Author
B. H. (Brigham Henry) Roberts
1857-1933
B. H. (Brigham Henry) Roberts (1857-1933) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by B. H. (Brigham Henry) Roberts
The Life of John Taylor Third President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
"The Life of John Taylor" by B. H. Roberts is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work chronicles the life of John Taylor, who served as the third president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was an influential leader during the church's formative years. The book seeks to provide an in-depth exploration of Taylor's character, his notable achievements, and his significant contributions to the church amid the tumultuous backdrop of early Mormon history. At the start of the account, the author introduces John Taylor's lineage and early life, emphasizing his humble origins and the qualities that would later establish him as a leader within the Mormon faith. The opening chapters reflect on Taylor's youth, his early spiritual experiences, and his path toward embracing Mormonism after becoming acquainted with its teachings. As the narrative develops, it becomes clear that Taylor's life is intertwined with the church's narrative, involving significant events such as his ordination, ministry, and experiences amid the persecution faced by early Mormons, as well as his deep commitment to his faith and its principles.
New Witnesses for God (Volume 2 of 3)
"New Witnesses for God (Volume 2 of 3)" by B. H. Roberts is a theological work that was written in the early 20th century. This volume focuses specifically on the Book of Mormon and seeks to provide evidence for its authenticity, significance, and divine origin from a Latter-day Saint perspective. The text argues for the Book of Mormon's role as a witness to the truth of the Bible and the Gospel of Jesus Christ, asserting that its claims must be understood and affirmed within the broader context of Joseph Smith's prophetic mission. The opening of this work serves to establish the foundational arguments for the Book of Mormon, beginning with reflections on the challenges of biblical criticism in the 19th century. Roberts outlines the historical and theological importance of the Book of Mormon, postulating that if it can be proven true, then it reinforces the credibility of biblical scripture. He discusses how the Nephite record serves as a testimony of God's dealings with the ancient inhabitants of the Americas and highlights the book's significance not only as a companion to Biblical scripture but also as a vital record of Christ's presence and teachings among the Nephite people after His resurrection. This portion lays the groundwork for a detailed exploration of specific themes within the Book of Mormon and prepares the reader for an in-depth examination of its evidences and the objections raised against it.
The Mormon Battalion, Its History and Achievements
"The Mormon Battalion: Its History and Achievements" by B. H. Roberts is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book details the formation and remarkable march of the Mormon Battalion during the Mexican-American War, particularly focusing on their journey from Iowa to California. It covers the motivations behind their enlistment, the challenges they faced, and the significance of their contributions, both military and social, during this period. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the Battalion's historic march, which is noted to be unprecedented in both army history and in the broader context of military expeditions. Roberts begins by comparing the Mormon Battalion's incredible 2,000-mile march to other significant historical marches, illustrating the harsh conditions they endured, including traversing desert landscapes and enduring great physical hardship. He introduces key figures, including Lieutenant-Colonel P. St. George Cooke, who documented their progress, and provides insight into the motivations for the Battalion's formation amid the backdrop of the Westward migration of the Mormon people seeking a new home in the Rocky Mountains.
New Witnesses for God (Volume 3 of 3)
"New Witnesses for God (Volume 3 of 3)" by B. H. Roberts is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This volume continues the series dedicated to providing evidence supporting the claims of the Book of Mormon, particularly focusing on external and internal evidences that may authenticate its truth. The book delves into various themes, such as American traditions of the Messiah's birth and death, paralleling key events in the Book of Mormon with native legends and prophecies. The opening of this volume presents a detailed exploration of traditions surrounding the signs of the Messiah's birth and death, particularly in the context of the Western Hemisphere. Roberts references various indigenous accounts and attempts to identify continuity between these narratives and those found in the Book of Mormon. He discusses instances of cataclysms like eclipses and darkness that coincide with the death of the Messiah while weaving in native American traditions that may echo the events described in sacred texts, suggesting a link between ancient Hebrew culture and the origins of native American civilizations.
The Rise and Fall of Nauvoo
"The Rise and Fall of Nauvoo" by B. H. Roberts is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book chronicles the religious, social, and political history surrounding the city of Nauvoo, Illinois, particularly focusing on the experiences of the early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and their leader, Joseph Smith. It serves to highlight the struggles faced by this community of faith and the oppression they endured while attempting to establish a haven for their beliefs. At the start of the narrative, the author outlines the intent of the book as a companion to his previous work, "The Missouri Persecutions." The opening portion introduces readers to Nauvoo as a beautiful and strategically important location along the Mississippi River, which became a burgeoning center for Latter-day Saints. Roberts emphasizes the significance of Nauvoo's rise as a symbol of religious freedom and resilience against the backdrop of systemic persecution they faced, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the city’s development, the political challenges it encountered, and the eventual exodus of its inhabitants amidst escalating tensions with non-Mormon residents.
