We do this calmly, seriously, and understandingly; after due deliberation…we unhesitatingly pronounce our full and implicit faith in this principle, as emanating from God, and that under His direction it would be a blessing to the human family.” — Franklin D. Richards
Deuteronomy 17:17 “Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.”
The Church proudly touted their unbridled lust of polygamy in Utah after being kicked out of Nauvoo, IL for practicing the same thing.
Polygamy finally became illegal nationwide in 1862 with the passing of the Morrill Anti-Bigamy Bill signed by Abraham Lincoln. For more info, see link regarding timeline. Technically, the Church wasn’t breaking US laws in Utah, but they weren’t obedient to the Lord.
The list of biblical verses condemning their behavior is too long to address here. See our sites under Reasons to Leave Mormonism for more info.
The sad part of Mr. Richards’ theory is that the doctrine of polygamy is still part and parcel of the LDS creed. D&C 132 is proof of that! It’s also proof this church talks out of both sides of its mouth. If they truly believed what they proclaim they would’ve obeyed their Articles of Faith 1:12-13 all the time.
“We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law. 13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men…”
Lastly, where in the Bible does it say polygamy is part and parcel of God’s gospel? Their doctrines have cheapened what the Lord intended for the gospel to mean!
With Love in Christ;
Michelle