Mind Control?
Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pg. 341 it says; “President Joseph Smith again arose and said—In relation to the power over the minds of mankind which I hold, I would say, It is in consequence of the power of truth in the doctrines which I have been an instrument in the hands of God of presenting unto them, and not because of any compulsion on my part… (March 24, 1844.)”
Romans 16:17-18; “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.”
How in the world would this teaching of Joseph Smith be worthy of praise or worthy to study? What purpose would this serve you in your life?
With only the sound bite you used I can see why you might be able to justify your conclusion.
Here is the rest of that paragraph:
Section Six 1843-44, p.341
“President Joseph Smith again arose and said–In relation to the power over the minds of mankind which I hold, I would say, It is in consequence of the power of truth in the doctrines which I have been an instrument in the hands of God of presenting unto them, and not because of any compulsion on my part. I wish to ask if ever I got any of it unfairly? If I have not reproved you in the gate? I ask, Did I ever exercise any compulsion over any man? Did I not give him the liberty of disbelieving any doctrine I have preached, if he saw fit? Why do not my enemies strike a blow at the doctrine? They cannot do it: it is truth, and I defy all men to upset it. I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, “Repent ye of your sins and prepare the way for the coming of the Son of Man; for the kingdom of God has come unto you, and henceforth the ax is laid unto the root of the tree; and every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit, God Almighty * * * shall hew it down and cast it into the fire.” (March 24, 1844.) DHC 6:273.”
http://www.boap.org/LDS/Joseph-Smith/Teachings/T6.html
fred
exactly and that’s why it’s a problem.
So Joseph is “the voice of one crying in the wilderness”. I always thought that was John the Baptist ( a type of Elijah ). The Kingdom of God did come down to earth, 2,000 years ago. He is reigning through His people.