Author
Orson Pratt
1811-1881
Orson Pratt (1811-1881) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Orson Pratt
Absurdities of immaterialism : $b or, a reply to T. W. P. Taylder's pamphlet, entitled, "The materialism of the Mormons or Latter-Day Saints, examined and exposed."
"Absurdities of Immaterialism: or, a Reply to T. W. P. Taylder's Pamphlet" by Orson Pratt is a philosophical treatise written in the mid-19th century. The work is a rebuttal focusing on the discussions surrounding materialism and immaterialism, particularly addressing T. W. P. Taylder’s arguments against the material beliefs held by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Pratt aims to defend the idea that both physical and spiritual substances are material, presenting his critique of Taylder's concepts regarding the nature of existence and truth. The opening of the text presents a detailed discourse on the nature of truth and the rationale behind material versus immaterial substance. Orson Pratt asserts that the philosophical questions posed by Taylder about materialism are misguided, emphasizing that truths exist independently of human perception. He challenges the definitions given to immaterial substances, arguing that such classifications lack clarity and contradiction. Pratt’s writing methodically dismantles Taylder's claims by providing logical arguments that advocate for a material understanding of all elements of existence, including mind and spirit, thereby establishing a foundation for his belief system aligned with the principles of materialism.
The Bible and Polygamy: Does the Bible Sanction Polygamy?
"The Bible and Polygamy: Does the Bible Sanction Polygamy?" by Orson Pratt et al. is a theological discourse written in the late 19th century. The book presents a public debate between Professor Orson Pratt, a prominent figure in the Mormon community, and Dr. J. P. Newman, a chaplain of the United States Senate, concerning whether the Bible endorses the practice of polygamy. Through a series of arguments and counterarguments from both sides, the text delves into historical interpretations of biblical laws pertaining to marriage and family structures, particularly focusing on polygamous relationships. At the start of the book, the two debaters prepare to scrutinize the question of biblical sanction for polygamy before a large audience in Salt Lake City. Pratt opens the discussion, asserting that various biblical passages clearly imply a divine endorsement of polygamy, illustrating this with references to laws and narratives from the Old Testament that discuss multiple wives and their rights. He highlights legal structures around inheritance within polygamous families and points out examples of biblical figures who practiced polygamy. In response, Newman challenges Pratt's interpretations, emphasizing that the biblical text should be read with an understanding of its historical context and ethical implications, thereby arguing against the idea that the Bible condones polygamous practices today. The opening portion sets a stage for an engaging examination of how scripture has been interpreted in relation to contemporary beliefs about marriage.
An Interesting Account of Several Remarkable Visions And of the Late Discovery of Ancient American Records
"An Interesting Account of Several Remarkable Visions" by Orson Pratt is a religious publication written in the early 19th century. The book presents a narrative focused on the visions experienced by Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter-Day Saint movement, and the discovery of ancient American records. It delves into spiritual themes, revealing the struggles of seeking divine truth amidst various religious beliefs. The book primarily recounts Joseph Smith's spiritual journey, detailing his early encounters with divine revelations and his quest for understanding the true principles of Christianity. It describes significant visions that confirm Smith's role as a prophet and his establishment of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The narrative illustrates the opposition faced by Smith and his followers, the divine guidance in translating sacred ancient records, which ultimately became known as the "Book of Mormon." Pratt emphasizes the significance of these events in restoring the true gospel and the beliefs of the Latter-Day Saints regarding their mission and the coming of the Messiah.
The Kingdom of God, Part 1
"The Kingdom of God, Part 1" by Orson Pratt is a theological publication written in the mid-19th century. As one of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Pratt presents a discourse centered on the nature of divine governance, positing that God's government is the only legitimate authority on Earth. The book delineates the characteristics of the Kingdom of God and the importance of being governed by divine laws as opposed to human concoctions. In this text, Pratt argues extensively against established human governments, labeling them as unauthorized and rebellious against the divinity of God's Kingdom. He emphasizes the need for a theocracy governed by divine revelation and authority, detailing seven key subjects that readers must understand to comprehend the Kingdom's nature. Throughout the discourse, he critiques modern Christianity, challenging prevailing notions of God and advocating for the necessity of new revelation and ministers called by God to administer essential ordinances such as baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost. The work ultimately advocates for a return to the divinely sanctioned governance of the Kingdom of God, providing insight into its structure, officers, and requirements for citizenship.
Divine Authority; Or, the Question: Was Joseph Smith Sent of God?
"Divine Authority; Or, the Question: Was Joseph Smith Sent of God?" by Orson Pratt is a theological publication written in the mid-to-late 19th century. The book presents an argument in favor of the divine authority attributed to Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and seeks to address the central question of whether Smith was sent by God as a prophet. As a discourse on religious doctrine, it engages with the claims of Smith's prophetic mission and the teachings of the Church, scrutinizing the existing Christian sects' authority and practices in contrast. In the book, Pratt lays out a series of arguments aimed at validating Joseph Smith's mission as divinely sanctioned. He discusses the significance of the revelations Smith reportedly received, including the translation of the Book of Mormon, and the authority of the apostleship conferred upon him by heavenly messengers. Pratt systematically dismantles the idea that the various Christian denominations hold any genuine apostolic authority, arguing that the consistent teachings and miraculous occurrences surrounding Smith point to his divine mission. He emphasizes the necessity of a restoration of authority within the church, claiming that Smith's work fulfills ancient prophecies regarding the last days, particularly the gathering of Israel and the establishment of a unified church led by inspired leaders. Through these assertions, Pratt endeavors to bolster confidence in the church's legitimacy and the transformative power of its teachings, portraying Smith as a modern prophet, uniquely chosen and empowered to guide believers toward salvation.