Joseph Smith's Commentary on the Bible - Phillipians through James
Philippians Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" (Philippians 4:8). Date: 1 March 1842 (Tuesday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons (1 March 1842): 710; Articles of Faith 13 Joseph Smith: "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." Original:"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 any thing virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praise worthy we seek after these things."
Colossians Colossians 2:9 "For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9). Date: 9 July 1843 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: James Burgess Notebook, Church Archives (Words of Joseph Smith, 231) Joseph Smith: "Christ, who is the image of man, is also the express image of his Father's person. So says Paul. For in him, Christ, dwelt 'the fulness of the Godhead bodily' [Col. 2:9]. Why? Because he was 'the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person.' What person? God's person." Original: "Christ who is the image of man is also the express image of his Fathers person so says Paul. For in him Christ dwelt the fulness of glory; and the express image of his person. Ques. What person Gods person."1 Thessalonians 1 Thessalonians 4:7 "For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness" (1 Thessalonians 4:7). Date: March 1834
Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Ohio, USA
Source: Evening and Morning Star (March 1834): 142. Joseph Smith: "Remember, brethren, that he has called you unto holiness and, need we say, to be like him in purity. How wise, how holy, how chaste, and how perfect, then, you ought to conduct yourselves in his sight." Original: "Remember, brethren, that he has called you unto holiness; and need we say, to be like him in purity? How wise; how holy; how chaste, and how perfect, then, you ought to conduct yourselves in his sight; . . ." 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words" (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Date: November 1839 Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons (November 1839): 8 Joseph Smith: "Let us not sorrow as those without hope. The time is fast approaching when we shall see [our loved ones] again and rejoice together, without being afraid of wicked men. Yes, those who have slept in Christ shall he bring with him when he shall come to be glorified in his Saints and admired by all those who believe, but to take vengeance upon his enemies and all those who obey not the gospel. At that time, the hearts of the widow and fatherless shall be comforted, and every tear shall be wiped from off their faces." Original:
"Let us not sorrow as 'those without hope,' the time is fast approaching, when we shall see them again, and rejoice together, without being affraid [afraid] of wicked men: Yes, those who have slept in Christ, shall be bring with him, when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and admired by all those who believe: but to take vengeance upon his enemies, and all those who obey not the gospel. At that time, the hearts of the widow and fatherless shall be comforted, and every tear shall be wiped from of their faces."
1 Thessalonians 5:1-6 "But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober" (1 Thessalonians 5:1-6). Date: November 1839 Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons (November 1839): 9 Joseph Smith: "We shall therefore do well to discern the signs of the times, as we pass along, that the day of the Lord may not overtake us 'as a thief in the night.'" Original: "We shall therfore [therefore] do well to discern the signs of the times, as we pass along, that the day of the Lord may not 'overtake us as a thief in the night.'" 1 Thessalonians 5:2 "For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night" (1 Thessalonians 5:2). Date: 1839 Location: Illinois, USA Source: 1839 History; Papers of Joseph Smith, 1:370 Joseph Smith: "The day of vengeance is coming upon this generation like a thief in the night; prejudice, blindness, and darkness fill the minds of many and cause them to persecute the true Church and reject the true light." Original: "From this time until the 8th or 10th of January 1832 myself [Joseph Smith] and Elder Rigdon continued to preach . . . setting forth the truth; vindicating the cause of our Redeemer: shewing that the day of vengeance was coming upon this generation like a thief in the night: that prejudice, blindness, and darkness, filled the minds of many, and caused them to persecute the true Church, and reject the true light: . . ." 2 Timothy 2 Timothy 3:1 "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come" (2 Timothy 3:1). Date: 15 March 1839 (Friday) Location: Liberty Jail, Liberty, Clay County, Missouri, USA Source: Joseph Smith Letter to Presendia Huntington Buell (Personal Writings of Joseph Smith, 427-28) Joseph Smith: "We see the perilous times have truly come, and the things which we have so long expected have at last begun to usher in." Original: "we see that perilous times have truly come and the things which we have so long expected have at last began to usher in." 2 Timothy 4:6-8 "For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing" (2 Timothy 4:6-8). Date: March 1834Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Ohio, USA
Source: Evening and Morning Star (March 1834): 144. Joseph Smith: "No one who believes the account will doubt for a moment this assertion of Paul which was made, as he knew, just before he was to take his leave of this world. Though he once, according to his own word, persecuted the Church of God and wasted it, yet after embracing the faith his labors were unceasing to spread the glorious news. And like a faithful soldier, when called to give his life in the cause which he had espoused, he laid it down, as he says, with an assurance of an eternal crown. "Follow the labors of this apostle from the time of his conversion to the time of his death, and you will have a fair sample of industry and patience in promulgating the gospel of Christ. Whipped, stoned, and derided, the moment he escaped the hands of his persecutors he as zealously as ever proclaimed the doctrine of the Savior. And all may know that he did not embrace the faith for the honor of this life, nor for the gain of earthly goods. What, then, could have induced him to undergo all this toil? It was, as he said, that he might obtain that crown of righteousness from the hand of God. No one, we presume, will doubt the faithfulness of Paul to the end. None will say that he did not keep the faith, that he did not fight the good fight, that he did not preach and persuade to the last. And what was he to receive? A crown of righteousness. And what shall others receive who do not labor faithfully and continue to the end? We leave such to search out their own promises, if any they have. And if they have any they are welcome to them, on our part, for the Lord says that every man is to receive according to his works. Reflect for a moment, brethren, and enquire whether you would consider yourselves worthy [for] a seat at the marriage feast with Paul and others like him if you had been unfaithful. Had you not fought the good fight and kept the faith, could you expect to receive? Have you a promise of receiving a crown of righteousness from the hand of the Lord with the Church of the Firstborn? Here, then, we understand that Paul rested his hope in Christ, because he had kept the faith and loved his appearing; and from his hand he had a promise of receiving a crown of righteousness." Original: "No one who believes the account, will doubt for a moment this assertion of Paul which was made, as he knew, just before he was to take his leave of this world. Though he once, according to his own word, persecuted the church of God and wasted it, yet after embracing the faith, his labors were unceasing to spread the glorious news; and like a faithful soldier, when called to give his life in the cause which he had espoused, he laid it down, as he says, with an assurance of an eternal crown. Follow the labors of this apostle from the time of his conversion to the time of his death, and you will have a fair sample of industry and patience in promulgating the gospel of Christ: Whipped, stoned, and derided, the moment he escaped the hands of his persecutors, he, as zealously as ever, proclaimed the doctrine of the Savior. And all may know, that he did not embrace the faith for the honor of this life, nor for the gain of earthly goods. What then could have induced him to undergo all this toil? It was, as he said, that he might obtain that crown of righteousness from the hand of God. No one, we presume, will doubt the faithfulness of Paul to the end: None will say, that he did not keep the faith, that he did not fight the good fight, that he did not preach and persuade to the last: And what was he to receive? A crown of righteousness. And what shall others receive who do not labor faithfully, and continue to the end? We leave such