Chapter 11Revelation on Doctrine and Church Government1829–1830Revelation to the WitnessesBefore the Church could be organized it was essential that there be revealed such matters as pertained to the organization of the Church. This was done between the time the witnesses viewed the plates of the ancient record and the sixth of April, 1830. The first of these (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 18) was given to Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer, at Fayette. It made known the calling of the Twelve Apostles who should be chosen in this dispensation, although it was about six years before they were called. It gave instructions “relative to the building up of the Church of Christ according to the fulness of the Gospel.” It was also stated that the Book of Mormon contained “all things written concerning the foundation” of the Church and the Gospel. The Church, when organized, should be built upon the foundation of the Gospel and “the gates of hell shall not prevail” against it. Moreover, it was declared that “the world is ripening in iniquity, and it must needs be that the children of men are stirred up unto repentance, both the Gentiles and also the house of Israel.” To Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer, the Lord said that all men were now called on to repent, for the Priesthood was restored and the opportunity given for the remission of sins. These men had been called as special witnesses, and therefore were under obligation to warn the world. Until this time men had not been privileged to be baptized, for there had been no authority in the earth to officiate in gospel ordinances. The Lord said the worth of souls was great, for Christ had suffered “the pains of all men that all might repent and come unto him.” As many as would repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and endure to the end, should be saved. It was made clear in this revelation that all men must take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, for in his name should “they be called in the last day.” Otherwise they “cannot have a place in the kingdom” of the Father.The Twelve ApostlesNot only were Joseph Smith and the witnesses to the Book of Mormon to be called to testify, but there were to be twelve other witnesses, who should be appointed to declare the Gospel to both Gentile and Jew. The three witnesses to the Book of Mormon were designated to search out these Twelve Apostles, who were to have charge of the preaching of the Gospel in all the world.Revelation Given to Martin HarrisThe next great commandment (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 19) was given to Martin Harris, in March, 1830, as one of the three special witnesses. Martin was admonished and warned against his weaknesses, and was commanded to preach the first principles of the Gospel and declare “glad tidings” upon the mountains, and “every high place, and among the people,” unto the end of his life. If he should fail, then misery should he receive. He was further instructed to keep his contract with the printer, and impart of his substance for the printing of the Book of Mormon, which “contains the truth and the word of God.”The Atonement and Eternal Punishment ExplainedThe most important teaching in this revelation was the doctrine of the atonement and the explanation of the expression “eternal punishment.” “I am Alpha and Omega,” said the Lord, “yea, even I am He, the beginning and the end, the Redeemer of the world. I have accomplished and finished the will of him whose I am, even the Father, concerning me —having done this that I might subdue all things unto myself, retaining all power, even to the destroying of Satan and his works at the end of the world, and the last great day of judgment, which I shall pass upon the inhabitants thereof, judging every man according to his works and the deeds which he hath done.“And surely every man must repent or suffer, for I, God, am endless; wherefore, I revoke not the judgments which I shall pass, but woes shall go forth, weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth, yea, to those who are found on my left hand. Nevertheless it is not written that there shall be no end to this torment, but it is written endless torment. Again it is written eternal damnation; wherefore it is more express than other scriptures, that it might work upon the hearts of the children of men, altogether for my name’s glory. Wherefore I will explain unto you this mystery, for it is mete unto you to know even as mine apostles. . . .“For behold, the mystery of Godliness, how great is it? for, behold, I am endless, and the punishment which is given from my hand, is endless punishment, for Endless is my name; wherefore—Eternal punishment is God’s punishment.Endless punishment is God’s punishment.”Then follows the statement that Jesus Christ “suffered the pains for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent.” These sufferings were most exquisite and sore, which caused him “the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit;” and would that he “might not drink the bitter cup and shrink.” Nevertheless he partook of that cup and finished his work, and this that men might not suffer if they would repent; but if they will not repent then they must suffer even as he.Revelation on Church GovernmentIn April 1830, just before the organization of the Church, another very important revelation (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 20) was received on Church government. In it the date for the organization of the Church was designated as April 6. The Church was to be “regularly organized and established agreeable to the laws of our country” by the will and commandment of the Lord. These commandments were given to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, who had been called and ordained to be apostles, or special witnesses for Christ. Joseph Smith was to be the first elder of the Church and Oliver Cowdery the second elder, and they were to ordain each other to these callings, according to the grace of Jesus Christ. Other matters of great importance revealed are as follows:Mention is made of the matter of translation of the Book of Mormon, which is said to contain the record of a fallen people, and the fulness of the Gospel to the Gentiles and also to the Jews. By the opening of the heavens, and the inspiration given to men who are called to his holy work, the Lord has shown that “he is the same God yesterday, today, and forever, and does inspire men and call them to his work in this age and generation, as well as in generations of old.By these great witnesses the world shall be judged, “even as many as shall come to a knowledge of this work.” Those who receive it in righteousness shall receive a crown of eternal life, while those who reject it shall be condemned. It is declared that the Lord has spoken, and the elders of the Church have heard and bear witness so that through their testimony man may know there is a God in heaven, who is infinite and eternal, from everlasting to everlasting, the same unchangeable Framer of heaven and earth and all things which are in them. Man is created in the image of God, male and female, and is commanded to love and serve him. Through transgression of his laws, man became fallen, wherefore the Only Begotten Son was sent into the world to suffer temptations—but gave no heed to them—was crucified, died, and rose the third day and ascended into heaven to reign in power. All who believe on him and are baptized and endure to the end, shall be saved, no matter when they lived on the earth. Men everywhere must repent and believe in Christ, worshiping the Father in the name of the Son and endure in faith, or they cannot be saved. Justification through grace is true, as also is sanctification, to all who love the Father with all their might, mind and strength. The dangers of falling away from grace are pointed out, with a warning to the members of the Church to “take heed and pray always lest they fall into temptation.”Manner of Baptism ExplainedBy way of commandment to the Church the manner of Baptism is set forth as follows: “All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the Church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, shall be received into his Church.” No person can be received into the Church unless he has arrived unto the years of accountability, which is eight years, for he must be capable of repentance, which infants are not. Baptism is to be administered in the following manner unto all who repent:How Baptism is Performed“The person who is called of God, and has authority from Jesus Christ to baptize, shall go down into the water with the person who has presented him or herself for baptism, and shall say, calling him or her by name: Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again out of the water.”Duties of Elders, Priests, Teachers, Deacons and MembersAn apostle is said to be an elder. His calling is to baptize and ordain other officers in the Church. It should here be explained that at the organization of the Church and for some time thereafter, the officers mentioned here were all that were needed. As the Church expanded the Lord revealed the duties of other officers in their time. Elders are to baptize, confirm members, preach, expound the scriptures, administer the sacrament and take charge of meetings which are to be conducted “as they,” the elders “are led by the Holy Ghost, according to the commandments and revelations.”The priest is to teach, expound, baptize and administer the sacrament. He may ordain other priests, teachers and deacons, but cannot lay on hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. He may take the lead of meetings in the absence of higher authority. It is his duty to visit the home of the members and exhort them to pray vocally and in secret and to attend to all family duties. When called upon he is to assist the elder in his duties.The teacher is to be the guardian of the Church. He is to see that there is no iniquity in the Church, neither lying, backbiting, or evil speaking among the members, and to see that the Church meet together often and that the members perform their duties. He is to take the lead of meetings if there is no elder or priest present and may assist them in their duties. He cannot baptize, confirm, or administer the sacrament.The deacon is to assist the teacher and other officers in the Church, but he cannot baptize, confirm, or administer the sacrament.Conferences of the ChurchThe elders of the Church are instructed to meet in conference once in three months, or from time to time as they may determine, to transact such business as may come before them. All who are ordained are to receive certificates of ordination, and shall be accepted as officers in the Church by the vote of the members.Duties of Church MembersAll members shall be received by baptism after they have repented of their sins. They shall have sufficient time to be taught the Gospel and Church government before they are confirmed and partake of the sacrament. Children are to be brought to the elders of the Church, who shall bless them. The members must meet together often to partake of the sacrament in remembrance of the Lord Jesus Christ. The elder or priest who shall administer the sacrament “shall kneel with the Church and call upon the Father in solemn prayer,” repeating the words which the Lord Himself has given.TransgressorsAny member of the Church transgressing the commandments of the Lord, or the rules of the Church, shall be dealt with as the scriptures direct. If any are expelled their names are to be “blotted out” and not kept on the records of the Church.Recommendations of MembersRecords of members are to be kept in a book, and the members moving from one branch to another shall take a letter of recommendation, or certificate, stating that they are in standing in the Church. This shall be presented to the presiding officer in the branch with which they desire to unite.SummaryThese commandments and instructions were given through Joseph Smith, shortly before the organization of the Church, to guide him and his companions in Church government. They are all important because they deal with the fundamental principles of the Gospel and doctrines of the Church. They set forth clearly many things which were familiarly known in the primitive Church, but which were either lost or perverted during the ages of apostasy and departure from the standards set by the Savior and his disciples. Again they are restored in their simplicity, freed from all mysticism and error, for the salvation of mankind.
Revelation on Doctrine and Church Government
1829–1830
Before the Church could be organized it was essential that there be revealed such matters as pertained to the organization of the Church. This was done between the time the witnesses viewed the plates of the ancient record and the sixth of April, 1830. The first of these (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 18) was given to Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer, at Fayette. It made known the calling of the Twelve Apostles who should be chosen in this dispensation, although it was about six years before they were called. It gave instructions “relative to the building up of the Church of Christ according to the fulness of the Gospel.” It was also stated that the Book of Mormon contained “all things written concerning the foundation” of the Church and the Gospel. The Church, when organized, should be built upon the foundation of the Gospel and “the gates of hell shall not prevail” against it. Moreover, it was declared that “the world is ripening in iniquity, and it must needs be that the children of men are stirred up unto repentance, both the Gentiles and also the house of Israel.” To Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer, the Lord said that all men were now called on to repent, for the Priesthood was restored and the opportunity given for the remission of sins. These men had been called as special witnesses, and therefore were under obligation to warn the world. Until this time men had not been privileged to be baptized, for there had been no authority in the earth to officiate in gospel ordinances. The Lord said the worth of souls was great, for Christ had suffered “the pains of all men that all might repent and come unto him.” As many as would repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and endure to the end, should be saved. It was made clear in this revelation that all men must take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, for in his name should “they be called in the last day.” Otherwise they “cannot have a place in the kingdom” of the Father.
Not only were Joseph Smith and the witnesses to the Book of Mormon to be called to testify, but there were to be twelve other witnesses, who should be appointed to declare the Gospel to both Gentile and Jew. The three witnesses to the Book of Mormon were designated to search out these Twelve Apostles, who were to have charge of the preaching of the Gospel in all the world.
The next great commandment (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 19) was given to Martin Harris, in March, 1830, as one of the three special witnesses. Martin was admonished and warned against his weaknesses, and was commanded to preach the first principles of the Gospel and declare “glad tidings” upon the mountains, and “every high place, and among the people,” unto the end of his life. If he should fail, then misery should he receive. He was further instructed to keep his contract with the printer, and impart of his substance for the printing of the Book of Mormon, which “contains the truth and the word of God.”
The most important teaching in this revelation was the doctrine of the atonement and the explanation of the expression “eternal punishment.” “I am Alpha and Omega,” said the Lord, “yea, even I am He, the beginning and the end, the Redeemer of the world. I have accomplished and finished the will of him whose I am, even the Father, concerning me —having done this that I might subdue all things unto myself, retaining all power, even to the destroying of Satan and his works at the end of the world, and the last great day of judgment, which I shall pass upon the inhabitants thereof, judging every man according to his works and the deeds which he hath done.
“And surely every man must repent or suffer, for I, God, am endless; wherefore, I revoke not the judgments which I shall pass, but woes shall go forth, weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth, yea, to those who are found on my left hand. Nevertheless it is not written that there shall be no end to this torment, but it is written endless torment. Again it is written eternal damnation; wherefore it is more express than other scriptures, that it might work upon the hearts of the children of men, altogether for my name’s glory. Wherefore I will explain unto you this mystery, for it is mete unto you to know even as mine apostles. . . .
“For behold, the mystery of Godliness, how great is it? for, behold, I am endless, and the punishment which is given from my hand, is endless punishment, for Endless is my name; wherefore—
Eternal punishment is God’s punishment.
Endless punishment is God’s punishment.”
