Reasons starting with B

Reasons Starting with B

Babies; When Baby Kicks Spirit Enters Body

Journal of Discourses 18:258-259; When the body is prepared, at the proper time, the spirit enters the tabernacle, and all the world of mankind in their reflections and researches must come to this conclusion, for the fact is they can come to no other—that when the mother feels life there is an evidence that the spirit from heaven has entered the tabernacle.” – Brigham Young, Salt Lake City, October 8, 1876

Genesis 2:7; And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

Honestly, how many times must someone lie before the people finally say enough is enough???

Baptism for the Dead

D&C 124:29-30; For a baptismal font there is not upon the earth, that they, my saints, may be baptized for those who are dead—For this ordinance belongeth to my house, and cannot be acceptable to me, only in the days of your poverty, wherein ye are not able to build a house unto me.

1 Cor. 15:29; Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?

Temples in the NT era are not made with hands and baptizing dead people is necromancy.

Baptisms for the Dead

Ensign, April 2002, pg. 4; What a marvelous thing that is that you, an ordinary boy or girl, can stand in the place of some great man or woman who at one time lived upon the earth but who is now powerless to move forward without the blessing that you can give to him or her. … There is no greater blessing that you can have than to stand as a proxy in a great service to those who have gone beyond. And it will be your privilege and your opportunity and your responsibility to live worthy to go to the temple of the Lord and there be baptized in behalf of someone else.
— Gordon B. Hinckley

Leviticus 18:21; And thou shalt not let any of thy seed pass through the fire to Molech, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.

No one except for the Creator of mankind can decide where man goes.  The only person who’s stood in the place for others is Jesus when He hung on that cross for all of us.

Baptism for Dead not Necessary

2 Nephi 9:38;“And, in fine, wo unto all those who die in their sins; for they shall return to God, and behold his face, and remain in their sins.

Isaiah 64:6; But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Every Mormon should question their faith based upon this verse from the Book of Mormon.

Posthumous Baptism for President Obama’s Mom

Peggy Fletcher Stack, Salt Lake Tribune, May 6, 2009; President Barack Obama’s mother, Stanley Ann Dunham, who died in 1995, was baptized posthumously into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints last year during her son’s campaign, according to Salt Lake City-based researcher Helen Radkey.

The ritual, known as “baptism for the dead,” was done June 4 in the Provo temple, and another LDS temple rite, known as the “endowment,” was performed in the same temple on June 11, said Radkey, who found the record while doing research in the LDS Family History Library in Salt Lake City.

2 Thess. 2:10-11; And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.

So – did they marry her to Barack’s father or her second husband?  How does the “Families are Forever” program work now?  And because some of the people involved aren’t white does that make a difference?

Posthumous Baptisms for Murderers

Peggy Fletcher Stack, Salt Lake Tribune, June 3, 2009; “Prominent fundamentalist Mormons, most of whom were excommunicated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for practicing polygamy while they were alive, have been posthumously re-baptized in LDS temples, a Salt Lake City researcher says.

Helen Radkey said in a new report that she obtained church records on 20 fundamentalists — from murderer Ervil LeBaron to Joseph Musser to Rulon Jeffs — showing that they’ve been baptized and have had their plural marriages “sealed” for time and eternity by proxy LDS members, one as recently as this year.

Perhaps the most puzzling ordinances, Radkey said, are those that “seal” women to men whom they had divorced, mostly over the polygamy issue…

Romans 1:28; And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient.

Interesting…according to D&C 42:79 murderers can never have forgiveness.

Baptism, Resurrection, Church; Circa 120 BC

Mosiah 26:2; They did not believe what had been said concerning the resurrection of the dead, neither did they believe concerning the coming of Christ.  4 And they would not be baptized; neither would they join the church. And they were a separate people as to their faith, and remained so ever after, even in their carnal and sinful state; for they would not call upon the Lord their God.

1 Timothy 6:3-5; If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; 4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

How could someone believe in Jesus, resurrection of the dead, be baptized and go to church in 120 BC?  Does this sound reasonable?

Baptism then Holy Spirit

Cowley’s Talks on Doctrine, pg. 110; Having shown that faith, repentance and baptism are essential to the remission of sins, let us now consider the reception of the Holy Spirit. That this should follow, and not precede, the birth of the water must be evident to every thoughtful person.

Acts 2:41; Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

The Holy Spirit doesn’t have to wait on a man-made ordinance to dwell inside a believer.

Baptism, When Did it Begin

Articles of Faith, pg. 110;The Establishment of Baptism dates from the time of the earliest history of the race. When the Lord manifested Himself to Adam after the expulsion from the Garden of Eden, He promised the patriarch of the race: “If thou wilt turn unto me, and hearken unto my voice, and believe, and repent of all thy transgressions, and be baptized, even in water, in the name of mine Only Begotten Son…” – James Talmage

Holman’s Bible Dictionary on Baptism; At some point close to the time of Jesus, Judaism began a heavy emphasis on ritual washings to cleanse from impurity. This goes back to priestly baths prior to offering sacrifices (Lev. 16:4, 24). Probably shortly prior to the time of Jesus or contemporary with Him, Jews began baptizing Gentile converts, though circumcision still remained the primary entrance rite into Judaism.

Matthew 3:13-15; Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. 14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.

For the sake of the argument let’s go ahead and say that the Mormon teachings of baptism actually mean washings instituted in the book of Leviticus.  That’s roughly a 2,400 year discrepancy.  Also notice that God is telling Adam to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus.  Yeah, okay…

Belief

Newsweek, “What Mormons Believe,” September 1, 1980, p. 68; Mormon doctrine means that ultimately we are not dependent upon God for our existence. And since we can make ourselves as godly as the Father, we don’t feel any jealousy toward him.” BYU Professor James E. Ford

2 Tim. 2:16; But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

Every time I think I’ve found the most blasphemous teaching of the Mormon Church, another rears its ugly head.

Bible

80 – Bible vs. Book of Mormon

Come, Listen to a Prophet’s Voice, pg. 15; Of the four great standard works of the Church—the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price—I would particularly urge you to read again and again the Book of Mormon and ponder and apply its teachings. The Book of Mormon was referred to by the Prophet Joseph Smith as “the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man [and woman] would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.”” – Ezra Taft Benson

1 John 5:13; These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

It’s blasphemous to lead others away from the Bible.  It’s a lie to tell people that the Book of Mormon is the most correct book on the face of the earth and it’s very telling when the prophets of Mormonism proclaim that the Book of Mormon is the keystone of their religion – obviously Jesus is not.

Bible

Journal of Discourses 2:6-7; You believe Adam was made of the dust of this earth. This I do not believe, though it is supposed that it is so written in the Bible; but it is not, to my understanding. You can write that information to the States, if you please—that I have publicly declared that I do not believe that portion of the Bible as the Christian world do. I never did, and I never want to.” – Brigham Young, Salt Lake City, October 23, 1853

2 Timothy 3:13-15; But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

You don’t have to believe the Bible is the word of God.  Our Lord doesn’t force anyone to believe in Him even though He gives us ample opportunity to do so; the choice will always be left up to you.

However, when you begin leading others astray and lying to make your point the Bible verse Matthew 18:6 ought to readily be remembered.

Bible, Changes Made by Joseph Smith to the

Ensign, December 1972, pg. 61; Chapter 14 of Genesis, in the King James Version [Gen. 14], contains a brief account of Abraham and Melchizedek; but the new translation of this chapter adds 400 words about the greatness of Melchizedek, giving events of his life and ministry.

In the King James Version, Hebrews 7:1–3 strangely suggests that Melchizedek was a man without father or mother or lineage. This was corrected by the Prophet to say that it was the priesthood of Melchizedek, not the man, that was without lineage. This is certainly an improvement and draws the distinction between the Aaronic Priesthood, which in Old Testament times came down only through the lineage of Aaron, and the Melchizedek Priesthood, which is not confined to a precise lineage.

