Journal of Discourses 3:265; “It has been strenuously urged by many, that this doctrine was introduced through lust, but that is a gross misrepresentation…
This revelation, which God gave to Joseph, was for the express purpose of providing a channel for the organization of tabernacles, for those spirits to occupy who have been reserved to come forth in the kingdom of God, and that they might not be obliged to take tabernacles out of the kingdom of God.” – Brigham Young, Provo, July 14, 1855
1 John 1:8; “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”
Oh dear. The only misrepresentation of polygamy is the gross misinterpretation of their sin. There’s simply no other good explanation for it.
How in the world can these men justify their behavior in such a manner?
Past reasons for polygamy also include the following –
More women than men – Evidences and Reconciliations, p. 391
God commanded it – D&C 132
Angels w/ flaming swords threatened to kill Joseph if he didn’t institute polygamy – See article w/ numerous LDS testimonies
If you’re LDS, which of these stories sound plausible to you?
For the record…the good Lord had already figured out how to bring the next generation into the world since He alone created the system and miraculously, Smith wasn’t there.
With regards to much in Mormonism, especially polygamy, I always tend to think that Smith made up ‘doctrines’ as he went along. “God commanded it”??