"Faith is the first principle of revealed religion and the foundation of all righteousness." "Now faith is the substance (assurance) of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen;"Heb. 11. 1,Doc. and Cov., Lecture on Faith, 1. 1-8. That to use the word assurance, instead of substance, would be the proper rendering of the above passage, is evident from the 22d verse of the previous chapter: "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith."
Faith begets trust and confidence. "In whom we have boldness and access withconfidenceby the faith of him;" (Jesus Christ.)Eph. 3. 12. Faith is the gift of God. "Saved through faith; and that not of yourselves:it isthe gift of God;" 2. 8. "To another faith by the same Spirit;" 1Cor. 12. 9. "But to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith;"Rom. 12. 3.Moroni10. 11.
Through repentance, baptism and the laying on of hands man may receive the Holy Ghost. It will open his spiritual vision and he will begin to comprehend himself, the object of his creation, and his affinity to his Heavenly Father. Then through the further observance of all the ordinances of the Gospel, will the righteousness of God be revealed to him, from faith to faith, until by keeping the commandments and seeking after knowledge through the inspirations of the Holy Ghost, in time, he will reach that assurance of faith which is unto eternal life.
TheLectures on Faith, by Joseph Smith, Jun., inDoc. and Cov., may justly be considered the most elaborate treatise on the subject in the sacred writings. They are written in such simplicity, that they can be easily understood by all who will honestly study them, to obtain a knowledge of the nature of faith. Their fulness, their comprehensiveness, is one of the many evidences of the Divine inspiration of the Prophet Joseph.
The first lecture shows that faith is an assurance that men have of the existence of things that they have not seen, and that it is an element of power. "It is the principle by which Jehovah works, and through which he exercises power over all temporal as well as eternal things."
The second lecture informs us how faith, in the beginning was based on a knowledge of God and his attributes, and that faith in God has existed in man in proportion to that knowledge.
The third lecture teaches us that to exercise faith in God, man must have an idea that he exists, and also of his character and attributes. He must, as well, feel an assurance that he is living in accordance with the will of God. Consequently, those who fail to obtain this knowledge by living in the spirit and power of the Gospel, cannot exercise a true and understanding faith in God, no matter what their pretentions.
Lecture fourth treats of the connection between correct ideas of God's attributes, of his Knowledge, Faith or Power, Justice, Judgment, Mercy and Truth; and the exercise of faith unto salvation, in a rational being.
The fifth lecture shows the necessity of faith in God the Father, and in his Son Jesus Christ.
Lecture sixth evidences the necessity of men knowing that their course of life is in accordance with the will of God, in order to exercise faith in him unto salvation. "It was this that enabled the ancient Saints to endure all their afflictions and persecutions, and to take joyfully the spoiling of their goods, knowing (not believing merely) that they had a more enduring substance.Heb. 10. 34.
The seventh lecture treats of the effects of faith. That working by faith is working by mental exertion instead of physical force; illustrating the fact by numerous examples. It also elucidates the principle that the mental powers are far superior to the physical forces of nature, and that through them the power of faith is manifested.
Bible.
Gen. 15. 6 Abraham believed in God and he counted it to him for righteousness.Rom. 4. 3;Gal. 3. 6.
Exod. 4. 5 that they may believe that the God of their fathers hath appeared unto thee.
Num. 20. 12 ye believed me not; ye shall not bring this congregation into the land.
Psalm119. 66 teach me judgment and knowledge, for I have believed thy commandments.
Prov. 16. 20 whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.
Jonah3. 5 so the people of Nineveh believed God.
John1. 12 to as many as believed on him he gave power to become the sons of God.
3. 15 that whosoever believeth in him should not perish.
4. 42 know that this is the Christ, the Savior of the world.
5. 24 he that believeth on him that sent me hath everlasting life.
8. 24 if ye believe not I am he, ye shall die in your sins. 31.
11. 25 he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. 26, 27, 40-48.
13. 19 when it comes to pass ye may believe I am he.Chap. 14. 29.
14. 1 ye believe in God believe also in me.Chap. 10. 11.
16. 9 of sin because they believe not on me. 27, 30, 31.
17. 8 they have believed thou didst send me.
