Journal of Discourses 23:327 “HARDSHIP THE HERITAGE OF THE SAINTS…There was apparently nothing that the Savior could do that was acceptable in the eyes of the world; anything and almost everything he did was imputed to an unholy influence…it seemed necessary for the Savior to descend below all things that he might ascend above all things. So it has been with other men.
When I look at the history of Joseph Smith, I sometimes think that he came as near following the footsteps of the Savior…as anyone possibly could. Joseph Smith was called to lay down his life; he sealed his testimony with his blood, and passed through some serious trials and afflictions.
In section 122 of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants… —the Lord showed him his condition and position. He refers there to the trials and troubles he was called to pass through, and then compares them with what He Himself (the Savior) had to endure*…
The Lord showed him in this revelation that these afflictions were necessary. We have been called to pass through trials many times, and I do not think we should complain, because if we had no trials we should hardly feel at home in the other world in the company of the Prophets and Apostles who were sawn asunder, crucified, etc., for the word of God and testimony of Jesus Christ…I look upon the mission of the Latter-day Saints as being as important as that of any people that ever lived in any age of the world…” ─ Wilford Woodruff, Kaysville, Utah, December 10, 1882
Hebrews 11:38 “They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented”.
Our LDS reference today shows the mindset of many in the Church; then, and now. The tragedy of this is obvious – Smith didn’t lay down his life for the Saints. Nor will members find themselves amongst those who were sawn asunder. This can only happen if/when they lay aside their false god Joe Smith tricked them into believing!
Choose a story from the life of a prophet in the Bible who died, and share with a Mormon what it means to be a true martyr. It doesn’t have to be elaborate, but give enough info to encourage them how they can find out more.
Remember beloved, this shouldn’t be done in a condescending manner, but in love and concern!
With Love in Christ;
Michelle
*D&C 122 is where Smith prophesied God said the ‘ends of the earth will inquire after the name of Joseph Smith’. This supposedly took place on March 20, 1829, while Smith was incarcerated at the jail in Liberty, MO.
He was incarcerated in “Liberty” jail?
I know…it was the name of the town. Just sounds like an oxymoron.
Isn’t it though?