sidney they were told about the celestial glory. "67 These are they who have come to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of Enoch, and of the Firstborn. 68 These are they whose names are written in heaven, where God and Christ are the judge of all. 69 These are they who are just men made perfect through Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, who wrought out this perfect atonement through the shedding of his own blood. 70 These are they whose bodies are celestial, whose glory is that of the sun, even the glory of God, the highest of all, whose glory the sun of the firmament is written of as being typical." (D&C 76)

Not even Paul was assured that he would inherit the celestial glory. "12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 3)

The Apostle John E. Page compared the church to a great moral hospital where men are healed of their mortal infirmities. Just men are those that make every effort to live faithful and obedient to the law of God. When they error, they confess and repent. "16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5) "9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1) "18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. 19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land." (Isa. 1) Above all things we remember our love for one another, forgive one another, and help one another through this dark and cloudy time.

# Righteousness

There are many good articles throughout the official church journals. The following was included in Volume Five of the Gospel Herald.

Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth." Matt. v. 5.

O what a blessed hope is ours, if we are of that happy number called the meek! We are not only blessed, but we are told what our blessing shall consist in; for we shall "inherit the earth." The wisest man, so called, says: "The hope of the righteous shall be gladness; but the expectation of the wicked shall perish." For he says, "the righteous shall never be removed; (of course from the earth;) but the wicked shall not inherit the earth." Prov. x. 28, 30.

And, again: "Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished; but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered. "But where, O where, are we to be recompensed? Here upon this planet where we were created, and where our sphere of action has been? or in some, to us, unknown region? "Behold the righteous shall be recompensed." Where, I ask? "In the earth;" "much more the wicked and the sinner." Prov. xi. 21, 31. Is it indeed possible that eighteen hundred years have rolled away, and kingdoms, principalities and powers have been reared up by the power of man, and as a millstone have fallen, never more to rise, and mankind should in this, the boasted nineteenth century, filled with a so called religious knowledge, be found singing with all zeal of a devotee\--

"Beyond the bounds of time and space,

Look forward to that heavenly place,

The saints secure abode."

O heavens! have not the sectarian world read their Bibles? If they have, are they blind, or are they consummate hypocrites? "Behold the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth; much more the wicked and the sinner. "But what is the recompense of the righteous?--"They shall inherit the earth." "For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it; but the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it." Prov. iii. 21, 22. "Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up." Matt. xv. 13. "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain the; he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved." Psa. iv. 22.

"Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; fret not thyself in any wise to do evil: for evil doers shall be cut off; but those who wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth: for yet a little while and the wicked shall not be; yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place and it shall not be. But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnash upon him with his teeth. The Lord shall laugh at him; for he seeth that his days are coming." Psa. xxxvii. 13.

Again: "The Lord knoweth the days of the upright; and their inheritance shall be forever. For such as are blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off. The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell therein forever. Wait on the Lord and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off thou shalt see it." Psa. xxxvii. 18, 22, 29, 34. What glorious, what interesting promises "to the meek, to the just," to the "righteous," for [Page 2/910] they shall eventually see the wicked rooted up, cut off and receive their recompense in the earth; and the meek shall diligently consider his (the wicked's) former place, and shall not find it, for he shall not inhabit or inherit the land.

But God will never suffer the righteous to be moved from the earth. Here they shall have an everlasting inheritance, and sinners shall be destroyed, "cut off, consume away as smoke," and the meek shall see it, and shall inherit the earth; for so say the prophets, so said Jesus, and so saith nature, reason, philosophy, and God's eternal truth. As strange as it may seem to some, "the meek" have never as yet "inherited the earth," The wicked have held universal sway, as regards the inheritance of the earth. Abraham received a promise from God that his seed should have the land of Canaan as a gift from him. Gen. xii. 6, 7. "And the Lord said unto Abraham, after Lot was separated from him, lift up now thine eyes and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward. For all the land which thou seest to thee will I give it, and thy seed forever." Gen. xiii. 14, 15.

But did they expect to realize the full extent of that promise in this life? Let us well consider this matter. When they inherit the earth the "wicked shall be cut off, rooted up, consumed away," and "burned up root and branch, and the expectation of the wicked shall perish." This was never accomplished in the days of Abraham, or any of his seed. Stephen, in speaking of this very same thing, says, Acts vii. 5: "And he (God) gave him (Abraham) none inheritance in it; no, not so much as to set his foot on: yet he promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when as yet, he had no child." Paul says, Heb. xi, 8, 9: "By Faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise as in a strange land, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs of the same promise; for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God."

Now Stephen says, God gave him none inheritance in the land, not so much as a place to set his foot on. And Paul says, when he was called on to go into the land which he should afterward receive for an inheritance, obeyed. And, again, he sojourned there in the land of promise, as in a strange land. Now if God did not give him any inheritance thereon at that time, or during his sojourning there, or his life-time, when was he to receive or realize the promises from God? It says, he should afterward receive it as an inheritance. But in order to throw still more light on this all important subject, I will again quote Paul, Heb. xi. 13. "These," speaking of Abraham, Enoch, and Noah, who had alike precious faith, "all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth."

By this we learn that Abraham and others all died in faith, not yet having received the promises, or not having yet received their inheritance which God promised them they should afterwards receive; but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed they were strangers, not citizens and landlords, but strangers and pilgrims on the earth, which they should afterwards receive for an inheritance. No, the patriarchs had to wander in sheep-skins and goatskins, and with their brethren, the prophets and apostles, had to be "afflicted, destitute and tormented, of whom the world was not worthy; they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens, and in caves of the earth." "And all these," says Paul, "having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promises." Heb. xi. 37-39. Like good old Job, in his trial of faith, all of those worthies spoken of by Paul could cry out, "O that my words were now written! O that they were printed in a book! that they were graven with an iron pen, and laid in the rock forever! For I know [Page 3/911] that my Redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand in the latter day upon the earth. And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another, though my reins be consumed within me." Job xix. 23-28.

