Joseph Smith's Commentary on the Bible

Joseph Smith's Commentary on the Bible - Matthew 4-13

Matthew 4:21

"And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them" (Matthew 4:21).

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 351)

Joseph Smith:

"It tells about Jacobus. [It] means Jacob, in the English James. . . Matthew 4:21 gives the testimony that it is Jacob. . . . Latin says that Iacobus means Jacob; Hebrew says [it] means Jacob; Greek says Jacob; German says Jacob."

Original:
"it tells about Jachabod means Jacob—in the English James-- & you may talk about James thro all Eternity in the 21 v. of 4th Mat: where it gives the test. that it is to Jacob & how can we escape the dn. of hell witht. God reveal to us. Latin says that Jackobus means Jacob—Hebrew says means Jacob—Greek says Jacks Jacob German says Jacob."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 358)

Joseph Smith:

"It tells about Jacobus the son of Zebedee. [It] means Jacob. The New Testament says James. Now if Jacob had the keys, you might talk about James through all eternity and never get the keys. Matthew 4:21 gives the word Jacob instead of James. . . . Read from the Hebrew: Ya'aqob, Jacob; Greek Iakobos, Jacob; Latin Iacobus, Jacob too."

Original:
"It talks about Yachaubon the son of Zebedee--means Jacob. The New Testament says James--now if Jacob had the keys you might talk about James and never get the keys. Matthew 4-21 verse it gives the word Jacob instead of James How can we escape the damnation of hell unless God be with us--Men bind us with chains--Read from the Hebrew Yingacoub--Jacob. Greek Ichobon--Jacob. German He has got the Oldest book in the world--but he has got the oldest book in his heart. Latin Yacobus--Jacob too"

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 358)

Joseph Smith:

"Jacob the son of Zebedee, to form James the son of Zebedee, [as in] Greek, Hebrew, German, and Latin."

Original:
"Example of error as yocabem-Jacob--the son of Zebedee--& James. James the son of Zebedee 4 Mat. 21. Greek, Hebrew, German, & Latin."

Matthew 5:5

"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:5).

Date: 2 December 1835 (Wednesday)

Location: Ohio, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Papers, Ohio Journal 1835-1836, Church Archives (Papers of Joseph Smith, 2:93)

Joseph Smith:

�"We rejoice that the time is at hand when the wicked who will not repent will be swept from the earth with the besom of destruction, and the earth become an inheritance for the poor and the meek."

Original:
"we rejoice that the time is at hand when, the wicked who swill not repent will be swept <from the earth> with the besom of destruction and the earth become an inheritance for the poor and the meek."

Date: 1 December 1835 (Monday)

Location: Ohio, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Papers, History 1834-1836, Church Archives (Papers of Joseph Smith, 1:150)

Joseph Smith:

"We rejoice in our hearts that the time is at hand when those who persist in wickedness will be swept from the earth with the besom of destruction, and the earth become an inheritance for the poor and the meek."

Original:
"And we rejoice in our hearts, that the time is at hand when those who persist in wickedness, will be swept form the earth with the besom of distruction, and the earth become an inheritance for the poor & the meek."

Date: 16 March 1841 (Tuesday)

Location:

Source: McIntire Minute Book (Words of Joseph Smith, 65)

Joseph Smith:

"After the "little season" [Rev. 20:3] is expired and the earth undergoes its last change and is glorified, then will all the meek inherit the earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness."

Original:
"after the Little Season is Expired & the Earth underGoes its Last Change & is Gloryfyed then will all the meek inherit the Earth wherein Dwelleth Righteous."

Matthew 5:9

"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God" (Matthew 5:9).

Date: 15 March 1844 (Friday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Times and Seasons (15 March 1844): 473

Joseph Smith:

"If the nation, a single state, community, or family ought to be grateful for anything, it is peace. Peace, lovely child of heaven. Peace, like light from the same great parent, gratifies, animates, and happifies the just and the unjust and is the very essence of happiness below and bliss above. He that does not strive with all his powers of body and mind, with all his influence at home and abroad, and to cause others to do so too, to seek peace and maintain it for his own benefit and convenience and for the honor of his state, nation, and country, has no claim on the clemency of man, nor should he be entitled to the friendship of woman or the protection of government. He is the canker worm to gnaw his own vitals and the vulture to prey upon his own body. And he is as to his own prospects and prosperity in life a felo de se of his own pleasure. A community of such beings are not far from hell on earth and should be let alone as unfit for the smiles of the free or the praise of the brave. But the peacemaker, Oh give ear to him! For the words of his mouth, and his doctrine, drop like the rain and distil as the dew. They are like the gentle mist upon the herbs and as the moderate shower upon the grass [Deut. 32:2]."

Original:
"if the nation, a single state, community, or family ought to be grateful for any thing, it is peace. Peace, lovely child of heaven; peace, like light from the same great parent, gratifies, animates and happifies the just and the unjust, and is the very essence of happiness below, and bliss above. He that does not strive with all his powers of body and mind: with all his influence at home and abroad, and to cause others to do so too, to seek peace, and maintain it for his own benefit and convenience, and for the honor of his state, nation and country, has no claim on the clemency of man; nor should he be entitled to the friendship of woman, or to the protection of government. He is the canker worm to gnaw his own vitals, and the vulture to prey upon his own body; and he is as to his own prospects and prosperity in life, a felo-de-se of his own pleasure. A community of such beings are not far from hell on earth, and should not be let alone as unfit for the smiles of the free; or the praise of the brave. But the peacemaker, O give ear to him! for the words of his mouth, and his doctrine, drop like the rain, and distil [distill] as the dew; they are like the gentle mist upon the herbs, and as the moderate shower upon the grass."

Matthew 5:10-12

"Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you" (Matthew 5:10-12).

Date: 18 August 1833 (Sunday)

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Ohio, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Letter to W. W. Phelps and others (Personal Writings of Joseph Smith, 308)

Joseph Smith:

"Know this, when men thus deal with you and speak all manner of evil of you falsely for the sake of Christ, that he is your friend."

Original:
"know this when men thus deal with you and speak all maner of evel of you falsly for the sake of Christ that he is your friend."

Date: 31 August 1842 (Wednesday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Nauvoo Relief Society Minutes (Words of Joseph Smith, 131)

Joseph Smith:

"Shall a man be considered bad when men speak evil of him? No! If a man stands and opposes the world of sin, he may expect all things arrayed against him."

Original:
"Shall a man be considered bad when men speak evil of him? No! If a man stands and opposes the world of sin, he may expect all things array'd against him."

Date: 1 September 1842 (Thursday)

Location:

Source: Joseph Smith Papers, Illinois Journal 1841-1842, Church Archives (Papers of Joseph Smith, 2:457); see D&C 127:4

Joseph Smith:

"And if they persecute you, so persecuted they the prophets and righteous men that were before you. For all this there is a reward in heaven."

Original:
"And if they persecute you, so persecuted they the prophets and righteous men that were before you: for all this there is a reward in heaven."

Matthew 5:29-30

"And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell" (Matthew 5:29-30).

Date: 10 December 1833

Location: Kirtland Mills, Geauga County, Ohio, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Letter to Edward Partridge and other (Personal Writings of Joseph Smith, 330)

Joseph Smith:

"Now the fact is, if any of the members of our body are disordered, the rest of our body will be affected with them, and then all is brought into bondage together."

Original:
"Now the fact is, if any of the members of our body are disordered, the rest of our body will be effected with them and then all is brought into bondage together."

Matthew 5:42

"Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away" (Matthew 5:42).

Date: 22 January 1840 (Wednesday)

Location: Brandywine, Chester County, Pennsylvania

Source: Joseph Smith Letter to Mr. Editor (Personal Writings of Joseph Smith, 496)

Joseph Smith:

"Every person in this Church has a right to control his own property and is not required to do anything except by his own free voluntary act, that he may impart to the poor according to the requirement of the gospel."

Original:
"every person in this Church has a right to controll his own proppe[r]ty and is not required to do any thing except by his own free voluntary act that he may impart to the poor according to the requirement of the gospel."

Matthew 5:43-45

"Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.

"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

"That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust" (Matthew 5:43-45).

Date: 15 April 1842 (Friday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Times and Seasons (15 April 1842): 759

Joseph Smith:

"While one portion of the human race is judging and condemning the other without mercy, the great Parent of the universe looks upon the whole of the human family with a fatherly care and paternal regard. He views them as his offspring, and without any of those contracted feelings that influence the children of men causes 'his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends his rain on the just and unjust.'"

Original:
"while one portion of the human race are judging and condemning the other without mercy, the great parent of the universe looks upon the whole of the human family with a fatherly care, and paternal regard; he views them as his offspring; and without any of these contracted feelings that influence the children of men, causes 'his sun to rise on the evil and the good; and sends his rain on the just and unjust.'"

Date: 9 July 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 229)

Joseph Smith:

"If we would secure and cultivate the love of others, we must love others, even our enemies as well as friends."

Original:
"if we would secure & cultivate the love of others we must love others, even our enemies--as well as friends."

Matthew 6:1-2, 5, 16

"Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.

Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward" (Matthew 6: 1-2, 5, 16).

Date: 5 December 1834 (Friday)

Location:

Source: Joseph Smith Papers, History, 1834-1836, Church Archives (Papers of Joseph Smith, 1:25)

Joseph Smith:

"The praise of men, or the honor of this world, is of no benefit."

Matthew 7:1

"Judge not, that ye be not judged" (Matthew 7:1).

Date: 29 September 1839 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Papers, Illinois Journal, 1839, Church Archives (Papers of Joseph Smith, 2:332)

Joseph Smith:

"It is an unhallowed principle to say that such and such have transgressed because they have been preyed upon by disease or death, for all flesh is subject to death, and the Savior has said, 'Judge not, lest ye be judged' [Matt. 7:1]."

�

Original:
"it is an unhallowed principle to say that such and such have transgressed because they have been preyed upon by disease or death for all flesh is subject to death and the Savior has said, 'Judge not lest y be judge'."

Date: 28 March 1841 (Sunday)

Location:

Source: McIntire Minute Book (Words of Joseph Smith, 67-68)

Joseph Smith:

"In the book is a great display of human nature. It is very natural for a man when he sees his fellow man afflicted his natural conclusion is that he is suffering the wrath of an angry God and turn from him in haste, not knowing the purpose of God."

Original:
"in the book he says is a Great Display of human Nature—it is very Natureal for a man whenhe sees his fellow man afflicted his Natureal conclusion is that he is sufering the Rath of an angry God & turn from him in haste not knowing the purpose of God."

Matthew 7:15-20

"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them" (Matthew 7:14-20).

Date: 12 May 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 369)

Joseph Smith:

"The servants of God teach nothing but the principles of eternal life. By their works ye shall know them. A good man will speak good things and holy principles, and an evil man, evil things. I feel in the name of the Lord to rebuke all such bad principles, liars, and so forth. And I warn all of you to look out who you are going after. I exhort you to give heed to all the virtue and the teachings which I have given you."

Original:
"the Servants of God teach nothing but the principles of eternal life--by their works ye shall know them--a good man will speak good things, & holy principles and an evil man, evil things;--I feel in the name of the Lord, to rebuke all such bad principles, liars &c and I warn all of you to look out who you are going after--I exhort you to give heed to all the virtue and the teachings which I have given you"

Matthew 7:21-23

"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.

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity" (Matthew 7:21-23).

Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 206)

Joseph Smith:

"That which the world calls righteousness I have not any regard for. To be righteous is to be just and merciful. If a man fails in kindness, justice, and mercy, he will be damned."

Original:
"To be righteous is to be just and merciful. If a man fails in kindness justice and mercy he will be damned"

Matthew 8:28-34

"And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way.

And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?

And there was a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding.

So the devils besought him, saying, If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the herd of swine.

And he said unto them, Go. And when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine: and, behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and perished in the waters.

And they that kept them fled, and went their ways into the city, and told every thing, and what was befallen to the possessed of the devils.

And, behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus: and when they saw him, they besought him that he would depart out of their coasts" (Matthew 3:28-24).

Date: 5 January 1841 (Tuesday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: William Clayton's Private Book (Words of Joseph Smith, 60)

Joseph Smith:

"The great principle of happiness consists in having a body. The Devil has no body, and herein is his punishment. He is pleased when he can obtain the tabernacle of [a] man, and when cast out by the Savior, he asked to go into the herd of swine, showing that he would prefer a swine's body to having none. All beings who have bodies have power over those who have not. The Devil has no power over us, only as we permit him; the moment we revolt at anything which comes from God, the Devil takes power."

Original:
"The great principle of happiness consists in having a body. the Devil has no body, and herein is his punishment. He is pleased when he can obtain the tabernacle of man and when cast out by the Savior he asked to go into the herd of swine showing that he would prefer a swines body to having none. All beings who have bodies have power over those who have not. the devil has no power over us only as we permit him; the moment we revolt at anything which comes from God the Devil takes power."

Date: 28 March 1841 (Sunday)

Location:

Source: McIntire Minute Book (Words of Joseph Smith, 68)

Joseph Smith:

"The Devil is without a tabernacle, and the Lord has set bounds to all spirits. Hence comes the saying: 'Thou son of David, why art thou come to torment us before the time?' Jesus commanded him to come out of the man, and the Devil besought him that he might enter in a herd of swine nearby. For the Devil knew they were a covetous people, and if he could kill their hogs, they would drive Jesus out of their coasts, and he then would have tabernacle[s] enough. Jesus permitted him to enter into the swine."

Original:
"the Devil without a tabernicle & the Lord as set bo[u]nds to all Spirits & hence Come the Saying thou son of David why are thou Come to torment us before the time, & Jesus Comanded him to Come out of the Man & the Devil besought him that the might Enter in a herd of swine Near by (for the Devil knew they were a Coveitous people & if he Could Kill their Hogs that would Drive Jesus out of their Coasts & he then would have tabernicle enough) & Jesus—permitted him to Enter into the swine."