Then follows the statement that Jesus Christ “suffered the pains for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent.” These sufferings were most exquisite and sore, which caused him “the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit;” and would that he “might not drink the bitter cup and shrink.” Nevertheless he partook of that cup and finished his work, and this that men might not suffer if they would repent; but if they will not repent then they must suffer even as he.
In April 1830, just before the organization of the Church, another very important revelation (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 20) was received on Church government. In it the date for the organization of the Church was designated as April 6. The Church was to be “regularly organized and established agreeable to the laws of our country” by the will and commandment of the Lord. These commandments were given to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, who had been called and ordained to be apostles, or special witnesses for Christ. Joseph Smith was to be the first elder of the Church and Oliver Cowdery the second elder, and they were to ordain each other to these callings, according to the grace of Jesus Christ. Other matters of great importance revealed are as follows:
Mention is made of the matter of translation of the Book of Mormon, which is said to contain the record of a fallen people, and the fulness of the Gospel to the Gentiles and also to the Jews. By the opening of the heavens, and the inspiration given to men who are called to his holy work, the Lord has shown that “he is the same God yesterday, today, and forever, and does inspire men and call them to his work in this age and generation, as well as in generations of old.
By these great witnesses the world shall be judged, “even as many as shall come to a knowledge of this work.” Those who receive it in righteousness shall receive a crown of eternal life, while those who reject it shall be condemned. It is declared that the Lord has spoken, and the elders of the Church have heard and bear witness so that through their testimony man may know there is a God in heaven, who is infinite and eternal, from everlasting to everlasting, the same unchangeable Framer of heaven and earth and all things which are in them. Man is created in the image of God, male and female, and is commanded to love and serve him. Through transgression of his laws, man became fallen, wherefore the Only Begotten Son was sent into the world to suffer temptations—but gave no heed to them—was crucified, died, and rose the third day and ascended into heaven to reign in power. All who believe on him and are baptized and endure to the end, shall be saved, no matter when they lived on the earth. Men everywhere must repent and believe in Christ, worshiping the Father in the name of the Son and endure in faith, or they cannot be saved. Justification through grace is true, as also is sanctification, to all who love the Father with all their might, mind and strength. The dangers of falling away from grace are pointed out, with a warning to the members of the Church to “take heed and pray always lest they fall into temptation.”
By way of commandment to the Church the manner of Baptism is set forth as follows: “All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the Church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, shall be received into his Church.” No person can be received into the Church unless he has arrived unto the years of accountability, which is eight years, for he must be capable of repentance, which infants are not. Baptism is to be administered in the following manner unto all who repent:
“The person who is called of God, and has authority from Jesus Christ to baptize, shall go down into the water with the person who has presented him or herself for baptism, and shall say, calling him or her by name: Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again out of the water.”
An apostle is said to be an elder. His calling is to baptize and ordain other officers in the Church. It should here be explained that at the organization of the Church and for some time thereafter, the officers mentioned here were all that were needed. As the Church expanded the Lord revealed the duties of other officers in their time. Elders are to baptize, confirm members, preach, expound the scriptures, administer the sacrament and take charge of meetings which are to be conducted “as they,” the elders “are led by the Holy Ghost, according to the commandments and revelations.”
The priest is to teach, expound, baptize and administer the sacrament. He may ordain other priests, teachers and deacons, but cannot lay on hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. He may take the lead of meetings in the absence of higher authority. It is his duty to visit the home of the members and exhort them to pray vocally and in secret and to attend to all family duties. When called upon he is to assist the elder in his duties.
The teacher is to be the guardian of the Church. He is to see that there is no iniquity in the Church, neither lying, backbiting, or evil speaking among the members, and to see that the Church meet together often and that the members perform their duties. He is to take the lead of meetings if there is no elder or priest present and may assist them in their duties. He cannot baptize, confirm, or administer the sacrament.
The deacon is to assist the teacher and other officers in the Church, but he cannot baptize, confirm, or administer the sacrament.
The elders of the Church are instructed to meet in conference once in three months, or from time to time as they may determine, to transact such business as may come before them. All who are ordained are to receive certificates of ordination, and shall be accepted as officers in the Church by the vote of the members.
All members shall be received by baptism after they have repented of their sins. They shall have sufficient time to be taught the Gospel and Church government before they are confirmed and partake of the sacrament. Children are to be brought to the elders of the Church, who shall bless them. The members must meet together often to partake of the sacrament in remembrance of the Lord Jesus Christ. The elder or priest who shall administer the sacrament “shall kneel with the Church and call upon the Father in solemn prayer,” repeating the words which the Lord Himself has given.
Any member of the Church transgressing the commandments of the Lord, or the rules of the Church, shall be dealt with as the scriptures direct. If any are expelled their names are to be “blotted out” and not kept on the records of the Church.
Records of members are to be kept in a book, and the members moving from one branch to another shall take a letter of recommendation, or certificate, stating that they are in standing in the Church. This shall be presented to the presiding officer in the branch with which they desire to unite.
These commandments and instructions were given through Joseph Smith, shortly before the organization of the Church, to guide him and his companions in Church government. They are all important because they deal with the fundamental principles of the Gospel and doctrines of the Church. They set forth clearly many things which were familiarly known in the primitive Church, but which were either lost or perverted during the ages of apostasy and departure from the standards set by the Savior and his disciples. Again they are restored in their simplicity, freed from all mysticism and error, for the salvation of mankind.
Chapter 12Organization of the Church1830The Church OrganizedIt was made known, shortly after the bestowal of the Melchizedek Priesthood, that the Church of Jesus Christ was to be organized. It was after Joseph Smith and his companions had engaged in solemn prayer that the word of the Lord came to them in the home of Father Peter Whitmer, “commanding us,” the Prophet writes, “that I should ordain Oliver Cowdery to be an elder in the Church of Jesus Christ; and that he also should ordain me to the same office; and then to ordain others, as it should be made known unto us from time to time. We were, however, commanded to defer this our ordination until such times as it should be practicable to have our brethren, who had been and who should be baptized, assembled together, when we must have their sanction to our thus proceeding to ordain each other, and have them decide by vote whether they were willing to accept us as spiritual teachers or not; when also we were commanded to bless bread and break it with them, and to take wine, bless it, and drink it with them; afterward proceed to ordain each other according to commandment; then call out such men as the Spirit should indicate, and ordain them; and then attend to the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, upon all those whom we had previously baptized, doing all things in the name of the Lord.”Fulfilment of the PromiseOn the sixth day of April, 1830, the time for the fulfilment of this promise arrived, Joseph and a few of those who had been baptized met in the house of Peter Whitmer, Sen., and proceeded, as the Lord had instructed them, to organize the Church. It was on a Tuesday, and there were six in number, namely, Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, Hyrum Smith, Peter Whitmer, Jr., David Whitmer and Samuel H. Smith. The small, but momentous meeting, was opened by solemn prayer. Those present then proceeded to express their willingness, as instructed by divine commandment, to accept Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery as their teachers in the things of the kingdom of God. Then they were called upon to declare whether or not they were willing to proceed to organize the Church of Jesus Christ. To both propositions they consented with unanimous voice. “I then laid my hands upon Oliver Cowdery,” says the Prophet, “and ordained him an elder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; after which he ordained me also to the office of elder of said Church. We then took bread, blessed it, and brake it with them; and also wine, blessed, and drank it with them. We then laid our hands on each individual member of the Church present, that they might receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, and be confirmed members of the Church of Christ. The Holy Ghost was poured out upon us to a very marked degree, some prophesied, whilst we all praised the Lord, and rejoiced exceedingly.”All six of these young men—Hyrum Smith, the oldest, was but 31 years of age—had been baptized previously to the organization. They were all again baptized on that memorable day, April 6, 1830.A Record to be KeptWhile they were still in session in this meeting of organization a revelation (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 21) was given to the Church in which they were instructed to keep a record. In this record, Joseph Smith was to be called “a seer, a translator, a prophet, an apostle of Jesus Christ, and elder of the Church through the will of God the Father, and the grace of your Lord Jesus Christ.” The Church was also commanded to give heed unto all his words and commandments, “as he receiveth them, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith,” said the Lord. By doing this “the gates of hell” should not prevail against them, for the Lord would dispel the powers of darkness. The Prophet would no longer have to mourn for Zion, for he should have inspiration to move the cause of Zion in mighty power, for the days of her rejoicing were at hand. Oliver Cowdery was appointed “the first preacher of the Church, unto the Church, and before the world, yea, before the Gentiles and . . . to the Jews also.”Destiny of the ChurchIn the manner here described, there came into the world a power, destined to grow and expand until it shall fill the earth, for it is the “kingdom which shall never be destroyed . . . and it shall stand forever.” At the time of the organization, however, its influence and power appeared to be insignificant; yet it caused, even then, consternation and fear in the hearts of the wicked, and strenuous efforts were launched to bring it to destruction.Others Called to the MinistryBefore the meeting closed Joseph and Oliver called out others and ordained them to different offices in the Priesthood, as the Spirit manifested unto them, presumably to the offices in the Aaronic Priesthood. The Spirit of the Lord was poured out upon them in abundance, and after a happy time spent in testimony and witnessing to each other the blessings of the Lord, they dismissed the meeting, feeling that they were now individually members of the Church of Jesus Christ, and acknowledged as such of God. There were others present besides the six who formed the organization of the Church. Six persons were required by law to properly form a society or organization of the kind. Others who were present also received of the Spirit of the Lord in the meeting and being convinced of the truth came forward and desired to be united with the Church. Shortly afterwards they were also baptized. Among these were the Prophet’s parents, Joseph Smith, Sen., and Lucy Mack Smith; also Martin Harris and Orrin Porter Rockwell.Baptism a New and Everlasting CovenantAs stated, all six of the original members of the Church were again baptized on the day of the organization. This action was due, in part at least, to the fact that baptism is the doorway into the Church as well as for the remission of sins. There had been a few others baptized before the sixth of April (see Ch. 9). Some of those previously baptized raised the question as to why they should again be baptized. In consequence of their desire to unite with the Church without re-baptism, the Prophet inquired of the Lord in relation to the matter and received the following revelation:“Behold, I say unto you, that all old covenants have I caused to be done away in this thing, and this is a new and an everlasting covenant, even that which was from the beginning.Wherefore, although a man should be baptized an hundred times, it availeth him nothing, for you cannot enter in at the strait gate by the law of Moses, neither by your dead works;For it is because of your dead works, that I have caused this last covenant and this Church to be built up unto me, even as in days of old.Wherefore, enter ye in at the gate, as I have commanded, and seek not to counsel your God. Amen” (Doc. and Cov. sec. 22).
Organization of the Church
1830
It was made known, shortly after the bestowal of the Melchizedek Priesthood, that the Church of Jesus Christ was to be organized. It was after Joseph Smith and his companions had engaged in solemn prayer that the word of the Lord came to them in the home of Father Peter Whitmer, “commanding us,” the Prophet writes, “that I should ordain Oliver Cowdery to be an elder in the Church of Jesus Christ; and that he also should ordain me to the same office; and then to ordain others, as it should be made known unto us from time to time. We were, however, commanded to defer this our ordination until such times as it should be practicable to have our brethren, who had been and who should be baptized, assembled together, when we must have their sanction to our thus proceeding to ordain each other, and have them decide by vote whether they were willing to accept us as spiritual teachers or not; when also we were commanded to bless bread and break it with them, and to take wine, bless it, and drink it with them; afterward proceed to ordain each other according to commandment; then call out such men as the Spirit should indicate, and ordain them; and then attend to the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, upon all those whom we had previously baptized, doing all things in the name of the Lord.”
On the sixth day of April, 1830, the time for the fulfilment of this promise arrived, Joseph and a few of those who had been baptized met in the house of Peter Whitmer, Sen., and proceeded, as the Lord had instructed them, to organize the Church. It was on a Tuesday, and there were six in number, namely, Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, Hyrum Smith, Peter Whitmer, Jr., David Whitmer and Samuel H. Smith. The small, but momentous meeting, was opened by solemn prayer. Those present then proceeded to express their willingness, as instructed by divine commandment, to accept Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery as their teachers in the things of the kingdom of God. Then they were called upon to declare whether or not they were willing to proceed to organize the Church of Jesus Christ. To both propositions they consented with unanimous voice. “I then laid my hands upon Oliver Cowdery,” says the Prophet, “and ordained him an elder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; after which he ordained me also to the office of elder of said Church. We then took bread, blessed it, and brake it with them; and also wine, blessed, and drank it with them. We then laid our hands on each individual member of the Church present, that they might receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, and be confirmed members of the Church of Christ. The Holy Ghost was poured out upon us to a very marked degree, some prophesied, whilst we all praised the Lord, and rejoiced exceedingly.”