to search out their own promises if any they have; and if they have any they are welcome to them, on our part, for the Lord says, that every man is to receive according to his works. Reflect for a moment, brethren, and enquire [inquire], whether you would consider yourselves worthy a seat at the marriage feast with Paul and others like him, if you had been unfaithful? Had you not fought the good fight, and kept the faith, could you expect to receive; have you a promise of receiving a crown of righteousness from the hand of the Lord, with the church of the first born? Here then, we understand, that Paul rested his hope in Christ because he had kept the faith, and loved his appearing; and from his hand he had a promise of receiving a crown of righteousness." Hebrews Hebrews 1:3 "Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;" (Hebrews 1:3). Date: 9 July 1843 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: James Burgess Notebook, Church Archives (Words of Joseph Smith, 231) Joseph Smith: "Christ, who is the image of man, is also the express image of his Father's person. So says Paul. For in him, Christ, dwelt 'the fullness of the Godhead bodily' [Col. 2:9]. Why? Because he was the 'brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person.' What person? God's person." Original: "Christ who is the image of man is also the express image of his Fathers person so says Paul. For in him Christ dwelt the fulness of glory; and the express image of his person. Ques. What person Gods person." Hebrews 1:14 "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14). Date: 5 October 1840 (Monday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Robert B. Thompson manuscript, Church Archives (Words of Joseph Smith, 39) Joseph Smith: "These angels are under the direction of Michael or Adam who acts under the direction of Christ." Hebrews 4:2 "For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it" (Hebrews 4:2). Date: March 1834
Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Ohio, USA
Source: Evening and Morning Star (March 1834): 143 Joseph Smith: "We find that when the Israelites came out of Egypt they had the gospel preached to them, according to Paul in his letter to the Hebrews." Original: "We find also, that when the Israelites came out of Egypt they had the gospel preached to them, according to Paul in his letter to the Hebrews." Hebrews 5:4 "And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron" (Hebrews 5:4). Date: 22 March 1839 (Friday) Location: Liberty Jail, Liberty, Clay County, Missouri, USA Source: Times and Seasons (February 1840): 54 Joseph Smith: "We believe that no man can administer salvation through the gospel to the souls of men in the name of Jesus Christ except he is authorized from God by revelation or by being ordained by someone whom God hath sent by revelation. . . . And I would ask, how was Aaron called, but by revelation?" Original: "We believe that no man can administer salvation through the gospel, to the souls of men, in the name of Jesus Christ, except he is authorized from God, by revelation, or by being ordained by some one whom God hath sent by revelation, as it is written by Paul, Romans 10:14, 'and how shall they believe in him, of whom, they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach, except they be sent?' and I will ask, how can they be sent without a revelation, or some other visible display of the manifestation of God. And again, Hebrews, 5:4, 'And no man taketh this honor unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.'-And I would ask, how was Aaron called, but by revelation?" Date: 1 March 1842 (Tuesday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons (1 March 1842): 709; Articles of Faith 5 Joseph Smith: "We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof." Original:
"We believe that a man must be called of God by 'prophesy, and by laying on of hands' by those who are in authority to preach the gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof."
Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday) Location: Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 157) Joseph Smith: "Aaron received his call by revelation." Original: "Aaron received his Call by Revelation." Hebrews 6:1-2 "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment" (Hebrews 6:1-2). Date: September 1835 Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Ohio, USA Source: Messenger and Advocate, (September 1835): 180 Joseph Smith: "We shall commence with the first principles of the gospel, which are repentance and baptism for the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the hands. This we believe to be our duty, to teach to all mankind the doctrine of repentance." Original: "we shall commence with the first principles of the gospel, which are repentance, and baptism for the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the hands. This we believe to be our duty, to teach to all mankind the doctrine of repentance . . ." Date: 22 March 1839 (Friday) Location: Liberty Jail, Liberty, Clay County, Missouri, USA Source: Times and Seasons (February 1840): 54, 55 Joseph Smith: "We believe in the doctrine of faith, and of repentances, and of baptism for the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, and of the resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. . . . Now all these are the doctrines set forth by the apostles, and if we have anything to do with one of them, they are all alike precious and binding on us. . . . I consider these to be some of the leading items of the gospel as taught by Christ and his apostles, and as received by those whom they taught." Original:"And again we believe in the doctrine of faith, and of repentance, and of baptism for the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, by the laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. We believe in the doctrine of repentance, as well as of faith; and in the doctrine of baptism for the remission of sins as well as in the doctrine of repentance; and in the doctrine of the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, as well as baptism for the remission of sins; and also, in like manner, of the resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. Now all these are the doctrines set forth by the appostles [apostles], and if we have any thing to do with one of them, They are all alike precious, and binding on us. . . . "I consider these to be some of the leading items of the gospel, as taught by Christ and his apostles, and as received by those whom they taught." Date: Summer 1839 Location: Source: Willard Richards's Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 15) Joseph Smith: "Not laying again the doctrine of Christ, go on unto perfection. Obtain that Holy Spirit of Promise. Then you can be sealed to eternal life." Original: "not Laying again the doctrine of Christ go on unto perfection. Obtain that holy Spirit of promise—Then you can be sealed to Eternal Life." Date: 16 May 1841 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons (1 June 1841): 429 Joseph Smith: "The doctrine of eternal judgment was perfectly understood by the apostle, [as] is evident from several passages of scripture." Original: "The doctrine of eternal judgment was perfectly understood by the apostle, is evident from several passages of scripture." Date: 1 March 1842 (Tuesday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons (1 March 1842): 709; see Articles of Faith 3 and 4 Joseph Smith: "We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. We believe that these ordinances are, first, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ' second, repentance; third, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost." Original: "We believe that through the atonement of Christ all mankind may be saved by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel. "We believe that these ordinances are 1st, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; 2d, Repentance; 3d, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; 4th, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost." Date: 15 October 1843 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 256) Joseph Smith: "The first principles of the gospel, as I believe, [are] first, faith, repentance, baptism for the remission of sins, with the promise of the Holy Ghost. "Contradictions: 'Leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ.' If a man leave the principles of the doctrine of Christ, how can he be saved in the principles? [It is] a contradiction; I don't believe it. I will render it therefore, "Not leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ." Original: "The first principles of the gospel as I believe. first Faith. Repentance. Baptism for the remission of sins, with the promise of the Holy Ghost. "Heb 6th. contradictions 'Leaving the principles of the doctrine of crist. if a man leave the principles of the doctrine of C. how can he be saved in the principles? a contradiction. I dont believe it. I will render it therefore not leaving the P. of the doctrin of crist." Date: 12 May 1844 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 366) Joseph Smith: "I advise all to go on to perfection and search deeper and deeper into the mysteries of Godliness." Original: "I advise all to go on to perfection and search deeper and deeper into the mysteries of Godliness . . ." Date: 12 May 1844 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 367) Joseph Smith: "The doctrine of eternal judgments belongs to the first principles of the gospel in the last days." Original: "the doctrine of eternal judgments belong to the 1st. principles of the Gospel in the last days." Hebrews 6:4-6 "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame" (Hebrews 6:4-6). Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: James Burgess Notebook, Church Archives (Words of Joseph Smith, 333-34) Joseph Smith: "Now we come to talk about election. A great deal is said about it, one way or another. The Presbyterian says, once in grace always in grace. The Methodist says, once in grace [one] can fall from grace and be renewed again. There is some truth in both of these statements. Paul says in the sixth chapter of Hebrews that after arriving at a certain knowledge and then falling away, it is impossible to renew them again. Well, Paul, the Presbyterian says, once in grace always in grace. I say it is not so. The Methodist says, once in grace [one] can fall from grace and be renewed again. 'I, Paul, say it is impossible, seeing that they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame'." Original: "Now we come to talk about election a great deal is said about it. one way or another. The prespetary says once in grace always in grace, the methodist says once in grace can fall from grace and be renewed again. there is some truth in both of these statements Paul says in the 6 chap of hebrews that after arriving at a certain knowledge and then fall away it is impossible to renew them again, well paul. the prespratarian says once in grace always in grace I say it is not so the methodist says once in grace can fall from grace and be renewed again I Paul say it is impossible seeing they crucify to themselves the son of God afresh and put him to an open shame." Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal, Church Archives (Words of Joseph Smith, 330) Joseph Smith: "Here is the doctrine of election that the world has quarreled so much about, but they do not know anything about it. The doctrine that the Presbyterians and Methodists have quarreled so much about—once in grace always in grace, or, falling away from grace—I will say a word about. They are both wrong. Truth takes a road between them both. For while the Presbyterian says once in grace you cannot fall, the Methodist says you can have grace today, fall from it tomorrow, next day have grace again, and so follow it. But the doctrine of the scriptures and the spirit of Elijah would show them both false and take a road between them both. For according to the scriptures, if a man has received the good word of God and tasted of the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away it is impossible to renew them again, seeing they have crucified the Son of God afresh and put him to an open shame. So there is a possibility of falling away [so that] you could not be renewed again. And the power of Elijah cannot seal against this sin, for this is a reserve made in the seals and power of the priesthood." Original: "Here is the doctrin of Election that the world have quarreled so much about, but they do not know any thing about it, The doctrin that the Prysbeterians & Methodist have quarreled so much about once in grace always in grace, or falling away from grace I will say a word about, they are both wrong, truth takes a road between them both. for while the Presbyterian says once in grace you cannot fall the Methodist says you can have grace to day, fall from it to morrow, next day have grace again & so follow it, but the doctrin of the scriptures & the spirit of Elijah would show them both fals & take a road between them both for according to the scriptures if a man has receive the good word of God & tasted of the powers of the world to come if they shall fall away it is impossible to renew them again, seeing they have Crucified the son of God afresh & put him to an open
"There are two priesthoods spoken of in the scriptures, viz the Melchisadeck and the Aaronic or Levitical Altho there are two Priesthoods, yet the Melchisadeck Priesthood comprehends the Aaronic or Levitical Priesthood and is the Grand head, and holds the highest Authority which pertains to the Priesthood the keys of the Kingdom of God in all ages of the world to the latest posterity on the earth, and is the channel through which all knowledge, doctrine, the plan of salvation, and every important matter is revealed from heaven. Its institution was prior to 'the foundation of this earth or the morning stars sang together or the Sons of God shouted for joy' and is the highest and holiest Priesthood and is after the order of the Son [of] God, and all other Priesthoods are only parts, ramifications, powers, and blessings belonging to the same and are held controlled and directed by it." Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: James Burgess Notebook, Church Archives (Words of Joseph Smith, 245-46) Joseph Smith: "Paul is here treating three different priesthoods, namely the priesthoods of Aaron, Abraham, and Melchizedek, Abraham's priesthood was of greater power than Levi's, and Melchizedek's was of greater power than that of Abraham. The priesthood of Levi consisted of cursings and carnal commandments, and not of blessings. And if the priesthood of this generation has no more power than that of Levi or Aaron, or of a bishopric, it administers no blessings but cursings. For it was an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. I ask, was there any sealing power attending this priesthood that would admit a man into the presence of God? Oh no. "But Abraham's was a more exalted power or priesthood; he could talk and walk with God. And yet consider how great this man [Melchizedek] was, when even this patriarch Abraham gave a tenth part of all his spoils and then received a blessing under the hands of Melchizedek, even the last law, of a fullness of the law or priesthood, which constituted him a king and priest after the order of Melchizedek, or an endless life. Now if Abraham had been like the sectarian world and would not have received any more revelation, what would have been the consequence? It would have damned him. . . . The Levitical Priesthood was an appendage to the Melchizedek Priesthood, or the whole law of God, when in full force or power in all its parts and bearings on the earth." Original: "Hebrewes 7 chap. Paul is here treating of three different priesthoods, namely the preisthood of Aron, Abraham, and Melchizedeck, Abraham's preisthood was of greater power than Levi's and Melchizedeck's was of greater power than that of Abraham. The preisthood of Levi consisted of cursings and
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: William Clayton diary (Words of Joseph Smith, 247) Joseph Smith: "The word 'Salem' is a wrong translation. It should be 'Shalom,' signifying peace." Original: "the word 'Salem' is a wrong translation it should be 'Shalome' signifying peace." Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 244) Joseph Smith: "'Salem' is designed for a Hebrew term. It should be 'Shalom,' which signifies righteousness and peace. As it is, it is nothing—neither Hebrew, Greek, Latin, French, or any other." Original: "Salem is designed for a hebrew term. it should be Shiloam—which signifies Righteousness & peace. as it is, it is nothing, neither Hebrew, Greek, Latin french or any other." Hebrews 7:3 "Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually" (Hebrews 7:3). Date: Summer 1839
Location: Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 9) Joseph Smith: "The priesthood is everlasting, without beginning of days or end of years, without father, mother, and so forth." Original:
"The Priesthood is everlasting, without beginning of days or end of years, without Father, Mother &c." Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 244) Joseph Smith: "[It is] a priesthood which holds the priesthood by right from the eternal Gods, and not by descent from father and mother." Original: "a priesthood which holds the priesthood by right from the Eternal Gods.—and not be descent from father and mother." Hebrews 7:20-21, 28 "And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest: (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)" (Hebrews 7:20-21). "For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for evermore" (Hebrews 7:28). Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 245) Joseph Smith: "Priests [are] made without an oath, but the priesthood of Melchizedek is oath and covenant." Original: "Priests made without an oath but the Priesthood of Melchisedek is by oath and convenant." Hebrews 11:4 "By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh" (Hebrews 11:4). Date: 5 October 1840 (Monday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Robert B. Thompson manuscript (Words of Joseph Smith, 40) Joseph Smith: "How doth [Abel] yet speak? Why he magnified the priesthood which was conferred upon him and died a righteous man and therefore has become an angel of God by receiving his body from the dead. Therefore, holding still the keys of his dispensation, [he] was sent down from heaven unto Paul to minister consoling words and to commit unto him a knowledge of the mysteries of godliness. And if this was not the case, I would ask, how did Paul know so much about Abel, and why should he talk about his speaking after he was dead? How he spoke after he was dead must be by being sent down out of heaven to administer." Original: "how doth ye yet speak? Why he magnified the Priesthood which was confired upon him and died a righteous man, and therefore has become a
Location: Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 9) Joseph Smith: "This is why Abraham blessed his posterity: he wanted to bring them into the presence of God. 'They looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.'" Original: "This is why Abraham blessed his posterity: He wanted to bring them into the presence of God. They looked for a city, &c." Hebrews 11:32-35 (11:1-35) "And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed aliant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:" (Hebrews 11:32-35). Date: 2 January 1843 (Monday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith's Journal 1843, by Willard Richards, Church Archives (An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith, 270) Joseph Smith: "Because faith is wanting, the fruits are not [found]. No man since the world was ever had faith without having something along with it. The ancients 'quenched the violence of [fire' and] 'escaped the edge of the sword.' Women 'received their dead,' and so forth. By faith the worlds were made. A man who has none of the gifts [of the Spirit] has no faith. He deceives himself if he supposes it. Faith has been wanting not only among the brethren but professed Christendom also, that tongues, and healings, and prophecy, and prophets, and apostles, and all these gifts and blessings have been wanting." Original:
"'Because faith is wanting the fruits [of faith] are not [evident]. No man since the world was, ever had faith without having something along with it. The ancients quen[c]hed the violence of [nature and] escaped the edged of the sword. Women received their Dead &c. By faith the worlds were made. A man who has none of the gifts has no faith. He deceives himself if he supposes it. Faith has been wanting not only among the brethren but professed Christendom also, that Tongues and healings and prophecy and prophets and apostles and al these gifts and blessings have been wanting.'" Hebrews 11:35 "Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:" (Hebrews 11:35). Date: 5 October 1840 (Monday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Robert B. Thompson manuscript, Church Archives, (Words of Joseph Smith, 41-42) Joseph Smith: "Now it was evident that there was a better resurrection, or else God would not have revealed it unto Paul. Wherein then can it be said, 'a better resurrection'? This distinction is made between the doctrine of the actual resurrection and the doctrine of translation. The doctrine of translation obtains deliverance from the tortures and sufferings of the body, but their existence will prolong as to their labors and toils of the ministry before they can enter into so great a rest and glory. But on the other hand, those who were tortured, not accepting deliverance, received an immediate rest from their labors." Original: "Now it was evident, that there was a better resurrection or else God would not have revealed it unto Paul wherein then can it be said a better ressurrection? This distinction is made between the doctrine of the actual ressurrection and the doctrine of translation, the doctrine of translation obtains deliverance from the tortures and sufferings of the body but their existence will prolong as to their labors and toils of the ministry before they can enter into so great a rest and glory, but on the other hand those who were tortured not accepting deliverance received an immediate rest from their labors." Hebrews 11:40 "God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect" (Hebrews 11:40). Date: September 6, 1842 (Tuesday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons, (1 October 1842): 935; see D&C 128:15 Joseph Smith: "These are principles in relation to the dead and the living that cannot be lightly assed over, as pertaining to our salvation. For their salvation is necessary and essential to our salvation, as Paul says concerning the fathers—that they without us cannot be made perfect—neither can we without our dead be made perfect." Original: "these are principles, in relation to the dead and the living, that cannot be lightly passed over, as pertaining to our salvation. For their salvation is necessary and essential to our salvation, as Paul says concerning the fathers, 'that they without us can not be made perfect;' neither can we without our dead, be made perfect." Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Thomas Bullock Report, (Words of Joseph Smith, 353) Joseph Smith: "The greatest responsibility that God has laid upon us [is] to seek after our dead. The apostle says, 'They without us cannot be made perfect.' Now I am speaking of them. I say to you, Paul, you cannot be perfect without us. Those that are gone before and those who come after must be made perfect, and God has made it obligatory to man." Original: "the greatest responsibility that God has laid upon us to seek after our dead—the apostle says they without us cant be Perfect—now I am speaking of them I say to you Paul, you cant be perfect with. us.—those that are gone before & those who come after must be made perfect—& God has made it obligatory to man." Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal, (Words of Joseph Smith, 346) Joseph Smith: "The greatest responsibility laid upon us in this life is in relation to our dead. Paul [said], 'They cannot be made perfect without us.' For it is necessary that the seals are in our hands to seal our children and our dead for the dispensation of the fullness of times, a dispensation to meet the promises made by Jesus Christ before the foundation of the world for the salvation of man." Original: "the greatest responsibility lade upon us in this life, is in relation to our dead Paul said we cannot be made perfect without us [them], for it is necessary that the seals are in our hands to seal our children & our dead for the fulness of the dispensation of times, A dispensation to meet the promises made by Jesus Christ before the foundation of the world for the salvation of man." Date: 19 May 1838 (Saturday)
Location: Daviess County, Missouri, USA Source: Missouri Journal, 1838, March to September (Papers of Joseph Smith, 2:244-45); see D&C 116 Joseph Smith: "Spring Hill [was] a name appropriated by the brethren present. But afterwards [it was] named by the mouth of [the] Lord and was called Adam-ondi-Ahman, because, said he, it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of Days shall sit, as spoken of by Daniel the prophet." Original: "which was called Spring Hill a name appropriate by the bretheren present, But afterwards named by the mount of [the] Lord and was called Adam Ondi Awmen, because said he it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of days shall sit as spoken of by Daniel the Prophet." Date: Summer 1839
Location: Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 8-9, 10)
Joseph Smith:
"Daniel speaks of the Ancient of Days; he means the oldest man, our Father Adam, Michael. He will call his children together and hold a council with them to prepare them for the coming of the Son of Man. He (Adam) is the father of the human family and presides over the spirits of all men, and all that have had the keys must stand before him in this great council. This may take place before some of us leave this stage of action. The Son of Man stands before him and there is given him glory and dominion. Adam delivers up his stewardship to Christ, that which was delivered to him as holding the keys of the universe, but retains his standing as head of the human family. . . .
"Those men to whom these keys have been given will have to be there; they without us cannot be made perfect [Heb. 11:40]. These men are in heaven, but their children are on earth. Their bowels yearn over us. . . . All these authoritative characters will come down and join hand in hand in bringing about this work. . . . We cannot be made perfect without them, nor they without us. When these things are done, the Son of Man will descend [and] the Ancient of Days sit. We may come to an innumerable company of angels [and] have communion with and receive instruction from them."