Yes, they "endured as seeing him who is invisible," expecting to reap in due season, if they did not faint. They all knew, like good old Isaiah, who saw so much of the latter day work, that "thy dead men, together with my dead body, shall they arise; and the earth shall cast out the dead," Isa. xxvi. 19. Therefore even women would "earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints," and "receive their dead raised to life again, and others were tortured not excepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection." Heb. xi. 35. They wanted to stand in the latter day upon the earth with their Redeemer, though their bodies crumbled to the dust they knew the earth would cast out the dead, and they should obtain a better resurrection, and receive their inheritance when the wicked should be burned up, and few men left, and none to molest or make them afraid while they enjoy the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world.

O what a glorious theme for the latter day saints! It is that which animated the hearts of all the old patriarchs, prophets and apostles, and saints of God in all the world. The day is drawing nigh when the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord, and he will come and wipe away all tears from off all faces, and reign on the earth, and give the meek their inheritance on the earth, when nothing shall hurt or molest or make them afraid, and every man shall sit under his vine and fig-tree, according to the prophets. Seeing we look for these things, what manner of men ought we to be, in all meekness and lowliness of heart?--Let us be up and doing just what God would have us to do, with an eye single to the glory of the King of kings, and Lord of lords, that we may be called the meek, and receive the blessing of Christ, and our inheritance on the earth, "when the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest." Let us love one another and never dissemble, and by so doing we may be one, and then soon, yea, soon, the work will be accomplished, and we will take the kingdom, and possess it forever and ever. H. P. B.

# The Godhead

Joseph addressed the Godhead in Lecture Five in the Lectures on Faith. Some of this is confusing I guess because it was not given to Joseph to teach all things. Joseph does note that the Father and the Son constitute the governing and supreme power over all things (in this creation). It is a little misleading in identifying the nature of the Father. "2. ...The Father being a personage of spirit, glory and power: possessing all perfection and fullness: The Son, who was in the bosom of the Father, a personage of tabernacle. ...which Spirit is shed forth upon all who believe on his name and keep his commandments: and all those who keep his commandments shall grow up from grace to grace, and become heirs of the heavenly kingdom, and joint heirs with Jesus Christ; possessing the same mind, being transformed into the same image or likeness, even the express image of him who fills all in all: being filled with the fullness of his glory, and become one in him, even as the Father, Son and Holy Ghost are one."

The statement that the Father is a personage of spirit is only half correct; and may be misleading. The Father is a personage of spirit as we are all personages of spirit. Bro. Strang corrected any misunderstanding on this subject in the Book of the Law, page 56, verse 16.)

Joseph edited volume three of the Times and Seasons. "Joseph Smith opposes vice and error, and supports his positions from revelation: no odds whether there be two, three, or 'Gods many.' The Father and the Son are persons of Tabernacle; and the Holy Ghost a spirit, besides the sons of God: for the scriptures say: 'Ye are Gods.'" (p. 926)

The separate identities of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is demonstrated at the baptism of Jesus, "16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." (Matt. 3)

Nimrod, King of Babylon, invented the Trinity. It was adopted in all the mystery religions to oppose truth. Those who worship such a non-entity will soon discover their error when Jesus returns, "8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power." (2 Thess. 1)

I am always delighted to hear from you.

# Prophetic Succession

"Why do you think James did not name a successor? Were there not second degree apostles in the church at the time of his death?" You are correct that there were no second degree Apostles at the death of Bro. Strang. Apostle Chidester wrote to Apostle Post on July 14, 1856, "I received your letter today, and hasten to answer. If you have not received the news ahead of this, it will be sad news to you. I closed the prophets eyes in the sleep of death the 9th of July, fifteen minutes before ten o'clock.

"You inquire what to do. His direction was for every man to take care of his family and do the best he could till he found out what to do. You will understand when you receive this how to act, as well as any of us; you have it second hand, I had it from his own mouth." (Record of the Apostles of James, p. 31)

On August 3, 1856, Apostle Chidester wrote to Apostle Page again on August 3, 1856, "I received your communication of July 27th last evening, and sit down to answer it. In the first place we are without a head to our knowledge, in the flesh, our Prophet and King has been stricken down by the hands of wicked men."

"Again on the 6th of December there was another Conference appointed; but the poverty of the Saints, and the inclemency of the weather, prevented there being much done at that Conference. The Saints being anxious to obtain the word of the Lord, concerning them, and the cause of Zion, proposed a fast: and the last day of the year 1856 was kept by some of them as a day for fasting and prayer. The day was not kept, only by a few, for the people are determined to do what seemeth right in their own eyes. There were five of the Apostles, that met together (viz) L. D. Hickey, L. D. Tubbs, J Pearce, J. Hutchins, & W. Post on the 10th of Feb. 1857, in the wilderness 6 miles from Racine, and there prayed and communed with each other all night. We became satisfied, that the Twelve could not lead the Church without a Prophet; and concluded to take care of ourselves & families; and when occasion offered; minister to the necessities of the Saints, according to our abilities, until we have the word of the Lord to guide us on to other duties. This is truly a time of mourning, & fasting; for God has chastened us sorely for our sins, & we know not the extent of our sins, for God has not shown them unto us.

"The faithful among us are determined to wait upon the Lord, and trust in his Mercies: for his mercy endureth forever." (Ibid., pp. 44, 45)

"Again on the 6th of December there was another Conference appointed; but the poverty of the Saints, and the inclemency of the weather, prevented there being much done at that Conference. The Saints being anxious to obtain the word of the Lord, concerning them, and the cause of Zion, proposed a fast: and the last day of the year 1856 was kept by some of them as a day for fasting and prayer. The day was not kept, only by a few, for the people are determined to do what seemeth right in their own eyes. There were five of the Apostles, that met together (viz) L. D. Hickey, L. D. Tubbs, J Pearce, J. Hutchins, & W. Post on the 10th of Feb. 1857, in the wilderness 6 miles from Racine, and there prayed and communed with each other all night. We became satisfied, that the Twelve could not lead the Church without a Prophet; and concluded to take care of ourselves & families; and when occasion offered; minister to the necessities of the Saints, according to our abilities, until we have the word of the Lord to guide us on to other duties. This is truly a time of mourning, & fasting; for God has chastened us sorely for our sins, & we know not the extent of our sins, for God has not shown them unto us.