All six of these young men—Hyrum Smith, the oldest, was but 31 years of age—had been baptized previously to the organization. They were all again baptized on that memorable day, April 6, 1830.
While they were still in session in this meeting of organization a revelation (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 21) was given to the Church in which they were instructed to keep a record. In this record, Joseph Smith was to be called “a seer, a translator, a prophet, an apostle of Jesus Christ, and elder of the Church through the will of God the Father, and the grace of your Lord Jesus Christ.” The Church was also commanded to give heed unto all his words and commandments, “as he receiveth them, as if from mine own mouth, in all patience and faith,” said the Lord. By doing this “the gates of hell” should not prevail against them, for the Lord would dispel the powers of darkness. The Prophet would no longer have to mourn for Zion, for he should have inspiration to move the cause of Zion in mighty power, for the days of her rejoicing were at hand. Oliver Cowdery was appointed “the first preacher of the Church, unto the Church, and before the world, yea, before the Gentiles and . . . to the Jews also.”
In the manner here described, there came into the world a power, destined to grow and expand until it shall fill the earth, for it is the “kingdom which shall never be destroyed . . . and it shall stand forever.” At the time of the organization, however, its influence and power appeared to be insignificant; yet it caused, even then, consternation and fear in the hearts of the wicked, and strenuous efforts were launched to bring it to destruction.
Before the meeting closed Joseph and Oliver called out others and ordained them to different offices in the Priesthood, as the Spirit manifested unto them, presumably to the offices in the Aaronic Priesthood. The Spirit of the Lord was poured out upon them in abundance, and after a happy time spent in testimony and witnessing to each other the blessings of the Lord, they dismissed the meeting, feeling that they were now individually members of the Church of Jesus Christ, and acknowledged as such of God. There were others present besides the six who formed the organization of the Church. Six persons were required by law to properly form a society or organization of the kind. Others who were present also received of the Spirit of the Lord in the meeting and being convinced of the truth came forward and desired to be united with the Church. Shortly afterwards they were also baptized. Among these were the Prophet’s parents, Joseph Smith, Sen., and Lucy Mack Smith; also Martin Harris and Orrin Porter Rockwell.
As stated, all six of the original members of the Church were again baptized on the day of the organization. This action was due, in part at least, to the fact that baptism is the doorway into the Church as well as for the remission of sins. There had been a few others baptized before the sixth of April (see Ch. 9). Some of those previously baptized raised the question as to why they should again be baptized. In consequence of their desire to unite with the Church without re-baptism, the Prophet inquired of the Lord in relation to the matter and received the following revelation:
“Behold, I say unto you, that all old covenants have I caused to be done away in this thing, and this is a new and an everlasting covenant, even that which was from the beginning.Wherefore, although a man should be baptized an hundred times, it availeth him nothing, for you cannot enter in at the strait gate by the law of Moses, neither by your dead works;For it is because of your dead works, that I have caused this last covenant and this Church to be built up unto me, even as in days of old.Wherefore, enter ye in at the gate, as I have commanded, and seek not to counsel your God. Amen” (Doc. and Cov. sec. 22).
“Behold, I say unto you, that all old covenants have I caused to be done away in this thing, and this is a new and an everlasting covenant, even that which was from the beginning.
Wherefore, although a man should be baptized an hundred times, it availeth him nothing, for you cannot enter in at the strait gate by the law of Moses, neither by your dead works;
For it is because of your dead works, that I have caused this last covenant and this Church to be built up unto me, even as in days of old.
Wherefore, enter ye in at the gate, as I have commanded, and seek not to counsel your God. Amen” (Doc. and Cov. sec. 22).
Chapter 13Beginning of the Public Ministry of the Church1830The First Public DiscourseOn Sunday, April 11, 1830, the work of proselyting was publicly launched. The first discourse was preached by Oliver Cowdery. The meeting was held by appointment at the home of “Father” Peter Whitmer, where the meeting of organization had been held the Tuesday preceding. A goodly number of members and investigators were present. The impression made on the minds of those assembled was favorable, and the same day Hiram Page, Katherine Page, Christian Whitmer, Anne Whitmer, Jacob Whitmer and Elizabeth Whitmer, were baptized. One week later (April 18) Peter Whitmer, Sen., Mary Whitmer, William Jolly, Elizabeth Jolly, Vincent Jolly, Richard B. Preston and Elizabeth Ann Whitmer, were added to the Church.The Ministry of Joseph Smith in ColesvilleLater in the month of April Joseph Smith paid a visit to the Knight family in Colesville, Broome County, N. Y. He had been on very friendly terms with Joseph Knight, Sen., and had been materially assisted by that gentleman from time to time, while translating the plates. Mr. Knight and his family were Universalists, with broad, liberal views. They were willing to reason in a friendly spirit with Joseph Smith on the scriptures. Several public meetings were held in Colesville which were attended by many friends and strangers. Newel Knight, son of Joseph Knight, Sen., was a regular attendant at these meetings, and seemed to be deeply impressed. He and the Prophet held many conversations on scriptural subjects and the plan of salvation, in which a favorable impression was made on the mind of Newel. He promised to assist Joseph in one of these meetings by offering vocal prayer, but when the time came his courage failed him. Later he expressed a desire to go out in the woods by himself and there, where he could be alone, offer vocal prayer, a thing to which he evidently was not accustomed. The following morning, in fulfilment of his promise, he retired into the woods alone, with a troubled conscience because of his failure to keep his promise on the previous occasion. Kneeling in a secluded spot he attempted to offer vocal prayer, but his lips were sealed. He could not pray. He began to feel uneasy and became troubled in both mind and body. When he arrived home his wife was greatly alarmed at his strange appearance. He requested her to send for Joseph, which was done. When he came he found Newel suffering very much; his visage was distorted, and his limbs were twisted out of shape in a frightful manner. Presently he was caught up from the floor and tossed about the room. The strange scene and excitement brought many of the neighbors to the house, who witnessed his peculiar malady.The First MiracleAfter some difficulty Joseph succeeded in taking Newel by the hand, and with great earnestness Newel pleaded with him to cast the devil out of him, for he knew he was possessed. The Prophet said, “If you know that I can, it shall be done.” Then, almost unconsciously, he rebuked the evil spirit in the name of Jesus Christ and commanded him to depart. Immediately Newel spoke, saying he saw the evil spirit leave him and vanish from his sight. This was the first miracle performed in this dispensation. As soon as the devil departed Newel became normal again, his distortions of body ceased, and the Spirit of the Lord opened his vision to a glorious manifestation of the heavens.Those who were present were greatly astonished when they saw the casting out of the devil, and the witness of the Spirit of the Lord. Nearly all of those who were present later became members of the Church.The First Conference of the ChurchShortly after this event, Joseph returned to Fayette. Newel Knight followed him and was baptized during the last week in May, by David Whitmer. On the 9th of June the first conference of the Church was held in Fayette. The Church at that time numbered twenty-seven souls. There were many others present at the meetings, some of whom were friendly and some who believed. At this conference the sacrament was administered and those recently baptized were confirmed. Others were sustained by the members to receive the Priesthood, and were ordained. The officers at the commencement of the Conference were, Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, Peter Whitmer and Ziba Peterson, each of whom held the office of elder in the Church. During this conference Samuel H. Smith was ordained to the office of an elder, Joseph Smith, Sen., Hyrum Smith and Martin Harris were ordained priests, and Hiram Page and Christian Whitmer were ordained teachers. At the close of this conference there were in the Church seven ordained elders, three priests and two teachers. Oliver Cowdery was appointed to keep the record of the Church and minutes of meetings until the next conference. The Holy Spirit was poured out upon them. Many of this little band composing the Church were given the spirit of prophecy, while others beheld visions and remarkable manifestations from the heavens. Newel Knight saw in vision the great work which would yet be accomplished through the preaching of the Gospel and the organization of the Church. He beheld the Redeemer and received the assurance that he would be admitted into his presence to dwell in his kingdom for ever.“To find ourselves engaged in the very same order of things,” said Joseph Smith, “as observed by the holy apostles of old; to realize the importance and solemnity of such proceedings; and to witness and feel with our own natural senses, the like glorious manifestations of the powers of the Priesthood, the gift and blessing of the Holy Ghost, and the goodness and condescension of a merciful God unto such as obey the everlasting Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, combined to create within us sensations of rapturous gratitude, and inspire us with fresh zeal and energy in the cause of truth.”Eleven other converts were baptized at the close of this conference, by David Whitmer, in Seneca Lake, where most of the other baptisms were performed. Those added to the Church at this time were: John Poorman, John Jolly, Julia Ann Jolly, Harriet Jolly, Jerusha Smith (the wife of Hyrum Smith), William, Catherine and Don Carlos Smith; and Peter, Caroline and Electa Rockwell.Second Visit to ColesvilleJoseph Smith again paid a visit to Colesville a short time after this conference. Oliver Cowdery, John and David Whitmer accompanied him. They found a number of persons anxiously awaiting them and desiring baptism. A meeting was appointed for the Sabbath; on Saturday a dam was constructed across a stream in preparation for the ordinance on the following day. During the night the dam was maliciously destroyed. It was later learned that this was the work of a mob, at the instigation of sectarian priests. On Sunday the meeting was held as contemplated. Oliver Cowdery was the principal speaker, but others also spoke. The first principles of the Gospel were presented and witness to the divine message of the Book of Mormon was borne. In the meeting were many who had helped to form the mob, who, at the close, endeavored to destroy the influence of the meeting, but were unsuccessful. Extreme bitterness was manifested on the part of those who opposed. The sister of Newel Knight’s wife was violently treated because she was kindly disposed, and against her will was forced by a Rev. Shearer, to return to her father’s home, some distance from her sister’s, where she was stopping. This man, a Presbyterian minister, on false pretenses, obtained from the father a power of attorney, by which he dragged her off. His labor was all in vain, for she also was baptized.Early Monday morning the dam was replaced and thirteen persons were baptized by Oliver Cowdery. They were: Emma, wife of Joseph Smith; Hezekiah Peck and wife, Joseph Knight, Sen., and wife, William Stringham and wife, Joseph Knight, Jr., Aaron Culver and wife, Levi Hale, Polly Knight and Julia Stringham.Arrest of Joseph SmithBefore they were through with the ordinance the mob began to gather. They surrounded the house of Joseph Knight, Sen., prepared to do violence, but through the blessings of the Lord the Saints were protected, but were subjected to numerous insults and threatenings. A meeting was called for that evening for the purpose of attending to the confirmation of those baptized in the morning. When they met at the appointed hour, they were all surprised at the appearance of a constable, who, with a warrant, arrested Joseph on the charge of being “a disorderly person, setting the country in an uproar by preaching the Book of Mormon.” The constable frankly informed him that the arrest was for the purpose of getting him into the hands of a mob, then lying in ambush for him, but he would save him from their hands as he, the constable, had discovered that Joseph was not the sort of person he had been led to believe. As Joseph accompanied the constable in a wagon, they encountered the mob, not far from the home of Joseph Knight. The mobbers waited for the prearranged signal from the constable, but he, whipping up his horse, obtained a lead. The mobbers followed as best they could. In the flight one of the wagon wheels came off, and before it could be replaced the mobbers were again in sight. However, the wheel was replaced in time and with renewed energy Joseph was able to escape.The constable took Joseph to South Bainbridge, Chenango County, and lodged him in a tavern, where he kept guard all night. The following day a court convened to investigate the charges. Great excitement prevailed because of falsehoods which had been circulated freely among the people. Joseph Knight, Sen., engaged the services of two respectable farmers who were versed in the law, namely, James Davidson and John Reid, and brought them to South Bainbridge to defend the Prophet.The Trial at South BainbridgeThe enemies of Joseph Smith scoured the country for witnesses who would testify against him. The justice of the peace who heard the case, Joseph Chamberlain, was a man of fair mind and a lover of justice. Many witnesses were heard, but among those who testified were Josiah Stowel, Jonathan Thompson and the two daughters of Mr. Stowel, all of whom gave evidence of his good character. Other testimony was proved to be false. The trial lasted from ten o’clock in the morning until midnight, when a verdict of “not guilty” was rendered.The Second ArrestNo sooner was Joseph freed by the court than he was again arrested on a second warrant from Broome County, a distance of about fifteen miles. The constable who came for him forced him to leave that night without