20. 29 blessed are they who have not seen, and yet have believed. 31.
Acts8. 29 the Spirit said to Philip, go near and join thyself to him.
37 eunuch answered, I believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
10. 43 all the prophets witness that whosoever believe in him shall receive remission of sins.
13. 39 by him all that believe are justified from all things, &c.
14. 23 they commended them to the Lord on whom they believed.
16. 31 believe on Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.
19. 4 should believe on him who should come after him.
20. 21 testifying to Jews and Greeks faith towards Jesus Christ.
27. 25 Paul said, I believe God; that it shall be as was told me.
Rom. 1. 16 Gospel of Christ the power of God unto salvation.
17 therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith. The just shall live by faith.
3. 26 the justifier of him who believeth in Jesus.Chap. 4, 5.
4. 24 if we believe in him that raised Jesus from the dead.
6. 8 if we be dead with Christ, we believe we shall live with him.
8. 26, 27 the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us, according to the will of God.
9. 33 a rock of offence, they that believe on him shall not be ashamed.Chap. 10. 4, 11.
10. 9 believe God has raised Christ from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
14 how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard?
2Cor. 1. 9 not trust in ourselves, but in God who raiseth the dead.
Gal. 2. 20 I live by the faith of the Son of God, who gave himself for me.
Col. 1. 4 faith in Christ and love for all the Saints.
1Tim. 1. 16 for a pattern for those who should hereafter believe on him.
3. 16 God manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
4. 10 who is the Savior of all men, especially of those who believe.
Titus3. 8 they who believe in God might maintain good works.
Heb. 3. 18 they that believe not should not enter into his rest.
James2. 19 thou believest there is one God; devils believe and tremble.
1Peter1. 21 by him believe in God that raised him from the dead, &c.
1John4. 16 we have believed the love God hath for us.
5. 10 he that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself.
Book of Mormon.
1Nephi10. 6, 17 which power he received by faith on the Son of God.
2Nephi11. 6, 7 my soul delighteth in proving to my people, that, save Christ should come, all men must perish.
25. 25 because of our faith we are made alive in Christ. 26.
26. 8 forward to Christ with steadfastness, they are they who shall not perish.
31. 19 ye have not come thus far except by unshaken faith in Christ.
32. 5 receive the Holy Ghost, it will show you what ye shall do.
33. 4 my words persuade them to believe in Jesus. 7, 10.
Jacob3. 1 pray to God with great faith.
7. 3 Sherem, knowing that I, Jacob, had faith in Christ, who should come.
Enos1. 8 he said to me, because of thy faith in Christ.
Jarom1. 11 persuading them to believe in the Messiah to come.
Mos. 4. 2 for we believe in Christ who shall come.
8. 18 God has provided means that man through faith might work mighty miracles.
Alma5. 15 do you exercise faith in the redemption of him who created you? 48.
13. 10-31 an exhortation to repentance and faith in Christ.Chap.22. 14.
25. 15 they looked forward to the coming of Christ.
27. 27 the Lamanites were firm in the faith of Christ.
44. 3 is done to us because of our religion and faith in Christ.
46. 41 those who died in the faith of Christ are happy in him.
48. 13 Moroni was a man who was firm in the faith of Christ.
Hel. 3. 35 they grew firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ.
5. 9 no way a man can be saved, only through Christ who shall come. 47.
3Nephi11. 32 the Holy Ghost bears record of the Father and Son. 34, 35, 36.
12. 19 that ye shall believe in me and repent of your sins.
17. 8 I see that your faith is sufficient that I should heal you. 20.
19. 9 they desired that the Holy Ghost be given unto them.
28 thou hast purified these whom I have chosen because of their faith. 29, 35.
27. 19 none can enter the kingdom unless they wash their garments in the blood of Christ, by faith. 20.
Chap. 28. The three Nephite disciples of Jesus had the faith that enabled them to receive a change in their bodies, that they might remain on the earth until his coming.
4Nephi1. 48 being constrained by the Holy Ghost, Ammaron hid up the records.
Mormon7. 7 Father, Son and Holy Ghost are one God. 10.