Date: 1 April 1842 (Friday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Times and Seasons (1 April 1842): 745

Joseph Smith:

"Wicked spirits have their bounds, limits, and laws by which they are governed or controlled and know their future destiny. Hence those that were in the maniac said to our Savior, 'Art thou come to torment us before the time?'"

Original:
"wicked spirits have their bounds, limits, and laws by which they are governed or controlled, and know their future destiny; hence those that were in the maniac said to our Saviour [Savior], 'art thou come to torment us before the time'"

Date: 14 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Yelrome, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 201)

Joseph Smith:

"The greatness of his punishment is that he shall not have a tabernacle; this is his punishment. So the Devil thinks to thwart the decree of God by going up and down in the earth seeking whom he may destroy—any person that he can find that will yield to him. He will bind him and take possession of the body and reign there, glorying in it mightily, not thinking that he had got a stolen tabernacle. By and by, someone of authority will come along and cast him out and restore the tabernacle to his rightful owner. But the Devil steals a tabernacle because he has not one of his own, but if he steals one he is liable to be turned out of doors."

Original:
"the greatness of his punishment is that he shall not have a tabernacle this is his punishment So the devil thinking to thwart the decree of God by going up & down in the earth seeking whom he may destroy any person that he can find that will yield to him he will bind him & take possession of the body & reign there glorying in it mightily not thinking that he had got a stolen tabernacle & by & by some one of Authority will come along & cast him out & restore the tabernacle to his rightful owner but the devil steals a tabernacle because he has not one of his own but if he steals one he is liable to be turned out of doors."

Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 207)

Joseph Smith:

"When Lucifer was hurled from heaven, the decree was that he should not obtain a tabernacle, nor those that were with him, but go abroad upon the earth exposed to the anger of the elements, naked and bare. But ofttimes he lays hold upon men, binds up their spirits, enters their habitations, laughs at the decree of God, and rejoices in that he hath a house to dwell in. By and by, he is expelled by authority and goes abroad mourning, naked upon the earth like a man without a house, exposed to the tempest and the storm."

Original:
"When Lucifer was hurled from Heaven the decree was that he Should not obtain a tabernacle not those that were with him, but go abroad upon the earth exposed to the anger of the elements naked & bare, but ofttimes he lays hold upon men binds up their Spirits enters their habitations laughs at the decree of God and rejoices in that he hath a house to dwell in, by & by he is expelled by Authority and goes abroad mourning naked upon the earth like a man without a house exposed to the tempest & the storm."

Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Franklin D. Richards "Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 208)

Joseph Smith:

"The mortification of Satan consists in his not being permitted to take a body. He sometimes gets possession of a body, but when the proven authorities turn him out of doors, he finds it was not his but a stolen one."

Original:
"The mortification of satan consists in his not being permitted to take a body. He sometimes gets possession of a body but when the proven authorities turn him out of Doors he finds it was not his but a stolen one."

Matthew 9:10-13

"And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples.

And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?

But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.

But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance" (Matthew 9:10-13).

Date: 9 June 1842 (Thursday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Nauvoo Relief Society Minutes (Words of Joseph Smith, 123)

Joseph Smith:

"Christ said he came to call sinners to repentance and save them. Christ was condemned by the righteous Jews because he took sinners into his society. He took them upon the principle that they repented of their sins."

Original:
"Christ said he came to call sinners to repentance and save them. Christ was condemn'd by the righteous Jews because he took sinners into his society—He took them upon the principle that they repented of their sins."

Matthew 10:1

"And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease" (Matthew 10:1).

Date: 1839

Location:

Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 9)

Joseph Smith:

"How have we come at the priesthood in the last days? It came down in regular succession. Peter, James, and John had it given to them, and they gave it up."

Original:
"How have we come at the priesthood in the last days? They it came down, down in regular succession. Peter James & John had it given ot them & they gave it up."

Date: 1 April 1842 (Friday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Times and Seasons (1 April 1842): 745

Joseph Smith:

"The apostles in ancient times held the keys of this priesthood—of the mysteries of the kingdom of God—and consequently were enabled to unlock and unravel all things pertaining to the government of the Church, the welfare of society, the future destiny of men, and the agency, power, and influence of spirits. For they could control [the spirits] at pleasure, bid them depart in the name of Jesus, and detect their mischievous and mysterious operations when trying to palm themselves upon the Church in a religious garb and militate against the interest of the Church and the spread of truth."

Original:
"The apostles in ancient times held the keys of this priesthood-of the mysteries of the kingdom of God, and consequently were enabled to unlock, and unravel all things pertaining to the government of the church, the welfare of society, the future destiny of men, and the agency, power, and influence of spirits; for they could control them at pleasure, bid them depart in the name of Jesus, and detect their mischievous and mysterious operations when trying to palm themselves upon the church in a religious garb, and militate against the interest of the church, and the spread of truth."

Matthew 10:2

"Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;" (Matthew 10:2).

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 351)

Joseph Smith:

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 358)

Joseph Smith:

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 358)

Joseph Smith:

"Jacob the son of Zebedee, to form James the son of Zebedee, [as in] Greek, Hebrew, German, and Latin."

Original:
"Example of error as yocabem-Jacob--the son of Zebedee--& James. James the son of Zebedee 4 Mat. 21. Greek, Hebrew, German, & Latin"

Matthew 10:34-35

"Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.

For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law" (Matthew 10:34-35).

Date: 1839

Location:

Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 11)

Joseph Smith:

"The time is soon coming when no man will have any peace but in Zion and her stakes. I saw men hunting the lives of their own sons, and brother murdering brother, women killing their own daughters, and daughters seeking the lives of their mothers. I saw armies arrayed against armies. I saw blood, desolations, fires, and so forth. The Son of Man has said that the mother shall be against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother. These things are at our doors."

Original:
"The time is soon coming when no man will have any peace but in Zion & her Stakes. I saw men hunting the lives of their own sons, & brother murdering brother, women killing their own daughters & daughters seeking the lives of their mothers. * saw armies arrayed against armies I saw blood, desolations, & fires &c,--The Son of Man has said that the mother &c, &c,--these things are at our doors."

Matthew 10:39, JST

"He who seeketh to save his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it" (Matthew 10:39).

Date: 16 December 1838 (Sunday)

Location: Liberty Jail, Liberty, Clay County, Missouri, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Letter to the Church in Caldwell County (Personal Writings of Joseph Smith, 422)

Joseph Smith:

"'He that seeks to save his life shall lose it; but he that loseth his life for my sake and the gospel's shall find it,' saith Jesus Christ."

Original:
"he that seeks to save his life shall ~~loose~~ lose it but he that los<e>th his life for my sake and the gospels shall find it sayeth Jesus Christ."

Matthew 11:11

"Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he" (Matthew 11:11).

Date: 21 March 1841 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 66)

Joseph Smith:

"John was great in that he baptized Jesus."

Original:
"Jhon was great in that he baptized Jesus."

Date: 29 January 1843 (Friday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Franklin D. Richards "Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 162-63)

Joseph Smith:

"How was John the greatest prophet ever born of a woman? How is the least in the kingdom greater than he?

"Answer to the first—his greatness consisted in three things. First, his appointment to prepare the way before the Lord Jesus Christ. Second, his privilege to baptize him or induct him into his kingdom. Third, his being the only legal administrator in the affairs of the kingdom that was then on the earth. Consequently, the Jews had to obey his instruction or be damned by their own law. . . .

"Answer to [the] second query: Christ was least in the kingdom in their estimation, or least entitled to their credulity as a prophet, but as in truth, greater than John."

Original:
"1st How was John the greatest prophet ever born of a woman
"2d How was Christ is the least in the Kingdom greater than he
"Ans to 1st His greatness consisted in 3 things 1st His appointment to prepare the way before the Lord Jesus Christ 2nd His privilege to Baptise him or induct him into his Kingdom 3d His being the only legal administrator in the affairs of the Kingdom that was then on the Earth consequently the Jews had to obey his instruction or be damned by their own Law & Christ fulfiled all righteousness in becoming obedient to the the Law which himself had given to Moses on the mount and thereby magnified it and made it honorable instead of destroying it.

"Ans to 2nd Query Christ was least in the Kingdom in their estimation or least entitled to their credulty as a Prophet but as in Truth greater than John"

Date: 29 January 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 160)

Joseph Smith:

"How is it John was considered one of the greatest of prophets? Three things:

"First, he was trusted with a divine mission of preparing the way before the face of the Lord. [Who ever received such] trust, before or since? No man. Second, He was trusted, and it was required at his hands, to baptize the Son of Man. Who ever did that? Who had so great a privilege and glory [to lead the] Son of God into the waters of baptism, beholding the Holy Ghost in the sign of a dove? . . . Third, John at that time was the only legal administrator, holding the keys of power, there was on earth. The keys, the kingdom, the power, and the glory [had gone] from the Jews [to the] son of Zacharias, by the holy anointing [and] decree of heaven. These three constituted him the greatest born of woman.

"[How is it that] he that is least in the kingdom is greater than he? Who did Jesus have reference to? Jesus was looked upon as having the least claim in all God's kingdom. 'He that is considered the least among you is greater than John, that is, myself.'"

Original:
"How is it John was considered one of the Greatest of Prophets? 3 things

"1st he was trusted with a divine mission of preparing the way before the face of the Lord.—Trust before or since? no man!—

"2d. He was trusted & it was required at his hands to baptize the son of Man. Who ever did that? who had so great a privilege & glory?—son of God into the waters of baptism & beholding the Holy Ghost—in the sign the form of a dove—with the sign of the dove.

instituted before the creation Devil could not come in sign of a dove.—Holy Ghost is a personage in the form of a personage—does not confine itself to form of a dove—but in sign of a dove. = No man holds this book [Bible] more sacred than I do.—

"3d. John at that time was the only legal administrator holding the keys of Power there was on Earth. the Keys the Kingdom the power the Glory from the Jews Son of Zachariah by the holy anointing decree of heaven these 3 constituted him the greatest born of woman.

"He that is least in the Kingdom is greater than he? who did the Jesus have reference to? Jesus was looked upon as having the least claim in all gods kingdom.—

"He that is considered the least among you, is greater than John! that is myself."

Matthew 11:12

"And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force" (Matthew 11:12).

Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday)

Location:

Source: James Burgess Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 235)

Joseph Smith:

"Now I will translate a little: The kingdom of heaven hath power and authority, and by that they take or enter legally and lawfully the kingdom of heaven."

Original:
"Now I will translate a little, the kingdom of heaven hath power and authority and by that they take or enter legally and lawfully the kingdom of heaven."

Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday)

Location:

Source: Franklin D. Richards "Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 236)

Joseph Smith:

"The rendering [of] the texts is: The kingdom continueth in authority or law, and the authority or legality (which belonged to John) took it by force, or wrested it from the Jews to be delivered to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof."

Original:
"the rendering the Texts is "The Kingdom continueth in authority or Law & the Authority or legality (which belonged to John) took it by force or wrested it from the Jews to be delivered to a Nation bringing forth the fruits thereof."

Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday)

Location:

Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 234)

Joseph Smith:

"The kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the kingdom of heaven continueth in authority until John. The authority taketh it by absolute power. John, having the power, takes the kingdom by authority."

Original:
"The Kingdom of heaven suffereth violence & The kingdom of heaven continueth in authority. beareth suffereth violence until John. the authority taketh it by absolute power.. John having the power.--take the kingdom by authority."

Matthew 11:13-15

"For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.

And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to come.

He that hath ears to hear, let him hear" (Matthew 11:13-15)

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 Elias is a forerunner, same as John the Baptist."

Original:
"the Spirit of Elias is a forerunner same as John the Baptist"

Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: James Burgess Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 333)

Joseph Smith:

"Jesus said of John: 'This is Elias, which was to come, if you will receive me. Otherwise he cannot do the work of an Elias. For Elias is preparatory for something greater, to prepare my way before me. I have power to restore all things and establish my kingdom amongst you, but if you will not receive me and my doctrine, he is not that Elias which was to come. For he cannot accomplish that for which he was sent.'"

Original:
"Jesus said of John this is Elias which was for to come if you will receive me otherwise he cannot do the work of an Elias, for Elias is preparatory for something greater to prepare my way before me I have power to restore all things and establish my kingdom amongst you, but if you will not receive me and my doctrine, he is not that Elias which was for to come for he cannot accomplish that for which he was sent."

Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 328)

Joseph Smith:

"The spirit of Elias is to prepare the way for a greater revelation of God. [This] is the priesthood of Elias, or the priesthood that Aaron was ordained unto. And when God sends a man into the world to prepare for a greater work, [he] holds the keys of the power of Elias. It was called the doctrine of Elias even from the early ages of the world."

Original:
"The spirit of Elias is to prepare the way for a greater revelation of God which is the priesthood of Elias or the Priesthood that Aaron was ordained unto. And when God sends a man into the world to prepare for a greater work holds the keys of the power of Elias it was called the doctrine of Elias even from the early ages of the world."

Date: 21 March 1841 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 65)

Joseph Smith:

"Now it was written that the priests' lips should keep knowledge, and to them should the people seek for understanding [Mal. 2:7]. And above all, the law binds them and us to receive the word of the Lord at the hands of the Levites. Therefore, John being lawful heir to the Levitical Priesthood, the people were bound to receive his testimony."

Original:
"Now it was written that the priests lips should keep knowledge and to them should the people seek for understanding and above al the law binds them and us to receive the word of the Lord at the hands of the Levites therefore Jhon being Lawful heir to the Levitical Priesthood the people were bound to receive his testimony."