permitting him to eat, although he had been in the court room all day without nourishment. He took him to Colesville and lodged him in a tavern. Then, calling in a number of rowdies, he began to abuse his prisoner with the assistance of his rabble. Spitting upon him and pointing their fingers at him they cried in fiendish glee, “Prophesy, prophesy!” Being near his home, Joseph requested the constable to take him there for the remainder of the night, but this was denied him. He asked for something to eat and was given some crusts of bread and water.The Trial at ColesvilleThe next day the trial began before three justices. The most able help had been secured to prosecute the case while the defense was again represented by Esquires Reid and Davidson. Many witnesses were called who bore false and contradictory testimony. Newel Knight was placed upon the stand and questioned in ridicule by one of the lawyers, named Seymour, in relation to the casting out of a devil from his person, but the testimony turned to the discomfiture of the prosecution.At the close of the testimony the court deliberated for about thirty minutes, although it was then nearly two o’clock a.m. and they had been in session since the morning of the previous day. The prisoner was brought before the court and the presiding justice said: “Mr. Smith, we have had your case under consideration, examined the testimony and find nothing to condemn you, and therefore you are discharged.” The judges then proceeded to reprimand him severely, “Not because anything derogatory to his character in any shape had been proved against him by the host of witnesses that had testified during the trial,” said Mr. Reid, “but merely to please those fiends in human shape who were engaged in the unhallowed persecution of an innocent man, sheerly on account of his religious opinions.”Statement of Mr. ReidSeveral years later, Mr. Reid visited Nauvoo, and in the course of an address said, speaking of these trials:“But, alas! the devil, not satisfied with his defeat (at the first trial) stirred up a man not unlike himself, who was more fit to dwell among the fiends of hell than to belong to the human family, to go to Colesville and get another writ, and take him to Broome County for another trial. They were sure they could send that boy to hell, or to Texas, they did not care which; and in half an hour after he was discharged by the court, he was arrested again, and on the way to Colesville for another trial. I was again called upon by his friends to defend him against his malignant persecutors, and clear him from the false charges they had preferred against him. I made every reasonable excuse I could, as I was nearly worn down through fatigue and want of sleep, as I had been engaged in law suits for two days, and nearly the whole of two nights. But I saw the persecution was great against him; and here, let me say, Mr, Chairman, singular as it may seem, while Mr. Knight was pleading with me to go, a peculiar impression, or thought struck my mind, that I must go and defend him, for he was the Lord’s anointed. I did not know what it meant, but thought I must go and clear the Lord’s anointed. I said I would go, and started with as much faith as the apostles had when they could remove mountains, accompanied by Father Knight, who was like the old patriarchs that followed the ark of God to the city of David. . . . We got him away that night from the midst of three hundred people without his receiving any injury; but I am well aware that we were assisted by some higher power than man; for to look back on the scene, I cannot tell how we succeeded in getting him away. I take no glory to myself; it was the Lord’s work and marvelous in our eyes” (Times and Seasons5:549–552).Inspiration of the AttorneysAt the trial the Prophet’s lawyers, who were not members of the Church, spoke with an inspiration that caused their enemies to quake before them. So powerful were their words that many of the assembled multitude were pricked in their hearts. The constable who had been so vicious came forward and apologized for his ill-treatment and misbehavior, and revealed the plans of the mob who were then prepared to tar and feather the Prophet and ride him on a rail. By the aid of the constable, Joseph was able to escape and make his way in safety to his sister’s home, where he found his wife awaiting him.The Mob Threatens Joseph and OliverA few days later Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery returned to Colesville to confirm those whom they had been forced to leave, at the time of Joseph’s arrest. Their presence was the signal for the mobbers to again assemble. So sinister were their movements that Joseph and Oliver departed from the town without waiting for refreshments. Their enemies pursued them but through extreme diligence they were able to make their escape. All night they traveled, except for a short period when they sought some rest in sleep, each taking turn in watching. The next day they arrived home, footsore and weary.The spirit of opposition which took such decided form, was the result of agitation on the part of professors of religion. The Rev. Shearer, Cyrus McMaster, Dr. Boyington and a Mr. Benton, pillars in the Presbyterian Church, incited the mobbers to do their work. Benton was the man who signed the first warrant for Joseph Smith’s arrest as a “disorderly person” for preaching the Book of Mormon. In this manner Satan stirred up the hearts of the people to try and overthrow the work.Missionary Journey of Samuel H. SmithIn the month of June, 1830, Samuel Harrison Smith was set apart by the Prophet to take a missionary journey to the east. This may be termed the first missionary journey in the Church. Taking with him several copies of the Book of Mormon, he started on his way. The first day he traveled twenty-five miles, and on the way attempted to sell copies of the book, but without success. When night came on he went to an inn, faint and hungry; approaching the proprietor he asked him if he did not want to buy a book which contained the history of the Indians.“I do not know,” the man replied, “how did you get hold of it?”“It was translated by my brother, from some plates of gold, that he found buried in the earth,” was Samuel’s reply.“You liar!” said the landlord, “get out of my house, you shan’t stay one minute with your books.”Samuel was discouraged, but continued on his journey. That night he slept under an apple tree. In the morning he called at the home of Rev. John P. Greene, a Methodist minister. Mr. Greene was just leaving on a preaching tour, and like the others who had been approached, he was not interested in the book. However, he manifested a friendly spirit, and at the earnest solicitation of Samuel, consented to take a subscription paper and try to sell copies of the book. Thereupon Samuel left him a copy of the Book of Mormon with the understanding that he would call again in about two weeks. At the appointed time Samuel returned and was disappointed to learn that there had been no sale. On his way to the home of Mr. Greene, Samuel again passed the tavern. On the door was a small-pox sign. Making inquiry he learned that the tavern keeper had died from the effects of the disease. He returned home after his labors were finished, feeling that his work had proved to be fruitless. More out of curiosity than desire, both Mr. Greene and his wife read the book and were deeply impressed. The copy Samuel left with John P. Greene was placed by the latter in the hands of members of the Young family, which was the first direct information to Brigham Young and his brothers and some of their friends, including Heber C. Kimball, of the restoration of the Gospel.Joseph Smith, Sen., Visits PotsdamAbout this time Joseph Smith, Sen., and his youngest son, Don Carlos, departed on a similar journey to Potsdam, N. Y. Potsdam was the home of Asael Smith, father of Joseph Smith, Sen., and several of his children. Joseph was more successful on this trip than his son Samuel apparently had been, for his father Asael accepted the truth of the everlasting Gospel, as also did most of his children. Jesse, the oldest son of Asael, rejected the message of his brother Joseph and manifested a very bitter spirit against the Gospel all his life.Book of Moses RevealedDuring the summer of 1830, the Lord revealed to the Church a number of important revelations. In June, the Prophet received the words of the Lord to Moses, at a time when Moses was caught up into a high mountain where he talked with the Lord face to face. This revelation was augmented later by more of the writings of Moses, which are found in the Pearl of Great Price. Some of the important knowledge imparted in this revelation is as follows: The works of the Lord are without end. No man can behold all the works of the Father without partaking of his glory, and that cannot be given in mortal life. Moses was created in the similitude, or likeness, of the Only Begotten Son. The generations of men passed before his view and he saw from the beginning to the end—all through the spiritual eye, for the natural eye cannot behold the glory of the Lord. After this vision had passed, Moses was left unto himself and it was several hours before he gained his natural strength. Then Satan came, tempting him and commanding him to worship him, but Moses said: “Who art thou? For behold, I am a son of God, in the similitude of his Only Begotten Son; and where is thy glory, that I should worship thee? For behold, I could not look upon God, except his glory should come upon me, and I were strengthened before him. But I can look upon thee in the natural man.” Moreover, Moses said: “I will not cease to call upon God, I have other things to inquire of him; for his glory has been upon me, wherefore I can judge between him and thee. Depart hence, Satan.” When Moses had said this Satan cried with a loud voice saying he was the Only Begotten. Then Moses feared exceedingly but did not cease to call upon the Lord and there was opened to his vision the bitterness of hell, and in the strength of his power Moses again rebuked Satan, who with trembling and gnashing of teeth, departed from him. Moses bore record of all these things, but because of the wickedness of men it is not had among them.The Work and Glory of the LordAfter this trying scene the Lord again spoke with Moses who was commissioned to deliver the people of Israel from bondage. His eyes were opened and he beheld many lands and their inhabitants without number. The Lord taught him, and explained that there were many heavens and many earths like this on which we stand. They are innumerable to man, yet the Lord knows them all and they are numbered unto him. These earths were peopled by his children, for his work and his glory are to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. Therefore, as one earth and its accompanying heaven shall pass away, having filled the measure of its creation, so shall others come. There is no end to the works and the words of the Father, for in this there is eternal progression. However, our knowledge, in the wisdom of the Lord, is, of necessity, limited to the earth on which we dwell.Other Important RevelationsThe information contained in this ancient scripture caused the hearts of the brethren to rejoice. The Lord continued to pour out knowledge upon them, here a little, and there a little, as they were able to receive it. Early in July (1830) another revelation was given to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, in Harmony, Pennsylvania. They were commanded to return to the Saints in Colesville, Manchester and Fayette, and the members would support them. They should expound the scriptures and devote their time exclusively to the cause of Zion, and if the members should not support them in these labors, then would the Lord withdraw his blessings. “Be patient in affliction,” said the Lord, “for thou shalt have many: but endure them, for lo, I am with thee, even unto the end of thy days.” The afflictions surely came, for Joseph Smith was called on to suffer, as few men have had to suffer. He was to attend to his calling, for the Lord would withhold his power in temporal things that he should not have strength.Oliver Cowdery was also commanded to continue in the ministry and not suppose that he could say enough in the cause, and if he would be faithful the Lord would open his mouth and he should have strength such as is not known among men. This promise was fulfilled, for the Lord blessed Oliver in preaching to that extent that those who heard him were caused to quake and tremble.1Power was given to these men to bless or curse; those who received them they were to bless, and from those who rejected them they were to withhold their blessing and to wash their feet against them as a testimony. Should any lay violent hands upon them, they should command them to be smitten, and the Lord would smite them in his own due time. They were to take neither purse nor scrip, neither two coats, as they went forth to prune the vineyard, with a mighty pruning, “even for the last time.”Emma Smith to Select HymnsIn the same month (July, 1830) the Lord gave a revelation to Emma Smith, the wife of Joseph Smith, in which she was commanded not to murmur because of the things which she had not seen. As many other wives have thought, she could not understand why her husband should withhold from her a view of sacred things. The Lord assured her that it was for a wise purpose, in him, that these things were withheld, except from the few who were called to be witnesses to the world. She was called “an elect lady” whose duty it was to expound scripture, and exhort the Church, as she was directed by the Spirit; but more especially was she called to assist her husband in writing and to be his scribe, that Oliver Cowdery might be relieved to attend to other duties. She was also chosen to make a selection of sacred hymns for the Church, “for,” said the Lord, “my soul delighteth in the song of the heart, yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.” If she would continue in meekness, and beware of pride, and keep the commandments of the Lord, she should receive a crown of righteousness; except she did this, where the Lord was she should not come, which truth applied to all.Notes1.Statement of President Wilford Woodruff,Deseret News, March 3, 1889.
Beginning of the Public Ministry of the Church
1830
On Sunday, April 11, 1830, the work of proselyting was publicly launched. The first discourse was preached by Oliver Cowdery. The meeting was held by appointment at the home of “Father” Peter Whitmer, where the meeting of organization had been held the Tuesday preceding. A goodly number of members and investigators were present. The impression made on the minds of those assembled was favorable, and the same day Hiram Page, Katherine Page, Christian Whitmer, Anne Whitmer, Jacob Whitmer and Elizabeth Whitmer, were baptized. One week later (April 18) Peter Whitmer, Sen., Mary Whitmer, William Jolly, Elizabeth Jolly, Vincent Jolly, Richard B. Preston and Elizabeth Ann Whitmer, were added to the Church.
