Journal of Discourses 5:111; “Brethren and sisters, I am a Latter-day Saint, and I know that this is the people of God; I know that this people have the Priesthood, and that Brigham Young is as much an inspired man as was Moses or any other man that ever lived upon the earth.
This is my testimony, and I believe that if I were cut in pieces, though I never was killed, and of course don’t know how it feels; but I do not believe that it would alter my testimony.
I am a good deal like the man in the old world, where they have but one wife. He was shaving, and at the same time having some unpleasant words with his wife: finally, he said he would cut his throat if she did not hold her noise. She replied, “Cut away; I am young and handsome.” “I would, if I did not think it would hurt so damned bad.” And I don’t know but it would feel so very bad to be killed, that I am really afraid where there is any danger. But just so long as I think there is no danger, I shall go ahead.
Brethren and sisters, pardon me for detaining you so long; and may the Lord God of Israel bless you, and may He curse and damn every scoundrel that would bring misery and injury upon this innocent people. Amen.” – George A. Smith, Salt Lake City, August 2, 1857
1 Thessalonians 4:7; “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.”
We have a few things to address in Mr. Smith’s diatribe so let’s begin shall we?
1.Did you notice his comment about Brigham? “Brigham Young is as much an inspired man as was Moses or any other man that ever lived upon the earth”.
If that’s true then what about the pastors and ministers who lived from the time of Christ until he spoke these ill-fated words? Weren’t they inspired as well?
2.Why was this guy an apostle?
3.What purpose did his sermon serve?
4.Smith’s sermon was part of the ‘Reformation Movement’ that swept across the Church at the time and it alluded to blood atonement. Notice the date – it took place one month before Mountain Meadows Massacre.
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