Subject
Latter Day Saint churches -- Government Books
Best books
Joseph Fielding Smith
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.
B. H. (Brigham Henry) Roberts
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.
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