Gathering and the Pre-mortal ExistenceGathering and the Pre-mortal Existence

The plan for the gathering is based on our pre-mortal The plan for the gathering is based on our pre-mortal existence and God’s knowledge of it. Abraham tells us existence and God’s knowledge of it. Abraham tells us that some of the spirits in the pre-mortal existence that some of the spirits in the pre-mortal existence were noble and great ones (Ab. 3:23). Obviously, if were noble and great ones (Ab. 3:23). Obviously, if some spirits were noble and great, other spirits were some spirits were noble and great, other spirits were less noble in developing their spiritual capabilities. less noble in developing their spiritual capabilities. However, However, the Father loves all his children and desires the Father loves all his children and desires to save them allto save them all. In His omniscience he devised a plan . In His omniscience he devised a plan by which each of His children would come to the earth by which each of His children would come to the earth at the time and place and with the right amount of at the time and place and with the right amount of opportunities the opportunities the would maximize their ability to would maximize their ability to accept the plan of salvationaccept the plan of salvation. Elder Neal A. Maxwell . Elder Neal A. Maxwell explains this principle in these terms: “It does no explains this principle in these terms: “It does no violence even to our frail human logic to observe that violence even to our frail human logic to observe that there cannot by a grand plan of salvation for all there cannot by a grand plan of salvation for all mankind, unless there is also a plan for each mankind, unless there is also a plan for each individual. The salvational sum will reflect all its individual. The salvational sum will reflect all its parts” (parts” (Determined DiscipleshipDetermined Discipleship, 71)., 71).

Gathering and the Pre-mortal ExistenceGathering and the Pre-mortal ExistenceFor some spirits this meant they would receive an For some spirits this meant they would receive an opportunity to have the gospel in this life, while for others it opportunity to have the gospel in this life, while for others it meant they would wait until the spirit world for that meant they would wait until the spirit world for that opportunity. For some it meant the extra responsibility of opportunity. For some it meant the extra responsibility of serving in the government in God’s Kingdom and bearing serving in the government in God’s Kingdom and bearing the message of salvation to the world (TPJS 365). For the message of salvation to the world (TPJS 365). For others it meant coming to the earth at a time when and in a others it meant coming to the earth at a time when and in a place where the gospel was not available but coming to place where the gospel was not available but coming to prepare a people with a certain portion of the light. prepare a people with a certain portion of the light. Such Such were the missions of Buddha, Confucius, Zoroaster, were the missions of Buddha, Confucius, Zoroaster, Socrates, and Plato according to Orson F. WhitneySocrates, and Plato according to Orson F. Whitney. . Speaking of these individuals he said, “They were servants Speaking of these individuals he said, “They were servants of the Lord in a lesser sense, and were sent to those pagan of the Lord in a lesser sense, and were sent to those pagan or heathen nations to give them the measure of truth that a or heathen nations to give them the measure of truth that a wise Providence had allotted to them” (33). This concept is wise Providence had allotted to them” (33). This concept is supported by the First Presidency statement of 15 February supported by the First Presidency statement of 15 February 1978. The Father’s plan means these things and many 1978. The Father’s plan means these things and many more --- some that are difficult if not impossible for us to more --- some that are difficult if not impossible for us to understand without the omniscience of God. We are not, understand without the omniscience of God. We are not, for instance, generally given a knowledge of the for instance, generally given a knowledge of the relationship between other people’s pre-mortal existence relationship between other people’s pre-mortal existence and their earthly circumstances.and their earthly circumstances.

PrefacePrefaceElder Mark E. Peterson, of the Quorum of the Twelve Elder Mark E. Peterson, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, testified, “The Church to which you and I Apostles, testified, “The Church to which you and I belong is that stone. It has been cut out of the belong is that stone. It has been cut out of the mountain without hands, and your destiny and mine is mountain without hands, and your destiny and mine is to help roll it forth” (C.R., Oct. 1960, 82).to help roll it forth” (C.R., Oct. 1960, 82).

By the time Joseph F. Smith, son of the Prophet Joseph’s By the time Joseph F. Smith, son of the Prophet Joseph’s brother Hyrum, became President of the Church, he brother Hyrum, became President of the Church, he could say, “We have passed through the stages of could say, “We have passed through the stages of infancy…and are indeed approaching the condition of infancy…and are indeed approaching the condition of manhood and womanhood in our experience in the manhood and womanhood in our experience in the Gospel” (C.R., Apr. 1909, 2).Gospel” (C.R., Apr. 1909, 2).

No longer might this church be thought of as the “Utah No longer might this church be thought of as the “Utah Church,” or as an “American Church,’ but the Church,” or as an “American Church,’ but the membership of the Church is now distributed over the membership of the Church is now distributed over the earth” (C.R., Apr. 1973, or earth” (C.R., Apr. 1973, or EnsignEnsign, July 1973, 4-5)., July 1973, 4-5).

Daniel 2:44-45 “Stone - the church we belong to, cut out

of the mountains without hands”

Isaiah 29:14 “Marvelous work and a wonder”

Ephesians 2:20 “Apostles and Prophets”

Ephesians 4:5 “One Lord, one ……”

Ephesians 1:10 “Fullness of Times”

D&C 1:30 “Out of Obscurity”

Acts 10 “Day of the Gentiles”

Acts 3:19 “Times of Refreshing”

Acts 3:21 “Restitution of all things”

1 Timothy 4:3 “Forbidding to marry” & commanding to abstain

from meats.

