Evening and Morning Star 17

VOL. II, NO. 17, KIRTLAND, OHIO, FEBRUARY, 1834.

<"Outrage">
Oliver Cowdery "Outrage," E&MS 2 (Feb 1834)

THE OUTRAGE IN JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI.

FROM what we can learn relative to this shameful affair up to the latest intelligence, it appears that the mob still persist in their hostile conduct toward their neighbors whom they have, by force of arms deprived of their rights of citizenship, and still continue, when opportunity presents, to commit acts of violence upon those whom they have so inhumanly driven to wander in this inclement reason without the means of subsistence. Where are the feelings of kindness to be found in the bosoms of those who drive helpless women and infants from their peaceable habitations in the dead hours of the night to seek shelter under trees, and the open canopy? Where are the humane principles to be found in the bosoms of those who will drag from their own dwellings and peaceable beds, husbands and fathers, and whip, beat and bruise them in a shocking manner, till their lives are despaired of? What could be the object of these men in killing husbands and exposing to death the lives of infants? That they might gratify their wantonners upon innocent mothers and virgins! for this was their last threat which caused those six on the 23rd of July last, to agree to leave the county of Jackson. Said they, "We will rid Jackson county of the Mormons, peaceably if we can, and forcibly if we must. If they will not go without, we will whip and kill the men; we will destroy the lives of their children, and ravish their women!"

Thus far, we are thankful to a merciful Providence, that all these threats have not yet been put into execution; and we may account it more to the over-ruling hand of the Father of the afflicted, than any principle of honor or virtue existing in the hearts of the mob. Every move that they have made from the commencement, from the time that their secret constitution was drawn up and circulated, down to the latest dates, bears the mark of ruthless barbarity far beyond the cruelty and indecency of the savage. The savage, when trampled upon and deprived of his land, has lifted the tomahawk against the innocent because he was heated up to anger with a reflection, that by flattery and inmeague he had been driven from the grave of his father; but in all his ferocity and thirst for the blood of his supposed enemy, the chastity of innocence has been held sacred and never violated, or a threat to that effect. But men, wearing the form, and pretending to the name of Christian, have risen up in a land of laws, in the midst of a wholesome government, without the first instance of robbery or treachery having been committed upon them, or a threat so to do, and sought the lives of men, exposed to starvation helpless infants, and made the bold assertion, that, "We will ravish your women!"

Previous to the time when the printing office was demolished some of the mob sent their negroes to insult and abuse certain young women, who slept in a small cabin adjoining the dwelling where the remainder of the family slept. After repeated attempts to commit insults upon these young women, the parents concluded that it would be unsafe to trust them longer in that situation. Accordingly the young women were put in another bed, and two young men were placed in their stead. After the young men had retired the man of the house was called to the door, and informed by a friend, of the determinations of the mob. This friend also informed him, that as near as he could learn, there would be one or more negroes sent to molest his daughters that night. This was during the excitement while the mob were circulating their secret constitution for signatures. Fortunately, however for the negroes, or their owners, the young men had retired without having this watch-word, and were unprepared with any deadly weapons. In the night they were awoke by the noise occasioned by the negroes whispering and planning without. Directly one made his entrance into the room through the way where the chimney had formerly stood, and was permitted to call the name of one of the young women, and make known his business and intentions when he was seized by the young men, and handled so roughly for a few moments that the demi-infernal when liberated from their grasp, dove head foremost through a wall of stone and bricks that was then remaining of the old chimney.

That the negro did not send himself, is demonstrated from the fact, that whites knew it previous to the time he came, and was informed of by the individual just named. Every person acquainted with the manner in which the blacks are treated in a slave State, know that an act of that kind would cost the slave his own life in an instant, were it possible for the individuals suffering the insult to inflict death: this is no secret among the slaves. And without being encouraged to go, and having a promise of protection from their masters should they be caught, it would be in vain to endeavor to convince the mind, that those blacks would ever attempted an act of so gross a magnitude. And what but an attempt to insult and abuse, could ever prompted any man to encourage any thing of so shameful a nature? What better can we think of a man that will urge his negro to commit unlawful acts, than we could were he to attempt the same himself? But these are the men who make such pretensions to virtuous principles, as to complain that the "Mormons" were about to corrupt their society, by the introduction of free negroes and mulattoes into that country.

These men say in their secret constitution, that, "We believe it a duty we owe ourselves, to our wives and children, to the cause of public morals, to remove them from among us as we are not prepared to give up our pleasant places, and goodly possessions to them, or to receive into the bosoms of our families, as fit companions for our wives and daughters, the degraded and corrupted free negroes and mulattoes, that are now inrited to settle among us." Degraded and corrupted! What a pitty, that a society, who are endeavoring by every possible means to abuse and defile the virtuous even by condescending to stimulate negroes to go under cover of darkness and commit the basest crimes, should be corrupted and degraded! It would appear to us as consistent, as it would for Lucifer to accuse one of his angels of being unholy! The cause of public morals! If a people are sunk so low as to be guilty of deeds of this magnitude, we are at a loss to know what they could imagine could be introduced among them to make them any more degraded. For of all things which have ever been charged against any people recorded in the sacred volume, who were cut off from the face of the earth for their wickedness, we know not of many that exceeded them. God destroyed the old world because of their wickedness, and not listening to the preaching of Noah. He overthrew Sodom, Gomorrah, and the cities about them, because they were proud and filled with bread. He also dispersed the Jews for rejecting the Messiah, and scattered them to the four winds; but here is a set of men in danger of having their public morals corrupted, who make a pretence to religion, and are so far beneath every thing heretofore extant on earth in the form of wickedness, that they will set their Afric colored population to steal into the dwellings of peaceable neighbors and defile the virtuous! They said, "We will ravish your women!" No promise of mercy, ever so solemnly made, has been observed a moment when they saw an opportunity to abuse the persons of their hatred. But on the other side, every act of abuse which they swore to commit, when ever a possibility presented, it was done or attempted. An attempt was made by a gang of these lawless miscreants to abuse a lady who was in the most delicate situation in life, when a part were pursuing her husband to take his life, and others were engaged in pulling down his dwelling round her in the dead hour of the night! These are facts which will stand recorded upon the pages of the history of the inhabitants of the nineteenth century! A century proud of its liberal laws, and its advance in science and religion! Which is entitled to the appelation, Civilized? We talk in our country of savages, whose customs and habits, we say, are such that it is necessary that missionaries should be sent immediately to convert them from their idolatry, and teach them the blessings of civilized life. Is it color that constitutes a savage, or is it the acts of men that appear disgustful, and awake in our breasts feelings of pity and compassion for them?

We are confident, that the conduct of these outrageous men cannot find a parallel in the annals of our country, since the days when priestly influence swerved the public mind and bent the prejudices of men with a belief, that consciences ought to be controlled, and made to bow to ecclesiastic authority. We are also confident, that no thinking citizen can for a moment excuse the acts of this banditti, be his sentiments and opinions relative to the reality of religion what they may. If the day has gone by when all classes of our community cannot enjoy the liberties of our constitution, then the day is near when the most powerful party will obtain the ascendancy over our government; and if we may take the Jackson county mob for a pattern, we may unhesitatingly conclude, that the rack and the fagot are the consequent remedies which will be immediately resorted to, to bring men to their proper senses.

And were this the case, no distinction of sects, among the hundreds which are now in being would be tolerated for a moment except the ruling one; and no arm of human power would be considered ought but an enemy, should it be raised, if it did not belong to the predominent party. Facts demonstrating these assertions beyond the power of refutation are abundant in the annals of past ages. So astonishingly blind have been the vain imaginations of men when hurried on by Priests who sought for power and universal rule, that every excess of wickedness was resorted to with a full licence or indulgence, that no acts of cruelty or abuse was sin in the sight of heaven if only inflicted upon the heretics.

We are willing that God should overturn, overturn, overturn it, until he comes whose right it is; and we rejoice in the thought, that Christ has given his ancients a promise, that he will come and reign on the earth, when all things that offend, and that do wickedly will then be cast out; and he set down with his saints to that feast spoken of in the sacred volume, and, as he said in days gone by, partake of the fruit of the vine, new in his kingdom with his elect; but till that time, we do not believe that all people on the earth will see eye to eye in principles of religion; consequently, we do not believe that God ever will authorize one man, or set of men, to exercise an oppressive influence over the mind of conscience of their fellow men. It may be said, that under our present form of government, no one party can have the pre-eminence, and be allowed to exercise any control over the conciences of men; but were it not that an equilibrium of influence existed, if we can calculate any thing from the conduct of past ages, our happy form of government would soon be changed: then wo to the weaker sect! from the strong would proceed fulminations and anathemas! Our constitution, we know guarantees to all the liberty of speech, the liberty of the Press, and the liberty of conscience: but so blind have been the minds of men that when power was obtained, every principle of equality, was lost in a moment, and a spirit prevalent, that to kill all who did not believe with the popular party, would be doing God service. This was the case with the Jews, who vainly thought that the religion of heaven consisted in inflicting death upon the disciples of Jesus. The worshipers of idols thought that if any man refused to worship more than one god, he was an atheist: and from this fact arose some of the most shocking persecutions against the saints which are recorded in history. When the professors of christianity have obtained the ascendancy of power, they too often, for the honor of that glorious name, have overlooked the beautiful principles of that religion, and through ambitious motives brought a stain upon themselves in consequence of persecuting the weaker sect: not a stain upon the religion which heaven has revealed to men for their everlasting happiness, but a stain upon their own characters. Let the pretended professors conduct as they may, these pure principles are equally as pure, and truth as such truth, as it would have been had all men walked in it: it is man that changes, not heaven.

<"Faith of Church">
Sidney Rigdon "Faith of the Church," E&MS 2 (Feb 1834)

Communicated for The Evening and the Morning Star.

FAITH OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST IN THESE LAST DAYS. NO. I. {beliefs-lds}

As the world has been greatly excited about the things believed by the church of Christ in these last days, being exceedingly in the dark, owing to the many false reports which have been put in circulation by designing men, which have taken the rounds through those papers which delight more in putting falsehoods into circulation than truth, we deem it a privilege to set this matter to rights, and undeceive that part of community who desire to know the truth on all subjects; believing there are many of this class in this generation: As for that part of community who "love and make lies," we leave them to receive their reward in the place appointed for that purpose, even from the days of old.

Such a document is called for, as the church is increasing daily and great numbers are constantly uniting with it in the different parts of our country, and much excitement prevails; many seeking to know what this strange doctrine is of which they hear so much; for there is no small stir in the land at this time about this way, even to the raising of mobs, of spoiling the goods of the saints as in days of old, whipping some, casting some into prison, and killing others; which things must needs take place, that the church of Christ may be made manifest in the last days, as in days of old, so that all who are disposed to understand, may understand and know for themselves; for such things must needs come, that the testimony of the prophets fail not; and that the Lord may in his own time avenge the blood of his saints upon the earth: for as the church of Christ has always been the same in every age of the world, when there was a church of Christ in existence, and as the adversary of all righteousness has never altered in his feelings toward the saints of God, neither those who are under his influence, we may expect to see as much enmity manifested aginst the saints of God in one age as in another; and consequently in the last days suffer as in days of old.

Neither need they expect to escape the misrepresentations, calumnies, nor the false accusations which all their brethren have had to suffer who have gone before them. They must expect to have their virtues transformed into vices, their acts of benevolence into schemes of fraud, their voluntary sacrifices for the truth's sake designing plans to deceive. Should any church in the last days believe and do as the church in Jerusalem in the days of the apostles, that is, sell all that they had and cast it down at the feet of twelve men to be disposed of as they might direct, with what case the religionist of the present day could prove, (in their own estimation,) that it was wrong. They would endeavor to show what an endless train of evils would arise from such a course. They would launch forth into futurity and see such unspeakable evils arising there from as to render it an act of the greatest imprudence; and still, they would declare that they lived under the same gospel, believed in the same order of things as the church of Jerusalem, were directed by the same inspired apostles, were under the influence of the same system of teaching; having the same Lord, the same faith, the same baptism, the same Spirit, the same hope of their calling, and the same God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in them all; and yet the course pursued by one, would be altogether out of place for the other; yes, exceedingly wrong! still God was no respecter of persons; he required no more of one people than he did of another; [Song. 6:9] "his love, his undefiled was one."

All the religious societies in our country, (or nearly all,) will direct us to the Acts of the Apostles, and to the notable day of pentecost for the time that the gospel was first proclaimed; and to Jerusalem for the first gospel church that was organized. They will show us what was required of men in order that they might become christians: That they must repent and be baptized for the remission of sins, and then receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. But here that matter ends, even with those who are the most tenacious for the scriptures, and for the order of the new testament, they will follow this church no farther. Instead of following them to a full display of their faith in the equal distribution of their goods, they will fly off in a tangent, and endeavor to prove that this was all the church that so disposed of their property. They are very cautious in the mean time, never to notice what paul said to Titus: [Titus 1:5] "For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldst set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city as I had appointed thee."

But it makes no difference whether the churches in Asia Minor, and in the islands of the Mediterranean were in order or not, so that we can but get an argument to hold on to our houses and lands, and still be Jerusalem churches. Now, every man who desires truth without hypocrasy, would pause, and say, if the churches in those parts were not in order until Titus put them in order, before I hastily draw a conclusion I will enquire what that order was in which Titus was to put them; and if on examination they find that there was not a scrape of a pen in all the revelations which are extant to show what that order was, they would be as ready to conclude that it was the same as was in Jerusalem, seeing that was done immediately under the notice of the apostles' eyes, and by their own direction. One thing we think on this subject is certain, that is this, if the account of the church at Jerusalem had read thus: "Then they that gladly received the word were baptized: And all that believed were at their own houses, and every man had his own property; neither gave he to any man unless it semed unto himself. And they continued eating and drinking such things as they had in their own houses, and such as they chose; neither gave they to any man beyond their own pleasure, each man as formerly laying up for himself an abundance of the things of time." Had the account of the church of Jerusalem read thus, and there could be no more evidence for laying down their property at the apostles' feet than they can get for going it from the epistles to the other churches, it would not weigh one feather in their estimation, and the idea that their religion at all effected their property would have been out of the question; but seeing it is the reverse, the arguments are conclusive.

Strange as it may appear, yet it is no less so than true, that even those who profess to be reformers and manifest a great desire to restore the authority of the scriptures, whenever there is any thing in the bible which would put their faith to the test, the plainest things can be reasoned away, and things which are very far from being so plain, both believed and practiced in their stead.

Not long since we were favored with a discourse upon the Holy Spirit, by the Editor of the Evangelist, a paper published in Carthage, Ohio, which is famous for this kind of teaching. Notwithstanding the Editor is a reformer of modern times, and manifests a great fear that the scripture authority will not be restored, and yet with all his apparent anxiety and his constant rebukes to those who will not return to apostolic order; yet, notwithstanding all this when ever he touches a subject, the full development of which would show the weakness of his own system, he falls into the same error of those whom he admonishes with so much zeal.

We have a discourse on the Holy Spirit by the prophet Joel in the second chapter of his prophesy, which says, [Joel 2:28-32] And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; and also, upon the servants and upon the hand maids, in those days will I pour out my Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness and the moon into blood before the great and notable day of the Lord come. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered.

This discourse is quoted by the apostle Peter, and recorded in the second chapter of the Acts of the Apostles and commented on: [Acts 2:17-21] And it shall come to pass in the last days, (saith God,) I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions and your old men shall dream dreams. And on my servants, and on my handmaids I will pour out in those days of my Spirit, and they shall prophesy. And I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs in the earth beneath, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come. And it shall come to pass that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. In the 33rd verse the apostle says concerning this promise of the prophet Joel, speaking of the resurrection of Christ: [Acts 2:33] Therefore, being by the right hand of God exalted, and having recieved of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this which you see and hear. This is the thing which God has promised in the last days. To pour out his Spirit upon all flesh: As much as to say, that when God pours out his Spitrit on all flesh, he will pour out the thing which was there seen and heard. And after the three thousand were pricked in their hearts and asked what they should do, Peter said, [Acts 2:38] Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you and your children, and all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

I suppose myself to have been one of this congregation, and depending on the apostle for all the information I had on the subject, what would I have expected to receive? The answer is, I would expect to receive a spirit through or by which I should see visions, dream dreams, and prophesy: Nor could any being expect any thing else from both Joel and Peter's discourse on the Holy Spirit. But from the discourse of the Editor of the Evangelist upon the Holy Spirit, no such expectation could be realized. So different is the discourse of inspired and uninspired men on the subject of religion!--Neither would I have expected that congregation to be the only ones; but their children; yea, all that were afar off, even as many as the Lord our God should call.

But this reformer, like all others whom he condemns, takes a part of the sayings of Peter and enforces them on the people, saying to them, that they must be baptized for the remission of sins; but no sooner does he touch the promise that follows, than the people are informed, that though they have a right to expect the Holy Spirit will be received, but not to produce the office which Peter ascribed to it. And notwithstanding Peter said that the promise he made, on conditions of repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, was the gift of the Holy Spirit, by which gift they were to dream dreams, see visions, and prophesy; and that in the last days was to be given to all who complied with the conditions, even as many as the Lord our God should call. Still, our reformer, by garbling the scriptures, taking a saying from one writer and a saying from another, can persuade the people that notwithstanding this promise was given to all, it only meant a few in the earlier years of christianity. So that we can plainly see, that reformors and nonreformers are all of one.

The reformers of these last days, among those who call themselves reformers are very near a ridiculous farce, possessing scarcely one feature of primitive christianity, and savouring very much of Paul's apostasy, that is, a form of godliness without the power. This seems to be the common failing of all the sects in christendom, so called. Any thing among those religionists which can be done without an immediate display of divine power is believed; but any thing to accomplish it, is reasoned away. So that a man among them is an atheist, yea, a fool! who will pretend to believe the bible when it speaks of any thing to be done, which could require the God of heaven to exert his power.

For instance, if I were to profess to believe the sayings of Isaiah in the 11th Chapter, 15 and 16 verses of his prophecy, which read thus: And the Lord shall utterly destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea; and with his mighty wind shall he shake his hand over the river, and shall smite it in the highway for the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria; like as it was to Israel in the day that he came up out of the land of Egypt: I would be considered an atheist of the first magnitude, fit for nothing but to be laughed at! Why? Because this would require the immediate power of God. And say they, all miracles have ceased, and consequently, the prophet does not mean what he says.