Later in the month of April Joseph Smith paid a visit to the Knight family in Colesville, Broome County, N. Y. He had been on very friendly terms with Joseph Knight, Sen., and had been materially assisted by that gentleman from time to time, while translating the plates. Mr. Knight and his family were Universalists, with broad, liberal views. They were willing to reason in a friendly spirit with Joseph Smith on the scriptures. Several public meetings were held in Colesville which were attended by many friends and strangers. Newel Knight, son of Joseph Knight, Sen., was a regular attendant at these meetings, and seemed to be deeply impressed. He and the Prophet held many conversations on scriptural subjects and the plan of salvation, in which a favorable impression was made on the mind of Newel. He promised to assist Joseph in one of these meetings by offering vocal prayer, but when the time came his courage failed him. Later he expressed a desire to go out in the woods by himself and there, where he could be alone, offer vocal prayer, a thing to which he evidently was not accustomed. The following morning, in fulfilment of his promise, he retired into the woods alone, with a troubled conscience because of his failure to keep his promise on the previous occasion. Kneeling in a secluded spot he attempted to offer vocal prayer, but his lips were sealed. He could not pray. He began to feel uneasy and became troubled in both mind and body. When he arrived home his wife was greatly alarmed at his strange appearance. He requested her to send for Joseph, which was done. When he came he found Newel suffering very much; his visage was distorted, and his limbs were twisted out of shape in a frightful manner. Presently he was caught up from the floor and tossed about the room. The strange scene and excitement brought many of the neighbors to the house, who witnessed his peculiar malady.
After some difficulty Joseph succeeded in taking Newel by the hand, and with great earnestness Newel pleaded with him to cast the devil out of him, for he knew he was possessed. The Prophet said, “If you know that I can, it shall be done.” Then, almost unconsciously, he rebuked the evil spirit in the name of Jesus Christ and commanded him to depart. Immediately Newel spoke, saying he saw the evil spirit leave him and vanish from his sight. This was the first miracle performed in this dispensation. As soon as the devil departed Newel became normal again, his distortions of body ceased, and the Spirit of the Lord opened his vision to a glorious manifestation of the heavens.
Those who were present were greatly astonished when they saw the casting out of the devil, and the witness of the Spirit of the Lord. Nearly all of those who were present later became members of the Church.
Shortly after this event, Joseph returned to Fayette. Newel Knight followed him and was baptized during the last week in May, by David Whitmer. On the 9th of June the first conference of the Church was held in Fayette. The Church at that time numbered twenty-seven souls. There were many others present at the meetings, some of whom were friendly and some who believed. At this conference the sacrament was administered and those recently baptized were confirmed. Others were sustained by the members to receive the Priesthood, and were ordained. The officers at the commencement of the Conference were, Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, Peter Whitmer and Ziba Peterson, each of whom held the office of elder in the Church. During this conference Samuel H. Smith was ordained to the office of an elder, Joseph Smith, Sen., Hyrum Smith and Martin Harris were ordained priests, and Hiram Page and Christian Whitmer were ordained teachers. At the close of this conference there were in the Church seven ordained elders, three priests and two teachers. Oliver Cowdery was appointed to keep the record of the Church and minutes of meetings until the next conference. The Holy Spirit was poured out upon them. Many of this little band composing the Church were given the spirit of prophecy, while others beheld visions and remarkable manifestations from the heavens. Newel Knight saw in vision the great work which would yet be accomplished through the preaching of the Gospel and the organization of the Church. He beheld the Redeemer and received the assurance that he would be admitted into his presence to dwell in his kingdom for ever.
“To find ourselves engaged in the very same order of things,” said Joseph Smith, “as observed by the holy apostles of old; to realize the importance and solemnity of such proceedings; and to witness and feel with our own natural senses, the like glorious manifestations of the powers of the Priesthood, the gift and blessing of the Holy Ghost, and the goodness and condescension of a merciful God unto such as obey the everlasting Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, combined to create within us sensations of rapturous gratitude, and inspire us with fresh zeal and energy in the cause of truth.”
Eleven other converts were baptized at the close of this conference, by David Whitmer, in Seneca Lake, where most of the other baptisms were performed. Those added to the Church at this time were: John Poorman, John Jolly, Julia Ann Jolly, Harriet Jolly, Jerusha Smith (the wife of Hyrum Smith), William, Catherine and Don Carlos Smith; and Peter, Caroline and Electa Rockwell.
Joseph Smith again paid a visit to Colesville a short time after this conference. Oliver Cowdery, John and David Whitmer accompanied him. They found a number of persons anxiously awaiting them and desiring baptism. A meeting was appointed for the Sabbath; on Saturday a dam was constructed across a stream in preparation for the ordinance on the following day. During the night the dam was maliciously destroyed. It was later learned that this was the work of a mob, at the instigation of sectarian priests. On Sunday the meeting was held as contemplated. Oliver Cowdery was the principal speaker, but others also spoke. The first principles of the Gospel were presented and witness to the divine message of the Book of Mormon was borne. In the meeting were many who had helped to form the mob, who, at the close, endeavored to destroy the influence of the meeting, but were unsuccessful. Extreme bitterness was manifested on the part of those who opposed. The sister of Newel Knight’s wife was violently treated because she was kindly disposed, and against her will was forced by a Rev. Shearer, to return to her father’s home, some distance from her sister’s, where she was stopping. This man, a Presbyterian minister, on false pretenses, obtained from the father a power of attorney, by which he dragged her off. His labor was all in vain, for she also was baptized.
Early Monday morning the dam was replaced and thirteen persons were baptized by Oliver Cowdery. They were: Emma, wife of Joseph Smith; Hezekiah Peck and wife, Joseph Knight, Sen., and wife, William Stringham and wife, Joseph Knight, Jr., Aaron Culver and wife, Levi Hale, Polly Knight and Julia Stringham.
Before they were through with the ordinance the mob began to gather. They surrounded the house of Joseph Knight, Sen., prepared to do violence, but through the blessings of the Lord the Saints were protected, but were subjected to numerous insults and threatenings. A meeting was called for that evening for the purpose of attending to the confirmation of those baptized in the morning. When they met at the appointed hour, they were all surprised at the appearance of a constable, who, with a warrant, arrested Joseph on the charge of being “a disorderly person, setting the country in an uproar by preaching the Book of Mormon.” The constable frankly informed him that the arrest was for the purpose of getting him into the hands of a mob, then lying in ambush for him, but he would save him from their hands as he, the constable, had discovered that Joseph was not the sort of person he had been led to believe. As Joseph accompanied the constable in a wagon, they encountered the mob, not far from the home of Joseph Knight. The mobbers waited for the prearranged signal from the constable, but he, whipping up his horse, obtained a lead. The mobbers followed as best they could. In the flight one of the wagon wheels came off, and before it could be replaced the mobbers were again in sight. However, the wheel was replaced in time and with renewed energy Joseph was able to escape.
The constable took Joseph to South Bainbridge, Chenango County, and lodged him in a tavern, where he kept guard all night. The following day a court convened to investigate the charges. Great excitement prevailed because of falsehoods which had been circulated freely among the people. Joseph Knight, Sen., engaged the services of two respectable farmers who were versed in the law, namely, James Davidson and John Reid, and brought them to South Bainbridge to defend the Prophet.
The enemies of Joseph Smith scoured the country for witnesses who would testify against him. The justice of the peace who heard the case, Joseph Chamberlain, was a man of fair mind and a lover of justice. Many witnesses were heard, but among those who testified were Josiah Stowel, Jonathan Thompson and the two daughters of Mr. Stowel, all of whom gave evidence of his good character. Other testimony was proved to be false. The trial lasted from ten o’clock in the morning until midnight, when a verdict of “not guilty” was rendered.
No sooner was Joseph freed by the court than he was again arrested on a second warrant from Broome County, a distance of about fifteen miles. The constable who came for him forced him to leave that night without permitting him to eat, although he had been in the court room all day without nourishment. He took him to Colesville and lodged him in a tavern. Then, calling in a number of rowdies, he began to abuse his prisoner with the assistance of his rabble. Spitting upon him and pointing their fingers at him they cried in fiendish glee, “Prophesy, prophesy!” Being near his home, Joseph requested the constable to take him there for the remainder of the night, but this was denied him. He asked for something to eat and was given some crusts of bread and water.
The next day the trial began before three justices. The most able help had been secured to prosecute the case while the defense was again represented by Esquires Reid and Davidson. Many witnesses were called who bore false and contradictory testimony. Newel Knight was placed upon the stand and questioned in ridicule by one of the lawyers, named Seymour, in relation to the casting out of a devil from his person, but the testimony turned to the discomfiture of the prosecution.
At the close of the testimony the court deliberated for about thirty minutes, although it was then nearly two o’clock a.m. and they had been in session since the morning of the previous day. The prisoner was brought before the court and the presiding justice said: “Mr. Smith, we have had your case under consideration, examined the testimony and find nothing to condemn you, and therefore you are discharged.” The judges then proceeded to reprimand him severely, “Not because anything derogatory to his character in any shape had been proved against him by the host of witnesses that had testified during the trial,” said Mr. Reid, “but merely to please those fiends in human shape who were engaged in the unhallowed persecution of an innocent man, sheerly on account of his religious opinions.”
Several years later, Mr. Reid visited Nauvoo, and in the course of an address said, speaking of these trials:
“But, alas! the devil, not satisfied with his defeat (at the first trial) stirred up a man not unlike himself, who was more fit to dwell among the fiends of hell than to belong to the human family, to go to Colesville and get another writ, and take him to Broome County for another trial. They were sure they could send that boy to hell, or to Texas, they did not care which; and in half an hour after he was discharged by the court, he was arrested again, and on the way to Colesville for another trial. I was again called upon by his friends to defend him against his malignant persecutors, and clear him from the false charges they had preferred against him. I made every reasonable excuse I could, as I was nearly worn down through fatigue and want of sleep, as I had been engaged in law suits for two days, and nearly the whole of two nights. But I saw the persecution was great against him; and here, let me say, Mr, Chairman, singular as it may seem, while Mr. Knight was pleading with me to go, a peculiar impression, or thought struck my mind, that I must go and defend him, for he was the Lord’s anointed. I did not know what it meant, but thought I must go and clear the Lord’s anointed. I said I would go, and started with as much faith as the apostles had when they could remove mountains, accompanied by Father Knight, who was like the old patriarchs that followed the ark of God to the city of David. . . . We got him away that night from the midst of three hundred people without his receiving any injury; but I am well aware that we were assisted by some higher power than man; for to look back on the scene, I cannot tell how we succeeded in getting him away. I take no glory to myself; it was the Lord’s work and marvelous in our eyes” (Times and Seasons5:549–552).
“But, alas! the devil, not satisfied with his defeat (at the first trial) stirred up a man not unlike himself, who was more fit to dwell among the fiends of hell than to belong to the human family, to go to Colesville and get another writ, and take him to Broome County for another trial. They were sure they could send that boy to hell, or to Texas, they did not care which; and in half an hour after he was discharged by the court, he was arrested again, and on the way to Colesville for another trial. I was again called upon by his friends to defend him against his malignant persecutors, and clear him from the false charges they had preferred against him. I made every reasonable excuse I could, as I was nearly worn down through fatigue and want of sleep, as I had been engaged in law suits for two days, and nearly the whole of two nights. But I saw the persecution was great against him; and here, let me say, Mr, Chairman, singular as it may seem, while Mr. Knight was pleading with me to go, a peculiar impression, or thought struck my mind, that I must go and defend him, for he was the Lord’s anointed. I did not know what it meant, but thought I must go and clear the Lord’s anointed. I said I would go, and started with as much faith as the apostles had when they could remove mountains, accompanied by Father Knight, who was like the old patriarchs that followed the ark of God to the city of David. . . . We got him away that night from the midst of three hundred people without his receiving any injury; but I am well aware that we were assisted by some higher power than man; for to look back on the scene, I cannot tell how we succeeded in getting him away. I take no glory to myself; it was the Lord’s work and marvelous in our eyes” (Times and Seasons5:549–552).
At the trial the Prophet’s lawyers, who were not members of the Church, spoke with an inspiration that caused their enemies to quake before them. So powerful were their words that many of the assembled multitude were pricked in their hearts. The constable who had been so vicious came forward and apologized for his ill-treatment and misbehavior, and revealed the plans of the mob who were then prepared to tar and feather the Prophet and ride him on a rail. By the aid of the constable, Joseph was able to escape and make his way in safety to his sister’s home, where he found his wife awaiting him.
