By Greg Christiansen
“And there was a strict command throughout all the churches that there should be no persecutions among them, that there should be an equality among all men.” -Mosiah 27:3
As Latter-day Saints, we often describe the ongoing war between good and evil as a war about agency. We identify the key difference between the plan of the Father and the plan of Lucifer to center on this particular point. As the Lord said to Moses, “Satan…sought to destroy the agency of man” (Moses 4:3). We are told that this agency comes from God, and permits us to freely choose between good and evil until the day of judgment (D&C 101:78; Helaman 14:30).
Indeed, agency is so important that it serves as a hinge point for just laws, when it comes to governing a free society like America was designed to be. Your rights end only when they infringe on the rights of another. You have certain inalienable rights and inherent freedoms, which cannot all be named and numbered as they are too many to iterate. It was with reluctance that the Founding Fathers wrote the Bill of Rights, as they feared that creating a list of rights might imply to some that the list was complete and might cause other unnamed rights to become lost.
In a free society, your rights are ideally esteemed to be without limitation, until they come in contact with the rights of others who also dwell in that society. For example, while I have a right to explore and enjoy the forests, rivers, and hills of the land, I do not have the right to recklessly pollute those places, because it prevents others from also enjoying those lands. While I should have the right to paint my house yellow if it’s the color of my choice, I do not have the right to paint my neighbor’s house yellow just because I don’t like the mint green color he chose instead. And while in a free society I have the right to publicly express my opinions, there are times when speech can be used to violate the right that others should have to feel safe and valued within a peaceful society.
Having a basic understanding of God’s love of agency, we as Latter-day Saints should have greater reverence for principles of freedom than perhaps any other people in the land. Like Captain Moroni of old, we should feel that protecting our rights of agency is quite possibly more important than any other cause we can become engaged in. Whenever we see our freedoms unreasonably threatened, we should therefore be on our highest guard.
Having said all of this, I would like to think that as members of the Church we have a right to study the scriptures, and to discuss doctrine, and to publicly express our doctrinal opinions. Elder Hugh B. Brown, a former member of the First Presidency, seemed to also have this view. He stated:
“More thinking is required, and we should all exercise our God-given right to think and be unafraid to express our opinions, with proper respect for those to whom we talk and proper acknowledgment of our own shortcomings. We must preserve freedom of the mind in the church and resist all efforts to suppress it. The church is not so much concerned with whether the thoughts of its members are orthodox or heterodox as it is that they shall have thoughts.”
(Millennial Star, Vol. 14, Num. 38, pp.593-595)
Joseph Smith expressed a similar viewpoint:
“The first and fundamental principle of our holy religion is, that we believe that we have a right to embrace all, and every item of truth, without limitation or without being circumscribed or prohibited by the creeds or superstitious notions of men, or by the dominations of one another, when that truth is clearly demonstrated to our minds, and we have the highest degree of evidence of the same.”
(Letter from Joseph Smith to Isaac Galland, Mar. 22, 1839, Liberty Jail, Liberty, Missouri, published in Times and Seasons, Feb. 1840, pp. 53–54)
In essence, we should be free to engage in a doctrinal dialogue with our fellow men, examining the words of the scriptures and of the prophets, and sharing our own beliefs and insights as we deem appropriate, without fear of disciplinary reprisals. Ideally, the Gospel is designed to promote self-governance, creating a people who pursue righteousness of their own accord. As Joseph Smith stated concerning the Saints in Nauvoo, “I teach them correct principles and they govern themselves” (Messages of the First Presidency, comp. James R. Clark, 6 vols., Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1965–75, 3:54.).