Outlines of Ecclesiastical History
"Outlines of Ecclesiastical History" by B. H. Roberts is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work serves as a comprehensive survey of the development of Christianity, outlining its establishment, the subsequent apostasy, the reformation, and the restoration of the gospel through Joseph Smith. The text is intended for both learners and teachers, providing a structured approach to understanding ecclesiastical history. The opening of the work lays out the author's intentions and the organization of the material. It is divided into four distinct parts, each addressing significant aspects of ecclesiastical history: the establishment of the Church during Christ's ministry, the apostasy that followed, the Reformation period, and the restoration of the gospel. The author stresses the importance of studying these themes to understand the principles of the gospel and the historical evidence that supports the Church's position in the last days. He also invites students to delve deeper into ecclesiastical history and encourages them to engage with the provided review questions for better comprehension of the material.
A New Witness for God (Volume 1 of 3)
“A New Witness for God (Volume 1 of 3)” by B. H. Roberts is a theological work written in the late 19th century. The book discusses the origins and claims of Mormonism, positioning it as a restored version of ancient Christianity rather than a new religion. The author aims to assert that Joseph Smith serves as a modern prophet who provides new revelations necessary for the time, countering what he describes as a complete apostasy from the original Christian teachings. At the start of the book, the author provides a preface outlining the historical background of the Latter-day Saints and the misconceptions that surround them. He emphasizes the need for a new witness for God, arguing that traditional Christian sources are no longer sufficient in addressing the doubts and skepticism present in modern society. The opening portion sets the stage for the ensuing theses, which will explore the necessity for a new dispensation of the Gospel, the claim of apostasy from the primitive Christian church, and the divine authority of Joseph Smith as a prophet, establishing foundational beliefs for those interested in the tenets of Mormonism.
The Mormon Doctrine of Deity: The Roberts-Van Der Donckt Discussion To which is added a discourse, Jesus Christ, the revelation of God; also a collection of authoritative Mormon utterances on the being and nature of God
"The Mormon Doctrine of Deity: The Roberts-Van Der Donckt Discussion" by B. H. Roberts is a theological discourse written in the early 20th century. The work tackles the nature and being of God as understood within the Mormon faith, emphasizing the distinctive views that diverge from mainstream Christianity. The book is framed around a series of debates and discussions concerning the identity and characteristics of God, particularly in relation to the Prophet Joseph Smith's revelations. The opening of the text introduces the foundational concepts that form the basis of the subsequent discussions. Roberts begins by asserting that previous misconceptions and misrepresentations about the concept of God have led to widespread confusion. He emphasizes the significance of understanding God as a being with form, citing Joseph Smith's vision of the Father and the Son as two separate personages. The preface details the context of the discourse, which arose from lectures by sectarian ministers critiquing Mormon views on deity, prompting Roberts to defend and clarify the church's beliefs regarding the nature of God and the Godhead. He outlines the structure of the book, which includes a response to a Catholic priest's critique, underscoring the importance of these theological debates to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Missouri Persecutions
"The Missouri Persecutions" by B. H. Roberts is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work details the harrowing experiences of early members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as they faced systemic persecution in Missouri and Illinois from 1830 to 1838. The book aims to illuminate the challenges they encountered and to correct various misconceptions surrounding their expulsion from these regions. The opening of the text serves as a preface where the author articulates his motivations for writing this account, emphasizing the importance of preserving the history of the persecutions for future generations of the Latter-day Saints. Roberts aims to present a comprehensive narrative to counteract the misrepresentations that have persisted over time about the church's early struggles. He reflects on the significance of understanding this history not only to honor the sacrifices made by their ancestors but also to strengthen the faith and connection of subsequent generations to the core tenets of their beliefs.
Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 2 of 2)
"Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 2 of 2)" by B. H. Roberts is a comprehensive theological treatise written in the early 20th century. This volume primarily discusses the origins of the Book of Mormon, addressing various theories regarding its authorship and the historical context surrounding its compilation. The book is likely aimed at defending the principles of Mormonism against critical scrutiny, particularly focusing on the accusations of plagiarism linked to individuals like Solomon Spaulding. The opening of this volume sets the stage for a detailed examination of the origins of the Book of Mormon through a debate format involving multiple authors, including Roberts and Theodore Schroeder. In the beginning, Roberts outlines the necessity of responding to critical perspectives that question the divine authenticity of the Book of Mormon. He introduces key figures involved in the discourse, such as Solomon Spaulding, and notes the controversies surrounding claims made by opponents of the faith, particularly focusing on contrasting viewpoints regarding the manuscript's alleged origins and connections to early Mormon leaders like Sidney Rigdon. The narrative is designed to systematically counter the assertions against the Book of Mormon and strengthen the faith of its adherents by reviewing evidence and arguments supporting its divine origin.
Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 1 of 2)
"Defense of the Faith and the Saints (Volume 1 of 2)" by B. H. Roberts is a theological and historical discourse written in the early 20th century. The book serves as a defense of the beliefs and practices of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, addressing misconceptions about Mormonism, its origins, and its doctrines. It appears to be aimed at both a scholarly audience and the general public, reflecting on the significance and development of the Mormon faith within the broader context of American religious movements. The opening of the work presents the background of Mormonism at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago, 1893. B. H. Roberts emphasizes the church's development from a small group to a formidable religious movement, highlighting its struggles against persecution and societal disdain. The text argues for the importance of acknowledging Mormonism's unique contributions to American religious life, asserting that it embodies a modern revelation that builds upon traditional Christian beliefs. Roberts contests the notion that God has ceased speaking to humanity and presents Mormonism as a vital faith that deserves equal recognition alongside other world religions.
The Seventy's Course in Theology, First Year Outline History of the Seventy and A Survey of the Books of Holy Scripture
"The Seventy's Course in Theology, First Year" by B. H. Roberts is a religious educational manual written in the early 20th century. This work is aimed primarily at members of the Seventy within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, focusing on intellectual development and spiritual empowerment through theological study. The book delves into the history and organization of the Seventy and provides a structured examination of the sacred texts recognized by the Church, including the Bible and the Book of Mormon. The opening of this course introduces its foundational principles and outlines the initial lessons centered on the history, responsibilities, and significance of the Seventy. It emphasizes the necessity of mental engagement and spiritual growth as essential to fulfilling their divine duties. The text argues for a thorough understanding of the scriptures, warning against the dangers of isolating texts from their historical and contextual backgrounds. The introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive approach to studying the scriptures in a manner that fosters better comprehension of their interconnectedness and encourages personal development within a framework of faithful service.
The Seventy's Course in Theology, Fourth Year The Atonement
"The Seventy's Course in Theology, Fourth Year" by B. H. Roberts is a theological discourse written in the early 20th century. This work focuses specifically on the doctrine of the Atonement as it relates to the concept of eternal Intelligences and their progression. It is aimed at members of the Seventy, a leadership body in the Latter-day Saint Church, and is structured to foster understanding and mastery of this central concept of the Gospel. The opening section of the book introduces the premise that an understanding of the Atonement must consider the Intelligences affected by it. It explains the book’s unique approach, which diverges from the previous Year Books by providing a cohesive treatise on the Atonement rather than a series of unconnected notes or lesson plans. In this introductory part, Roberts emphasizes the significance of a preliminary reading of the entire treatise to appreciate the scope and majesty of the subject. He outlines the foundational concepts, including the definition of Intelligences, their eternal nature, and their potential for moral and intellectual development, preparing the groundwork for a deeper exploration of how these ideas interconnect with the Atonement and the Gospel as a whole.
The Seventy's Course in Theology, Third Year The Doctrine of Deity
"The Seventy's Course in Theology, Third Year" by B. H. Roberts is a theological treatise structured as part of a larger series aimed at the instruction of Mormon priesthood holders, likely written in the early 20th century. This volume specifically addresses the Doctrine of Deity, building upon the foundations established in the previous two years of the course, and is presented as a framework for both teaching and understanding the character and attributes of God within the context of Mormon theology. The opening portion of the work introduces the overall purpose of the course and emphasizes the importance of understanding God's character as fundamental to faith. It outlines the methodological approach for classes and specifies that lessons will include various means of learning from scriptures and discussion. Roberts asserts the significance of tradition and revelation in understanding God, citing the experiences of biblical patriarchs and prophets as foundational to the beliefs held by modern followers. This initial section aims to establish a clear understanding of the relevance and significance of the study of God within the context of the faith, preparing the reader for the deeper discussions that will follow in later lessons.
The Seventy's Course in Theology, Second Year Outline History of the Dispensations of the Gospel
"The Seventy's Course in Theology, Second Year" by B. H. Roberts is a theological curriculum written in the early 20th century. This work serves as a structured guide with lessons focused on the historical framework of the dispensations of the Gospel as understood within the Latter-day Saint (Mormon) tradition. The text aims to provide students with insights into the continuity and unity of the Gospel across different periods, emphasizing its importance as an essential aspect of Mormon theology. The opening of the course lays the foundation for the study of dispensations, outlining the structure of lessons and expectations for students. It introduces the concept of intelligences and spirits, distinguishing between their existence and nature, and delves into the pre-existence of these entities before their earthly experiences. The emphasis is on understanding the relationship between God and intelligences, the purpose of their existence, and how these principles integrate into the wider framework of Latter-day Saint beliefs. The document encourages deep thought and study, positioning itself as more than just a textbook, but as a vital resource for spiritual and theological growth.