Why we are not considered Why we are not considered Christians by the WorldChristians by the World!!

1. We do not come from the traditional Catholic or 1. We do not come from the traditional Catholic or Protestant line.Protestant line.

2. We do not believe in “The Trinity.”2. We do not believe in “The Trinity.”

3. Our unusual doctrines.3. Our unusual doctrines.

Concerning mainstream Christianity, they say: Concerning mainstream Christianity, they say: “You’re not like us, and we say, you’re right, and we “You’re not like us, and we say, you’re right, and we don’t want to be!”don’t want to be!”

John TaylorJohn Taylor

Doctrine of the Holy Trinity Fundamental to the Catholic and Protestant faiths is the Fundamental to the Catholic and Protestant faiths is the acceptance of the God of their creeds. acceptance of the God of their creeds. Known to us Known to us today as the doctrine of the Holy Trinitytoday as the doctrine of the Holy Trinity, this teaching , this teaching first found formal expression in the first found formal expression in the Nicene CreedNicene Creed and and then in its successor, the then in its successor, the Athanasian CreedAthanasian Creed. It reads as . It reads as follows: follows:

““We worship one God in trinity and trinity in unity; We worship one God in trinity and trinity in unity; neither confounding the persons; nor dividing the neither confounding the persons; nor dividing the substance. For there is one person of the Father: substance. For there is one person of the Father: another of the Son; and another of the Holy Ghost. But another of the Son; and another of the Holy Ghost. But the Godhead of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy the Godhead of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, is all one: the glory equal, the majesty co-eternal.Ghost, is all one: the glory equal, the majesty co-eternal.

““Such as the Father is: such is the Son: and such is the Such as the Father is: such is the Son: and such is the Holy Ghost. The Father uncreate: the Son uncreate: and Holy Ghost. The Father uncreate: the Son uncreate: and the Holy Ghost uncreate. The Father incomprehensible: the Holy Ghost uncreate. The Father incomprehensible: the Son incomprehensible: and the Holy Ghost the Son incomprehensible: and the Holy Ghost incomprehensible.incomprehensible.

““So the Father is God: the Son is God: and the Holy So the Father is God: the Son is God: and the Holy Ghost is God; And yet they are not three Gods: but Ghost is God; And yet they are not three Gods: but one God. So likewise the Father is Lord: The Son is one God. So likewise the Father is Lord: The Son is Lord: and the Holy Ghost is Lord. For like as we are Lord: and the Holy Ghost is Lord. For like as we are compelled by the Christian verity: to acknowledge compelled by the Christian verity: to acknowledge every person by himself to be God and Lord: so are we every person by himself to be God and Lord: so are we forbidden by the Catholic religion: to say, there be forbidden by the Catholic religion: to say, there be three Gods, or three Lords” (Smith, three Gods, or three Lords” (Smith, Restoration of All Restoration of All ThingsThings, 49)., 49).

The Nicene Creed is not found in any GospelThe Nicene Creed is not found in any Gospel. It derives . It derives from no utterance of Christ nor from the words of any of from no utterance of Christ nor from the words of any of His Apostles. It directly contradicts the plain language His Apostles. It directly contradicts the plain language of the New Testament. of the New Testament.

Its ideas can’t even be expressed in Its ideas can’t even be expressed in scriptural language; they are cloaked in scriptural language; they are cloaked in that of the Greek philosophy from whence that of the Greek philosophy from whence they came. Its best defense is the they came. Its best defense is the admission that it is a mystery and as such admission that it is a mystery and as such is indefensible. is indefensible.

Of the Athanasian CreedOf the Athanasian Creed, which was , which was formulated about a century after the formulated about a century after the Nicene Creed, Nicene Creed, James E. Talmage saidJames E. Talmage said, , ““It would be difficult to conceive of a It would be difficult to conceive of a greater number of inconsistencies and greater number of inconsistencies and contradictions expressed in words as contradictions expressed in words as fewfew” (” (Articles of FaithArticles of Faith, 44)., 44).

The following is a literal translation, as published by the The following is a literal translation, as published by the Nicene Creed then adopted:Nicene Creed then adopted:

““We believe in one God the Father Almighty, Maker of We believe in one God the Father Almighty, Maker of all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten of the Father, that is, of the Christ, the only begotten of the Father, that is, of the substance of the Father, God of God, begotten not substance of the Father, God of God, begotten not made, of the same substance with the Father, through made, of the same substance with the Father, through whom all things were made both in heaven and on whom all things were made both in heaven and on earth; who for us men and for our salvation descended, earth; who for us men and for our salvation descended, was incarnate, and was made man, suffered and rose was incarnate, and was made man, suffered and rose again the third day, ascended into heaven and cometh again the third day, ascended into heaven and cometh to judge living and dead. And in the Holy Ghost. Those to judge living and dead. And in the Holy Ghost. Those who say: There was a time when He was not, and He who say: There was a time when He was not, and He was not before He was begotten; and that He was was not before He was begotten; and that He was made out of nothing; or who maintain that He is of made out of nothing; or who maintain that He is of another hypostasis or another substance (than the another hypostasis or another substance (than the Father), or that the Son of God is created, or mutable, Father), or that the Son of God is created, or mutable, or subject to change, (them) the Catholic Church or subject to change, (them) the Catholic Church anathematizes.”anathematizes.”