Jeremiah while speaking of the gathering of Israel in the last days, says, [Jer. 33:10-11] Thus saith the Lord, again shall be heard in this place, which ye say shall be desolate without man and without beast, even in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem, that are desolate, without man, and without inhabitant, and without beast, the voice of joy, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, the voice of them that shall say, Praise the Lord of hosts: for the Lord is good; for his mercy endureth forever: and of them that shall bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the Lord. For I will cause to return the captivity of the land, as at the first, saith the Lord. But should any man profess to believe that the Lord would return them at any time as he did at the first, he would be called a mad man, an atheist, if not an imposter! Why? Because, if the Lord ever should do so he would have to give more revelations; for by revelation upon revelation he took them into their land at the first; but this religious age say, that revelations have ceased, and consequently the prophet does not mean what he says.

Moses informs us how the Lord brought Israel out of Egypt at the first in the 4th, chapter 33 and 34 verses of Deuteronomy: Did ever a people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as thou hast heard, and live? Or hath God assayed to go and take him a nation from the midst of another nation, by temptations, by signs; and by wonders, and by war, and by a mighty hand, and by a streched-out arm, and by great terrors, according to all that the Lord your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes? And should the Lord ever bring Israel again as he did at the first, he would have to do the same things over again. But this cannot be admitted, for this could not be done without both miracles and revelations: Therefore the prophet did not mean what he said.

TO BE CONTINUED.

<"Millenium">
Sidney Rigdon "Millenium," E&MS 2 (Feb 1834)

Millenium. No. III. {beliefs-lds}

As all writers on the Millenium, up to the present time, have failed to present the subject in a satisfactory point of light, the ground still remains to be occupied by any one who has courage sufficient to undertake it. And should they fail in the attempt, they will only do what great men, (so called) have done before them: indeed, there does not appear to be any great hazard in the undertaking at this time, as a failure would only leave the adventurer in company with the great men of the world, not even the Editor of the Harbinger, and his friend Mr. M'Corkle excepted, whom the Editor helped to sea: but ignorance, that adverse wind, and great draw-back to promotion, has helped to shore again. He seems not, However, to have suffered much in the voyage if he did return as empty as he went; without enriching the literary world with one discovery for he finds himself in the same harbor, in safe mooring with others who have attempted the same voyage and have failed in the attempt. Some indeed hoisted all sail and made as though they would be off the first fair wind, leaving all behind: but after examining their riging and sails they doubted of their sufficiency; and after a little closer examination, they found to their great surprise, that they were entirely wanting in ballast. And after coasting for some time they abandoned the voyage altogether, or until they could increase their ballast; for though they had a great deal of sail, and a little ballast, yet it was found that it was not of the right kind: among whom the Editor of the Harbinger is chief.

In undertaking to present before the public the subject of the Millenium, we do it without claiming any favors, or pleading any excuses. We design to limit ourselves within the limits of the bible, and examine the subject as it has been written by the ancient prophets. If the public should not like the style, let them alter it till it suits them, and if they dislike the statement, our flag is on the outside of the wall, they can have an opportunity of trying their skill and making a better of it.

One thing on this subject is certain, and on which all agree: it is this, that, the Millenium has no existence, nor never had: that, in searching after it, we are searching after a something that the eye of man never saw, nor has any society of men ever enjoyed it. To use the language of Paul, [1 Cor. 2:9] "eye hath not seen it, nor ear heard it," except by the spirit of prophecy and vision. But though it has no existence, yet it may have an essence; for if it has not an essence, it never will have an existence; and if it has an essence, it is only to be found in the purpose of Him who "calleth things that are not, as though they were:" and all the knowledge we have of this purpose is through the medium of prophecy and revelation. It is one of those subjects which is alone to be found in the bible if any where; and it would be pretty hard to tell how the belief in it should be so general among believers in the bible in the different ages of the world, unless there is something said about it in the scriptures. It must be acknowledged by all, that the prophets have said some things, indeed many things, which if ever fulfilled, would produce a very different order of society from any ever on earth before: an order of society in which the saints of God [Micah 4:4] "could worship under their own vine and their own fig-tree, and there would be none to make them afraid." Such an order of society has never yet existed; for though the time has been, and now is when a corrupted religion can be tolerated; yet there never was a time, nor is there one now in which the church of Christ can worship undisturbed. Their character, their property, and even their lives are now, as in former days, sought with untiring perseverance by both religious and irreligious, not even reformers excepted. But this period is not only to be marked with this peculiarity, but it is also materially to effect the brutal creation. The lion and the ox are to eat straw together; the bear and the cow to graze the plain in company, and their young ones to lay down in peace: there shall be nothing to hurt or destroy in all the Lord's holy mountain. The lion will be carnivorous no longer; and all the beasts will cease to prey on flesh and blood; for if they do not they will both hurt and destroy, and the testimony of the prophet fail; for if no such day comes, there will be no Millenium. That day promised to the world by the prophets is to be a time of rest, otherwise they have promised nothing; and there is as much said about the rest for the beasts, as about the rest for man; and there remains the same promise for the brutal creation, as for the rational; for the Lord promised by the mouth of Joel, and on the day of pentecost renewed the same promise by Peter, that in the last days he would pour out his Spirit on all flesh. If that promise is ever fulfilled in its full extent, the Spirit of God will have to be poured out on beast as well as man; for they also are flesh. And if there never should be a time when the Spirit of God is poured out on the beast, there never will be a Millenium. And when that day comes, the Spirit of the Lord, when poured out, will make a great revolution on the irrational creation; changing their nature both as to food and habits; for the God of heaven, by that Spirit with which he garnished the heavens, can also change the nature of both the rational and irrational creations, from one end of heaven to the other. One of the great difficulties in all writers who have written on the Millenium, is, that they have tried to prove by making the language of the prophets all figures and metaphors, that, that which alone can be done by a direct exersion of divine power in the way of miracle, is to be produced upon human principles; endeavoring to prove that all things spoken of by the prophets can be fulfilled without miracles; without an immediate exertion of divine power.--Hence all the phenomenas of the heavens are made to mean some thing about kings and priests; kingdoms and churches; (so says Mr. M'Corkle, Mr Campbell's help-mate;) and in this he is not alone; for others long before his day, and who had about as much knowledge of the subject as he had, said the same things in effect, before he was born; but no such rules of interpretation of prophecy would ever have been introduced, was not the religious world in a state of apostasy; having the form of godliness but denying the power thereof. But before the Millenium comes, or ever can come, there will be a day of power, not in a figurative, but in a literal sense, as direct as the power which raised Lazarus from the dead, or else it will never come. And there will not only come a day of power, but a day of revelation also; and that as direct from God as those revelations given by Moses and the prophets; by Jesus and the apostles; and not a few only, but line upon line, and line upon line, precept upon precept, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, meaning many, yea, very many revelations; until the knowledge of God shall cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. For who does not know,that there is not knowledge enough in all the revelations now extant, together with all the human productions in all languages, in the world, to cover the earth as the waters cover the face of the great deep? but a sufficiency of revelations to do this must come, or else the Millenium will never come.

The prophets in presenting what we call the Millenium, and what John calls the thousand years of Christ's reign on the earth, has shown us an order of things which, when understood, will clearly set forth to every intelligent mind the great apostasy of all the religions of the world; their immense distance from the religion of heaven; the weakness and folly of all the schemes of all ages, since the days of the crusaders, to Alexander Campbell (but he, of all others with his Harbinger, cuts the oddest figure in the world;) an age of incessant revelations, every one knowing the Lord without the need of any teacher: a people of such faith, that it shall be said of the inhabitants, that they are not sick: an age of such power, that the mountains shall flow down and the valleys rise up: crooked things become straight, and rough places smooth: an age of wonder, when the faith of men, like that of Moses, shall make the mountains, not drop water only, but new wine: an age when people shall receive refreshing from the presence of the Lord: an age when there will be so much faith on the earth, that death can have no dominion; but men will be changed in the twinkling of an eye, and be caught up: an age when every man shall be his own revelator, prophet, and seer; for all shall know the Lord alike, from the least to the greatest. The day spoken of by Paul when the perfect shall have come, when all prophecies shall have failed; when all former knowledge shall have passed away; when all tongues shall be identified in one: an age when the will of God shall be done on earth as it is done in heaven; and if so, men will have to know as much as angels, or they cannot do the will of God as it is done in heaven. Let a man but for a moment, contemplate this order of things in the light of revelation, as it is justly called by Peter in Acts 3rd chapter, [Acts 3:21] "The times of the restitution of all things of which God hath spoken by the mouth of all the holy prophets since the world began," and then let him take a peep at Mr. Campbell and his Harbinger, making a mighty noise, saying, Reform! crying, (that is, on the title page of his Harbinger,) Millenium! Millenium!! but if we may judge from what he says on other matters, his Millenium is not to possess one property of the Millenium of the prophets and apostles: his is to be a Millenium without power or revelation, and if so, there never will be one!

With regard to the Millenium, let it be remembered, that, it is worse than vain to conjure up a something in our brain that has no existence else where; for if there is ever such a period it will just be what God promised in the scriptures, and nothing else. Nor would Mr. Campbell be at so great a loss as to have to creep out so dishonorably; if it were not that his statements are directly opposed to the Millenium of the bible.--In his sentiments he follows in the train of his fathers, denying all miracles, all revelations and all the peculiar properties which is to distinguish that age from all others; and should he or any other man establish a Millenium of that description, he will put to silence Moses and the prophets: Jesus and the apostles; and all the inspired writers that ever wrote on it since the world began.

TO BE CONTINUED.

Query.--WHERE is that law mentioned by Malachi 4:4 which says, Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for ALL Israel with the statutes and judgments?--[Editor of the Star.]

<"Zephaniah">
Oliver Cowdery "Prophecy of Zephaniah," E&MS 2 (Feb 1834)

THE EVENING AND THE MORNING STAR.

KIRTLAND, OHIO, FEBRUARY, 1834.

THE PROPHECY OF ZEPHANIAH. {beliefs-lds}

SOMETHING peculiarly interesting to those who look for the return of the children of Israel in the last days, and their reorganization in the land of their fathers' promised inheritance, that once flowed with milk and honey, occupies the mind when perusing the above prophecy. Favored as they were, with one continued scene of revelation, the prophets of God rising up one after another and delivering his will to them, that they might not go astray and fall into the customs of the heathen, and thereby bring down the wrath and indignation of heaven upon themselves, one might suppose, at first thought, that they would have continued in the strictest course of duty to their God, from that day to the present, and now, instead of remaining under the curse and anger of their Savior, hold a conspicuous part of the eastern world, and be a pattern of wisdom and intelligence to all nations, and serve as a guide to all people to point to them the way of life and salvation: For to them were committed the oracles of God; to them were given the promises; and to their fathers was the oath made, that, in them all the families of the earth should be blessed.

They had the promise from the Lord, that if they obeyed his precepts and walked in his statutes, of being preserved from every pestilence, and protected from the hands of all their enemies. And notwithstanding their country should be crowned with all the luxuries of the world for their joy and satisfaction; yet, the peculiar providence of God toward them should be such, that although they should even go thrice in a year to appear before the Lord their God, the nations round them were to be cast out, and the fear and dread of Israel in their hearts, so that no other people should desire their land or seek to obtain it while they left it in this defenseless situation. Their borders were to be enlarged, and they were to stretch forth to the north, and to the south, and from the river of Egypt to the great river Euphrates. The arm that was stretched out for their deliverance while in Egyptian bondage, was still able to protect them when brought into the promised land. The angel who went before to lead them was still to be near, and defend them against the invasion of every foe: Their baskets were to be filled with plenty, their fats were to overflow with wine and oil, their garners were to be filled with the richest stores, and their children were to rise up and bless the name of the Lord their God.

Nothing was lacking on the part of their great Shepherd to make them the most delightful people on the earth, and render their situation the most pleasing: Every enducement that could be given in righteousness to encourage them to be faithful to the commandments of heaven, seemed to be presented and placed within their grasp; and no blessing possible for Omnipotence to bestow upon mankind was withheld from their view. They were not only delivered from Egyptian servitude by the marvelous interposition of providence; but the glory of the Lord was shown forth in a cloud to lead them by day, and to give them light by night: And they had the promise from the mouth of him that could not lie, that if they would obey his voice, and keep his covenant, they should be a peculiar treasure unto him: A kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. [see Exodus 19:5-6] And even when they had committed abominations in the sight of the Lord and worshiped a molten image, and changed the glory of the incorruptable God into the similitude of an ox, so that He refused to go up in their midst, yet in his great mercy he sent his angel to bring them into the land that he had promised to their fathers.

All his dealings with them were wisely calculated to inspire their hearts to seek holiness, and depart from their wicked and idolatrous practices; and though they were often reproved and chastened, yet all his rebukes were wisely ordered in his providence for their good; and all his reproofs were given in love, only to remind them of their departure from the true God, and the wrath which must inevitably fall upon them if they persisted in a course of wickedness; for he had respect to his gracious covenant, and in all their afflictions he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: In his love and in his pity he redeemed them, as said the prophet. [see Isaiah 63:9-14]

In consequence of transgressions they were often brought into bondage to their enemies, after their arrival in the land of Canaan; but from time to time, they were set at liberty, after being compelled to bow to the yoke of affliction, and were permitted to enjoy again their sacred privileges of worshiping God according to the pattern delivered to them from his hand.

The house of Israel [the ten tribes] had been led away captive from their own lands by Shalmanaser king of Assyria: Judah had been brought low and made small by contending with numerous enemies; and frequently the candle of David seemed almost extinguished, before the time when Zephaniah delivered his prophecy. He lived in the days of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah; who, notwithstanding the iniquity of his father, set his mind, even in his youth to seek the Lord and worship him. And though Judah had been afflicted and impoverished by idolatrous kings, the promise of the Lord that he made to David was not forgotten, which says, If thy children take heed to their ways, to walk before me in truth, with all their heart, and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee a man on the throne of Israel. [see 1 Kings 2:4]

Josiah, with propriety may be considered one of the most prosperous kings that ever reigned over the house of Judah after the days of Solomon: [2 Chr. 20:30] God gave him peace in all his realm and multiplied his blessings in all his borders: Wherever he turned his attention his efforts were crowned with abundant success: He threw down the altars of Baalim; he destroyed the groves, he beat the idols and carved images in pieces and ground them to powder, and made dust of them, and strewed it upon the graves of those who had sacrificed to them; he slew the priests of Baal and burned their bones upon their altars; he cleansed Judah and Jerusalem, and caused their inhabitants to forsake the customs of the heathen and worship the Lord their God, according to the law given by the hand of Moses.

From the reign of Solomon to the reign of Josiah, a period of three hundred and forty years, Judah had alternately been governed by idolatrous, and by righteous princes. Some walking in the fear of God, and others debasing themselves by the worship of idols, and stooping to observe the traditions of their neighbours, and condescending to pay adoration to stocks and images, which were either made with their own hands, or by cunning workmen in their sight. How it was possible for a people who were so highly favoured of heaven, to turn to the worship of dumb idols, after receiving the law of the Lord by his voice in the mighty trump, and continually being reminded of his ways by faithful prophets, rising up early and exhorting them, is peculiarly astonishing, and is one of the greatest samples of the depravity of the human heart and the weakness of man, his folly, and his willingness to depart from the rules of heaven, of any other recorded in the sacred volume. We witness one king rising up and keeping the commandments of God, and prospering. He would put to flight and conquer his enemies, though not a forth part as numerous as they; we witness the prosperity of his subjects in like manner, and the land filled with abundance of the good things of this life. We witness the reign of an idolatrous king, and then we behold trouble like a whirlwind coming upon Israel: wars, pestilence, and famine, consume the seed of Jacob, and lay waste and desolate their beautiful cities. Such was the influence, and such the ascendency of the kings of Israel and Judah over their people. A sceptre swayed in righteousness brought down the blessings of heaven upon all its subjects; but if held in unrighteous hands, destruction surely followed!

The temple of God was defiled from time to time when the kings of Judah forsook his statutes, and instituted idolatrous worship within its consecrated walls. Notwithstanding the glory of the Most High continually overshadowed the mercy seat within the vail, and the high priest being obliged to wash himself, and change his garments when ever he entered into the most holy place, and not then without first offering blood for his own sins, yet the goodly vessels of that house and sanctuary were not unfrequently used to sacrifice to devils and the work of men's hands; and the house stript of its gold and goodly gifts to decorate images and idols reared within its courts, in honour of the gods of the heathen. Such was the situation of the temple, and such the manner of its worship when Josiah was annointed king of Judah.

But he repaired those parts of the house which had been broken down and defaced, and cleansed that part which had been polluted and defiled by former idolatrous kings; he commanded the holy ark to be put into its place again, and the sacrifices of praise and of peace offerings to ascend up once more for a sweet savor before the face of the Lord of hosts, in the house that Solomon had built to his name. He caused the priests, the sons of Aaron to stand and minister according to their courses, as written in the law; he arranged the singers in regular form in their places to praise the Lord, not only with their voices, but with instruments wisely invented by those who were inspired by the Spirit of the Lord.

To witness the sacred ordinances of the law performed in the house reared to the name of Israel's God, after having long been neglected, must have been pleasing to those who had not in their hearts forsook the commandments. To witness the sublime scene of a passover as represented in the Old Testament, must, indeed, fill one's mind with the greatest degree of solemnity. To see the high priest approach the alter of God, and there, not only for himself, offer up sacrifices and the shedding of blood for the remission of his own, but for Israel's sins, clothed in the authority of his priesthood, wrapped in the holy garments consecrated for that purpose by the holy oil, and crowned with a beautiful mitre, and girded with the brestplate of judgment upon his heart, set with the most choice diamonds, with the names of the twelve tribes engraved therein; and the Urim and Thummim set within the same, must inspire the heart to reverence Him who seeth in secret, and who had instituted all these ordinances as types of the great sacrifice of his Only Begotten. The passover was instituted by the immediate direction of heaven to the children of Israel while they were yet in Egypt.--It was the last night they were to tarry in that country where they had served in rigorous bondage four hundred years. The angel of God was to pass over the land that night, and every dwelling that was not marked with the blood of a lamb without blemish upon the posts of the door, its inmates were to loose their first born. In truth, it may be said, that this ordinance was kept through faith.