Original:
"Dan VII Speaks of the Ancient of days, he means the oldest man, our Father Adam, Michael; he will call his children together, & hold a council with them to prepare them for the coming of the Son of Man. He, (Adam) is the Father of the human family & presides over the Spirits of all men, & all that have had the Keys must stand before him in this great Council. This may take place before some of us leave this stage of action. The Son of Man stands before him & there is given him glory & dominion.—Adam delivers up his Stewardship to Christ, that which was deliverd to him as holding the Keys of the Universe, but retains his standing as head of the human family. . . .
"Those men to whom these Keys have been given will have to be there (I.E. when Adam shall again assemble his children of the Priesthood, & Christ be in their midst) the Ancient of Days come &c &c J.T.) And they without us cannot not be made perfect. These men are in heaven, but their children are on Earth. Their bowels yearn over us. God sends down men for this reason, Mat. 13.42. & the Son of man shall send forth his Angels &c—All these authoritative characters will come down & join hand in hand in bringing about this work . . . We cannot be made perfect without them, nor they without us when these things are done the Son of man will descend, the ancient of Days sit.—We may come to an innumerable company of Angels have communion with & receive instruction from them."
Date: 5 October 1840 (Monday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Robert B. Thompson manuscript (Words of Joseph Smith, 40)
Joseph Smith:
"This then is the nature of the priesthood, every man holding the presidency of his dispensation and one man holding the presidency of them all, even Adam, and Adam receiving his presidency and authority from Christ. But [he] cannot receive a fulness until Christ shall present the kingdom to the Father, which shall be at the end of the last dispensation."
Original:
"This then is the nature of the priesthood, every man holding the presidency of his dispensation and one man holding the presidency of them all even Adam, and Adam receiving his presidency and authority from Christ, but cannot receive a fulness, untill Christ shall present. the kingdom to the Father which shall be at the end of the last dispensation.
Date: Summer 1839Location: Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 8-9) Joseph Smith: "The priesthood was first given to Adam; he obtained the first presidency and held the keys of it from generation to generation. He obtained it in the creation before the world was formed. He had dominion given him over every living creature. He is Michael, the Archangel spoken of in the scriptures. Then to Noah, who is Gabriel. . . . These men held keys, first on earth, and then in heaven. "The priesthood is an everlasting principle and existed with God from eternity and will to eternity, without beginning of days or end of years. The keys have to be brought from heaven whenever the gospel is sent. When they are revealed from heaven, it is by Adam's authority. . . . The Father called all spirits before him at the creation of man and organized them. He (Adam) is the head; [he] was told to multiply. The keys were given to him and by him to others, and he will have to give an account of his stewardship, and they to him." Original: "The Priesthood was. "first given to Adam: he obtained the first Presidency & held the Keys of it, from generation to Generation; he obtained it in the creation before the world was formed as in Gen. 1, 26:28,--he had dominion given him over every living Creature. He is Michael, the Archangel, spoken of in the Scriptures, —Then to Noah who is Gabriel, he stands next in authority to Adam in the Priesthood; he was called of God to this office & was the Father of all living in his day, & To him was given the Dominion. These men held keys, first on earth, & then in Heaven.—The Priesthood is an everlasting pr8inciple & Existed with God from Eternity & will to Eternity, without beginning of days or end of years. the Keys have to be brought from heaven whenever the Gospel is sent.—When they are revealed from Heaven it is by Adams Authority. . . . "The Father called all spirits before him at the creation of Man & organized them. He (Adam) is the head, was told to multiply. The Keys were given to him, and by him to others & he will have to give an account of his Stewardship, & they to him." Date: Summer 1839
Location: Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 8) Joseph Smith: "Christ is the great High Priest, Adam next." Original:
"Christ is the Great High priest; Adam next." Date: 5 October 1840 (Monday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Robert B. Thompson manuscript, (Words of Joseph Smith, 38-39) Joseph Smith: "The Melchizedek Priesthood . . . is the channel through which the Almighty commenced revealing his glory at the beginning of the creation of this earth, through which he has continued to reveal himself to the children of men to the present time, and through which he will make known his purposes to the end of time—commencing with Adam, who was the first man, who is spoken of in Daniel as being the 'Ancient of Days' [Dan. 7:9-14], or in other words the first and oldest of all, the great grand progenitor of whom it is said in another place, he is Michael [D&C 107:54], because he was the first and father of all, not only by progeny, but he was the first to hold the spiritual blessings, to whom was made known the plan of ordinances for the salvation of his posterity unto the end, to whom Christ was first revealed, and through whom Christ has been revealed from heaven and will continue to be revealed from henceforth. Adam holds the keys of the Dispensation of the Fulness of Times, that is, the dispensation of all the times [that] have been and will be revealed through him from the beginning to Christ and from Christ to the end of all the dispensations that have [been and] are to be revealed." Original: "the Melchisadeck Priesthood . . . is the channel through which the Almighty commenced revealing his glory at the beginning of the creation of this earth and through which he has continued to reveal himself to the children of men to the present time and through which he will make known his purposes to the end of time—Commencing with Adam who was the first man who is spoken of in Daniel as being the "Antient of days" or in other words the first and oldest of all, the great grand progenitor of whom it is said in another place he is Michael because he was the first and father of all, not only by progeny, but he was the first to hold the spiritual blessings,
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons, (15 October 1841): 577 Joseph Smith: "There has been a chain of authority and power from Adam down to the present time." Original:
"There has been a chain of authority and power from Adam down to the present time." Date: 19 May 1838 (Tuesday)
Location: Daviess County, Missouri, USA Source: Missouri Journal, 1838, March to September (Papers of Joseph Smith, 2:244-45); see D&C 116 Joseph Smith: "Spring Hill [was] a name appropriated by the brethren present. But afterwards [it was] named by the mouth of [the] Lord and was called Adam-ondi-Ahman, because, said he, it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of Days shall sit, as spoken of by Daniel the prophet." Original: "which was called Spring Hill a name appropriate by the bretheren present, But afterwards named by the mount of [the] Lord and was called Adam Ondi Awmen, because said he it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of days shall sit as spoken of by Daniel the Prophet."
Date: Summer 1839
Location: Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 8-9, 10)
Joseph Smith:
"Daniel speaks of the Ancient of Days; he means the oldest man, our Father Adam, Michael. He will call his children together and hold a council with them to prepare them for the coming of the Son of Man. He (Adam) is the father of the human family and presides over the spirits of all men, and all that have had the keys must stand before him in this great council. This may take place before some of us leave this stage of action. The Son of Man stands before him and there is given him glory and dominion. Adam delivers up his stewardship to Christ, that which was delivered to him as holding the keys of the universe, but retains his standing as head of the human family. . . .