"The faithful among us are determined to wait upon the Lord, and trust in his Mercies: for his mercy endureth forever." (Ibid. pp. 44, 45)

A good testimony for Bro. Strang is the fact that he did not appoint a successor. In a revelation given to James, the people were told, "If this people will turn unto him, and repent of all their evil deeds, and no more slay the prophets which he sendeth unto them." They failed, they were not given another Prophet, and they had their property stolen and were scattered among the Gentiles. Bro. Strang quoted from Micah 4 in his ministry. "8 And thou, O tower of the flock [James J. Strang], the strong hold of the daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem [July 8, 1850]. 9 Now why dost thou cry out aloud? is there no king in thee? is thy counseller perished? for pangs have taken thee as a woman in travail. 10 Be in pain, and labour to bring forth, O daughter of Zion, like a woman in travail: for now shalt thou go forth out of the city, and thou shalt dwell in the field, and thou shalt go even to [spiritual] Babylon; there shalt thou be delivered; there the LORD shall redeem thee from the hand of thine enemies." (Micah 4)

# Death

We have been blessed with a correct understanding of life, death, and eternity. We all lived together as spirits before the foundation of the earth. As loyal followers of God and Jesus we were for-ordained to be offered the gospel during mortal life. "4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated [for-ordained] us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will." (Eph. 1) This is the greatest gift that is ever given to man during mortal life; as it opens the door to the church of the firstborn, life during the Sabbath of Creation, the celestial glory in the resurrection, and life on earth with God and Jesus. "3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. 7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son." (Rev. 21)

We know that when our spirit is united with a physical body that we become a living soul by the breath of life. When our spirit leaves this mortal body, we are taken back to the God who made it (Jesus) for judgment. Those who have worshipped God, honored Jesus, and lived according to the will of God are taken to the bosom of Abraham to remain until the resurrection. Elder Ssali is in paradise. The difficulties, trials, and tribulations of mortal life are over for him. We who remain must remember to work at being perfect even as our father in heaven in perfect.

THE DEAD.

"Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord."

List! for angels' harps are ringing

Sweetly through the azure sky;

List! for angels bright are singing

Of a fairer home on high:

They have come, the gentle hearted,

They, the loved, the blest departed,

Even now they hover near;

They have come our souls to cheer.

When from our sad sight they vanished,

Bitterly our spirits wept;

But that hour their care was banished,

Vainly deemed we that they slept.

Every brow a crown now weareth,

Every hand a sceptre beareth,

O'er them a bright change hath past,

Sisters, since we met them last.

List, their songs of joy and gladness

Float upon tote summer air,

Hushing each wild note of sadness,

Calming every young heart's care:

Whispering that a night of sorrow,

Oft foretells a bright to morrow;

Whispering of a better land,

Where is joined each severed band.

On a land where sorrow never

Foldeth the freed spirit's wing;

Of a land whose skies forever

With the songs of angels ring:

Where no sad farewells are spoken,

Where no holy ties are broken;

Regions far removed from earth,

Regions of the spirit's birth.

S. M. D. (Zion's Reveille, 2.23.93/145)

"Every mind has a mission to fulfill, an influence to be felt, either for good or for evil; and none are so lost, so degraded, but that some spark of moral fire is burning whithin his bosom—and that little spark, though faint and feeble, may kindle a bright and glowing flame. Say not it is too insignificant, too trifling to accomplish any useful end. Whatever is good, is worthy of preservation, is worthy of cultivation. The little germ of Truth you throw by the way side, will not be lost—it shall not perish; no! It will be guarded and nurtured by angels, and shall flourish forever!

"We should not fail, then, to speak one kind word at least to cheer the wounded spirit. Think not, when some wanderer crosses your way, that word of warning will be no avail; though the erring one may scorn your counsel, that friendly word will come to him again, and lead the spirit that hath gone astray back to the path of virtue. Words of counsel spoken in love will never be forgotten; faithful memory will treasure them up, and the fitting time will come for them to do their work.

"Think not, then, of kindness, an act of love, however trifling may seem the word of friendly admonition, think not thrown away, wherever the opportunity to speak, to act, is seen; then do your duty, your good deed will be recorded in heaven—and you will find even here on earth, a full and satisfactory reward!" (Author unknown)

# Temple Ordinances

The term endowment is not used in the Bible or Book of Mormon. It represents some special gift, in this case power from on High. The first endowment was given five years after the dispensation of the fullness of times was opened by Joseph. "12 For behold, I have prepared a great endowment and blessing to be poured out upon them, inasmuch as they are faithful and continue in humility before me." (D&C 105)

"THE ENDOWMENT.

"We have received a 24 page tract containing a pretended revelation of the proceedings of what was called the endowment of the apostate Twelve and their followers at Nauvoo, with a request for our opinion of the propriety of the publication. But as the author has already printed three editions, we doubt not he was more anxious for approbation than advice. This tract, besides many other things, some of which are well enough, and some extremely erroneous, gives seven degrees of a kind of bastard Free Masonry, said to have been administered to several thousand persons in the Temple at Nauvoo under the direction of Brigham Young, &c., all committed to the authors of the work under the sanction of a solemn oath of perpetual secrecy. And that the readers of the tract may be certain that what they read is true, the authors have added their oath that these disclosures are strictly true. So, by their own showing, we have both their oath that they will not disclose and reveal, and that they have disclosed and revealed. Thus we know, by the testimony of perjured witnesses, that they either have or have not revealed the apostate endowment. The book contains some sterling truths in regard to the origin of the church of God, and, on the whole, we think is as likely to do good as hurt; but we cannot attempt to accomplish a good work by wicked means, and will have nothing to do with this trifling with oaths. If all the falsehood, all the perjury was left out, we would recommend the work; but as it is we cannot consent to advertise the book or the author, or place of publication, lest we should thereby become instrumental in rewarding perjury. Certainly some excuse is made in this case for violating an oath, and so every man who wishes to violate one has his excuse. Oh the inconsistency of man! How has half christendom cried out against the Catholic priesthood for granting dispensations? Yet all these men take to themselves a dispensation just when they please, and for what they please, and without terms or conditions. A few years ago nearly all the Protestant churches in the middle States granted general dispensations to break masonic oaths. Some time before most of the northern States of Europe granted like dispensations for various crimes. A strange pass the world is coming to. God deliver us from all men who regard not oaths or covenants, or prophets." (Gospel Herald, Vol. 2, p. 240/292)

"I am aware, also, that the Twelve claim in their first Apostolic letter after the death of Joseph (Letter of Brigham Young, Aug. 15, 1844, in the Times and Seasons of that date) to preside over and dictate all the affairs of the church in all the world. And they emphatically charge us, Let no man presume for a moment that his place (Joseph's) will be filled by another. Thus they assumed to abolish the First Presidency of the church and usurp its duties to themselves.

