Author
Joseph Fielding Smith
1876-1972
Joseph Fielding Smith (1876-1972) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Joseph Fielding Smith
Essentials in Church History A History of the Church from the Birth of Joseph Smith to the Present Time (1922), with Introductory Chapters on the Antiquity of the Gospel and the "Falling Away"
"Essentials in Church History" by Joseph Fielding Smith is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, spanning from the life of its founder, Joseph Smith, to contemporary times. It addresses pivotal events, doctrines, and revelations that have shaped the Church's development and emphasizes the importance of understanding both its historical context and the spiritual significance of its teachings. The opening of the text sets the stage for a detailed exploration of Church history. It begins with a preface that states the need for a concise yet thorough account of the Church's history, highlighting the selection of essential points arranged in a chronological order. Smith expresses the hope that this work will inspire readers to engage in deeper studies of related histories. The first chapters focus on the antiquity of the Gospel, discussing its existence prior to modern religious traditions, the concept of apostasy, and the significance of Joseph Smith's prophetic revelations. This introduction establishes not only a historical narrative but also a doctrinal foundation crucial for understanding later developments within the Church.
Blood Atonement and the Origin of Plural Marriage: A Discussion
"Blood Atonement and the Origin of Plural Marriage: A Discussion" by Smith and Evans is a historical discourse likely written in the early 20th century. This work documents a correspondence between Elder Joseph F. Smith Jr. of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Richard C. Evans, a leader from the "Reorganized" Church. The discussion centers on the misrepresentation of Latter-day Saint beliefs, especially concerning controversial topics like plural marriage and blood atonement. The opening of the text sets the tone for a vigorous debate between the two church leaders triggered by public accusations made by Evans against the practices of the Latter-day Saints. Smith, in his defense, highlights passages from previous church documents and provides counterarguments to Evans' claims, including the origins of plural marriage and the doctrine of blood atonement as taught by Brigham Young. The intense back-and-forth illustrates the complexities and divisions within the Mormon faith at the time, revealing deeper historical tensions over these doctrines and their interpretations among different factions of the faith.
Origin of the 'Reorganized' Church and the Question of Succession
"Origin of the 'Reorganized' Church and the Question of Succession" by Elder Joseph F. Smith, Jr. is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book addresses the issues surrounding the formation of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints following the martyrdom of Joseph Smith and the subsequent leadership under Brigham Young. It likely details the controversies, schisms, and theological conflicts within the Latter-day Saint movement during this turbulent period. The opening portion introduces the author’s perspective in response to the Reorganite ministers' aggressive missionary activities in Salt Lake City and Ogden from 1906 to 1907. The author recounts how these ministers, emboldened by individuals who had left the Church and local anti-"Mormon" sentiments, launched bitter attacks against Brigham Young and current Church leaders. This prompted a request from young Church members for a defense of their faith, leading the author to deliver discourses that ultimately became the chapters of this work, which aims to clarify the historical and doctrinal positions of the Church amidst rising opposition and misrepresentation from the Reorganites.
Salvation Universal
"Salvation Universal" by Joseph Fielding Smith is a theological publication written in the early 20th century. This book explores the concept of salvation from a Latter-day Saint perspective, emphasizing the doctrine of universal salvation as taught within Mormonism. The work discusses the nature of God's plan for humanity, the importance of faith, repentance, and the need for ordinances, as well as the role of Jesus Christ as the redeemer. In "Salvation Universal," Smith articulates a comprehensive view of salvation, arguing that it encompasses not just a individual righteousness but also the vicarious work done for the dead through temple ordinances. The text elaborates on the necessity of obedience to the principles of the gospel and the eternal implications of humanity's choices, including the fate of those who did not receive the gospel in mortal life. Notably, it holds that, through Jesus’ atonement, not only the living but also the dead may find redemption. Smith argues that performing ordinances such as baptism for the dead creates a binding link between generations, emphasizing the interconnectedness of God's family and the sacred duty of the living to assist their ancestors.