The Prophet also censored the Song of Solomon by declaring that it was not inspired scripture.” – Robert J. Matthews, Asst. Professor of Ancient Scripture, BYU

Hebrews 7:1-3; For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; 2 To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; 3 Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.

There are times when something is so absolutely blasphemous the only thing someone can do is ask Abba for comfort – for me this is one of those times.

Bible is Eternal

2 Nephi 9:16; And assuredly, as the Lord liveth, for the Lord God hath spoken it, and it is his eternal word, which cannot pass away.

Matthew 5:18; For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

If God’s word cannot pass away why were there almost 4,000 grammatical changes made to the Book of Mormon and why wouldn’t Isaiah 40:8?

Bible, Is it Trustworthy?

“A Bible, A Bible!” pgs. 16-17; Early in the Prophet’s ministry the Lord instructed him to make a revision, or as he termed it, a “translation” of the Bible. This was not to be a translation in the usual sense, employing a knowledge of biblical languages, use of ancient manuscripts, and the usual procedure and paraphernalia of the scholar, but rather a translation in which Joseph Smith would discern the true intent of the Bible through revelation. It is now known as the Joseph Smith Translation, or JST…A major purpose of the new translation seems to have been the spiritual understanding that came to the Prophet as a result of his effort.” – Robert Millet & Larry Dahl

Hebrews 8:10-11; For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: 11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.

2 Timothy 3:13-15; But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.  14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

This should be an alarming revelation to each and every Mormon.  What is the aversion to having a reliable translation of the Bible or relying upon the original languages?

Bible isn’t True

8th Article of Faith; “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.

2 Tim. 3:16; All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.

In this statement they’ve pulled the rug out from the authoritative nature of Bible, belittling it and advocating a false religion.

Bible, Miracle of the

Ensign, May 2007, pg. 82; Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable” (2 Timothy 3:16). We love the Bible and other scriptures. That may be surprising to some who may not be aware of our belief in the Bible as the revealed word of God. It is one of the pillars of our faith…We do not criticize or belittle anyone’s beliefs…And those who think that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do not believe in Jesus Christ or in the Bible should take time to understand the Church, the significance of its name, and the power of its message…I am puzzled by any who would question this Church’s belief in the Bible and our position as Christians. The name of the Church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In our last general conference, here in this building, our Church leaders quoted from the Bible nearly 200 times. This Church is organized and functions like the Church that Christ and His Apostles established in the New Testament. Seated on the stand today are the prophet and the apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ.

I bear solemn witness that we are true and full believers in the Lord Jesus Christ and in His revealed word through the Holy Bible. We not only believe the Bible—we strive to follow its precepts and to teach its message.” – M. Russell Ballard

1 John 3:14-15; We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. 15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.

I’m puzzled that this guy is confused why people think the Mormons don’t believe in the Bible.  His statement is a ruse to start talking about another lie.

Bible, Many Errors and Contradictions

Answers to Gospel Questions 2:161; “”No Man Hath Seen God at Any Time”—a Mistranslation.  No Bible student today believes that the Bible has come down to us in its perfect and original appearance in the manuscripts. Scribes left out words and phrases, just as we do at times in typing, missing one whole line and thus changing the meaning. Moreover, the scribes added or interpreted according to their own opinions at times. These things are quite generally understood. Therefore we find errors and contradictions in the Bible.  There are too many passages which declare very definitely that God did appear, “face to face,” with his ancient servants. Therefore, passages which declare that no man has seen him, must be in error.” – Joseph Fielding Smith, Jr.

Psalm 19:7-10; The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.  8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.  9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.  10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

This is the way most Mormons look at the Bible.  The statements made by Joseph Fielding Smith show the animosity they have in their hearts towards God and His sacred word.

Bible, Nations Need More than Just a

2 Nephi 29:10; Wherefore, because that ye have a Bible ye need not suppose that it contains all my words; neither need ye suppose that I have not caused more to be written.

Proverbs 30:5-6; Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

Why is an Israelite tempting another Israelite to read other works not from God?  Did Smith not know Jews don’t use the Bible and especially in 600 BC?

Bible not for Modern Times

Journal of Discourses 2:75-76; The words contained in this Bible are merely a history of what is gone by; it was never given to guide the servant of God in the course he should pursue, any more than the words and commandments of God, given to a generation under one set of circumstances, would serve for another generation under another set of circumstances…The Bible is not a sufficient guide; it is only the history of the people who lived 1800 years ago. The history of our Church in this day, presents the scenes and transactions of this people—the revelations and words of God to them…” – Orson Hyde, Salt Lake City, October 6, 1854

1 Peter 1:25; But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

So God lied?  If God’s words weren’t for the man to use as a guide from God then why did Jesus use it?

Biblical Prophecies about Joseph Smith

The Life of Joseph F. Smith, p. 34;Second, Joseph was given the “keys of the kingdom” by a succession of heavenly messengers…With those keys, the Prophet Joseph Smith began the work of gathering the Lord’s elect, as he was commanded to do in Doctrine and Covenants 29:7…Malachi also prophesied of the Prophet Joseph Smith’s role as the Lord’s “forerunner” in the latter days, when he recorded the Lord’s words: “Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts.” (Mal. 3:1.)” – Joseph Fielding Smith

Malachi 3:1; Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.

Hmmm…this prophecy is about John the Baptist who would be telling the Israelites the day of salvation was upon them – it has absolutely nothing to do with Joseph Smith, the Mormon Church or the nineteenth century…

Bishops are the Judge of Your Worthiness

Young Women Manual 2, Appreciating the Bishop, pg. 41; The bishop presides over every person in the ward and directs their local church activities. All of your adolescent life you will be under the direction of the bishop. He will appoint teachers and supervisors to do his work, but he will be very much interested in your progress.Your life here will be constantly weighed by him, for he is the judge of your worthiness … to receive higher ordinances, and to be worthy to go to the Temple.

Ephesians 1:6-7; To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.

The comforting words from the apostle Paul should be shared with the Mormon people before they go in for their temple worthiness interviews.  It’d be a great idea to share this passage with the bishops as well!

Bishop Duties

www.lifeafter.org; “Another duty of a Bishop is to interview the people for the temple recommends. As of July 2000, a list was compiled of 15 questions every Bishop asks the member. Remember these men are considered the “judge” of these people; they represent God.  The questions are as follows: (The Bishops Manual)

1 Do you have faith in and a testimony of God the Eternal Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost?
2 Do you have a testimony of the Atonement of Christ and of His role as Savior and Redeemer?
3 Do you have a testimony of the restoration of the gospel in these the latter days?
4 Do you sustain the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the Prophet, Seer, and Revelator and as the only person on the earth who possesses and is authorized to exercise all priesthood keys? Do you sustain members of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as prophets, seers, and revelators? Do you sustain the other General Authorities and local authorities of the Church?
5 Do you live the law of chastity?
6 Is there anything in your conduct relating to members of your family that is not in harmony with the teachings of the Church?
7 Do you support, affiliate with, or agree with any group or individual whose teachings or practices are contrary to or oppose those accepted by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
8 Do you strive to keep the covenants you have made, to attend your sacrament and other meetings, and to keep your life in harmony with the laws and commandments of the gospel?
9 Are you honest in your dealings with your fellowmen?
10 Are you a full-tithe payer?
11 Do your keep the Word of Wisdom?
12 Do you have financial or other obligations to a former spouse or children? If yes, are you current in meeting those obligations?
13 If you have previously received your temple endowment:
Do you keep the covenants that you made in the temple?
Do you wear the garment both night and day as instructed in the endowment and in     accordance with the covenant you made in the temple?
14 Have there been any sins or misdeeds in your life that should have been resolved with priesthood authorities but have not been?
15 Do you consider yourself worthy to enter the Lord’s house and participate in temple ordinances?”

1 Corinthians 4:5; Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

These questions are so personal – I cannot imagine anyone but the Lord asking me these things.