Date: 21 March 1841 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 66)

Joseph Smith:

"John was not a restorer but a forerunner"

Original;
"Jhon was not a restorer but a forerunner."

Date: 17 January 1843 (Tuesday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal, (Words of Joseph Smith, 155)

Joseph Smith:

"The kingdom of God was set upon the earth in all ages, from the days of Adam to the present time, whenever there was a man on earth who had authority to administer the ordinances of the gospel, or a priest of God. And unto such a man, God did reveal his will."

Original:

"the Kingdom of God was set upon the earth in all ages from the days of Adam to the present time whenever there was a man on earth who had authority to administer the ordinances of the gospel or a priest of God & unto such a man God did reveal his will concerning the Baptism of John."

Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: William Clayton Diary (Words of Joseph Smith, 159)

Joseph Smith:

"Where the oracles of God are revealed, there is the kingdom of God. Wherever the oracles of God are and subjects to obey those oracles, there is the kingdom of God. What constitutes the kingdom of God? An administrator who has the power of calling down the oracles of God, and subjects to receive those oracles, no matter if there are but three, four, or six. There is the kingdom of God."

Original:
"Where the oracles of God are revealed there is the kingdom of God. Wherever the oracles of God are & subjects to obey those oracles there is the kingdom of God. What constitutes the kingdom of God? an administrator who has the power of calling down the oracles of God, and subjects to receive those oracles no matter if there are but 3,4, or 6 there is the kingdom of God &c."

Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 156-58)

Joseph Smith:

"Some say the kingdom of God was not set up on earth until the day of Pentecost and that John did not preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. But I say in the name of the Lord that the kingdom of God was set up on earth from the days of Adam to the present time whenever there has been a righteous man on earth unto whom God revealed his word and gave power and authority to administer in his name. And where there is a priest of God, a minister who has power and authority from God to administer in the ordinances of the gospel and officiate in the priesthood of God, there is the kingdom of God. . . .

"Where did the kingdom of God begin? Where there is no kingdom of God there is no salvation. What constitutes the kingdom of God? Where there is a prophet, a priest, or a righteous man unto whom God gives his oracles, there is the kingdom of God. And where the oracles of God are not, there the kingdom of God is not. In these remarks I have no allusion to the kingdoms of the earth. . . . We speak of the kingdom of God on the earth, not the kingdom of men. . . .

"John was a priest after his father and held the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood and was called of God to preach the gospel and the kingdom of God. The Jews as a nation having departed from the law of God and the gospel, the Lord prepared the way for transferring it to the Gentiles. 'But,' says one, 'the kingdom of God could not be set up in the days of John, for John said the kingdom was at hand.' But I would ask if it could be any nearer to them than to be in the hands of John. The people needed not wait for the days of Pentecost to find the kingdom of God, for John had it with him. He came forth from the wilderness crying out, 'Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,' as much as to bawl out: 'Here, I have got the kingdom of God and I am coming after you. I've got the kingdom of God, and you can get it. I am coming after you, and if you don't receive it, you will be damned.' The scriptures represent that all Jerusalem went out unto John's baptism. Here was a legal administrator, and those that were baptized were subjects for a King. Also, the laws and oracles of God were there; therefore the kingdom of God was there, for no man could have better authority to administer than John, and our Savior submitted to that authority himself by being baptized by John. Therefore, the kingdom of God was set up upon the earth, even in the days of John. . . .

"It is evident the kingdom of God was on the earth, and John prepared subject[s] for [the] kingdom by preaching the gospel to them and baptizing them. He prepared the way before the Savior, or came as a forerunner and prepared subject[s] for the preaching of Christ. . . . Whenever men can find out the will of God and find an administrator legally authorized from God, there is the kingdom of God. But where these are not, the kingdom of God is not. All the ordinances, systems, and administrations on the earth are of no use to the children of men unless they are ordained and authorized of God, for nothing will save a man but a legal administrator. For none others will be acknowledged, either by God or angels."

Original:
"some say the kingdom of God was not set up on earth untill the day of pentecost & that John did not preach the Baptism of repentance for the remission of sins But I say in the name of the Lord that the kingdom of God was set up on earth from the days of Adam to the present time. Whenever there has been a righteous man on earth unto wholm God revealed his word & gave power & authority to administer in his name. And whare their is a Priest of God, A minister who has power & Authority from God to administer in the ordinances of the Gospel & officiate in the Priesthood of God, theire is the kingdom of God & in Consequence of rejecting the gospel of Jesus Christ & the Prophets whom God hath sent, the judgments of God hath rested upon people Cities & nations in various ages of the world, which was the Case with the Cities of Sodom & gomoroah who were destroyed for rejecting the Prophets. Now I will give my testimony I care not for man I speak boldly & faithfully & with authority. How is it with the kingdom of God, whare did the Kingdom of God begin, whare their is no kingdom of God their is no salvation. What Constitutes the Kingdom of God Whare there is a Prophet a priest or a righteous man unto whom God gives his oracles there is the Kingdom of God, & whare the oracles of God are not there the Kingdom of God is not, In these remarks I have no allusion to the Kingdoms of the earth we will keep the Laws of the Land, we do not speak against them we never have & we can hardly make mention of the State of Missouri of our persecutions there &c but what the cry goes forth that we are guilty of larceny Burlary, arson treason & murder &C &C which is fals we speak of the Kingdom of God on the earth not the Kingdom of mem, The plea of many in this day is that we have no right to receive revelations, But if we do not get revelations we do not have the oracles of God & if they have not the oracles of God they are not the people of God But say you what will become of the world or the various professors of religion who do not believe in revelation & the oracles of God as Continued to the Church in all ages of the world when he has a people on earth I Tell you in the name of Jesus Christ they will be damned & when you get into the eternal world you will find it to be so they cannot escape the damnation of hell

"As touching the gospel & Baptism that John preached I would say that John Came preaching the gospel for the remission of Sins he had his authority from God & the oricles of God were with him & the Kingdom of [God] for a season seemed to roll be with John alone. The Lord promised Zecheriah that he should have a son, which was a descendant of Aaron & the Lord promised that the priesthood should continue with Aaron & his seed throughout their generations, Let no man take this honour upon himself except he be Called of God as was Aaron, & Aaron received his Call by Revelation. An angel of God Also appeared unto Zecheriah while in the Temple that he should have a son whose name should be John & he should be filled with the Holy Ghost Zecheriah was a Priest of God & officiating in the Temple & John was a priest after his father & held the Keys of the aronic priesthood & was Called of God to preache the Gospel & the Kingdom of God & the Jews as a nation having departed from the Law of God & the gospel the Lord prepared the way for transfering it to the gentiles But Says one the Kingdom of God Could not be set up in the days of John for John said the Kingdom was at hand But I would ask if it could be any nearer to them than to be in the hands of John, the people need not wait for the days of Pentecost to find the Kingdom of God for John had it with him, & he Came forth from the wilderness Crying out repent ye for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand as much as to baul out here I have got the Kingdom of God & I am Coming after you & if you dont receivee it you will be damned & the Scriptures represent that all Jerrusalem went out unto Johns Baptism Here was a legal administrator, & those that were baptized were subjects for a King & also the laws & oracles of God were there therefore the Kingdom of God was there for no man Could have better authority to Administer than John & our Savior submitted to that authority himself by being Baptized by John therefore the Kingdom of God was set up upon the earth Even in the days of John their is a difference between the Kingdom of God & the fruits & blessings that flow from that Kingdom becaus their was more miracles gifts graces visions healings, tongues &c in the days of Jesus Christ & the Apostles & on the day of pentecost than under Johns Administration, it does not prove by any means that John had not the Kingdom of God, any more than it would that a woman had not a milk pan because she had not a pan of milk, for while the pan might be compared to the Kingdom the milk might be compared to the blessings of the Kingdom John was a Priest after the order of Aaron & had the Keys of that Priesthood & Came forth preaching repentance & Baptism for the remission of sins but at the same time Crys out there cometh one after me more mighter than I the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unlose, & Christ came according to the word of John, & he was greater than John because he held the Keys of the Melchesedic Priesthood & the Kingdom of God & had before revealed the priesthood to Moses, yet Christ was baptizd by John to fulfill all righteousness & Jesus in his teaching says upon this rock I will build my Church & the gates of hell shall not prevail against it what rock, Revelaiton Again he says except ye are born of the water & the spirit ye Cannot inter into the Kingdom of God, And though the heavens & earth should pass away my words shall not pass away If a man is born of the water & the spirit he can get into the Kingdom of God it is evident the Kingdom of God was on the earth & John prepared subject[s] for Kingdom by preaching the gospel to them & Baptising them & he prepared the way before the Savior or came as a forerunner & prepared subject for the preaching of Christ, &c. Christ preached through Jerrusalem on the same ground whare John had preached & when the Apostles were raised up they worked in Jerrusalem & Jesus Commanded them to tarry thare untill they were endowed with power from on high had they not work to do in Jerrusalem. they did work & prepared a people for the pentecost The Kingdom of God was with them before the day of pentecost as well as afterwards & it was also with John & he preached the same gospel & Baptism that Jesus & the Apostles preached after him The endowment was to prepare the desiples for their mission into the world. Whenever men can find out the will of God & find an Administrator legally authorized from God there is the Kingdom of God but whare these are not, the Kingdom of God is not All the ordinances Systems, & Administrations on the earth is of no use to the Children of men unless they are ordained & authorized of God for nothing will save a man but a legal Administrator for none others will be acknowledge either by God or Angels."

Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday)

Location:

Source: James Burgess Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 235)

Joseph Smith:

"When the set time was come, John came forth. And when he took up his priesthood, he came bounding out of the wilderness, saying, 'Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.' He, having received the holy anointing, was the only lawful administrator, and the Jews all knew it. . . . All Jerusalem and all Judea came out to be baptized of John: Sadducees, Pharisees, Essenes."

Original:
"And when the set time was come John came forth and when he took up his priesthood, he came bounding out of the wilderness saying repent ye for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. he having received the holy anointing was the only lawful administrator and the jews all knew it for the law and the prophets was until John since then the kingdom of heaven is preached and all men press into it! Why! Why because John was the only lawful administrator and they the Jews well knew it. consequently the only alternative was for them to yeild obedience to mandates of this wild man of the woods, namely John or be damned. For all Jerusalem and all Judea came out to be baptised of John, sadusees, pharasees, Essenees."

Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday)

Location:

Source: Franklin D. Richards "Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 236)

Joseph Smith:

"All the power, authority, and anointing descended upon the head of John the Baptist. . . . This was virtually acknowledged by all Judea and Jerusalem coming out to be baptized of him."

Original:
"all the Power & Authority & Anointing descended upon the head of John the Baptist or "The Government shall be upon his shoulders" This was virtually acknowledged by all Judea & they of Jerusalem coming out to be baptised of him."

Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 327-28)

Joseph Smith:

"The spirit of Elias was a going-before, to prepare the way for the greater, which was the case with John the Baptist. He came bawling through the wilderness: 'Prepare ye the way of the Lord, and make his paths straight.' They were informed if they could receive it, it was the spirit of Elias."

Original:
"the spirit of Elias was a going before to prepare the way for the greater, which was the Case with John the Baptist he Came balling through the wilderness prepare ye the way of the Lord & make his paths strait & they were informed if they Could receive it. it was the spirit of Elias."

Date: 17 January 1843 (Tuesday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 155)

Joseph Smith:

"It was the baptism of repentance unto the remission of sins for the receiving of the Holy Ghost, and it was the gospel baptism."

Original:
"It was the Baptism of repentance unto the remission of sins for the receiving of the Holy Ghost & it was the gospel Baptism."

Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: William Clayton Diary (Words of Joseph Smith, 159)

Joseph Smith:

"John preached the gospel and must have preached the first principles. If so he must have preached the doctrine of baptism for the remission of sins, for that is the first principle of the gospel and was ordained before the foundation of the world."

Original:
"John preached the gospel & must have preached the 1st principles, if to he must have preached the doctrine of Baptism for the remission of sins for that is the 1st principal of the Gospel and was ordained before the foundation of the world."

Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 156-58)

Joseph Smith:

"John came preaching the gospel for the remission of sins. He had his authority from God, and the oracles of God were with him. The kingdom of [God] for a season seemed to be with John alone. . . . He preached the same gospel and baptism that Jesus and the apostles preached after him."

