[iii]
MORMONISM UNVEILED!
"And all liars shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone; which is the second death." -- Rev. xxi;8.
"And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie." -- Rev. xxi;27
"For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whomever loveth and maketh a lie." -- Rev. xxii;15.
WHEN the public are overwhelmed with lying slanders
of every description concerning the Church of the
Latter Day Saints. The inquiry often arises, why do
the Wlders of the Church hold their peace, instead of
contradicting the various falsehoods, which are published
concerning them and their principles? The
answer is, it would require a standing army of writers,
and printers in constant employ; for no sooner are
our enemies detected in one falsehood, than a thousand
more are put in circulation by them: and there
are many who love a lie so much more than the truth,
that we are quite willing they should enjoy their strong
delusion; because, they believe not the truth, but have
pleasure in unrighteousness; and we know, that those
who are seeking for truth, will judge for themselves, by
an examination of our books, and not allow our opposers
to judge for them. What ideas would be formed
of the Bible, by one who had never read the book
himself; but who trusted altogether to the statements
of Thomas Paine, and other Infidel writers concerning
it? We propose in this work, to prove to every candid
mind, that whether our principles be true or false,
Mr. Sunderland is guilty of the most glaring falsehoods,
misrepresentations, and lying slanders, that ever
disgraced humanity; and that he has palmed upon his
deluded readers such wilful and barefaced impositions,
that he is justly ranked among dogs, sorcerers, whoremongers,
murderers, and idolaters; and no longer fit
( 4 )
to fill any place in civilized society; much less to stand
at the head of a paper, under the sacred title of "Zion's
Watchman." If his readers do not dismiss his paper
immediately, after coming to a knowledge of his wickedness,
they will be set down as partakers of his evil deeds;
and if they hold him any longer in fellowship
either as a christian or a member of society, the proverb
will be fulfilled upon them, "that a man is known
by the company he keeps."
We will now proceed to an examination of "Mormonism,"
as published by him in "Zion's Watchman."
First he enquires, "What is Mormonism?" then proposes
to answer, by an appeal to the books, which
they have published concerning themselves. First, the
Book of Mormon, published in 1836, printed by Grandin.
Now, Mr. S., the book to which you refer, was published,
and dated, 1830; making a difference of six years.
You say, first, "All Mormons profess to act under the
infallible inspiration of God; and to have power to
work miracles, such as the interpretation of languages
they have never learned; healing the sick, and raising
the dead." And you attempt to prove it by a quotation
from the "Voice of Warning," by P. P. Pratt,
pages 118 and 119. Now Mr. Sunderland, you verily
know, that raising the dead, is not mentioned in the
"Voice of Warning," in connection with the spiritual
gifts, bestowed upon the members of the Church, Ancient
or Modern. And that, raising the dead, is not
included in the spiritual gifts mentioned by the Apostle,
in his writings to any of the Churches; neither is
raising the dead included in the signs, which the Saviour
promised would follow them that believe: Mark,
c. 16: v. 17,18; consequently, we must think, you intended
to misrepresent, and that you are possessed of
a lying spirit. It is true, there are a few instances of
raising the dead, mentioned in the Scripture, but nowhere
included among the spiritual gifts enjoyed by the members
of the Church; and you know too, that the "Voice
of Warning" does not argue, that every member should
possess all the gifts, but that the Church should have
( 5 )
all the gifts distributed among them, dividing to them
severally as Christ will, and that God is the author of
that principle and not Mr. Pratt.
2d. Says Mr. Sunderland, "they profess to have intercourse
with the angels of God, and affirm that they
frequently see them, and have messages from God thro'
them." Very good, Mr. S. this is what the Saints professed
in all ages of the world, in every country, among
every nation, and under every dispensation of God to
man, whether Patriarchal, Mosaic, or Christian; and
one who does not believe in such enjoyments, is an infidel,
and not a believer of revelation in any shape.
3d. Mr. S. says, "They claim to be the only true
Church, all other churches are of Anti-Christ, and exposed
to God's eternal displeasure." Pray, Mr. Sunderland,
how many churches, or doctrines, and religious
systems, has the spirit of truth instituted among
men? How many systems did the Apostles acknowledge
among men? I reply one, and only one, and that
one, was a system of direct Inspiration, which put men
in possession of the gifts and power of God.
All others were false religions. How many systems
do the Latter Day Saints acknowledge to be true? I
answer, only one, and that one is a system, which puts
men in possession of the gifts and power of God; and
of course, God is not well pleased with any other.
Mr. S. further quotes, "The only true and living
Church upon the face of the whole earth," "with which
I, the Lord, am well pleased; speaking unto the Church
collectively, and not individually." Doctrine and Covenants,
Sec. 1. Now, Mr. S. why did you stop so short
with the word earth, in this quotation? Why not finish
the sentence, so that the idea might be conveyed, which the
author intended? Does it not amount to a falsehood,
for you to quote half an idea, so as to leave a wrong
impression on the mind of your readers, and thus delude
them? Again, "they say," says Mr. S. "that
God has sent down from Heaven, a city, called the
New Jerusalem, and located it in the Western boundaries
of Missouri, where he requires all his true followers
( 6 )
to go, under pain of his wrath." As proof of
this, Mr. S. quotes, Voice of Warning, page 197, which
reads thus, "America is a chosen land of the Lord above
every other land; it is the place of New Jerusalem,
which shall come down from God out of Heaven,
upon the earth," "when renewed." Now, Mr. S. why
did you omit the words, when renewed, in your quotation
of this page? And why did you lie again, by converting
the word shall into has, in the conclusion you draw
from the quotation on this subject? The one expresses
something future, which will happen upon the new
earth, when time is no longer. The other conveys an
idea of a city, which has already descended, which is
perfectly ridiculous; and none but the most abandoned
and hardened of liars, could possibly have as misrepresented
another's statement. And again, says Mr. S.
"where he requires all his true followers to go, under
pain of his wrath." What wrath, Mr. S." I know of
no requirement, in any of our books, which compels
men to go there or any where else, under pain of any
wrath, except the troubles of a temporal nature, which
shall befal the Nations. And, if God has provided the
great West for a refuge, from such wrath, it is no more
than he has done for his saints in former ages. Think
of Noah, Lot and many others, who received revelations,
directing them to a temporal refuge, from the
calamities which befel the wicked: and remember, it
must be LIKEWISE in the days of the coming of the Son
of man. Indeed, our revelations are backed by the
political papers of the Eastern cities. They give the
same advice now which the Lord gave seven years ago,
namely, that those who are in distress flee to the West,
and even advise that those who are unable to go should
be assisted in going.
Mr. S. makes three other quotations from our books
on this subject, which all go to prove something future,
concerning a New Jerusalem, and not at all favoring
the lie which he states concerning a city which has
come down.
Pray Mr. S. what delusion is there in moving West,
( 7 )
and building a city, called "Zion" or "New Jerusalem,"
with a Temple or Sanctuary in the midst? when
it is an event which all the Prophets have predicted. --
But, says Mr. S. the cruelty of requiring all to go there.
But here you are at war with the 60th chapter of Isaiah,
which declares concerning a city of Zion, not only
that nations and kings should be gathered into it; but
the nation and kingdom which will not serve THEE,
shall perish and be utterly wasted."
But again, Mr. S. why did you break off in the middle
of the subject, concerning the shedding of blood! --
Thus sir, you are likely to be an instrument, by your
lying and deception, to cause our blood to flow, in fulfilment
of this revelation. Had you quoted the whole
subject, it would have forbidden us to shed blood, and
foretold that our enemies would shed ours; which has
actually been fulfilled: be the revelation true or false.
"They affirm," says Mr. S. that "their books,
preaching, pretended prophecies, and revelations, are
Scripture, and of equal authority with the Bible." --
This is another falsehood, for we lay no stress on PRETENDED
prophecies or revelations; but rely on real ones.
Now, I ask, if the word of the Lord, spoken by the
Holy Ghost, is not equal in authority with the Scriptures?
Or, what authority has the Scripture more than
that? "They pretend," says Mr. S. "to have power
to give the Holy Ghost to those on whom they lay their
hands for this purpose." What fault can be found with
that ordinance, more than with baptism or any other
duty? seeing it is according to the New Testament
pattern. Which is the best, Mr. S. to do according to
the pattern, or to cry, Lord, Lord, while we teach for
doctrines, the commandments of men?"
Mr. S. finds fault, because all are condemned, who
reject the message which God has sent us to preach. --
But, I enquire, did God ever send a man to preach
the gospel and baptize, and then save those who would
not obey it?
Mr. S. remarks, that Mormonism, Mahommedism,
the French Prophets, the Shakers, Swedenborg, and
( 8 )
others, have a kind of family likeness, and have equal
claims to divine origin. But wherein are they alike?
Says, Mr. S. they all pretend to receive revelations,
prophecies, ministering of angels, &c. Well, Mr. S.
you may include all the Prophets and Apostles, both
true and false, which ever made their appearance
among men, and all that ever will come, in this family
likeness. Paul and Peter are just like the rest in
this respect. All, both true and false, have these peculiar
characteristics, namely, they pretend to prophecies,
visions, revelations &c.; therefore, your rule of
judging, is this -- beware of false prophets; you shall
know them by their fruits; all who have visions, prophecies,
revelations, ministering of angels, &c., are false; and I would
add, all who do not have any of them are false of course.
And so, between us both, nothing would be left but
atheism. But I like the old rule best, I mean the rule
given by John: "whosoever transgresseth, and abideth
not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God." "He
that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, hath both the
Father and the Son." Now, by this rule, I reject Mahommet,
first, because he had no testimony but his own;
and secondly, because his doctrines agree not with the
Law and the Testimony. I reject the French Prophets,
for the same reason, as to doctrine; and because
their predictions were unscriptural, and did not come
to pass.
I reject Ann Lee, first, because God never sent a
dispensation by a woman. Second, she forbid to marry.
Third, she pretended Christ had come the second
time according to promise, in her person. Fourth, she
denied the resurrection of the body. Fifth, she laid
aside all the ordinances of the gospel.
I reject Swedenborg, because he mistifies the Scriptures,
and does away the ordinances of the gospel; and
lastly, I reject Methodism, and other systems, because
they do away the power and gifts of God, and change
the ordinances of the gospel.
But when I come to Mormonism, it sets in order in
their ancient purity, all the ordinances, gifts, and powers,
( 9 )
and thus restores the pure doctrine of Christ, --
This, Mr. S. proves in his various quotations, and references
to our doctrine, ordinances, &c., notwithstanding
his endeavors to throw a shadow of darkness over
them.