Bishop Holds Keys to Cleansing Power

Morality, pg. 108; For those of you inside the Church there is a way, not entirely painless, but certainly possible. You can stand clean and spotless before Him. Guilt will be gone, and you can be at peace. Go to your bishop. He holds the key to this cleansing power.” – Boyd Packer

1 John 1:7; But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Where in the Bible does it ever say a bishop holds the cleansing power of forgiveness?  It’s about the blood!

Bishop Must be Related to Aaron Unless Ordained

D&C 68:18-19; No man has a legal right to this office, to hold the keys of this priesthood, except he be a literal descendant and the firstborn of Aaron.  19 But, as a high priest of the Melchizedek Priesthood has authority to officiate in all the lesser offices he may officiate in the office of bishop when no literal descendant of Aaron can be found, provided he is called and set apart and ordained unto this power, under the hands of the First Presidency of the Melchizedek Priesthood.

Titus 1:7-9; For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; 9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

So there’s always a way around the rules and if you don’t qualify for something well then, hey, we’ll just have a meeting and pray over you!  Good grief.

BLACKS

95 – Blacks & the Church

Race Problems–As They Affect the Church, August 27, 1954, address at CES convention at Brigham Young University; Think of the Negro, cursed as to the Priesthood. Are we prejudiced against him? Unjustly, sometimes we are accused of having such a prejudice. But what does the mercy of God have for him? This negro, who, in the pre-existence lived the type of life which justified the Lord in sending him to the earth in the lineage of Cain with a black skin, and possibly being born in darkest Africa if that Negro is willing when he hears the gospel to accept it, he may have many of the blessings of the gospel. In spite of all he did in the pre-existent life, the Lord is willing, if the Negro accepts the gospel with real, sincere faith, and is really converted, to give him the blessings of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. If that Negro is faithful all his days, he can and will enter the celestial kingdom. He will go there as a servant, but he will get a celestial resurrection.” – Mark E. Petersen

Genesis 1:26-27; And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

The Mormon prophet Thomas Monson referred to Mark Petersen as someone who “personified righteousness” and “a giant among men”.  How could anyone who says the darker you are the more sinful the behavior, or that the black people will be servants in heaven?  How is this godly or righteous?

Imagine Mr. Petersen’s surprise when he died and saw that Jesus probably wasn’t white.

Blacks are Slaves Mentally

Journal of Discourses 5:217; Elder Hyde inquired the situation of the negro. I replied, they came into the world slaves mentally and physically. Change their situation with the whites, and they would be like them. They have souls, and are subjects of salvation. Go into Cincinnati or any city, and find an educated negro, who rides in his carriage, and you will see a man who has risen by the powers of his own mind to his exalted state of respectability. The slaves in Washington are more refined than many in high places, and the black boys will take the shine of many of those they brush and wait on.” – Heber C. Kimball, Salt Lake City, September 6, 1856

1 Cor. 12:13; For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

So the “negro” has no soul?  Where does it say that in the Bible?

Blacks and Whites are Saved

2 Nephi 26:33; “…he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile.

Galatians 3:28; There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

This is an example of how the Mormon Church confuses its members.  At the time this was written the Church didn’t like black people.  Additionally, this passage of “scripture” supposedly took place around 545 BC.  Jews and Gentiles were not alike unto God at this time.

Blacks Not Born Innocent

Way to Perfection, pg. 102; In the spirit of sympathy, mercy and faith, we will also hope that blessings may eventually be given to our negro brethren, for they are our brethren-children of God-notwithstanding their black covering emblematical of eternal darkness.” – Apostle Joseph Fielding Smith

James 2:1-4; My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.  2 For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; 3 And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: 4 Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?

The LDS book used above was written in 1949 by then apostle Joseph Fielding Smith who later became the tenth president/prophet of the Church.

Blacks are Satan’s Representatives after Flood

Gospel Kingdom, pgs. 103; …And then the devil put on a long face and said, I imagined I had got rid of these fellows; but they are going to have a chance yet that I did not think of. And after the flood we are told that the curse that had been pronounced upon Cain was continued through Ham’s wife, as he had married a wife of that seed. And why did it pass through the flood? Because it was necessary that the devil should have a representation upon the earth as well as God.” – John Taylor

Genesis 6:10; And Noah begat three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

1. Ham’s name means “burnt”.

2. Cain lived circa 3979 BC.  Ham lived circa 2440 BC.

3. The Mormons teach that being black is a sin and therefore evil.

4. The Bible clearly states the curse was upon Canaan because of Ham’s behavior, not because of his color (Gen. 9:18-29).

5. The Bible never gives the name of Ham’s wife or her race.

Gospel Kingdom is a collection of thoughts and writings of John Taylor, 3rd prophet of the LDS Church.

God Cursed People with Dark Skin

2 Nephi 5:21; And he had caused the cursing to come upon them, yea, even a sore cursing, because of their iniquity. For behold, they had hardened their hearts against him, that they had become like unto a flint; wherefore, as they were white, and exceedingly fair and delightsome, that they might not be enticing unto my people the Lord God did cause a skin of blackness to come upon them.

Genesis 4:11, 15; And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother’s blood from thy hand; 15 And the LORD said unto him, Therefore whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold. And the LORD set a mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.

Another example that the Mormon god hates dark people.

Blacks, Why They Were Accepted into Church

Revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg. 353; Under these conditions President Spencer W. Kimball began an exhaustive personal study of the scriptures as well as statements of Church leaders since Joseph Smith, and asked other General Authorities to share their personal feelings relative to the longstanding Church policy. Then he began to inquire of the Lord if the time was not right to extend the priesthood blessings to this restricted people. Recalling this period, President Kimball stated, “Day after day, and especially on Saturdays and Sundays when there were no organizations in the temple, I went there when I could be alone.” The result was a revelation on 1 June 1978.

Romans 12:2; And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Truth:  the Mormon Church was being pressured by many to change their racist ways.  One example was the NCAA who was threatening to boycott the BYU football team.

Blind Faith

Improvement Era, June 1945; When our leaders speak, the thinking has been done. When they propose a plan—it is God’s plan. When they point the way, there is no other which is safe. When they give direction, it should mark the end of controversy. God works in no other way. To think otherwise, without immediate repentance, may cost one his faith, may destroy his testimony, and leave him a stranger to the kingdom of God.

Matthew 15:14; Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

In other words no analytical thinking is allowed.

Blind Faith

Ensign, August 1979, pg. 2; Recently, at the Churchwide fireside meeting held for the women of the Church, Young Women President Elaine Cannon made the following statement: “When the Prophet speaks, … the debate is over” (Ensign, Nov. 1978, p. 108). I was impressed by that simple statement, which carries such deep spiritual meaning for all of us.” – N. Eldon Tanner

Matt. 15:8-9, 14-15: This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. 9But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.  14Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

Oh it carries deep spiritual meaning all right.  I love my husband Kirk dearly, but if Kirk began telling me that black is actually white and vice versa, I’d be questioning him and doing some investigating straight away.

Blind Faith

Dialogue, Journal of Mormon Thought, Vol. 04, Number 1, pg. 92, Spring 1969; “Looking on from the outside, an observer might think Mormons are hopelessly mixed up.  If testimony is all that really matters, why worry about the historical evidence?  Since an airtight case would fail to convince believing Mormons, they should forget about proofs for the Book of Mormon and replying to the Reverend Mr. Walters and concentrate on their religious experiences and the satisfactions of their group life.

Granted that negative historical evidence would not destroy the faith of the faithful.  For those blessed with it, spiritual experience is the most compelling data. Honesty requires that one remain true to it even in the face of other evidence to the contrary. Were a case made against the Book of Mormon, our sense of balance and personal integrity would compel Mormons to hold their beliefs.

Acts 17:11; These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

http://content.lib.utah.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/dialogue&CISOPTR=5163&REC=13

It is not a sin to read!

105 – Blind Obedience

Conference Report, Oct. 1960, Marion Romney, pg, 78; My boy, you always keep your eye on the President of the Church, and if he ever tells you to do anything, and it is wrong, and you do it, the Lord will bless you for it.” Then with a twinkle in his eye, he said, “But you don’t need to worry. The Lord will never let his mouthpiece lead the people astray.”