Original:
"John Came preaching the gospel for the remission of Sins he had his authority from God & the oricles of God were with him & the Kingdom of [God] for a season seemed to roll be with John alone. The Lord promised Zecheriah that he should have a son, which was a descendant of Aaron & the Lord promised that the priesthood should continue with Aaron & his seed throughout their generations, Let no man take this honour upon himself except he be Called of God as was Aaron, & Aaron received his Call by Revelation. An angel of God Also appeared unto Zecheriah while in the Temple that he should have a son whose name should be John & he should be filled with the Holy Ghost Zecheriah was a Priest of God & officiating in the Temple & John was a priest after his father & held the Keys of the aronic priesthood & was Called of God to preache the Gospel & the Kingdom of God & the Jews as a nation having departed from the Law of God & the gospel the Lord prepared the way for transfering it to the gentiles But Says one the Kingdom of God Could not be set up in the days of John for John said the Kingdom was at hand But I would ask if it could be any nearer to them than to be in the hands of John, the people need not wait for the days of Pentecost to find the Kingdom of God for John had it with him, & he Came forth from the wilderness Crying out repent ye for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand as much as to baul out here I have got the Kingdom of God & I am Coming after you & if you dont receivee it you will be damned & the Scriptures represent that all Jerrusalem went out unto Johns Baptism Here was a legal administrator, & those that were baptized were subjects for a King & also the laws & oracles of God were there therefore the Kingdom of God was there for no man Could have better authority to Administer than John & our Savior submitted to that authority himself by being Baptized by John therefore the Kingdom of God was set up upon the earth Even in the days of John their is a difference between the Kingdom of God & the fruits & blessings that flow from that Kingdom becaus their was more miracles gifts graces visions healings, tongues &c in the days of Jesus Christ & the Apostles & on the day of pentecost than under Johns Administration, it does not prove by any means that John had not the Kingdom of God, any more than it would that a woman had not a milk pan because she had not a pan of milk, for while the pan might be compared to the Kingdom the milk might be compared to the blessings of the Kingdom John was a Priest after the order of Aaron & had the Keys of that Priesthood & Came forth preaching repentance & Baptism for the remission of sins but at the same time Crys out there cometh one after me more mighter than I the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unlose, & Christ came according to the word of John, & he was greater than John because he held the Keys of the Melchesedic Priesthood & the Kingdom of God & had before revealed the priesthood to Moses, yet Christ was baptizd by John to fulfill all righteousness & Jesus in his teaching says upon this rock I will build my Church & the gates of hell shall not prevail against it what rock, Revelaiton Again he says except ye are born of the water & the spirit ye Cannot inter into the Kingdom of God, And though the heavens & earth should pass away my words shall not pass away If a man is born of the water & the spirit he can get into the Kingdom of God it is evident the Kingdom of God was on the earth & John prepared subject[s] for Kingdom by preaching the gospel to them & Baptising them & he prepared the way before the Savior or came as a forerunner & prepared subject for the preaching of Christ, &c. Christ preached through Jerrusalem on the same ground whare John had preached & when the Apostles were raised up they worked in Jerrusalem & Jesus Commanded them to tarry thare untill they were endowed with power from on high had they not work to do in Jerrusalem. they did work & prepared a people for the pentecost The Kingdom of God was with them before the day of pentecost as well as afterwards & it was also with John & he preached the same gospel & Baptism that Jesus & the Apostles preached after him."

Date: 22 January 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 157-58)

Joseph Smith:

"John was a priest after the order of Aaron and had the keys of that priesthood. [He] came forth preaching repentance and baptism for the remission of sins but at the same time cried out, 'There cometh one after me mightier than I, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose.' Christ came according to the word of John. He was greater than John, because he held the keys of the Melchizedek Priesthood and the kingdom of God and had before revealed the priesthood to Moses. Yet Christ was baptized by John to fulfill all righteousness."

Original:
"John was a Priest after the order of Aaron & had the Keys of that Priesthood & Came forth preaching repentance & Baptism for the remission of sins but at the same time Crys out there cometh one after me more mighter than I the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unlose, & Christ came according to the word of John, & he was greater than John because he held the Keys of the Melchesedic Priesthood & the Kingdom of God & had before revealed the priesthood to Moses, yet Christ was baptizd by John to fulfill all righteousness."

Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 328)

Joseph Smith:

"He told the people that his mission was to preach repentance and baptize with water, but it was he that should come after him that should baptize with fire and the Holy Ghost. If he had been an impostor, he might have gone to work beyond his bounds and undertaken to have performed ordinances that did not belong to that office and calling under the spirit of Elias. . . . John's mission was limited to preaching and baptizing, but what he did was legal. And when Jesus Christ came to any of John's disciples, he baptized them with fire and the Holy Ghost. We find the apostles endowed with greater power than John; their office was more under the spirit and power of Elijah than Elias. . . .

"What I want to impress upon your minds is the difference of power in the different parts of the priesthood, so that when any man comes among you saying, "I have the spirit of Elias," you can know whether he be true or false. For any man that comes having the spirit and power of Elias will not transcend his bounds. John did not transcend his bound but faithfully performed that part belonging to his office. And every portion of the great building should be prepared rightly and assigned to its proper place. It is necessary to know who holds the keys of power and who does not, or we may be likely to be deceived. That person who holds the keys of Elias has a preparatory work."

Original:
"He told the people that his mission was to preach repentance & baptise with water, but it was he that should Come after him that should baptize with fire & the Holy Ghost if he had been an imposture he might have gone to work beyound, his bounds & undertook to have performed ordinances that did not belong to that office & calling under the spirit of Elias. The spirit of Elias is to prepare the way for a greater revelation of God which is the priesthood of Elias or the Priesthood that Aaron was ordained unto. And when God sends a man into the world to prepare for a greater work holds the keys of the power of Elias it was called the doctrine of Elias even from the early ages of the world. John,s mission was limited to preaching & Baptizing but what he done was legal & when Jesus Christ Came to any of John's disciples He baptized them with fire & the Holy Ghost, we find the Apostles endowed with greater power than John their office was more under the spirit & power of Elijah than Elias. In the Case of Philip when he went down to Samaria was under the spirit of Elias he baptised both men & women, when Peter & John herd of it they went down & lade hands on them & they received the Holy Ghost this shows the distinction between the two powers. when paul came to Certain Deciples He asked if they had received the Holy Ghost they said no, who baptized you then we were Baptizd unto Johns Baptism No John did not baptized you for he did his work right, & so Paul went & baptized them for He knew what the true doctrin was & he knew that John Had not Baptised them, & these principles and [it] is strange to me that men who have red the scriptures of the New Testament are so far from it. What I want to impress upon your minds is, the difference of power in the different parts of the Priesthood, so that when any man comes among you saying I have the spirit of Elias you can know whether he be true or false, for any man that comes having the spirit & power of Elias he will not transcend his bounds, John did not transend his bound but faithfully performed that part belonging to his office, and evry portion of the great building should be prepared right & assigned to its proper place, & it is necessary to know who holds the keys of power & who dont, or we may be likely to be deceived, That person who holds the keys of Elias hath a preparitory work."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 354)

Joseph Smith:

"John says, "I baptize you with water, but when Jesus comes, who has the power, he shall administer the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost.' . . . John said his baptism was nothing without the baptism of Jesus Christ."

Original:
"John says, I baptise you with water but when Jesus Christ comes He shall administer the baptism of fire & the Holy Ghost. John said his baptism was good for nothing without the Baptism of Jesus Christ."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 342-43)

Joseph Smith:

"'I baptize you with water, but when Jesus comes, having the keys, he shall baptize you with the baptisms of fire and Holy Ghost.'"

Original:
"I baptize you with water. but when Jesus comes having the keys--he shall baptize you with the baptism of fire & Holy Ghost."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 347-48)

Joseph Smith:

"John says, 'I baptize you with water, but when Jesus Christ comes he shall administer the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost.' John said his baptism was good for nothing without the baptism of Jesus Christ. Many talk of any baptism not being essential to salvation. But this would lay the foundation of their damnation."

Original:
"John said his baptism was good for nothing without the Baptism of Jesus Christ, Many talk of any baptism not being essential to salvation, but this would lay the foundation of their damnation."

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 Elias is a forerunner, same as John the Baptist."

Original:
"The Spirit of Elias is a forerunner same as John the Baptist."

Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: James Burgess Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 333)

Joseph Smith:

Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 328)

Joseph Smith:

Date: 20 March 1843 (Monday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 107-9)

Joseph Smith:

"Baptism is a sign ordained of God for the believer in Christ to take upon himself in order to enter into the kingdom of God. For 'except you are born of the water and the Spirit you cannot enter into the kingdom of God,' saith the Savior, as it is a sign of command which God hath set for man to enter into this kingdom. Those who seek to enter in any other way will seek in vain, for God will not receive them, neither will the angels acknowledge their works as accepted. For they have not taken upon themselves those ordinances and signs which God ordained for man to receive in order to receive a celestial glory. And God has decreed that all who will not obey his voice shall not escape the damnation of hell. What is the damnation of hell? To go with that society who have not obeyed his commands.

"Baptism is a sign to God, to angels, and to heaven, that we do the will of God, and there is no other way beneath the heavens whereby God hath ordained for man to come. Any other course is in vain. God hath decreed and ordained that man should repent of all his sins and be baptized for the remission of his sins. Then he can come to God in the name of Jesus Christ, in faith. Then we have the promise of the Holy Ghost. . . . It mattereth not whether we live long or short after we come to a knowledge of these principles and obey them. I know that all men will be damned if they do not come in the way which God has appointed."

Original:
"Baptism is a sign ordained of God for the believer in Christ to take upon himself in order to enter into the Kingdom of God, 'for except you are born of the water & the spirit you cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. Saith the Savior as It is a sign of command which God hath set for man to enter into ~~this kingdom of God~~ those who seek to enter in any other way will seek in vain for God will not receive them neither will the angels acknowledge their works as accepted, for they have not taken upon themselves those ordinances & signs which God ordained for man to receive in order to receive a celestial glory, & God has decreed that all ~~that~~ who will not obey his voice shall not escape the damnation of hell, what it is the damnation of hell, to go with that society who have not obeyed his commands Baptism is a sign of God, to angels to heaven that we do the will of God & there is no other way beneath the heavens whareby God hath ordained for man to come ~~to God~~ & any other course is in vain. God hath decreed & ordained that man should repent of all his sins & Be Baptized for the remission of his sins then he can come to God in the name of Jesus Christ in faith then we have the promise of the Holy Ghost

"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. What if we should attempt to get the Holy Ghost through any other means except the sign or way which God hath appointed should we obtain it certainly not all other means would fail The Lord says do so & so & I will bless so & so their is certain key words & signs belonging to the priesthood which must be observed in order to obtain the blessings The sign of Peter was to repent & be baptized for the remission of sins, with the promise of the gift of the Holy Ghost & in no other way is the first of the Holy Ghost obtained. Their is a difference between the Holy Ghost & the gift of the Holy Ghost. Cornelius received the Holy Ghost before he was Baptized which was the convincing power of God unto him of the truth of the gospel but he could not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost untill after he was Baptized, & had he not taken this sign ordinances upon him the Holy Ghost which convinced him of the truth of God would have left him untill he obeyed those ordinances & receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands according to the order of God he could not have healed the sick or command an evil spirit to come out of a man & it obey him, for the spirit might say to him as he did to the sons of Scava Peter I know & Christ I know but who are ye

"It matereth not whether we live long or short after we come to a knowledge of these principles & obey them, I know that all men will be damned if they do not come in the way which God has appointed."

Date: 1 September 1842 (Thursday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Times and Seasons (1 September 1842): 905

Joseph Smith:

"This strong and positive answer of Jesus, as to water baptism, settles the question. If God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, it is no wonder he is so positive in the great declaration: 'He that believes and is baptized shall be saved, and he that believes not shall be damned' [Mark 16:16]. There was no other name given under heaven, nor any other ordinance admitted, whereby men could be saved. No wonder the apostle said, being 'buried with him in baptism,' ye shall rise from the dead [Rom. 6:4]."

Original:
"This strong and positive answer of Jesus, as to water baptism, settles the question: If God is the same yesterday, to day and forever; it is no wonder he is so positive in the great declaration: He that believes and is baptised [baptized] shall be saved, and he that believes not shall damned! There was no other name given under heaven, nor no other ordinance admitted, whereby men could be saved: No wonder the Apostle said, being "buried with him in baptism," ye shall rise from the dead!"

Date: 9 July 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 230)

Joseph Smith:

"[One] might as well baptize a bag of sand as a man, if not done in view of the getting of the Holy Ghost. Baptism by water is but one-half a baptism and is good for nothing without the other, the Holy Ghost."

Original:
"might as well be baptize a bag of sand as a man if not done in view of the getting of the Holy Ghost.--baptism by water is but 1/2 a baptism--& is good for nothing with the other, 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:

"[It is] one thing to see the kingdom and another to be in it. [One] must have a change of heart to see the kingdom of God and subscribe [to] the articles of adoption to enter therein."

Original:
"one thing to see the kingdom. & another to be in it. Must have a change of heart to see the kingdom of God. & subscribe the articles of adoption to enter therein."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 354)

Joseph Smith:

"The baptism of water with the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost attending it are necessary. [We] must be born of water and spirit in order to get into the kingdom of God."

Original:
"The Bap of Water witht. the B of Fire & the H B. attg. it are necy he must be born of W. & Sp in order to get into the K of God."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 342)

Joseph Smith:

"Baptism of water, fire, and Holy Ghost are inseparably connected."

Original:
"Baptism of water fire & Holy Ghost. are inseperably connected."

Date: 23 July 1843 (Sunday)

Location:

Source: James Burgess Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 235)

Joseph Smith:

"He, having received the holy anointing, was the only lawful administrator, and the Jews all knew it. For 'the law and the prophets were until John; since then the kingdom of heaven is preached, and all men press into it.' Why? Because John was the only lawful administrator, and they, the Jews, well knew it. Consequently, the only alternative was for them to yield obedience to [the] mandates of this wild man of the woods, namely John, or be damned."

Original:
"he having received the holy anointing was the only lawful administrator and the jews all knew it for the law and the prophets was until John since then the kingdom of heaven is preached and all men press into it! Why! Why because John was the only lawful administrator and they the Jews well knew it. consequently the only alternative was for them to yeild obedience to mandates of this wild man of the woods, namely John or be damned."

Matthew 12:31-32

"Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.

And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come" (Matthew 12:31-32).

Date: 3 October 1841 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Times and Seasons (15 October 1841): 577

Joseph Smith:

"All are within the reach of pardoning mercy who have not committed the unpardonable sin, which hath no forgiveness, neither in this world nor in the world to come."

