‘Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.’ 1 Corinthians 15:33
Back in the Nauvoo era Joseph Smith had quite the reputation, and his sketchy actions didn’t go unnoticed by locals. One example comes from Dr. William Wyl who published the testimonies of other community members who knew Joe Smith. Their insights are an invaluable resource for us today, giving more evidence this man was nothing but a charlatan.
We pray members of the Church will do their homework!
As an FYI, after a falling out with Smith, Bennett wrote an in-depth tell all book on Smith’s behavioral problems. This in no way excuses Bennett’s behavior mind you, but it does give another layer of Smith’s shenanigans. See The History of the Saints: or an Exposé of Joseph Smith and Mormonism for more info.
Mormon Portraits, Volume First, pp. 53, 59
“THE DON JUAN OF NAUVOO. …
Mrs. P.: “You hear often that Joseph had no polygamous offspring. The reason of this is very simple.
Abortion was practiced on a large scale in Nauvoo. Dr. John C. Bennett, the evil genius of Joseph, brought this abomination into a scientific system. He showed to my husband and me the instruments with which he used to ‘operate for Joseph.’ There was a house in Nauvoo, ‘right across the flat,’ about a mile and a-half from the town, a kind of hospital. They sent the women there, when they showed signs of celestial consequences. Abortion was practiced regularly in this house.
Mrs. H.: “Many little bodies of new-born children floated down the Mississippi.””
The first time I read over Mr. Wyl’s book I was horrified. I hadn’t been out of the Church very long when I came across his work, and while I didn’t doubt what he said, it still took some time for me to personally digest the allegations. I was sickened to think I had been involved in such treachery. I’ve no doubt I’m not alone.
Pray for those who are investigating their heritage to have the courage to leave. There’s a very popular saying in Mormonism that comes from a Primary song, known as ‘Choose the Right’. All little Mormon kids proudly wear their CTR rings, so we know it’s ingrained in them to ‘do what is right’. Hence our prayer, they’ll do just that!
With Love in Christ;
Michelle