2 Peter 1:10; Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.

My mother-in-law was a great seamstress and one of the lessons I learned from her was to always, always “measure twice, cut once”.

Blind Obedience

July 1972 Ensign, pg. 87, Joseph Fielding Smith; Now, brethren, I think there is one thing which we should have exceedingly clear in our minds. Neither the President of the Church, nor the First Presidency, nor the united voice of the First Presidency and the Twelve will ever lead the Saints astray or send forth counsel to the world that is contrary to the mind and will of the Lord.

Prov. 27:17; Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

This statement was an obvious lie – they’ve been misleading the “Saints” since the inception of the Church.

Blind Obedience to God or Man?

Journal of Discourses 9:150; What a pity it would be if we were led by one man to utter destruction! Are you afraid of this? I am more afraid that this people have so much confidence in their leaders that they will not inquire for themselves of God whether they are led by Him. I am fearful they settle down in a state of blind self-security, trusting their eternal destiny in the hands of their leaders with a reckless confidence that in itself would thwart the purposes of God in their salvation…” – Brigham Young, Salt Lake City, January 12, 1862.

Exodus 19:5-6; Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine:  6 And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.

Now they’re telling the people to investigate what the leaders say…interesting.  The Mormons also tell us that they don’t like referring to the Journal of Discourses even though it is quoted by modern prophets.

Blood Atonement

Journal of Discourses 4:220; I have known a great many men who have left this Church for whom there is no chance whatever for exaltation, but if their blood had been spilled, it would have been better for them. The wickedness and ignorance of the nations forbid this principle’s being in full force, but the time will come when the law of God will be in full force.  This is loving our neighbour as ourselves; if he needs help, help him; and if he wants salvation and it is necessary to spill his blood on the earth in order that he may be saved, spill it. Any of you who understand the principles of eternity, if you have sinned a sin requiring the shedding of blood, except the sin unto death, would not be satisfied nor rest until your blood should be spilled, that you might gain that salvation you desire. That is the way to love mankind.” – Brigham Young, Salt Lake City, February 8, 1857.

1 Thessalonians 4:6; That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.

Killing someone is being a good neighbor?

Blood Atonement

Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought, Vol.15, No.4, p.96 in electronic files; The doctrine of blood atonement has had a checkered career which by itself could provide a rewarding study of the vagaries of Mormon literalism.  Unfortunately, the doctrine appears to be the result of an overly literal interpretation and elaboration of certain scriptures such as Hebrews 9:22 which states that “almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.”  Accordingly, the doctrine [blood atonement] asserts that those who commit certain grievous sins such as murder and covenant-breaking place themselves beyond the atoning blood of Christ, and their only hope for salvation is to have their own blood shed as an atoning sacrifice.

Hebrews 9:14; How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

Leviticus 22:19; Ye shall offer at your own will a male without blemish, of the beeves, of the sheep, or of the goats.

First of all the passage in Hebrews should be taken literally.  Secondly, the passages of Mormon teachings that have taught about blood atonement should also be taken literally because they were literally taking the lives of people for revenge or to fulfill the false prophecies of Joseph Smith and company.

110 – Blood Changes at Conversion

Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg. 149; “…while the effect of the Holy Ghost upon a Gentile, is to purge out the old blood, and make him actually of the seed of Abraham. That man that has none of the blood of Abraham (naturally) must have a new creation by the Holy Ghost. In such a case, there may be more of a powerful effect upon the body, and visible to the eye, than upon an Israelite, while the Israelite at first might be far before the Gentile in pure intelligence.

Galatians 3:28-29; There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.  29 And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Huh?

Boastful Claims

Arrogance of BY

Journal of Discourses 13:95; I have never yet preached a sermon and sent it out to the children of men, that they may not call Scripture.” – Brigham Young, Salt Lake City, January 2, 1870

2 Peter 1:20; Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

Every Mormon should know this LDS teaching by heart.

Arrogance of Joseph Smith

History of the Church 6:408-409; Come on! ye prosecutors! ye false swearers! All hell, boil over! Ye burning mountains, roll down your lava! for I will come out on the top at last. I have more to boast of than ever any man had. I am the only man that has ever been able to keep a whole church together since the days of Adam. A large majority of the whole have stood by me. Neither Paul, John, Peter, nor Jesus ever did it. I boast that no man ever did such a work as I. The followers of Jesus ran away from Him; but the Latter-day Saints never ran away from me yet.

Deut. 34:10; And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face.

Deut. 28:66; And thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life.

At the time of Smith’s boastful speech people had indeed left the fold.  As a matter of fact it was an address towards the dissenters of the Church on Sunday, May 26, 1844.

Book of Mormon

Book of Mormon – Another Testament

Front Cover; Book of Mormon; “Another Testament of Jesus Christ”.

Gal. 1:6-9; I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:  7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.  8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.  9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

Once again, I am convinced God knew exactly what words to use when He had His apostles write His message to us.  I’m also convinced Satan will go out of his way to use God’s word to trick many, many people.

Book of Mormon

D&C 20:9; “Which contains a record of a fallen people, and the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles and to the Jews also.

1 Cor. 15:1-4; Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.  3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.

The record we need to pay attention to is the record Paul spoke of in his letter to the Corinthians.  The first thing he spoke about in the “resurrection chapter” was to be sure we are observing the gospel he preached to them and what they already believed.

Book of Mormon, Accept it or be Damned

Jan. 15, 1842, Times & Seasons 3:658; “…God inspired them to frame the American Constitution…This was also done to prepare the way for the coming forth of the Book of Mormon—the stick of Joseph—that he might lift it up (in connection with the Bible) as an ensign upan [sic] the moantains, [sic] and set it as a sign among the people for the purpose of gathering and uniting the whole house of Israel into one nation upon their own land, and also for the purpose of re-establishing the kingdom of God upon the earth with all its officers, gifts and blessings.

Mark 13:22; For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.

The American constitution wasn’t written so Joseph Smith could lie to thousands of people.  Joseph Smith down to all the other Mormon leaders have taken advantage of the blessings God provided for the people who would call this country home.

Book of Mormon Archaeology

Dialogue, A Journal of Mormon Thought, Vol. 01, Number 1, Spring, 1966, pgs. 148-149;

“Where is Mormon thought on archaeology going?  After this rather discouraging display of the lack of progress on the topic is anything happening that is more dynamic and promising?  Yes, some things.  Increasingly young Latter-day Saints are feeling that it is desirable and respectable to become professionally prepared as archaeologists, at least for the New World, which means they must qualify as anthropologists….As long as Mormons are willing to be fooled by (and pay for) the uninformed, uncritical dribble about archaeology and the scriptures which predominates, the few LDS experts are reluctant even to be identified with the topic…Unfortunately, the Fifteenth Annual Symposium volume displays few encouraging signs.  It is relatively harmless, mildly diverting in spots, and no doubt gives comfort to some of its audience, but it is not important.” – John L. Sorensen

1 Timothy 4:1; Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.

Wow!  Why would you as a Mormon believe the stories about the Book of Mormon when the Mormon experts don’t even believe it?

Book of Mormon Archaeology

Dialogue, op. cit. Summer 1969, pp. 77-78;The first myth we need to eliminate is that the Book of Mormon archaeology exists…If one is to study the Book of Mormon archaeology, then one must have a corpus of data with which to deal with. We do not…no Book of Mormon location is known with reference to modern topography. Biblical archaeology can be studied because we do know where Jerusalem and Jericho were and are, but we do not know where Zarahemla and Bountiful (nor any location for that matter) were and are…a concentration on geography would be the first order of business, but we have already seen that twenty years of such an approach has left us empty handed.” – Mormon Archaeologist Professor Dee. F. Green.

Titus 3:8-9; This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. 9 But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

I like to share this info with the missionaries when they come to my door and tell me there is ample evidence proving the Book of Mormon people existed.  Sadly, if the Book of Mormon is false then so is the rest of their “religion”.