Mr. Sunderland speaks of the power of imagination
over the nervous system, in regard to the healing of
diseases; and as many in the city of New-York and
other places, have been healed by faith in the name of
Jesus, and the laying on of hands; I am pleased that
imagination has such power. For my part, if I can
persuade people to imagine themselves well, it answers
every purpose necessary to their bodily comfort, and
this power of imagination has been many times manifested
in this city of late; even in the persons of infants
of from three to eight months old. But, probably, Mr.
S. would call them impostors, who were so interested
in Mormonism that they only pretended to be healed,
in order to palm off a deception.
Mr. S complains of the Mormonites professing to be
inspired, and placing themselves on a level with the
Apostles; this, we acknowledge, of course, for they
were men of Adam's fallen race, just like every body
else by nature; and all they did was by faith in Jesus
Christ through the grace of God given; and I know of
nothing but equality in the Church of Christ, for one
is there Master, and they are all brethren.
Mr. Sunderland seems to hold forth two kinds of inspiration;
the one he calls Plenary Inspiration. The
other is that by which sinners are converted, the heart
changed, &c. This last he seems to think is liable to
mistakes or errors, and is not above the light of nature.
As to Plenary Inspiration, I know of no such
term in the Scripture: and as to the other kind, it is
no where to be found in the Scripture, or any where
else, except in the imagination of modern sectarians. --
What! Mr. Sunderland, has it come to this at last,
that you hold forth a kind of inspiration that gives no
certainty, no knowledge, no light above that of nature?
Pray, what benefit would such inspiration be to any
( 10 )
person? The inspiration of the Holy Ghost reveals
to those who enjoy it, the knowledge of the truth. --
And the Bible knows no other. And this inspiration
is for all the Saints. And indeed, no man can even be
a Saint without it. However, we will suggest a couple
of terms which will distinguish Mr. Sunderland's
two kinds of inspiration more clearly. I would say,
inspiration of the spirit of truth, and inspiration of the
spirit of error, that the one guides into all truth, and
the other into all the divisions of modern sectarians.
"Miracles," says Mr. Sunderland, "are for the proof
or evidence of some particular doctrine, or in attestation
of the Divine mMission, of some particular person."
Now, hear what the Apostle says on this subject, first
Cor. c. 12, and Eph. c. 4, and other places. He says
"gifts are for the work of the ministry; for the perfecting
of the saints; for the edifying of the body of
Christ." Now, if we believe Paul, instead of Mr. Sunderland,
we must believe that gifts and miracles are for
a different purpose, from what he would represent, and
that they were to continue as long as the gospel ministry
itself; and as long as there were Saints, who were
to be perfected of edified. But if they were given only
to establish some particular doctrine or mission; then
the Scripture concerning Jesus should read thus: Jesus
did more mighty miracles in his native place, than any
where else, because of their unbelief. Again, a certain
text should read, God hath given them ears, but they
hear not; eyes, but they see not; hearts that understand
not, that they might be converted, and healed,
because of unbelief. And again, faith comes by miracles.
And again, without faith, it is possible to please
God so as to be healed.
Mr. Sunderland complains of scores of miracles recorded
in the Book of Mormon, as performed on the
most trifling occasions; but can give but one instance
of the kind, namely, the Lord showing his finger to the
brother of Jared; "and it was as the finger of a man
like unto flesh and blood." But, Mr. Sunderland was
careful to omit the word AS, in order to make a false
and ridiculous statement appear in the Book of Mormon,
( 11 )
where there is none. For of course, the Lord's
finger appears AS, the finger of a man appears; or man
could not be created after His image and likeness. --
Mr. Sunderland, just remember the finger of God that
the impious Belshazzer saw writing on the wall.
Mr. Sunderland intimates that the bible records no
instances of miracles being performed, or revelations
given, except on great and important occasions. Now,
in the first place, we challenge Mr. Sunderland, or any
other man, to produce instances where miracles are
introduced in the book of Mormon any occasion,
except for great and important ends; ends worthy the
exertion of the power of God. We challenge any man
to produce a single instance in that book of an angel's
visit without and errand worthy their attention. And,
secondly, we will proceed to notice, a few of the great
and important objects, which called forth angels, revelations
and miracles in the Bible. Exo. c. 33, v. 22
and 28. "And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth
by, that I will put thee in the cleft of the rock; and
will cover thee with my hand, while I pass by: and I will
take away my hand and thou shalt see my back parts;
but my face shall not be seen." Now, Mr. Sunderland,
what would you say to this, if it were in the book of
Mormon, that the Lord put Jared in the cleft of the
rock, and placed his hand over it to keep Jared from
seeing his face, but after he had gone past, he took his
hand off, and suffered Jared to see his back parts? See
also, Deut. c. 23, v. 1 and 13, concerning who was to
come into the congregation of the Lord, and concerning
the paddle. Now, Mr. Sunderland, you say there
is vast, vast difference between the two books in this
respect. I wish you to bring a few parallel cases from
the Book of Mormon, for an offset against the above
sublime truths.
Also, see Deut. c. 25, v. 9, "then shall his brother's
wife come unto him, in the presence of the elders, and
loose his shoe from off his foot, and spit in his face,"
&c. Verse 10, "and his name shall be called in Israel,
the house of him that had his shoe loosed." See also,
( 12 )
Deut, c. 22, v. 6 and 7, concerning the bird's nest, --
"But thou shalt in anywise let the dam go, and take
the young to thee; that it may be will with thee, and
that thou mayest prolong thy days." I should like to
see something brought forward from the Book of Mormon,
that will compare with the above examples; and
with the great occasion of the Lord's turning water into
wine, that they might drink a little more, after they
had well drunk.
Mr. Sunderland says, "Mr. Smith pretends to be
three years translating the book." This is not so. --
The plates containing the record, was obtained Sep. 22,
A.D. 1827, and appeared in print in March, 1830, making
two years and a half; much of which time, was
spent in laboring with his hands for his support & much
was spent in fleeing from place to place on account
of persecution, and of course much was spent in printing,
&c. Mr. S. further says, "No person ever saw
one of their miracles, but themselves." How do you
know that, Mr Sunderland? Or, by what authority
do you speak? Have you been with all our elders,
in all their travels? I have only to say, your assertion
is false; for it is a noted fact, that there are many
in this city, who have been healed, who did not belong
to the church; and these things are done publicly, and
this we are prepared to prove by good witnesses, both
in the church and out of the church. Mr Sunderland
further says, that "public monuments must be set up,
and some outward actions also, must be perpetuated in
memory of the miracles thus publicly wrought." Now,
I ask, what monuments or ordinances, are standing
proof of the thousands of miracles and gifts, wrought
by the Apostles and members of the ancient church?
O my soul, has it come to this at last, that men cannot
go to the true and living God, in the prayer of faith,
and learn the truth for themselves? but must depend on
certain monuments of antiquity for all the knowledge
they have, either of God or religion. May the Lord
pity such a graceless and ungodly generation. But I
acknowledge, that such abominable liars, as La Roy
( 13 )
Sunderland, need something before their eyes to put
them in mind of a God, for I am sure there is no place
for the witness of the spirit of truth in their hearts.
He further says, "The existence of the Plates, is
not vouched for by any disinterested person." But in
the name of common sense, I ask who would be a
disinterested person? If all christendom should see
the plates, and be convinced of the truth of the record,
every person would be as interested in the same, as
those who first witnessed it. Who ever heard of God's
choosing a disinterested witness of his resurrection, or
any other truth? Or, would Mr. Sunderland have a
witness who would say, the thing is true, but does not
concern me, I propose never to obey it myself: but
go down to hell, for the sake of giving others a disinterested
testimony of its truth?
Let christians blush at the ignorant and impotent objections
of the editor of Zion's Watchman; for I
am satisfied that even infidels never advance objections
so foolish and unreasonable!
Concerning Prophesy, he remarks that "it cannot
be proved, that one prediction, in that book, which is
not taken from the Bible, was written before the event,
said to be described." Again he says, "there are no
predictions, peculiar to this book, yet to be fulfilled, no
names of persons or places, or periods of time, are referred
to, by which anything definite can be known, as
to what is meant by the jargon of Mormon Prophets."
Now, Mr. La Roy Sunderland, we will prove to the
world, that this in one of the most barefaced falsehoods
ever uttered by man. The Book of Mormon contains
many Prophecies, yet future, with names, places, and
dates, so definite, that a child may understand; indeed,
it is one of the peculiar characteristics of the Book of
Mormon, that its predictions are plain, simple, definite,
literal, positive and very express, as to the time of their
fulfilment. Notice a prediction of Nephi, page 125,
second edition. "For after the book, of which I have
spoken, shall come forth, and be written unto the Gentiles,
and sealed up again unto the Lord, there shall be
( 14 )
many, which shall believe the words which are written,
and, they shall carry them forth, unto the remnant of
our seed, (the Indians) and then shall the remnant of
our seed know concerning us; how that we came out
from Jerusalem; and that they are the descendants of
the Jews; and the gospel of Jesus Christ, shall be declared
among them; wherefore they shall be restored
unto the knowledge of their fathers; and also to the
knowledge of Jesus Christ, which was had among their
fathers; and then shall they rejoice for they shall
KNOW, that it is a blessing unto them, from the hand
of God. And their scales of darkness shall begin to
fall from their eyes; and many generations shall not
pass away among them; save they shall be a white, and
delightsome people. And it shall come to pass that
the Jews which are scattered, also shall begin to believe
in Christ; and they shall begin to gather in upon
the face of the land; and as many as shall believe in
Christ, shall also be a delightsome people; and it shall
come to pass, that the Lord God shall commence his
work among all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people,
to bring about the restoration of his people upon the
earth. * * * For the time speedily cometh, that
the Lord God shall cause a great division among the
people, and the wicked will he destroy, and he will
spare his people."
Also, page 121, 2d edition. "Behold that great
and abominable Church, the whore of all the earth,
must tumble to the earth, and great must be the fall
thereof: for the kingdom of the devil, must shake;
and they which belong to it must needs be stirred up
unto repentance, or the devil will grasp them with his
everlasting chains, and they be stirred up to anger, and
perish; for behold at that day shall he rage in the
hearts of the children of men, and stir them up to anger
against that which is good."
Also, page 122 2nd edition. "Woe unto all those
who tremble and are angry, because of the truth of
God; for behold he that is built upon the rock, receiveth
it with gladness; and he that is built upon a sandy
( 15 )
foundation, trembleth, lest he shall fall." Also, page
123 2nd edition. "Woe be unto the Gentiles, saith
the Lord God of Hosts; for notwithstanding I shall
lengthen out my arm unto them from day to day, they
will deny me." See also, page 514, and read the fate
of our nation, and the fate of the Indians of America;
in the day that the Gentiles should reject the fullness
of the Gospel. -- (The Book of Mormon.) See also,
page 526, where a sign is given, and the time clearly
set for the restoration and gathering of Israel from
their long dispersion, namely, the coming forth the
Book of Mormon, should be the sign; and in the day
this work should come forth, should this great event
commence among all nations. Also, p. 527, where all
who will not hearken to the Book of Mormon, shall
be cut off from among the people; and that too, in
the day it comes forth to the Gentiles and is rejected
by them. And not only does this page set the time for
the overthrow of our government and all other Gentile
governments on the American continent, but the way
and means of this utter destruction are clearly foretold;
namely, the remnant of Jacob will go through among
the Gentiles and tear them in pieces. like a lion among
the flocks of sheep. Their hand shall be lifted up
upon their adversaries, and all their enemies shall be
cut off. This destruction includes an utter overthrow,
and desolation of all our Cities, Forts, and Strong
Holds -- an entire annihilation of our race, except such
as embrace the Covenant, and are numbered with Israel.