Along those lines, the famous orator and professor Truman G. Madsen recognized that it can often be the practice of those in authority to abuse such authority, standing in the way of our efforts to grow in light and truth. In his words:
“Now what about authority? Do you want to hear the party line of those of us who get a little bit paranoid because of abuse of the big person who has clout and is over us? I’ve often wanted to say that Jesus Christ never lords it over us but under us. He comes down and lifts from below. What about that authority? We sometimes say in the party line, ‘Be independent. You don’t have to listen to anyone else. What is this stuff about Take my word?’ But you belong to a tradition where the word of the prophets and prophetesses is, ‘Don’t just take my word for it. That is blind.’ How do you know a prophet or a prophetess is [a prophet or prophetess]? Only when you are one. Only when you are actuated by the same Spirit. And that’s the way you prove the prophetic mantle and how it applies to you. Said the Prophet Joseph Smith after one of the most revelatory meetings in his life, ‘There was nothing made known to me or the Twelve but what will be made known to all the Saints of the last days, as soon as they are prepared to receive’ (Teachings, p. 237, paraphrased). This is the religion of every man. Not ‘Take my word for my experience,’ but ‘Duplicate it in your own life.’ How far do I go with this? All the way.”
(Truman G. Madsen, On How We Know, BYU, Sept 1994 [taken from the video recording and not the published version, as the word prophetess was not included in the published version])
That Professor Madsen referenced a “paranoia” that he and those like him sometimes felt strongly implies that he at times found it appropriate to publicly express thoughts and ideas that people in authority over him might have found to be troublesome. Yet he argued that such fears and abuses should not deter us. Indeed, we should all “have an equal privilege” within the Church to seek after truth and to engage in the theological discussions of our time (D&C 88:122), the teacher not being above the learner, nor the speaker above the hearer. Interestingly, Professor Madsen made the remarks quoted above during a speech where he lent some credibility to the eastern view of reincarnation. Still, that is not the topic at hand, nor the purpose of including his remarks.
I communicate these things, because recently my good and beloved friend Eric Smith, who I esteem as the salt of the earth and a beautiful man, who loves the Lord with a tenderness and sincerity that is uncommon in this telestial world, has been excommunicated by his former stake presidency. The charge against him as expressed formally was that he was “teaching as doctrine what is not church doctrine.” I confess, I am both appalled and alarmed by such a charge, and especially by its broad and unspecific nature. It should give all of us great pause, regardless of how orthodox or unorthodox our doctrinal views are.
After all, if teaching unofficial doctrines is an offense worthy of invoking the most serious penalty the Church has the power to enact, which is excommunication (D&C 134:10), then every single member of every congregation may be subject to similar treatment, as we often hear falsehoods spoken over the pulpit in our talks and in our fast and testimony meetings. In our classrooms also members regularly teach and express views that are not always quite right, and which are even sometimes more blatantly false. Yet should it not be our privilege to sometimes get things wrong as we do our best to find understanding? Should we not at times speak with conviction things we wholeheartedly believe, though not everyone be in agreement? Must we remain silent unless there is first a consensus reached on each of our views? And how would we come to such a consensus if we are not free to speak what we think and believe, and to thus hear what everyone else has to say on the matter?
Essentially, the formal charge brought against Eric Smith which was articulated as grounds for his excommunication is absurd. Most of what is taught and discussed in the Church is not branded as official Church doctrine. It is also worth pointing out that Eric has never expressed his more unorthodox views over the pulpit, or in the classroom, or on any Church platform. I would go so far as to say that the charge against him does not hold water any better than a bottomless bucket. Indeed, every general authority who has ever written a doctrinal book could be excommunicated under such a broad charge, and some of our most renowned apostles would be the greatest culprits. Bruce R. McConkie went so far as to entitle one of his books “Mormon Doctrine,” which book contained no small number of his personal opinions and interpretations.
Regardless, it has never been communicated by the Lord that His people should be in the business of building a fence around the scriptures, and policing the studies and dialogues of its members. Instead, we are under a moral obligation to search the scriptures for ourselves, and to seek out the mysteries of God, and to grow in light and in truth, and to embrace all truth, wherever it may be found. Such attempts cannot be made if our tongues and our minds are to be bound within the very small sandbox of official doctrine. If a man faithfully keeps the covenants which he has made in the temple and has a testimony of Christ and His gospel, what cause can his leaders have against him? Surely, not a cause that is justified in the sight of a God who desires that we be a free thinking people. After all, it was not the man defending our freedoms who was cast out of heaven, but the one who sought to take them away.