A few days later Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery returned to Colesville to confirm those whom they had been forced to leave, at the time of Joseph’s arrest. Their presence was the signal for the mobbers to again assemble. So sinister were their movements that Joseph and Oliver departed from the town without waiting for refreshments. Their enemies pursued them but through extreme diligence they were able to make their escape. All night they traveled, except for a short period when they sought some rest in sleep, each taking turn in watching. The next day they arrived home, footsore and weary.
The spirit of opposition which took such decided form, was the result of agitation on the part of professors of religion. The Rev. Shearer, Cyrus McMaster, Dr. Boyington and a Mr. Benton, pillars in the Presbyterian Church, incited the mobbers to do their work. Benton was the man who signed the first warrant for Joseph Smith’s arrest as a “disorderly person” for preaching the Book of Mormon. In this manner Satan stirred up the hearts of the people to try and overthrow the work.
In the month of June, 1830, Samuel Harrison Smith was set apart by the Prophet to take a missionary journey to the east. This may be termed the first missionary journey in the Church. Taking with him several copies of the Book of Mormon, he started on his way. The first day he traveled twenty-five miles, and on the way attempted to sell copies of the book, but without success. When night came on he went to an inn, faint and hungry; approaching the proprietor he asked him if he did not want to buy a book which contained the history of the Indians.
“I do not know,” the man replied, “how did you get hold of it?”
“It was translated by my brother, from some plates of gold, that he found buried in the earth,” was Samuel’s reply.
“You liar!” said the landlord, “get out of my house, you shan’t stay one minute with your books.”
Samuel was discouraged, but continued on his journey. That night he slept under an apple tree. In the morning he called at the home of Rev. John P. Greene, a Methodist minister. Mr. Greene was just leaving on a preaching tour, and like the others who had been approached, he was not interested in the book. However, he manifested a friendly spirit, and at the earnest solicitation of Samuel, consented to take a subscription paper and try to sell copies of the book. Thereupon Samuel left him a copy of the Book of Mormon with the understanding that he would call again in about two weeks. At the appointed time Samuel returned and was disappointed to learn that there had been no sale. On his way to the home of Mr. Greene, Samuel again passed the tavern. On the door was a small-pox sign. Making inquiry he learned that the tavern keeper had died from the effects of the disease. He returned home after his labors were finished, feeling that his work had proved to be fruitless. More out of curiosity than desire, both Mr. Greene and his wife read the book and were deeply impressed. The copy Samuel left with John P. Greene was placed by the latter in the hands of members of the Young family, which was the first direct information to Brigham Young and his brothers and some of their friends, including Heber C. Kimball, of the restoration of the Gospel.
About this time Joseph Smith, Sen., and his youngest son, Don Carlos, departed on a similar journey to Potsdam, N. Y. Potsdam was the home of Asael Smith, father of Joseph Smith, Sen., and several of his children. Joseph was more successful on this trip than his son Samuel apparently had been, for his father Asael accepted the truth of the everlasting Gospel, as also did most of his children. Jesse, the oldest son of Asael, rejected the message of his brother Joseph and manifested a very bitter spirit against the Gospel all his life.
During the summer of 1830, the Lord revealed to the Church a number of important revelations. In June, the Prophet received the words of the Lord to Moses, at a time when Moses was caught up into a high mountain where he talked with the Lord face to face. This revelation was augmented later by more of the writings of Moses, which are found in the Pearl of Great Price. Some of the important knowledge imparted in this revelation is as follows: The works of the Lord are without end. No man can behold all the works of the Father without partaking of his glory, and that cannot be given in mortal life. Moses was created in the similitude, or likeness, of the Only Begotten Son. The generations of men passed before his view and he saw from the beginning to the end—all through the spiritual eye, for the natural eye cannot behold the glory of the Lord. After this vision had passed, Moses was left unto himself and it was several hours before he gained his natural strength. Then Satan came, tempting him and commanding him to worship him, but Moses said: “Who art thou? For behold, I am a son of God, in the similitude of his Only Begotten Son; and where is thy glory, that I should worship thee? For behold, I could not look upon God, except his glory should come upon me, and I were strengthened before him. But I can look upon thee in the natural man.” Moreover, Moses said: “I will not cease to call upon God, I have other things to inquire of him; for his glory has been upon me, wherefore I can judge between him and thee. Depart hence, Satan.” When Moses had said this Satan cried with a loud voice saying he was the Only Begotten. Then Moses feared exceedingly but did not cease to call upon the Lord and there was opened to his vision the bitterness of hell, and in the strength of his power Moses again rebuked Satan, who with trembling and gnashing of teeth, departed from him. Moses bore record of all these things, but because of the wickedness of men it is not had among them.
After this trying scene the Lord again spoke with Moses who was commissioned to deliver the people of Israel from bondage. His eyes were opened and he beheld many lands and their inhabitants without number. The Lord taught him, and explained that there were many heavens and many earths like this on which we stand. They are innumerable to man, yet the Lord knows them all and they are numbered unto him. These earths were peopled by his children, for his work and his glory are to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. Therefore, as one earth and its accompanying heaven shall pass away, having filled the measure of its creation, so shall others come. There is no end to the works and the words of the Father, for in this there is eternal progression. However, our knowledge, in the wisdom of the Lord, is, of necessity, limited to the earth on which we dwell.
The information contained in this ancient scripture caused the hearts of the brethren to rejoice. The Lord continued to pour out knowledge upon them, here a little, and there a little, as they were able to receive it. Early in July (1830) another revelation was given to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, in Harmony, Pennsylvania. They were commanded to return to the Saints in Colesville, Manchester and Fayette, and the members would support them. They should expound the scriptures and devote their time exclusively to the cause of Zion, and if the members should not support them in these labors, then would the Lord withdraw his blessings. “Be patient in affliction,” said the Lord, “for thou shalt have many: but endure them, for lo, I am with thee, even unto the end of thy days.” The afflictions surely came, for Joseph Smith was called on to suffer, as few men have had to suffer. He was to attend to his calling, for the Lord would withhold his power in temporal things that he should not have strength.
Oliver Cowdery was also commanded to continue in the ministry and not suppose that he could say enough in the cause, and if he would be faithful the Lord would open his mouth and he should have strength such as is not known among men. This promise was fulfilled, for the Lord blessed Oliver in preaching to that extent that those who heard him were caused to quake and tremble.1Power was given to these men to bless or curse; those who received them they were to bless, and from those who rejected them they were to withhold their blessing and to wash their feet against them as a testimony. Should any lay violent hands upon them, they should command them to be smitten, and the Lord would smite them in his own due time. They were to take neither purse nor scrip, neither two coats, as they went forth to prune the vineyard, with a mighty pruning, “even for the last time.”
In the same month (July, 1830) the Lord gave a revelation to Emma Smith, the wife of Joseph Smith, in which she was commanded not to murmur because of the things which she had not seen. As many other wives have thought, she could not understand why her husband should withhold from her a view of sacred things. The Lord assured her that it was for a wise purpose, in him, that these things were withheld, except from the few who were called to be witnesses to the world. She was called “an elect lady” whose duty it was to expound scripture, and exhort the Church, as she was directed by the Spirit; but more especially was she called to assist her husband in writing and to be his scribe, that Oliver Cowdery might be relieved to attend to other duties. She was also chosen to make a selection of sacred hymns for the Church, “for,” said the Lord, “my soul delighteth in the song of the heart, yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.” If she would continue in meekness, and beware of pride, and keep the commandments of the Lord, she should receive a crown of righteousness; except she did this, where the Lord was she should not come, which truth applied to all.
1.Statement of President Wilford Woodruff,Deseret News, March 3, 1889.
Chapter 14The Public Ministry of the Church (2)1830Oliver Cowdery’s ErrorAnother revelation given in July, 1830, instructed Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer, to devote their time to the study of the scriptures, to preaching and confirming the Church in Colesville, and performing such labors as should be required of them, until after they should go to the west to hold conference. All things were to be done in the Church by common consent, in prayer and faith. Oliver Cowdery returned to Fayette and Joseph began to arrange the revelations ready for recording. In this work he was assisted by John Whitmer. While they were thus engaged a letter was received from Oliver Cowdery commanding Joseph “in the name of God to erase” certain words from one of the revelations, “that no priestcraft be amongst us.” Joseph immediately answered by letter that he could not alter the revelations of the Lord. It became necessary, however, for him to make a trip to Fayette to correct the error in Oliver’s mind, for the latter had convinced several others that the revelation was wrong. After some difficulty and earnest prayer, they were all convinced that the words of the revelation were right, and peace again prevailed.Instructions on the SacramentIn the month of August, Newel Knight and his wife came to Harmony on a visit. As the wives of Newel Knight and Joseph Smith had neither of them been confirmed, that matter was attended to at this time. A meeting was held in which the four and John Whitmer participated, and desiring to partake of the sacrament, Joseph set out to purchase some wine. He had not proceeded far from his door when he was met by an angel who gave him the following commandment:“Listen to the voice of Jesus Christ, your Lord, your God, and your Redeemer, whose word is quick and powerful. For behold, I say unto you, that it mattereth not what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, when ye partake of the sacrament, if it so be that ye do it with an eye single to my glory; remembering unto the Father my body which was laid down for you, and my blood which was shed for the remission of your sins. Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, that you shall not purchase wine, neither strong drink of your enemies: Wherefore, you shall partake of none, except it is made new among you; yea, in this my Father’s kingdom which shall be built up on the earth.”This is one of the many important revelations (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 27) given to the Church. The knowledge that it matters not what we eat or drink, if we partake of the sacrament in the Spirit of the Lord and by divine authority, is the foundation for the present practice in the Church of using water instead of wine, for so the Lord has commanded.In September the Lord added to this revelation stating that the time would come when he would “drink of the fruit of the vine” on the earth with the ancient prophets and apostles, from Michael, or Adam, the “ancient of days,” down to our own day, including all the faithful whom the Father has given him out of the world.In obedience to the above commandment, they prepared wine of their own making and partook of the sacrament, confirming the two sisters as members of the Church.Joseph Moves to FayetteThe spirit of persecution became so strong in Harmony, that Joseph Smith was forced to leave and take up his residence in Fayette. Even his father-in-law, Isaac Hale, turned against him because of the falsehoods which were circulated and the prejudice existing in the neighborhood. This bitterness he retained throughout his life. In August, Joseph and Hyrum Smith, with John and David Whitmer, went to Colesville and visited the members of the Church residing there. They prayed that the eyes of their enemies might be blinded, for the enmity in Colesville was extreme. Their prayers were answered, and though they passed by a number of the most bitter of the mobocrats, who looked intently upon them, yet they were not recognized. In the evening of the day of their arrival— a meeting was held and those who had been previously baptized were all confirmed. They partook of the sacrament, sang and praised the Lord in testimony without molestation. The next morning the brethren took leave of the Saints in peace and in due time arrived home in safety.Spurious Revelations of Hiram PageShortly after Joseph Smith made his home in Fayette, Satan commenced a subtle attack upon the work within the Church. Hiram Page, one of the eight witnesses, obtained a stone with which he was receiving revelations purporting to be for the guidance of the Church; but these revelations were at variance with those given to Joseph Smith, and also with the teachings of the Savior and his apostles, as contained in the New Testament. Oliver Cowdery and members of the Whitmer family were deceived. Through the Prophet the Lord gave a revelation to Oliver Cowdery in which the order of heaven, in regard to revelation, was pointed out for the guidance of the Church. “Behold, verily, verily, I say unto thee,” said the Lord, “no one shall be appointed to receive commandments and revelations in this Church, excepting my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., for he receiveth them even as Moses; and thou shalt be obedient unto the things which I shall give unto him, even as Aaron, to declare faithfully the commandments and the revelations, with power and authority in the Church.” It was further stated that there should be none other appointed to receive revelations, until the Lord should appoint another in his stead, for he held the keys of this power. Oliver was instructed to take Hiram Page, alone, and tell him that the revelations he had received were not from the Lord, but were given through the power of Satan, who had deceived him. Oliver was also instructed that he was to write by wisdom, but he was not to command him who was at the head.The Mission to the LamanitesThe Lord, in this revelation, appointed Oliver Cowdery to take a mission to the Lamanites in the west, “and inasmuch as they receive thy teachings,” it read, “thou shalt cause my Church to be established among them.” There were other reasons for this mission, which were not fully revealed. It is probable that in the spurious revelations of Hiram Page some reference was made to the