Now, Mr. Sunderland, you have something definite
and tangible, the time, the manner, the means, the
names, the dates; and I will state as a prophesy, that
there will not be an unbelieving Gentile upon this continent
50 years hence; and if they are not greatly
scourged, and in a great measure overthrown, within
five or ten years from this date, then the Book of Mormon
will have proved itself false. And furthermore,
as Mr. LaRoy Sunderland has lied concerning the truth
of Heaven, the fulness of the Gospel; and has blasphemed
against the word of God, except he speedily
( 16 )
repent, and acknowledge his lying and wickedness, and
obey the message of eternal truth, which God has sent
for the salvation of his people. God will smite him
dumb, that he can no longer speak great swelling words
against the Lord; and a trembling shall seize his nerves,
that he shall not be able to write; and Zion's Watchman
shall cease to be published abroad, and its lies
shall no longer deceive the public; and he will wander
a vagabond on the earth, until sudden destruction shall
overtake him; and if Mr. La Roy Sunderland enquires,
when shall these things be? I reply, it is nigh thee --
even at thy doors; and I say this in the name of Jesus
Christ. Amen.
I hope Mr. Sunderland, will no more complain of
the jargon of the Mormon Prophets being unintelligible
or indefinite.
Mr S. says, "admitting the 29th Chapter of Isaiah
was a prediction of the existence of the Book of Mormon,
it does not predict that, that book would be a
good one." Now I am more, and more astonished at
the perfect weakness of your cause. What? the deaf
hear the words of the Book, the meek increase their
joy in the Lord, and the poor rejoice; the house of
Jacob be glad in the Holy One of Israel; they that err
in spirit come to understanding, and they that murmur
learn doctrine. -- And all this brought about by the
means of a Book, and that Book not a good one?
You say, "the text speaks of a book being presented
to a person unable to read it." -- Here you mistake
again: the text speaks of the WORDS of a book being
delivered to the learned who could not read them; but of
the Book itself being delivered to the unlearned, thus
making a distinction. The words or characters being
copied from the Plates, and delivered to the learned
who could not read them, while the Book was delivered
to the unlearned; thus fulfilling the words of
the text.
Mr. S. further says, "the text speaks of a Book --
it says nothing about Brass Plates." But I reply, the
text says nothing about parchment, tables of stone,
( 17 )
papyrus, bark, paper, or any thing else on which this
Record was to be written; consequently, it must not
be written on any thing, according to your logic. But
as you are learned, please define what materials may
be written on, in order to constitute a book; and what
materials may not be used; and what name we may give
to a Record on Plates, as they would not constitute
a book.
Mr. S. says, "Mormonism is directly opposed to the
Holy Scriptures. 1st. -- The New Testament informs
us, that if we believe what is written in that book, of
the Son of God, we shall be saved. -- John, c. xx: v. 31.
While the Book of Mormon says, if we don't believe
that also, in addition to the old and new Testament,
we must be eternally damned; hence Mormonism is a
lie." Stop, stop, don't be so fast: John makes no allusion
to the New Testament, in the text you have
quoted, but refers to the Book he was then writing,
now called the Gospel according to St. John. For
the book called the New Testament, did not exist at
that time, neither is it at all probable that he had any
book before him at the time, to which he alluded, except
the testimony, or gospel, which he was then in the
act of finishing; consequently, you will please relinquish
all claim to faith in any other book of the New
Testament, and set them down for lies, as you have
Mormonism. Because John wrote his book that
you might believe on the Son of God, and that believing
you might have life through his name: therefore, according
to your own logic, you are bound to reject all
others as lies. 2d. -- You say, "God has imperatively
forbidden any addition to what is written in the Old and
New Testaments. Deut. c. iv; v. 2 and Rev. c.
xxii; v. 18." Here you are too fast again, Mr. Sunderland.
These two texts say nothing concerning the
Old and New Testaments at all; the one speaks of
Moses' writings only; not at all including the writings
of the Prophets, for they were not at the commands of
Moses, and were not in existence when Moses wrote.
And the other speaks exclusively of the "words of the
( 18 )
Prophecy of this book," (the book of the Revelation
of St. John,) which was not then compiled with any
other book under heaven. Thus, Mr. Sunderland, in
destroying the Book of Mormon, you destroy every
book in the Bible. By your application of the first
text, you destroy every book excepts John's Gospel;
not excepting Moses nor the Revelation of St. John. --
Then by your application of the other two texts, you
destroy the Gospel of St. John and all the other books,
except Moses and the Revelation of John. Thus if
you gain the victory over the Book of Mormon by
these texts, you gain a equal victory over all the other
books. It is not Mormonism alone, that is struggling
for existence beneath your infidel thrusts; but it is the
whole truth of Heaven, which was ever revealed to
man, or ever will be. Indeed, your logic would shut
Heaven, seal up the mouth of Jehovah, forbid the ministry
of Angels, deprive men of the Holy Ghost, (the
spirit of prophesy and Revelation,) close all communication
between man and his Maker, and leave the
world in Atheism. First, by destroying the Bible, and
all other ancient Records which are sacred. Secondly,
by forbidding mankind to ever receive any more.
Thirdly, you say, "the Holy Scriptures are sufficient
as a rule of our faith and practice," and you make
many quotations to prove it. And you further say,
"the doctrine taught in these passages, Mormonism
denies;" and to establish the accusation, you quote our
Doctrine and Covenants, Sect. 5th, "In cases of difficulty
respecting doctrine or principle, when there is
not a sufficiency written to make the case clear to the
minds of the Council; the President may enquire and
obtain the mind of the Lord by revelation." You
make it read thus, "if not sufficiently written," thus
giving a false quotation. Now, sir, you are a false accuser,
for our doctrine and covenants, in this text, perfectly
agree with the rules of faith and practice , laid
down in the Bible. See James, c. i, v. 5: "If any of
you lack WISDOM, let him ASK OF GOD, who giveth to
ALL MEN liberally, and upbraideth not, and it SHALL be
( 19 )
given him." And again, the Apostle prays that God
will enrich the disciples "In the Spirit of WISDOM and
REVELATION in the KNOWLEDGE of God." Now, Mr.
Sunderland, wherein does Mormonism differ from the
rules of faith and practice just quoted from the Bible?
And if desired, I pledge myself to produce a thousand
precepts and examples of a similar kind; all being
rules of faith and practice, which we fulfil or live according
to, in fulfilling that one rule of our "Doctrine
and Covenants." Indeed, if the Scriptures were given
for our rule of faith and practice, then are we continually
to receive Revelations, Prophecies, Visions,
Angels, &c.; for this is according to all the precepts,
examples, rules, faith, and practice of Scripture, and
you, sir, in opposing this part of Mormonism, are in
opposition to all the rules to which you yourself have
brought forward from Scripture. -- Thus, like Haman,
you receive that punishment, which you prepared for
others.
"Christ born of Mary, at Jerusalem, the land of our
forefathers." -- Book of Mormon, page 240, 2nd edition.
This, you say, is a contradiction of his being born in
Bethlehem, (a little place, six miles from Jerusalem,)
but mark the local difference in the places where
each was spoken. One prophet stands in the vicinity
where the thing was fulfilled, and points out the exact
location, (Bethlehem.) The other stands on the other
side of the globe, from Jerusalem, and addresses a
people who knew but little concerning the localities of
the various towns and villages of Judea. The prophet
speaks in general terms concerning a thing which
should transpire in the land of Jerusalem, as they had
a general idea of the great capitol, city and country,
from whence they sprang, rather than a distinct idea
of all its villages. This is in perfect accordance with
all the circumstances under which they wrote, and a
great proof in favor of the Book of Mormon; because
an impostor, in forging a book, would have said Bethlehem;
for every school boy knows that Bethlehem
is the place where the Lord was born.
( 20 )
And Mr. Sunderland, you say, "the Book of Mormon
gives numerous instances of persons ordained to
the Mosaick Priesthood, who were of the tribe of
Joseph," but I know of no Mosaick Priesthood. But
if you mean the Aaronic, I deny the assertion, for the
Aaronic Priesthood is no where pretended to in the
Book of Mormon. The Josephites claim the Priesthood
after the Order of Melchisidek; which had power
over all things -- the Aaronic Priesthood not excepted,
for they paid tithes to this greater Priesthood, according
to Paul. This priesthood was after the power
of an endless life, without beginning of days, or end
of life; and holds the keys and authorities over all the
other offices of the Church, in all ages of the world.
The book claims no Ark of the Covenant, no temple
service, as to the Holy of Holies, or any thing that
pertained exclusively to the Aaronic or Levitical Priesthood.
But, says Mr. S., "the Jews were not allowed
to offer burnt offerings in any other place after the
Temple was built, except Jerusalem. -- Deut. c. xii; v.
13, 14. The reason of this prohibition was, the holy
fire could be obtained in no other place. -- Lev. c. x:
v. 1."
I have examined both of these texts. The first does
not mention the Temple, but only the place which the
Lord should choose -- See, verses 10, 11, of the same
Chap. WHEN they dwelt in the land, the other side
of Jordan, and had rest from their enemies and WHEN
they dwelt there is safety, THEN there should be a
place for them to bring their burnt offerings and sacrifices.
THEN they were to take heed not to offer sacrifices
in every place, but in the place which the Lord
should choose. Now I ask, if Lehi, who left Jerusalem
just in time to escape the Babylonish Captivity, or
his children who lived in America, were dwelling in the
land of Canaan, the other side of Jordan, in peace, at
the same time they were roaming the wilderness as
outcasts from the land of their fathers? If so, then
the restriction concerning sacrifices, applies to them, if
not, it does not apply to them according to verses 10
( 21 )
and 11 of that chapter. Lev. c. x: v. 1, says nothing
concerning Jerusalem or the fire obtained there, any
more than it does of the flood. And why it is quoted
by Mr. Sunderland on that subject, I am unable to
guess, unless it was for want of any proof whatever
to support the assertion.
I shall now proceed to apply Mr. Sunderland's rule
to Elijah, the Tishbite, of the inhabitants of Gilead.
