The latter day saints are a
peculiar people because they are neither Catholic, nor Protestant.
All doctrines and beliefs were delivered through direct revelation and
translation of holy books. They are
identical with the beliefs of the former day saints in all ages of the world.
I am often asked, What is a Mormon. The simple answer is that he is
a Christian who believes in the same God and doctrines found in the Bible.
The following statement of beliefs (doctrine) cannot be considered as all
inclusive. They are only intended to
provide outsiders with a basic understanding of some of the doctrines and
beliefs of the latter day saints; and especially those who believe that James J.
Strang was the legal successor of Joseph Smith.
Table of Contents
(Click subject to move ahead):
1. INTRODUCTION
2. GOD
3. JESUS CHRIST
4. SPIRITUAL CREATION TO RESURRECTION
5. KINGDOM OF GOD
6. THE GOSPEL
7. THE LAW OF GOD
8. COURTS AND JUDGMENT
9. GATHERING OF ISRAEL
10. THE FAMILY - MARRIAGE
11. JOSEPH SMITH AND JAMES J. STRANG
12. SABBATH
13. MARTYRDOM OF JAMES
14. KINGDOM IS STILL STILL OPEN
INTRODUCTION
We accept the Bible
to the extent that it has been translated correctly.
We accept the Book of Mormon as another
book of Scripture; and another testimony of the truth of Jesus Christ. We do not
believe that the Book of Mormon
replaces the Bible.
You will note that almost all of the following references are from the
Bible. We believe that the Book
of the Law of the Lord, translated by the Prophet James J. Strang, is
among the most valuable books of Scripture; as it was before the Babylonian
Captivity. It was brought to
America
by a Jewish Prophet about 600 BC; and later
recovered with the Book of Mormon and
other books by Joseph Smith.
Many people refer to our people as Mormons.
This is inaccurate. We are
not followers of Mormon; but, of Jesus Christ.
The Bible used such terms as sons of God and saints.
We prefer the term Latter Day Saints. The title page of the first
Doctrine and Covenants in 1835 used the term Church of the Latter Day
Saints. Since Mormon has become a commonly used term, we are not offended by
its use; and even use it ourselves at times because of its popular usage.
We believe that God has revealed many things to man through the Holy Spirit and
through His holy Prophets, continues through the Holy Spirit today, and will
reveal more great and important things in the future. 10 And I fell at his feet to worship
him. And he said unto me, See thou
do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony
of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony
of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. (Rev. 19) 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit
of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak
of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew
you things to come. (John 16) 5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask
of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall
be given him. (James 1) 7 Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he
revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets. (Amos 3)
The day is at hand when 14
...the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the
waters cover the sea. (Hab. 2) Each
person who discovers a correct understanding of God, Jesus, and the gospel does
so through a personal revelation. Whenever
there is a Prophet of God on the earth, new commandments, revelations, prophecy,
and testimonies are given to that generation.
Religion
should be studied as a science; as its
principles were established before the foundation of the world and will continue
in eternity. They are as enduring and absolute as any other science.
Joseph Smith taught that it is a subject that we ought to study more than
any other; because our lives in eternity depend a great deal upon our lives in
mortality. Our time during this probationary estate is like a snap of the
fingers compared to eternity. Failure
to enter the gate into the
kingdom
of
God
in mortality will bring terrible disappointment
after death. Theology is that revealed science which treats of the being and attributes of God,
His will toward us, our duty toward Him, and our duty toward our fellow man. 13
Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is
the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto
life, and few there be that find it. (Matt. 7)
It is not possible to state our beliefs in a creed.
Joseph Smith taught contrary to creeds because revelation continues as
long as there are righteous saints on the earth.
He spoke through His Prophets from Adam to Jesus; except during the
Egyptian Captivity and from Moses to about 400 years before He was born in the
flesh. God did not appoint another Prophet after John because the Christians had
fallen away. 7 For the mystery of iniquity doth
already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the
way. (2 Thess. 2)
God did not separate Himself from man; man separated himself from God by
returning to his former pagan doctrines and practices.
1 Behold, the LORD's hand is not
shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2
But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. (Isa.
59)
We believe that every man has the right
to worship according to the dictates of his own conscience.
Some of the blackest pages in American History were the persecution,
killing of the latter day Prophets and saints, and the stealing of their
property solely on the basis of religious discrimination.
The latter day saints never caused any harm to their gentile neighbors;
but their devout life style was in opposition with the wicked life style of
those living on the frontier. The
Governor of Missouri actually issued an extermination order against the latter
day saints based solely on religious discrimination.
We do not believe in discrimination based
on the natural characteristics or beliefs of man.
At least one black man was ordained an Elder under the administration of
the Prophet James J. Strang. Ministers
of all faiths were invited to speak during public meetings. 12
For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over
all is rich unto all that call upon him. (
Rom.
10)
In the Old Testament it is written
that Deborah stood as a Prophet Judge over
Israel
. 4 And
Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged
Israel
at that
time. (Judges 4) The
Prophetic Office is the highest in the priesthood called of God.
GOD
We are monotheistic and believe in only one true and living God, who alone is immortal and eternal. We
believe that a correct knowledge of God
and Jesus is essential to having faith that leads to eternal life.