The Nicene CreedThe Nicene CreedConstantine called a council of Catholic bishops Constantine called a council of Catholic bishops to meet at Nicaea in 325 A.D. Their work was to meet at Nicaea in 325 A.D. Their work was to adopt a creed which would settle the then to adopt a creed which would settle the then politically explosive problem of the Arianism — politically explosive problem of the Arianism — a concept that the Son had been created by the a concept that the Son had been created by the Father, was subordinate to him, and was Father, was subordinate to him, and was therefore unequal as to eternity, power, and therefore unequal as to eternity, power, and glory.glory.

The Council was opened by Constantine. He The Council was opened by Constantine. He made sure that all the Bishops had taken their made sure that all the Bishops had taken their seats before making his entry. He was clad in seats before making his entry. He was clad in gold and covered with precious stones. A chair gold and covered with precious stones. A chair of gold had been made ready for him.of gold had been made ready for him.

The current version of this The current version of this creed is called the Niceno-creed is called the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed Constantinopolitan Creed and was probably adopted and was probably adopted by the Council of by the Council of Constantinople in 381 A.D. Constantinople in 381 A.D. ((Catholic EncyclopediaCatholic Encyclopedia, vol. , vol. 11, 49-50).11, 49-50).

Parley P. Pratt would observe when once the light Parley P. Pratt would observe when once the light of the restored gospel had risen: of the restored gospel had risen:

““It is painful to the human mind to be compelled It is painful to the human mind to be compelled to admit that such wonderful inconsistencies of to admit that such wonderful inconsistencies of language or ideas have ever found place in any language or ideas have ever found place in any human creed. Yet, so it is. human creed. Yet, so it is. It is but another way It is but another way of saying that there is a God who does not exist, of saying that there is a God who does not exist, a God who is composed of non-entity, who is the a God who is composed of non-entity, who is the negative of all existence, who occupies no space, negative of all existence, who occupies no space, who exists in no time, who is composed of no who exists in no time, who is composed of no substance, known or unknown, and who has no substance, known or unknown, and who has no powers or properties in common with any thing powers or properties in common with any thing or being known to exist or which can possibly be or being known to exist or which can possibly be conceived of as existing either in the heavens or conceived of as existing either in the heavens or on the earthon the earth” (” (KeyKey, 18)., 18).

As that day begins to dawn, we see on the As that day begins to dawn, we see on the horizon such noble spirits as horizon such noble spirits as Thomas Thomas JeffersonJefferson, who observed, , who observed,

““When we shall have done away with the When we shall have done away with the incomprehensible jargon of the Trinitarian incomprehensible jargon of the Trinitarian arithmetic, that three are one, and one is three; arithmetic, that three are one, and one is three; when we shall have knocked down the artificial when we shall have knocked down the artificial scaffolding, reared to mask from view the very scaffolding, reared to mask from view the very simple structure of Jesus; when, in short, we simple structure of Jesus; when, in short, we shall have unlearned everything which has shall have unlearned everything which has been taught since his day, and got back to the been taught since his day, and got back to the pure and simple doctrines he inculcated, we pure and simple doctrines he inculcated, we shall then be truly and worthily his disciplesshall then be truly and worthily his disciples” ” (quoted in McGrath, (quoted in McGrath, Understanding the TrinityUnderstanding the Trinity, , 110).110).

PenancePenance::

Punishments which a repentant sinner had to undergo Punishments which a repentant sinner had to undergo to show their sorrow for their sins.to show their sorrow for their sins.

PurgatoryPurgatory::

The place after death where repentant sinners The place after death where repentant sinners completed the portion of punishment for sins not completed the portion of punishment for sins not completed while living.completed while living.

Indulgences: Indulgences:

A waiver from the Pope that excused the sinner from A waiver from the Pope that excused the sinner from doing penance and shortened the time one had to stay doing penance and shortened the time one had to stay in purgatoryin purgatory..

Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) wanted to be remembered for three wanted to be remembered for three things in his long and illustrious things in his long and illustrious careercareer::

1.1. Author of the Declaration of American Author of the Declaration of American Independence.Independence.

2.2. The founding father of the University of The founding father of the University of Virginia.Virginia.

3.3. The author of the statue of Virginia for The author of the statue of Virginia for religious religious freedom, which was adopted in 1785.freedom, which was adopted in 1785.

Non-Biblical Doctrines and Practices Non-Biblical Doctrines and Practices Developed within the Catholic ChurchDeveloped within the Catholic ChurchMonasticismMonasticism::

The church encouraged many to withdraw from society believing The church encouraged many to withdraw from society believing that in so doing they would be alone with God; men who practiced that in so doing they would be alone with God; men who practiced monasticism were called monks and women were called nuns.monasticism were called monks and women were called nuns.

CelibacyCelibacy::

Monks, nuns, and priests believed they should not be married Monks, nuns, and priests believed they should not be married

(I Timothy 4:3, Doctrine & Covenants 49:15-18).(I Timothy 4:3, Doctrine & Covenants 49:15-18).

Praying to Mary or SaintsPraying to Mary or Saints::

Deceased persons who were officially recognized by the church as Deceased persons who were officially recognized by the church as holy. They believed Mary or the saints could stand before God on holy. They believed Mary or the saints could stand before God on behalf of sinners.behalf of sinners.

TransubstantiationTransubstantiation::

The belief that elements of the Sacrament actually The belief that elements of the Sacrament actually become the body and blood of Christ (John 6:53-57).become the body and blood of Christ (John 6:53-57).

Infant baptismInfant baptism::

The belief that infants must be baptized to overcome The belief that infants must be baptized to overcome original sin (Moroni 8:9, Doctrine & Covenants 137:10).original sin (Moroni 8:9, Doctrine & Covenants 137:10).