1st Kings, c. 18: where he offered sacrifices on Mount
Carmel, near 40 miles south of Jerusalem: and this
in the days of King Ahab, a long time after the building
of the temple of Solomon. Consequently, Elijah
must share the fate of all the ancient "Mormon"
Prophets. Neither did he get his fire from Jerusalem,
but from Heaven. This is a more aggravating transgression
of Mr. Sunderland's rule, than the Book of
Mormon any where records: for this was done in the
very country where the Lord had required all to be
performed at Jerusalem. Poor old Elijah, what a pity
that you did not understand the Law as well as Mr.
La Roy Sunderland, Zion's Watchman; for now you
are doomed by him to eternal infamy and destruction
with us, poor deluded creatures. And it seems your
fathers were equally ignorant with yourself, for you
only repaired the Altar of God where they had offered
their sacrifices before you -- and all in the wrong place.
And as to others offering sacrifices, who were not of
the Aaronic Priesthood, I refer the reader to Gideon, of
the tribe of Manasseh; Judge c. vi; v. 25. -- Manoah,
of the tribe of Dan; Judge, c. xiii; v. 16, 19. -- Samuel's
offering: 1st Sam. v. 7, 9. -- David, of the tribe of
Judah; 2 Sam c. vi: v. 17, 18. -- These all offered
sacrifices acceptable to God, and that too, while the
Law of Moses was in force, and in a country where
the seed of Aaron and Levi were to be found. Now,
Mr. LaRoy Sunderland, you must be looked upon either
as a knave, or too ignorant to stand at the head of any
paper, much less to be one of "Zion's Watchmen."
I have dwelt upon this subject more full, because Mr.
A. Campbell, of Virginia, Editor of the "Millennium
( 22 )
Harbinger;" Howe, of Painsville, Ohio, publisher of
"Mormonism Unveiled," Himes, of Boston, author of
a pamphlet on "Mormonism," and Bachelor, with his
two horns, cloven foot, and pitchfork, have all raised
the same ignorant objections, as to sacrifices and priesthood.
All these profess to be very learned, and make
a great outcry against Joseph Smith, Jun. and the
Mormons in general, for their ignorance. Now how
does it come about, that Joseph Smith, and the Elders
of the church, (being unlearned and ignorant men,)
should confound and bring to nought, all the wisdom
of the wise? Surely the Scriptures are verified, that the
weak, the unlearned, and the despised, hath God chosen
to confound the wise, and bring to nought the understanding
of the prudent. Now if this common
blunder of theirs, proceeded from ignorance, we shall
expect to see a general confession on their part; but
if it be the effects of Priestcraft, Knavery, and Imposture,
they will signify it by their silence.
Next you say, "the Doctrine and Covenants, Sect 2,
contradicts the Bible, by saying, Remission of sins
must precede Baptism." This, sir, I deny; it says
that the candidate should receive "of the spirit of
Christ, unto the remission of sins." You further say,
"The Voice of Warning, page 22, says the Dreams of
Pharaoh were to be literally interpreted. Thus contradicting
what Joseph said of them." -- This, sir, is a
lie. The "Voice of Warning" says no such thing,
But rather says Joseph's Prophesy (to Pharaoh) was to
be interpreted literally. -- " See "Voice of Warning,"
page 21 and 22.
As to God's repenting and being grieved at his heart
because he had been so foolish and shortsighted as to
make man, or whether it was Noah that was grieved,
I leave the candid reader to judge. The one is King
James' translation, the other is Joseph Smith's. I
suppose if it were written in King James' translation of
the Bible, that two and two make twelve, and we
should say two and two make four, we should be accused
of contradicting the Bible. Thus superstition
( 23 )
would make the King's uninspired Translators of far
more authority than the God of Truth. You further
say, "that God informs us, that the Gospel Covenant
is to last forever, and never to be succeeded by another:"
and you quote Heb. c. vii: v. 21, 28; c. viii;
v. 6, 13; c. vi; v. 13, 20. Now I say God says no
such thing in any of the texts, as that the Covenant,
Offices and Ordinances of the Gospel, as set in order
by the Apostles, would never be broken among men;
but these texts speak of the Covenant and Priesthood
of the Son of God, how it should last forever; and it
will be recollected that he is in Heaven. He is not a
priest to administer ordinances here on earth. It is
true, Heb. c. viii, from 8th to 13th verse, speaks of a
new Covenant to be made with the house of ISRAEL,
which Covenant should never be broken, and succeeded
by another; but this Covenant was to take away
THEIR sins, and cause THEM ALL to know the Lord,
from the least to the greatest. But this Covenant
never took effect in the Apostle's days, nor at any time
since, but is yet future, as I will prove by three infallible
proofs: first, Romans, c. xi: v. 25 to 31, places that
Covenant in future, viz: when God should take away
the sins of Israel, and they should obtain mercy, after
the fulness of the Gentiles should come in. Now I enquire.
Are the Jews, together with Israel, now free
from sin, & ALL acquainted with the Lord Jesus Christ,
their Saviour? The answer is my 2d proof, that, that
Covenant is yet future; the Jews are yet scattered in
unbelief, blindness, and sin among all nations. And
Mr. La Roy Sunderland dare not say, that the Covenant
spoken of in the 8th of Heb. and Rom. 11th, has
ever been made with ISRAEL and JUDAH. My 3d
proof is, that this Covenant never will take effect with
them in their scattered situation, but will take effect
with them when they are gathered home from all nations,
to their own land. See Ezek., c. xxxvii. Hence
the folly of Missionary efforts to bring them to the
standards of Sectarianism; when in fact the Gentiles
( 24 )
will have to bow to them and their standard, to end
their own controversies.
Mr. Sunderland having lied, misrepresented and
falsified our Books, and mangled the Scriptures in a
most horrid manner, at length cries out, "here is proof
positive that these books can never be reconciled, either
with themselves or the Scriptures of Truth." When
in fact, it is his own blunders and falsehoods which
can never be reconciled with any truth. Mr. S. then
proceeds thus, "Mormonism is a system of unrelenting
cruelty. To be convinced of this fact, a person has
only to read the Book of Mormon, which is one continued
history of wars and murders." Pray, Mr. S.,
is it cruel to record a faithful history of wars? And
again, was the doctrine contained in that book, the
cause of the wars recorded in it? or were the wars
caused by sin, and opposition to the holy principles
contained in it? But, says Mr. Sunderland, "Mormonism
is cruel: 1st, in requiring Faith without evidence,"
and adds, "it is true, eleven men have said it
is true." But Mr. S., it is written in the Law, both of
God and Man, that the testimony of two men is true.
But you say, "ten thousand others can be found who
will testify that it is not true." Well, Mr. S., there
were twelve to testify that Jesus had risen from the
dead, and as many nations to testify he had not risen.
But what does this negative amount to, unless you
first destroy the affirmative? But it seems some of
these witnesses are guilty of being named, Smith and
Whitmer. But this is the first time I ever heard of a
witness being rejected on account of his name. But
I see no cruelty in requiring people to believe any thing,
true or false, as long as it leaves them at liberty to disbelieve
it! But secondly, "Mormonism is cruel in
taking from its votaries their property and refusing to
restore it again." And then Mr. S. has heard some
literary gentleman say, that he has heard somebody say,
that the Mormons in the West did so and so. Now,
Mr. Sunderland, this if proof sufficient against them,
although Eleven Men cannot be believed in their favour.
( 25 )
Yes, this is quite enough, away with such fellows, crucify
them! xrucify them! It is not fit that they should
live. Now, Mr. S. we do not take any man's property
from him, only what is freely donated, in charity
to the poor; and we have officers who are bound to
see to the distribution of every dollar for the purpose
for which it was given. And I ask, if the Abolition,
Missionary, Bible, Tract, or any charitable institution,
gives back the money donated to them? For instance,
if Mr. Sunderland joins the Church of the Latter Day
Saints, and gives a certain sum for Colonizing the poor,
and this money is expended for the purpose given; the
poor eat it up; and Mr. S. apostatizes; the officer
who handled the money, must go to work and earn the
money, in order to replace to Mr. S. what he gave to
the poor, otherwise "it is a system of unrelenting cruelty."
Again, Mr. S. says, "its cruelty appears in its requiring
its votaries to leave their homes and go to the
Western part of Missouri." Now, Mr. S., no "Mormon"
has ever gone to that place, except by choice,
in order to escape the troubles which God has forewarned
us of respecting other countries. And Jesus was
equally cruel in telling the disciples to leave Judea, and
flee to the mountains, on a certain occasion. I ask, is
it cruel to take men from the midst of distress, tribulation,
want of employment, starvation, and oppression,
and Colonize them where there is land and employment
enough, with provisions in abundance, and very
cheap?!! But, says Mr. S., "its monstrous cruelty
appears again, in its pretending to send all to hell who
do not believe it. But I reply, that every dispensation
that God ever sent, is equally cruel in this respect; for
God sends all to hell who reject any thing that he sends
to save those that believe. And I add, if Methodism
be true, God will send every man to hell who rejects it.
And a man must be very inconsistent, to come with a
message from God, and then, tell the people that they
can be saved just as well without, as with it. But he
complains of its consigning to hell, all who persist in
( 26 )
the doctrine of Infant Baptism. But pray, Mr. Sunderland,
is Infant Baptism any part of the pure Gospel
which Paul preached? If not, it is a perversion of
the Gospel: and Paul has been so cruel as to agree
with Mormon, in pronouncing a curse upon all those
who pervert the Gospel. Says Mr. Sunderland, "the
writings of the Mormonites, are replete with nonsense
and blasphemy." He then gives several specimens:
first, it is impious blasphemy to teach that the Lord suffered
for the sins of the world, and bled at every pore;
and that sinners must repent, or suffer for their own
sins, as he has suffered for them. "And, indeed, (says
he,) "it would be difficult to find ONE passage in any
of their writings, that we have seen, which conveys
ANY THING LIKE GOOD SENSE." Then follows another
specimen. Our Doctrine and Covenants, say God
is the light of the Sun, Moon and Stars, and the power
by which they are made, and God is in them.
This seems to be nonsense and blasphemy when found
in Mormon writings. But let the Bible say, he is in
all things; that he is the light of every man that comes
into the world; or let a Methodist Priest say that God
is Omniscient, and Omnipresent, i. e., that he is in the
Sun, Moon and Stars, and every where else, and it
then becomes a good sense, and a pious saying. Now,
let the reader mark, that it is writing these things in a
Mormon book, that makes "nonsense and blasphemy"
of them. Under the head of nonsense and blasphemy,
he quotes the following from the "Doctrine and Covenants."
"Through the redemption which is made
for you, is brought to pass the Resurrection of the
dead, and the spirit and the body, is the soul of Man,
and the Resurrection from the dead, is the redemption
of the soul."