3 And this is life eternal, that they
might know thee the only true God, AND
Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (John 17) God
alone is one, Almighty and has no equal. He alone has Omniscience, Omnipotence,
and Omnipresence. We do not accept
the doctrine of the Trinity that was adopted into Christianity by the
unbaptized, pagan Roman Emperor,
Constantine
, in 324 AD.
32
And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he. (Mark 12) 5
For there is one God, and one
mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. (1 Tim. 2)
We do not believe that God was once a man as stated by Brigham Young and others
in his church. There are
considerable differences in doctrine between the followers of James J. Strang and
those of Brigham Young and other LDS groups. One of the most important is the
doctrine on God. We do not believe
their statement that as man now is God once was; and as God now is man may
become. Although the righteous are to become like God, there can never be
but ONE GOD. On Oct. 8, 1854, Brigham stated, "... so we had a grandfather or we
would have had no father, and our grandfather had a father and grandfather and
great-great-great- grandfather so far back there is no beginning - They always
existed on some world - and when this world was made - our God who is Adam came
and commenced the peopling of it -
Though he is God and had lived and died and had been resurrected on some other
planet - and obtained his exaltation and begat the Spirits of children enough to
people this world." (The Teachings of
President Brigham Young, Vol. 3, 1852 - 1854, Comp. and Ed. by Fred D.
Collier, Collier's Publishing Co., October 1987, p. 369)
JESUS
CHRIST
We believe in Jesus Christ as our
Savior and redeemer and the God of this creation. We believe this creation was
His handiwork in liaison with the Father. 1
In the beginning was the Word
[Jesus], and the Word was with God [the Father], and the Word was God [of this
creation]. 2 The same was in the
beginning with God. [And was the beginning of this creation] 3 All things [in
this creation] were made by him; and without
him was not any thing made that was made. (John 1)
We believe that Jesus was the first
spirit organized by the Father for this Creation (John 1)He was the beginning.
16
I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches.
I am the root [creator of David in the spirit] and the offspring of David
[according to the flesh], and the bright and morning star [beginning of the
spiritual creation]. (Rev. 22) 13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven,
but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
(John 3)
We believe that Jesus was conceived by
the power of the Holy Ghost
(like
Sarah,
Elizabeth
,
and others) through Mary whom we believe was pure (virgin).
We do not believe that she conceived by the Holy Ghost (Virgin Birth);
but that she was a virgin (pure) because she had not violated the marriage oath.
She was married [betrothed] to Joseph at the time when she conceived. We believe the first chapter of Matthew gives an account of the lineage
of Jesus as the seed of Abraham, the tribe of
Judah
, and the house of David through his father
Joseph. The Emmanuel of verse 23 was added to the text.
It was a sign given to Ahaz in Isaiah 7 and was fulfilled within three
years. 17
Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful
high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of
the people. (Heb. 2) 20 ...Joseph [his father], thou son of David....
(Matt. 1) Mary was of the tribe of Levi.
45 Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith
unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did
write, Jesus of
Nazareth
, the son of Joseph. (John 1) 30 ...Have mercy on us, O
Lord, thou Son of David. (Matt.
20) 3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of
David according to the flesh. (
Rom.
1)
Only the male carries the male seed. Genealogy throughout the Bible was
recorded through the male line.
We believe that through the sacrifice and Atonement
of Jesus Christ all mankind will be saved (except for the sons of
perdition); and that the true followers of Jesus will live on the earth with
Jesus as King over the whole earth for the Sabbath of Creation; and after the
end of mortal man, Jesus and His saints will inherit the earth in its celestial
glory (1 Cor. 15:40; Revelation 21, 22). 10
For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living
God, who is the Saviour of all men,
specially of those that believe. (1 Tim. 4) 7 He that overcometh shall
inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. (Rev. 21)
We believe that by Jesus keeping a perfect law, Satan held no dominion over Him;
and the Father had to raise Him from the dead. After three days with the spirits
in prison (hell), Jesus was raised
(resurrected) by the Father. 14
But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted
unto you; 15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. (Acts 3)
Jesus
was given all power over this creation;
including power over our resurrection. 18
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven
and in earth. (Matt. 28) 18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and,
behold, I am alive for evermore [as a
resurrected Savior],
Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. (Rev. 1)
We believe the Godhead includes the
Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Joseph
Smith opposes vice and error, and supports his positions from revelation:
no odds whether there be two, three, or Gods many.
The Father, and the Son are persons of Tabernacle [have bodies of
flesh and bones]; and the Holy Ghost a
spirit. (Times and Seasons,
Vol. 3, p. 926)
It is true that God is a spirit; but then, so is Jesus and all men. When
God appeared to Abraham, he mistook
Him for a man (Gen. 18). Jacob
wrestled with God and prevailed (Gen. 32). Moses knew God as a familiar
friend; and beheld His back parts in all His glory (Ex. 33:23). When Jesus returned to the Apostles after His
resurrection, He appeared in flesh and bones. 39 Behold my hands and my feet,
that it is I myself: handle me, and
see; for a spirit hath not flesh and
bones, as ye see me have. (Luke 24)
We believe that a correct knowledge of
God and Jesus, the gospel, and the Melchisedec Priesthood was
lost within a few centuries after Jesus.
