Mormon Dilemma 262

Secret Societies

Evidences and Reconciliations, pg 282; “And again, I would further suggest the impropriety of the organization of bands or companies, by covenant or oaths, by penalties or secrecies; but let the time past of our experience and sufferings by the wickedness of Doctor Avard suffice and let our covenant be that of the Everlasting Covenant, as is contained in the Holy Writ and the things that God hath revealed unto us. Pure friendship always becomes weakened that very moment you undertake to make it stronger by penal oaths and secrecy. (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 146)”

Luke 8:16; “No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.”

Good job Joe.  He’s just proven himself to be a liar.  Why are penal oaths being taken by members of the Church every time they participate in temple ceremonies?  And why would Joseph Smith join Masonry if they have the same oaths?  

The quote of Joseph Smith was part of a letter he wrote to the Saints while incarcerated in Liberty Prison in Missouri on March 25, 1839.  

In March 1842 Smith attended a Grand Lodge meeting with his brother Hyrum. The next day on March 16, 1842 Joseph Smith became a Mason.  Seven weeks later Smith had a prophecy declaring God told him to enact the “sacred” temple oaths in their Mormon temple ceremonies.  http://lifeafterministry.com/2011/07/23/mormon-dilemma-33/