This "nonsense and blasphemy," becomes good
sense the moment it is found in the other Scriptures.
Instance, in Gen. where God formed Man of the dust
of the earth, and breathed into his nostrils the breath
of life, and man became a living soul. Here, the
earthly part, animated by the Spirit of Life, is called
( 27 )
Man, and is also called a living SOUL. Now, this is
"nonsense and blasphemy," in "Mormonism," but in
the Bible it becomes sublime truth. Or has the Ignoramus
never read the Bible? But another specimen
of Mormon nonsense and blasphemy is quoted by him.
"And the Saints shall be filled with glory, and be
EQUAL with Him," (Christ.) -- "Doctrine and Covenants."
This nonsense and blasphemy, becomes truth
when found in the Bible. As to this equality of Christ
and his people, see the prayer of Christ recorded by
John, concerning his saints, becoming ONE -- with him
and the Father, as they ARE ONE -- and certainly they
are equal. And again, the saints are joint heirs with
Him. And again, "he that overcometh, shall sit
down with Christ in his Throne, as he has overcome
and sit down with the Father in his Throne." And
again, the spirit should guide his saints into all truth,
and if it does guide his saints into all truth, God is in
possession of all truth, and no more; consequently, his
saints will know what he knows: and it is an acknowledged
principle, that "knowledge is power;" consequently,
if they have the same knowledge that God has,
they will have the same power. And this will fulfil the
scripture, which saith, "Unto him that believeth, ALL
THINGS ARE POSSIBLE." And I am sure God can do no
more than all things: consequently, there must be
equality. That is, the redeemed return to the fountain,
and become part of the great all, from which they
emanated. Hence the propriety of calling them
"GODS, even the sons of God." In fact it was this
doctrine of equality, that constituted blasphemy in the
minds of the Jews, and brought down their malice and
vengeance upon the head of our dear Saviour.
The next specimen of "nonsense and blasphemy,"
is quoted by Mr. Sunderland from "Doctrine and Covenants,"
Sec. 7th. It is a clause from a Revelation,
rebuking the Church for the idleness of some of its
members, and the wickedness of their children, together
with their covetousness and neglect of prayer and
devotion. But this is the first time, that speaking
( 28 )
against such evils amounted to "nonsense and blasphemy."
Indeed, I now understand why he uttered that
sweeping declaration, that it would be difficult to find
one passage of good sense in all of our books; it is
because they are taken up mostly in speaking against
sin, which amounts, in his mind, to nonsense and blasphemy,
therefore, our books are filled with "nonsense
and blasphemy," because they are filled with warnings
against sin; and because they hold forth repentance
and redemption, through the blood of Christ, the resurrection
of the dead, and a fulness of glory at the right
hand of our blessed Redeemer.
Another specimen from the book of "Doctrine and
Covenants," sec. 27, is brought forward by this lying
deceiver, but he could not make nonsense of it without
altering it for the worse in three places. "Let my servant,
Sidney Gilbert, plant himself in the HOUSE (the
revelation read, "in this place," instead of house,) and
establish a Store, that he may sell goods without fraud,
that he obtain money to buy lands for the good of
the Saints." This provision for colonizing the poor
has become "nonsense and blasphemy." -- Although
the Lord could once send Peter to catch a fish, in order
to get a little money to pay taxes without blaspheming;
but perhaps Mr. S. would say, that was in the
days of humility and simplicity, when he was poor, and
had not where to lay his head, but since he had got in
possession of so many fine Temples, Chapels, Livings,
Honours, Titles, Salaries, &c., his mind could not
stoop to hear the cries of the poor. But he quotes still
further: "Let my servant, W. W. Phelps, be planted
in the house, (the Revelation reads, "in this place,"
instead of the house,) and let him be established as a
Printer to the Church, and let all the world receive his
writings." Surely this would be nonsense; for all the
world cannot read -- all the world have not conveyances
by mail, and all the world includes more than three
thousand languages and dialects; and all the world
would keep our Printing Establishment very busy to
print four or five hundred millions of a monthly paper,
( 29 )
in the several thousand different tongues. But it is
Mr. S. who make nonsense by his lying, (the passage
reads thus, "and inasmuch as the world receive his
writings, let him obtain all he can obtain in righteousness,
for the good of the Saints.") The truth of the
matter is this, that we planted a Colony in Missouri, and
to that Colony was attached a Mercantile and Printing
Establishment, the profits of which, were to be devoted
to the purchase of lands, for the purpose of Colonizing
the poor, who were unable to buy lands for themselves.
The fact is, this speculating, lying hypocrite, not only
falsifies almost every passage he quotes, but is continually
converting the most benevolent institutions among
the Saints, into nonsense, blasphemy, and money making,
whereas, it is his own Order, and not Ours, that
is guilty of moneyed plans and priestcraft. Indeed, I
have often heard the members of the Methodist Church
complain, that the great cry of their Priests, was money,
money, give, give. Indeed, whoever will read
their Discipline, will find it abounding with moneyed
plans; making a regular provision for the support of
their hireling Priests. And whoever will read our
Book of "Doctrine and Covenants," will find no provision
for the support of Preachers, except to go forth
without Purse or Scrip, or Two Coats, taking no
thought for the morrow; freely giving and freely receiving
such things as the people see fit to give. Indeed,
I have preached in this city more than six months, many
times a week, besides visiting the poor, the sick, &c;
and I have not mentioned money, money, nor give,
give, for the support of the Gospel; neither has such
a thing ever been named in any of our meetings, except
by way of condemnation. But the gospel I preach
has power to fill those who receive it with charity, and
it opens their hearts, so that my necessities are supplied.
But nature's wants are few, I dispense with those extravagances
most of the Priests are guilty of. I have
preached the Gospel from Maine to Missouri, for near
eight years, and all I ever received, during my whole
ministry, would not amount to the yearly salary of
( 30 )
one of the lazy, extravagant loungers, who under the
name of Oriests, are a nuisance to the whole country.
But to return to another specimen of "nonsense and
blasphemy," "behold, I command you (Hiram Smith)
that you need not suppose that you are called to preach
until you are."
This "nonsense and blasphemy," if put in practice
in all christendom, would rid the world of Popes, Right
Reverend Fathers in God, Lord Bishops, D. D's. Rabbis,
&c. which ever were a curse to it: yes, it would
rid the world of all the hirelings, and of all the uninspired
men, which have so long been a burden to
society.
He next complains of Mrs. Smith, being called an
"elect lady." The ignorant clown, verily thinks the
term "lady" in America, amounts to a title of nobility,
paramount with "lord" and intimates, that we shall
soon have "Lord Joseph." Why, Mr. Sunderland, if
ever you had been in good society in this country, you
would have perceived that ALL females of respectability
are called "ladies," as a matter of common courtesy;
that does not imply a title of nobility; however
you are to be pardoned for this stupid blunder, for I
judge it was through ignorance you committed it; but
the female part of the community will think you rather
clownish. But this "nonsense and blasphemy," becomes
sublime truth, the moment John makes use of
the same term in the Bible, or perhaps John was so
much of a pope, in your estimation, that he had power
to confer titles of nobility.
Mr. S.'s next specimen of "nonsense and blasphemy,"
is quoted from the book of "doctrine and covenants,"
sect. 66, giving the word of the Lord to Joseph Smith, Jun.
and S. Rigdon, appointing them a mission to Missouri;
yet, he says "the Scriptures are for our rule of faith
and practice." Well, Mr. S. if this is "nonsense and blasphemy,"
then of course, the word of the Lord to Philip,
that he should go towards the desert and to the chariot
of the Ethiopian, is condemned by the same rule; and
also the word of the Lord to Paul, directing him in his
( 31 )
mission: or, have the scriptures ceased to be a rule or
pattern for us to follow? Come, Mr. Sunderland,
throw off the cloak of religion -- come out open infidel,
for surely you have as good reason to condemn the
Former Day Saints, as the Latter Day Saints, in this
respect, unless you worship a changeable God: who
condescended to speak in old times; but has now become
dumb, from misdemeanor or through old age!
For shame, why worship a God who has no ears, mouth,
nor eyes, whose arm is shortened that he cannot save,
and has no power to deliver? It is true, I am not
much in the habit of ridiculing, but really, if Isaiah, or
Elijah were here, they would hold you in derision, and
your God too. And I am sure, the living God would
laugh at as well as mock both you and your God. It
seems at last, I have discovered what Mr. S. means by
our revelations being blasphemy. Who ever will read
the first articles of religion in the doctrines and "discipline"
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, will find a
description of their God: a God without body or parts,
of course then he has neither eyes, ears, or mouth, and
can neither see, hear, nor speak. Well now, Mr. Sunderland,
we acknowledge that all the revelations we
have ever received from Israel's God, was direct blasphemy
against yours. But let it be understood distinctly,
that we do not love, serve, nor fear your God; and
if he has been blasphemed, let him speak and plead his
own cause: but this he cannot do, seeing he has no
mouth. And how he ever revealed his choice of La
Roy Sunderland as a "Watchman" for his Zion, I am
at a loss to determine. But we worship a God, who
has both body and parts: who has eyes, mouth, and
ears, and who speaks when he pleases -- to whom he
pleases, and sends them where he pleases. And he always
did blaspheme other Gods, and hold them up to
ridicule and contempt; and so did his followers: and
as Mr. Sunderland is unacquainted with our God, and
has been worshiping an imaginary God all his days, I
take this opportunity of declaring the true God to him;
and I hope if ever he is brought to a knowledge of
( 32 )
Him, he will become a man of truth; for our God is a
God of truth.
Mr. S. quotes numerous typographical errors in the
Book of Mormon, many of which are corrected in the
second edition; but he takes advantage of these errors
of language by saying the Book was PRINTED
under Infallible Inspiration. By this we are to understand
that Mr. Grandin, a Job Printer at Palmyra; a man
who makes no pretensions to religion, is inspired to set
his type all just right. This is too ridiculous to come
from a man of common sense; and deserves no reply,
only a remark, that Mr. S.'s skull must be rather thick,
or he is partially deranged.
Mr. S. proceeds to quote numerous phrases from the
Book of Mormon, which are found in the other Scriptures,
and thinks it strange and incredible, that God
who is the Author of both, should have made use of
the same phrases in both countries. Or that he knew
some truths a little too early. He seems to think, that
all who can believe that the Spirit of God is acquainted
with modern phrases, or phrases which his spirit selected
and made use of in another country or ages, must
be prepared to believe any thing, however shocking or
absurd. He seems to think, the Spirit of God in
America, has been guilty of literary theft, in imitating
its own likeness, as manifested in other writings, and in
other ages and countries. He says, "a very large
proportion of this Book, (the Book of Mormon,) is
made up of base and bungling attempts to imitate the
Scripture style; and to quote ONE of a HUNDRED of
these attempts, we should have to transcribe SEVERAL
HUNDRED pages." Astonishing!!! The Book of
Mormon, according to this statement, would consist of
at least, TWENTY THOUSAND pages. Surely this would
compare with the mammoth. One would suppose of
a truth, as he has said, it would take three years to
write and print a book so large. But this statement is
about as near the truth as he is in the habit of speaking.