Original:
"All are within the reach of pardoning mercy, who have not committed the unpardonable sin, which hath no forgiveness, neither in this world, nor in the world to come."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 353-54)

Joseph Smith:

"I have a declaration to make as to the provision which God made from before the foundation of the world. What has Jesus said? [For] all sins and all blasphemies—every transgression that man may be guilty of —there is a salvation for him [here] or in the world to come. Every spirit in the eternal world can be ferreted out and saved unless he has committed that sin which cannot be remitted to him. God has wrought out salvation for all men unless they have committed a certain sin. A friend who has got a friend in the world can save him unless he has committed the unpardonable sin. . . . He has got to say that the sun does not shine while he sees it. He has got to deny Jesus Christ when the heavens are open to him. . . . I warn you against all evil characters who sin against [the] Holy Ghost, for there is no redemption for them in this world nor in the world to come. . . . Those who sin against the Holy Ghost cannot be forgiven in this world or in the world to come. But they shall die the second death. As they concoct scenes of bloodshed in this world, so they shall rise to that resurrection which is as the lake of fire and brimstone."

Original:
"I have a declarn to make as to the provn. which God made from before the foundn. of the world. what has J. sd. All sins & all blas. every trans. that man may be guilty of there is a Saln for him or in the world to come"--every Sp in the Et. world can be ferreted out & saved unless he has comd. that Sin which cant be remd to him--that God has wrot. out saln. for all men unless they have comd. a certn. sin. a friend who has got a friend in the world can save him unless he has comd. the unpard sin & so you can see how far you can be Savior there is no thing that a man can commit the unpardonable sin after the dissolution of the body & there is a way possible for escape. not Part[icul]arly st[ate]d those that are witht. wisdom until they get exalted to wisdom so long as man will not give acct. of his sins a sinner has his own mind & is in his own condemner for the C will the torment of the mind of man is as exquisite as a lake burng. with fire & brimstone--I know the Scriptures I understand them--no man can commit the unpardonable sin after the dissn of the body but they must do it in this World--hence the Saln. of J. C. was wrought out for all men to triumph over the devil--for he stood up for a Savior—J. contd. that there wod. be certn. souls that wod. be condemned & the d[evi]l sd. he cod. save them all--as the grand council gave in for J. C. so the d l fell & all who put up their heads for him. All sin shall be forgiven except the sin agt. the H. G. he has got to say that the Sun does not shine while he sees it he has got to deny J. C. when the heavens are open to him. & from that time they begin to be enemies like many of the apostates of the Church of J. C. of L.D.S.--when a man begins to be an enemy he hunts him--for he has the same Sp. that they had who crucd. the Lord of life--the same Sp. that Sin agt. the H. G. I advise all to be careful what you do--stay--do not give way--you may find that some one has laid a snare for you be cautious-- await--when you find a Sp. wants bloodshed murder same is not of God but is of the devil out of the abundance of the heart man speaks--the man that tells you words of life is the man that can save you--I warn you agt all evil characters who sin agt H. G. for there is no redempn. for them in this world nor in the world to come I can enter into the mysteries--I can enter largely into the eternal worlds--for J. sd. where my In my Fars mansion there are many mansions &c There is one glory of the moon sun & star&c we have the reason to have the greatest hope & consoln for our dead-- for we have aided them in the 1.st princ for we have seen them walk in the midst & sink asleep in the arms of J. & hence is the glory of the Sun--you mourners have occn. to rejoice for your husband has gone to wait until the redn. & your expn. & hope are far above what man can conceive--for why God has revd to us--& I am authd .to say by the authy. of the H. G. that you have no occasion to fear for he is gone to the home of the just--don't mourn don't weep--I know it by the test of the H. G. that is within me--rejoice O Israel--your friends shall triumph gloriously--while their murderers shall welter for years.--I say for the benefit of strangers I have a Far. Bror. Friends who are gone to a world of Sp--they are absent for a momt.--they are in the Sp. then shall we hail our Mor. Far. Friends & all no fear of mobs--&c but all one Eternity of felicity--Mothers you shall have your Children for they shall have it--for their debt is paid there is no damn. awaits them for they are in the Spirits--as the Child dies so shall it rise from the ded & be living in the burng. of God.--it shall be the child as it was bef it died out of your arms Children dwell & exercise power in the same form as they laid them down

"The Baptism of Water witht. the B of Fire & the H G. attg. it are necy he must be born of W. & Sp in order to get into the K of God & in the German text bears me out same as the revns. which I have given for the 14 years--I have the test to put in their teeth that my test has been true all the time You will find it in the declar of John the Bap (reads from the German) John says I bap you with Water but when J comes who has the power he shall adm the bap of F. & the H. G. Gt. God now where is all the Sect. world. & if this is true they are all d--d as clearly as any Anathama ever was--I know the text is true--I call upon all to say I--(shouts of I) Alex Campbell--how are you going to save them with water--for John sd. his bapm. was nothing witht. the bap of J. C. One God, Far., Jesus, hope of, our calling, one baptism--all three bap make one. I have the truth & I am at the defiance of the world to contradict.

"I have preached Latin, Hebrew, Greek, German & I have fulfilled all. I am not so big a fool as many have taken me for--the Germans know that I read the German correct--Hear it all ye Ends of the Earth--all ye Sinners Repent Repent--turn to God for your religion won't save you & ye will be d--d but I do not say how along-- but those who Sin agt. the Holy Ghost cannot be forgiven in this world or in the world to come but they shall die the 2nd. death--but as they concoct scenes of bloodshed in this world so they shall rise to that resurn. which is as the lake of fire & brimstone"

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: William Clayton Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 360)

Joseph Smith:

"[I] speak in relation to the provisions God hath made to suit the conditions of man. What hath Jesus said? [For] all sins and blasphemies—every transgression except one—there is a provision either in this world or in the world of spirits. Hence God hath made a provision that every spirit can be ferreted out in that world that has not sinned the unpardonable sin. . . . After a man has sinned the sin against the Holy Spirit, there is no repentance for him."

Original:
"Speak in relation to the provisions God hath made to suit the conditions of man. What hath Jesus said?--All sins & all blasphemies every transgression except one there is a provision either in this world or in the world of spirit. Hence God hath made a provision that every spirit can be ferreted out in that world that has not sinned the unpardonable sin neither in this world or in the world of spirits. Every man who has a friend in the eternal world who hath not committed the unpardonable sin you can save him. A man cannot commit the unpardonable sin after the dissolution of the body there is a way for his escape. Knowledge saves a man and in the world of spirits a man can't be exalted but by knowledge. So long as a man will not give heed to the commandments he must abide without salvation. A man is his own torment. Hence the saying they shall go into the lake that burns with fire & is as exquisite as a lake & so is the torments of a man--I said no man could commit the unpardonable sin after the dissolution of the body--Hence the salvation that the saviour wrought out for the salvation of a man if it did not [indecipherable] him in one place it would another--The contention in heaven was Jesus said there were certain man would not be saved the devil said he could save them. he rebelled against God and was thrust down. After a man has sinned the sin against the H. S. there is no repentance for him."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 342-43)

Joseph Smith:

"God made provisions before the world was for every creature in [it]. All sin shall be forgiven in this world or [the] world to come, except one. [There is] salvation for all men who have not committed the certain sin. . . . [One has] got to deny the plan of salvation, and so forth, with his eyes open. . . . Those who commit the unpardonable sin are damned to '�lam [eternity] without end."

Original:
"God made provisions before the world was for every creature in

"All sin shall be forgiven in this world or world to come--except one

"Salvation for all men who have not committed a certain sin can save any man who has not committed the unpardonable sin. . cannot commit the unpardonable sin after the ~~diss~~ dissolution of the body. Knowledge save a man.—

"No way for a man to come to understanding but give his consent to the commandment Damned by mortification--a lake as of fire of brimstone--as exquisite the disappointment of the mind of man—

"Why? Must commit the unpardonable sin in this world. will suffer in the eternal world until he will be exalted.—

"work of the devil. the plans the devil laid to save the world.—

"Devil said he could save them all--Lot fell on Jesus.--All sin &c forgiven except the sin against the Holy Ghost.--Got to deny the plan of salvation &c. with his eyes open. Like many of the apostates of christ of the Church of Jesus Christ of last Days.

"Let All be careful.--lest you be deceived. Best man brings forth best works.

"To the mourners, your friend has gone to wait the perfection of the reunion--the resurrection of your friend in felicity. While worlds must wait myriads of years before they can receive the like blessings.--Leave the subject. Bless those who have lost friends. Only gone for a few moments.—

"Shall mothers have their Children? Yes. they shall have it without price. Redemption is paid possessing all the intelligence of a god. The child as it was before it died out of your arms thrones upon thrones. Dominion upon dominion just as you—

"Baptism of water fire & Holy Ghost. are inseparably connected.--found in the German Bible to prove what I have taught for 14 years about baptism.--I baptize you with water. but when Jesus comes having the keys--he shall baptize you with the baptism of fire & Holy Ghost.—

"Leaving the principles of doctrine of baptism &c--one god, one baptism, & one baptism--I.E. all three.

"called upon all men, Priests, and all to repent and obey the gospel.--if they do not, they will be damned.-- those who commit the unpardonable sin are doomed to Gnaolom. without end."

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 346-47)

Joseph Smith:

"All sins and blasphemy were to be forgiven except the sin against the Holy Ghost. . . . Any man that has a friend in eternity can save him if he has not committed the unpardonable sin. He cannot be damned through all eternity. . . . Jesus Christ will save all except the sons of perdition. What must a man do to commit the unpardonable sin? They must receive the Holy Ghost, have the heavens opened unto them, and know God, and then sin against him. . . . There have also been remarks made concerning all men being redeemed from hell. But I say that any man who commits the unpardonable sin must dwell in hell worlds without end."

Original:
"All sins and blasphemy were to be forgiven except the sin against the Holy Ghost. God has made provision for evry spirit in the eternal world, and the spirits of our friends should be searched out & saved, Any man that has a friend in eternity can save him if he has not committed the unpardonable sin, He cannot be damned through all eternity, their is a possibility for his escape in a little time, if a man has knowledge he can be saved, if he has been guilty of great sins, he is punished for it, when he consents to obey the gospel whether Alive or dead, he is saved, his own mind damns him I have no fear of hell fire that dont exist No man can commit the unpardonable sin, untill he receives the Holy Ghost, All will suffer untill they obey Christ himself, even the devil said I am a savior and can save all, he rose up in rebelion against God and was cast down,. Jesus Christ will save all except the sons of perdition. What must a man do to commit the unpardonable sin they must receive the Holy Ghost, have the heavens opened unto them, & know God, & then sin against him, this is the case with many apostates in this Church, They never seease to try to hurt me, they have got the same spirit the devil had, you cannot save them, they make open war like the devil, stay all that hear, dont make any hasty mooves you may be saved if a spirit of Bitterness is in you, dont be in haste say you that man is a sinner, well if he repents, he shall be forgiven. I could go back and trace evry subject of interest concerning the relationship of man to God if i had time their is many mansions in my fathers Kingdom, what have we to console us in relation to our dead, we have the greatest hope in relation to our dead, of any people on earth we have seen them walk worthy on earth and those who have died in the faith are now in the selestial kingdom of God, they have gone to await the resurrection of the dead, to go to the celestial glory, while there is many who die who will have to wait many years, But I am authorized to say to you my friends in the name of the Lord, that you may wait for your friends to come forth to meet you in eternity in the morn of the celestial world. Those saints who have been murdered in the persecution shall triumph in the celestial world, while their murderers shall dwell in torment untill they pay the utmost farthing.

I have Fathers, Brothers, children, that are gone to eternity soon to meet me, the time will soon be gone, the trump will soon be blown. A question, will Mothers have their children in Eternity yes, yes, you will have the children but as it falls so it will rise it will never grow, It will be in its precise form as it fell in its mothers arms. Eternity is full of thrones upon which dwell thousands of children reigning on thrones of glory not one cubit added to their stature I will leave this subject here and make a few remarks upon Baptism. I will read a tex[t] in Jerman [German] upon Baptism, John says, I baptise you with water but when Jesus Christ comes He shall administer the baptism of fire & the Holy Ghost. John said his baptism was good for nothing without the Baptism of Jesus Christ, Many talk of any baptism not being essential to salvation, but this would lay the foundation of their damnation, There has also been remarks made concerning all men being redeemed from Hell, But I say that any man who commits the unpardonable sin must dwell in hell worlds without end."

Date: 27 June 1839 (Thursday)

Location:

Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 4)

Joseph Smith:

"St. Peter exhorts us to make our calling and election sure. This is that sealing power spoken of by Paul in other places [Eph. 1:13-14]. [It is] that we may be sealed up unto the day of redemption. This principle ought, in its proper place, to be taught. For God hath not revealed anything to Joseph but what he will make known unto the Twelve. And even the least Saint may know all things as fast as he is able to bear them."

Original:
"St Paul exhorts us to make our Calling & Election shure. This is that sealing power spoken of by Paul in other places (See Eph 1.13.14. In whom ye also trusted, that after y hears the work of truth; the gospel of your salvation, in whom also after that ye believed ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise. Which is the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of his glory.) That we may be sealed up unto the day of redemption, this principle ought. (in its proper place) to be taught, for God hath not revealed any thing to Joseph, but what he will make known unto the Twelve & even the least Saint may know all things as fast as he is able to—bear them."

Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: James Burgess Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 334)

Joseph Smith:

"Make your calling and election sure. Go on from grace to grace until you obtain a promise from God for yourselves that you shall have eternal life."

Original:
"Make your calling and election sure go on from grace to grace until you obtain a promise from God for yourselves that you shall have eternal life."

Date: 10 March 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Franklin D. Richards "Scriptural Items" (Words of Joseph Smith, 335)

Joseph Smith:

"To obtain this sealing is to make our calling and election sure, which we ought to give all diligence to accomplish. There are two sins against which this power does not secure or prevail. They are the sin against the Holy Ghost and shedding of innocent blood, which is equivalent to crucifying the Son of God afresh and putting him to an open shame. Those who do these, it is impossible to renew unto repentance, for they are delivered to the buffetings of Satan until the day of redemptions."