PilgrimagesPilgrimages::

Those who visited the Holy Land or visited holy Those who visited the Holy Land or visited holy churches with select religious relics were able to churches with select religious relics were able to shorten their time in purgatory.shorten their time in purgatory.

RelicsRelics::

““Melanchthon visited the Schlosskirch, Melanchthon visited the Schlosskirch, with its thousands of special, holy relics with its thousands of special, holy relics displayed in fabulous gold and silver displayed in fabulous gold and silver casements --- 17,443 relics which could casements --- 17,443 relics which could help a person reduce his future stay in help a person reduce his future stay in purgatory by as much as two million purgatory by as much as two million years” (years” (Melanchthon: The Quiet Melanchthon: The Quiet ReformerReformer, Clyde Leonard Manschreck, , Clyde Leonard Manschreck, 21).21).

““The thornThe thorn that had brought that had brought blood to the brow of Jesus was blood to the brow of Jesus was always displayed on a special always displayed on a special altar on All Saints’ Day, while altar on All Saints’ Day, while the other relics were shown the other relics were shown from emporiums and from emporiums and balconies built along the sides balconies built along the sides of the church. of the church. Pilgrims came Pilgrims came to behold, and they to behold, and they contributedcontributed. .

Melanchthon gazed at a Melanchthon gazed at a piece of the cloak of piece of the cloak of John the BaptistJohn the Baptist. .

A rock from Mount CalvaryA rock from Mount Calvary..

A portion of the rock on which Jesus stood A portion of the rock on which Jesus stood when he wept over Jerusalemwhen he wept over Jerusalem..

Some of the Some of the milk of the Virgin Mary’s breastmilk of the Virgin Mary’s breast..

A part of Mary’s gownA part of Mary’s gown..

Four strands of Our Lady’s hairFour strands of Our Lady’s hair. .

Four pieces of Our Lady’s girdleFour pieces of Our Lady’s girdle..

A tear that Jesus shed at Lazarus’ tombA tear that Jesus shed at Lazarus’ tomb..

Thirty-five splinters from the cross of ChristThirty-five splinters from the cross of Christ. .

Three pieces of myrrh and one piece of gold Three pieces of myrrh and one piece of gold brought by the Wise Men to the baby Jesusbrought by the Wise Men to the baby Jesus..

A strand of Jesus’ beardA strand of Jesus’ beard..

One of the nails driven into his handsOne of the nails driven into his hands..

A piece of bread served at the Last SupperA piece of bread served at the Last Supper..

A part of the stone on which Jesus stood before A part of the stone on which Jesus stood before ascending into heavenascending into heaven..

A twig from Moses’ burning bushA twig from Moses’ burning bush. .

An angel featherAn angel feather..

Bones and teeth from an array of saintsBones and teeth from an array of saints including including Chrysostom, Bernard, Augustine, Jerome, Anastasia, Chrysostom, Bernard, Augustine, Jerome, Anastasia, Apollonia, and Lucia, along with one complete skeleton Apollonia, and Lucia, along with one complete skeleton and 204 odd bones of the innocent children of and 204 odd bones of the innocent children of Bethlehem slain by the order of Herod (Clyde Leonard Bethlehem slain by the order of Herod (Clyde Leonard Manschreck, Manschreck, Melanchthon: The Quiet ReformerMelanchthon: The Quiet Reformer, 22)., 22).

A Brief History of the BibleA Brief History of the Bible

Why were books bound? Why were books bound?

It was easier than hiding scrolls.It was easier than hiding scrolls.

It wasn’t until It wasn’t until 1200 A.D1200 A.D. that the Bible came to be.. that the Bible came to be.

Only 50 fragments existed from the first 300 years of Only 50 fragments existed from the first 300 years of ChristianityChristianity..

There were no printing presses until the There were no printing presses until the 1400’s1400’s..

Latin was the standard language before the printing Latin was the standard language before the printing press was inventedpress was invented..

The Bible was the dominant book over the The Bible was the dominant book over the people and yet the people had people and yet the people had no accessno access to it. to it.

It controlled the people economically and It controlled the people economically and politically.politically.

The first English Bible was created in 1384 by The first English Bible was created in 1384 by John WycliffeJohn Wycliffe. .

Wycliffe (1320-1384, England) was opposed to Wycliffe (1320-1384, England) was opposed to the doctrine of transubstantiation.the doctrine of transubstantiation.

During the 1400’s there were two Popes who During the 1400’s there were two Popes who excommunicated each other. excommunicated each other.

Wycliff believed that the scriptures had more Wycliff believed that the scriptures had more authority than the churchauthority than the church..

John Wycliffe was calledJohn Wycliffe was called::

““The Morning Star of the The Morning Star of the ReformationReformation””

Though he lived two hundred years before the Though he lived two hundred years before the Reformation, his beliefs and teachings closely match Reformation, his beliefs and teachings closely match those of Luther, Calvin and other Reformers. those of Luther, Calvin and other Reformers.

Translated the Bible into EnglishTranslated the Bible into English (the poor had no (the poor had no scripture)scripture)

He called the Pope an “anti-Christ.”He called the Pope an “anti-Christ.”

He believed that all men should have access to the Bible.He believed that all men should have access to the Bible.

It took one small herd of sheep to provide the parchment for one It took one small herd of sheep to provide the parchment for one BibleBible..