It is my wish to publicly defend Eric’s right to express his doctrinal viewpoints, which he has always done with the greatest respect for the opinions of others, always seeking to support his beliefs and understandings with the scriptures and with the words of inspired authorities. We should all be free to do the same, as each of us earnestly seeks to know the truth of all things. We should not absolve the right to express our doctrinal views. Our membership status in the Church should never be used as leverage by appointed authorities to manipulate our freedom of expression. It should be with extreme hesitancy that someone is cast out of the Church for expressing their beliefs. It should not be enough that someone persists in expressing “unendorsed” beliefs, as nowhere has it ever been laid down by the Lord that our doctrinal beliefs must first be sanctioned by the Church before they may be expressed.
P.S. A special thanks to Caleb Elliott for calling attention to two of the key quotations used in this essay, and to Doug Gneiting for sending Eric and I a link to the Truman G. Madsen talk which contained the third (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPY0CFINxO8).
P.P.S. I just wanted to make a note that this essay was drafted on June 20th, but its release was spaced out a week from the essay “There is Only Safety in the Lord.”
I find myself being very careful what I say or who I talk to. It is bordering on slight paranoia; fear is not something that should be Present in a Gospel environment. It makes me very sad. I have felt of Eric’s sincerity and his absolute love and commitment to the Lord. He is a good man. The Lord expects us to act, not to be acted upon. As adults, we have a responsibility to seek out the truth wherever we find it, and seek confirmation of its truthfulness. If someone uses their agency to lie to themselves, or to run amok with a doctrine or principle, it is on them, That is what agency is all about. Discernment is key and it is each of our responsibilities to plead for and be worthy of that gift. Discerning correctly falls to each of us individually ; in my humble opinion, I don’t feel it was the Lord’s plan to tell us specifics on what and how to believe as long as we honor our temple covenants, pay a full tithe, be honest and good citizens, and live with our eye single to the Lord.
Thank you very much Victoria!
This essay is spot on!!
I have been in Leadership positions in the Church, and in Bishopric’s. I’m no novice when it comes to the understanding of the Church.
We have 531 pages minus the lost transcripts, in the Book of Mormon. That means there is over 1062 more pages in the sealed portion of the gold plates still to come. And what about the Nephites at the time visited by the Lord after his resurrection. They seen and heard things so amazing! They were forbidden to write. I have met Eric a few times over the past year. I have never met a man with a more sincere heart!! And pure motivations. I have grown in knowledge and Testimony due to the righteous endeavors of this good man. It sickens and saddens me, that Leaders in the Church are so out of touch with the truth.
One day, these modern day Pharisees are going to see the folly of thier ways. Then they can duck thier heads in shame. When the true and just God shows to them, who they persecuted…
Thanks my Brothers in the Lord!!!
Kevin
What an amazing essay, thank you Greg. Amen to every bit of that.
My faith and love for Jesus Christ is strengthened every single time I hear Eric speak, listen to a podcast or read his inspired writings. I absolutely know he is a man of God and I know He has a plan for each of us including Eric with what has recently transpired.
Apparently the church leadership wants its members to stay within a certain box and only discuss the things they deem appropriate. The decision that was unrighteously made for Eric saddens me, as he is just a humble truth seeker at heart and would do anything for the Lord.
I love The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the precious doctrines taught within this organization. I also know there are many other truths, mysteries of the kingdom that the good Lord is revealing. In April 2018 President Nelson said, “Oh, there is so much more that your Father in Heaven wants you to know. As Elder Neal A. Maxwell taught, “To those who have eyes to see and ears to hear, it is clear that the Father and the Son are giving away the secrets of the universe!”
Eric has taken a bold stance in declaring the truths he has discovered. He is a true messenger and I’m thankful for his example of courage and bravery in defending truth at all costs.
Thank you very much Traci!
Thank you for that enlightened text
I have a question after the wheat and the tears has grown up together how many wheat and tears is left when the two are separated and bundled which bundle is bigger
Oh yes, the tares will be the biggest bundle as well we both know. Great thought.