"Those men to whom these keys have been given will have to be there; they without us cannot be made perfect [Heb. 11:40]. These men are in heaven, but their children are on earth. Their bowels yearn over us. . . . All these authoritative characters will come down and join hand in hand in bringing about this work. . . . We cannot be made perfect without them, nor they without us. When these things are done, the Son of Man will descend [and] the Ancient of Days sit. We may come to an innumerable company of angels [and] have communion with and receive instruction from them."
Original:
"Dan VII Speaks of the Ancient of days, he means the oldest man, our Father Adam, Michael; he will call his children together, & hold a council with them to prepare them for the coming of the Son of Man. He, (Adam) is the Father of the human family & presides over the Spirits of all men, & all that have had the Keys must stand before him in this great Council. This may take place before some of us leave this stage of action. The Son of Man stands before him & there is given him glory & dominion.—Adam delivers up his Stewardship to Christ, that which was deliverd to him as holding the Keys of the Universe, but retains his standing as head of the human family. . . .
"Those men to whom these Keys have been given will have to be there (I.E. when Adam shall again assemble his children of the Priesthood, & Christ be in their midst) the Ancient of Days come &c &c J.T.) And they without us cannot not be made perfect. These men are in heaven, but their children are on Earth. Their bowels yearn over us. God sends down men for this reason, Mat. 13.42. & the Son of man shall send forth his Angels &c—All these authoritative characters will come down & join hand in hand in bringing about this work . . . We cannot be made perfect without them, nor they without us when these things are done the Son of man will descend, the ancient of Days sit.—We may come to an innumerable company of Angels have communion with & receive instruction from them."
Date: 5 October 1840 (Monday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Robert B. Thompson manuscript (Words of Joseph Smith, 40)
Joseph Smith:
"This then is the nature of the priesthood, every man holding the presidency of his dispensation and one man holding the presidency of them all, even Adam, and Adam receiving his presidency and authority from Christ. But [he] cannot receive a fulness until Christ shall present the kingdom to the Father, which shall be at the end of the last dispensation."
Original:
"This then is the nature of the priesthood, every man holding the presidency of his dispensation and one man holding the presidency of them all even Adam, and Adam receiving his presidency and authority from Christ, but cannot receive a fulness, untill Christ shall present. the kingdom to the Father which shall be at the end of the last dispensation.
Date: Summer 1839Location: Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 11)
Joseph Smith:
"The hearts of the children will have to be turned to the fathers, and the fathers to the children, living or dead, to prepare them for the coming of the Son of Man. If Elijah did not come, the whole earth would be smitten."
Original: "The hearts of the children will have to be turned to the fathers, & the fathers to the children living or dead to prepare them for the coming of the Son of Man. If Elijah did not come the whole earth would be smitten."
Date: 5 October 1840 (Monday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Robert B. Thompson manuscript (Words of Joseph Smith, 43)
Joseph Smith:
"Elijah was the last prophet that held the keys of this priesthood, and who will, before the last dispensation, restore the authority and deliver the keys of this priesthood in order that all the ordinances may be attended to in righteousness. It is true that the Savior had authority and power to bestow this blessing, but the sons of Levi were too prejudiced. Why send Elijah? Because he holds the keys of the authority to administer in all the ordinances of the priesthood. And without the authority given, the ordinances could not be administered in righteousness."
Original:
"Elijah was the last prophet that held the keys of this priesthood, and who will, before the last dispensation, restore the authority and delive[r] the Keys of this priesthood in order that all the ordinances may be attended to in righteousness.
"It is true that the Savior had authoritity and power to bestow this blessing but the Sons of Levi were too predjudi[ced]
"And I will send Elijah because he hold the Keys of the Authority to administer in all the ordinances of the priesthood and without the authority is given the ordinances could not be administered in righteousness."
Date: 6 September 1842 (Tuesday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons, (1 October 1842): 935; D&C 128:17-18
Joseph Smith:
"[Malachi] had his eye fixed on the restoration of the priesthood, the glories to be revealed in the last days, and in an especial manner this most glorious of all subjects belonging to the everlasting gospel, namely, the baptism for the dead. . . . I might have rendered a plainer translation to this, but it is sufficiently plain to suit my purpose as it stands. It is sufficient to know, in this case, that the earth will be smitten with a curse unless there is a welding link of some kind or other between the fathers and the children, upon some subject or other—and behold what is that subject? It is the baptism for the dead. For we without them cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect [Heb 11:40]. Neither can they nor we be made perfect without those who have died in the gospel also."
Original:
"I will give you a quotation from one of the prophets, who had his eye fixed on the restoration of the priesthood, the glories to be revealed in the last days, and in an especial manner this most glorious of all subjects belonging to the everlasting gospel, viz: the baptism for the dead; for Malachi says, last chapter, verses 5th and 6th, Behold I will send you Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: and he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. I might have rendered a plainer translation to this, but it is sufficiently plain to suit my purpose as it stands. It is sufficient to know in this case, that the earth will be smitten with a curse, unless there is a welding link of some kind or other, between the fathers and the children, upon some subject or other, and behold, what is that subject. It is the baptism for the dead. For we without them cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect. Neither can they or us, be made perfect without those who have died in the gospel also;"
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: William Clayton Diary (Words of Joseph Smith, 242)
Joseph Smith:
"'And he shall turn the hearts of the children to the covenant made with their fathers'."
Original:
"and he shall turn the hearts of the children to the covenant made with their fathers."
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook, (Words of Joseph Smith, 240)
Joseph Smith:
"In the end [the earth] shall be burned and few men left. But before that, God shall send unto them Elijah the prophet, and he shall reveal unto them the covenants of the fathers with relation to the children and the covenants of the children in relation to the fathers, that they may have the privilege of entering into the same, in order to effect their mutual salvation."
Original:
"in the End it shall be burned and few men left—but before that God shall send unto them Elijah the prophet and he shall reveal unto them the covenants of the fathers wi with relation to the children and the covenants of the children in relation to the Fathers that they may have the priviledge of entering into the same in order to effect their mutual salvation."
Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Franklin D. Richards "Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 241)
Joseph Smith:
"I will send Elijah the prophet, and he shall reveal the covenants of the fathers to the children and of the children to the fathers, that they may enter into covenant with each other, lest I come and smite the whole earth with a curse."
Original:
"Joseph Translation of Mal 4th-5 . 6 I will send Elijah the Prophet and he shall reveal the covenants of the Fathers to the children and the Children to the Fathers that they may enter into Covenant with each other lest I come & smite the whole Earth with a curse."
Date: 27 August 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 244)
Joseph Smith:
"How shall God come to the rescue of this generation? He shall send Elijah, . . . and he shall reveal the covenants to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children and the children to the fathers."
Original:
"how shall god come to the rescue of this generation. he shall send Elijah the law revealed to Moses in Horeb—never was revealed to the C. of Israel and he shall reveal the covenants to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children and the children to the fathers."