11
Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the
land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of
the LORD: 12 And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to
the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not
find it. (Amos 8)
Constantine
changed the identity of God and Jesus in the
early fourth century, stood as the absolute head of his new Christian church
(James Carroll, Constantines Sword,
p. 188), and changed the Sabbath by his own edict to the venerable day of the
sun. This is to be a primary
reason for the destruction of mankindthat is evidently very near. Jesus is to
return, 8
In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know
not God, and that obey not the gospel
of our Lord Jesus Christ. (2 Thess. 1)
SPIRITUAL
CREATION TO RESURRECTION
We believe that all men, including Jesus, were first
begotten as spirits. Jesus was
the first, the bright and morning star, the beginning of this creation.
When the spirit of Adam was placed within his body, he became a living
soul (Gen. 2:7). When the mortal
body of man dies, his spirit is
returned to Jesus for judgment. 7
Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit
shall return unto God who gave it. (Ecc. 12) Our spirits then reside
either in the bosom of Abraham or
with the spirits in prison (hell)
until the resurrection. Those who
worshipped God, obeyed the gospel, and endured faithful and obedient to the end
are to be resurrected in the first resurrection with Jesus and live with Him and
all the saints of God for the Sabbath of Creation (Rev. 20:4). 6
Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first
resurrection. (Rev. 20)
After the Millennium, there is to be short season when Satan again
deceives man and leads them into war (Rev. 20:8).
Mortal man comes to an end. Then, the rest of mankind is resurrected in
the second resurrectionof the unjust (Rev. 20:12); and man enters eternity.
There will be a new heaven and a
new earth (Rev. 21:1). The earth
will be restored to its original paradisiacal glory. The worthy saints of God
will inherit the earth for eternity with God and Jesus (Rev. 21:22).
We believe that men will be judged
according to their own sins and
works; and not for those of Adam or any other person (except for those children
who accept the sins of their fathers). 10
If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I
have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. (John 15) 13
But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. (Matt. 24)
7 He that overcometh shall
inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. 8 But the
fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers,
and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake
which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. (Rev. 21)
KINGDOM
OF GOD
We believe the
kingdom
of
God
has always consisted of four elements: (1) King,
(2) Laws, (3) Officers, and (4) members. 33
Seek ye first the
kingdom
of
God
, and his
righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matt. 6)
Jesus is the King of Kings over this earth; and in the last days will destroy
all evil from the earth and stand with dominion over every nation in
Zion
[
America
] and in
Jerusalem
. 23 Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun
ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall
reign in
mount
Zion
, AND in
Jerusalem
, and before
his ancients gloriously. (Isa. 24)
Jesus
was for-ordained as God and King of
this creation before man walked on the earth; even as all who enter the
kingdom
of
God
in mortal life are so for-ordained.
5
Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out
of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the
nations. (Jer. 1) 4 According
as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should
be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated
[for-ordained] us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself,
according to the good pleasure of his will. (Eph. 1)
He had only to bear a faithful testimony in the flesh to obtain that appointment
from God for eternity. Down to the age of thirty years Jesus held no priestly
function or authority. He had to be
baptized of water because He was alien to the kingdom; and the law of God
requires baptism for anyone to enter the
kingdom
of
God
; and not because of any sin on His part.
5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say
unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into
the
kingdom
of
God
. (John
3)
After the forty days in the wilderness and being tempted of Satan, Jesus
was ordained a Prophet and Lawgiver
like Moses. 11
Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
(Matt. 4) 22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord
your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in
all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that
every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the
people. (Acts 3) 17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say,
Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matt. 4)
We believe that to be an officer in the
kingdom of God and have your works recorded in heaven that each person must
be called by the spirit of prophecy and be ordained (anointed) by the
laying on of hands by one holding at least as high an office in the kingdom.
7 Thou shalt not take the name [authority] of the LORD thy God in vain; for the
LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. (Ex. 20) Not
even Jesus could violate this law. 4 And no
man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was
Aaron. 5 So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he
[the Father] that said unto him, Thou art my
Son, to day have I begotten thee. 10 Called of God an high priest after the
order of Melchisedec. (Heb. 5)
Aaron was called by a revelation given to Moses and ordained by Moses who
held a higher office in the kingdom than Aaron was called to receive. 1
And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the
children of
Israel
, that he
may minister unto me in the priest's office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu,
Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's sons. (Ex. 28)
Jesus was ordained under the hands of the Father as an Apostle, Prophet,
and Lawgiver like Moses; and therefore held the lower office of High Priest
(Heb. 5). 14
Neglect not the gift that is in thee [priesthood], which was given thee by
prophecy, with the laying on of the hands
of the presbytery. (1 Tim. 4) 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of
the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in
heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
(Matt. 16)
We do not believe in what is termed the Great
Commission. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all
nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded
you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.
Amen. (Matt. 28) This
was not a commission to all men; but ONLY to the eleven remaining Apostles. 14
Afterward he appeared unto the eleven
as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of
heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen. 15 And
he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to
every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that
believeth not shall be damned. (Mark 16) Each calling is individual
and specific only to that person and office; just as governmental offices are
individual and specific.