Soooo wellll said!!! Amen and Amen! Thank you Greg, I’m so sorry Eric!!! I know you have said several times over the last several years that I’ve been listening to you that this would happen but it still shocks and saddens me that the day has finally arrived. You and your family are always in my prayers, I ditto the words of Victoria at the top of this feed. Eric is a good man who loves truth and God, imagine what this world would look like today if all mankind were like Eric Smith!!!
Thank you very much Sue!
Wow. How can someone read this and not be touched by the Spirit?
Thank you.
Eric has never been more supported or backed by those who love him than now. More are for him, whether on this side of the veil or on the other side, than he or any of us can know.
I will stand with Eric and Greg and Julie.
I have met each of them and have felt of their goodness, and know of their conviction and understanding of gospel truths and of the Savior Jesus Christ. Yesterday was the anniversary of the Prophet Joseph’s martyrdom. Speakers of truth have always been persecuted and reviled. Fortunately there have also always been those who hear the truth and sincerity of their words and actions and their lives are blessed for responding to the truths taught.
Enough said.
Doctrine & Covenants 109:
29 We ask thee, Holy Father, to confound, and astonish, and to bring to shame and confusion, all those who have spread lying reports abroad, over the world, against thy servant or servants, if they will not repent, when the everlasting gospel shall be proclaimed in their ears;
30 And that all their works may be brought to naught, and be swept away by the hail, and by the judgments which thou wilt send upon them in thine anger, that there may be an end to lyings and slanders against thy people.
31 For thou knowest, O Lord, that thy servants have been innocent before thee in bearing record of thy name, for which they have suffered these things.
32 Therefore we plead before thee for a full and complete deliverance from under this yoke;
33 Break it off, O Lord; break it off from the necks of thy servants, by thy power, that we may rise up in the midst of this generation and do thy work.
35 Let the anointing of thy ministers be sealed upon them with power from on high.
38 Put upon thy servants the testimony of the covenant, that when they go out and proclaim thy word they may seal up the law, and prepare the hearts of thy saints for all those judgments thou art about to send, in thy wrath, upon the inhabitants of the earth, because of their transgressions, that thy people may not faint in the day of trouble.
Thank you Greg for expressing beautifully what many of us are feeling in our hearts. I too have freely expressed my moral support to you, Eric and Julie.
I know there has been a cancer growing in the church for many years of feigned piety and unrighteous dominion. Back in 1972-73 I became good friends with a young man who was a foot-soldier for president Benson. He was commissioned by president Benson to secretly attend meetings being held on the compasses of UofU , BYU and, the anti-mormon group, The Tanners, and report to president Benson on a regular basis concerning their secret and diabolical plans. This young man shared with me some of his reports he had given to president Benson. Their primary goal was to destroy The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from within. They needed to infiltrate all levels of the church, and slowly, by using nefarious means, change the doctrines and teaching of the church. This has been going on for a long time and one of the main cancers that has infiltrated our doctrine in the church is “Unrighteous Dominion”. The other nefarious problem that has been wonderfully explained by Eric and Greg is “Cultural Mormonism”.
The day will come when these secret and diabolical acts and secret individuals will be revealed and the great cleansing of the church will happen. It will be a sad day indeed.
Stay the course my friends. Zion will be built and we will have a Zion people. Godspeed, Verlan.
Amen. Beautifully written, Greg!
Thank you Greg. This makes me so sad. I love to read the things Eric has written they have helped me to go deeper into scriptures and study for myself and to have a greater understanding of what I am reading. I know he is a wonderful man that loves our Lord. I know the things I have learned from Eric and Julie I will always be great full for. Prayers for both families.