Not only was the passover to be observed by the Israelites in Egypt, but they were to teach it to their children after them by their observing the same; and the memorial of the feast of unleavened bread, throughout their generations forever. [see Exodus 12:14] And such a passover, says the ancient historian, was not kept in Israel from the days of Samuel the prophet to that time, even by all the former kings of Israel, as was kept by Josiah and those that were present with him, the priests, the Levites, and all Judah and Israel that were present, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem. At his death the people mourned, and even the prophet Jeremiah lamented his loss: and all the singing men and the singing women spake of him in their lamentations: and behold, says the historian, they are written in the Lamentations. [see 2 Chr. 35:18,25]

Such, in short, is the character of the man who reigned over Judah in the days of Zephaniah; and it may justly be said, the last of the house of Jacob that has ever swayed the scepter in Jerusalem long in peace. Jehoahaz his son reigned three months, and was deposed by Necho and carried into Egypt. Jehoiakim, or Eliakim his brother was made king in his stead, and reigned eleven years, who was then bound in fetters and carried captive to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar. After him reigned Jehoiakim his son, three months and ten days, and was then carried to Babylon also. Mattaniah his father's brother was made king in his stead, whose name was changed to Zedekiah; and he reigned eleven years [see 2 Chr. 36 and 2 Kgs. 24:17] Making in all from the death of Josiah, four kings, who reigned twenty two years, six months, and ten days. But these might with propriety be considered nominal; for they held their offices generally by appointment from foreign kings, and all except the first were made or created by them, and not by the voice of the people, and were deposed at pleasure by their masters. In fact, they were very little if any better than the rest of the heathen; nor were the people over whom they reigned, except individuals: all seemingly forgetting the prosperity of their former king, and also his righteous acts.

None except those who were filled with the spirit of prophecy, could for a moment imagine, or conceive the possibility of so great a change in the affairs of the remnants of the house of Israel, as suddenly transpired after the death of Josiah. But the prophets, taught by the voice of inspiration, seemed to be aware of this fact; and even in the days of peace and prosperity, rose early at the commandment of the Lord, and lifted their voices in the hearing of the people; warning them of approaching desolations, which at some future period, were to come upon that country. They saw in vision that calamity and destruction would overtake the remnants of Jacob who were yet left in the land: They saw that the rising generation would not walk after the Lord, and consequently must be dispersed: They knew that God had borne with that people, and suffered them to trample under their feet his law and the testimony of his prophets till justice from him was about to overtake them: Among these was to be found the prophet Zephaniah.

In his prophecy are many sayings very peculiar, and are to be met with, or expressions similar, over the writings of the most of the prophets of Israel. The introduction, though, easy, has been rendered more interesting, if possible, in consequence of its fulfillment, by which fact we may draw a conclusion that, if any part of his prophecy is not yet fulfilled according to its literal reading, it yet remains to be fulfilled; and with propriety we may expect it will be, as much so as the former. If there are doubts upon the mind relative to the certainty, whether this prophet designed to be understood as he spake, all that remains to settle the question is, to carefully compare his sayings with the subsequent history of the Jews; for in the midst of the prosperity of Judah he comes forth with boldness, and proclaims: [Zeph. 1:2-4] I will utterly consume all things from off the land, saith the Lord. I will consume man and beast; I will consume the fowls of the heavens, and the fishes of the sea; and the stumbling-blocks with the wicked; and I will cut off man from off the land, saith the Lord. I will also stretch out mine hand upon Judah, and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem. That this notable prophecy was shortly after fulfilled, none, we presume, who are acquainted with the history of the Jews, will hesitate for a moment to admit. For they were shortly after carried captive to Babylon, except the poor, and they soon fled into Egypt, and left Jerusalem truly an astonishment, with her walls demolished and her palaces burned with fire, until her land had rest and enjoyed her Sabbaths seventy years. Notwithstanding the prophet declared that the day of the Lord was near, and that the lord had prepared a sacrifice and bid his guests; and even a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick darkness, when a sound of alarm should be heard against the fenced cities, and against the high towers, was also near, when all the land should be devoured by the fire of his jealousy; yet all seemed to pass by unobserved and unnoticed by many of the people, who said in their hearts, [Zeph. 1:12] The Lord will not do" good, neither will he do evil.

But if his prophecy was not observed by the rising generation, that fact did not make it untrue; nor did it fall to the ground unfulfilled because it was not heeded by the people in whose ears it was spoken. God who had power to speak from the heavens, had power to look from that holy place; and though his word was regarded but lightly, or esteemed of no worth by those to whom it was delivered; yet in due time he brought it all to pass, and established it forever, by fulfilling it upon the heads of a rebellious people, at a time when repentance with them was too late to escape his chastening hand! He who had power to bare Israel upon eagles' wings; bring them to himself, and show them his glory; give them his law and commandments by his own voice in the hearing of all; had power also to chastise them sufficiently if they forsook him, to bring them to a remembrance of his ways again, and to seek his face! He who had power to raise up prophets and send unto them to turn them from their iniquities, had power also to fulfil all that he caused to be spoken by the mouths of these prophets; and if those things which he caused to be spoken by them by the power of the Holy Spirit was rejected or esteemed lightly, he had power to lay waste their cities, and make their houses desolate, until they were afflicted in captivity by the hands of their enemies, consumed by pestilence, or famine, or brought to unfeigned repentance for all their sins! And thus it was with the inhabitants of Jerusalem in the days of these kings, who rejected the words of the prophets.

Nor is the vision of the prophet confined alone to the subject of the dispersion of the Jews. Though justice required that they should be shastened because of their transgressions after receiving such particular manifestations of the favor of heaven, and rejecting its teachings. The greater the blessing bestowed upon any people and disregarded, the more severe the chastisement from the hand of the Lord. Israel was exalted with favors, and Jerusalem filled with blessings; and the heathen were cast out. Consequently, then, when these favors were lightly esteemed, and the precepts of heaven rejected, the wrath of God must inevitably fall upon them first, according to the pattern of all his dealings with mankind: for Judgment firstly begins at his house.

Although the house of Jacob were to be afflicted because they had forsaken the Lord, yet the heathen could not escape! And though at the distress of Israel they could look on and mock, yet the time was near when sorrow should overtake them suddenly, and calamity as a thief in the night! And though they could hiss at their desolations, and wag their heads because of their distructions, and glut themselves with their spoils; slay their young men and abuse their virgins, and destroy their children, yet the time was soon coming when the Lord in his wrath would overtake them also, and in his fury they should be consumed!

The eye that could behold Israel when he was in a desert land and in a waste howling wilderness, could look down upon him still, though he were carried captive to the remotest corners of the earth, or placed in the midst of the heathen, among a people that knew not God. That arm that was able to make the sea a path for Israel was still sufficient to protect him that his posterity perish not nor his name become extinct. That hand that fed him in the desert was able still to feed him, and bring him forth again, though he were hid in the mountains, and in the holes of the rocks, and lay the earth waste for his sake!

Zephaniah was assured of the destructions which were to come upon the surrounding nations also. God, after showing him the calamity which was to come upon his people, also showed him the utter overthrow and end of many of their enemies. He says, after warning those who had been righteous, to seek for a hiding place against the day of the Lord's anger, [Zeph. 2:4] For Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon a dessolation; they shall drive out Ashdod at noon day, and Ekron shall be rooted up. Why? That even the sea costs might be for the remnant of the house of Judah, that they might feed there upon in safety; and lie down in the house of Ashkelon in the evening: For says he, the Lord their God shall visit them, and turn away their captivity.

No circumstance relating to the temporal situation of the surrounding nations, was withheld from the mind of the prophet while wrapped in the vision of the Lord, and clothed with the spirit of prophecy. Men without a divine influence to touch the heart, could suppose, that all things were to pass smoothly along, and that their generations were to rise up successively and inherit the earth undisturbed till the world was filled with their posterity, or like other mighty nations, had subdued surrounding countries to make room for their spreading glory. But the man of God, swallowed up in the power and spirit of inspiration, could understand what should befall them for years to come, and in generations unborn; he could discover their increasing glory until it had arisen to its zenith; and he could behold their gradual decline until they ceased to have a name; or else by some revolution, or by a power superior to themselves, they were sunk in obscurity, led captive by their enemies, or slain with the sword.

The prophet continues, and says that the Ethiopians also should be slain with the sword of the Lord; and that he would stretch out his hand against the north and destroy Assyria; and make Ninevah a dessolation, and dry like a wilderness. Nineveh, the pride of Assyria, the glory of Assur, which had stood for ages, and whose praise had been sung by thousands from century to century, by succeeding generations, should be laid waste and become a fold for flocks! Why? Because she had magnified herself against the Lord! she had touched his annointed! she had afflicted Israel and but a short time previous, her king had led the ten tribes captive from the land of their fathers! [TO BE CONTINUED.]

<Editorial>
Oliver Cowdery E&MS 2 (Feb 1834)

BY the direction of a conference of the elders of the church of Christ, assembled in this place on the nineteenth of this month, notice is hereby given to the traveling elders and brethren abroad, that a general conference will be held in Saco, Maine, commencing on Friday, the thirteenth of June, next, and continue as long as business may require, or it may be found proper. This appointment at Saco, has been made in answer to a special request of the church in that place, through the medium of a letter from one of the elders now laboring in that vicinity. If circumstances are such as to permit, it may be expected that one or more elders will be appointed to attend from this place. All who are laboring in the vineyard, whose arrangements will allow, should attend the general conferences abroad, as much instruction may be given on such occasions, which, if heeded, may prove a lasting benefit to all. Each laborer in the glorious gospel of our Lord's kingdom can there have an opportunity of learning the success of his brother, and all may rejoice with the full expectation of receiving an adequate compensation for all their toils and persecutions: not in the goods of this life, but in the riches of that eternal kingdom where [3 Ne. 13:20, Matt. 6:20] "moth nor rust doth not corrupt." No trifling excuse should deter our brethren from attending. [Editor of the Star.]

LETTERS.--WE are happy to learn from letters frequently received, that the word is preached with success in many parts of our country, and some among the thousands who hear are willing to be reproached for the sake of Christ, and the reward which is sure to the faithful when he comes to make up his jewels. By a letter from brother Z. Pulcifer [Zera Pulsipher] of Spafford, N. Y. we learn that a small church has lately been established in Richland, on the shores of Lake Ontario; and another from brother D. [David] Evans, says that he has baptized, last summer and fall, seventy four persons, and thirty in one day: We can say, may God roll on his glorious work. Other letters to brethren in this place give pleasing intelligence, and we hope that the elders will not forget to write us from time to time of their prosperity.

Last fall, two of the elders of this church made a short journey into Canada, and were successful in planting the word of truth in that country. During their stay in the place, which was short, they baptized thirteen; since then, as appears by the following to one of the brethren who was there, the work has been gradually increasing. This gospel has been preached in the province of Canada, previous to last fall; but never as far west, as we have been informed. The other is from the far east, and will show something how the work is received in that part of our country.--[Editor of the Star.]

<Moses Nickerson>
Moses Nickerson ltr 29 Dec 1833 in E&MS 2 (Feb 1834)

Wendhom, Dec. 29, 1833.

DEAR BROTHER,

I have long been expecting to receive a letter from you, but as yet have received none: I received one from brother Joseph [Smith], a short time since, who informed me that you had returned safe to your friends and families, which I was happy to hear. Your labors while in Canada have been the beginning of a good work: there are 34 members attached to the church at Mount Pleasent, all of whom appear to live up to their profession, five of whom have spoken in tongues, and three sing in tongues; and we live at the top of the mountain! For my part, I feel that I cannot be thankful enough for what I have received: the scriptures have been opened to my view beyond account, and the Revelation of John is become quite plain: I discover the monster there disscribed in his true colors and by his right name.

Your friends in Canada often speak of you and brother Joseph [Smith]. Mr, and Mrs. Beamer, are seriously enquiring after the truth: they often speak of brother Sidney [Rigdon] and Joseph [Smith]; and all the people with whom I am acquainted, or have talked with upon the subject of religion, appear to be much engaged: Some for, and the remainder against; but I find those blessed promises to be verified, that God's grace shall be sufficient for our day and time of need. I find that those places where I thought the cross was a going to be the hardest, is often the lightest, and then I often obtain the greatest blessings.

If you can send a couple of preachers out here; as soon as you receive this you would do us a kindness; for brother Freman is often called from home, and it is necessary that some one should be there: Send those that you have confidence in or none: the work requires competent workmen; for the harvest is truly great. I feel thankful that I have been spared to see this time. I shall be up to see you in the spring, if the Lord will. Remember me in your devotions, that I may prove faithful in the cause of Christ, that we may come off more than conquerors, and be counted worthy, that we may receive the crown laid up for those that continue to the end.

Brother Jackson and wife were up to see us from Hamelton a short time since and we had a time of refreshing from the Lord; and brother J. went home with less prejudice than he came. I think there is a great opening in that place. Please write soon after the receipt of this, and let me know how it is with you and yours. Tell the brethren in the Lord, that they are near and dear to us in Canada; for I can truly say, that I do love the children of God.

From your brother in the bonds of the gospel.

M. [Moses] C. [Chapman] NICKERSON.

<John Boynton>
John Boynton ltr 20 Jan 1834 in E&MS 2 (Feb 1834)

Saco, Mo. January 20, 1834. BRETHREN IN THE LORD:

I improve a few moments to inform you that I am well, that the Lord is present with me; his Spirit warms my heart; gives life to my soul; is my friend among enemies; my joy among friends; my comforter when alone; my companion in trouble; brings a hope like an anchor; makes the crown look near; and insures the victory by an endurance of faith unto the end.

The 15th No. of the Star arrived here a few days since which was gladly received; but it caused some painful emotions to read of the dreadful persecution at the west, yet there is a secret joy, for we can lift up our heads and rejoice, knowing that our redemption draweth nigh: for Jesus said, [John 16:33] in the world ye shall have tribulation, but in me ye shall have peace.

Agreeably to your request, I would inform you that I have been laboring in this part of the vineyard for some time to lay before the people the new and everlasting covenant and the glorious things of the kingdom that God has been pleased to reveal in these last days.

I have baptized about forty in this section, and there is more convinced of the truth but are still lingering on the thershhold of the church, and I think the Lord will gather some of them into his kingdom.

Brother E. [Evan] M. Green labored with me from the 16th of Jan. 1833, till the October following. While we were together we baptized about one hundred and thirty; then at a council at Rowley, Mass. it was decided that he should travel with brother H. Cowan to Kirtland. Accordingly they started on their mission, and I went to Boston and visited the church in that place and baptized one. I then returned to this place and organized this branch of the church. The members in this place are strong in the Lord and are rejoicing in the new and everlasting covenant. O! that God would read the heavens and come down to deliver his saints; that the mountains might give way before him, and flow down at his presence; that the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ might roll forth till it fills the whole earth! I long to see the time when the saints of the most high God shall take the kingdom, and possess it for ever.

Finally brethren, pray for me that I may have words of wisdom, and a door of utterance to declare the whole counsel of God, and rightly divide the word of truth; giving to every man his portion in due season. For my determination is, with the stick of Joseph in one hand, and the stick of Judah in the other, to labor diligently in this world that my skirts may be clear from the blood of all men, and I stand acquitted before the bar of God. I am yours in Christ.

JOHN F. BOYNTON.

<Editorial>
Oliver Cowdery ed E&MS 2 (Feb 1834)

PERSECUTION.--IT is to be lamented by every thinking man, that from those who condemn the Jews for persecuting the Messiah and his disciples, we not infrequently see them manifest the same spirit toward those who are not of their faith. The Pharisees, Saddusees, and Essenes, were, perhaps, equally zealous in their religious belief, and yet none of them agreed, except in this one thing, to persecute, even to death the Lord and his saints. Was this the pure doctrine of heaven? How astonished must be those poor deluded beings when they are cast out of that Kingdom which they so warmly contended that they were heirs to, and see those whom they despised and put to death, crowned to enjoy it forever! Does the religion of the Savior consist in persecution, or does it not?--[Ed. Star.]

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN.

AT a conference of elders of the church of Christ, convened at Genesso, Livingston county, N. Y. on the 31st of December, 1833, EZRA LINDON, formerly an elder in said church, was silenced by the voice of said conference for promulgating unscriptural principles, and refusing to give proper satisfaction for his conduct. His credentials were demanded by the conference, but they were denied. According to the rules and regulations of the church, he was then excommunicated from this body. LYMAN JOHNSON, Moderate ORSON PRATT, Clerk.

WE copy the following from "THE DAY-BOOK," printed at Mount Vernon, Ohio. We are not sorry to discover that the EDITOR has not only a just sense of the liberty of conscience, but a proper regard for the letter of the Constitution. We have no comments to make on the article, further, than to say that it is correct; and we are rejoiced to learn that there are yet men in our country who are untrammeled by the power of the clergy.--[Ed. Star.]

Governor Dunklin of Missouri, has issued an Executive Letter directed to several leading men of the Mormon persuasion directing them to appeal to the courts of law, which are bound to render them satisfaction for the late outrageous assault upon their rights and liberties as peaceable citizens. The Governor says, "in the event that the laws cannot be executed, and that the fact is officially made known to me, my duty will require me to take such steps as will enforce a faithful execution of them."

We may infer from this declaration, that justice is to be rendered to that much abused people, the mormonites, who have been punished on account of their Religion. If this kind of proscription is permitted, the sacred bonds of friendship are sundered, and savage customs must be restored with all their bloody rites! It is in vain to deny, that sectarian influence has nothing to do in this matter--the stake and the fagot was anciently used to burn heritics, and if they are to be revived again, we may bid adieu to liberty equality, and the rights of man! If we may judge, from what has transpired in Missouri, a strong party of fanatics (not mormonites,) are determined to carry their accursed blue laws into effect, the same laws that were enforced in New-England, during the age of Puritan misrule.

WE copy the following article from the NORTH STAR, printed in Danville Vermont, by E. EATON, headed, "The Mormons,--We have received the first number of the Mormon 'Morning and Evening Star,' [The Evening and the Morning Star,] resuscitated in Kirtland, Ohio. It is the same assuming, mysterious publication of its original."