We believe that no person can enter the
kingdom
of
God
without the administration (baptism, etc.) of an
officer in the kingdom holding the higher Melchisedec Priesthood.
Jesus went to John the Baptist for baptism of water because John was a
Priest of the Levitical Priesthood and held divine authority to baptize with
water; but, not with the Spirit. 11
I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is
mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with
the Holy Ghost, and with fire. (Matt. 3)
Jesus was mightier because He was ordained by the Father to the highest
office in the Melchisedec Priesthood (Heb. 5).
We believe in the same organization in the kingdom that has existed since
ancient times. Jesus organized the
kingdom on earth with all of the officers of the Melchisedec Priesthood. 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets;
and some, evangelists [high
priests]; and some, pastors [elders] and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of
Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity
of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man,
unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. (Eph. 4)
Where there is no valid claim to
the Melchisedec Priesthood, there can be no salvation; until after death in the
spirit. 22 Beginning from the baptism of John,
unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must
one be ordained to be a witness with
us of his resurrection. (Acts 1) 1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that
entereth not by the door into the sheepfold [ministry], but climbeth up some
other way, the same is a thief and a robber. 2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
(John 10)
During His mortal life Jesus never violated a single law of God; and He
perfectly fulfilled His mission and sealed His testimony with His own blood.
21
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving
us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth. (1 Pet. 2)
23 For the wages of sin is death. (
Rom.
6) Having
lived a perfect life, Satan had no power over Him, and God had to raise Him from
the dead. 14 But ye denied the Holy One
and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; 15 And killed the
Prince of life, whom God hath raised from
the dead; whereof we are witnesses. (Acts 3)
We believe that God instituted His law in
eternity. 15
...for where no law is, there is no transgression. (
Rom.
4)
While we were all spirits, Satan rebelled against God, transgressed the
law on authority, and was cast down with a third of all the spirits never to
have a physical body. 12
How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning!
how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! (Isa.
14) The law of God was taught to Adam.
Cain was cursed for violating the law.
The Decalogue or Ten Commandments has been the constitution of Gods
law in all ages of the world. In
addition, God gave a Book of the Law to Adam
that included all spiritual laws. It
is the single most important book of Scripture. It was restored by Moses; but,
was lost shortly before the Babylonian Captivity. It was restored again by James
J. Strang. It is mentioned by name over twenty times in the Bible; and as the
law of God hundreds of times. It is
the only place that the original Ten Commandments given to Moses can be found.
The fourth commandment is Thou
shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (p. 24) 39 And the second is like
unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (Matt. 22)
Most sectarian Christian churches do not include this second most important
commandment in their Ten Commandments.
We believe there were two books that
were to be revealed by God in the last
days. 19 Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord
GOD; Behold, I will take the stick of Joseph [Book
of Mormon],
which is in the hand of Ephraim [Joseph Smith], and the tribes of Israel his
fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah [Book
of the Law], and make them one stick, and
they shall be one in mine hand. (Ezek. 37) Joseph
was of the tribe of Ephraim and the Book
of Mormon another testimony of Jesus Christ and of an ancient people of the
House of Israel who lived on this continent.
The Book of Law was properly of
tribe of
Judah
. James J. Strang was of the tribe of
Judah
.
When
Israel
violated the everlasting covenant to worship
only Him and keep His commandments, they were placed under an added temporal law administered by the Levitical/Aaronic
Priesthood. This added law was to
continue until fulfilled by Jesus. 17
Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to
destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth
pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the [spiritual] law, till
all be fulfilled. (Matt. 5)
THE
GOSPEL
We believe an essential part of the law of God is known as the gospel.
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel
of Christ: for it is the power of God
unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to
the Greek. (
Rom.
1) 5 For
our gospel came not unto you in word
only, but also in power, and in the
Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among
you for your sake. (1 Thess. 1)
The word of the gospel defines those principles and ordinances which
must be properly observed to receive the Holy Spirit and enter the
Kingdom
of
God. These
are known as the first principles of the gospel.
The first is faith. 6
But without faith it is impossible to
please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a
rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Heb. 11)
Joseph Smith taught that without a correct understanding of the being,
attributes, and perfections of God that man could not have faith leading to
salvation. 3
And this is life eternal, that they might know
thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (John 17)
...three things are necessary, in order that any rational and intelligent
being may exercise faith in God unto life
and salvation. First, the idea that he actually exists. Secondly, A correct
idea of his character, perfections and attributes. Thirdly, that he changes not,
neither is there variableness in him; but that he is the same from everlasting
to everlasting, being the same yesterday to-day and forever; and that his course
is one eternal round, without variation."
(1835 Doctrine and Covenants, Part
One, Lecture 3)
Faith is not simply belief; as belief can be passive.
Faith is an active involvement with all that is good; forsaking that
which is evil. It is necessary to have faith
in God, in Jesus, in Gods laws, the gospel,
and in the officers of His kingdom. 1
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not
seen. (Heb. 11)
Faith comes through the Holy Spirit. It
is a gift from God.
A man could search all the days of his life and never have faith.