Wycliffe's followers were burned by the hundreds and thousands. Wycliffe's followers were burned by the hundreds and thousands.

What was there crimeWhat was there crime? ?

They had a page of the Bible in their possession.They had a page of the Bible in their possession.

Wycliffe's bones were exhumed from his grave 44 years after his Wycliffe's bones were exhumed from his grave 44 years after his burial by his enemies. burial by his enemies. They pounded his bones to dust to They pounded his bones to dust to symbolize that he never existedsymbolize that he never existed. .

He translated the Bible from Latin to English. These Bibles were He translated the Bible from Latin to English. These Bibles were widely distributed around England and denounced by the Catholic widely distributed around England and denounced by the Catholic Church.Church.

The Gutenberg BibleThe Gutenberg Bible: (1453-55) Was printed in Latin and was : (1453-55) Was printed in Latin and was intended for the use of the church. It is considered to be the intended for the use of the church. It is considered to be the greatest contribution to Western Culture.greatest contribution to Western Culture.

William TyndaleWilliam Tyndale: (1494-1536): (1494-1536)

He was England’s Martin Luther. He was England’s Martin Luther.

He knew eight languages fluently. He knew eight languages fluently.

Knowing those languages were helpful when he Knowing those languages were helpful when he was fleeing English authorities seeking to take was fleeing English authorities seeking to take his life. his life.

He read the Bible in Latin and translated it from He read the Bible in Latin and translated it from Greek to English. Greek to English.

Why? Why? Because Wycliffe's Bible was pretty Because Wycliffe's Bible was pretty much much destroyeddestroyed..

May we emulate the feelings for the scriptures held May we emulate the feelings for the scriptures held by Tyndale and Paul? Tyndale was imprisoned for by Tyndale and Paul? Tyndale was imprisoned for translating holy scripture, and Paul was martyred translating holy scripture, and Paul was martyred for providing and testifying of holy scripture. The for providing and testifying of holy scripture. The parallels are powerful: Heroic Tyndale, from a cold, parallels are powerful: Heroic Tyndale, from a cold, dark dungeon where he stayed for 16 months and dark dungeon where he stayed for 16 months and from which he would soon go to be strangled and from which he would soon go to be strangled and then burned, sent a letter begging for “a warmer then burned, sent a letter begging for “a warmer cap…a warmer coat also…also a piece of cloth to cap…a warmer coat also…also a piece of cloth to path my leggings…but above all my Hebrew Bible.” path my leggings…but above all my Hebrew Bible.” Heroic Paul, aging Apostle --- in Rome waiting to Heroic Paul, aging Apostle --- in Rome waiting to be brought before Nero a second time and then to be brought before Nero a second time and then to be martyred, deserted by friends --- asked Timothy be martyred, deserted by friends --- asked Timothy to bring his “cloke,” “the books,” and “especially to bring his “cloke,” “the books,” and “especially the parchments.” (2 Timothy 4:13.) (Neal A. the parchments.” (2 Timothy 4:13.) (Neal A. Maxwell, “Maxwell, “Thanksgiving for the Holy ScripturesThanksgiving for the Holy Scriptures.”)..”).

Tyndale standardized the English languageTyndale standardized the English language. He . He translated the Old Testament from Hebrew to English. translated the Old Testament from Hebrew to English. He finished his work to the Book of Chronicles before he He finished his work to the Book of Chronicles before he was caught and put in jail for 18 months.was caught and put in jail for 18 months.

He was admitted to Oxford when he was eleven years He was admitted to Oxford when he was eleven years old. old.

He helped to open the eyes of England. He helped to open the eyes of England.

He was also burned at the stakeHe was also burned at the stake..

His last words were, His last words were,

““If God grants me breath to finish this translation If God grants me breath to finish this translation then the simplest plow boy will be able to read it then the simplest plow boy will be able to read it and will know more about it than you in the and will know more about it than you in the clergyclergy..””

The Geneva BibleThe Geneva Bible: In 1560, it was the first English Bible. : In 1560, it was the first English Bible. Because of Bloody Mary people escaped and settled in Because of Bloody Mary people escaped and settled in Geneva, Switzerland. People began to study the Bible in Geneva, Switzerland. People began to study the Bible in English. English.

It was the first entire Bible written in EnglishIt was the first entire Bible written in English..

This was the Bible that the Puritans and the Pilgrims This was the Bible that the Puritans and the Pilgrims brought to the New Worldbrought to the New World..

King James, 1611: Forty seven scholars worked on it. It King James, 1611: Forty seven scholars worked on it. It was not really completed until 1900. They averaged was not really completed until 1900. They averaged about a page a day while translating it. about a page a day while translating it.

King James had nothing to do with it. King James had nothing to do with it.

We are really reading Tyndale’s words, not so much We are really reading Tyndale’s words, not so much God’sGod’s..

The Wicked BibleThe Wicked Bible: : Thou shalt commit Thou shalt commit adulteryadultery!!

The Bay Psalm Book, 1782The Bay Psalm Book, 1782: Was the first : Was the first publication in America because of copyright publication in America because of copyright problems with the King James Version.problems with the King James Version.

Just for funJust for fun: : The Dead Sea ScrollsThe Dead Sea Scrolls

They found 18,000 segments, they did They found 18,000 segments, they did not find scrolls.not find scrolls.

They were 2,000 years oldThey were 2,000 years old

They legitimize that Jesus once lived They legitimize that Jesus once lived there.there.