Perhaps our patrons will not be surprised on reading the above remarks of the Editor of the North Star, when they are informed, that in his columns he advocates both politics and religion very warmly, frequently complaining of all who are not of his principles; and that he has been considerably troubled previous to this, in consequence of the everlasting gospel being proclaimed in his vicinity. On perusing his paper, we were ready to ask, whether, to make the "tempest" which is so fast gathering at Washington, "burst in its fury" sooner, and accomplish the desired object, he had not better call on all his neighbors of the "Blue Laio" order, march to Washington, surround the capitol, and proclaim a government of church and state, erect an ecclesiastic tribunal, and put to the rack all who will not embrace his creed? Would this be any sin?

Observing that the Editor took no notice of the HORRID persecution against an unoffending community, in Jackson county, Missouri, by a party of religionists, we were ready to conclude, that, if a plain unvarnished relation of facts are assuming, then, certainly, Mr. EATON has found an ASSUMING publication; and if truth to him is mysterious, he has also, in this life, if not till now, found a large quantity of MYSTERIES!

Query.--We ask, whether Mr. EATON is not of the same faith of a certain sect in olden times who thought it no sin to whip, tar and feather, and drag through the streets the Baptists, hang the Quakers, and pass PUBLIC STATUTES, that no one should feed, lodge, or harbor an Adamite, or a Heretic?

THE ELDERS OF THE CHURCH IN KIRTLAND, TO THEIR BRETHREN ABROAD. {beliefs-lds}

Dear brethren in Christ, and companions in tribulation:

WHEN we call to remembrance the ties with which we are bound to those who embrace the everlasting covenant, and the fellowship and love with which the hearts of the children of our Lord's kingdom should be united, we cherish a belief, that you will bear with us, when we take this course to communicate to you some of the many thoughts which occupy our minds, and press with continued weight upon our hearts, as we reflect upon the vast importance and responsibility of your callings, in the sight of the Master of the vineyard. And though our communications to you may be frequent, yet we believe they will be received on your part with brotherly feelings; and that from us your unworthy brethren, you will suffer a word of exhortation to have place in your hearts, as you see the great extent of the power and dominion of the prince of darkness, and realize how vast the numbers are who are crowding the road to death without every giving heed to the cheering sound of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ!

Consider for a moment, brethren, the fulfillment of the words of the prophet; for we behold that darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the minds of the inhabitants thereof--that crimes of every discription are increasing among men--vices of every enormity are practiced--the rising generation growing up in the fulness of pride and arrogance--the aged losing every sense of conviction, and seemingly banishing every thought of a day of retribution--intemperence, immorality, extravigance, pride, blindness of heart, idolatry, the loss of natural affection, the love of this world, and indifference toward the things of eternity increasing among those who profess a belief in the religion of heaven, and infidelity spreading itself in consequence of the same--men giving themselves up to commit acts of the foulest kind, and deeds of the blackest dye; dying, blaspheming, stealing, robbing, murdering, defaming, defrauding, blasting the reputation of neighbors, advocating error and opposing the truth, forsaking the covenant of heaven, and denying the faith of Jesus--and in the midst of all this, the day of the Lord fast approaching when none except those who have on the wedding garment will be permitted to eat and drink in the presence of the Bridegroom, the Prince of peace!

Impressed with the truth of these facts, what can be the feelings of those who have been made partakers of the heavenly gift, and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come? Who but those who can see the awful precipice upon which the world of mankind stand in this generation, can labor in the vineyard of the Lord with a feeling sense of their deplorable situation? Who but those who have duly considered the condesention of the Father of our spirits, in providing a sacrifice for his creatures, a plan of redemption, a power of atonement, a scheme of salvation, having as one of its great objects, to bring men back into the presence of the King of heaven; crown them in the celestial glory, and make them heirs with his Son to that inheritance which is incorruptible, undefiled, and which fadeth not away--can realize the importance of a perfect walk before all men, and a diligence in calling upon all men to partake of these blessings? How indescribably glorious are these tidings to mankind! Of a truth they may be considered tidings of great joy to all people; and tidings too what ought to fill the earth and cheer the heart of every one when sounded in his ears.--And the reflection, that every one is to receive according to his own diligence and perseverance while in the vineyard, ought to inspire every one who is called to be a minister of these glad tidings, to so improve upon their talent that they may gain other talents, that when the Master sits down to take an account of the conduct of his servants, that it may be said, [Matt. 25:23] Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will now make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.

Some may presume to say, that the world in this age is fast increasing in righteousness; that the dark ages of superstition and blindness have passed over, when the faith of Christ was known and practiced only by a few, when ecclesiastic power held an almost universal control over christendom, and when the consciences of men were held bound by the strong chains of priestly power; but now, the gloomy cloud is burst, and the gospel is shining with all the resplendent glory of an apostolic day; and that the kingdom of the Messiah is greatly spreading, that the gospel of our Lord is carried to divers nations of the earth, the scriptures translating into different tongues, the ministers of the truth crossing the vast deep to proclaim to men in darkness a risen Savior, and to erect the standard of Emmanuel where light has never shone, and that the idol is destroyed, the temple of images forsaken; and those who but a short time previous followed the traditions of their fathers and sacrificed their own flesh to appease the wrath of some imaginary god, are now raising their voices in the worship of the Most High, and are lifting their thoughts up to him with the full expectation, that one day they will meet with a joyful reception into his everlasting kingdom!

But, a moment's candid reflection upon the principles of these systems, the manner they are conducted, the individuals employed, the apparent object held out as an inducement to cause them to act, we think, is sufficient for every candid man to draw a conclusion in his own bosom, whether this is the order of heaven or not. We deem it a just principle, and it is one the force of which we believe ought to be duly considered by every individual, that all men are created equal, and that all have the privilege of thinking for themselves upon all matters relative to conscience. Consequently, then we are not disposed, had we the power, to deprive any one from exercising that free independence of mind which heaven has so graciously bestowed upon the human family as one of its choicest gifts, but we take the liberty, (and this we have a right to do,) of looking at this order of things a few moments, and contrasting it with the order of God as we find it in the sacred scriptures. In this review, however, we shall present the points as we consider they were really designed by the great Giver to be understood, and the happy result arising from a performance of the requirements of heaven, as therein revealed, to every one who obeys them; and the consequence attending a false construction, a misrepresentation, or a forced meaning that was never designed in the mind of the Lord when he condescended to speak from the heavens to men for their salvation.

Previous to entering upon a subject of so great a moment to the human family, there is a prominent item which suggests itself to our minds which, here, in few words we wish to discuss: All regularly organized and well established governments, have certain laws by which, more or less, the innocent are protected and the guilty punished. The fact admitted, that certain laws are good, equitable and just, ought to be binding upon the individual who admits this fact, to observe in the strictest manner an obedience to those laws. These laws when violated, or broken by that individual, must, in justice convict his mind with a double force, if possible, of the extent and magnitude of his crime; because he could have no plea of ignorance to produce; and his act of transgression was openly committed againts light and knowledge. But the individual who may be ignorant, and imperceptibly transgresses or violates these laws, though the voice of the country requires that he should suffer, yet he will never feel that remorse of conscience that the other will, and that keen-cutting reflection will never rise in his brest that otherwise would, had he done the deed, or committed the offence in full conviction that he was breaking the law of his country, and having previously acknowledged the same to be just. It is not our intention by these remarks, to attempt to place the law of man on a parallel with the law of heaven; because we do not consider that it is formed in that wisdom and propriety; neither do we consider that it is sufficient in itself to bestow any thing in comparison to the law of heaven, even should it promise it. The law of men may guarantee to a people protection in the honorable pursuits of this life, and the temporal happiness arising from a protection against unjust insults and injuries; and when this is said, all is said, that can be in truth, of the power, extent, and influence of the law of men, exclusive of the law of God. The law of heaven is presented to man, and as such guarantees to all who obey it a reward far beyond any earthly consideration: it does not promise that the believer in every age should be exempt from the afflictions and troubles arising from different sources in consequence of wicked men on earth; though in the midst of all this there is a promise predicated upon the fact that it is the law of heaven, which transcends the law of man, as far as eternal life is prefferable to temporal; and the blessings which God is able to give, greater than those which can be given by man! Then, certainly, if the law of man is binding upon man when acknowledged, much more must the law of heaven be. And as much as the law of heaven is perfect, more than the law of man, so much greater must be the reward if obeyed. The law of man promises safety in temporal life; but the law of God promises that life which is eternal, even an inheritance at his own right hand, secure from all the powers of the wicked one.

We consider that God has created man with a mind capable of instruction, and a faculty which may be enlarged in proportion to the heed and diligence given to the light communicated from heaven to the intellect; and that the nearer man approaches perfection, the more conspicuous are his views, & the greater his enjoyments, until he has overcome the evils of this life and lost every desire of sin; and like the ancients, arrives to that point of faith that he is wrapped in the glory and power of his Maker and is caught up to dwell with him. But we consider that this is a station to which no man ever arrived in a moment: he must have been instructed into the government and laws of that kingdom by proper degrees, till his mind was capable in some measure of comprehending the propriety, justice equity, and consistency of the same. For further instruction we refer you to Deut. 32 where the Lord says, that Jacob is the lot of his inheritance. He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; he led him about, he instructed him, he kept him as the apple of his eye, &c. which will show the force of the last item advanced, that it is necessary for men to receive an understanding concerning the laws of the heavenly kingdom, before they are permitted to enter it: we mean the celestial glory. So dissimilar are the governments of men, and so divers are their laws, from the government and laws of heaven, that a man, for instance, hearing that there was a country on this globe called the United States of North America, could take his journey to this place without first learning the laws of this government; but the conditions of God's kingdom are such, that all who are made partakers of that glory, are under the necessity of first learning something respecting it previous to their entering into it. But the foreignor can come to this country without knowing a syllable of its laws, or even subscribing to obey them after he arrives. Why? Because the government of the United State does not require it: it only requires an obedience to its laws after the individual has arrived within its jurisdiction.

As we previously remarked, we do not attempt to place the law of man on a parallel with the law of heaven; but we will bring forward another item, to further urge the propriety of yielding obedience to the law of heaven, after the fact is admitted, that the laws of man are binding upon man. Were a king to extend his dominion over the habitable earth, and send forth his laws which were of the most perfect kind, and command his subjects one and all to yield obedience to the same; and annex as a reward to those who obeyed them, that at a certain period they should be called to attend the marriage of his son, who in due time was to receive the kingdom, and they should be made equal with him in the same; and annex as a penalty for disobedience that every individual should be cast out at the marriage feast, and have no part nor portion with his government; and what rational mind could for a moment accuse the king with injustice for punishing such rebellious subjects? In the first place his laws were just, easy and perfect: nothing was required in them of a tyranical nature; but their very construction was equity and beauty; and when obeyed would produce the happiest situation possible to all who adheard to them, beside the last great benefit of sitting down with a royal robe in the presence of the king at the great grand marriage supper of his son, and be made equal with him in all the affairs of the kingdom.

When these royal laws were issued, and promulgated throughout the vast dominion, every subject, when interrogated whether he believed them to be from his sovereign answered, Yes, I know they are, I am acquainted with the signature, for it is as usual, THUS SAITH THE KING! This admitted, the subject is bound by every consideration of honor to his country, his king, and his own personal character, to observe in the strictest sense every requisition in the royal edict. Should any escape the search of the embassadors of the king, and never hear these last laws, giving his subjects such exalted privileges, an excuse might be urged in their behalf, and they escape the censure of the king. But for those who had heard, who had admitted, and who had promised obedience to these just laws no excuse could be urged, and when brought into the presence of the king, certainly, justice would require that they should suffer a penalty! Could that king be just in admitting these rebellious individuals into the full enjoyment and privileges with his son, and those who had been obedient to his commandments? Certainly not. Because they disregarded the voice of their lawful king; they had no regard for his virtuous laws, for his dignity, nor for the honor of his name; neither for their own country's sake, nor their private virtue! They neither regarded his authority enough to obey him, neither did they regard the immediate advantages and blessings arising from these laws if kept, to observe them, so destitute were they of virtue and goodness; and above all, they regarded so little the joy and satisfaction of a legal seat in the presence of the king's only son, and to be made equal with him in all the blessings, honors, comforts, and felicities of his kingdom, that they turned away from an anticipation of them, and considered that they were beneath their present notice, though they had no doubt as to the real authenticity of the royal edict.

We ask, again, would the king be just in admitting these rebels to all the privileges of his kingdom, with those who had served him with the strictest integrity? We again answer, No! such individuals would be dangerous characters in any government, good & wholesome laws they despised; just and perfect principles they trampled under their feet as something beneath their notice, and disregarded those commands of their sovereign entirely which they had once acknowledged to be equitable! How could a government be conducted with harmony if its administrators were possessed with such different dispositions and different principles? Could it prosper? Could it flourish? Would harmony prevail? Would order be established, and could justice be executed in righteousness in all branches of its department? No! In it were two classes of men as discimilar as light is from darkness, virtue from vice, justice from injustice, truth from falsehood, and holiness from sin! One class were perfectly harmless and virtuous; they knew what virtue was for they had lived in the fullest enjoyment of it, and their fidelity to truth fairly tested by a series of years of faithful obedience to all its heavenly precepts. They knew what good order was, for they had been orderly and obedient to the laws imposed on them by their wise sovereign, and had experienced the benefits arising from a life spent in his government till he had now seen proper to make them equal with his son.--Such individuals would indeed adorn any court where perfection was one of its main springs of action, and shine far more brilliant than the richest gem in the diadem of the prince.

The other class were a set of individuals who disregarded every principle of justice and equity, whatever: and this is demonstrated from the fact, that when just laws were issued by the king, which were perfectly equitable, they were so lost to a sense of righteousness that they disregarded those laws, notwithstanding an obedience to them would have produced the happiest result possible, at the time, as regarded their own personal comfort and advantage. They were entirely destitute of harmony and virtue, so much so that virtuous laws they despised. They had proven themselves unworthy a place in the joys of the prince, because they had for a series of years lived in open violation of his government. Certainly, then, those two clases of men could not hold the reins of the same government at the same time in peace; for internal jars, broils, and discords would rack it to the center, were such a form of government to attempt to exist under such a system. The virtuous could not enjoy peace in the constant and unceasing schemes and evil plans of the wicked; neither could the wicked have enjoyment in the constant perseverance of the righteous to do justly. And that there must be an agreement in this government, or it could not stand, must be admitted by all. Should the king convey the reins into the hands of the rebellious the government must soon fall; for every government, from the creation to the present; when it ceased to be virtuous, and failed to execute justice, sooner or later has been overthrown. And without virtuous principles to actuate a government all care for justice is soon lost, and the only motive which prompts it to act is, ambition and selfishness. Should the king admit these rebels into his house to make them equal with the others, would be condescending beneath his character; because he once issued virtuous laws which were received by a part of his subjects, and the reward annexed was a seat at the marriage feast, and an adoption into his own family as lawful heirs. So should he now offer any thing differently he would blast forever his own reputation, and destroy forever that government which he once so diligently labored to establish and preserve, and which he once had wisdom to organize. Such individuals as the last named would be a bane to a virtuous government, and would prove its overthrow if suffered to hold a part in conducting its helm!

We take the sacred writings into our hands and admit that they were given by direct inspiration for the good of man. We believe that God condescended to speak from the heavens and declare his will concerning the human family: give to them just and holy laws to regulate their conduct, and guide them in a direct way, that in due time he might take them to himself, and make them joint heirs with his Son. But when this fact is admitted, that the immediate will of heaven in here contained, are we not bound as rational creatures to live in accordance to all its precepts? Will the mere admision that this is the will of heaven ever benefit us if we do not comply with all its teachings! Do we not offer violence to the Supreme Intelligence of heaven, when we admit the truth of its teachings, and do not obey them? Do we not condescend beneath our own character, and the better wisdom which heaven has endowed us with, by such a course of conduct? For these reasons, if we have direct revelations given us from heaven, surely these revelations were never given to be trifled with, without the triflers incuring displeasure, and assuring vengeance upon their own heads, if there is any justice in heaven; and that there is, must be admitted by every individual who admits the truth and force of its teachings; its blessings and cursings, as contained in the sacred volume.

Here, then, we have this part of our subject immediately before us for consideration. God has in reserve a time, or period appointed in his own bosom, when he will bring all his subjects, who have obeyed his voice and kept his commandments, into his celestial rest. This rest is of such perfection and glory, that man has need of a preparation before he can, according to the laws of that kingdom enter it and enjoy its blessings.--This being the fact, God has given certain laws to the human family, which, if observed, are sufficient to prepare them to inherit this rest. This, then, we conclude, was the purpose of God in giving his laws to us: if not, why, or for what were they given? If the whole family of man were as well off without them as they might be with them, for what purpose or intent were they ever given? Was it that God wanted to merely show that he could talk? This would be nonsense, to suppose that he would condescend to talk in vain; for it would be in vain, and to no purpose whatever: because, all the commandments contained in the law of the Lord, have the sure promise annexed of a reward to all who obey; predicated upon the fact, that they are really the promises of a Being who cannot lie, and who is abundantly able to fulfil every tittle of his word: and if man were as well prepared, or could be as well prepared, to meet God without their ever having been given the first instance, why were they ever given? for certainly, in that case they can now do him no good.

As we previously remarked, all well established and properly organized government have certain fixed and prominent laws for the regulation and management of the same.--If man has grown to wisdom and is capable of discerning the propriety of laws to govern nations, what less can we expect from the Ruler and Upholder of the universe? Can we suppose that he has a kingdom without laws? Or do we believe that it is composed of an innumerable company of beings who are entirely beyond all law? Consequently have need of nothing to govern or regulate them? Would not such ideas be reproachful to our Great Parent, and an attempt to cast a stigma upon his glorious character? Would it not be asserting, that we had found out a secret beyond Deity? that we had learned that it was good to have laws, and yet He, after existing from eternity, and having power to create man, had not found out the fact, that it was proper to have laws for his government! We admit that God is the great source and fountain from whence proceeds all good; that he is perfect intelligence, and that his wisdom is alone sufficient to govern and regulate the mighty creations and worlds which shine and blaze with such magnificence and splendor over our heads, as though touched with his finger and moved by his Almighty word. And if so, it is done and regulated by law; for without law all must certainly fall into chaos. If, then, we admit that God is the source of all wisdom and understanding, we must admit that by his direct inspiration he has taught man that law was necessary in order to govern and regulate his own immediate interest and welfare: For this reason, it is beneficial to promote peace and happiness among men: And as before remarked, God is the source from whence proceeds all good; and if man is benefitted by law, then certainly, law is good; and if law is good, it, or the principle of it emanated from God; for God is the source of all good; consequently, then, he was the first Author of law, or the principle of it, to mankind.