"This claim, however, is not only utterly unsupported by any one testimony, but is in many points directly contrary to the word of God. The Twelve are a traveling. and not a local or general, high council, and though they are required to build up the church, and regulate all the affairs thereof in all nations, they are to do so expressly under the direction of the Presidency of the church, agreeable to the institution of Heaven. (1835 D.C. 3:12; Utah D.C. 107:33; Reor. D.C. 104:12) They hold the keys of the opening of the gospel to the nations, (1835 D.C. 3:13; Utah D.C. 107:34; Reor. D.C. 104:13a), but the keys of mysteries and revelations belong to Joseph as First President, Prophet, Seer, and so forth, and to his successors regularly appointed by revelation through him. (1835 D.C. 5:6; 11:4; 14:1 2; Utah D.C. 102:9 11: 35:17 18; 43:1 7; Reor. D.C. 99:6a c: 34:4e f; 14:la 2c). The keys of the kingdom belong to Joseph, for time and eternity, but still with a regular succession as to the oracles or gift of receiving revelation for the church. (1835 D.C. 84:2; Utah D.C. 90:3 5; Reor. D.C. 87:2a b) The Melchizedek priesthood, by its presidency, holds the keys of ordinances and spiritual blessings. (1835 D.C. 3:9 & 31; Utah D.C. 107:18 19 & 60 67; Reor. D.C. 104:9a b & 31b f) And in all these things the Twelve are without power, their duties being to open the preaching of the gospel.

"Moreover, it cannot be that the Twelve should dictate all the [Page 24/336] affairs of the church in all the world, because they not only are under the direction of the First Presidency, but the high council is above them, and they are amenable to it. "The most important business of the church, and the most difficult cases of the church, in as much as there is not satisfaction upon the decision of the Bishop or Judges, it shall be handed over and carried up to the council of the church before the Presidency of the high priesthood; and the Presidency of the council of the high priesthood shall have power to call other high priests, even twelve, to assist as counselors; and thus the Presidency of the high priesthood and its counselors shall have power to decide upon testimony according to the laws of the church. And after this decision it shall be had in remembrance no more before the Lord, for this is the highest council of the church of God, and a final decision upon controversies, in spiritual matters. (1835 D.C. 3:35; Utah D.C. 107:78 80; Reor. D.C. 104:35a c) There is not any person belonging to the church, who is exempt from this council of the church." (1835 D.C. 3:36; 5:13; Utah D.C. 107:81; 102:30 32; Reor. D.C. 104:36; 99:13a b)

"Upon what pretense is this claim of the Twelve founded? Upon the trial of Sidney Rigdon, they took pains to state it as strongly as possible, and they make out no more than this, that when Joseph Smith was candidate for President of the United States, and knew by the Spirit that some great thing was to happen, but did not know what it was, he gave them an endowment of ordinances (not the oracles), and told them that on their shoulders would rest the responsibility. (See trial of S. Rigdon, Times and Seasons, Sept. 15, 1844, page 647, remarks of Orson Hyde). These ordinances are intended for the whole church men, women and children. Will they all have power to dictate all the affairs of the church in all the world then? If not, how do these ordinances give the Apostles that power now? If these ordinances gave certain power to some men, why not to others?

"All the Twelve were not present and did not receive these ordinances. Whence their claim of power? Several persons, not of the Twelve, were present and received all these ordinances with such of the Twelve as were there. Why are not they included in the favored number? Joseph survived this meeting some months. Why did not they find out that he had resigned his office and devolved its duties on them, till after he was dead? If his giving an endowment of ordinances, and rolling the responsibility of giving counsel, etc., upon some twenty five men with their wives, as he commenced a political career vacated his office and those of his counselors, and superseded the First Presidency and an entire quorum of the church, it is certainly most extraordinary. A very moderate share of common sense, or any acquaintance whatever with the laws of the church, accompanied with integrity of heart, will reject so preposterous a claim at first blush. The responsibility of leading the church by good counsel in proper order would devolve on a few of its most influential members, necessarily, whenever Joseph's attention was turned from them, by any means whatever, not in virtue of any offices they might hold, but as leading men. Since the death of Joseph, they have used that responsibility to lead the church from the rock of revelation, out of the true order, and from the place of refuge God has appointed unto them. Thus have a few led, sanctioned by the votes of Conferences instead of the voice of God, till the destruction which not only lurks in midnight darkness, but stalks boldly at noonday, is upon them.

"The Twelve have never, in any known publication, claimed, either for themselves or any one of their number, to be First President of the church, or President of the high priesthood. Their claim is to supersede the First Presidency, put the high council which God has made the highest council of the church, (1835 D.C. 3:35; Utah D.C. 107:78 80; Reor. D.C. 104:35a c), below themselves, and put a bishop over it, where God placed a President, (1835 D.C. 3:9; Utah D.C. 107:18 19; Reor. D.C. 104:9a b), and finally, that ex officio, as Apostles and not as Presidents of the high priesthood, they are to hold the keys and powers which devolved on the First Presidency and its counselors, and to discontinue the offices of Seer, Revelator and Translator in the church.