Book of Mormon Authorship vs. Author of Our Salvation

Studies of the Book of Mormon, pg. 271; “…There were other Anti-Christs among the Nephites, but they were more military leaders than religious innovators… they are all of one breed and brand; so nearly alike that one mind is the author of them, and that a young and underdeveloped, but piously inclined mind.  The evidence I sorrowfully submit, points to Joseph Smith as their creator. It is difficult to believe that they are a product of history, that they came upon the scene separated by long periods of time, and among a race which was the ancestral race of the red man of America.” – B. H. Roberts

Hebrews 5:9; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.

I left Mormonism almost twenty years ago and seeing evidences against Mormonism like this still makes my heart sad.

Book of Mormon, Biblical Prophecies of the

Encyclopedia of Mormonism, pg. 158; According to a prophecy of Joseph in Egypt, preserved in the Book of Mormon (2 Ne. 3:4-21), two sets of records would be kept by two tribes of Israel-one (the Bible) written by the tribe of Judah and the other (Book of Mormon) kept by the tribe of Joseph (2 Ne. 3:12; cf. Ezek. 37:15-19).

2 Peter 1:20-21; Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.  21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

The Bible wasn’t written by the tribe of Judah in the BC era.

Who or what is the tribe of Joseph?

Book of Mormon, Changes Made to

Answers to Gospel Questions 2:200; Are There Any Vital Changes in the Book of Mormon?

Question: “A minister of one of the churches told my husband that he purchased one of the earliest editions of the Book of Mormon for a thousand dollars and compared it to the later edition and found over a hundred changes. I know that the Book of Mormon was later divided into chapters and verses with references, but were there other changes made? Is the original manuscript of the translation with the Church?”

Answer: It is astonishing to what length the enemies of the Church will go in order to attempt to prove the Book of Mormon false. Instead of reading it prayerfully and asking the Lord for a testimony whether it is true or not, they close their minds against it and, in the bitterness of their souls, seek to destroy it. In this, of course, they will fail. No one can read the book with a prayerful heart and not receive the testimony that it is true. The evidence internally and externally is overwhelming…

TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS DIFFICULT TO AVOID There were bound to be some typographical errors in the first edition, and perhaps an omission of a word or two. Those who have published books under the most careful and favorable circumstances, have, to their dismay, found errors, typographical and mechanical, some of which occurred after the final examination of proof has been made.  In the case of the Book of Mormon, your attention is called to the fact that the publisher of it was unfriendly to the Church…A careful check of the list of changes submitted by these critics shows there is not one change or addition that is not in full harmony with the original text…but never has any alteration or addition changed a single original thought. ..I am sure that the mistakes or omissions in the first edition were in large measure the fault of the compositor or the printer. Many of these mistakes which were in the first proofs were caught by the Prophet Joseph Smith himself, and he made the corrections…There have been thousands of changes in the Bible in recent years, but people do not seem to complain about that. We have books in our library written by an atheist who treats the Bible in the same spirit which these critics treat the Book of Mormon, but his criticism does not prove the Bible false.” – Joseph Fielding Smith, Jr.

1 Corinthians 2:14; But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

1. The question isn’t about any so-called changes to the Bible.

2. There have been almost 4,000 grammatical changes made to the Book of Mormon from its original printing.  Grammatical, not typographical so Smith can’t blame that on the printer.

Book of Mormon, Changes Made to

1976 edition of Mosiah 21:28;And now Limhi was again filled with joy on learning from the mouth of Ammon that king Mosiah had a gift from God….”

1830 edition of Mosiah 21:28;And now Limhi was again filled with joy on learning from the mouth of Ammon that king Benjamin had a gift from God….

Mosiah 6:5Benjamin died so the 1830 edition is not just a “typo”.  The change had been made by 1920 because Mosiah 21:28 has the name of king Mosiah, not Benjamin.  And in case you’re wondering…the 1908 edition is the “original” translation of the Book of Mormon the Reformed LDS Church publishes.  Their headquarters are in Independence, MO and the book of Mosiah ends at chapter 13.

2 Timothy 2:15-16; Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

There has never been anything bad said about those who study, compare and then decide.  In the previous entry the church claimed no changes had ever been made to change the meaning.  Here we have proof that they’ve lied again.

Book of Mormon Conversion Stories

Alma 36:6-10; For I went about with the sons of Mosiah, seeking to destroy the church of God; but behold, God sent his holy angel to stop us by the way. 7 And behold, he spake unto us, as it were the voice of thunder, and the whole earth did tremble beneath our feet; and we all fell to the earth, for the fear of the Lord came upon us.  8 But behold, the voice said unto me: Arise. And I arose and stood up, and beheld the angel. 9 And he said unto me: If thou wilt of thyself be destroyed, seek no more to destroy the church of God. 10 And it came to pass that I fell to the earth; and it was for the space of three days and three nights that I could not open my mouth, neither had I the use of my limbs.

Acts 9:4-9; And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. 6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. 8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

My, how similar the stories are eh?

Question:  why was Alma seeking to destroy the Church of God in 73 BC when the Christian church hadn’t been established yet?

125 – Book of Mormon Decapitations

Ether 8:10-13; And now, therefore, let my father send for Akish, the son of Kimnor; and behold, I am fair, and I will dance before him, and I will please him, that he will desire me to wife; wherefore if he shall desire of thee that ye shall give unto him me to wife, then shall ye say: I will give her if ye will bring unto me the head of my father, the king. And now Omer was a friend to Akish; wherefore, when Jared had sent for Akish, the daughter of Jared danced before him that she pleased him, insomuch that he desired her to wife. And it came to pass that he said unto Jared: Give her unto me to wife.12 And Jared said unto him: I will give her unto you, if ye will bring unto me the head of my father, the king.13 And it came to pass that Akish gathered in unto the house of Jared all his kinsfolk, and said unto them: Will ye swear unto me that ye will be faithful unto me in the thing which I shall desire of you?

Matthew 14:6-9; But when Herod’s birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod.7 Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask.8 And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist’s head in a charger.9 And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath’s sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her.

Note to Reader:  Read all of Ether chapter eight and Matthew 14:1-12.

Book of Mormon Evidences

Teachings of Harold B. Lee, pg. 155; Don’t be concerned over Book of Mormon geography. Some say the Hill Cumorah was in southern Mexico (and someone pushed it down still farther) and not in western New York. Well, if the Lord wanted us to know where it was or where Zarahemla was, He’d have given us latitude and longitude, don’t you think? And why bother our heads trying to discover with archaeological certainty the geographical locations of the cities of the Book of Mormon like Zarahemla? (66-07) The witness of the Book of Mormon is not found in the ruins of Central and South America. They may be outward evidences of a people long since disappeared. The real witness is that which is found in the Book of Mormon itself.  The Book of Mormon ought to be to you one of the most prized books you have. (73-21, p. 3)  The Book of Mormon is its own best evidence. So far as we are concerned, the best evidence in the world of the truth of the Book of Mormon is the Book of Mormon itself. (72-19).

Ezek. 13:3; Thus saith the Lord GOD; Woe unto the foolish prophets, that follow their own spirit, and have seen nothing!

I still remember the day I found out there was no archaeological evidence of the Book of Mormon.  I can still feel the heaviness in my heart from the devastating news.  When I took journalism in high school the number one rule the teacher taught was to make sure you have your location and quote correct.

Book of Mormon, Five Reasons for

Especially for Missionaries, vol. 1; The purpose of the Book of Mormon is fivefold. First, it stands as a second testament or witness for Jesus Christ. Second, it authenticates the Bible. Third, it shows the goodness of God to his children. Fourth, it makes people aware of the promises that God has made to his children. And fifth, it restores to earth many plain and precious truths that have been lost since the fulness of the gospel existed.

1 Peter 1:25; But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

1. The Bible tells us not to listen to other “testaments”.

2. The Bible stands alone and doesn’t need authentications from other books.

3. The Book of Mormon does not show the goodness of God to his children.  The theme of the Book of Mormon can be found in Alma 50:20 – you obey or you’re cut off forever.