Forerunners to the Forerunners to the ReformationReformation

John HussJohn Huss (1369-1414) (1369-1414)

Objected to the selling of indulgences (which were to Objected to the selling of indulgences (which were to reduce time in purgatory).reduce time in purgatory).

He was greatly influenced by Wycliffe.He was greatly influenced by Wycliffe.

He was excommunicated in 1411, therefore his doctrines He was excommunicated in 1411, therefore his doctrines could not be taught and his books were burned.could not be taught and his books were burned.

In June of 1415, still refusing to recant his beliefs and In June of 1415, still refusing to recant his beliefs and teachings, he was found guilty of heresy and sentenced teachings, he was found guilty of heresy and sentenced to death to be burned at the stake.to death to be burned at the stake.

Martin LutherMartin Luther (1483-1546) (1483-1546)The 95 item thesis was written in 1517 and nailed to the doors of the The 95 item thesis was written in 1517 and nailed to the doors of the Church in Wittenberg Germany. He was later buried there with Church in Wittenberg Germany. He was later buried there with Melanchthon. Melanchthon.

Philipp Melanchthon to Luther was like Oliver Cowdery to Joseph SmithPhilipp Melanchthon to Luther was like Oliver Cowdery to Joseph Smith. .

Luther wrote the 95 thesis in Latin so that only scholars would know Luther wrote the 95 thesis in Latin so that only scholars would know what he had written. He was not trying to offend anyone and was being what he had written. He was not trying to offend anyone and was being respectful. During that time period scholars would often nail questions respectful. During that time period scholars would often nail questions to the church door in hope of future discussions or debates. to the church door in hope of future discussions or debates.

The 95 thesis was not 95 different points, it was different points related The 95 thesis was not 95 different points, it was different points related to the following challenges: to the following challenges:

1.1. Selling of indulgencesSelling of indulgences

2.2. CelibacyCelibacy

3.3. The Grace of GodThe Grace of God

4.4. The Pope not having the authority to forgiveThe Pope not having the authority to forgive

When Luther was ordered to give up his work, he boldly When Luther was ordered to give up his work, he boldly declared: “declared: “Unless I be refuted by Scriptural Unless I be refuted by Scriptural testimonies, or by clear arguments – for I believe testimonies, or by clear arguments – for I believe neither the Pope nor the councils alone, since it is clear neither the Pope nor the councils alone, since it is clear that they have often erred and contradicted one that they have often erred and contradicted one another – I am convinced by the passages of Scripture, another – I am convinced by the passages of Scripture, which I have cited, and my conscience is bound in the which I have cited, and my conscience is bound in the word of Godword of God. . I cannot and will not recant anything; I cannot and will not recant anything; since it is insecure and dangerous to act against since it is insecure and dangerous to act against conscienceconscience” (Henry Eyster Jacobs, ” (Henry Eyster Jacobs, Martin LutherMartin Luther:: The The Hero of the ReformationHero of the Reformation, 1843-1546, 192)., 1843-1546, 192).

Luther’s resistance led to his excommunication from Luther’s resistance led to his excommunication from the church and to his being placed under the ban of the the church and to his being placed under the ban of the empire, which made him an outlaw.empire, which made him an outlaw.

It was the work of others who took his It was the work of others who took his writings and had them translated so that writings and had them translated so that the common people could read it. the common people could read it.

Some say that when Luther Some say that when Luther hammered his thesis to the door, the hammered his thesis to the door, the sound was heard in Romesound was heard in Rome. .

Wittenberg, Germany is to Protestants Wittenberg, Germany is to Protestants what Temple Square is to uswhat Temple Square is to us. .

Luther translated the Bible into German Luther translated the Bible into German (Joseph Smith’s favorite translation).(Joseph Smith’s favorite translation).

Martin Luther (1483-1546)Martin Luther (1483-1546)

Philipp Melanchthon Philipp Melanchthon

The Chapel door that Martin Luther The Chapel door that Martin Luther nailed his 95 thesisnailed his 95 thesis

The Chapel in Wittenberg The Chapel in Wittenberg GermanyGermany

Martin Luther’s GraveMartin Luther’s Grave

AnabaptistAnabaptist Did not believe in infant baptismDid not believe in infant baptism

John CalvinJohn Calvin (1509-1564)(1509-1564)

Sovereignty of God, double predestination, denigration of man, Sovereignty of God, double predestination, denigration of man, elect, visible and invisible church, two sacraments, baptism and elect, visible and invisible church, two sacraments, baptism and the Lord’s supper.the Lord’s supper.

Jacob ArminiusJacob Arminius (1560-1609)(1560-1609)

All who believe in Christ can be saved.All who believe in Christ can be saved.

The Atonement was universal, making it possible for all to be The Atonement was universal, making it possible for all to be saved.saved.

Men cannot be saved without the grace of God.Men cannot be saved without the grace of God.

God’s grace was not irresistible.God’s grace was not irresistible.

The Synod rejected the The Synod rejected the Arminian belief by Arminian belief by setting forth their setting forth their doctrine on each point. doctrine on each point. These doctrines are These doctrines are often called the often called the TULIP TULIP DoctrinesDoctrines..

Synod of DordtSynod of DordtNovember 1618 – May 1619November 1618 – May 1619

The Tulip DoctrinesThe Tulip Doctrines::

TT Total depravity of manTotal depravity of man

UU Unconditional election of those Unconditional election of those predestined to be savedpredestined to be saved

LL Limited Atonement for only the Limited Atonement for only the electelect

II Irresistible grace for the electIrresistible grace for the elect

PP Perseverance of those saved Perseverance of those saved (not (not possible to fall from grace)possible to fall from grace)

Two major reformers in Switzerland Two major reformers in Switzerland were Ulrich Zwingli and John Calvinwere Ulrich Zwingli and John Calvin..