( 33 )
C O N T R A D I T I O N S.
Under this head, Mr. Sunderland says, "in the Book
of Mormon, page 149, and throughout the Book, the
Plates on which it is said to have been engraved, were
Brass. But the eight witnesses say they had the appearance
of Gold." This is Mr. S.'s BLUNDER and
NOT a contradiction in the Book. The Plates on which
the Book of Mormon was written, are nowhere called
Brass, but the Plates brought from Jerusalem to America
containing the writings of Moses and the Jewish
Prophets, are called Brass; and the distinction is kept
so plain throughout the whole Record, that a blunder
or mistake on this point, on the part of Mr. S., is inexcusable.
And from his general proceedings in this
matter, we feel justified in calling it a lie. Mr. S. also
says, "it speaks of a Compass, five or six hundred
years before Christ." But he does not tell us the fact,
as the Book does, in relation to the invention of this
Compass. The Book says it was prepared by the hand
of the Lord; but perhaps Mr. S. thinks the Lord could
not have invented a Compass in that early age of Arts
and Sciences: but some scientific men profess to trace
the knowledge of the Compass back to very early ages.
Indeed, some show reasons for believing it was invented
in Egypt, in the days of her glory -- but be this as it
may, our God is just as good at mechanical inventions,
architecture, tailoring, smithing, stone working, &c.
&c., as at any other business. For proof of this, we
refer the reader to the Tables of Stone, not only written
on by the finger of God, but the first tables were made
by Him. -- Also, the plans of the Tabernacle, Temple,
Aaron's Garments, &c.; as well as the workers in
Gold and Silver, &c., were all inspired of God, according
to Moses.
Again, he says, "on page 440, it is said the Sun does
not move at all." -- This is another lie. It only speaks
on the principle of lengthening out the day, and gives
us to understand that the Earth rolls back on its axes,
to cause this phenomena, instead of the Sun moving for
this purpose. He further says, page 431, ten years
( 34 )
before Christ, a writer pretends to quote the following
passage: "they that have done good shall have everlasting
life; and they that have done evil shall have everlasting
damnation;" but he adds, "no such Scripture
was written at that time." I reply, no such Scripture
is now written, except in the Nephite Records, of
which the Book of Mormon is not one hundredth part,
and Sunderland knows not what was written among
them; therefore, he cannot judge; he knows not but
the Scripture referred to, was written 40 times over,
in some of their former Records; therefore, he has
made a presumptuous assertion.
He quoted Book of Mormon, page 65: "Adam fell
that men might have joy." This does not read so, but
says, "Men are that they might have joy." But I am
tired of noticing his lies. He says, "The Voice of
Warning,page 37, says the Nile now has Seven Mouths."
But the "Voice of Warning," page 37, says no such
thing, not even naming the Nile, its streams or mouths.
Mr. S. proceeds to reject the 11th chapter of Isaiah,
because from the construction of the Lion's Jaws, --
He cannot chew the cud like the ox. Now, Mr. Sunderland,
you begin to come out like a man; you no
longer act under a cloak of religion, you have turned
infidel at last, and cannot believe the Bible one whit
sooner than the "Book of Mormon." And the "Book
of Mormon," says, if we believe one we will believe
the other. But he pleads an excuse for his unbelief,
by saying, the passage referred to cannot be taken literally.
Pray, Mr. S., permit me to suggest a rule of interpretation,
that will just suit your views of this passage.
That little N--O--T, which the tempter made
use of, in his quoting Scripture to Eve, then it would
read thus: "The lion shall N--O--T eat straw like
the ox." Your further say, "according to the representation
on page 540, of the Book of Mormon, there
was an insect called in the reformed Egyptian language,
a Honey Bee." This is another falsehood; the original
language there calls it "Deseret," which is by interpretation,
a Honey Bee. Again, you find fault with
( 35 )
page 542, for speaking of windows so long before the
invention of glass. But here you are at war with the
Bible, which mentions windows as early as Noah's Ark,
and the Flood. You complain of a certain book being
written among the Josephites, in the language of their
Fathers, (Hebrew,) and yet the book professes to be
reformed Egyptian. Well, what contradiction is all
this? The Brass Plates brought from Jerusalem were
in Hebrew; and the abridgement that Mormon made
(now called the "Book of Mormon,") was written in
the "Reformed Egyptian." But you say, "the
Reformed Egyptian was never spoken by any person."
But how do you know what was done in America?
The writers in the "Book of Mormon" say it was called
among them, "Reformed Egyptian," being handed
down and altered by them, according to their manner of
speech.
One would certainly judge you to be acquainted in
ancient America, when you make an assertion like the
foregoing. But again; you say "Let any 'Mormonite'
produce a specimen of such a language if he can."
This I agree to do, when you produce a man acquainted
with all the ancient languages. Again, you say, "a
hero in the Book of Mormon, page 529, is made to say,
that his ten thousand warriors, whom he was leading
into battle, were killed. But in the very next page he
is represented as leading them in the front of battle
again, after were hewn down." I say boldly, this
is a gross misrepresentation: and now, let the public
read the two pages and judge for themselves.
Again; you say the "Book of Mormon," page 48,
mentions the Mariners' Compass. I say it does not
mention the Mariners' compass; but a Compass prepared
by the hand of God, as you may read particularly
in the "Book of Mormon."
Mr. S. says, "The Book of Mormon purports to
have been originally engraven on Brass Plates." Now,
Mr. La Roy Sunderland, why do you lie again? Why
continue to add lie to lie, to make the "Book of Mormon"
appear false? The "Book of Mormon" no-where
( 36 )
purports to have originally been engraven on
"Brass Plates:" (I am more, and more ashamed of
the living lie; whose falsehoods I am unveiling;) the
Book says "Gold Plates."
But you say, "Now, admitting there were as many
plates as there are pages in the Book, and that each
plate weight not less than one pound each; these
plates must have weighed not less than five hundred
and fifty pounds." Here we see another mark of
a confused and shattered brain. Why? Mr. S., there
is only half as many leaves in a book as there are pages,
for one leaf makes two pages; as you may learn by examining
Mr. Webster's Spelling Book. Besides, a thin
gold plate, about 7 by 8 inches and about the thickness
of tin, would not weigh a pound: and you should
know that the "Egyptian" is a much shorter language
than the English. You say, "probably Smith knew
very well that the traditions of the Natives would not
countenance the "Book of Mormon." In answer to
this, I will quote a few of their Traditions.
First, says Mr. Boudinot, "It is said among their
principle or beloved men, that they have it handed
down from their ancestors, that the Book which the
white people have, was once theirs: that while they
had it they prospered exceedingly, &c. They also
say, that their fathers were possessed of an extraordinary
Divine Spirit, by which they foretold future events,
and controlled the common course of Nature; and
this they transmitted to their offspring, on condition of
their obeying the sacred laws; that they did by these
means, bring down showers of blessings upon their beloved
people; but that this power for a long time past
had entirely ceased." Colonel James Smith, in his
Journal, while a prisoner among the Natives, says,
"They have a tradition, that in the beginning of this
Continent, the angels or Heavenly Inhabitants, as they
call them, frequently visited the people, and talked
with their forefathers, and gave directions how to pray."
Mr. Boudinot, in his able work, remarks concerning
their language: "Their language in its roots, idiom
( 37 )
and particular constructions, appears to have the whole genius
of the Hebrew, and what is very remarkable, and well worthy
of serious attention, has most of the peculiarities of that language;
especially those in which it differs from most other languages."
There is a tradition related by an aged Indian
of the Stockbridge tribe, that their fathers were once in possession
of a "Sacred Book," which was handed down from generation
to generation; and at last hid in the Earth, since which
time they had been under the feet of their enemies. But these
Oracles were to be restored to them again; and then they would
triumph over their enemies and regain their ancient country,
together with their rights and privileges. Mr. Boudinot, after
recording many traditions similar to the above, at length remarks:
"Can any man read this short account of Indian Traditions,
drawn from Tribes of various Nations; from the West
to the East, and from the South to the North, wholly separated
from each other, written by different authors of the best character,
both for knowledge and integrity, possessing the best means
of information, at various and distant times, without any possible
communication with each other; and yet suppose, that all
this is the effect of chance, accident, or design, from a love of
the marvelous or a premeditated intention of deceiving, and
thereby ruining their well established reputation? Can any
one carefully, and with deep reflection, consider and compare
these traditions with the Ten Tribes of Israel, without at least
drawing some presumptive inferences in favour of these wandering
Natives being descended from the Ten Tribes of Israel?"
Mr S. says, "In the Book of Mormon, page 550, a man is
spoken of who was the Father of 32 children!" I reply, this
was almost half as many as Ahab had sons. -- 2d Kings, c. x:
v.6; where his 70 sons are mentioned, and no doubt he had
some daughters. But this Bible statement can be spiritualized,
and so avoid the marvellous.
But, says Mr. S., "it speaks of 'Church' five or six hundred
years before Christ." I reply, the Bible speaks of "Church"
as early as Moses. But, says he, "this Book speaks of the
Paradise of God, 500 years before Christ;" but I ask (if there
was no such place till invented by modern Priests,) where did
Adam dwell, when first created? and did the Saviour add a new
term, as well as idea, to the Hebrew, when he told the Thief
on the Cross concerning Paradise?
Mr. S. says, "the Jews never kept any of their records on
Plates of Brass." But I inquire, how does he know? In fact,
he seems to be perfectly acquainted with every thing that ever
transpired in every age and country. Pray, Mr. S., who are
you? "This Book," says Mr. S., "countenances murder for
opinions' sake; it also countenances deception and theft; page
12 and 13." I say it does not countenance murder for opinion's
sake; the circumstance recorded on these pages, was the slaying
( 38 )
of Laban, who had robbed them, and sought their lives.
Therefore, this is another lie, Mr. S. And as to deception and
theft, it was taking a record from a robber, who had robbed them
of an immense property. But Mr. S., why not condemn the
Bible? Look at Moses slaying the Egyptian, and concealing him
in the sand, and running away to escape justice. Look at the
Israelites, borrowing of the Egyptians and not paying them.
Look at Jacob's deception of his Father, Isaac; and his deception
of his Father-in-law, with the pealed rods. And at Rachel,
stealing the Images; and of Samuel slaying Agag; and
at David's deception, feigning himself crazy, by letting his
spittle run down on his beard. And when you have looked at
all these, you shall have as many more. -- But yet, in your estimation,
the Bible is unerring truth, and the "Book of Mormon"
a deception. Oh! what an impartial judge.