4.  The Bible already told the people of the promises God made.

5. The last reason for the Book of Mormon actually negates the second reason.  Now you’re saying the Bible isn’t true but the Book of Mormon authenticates that?

Book of Mormon; God Commanded Jews to Flee to Wilderness?

1 Nephi 17:47; Wherefore, the Lord commanded my father that he should depart into the wilderness; and the Jews also sought to take away his life…

Jeremiah 42:9-11; And said unto them, Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel, unto whom ye sent me to present your supplication before him; 10 If ye will still abide in this land, then will I build you, and not pull you down, and I will plant you, and not pluck you up: for I repent me of the evil that I have done unto you.  11 Be not afraid of the king of Babylon, of whom ye are afraid; be not afraid of him, saith the LORD: for I am with you to save you, and to deliver you from his hand.” (See vs. 7-22 for full story)

Why would Jews seek to kill other Jews, especially at this time in the history of Jerusalem?  The Babylonians were out to kill the Israelites, not their own people!

Book of Mormon god can’t keep promises

Mosiah 27:13; Nevertheless he cried again, saying: Alma, arise and stand forth, for why persecutest thou the church of God? For the Lord hath said: This is my church, and I will establish it; and nothing shall overthrow it, save it is the transgression of my people.

Colossians 2:16-18; Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. 18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” [Note: see all of passage Col. 2:16-23.]

Acts 9:2-5; And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Again, the Book of Mormon god can’t keep his promises, thus we have a partial promise.  This is always the case in the Book of Mormon.  He only loves you when you perform.  Is this the way you’d raise your kids?

Book of Mormon and Hamlet

Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Act 3, Scene 1; “…whose bourn no traveller returns…

2 Nephi 1:14; …from whence no traveler can return.

Romans 16:17-18; Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

Plagiarism, plagiarism, plagiarism…

Book of Mormon and the Holy Spirit

“Because My Father Read the Book of Mormon”, Ensign, Nov. 2008, pgs. 15-16; The Book of Mormon is a proof that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true. Preach My Gospel teaches that ‘the Book of Mormon, combined with the Spirit, is [the] most powerful resource in conversion’ ([2004], 104).” – Marcos A. Aidukatis

Titus 1:15; Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.

The Book of Mormon is proof that Joseph Smith was a false prophet and trusting in a spiritual experience is dangerous.

Book of Mormon, Keystone to Our Religion

Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon—Keystone of Our Religion,” Ensign, Nov 1986, 4; There are three great reasons why Latter-day Saints should make the study of the Book of Mormon a lifetime pursuit.

The first is that the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion. This was the Prophet Joseph Smith’s statement. He testified that “the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion” (Introduction to the Book of Mormon). A keystone is the central stone in an arch. It holds all the other stones in place, and if removed, the arch crumbles.

2 Peter 2:18-19; For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.

The keystone of a Christian’s life is Jesus.  The Book of Mormon has proven itself to be a false word from a false god.  Like I’ve said countless times before; take away the Book of Mormon and you have no religion.

Book of Mormon, Man Gets Nearer to God by

Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg. 194; Perfection of the Book of Mormon – Sunday, 28.—I spent the day in the council with the Twelve Apostles at the house of President Young, conversing with them upon a variety of subjects. Brother Joseph Fielding was present, having been absent four years on a mission to England. I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book. (November 28, 1841.) —DHC 4:461.

Matthew 24:35; Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

For the Christian the way we get closer to God is by studying His word, worshipping Him and praising all the things He has done for us.

Book of Mormon, Mark Twain & Chloroform in Print

Roughing It 1872, pgs. 58-59; All men have heard of the Mormon Bible, but few except the “elect” have seen it, or, at least, taken the trouble to read it. I brought away a copy from Salt Lake. The book is a curiosity to me, it is such a pretentious affair, and yet so “slow,” so sleepy; such an insipid mess of inspiration. It is chloroform in print. If Joseph Smith composed this book, the act was a miracle — keeping awake while he did it was, at any rate. If he, according to tradition, merely translated it from certain ancient and mysteriously-engraved plates of copper, which he declares he found under a stone in an out-of-the-way locality, the work of translating was equally a miracle, for the same reason.” – Mark Twain

http://www.lifeafter.org/cametopass; “…you’ll find a list of each time the phrase “and it came to pass” occurs. We found it was used 1,384 times in 1,341 verses. And in case you’re wondering…there are 6,604 verses in the Book of Mormon*. Yeah, that means twenty percent of the verses in the Book of Mormon contains the phrase “and it came to pass”. Maybe Mark Twain was on to something…

For more interesting facts on the words used in the Book of Mormon, see our article on Greek and Latin words in the Book of Mormon here: http://www.lifeafter.org/greeklatin

2 Timothy 3:7-8; Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.

Thanks to Mark Twain I was inspired to count all the times the phrase “and it came to pass” appears in the Book of Mormon.

The sad part about this is that my mother sits and reads the Book of Mormon when she needs to take her naps and believes she is getting closer to God this way.

Book of Mormon Missionaries…in 90 BC

Alma 23:1-2; Behold, now it came to pass that the king of the Lamanites sent a proclamation among all his people, that they should not lay their hands on Ammon, or Aaron, or Omner, or Himni, nor either of their brethren who should go forth preaching the word of God, in whatsoever place they should be, in any part of their land.  2 Yea, he sent a decree among them, that they should not lay their hands on them to bind them, or to cast them into prison; neither should they spit upon them, nor smite them, nor cast them out of their synagogues, nor scourge them; neither should they cast stones at them, but that they should have free access to their houses, and also their temples, and their sanctuaries.

Jonah 1:1-3; Now the word of the LORD came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, 2 Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me.

Note:  It can be argued that OT prophets are “missionaries” for God and Israel’s calling as being God’s chosen people places them in the position of “every member a missionary”.

However, there is no conclusive evidence in the OT where teams of missionaries went abroad to witness of God’s work.  The daily life of the Israelites stood as a clear testament to the Gentiles of Whom the Israelites worshipped.  It is improbable at best these scenarios would have occurred.

Book of Mormon Oddities

Alma 14:21; And many such things did they say unto them, gnashing their teeth upon them, and spitting upon them, and saying: How shall we look when we are damned?

John 7:17; If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.

Gal. 6:7; Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

How does one go about gnashing their teeth upon someone?

Book of Mormon Problems

2 Nephi 19:1; Nevertheless, the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at first he lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun, and the land of Naphtali, and afterwards did more grievously afflict by the way of the Red Sea beyond Jordan in Galilee of the nations.

Isaiah 9:1; But there will be no more gloom for her who was in anguish; in earlier times He treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali with contempt, but later on He shall make it glorious, by the way of the sea, on the other side of Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles.

Does this make sense geographically?

Book of Mormon Siblings

1 Nephi 1:1; 2:5; I, Nephi, having been born of goodly parents…he did travel in the wilderness with his family, which consisted of my mother, Sariah, and my elder brothers, who were Laman, Lemuel, and Sam.

www.josephsmith.net says this about Joseph; Born of Goodly Parents… His other siblings, in order of age… Alvin (b. 1798), Hyrum (b. 1800), Sophronia (b. 1803), Samuel Harrison (b. 1808), Ephraim (b. 1810), William (b. 1811), Katherine (b. 1813), Don Carlos (b. 1816), and Lucy (b. 1821).

Psalm 58:3; The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies.

Just another proof the Book of Mormon is about Joseph Smith, not the people of South America.

140 – Book of Mormon Slings

Alma 17:36, 38; But Ammon stood forth and began to cast stones at them with his sling; yea, with mighty power he did sling stones amongst them; and thus he slew a certain number of them insomuch that they began to be astonished at his power; nevertheless they were angry because of the slain of their brethren, and they were determined that he should fall; therefore, seeing that they could not hit him with their stones, they came forth with clubs to slay him. 38 Now six of them had fallen by the sling, but he slew none save it were their leader with his sword; and he smote off as many of their arms as were lifted against him, and they were not a few.