TO BE CONTINUED.

The Evening and the Morning Star IS PUBLISHED EVERY MONTH AT KIRTLAND, GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO. BY F. G. WILLIAMS & CO.

O. [Oliver] COWDERY, Editor.

THE PRICE IS ONE DOLLAR FOR A YEAR IN ADVANCE, EXCEPT SPECIAL CONTRACTS ARE MADE. EVERY PERSON THAT SENDS US $10, CURRENT MONEY, SHALL BE ENTITLED TO A PAPER FOR A YEAR, GRATIS. ALL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, OR PUBLISHERS, MUST BE POST PAID.

PRINTING, OF MOST KINDS, DONE TO ORDER, AND IN STYLE AT THIS OFFICE.

VOL. II, NO. 18, KIRTLAND, OHIO, MARCH, 1834.

<"Outrage">
Oliver Cowdery "Outrage," E&MS 2 (Mar 1834)

THE OUTRAGE IN JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI.

{beliefs-lds} FROM the beginning of the world, since the plan of redemption was communicated from heaven to man, the righteous have, almost unceasingly been persecuted. But persecution is not a heavenly principle: it was never inculcated by the inspiration of God: it never emanated from HIM; but must have came from the prince of darkness; and can never find countenance except in his followers. However many may have been persecuted for their religion, and whether they were really the righteous followers of Christ, being founded upon the true principles of his gospel, we shall not here go into a lengthy discussion of this point; but this we can say, that whether the persecuted were righteous or unrighteous, the persecutors were actuated by the spirit of antichrist, and of course they were not the children of God. How long was it from the time that the system of salvation was communicated to Cain and Abel, before Abel, because he was righteous was slain by the hand of his brother? And why was he angry with Abel? because Abel was righteous, and he himself was not. A strange notion has almost invariably pervaded the minds of men--a wild desire to seek the blood of the innocent. What urges men on to the commission of such inhuman acts? Is it a liberal spirit which seeks the blood of innocence? Is it a kind, humane, disposition that prompts men to slay, or drive from the face of society their fellow creatures, to wander in solitude and seek a reffuge for life in wildernesses and in mountains? Is this the religion which God has given to men to prepare them for a mansion on his own right hand, in his glory, which consists in butchery and rapine? Did the apostles and primitive saints ever recommend such an order of things as this? Did the Lord Jesus in all his communications from heaven to earth ever command it? No! Who does, or ever did? POPES and PRIESTS! followed by a gang of obsequious wretches, who, if they ever had any respect or reverence for the divine Majesty, or a just sense of a reward for every act of violence committed upon their species, have lost it by the vain flatteries of such individuals as teach that, to expel a heritic, or massacre such as do not yield to their oppressive hand, is no crime; but a certain expiation for the blackest deed, and a sure means of obtaining the rich rewards of the kingdom of heaven! It is in vain to deny that this has not been the case century after century. The horrid scenes acted by the instigation of men, (or demons, we might more properly say,) who have professed holiness, is sufficient to shock the senses of every feeling man. The forms and plans for torturing atheists, (as the Pagans used to designate the followers of Christ,) and heritics, (as the Catholics are pleased to call all who do not worship as the followers of the "Whore of Babylon,") must have caused the angels to blush, and the heavens to weep! But with all their boast of religion, those who have professed to be the followers of the Lamb of God, have approached nearer the purposes of the father of hes in inventing torments for their victims, than the Pagans. Witness the horrors of the Inquisition; or as the Catholics call it, "The holy office," or as other call it, "The holy apostolical court of inquisition," and see men accused without a crime, and condemned and put to the rack without a witness! See their goods and estates confiscated, and the money put into the coffers of the subjects of demons, called POPES and PRIESTS! See mothers deprived of their infants, and children left orphans! See cities and provinces depopulated by the express command of those who profess to be infallible; and witness at the same time a ruthless soldiery trample down the helpless and defile the virtuous! Notice the flow of blood from the cruelty of Herod of Judea, to Pope Sylvester, and from his time to the outrage in Jackson county, Missouri, and ask, Is this the religion of heaven, which teaches men to array the strong against the weak, and to put the torture men who do not believe the popular creed? Did God ever give to men the power to compel their fellow beings to believe contrary to their own minds, by putting into operation a system of cruelty where the most shocking excesses of torments were inflicted, to cause them so to do? For a moment witness the self righteous and hypocritical fiends, clothed with the (pretended) garments of the sanctuary, professing to be the shepherds of the Lord's flock, exulting in the afflictions and pains of men, who were made to suffer for no other reason than a disbelief in the popular creed: see them scoff at the groans of misery, and witness them turn a deaf ear to the cries of helpless innocence; see them walk over the ashes of the dwellings of their victims, and see them laugh at their calamity: see them trample upon the wounded and dying, while they wade through blood, and stain their (sacerdotal) garments with the same; and ask, Can such men inherit the celestial glory? Do such men hold the keys of the kingdom of heaven? Have they power to fasten the mansions of glory against those whom they persecute? If they have, may heaven grant that we may not enter with them; for we have no desire to be locked into a habitation with such blood-defiled monsters! God never gave so bloody a picture to his creatures, and called it his order to prepare them to inherit his rest. He never inculcated such for gospel principles, nor left on record that such persons should have a place on his right hand in his glory. It is only the invention of those who love the glory of this world better than the pure riches of eternity: it came from such individuals as make merchandise of the souls of men to gratify a vain and wicked ambition, and under a cloak of sanctity fill up the cup of their own iniquity, sporting with the doctrines of the gospel, to carry on their own schemes of murder and barbarity till God takes them from this stage of action to deceive men no more. Can such be the religion of heaven? No; the very reverse; for had all men that religion no acts of cruelty or violence would be committed: no blood would stain the earth, shed to gratify the ambition of tyrants and priests! No wars would fill our hearts with sorrow, nor the cry of helpless innocence and virtue, salute the heavens for vengeance upon the perpetrators of such crimes! No ambitious, hypocritical pretended doctors of divinity, would ride over the ruins of men in gilted coaches, to lord it over God's heritage! But every man would be on a level with his fellow-man, the great adversary of righteousness who leads men to destruction, would then be bound; the holy choir who now rejoice in heaven, would mingle praises with the saints below, and the earth would rest.

In past ages, few were privileged with reading the holy scriptures: the art of printing was not then known among men; and the poor, the low, and indeed, we might say, many who professed to be teachers of the gospel, scarce knew a syllable of that book now called the bible. It has ever been the policy of tyrants and despots to keep their subjects in ignorance, the more easily to effect their own purposes. The popes and priests of the Romish church have sought, (more particularly perhaps in former days,) to keep the true knowledge of the word of God from their flocks; at the same time assuming the privilege of teaching its meaning, strenuously inculcating, that it was dangerous for the common people to think for themselves. And instead of teaching their congregations the doctrine of the bible, they have taught them a long round of whims and fabulous traditions, the decrees of popes and councils; the ridiculous worship of images; the celebration of mass; the prayers and intercessions for the releaf of the souls of the dead from purgatory; the invoking the virgin Mary and other departed saints; the suffering of penance for sins; and one thing as strenuously as all, that they themselves were infallible, that they were invested with the power and authority of the apostles; yes, more than the apostles; because the apostles never claimed the authority of crowning, and of dethroning earthly princes; of regulating the affairs of empires, and of offering pardon for the most atrocious crimes, in the name of the Most High, to all who should take up arms and assist in the exterpation of heritics--and the popes have. But in this age, and more especially in countries where the word of God may be had freely by all classes of men, we are surprised at the ignorance of many on the subject of religion. How it is possible that any can suppose, that religion consists in dispising men for any belief whatever, is unaccountable, unless we have in our country a set of creatures who are led blindfold by ambitious priests, who regard nothing but their own personal aggrandizement, and live without the fear of God before their eyes. From our own observation, we doubt not but there are such in our own beloved country, and may heaven grant that their numbers may be few: for religion consists in doing good, and not in doing evil; and the scripture is plain, that that which is pure and undefiled before God and the Father is, [James 1:27] To visit the widow and the fatherless in their afflictions, and to keep one's self unspotted from the world. If then, this is the acceptable religion in the sight of heaven, how is it that men can have the hardihood to make a profession of it, and instead of visiting and relieving the wants of the widow and the fatherless, seek the destruction of fathers; and when that is effected, drive the helpless to perish in the open air without food or raiment? Is heaven filled with such a religion as this? to persecute and destroy? If so, may we be delivered from it here and hereafter; for our hearts revolt at this system, and so would every man's if he had but one feeling of sympathy. But this is not so, such precepts are not contained in the gospel, to persecute men for their belief, deprive them of the goods of this life, and expose their widows and children to death. Men degrade themselves by their actions, and bring upon their own heads the judgements of the Almighty; yet they have, notwithstanding this, the privilege of believing in whatever system they choose, and heaven has never given to another man to say that they shall not enjoy this privilege, and act according to the dictates and influences of their own consciences. Why is a man to be dispised for any belief whatever so long as he conducts himself with propriety, as a citizen? Suppose him to be a Mussulman, shall he be dispised on the account of it? It is only his belief that we may discard, not the individual, who has never harmed any man; because he is also a man, and has his own way of believing, which to him, no doubt is as near as our own to us. It is not the Catholic that we dispise, it is only that we do not fellowship him in his belief; believing it to be incorrect according to the written word of God; and so we might say of every other sect who do not think as we do; and when this is said, all is said with us: they have a right to enjoy the blessings of their belief without molestation from us, or any one else: It is what heaven gave to them; they may enjoy it: If our neighbor is more righteous than ourselves, we rejoice because of his righteousness: we seek not his destruction because of it: If he is not as righteous as we are, we are sorry; it is our privilege to persuade him to be better; and if we can persuade him so to be, we rejoice; but if not, we judge him not, neither do we persecute him, nor threaten his life because he does not believe as we do; for this would not be the religion of heaven. Men cannot be forced into religion: their bodies may be bent, but their minds are their own: that intelligence is the gift of God, and when once it discovers an additional ray, it cannot be chained, it cannot be brought into subjection to a lesser power of intelligence; for it soars above it: when once turned to hate a system, force will only cause it to detest it the more, if used to cause it to recieve it again. The body may be racked upon the wheel till each joint is dislocated; it may be confined in dungeons and solitary cells, yet the concience cannot be bent--it may be consumed in the pan, or by the fagot, and yet, "mens invicta manet." It is the height of folly to undertake to destroy any system of religion, be it ever so fallacious, or contrary to that which has been revealed from heaven, by persecution. The sword has not the power over the conscience, nor the fagot over the mind: it has been effectually tried in past ages: and from the ashes of the martyr who is slain to day, an army may rise tomorrow, break the tyrants chain, and defy his power.

Our readers will have noticed in former numbers of the Star, many items purporting to be facts relative to the shameful outrage in Jackson county, Missouri, and they may remain assured, that nothing has been exaggerated by us relative to that subject. If doubts remain upon the mind with regard to this event, they may ask, where, now, are those inhabitants who settled peaceably in Jackson county, upon lands which they purchased of the Government and of individuals? Are they not driven from their homes by a lawless band of ruffians, who have defied the power of the civil law? Witness the desolate homes, raised by the industrious hands of lawful citizens; see the once fertile fields covered with crops which their economy and industry had prepared for their support, now lie open and waste to be destroyed by beasts, unless those murderers have seized upon the same for their own aggrandizement; and ask, why have these people fled, and what is the cause of this destruction and desolation? If they were disturbers of the public peace; if they were obnoxious to society, where are the records of legal courts to demonstrate the fact?

As we previously promised in a former number of the Star, that we should give the names of certain individuals concerned in this outrage, we give the following in this, with a statement of their standing and profession, &c. and shall continue in subsequent numbers to relate the acts of the leading characters of the mob, generally, as our limits and knowledge may enable us, with such remarks as the enormity of an outrage of this magnitude, in a republican Government, shall be thought appropriate.

S. [Samuel] D. Lucas, Colonel, one of the Judges of the county court, and a professor of religion, a Presbyterian! who had taken a solemn oath to act according to law, and preserve inviolate the constitution, signed an article which we have heretofore published, and which we have called the secret constitution of the Jackson co. mob, which says, "The arm of the civil law does not afford us a guarantee, or at least a sufficient one, &c." What an honorable man! what a fine citizen! what an impartial magistrate he must be! how firm his mind must be in the cause of justice! what a high veneration he must have for the laws of his country! what a WASHINGTON he would have made! what a worthy member of society! what a heroic and patriotic nation ours would be were it composed of such men! what a fit subject to inherit--what? not the kingdom of God! Such monsters betrayed, led to the cross, and slew the Lord Jesus Christ! Such infernal-influenced beings martyred the ancient saints, and marked their own course with the blood of innocence! Robert Fristoe, a Judge of the county court, a member of the Baptist church, also signed the same writing, was present and assisted in conducting our six friends, of whom we have had occasion to mention, up to the slaughter, (except they would deny the faith, or agree to leave the county,) on the 23 of July, last. How holily and majestic he must have walked by the side of these men; how beautifully he must have adorned his high and holy calling, being a professed follower of the meek and lowly Lamb, in assisting to destroy men who had never harmed an individual nor violated the laws of their country! A man whose profession teaches to relieve the wants of the afflicted; to visit the widow and fatherless, was now engaged, yes, had bound himself to assist in making widows and orphans, aud then drive them from their homes to perish! Where was his oath, or where was his profession? His oath was violated, and his profession as a christian was lost in his wicked desire to destroy men who did not believe as he did. Samuel C. Owens, Clerk of the court, (and if we mistake not one of the number who composed the delegation at the time the constitution of the state of Missouri was framed,) was also engaged in this same tragedy, and signed his name to the same instrumeut, binding himself to expel, to the sacrifice of his "property and bodily powers," peaceable citizens from their homes. Owens has been a clerk in the Legislature of that state during, if we mistake not several sessions.--What an honor this must reflect upon his character! What a worthy legislator, and how peculiarly well qualified to assist in framing an instrument which reads like the following: "That no human authority can control or interfere with the rights of conscience; that no person can ever be hurt, molested, or restrained in his religious profession:" See the constitution of the state of Missouri, which Owens had sworn to defend, (not break,) and ask, whether this will not be an evidence to the rising generation, that we were fast marching into reform? John Smith and Samuel Weston, Justices of the peace, residing in the town of Independence, were so forward to act in the discharge of their duties as magestrates, that they used their influence to effect a removal of those peaceable inhabitants, by signing the same instrument. Weston's conduct has previously been noticed; and it is to be remembered, that when applied to for a peace warrant he refused to grant one, when the mob were engaged in stoning houses, destroying property, and threatening lives. This was the republican who refused to give a warrant that M' Carty, who was taken in the act of breaking open Gilbert Whitney &, CO's store, might be dealt with according to the law of the land. Weston emigrated from England, if we mistake not, and if his character is not altered materially since he left that country, his native countrymen, have reason to be thankful that there is another place on the earth beside the isle of Great Britain. Smith is a native of ------------we know not where; but presume that he must have come up among a race where mob laws were the supreme statutes of the land, by his forwardness in the affairs of this outrage. We noticed some other names attached to the same secret constitution, which had J. P. affixed to them; but our memory is not sufficient at this time to enable us to name all. Neither can we give the characters of all who were engaged in this affair, in this article, nor every unlawful and wicked act committed by them; but we shall give extracts of some from time to time, until we can fulfil our promise previously made, to give in pamphlet form, in full, the general characters of the inhabitants of that country. By giving the conduct of a few of the more influential, our friends may draw their own conclusion relative to what the others undoubtedly are. Gan Johnson, a very devout, holy, (would be called,) Presbyterian, stood by and assisted in demolishing the printing office on the 20th of July, last. There is one act of this man, in this affair, which entitles him to our notice in this place; and were it not for this, we know not as we should mention his name at this time. And as all great men, who have rendered themselves famous and conspicuous in the eyes of the world, are favored with privileges of appearing before the public in print, we think, considering this man's profession and standing in society in that county, that a failure to give him a passing notice, would be treating him with too much neglect. After the office was partly demolished, this Johnson, (with the cross bar of a printer's chase in his hand,) was placed to see that nothing belonging to the office was taken by the owners from the hands of the mob; for, said they, "Destroy, or keep from them everything, so that they shall not be able to print any more." Think for a moment, reader, how this professor of religion appeared, with a bar of iron in his hand to keep from the hands of the lawful owners, every thing belonging to the establishment which he was then assisting to destroy, while you reflect, that he was then surrounded by an innocent family who had just been dragged, (and some of them sick,) from the same building by those ruffians! Do you not think that he must have thought himself well imployed, considering his profession and standing in society? How his bosom must have glowed with christian love while he was thus depriving women and children of a dwelling, and exposing them, though afflicted with sickness, to the inclemency of the weather under the open canopy! What better is an immediate death, than a lingering one? Which would have been the most aggravating, think, in the sight of heaven, for this man to have fallen upon this helpless family with that bar of iron, and killed them at once, or do as he did, deprive them of the means of life, and drive them out to perish? Supposing a ruffian attacks a family, takes the live of the man, and deprives the remaining part of a dwelling, or even a means of subsistence, where in all human probability they must perish,is he not guilty of the blood of the whole? Where, reader, do you think such men will be sent when they are called from time? do you think they will be permitted to inherit those mansions which Christ told his disciples that he was going to prepare for them?

Since the foregoing was put in type the following letter has been received from the west, which will show that our conjectures were correct relative to criminal prosecution in Jackson county, which were, that no bills of indictment could be found against the mob. It could not reasonably be expected, that after binding themselves to violate the law they would now act according to it, and find bills against their own accomplices in those deeds of murder and violence. The mob may flatter themselves that all is over as regards criminal prosecutions, because they hold the power in their own hands; but the day may come when that county shall be inhabited by virtuous citizens who will "magnify the law and make it honorable:" Justice may come in an unexpected hour upon the guilty. It yet remains for our friends to sue for damages, &c. and in all probability the suits will be removed to another county, which will give them a chance to obtain redress for the destruction of property. Enough is transpiring almost daily to show the public that the individuals composing that mob are on a level with the most abandoned savage. We are happy to have it in our power yet to say, that our friends in all cases have only acted on the defensive, and have already born more than the law of man or heaven ever required, without resistance.--[Editor of the Star.]