It is a calling through one sent of God by the Holy Spirit that assures
the individual of the truth of those principles being taught. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye
that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of
the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon
Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not
revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (Matt. 16)
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent?
as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the
gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! 16 But they have not all
obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith,
Lord, who hath believed our report? 17 So then faith
cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (
Rom.
10)
Of what value would it be to know the way to become the citizen of a country, if
there were no officers to naturalize you?
Faith
in Jesus is also necessary. 36
He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not
the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. (John 3)
3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and
Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (John 17)
We believe that without faith in the law
of God men cannot walk in faith and obedience. 9
The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto
thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments
of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways. (Deut. 28) 6 He that saith
he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk,
even as he walked. (1 John 2) 10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept
my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. (John 15)
We believe it is requisite to have faith
in the gospel; as that is the only gate into the
kingdom
of
God
. 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:
for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the
Jew first, and also to the Greek. (
Rom.
1) 15
And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the
kingdom
of
God
is at hand:
repent ye, and believe the gospel.
(Mark 1) 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that
believeth not shall be damned. (Mark 16)
We believe it is necessary to have faith
in the Priesthood; as only through the administration of the Melchisedec
Priesthood can any person enter the
kingdom
of
God
. 16
He that heareth you heareth me; and
he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that
sent me. (Luke 10) 20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that
receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. (John 13)
We believe that repentance is a
necessary part of the gospel. We
believe that repentance is a confession of sin coupled with a turning away from
sin to righteousness. It is a commitment to walk even as He walked. It is
pre-requisite to baptism. Without
true repentance, baptism is invalid. 17
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent:
for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. (Matt. 4) 12 And they went out,
and preached that men should repent. (Mark 6) 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.
Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning,
and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he
shall lift you up. (James 4)
As repentance is a prerequisite to baptism, only those reaching an age of
accountability (generally 8 years old) qualify for baptism. We do not baptize
innocent children. (Matt. 19) Instead, we believe in the blessing of infants; as were the practice of Jesus and all other
ministers of the Melchisedec Priesthood. 14 But Jesus said, Suffer little
children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for
of such is the kingdom of heaven. 15 And he
laid his hands on them, and departed thence. (Matt. 19)
The law of God requires that parents bring their children to those in the
Melchisedec Priesthood, who lay their hands upon them, and bless them. ...that
the blessing of the Lord thy God may be put upon him; and his heart shall seek
to the
Kingdom
of
God
, and its
righteousness: for of such is the Kingdom. If he die, yet shall he live therein
forever. He shall be thine. (Book of
the Law, p. 114)
We believe the next principle of the gospel is baptism
of water of the truly penitent. 5
Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water ...he cannot enter into the kingdom.
(John 3) The definition of baptism is immersion.
Jesus is our example. 16 And Jesus, when he was baptized,
went up straightway out of the water... (Matt. 3)
Jesus compared this to a burial and
new birth. 3
Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man
be born again, he cannot see the
kingdom
of
God
. (John
3) 4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism
of repentance for the remission of sins. (Mark 1)The
water represents the grave; and coming out of the water, the resurrection. The
person rises from the water regenerated or free from sin, ready to receive the
Holy Spirit.
We believe the next principle of the gospel is baptism
of the Spirit. 5
Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except
a man be born ...of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the
kingdom
of
God
.
(John 3) The first part of this ordinance is an induction into the
kingdom
of
God
by the laying on of hands by one holding the
Melchisedec Priesthood. The second part (at the same time) is a bestowing the
Holy Spirit and a gift of the Holy Ghost. If
the person earnestly seeks toward righteousness the Spirit will guide him. 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit
of truth, is come, he will guide you
into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall
hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (John 16)
27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is
neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if ye be
Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
(Gal. 3)
We believe in all of the gifts of the
Holy Ghost. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit
is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the
word of wisdom; to another the word
of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing
by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working
of miracles; to another prophecy;
to another discerning of spirits; to
another divers kinds of tongues; to
another the interpretation of tongues:
11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. (1 Cor. 12)
John
Wesley, one of the founders of
Methodism, writing about the loss of the gifts of the Holy Ghost, actually
commented on the loss of the Christian faith.
"The cause of this was not, as has
been supposed, because there was no more occasion for them, because all the
world was become Christians. This is
a miserable mistake; not a twentieth part of it was then nominally Christian.
The real cause of it was that the love of many, almost all Christians,
so-called, was waxed cold. The Christians
had no more of the spirit of Christ than the other heathens.
The Son of Man, when He came to examine His Church, could hardly find
faith upon earth. This was the real
cause why the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost were no longer to be found
in the Christian church--because the
Christians were turned heathens again, and only had a dead form left."
(John Wesley's Works, Vol. 7, 89;
26-27)
We believe the last principle is sharing in the sacrifice made by Jesus through
the holy Eucharist. 53
Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the
flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. (John
6)
We believe that men have an opportunity to hear
and accept the gospel after death in the spirit; although they cannot
inherit the same glory at the beginning of eternity.