"Nothing is more certain than that no law was made at the death of Joseph, or for some years previous, changing the order of the church, or abolishing any of its offices or quorums. Down to the time of his death, it was properly understood by the whole of the church that he alone received revelations from God to be taught by way of commandment in the church; that he and his two associates in the Presidency had the chief administration of the affairs of the church, and that they, with the twelve high counselors, were a court or judicatory of final resort in all important cases, and that the Twelve Apostles were the chief traveling elders and under the direction of the Presidency. And the man who, during the life time of Joseph, had said that the Twelve were at the head of the church, would have been looked upon either as a reckless and hair brained liar, or utterly insane. To have held this then was unblushing apostacy. To hold now that they are not so is equally apostacy with the leaders in Nauvoo. Whence is the change? In God or man? Does truth thus belie itself?

"Why should not the place of Joseph be filled by another? Says Brigham Young, "Because he stands in his own place and always will." (Apostolic Letter, Aug. 15, 1844). But in the same paragraph he also says the Twelve Apostles of this dispensation stand in their own places and always will. Brother Young, will not their places be filled by others when they fill the measure of their days? Then why was Brother Patten's place filled? Again: Who will be at the head of the church when the Twelve are all fallen asleep? Will not the High Priests and the Seventies all hold their own places? If so, shall anyone succeed them? Then where will the priesthood be when the present generation is dead'?

"But, says someone, God promised Joseph that the keys of the kingdom should never be taken from him in this world, neither in the world to come. Very well. They were never taken from Christ, but his holding them did not prevent Joseph, and in the eternal worlds all who are joint heirs with Jesus Christ will hold them at one and the same time.

"Brethren, I exhort you as you look for the coming of the Lord Jesus, follow not after these blinding fables. Set up no more the work of men's hand against the voice of God. Trust not in your own wisdom to improve or alter the law of God. You that have gone astray return to the order of God's house. Let all the quorums take their proper order as God has established them. Let the President who has wandered in darkness return to his proper place which God gave, nor covet that which men may offer. Let the Twelve take their place as a traveling high council with the keys of the opening of the gospel to the nations. Let the high counselors give counsel and assistance to the Presidency, which has been called to the high and responsible calling of leading the church to peace and happiness and preparing a people for the coming of the Son of God. Let the high priests teach the law of God unto the people. Let all the elders learn not to put their faith in some great man and say all is well, but let them buckle on the whole armor of God and stand up, bold defenders of truth, rather than men.

"Now in my weakness and in the infancy of my ministry I call upon you to assist me. It hath pleased God to put it into the heart of Joseph to appoint me to receive mysteries and revelations unto this church. And he has been faithful unto the vision and voice of God by sending me his epistle containing the revelation which God gave him, the Lord God confirming the same by sending his angels unto me to charge me with this ministry in the same hour that Joseph was taken away, and by witnessing the same to the brethren in those wonderful works which the brethren here are ready to testify unto you." (Gospel Herald, Vol. 3, p. 23.335) See also Gospel Herald, Vol. 3, No. 78, p. 52/365).

The Brighamite church uses numerous deceptions to bind their people to Satan. How can anyone receive a special power from on High without a Prophet and revelation? In a revelation given to James on July 1, 1846, on the "house unto my name," he was told, "And I will give him the preparation for an holy endowment therein, that he may instruct my people in the principles of the mysteries of my Kingdom as they are severally able to learn." As the Brighamites have no Prophet and receive no revelations (there is no "thus saith the Lord" among them), they cannot receive any endowments.

#  Mary and the Birth of Christ

You wrote, "- I was surprised to find that James did not believe in a virgin birth. Especially in light of Alma 7:10." You fail to understand the proper translation of the term which in English has been often translated virgin. "8 Lament like a virgin girded with sackcloth for the husband of her youth." (Joel 1) The term translated virgin meant a young women and even meant a married person who was sexually pure. A husband or wife that is true to the marriage vow remains a virgin. "4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." (Heb. 13) See, "Escape from Armageddon," page 91. There is much more on this pagan doctrine, if you are interested. Martin Luther's Bible used "yung frau;" as Mary was simply a young woman.

There have been many changes, interpolations, and errors introduced into the Book of Mormon. This is why Bro. Strang wrote, "The Book of Mormon is not a text book among the Saints of the last days. In all their public controversies the Bible is the universal standard; but in their domestic affairs, THE BOOK OF THE LAW IS THE END OF CONTROVERSY." (Northern Islander, Vol. 4, No. 51, Sept. 7, 1854)

The entire doctrine of the virgin birth was added to Matthew. It was adopted from the pagan doctrine of demigods—gods born upon virgin females by other gods. Even Constantine was considered God, born of a virgin. The question to resolve is whether we believe that God was an adulterer and Jesus the bastard son of a ghost. Jesus called Himself the Son of Man 72 times in the Bible. Does it not seem strange that this foreign doctrine is found only in Matthew and in paganism? This would have been an event spoken of by all the Apostles. If they had taught such a doctrine, the people would have recognized it from the doctrines of the pagans around them and justly rejected Jesus. "15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial?" (2 Cor. 6) It ranks with the Trinity among the evil doctrines adopted into Christianity from paganism.

John Wesley, one of the founders of Methodism, writing about the loss of the gifts of the Holy Ghost, actually cmmented on the loss of the Christian faith. "The cause of this was not, as has been supposed, because there was no more occasion for them, because all the world was become Christians. This is a miserable mistake; not a twentieth part of it was then nominally Christian. The real cause of it was that the love of many, almost all Christians, so-called, was waxed cold. The Christians had no more of the spirit of Christ than the other heathens. The Son of Man, when He came to examine His Church, could hardly find faith upon earth. This was the real cause why the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost were no longer to be found in the Christian church--because the Christians were turned heathens again, and only had a dead form left." (John Wesley's Works, Vol. 7, 89; 26-27)

"A wonderful instance of this spiritual blindness, this total inability to discern the signs of the times mentioned in the scriptures, is given us in a very celebrated work of a late eminent writer, who supposed the New Jerusalem came down from heaven when Constantine the Great called himself a christian. I say called himself a christian, for I dare not affirm that he was one any more than Peter the Great. I cannot but believe he would have come nearer the mark if he had said that it was the time when a huge cloud of infernal brimstone came up from the bottomless pit! for surely there never was a time when Satan gained so fatal an advantage over the church of Christ as when such a flood of riches, and honor and power broke in upon it, particularly on the clergy." (See Vol. 2, page 97)

The Church of England in the "Homily Against Peril of Idolatry," first published about the middle of the sixteenth century, admitted of the great Christian apostasy. "So that laity and clergy, learned and unlearned, all ages, sects, and degrees of men, women, and children of whole Christendom-- a horrible and most dreadful thing to think-- have been at once drowned in abominable idolatry; of all other vices most detested of God, and most damnable to man; and that by the space of eight hundred years and more."