<William Phelps>
William Phelps ltr 27 Feb 1834 in E&MS 2 (Mar 1834)

Clay Co. Feb. 27, 1834.

DEAR BRETHREN.--The times are so big with events, and the anxiety of every body so great to watch them, that I feel some what impressed to write oftner than I have done, in order to give you more of the "strange acts" of this region. I have just returned from Independence, the seat of war in the west. About a dozen of our brethren, among whom were br. [Edward] Partridge, [John] Corril [Corrill] and [W. W. Phelps] myself, were subpoenaed in behalf of the state, and on the 23d (Feb.) about twelve o'clock we were on the bank, opposite Evrit's ferry, where we found Capt. Atchinson's company of "Liberty Blues," near fifty rank and file, ready to guard us into Jackson county. The soldiers were well armed with U. S. muskets, bayonets fixed, &c, and to me the scene was one "passing strange," and long to be remembered. The martial law in force to guard the civil! About 25 men crossed over to effect a landing in safety, and when they came near the warehouse, they fired six or eight guns, tho' the enemy had not gathered to witness the landing.

After we were all a cross, and waiting for the baggage wagon, it was thought not advisable to encamp in the woods, and the witnesses with half the compay, marched nearly a mile towards Independence, to build night fires, as we were without tents, and the weather cold enough to snow a little. While on the way the Quarter Master, and others, that had gone on a head to prepare quarters in town, sent an express back, which was not the most pacific appearance that could be. Capt. Atchinson continued the express to Col. Allen for the 200 drafted militia; and also to Liberty for more ammunition; and the night passed off in war like style, with the sentinals marching silently at a proper distance from the watch-fires.

Early in the morning we marched strongly guarded by the troops, to the seat of war, and quartered in the block house, formerly the tavern stand of S. Flournoy. After breakfast, we were visited by the District Attorney, Mr. Rees, and the Attorney General, Mr. Wells. From them we learned that all hopes of criminal prosecution, was at an end. Mr. Wells had been sent by the Governor to investigate, as far as possible, the Jackson outrage, but the bold front of the mob, bound even unto death, (as I have heard) was not to be penetrated by civil law, or awed by Executive influence. Shortly after Capt. A. informed me that he had just received an order from the Judge, that his company's service was no longer wanted in Jackson county, and we were marched out of town to the tune of Yankee-doodle in quick time, and soon returned to our camp ground without the loss of any lives. In fact much credit is due to Captain Atchinson, for his gallantry and hospitality, and I think I can say of the officers and company, that their conduct as soldiers and men, is highly reputable; so much so, knowing as I do the fatal result, had the militia come, or not come, I can add that the Capt's safe return, refreshed my mind, with Zenophon's retreat of the ten thousand. Thus ends all hopes of "redress," even with a guard ordered by the Governor, for the protection of the court and witnesses.

Before a crop is harvested, it becomes ripe of itself. The dreadful deeds now done in Jackson county, with impunity, must bring matters to a focus shortly. Within two or three weeks past, some of the most savage acts, ever witnessed, have been committed by these bitter branches. Old father Linsey, whose locks have been whitened by the blasts of nearly seventy winters, had his house thrown down, after he was driven from it; his goods, corn, &c, piled together, and fire put to it, but fortunately, after the mob retired, his son extinguished it.

The mob has quit whipping, and now beat with clubs. Lyman Leonard one of the number that returned from Van Buren, had two chairs broke to splinters about him, and was then dragged out doors and beat with clubs till he was supposed to be dead--but he is yet alive. Josiah Sumner and Barnet Cole were severly beat at the same time. The mob have commenced burning houses, stacks, &c. and we shall not think it out of their power, by any means, to proceed to murder any of our people that shall try to live in that county, or perhaps, only go there.

Such scenes as are transpiring around us, are calculated to arouse feelings, and passions in all, and to strengthen the faith and fortify the hearts of the saints for great things. Our Savior laid down his life for our sakes, and shall we, who profess to live by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God; shall we, the servants of the Lord of the vineyard, who are called and chosen to prune it for the last time; shall we, yea, verily, we, who are enlightened by the wisdom of heaven, shall we fear to do as much for Jesus as he did for us. No; we will obey the voice of the Spirit, that good may overcome the world.

I am a servant, &c, W. [William] W. PHELPS.

<Editorial>
Oliver Cowdery ed E&MS 2 (Mar 1834)

OBITUARY.

DIED on the 4th of December, last, near Pontiac, Michigan Territory, of consumption, brother WILLIAM SCOBY, formerly of Fayette, Seneca county, N. Y. aged 22 years. Brother S. received and obeyed the everlasting gospel, in Fayette, after which he emigrated to this country in 1831. For the last two years of his life he has resided in Michigan. Our personal acquaintance with bro. S. was very limited, but we are credibly informed that he was a worthy member of the church of Christ, and that he died as he lived, in the full assurance of a glorious resurrection at the appearing of our Lord. His death should have been noticed by us ere this; but the letter which gave the intelligence of his decease did not bring the account of his age, &c. Our friends from a distance wishing us to notice the death of their relatives, should make no delay in communicating such information.

[Communicated.]

<John Boynton>
John Boynton ltr 12 Feb 1834 in E&MS 2 (Mar 1834)

"Saco, Maine, February 12, 1834.

BROTHER O. [Oliver] COWDERY:

I drop you this line to inform you that I am well: the Lord is present with me, and his work is prospering in this place: many are desirous to know the truth. I have calls on the right hand and on the left: there is need of faithful laborers in this section, who are qualified to stand against the wiles of satan, and are finished workmen in the gospel of Christ; yes, in the new and everlasting covenant, and have faith like the brother of Jared. The Lord seems to be baptizing the church in this place with the out pouring of his Spirit: they are strong in the Lord and rejoicing in his love."

"I have just returned from paying the last respects due from us to sister MARY BRADBURY, who was a worthy member of the church of Christ. She died yesterday morning after a consuming illness of about sixteen weeks, aged 26 years. During the latter part of her sickness she manifested a calm resignation to the will of a divine Providence; and when death was about to grasp her in his icy arms, she stayed herself on the promises of HIM who is able to save, and who gave himself a ransom for her soul. In her last moments, when kindred spirits waited round to escort her spirit to the Paradise of rest, she said, `I am dying--glory to my Jesus, even so Lord Jesus come quickly:' then on the breast of her Redeemer she reposed her weary head, and without a sigh or struggle,-------
`Breath'd her life out sweetly there.'

"I have nothing more at present to write only, that I feel strong in the Lord, and am determined to press my way to the celestial kingdom. Yours &c.

JOHN F. BOYNTON."

<Editorial>
Oliver Cowdery E&MS 2 (Mar 1834)

{beliefs-lds} Thus are mortals called from this to another state of existence, the present, like all other generations, passing off to try the realities of eternity, after having been permitted to dwell in the flesh--and others rising up to fill their place. This life, seemingly, is but a dream; for soon, our friends, though near and pleasing, droop into the dust: our affections cannot stay the hand of death, nor our tears prevent their exit. In all these dispensations of God, we are reminded of our own approaching dissolution, and the final consummation of all these earthly objects. Short is this life which is allotted to man; but there is a sweet consolation, that the one to which we are fast approaching, has no end. And why should we seek to cling to the saint, when he is called to leave us only for a moment, and when a little space will bring us together where parting will not be realized? For soon this earth will rack by the mighty power of its Maker; soon creation will tremble; soon will the tribes of the earth mourn; soon will the wicked call for the rocks and mountains to fall upon them, to cover them from the face of HIM that sitteth upon the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, and soon will the saints be caught up to meet the Lord in the air, mingle praises with the church of the first born, and death shall be swallowed up in victory!--[Editor of the Star.]

{beliefs-lds} OPINION.--OUR readers are, no doubt, acquainted with the proceedings of the municipal court, held some time since in Boston, Ms, in the case of Abner Kneeland, editor of the "Investigator," who was sentenced, on a charge of blasphemy, for expressing a belief that there was no God, no future existence, &c. to three months imprisonment in the common jail, and to recognize in the sum of $500, with sufficient security in the like sum, to keep the peace for two years. "The Hartford Times," in making some comments upon the remarks of "The Universalist," which justifies the court in the case of Mr. Kneeland, says:

"Paul was a `pestilent fellow,' in the eyes of some of the ancient authorities, who thought `a mild enforcement of the laws' necessary. We do not mean to compare Mr. Kneeland with Paul; but to say that error is ready at all times to prop itself with the legal arm. It is not for man to set up a standard of belief for his fellow man, and to enforce that belief with stripes, dungeon-bolts, or the scaffold itself."

We have previously read the "Investigator," and were not a little surprised at the folly of Mr. Kneeland; indeed, we may say, that we were disgusted with the foul calumny with which he assailed the subject of revealed religion, so much so, that we laid down his paper, and probably for the last time. If the good people of Massachusetts would do the same, none of them would have even been troubled with it to this day.--Believing as we do, in the divine authenticity of the bible, and the religion therein revealed, we cannot see where it authorizes the state of Massachusetts to defend it by enacting laws to favor their own particular opinions, and lock up all others, whether they believe or disbelieve it, unless they have a mount Sinai, and lately from its summet have heard the trump of the Almighty, declaring his statutes and judgments. We are unacquainted with the constitution of that State; but any law interfering with conscience in the least, is directly opposite to the Constitution of the U.S. States, and is an infringement upon the rights of every citizen over which it claims jurisdiction. If they have a right to lock Mr. Kneeland into jail for his opinion, or even for expressing it, they have an equal right to hang him for the same, as their progenitors did the Quakers. In no instance does man show his weakness sooner, than when he has recourse to the civil law to enforce his opinion; and in no case whatever can he quicker and more effectually show that his system never came from God!

The "Times" says, In that year 1828, the Judges of the Supreme court of the State of Connecticut, declared that Universalism was an immoral and dangerous doctrine, and that those who believed in it should be outlawed." This we could reasonabley expect from the land of "Blue laws;" and the other from a country where they formerly murdered persons for their opinions; but we are thankful that none of them will be appointed to judge the world, nor receive power to shut heaven from any one. They may make bolts and bars here, and here is the only place where they can ever use them. God is to be thanked, that the religion which he has revealed for the salvation of men, is in no want of being boulstered up to keep it from falling, or from becoming untrue, by employing Massachusetts or Connecticut to enact laws to shut from society such men as Kneeland for fear they will investigate it!--[Editor of the Star.]

THE EVENING AND THE MORNING STAR.

KIRTLAND, OHIO, MARCH, 1834.

<"Zephaniah">
Oliver Cowdery "Prophecy of Zephaniah," E&MS 2 (Mar 1834)

THE PROPHECY OF ZEPHANIAH. (Continued from our last.)

PERHAPS it might have been considered superfluous in Zephaniah, to predict the downfall of other nations, beside Israel, without carrying the same to them, or causing it to be done; but how far this was the case we shall not pretend to say, as we have no information on the subject contained in the sacred volume. It is a fact, that many of the prophets of Israel were very free in their predictions upon the heathen nations, and Israel might from time to time have seen the fulfillment of many of them had they looked, ere this day. Jonah, as appears from the account, visited Nineveh and proclaimed the word of God to its inhabitants; and, what is very remarkable, they repented and covered themselves with sackcloth from the king to the lowest servant; while Israel, favored with prophets from the beginning of their location in the land of Palestine, rushed on in wickedness till the wrath of heaven overtook them to the uttermost. But it ought to be remembered, that Jonah lived in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash king of Israel, more than one hundred and fifty years before the days of Zephaniah, and more than eighty previous to the time when the king of Assyria took the ten tribes from their own land to which they have not yet been restored. And though the pride and boast of Assyria was humbled to the dust at the voice of God through one of the prophets from the land of Israel, yet now they could march fearlessly into the heart of that country and lead captive its inabitants, because they had forsaken their Shepherd.

How far Nineveh had been enlightened by the revelations of the Lord previous to the time when Jonah visited it, we are not able to say, but we conclude, that they must have reveared the word of God more than most people in our day, or else Jonah's appearance and preaching would not have excited such an alarm, and been the means of so great a reformation. Neither is it for us to say how long they continued righteous afterward; but we may conclude, that if a great people can turn from evil to good in a few days, in the space of eighty years, without continual preaching to, they could again fall into wickedness. But this, perhaps, may be thought digressing too far from the subject of Zephaniah's prophecy, though we are under the necessity of looking at the principal part of his predictions as we pass to the point which we had in view when we commenced; and we are of the opinion, that a minute investigation into even the least or shortest prophecy contained in the scriptures, would be of lasting benefit to any individual who might take the trouble and devote the time to that employment. The prophecies, are thought by many to be of no consequence whatever in our day to the human family, and that, if they are not all fulfilled, (as many suppose them to be,) they are clothed in mysteries and wrapped in metaphors far beyond our comprehension; and if ever fulfilled, the real meaning is so foreign from the literal word, that no one in our time can know any thing what the prophets did mean when they spake; consequently, it is of no importance to us whether they are fulfilled, or whether they remain yet to be: and under circumstances of such a nature, it would matter nothing to us one way nor the other; for though the thing might have been plain to the prophet in his vision, it has since been locked up in the bosom of God, and is never to be shown again till it is accomplished, and then, no one can know it but himself, because he had hid it from the discernment of mortals.

It must be admitted, that even if the prophecies are dark and mysterious to us, they were, in a greater or less degree understood by those who spake them; and this we infer from the fact, that many of their predictions were fulfilled as they were literally spoken; and all the vast overturns among the surrounding nations seemed to have a bearing upon the history of Israel, and the prophets seldom closed their predictions without remarking something that should befall them. They knew that if Israel was scattered the heathen must also suffer in their turn; and if the children of Judah were chastened for their iniquities, their idolatrous neighbors, must, in due time be destroyed. Moab and Ammon, were looked upon by many of the prophets of Israel and were threatened with judgments. Zephaniah looked upon the time when they should reap their just reward for all the bitter affliction that they had brought upon Israel, and with sublime and positive language declares their overthrow. He says:

[Zeph. 2;8-9] I have heard the reproach of Moab and the revilings of the children of Ammon, whereby they have reproached my people, and magnified themselves against their border. Therefore, as I live saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, surely Moab shall be as Sodom, and the children of Ammon as Gomorrah, even the breeding of nettles, and salt-pits, and a perpetual desolation: the residue of my people shall spoil them, and the remnant of my people shall possess them. Who but those instructed by the Spirit of the Lord could suppose, or even would admit for a moment, the possibility that the children of Lot, after centuries of prosperity, in which they had conquered nations and enriched themselves with their spoils, could suddenly be diminshed and brought into subjection to a people whose physical power was at the time of Zephaniah so far inferior to their own? and that too, after Israel had been diminished by the judgments which had overtaken them from the hand of the Lord? for the remnant of Judah were not to possess them, until they themselves had been led into captivity.

It may be thought by some, that these predictions were fulfilled when Judah returned from the Babylonish captivity; but we ask, did not these nations more or less of them exist at that time? and did not the Jews receive assistance from the Babylonians to re-enstate themselves in the land of Judea, when they did return? and were not these nations constantly annoying the remnant of Jacob for a long period? and when these nations were under the yoke of other nations did Judah possess their land? It is said, the residue of my people shall spoil them, and the remnant of my people shall possess them. So far from spoiling the heathen or possessing their land, we know, (if we may credit the account,) that they were struggling to maintain their own; and even down to the coming of the Messiah Judea was a Roman province. But any man acquainted with the history of the Jews at this age, and the nations which then surrounded Palestine, on a moment's reflection will admit, that these prophecies in part, have, in the strictest sense been literally fulfilled: So far, at least as we have any account of their fulfillment, it must be acknowledged a literal one. Where now is Gaza, and where is Ashkelon? Forsaken and desolate! Where is Ashodod and where is Ekron? Driven out, and rotted up! Where are the inhabitants of Moab, and where are the children of Ammon? They are like Sodom, consumed and overthrown, a desolation in the eyes of every beholder, and a warning to every nation, that it is unsafe to sport with the people of God! Where is Assyria, and where is Nineveh that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me? The Assyrians themselves have long since been destroyed or led captives and mingled with other nations, and Nineveh has sunk like a stone into the mighty deep! But the children of Judah, though often scrourged by the chastening hand of the Lord for their iniquities, and often led into captivity by their enemies, and made to serve in cruel bondage, yet their descendants remain and their posterity is still extant without being swallowed up in other nations, while many who have afflicted them have melted away; their national glory has become extinct, and all but their name has sunk in oblivion.

In the last chapter of this prophecy there is an advance of thought on the subject of Israel's situation, beyond the time when they were taken captive by Nebuchadnezzar, or even when Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans, and the Jews scattered into all parts of the earth. It must be plain to every man who is acquainted with his bible, or even common history, that a large portion of this chapter has not yet been fulfilled, or else the prophet spake figuratively and did not calculate to edify Israel by his words nor the rising generations with his writings. But certainly, a part of his prophecy has been literally fulfilled, and that portion of it too which spake of the fall of certain nations which were wealthy and populous, as well as the judgments which came upon Jerusalem. And since he has left us no rule to interpret it contrary from its plain reading, we do not feel justified in attempting to write, or to construe a sentence of it differently, without we can be made acquainted with the word of the Lord to that effect; and until then, we feel a conscience void of offence when we believe that all that has not been fulfilled precisely as it was spoken, will be in due time. If not, we shall then have to acknowledge, that we have known but little respecting the sayings of the ancient prophets; and that part which we now suppose has been fulfilled, might as well never have been spoken or written; for we cannot now be benefitted in the least by them; and previous to the time when we can be, we must have another revelation to teach us what the old one means. Paul said in his epistle to the Romans, in the 15th chapt. and 4th. verse, that, Whatsoever things were written afore-time, were written for our learning, that we through faith and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Either Paul and his brethren understood the sayings of the prophets to mean what they said, or they must have had some rule of interpretation which we have not, or else certainly, neither comfort nor hope could have been derived from a perusal of them. If they understood them to mean as they read, why not those who believe them understand them in the same manner in this age? But perhaps some of our friends may say, that the ancient churches had some rule by which they could penetrate into the dark sayings of the ancients, and unfold them to their full satisfaction, and thereby obtain much comfort and great hope; but when they left this stage of action, it was no longer necessary that men should have this rule, so they took it from the earth, and it is now in the bosom of eternity, locked up safely and securely, beyond the power of man to obtain; and since the ancient apostles established the church of Christ, and wrote many epistles to their brethren upon the subject, we have no need of any thing more: and a rule to enable us to interpret the whole bible, and lay out every secret, and unfold every mystery, would not be of any use to us, even were God willing to favor us with such an one. Neither would we believe it were it given, because we do not believe that he ever intended to speak again to mankind while the earth remains. So then, had we every necessary accomplishment to understand all the sayings in the whole scriptures it would do us no good; we should not act upon it, because we should not believe it. And this, in short, is the sad difficulty with the world at this day; they do not believe that the prophets meant what they said, neither do they believe that we can find out what they did mean; and yet hundreds are figuring, interpreting and expounding, for their hundreds and their thousands every year to tell the people something about the scriptures, which they, and the expositors themselves acknowledge that no man can understand, because they are all metaphors and types, and the Author of them long since ceased to speak to men; and the whole must remain at last as it was in the beginning!