Zwingli convinced the citizens of Zurich that the Bible Zwingli convinced the citizens of Zurich that the Bible should be the only standard of religious truth. He rejected should be the only standard of religious truth. He rejected life in a monastery, celibacy, the mass, and other Catholic life in a monastery, celibacy, the mass, and other Catholic practices.practices.

John Calvin was even more influential. At Geneva, he John Calvin was even more influential. At Geneva, he attempted to create a holy city around the biblical models. attempted to create a holy city around the biblical models. Gradually Calvinism became predominant in many parts of Gradually Calvinism became predominant in many parts of Switzerland, and from there it spread to France, England, Switzerland, and from there it spread to France, England, Scotland, Holland, and in a lesser degree to Germany.Scotland, Holland, and in a lesser degree to Germany.

The Pilgrims and Puritans, two strict Calvinist groups who The Pilgrims and Puritans, two strict Calvinist groups who came to the New World, greatly influenced American came to the New World, greatly influenced American values.values.

The Constitution --- D&C 101:80The Constitution --- D&C 101:80

Wilford Woodruff, fourth President of the restored Wilford Woodruff, fourth President of the restored Church, spoke of the early American patriots:Church, spoke of the early American patriots:

““I am going to bear my testimony to this I am going to bear my testimony to this assembly, if I never do it again in my life, that assembly, if I never do it again in my life, that those men who laid the foundation of this those men who laid the foundation of this American government and signed the Declaration American government and signed the Declaration of Independence were the best spirits the God of of Independence were the best spirits the God of heaven could find on the face of the earth. They heaven could find on the face of the earth. They were choice spirits, not wicked men. General were choice spirits, not wicked men. General Washington and all the men who labored for the Washington and all the men who labored for the purpose were inspired of the Lord.purpose were inspired of the Lord.

““...Every one of those men that signed the ...Every one of those men that signed the Declaration of Independence, with General Declaration of Independence, with General Washington, called upon me, as an Apostle of the Washington, called upon me, as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the Temple at St. George, Lord Jesus Christ, in the Temple at St. George, two consecutive nights, and demanded at my two consecutive nights, and demanded at my hands that I should go forth and attend to the hands that I should go forth and attend to the ordinances of the House of God for them” (C.R., ordinances of the House of God for them” (C.R., Apr.. 1898, 89-90).Apr.. 1898, 89-90).

““All fifty-six signers of the Declaration of All fifty-six signers of the Declaration of Independence have had their temple work done Independence have had their temple work done — these are the ones who appeared to President — these are the ones who appeared to President Woodruff in the St. George Temple. In fact Woodruff in the St. George Temple. In fact according to Wilford Woodruff’s journal, according to Wilford Woodruff’s journal, George George Washington, Christopher Columbus, Benjamin Washington, Christopher Columbus, Benjamin Franklin, and John WesleyFranklin, and John Wesley were ordained to the were ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood office of high priest at Melchizedek Priesthood office of high priest at that time by proxy (see Ezra Taft Benson, “God’s that time by proxy (see Ezra Taft Benson, “God’s Hand in Our Nation’s History,” Speeches of the Hand in Our Nation’s History,” Speeches of the Year, 1976 (Provo: BYU Press, 1976, 307).Year, 1976 (Provo: BYU Press, 1976, 307).

Elder Wilford Woodruff said that the signers of Elder Wilford Woodruff said that the signers of the Declaration of Independence and others the Declaration of Independence and others such as John Wesley and Columbus appeared to such as John Wesley and Columbus appeared to him, wanting to know why their temple work had him, wanting to know why their temple work had not been done. They said, “You had the use of not been done. They said, “You had the use of the Endowment House for a number of years the Endowment House for a number of years and yet nothing has ever been done for us. We and yet nothing has ever been done for us. We laid the foundation of the government you now laid the foundation of the government you now enjoy, and we never apostatized from it, but we enjoy, and we never apostatized from it, but we remained true to it and were faithful to God.” remained true to it and were faithful to God.” Elder Woodruff said that “they waited on me for Elder Woodruff said that “they waited on me for two days and two nights.” Then he “straightway two days and two nights.” Then he “straightway went into the baptismal font and called upon went into the baptismal font and called upon Brother McCallister” to baptize him. Thus, the Brother McCallister” to baptize him. Thus, the necessary ordinances were performed for these necessary ordinances were performed for these people in the St. George Temple (people in the St. George Temple (JDJD, 19:229)., 19:229).

The Prophet Joseph Smith stated The Prophet Joseph Smith stated that “the Constitution of the that “the Constitution of the United States is a glorious United States is a glorious standard; it is founded in the standard; it is founded in the wisdom of God. It is a heavenly wisdom of God. It is a heavenly banner; it is to all those who are banner; it is to all those who are privileged with the sweets of privileged with the sweets of liberty, like the cooling shades and liberty, like the cooling shades and refreshing waters of a great rock refreshing waters of a great rock in a thirsty and weary land in a thirsty and weary land ((TeachingsTeachings, 147)., 147).