building of the city Zion. In any case, the Lord explained that it was not revealed, and no man knew, where the city Zion shall be built, “but it shall be given hereafter. Behold, I say unto you, that it shall be on the borders of the Lamanites.” This mission was not to be taken until after the conference which had been appointed for the 26th of September. Oliver was also first to settle the difficulty with Hiram Page, who was to be taught that he had not been appointed to receive revelations for the Church.The Doctrine of Gathering—Destruction of the WickedAgain the heavens were opened and the Lord made known many of his purposes and decrees which were for these latter days. A revelation (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 29) was given shortly before the second conference of the Church, containing instruction which was helpful for the guidance of the elders at that conference. They were taught the doctrine of the gathering of the Saints. The decree had gone forth from the mansions of the Father, that the Saints should be gathered into one place, for they were chosen out of the world, and they were to prepare their hearts against the day when tribulation and desolation would be sent forth upon the wicked. The hour is nigh, the Lord declared, when the earth should be ripe for destruction, for wickedness shall cease.Because of the wickedness of the world, for the inhabitants thereof will not repent, the Lord should send forth terrible plagues to torment mankind. Great hailstorms should destroy the crops of the earth; flies shall “take hold of the inhabitants” and eat their flesh; their tongues shall be staid, and their flesh fall from their bones and their eyes from their sockets. The beasts of the forests, and the fowls of the air shall eat their bodies, and the great and abominable church, which shall endure until the end of unrighteousness on the earth, shall be cast down by devouring fire, as Ezekiel had said, for abomination must not reign.All these things were predicted by the apostles and must be fulfilled; and the twelve who were with the Savior in his ministry shall come in glory to judge the house of Israel who have been faithful, “and none else.” The trump shall sound, the righteous dead will rise and Christ reign on the earth with his Saints for a thousand years. After the thousand years are ended, and men begin again to forsake the Lord, the earth shall be spared but for a little season. The final resurrection shall come; the righteous received in to eternal life and the wicked banished to partake of the second death with the devil and his angels. The second death is that same death which was first pronounced on Adam— banishment from the presence of the Lord. Those who partake of it cannot return, for they have no power. Then shall come the redemption of the earth, for old things shall pass away and all things become new, yet not “one hair, neither mote, shall be lost” for it is the workmanship of the hands of the Lord.The Second Conference of the ChurchAccording to appointment, on the 26th of September, the Church met in conference at Fayette. There were present eight elders, four priests and two teachers when the conference convened. Thirty-five persons had joined the Church, making a total of sixty-two in all. Joseph Smith opened the meeting with prayer and then read the fifth chapter of Isaiah, which speaks of the gathering, and made comments thereon. The matter of Hiram Page’s “peepstone” was discussed and after considerable investigation, Hiram Page and all who were present, renounced the stone, and there was mutual satisfaction and happiness again. At this conference, which continued for three days, the Spirit of the Lord was manifest; much business was attended to, and those previously baptized were confirmed. Special prayer was offered in behalf of Oliver Cowdery and Peter Whitmer, Jr., who were called to go to the Lamanites. Peter Whitmer, Jr., was called by revelation at this conference to that mission. When the conference adjourned it was to meet January 1, 1831, and David Whitmer was appointed to keep the record. There were some baptisms during the conference and a number of the brethren were ordained.The Call to Ziba Peterson and Parley P. PrattA great desire being made manifest on the part of others to accompany Oliver Cowdery and Peter Whitmer, Jr., to the Lamanites, it was made a matter of inquiry before the Lord. The result was that Ziba Peterson and Parley P. Pratt were also appointed to go. Ziba Peterson was among the first baptized and was an elder at the first conference of the Church. Parley P. Pratt was a resident of the wilderness of Ohio not far from the city of Cleveland. While on a missionary tour for the “Disciples” or “Campbellites,” as they are called, and a visit to his former home in Columbia County, New York, he first heard of the Book of Mormon through a Baptist preacher by the name of Hamlin, who placed a copy in his hands. After reading it partly through Parley changed his plans and went to Manchester in search of the Prophet Joseph Smith. There he met Hyrum Smith who taught him the Gospel and presented him with a copy of the Book of Mormon which he again very carefully read. Late in August, with Hyrum Smith, he journeyed to Fayette, where he was baptized by Oliver Cowdery about the first of September. Shortly afterwards he was ordained an elder and then continued on his journey to his father’s home. There he preached the Gospel to his parents and many of his boyhood friends. His younger brother, Orson, a youth 19 years of age, readily accepted his message and became a member of the Church. Returning to Fayette, Parley P. Pratt was appointed by revelation to take the missionary journey with Oliver Cowdery to the borders of Missouri, among the Lamanites.The Missionaries DepartIn the fall of 1830, these four missionaries started on their journey to the west. On their way they preached the Gospel among the people as opportunity would permit. Near Buffalo, New York, they visited the Catteraugus Indians and left two copies of the Book of Mormon with members of the tribe who could read, and then continued on their journey. When they came to Kirtland, Ohio, near the home of Elder Pratt, they tarried for some time. Parley P. Pratt was acquainted with Mr. Sidney Rigdon, one of the leaders of the “Disciples,” who with Alexander Campbell and Walter Scott, had been instrumental in the founding of that sect. They believed in the doctrines of faith, repentance and baptism for the remission of sins; but accepted the Bible as the only guide unto salvation. Convinced that the religious world had gone astray, these men had formed this organization with sincere desire to follow closely the teachings of the early disciples of the Lord. Through his preaching Sidney Rigdon had converted many souls unto this faith.Parley P. Pratt, believing that many of the “Disciples” would readily receive the truth, had persuaded his fellow missionaries to spend some time among them in Ohio where they were located on what was called the “Western Reserve.”Sidney RigdonThe first house at which they called, in Mentor, was the home of Sidney Rigdon. After the usual greetings, they presented Mr. Rigdon with a copy of the Book of Mormon, stating that it contained the record of the ancient people of America, and that the Lord had again established his Church in the earth with the authority of the Holy Priesthood. This was the first time Sidney Rigdon had heard of the Book of Mormon and of Joseph Smith. Replying to their statements, he said he had the Bible, which he believed to be the word of God; as for the Book of Mormon, he had considerable doubt of its divinity. He refused to argue with them, but promised to read the book. At their earnest solicitation Sidney Rigdon allowed the elders to hold meetings in his chapel. A large congregation assembled and gave close attention to the remarks of the elders. At the conclusion of the services Sidney Rigdon instructed the people to consider carefully the remarkable things they had heard, lest it should prove to be the truth. With deep and earnest study, he read the contents of the Book of Mormon, praying for divine guidance, and in the course of about two weeks, he received a manifestation so that he could say, “Flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto me, but my Father, which is in heaven.” He and his wife were then baptized and also many of his congregation.In Kirtland the elders were also successful. The people besieged the missionaries both day and night, until they had very little time for rest. The greater number heard the tidings gladly, but some, there were, who came to dispute and oppose the work of the Lord. In a very short time branches of the Church were established numbering in all about one thousand souls.The Journey ContinuedThe missionary elders continued on their journey after a stay of two or three weeks in Kirtland, leaving a number of the new converts to continue with the work. Sidney Rigdon, Frederick G. Williams, Isaac Morley, John Murdock, Lyman Wight and Edward Partridge later became members of the Church and were ordained to the Priesthood.Having accomplished this great work, and leaving watchmen for the tender flock, the missionaries took Dr. Frederick G. Williams with them. About fifty miles west of Kirtland, they passed through the country where Parley P. Pratt first made settlement in the western country. Here, again, they made a stop and preached the Gospel. The people were all excited over the things they had heard, for the knowledge of the labors of the brethren had preceded them. Other converts were made, including Simeon Carter, and although some opposition and bitterness was manifest, in the course of a short time a branch was raised up numbering about sixty souls. Arriving near the border of Ohio, the missionaries spent some days among the Wyandots, who received them kindly and rejoiced in the story of their fathers as they learned it from the Book of Mormon. In the city of Cincinnati they spent several days, and being disappointed in not being able to take boat, continued on their journey afoot to St. Louis. In the midst of winter weather, and suffering great hardships in a country little traveled by man, they pursued their journey till they arrived at Independence, Jackson County, Missouri, at that time scarcely more than a trading post on the borders of the United States. They reached Independence early in the year 1831; their journey had taken them a distance of nearly fifteen hundred miles, through a wilderness, in the most inclement season of the year. Four months had they been upon the journey, but during that time they had preached the Gospel to many thousands of white people and two nations of Indians. Churches had been built up and the work advanced along the route of their travels. This was the first missionary journey west of the state of New York, and its results were to be of incalculable benefit to the Church in years to come.The Book of Mormon Taken to the LamanitesIn the land of the Lamanites, the elders preached the Gospel to the Delawares, presenting them with the Book of Mormon which they received with rejoicing. Oliver Cowdery explained to them in detail the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. A Mr. Pool, who believed the testimony of these elders, became their interpreter. Several of the Indians could read, and to them they gave copies of the Book of Mormon. The Indians answered them by saying: “We feel thankful to our white friends who have come so far, and been at such pains to tell us good news, and especially this new news concerning the book of our forefathers; it makes us glad in here,” and the speaker for the tribe placed his hand on his heart. This good labor, however, was not to last, for the excitement reached the settlements in Missouri, and due to the efforts of sectarian priests the Indian agents ordered the missionaries out of the Indian country as disturbers of the peace, threatening to use military force in case of non-compliance. With disappointment they withdrew and thus ended the first mission to the Lamanites. From this time on they devoted their labors to the white people in Jackson County. However, they had declared the message of salvation to three great tribes, the Catteraugus, in New York, the Wyandots of Ohio, and the Delawares, west of Missouri.It was now decided that Parley P. Pratt should return to Kirtland, and perhaps to New York to report their labors, visit the branches they had organized on their journey, and procure more books. In February he started on his journey, alone. In Kirtland he met the Prophet, who had come to that place, and to him he made a report.
The Public Ministry of the Church (2)
1830
Another revelation given in July, 1830, instructed Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer, to devote their time to the study of the scriptures, to preaching and confirming the Church in Colesville, and performing such labors as should be required of them, until after they should go to the west to hold conference. All things were to be done in the Church by common consent, in prayer and faith. Oliver Cowdery returned to Fayette and Joseph began to arrange the revelations ready for recording. In this work he was assisted by John Whitmer. While they were thus engaged a letter was received from Oliver Cowdery commanding Joseph “in the name of God to erase” certain words from one of the revelations, “that no priestcraft be amongst us.” Joseph immediately answered by letter that he could not alter the revelations of the Lord. It became necessary, however, for him to make a trip to Fayette to correct the error in Oliver’s mind, for the latter had convinced several others that the revelation was wrong. After some difficulty and earnest prayer, they were all convinced that the words of the revelation were right, and peace again prevailed.
In the month of August, Newel Knight and his wife came to Harmony on a visit. As the wives of Newel Knight and Joseph Smith had neither of them been confirmed, that matter was attended to at this time. A meeting was held in which the four and John Whitmer participated, and desiring to partake of the sacrament, Joseph set out to purchase some wine. He had not proceeded far from his door when he was met by an angel who gave him the following commandment:
“Listen to the voice of Jesus Christ, your Lord, your God, and your Redeemer, whose word is quick and powerful. For behold, I say unto you, that it mattereth not what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, when ye partake of the sacrament, if it so be that ye do it with an eye single to my glory; remembering unto the Father my body which was laid down for you, and my blood which was shed for the remission of your sins. Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, that you shall not purchase wine, neither strong drink of your enemies: Wherefore, you shall partake of none, except it is made new among you; yea, in this my Father’s kingdom which shall be built up on the earth.”
“Listen to the voice of Jesus Christ, your Lord, your God, and your Redeemer, whose word is quick and powerful. For behold, I say unto you, that it mattereth not what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, when ye partake of the sacrament, if it so be that ye do it with an eye single to my glory; remembering unto the Father my body which was laid down for you, and my blood which was shed for the remission of your sins. Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, that you shall not purchase wine, neither strong drink of your enemies: Wherefore, you shall partake of none, except it is made new among you; yea, in this my Father’s kingdom which shall be built up on the earth.”
This is one of the many important revelations (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 27) given to the Church. The knowledge that it matters not what we eat or drink, if we partake of the sacrament in the Spirit of the Lord and by divine authority, is the foundation for the present practice in the Church of using water instead of wine, for so the Lord has commanded.