Date: 21 January 1844 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 318-19)
Joseph Smith:
"Now the word 'turn' here should be translated 'bind' or 'seal.' But what is the object of this important mission, or how is it to be fulfilled? The keys are to be delivered, the spirit of Elijah is to come, the gospel to be established, the Saints of God gathered, Zion built up, and the Saints to come up as saviors on Mount Zion. But how are they to become saviors on Mount Zion? By building their temples, erecting their baptismal fonts, and going forth and receiving all the ordinances, baptisms, confirmations, washings, anointings, ordinations, and sealing powers upon our heads in behalf of all our progenitors who are dead, and redeem them that they may come forth in the first resurrection and be exalted to thrones of glory with us. And herein is the chain that binds the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the children to the fathers, which fulfills the mission of Elijah. . . .
"The Saints have none too much time to save and redeem their dead and gather together their living relatives that they may be saved also, before the earth will be smitten and the consumption decreed falls upon the world. And I would advise all the Saints to go to with their might and gather together all their living relatives to this place, that they may be sealed and saved, that they may be prepared against the day that the destroying angel goes forth. And if the whole Church should go to with all their might to save their dead, seal their posterity, gather their living friends, and spend none of their time in behalf of the world, they would hardly get through before night would come, when no man could work. . . . The question is frequently asked, 'Can we not be saved without going through with all these ordinances?' I would answer, 'No, not the fulness of salvation'."
Original:
"Now the word turn here should be translated (bind or seal) But what is the object of this important mission or how is it to be fulfilled, The keys are to be deliverd the spirit of Elijah is to Come, The gospel to be esstablished the Saints of God gatherd Zion built up, & the Saints to Come up as Saviors on mount Zion but how are they to become Saviors on Mount Zion by building thair temples erecting their Baptismal fonts & going forth & receiving all the ordinances, Baptisms, Confirmations, washings anointings ordinations & sealing powers upon our heads in behalf of all our Progenitors who are dead & redeem the that they may Come forth in the first resurrection & be exhalted to thrones of glory with us, & here in is the chain that binds the hearts of the fathers to the Children & the Children to the Fathers which fulfills the mission of Elijah . . .
"the Saints have none to much time to save & redeem their dead, & gather together their living relatives that they may be saved also, before the earth will be smitten & the Consumption decreed falls upon the world & I would advise all the Saints to go to with their might & gather together all their living relatives to this place that they may be sealed & saved that they may be prepared against the day that the destroying angel goes forth & if the whole Church should go to with all their might to save their dead seal their posterity & gather their living friends & spend none of their time in behalf of the world they would hardly get through before night would Come when no man Could work & my ownly trouble at the present time is concerning ourselves that the Saints will be divided & broken up & scattered before we get our Salvation Secure for thei[r] is so many fools in the world for the devil to operate upon it gives him the advantage often times, The question is frequently asked Can we not be saved without going through will all thes ordinances &c I would answer No not the fulness of Salvation."
Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Thomas Bullock diary (Words of Joseph Smith, 336)
Joseph Smith:
"The spirit of Elijah is the sealing power, to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children and the children to the parents"
Original:
"the Spirit of Elijah is the sealing power—to seal the hearts of the Fathers to the children—and the children to the Parents."
Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Source: Franklin D. Richards "Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 334)
Joseph Smith:
"The spirit of Elijah is that degree of power which holds the sealing power of the kingdom, to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children and of the children [to] their fathers—not only on earth but in heaven, both the living and the dead to each other. For they (the dead) cannot be made perfect without us [Heb. 11:40]."
Original:"The spirit of Elijah is that degree of power which holds the sealing power of the Kingdom to seal the hearts of the fathers to the children & of the children their fathers not only on earth but in Heaven both the living & the Dead to each other for they (the dead) cannot be made perfect without us Heb 11-40."
Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA
Joseph Smith:
"The spirit, power, and calling of Elijah is that ye have power to hold the keys of the revelations, ordinances, oracles, powers, and endowments of the fulness of the Melchizedek Priesthood and of the kingdom of God on the earth, and to receive, obtain, and perform all the ordinances belonging to the kingdom of God, even unto the sealing of the hearts of the fathers unto the children and the hearts of the children unto the fathers, even those who are in heaven. Now what I am after is the knowledge of God, and I take my own course to obtain it. What are we to understand by this in the last days? In the days of Noah, God destroyed the world by a flood and has promised to destroy it by fire in the last days. But before it takes place, Elijah should first come and turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and so forth. Now comes the point. What is this office and work of Elijah? It is one of the greatest and most important subjects that God has revealed. He should send Elijah to seal the children to the fathers and fathers to the children. Now was this merely confined to the living, to settle difficulties with families on earth? By no means; it was a far greater work. Elijah, what would you do if you were here? Would you confine your work to the living alone? No.
"I would refer you to the scriptures where the subject is manifest: 'Without us they could not be made perfect' [Heb. 11:40], nor we without them, the fathers without the children nor the children without the fathers. I wish you to understand this subject, for it is important, and if you will receive it, this is the spirit of Elijah: that we redeem our dead and connect ourselves with our fathers, which are in heaven, and seal up our dead to come forth in the first resurrection. And here we want the power of Elijah to seal those who dwell on earth to those which dwell in heaven. This is the power of Elijah and the keys of the kingdom of Jehovah. Let us suppose a case. Suppose the great God who dwells in heaven should reveal himself to [a man] here by the opening heavens and tell him, 'I offer up a decree that whatsoever you seal on earth with your decree I will seal it in heaven.' You have power then. Can it be taken off? No. Then what you seal on earth by the keys of Elijah is sealed in heaven, and this is the power of Elijah. And this is the difference between the spirit and power of Elias and Elijah, for while the spirit of Elias is a forerunner, the power of Elijah is sufficient to make our calling and election sure. . . .
"Again, the doctrine or sealing power of Elijah is as follows: If you have power to seal on earth and in heaven, then we should be crafty. The first thing you do [is] go and seal on earth your sons and daughters unto yourself, and yourself unto your fathers in eternal glory, and go ahead and not go back. But use a little craftiness and seal all you can. And when you get to heaven, tell your father that what you seal on earth should be sealed in heaven. I will walk through the gate of heaven and claim what I seal and those that follow me and my counsel. . . .
"Elias is a forerunner to prepare the way, and the spirit and power of Elijah is to come after—holding the keys of power, building the temple to the capstone, placing the seals of the Melchizedek Priesthood upon the house of Israel, and making all things ready. Then Messiah comes to his temple, which is last of all. Messiah is above the spirit and power of Elijah, for he made the world and was that spiritual rock unto Moses in the wilderness. Elijah was to come and prepare the way and build up the kingdom before the coming of the great day of the Lord, although the spirit of Elias might begin it."