The Gospel: An Exposition of its First Principles Revised and Enlarged Edition
"The Gospel: An Exposition of its First Principles" by B. H. Roberts is a theological work written in the late 19th century. This book provides a comprehensive exploration of the foundational principles of the gospel from a Latter-day Saint perspective, aimed primarily at the youth of the Church. The author seeks to clarify and elaborate on the fundamental beliefs of the gospel, tackling topics such as faith, repentance, baptism, and the atonement of Jesus Christ. The opening of the text presents the author's intent, stating that the work is designed to instruct the next generation in the core tenets of their faith. Roberts explains the necessity of understanding the gospel not just intellectually but also in practice, reinforcing the idea that the principles of the gospel must be actively lived out to be truly effective. He highlights the difference in exposure to gospel teachings between the previous generation and the youth of Zion, emphasizing that many young believers may lack foundational knowledge due to reliance on their parents' faith. The author expresses a hope that through careful study of the book, readers will strengthen their faith and come to a clearer understanding of the gospel's teachings.
The Seventy's Course in Theology, Fifth Year Divine Immanence and the Holy Ghost
"The Seventy's Course in Theology, Fifth Year" by B. H. Roberts is a theological work written in the early 20th century. The text centers around the themes of Divine Immanence and the Holy Ghost, exploring the relationship between God and humanity as mediated through spiritual presence. It examines complex theological concepts, including the necessity for individuals to actively seek knowledge and understanding of divine truths in contrast to passive acceptance of beliefs. At the start of the work, the author provides an introduction that serves both as a farewell to a specialized theological curriculum for the Seventies and as a prelude to the exploration of divine immanence. Roberts emphasizes the importance of intellectual and spiritual effort in understanding God’s nature and presence within the world, refuting notions of complacency in faith. He highlights the friction between faith and intellect in theological discourse, arguing for a reasoned and active understanding of spirituality, particularly focusing on the idea that God is immanent and active in the universe rather than distant or detached.
Succession in the Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
"Succession in the Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" by Elder B. H. Roberts is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the leadership disputes within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints following the martyrdom of its founder, Joseph Smith. Specifically, it addresses the various claims made for succession to the presidency and the author’s intention of clarifying the rightful leadership during this critical period in church history. The beginning of this book sets a serious tone by establishing the context of conflict and contention after Joseph Smith's death. It introduces key figures like Sidney Rigdon, who sought leadership within the church but was met with opposition, particularly from Brigham Young and the quorum of the Twelve Apostles. The narrative outlines the discord among would-be successors and the divine principles that were believed to govern the process of church leadership, emphasizing the need for guidance and a testament from God. Through a careful examination of events, including meetings, speeches, and the contrasting qualities of those vying for leadership, Roberts aims to document the unfolding drama surrounding succession and the attempts to maintain unity and faith within the church during a time of turmoil.
Joseph Smith the Prophet-Teacher: A Discourse
"Joseph Smith the Prophet-Teacher: A Discourse by B. H. Roberts" is a historical discourse written in the early 20th century, specifically in 1908. Authored by B. H. Roberts, a prominent Latter-day Saint leader and historian, this book discusses the life and teachings of Joseph Smith Jr., the founder of the Latter-day Saint movement, also known as Mormonism. The discourse was delivered to commemorate the 102nd anniversary of Smith's birth and delves into his influence as a prophet and teacher of profound spiritual truths. The content of the book explores Joseph Smith's philosophical and religious doctrines in contrast to prevailing beliefs of his time. Roberts delineates Smith's contributions, such as his views on revelation, the nature of God, the purpose of life, and principles of salvation. The discourse argues that Smith not only corrected many errors in contemporary religious thought but also provided a fresh perspective on human existence and morality, presenting him as a significant figure in American history whose teachings have shaped the spiritual landscape. Through a combination of personal anecdotes and theological insights, Roberts positions Joseph Smith as a pivotal prophet whose legacy continues to influence millions.
Corianton: A Nephite Story
"Corianton: A Nephite Story" by B. H. Roberts is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the ancient Nephite civilization described in the Book of Mormon, the story revolves around themes of faith, redemption, and moral struggle. The narrative follows the experiences of Corianton, the son of a prominent Nephite priest, and explores his tumultuous journey from doubt and rebellion toward eventual repentance and spiritual growth. The plot begins with Corianton, who is imprisoned for his defiance against the church and his quest for personal freedom, engaging with the anti-Christ Korihor. As the story unfolds, Corianton grapples with his own beliefs, encounters powerful influences that lead him astray, and ultimately learns hard lessons about love, consequence, and faith. After a series of misguided choices, including a tumultuous relationship with a woman named Isabel, he faces public condemnation and personal despair. However, with the support of his brother Shiblon and the teachings of their father Alma, Corianton seeks forgiveness and learns about the importance of humility and the mercy of God, closing his arc on a note of hope and redemption.