Ether5. 4 the Father, Son and Holy Ghost beareth record.Chap. 12. 41.
12. 10 by faith they of old were called after the holy order of God.
Moroni6. 4 were wrought upon and cleansed by the power of the Holy Ghost.Chap. 7. 32.
8. 7-9 the word of the Lord came by the power of the Holy Ghost. 26.
10. 4-7 the truth will be manifested by the power of the Holy Ghost.
Doctrine & Covenants.
Sec. 18. 18 ask the Father in faith and you shall receive the Holy Ghost. 19.
41. 3 by prayer of faith ye shall receive my law.
44. 2 if they exercise faith in me I will pour my Spirit on them.
45. 8 to those that believe on my name, gave I power to obtain eternal life.
136. 42 Be diligent in keeping all my commandments lest your faith fail you.
Pearl of Great Price.
Page2. Moses declared to Satan that he would worship only the God of glory. God blessed Moses for his faith in him.
9. Adam and Eve called on the name of the Lord and offered sacrifice.
Thou shalt call upon God in the name of the Son for evermore.
13. Adam hearkened to the voice of God and glorified his name.
17. many believed and became the sons of God, many believed not and perished.
21. Enoch asked the Lord that he would have mercy on Noah and his seed, inasmuch as he was God and he knew him.
24. Noah walked with God, and all his three sons, also.
29. through faith in the Lord, Abraham left Ur to go into the land of Canaan.
In every dispensation in which God has made known his will to man, it has been done through a living, inspired Priesthood. Passages from the sacred writings might be multiplied, indefinitely, on this subject. But this is not necessary, inasmuch as all the sacred records attest the necessity of an inspired Priesthood, and obedience to it on the part of the people, if they would understand the will of the Lord concerning them.
Fifteen centuries of the history of Israel, from the Exodus to the destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans, is a record of adversity through disobedience to seers and prophets, and of prosperity, the result of listening to their teachings.
Mankind, with a wide range of religious tenets, are instinctively imbued with a sentiment of reverence and obedience to those who minister in the ordinances of religion. After the apostacy of the early apostolic church, it had a strong hold on the minds of the people during the supremacy of the Romish church.
We may consider that this doctrine began to lose its hold on the masses of the people, professing Christianity, after the Reformation and the splitting up of the Christian world into a great multiplicity of sects.
With the introduction of the Gospel and the Holy Priesthood, through Joseph Smith, Jun., the necessity of faith in a living Priesthood is daily being made more apparent to the Latter-day Saints.
Bible.
Exod. 4. 1 Moses answered, they will not believe. 8, 9, 30, 31.
14. 31 Israel believed the Lord and his servant Moses.
19. 9 that the people hear when I speak to thee, and believe thee for ever.
32. 19-34 the golden calf, and the intercession of Moses for the people.
Num. 12. 2 hath the Lord, indeed, spoken only by Moses?
Deut. 9. 19, 20 the Lord hearkened to me; I prayed for Aaron also.
Josh. 1. 5 as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee.
2Chron. 20. 20 believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.
Amos3. 7 but he revealeth his secrets to his servants the prophets.
Jonah, Chap. 3. the Ninevites saved by the preaching of Jonah.
Matt. 10. 14, 15 more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah, than for those who will not hear your words.
40 he that receiveth you receiveth me.
Luke1. 19 sent to speak to thee, and shew thee these glad tidings. 45.
10. 16 he that heareth you heareth me. 29.
24. 25 O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken.
John5. 46 had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me.
13. 20 he that receiveth whomsoever I send, receiveth me.
17. 20 but for them, also, which shall believe on me through their word.
1Thess. 2. 13 when ye received from us, ye received it as the word of God.
Heb. 2. 2 for if the word spoken by angels was steadfast?
Book of Mormon.
Jacob1. 19 taking the responsibility of answering the sins of the people, if we did not teach them the word of the Lord with all diligence.
2. 2 responsibility of magnifying my office, to rid my garments of your sins.
Mos. 2. 28 to assemble together, that I might rid my garments of your blood.
3Nephi12. 1, 2 blessed are ye if ye give heed to the words of these twelve, whom I have chosen.
13. 25 ye are they whom I have chosen to minister to this people.