“I will no longer shrink myself so that others can feel comfortable in their own belief systems” this is a direct quote I was given from the other side of the veil to express being “silenced” in not only my spiritual gifts, but also in speaking TRUTH as it was being witnessed to me within church circles. I expressed this during a very publicYouTube video that I published recently on my own utube channel “all things by faith” . The name of the video is “standing in truth with Julie Rowe” I do not state this here to boast, nor to get fame or more views etc..I state it here because I MEANT IT and that statement FREED my soul/spirit to begin to speak freely as a sovereign being with true GOD GIVEN AGENCY here on the earth..I was tired of hiding my spiritual gifts and frankly I was tired of living in fear of being excommunicated or living in fear of not knowing if my family would be accepted into a church camp when the call is finally given to gather for” safety and refuge” my family being myself and my three inactive young adult children..I was tired of feeling alone and unsupported at church and unable to express my sincerest understanding of truths that I had been shown that had been confirmed to me by the Lord’s spirit… but I had come to a cross roads where I felt much like the Prophet Joseph Smith when he had stated that he could not and WOULD NOT recant his words in reference to the first vision because he knew it was true and he knew God KNEW, he knew it was true.. obviously I paraphrased here as I am not a scriptoriun even though I have read them and love the words therein, but I have had several accidents in my life and have gone through things which make it hard for me to accurately quote the scriptures .. however I do get much help from the other side when trying to express myself clearly..my point is I no longer fear men..or what they can do to me and I will continue to choose freely to stand in truth with Julie, Eric, Greg AND anyone else who expresses truth as it is has or will be witnessed to me in the future and I do so openly and without fear or regret as I KNOW who my final judge and REDEEMER IS and I stand firmly on He who is the rock of my eternal salvation… I also want to sincerely Express my gratitude to Eric for loving the Saviour and being so true to Him that it is so easy, and so very humbling to read the thing’s he has written or to listen to the words that he speaks that I am able to feel the Lord’s spirit, AND the Holy Ghost flow to me and through me like a gentle stream would to someone who has thirsted forever… if and when the powers-that-be come after me to excommunicate me as well, I will not lament, but I will count myself in the best of company’s and let the chips fall where they may and I will continue to stand up for truth and righteousness throughout the eternities as I fully know and understand that one day all truth will be circumscribed into ONE…GREAT…WHOLE..
To Greg I would also like to sincerely thank you for so eloquently expressing for and on behalf of Eric and on behalf of Truth in general what so many of us are feeling in our hearts.
Greg, thank you for expressing many of the feelings of my heart. My journey over the past several years has come with great personal reflection and growth. I’ve felt an overwhelming peace in my heart as well as great sorrow, both in how truth is being rejected and persecution increased. The messages shared by you and others has brought me closer to the Savior, but it has required great effort and a willingness to put off the desire to find favor of men.
Eric, you are a true friend. Please know of the love we all have for you and your wonderful family. Keep the faith, God is working miracles.
It is not surprising that evil abounds on this earth. That is the plan because these last days will be cruel to all the righteous. Eric Smith is my cousin and I love and respect his courage and faith. When he was asked not to continue his course that was asking him to deny the truth he had been given! He has great strength because the Lord is all knowing. Greg thank you that was beautiful. Eric will be ok because he is on the Lord’s side. God be with us all in these perilous times.
This was so well written and it really touched my heart and brought tears to my eyes. Thank you! I agree with your words, Greg. So much so that I yearn to have a voice and take a stand.
I support and stand by Eric and Julie and all others who fight for Truth. I follow the True Shepherd who is Jesus Christ and I will go where He leads, come what may. Truth is my path and agency my banner as His light beckons me on.
May God be with you all, and thank you for your courage, love and all you do!
Thank you so much Greg for summarizing my thoughts and feelings in a way that I’ve been struggling to since I heard Eric was excommunicated. This is very well written and I feel it comforts and empowers the reader to continue on their journey to seek and understand truth without fear.
Greg, you are so good at putting feelings unto words. I wholeheartedly back all that you’ve included here. Eric is a true example of a righteous servant of God. I’m grateful to know him! Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us!
Dear Greg, thank you for your fearless spirit! Thank you for expressing truth and defending Eric. He is a true disciple of Christ. He is humble and seeks only the will of the Lord. I have been strengthened and edified by all of his words. You have expressed the feelings of my heart. God bless you, Eric and Julie and all of your families forever. The battle goes on. ON, ON, to the victory in Jesus Christ, our Lord!