The reason Bro. Strang did not honor the Virgin Birth is because it is a false doctrine from paganism. Jesus could be the son of David according to the flesh only through his father Joseph. "42 And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven?" (John 6) Mary was of the tribe of Levi.

# Atonement and Ransom

Jesus did not substitute His death for anyone. The plan of salvation that existed before any man walked on the earth required man to live during a mortal life where he could gain experience. It is only through the use of a free moral agency that man develops into whatever he will be. When Eve was deceived and ate of the forbidden fruit, the reaction was a purely normal one. Her body was chemically changed such that blood then coursed through her veins making her mortal. Although Adam was not deceived, he partook of the same fruit rather than lose his wife. It is obvious that Adam fully understood the future of mankind. "15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." (Gen. 3) Through this fall, man became mortal and was destined to die; as there was none perfect that sinned not until Jesus, who would "bruise his heel."

Jesus lived a perfect life without sin; and without an evil thought even entering His mind. Being completely free of sin, Satan had no power over Him (in death). After spending three days and nights with the spirits in prison (hell, while His physical body was in the grave), the Father was bound to resurrect Him. Jesus was then given all power; including power over our resurrection. The free gift was to receive another physical body that would be immortal. "12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: 15 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many." (Rom. 5) More accurately, "10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe." (1 Tim. 4) Through Jesus all mankind will receive an immortal physical body; but, only through a proper understanding of God and Jesus, obeying the gospel, and enduring faithful and obedient to the will and laws of God until the end of mortal life can a man have hope of a better resurrection. "22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." (Matt. 10) "11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. 12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. 16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing." (Phil. 3)

Through obedience to the gospel a person may enter the kingdom of God. "6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." (Heb. 11) "30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead." (Acts 17) "5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3) "53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you." (John 6)

An immortal physical body is the grace to all but Satan, his followers, and the sons of perdition. The grace to eternal life requires a life faithful and obedient to the will and laws of God. This is the story throughout the Bible and why the Book of the Law is the most valuable book of Scripture. Man is sanctified by the law (not the added law of Moses). John told of a resurrection of the just; and of a resurrection of the unjust after the Sabbath of Creation. Even Paul could not say he could be certain of the first resurrection. "24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." (1 Cor. 9) You have been given the great grace of understanding the path of light which leads to eternal life. "16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22) A dear friend once told me that we should every day as if it was our last; as it could be.

\--

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One of those lying traditions is the concept that Jesus died for our individual sins. If that was true, the Apostles would not have continued to preach the necessity of keeping the laws of God. "7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death." (Rev. 21)

This Evangelical Doctrine is like the current far left concept that regardless how a person enters this country, he/she should be accepted as a citizen. When laws are not enforced, anarchy follows. "12 Now they, after being sanctified by the Holy Ghost, having their garments made white, being pure and spotless before God, could not look upon sin save it were with abhorrence; and there were many, exceedingly great many, who were made pure and entered into the rest of the Lord their God. 13 And now, my brethren, I would that ye should humble yourselves before God, and bring forth fruit meet for repentance, that ye may also enter into that rest." (Alma 13) "31 For I the Lord cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance; 32 Nevertheless, he that repents and does the commandments of the Lord shall be forgiven; 33 And he that repents not, from him shall be taken even the light which he has received; for my Spirit shall not always strive with man, saith the Lord of Hosts." (D&C 1) Man cannot violate the laws of God and think for a moment that the death of Jesus will automatically free them from sin, if they recognize Him as their Savior. "21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." (Matt. 7) "19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble." (James 2)

The fundamental concept of sin which brought death was initiated by Adam and fulfilled by Jesus. "10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, SPECIALLY OF THOSE THAT BELIEVE." (1 Tim. 4) Those who have obeyed the will and laws of God (including the gospel) have the opportunity to come forth in the first resurrection, live on earth during the Sabbath of Creation, and begin eternity in the celestial glory. All others will have to wait the thousand years with the spirits in prison (hell) and come forth in the resurrection of the unjust.

It was not until the Melchisedec Priesthood was restored through Joseph Smith that the gate into the kingdom of God and the opportunity for eternal life was once again on the earth. If the Spirit of God remains within us, it helps us to refrain from being involved in any sin. Those who sin and do not repent have the Spirit withdrawn. Remember, the power of the gospel is the Melchisedec Priesthood. "16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not [and is not baptized] shall be damned." (Mark 16)

Jesus did give of Himself that all might have an immortal physical body; but, not all can inherit the same blessings in eternity. Read D&C 76. The best recording of this vision is contained in the Evening and Morning Star, page 10.

# Learning and Study

The most valuable attribute we can have is an earnest desire for spiritual truth. There is no blessing greater in mortal life than becoming a member of the kingdom of God. Few receive this blessing. Most sat on the stool of do nothing when the great division took place while we were spirits; when Satan and his followers were cast down never to have a physical body. Lloyd Flanders wrote to his son David, "Joseph Smith had his first manifestation at the age of 14 years: and was commanded NOT TO JOIN ANY CHURCH. It is why he received such a miserable education in the miserable schools of the early 1800s. He was born in 1805: and when he completed the manuscript of the Inspired Version: he was 28 years old: yet his formal education amounted [to] less that third grade. He and his brothers: especially Hyrum (who died with him) and Don Carlos who died in his early twenties (With a ministry behind him back to the age of 16) had a veritable passion for learning: which is a mark of the work of the Holy Spirit: in those whom God has foreordained: (David: Fore-ordination applies to those whose work is secular also) and so many men have had this yen for learning: Abraham Lincoln, for instance. If you ask why: Well, I guess the best answer is: That the 'Glory of God is Intelligence' and when men get acquainted with the Gospel: and get a taste of Truth and Logic: they want more: and the best sources are: God, Good men & Good books: in that order: but we do not all have the Faith to learn too much DIRECT from God: we lack the necessary humility." They want more because they receive a portion of the Spirit to call and guide them. Those who do not follow that guidance drift back into darkness.