When Jesus died, his mortal body was left on the earth, but, in the
spirit, he went to open a dispensation of the gospel to the spirits in prison
(hell). 19 By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison. (1 Pet. 3)
Why did He preach to the spirits in prison? 6
For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they
might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live
according to God in the spirit. (1 Pet. 4) 29 Else what shall they do
which are baptized for the dead, if
the dead rise not at all? why are
they then baptized for the dead? (1 Cor. 15)
Baptism
for the dead was administered during the life of both Joseph Smith and James J.
Strang. We believe that as man
progresses in his ability to live by higher laws that he will progress to higher
glories (1 Cor. 15:40-42); even to the celestial glory and inherit the earth
with God and Jesus in its celestial glory.
There are many today that are preaching men can be saved by faith alone. We do
not believe that man is saved until he has obeyed the gospel and endured
faithful and obedient the rest of his mortal life. The most basic principle
found throughout the Bible is the necessity of living according to the will and
commandments of God. These spiritual
laws were founded in eternity before the first spirit was organized. Genesis 1
and 2 up to verse 6 is the account of the spiritual creation.
After the spiritual creation of man, 28 God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be
fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.
The second account in 2:7 was when the spirit of Adam was placed in a physical
body and he became a living soul (spirit and physical body united by the breath
of life).
Not even the great Apostle Paul considered himself saved while during mortal
life. 11
If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead 12 Not as
though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after,
if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do,
forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things
which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling
of God in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 3)
19
Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe,
and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is
dead? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered
Isaac his son upon the altar? 22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works,
and by works was faith made perfect? 23 And the scripture was fulfilled which
saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and
he was called the Friend of God. 24 Ye see then how that by works a man is
justified, and not by faith only. 25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot
justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out
another way? 26 For as the body without
the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. (James 2)
THE
LAW OF GOD
The law of God was founded on love.
36
Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 37 Jesus said unto him, Thou
shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with
all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is
like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two
commandments hang all the law and the prophets. (Matt. 22) Although
founded in love, we must understand that God cannot look upon sin with least
degree of allowance. The Deluge and
the destruction of
Sodom
and
Gomorrah
are examples.
The Law is like a two-edged. Obedience to the law brings an abundance of blessings, the greatest
being the approbation of being resurrected with the righteous in the first
resurrection and inheriting the earth for eternity.
Disobedience to the law brings
judgment and reprobation. 22
...he that endureth to the end shall be saved. (Matt. 10) 7 He that
overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my
son. 8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and
whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part
in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
(Rev. 21)
When the kingdom is fully organized with all its officers, those officers are
the keepers, expounders, and administrators of the law.
Without such a body of officers, anarchy would follow.
This is apparent in sectarian Christianity where there are likely over a
thousand different churchesall with their own interpretation of Scripture.
Truth is one-sided. Opposing beliefs
can both be wrong; but, only one can be right.
COURTS
AND JUDGMENT
The
kingdom
of
God
was organized with courts
to administer the law just as man does in his governments. These courts
administer judgments which can even include being cut off from the kingdom and
being turned over to Satan. The
highest of these courts was the High
Council (like the Supreme Court of man).
It consisted of twelve High Priests over which the President of the
church (alone or assisted by one or both Councilors) preside. One or both of his
Councilors could preside in his absence. All major questions of doctrine and
sins of the people could be appealed to this court. The President may take the
matter before the Lord for resolution. All
decisions of this court are final (Utah
Doctrine and Covenants, 102).
Man is always subject to God when disobedient. 15
But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD
thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command
thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee.
(Deut. 28) These
judgments can be in mortal life or in the spirit.
When man ripens in iniquity, he is destroyed; because his condition in
eternity would worsen if he was permitted to live.
Those in the days of Noah felt the wrath of God; when only eight souls
survived the great flood.
There is to be such desolation by fire, famine, and pestilence very soon in the
end times. 5 The earth also is defiled under the
inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the
ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. 6 Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate:
therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned, and few men left. (Isa. 24) 8 I tell you that he will avenge them
speedily. Nevertheless when the Son
of man cometh, shall he find faith on the
earth? (Luke 18) 26 And as it
was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.
...29 But the same day that
Lot
went out of
Sodom
it rained
fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. 30 Even thus shall it be
in the day when the Son of man is revealed. (Luke 17) There is to be
desolation beyond the comprehension of man.
21 For then shall be great tribulation,
such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever
shall be. 22 And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be
saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened. (Matt. 24)
GATHERING
OF ISRAEL
We believe in the literal gathering of
Israel, in the restoration of the Ten Tribes, and that
Zion
will be built again on this American Continent.
37 Behold, I will gather them out of
all countries, whither I have driven them in mine anger, and in my fury, and in
great wrath; and I will bring them again unto this place, and I will cause them
to dwell safely: 38 And they shall be my
people, and I will be their God. (Jer. 32) Jesus is not returning to
Rome
,
London
, or
New York
; but, to His electthe House of Israel.
America
will become the inheritance of faithful gentiles
and the seed of Joseph (son of Jacob)Native Americans. 32
And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD
shall be delivered: for in mount
Zion
[in
America
] AND in
Jerusalem
shall be
deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall
call. (Joel 2)
We believe in salvation after death.