Original:
"To obtain this sealing is to make our calling and election sure which we ought to give all diligence to accomplish

"there are two sins against which this power does not secure or prevail they are 'The sin against the Holy Ghost' And 'shedding of innocent Blood' which is equivalent to 'crucifying the Son of God afresh & putting him to an open shame' Those who do these it is impossible to renew unto repentance for they are delivered to the buffetings of Satan untill the day of redemptions"

Date: 12 May 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 368)

Joseph Smith:

"Oh! I beseech you to [go] forward, go forward and make your calling and your election sure."

Original:
"Oh! I beseech you to forward, go forward and make your calling and your election sure"

Date: 10 April 1842 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 113-14)

Joseph Smith:

"If you wish to go where God is, you must be like God, or possess the principles which God possesses. For if we are not drawing towards God in principle, we are going from him and drawing towards the Devil. . . . Search your hearts and see if you are like God. I have searched mine and feel to repent of all my sins. . . . As far as we degenerate from God, we descend to the Devil and lose knowledge. And without knowledge we cannot be saved. And while our hearts are filled with evil and we are studying evil, there is no room in our hearts for good or studying good. Is not God good? Yes; then you be good. If he is faithful, then you be faithful. Add to your faith virtue, to your virtue knowledge, and seek for every good thing. . . . A man is saved no faster than he gets knowledge, for if he does not get knowledge, he will be brought into captivity by some evil power in the other world, as evil spirits will have more knowledge and consequently more power than many men who are on the earth. Hence, it needs revelation to assist us and give us knowledge of the things of God."

Original:
"If you wish to go whare God is you must be like god or possess the principles which God possesses for if we are not drawing towards God in principle we are going from him & drawing toward the devil, yes I am standing in the midst of all kinds of people Search your hearts & see if you are like god, I have searched mine & feel to repent of all my sins, we have theives among us Adulterers, liars, hypocritts, if God should speak from Heaven he would Command you not to steal, not to commit Adultery, not to covet, nor deceive but be faithful over a few things As far as we degenerate from God we desend to the devil & loose knowledge & without knowledge we cannot be saved &while our hearts are filled with evil & we are studying evil their is no room in our hearts for good or studying good, is not God good, Yes then you be good. if he is faithful then you be faithful Add to your faith virtue to virtue knowledge. & seek for evry good thing the church must be cleansed & I proclaim against all iniquity. A man is saved no faster than he gets knowledge for if he does not get knowledge he will be brought into captivity by some evil power in the other world as evil spirits will have more knowlede & consequently more power than many men who are on the earth. hence it needs Revelation to assist us & give us knowledge of the things of God."

Date: 14 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Yelrome, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 200)

Joseph Smith:

"It is not wisdom that we should have all knowledge at once presented before us, but that we should have a little. Then we can comprehend it. . . . The principle of knowledge is the principle of salvation. The principle can be comprehended, for anyone that cannot get knowledge to be saved will be damned. The principle of salvation is given to us through the knowledge of Jesus Christ."

Original:
"It is not wisdom that we should have all knowledge at once presented before us but that we should have a little then we can comprehend it. He then read the second Epistle of Peter 1st Ch 16 to last vers & dwelt upon the 19th vers with some remarks Ad to your faith Knowledge &c The principl of knowledge is the principle of Salvation the Principle can be comprehended, for any one that cannot get knowledge to be saved will be damned. The Principl of Salvation is given to us through the knowledge of Jesus Christ."

Date: 14 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Yelrome, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 201)

Joseph Smith:

"Notwithstanding the apostle exhorts them to add to their faith virtue, knowledge, temperance, and so forth, yet he exhorts them to make their calling and election sure."

Original:
"Not withstanding the Apostle exhorts them to make their CallingAdd to their faith virtue Knowledge temperance &C yet he exhorts them to make their Calling & election Shure."

Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: James Burgess Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 209)

Joseph Smith:

"There are three grand keys to unlock the whole subject: First, what is the knowledge of God? Second, what is it to make our calling and election sure? Third and last is how to make our calling and election sure. It is to obtain a promise from God for myself that I shall have eternal life. That is the more sure word of prophecy."

Original:
"There are three grand Keys to unlock the whole subject. First what is the knowledge of God, Second what is it to make our calling and election sure. Third and last is how to make our calling and election sure. Ans, it is to obtain a promise from God for myself that I shall have Eternal life. that is the more sure word of prophecy."

Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 206-8)

Joseph Smith:

"Now brethren, who can explain this? No man but he that has obtained these things in the same way that Peter did. Yet it is so plain and so simple and easy to be understood that when I have shown you the interpretation thereof you will think you have always known it yourselves. These are but hints of those things that were revealed to Peter. And verily, brethren, there are things in the bosom of the Father that have been hid from the foundation of the world that are not known, neither can be, except by direct revelation. The apostle says, " . . . Wherefore the rather, brethren, after all this, give diligence to make your calling and election sure." Knowledge is necessary to life and godliness. Wo unto you priests and divines who preach that knowledge is not necessary unto life and salvation. Take away apostles, and so forth, take away knowledge, and you will find yourselves worthy of the damnation of hell. Knowledge is revelation. Hear, all ye brethren, this grand key: knowledge is the power of God unto salvation. . . . There are two keys: one key, knowledge; the other, make your calling and election sure."

Original:
"Now brethren who can explain this no man be [but] he that has obtained these things in the same way that Peter did. Yet it is so plain & so simple & easy to be understood that when I have shown you the interpretation thereof you will think you have always Known it yourselves--These are but hints of those things that were revealed to Peter, and verily brethren there are things in the bosom of the Father, that have been hid from the foundation of the world, that are not Known neither can be except by direct Revelation The Apostle says, unto them who have obtained like precious faith with us the apostles through the righteousness of God & our Savior Jesus Christ, through the knowledge of him that has called us to glory & virtue add faith virtue &c. &c. to godliness brotherly kindness--Charity--ye shall neither be barren or unfruitful in the Knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. He that lacketh these things is blind--wherefore the rather brethren after all this give diligence to make your calling & Election Sure."

Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Diary, by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 205-6)

Joseph Smith:

"[There are] three grand secrets lying in this chapter which no man can dig out, which unlock the whole chapter. What is written are only hints of things which existed in the prophet's mind which are not written concerning eternal glory. I am going to take up this subject by virtue of the knowledge of God in me which I have received from heaven. The opinions of men, so far as I am concerned, are to me as the crackling of the thorns under the pot, or the whistling of the wind. . . .

"After having all these qualifications [verses 5-7], he lays this injunction: "But rather make your calling and election sure." After adding all this—virtue, knowledge, and so forth—make your calling and [election] sure. What is the secret? The starting point? 'According as his divine power which hath given unto us all things that pertain to life and godliness.' How did he obtain all things? Through the knowledge of him who hath called him. There could not anything be given pertaining to life and godliness without knowledge. . . . 'After all this, make your calling and election sure.' If this injunction would lay largely on those to whom it was spoken, how much more then to them of the nineteenth century?"

"First key: knowledge is the power of salvation. Second key: make [your] calling and election sure. Third: it is one thing to be on the mount and hear the excellent voice, and another to hear the voice declare to you, 'You have a part and lot in the kingdom.'"

Original:
"3 grand secrets lying in this chapter which no man can dig out. which unlocks the whole chapter. What is written are only hints of things which existed in the prophets mind. which are not written concerning eternal glory.

"I am going to take up this subject by virtue of the knowledge of God in me. which I have received from heaven.

"the opinions of men, so far as I am possessed concerned, are to me as the crackling of the thorns under the pot, or the whistling of the wind.

"Columbus and the eggs.--Ladder and rainbow. like precious faith with us--add to your faith virtue &c. another point after having all these qualifications he lays this injunction. but rather make your calling & election sure--after adding all this virtue knowledge &. make your calling & sure.--what is the secret. the starting point.--according as his divine power which hath given unto all things that pertain to life & godliness.

"how did he obtain all things? through the knowledge of him who hath called him.--there could not any be given pertaining to life knowledge & godliness without knowledge wo wo wo to christendom.--the divine spirits; &c if this be true.

"salvation is for a man to be saved from all his enemies.--until a man can triumph over death. he is not saved. knowledge will do this.

"organization of Spirits in the eternal world.--spirits in the eternal world are like spirits in this world. when those spirits have come into this [and] risin & received glorified bodies. they will have an ascendancy over spirits who have no bodies. or kept not their first estate like the devil. Devils punishment, should not have a habitation like other men. Devils retaliation come into this world bind up mens bodies. & occupy himself. authorities come alone and eject him from a stolen habitation

"design of the great God in sending us into this world and organizing us to prepare us for the Eternal world.--I shall keep in my own bosom. we have no claim in our eternal comfort in relation to Eternal things unless our actions & contracts & all things tend to this end.—

"after all this make your calling and election sure. if this injunction would lay largely on those to whom it was spoken. how much more then to them of the 19. century.—

"1 Key Knowledge is the power of Salvation

"2 Key Make his calling and Election Sure

'3. it is one thing to be on the mount & hear the excellent voice &c &c. and another to hear the voice declare to you, you have a part & lot in the kingdom."

Date: 14 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Yelrome, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Wilford Woodruff Journal (Words of Joseph Smith, 201-2)

Joseph Smith:

"Though they had heard the audible voice from heaven bearing testimony that Jesus was the Son of God, yet he says, 'We have a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light shining in a dark place.' Now wherein could they have a more sure word of prophecy than to hear the voice of God, saying, 'This is my beloved Son'? Now for the secret and grand key. Though they might hear the voice of God and know that Jesus was the Son of God, this would be no evidence that their election and calling were made sure, that they had part with Christ and were joint heirs with him. They then would want that more sure word of prophecy that they were sealed in the heavens and had the promise of eternal life in the kingdom of God. Then, having this promise sealed unto them, it was as an anchor to the soul, sure and steadfast. Though the thunders might roll and lightnings Hash and earthquakes bellow and war gather thick around, yet this hope and knowledge would support the soul in every hour of trial, trouble, and tribulation.

"Then knowledge through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is the grand key that unlocks the glories and mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. . . . I would exhort you to go on and continue to call upon God, until you make your calling and election sure for yourselves by obtaining this more sure word of prophecy. And wait patiently for the promise until you obtain it."

Original:
"though they had herd the audible voice from heaven bearing testinoy that Jesus was the Son of God yet he says we have a more sure word of Prophecy where unto ye do well that ye take heed as unto a light shining in a dark place. Now wherein could they have a more sure word of prophecy than to hear the voice of God saying this is my Beloved Son &C Now for the Secret & grand Key though they might hear the voice of God & know that Jesus was the Son of God this would be no evidence that their election & Calling & election was made shure that they had part with Christ & was a Joint heir with him, they then would want that more sure word of Prophecy that they were sealed in the heavens & had the promise of eternal live in the Kingdom of God then having this promise sealed unto them it was as an anchor to the Soul Sure & Steadfast though the thunders ; might roll & lightnings flash & earthquakes Bellow & war gather thick around yet this hope & knowledge would support the soul in every hour of trail [trial] trouble & tribulation Then Knowledge through our Lord & savior Jesus Christ is the grand Key that unlocks the glories & mysteries of the Kingdom of heaven compare this principle once with Christendom at the present day & whare are they with all their boasted religion piety & sacredness while at the same time they are Crying out against Prophets Apostles Angels Revelation, Prophesyings, & Visions &C. Why they are Just ripening for the damnation of hell, they will be damned for they reject the more glorious principle of the gospel of Jesus Christ & treat with disdain & trample under foot the main key that unlocks the heavens & puts in our possession the glories of the Celestial world. Yes I say such will be damned with all their professed godliness

"Then I would exhort you to go on & continue to call upon God until you make your Calling & election sure for yourselves by obtaining this more sure word of Prophesy & wait patiently for the promise until you obtain it"

Date: 17 May 1843 (Wednesday)

Location: Ramus, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: William Clayton Diary (Words of Joseph Smith, 202); see D&C 131:5

Joseph Smith:

"The more sure word of prophecy means a man's knowing that he is sealed up unto eternal life, by revelation and the spirit of prophecy, through the power of the Holy Priesthood."

Original:
"He said the more sure word of prophecy meant a mans knowing that he is sealed up unto eternal life by revelation & the spirit of prophecy through the power of the Holy priesthood."

Date: 21 May 1843 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Howard and Martha Coray Notebook (Words of Joseph Smith, 208)

Joseph Smith:

"It is one thing to receive knowledge by the voice of God ('this is my beloved Son,' etc.) and another to know that you yourself will be saved. To have a positive promise of your own salvation is making your calling and election sure. Namely, the voice of Jesus saying, 'My beloved, thou shalt have eternal life.' Brethren, never cease struggling until you get this evidence. Take heed both before and after obtaining this more sure word of prophecy."

Original:
"It is one thing to receive knowledge by the voice of God, (this is my beloved Son &c.) & another to Know that you yourself will be saved, to have a positive promise of your own Salvation is making your Calling and Election sure. viz the voice of Jesus saying my beloved thou shalt have eternal life. Brethren never cease strugling until you get this evidence. T Take heed both before and after obtaining this more sure word of Prophecy."

Matthew 12:33-35

"Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit.

O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things" (Matthew 12:33-35).

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Thomas Bullock Report (Words of Joseph Smith, 353)

Joseph Smith:

"Out of the abundance of the heart man speaks. The man that tells you words of life is the man that can save you."

Original:
"out of the abundance of the heart man speaks--the man that tells you words of life is the man that can save you"

Date: 7 April 1844 (Sunday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith Diary by Willard Richards (Words of Joseph Smith, 342)

Joseph Smith:

"[The] best man brings forth [the] best works."

Original:
"Best man brings forth best works."

Matthew 13:1-3

"The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side.