#  Kings, Lawgivers and Apostles

In the order of Apostles there are four degrees. A first degree Apostle is a Prophet and Lawgiver. He is a Seer, Revelator, and Translator. He stands at the head of the Church of Christ on the earth. As this is a sole office, it requires an ordination by one who is not in mortal life. We are seldom told in the Bible who ordained the Lawgivers. Adam had to be ordained by the Father because all of the other people from this creation were still spirits. Elisha wanted to hold the same office of Lawgiver as did Elijah. "9 And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. 10 And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so." (2 Kings 2)

Elijah could not ordain him to this highest office while in mortal life. Once Elijah stepped on the fiery chariot and was translated he was no longer in mortal life and was able to ordain Elisha an Apostle, Prophet, and Lawgiver.

We are told in the epistle to the Hebrews (most likely by Paul) that Jesus was ordained to the same office by the Father. "4 And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he [the Father] that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. 10 Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec." (Heb. 5) Holding this highest office, Jesus also held the office of High Priest. "22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people." (Acts 3)

Jesus quoted from the first one and half verses of Isaiah 61 concerning His ordination and mission. "18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord." (Luke 4) This was the only part that Jesus was to fulfill during His mortal life.

Second degree Apostles are Prophets and Councilors. They are Seers and Kings. They teach the revelations and commandments which have been given by Lawgivers; but, cannot offer new revelations and commandments to the people. Their office is inferior to that of a Lawgiver. "1 Behold, I say unto thee, Oliver, that it shall be given unto thee that thou shalt be heard by the church in all things whatsoever thou shalt teach them by the Comforter, concerning the revelations and commandments which I have given. 2 But, behold, verily, verily, I say unto thee, no one shall be appointed to receive commandments and revelations in this church excepting my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., for he receiveth them even as Moses. 3 And thou shalt be obedient unto the things which I shall give unto him, even as Aaron, to declare faithfully the commandments and the revelations, with power and authority unto the church. 4 And if thou art led at any time by the Comforter to speak or teach, or at all times by the way of commandment unto the church, thou mayest do it. 5 But thou shalt not write by way of commandment, but by wisdom; 6 And thou shalt not command him who is at thy head, and at the head of the church; 7 For I have given him the keys of the mysteries, and the revelations which are sealed, until I shall appoint unto them another in his stead." (D&C 28)

Bro. Strang wrote, "If there was an interregnum in the Priesthood of Lawgiver, the oldest Apostle of THIS degree... would stand at the head till the place was filled." Sidney Rigdon could have had a just claim to succeed Joseph had James not already been called by Joseph and ordained a Lawgiver above him.

Since the office of Councilor is below that of Lawgiver, a Lawgiver can ordain a Councilor but only by direct revelation, as they are also Prophets and can stand at the head of the church. Joshua succeeded Moses in this office. "18 And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay thine hand upon him; 19 And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; and give him a charge in their sight. 20 And thou shalt put some of thine honour upon him, that all the congregation of the children of Israel may be obedient." (Num. 27) Joshua standing as a second degree Apostle held a higher office than Eleazar who was a Priest of the Levitical Priesthood.

Third degree Apostles are Ambassadors. Their mission is to the nations of the world and not to Zion. The only ordination of Brigham Young to the office of Apostle is recorded in the Kirtland Council Minute Book, pages 72 and 73. "He shall go forth from land to land, from sea to sea and shall behold Heavenly Messengers going forth... go forth from land to land and from sea to sea, and that heathen nations shall even call him God himself, if he did not rebuke them." The second degree Apostles (Oliver Cowdery, Sidney Rigdon, etc.) stood above the twelve. Their mission was to Zion.

Bro. Strang wrote, "8. Hence Peter, as the general head of the Church, addressed his epistles to the believers throughout the earth; whereas, Paul, as one of the Twelve, addressed his to those Churches in his jurisdiction." (Book of the Law, p. 221)

Second degree Apostles choose the twelve. "The three witnesses united in prayer (viz.) Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer & Martin Harris. These three witnesses were then blessed by the laying on of the hands of the Presidency. They then according to a former commandment, proceeded to make choice of the Twelve."

Offices below that of Apostle require only a calling by the mouth of one holding that priesthood and an ordination by one holding that priesthood. Bro. Strang wrote, "How was Aaron Called? The word of the Lord came unto Moses, not unto Aaron. In this church no man should be ordained except as God shall show to those that administer. Consequently those who are properly ordained have the same witness that they are called of God as Aaron had. As a general rule those who have a desire for the salvation of souls are called to the work of the ministry, and having that, if they are ordained according to the established rules of the church, they have at least as good evidence of their call as Aaron had. In order to being called of God as was Aaron, it is not necessary to be called by the mouth of a prophet, but by the mouth of any one who has authority to ordain. Under the gospel dispensation, when the elders were assembled together, the Holy Ghost said unto them, set apart such a one to the work, &c. Thus were they called of God as was Aaron. Being so called and ordained, those who magnify their office, will obtain knowledge of God, whereby they become witnesses of the things that they know. It is not necessary that an elder should testify of himself so much as of others. The authority of others being proved his is established." (Zion's Reveille, April, 1847, p. 50/102)

Again, "...For as Aaron was called of God by the mouth of Moses, who held as high authority as that to which he called him, being both Prophet and High Priest, after the order of melchisedec; so no man lawfully taketh the priesthood unto himself, but he that is called by revelation of God, BY THE MOUTH OF ONE LAWFULLY IN THE PRIESTHOOD AND HOLDING AS HIGH AUTHORITY AS THAT TO WHICH HE CALLS." (Gospel Herald, Oct. 7, 1847, p. 118/170)