Those who are the honorable men of the earth who do not obey the gospel in
mortal lifebut accept it in the spiritwill share in the approbation of
being a part of the Sabbath of Creation. 6
For for this cause was the gospel
preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to
men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. (1 Pet. 4)
Such are resurrected into the
terrestrial glory (compared to that of the moon).
All men are given a portion of the Spirit to lead them towards righteousness.
Every civilized country has laws similar to those in the Ten Commandments
addressing social relations. Those
who do not observe the laws of God will remain with the dead (spirits in prison)
for the thousand years; and will be resurrected in the second resurrection of
the unjust. Since they cannot share in the approbation, they must be judged
solely on their own works. 12
And I saw the dead [spirits in prison], small and great, stand before God; and
the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life:
and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books,
according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and
death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged
every man according to their works. (Rev. 20)
These are resurrected into the telestial glory.
We believe that the nations of the world will not be converted to Godliness;
but that they will increase in wickedness, and be destroyed.
The day has not yet come, but is in the future, which shall
burn as an oven; and all the proud, and all that do wickedly, shall be
stubble, and shall be burnt up, leaving neither root [parents] nor branch
[children]; when they that fear the Lord shall tread down the wicked, as ashes
beneath their feet. (Mal. 4:1, 3)
Paul
assures us that the coming of Christ shall be in flaming fire, taking
vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord
Jesus Christ; who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the
presence of the Lord. (2 Thess. 1:8, 9) Isaiah says, the earth shall be made
empty, and few men left. (Isa. 24:1, 3, 6) Those days are days of vengeance,
when Christ shall tread the wine press of the wrath of God, and the blood shall
flow unto the horses bridles. (Rev. 14:20) As those times are approaching,
the judgment is pronounced on
Babylon
, Reward
her as she hath rewarded you, and double unto her double, according to her
works. (
Id.
, 18:6) Then
shall the Saints execute vengeance on the heathen. (Ps. 149:6, 7) (James J.
Strang, Book of the Law, p. 213)
Joseph Smith wrote, We
believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in
obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law. We believe in being honest, true,
chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul--We believe all
things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to
endure all things. If there is
anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after
these things. (History of the Church,
Vol. 4, p. 541)
THE
FAMILY - MARRIAGE
We believe the family is the center of
life in the
kingdom
of
God
. 24 Therefore shall a man leave his
father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one
flesh. (Gen. 2) 7 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother,
and cleave to his wife; 8 And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no
more twain, but one flesh. 9 What therefore God hath joined together, let not
man put asunder. (Mark 10) 3 But I would have you know, that the head of
every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of
Christ is God. (1 Cor. 11)
We believe that children are a blessing
from God to their parents and ancestors. Marriages
and parentage are responsibilities in the
kingdom
of
God
. 28 And God blessed them, and God said
unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and
replenish the earth. (Gen. 1) It is
the duty of the parents to surround them with a proper environment; and give
them sufficient love, security, and discipline to make then fit candidates for
the
kingdom
of
God
. 4 But they shall sit every man under
his vine and under his fig tree [with his
family];
and none shall make them afraid: for the mouth of the LORD of hosts hath spoken
it. (Micah 4)
We believe that all ordinances
performed by the Melchisedec Priesthood (baptism, adoption, marriage, etc.) are for time and eternity. Marriages
performed by the authority of man are only until death do you part.
We believe that Marriage performed
by an officer of the Melchisedec Priesthood is for life, the resurrection, and
life everlasting (Book of the Law,
p. 159). Only members of the kingdom
can be joined for time and eternity. If
a spouse latter joins the kingdom, they can then be sealed for time and
eternity.
We believe that marriage should only exist between a man
and woman under strict conditions. They must love one another and meet the
qualifications for marriage. That
is, they cannot be sexually impotent, deformed, of evil spirit, or a close
relative. (Book of the Law, pp. 310
312)
28
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and
replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea,
and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the
earth. (Gen. 1) 1. Thou shalt be
fruitful and multiply and replenish the land which the Lord thy God giveth
thee, and subdue it: lest it be waste and
desolate, and thy name be lost in the generations to come. 2. But all thy
children shall be of thy wives: thou shalt not go after strange women. (Book
of the Law, p. 310)
We believe that divorce from a
marriage sealed under the law of God can only be for the sin of adultery.
Marriages under the law of man are contract marriages; and are
regulated by the laws of man. 32
But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause
of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her
that is divorced committeth adultery. (Matt. 5) 6. Thou
shalt not put away they wife but for adultery: the adulteress is
abominable. (Book of the Law, p.
314) What
is true for man is also true for woman. Adultery
is common in sectarian Christian churches through serial marriages and other
means. As this country develops into
a free love society, it ripens in iniquity the same as
Sodom
and
Gomorrah
.
The difference between contract marriages and marriages under the law of
God is noted throughout the Bible. Abraham
was joined to Sarah under the law of God. When
Sarah was unable to bear children, he took Hagar and Keturah (her servants) as
concubines or as wives until death do you part. Although Ishmael was the
first born son by Hagar, he could not be recognized as the first born son under
the law of God. Instead, Isaac, the
first born son of Sarah, inherited the family blessings.
The House of Israel was established through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Ishmael became the father of the Arabs.
We believe that any sexual union outside of marriage is evil.