And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.

And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;" (Matthew 13:1-3).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 225

Joseph Smith:

"I shall now proceed to make some remarks from the sayings of the Savior, recorded in the 13th chapter of his gospel according to St. Matthew, which in my mind afford us as clear an understanding upon the important subject of the gathering as anything recorded in the Bible."

Original:
"I shall now proceed to make some remarks from the sayings of the Savior, recorded in the 13th chapter of his gospel according to St. Matthew, which in my mind affords us as clear an understanding, upon the important subject of the gathering, as any thing recorded in the bible."

Matthew 13:3-9

"And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;

And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:

Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:

And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away.

And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:

But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.

Who hath ears to hear, let him hear" (Matthew 13:3-9).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 226

Joseph Smith:

"This parable was spoken to demonstrate the effects that are produced by the preaching of the word. And we believe that it has an allusion directly to the commencement, or the setting up, of the kingdom in that age."

Original:
"This parable was spoken to demonstrate the effects that are produced by the preaching of the word; and we believe that it has an allusion directly, to the commencement, or the setting up of the kingdom in that age."

Matthew 13:10-16

"And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?

He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.

For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.

Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive:

For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear" (Matthew 13:10-16).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 225-6

Joseph Smith:

"'And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest thou unto them in parables?' I would remark here that the 'them' made use of in this interrogation is a personal pronoun and refers to the multitude. 'He answered and said unto them,' that is, the disciples, 'it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but unto them,' that is, unbelievers, 'it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.'

"We understand from this saying that those who had been previously looking for a Messiah to come, according to the testimony of the prophets, and were then at that time looking for a Messiah but had not sufficient light, on account of their unbelief, to discern him to be their Savior—and he being the true Messiah—consequently, they must be disappointed and lose even all the knowledge, or have taken away from them, all the light, understanding, and faith which they had upon this subject. Therefore, he that will not receive the greater light must have taken away from him all the light which he hath. And 'if the light which is in you become darkness, behold, how great is that darkness!' [Matt. 6:23]. . . . Now we discover that the very reason assigned by [Isaiah] why they would not receive the Messiah was because they did not or would not understand [Isa. 6:9-10]. And seeing, they did not perceive. . . .

"We draw the conclusion, then, that the very reason why the multitude, or the world, as they were designated by the Savior, did not receive an explanation upon his parables was because of unbelief. 'To you,' he says speaking to his disciples, 'it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God.' And why? Because of the faith and confidence they had in him."

Original:
"And the disciples came and said unto him, why speakest thou unto them in parables, (I would remark here, that the 'them,' made use of, in this interrogation, is a personal pronoun and refers to the multitude,) he answered and said unto them, (that is the disciples,) it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but unto them (that is unbelievers) it is not given, for whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance; but whosoever hath not, shall be taken away, even that he hath.'

"We understand from this saying, that those who had previously been looking for a Messiah to come, according to the testimony of the Prophets, and were then, at that time, looking for a Messiah, but had not sufficient light on the account of their unbelief, to discern him to be their Savior; and he being the true Messiah, consequently they must be disappointed and lose even all the knowledge, or have taken away from them, all the light, understanding and faith, which they had upon this subject; therefore he that will not receive the greater light, must have taken away from him, all the light which he hath. And if the light which is in you, become darkness, behold how great is that darkness? Therefore says the Savior, speak I unto them in parables, because they, seeing, see not; and hearing, they hear not; neither do they understand: and in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esias, which saith: by hearing ye shall hear and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see and not perceive.

"Now we discover, that the very reasons assigned by this prophet, why they would not receive the Messiah, was, because they did or would not understand; and seeing they did not perceive: for this people's heart is waxed gross; their ears are dull of hearing; their eyes they have closed, lest at any time, they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and should be converted and I should heal them.

"But what saith he to his disciples: Blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear; for verily I say nnto [unto] you, that many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

"We again make a remark here, for we find that the very principles upon which the disciples were accounted blessed, was because they were permitted to see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and the condemnation which rested upon the multitude, which received not his saying, was because they were not willing to see with their eyes and hear with their ears; not because they could not and were not privileged to see, and hear, but because their hearts were full of iniquity and abomination: nation: as your fathers did so do ye. The prophet foreseeing that they would thus harden their hearts plainly declared it; and herein is the condemnation of the world, that light hath come into the world, and men choose darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil: This is so plainly taught by the Savior, that a wayfaring man need not mistake it.

"And again hear ye the parable of the sower: Men are in the habit, when the truth is exhibited by the servants of God, of saying, all is mystery, they are spoken in parables, and, therefore, are not to be understood, it is true they have eyes to see, and see not; but none are so blind as those who will not see: And although the Savior spoke this parable to such characters, yet unto his disciples he expounded it plainly; and we have reason to be truly humble before the God of our fathers, that he hath left these things on record for us, so plain, that, notwithstanding the exertions and combined influence of the priests of Baal, they have not power to blind our eyes and darken our understanding, if we will but open our eyes and read with candor, for a moment. But listen to the explanation of the parable: when any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. Now mark the expression; that which was before sown in his heart; this is he which received seed by the way side; men who have no principle of righteousness in themselves, and whose hearts are full of iniquity, and who have no desire for the principles of truth, do not understand the word of truth, when they hear it.-The devil taketh away the word of truth out of their hearts, because there is no desire for righteousness in them. But he that received the seed into stony places the same is he that heareth the word and, anon, with joy receiveth it, yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for awhile; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. He also that received seed among the thorns is he that receiveth the word, and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful: but he that received seed into the good ground, is he that heareth the word and understandeth it which also beareth fruit and bringeth forth some an hundred fold, some sixty, some thirty. Thus the Savior himself explains unto his disciples the parable, which he put forth and left no mystery or darkness upon the minds of those who firmly believe on his words.

We draw the conclusion then, that the very reason why the multitude, or the world, as they were designated by the Savior, did not receive an explanation upon his parables, was, because of unbelief. To you, he says, (speaking to his disciples) it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: and why? because of the faith and confidence which they had in him."

Matthew 13:16

"But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear" (Matthew 13:16).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 225-26

Joseph Smith:

"We find that the very principle upon which the disciples were accounted blessed was because they were permitted to see with their eyes and hear with their ears. And the condemnation which rested upon the multitude, which received not his saying, was because they were not willing to see with their eyes and hear with their ears—not because they could not and were not privileged to see and hear, but because their hearts were full of iniquity and abomination: 'As your fathers did so do ye.' The prophet, foreseeing that they would thus harden their hearts, plainly declared it [Isa. 6:9-10]. And herein is the condemnation of the world: 'that light hath come into the world, and men choose darkness rather than light, because their deeds are evil' [John 3:19]. This is so plainly taught by the Savior that a wayfaring man need not mistake it."

Original:
"we find that the very principles upon which the disciples were accounted blessed, was because they were permitted to see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and the condemnation which rested upon the multitude, which received not his saying, was because they were not willing to see with their eyes and hear with their ears; not because they could not and were not privileged to see, and hear, but because their hearts were full of iniquity and abomination: nation: as your fathers did so do ye. The prophet foreseeing that they would thus harden their hearts plainly declared it; and herein is the condemnation of the world, that light hath come into the world, and men choose darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil: This is so plainly taught by the Savior, that a wayfaring man need not mistake it."

Matthew 13:18-19

"Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower.

When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side" (Matthew 13:18-19).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 226

Joseph Smith:

"Men are in the habit, when the truth is exhibited by the servants of God, of saying, 'All is mystery; they have spoken in parables and therefore are not to be understood.' It is true they have eyes to see and see not. But none are so blind as those who will not see. And although the Savior spoke this parable to such characters, yet unto his disciples he expounded it plainly. And we have reason to be truly humble before the God of our fathers that he hath left these things on record for us, so plain that notwithstanding the exertions and combined influence of the priests of Baal, they have not power to blind our eyes and darken our understanding, if we will but open our eyes and read with candor, for a moment.

"But listen to the explanation of the parable: 'When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart.' Now mark the expression, 'that which was before sown in his heart.' 'This is he which received seed by the way side.' Men who have no principle of righteousness in themselves, and whose hearts are full of iniquity, and who have no desire for the principles of truth, do not understand the word of truth when they hear it. The devil taketh away the word of truth out of their hearts, because there is no desire for righteousness in them."

Original:
"Men are in the habit, when the truth is exhibited by the servants of God, of saying, all is mystery, they are spoken in parables, and, therefore, are not to be understood, it is true they have eyes to see, and see not; but none are so blind as those who will not see: And although the Savior spoke this parable to such characters, yet unto his disciples he expounded it plainly; and we have reason to be truly humble before the God of our fathers, that he hath left these things on record for us, so plain, that, notwithstanding the exertions and combined influence of the priests of Baal, they have not power to blind our eyes and darken our understanding, if we will but open our eyes and read with candor, for a moment. But listen to the explanation of the parable: when any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. Now mark the expression; that which was before sown in his heart; this is he which received seed by the way side; men who have no principle of righteousness in themselves, and whose hearts are full of iniquity, and who have no desire for the principles of truth, do not understand the word of truth, when they hear it.-The devil taketh away the word of truth out of their hearts, because there is no desire for righteousness in them."

Matthew 13:22

"He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful" (Matthew 13:22).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 226

Joseph Smith:

"'He also that received seed among the thorns is he that receiveth the word; and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.'"

Original:
"He also that received seed among the thorns is he that receiveth the word, and the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful."

Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

"Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:

But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way.

But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also.

So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?

He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?

But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them.

Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn" (Matthew 13:24-30).

"Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.

He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;

The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;

The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.

As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.

The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;

And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear" (Matthew 24:36-43).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 226-9

Joseph Smith:

"Now we learn by this parable not only the setting up of the kingdom in the days of the Savior, which is represented by the good seed which produced fruit, but also the corruptions of the Church, which are represented by the tares which were sown by the enemy, which his disciples would fain have plucked up, or cleansed the Church of, if their views had been favored by the Savior. But he, knowing all things, says, 'Not so,' as much as to say, 'Your views are not correct; the Church is in its infancy, and if you take this rash step, you will destroy the wheat, or the Church, with the tares. Therefore, it is better to let them grow together until the harvest, or the end of the world, which means the destruction of the wicked, which is not yet fulfilled.' . . .

"Now men cannot have any possible grounds to say that this is figurative, or that it does not mean what it says, for he is now explaining what he had previously spoken in parables. And according to this language, the end of the world is the destruction of the wicked. The harvest and the end of the world have an allusion directly to the human family in the last days—instead of the earth as many have imagined—and that which shall precede the coming of the Son of Man and the restitution of all things spoken of by the mouth of all the holy prophets since the world began. And the angels are to have something to do in this great work, for they are the reapers.

"As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so shall it be in the end of this world. That is, as the servants of God go forth warning the nations, both priests and people, and as they harden their hearts and reject the light of the truth, these first being delivered over to the buffetings of Satan, and the law and the testimony being closed up as it was with the Jews, they are left in darkness and delivered over unto the day of burning. Thus, being bound up by their creeds and their bands made strong by their priests, [they] are prepared for the fulfillment of the saying of the Savior: 'The Son of man shall send forth his angels and gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace of fire, and there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.'

"We understand that the work of the gathering together of the wheat into barns, or garners, is to take place while the tares are being bound over and preparing for the day of burning, that after the day of burnings, 'the righteous shall shine forth like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.'"

Original:
"And another parable spake he unto them: The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, until the whole was leavened. It may be understood that the church of the Latter Day Saints, has taken its rise from a little leaven that was put into three witnesses. Behold, how much this is like the parable: it is fast leavening the lump, and will soon leaven the whole. But let us pass on.

"All these things spake Jesus unto the multitudes, in parables, and without a parable spake he not unto them, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: I will open my mouth in parables: I will utter things which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world: Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house, and his disciples came unto him, saying, declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field. He answered and said unto them, he that soweth the good seed is the son of man; the field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom, but the tares are the children of the wicked one. Now let our readers mark the expression, the field is the world; the tares are the children of the wicked one: the enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world. Let them carefully mark this expression also, the end of the world, and the reapers are the angels. Now men cannot have any possible grounds to say that this is figurative, or that it does not mean what it says; for he is now explaining what he had previously spoken in parables; and according to this language, the end of the world is the destruction of the wicked; the harvest and the end of the world have an allusion directly to the human family in the last days, instead of the earth, as many have imagined, and that which shall precede the coming of the Son of man, and the restitution of all things spoken of by the mouth of all the holy prophets since the world began; and the angels are to have something to do in this great work, for they are the reapers: as therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so shall it be in the end of this world; that is, as the servants of God go forth warning the nations, both priests and people, and as they harden their hearts and reject the light of the truth, these first being delivered over unto the buffetings of satan, and the law and the testimony being closed up, as it was with the Jews, they are left in darkness, and delivered over unto the day of burning: thus being bound up by their creeds and their bands made strong by their priests, are prepared for the fulfilment [fulfillment] of the saying of the Savior: The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity, and shall cast them into a furnace of fire and there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

"We understand, that the work of the gathering together of the wheat into barns, or garners, is to take place while the tares are being bound over, and preparing for the day of burning: that after the day of burnings, the righteous shall shine forth like the sun, in the kingdom of their Father: who hath ears to hear let him hear."

Date: 1839

Location:

Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 13)

Joseph Smith:

"God sows. The enemy comes and sows parties, divisions, and heresies. 'Shall we kill them?' 'No, not till harvest, the end of the world.' The Son of God will do as he ever has done from the beginning: send forth his angels. If the reapers do not come, the wheat cannot be saved. Nothing but [the] kingdom being restored can save the world."