You say, "it speaks of the Lamb of God; and of the Gospel
of the Lamb; the Apostles of the Lamb; the Holy Ghost;
the Mother of God; of Priestcraft; of the Crucifixion of Christ,
and his Baptism by John; of the Roman Catholic Church;
and of immersion: -- long before the advent of Messiah." I reply,
it does not use the term "Roman Catholic," nor "Christians,"
nor "immersion," in the place to which you refer, and
only speaks of the other events as some thing future, shown to
Nephi in a vision, and made known to him by an Angel; and
if this is a mark of "fraud," then it is a mark of fraud
for Christ to be as a Lamb, slain from the foundation of
the world: or for God to have foreknowledge; or for Isa[iah] to
speak of the Mother of God -- "Behold, a Virgin shall conceive."
You say, "on page 236, Christ is represented as the grandson
of God, he is called 'The Son of the only begotten of
the Father.'" Here, Mr. S., you have taken advantage of a Typographical
error; the word of being inserted where it should not,
and is corrected in the second edition. Are you so foolish as
to think this was really the sentiment of any people? No;
you know better. -- It was through malice, you did it. You say
the book admits, that men are liable to mistakes; so it does,
and you admit it too; why then take advantage of men's mistakes?
But you say, on page 538, we are commanded to give
thanks to God, that he hath made manifest its imperfections. --
This sir, is not so. But Moroni exhorts, rather than commands,
that we would give thanks unto God, that he had made manifest
his (not its,) imperfections and the imperfections of those
who had written before him, that we might learn to be more
wise than that which they had been. Now, if you take advantage
of such humble acknowledgments, then why not take advantage
of David's imperfections, so clearly make manifest in
the Psalms, and in his history? Why not take advantage of all
wise and good men? for they have all been guilty of some imperfections.
And I highly esteem those who are most willing
( 39 )
to acknowledge their own, and to forgive those of others, when
they are acknowledged in an humble manner: and God loves
them too. Yes, Mr. Sunderland, I could take even you, by the
hand and forgive you your lies, mistakes, blunders, and hard
speeches, if you would humbly acknowledge them and repent:
and I am sure God would forgive you too. Your Seventh
Number on "Mormonism," is not worthy of any reply, being
made up of all manner of evil spoken against us falsely, because
of the word of our testimony; and this too, taken from
a book falsely called, "Mormonism Unveiled:" -- a work got
up not only by a most determined enemy, but by one, whose
character is so disgusting to every decent, respectable person
who knows him, that the Book had never any weight at all in
the West, where it was published. -- However, I will gather
much from your last number in favour of "Mormonism." The
Saviour says, "blessed are you when men shall revile you, and
cast you out of their company, and say all manner of evil
against you falsely, for Christ's sake; rejoice ye in that hour,
and be exceeding glad; for so persecuted their Fathers, the
Prophets, which were before you." Now we will see how much
it falls short of all manner of evil.
Fortune telling, money digging, juggling, wicked cheat, liar,
profane, intemperate, quarrelsome, not good character, gold bible
company, indolent, lying, notoriously bad, wife whipper, destitute
of moral character, visionary, addicted to vicious habits;
and add to this catalogue, the ridiculous stories that went the
rounds of the religious papers concerning the "Angel Caught;"
and walking on the water story; and the murder story; together
with "Adultery," and the love tale of Mr. Smith's stealing
his wife; and then the all things common; together with
doing away with matrimony; and then the Treason against
Government; the stirring up of the Slaves against their Masters;
the instigating of the Indians to war and bloodshed; together
with driving the inhabitants of Jackson County, Missouri,
from their houses and lands, and the taking possession
of them by force. -- And if it does not amount to all manner of
evil, then the imagination of the Priests, and the Devil combined,
is not fertile enough to fulfil the prediction of the Saviour,
for I am sure they have tortured their thinking powers. -- Perhaps
they might have added the story of eating their own children;
and of their having hairy throats, and but one eye, and
that in the middle of their foreheads, &c.; as was said concerning
the Waldenses, in the North of France; and of the
Primitive Christians. But, however, we are willing to give
our enemies the Priests, and others, together with his Satanic
Majesty, great credit, for inventive and fertile imaginations, as
well as for great credulity; more especially when we remember
that "Mormonism Unveiled," which is now credited by religious
editors in this city, was got up by one D. P. Hulburt, (who
( 40 )
was cut off from our society for Adultery, and afterwards put
under bonds for threatening the life of Brother Smith,) who
was assisted by one Deacon Clapp, who, by the by, became so
familiar with Hulburt's wife, that he had some hundred dollars
to pay; besides endangering his Deaconship.
However, Hulburt being so notorious a character, it was
thought best, (even after he had advertised in the papers, that
he was about to publish "Mormonism Unveiled,") to change
authors, and publish under the name of Howe, (a printer in
Painesville, Ohio,) whose mind had been somewhat chafed,
because his own wife and sister belonged to the church of the
Saints; so Howe became the adopted father of "Mormonism
Unveiled."
But that ridiculous story, (concerning Solomon Spalding's
Manuscript Found, being converted, by Sidney Rigdon, into the
"Book of Mormon,") published at first as a probability, without
a shadow of truth; a lie, which never had any credit among
the honest and intelligent part of community in the West, has
at last been published in the "New-York Evangelist," "Zion's
Watchman," and other religious papers, as an established fact,
beyond the possibility of a doubt. Yes, S. Spalding is like
to be set down as the author of the "Book of Mormon," and
S. Rigdon as the impostor who palmed S. Spalding's Novel
upon the world as a "Religious Work." And many are as
willing to believe this lie, as the Jews were, that the disciples
had come and stolen the body of Jesus, in order to palm a deception
upon that age. Thus they have "strong delusion, that
they may believe a lie, that they may all be damned, who believe
not the truth, but have pleasure in unrighteousness." All
this I am willing they should enjoy, because the Scriptures
must be fulfilled. But for the sake of the honest in heart, who
ove the truth, I here offer my testimony on this subject; as I
was a personal actor in the scenes which brought S. Rigdon
into an acquaintance with the "Book of Mormon," and into
connection with the Church of Latter Day Saints.
About A. D. 1827, Messrs. A. Campbell, W. Scott, and S.
Rigdon, with some others residing in Virginia, Ohio, &c.,
came off from the Baptists, and established a new Order, under
the name of Reformed Baptists, or Disciples; and they were
termed by their enemies, Campbellites, Ridgonites, &c. This
reformation, as to its Doctrine consisted principally, of the
Baptism of Repentance, for Remission of Sins, &c. And
Mr. Rigdon, in particular, held to a literal fulfilment and application
of the written word; and by this means he was an
instrument to turn many from the false notions of Sectarian
Traditions, to an understanding of the Prophecies, touching
the great restoration of Israel, and the mighty revolutions of
the last days. Many hundred disciples were gathered by his
ministry, throughout the Lake Country of Ohio; and many
( 41 )
other preachers stood in connection with him in those principles.
I was then pursuing an agricultural life, and mostly occupied
in converting the wilderness into a fruitful field; but
being a member of the Baptist Church, and a lover of truth,
I became acquainted with Mr. Rigdon, and a believer in, and a
teacher of the same doctrine. After proclaiming those principles
in my own neighborhood and the adjoining country, I at
length took a journey to the State of New-York, partly on a
visit to Columbia, Co., N. Y., my native place: and partly for
the purpose of ministering the word. This journey was undertaken
in August, 1830. I had no sooner reached Ontario
Co. N. Y., than I came in contact with the "Book of Mormon,"
which had then been published about six months, and had gathered
about fifty disciples, which were all that then constituted
the Church of Latter Day Saints. I was greatly prejudiced
against the Book; but remembering the caution of Paul,
"Prove all things and hold fast that which is good," I sat down
to read it; and after carefully comparing it with the other Scriptures,
and praying to God, He gave me the knowledge of its
truth, by the power of the Holy Ghost; and what was I, that I
should withstand God? I accordingly obeyed the Ordinances,
and was commissioned by Revelation and the laying on of
hands to preach the fullness of the Gospel. Then, after finishing
my visit to Columbia Co., I returned to the brethren in Ontario
Co., where for the first time I saw Mr. Joseph Smith, Jr.,
who had just returned from Pennsylvania, to his father's house,
in Manchester. About the 15th of October, 1830, I took my journey,
in company with Elder O. Cowdery, and Peter Whitmer,
to Ohio. We called on Elder S. Ringdon, and then for the
first time, his eyes beheld the "Book of Mormon;" I, myself,
had the happiness to present it to him in person. He was much
surprised, and it was with much persuasion and argument, that
he was prevailed on to read it, and after he had read it, he had
a great struggle of mind, before he fully believed and embraced
it; and when finally convinced of its truth, he called together a
large congregation of his friends, neighbors and brethren, and
then addressed them very affectionately, for near two hours, during
most of which time, both himself and nearly all the congregation
were melted into tears. He asked forgiveness of
every body who might have had occasion to be offended with
any part of his former live; he forgave all who had persecuted
or injured him, in any manner; and the next morning, himself
and wife, were baptised by elder O. Cowdery. I was present,
it was a solemn scene, most of the people were greatly affected:
they came out of the water overwhelmed in tears. Many others
were baptised by us, in that vicinity, both before and after his
baptism -- insomuch, that during the fall of 1830, and the following
winter and spring, the number of disciples was increased to
about 1000; the Holy Ghost was mightily poured out, and the
( 42 )
word of God grew and multiplied; and many priests were obedient
to the Faith. Early in 1831, Mr. Rigdon having been ordained,
under our hands, visited elder J. Smith, Jr., in the state
of New-York, for the first time; and from that time forth, rumor
began to circulate, that he (Rigdon) was the author of the Book
of Mormon. The Spaulding story never was dreamed of until
several years afterwards, when it appeared in Mormonism Unveiled
-- a base forgery, by D. P. Hulburt, and others of similar
character, who had long strove to account for the Book of Mormon,
in some other way beside the truth. In the west, whole
neighbourhoods embraced Mormonism, after this fable of the
Spaulding story, had been circulated among them; indeed, we
never conceived it worthy of an answer, until it was converted
by the ignorant and impudent dupes or knaves, in this city, who
stand at the head of certain religious papers, into something said
to be positive, certain, and not to be disputed!