15. 12 ye are my disciples, and a light to this people.
Doctrine & Covenants.
Sec. 1. 4 voice of warning to all people, by the mouth of my disciples.
8, 9 to them is given power to seal, both on earth and in heaven.
14 they who will not hear prophets and apostles shall be cut off. 17, 30.
2. 1 I will reveal to you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah.
3. 9 thou art Joseph, and wast chosen to do the work of the Lord.Sec. 5. 2, 10, 11-18.
10. 33 Satan thinks to overpower your testimony.
19. 13 keep my commandments which you have received by J. Smith, Jun.
24. 4 if they receive them not, I will curse instead of blessing them.
28. 2 no one to receive revelations for the church but J. Smith, Jun. 3.
7 J. Smith, Jun., has the keys of the revelations which are sealed, until I shall appoint another in his stead.
29. 4 ye are chosen out of the world to declare my Gospel. 7, 10, 12.
42. 61 J. Smith. Jun., to receive revelation, and know the mysteries. 69.
43. 3-5 none but Joseph Smith, Jun., appointed to receive revelation. 12.
52. 9 saying none other things than those which the prophets and apostles have written.
58. 45 behold they shall push the people together from the ends of the earth.
64. 5 the keys of the mysteries shall not be taken from J. Smith, Jun.
65. 2 the keys of the kingdom are committed to man on the earth.
68. 4 whatsoever they shall speak when moved upon by the Holy Ghost shall be scripture and the power of God unto salvation.
75. 20 and they receive you not, shake off the dust of your feet.
81. 2 to J. Smith, Jun., I have given the keys belonging to the Presidency.
84. 64 every soul that believes on your words shall receive the Holy Ghost. 74.
89 whoso receiveth you receiveth me. 90-95.Sec. 99. 2-4.
90. 3, 4 the keys of the kingdom never to be taken from J. Smith, Jun. Through him the oracles to be given to the church. 6, 14-16.
103. 25 whomsoever ye curse I will curse.
35 J. Smith, Jun., to organize the kingdom, and establish the children of Zion.
110. 16 the keys of this dispensation are committed into your hands.
112. 15 the keys which I have given unto him, and also to youward, shall not be taken from him till I come. 16-21, 30-32.
121. 36 the rights of the Priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven.
124. 58 my servant, Joseph, in thee shall the kingdoms of the earth be blessed.
128 the Twelve hold the keys of the kingdom upon the four corners of the earth.
133. 26 the prophets of the north countries shall hear his voice, and shall no longer stay themselves.
136. 37 ye shall behold it if ye are faithful in keeping all my words, from the days of Adam to Joseph Smith, Jun., whom I called on by my angels.
Miscellaneous Passages.
Hab. 2. 4 the just shall live by faith.Rom. 1. 17.Gal. 3. 11.Heb. 10. 38.
Matt. 6. 30 shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?Luke12. 28.
8. 10 not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.Luke7. 9.
17. 20 if ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed.
21. 21 if ye have faith, not only do this, but say to this mountain.
Mark4. 40 how is it that ye have no faith?
Luke18. 8 when the Son of man cometh shall he find faith on the earth?
Acts15. 9 purifying their hearts by faith.
26. 18 inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith.
Rom. 3. 3 shall unbelief make the faith of God without effect? 27.
4. 5 his faith is counted to him for righteousness. 9-16.
10. 17 so then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
14. 22 hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. 23.
1Cor. 2. 5 that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men.
16. 13 watch ye, stand fast in the faith, be strong.
2Cor. 4. 13 we having the same spirit of faith.
5. 7 for we walk by faith, not by sight.
Gal. 3. 2 received ye the spirit by works of the law, or by faith? 5-25.
5. 5 we wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. 6, 22.
Eph. 6. 16 above all taking the shield of faith. 23.
Phil. 3. 9 the faith of Christ the righteousness which is of God by faith.
1Thess. 1. 3 remembering without ceasing your work of faith.
5. 8 putting on the breastplate of faith and love.
2Thess. 1. 4 we glory for your patience and faith in your persecutions. 11.
1Tim. 1. 5 of a good conscience and faith unfeigned. 14, 19.Chap. 3. 9.
