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We discuss the different roles of a prophet, including bringing forth the word of God and testing the people. We also review and test “The Fourteen Fundamentals of Following the Prophet” against the scriptures.
In this episode, Watcher referenced Joseph Smith preaching that an angel had commanded him to start teaching plural marriage. I am not aware of any contemporary sources where Joseph said this. Can you share the source of this with me?
Kevin
At least four of Joseph Smith’s associates testified that Joseph had told them that an angel had commanded him to practice polygamy.
They are Benjamin F. Johnson, Lorenzo Snow, Mary Elizabeth Rollins Lightner and Helen Mar Kimball Whitney. I agree that all of these accounts were given by Brighamites after the death of Joseph Smith. They could have been giving a false witness.
There were other non-contemporary accounts by those claiming to be plural wives of Joseph Smith who claimed that Joseph only practiced it with great reluctance, stating that he was “afraid to promulgate it.”, and that “Joseph put off the dreaded day as long as he dared.” and that Joseph “had his doubts about it for he debated it in his own mind.”
(Ref https://josephsmithspolygamy.org/beginnings-mormon-polygamy/ )
Thank you for providing these. I actually just came across the Benjamin F. Johnson quote independently. I do find these accounts suspect since the scriptures don’t support the idea of an angel acting in such a manner.
I love your podcast. I am halfway through listening to the episodes for the 2nd time. It has definitely been eye opening.