Yet, we are not disposed to condemn any portion of our fellow-beings for not believing as we do, or because they do not hold the words of the Lord by the mouths of his ancient prophets, precisely in the light that we conceive them to mean; or we might say, because they do not believe them to mean any thing that we can be benefitted with, because we cannot understand them; and we ourselves thinking that he meant to communicate his word to man in an intelligent manner, suited to his capacity, in some degree, that he might be benefitted by the same. We know, that in a free government, in the midst of a free-thinking and enlightened people, every man has the privilege of believing as he chooses, and of interpreting the words of the prophets as to him may appear the most proper and right; and is left, (so far as human law can interfere,) to act his own choice freely and dispassionately, and settle all questions as to the items of his faith and religion uncontrolled by human influence; and there the matter may rest between himself and his Maker. A glorious blessing! A privilege which, in our opinion cannot be estimated too highly, nor too thankfully acknowledged before HIM who holds the destinies of all nations in his own hands, and who sways his scepter over all people.

But we cannot see the propriety of the idea that admits certain parts of prophecies to have been literally fulfilled, and other parts of the same prophecies, spoken by the same individuals, to be understood differently, because the time has not transpired when they were designed in the mind of the Lord to be, when they were spoken. We presume that it will redily be admitted, that the prophecies previously quoted, so far at least as they related to the downfall and overthrow of those nations against whom the judgments of the Almighty were denounced, have, in the plainest manner been literally fulfilled. The Jews were led into captivity by their enemies, and Jerusalem was destroyed, and the land of Judea laid waste according to the plain declaration of the Lord by the mouth of the prophet, when he said that he would stretch out his hand upon Judah, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and utterly consume all things from off the land.

Having sketched considerably upon the two first chapters of Zephaniah's prophecy, we shall now speak more particularly of a portion of the matter written in the last. There is however, a sufficient contained in the two first to afford a field for contemplation for a length of time, at least, when the fact is admitted, that it is the word of God, and that the very design of the Lord in giving it to his creatures was, that they might understand it and be benefitted therewith. In the chapter before us there is a stretch, or advance of thought peculiar and interesting; and such too as seems to have occupied the minds of the ancient prophets of Israel in a greater or less degree, which is easily to be discovered over the surface of a large portion of their prophecies. For though they predicted the dispersion of Israel and the captivity of the Jews, yet they seldom left these subjects, or closed their prophecies without speaking of the time when they should be brought back triumphant, and return to the land that God gave by promise to Abraham and his seed for an everlasting possession; which the reader will find written in language the most positive, if he will but take the trouble to look into their sayings.

After reminding the remnant of Israel then in the land, of the might and power of the Lord in the destruction of his enemies, or the enemies of his people, and in their salvation and protection, if faithful to his commandments, he declares to them that their sins are many and grievous; accusing their princes, their judges, and even their prophets and priests, saying they were like roaring lions, evening wolves, light, and vain, and treacherous; that they had polluted their sanctuary, and done violence to the law; he declares again that he will lay waste the nations, cut off their towers, and lay open their streets to desolation, that there is no man, that there is none inhabitant. But notwithstanding all this, he exhorts them to wait upon him still, for he had determined a time when he would rise up to the prey, when the earth should be consumed with the fire of his jealousy; when he would gather the nations, that he might assemble the kingdoms, to pour upon them his indignation, even all his fierce anger: for, said he, all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy.

He said, [Zeph. 3:6,8] I have cut off the nations: their towers are desolate; I made their streets waste, that none passed by: their cities are destroyed, so that there is no man, that there is none inhabitant. Therefore, wait ye upon me saith the Lord. Certainly, there is a peculiar force to these remarkable words: Wait ye upon me! How long? Till the time when I shall rise up to the prey! When has God for Israel rose up to the prey? When has he gathered the nations and assembled the kingdoms? and when has he poured upon them his indignation, even all his fierce anger? and when has all the earth been devoured with the fire of his jealousy? Was it when Israel came out of the land of Egypt? The Egyptians were then the only sufferers: The posterity of Ham then felt the wrath and vengeance of Israel's God; but not the whole earth. Pharaoh's hosts were then collected, and Thebes from her hundred gates sent forth her tens of thousands to trample down and take the spoil; but the outstretched arm of Jehovah in the defense of Jacob, caused them to be swallowed up in the Red Sea; and yet the nations were not then gathered, nor the kingdoms assembled, neither was the whole earth devoured with the fire of his jealousy. Was it when Israel marched into the land of Canaan with Joshua at their head, directed by the voice of the Lord? Jordan stood upon heaps at the approach of God's covenant people, and the walls of Jericho fell to the earth when they shouted in his name; the surrounding nations, the posterity of Canaan felt the shock; but the nations were not then gathered, nor the kingdoms assembled, neither all the earth devoured with the fire of his jealousy: the time had not arrived, nor had the prediction yet been made by the prophets of Israel. But centuries must roll away, and Jacob be driven from his land before that period was to come when he would, for his sake, devour the earth with the fire of his jealousy. Wait ye upon me! How many tedious hours has Israel, upon this word so big with meaning, sat in captivity, reviled and rejected, a hiss, a taunt, and a by-word, and waited with longings and with sighs too large to be expressed, for the precious voice to sound from the throne of I AM, and proclaim, Rise up! Rise up! Return ye! Return ye! O my people of the house of Israel; for this is the time that I will rise up to the prey! Wait ye upon me, saith the Lord! How oft has Israel wept in captivity while waiting for that long looked for hour; and how oft the arm of violence been raised because he still persisited that God would yet call himself, and declare that the time had arrived when he would rise up to the prey! How fruitless has been the labors of Gentile Missionaries in attempting to convert the seed of Jacob from the errors of their ways, by pretending that God had sent them, and at the same time declaring that God had ceased to talk to men. Nor could it surprise a man of common sense, that the Israelites should turn from them with disdain, after hearing that God had called for Jacob to return to him again, and had not spoken from the heavens directly to that effect! Israel will never be duped with such a plan of inconsistency! The prophets in ancient days heard the voice of the Lord, and declared that in the last days their seed should hear it again. And though the Jews stumbled and were scattered, yet they look with longing anxiety, and wait to hear the acceptable sound that, The time has come when I will build you as at the first, and lead you as at the beginning; and make bare my holy arm in the eyes of all the nations, that all the ends of the earth may see the salvation of God! And we have no scruple in saying, that Israel will never embrace the gospel, nor the Jews believe in the Messiah as a people, till the Lord sends his word to them; for their fathers once enjoyed this peculiar blessing, and left it upon record that their children should inherit the same; and though they are scattered to the four winds, and peeled with affliction and adversity, they will yet wait till God himself shall speak; till he himself shall rise up to the prey! Convince Israel of this, and the work will soon be done. Convince him that the Lord himself has called, and no power of man can prevent his gathering. Let him once again be taught by the voice of the living God from on high, and the work of reformation will immediately be accomplished. But till then, the attempts of the Gentiles will be fruitless; it is what the Jews cannot, nor will not believe. If they should they would lay aside the voice of their fathers contained in the prophets, that they should in the last days, hear again; but this they have not, nor never will. That reflection which rolls across the mind, that their Shepherd once taught their fathers, is cherished too dearly to be exchanged for a fantom, a dream, a bubble, a vain and foolish whim, got up in the brains of the Gentiles, that God would never speak again to mankind! It will never be accepted with Israel; it will never be believed by the seed of Jacob; for that at once destroys the testimony of their fathers, that God would, in the last days, gather their children to the land of Canaan to possess it forever. Men who never heard the voice of God themsleves, neither their fathers, but are dependent upon the voice of inspiration to another people who are no nearer related than the Jews and the Gentiles, may preach, perhaps, with some success among those who are in the same situation; but this will never convert Israel: They must know that God himself has spoken; for they will wait acording to the declaration of their fathers, till the Lord shall rise up to the prey! Then, and not till then, will Israel be converted!

Zephaniah proceeds, after speaking of the great commotion which is to take place at the time, or before Israel returns to his own land, and says, [Zeph. 3:9-10] For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the Lord to serve him with one consent. From beyond the rivers of Ethiopia my suppliants, even the daughter of my dispersed shall bring mine offering. We understand that the pure language is to be turned to the people after the nations are gathered, and the kingdoms assembled, and the indignation poured upon them, when all the earth is consumed with the fire of the Lord's jealousy, and not till then; because this marvelous display of the power of God is to be exerted that they may all call upon him to serve him with one consent: and who cannot see, that they cannot all serve him with one consent while a part are righteous and a part wicked? And then! Signifies afterward: After the wicked are cut off the righteous shall speak a pure language. It is said, long after the great Deluge, that the earth was of one language, and the Lord confounded that, and sent, or scattered the people into all the earth. If we can believe the first, why not the last? If we believe that all the earth once spake the same language, and that was confounded by the power of God, why not believe that God has power to cause the earth to speak one language again? Suppose that a Greek, a Roman, a Frenchman, a Spanyard, a German, an Englishman, and an Arab, were to be saved by listening to the gospel of Christ; when they arrived in heaven could they understand each other? or would the Lord have a school where they would all be taught to speak one language? and if so, what language would it be? Our readers, no doubt would smile at our folly, were they to think that we had any such belief. If then, God has power to cause all nations and languages to speak the same language when in heaven, what is the reason that he has not power to cause the same on earth? Has he not all power? O yes, our friends will say; but you know, that he has long since ceased to work miracles on earth. Can that be the fact? If it is, we have to confess our ignorance; for we have not yet found in our bible where the Lord said he would ever cease to work on earth, or in heaven. Perhaps it may be in some corner of our neighbor's, and so closely written that we have not found it; not being favored with very discerning eyes. From beyond the rivers of Ethiopia! It will be admitted, we presume, that Zephaniah was in the land of Judea while delivering this notable prediction; and where, we ask, could the Lord's suppliants be found beyond the rivers of Ethiopia? Had he a people upon the continent of Africa? Was Israel driven there when Shalmanaser king of Assyria took them from the land of Palestine? Did they not, after taking counsel to leave the land of the heathen, go to the north? And is it not said that they passed over the narrow passage of the Euphrates, [not Ethiopia,] while the Lord held the flood? And is it not said again, that he will smite it in the seven streams in the last days and cause men to go over dry shod? Where, then, are his suppliants who were to bring his offering from beyond the rivers of Ethiopia? Was this fulfilled when the Jews returned from Babylon? This could not be; because Babylon was not beyond the rivers of Ethiopia, neither was a pure language turned to the people, that they might all call upon the Lord to serve him with one consent.

[Zeph. 3:11] In that day, [when the pure language is restored, and the suppliants have brought the offering from beyond the rivers of Ethiopia,] thou shalt not be ashamed for all thy doings, wherein thou hast transgressed against me: for then I will take away out of the midst of thee them that rejoice in thy pride, and thou shalt no more be haughty, because of my holy mountain. For such as are conversant with the prophets, we conclude, that a lengthy comment upon this verse will be of but little edification: for all aught to know, that there never has been a time since Israel came out of Egypt when the Lord took from their midst all that rejoiced in pride. And thou shalt no more be haughty, because of my holy mountain! If Jerusalem has been a holy place, since the time when Zephaniah delivered this prophecy, we would like to be informed when: for when this is fulfilled his people are to be no more haughty, because of his holy mountain. If Jerusalem was then holy, the Jews never found out that fact, if they did they cared but little about it, of they would have been better prepared to receive the Messiah when he came. As a proof that the last sentence has not been fulfilled, we make a short quotation from the prophecy of Isaiah, which will show very plainly that Jerusalem is yet to be inhabited by the Jews, and is also to be a holy place.--The Arabs may now call Jerusalem a holy place; the Catholics may also, as well as the city of Rome, because Peter and Paul suffered martyrdom in it and the Pope, (their holy father, the successor of St. Peter, and the vicar of Jesus Christ, as they call him,) now resides in the same; [Rome] but in our opinion, Jerusalem is far lacking in holiness, and has ever been since the days of Zephaniah. Isaiah 27:12-13. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall beat off from the channel of the river unto the stream of Egypt, and ye shall be gathered one by one, O ye children of Israel. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the great trumpet shall be blown, and they shall come which where ready to perish in the land of Assyria, and the outcasts in the land of Egypt, and shall worship the Lord in the holy mount at Jerusalem. When has the great trumpet been blown in the land of Assyria? and when has the channel of the river been beaten off that Israel might come one by one? and when have they worshiped in his holy mount at Jerusalem?

Every sentence of the last of Zephaniah's prophecy seems to be spoken in that plain and intelligent manner, that every individual who admits the fact, that Israel will return to the land of his fathers in the last days, must be ready to conclude, that if there is any confidence to be placed in the words of prophecy, and if we can believe that they were ever designed to be understood, the prophet must have had his eye fixed upon the time when the Lord was about to rise up to the prey: when he was about to exalt that long afflicted people above the power of all their oppressors, and establish them in righteousness by his own hand. He again says: [Zeph. 3:13] remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid. When, since the days of this prophet, has Israel dwelt in the land of Canaan in righteousness, and been guilty of no iniquity, nor spoken lies? When has been a time when a deceitful tongue was not to be found in their mouths? Was it after the Babylonish captivity? Who does not know, that they were filled with violence and iniquity, that deceit and wickedness filled Jerusalem from one end to the other, and they falsely accused even their Messiah and shed his blood? Was this the righteous people of whom the prophet was here writing, that should be so completely delivered from all their enemies that they should feed and lie down in peace, there being none to make them afraid? Were they not in constant and almost unceasing wars? Famine and the sword were on every side from their return from Babylon, to the days when Titus took the city and razed it to the foundation.

TO BE CONTINUED.

<Editorial>
Oliver Cowdery ed E&MS 2 (Mar 1834)

THE ELDERS OF THE CHURCH IN KIRTLAND, TO THEIR BRETHREN ABROAD. {beliefs-lds}

(Continued from our last.)

Dear brethren in Christ, and companions in tribulation:

HAVING in a former number of the Star, written you quite lengthy on some few items connected with the religion which we profess, we deem it of importance to the cause in which all our united efforts ought, with an eye single to the glory of God, to be engaged, that we may escape the corruptions of the world, and not only show ourselves approved in his sight, but may be instruments in the order of his providence in convincing some of our fellow-travellors to eternity of the importance of turning from error to righteousness, and embracing the fulness of the everlasting gospel--to continue this letter of instruction and exhortation, believing, (as we have previously remarked,) that on your part it will be received in brotherly fellowship. We would remind you, brethren, of the fateagues, trials, privations, and persecutions, which the ancient saints endured for the only purpose of persuading men of the excellency and propriety of the faith of Christ, were it in our opinion necessary, or would serve in any respect to stimulate you to labor in the vineyard of the Lord with any more diligence; but we have reason to believe, (if you make the holy scriptures a sufficient part of your studies,) that their perseverance is known to you all; and that they were willing to sacrifice the present honors and pleasures of this world, that they might obtain an assurance of a crown of life from the hand of our Lord; and their excellent examples in labor, which manifests their zeal to us in the cause which they embraced, you are daily striving to pattern. And not only these, but the commandments of our Lord, we hope, are constantly revolving in your hearts, teaching you, not only his will in proclaiming his gospel, but his meekness and perfect walk before all, even in those times of severe persecutions and abuse which were heaped upon him by a wicked and adulterous generation. Remember, brethren, that he has called you unto holiness; and need we say, to be like him in purity? How wise; how holy; how chaste, and how perfect, then, you ought to conduct yourselves in his sight; and remember too, that his eyes are continually upon you. Viewing these facts in a proper light, you cannot be insensible, that without a strict observance of all his divine requirements, you may, at last, be found wanting; and if so, you will admit, that your lot will be cast among the unprofitable servants.--We beseech you, therefore brethren, to improve upon all things committed to your charge, that you lose not your reward!

No doubt, the course which we pursued in our last to you, is yet familiar to your minds; that we there endeavored to show, as far as our limits would extend, the propriety, in part of adhering to the law of heaven; and also, the consistency in looking to heaven for a law or rule to serve us as a guide in this present state of existence, that we may be prepared to meet that which inevitably awaits us, as well as all mankind.--There is an importance, perhaps, attached to this subject, which the world has not as fully examined as the importance of it requires. Think for a moment, of the greatness of the Being who created the universe; and ask, Could he be so inconsistent with his own character, as to leave man without a law or rule to regulate his conduct, after placing him here, where, according to the formation of his nature he must in a short period sink into the dust? Is there nothing further; is there no existence beyond this vail of death which is so suddenly to be cast over all of us? If there is, why not that Being who had power to place us here, inform us something concerning hereafter? If we had power to place ourselves in this present existence, why not have power to know what shall follow when that dark vail is cast over our bodies? If in this life we receive our all; if when we crumble back to dust we are no more, from what source did we emanate, and what was the purpose in our existence? If this were all, we should be led to query, whether there was really any substance in existence: and we might with propriety say, "Let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die!" If this were really so, then why this constant toiling, why this continual warfare, and why this unceasing trouble? But this is not the case, the voice of REASON, the language of INSPIRATION, and the Spirit of the living GOD, our Creator, teaches us, as we hold the record of truth in our hands, that this is not the case; that this is not so; for, the heavens declare the glory of a GOD, and the firmament shows his handy work; and a moment's reflection, is sufficient to teach every man of common intellect, that all these are not the mere production of chance, nor could they be supported by any power less than by an Almighty hand: and he that can mark the power of Omnipotence inscribed upon the heavens, can also see HIS own hand-writing in the sacred volume; and he who reads it oftenest will like it best, and he who is acquainted with it, will know the hand wherever he can see it; and when once discovered, it will not only receive an acknowledgement, but an obedience to all its heavenly precepts. For a moment reflect, what could have been the purpose in our Father in giving to us a law? Was it that it might be obeyed, or disobeyed? And think further too, not only the propriety, but the importance of attending to his laws in every particular. If, then, there is an importance in this respect, is there not a responsibility of great weight resting upon those who are called to declare these truths to men? Could we, or were we capable of laying any thing before you as a just comparison, we would cheerfully do it; but in this our capacity fails, and we are inclined to think, that man is unable, without an assistance beyond what has been given to those before us, of expressing in words the greatness of this important office. We can only say, that if an anticipation of the joys of the celestial glory, as witnessed to the hearts of the humble is not sufficient, we will leave with yourselves the result of your own diligence; for God ere long, will call all his servants before him, and there from His own hand they will receive a just recompense and a righteous reward for all their labors.