2Tim. 3. 8 men of corrupt minds reprobate concerning the faith. 10.
4. 7 I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.
Titus1. 13 rebuke sharply that they may be sound in the faith.
Heb. 4. 2 the word did not profit, not being mixed with faith.
6. 1 not laying again the foundation of repentance and faith.
Chap. 11. by faith the worlds were created, the violence of fire quenched, the armies of the aliens put to flight, kingdoms subdued, &c.
12. 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.
James1. 6 let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.
2. 5 hath not God chosen the poor of this world, rich in faith.
5. 15 the prayer of faith shall save the sick.
1Peter1. 5 kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. 7, 9, 21.
5. 9 whom resist steadfast in the faith.
2Peter1. 5 add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge.
1John5. 4 this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
Jude3. Earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the Saints.
Rev. 13. 10 here is the patience and faith of the Saints.Chap. 14. 12.
Book of Mormon.
1Nephi7. 12 the Lord can do all things for men through their faith.
16. 28 the pointers on the ball worked according to their faith. 29.
2Nephi1. 10 having power given them to do all things by faith.
27. 23 God works not among the children of men save it be according to their faith.
Jacob1. 5 manifest to us by faith, what should happen to our people.
Enos1. 12-18 through faith Enos obtained a promise that the records should be preserved to come forth to the Lamanites.
Mos. 4. 6 that salvation might come to him who continues in faith to the end. 21, 30.
Alma7. 6 look forward for the remission of sins, with an everlasting faith.
12. 30 plan of salvation made known according to men's faith. 33, 34, 37.
13. 2, 3, 4 men called to the Holy Priesthood according to their faith.
18. 35 the Spirit gives knowledge and power according to faith.
32. 18 I ask, Is this faith? if a man knoweth a thing, he has no cause to believe. 21, 26, 27.
28-43 faith illustrated by a parable of a seed.
57. 21-27 through faith the young Ammonites were preserved in battle.
Hel. 5. 20-52 deliverance of Nephi and Lehi from prison through their great faith.
6. 1 the Lamanites exceeded the Nephites in righteousness on account of their great faith.
Mormon3. 12 it was without faith because of the hardness of their hearts.
8. 24 he knoweth their faith, for in his name could they remove mountains.
Ether3. This chapter gives an account of great manifestations to the brother of Jared, on account of his great faith.
12. 4-33 many examples given of the power of faith.
Moroni7. 21-44 instructions on faith.
8. 3 will keep you through the endurance of faith on his name.
10. 4 if ye ask, having faith, he will manifest the truth to you. 7, 11.
Doctrine & Covenants.
Sec. 1. 21 that faith might also increase in the earth.
4. 5 faith, hope, charity, love, &c., qualify him for the workSec. 6. 19, and 12. 8.
8. 10 without faith you can do nothing; ask in faith. 11.
26. 2 all things to be done by common consent, by much prayer and faith.
27. 17 taking the shield of faith, wherewith to quench the fiery darts of the wicked.
41. 3 by prayer of faith ye shall receive my law.
52. 20 the days have come when according to men's faith it shall be done unto them.
103. 36 all victory is brought to pass through your diligence and prayers of faith.
Bible.
Num. 11. 29 Moses said, would that all the Lord's people were prophets.
Prov. 29. 18 where there is no vision the people perish.
Mark16. 17 and these signs shall follow them that believe.
John14. 12 he that believeth on me shall do the works that I do, and greater.
16. 13 Spirit of truth will teach you all things.
Acts2. 39 the promise is to as many as the Lord our God shall call.
Rom. 1. 17 for therein is the righteousness of God revealed, from faith to faith.
3. 22 the righteousness of God is unto all, and upon all that believe.
Eph. 3. 19 that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.
James1. 5 if any lack wisdom let him ask of God.
1John2. 27 the anointing which you have received teacheth you all things.
Book of Mormon.
1Nephi10. 17-19 the gifts and mysteries of God to be unfolded to all men and in all times, to those who diligently seek them.
12. 18 the Messiah of whom the Holy Ghost beareth record from the beginning until this time, henceforth and forever.