If married, it is a violation of the marriage oath; and annuls the
marriage. Outside of marriage it is
fornication; which is only a lesser form of adultery.
Polygamy is approved of God throughout the Bible.
It was practiced in this organization for a short period under the Law of
Inheritances (Deut. 25:5-10). The law of God places many strict rules on
polygamy. There were only a very few who practiced polygamy and none after 1856.
JOSEPH
SMITH AND JAMES J. STRANG
We believe that Joseph Smith was
called of God and ordained a Prophet and Lawgiver the same as Moses, Jesus, and
many others. The gospel and
priesthood were to be taken from the earth for 1,260 years. 5 And there was given unto him a mouth
speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue
forty and two months [1,260].
6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and
his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.
7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was
given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. (Rev. 13; see Rev.
12:6, 14)
The final form of the beast of Revelation was the Papacy; which was organized in
570 AD. Exactly 1,260 years later,
Joseph Smith claimed to have been ordained under the hands of angels to the
Prophetic Office, restored the same organization, order, and doctrines of the
Primitive
Church
, and organized the
Church
of
Christ
on
April 6, 1830
. The
name was later changed due to a conflict with other churches using that name.
It is now The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
The followers of James J. Strang often append (Strangite) to the name.
Here is a great testimony for Joseph.
All knowledge of the Melchisedec Priesthood had been lost.
The latter day saints were given the greatest of opportunitiesto be
the people of God. The people were
given laws and commandments which required many sacrifices.
14
For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matt. 22) They
failed and Joseph was takenmurdered on
June 27, 1844
.
He provided four revelations to guide the people should he be taken. 4
But verily, verily, I say unto you, that none
else shall be appointed unto this gift except it be through him; for if it
be taken from him he shall not have power except to appoint
another in his stead. 5 And this shall be a law unto you, that ye receive
not the teachings of any that shall come before you as revelations or
commandments; 6 And this I give unto you that you may not be deceived, that you
may know they are not of me. 7 For verily I say unto you, that he
that is ordained of me shall come in at the gate and be ordained as I have told
you before, to teach those revelations which you have received and shall
receive through him whom I have appointed. (
Utah
Doctrine and Covenants, 43)
On
June 18, 1844
, Joseph wrote a Letter
of Appointment to James J. Strang in
Burlington
,
Wisconsin
. It
was his last revelation. The same hour that Joseph was martyred (although 400
miles away) James claimed to have been ordainedas Joseph before himunder
the hands of angel(s). He advised notable people in the area of this event the
same night. The Letter of
Appointment was delivered by regular course of mail on
July 9, 1844
. This was the first news of
Josephs death. It is now in Yale
University Library.
We believe that James J. Strang was
Josephs Successor in the Prophetic Office.
He fulfilled all of the duties of a Prophet, Seer, Revelator, and
Translator. Through him we have the Book of the Law of the Lord. Through
it the original Sabbath was restored. We
do not know why God granted Joseph to meet on Sunday; but, with the translation
of the law, others were left to honor the sun god.
SABBATH
We believe in the seventh day Sabbath
established by God after the creation. 2
And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on
the seventh day from all his work which he had made. 3 And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it
he had rested from all his work which God created and made. (Gen. 2)
The Sabbath is a sign between God and His people.
Not all people who worship on the seventh day are the people of the Lord;
but, any people who honor the venerable day of the sun cannot be the
people of God. 16 Wherefore the children of
Israel
shall keep
the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a
perpetual covenant. 17 It is a sign
between me and the children of
Israel
for ever: for in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, and
on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. (Ex. 31)
The seventh day Sabbath was honored by Jesus, the Apostles, and the early
Christians. It was the unbaptized,
pagan Roman Emperor, Constantine, who, in the early fourth century, changed it
by edict to the venerable day of the sun to honor the sun god that he
worshipped. As seen in Constantines
originating piety, that supreme deity would have been associated with the sun,
and pagans would have recognized, with reason, their own solar cult in such
Christian practices as orienting churches to the east, worshipping on sun
day, and celebrating the birth of the deity at the winter solstice. (James
Carroll, Constantines Sword, p.
183)
MARTYRDOM OF JAMES
The saints under James were no more faithful and obedient than those under
Joseph. The consequence was the
same. Two apostate Strangites, with
the help of the captain of the U. S. Steamer Michigan, shot James. He was
returned to his parents home in
Wisconsin
where he died on
July 9, 1856
. The
saints had their property stolen and were driven from their homes.
A great testimony for James is the fact that he made no attempt to
appoint a successor whom God did not call. His
last words were for
every man to take care of his family and do the best he could till he found out
what to do.
KINGDOM
IS STILL STILL OPEN
The Prophet James ordained L. D. Hickey one of the Twelve Apostles.
He later ordained Samuel Martin a High Priest, who ordained Lloyd
Flanders a High Priest, who ordained the author an Elder. The
kingdom
of
God
remains on the earth. The gate into the kingdom
is open to you. The greatest of
blessings could be yours.
What you believe is your choice. Joshua
told the people, 15
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will
serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of
the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me
and my house, we will serve the LORD. (Joshua 24)
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can contact me for further information by
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