Amen and amen Brother Greg and to all the comments before me here.
I love my Lord, Jesus Christ and am grateful for the witness of Him given me by the power of the Holy Ghost. That same power by which we may know the TRUTH of ALL THINGS. I have asked, and have been answered by that same power that Julie, Eric, Greg and Matt are true messengers. And so may all who are humble and honest seekers of truth.
Thank you for thoughts & insights well expressed and for all who contributed to this essay. It is a great one!
Eric’s work has brought me (and many others) clarity and enlightenment. His sharing of beliefs and truth have broadened my personal understanding & testimony on many doctrinal subjects.
His love for the Lord is apparent as he speaks of Christ and bears testimony.
His work has had a positive, profound affect on me and on countless others. I am so very grateful that he courageously continues to share,teach & testify, while under threat of and receiving unrighteous judgement. (May we all be so bold as to speak truth and share openly when we are called to do the same!)
Let men judge as they will.
In consideration of the good Eric has done, it is clear that the Lord is well pleased with him. If anyone looks at Eric closely with an open heart, they will see that he is a beloved, faithful, devoted servant of Christ.
Amen! Those are my feelings exactly!!!
I am starting to wonder how many of us are going to be deemed tares?!?!?! Do you have to be excommunicated from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints to become a member of the church of the First Born?!?! If Eric Smith is considered a tare in this Church, then I want to be with the so called ‘tares’!!!!!! Eric, my heart goes out to you!!!! I am amazed by your example and your ability to fulfill your life’s mission. I love your testimony of Jesus Christ and hope and pray that I too can know Him like that some day!!!!!
As someone once told me, if you have opposition in life, ‘you know that you have more than luck on your side’!!!!!!
One thing is for sure, things are getting to be as clear as mud in the world and, unfortunately, in the church.
Thank you Greg, it is so heartbreaking to see good people “cast out” for expressing private gospel perspective. I think the deep, rich gospel thinkers of earlier years would have a hard time in this day as well. In the 1980’s, as homeschoolers we were considered “apostates” by general membership including articles in “church news” which were used against us. In our own area of Boise, I personally comforted some very distraught mothers and fathers who temple recommends were threatened “to be pulled” by their Bishops and Stake Presidents if they didn’t put their children back into public school. We can thank President Benson and his son Reed Benson for putting an end to that kind of persecution. But the undercurrent of animosity by members against homeschooling continued and we were silenced if we dared peep a word. Even after the church issued a statement in the 1990’s regarding the right of parental choice in education, my husband and I were still pulled into our Bishop’s office in 1996 for sharing a book with someone, “The Book of Mormon and the Constitution” – writings by President Ezra T. Benson and Elder H. Verlan Anderson that were compiled and published by Hans V. Anderson Jr. in 1995. Apparently the book was considered “disturbing” to those who opposed the continued apostate action of homeschooling. Our Bishop “warned” us that if we wanted to “practice” homeschooling that was our choice but we and our children “could not talk about it with anyone in my ward or this stake” quoting the Bishop’s exact words. It was made clear that the Stake President was backing him up so we went silent totally in all things. We remained silent as we continued to grow in our home and reap the blessings of education in the home, we remained silent as we explored the herbs and natural healing because obviously it went against the mainstream thinking and we remained silent as we grew in the gospel and gained wonderful insight and understanding into doctrines and principles. We have continued to remain silent because there seems to be a very “fine line”. We seem to have more freedom in expressing worldly views and political views than we have in expressing gospel or doctrinal perspectives. I am grateful for those willing to sacrifice beloved, sacred membership so that we can grow in the gospel. By relying on our sacred gift of the Holy Ghost we can determine for ourselves what is truth and receive our own witness. Isn’t that what it’s all about?
Verleen, your experience was very interesting to read, and relevant. Thank you for bravely sharing your thoughts here! I’m sorry you had to experience those things, but I imagine you are more refined for it. Thanks again!