22. 2 by the Spirit are all things made known to the prophets.
2Nephi4. 35 God will give liberally to him that asketh.
26. 13 Christ manifesteth himself by the power of the Holy Ghost, to all who believe on him.
27. 23 that I am the same yesterday, to-day and forever.Chap. 29. 9.
28. 29 wo be to him that shall say, we have received the word of God and need no more. 30.
29. 6 thou fool that shall say, we have a Bible and need no more. 7-12.
Alma39. 19 is it not as easy for the Lord to declare these things to us as unto our children, or as after the time of his coming?
3Nephi27. 29 for he that asketh receiveth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
Mormon9. 7-11 God, a God of miracles, revelations and prophecy, the same yesterday, to-day and for ever. 15-19.Moroni10. 19.
Moroni7. 29 have miracles ceased, or have angels ceased to minister to men because Christ has ascended to heaven? 37, 38.
Doctrine & Covenants.
Sec. 1. 11 the voice of the Lord is unto the ends of the earth. 20.
11. 25 wo to him that denieth the Spirit of revelation and prophecy.
20. 11 that God inspires men to do his work in this generation, as well as in generations of old. 12-17.
26-28 not only those who are but who have been and who shall be, who believe in the gifts and callings of God, shall be saved.
35 diminishing nothing from the revelations of John, or from the revelations of God which shall come hereafter, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
35. 8 will show miracles and wonders unto all who believe on my name.
42. 61 if thou shalt ask thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation. 67, 68.
50. 35 by giving heed to what you have received, and shall hereafter receive.
59. 4 with commandments not a few, and with revelations in their time.
70. 3 revelations which I have given them, and which I shall hereafter give.
See sermon by H. C. Kimball, J. of D., Vol. 2, page 220.
" " " "3, " 197.
O. Spencer's Letters to Rev. W. Crowell, No. 3.
A Pamphlet, by O. Pratt, on Faith.
Article by F. D. Richards, Mil. Star, Vol. 29, page 681.
The Nephite prophet, Alma, gives a very comprehensive idea of the importance of repentance. "Yea, I would that ye would come forth and harden not your hearts any longer; for behold, now is the time, and the day of your salvation; and therefore, if ye will repent and harden not your hearts, immediately shall the great plan of redemption be brought about unto you. For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors. And now as I said unto you before, as ye have had so many witnesses, therefore, I beseech of you that ye do not procrastinate the day of your repentance until the end; for after this day of life, which is given us to prepare for eternity, behold, if we do not improve our time while in this life, then cometh the night of darkness, wherein there can be no labor performed. Ye cannot say, when ye are brought to that awful crisis, that I will repent, that I will return to my God. Nay, ye cannot say this; for that same spirit which doth possess your bodies at the time ye go out of this life, that same spirit will have power to possess your body in that eternal world. For behold, if ye have procrastinated the day of your repentance, even until death, behold, ye have become subject to the spirit of the devil, and he doth seal you his; therefore, the Spirit of the Lord hath withdrawn from you, and hath no place in you, and the devil hath all power over you; and this is the final state of the wicked."Alma34. 31-35.
"For Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death;" 2Cor. 7. 10. Of the sorrow that worketh death was that of Judas;Matt. 27. 3-5 In some passages of the Scriptures repentance signifies a change of purpose in man, as in the case of the son who refused to work in his father's vineyard, but afterwards repented and went; 21. 28, 29.
Again, it expresses the sympathy of the Lord for the sufferings of his people: "For the Lord hearkened because of their groanings by reason of them that oppressed them;"Judges2. 18. It sometimes expresses sympathy in man for the sufferings of others: "And the people repented them for Benjamin, because that the Lord had made a breach in the tribes of Israel;" 21. 15.
In the history of the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, we are informed that Pharaoh's heart was hardened, so that he would not let the people go. We are evidently to understand by this, that on account of the great wickedness of the Egyptians, the Lord did not soften their hearts by the gentle influences of his Spirit, but permitted them to pursue their own chosen way and suffer the consequences.
We read in the Revelations of St. John: "And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands;" 9. 20. "And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repented not of their deeds;" 16. 11. These, like the Egyptians, had passed the day of repentance, and were left to reap the reward of their wickedness.