Original:
"God sows—The enemy comes & sows parties divisions, heresies; Shall we kill them? No, not till harvest—The end of the world. The Son of God will do as he ever has done from the beginning. Send forth his Angels. If the reapers do not come, the wheat cannot be Saved. Nothing but Kingdom being restored, can save the world."

Matthew 13:31-32

"Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:

Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof" (Matthew 13:31-32).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 227-28

Joseph Smith:

"And again, 'another parable put he forth unto them,' having an allusion to the kingdom which should be set up just previous [to], or at the time of, the harvest. Now we can discover plainly that this figure is given to represent the Church as it shall come forth in the last days. Behold, the kingdom of heaven is likened unto it. Now, what is like unto it?

"Let us take the Book of Mormon, which a man took and hid in his field, securing it by his faith to spring up in the last days, or in due time. Let us behold it coming forth out of the ground which is indeed accounted the least of all seeds. But behold it branching forth, yea, even towering with lofty branches and God-like majesty, until it becomes the greatest of all herbs. And it is truth, and it has sprouted and come forth out of the earth, and righteousness begins to look down from heaven, and God is sending down his powers, gifts, and angels to lodge in the branches thereof.

"The kingdom of heaven is like unto a mustard seed. Behold, then, is not this the kingdom of heaven that is raising its head in the last days in the majesty of its God, even the Church of the Latter-day Saints?—like an impenetrable, immovable rock in the midst of the mighty deep, exposed to the storms and tempests of Satan but [which] has, thus far, remained steadfast and is still braving the mountain waves of opposition which are driven by the tempestuous winds of sinking crafts [and] have [been] and are still dashing with tremendous foam across its triumphing brow, urged onward with redoubled fury by the enemy of righteousness with his pitchfork of lies. . . .

"[A] cloud of darkness has long been beating with mountain waves upon the immovable rock of the Church of the Latter-day Saints. And notwithstanding all this, the mustard seed is still towering its lofty branches, higher and higher, and extending itself wider and wider. And the chariot wheels of the kingdom are still rolling on, impelled by the mighty arm of Jehovah, and in spite of all opposition will still roll on until his words are all fulfilled."

Original:
"And again, another parable put he forth unto them, having an allusion to the kingdom which should be set up, just previous or at the time of harvest, which reads as follows:-The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, which indeed is the least of all seeds, but when it is grown it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof. Now we can discover plainly, that this figure is given to represent the church as it shall come forth in the last days. Behold the kingdom of heaven is likened unto it. Now what is like unto it?

"Let us take the book of Mormon, which a man took and hid in his field; securing it by his faith, to spring up in the last days, or in due time: let us behold it coming forth out of the ground, which is indeed accounted the least of all seeds, but behold it branching forth; yea, even towering, with lofty branches, and God-like majesty, until it becomes the greatest of all herbs: and it is truth, and it has sprouted and come forth out of the earth; and righteousness begins to look down from heaven; and God is sending down his powers gifts and angels, to lodge in the branches thereof: The kingdom of heaven is like unto a mustard seed. Behold, then, is not this the kingdom of heaven that is raising its head in the last days, in the majesty of its God; even the church of the Latter day saints,-like an impenetrable, immovable rock in the midst of the mighty deep, exposed storms and tempests of satan, but has, thus far, remained steadfast and is still braving the mountain waves of opposition, which are driven by the tempestuous winds of sinking crafts, have and are still dashing with tremendous foam, across its triumphing brow, urged onward with redoubled fury by the enemy of righteousness, with his pitchfork of lies, as you will see fairly represented in a cut, contained in Mr. Howe's "Mormonism Unveiled?"

And we hope that this adversary of truth will continue to stir up the sink of iniquity, that people may the more readily discern between the righteous and wicked. We also would notice one of the modern sons of Seeva, who would fain have made people believe that he could cast out devils by a certain pamphlet (viz. the "Millennial [Millennial] Harbinger,") that went the rounds through our country, who felt so fully authorized to brand Jo Smith, with the appellation of Elymus the sorcerer, and to say with Paul, O full of all subtilty [subtlety] and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord! We would reply to this gentleman-Paul we know, and Christ we know, but who are ye? And with the best of feelings, we would say to him, in the language of Paul to those who said they were John's disciples, but had not so much as heard there was a Holy Ghost, to repent and be baptised [baptized] for the remission of sins by those who have legal authority, and under their hands you shall receive the Holy Ghost, according to the scriptures.

"Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.-Acts ch. 8 v. 17.

"And, when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.-Acts ch. 19 v. 6.

"Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.-Heb. ch, 6 v. 2.

"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed; 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? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!-Rom. ch. 10, v. 14-15.

"But if this man will not take our admonition, but will persist in his wicked course, we hope that he will continue trying to cast out devils, that we may have the clearer proof that the kingdom of satan is divided against itself, and consequently cannot stand: for a kingdom divided against itself, speedily hath an end. If we were disposed to take this gentleman upon his own ground and justly heap upon him that which he so readily and unjustly heaps upon others, we might go farther; we might say that he has wickedly and maliciously lied about, vilified and traduced the characters of innocent men. We might invite the gentleman to a public investigation of these matters; yea, and we do challenge him to an investigation upon any or all principles wherein he feels opposed to us, in public or in private.

"We might farther say that, we could introduce him to "Mormonism Unveiled." Also to the right honorable Doct. P. Hurlburt, who is the legitimate author of the same, who is not so much a doctor of physic, as of falsehood, or by name. We could also give him an introduction to the reverend Mr. Howe, the illegitimate author of "Mormonism Unveiled," in order to give currency to the publication, as Mr. Hurlburt, about this time, was bound over to court, for threatening life. He is also an associate of the celebrated Mr. Clapp, who has of late immortalized his name by swearing that he would not believe a Mormon under oath; and by his polite introduction to said Hurlburt's wife, which cost him (as we have been informed) a round sum. Also his son Mathew testified that, the book of Mormon had been proved false an hundred times, by How's [Howe's] book: and also, that he would not believe a Mormon under oath. And also we could mention the reverend Mr. Bentley, who, we believe, has been actively engaged in injuring the character of his brother in-law, viz: Elder S. Rigdon.

"Now, the above statements are according to our best information: and we believe them to be true; and this is as fair a sample of the doctrine of Campbellism, as we ask, taking the statements of these gentlemen, and judging them by their fruits. And we might add many more to the black catalogue; even the ringleaders, not of the Nazarenes, for how can any good thing come out of Nazareth, but of the far-famed Mentor mob: all sons and legitimate heirs of the same spirit of Alexander Campbell, and "Mormonism Unveiled," according to the representation in the cut spoken of above.

"The above cloud of darkness has long been beating with mountain waves upon the immovable rock of the church of the Latter Day Saints, and notwithstanding all this, the mustard seed is still towering its lofty branches, higher and higher, and extending itself wider and wider, and the chariot wheels of the kingdom are still rolling on, impelled by the mighty arm of Jehovah; and in spite of all opposition will still roll on until his words are all fulfilled."

Date: 1839

Location:

Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 10)

Joseph Smith:
"The mustard seed is small but brings forth a large tree, and the fowls lodge in the branches. The fowls are the angels. . . These angels come down, combined together to gather their children, and gather them."

Original:
"the mustard seed is small but brings forth a large tree, and the fowls lodge in the branches The fowls are the Angels, the Book of Mormon perhaps, these Angels come down combined together to gather their children, & gather them."

Matthew 13:33

"Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened" (Matthew 13:33).

Date: December 1835

Location:

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 228-29

Joseph Smith:

"It may be understood that the Church of the Latter-day Saints has taken its rise from a little leaven that was put into three witnesses. Behold how much this is like the parable: it is fast leavening the lump and will soon leaven the whole. . . .

"Three measures of meal, undergoing the purifying touch by a revelation of Jesus Christ and the ministering of angels, who have already commenced this work in the last days which will answer to the leaven which leavened the whole lump."

Original:
"It may be understood that the church of the Latter Day Saints, has taken its rise from a little leaven that was put into three witnesses. Behold, how much this is like the parable: it is fast leavening the lump, and will soon leaven the whole. But let us pass on.

But to illustrate more clearly upon this gathering, we have another parable. Again the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hid in a field, the which when a man hath found, he hideth and for joy thereof, goeth and selleth all that he hath and buyeth that field: for the work after this pattern, see the church of the Latter Day Saints, selling all that they have and gathering themselves together unto a place that they may purchase for an inheritance, that they may be together and bear each other's affliction in the day of calamity.

"Again the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man seeking goodly pearls, who when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. For the work of this example, see men travelling [traveling] to find places for Zion, and her stakes or remnants, who when they find the place for Zion, or the pearl of great prices; straightway sell all that they have and buy it.

"Again the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind, which when it was full they drew to shore, and sat down and gathered the good into vessels, and cast the bad away.-For the work of this pattern, behold the seed of Joseph, spreading forth the gospel net, upon the face of the earth, gathering of every kind, that the good may be saved in vessels prepared for that purpose, and the angels will take care of the bad: so shall it be at the end of the world, the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, and cast them into the furnace of fire, and there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Jesus saith unto them, have you understood all these things? they say unto him yea Lord: and we say yea Lord, and well might they say yea Lord, for these things are so plain and so glorious, that every Saint in the last days must respond with a hearty amen to them.

"Then said he unto them, therefore every scribe which is instructed into the kingdom of heaven, is like unto a man that is an house holder; which bringeth forth out of his treasure things that are new and old.

"For the work of this example, see the book of Mormon, coming forth out of the treasure of the heart; also the covenants given to the Latter Day Saints: also the translation of the bible: thus bringing forth out of the heart, things new and old: thus answering to three measures of meal, undergoing the purifying touch by a revelation of Jesus Christ, and the ministering of angels, who have already commenced this work in the last days, which will answer to the leaven which leavened the whole lump."

Date: 22 December 1842 (Thursday)

Location: Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, USA

Source: Joseph Smith's Journal 1842-1843, by Willard Richards, Church Archives (An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith, 257)

Joseph Smith:

"It alludes expressly to the last days, when there should be little faith on the earth and it [will] leaven the whole world. There shall be safety in Zion and Jerusalem and [among] the remnants whom the Lord shall call. It refers to the priesthood."

Original:
"It alludes expressly to the last days when there should be little faith on the earth and it leaven the whole world. Thare shall be safity [safety] in Zion and Jerusalem and the remnants whom the Lord shall call. It refers to the Priesthood."

Matthew 13:36-43

"Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field.

He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;

The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;

The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.

As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world.

The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;

And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear" (Matthew 13:36-43).

Date: December 1835

Location: Kirtland, Geauga County, Illinois, USA

Source: Messenger and Advocate (December 1835): 226-9

Joseph Smith:

Original:
"Now we learn by this parable, not only the setting up of the kingdom in the days of the Savior, which is represented by the good seed, which produced fruit, but also the corruptions of the church, which is represented by the tares, which were sown by the enemy, which his disciples would fain have plucked up, or cleansed the church of, if their views had been favored by the Savior; but he, knowing all things, says not so; as much as to say, your views are not correct, the church is in its infancy, and if you take this rash step, you will destroy the wheat or the church with the tares: therefore it is better to let them grow together until the harvest, or the end of the world, which means the destruction of the wicked; which is not yet fulfilled; as we shall show hereafter, in the Savior's explanation of the parable, which is so plain, that there is no room left for dubiety upon the mind, notwithstanding the cry of the priests, parables, parables! figures, figures! mystery, mystery! all is mystery! but we find no room for doubt here, as the parables were all plainly elucidated.

"And again, another parable put he forth unto them, having an allusion to the kingdom which should be set up, just previous or at the time of harvest, which reads as follows:-The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, which indeed is the least of all seeds, but when it is grown it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof. Now we can discover plainly, that this figure is given to represent the church as it shall come forth in the last days. Behold the kingdom of heaven is likened unto it. Now what is like unto it?

"And we hope that this adversary of truth will continue to stir up the sink of iniquity, that people may the more readily discern between the righteous and wicked. We also would notice one of the modern sons of Seeva, who would fain have made people believe that he could cast out devils by a certain pamphlet (viz. the 'Millennial [Millennial] Harbinger,') that went the rounds through our country, who felt so fully authorized to brand Jo Smith, with the appellation of Elymus the sorcerer, and to say with Paul, O full of all subtilty [subtlety] and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord! We would reply to this gentleman-Paul we know, and Christ we know, but who are ye? And with the best of feelings, we would say to him, in the language of Paul to those who said they were John's disciples, but had not so much as heard there was a Holy Ghost, to repent and be baptised [baptized] for the remission of sins by those who have legal authority, and under their hands you shall receive the Holy Ghost, according to the scriptures.

"Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.-Acts ch. 8 v. 17.

"And, when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.-Acts ch. 19 v. 6.

"Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.-Heb. ch, 6 v. 2.

"Our readers will excuse us for deviating from the subject, when they take into consideration the abuses, that have been heaped upon us heretofore, which we have tamely submitted to, until forbearance is no longer required at our hands, having frequently turned both the right and left cheek, we believe it our duty now to stand up in our own defence [defense]. With these remarks we shall proceed with the subject of the gathering.

"And another parable spake he unto them: The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, until the whole was leavened. It may be understood that the church of the Latter Day Saints, has taken its rise from a little leaven that was put into three witnesses. Behold, how much this is like the parable: it is fast leavening the lump, and will soon leaven the whole. But let us pass on.

Date: 1839

Location:

Source: Willard Richards Pocket Companion (Words of Joseph Smith, 13)

Joseph Smith:

world."

Original:
"God sows—The enemy comes & sows parties divisions, heresies; Shall we kill them? No, not till harvest—The end of the world. The Son of God will do as he ever has done from the beginning. Send forth his Angles. If the reapers do not come, the wheat cannot be Saved. Nothing but Kingdom being restored, can save the world."