Original: "the spirit power & calling of Elijah is that ye have power to hold the keys of the revelations ordinances, oricles powers & endowments of the fulness of the Melchezedek Priesthood & of the Kingdom of God on the Earth & to receive, obtain & perform all the ordinances belonging to the Kingdom of God even unto the sealing of the hearts of theLocation: Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 14) Joseph Smith: "I will put promises in your hearts that will not leave you, that will seal you up. We may come to the general assembly and church of the Firstborn, [to the] spirits of just men made perfect, and unto Christ. The innumerable company of angels are those that have been resurrected from the dead. The spirits of just men made perfect are those without bodies. It is our privilege to pray for and obtain these things." Original: "I will put promises in your hearts, that will not leave you that will Seal you up. We may come to the general assembly & church of the first born, Spirits of Just men made perfect, unto Christ. The innumerable company of Angels are those that have been resurrected from the dead. the Spirits of Just men made perfect are those without bodies. It is our privilege to pray for & obtain these things." Date: 13 August 1843 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 240) Joseph Smith: "And for [what] were they brought thus far? I answer that they came to these personages to learn of the things of God and to hear revealed through them the order and glory of the kingdoms of God." Original: "And for have were they brought thus far—I answer
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 239) Joseph Smith: "What could [it] profit us to come unto the spirits of just men but to learn, and come to the knowledge [of the] spirits of the just?" Original:
"what could profit us to come unto the spirits of Just Men but to learn, and come to the knowledge spirits of the Just." Date: 9 October 1843 (Monday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: James Burgess Notebook, Church Archives (Words of Joseph Smith, 255) Joseph Smith: "A great many men suppose there is no difference between an angel and a spirit of a just man made perfect, but Paul makes a distinction. He tells us that the Hebrew church had come into the presence of God and angels and to the spirits of just men made perfect. The spirit of a just man made perfect, if he made his appearance, would appear or be enveloped in flaming fire, and no man in this mortal state could endure it. But an angel could come and appear as another man." Original: "A great many men suppose there is no difference between
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 254) Joseph Smith: "The spirits of just men are made ministering servants to those who are sealed unto life eternal….Angels have advanced higher in knowledge and power than spirits." Original: "The spirits of just men are made ministering servants to those who are sealed unto life eternal. . . . Angels have advanced higher in knowledge & power than spirits" Date: 15 September 1843 (Friday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Times and Seasons, (15 September 1843): 331 Joseph Smith: "The Hebrew church came unto the spirits of just men made perfect, and unto an innumerable company of angels, unto God the Father of all, and to Jesus Christ the Mediator of the new covenant. But what they learned has not been and could not have been written. What object was gained by this communication with the spirits of the just and others? It was the established order of the kingdom of God' the keys of power and knowledge were with them to communicate to the Saints, hence the importance of understanding the distinction between the spirits of the just and angels. Spirits can only be revealed in flaming fire, or glory. Angels have advanced farther, their light and glory being tabernacled, and hence [they] appear in bodily shape. . . . The spirits of the just are exalted to a greater and more glorious work, hence they are blessed in departing hence. Enveloped in flaming fire, they are not far from us and know and understand our thoughts, feelings, and motions, and are often pained therewith." Original: "The Hebrew church "came unto the spirits of just men made perfect, and unto an innumerable company of angels, unto God the Father of all, and to Jesus Christ the Mediator of the New Covenant" but what they learned, has not been, and could not have been written. What object was gained by this communication with the spirits of the just, &c.? It was the established order of the kingdom of God-the keys of power and knowledge were with them to communicate to the saints-hence the importance of understanding the distinction between the spirits of the just, and angels. Spirits can only be revealed in flaming fire, or glory. Angels have advanced further-their light and glory being tabernacled, and hence appear in bodily shape. "The spirits of the just are exalted to a greater and more glorious work-hence they are blessed in departing hence. Enveloped in flaming fire, they are not far form us, and know and understand our thoughts, feelings and motions, and are often pained therewith."
James James 1:5 "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" (James 1:5). Date: 1839
Location: Source: Joseph Smith-History 1:12-13; 1839 History (Papers of Joseph Smith, 1:271-72) Joseph Smith: "Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again, knowing that if any person needed wisdom from God, I did; for how to act I did not know, and unless I could get more wisdom than I then had, I would never know; for the teachers of religion of the different sects understood the same passage of scripture so differently as to destroy all confidence in settling the question by an appeal to the Bible. "At length I came to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion, or else I must do as James directs, that is, ask of God. I at length came to the determination to 'ask of God,' concluding that if he gave wisdom to them that lacked wisdom, and would give liberally, and not upbraid, I might venture." Original: "Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again, knowing that if any person neeeded wisdom from God, I did, for how to act I did not nkow and unless I could get more wisdom than I then had I would never know, for the teachers of riligion of the different sects understood the same passage of Scripture so differently as <to> destroy all confidence in settling the quiestion by an appeal to the Bible. At length I cam to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion or else I must do as James adirects, that is, Ask of God. I at last came to the determination to ask of God, concluding that if he gave wisodm to them that lacked wisdom and would give liberally and not upbraid, I might venture." Date: 1839
Location: Source: Joseph Smith-History 1:26; 1839 History (Papers of Joseph Smith, 1:275) Joseph Smith: "I had found the testimony of James to be true—that a man who lacked wisdom might ask of God, and obtain, and not be upbraided." Original:
"I had found the testimony of James to be true, that a man who lacked wisdom might ask of God, and obtain and not be upbraided." James 3:5-6 "Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell" (Hebrews 3:5-6). Date: 26 May 1842 (Saturday) Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Nauvoo Relief Society Minutes (Words of Joseph Smith, 121) Joseph Smith: "Hold your tongues about things of no moment, a little tale will set the world on fire." Original: "hold your tongues about things of no moment, a little tale will set the world on fire." James 5:14-15 "Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him" (James 5:14-15). Date: 20 March 1842 (Sunday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 108) Joseph Smith: "What is the sign of the healing of the sick? The laying on of hands is the sign or way marked out by James and the custom of the ancient Saints as ordered by the Lord. And we should not obtain the blessing by pursuing any other course except the way which God has marked out." Original: "What is the sign of the healing of the sick? the laying on of hands, is the sign or way marked out by James & the custom of the ancient saints as ordered by the Lord & we should not obtain the blessing by pursuing any other course except the way which God has markd out."
James 5:16
"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 5:16).
Date: 24 December 1842 (Saturday)
Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA Source: Joseph Smith's Journal 1843, by Willard Richards, Church Archives (An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith, 257-58) Joseph Smith: "[In reply to the question, "Do you want a wicked man to pray for you?"] Yes. If the fervent, effectual prayer of the righteous availeth much, a wicked man may avail a little when praying for a righteous man. . . . The prayer of the wicked man may do a righteous man good when it does the one who prays no good." Original:
"In replay to the question, 'Do you want a wicked man to pray for you?' [Joseph answered,] 'Yes, if the fervent, effectual prayer of the righteous availeth much, a wicked man may avail a little when praying for a righteous man. There is none good but one. The better a man is the more his prayer will prevail like the publican and pharisee, one was justified rather than the other showing that both were justified in a degree. The prayer of the wicked man may do a righteous man good when it does the one who prays no good.'
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