Within the priesthood there are two levels: evangelical and ruling authority. See the Book of the Law, page 163. Those called to royal authority must be ordained by one holding royal authority. An Apostle or Presiding High Priest must ordain a Presiding High Priest or member of the High Council. After the death of Bro. Strang there remained only evangelical authority. That is, authority to preach the gospel and administer its ordinances. Ruling authority is derived from the Presidency. "33 The Twelve are a Traveling Presiding High Council, to officiate in the name of the Lord, under the direction of the Presidency of the Church, agreeable to the institution of heaven; to build up the church, and regulate all the affairs of the same in all nations, first unto the Gentiles and secondly unto the Jews." (D&C 107) "10 High priests after the order of the Melchizedek Priesthood have a right to officiate in their own standing [Presiding High Priests], under the direction of the presidency, in administering spiritual things, and also in the office of an elder, priest (of the Levitical order), teacher, deacon, and member." (D&C 107) At the death of Bro. Strang, there was no second degree Apostles. This is why none of the Twelve could stand at the head of the church. L. D. Hickey was the last of the twelve. Like the others, he made no attempt to stand at the head.

# Gifts of the Spirit

Not everyone receives of the Spirit equally. Each receives according to his own needs, those of the kingdom, and the will of God. Different missions bring different blessings of the spirit. A man called and ordained a Prophet will enjoy all of the gifts of the Holy Ghost. These can then be lost if we do not keep our personal temple of God clean. "45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first." (Matt. 12) "1 Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear." (Isa. 59)

Oliver Cowdery wrote that he wished they had kept a more perfect record of all the wonderful manifestations they were given in the early days of the church. As the people drifted away from the will of God, the Spirit withdrew itself and those manifestations were even lost to history.

# Sin and Forgiveness

The reason why only a very few are saved in mortal life is because they accept the traditions of man rather than following the admonitions of Scripture. "15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Tim. 2) "21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (1 Thess. 1) "20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." (Isa. 8) Bro. Strang taught that truth has no fear of investigation.

There is a shred of truth in the statement that our sins are forgiven through the sacrifice of Jesus. Sin brought physical death upon the human race (it is Satan's power over death of the mortal body). None could receive another immortal body until another man lived a perfect life such that Satan's power of death had no control over him. Only Jesus was capable of living such a life. "9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him." (Heb. 5)

We cannot comprehend the difficulties He faced in remaining pure. "19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous." (Rom. 5) "8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered." (Heb. 5) "3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled." (2 Cor. 10)

The sin of Adam brought mortal death upon all. The perfect life of Jesus brought resurrection from the dead. "15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." (Gen. 3) If we had to face the judgment bar of God without the grace of Jesus which frees us from physical death, we could not be resurrected. Through that grace of Jesus all men will be resurrected and receive an immortal physical body. The sons of perdition will face a second death and their spirits will be sent off with Satan for eternity.

We must be judged for our own sins. "2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14) Unbelievers are washed of their sins through the waters of baptism. Believers are cleansed through confession, repentance, recompense, and change of behavior. Anyone who remains in sin cannot be forgiven. No one can inherit a glory in the resurrection which he cannot abide by the law of that glory. It was God's intent for all to inherit the celestial glory and be as one; but, our nature will not allow of such. We have to gain experience during this mortal life and make choices between good and evil. This will finally identify exactly who we are and what laws we can obey in eternity. There will be progression as people modify their behavior in eternity. Those of the celestial will minister to those of the terrestrial; and those of the terrestrial will minister to those of the telestial. Only those whose very nature is filthy still will not inherit the higher glories.

# Visions

Volumes could be written on "feelings." Bro. Joseph advised us there are many powerful spirits loosed upon the world; but not all are true. Satan and his followers were cast out of heaven after the resurrection of Jesus (Rev. 12:7-9) "12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak." (Eph. 6)

We have to try the spirits just as we have to try feelings, dreams, and visions by the law and the testimony. Millions stand up and testify that Brigham Yong was a prophet. Millions more declare they are saved simply because they believe Jesus is their Savior. Many dreams are simply what have been termed the subconscious trying to resolve the problems the conscious mind did not solve (or was intently interested in). There are dreams and visions from the unseen world. Here too are both good and bad.

Visions are not given because we want them. Seeking such is like looking for a sign. Jesus said it is an adulterous generation that seeks after signs. Of the thousands of healings conducted during the life of Joseph there is no evidence that even one person ever accepted the gospel on that account. These are generally blessings to the saints; although unbelievers have received manifestations at the will of God. When I was young, I used to go up on the Hill of Promise (where the Voree Plates were recovered), and prayed for a spiritual manifestation; even an angelic visitation. It was a serious error. Those things came when it was edifying and fulfilled the purposes of God.

Compare your feelings with the law and the testimony. "Feelings" have led more people astray than anything else. Many apostatized because they felt Joseph and James taught something that was false. Their personal opinions became more important than the law and the testimony. Jesus said, "26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" (Matt. 16)

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If you are able to understand spiritual truths, you are receiving revelations from God. These are most often impressions or understandings. "That really was quite simple." There is a wide range of revelations. There are revelations and commandments given to Prophets of God for the direction of the people. There are revelations given to the righteous as blessings. The reception of the Holy Ghost through laying on of hands of those in authority brings many blessings. "13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come." (John 16) "It cannot be expected that every one who receives the laying on of hands, will receive with it a powerful and overwhelming inspiration. But he will receive a spirit of truth sufficient, if cherished, to guide him into all truth, and make him wise in the things of God's Kingdom. Such should avoid looking for marvels, and be content with substantial wisdom and enduring knowledge." (James J. Strang, Book of the Law, p. 143) Revelations are given, on a limited basis, to unbelievers who are earnestly seeking truth. They are limited by the will of God, the intensity of their desire, and for-ordination. If not treasured, Satan will start to get his foot in the tent.

The True Points of My Doctrine - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Known as Strangites)