So much by way of introduction, and we shall now proceed to examine still further the subject of law. However little may have been heretofore thought, or said upon the subject of law, does not diminish in the least the propriety nor the design of it, since it emanated from God; and though it may have been, and may be at this day a subject untouched by the professors of christianity, that does not lessen its value, neither does it diminish its power in judging men from their actions according to it, at the last day, those who have, or may have come to a knowledge of it. It may be supposed, and we think with a degree of propriety, that man had given to him in the beginning, from the hand of his Maker, every necessary law and instruction, for his peace, happiness, and future comfort: and if not, living as he did in the immediate presence, and walking under the inspection of heaven, if he needed more, he could yet ask it, and that wise Hand which had formed him of the dust was sufficient; not only sufficient, but knowing all things, knew whether man needed more or not, and if he did, it would be bestowed. To suppose that the Maker of the universe never gave to man any law after he had formed him, would, in our opinion, be offering an insult to his glorious character, and be comparing him beneath, even an earthly parent! For where, we ask, is the kind humane father to be found, who would, for any consideration whatever, suffer his children to grow up to manhood without giving them instruction, and instruction too, which would be wisely calculated to benefit them, even in ripened years? Should he teach them virtue in their youth, (a principle too much neglected with most parents,) if observed in age it certainly would be virtue still; and the more it was observed the more honorable would be the gray hairs, until his spirit took its welcome exit to mingle with its kindred spirits, and rejoice in the salvation of that God from whom came the first principles of virtue. Should the great Author of our being, after he had made all things, and even man, and pronounced them all good, leave man without a law, we might well suppose that here was a contradiction in terms, indeed; for he had pronounced all things which he had made GOOD, and yet there was no good in man, consequently he was not worthy to receive a law whereby his conduct might be governed; but must be left without any principles or directions from the hand of his Maker to guide him in the least particular.

From these facts, in short, and the further knowledge contained in the scriptures, it is reasonable to suppose, that man departed from the first teachings, or instructions which he received from heaven in the first age, and refused by his disobedience to be governed by them. Consequently, he formed such laws as best suited his own mind, or as he supposed, best adapted to his situation. But that God has influenced man more or less since that time in the formation of law for his benefit we have no hesitancy in believing; for, as before remarked, he being the source of all good, every just and equitable law was in a greater or less degree influenced by him. And though man in his own supposed wisdom would not admit the influence of a power superior to his own, yet for wise and great purposes, for the good and happiness of his creatures, God has instructed man to form wise and wholesome laws, since he had departed from him and refused to be governed by those laws which he had given by his own voice from on high in the beginning. But notwithstanding this transgression, by which man had cut himself off from an immediate intercourse with his Maker without a Mediator, it appears that the great and glorious plan of his redemption was previously meditated; the sacrifice prepared; the atonement wrought out in the mind and purpose of God, even in the person of the Son, through whom man was now to look for acceptance, and through whose merits he was now taught that he alone could find redemption, since the word had been pronounced, [Gen. 3:19; Moses 4:25] Unto dust thou shalt return!

But that man was not sufficient of himself to erect a system, or plan with power sufficient to free him from a destruction which awaited him, is evident from the fact, that God, as before remarked, prepared a sacrifice in the gift of his own Son which should be sent in due time, in his own wisdom, to prepare a way, or open a door through which man might enter into his presence, from whence he had been cast for disobedience.--From time to time these glad tidings were sounded in the ears of men in different ages of the world down to the time of his coming. By faith in this atonement or plan of redemption, Abel offered to God a sacrifice that was accepted, which was the firstlings of the flock. Cain offered of the fruit of the ground, and was not accepted, because he could not do it in faith: he could have no faith, or could not exercise faith contrary to the plan of heaven. It must be the shedding of the blood of the Only Begotten to atone for man; for this was the plan of redemption; and without the shedding of blood was no remission; and as the sacrifice was instituted for a type, by which man was to discern the great Sacrifice which God had prepared; to offer a sacrifice contrary to that, no faith could be exercised, because redemption was not purchased in that way, nor the power of atonement instituted after that order; consequently, Cain could have no faith: and whatsoever is not of faith is sin. But Abel offered an acceptable sacrifice, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God himself testifying of his gifts. Certainly, the shedding of the blood of a beast could be beneficial to no man, except it was done in imitation, or as a type, or explanation of what was to be offered through the gift of God himself; and this performance done with an eye looking forward in faith on the power of that great Sacrifice for a remission of sins. But however various may have been, and may be at the present time the opinions of men respecting the conduct of Abel, and the knowledge which he had on the subject of atonement, it is evident in our minds, that he was instructed more fully into the plan than what the bible speaks; for how could he offer a sacrifice in faith, looking to God for a remission of sins in the power of the great Atonement, without having been previously instructed into that plan? And further, if he was accepted of God, what were the ordinances performed further than the offering of the firstlings of the flock? It is said by Paul in his letter to his Hebrew brethren, that Abel obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts. To whom did God testify of the gifts of Abel, was it to Paul? We have very little on this important subject in the fore part of the bible. But it is said, that Abel himself obtained witness that he was righteous. Then certainly God spoke to him: indeed, it is said that God talked with him; and if he did, would he not, seeing he was righteous, deliver to him the whole plan of the gospel? And is not the gospel the news of redemtion? How could Abel offer a sacrifice and look forward with faith on the Son of God for a remission of his sins, and not understand the gospel? The mere shedding the blood of beasts or offering any thing else in sacrifice, could not procure a remission of sins, except it were performed in faith of something to come, if it could, Cain's offering must have been as good as Abel's. And if Abel was taught of the coming of the Son of God, was he not taught of his ordinances? We all admit that the gospel has ordinances, and if so, had it not always ordinances, and were not its ordinances always the same? Perhaps, our friends will say, that the gospel and its ordinances were not known till the days of John the son of Zecharias, in the days of Herod the king of Judea. But we will here look at this point: For our own part, we cannot believe, that the ancients in all ages were so ignorant of the system of heaven as many suppose, since all that were ever saved, were saved through the power of this great plan of redemption, as much so before the coming of Christ as since; if not, God has had different plans in operation, (if we may so express it,) to bring men back to dwell with himself; and this we cannot believe, since there has been no change in the constitution of man since he fell; and the ordinance or institution of offering blood in sacrifice, was only designed to be performed till Christ was offered up and shed his blood, as said before, that man might look forward with faith to that time. It will be noticed that according to Paul, [see Gal. 3:8] the gospel was preached to Abraham. We would like to be informed in what name the gospel was then preached, whether it was in the name of Christ or some other name? If in any other name, was it the gospel? And if it was the gospel, and that preached in the name of Christ, had it any ordinances? If not, was it the gospel? And if it had, what were they? Our friends may say, perhaps, that there were never any ordinances except those of offering sacrifices, before the coming of Christ, and that it could not be possible for the gospel to have been administered while the sacrifices of blood were. But we will recollect, that Abraham offered sacrifice, and notwithstanding this, had the gospel preached to him. That the offering of sacrifice was only to point the mind forward to Christ, we infer from these remarkable words of his to the Jews, Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it and was glad. [See John 8:56] So, then, because the ancients offered sacrifice it did not hinder their hearing the gospel; but served, as we said before, to open their eyes, and enabled them to look forward to the time of the coming of the Savior, and to rejoice in his redemption. We find also, that when the Israelites came out of Egypt they had the gospel preached to them, according to Paul in his letter to the Hebrews, which says, For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. [See Heb. 4:2] It is said again, in Gal. 3:19, that the law [of Moses, or the Levitical law] was added because of transgression. What, we ask, was this law added to, if it was not added to the gospel? It must be plain that it was added to the gospel, since we learn that they had the gospel preached to them. From these few facts, we conclude, that whenever the Lord revealed himself to men in ancient days, and commanded them to offer sacrifice to him, that it was done that they might look forward in faith to the time of his coming, and rely upon the power of that atonement for a remission of their sins. And this they have done, thousands who have gone before us, whose garments are spotless, and who are, like Job, waiting with an assurance like his, that they will see him in the latter day upon the earth, even in their flesh.

We may conclude, that though there were different dispensations, yet all things which God communicated to his people, were calculated to draw their minds to the great object, and to teach them to rely upon him alone as the Author of their salvation, as contained in his law. From what we can draw from the scriptures relative to the teachings of heaven we are induced to think, that much instruction has been given to man since the beginning which we have not. This may not agree with the opinions of some of our friends, who are bold to say, that we have every thing written in the bible which God ever spake to men since the world began, and that if he had ever said any thing more we should certainly have received it. But we ask, does it remain for a people who never had faith enough to call down one scrap of revelation from heaven, and for all they have now, are indebted to the faith of another people who lived hundreds and thousands of years before them, to say how much God has spoken and how much he has not spoken? We have what we have, and the bible contains what it does contain; but to say that God never said any thing more to man than is there recorded, would be saying at once, that we have at last received a revelation; for it must be one to advance thus far, because it is no where said in that volume by the mouth of God, that he would not, after giving what is there contained, speak again; and if any man has found out that for a fact, he has ascertained it by an immediate revelation, other than has been previously written by the prophets and apostles. But through the kind providence of our Father a portion of his word which he delivered to his ancient saints, has fallen into our hands, and they are presented to us with a promise of a reward if obeyed, and with a penalty if disobeyed; and that all are deeply interested in these laws, or teachings, must be admitted by all who acknowledge their divine authenticity.

It may be proper for us to notice in this place, a few of the many blessings held out in this law of heaven as a reward to those who obey its teachings. God has appointed a day in which he will judge the world, and this he has given an assurance of in that he raised up his Son Jesus Christ from the dead; the point on which the hope of all who believe the inspired record is founded for their future happiness and enjoyment: because, [1 Cor. 15:17] if Christ is not risen, said Paul to the Corinthians, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins: and those who have fallen asleep in him have perished. [See 1 Cor. 15] If the resurrection from the dead is not an important point, or item in our faith, we must confess that we know nothing about it; for if there is no resurrection from the dead, then Christ has not risen; and if Christ has not risen he was not the Son of God; and if he was not the Son of God there is not nor cannot be a Son of God, if the present book called the scriptures is true; because the time has gone by when, according to that book he was to make his appearance. On this subject, however, we are reminded of the words of Peter to the Jewish Sanhedrim, when speaking of Christ, [Acts 5:30-32] he says, that God raised him from the dead, and we [the apostles] are his witnesses of these things, and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. [See Acts 5] So that after the testimony of the scriptures on this point, the assurance is given by the Holy Ghost, bearing witness to those who obey him, that Christ himself has assuredly risen from the dead; and if he has risen from the dead, he will, by his power, bring all men to stand before him; for if he has risen from the dead the bands of the temporal death are broken that the grave has no victory. If then, the grave has no victory, those who keep the sayings of Jesus and obey his teachings have, not only a promise of a resurrection from the dead; but an assurance of being admitted into his glorious kingdom; for, he himself says, [John 12:26] Where I am, there shall also my servant be. [sec John 12] In the twenty second chapter of Luke's account of the Messiah, we find the kingdom of heaven likened unto a king who made a marriage for his son. That this son was the Messiah will not be disputed, since it was the kingdom of heaven that was represented in the parable; and that the saints, or those who are found faithful to the Lord, are the individuals who will be found worthy to inherit a seat at the marriage-supper, is evident from the sayings of John in the Revelations, where he represents the sound which he heard in heaven to be like a great multitude, or like the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, [Rev. 19:6-8] The Lord God Omnipotent reigneth. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him; for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. [Rev. 19]

That those only are the individuals who keep the commandments of the Lord and walk in his statutes to the end, that are permitted to set at this glorious feast, is evident from the following items: In Paul's last letter to Timothy, which was written just previous to his death, he says, [2 Tim. 4:7-8] I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous Judge shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. No one who believes the account, will doubt for a moment this assertion of Paul which was made, as he knew, just before he was to take his leave of this world. Though he once, according to his own word, persecuted the church of God and wasted it, yet after embracing the faith, his labors were unceasing to spread the glorious news; and like a faithful soldier, when called to give his life in the cause which he had espoused, he laid it down, as he says, with an assurance of an eternal crown. Follow the labors of this apostle from the time of his conversion to the time of his death, and you will have a fair sample of industry and patience in promulgating the gospel of Christ: Whipped, stoned, and derided, the moment he escaped the hands of his persecutors, he, as zealously as ever, proclaimed the doctrine of the Savior. And all may know, that he did not embrace the faith for the honor of this life, nor for the gain of earthly goods. What then could have induced him to undergo all this toil? It was, as he said, that he might obtain that crown of righteousness from the hand of God. No one, we presume, will doubt the faithfulness of Paul to the end: None will say, that he did not keep the faith, that he did not fight the good fight, that he did not preach and persuade to the last: And what was he to receive? A crown of righteousness. And what shall others receive who do not labor faithfully, and continue to the end? We leave such to search out their own promises if any they have; and if they have any they are welcome to them, on our part, for the Lord says, that every man is to recive according to his works. Reflect for a moment, brethren, and enquire, whether you would consider yourselves worthy a seat at the marriage feast with Paul and others like him, if you had been unfaithful? Had you not fought the good fight, and kept the faith, could you expect to receive; have you a promise of receiving a crown of righteousness from the hand of the Lord, with the church of the first born? Here then, we understand, that Paul rested his hope in Christ because he had kept the faith, and loved his appearing; and from his hand he had a promise of receiving a crown of righteousness. If the saints are not to reign, for what purpose are they crowned? In an exhortation of the Lord to a certain church in Asia, which was built up in the days of the apostles, unto whom he communicated his word on that occasion by his servant John, he says, [Rev. 3:11] Behold I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. And again, [Rev. 3:21] To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. [see Rev. 3] And again, it is written, Behold, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not appear what we shall be: but we know, that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.--And he that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as he is pure. [I John 3:2-3] How is it that these old apostles should say so much on the subject of the coming of Christ? He certainly had once came; but Paul says, To all who love his appearing, shall be given the crown: and John says, [1John 3:2] When he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. Can we mistake such language as this? Do we not offer violence to our own good judgment when we deny the second coming of the Messiah? When has he partook of the fruit of the vine new with his ancient apostles in his Father's kingdom, as he said, just before he was crucified? In Paul's epistle to the Philippians, 3:20-21, he says, For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. We find another promise to individuals living in the church at Sardis, [see Rev. 3:4-5] which will also show something of the blessings held out to the ancients who walked worthily before the Lord, which says, Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall WALK WITH ME IN WHITE; for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in WHITE raiment and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life; but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. John represents the sound which he heard from heaven, as giving thanks and glory to God, saying that the Lamb was worthy to take the book, and to open its seals; because he was slain, and had by his blood redeemed them out of every kindred and tongue, and people, and nation; and had made them kings and priests unto God: and they should reign on the earth. [see Rev. 5] In the twentieth chapter we find a length of time specified, during which Satan is to be confined in his own place, and the saints reign in peace. [Rev. 20:2] All these promises and blessings we find contained in the law of the Lord, which the righteous are to enjoy; and we might enumerate many more places where the same or similar promises are made to the faithful, but we do not deem it of importance to rehearse them here, as this letter is now lengthy; and our brethren no doubt, are familiar with them all. Most assuredly it is, however, that the ancients, though persecuted and afflicted by men, obtained from God promises of such weight and glory, that our hearts are often filled with gratitude, that we are even permitted to look upon them, while we contemplate that there is no respect of persons in HIS sight, and that in every nation, he that feareth him and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. But from the few items previously quoted, we can draw a conclusion, that there is to be a day when all will be judged of their works, and rewarded according to the same; that those who have kept the faith will be crowned with a crown of righteousness; be clothed in white raiment; be admitted to the marriage-feast; be free from every affliction, and reign with Christ on the earth, where, according to the ancient promise, they will partake of the fruit of the vine new in the glorious kingdom with him: at least we find that such promises were made to the ancient saints. And though we cannot claim these promises which were made to the ancients, or that they are not our property merely because they were made to them, yet if we are the children of the most High, and are called with the same calling with which they were called, and embrace the same covenant that they embraced, and are faithful to the testimony of our Lord as they were, we can approach the Father in the name of Christ as they approached him, and for ourselves obtain the same promises. These promises, when obtained, if ever by us, will not be because Peter, John, and the other apostles, with the churches at Sardis, Purgamos, Philadelphia, and elsewhere, walked in the fear of God and had power and faith to prevail and obtain them; but it will be because we, ourselves, have faith and approach him in the name of his son Jesus Christ, even as they did; and when these promises are obtained, they will be promises directly to us, or they will do us no good: communicated for our benefit; being our own property, (through the gift of God,) earned by our own diligence in keeping his commandments, and walking uprightly before him. If not, to what end serves the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, and why was it ever communicated to us?

Previous to commencing this letter we designed giving you some instruction upon the regulation of the church; but that will be given hereafter.

[TO BE CONTINUED.]

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THE EVENING AND THE MORNING STAR

VOLUME 2, NO. 19-21
APRIL, MAY, JUNE 1834

KIRTLAND, OHIO

VOL. II, NO. 19, KIRTLAND, OHIO, APRIL, 1834.