1 Samuel 17:50; So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David.

Why are there so many similar stories in the Bible and the Book of Mormon?

Book of Mormon Stories before Translation

History of Joseph Smith, by His Mother, pg. 83; During our evening conversations, Joseph would occasionally give us some of the most amusing recitals that could be imagined. He would describe the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress, mode of traveling, and the animals upon which they rode; their cities, their buildings, with every particular; their mode of warfare; and also their religious worship. This he would do with as much ease, seemingly, as if he had spent his whole life among them.

On the twenty-second of September, 1824, Joseph again visited the place where he found the plates the year previous; and supposing at this time that the only thing required, in order to possess them until the time for their translation, was to be able to keep the commandments of God—and he firmly believed he could keep every commandment which had been given him—he fully expected to carry them home with him.

2 Peter 2:1; But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

Again, why is Joseph giving descriptions of these people if he hasn’t translated the plates yet?  At this point (1824), Joseph doesn’t even have possession of the plates!

Book of Mormon, Testing of

Approach to the Book of Mormon, pg. 16; The Book of Mormon can and should be tested. It invites criticism, and the best possible test for its authenticity is provided by its own oft-proclaimed provenance in the Old World.” – Hugh Nibley

2 Peter 1:19-20; So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. 20But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation.”

Bravo!  Yes, everyone should test the Book of Mormon!  This is the most important thing you can ever do with your very soul!

Book of Mormon, Three Witnesses to

Faith, pg. 2; In the early days of the restoration of the Church, Sidney Rigdon did not retain his membership in the kingdom even though he had, with Joseph Smith, witnessed marvelous signs. Had he not participated in the great vision, and had he not been the recipient of many revelations? Yet despite all these manifestations from our Heavenly Father, he did not remain in the kingdom…Oliver Cowdery saw many signs. He handled the sacred plates; saw John the Baptist; received the higher priesthood from Peter, James, and John; and was the recipient of many great miracles; and yet they could not hold him to the faith.” – Spencer W. Kimball, Also see EM, pg. 1565.

Galatians 5:1; Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

If the original witnesses to the Book of Mormon left the Church, I’d think that would make anyone stop and think about the gravity of this information.

Book of Mormon: True or False?

Pamphlets, Latter-day Tracts, pg. 1; This book must be either true or false. If true, it is one of the most important messages ever sent from God to man, affecting both the temporal and eternal interests of every people under heaven to the same extent and in the same degree that the message of Noah affected the inhabitants of the old world. If false, it is one of the most cunning, wicked, bold, deep-laid impositions ever palmed upon the world, calculated to deceive and ruin millions who will sincerely receive it as the word of God, and will suppose themselves securely built upon the rock of truth until they are plunged with their families into hopeless despair. The nature of the message in the Book of Mormon is such, that if true, no one can possibly be saved and reject it; if false, no one can possibly be saved and receive it. Therefore, every soul in all the world is equally interested in ascertaining its truth or falsity.

Proverbs 30:5-6; Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.  6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.

Amen!  It is indeed one of the most wicked, bold, lie ever crafted to deceive millions!

145 – Book of Mormon, Truthfulness not Through Studies

Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, pg. 47-48; It never has been the case, nor is it so now, that the studies of the learned will prove the Book of Mormon true or false. The origin, preparation, translation, and verification of the truth of the Book of Mormon have all been retained in the hands of the Lord, and the Lord makes no mistakes…God has built in His own proof system of the Book of Mormon as found in Moroni, chapter 10, and in the testimonies of the Three and the Eight Witnesses and in various sections of the Doctrine and Covenants. We each need to get our own testimony of the Book of Mormon through the Holy Ghost.

John 6:27-29; Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

This statement by Benson should be carefully paid attention to.  The Mormons have indeed set up a proof system as to the truth of the Book of Mormon.  When factual information proves you a liar, change the rules.

Book of Mormon, View of the Hebrews

Ethan Smith 1823, View of the Hebrews, pg. 136, 142; “I will hiss for them, (or call them,) and gather them; for I have redeemed them; and they shall remember me from far countries; and they shall live, and their children, and turn again.”… to stand and behold the banner of salvation now erected for his ancient people…”

Isaiah 7:18; “And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall hiss for the fly that is in the uttermost part of the rivers of Egypt, and for the bee that is in the land of Assyria.

Note:  Oliver Cowdery’s family attended the church that Ethan Smith pastored in Poultney, Vermont from 1821-1826 during which time Ethan Smith wrote and published his book View of the Hebrews.  Cowdery met Joseph Smith on or near April 5-7, 1829.

Book of Mormon Vocabulary

Mosiah 29:19; And were it not for the interposition of their all-wise Creator, and this because of their sincere repentance, they must unavoidably remain in bondage until now.

Acts 4:12; Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

The etymology of the word “interposition” is from the Middle French in the sixteenth century making it too late to be on the original Reformed Egyptian plates.  Not only that, since French actually came from the Latin language this would mean Smith’s work of the Book of Mormon is false.

If this were true for the Nephites, why wouldn’t it have been true for those living anywhere else in the world at any time?

Book of Mormon Vocabulary

Helaman 9:20;Saying unto him: Thou art confederate; who is this man that hath done this murder? Now tell us, and acknowledge thy fault; saying, Behold here is money; and also we will grant unto thee thy life if thou wilt tell us, and acknowledge the agreement which thou hast made with him.

1 Thessalonians 1:5; For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.

Again, the Book of Mormon is proven to be a fraud based upon its vocabulary.  The term “confederate” is a Latin word derived from the fourteenth century.  The lack of an education is only part of poor Joe Smith’s problem in producing sloppy work.  The above example is a product of what was going on in the U.S. at the time he was writing it.

Book of Mormon, Where Did it Come from?

The Book of Mormon, Historicity, and Faith, Journal of Book of Mormon Studies: Vol.2, Issue 2, 1993; “I feel we have every reason to believe that the Book of Mormon came through Joseph Smith, not from him. Because certain theological matters were discussed in the nineteenth century does not preclude their revelation or discussion in antiquity.

Unless. Unless we deny one of the most fundamental principles of the Restoration—Christ’s eternal gospel: the knowledge that Christian prophets have taught Christian doctrine and administered Christian ordinances since the days of Adam. “Taking it for granted that the scriptures say what they mean, and mean what they say,” Joseph Smith explained in 1842, “we have sufficient grounds to go on and prove from the Bible [that is, by utilizing the supplementary scriptural resources available through the Restoration] that the gospel has always been the same; the ordinances to fulfill its requirements, the same, and the officers to officiate, the same.”(5)

5 – Joseph Smith, Times and Seasons 3 (1 September 1843): 904; see also HC 2:15–18; 4:208.” – Robert Millet

Isaiah 59:20-21; And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD.  21 As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed’s seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever.

Question:  if the gospel’s been preached since the time of Adam why the need for a restoration?  The Mormons like to say the gospel is eternal, but deny God’s word endures forever.

Book of Mormon, Which Person Specifically is it About?

Doctrines of Salvation 3:210;The Book of Mormon is the record of Joseph. It contains the history of the descendants of Joseph on this land, both of Ephraim and of Manasseh. It was in the hands of Ephraim when it was given to Joseph Smith, and it is still in the hands of Ephraim when our missionaries go forth proclaiming its truths to the world, for they also are of Ephraim.” – Joseph Fielding Smith

Hosea 9:11-12; As for Ephraim, their glory shall fly away like a bird, from the birth, and from the womb, and from the conception.12 Though they bring up their children, yet will I bereave them, that there shall not be a man left: yea, woe also to them when I depart from them!

1. The Book of Mormon is not about the people of Ephraim and Manasseh.

2. It wasn’t in the hands of Ephraim when Joseph Smith took charge of it.  He said he found it in the ground.

3. The people of Ephraim were destroyed, there are no descendants – read Obadiah.

Book of Mormon, Writing on the Wall and Aminadi

Alma 10:2; “…and it was the same Aminadi who interpreted the writing which was upon the wall of the temple, which was written by the finger of God.