Now I testify,
that the forgers of the Spaulding lie, (concerning S. Rigdon and
others,) are of the same description as those who forged the lie
against the disciples of old -- accusing them of stealing the body
of Jesus, &c. And those who love this lie, are no better. I
mean the editors of the N. Y. Evangelist, Zion's Watchman,
and all others who are equally guilty, including all who
read and believe such a thing. And except they repent they
will have their part with drunkards, whoremongers, sorcerers,
thieves, murderers, &c., for being guilty of loving or making a
lie: and in that day when the secrets of all hearts shall be made
manifest, then shall they know, that these things and many
others were base falsehoods, put in circulation by the devil and
his servants; and that the Book of Mormon, is a record of eternal
truth, which speaks from the dust, as a voice from the dead,
bearing record of the Gospel of a crucified and risen Redeemer,
reproving the sins of the world, and warning them of the things
which must shortly come to pass; therefore, repent, all ye ends
of the earth, and be baptized for remission of sins, and you shall
receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; and signs shall follow those
that believe; and this Gospel of the kingdom shall first be
preached among all Nations, and then shall the Son of Man
come. Amen.
METHODISM. -- Having unveiled Mormonism, by removing
the covering of lies and misrepresentations, which Mr. Sunderland,
a Methodist editor, had thrown over it; we shall now
proceed to a short examination of Methodism, as taken from
their own discipline.
1st. A description of the Methodist God, as found in the
second section of their discipline.
1stly. "There is but one living and true God, everlasting,
without body or parts."
2ndly. In unity of this Godhead, there are three persons of
( 43 )
one substance, power and eternity; the Father, Son, and Holy
Ghost.
3rdly. This, "Christ, very God, and very Man, who
truly suffered, was crucified, dead, and buried."
4thly. "To reconcile his Father to us," &c.
5thly. "Christ did truly rise again from the dead, and took
again his body, with all things appertaining to the perfection of
man's nature, wherewith he ascended into Heaven."
6thly. "And there sitteth until he return, to judge all men at
the last day."
I must say, that I never saw such a bundle of nonsense, contradiction
and absurdity, thrown together before.
1st. A God without body or parts, consisting of three persons.
2nd. One of these persons, who is very God, was crucified,
dead and buried, (without body or parts!)
3rd. The object was to reconcile his Father to us, instead of
reconciling us to the Father; thus conveying the idea, that his
Father must be changed about, and made a new creature, in order
to be reconciled to poor sinful mortals, who are unchanged.
4th. This God (without body or parts,) arose from the dead,
and took upon him his body, when he had none; but to cap the
climax, he has gone to Heaven, there to remain, till He comes
to judge the world at the last day. Thus contradicting the 3rd,
20th and 21st of Acts, where Peter promises that God will send
him again, at the time of restitution of all things spoken by the
Prophets; this restitution will be a long time before the last day;
see Rev., c, 20th, and Zech. 14th.
Here then is the Methodist God, without either eyes, ears or
mouth!!! and yet man was created after the image of God;
but this could not apply to the Methodist God for he has no
image or likeness The Methodist God can neither be Jehovah
nor Jesus Christ; for Jehovah showed his face to Moses
and seventy elders of Israel, and his feet too: he also wrote
with his own finger on the tablets of stone. Isaiah informs us
that his arm is not shortened; that his ear is not dull of
hearing, &c., and that he will proceed to make bare his arm in
the eyes of all the nations. And Ezek. says, "his fury shall
come up in his face," and Zech., c. 14 says "his feet shall
stand in that day, upon the mount of olives," and they which
behold shall say, what are these wounds in thy hands, and in
thy feet, &c. Consequently, Methodism is a system of idolatry.
2ndly. THEIR PRIESTHOOD, was handed down from
the Wesleys and others, who received their authority from the
Church of England, or nowhere; and the Church of England
received their Priesthood from the Church of Rome, or from the
King and Parliament, or nowhere; and if from the King and
Parliament, or the Church of Rome, then it was not from Heaven
-- but of man. For neither the King, Parliament or Pope,
( 44 )
had any more authority in conferring Priesthood, than I have
to confer the Sceptre of the Chinese Empire upon the American
Chief, Blackhawk. But if they received their Priesthood from
the Church of Rome, (the mother of harlots,) then is the English
Church a legitimate daughter of the old lady, and Methodism
the grand daughter; consequently, Methodism is a harlot.
But if the Methodists claim Priesthood by revelation, I
deny the claim, for their God is not capable of giving a revelation,
having no mouth! and their discipline forbids later revelation
than the Scriptures, and the Scriptures know nothing of
Methodist Priests.
3rdly. THEIR ORDINANCES. -- 1st. Three kinds of water
baptism are practiced by them. The Bible knows but one
kind: see Eph., c. 14.
2nd. They baptise infants, whereas the Gospel requires faith
and repentance before baptism: see Acts, c. 2 and v. 28; see
also, the Saviour's commission to his Apostles.
3d. They neither lay on hands in the name of Jesus, to heal
the sick; nor annoint them with oil in the name of the Lord,
that they may be healed; thus neglecting to fulfil the Saviour's
directions, in the last chapter of Mark. And James' directions
in his writings to the Saints.
4th. The gifts of the Spirit, as spoken of in 1st Cor., c.
12: Eph. c. 4, and many other places, are denied by them, and
totally set aside -- for instance, Apostles, Prophets, Miracles,
Healings, Revelations, Visions, Prophesyings, Tongues, Interpretations,
&c, &c,; therefore, they have a form of Godliness,
denying the power and gifts of God.
4thly. PRIESTCRAFT, MONEYED PLANS, &c. -- See
Methodist Discipline, section 5: "Every Preacher, who has
charge of a circuit, shall earnestly recommend to every class
or society, in his circuit, to raise a quarterly or annual collection."
"Every Preacher who has the charge of a circuit, shall
make a yearly collection; and if expedient, a quarterly one, in
every congregation." "Men and brethren help! was there ever
a call like this since you first heard the Gospel sound?" "A
public collection shall be made at every annual, and every general
conference," "The annual product of the charter fund."
The profits of the Book-concern." "Every annual conference,
has full liberty to adopt and recommend, such plans and rules,
as to them may appear necessary, the more effectually to raise
supplies." "It shall be the duty of each annual conference to
take measures from year to year, in every circuit and station
within its bounds." The foregoing are but a few of the moneyed
plans of this vast organization. Their cry is money yearly
-- money quarterly -- money monthly -- money weekly -- money
daily -- money at conference meetings -- money at circuit --
( 45 )
money in congregation -- money at class meetings -- money for
missions; in short, it is money when they lie down, and money
when they rise up. It is money that will keep their hands from
hanging down, and the work of their God from coming to a dead
stand. My readers will perceive, that Mr. Sunderland's outcry
against the Mormonite moneyed plan, for the support of
their poor, comes with a very ill grace.
Having proved that Methodism is a system of idolatry;
a false and perverted Gospel: a daughter of the great mother
of harlots -- having a form of godliness, denying the power, as
well as a system of priestcraft of the deepest dye.
I now call upon every honest Methodist, to come out from
such abominations, and receive the TRUTH; for her sins have
reached unto Heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities,
and her judgements slumber not. Amen!
MR. SUNDERLAND, -- Sir: If you wish your readers to come at
the truth; to read both sides of the question, and judge for themselves;
you will doubtless publish my answer to your papers
on Mormonism, in full, in Zion's Watchman; justice, truth
and the common principles of humanity require it; not only
does justice to an injured, persecuted and inoffensive people, require
it -- but your readers who have been deceived and abused
by your falsehoods, slanders and misrepresentations, have claims
on you, as their editor, to undeceive them; and you will remember
too, that there is a still higher authority, to which all
men are amenable, and that, these things will stare you in the
face, in the day of final retribution, if you repent not. Not only
is your own welfare at stake, in time and in eternity, but the
souls of thousands who read you paper, and who have not our
books to compare with your quotations. With these considerations,
I hope to see my answer in your paper; should it not appear,
I shall conclude that you prefer the dark rather than the
light, and that you dare not lay before your readers a statement of
facts, and therefore, shall notice it in my next edition.
I am, respectfully, P. P. PRATT.
MR. LA ROY SUNDERLAND.
( 46 )
These lines were composed by a gentleman who does not
stand connected with the church of "L. D. Saints," and were
handed us just as our Pamphlet was going to press, and on account
of the sentiments of truth, as well as the bold and independent
spirit which they breathe, we are thankful for the opportunity
of publishing them, for the edification of our readers.
Adieu to honour, wealth and fame;
And every worldly pleasure:
I bid farewell to my good name;
For to obey my Saviour.
I covet not that high esteem
To which I did aspire;
My Saviour's love, shall be my theme;
I care for nothing higher.
Yes, if I could advance his praise,
By works of my performing,
Among the Saints of latter days;
I would be called a "Mormon."
Although they commonly are call'd
A poor deluded people:
Their prophets, priests and teachers, all,
Offscourings of the rabble.
And were not all the saints of old
Derided, by opposers
Of light, and truth, which did unfold,
From Adam, down to Moses?
Yes, all the holy prophets were
With Christ, and his Apostles;
Accounted as these "Mormons" are,
False prophets and impostors.
But truth is strong and will prevail;
For it proceeds from Heaven:
It always did, end ever shall:
By inspiration given.
( 47 )
And when it doth their systems rub,
Proud men became uneasy;
And call the Master, Beelzebub,
And all his servants crazy.
Thus all, in every age, who live
Godly, in Christ the Saviour;
Such base calumny shall receive,
From those they cannot favour.
Nor think, as they would have them think;
Nor do as they are doing;
And blunder with them, on the brink
Of everlasting ruin.
Men still love darkness more than light,
Because their deeds are evil:
And will declare that wrong is right --
Though it were from the devil.
That midnight, the old carnal mind;
Remains as dark as ever;
And all the blind, that lead the blind,
Fall in the ditch together.
Oh! how they earnestly contend;
And still sink in the mire!
Their broken systems cannot mend
'Till purified by fire.
COLUMBIAN BARD
New-York, March 24, 1838.
[ 48 ]
A LAMANTATION
ON TAKING LEAVE OF NEW-YORK.
BY P. P. PRATT.
Adieu to the city, where long I have wandered,
To tell them of judgements, and warn them to flee;
How often in sorrow, their woes I have pondered --
Perhaps in affliction, they'll think upon me.
With a tear of compassion, in silence retiring,
The last ray of hope for your safety expiring;
A feeling of pity this bosom inspiring --
Sing this lamentation, and think upon me,
How often at evening your halls have resounded
With th' pure testimony of Jesus, so free;
While the meek were rejoicing, the proud were confounded
The poor heard the Gospel; -- they'll think upon me.
When Empires shall tremble at Israel returning,
And earth shall be cleans'd by the spirit of burning;
When proud men shall perish, and Priests with their learning, --
Sing this lamentation, and think upon me.
When the Union is severed, and liberty's blessings
Witheld from the Sons of Columbia, once free;
When bloodshed and war, and famine distress them,
Remember the earning! and think upon me.
When the mighty shall crumble to ruin,
And sink as a millstone, the merchants undoing;
The ransem'd, the highway of Zion pursuing, --
Sing this lamentation, and think upon me.
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