Reformation in EnglandReformation in England

Kings and Queens of England during early part of ReformationKings and Queens of England during early part of Reformation

Henry VIII (1491-1547)Henry VIII (1491-1547)

CatherineCatherine

Mother of Mary TudorMother of Mary Tudor

Anne BoleynAnne Boleyn

Mother of ElizabethMother of Elizabeth

Jane SeymourJane Seymour

Mother of Edward VIMother of Edward VI

Edward VI (ruled during 1547-1553)Edward VI (ruled during 1547-1553)

Ruled six years (9 until 17 years old)Ruled six years (9 until 17 years old)

Reform ideas continue to growReform ideas continue to grow

Mary Tudor (ruled during 1553-1558)Mary Tudor (ruled during 1553-1558)

CatholicCatholic

Persecuted those who held to reformed views --- “Bloody Mary”Persecuted those who held to reformed views --- “Bloody Mary”

Elizabeth (ruled during 1558-1603)Elizabeth (ruled during 1558-1603)

Elizabeth Settlement (1563) a theological Elizabeth Settlement (1563) a theological statement that formed the basis of the Church statement that formed the basis of the Church of England.of England.

PuritansPuritans::

Did not feel that the Elizabethan Settlement Did not feel that the Elizabethan Settlement went far enough in rejecting Catholic theology went far enough in rejecting Catholic theology and practices. They wanted to reject the and practices. They wanted to reject the settlement and purify the church of all Catholic settlement and purify the church of all Catholic elements. They were persecuted by English elements. They were persecuted by English kings and queens.kings and queens.

Colonization of New EnglandColonization of New England

SeparatistsSeparatists::

Separating, HollandSeparating, Holland

The Great MigrationThe Great Migration: (Puritan) (Massachusetts Bay : (Puritan) (Massachusetts Bay Colony)Colony)

English persecution, Religious intolerance, Salem English persecution, Religious intolerance, Salem witch witch trialstrials

American Revolution:American Revolution: (1775-1783) (1775-1783)

Constitution and Bill of Rights:Constitution and Bill of Rights:

Constitution ratified in 1788Constitution ratified in 1788

Bill of Rights ratified in 1791Bill of Rights ratified in 1791

The Prophets on the ReformersThe Prophets on the Reformers

John TaylorJohn Taylor

But outside of that there have been many good influences But outside of that there have been many good influences abroad in the world. Many men in the different ages, who, abroad in the world. Many men in the different ages, who, in the midst of wickedness and corruption, have tried to in the midst of wickedness and corruption, have tried to stop the current evil, have placed themselves in the stop the current evil, have placed themselves in the catalogue of reformers. Some of those have been what catalogue of reformers. Some of those have been what are called heathen, others what are termed Christian, and are called heathen, others what are termed Christian, and others have been scientific and philanthropic --- lovers and others have been scientific and philanthropic --- lovers and benefactors of the human race. The many reformers that benefactors of the human race. The many reformers that existed in former ages have been men many of whom existed in former ages have been men many of whom have been sincerely desirous to do the will of God, and to have been sincerely desirous to do the will of God, and to carry out his purposes, so far as they knew them (carry out his purposes, so far as they knew them (The The Gospel KingdomGospel Kingdom, 42)., 42).

Lorenzo SnowLorenzo Snow

We can trace the providences of We can trace the providences of the Almighty in raising up certain the Almighty in raising up certain individuals to establish religious individuals to establish religious organizations, and we see in organizations, and we see in these things the workings of the these things the workings of the Spirit of God for the general Spirit of God for the general interest of the human family (interest of the human family (JDJD, , 14, 304).14, 304).

Joseph Fielding SmithJoseph Fielding Smith

Calvin, Luther (Professor of Theology, Calvin, Luther (Professor of Theology, Melanchthon (Professor of Greek), and all Melanchthon (Professor of Greek), and all the reformers, were inspired in thoughts, the reformers, were inspired in thoughts, words, and actions, to accomplish what words, and actions, to accomplish what they did for the amelioration, liberty and they did for the amelioration, liberty and advancement of the human race. Their advancement of the human race. Their inspiration, as with that of the ancients, inspiration, as with that of the ancients, came from the Father, his Son Jesus came from the Father, his Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost, the one true Christ, and the Holy Ghost, the one true and living God (and living God (Gospel DoctrineGospel Doctrine, 31)., 31).

Joseph Fielding SmithJoseph Fielding Smith

Latter-day Saints pay all honor to these great Latter-day Saints pay all honor to these great and fearless reformers, who shattered the and fearless reformers, who shattered the fetters which bound the religious world. The fetters which bound the religious world. The Lord was their protector in this mission, which Lord was their protector in this mission, which was fraught with many perils. In that day, was fraught with many perils. In that day, however, the time had not come for the however, the time had not come for the restoration of the fullness of the gospel. restoration of the fullness of the gospel. The The work of the reformers was of great importance, work of the reformers was of great importance, but it was a preparatory work, and they shall in but it was a preparatory work, and they shall in no wise lose their well earned rewardno wise lose their well earned reward ( (Doctrines Doctrines of Salvationof Salvation, vol. 1:174-75)., vol. 1:174-75).

President Joseph Fielding President Joseph Fielding Smith said, “The discovery (of Smith said, “The discovery (of America) was one of the most America) was one of the most important factors in bringing important factors in bringing to pass the purpose of the to pass the purpose of the Almighty in the restoration of Almighty in the restoration of his Gospel in its fullness for his Gospel in its fullness for the salvation of men in the the salvation of men in the latter days (Smith, latter days (Smith, Progress of Progress of Man, Man, 258).258).