Daniel 5:13-16; Then was Daniel brought in before the king. And the king spake and said unto Daniel, Art thou that Daniel, which art of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Jewry?  I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee. 15 And now the wise men, the astrologers, have been brought in before me, that they should read this writing, and make known unto me the interpretation thereof: but they could not shew the interpretation of the thing: 16 And I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with scarlet, and have a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom.

Again, another similar story from the Bible…

Book of Mormon, Wonders of Nature

1825 The Wonders of Nature, pg. 469; I then requested him to leave me, as my time was short, and I had some preparation to make before I went hence to “that bourne from whence no traveller returns.” – Josiah Priest

2 Nephi 1:14; “…from whence no traveler can return; a few more days and I go the way of all the earth.”

Psalm 101:7; He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.

The Wonders of Nature by Josiah Priest was written in 1825 and Joseph Smith admitted he had read the book.

Book of Mormon, Weight of

Articles of Faith, pg. 237; The Plates of the Book of Mormon as delivered by the angel Moroni to Joseph Smith, according to the description given by the latter-day prophet, were, as far as he knew, of gold, of uniform size, each about seven inches wide by eight inches long, and in thickness a little less than that of ordinary sheet tin. They were fastened together by three rings running through the plates near one edge; together they formed a book nearly six inches in thickness, but not all has been translated, a part having been sealed. Both sides of the plates were engraved with small characters, described by those who examined them as of curious workmanship, with the appearance of ancient origin.” – James Talmage

Luke 11:33-36; No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.  34 The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness.  35 Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.  36 If thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light.

According to Joseph’s claims of the golden plates, independent reports say the plates should have weighed over 200 pounds. Smith lifting and walking around with these things must have been a feat indeed considering Smith weighed around 185 pounds and was 6’ tall.

To be fair, there are many accounts of other witnesses who claim they weighed roughly 40-60 lbs.

Question, were they really made of gold and whose account is correct?  All witnesses publicly admit they never saw the plates, but through a linen frock Smith kept wrapped around his “find”

Book of Mormon Witnesses

Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson, pg. 98; Six of the original Twelve Apostles selected by Joseph Smith were excommunicated. The Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon left the Church. Three of Joseph Smith’s counselors fell-one even helped plot his death. A natural question that might arise would be that if the Lord knew in advance that these men would fall, as He undoubtedly did, why did He have His prophet call them to such high office? The answer is: to fill the Lord’s purposes. For even the Master followed the will of the Father by selecting Judas. (Title of Liberty, p. 217.)

Proverbs 19:5; A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape.

Let’s say the BoM witnesses were wrong to denounce Smith and Mormonism.  If that’s the case then we see in Proverbs 19:5 that God will take care of them.  But, if we look at the evidence we know with certainty the witnesses to the BoM retracted their statements and subsequently left the Church because they found out Joseph Smith was a false prophet.  So we see that Smith will be in the category of not being able to escape.

Born Again

Mosiah 27:25; And the Lord said unto me: Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters.

John 3:5-7; Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

How can someone be born again in 100 BC?

Born Again

Encyclopedia of Joseph Smith’s Teachings; Being born again, comes by the Spirit of God through ordinances. (Joseph Smith, History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 7 vols. 3:392)

John 3:1-16; There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews…For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Whosoever believes is saved, not by ordinances, not by your works…

Brethren – don’t betray

Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith pg. 156; O ye Twelve! and all Saints! profit by this important Key—that in all your trials, troubles, temptations, afflictions, bonds, imprisonments and death, see to it, that you do not betray heaven; that you do not betray Jesus Christ; that you do not betray the brethren; that you do not betray the revelations of God, whether in Bible, Book of Mormon, or Doctrine and Covenants, or any other that ever was or ever will be given and revealed unto man in this world or that which is to come. Yea, in all your kicking and flounderings, see to it that you do not this thing, lest innocent blood be found upon your skirts, and you go down to hell. All other sins are not to be compared to sinning against the Holy Ghost, and proving a traitor to the brethren.

Psalm 118:8; It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

What’s it going to be like for you when you tell God that you trusted mankind before you did Him?

Brigham Young and the Bible

Unpublished Brigham Young Discourse, LDS General Conference, October 8, 1854; There are many duties, and callings spoken [of] in the scriptures, and there are many not written. Those, for instance, which are handed out to you by your President as circumstances require. Those imposed by the President of the Church of God, or by the President of any portion of it, are duties necessary to be observed as though they were written in the Bible; but these requirements, duties, callings etc. are changed with the circumstances that surround the people of God…

I think these preliminaries will satisfy me, and I feel prepared to take my text: it is the words of (p. 6) Jesus Christ, but where they are in the Bible I cannot tell you now, for I have not taken the pains to look at them. I have had as much to do, that I have not read the Bible for many years. I used to be a Bible student; I used to read and study it, but did not understand the spirit and meaning of it, I knew well enough how it read. I have read the Book of Mormon, the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, and other revelations of God which [He] has given to his people in latter times; I look at them and contrast the spirit and power of them with my faithfulness. My clerks know how much time I have to read, it is difficult for me to snatch time enough even to eat my breakfast and supper, to say nothing of reading. I tell you my text is in the Bible and reads as follows.

Deuteronomy 4:28-29; And there ye shall serve gods, the work of men’s hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell.  29 But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.

LDS quote is from the website of http://web.archive.org/web/20061231213130/www.xmission.com/~country/by/100854_2.htm

This is why it’s important to follow God and not man.  They change the rules with the blowing of the wind and circumstances surrounding them.  Jesus’ yoke is light!

Brigham Young and Joseph Smith; How Great They are

Gospel Standards, pg. 18; BRIGHAM YOUNG AND JOSEPH SMITH. While we honor Brigham Young as the great statesman, the great pioneer and colonizer, we must not forget that Brigham Young built upon the foundation, and fulfilled the predictions, made by the Prophet Joseph Smith. And Brigham Young, great as he was, on all occasions magnified the Prophet Joseph. I honor and love him for the reverence he gave to the man who was the instrument in the hands of almighty God of restoring the gospel to the earth.—Era, 4:690-691.” – Heber J. Grant

Proverbs 16:18; Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Proverbs says it all doesn’t it?

Brigham Young is LDS Dictator

Journal of Discourses 7:19-20; What do you say, brethren and sisters? Do you not think it best for us to do right, each person individually being led by the dictations of the Holy Spirit, listening diligently to those who are appointed to lead, govern, and dictate this people? You know what I mean by this. President Young is our governor and our dictator. It is for me to walk with him, and for you to walk with those who go before you.” – Heber C. Kimball, Salt Lake City, July 16, 1854

Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest, November 17th, My goal is God

Himself … At any cost, dear Lord, by any road.

I would think the best one to listen to would be the Holy Spirit don’t you?  Why should anyone submit themselves to a dictator?

Brigham Young Morphed into Joseph Smith

Chapter 47: “Praise to the Man”: Latter-day Prophets Bear Witness of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Smith, (2007), 541; The members of the Twelve called a meeting of the Saints for August 8, 1844, at which Brigham Young, the President of the Quorum of the Twelve, spoke. As he did so, an extraordinary event occurred that was witnessed by many Saints. President Young was miraculously made to appear and sound like Joseph Smith. “If Joseph had risen from the dead and again spoken in their hearing,” George Q. Cannon recalled, “the effect could not have been more startling than it was to many present at that meeting. It was the voice of Joseph himself; and not only was it the voice of Joseph which was heard; but it seemed in the eyes of the people as though it was the very person of Joseph which stood before them.” –

Ezekiel 2:6-7; And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house.7 And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they are most rebellious.

Unbelievable.

Burning in the Bosom

D&C 9:8; But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.

Proverbs 28:26; He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.

Take a Rolaids if you feel a burning in your chest area and know that God doesn’t cause anyone to have feelings in their chest.

Reasons Starting With C