On account of their former wickedness, it was all the converted Lamanites could do to repent;Alma24. 11.
Repentance is a gift of God: "Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life;"Acts11. 18. "If God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;" 2Tim. 2. 25. "Not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth them to repentance;"Rom. 2. 4. That is, the Lord grants to men of his Holy Spirit to soften their hearts and enlighten their understandings, that they may see and receive the truth, if they will; but his Spirit will not always strive with man. Confession of sin, and restitution to the injured party, was early made a standing law in Israel;Num. 5. 6, 7.
Confession is one of the outward evidences of a godly sorrow for sin: "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation;"Rom. 10. 10. "Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed;"James5. 16.
On account of the magnitude of sins committed, repentance is not always followed by forgiveness and restoration. For instance, when Peter was preaching to the Jews, who had slain Jesus and taken his blood on themselves and their children, he did not say, repent and be baptized for the remission of sins; but "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and (when) he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: whom the heaven must receive until the times of the restitution of all things;"Acts3. 19-21. That is, repent now, and believe in Jesus Christ, that you may be forgiven when he whom you have slain shall come again in the days of the restitution of all things; and prescribe to you the terms on which you may be saved.
Bible.
1Kings8. 47 if they repent in the land of their captivity.
Job42. 6 I abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes.
Psalm106. 45 repented according to the multitude of his mercies.
110. 4 the Lord hath sworn and will not repent.Heb. 7. 21.
Ezk. 14. 6 repent and turn from your idols.Chap. 18. 30,
24. 14 neither will I spare, neither will I repent.
Matt.3. 2 repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.Chap. 4. 17.
8 bring forth fruit meet for repentance.Luke3. 8.
9. 13 not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.Luke5. 32.
11. 20 because they repented not. 21.Luke10. 13.
12. 41 the men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation.Luke11. 32.
Mark1. 15 repent ye and believe the Gospel.
6. 12 they went and preached that men should repent.
Luke13. 3 except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish. 5.
15. 7 over one sinner that repenteth, than over ninety-nine that need no repentance.
16. 30 if one went unto them from the dead they will repent.
17. 3 if thy brother trespass against thee, and repent, forgive him. 4.
Acts17. 30 times of ignorance God winked at but now commands men to repent.
26. 20 to the Gentiles that they should do works meet for repentance.
Rom. 2. 4 not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.
2Cor. 7. 9 but that ye sorrowed to repentance.
10 Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation, not to be repented of.
Heb. 6. 1 not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works. 6.
12. 17 he found no place of repentance though he sought it.
2Peter3. 9 that any should perish, but all should come to repentance.
Rev. 3. 8 remember how thou hast received; hold fast and repent.
19 those I love I chasten; be zealous, therefore, and repent.
Book of Mormon.
1Nephi10. 18 the way is prepared for all men if they will repent.
22. 28 shall dwell safely in the Holy One of Israel, if they will repent.
2Nephi2. 21 he gave commandment that all men should repent.
9. 24 if they will not repent and be baptized they must be damned.
30. 2 the Gentiles that will repent are the covenant people of the Lord.
Jacob3. 3 except ye repent the land is cursed for your sakes.
Mos. 4. 10 believe that you must repent of your sins, and forsake them. 18.
12. 8 unless they repent I will utterly destroy them. 12.
18. 7 Alma preached repentance at the waters of Mormon.
20 he commanded they should preach nothing but repentance and faith.
26. 22 shall be baptized unto repentance.
27. 24 Alma said I have repented of my sins and been redeemed.
29. 19 were it not for the interposition of the Creator because of their repentance.
Alma5. 31-33 repentance necessary to salvation. 49-56.
7. 9 the Spirit saith repent, prepare the way of the Lord.
9. 12 except ye repent ye can in no wise inherit the kingdom of God.
12. 15 power to save all that bring forth fruit meet for repentance.
24 this life a probationary state for repentance.
22. 6 will repent ye shall be saved.
26. 22 to him that repenteth is given to know the mysteries of God.
27. 23 because of their sore repentance on account of their many murders.
29. 1, 2 that I were an angel to cry repentance to all people.