In September the Lord added to this revelation stating that the time would come when he would “drink of the fruit of the vine” on the earth with the ancient prophets and apostles, from Michael, or Adam, the “ancient of days,” down to our own day, including all the faithful whom the Father has given him out of the world.
In obedience to the above commandment, they prepared wine of their own making and partook of the sacrament, confirming the two sisters as members of the Church.
The spirit of persecution became so strong in Harmony, that Joseph Smith was forced to leave and take up his residence in Fayette. Even his father-in-law, Isaac Hale, turned against him because of the falsehoods which were circulated and the prejudice existing in the neighborhood. This bitterness he retained throughout his life. In August, Joseph and Hyrum Smith, with John and David Whitmer, went to Colesville and visited the members of the Church residing there. They prayed that the eyes of their enemies might be blinded, for the enmity in Colesville was extreme. Their prayers were answered, and though they passed by a number of the most bitter of the mobocrats, who looked intently upon them, yet they were not recognized. In the evening of the day of their arrival— a meeting was held and those who had been previously baptized were all confirmed. They partook of the sacrament, sang and praised the Lord in testimony without molestation. The next morning the brethren took leave of the Saints in peace and in due time arrived home in safety.
Shortly after Joseph Smith made his home in Fayette, Satan commenced a subtle attack upon the work within the Church. Hiram Page, one of the eight witnesses, obtained a stone with which he was receiving revelations purporting to be for the guidance of the Church; but these revelations were at variance with those given to Joseph Smith, and also with the teachings of the Savior and his apostles, as contained in the New Testament. Oliver Cowdery and members of the Whitmer family were deceived. Through the Prophet the Lord gave a revelation to Oliver Cowdery in which the order of heaven, in regard to revelation, was pointed out for the guidance of the Church. “Behold, verily, verily, I say unto thee,” said the Lord, “no one shall be appointed to receive commandments and revelations in this Church, excepting my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., for he receiveth them even as Moses; and thou shalt be obedient unto the things which I shall give unto him, even as Aaron, to declare faithfully the commandments and the revelations, with power and authority in the Church.” It was further stated that there should be none other appointed to receive revelations, until the Lord should appoint another in his stead, for he held the keys of this power. Oliver was instructed to take Hiram Page, alone, and tell him that the revelations he had received were not from the Lord, but were given through the power of Satan, who had deceived him. Oliver was also instructed that he was to write by wisdom, but he was not to command him who was at the head.
The Lord, in this revelation, appointed Oliver Cowdery to take a mission to the Lamanites in the west, “and inasmuch as they receive thy teachings,” it read, “thou shalt cause my Church to be established among them.” There were other reasons for this mission, which were not fully revealed. It is probable that in the spurious revelations of Hiram Page some reference was made to the building of the city Zion. In any case, the Lord explained that it was not revealed, and no man knew, where the city Zion shall be built, “but it shall be given hereafter. Behold, I say unto you, that it shall be on the borders of the Lamanites.” This mission was not to be taken until after the conference which had been appointed for the 26th of September. Oliver was also first to settle the difficulty with Hiram Page, who was to be taught that he had not been appointed to receive revelations for the Church.
Again the heavens were opened and the Lord made known many of his purposes and decrees which were for these latter days. A revelation (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 29) was given shortly before the second conference of the Church, containing instruction which was helpful for the guidance of the elders at that conference. They were taught the doctrine of the gathering of the Saints. The decree had gone forth from the mansions of the Father, that the Saints should be gathered into one place, for they were chosen out of the world, and they were to prepare their hearts against the day when tribulation and desolation would be sent forth upon the wicked. The hour is nigh, the Lord declared, when the earth should be ripe for destruction, for wickedness shall cease.
Because of the wickedness of the world, for the inhabitants thereof will not repent, the Lord should send forth terrible plagues to torment mankind. Great hailstorms should destroy the crops of the earth; flies shall “take hold of the inhabitants” and eat their flesh; their tongues shall be staid, and their flesh fall from their bones and their eyes from their sockets. The beasts of the forests, and the fowls of the air shall eat their bodies, and the great and abominable church, which shall endure until the end of unrighteousness on the earth, shall be cast down by devouring fire, as Ezekiel had said, for abomination must not reign.
All these things were predicted by the apostles and must be fulfilled; and the twelve who were with the Savior in his ministry shall come in glory to judge the house of Israel who have been faithful, “and none else.” The trump shall sound, the righteous dead will rise and Christ reign on the earth with his Saints for a thousand years. After the thousand years are ended, and men begin again to forsake the Lord, the earth shall be spared but for a little season. The final resurrection shall come; the righteous received in to eternal life and the wicked banished to partake of the second death with the devil and his angels. The second death is that same death which was first pronounced on Adam— banishment from the presence of the Lord. Those who partake of it cannot return, for they have no power. Then shall come the redemption of the earth, for old things shall pass away and all things become new, yet not “one hair, neither mote, shall be lost” for it is the workmanship of the hands of the Lord.
According to appointment, on the 26th of September, the Church met in conference at Fayette. There were present eight elders, four priests and two teachers when the conference convened. Thirty-five persons had joined the Church, making a total of sixty-two in all. Joseph Smith opened the meeting with prayer and then read the fifth chapter of Isaiah, which speaks of the gathering, and made comments thereon. The matter of Hiram Page’s “peepstone” was discussed and after considerable investigation, Hiram Page and all who were present, renounced the stone, and there was mutual satisfaction and happiness again. At this conference, which continued for three days, the Spirit of the Lord was manifest; much business was attended to, and those previously baptized were confirmed. Special prayer was offered in behalf of Oliver Cowdery and Peter Whitmer, Jr., who were called to go to the Lamanites. Peter Whitmer, Jr., was called by revelation at this conference to that mission. When the conference adjourned it was to meet January 1, 1831, and David Whitmer was appointed to keep the record. There were some baptisms during the conference and a number of the brethren were ordained.
A great desire being made manifest on the part of others to accompany Oliver Cowdery and Peter Whitmer, Jr., to the Lamanites, it was made a matter of inquiry before the Lord. The result was that Ziba Peterson and Parley P. Pratt were also appointed to go. Ziba Peterson was among the first baptized and was an elder at the first conference of the Church. Parley P. Pratt was a resident of the wilderness of Ohio not far from the city of Cleveland. While on a missionary tour for the “Disciples” or “Campbellites,” as they are called, and a visit to his former home in Columbia County, New York, he first heard of the Book of Mormon through a Baptist preacher by the name of Hamlin, who placed a copy in his hands. After reading it partly through Parley changed his plans and went to Manchester in search of the Prophet Joseph Smith. There he met Hyrum Smith who taught him the Gospel and presented him with a copy of the Book of Mormon which he again very carefully read. Late in August, with Hyrum Smith, he journeyed to Fayette, where he was baptized by Oliver Cowdery about the first of September. Shortly afterwards he was ordained an elder and then continued on his journey to his father’s home. There he preached the Gospel to his parents and many of his boyhood friends. His younger brother, Orson, a youth 19 years of age, readily accepted his message and became a member of the Church. Returning to Fayette, Parley P. Pratt was appointed by revelation to take the missionary journey with Oliver Cowdery to the borders of Missouri, among the Lamanites.
In the fall of 1830, these four missionaries started on their journey to the west. On their way they preached the Gospel among the people as opportunity would permit. Near Buffalo, New York, they visited the Catteraugus Indians and left two copies of the Book of Mormon with members of the tribe who could read, and then continued on their journey. When they came to Kirtland, Ohio, near the home of Elder Pratt, they tarried for some time. Parley P. Pratt was acquainted with Mr. Sidney Rigdon, one of the leaders of the “Disciples,” who with Alexander Campbell and Walter Scott, had been instrumental in the founding of that sect. They believed in the doctrines of faith, repentance and baptism for the remission of sins; but accepted the Bible as the only guide unto salvation. Convinced that the religious world had gone astray, these men had formed this organization with sincere desire to follow closely the teachings of the early disciples of the Lord. Through his preaching Sidney Rigdon had converted many souls unto this faith.
Parley P. Pratt, believing that many of the “Disciples” would readily receive the truth, had persuaded his fellow missionaries to spend some time among them in Ohio where they were located on what was called the “Western Reserve.”
The first house at which they called, in Mentor, was the home of Sidney Rigdon. After the usual greetings, they presented Mr. Rigdon with a copy of the Book of Mormon, stating that it contained the record of the ancient people of America, and that the Lord had again established his Church in the earth with the authority of the Holy Priesthood. This was the first time Sidney Rigdon had heard of the Book of Mormon and of Joseph Smith. Replying to their statements, he said he had the Bible, which he believed to be the word of God; as for the Book of Mormon, he had considerable doubt of its divinity. He refused to argue with them, but promised to read the book. At their earnest solicitation Sidney Rigdon allowed the elders to hold meetings in his chapel. A large congregation assembled and gave close attention to the remarks of the elders. At the conclusion of the services Sidney Rigdon instructed the people to consider carefully the remarkable things they had heard, lest it should prove to be the truth. With deep and earnest study, he read the contents of the Book of Mormon, praying for divine guidance, and in the course of about two weeks, he received a manifestation so that he could say, “Flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto me, but my Father, which is in heaven.” He and his wife were then baptized and also many of his congregation.
In Kirtland the elders were also successful. The people besieged the missionaries both day and night, until they had very little time for rest. The greater number heard the tidings gladly, but some, there were, who came to dispute and oppose the work of the Lord. In a very short time branches of the Church were established numbering in all about one thousand souls.
The missionary elders continued on their journey after a stay of two or three weeks in Kirtland, leaving a number of the new converts to continue with the work. Sidney Rigdon, Frederick G. Williams, Isaac Morley, John Murdock, Lyman Wight and Edward Partridge later became members of the Church and were ordained to the Priesthood.
Having accomplished this great work, and leaving watchmen for the tender flock, the missionaries took Dr. Frederick G. Williams with them. About fifty miles west of Kirtland, they passed through the country where Parley P. Pratt first made settlement in the western country. Here, again, they made a stop and preached the Gospel. The people were all excited over the things they had heard, for the knowledge of the labors of the brethren had preceded them. Other converts were made, including Simeon Carter, and although some opposition and bitterness was manifest, in the course of a short time a branch was raised up numbering about sixty souls. Arriving near the border of Ohio, the missionaries spent some days among the Wyandots, who received them kindly and rejoiced in the story of their fathers as they learned it from the Book of Mormon. In the city of Cincinnati they spent several days, and being disappointed in not being able to take boat, continued on their journey afoot to St. Louis. In the midst of winter weather, and suffering great hardships in a country little traveled by man, they pursued their journey till they arrived at Independence, Jackson County, Missouri, at that time scarcely more than a trading post on the borders of the United States. They reached Independence early in the year 1831; their journey had taken them a distance of nearly fifteen hundred miles, through a wilderness, in the most inclement season of the year. Four months had they been upon the journey, but during that time they had preached the Gospel to many thousands of white people and two nations of Indians. Churches had been built up and the work advanced along the route of their travels. This was the first missionary journey west of the state of New York, and its results were to be of incalculable benefit to the Church in years to come.
In the land of the Lamanites, the elders preached the Gospel to the Delawares, presenting them with the Book of Mormon which they received with rejoicing. Oliver Cowdery explained to them in detail the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. A Mr. Pool, who believed the testimony of these elders, became their interpreter. Several of the Indians could read, and to them they gave copies of the Book of Mormon. The Indians answered them by saying: “We feel thankful to our white friends who have come so far, and been at such pains to tell us good news, and especially this new news concerning the book of our forefathers; it makes us glad in here,” and the speaker for the tribe placed his hand on his heart. This good labor, however, was not to last, for the excitement reached the settlements in Missouri, and due to the efforts of sectarian priests the Indian agents ordered the missionaries out of the Indian country as disturbers of the peace, threatening to use military force in case of non-compliance. With disappointment they withdrew and thus ended the first mission to the Lamanites. From this time on they devoted their labors to the white people in Jackson County. However, they had declared the message of salvation to three great tribes, the Catteraugus, in New York, the Wyandots of Ohio, and the Delawares, west of Missouri.
It was now decided that Parley P. Pratt should return to Kirtland, and perhaps to New York to report their labors, visit the branches they had organized on their journey, and procure more books. In February he started on his journey, alone. In Kirtland he met the Prophet, who had come to that place, and to him he made a report.