34. 31-35 to delay repentance until death is to become subject to the devil.
42. 4 there was a probationary time granted to man for repentance. 5, 13.
16 repentance could not come unto men except there was a punishment.
Hel. 5. 11 he hath power to redeem them from their sins because of repentance.
7. 17 O repent ye! why will ye die?
19-24, 28 the Nephites warned of great destruction, unless they would repent.
8. 7 the things he saith will come to pass unless we repent. 26
10. 11 Nephites to be smitten unless they would repent. 17.
11. 8-17 the Lord turned away the famine from the Nephites because of repentance.
12. 22-24 that men might be saved, hath repentance been declared.
13. 2 Samuel preached repentance to the people of Zarahemla. 6.
14. 17, 18 the resurrection of Christ brings to pass the conditions of repentance.
3Nephi9. 2 wo to the inhabitants of the earth unless they repent. 13, 22.
10. 6 how oft will I gather you if ye will repent.Matt. 23. 37.
16. 13 if the Gentiles will repent they shall be numbered with my people.
18. 16 as I pray, ye shall pray among those who repent and are baptized. 30-32.
23. 5 he who repents and is baptized shall be saved.
26. 17 whoso repents and is baptized shall be filled.
Mormon2. 8 although destruction hung over the Nephites they would not repent. 10-13.
3. 22 I would that I could persuade all ye ends of the earth to repent.
5. 22 how can ye stand before the power of God except ye repent? 24.
7. 3 ye must come to repentance or ye cannot be saved. 5, 7, 8
Ether2. 11 may repent and not continue in your iniquities, until the fulness come.
5. 5 if so be they repent and come unto the Father.
7. 23 there came prophets warning the people to repent. 25, 26
8. 23 that things may be shown to you that ye may repent.
11. 1 many prophecies of the destruction of the people, unless they should repent. 6, 8, 12, 20.
12. 3 Ether exhorted the people to believe in God unto repentance.
Moroni6. 7 if they repented not their names were blotted out. 8.
8. 24 repentance is unto those who are under the curse of a broken law. 25.
Doctrine & Covenants.
Sec. 1. 32, 33 from him that repents not shall be taken the light he has received.Sec. 5. 21.
3. 10 God commanded Joseph Smith, Jun., to repent.
5. 19 a desolating scourge shall go forth if they repent not.
19. 4 every one must repent or suffer, for I, God, am endless. 3, 15.
20. 29 all men must repent and endure in faith, or they cannot be saved.
29. 17 1 will take vengeance on the wicked for they will not repent.
44 they cannot be redeemed because they repented not. 49.
33. 10 repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
39. 18 inasmuch as they repent, I will stay mine hand in judgment.
42. 77 if not married, they shall repent and ye shall receive them.
43. 20 call on the nations to repent. Prepare, for the great day of the Lord. 21, 22.
54. 3 if your brethren desire to escape their enemies let them repent.
63. 15 repent speedily, lest judgment come on them as a snare.
68. 24 if he repent he shall be forgiven, according to the covenants.
75. 29 the idler shall not have place in the church, except he repent.
84. 57 to remain under condemnation, until they repent. 76.
90. 34 your brethren in Zion begin to repent and the angels rejoice. 35.
98. 21 will chasten them if they do not repent and observe all things.
109. 21 when thy people transgress, they may speedily repent and return unto thee. 29.
50 that wicked mob may repent, if repentance can be found. 53.
124. 50 visit on the heads of those who hindered my work, if they repent not. 52, 116.
133. 16 he commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent.
136. 35 their sorrow shall be great unless they repent speedily.
Pearl of Great Price.
Page9. said to Adam, thou shalt repent and call upon God.
13. Adam called on his sons to repent.
14. the sons of Adam called on all men to repent.
16. God hath made known to our fathers that all men must repent. Teach it to your children that all men must repent.
18. the Lord said to Enoch, say to this people repent, lest I smite them with a curse. He called on all but the people of Cainaan to repent.
23. if men do not repent I will send in the floods upon them For it repenteth Noah that I have created them.
History of Joseph Smith, Sept. 1, 1835.
A Pamphlet by O. Pratt, on Repentance.