Eric my hope is that no matter how mankind individually judges you that you will continue to want to teach others of truth. If one has been baptized by fire I believe that that person is the only one who can loose that spiritual witness by denying Christ and you have not. So I continue to look forward to your continual help in opening our eyes to scripture. Of the word of God and to the teachings of the prophets and Jesus. We need to be able to broaden our understanding and how but to discuss things. I have different places I go that others give their views from other faiths. Do I quarrel with them? Do I protest against their beliefs? No I hope I may even grow from their devotion to their faith. Just because we are members of a sect does not mean we are not to expand on our own. God gave us agency so that we would learn of Him. He gave us through scripture only what we could handle and we could not understand that much. But you have been gracious to study further and answer some of those questions we have had and couldn’t figure out where they are found. And now we can search and pray about them. You and Julie have always said pray about them yourselves. And we are told to get and seek revelation. Part of the doctrine. But study and find out things and share, hmmm, heaven forbid. (Communism?) Free speech is being attacked everywhere. Love you guys stay the course.
A great essay. Why would any true believer want to silence another true believer for their thoughts, beliefs, or words? Unless those thoughts, beliefs, or words don’t fit inside the box they have established, and as if they feel threatened. Sorry to hear about the persecution toward Eric.
I just read through these comments and couldn’t believe my eyes, and what I felt. I wish I could respond to you each individually. I feel each of your hearts and am deeply touched by your kindness. I don’t have words. May the Lord bless each of you for your goodness and love of truth! The plan is rolling forward perfectly according to His plan. I am on my covenant path. So is Julie. So are each of you. Stand tall. We will be victorious! Much love! ❤️
Onward and upward, my friend and brother! God speed and may the Lord bless and keep you and your family. This won’t be an issue too much longer.
Change is a comin’ and I believe, like those in this circle, the changes will be glorious if not a little painful at first.
Love to you all.
I can’t help but think of Paul’s words to Timothy (2 Timothy 4:1-8)
https://youtu.be/yjlyUNAi7Oc
1 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
6 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
I trust that all will be well in the end and all things work towards His Plan. We will be called to pass through trials and the fiery furnace of affliction. The Lord hath said, “[I] will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God”(Zechariah 13:9). If we wish to follow Christ and do His will, we truly will partake of the “fellowship of His sufferings”(Philippians 3:10) and have our heart and soul stretched as wide as eternity, allowing Him to shape us into someone truly glorious and full of love towards all. Thank you Greg for your great defense of truth and of the agency of man. Thank you Eric for your soul piercing essays that have opened my heart and mind to eternal truths. And thanks, praise, glory, and honor be forever given to the Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior, God and King!
Well- I knew Eric’s head was next on the chopping block, and that it was only a matter of time. That was pretty obvious to anyone with a pulse to see coming. Still, it both shocks and saddens me, to just now read this essay, and to just now learn it has finally happened. Just shocked and saddened, and appalled, is about all I can say about it, at least for now.
Until just now reading this article, I was also previously unaware that Eric has known for some time that this was eventually going to happen to him. Very interesting. Very interesting to me to learn, indeed—
Another great article! Thank you Greg for eloquently and simply expressing these important truths. Eric, you are an amazing disciple of Christ, and anyone that has heard you speak that has an ounce of discernment or the ability to think critically understands this that you are humble and sincere in your devotion to Him.
Last fall my father and I had a close call with just listening to Julie Rowe’s podcasts, which we had discussed privately. Somehow a member in our stake heard that we listened to the podcasts of an excommunicated member of the church, and without talking to us about his concerns he reported this rumor directly to the stake president, and the possibility of having major church consequences felt very real to us. Through this experience we have witnessed firsthand the fear that takes hold of good men that feel they have to “defend the church” from people that can think, feel, reason, and discern for themselves, even with strong and faithful men that have served in the church faithfully their entire lives like my father has.
I am saddened that these are the times we live in, that we are persecuted more from our own people (sometimes in the shadows of church leadership) than we are from people of other faiths. On the other hand, I am glad that this means prophecies are coming true, and that we are living it! I am glad that this is evidence that our Savior is coming soon, and I look forward to that day!
If necessary, I would be honored to join the ranks of great people like Eric and Julie that have lost their church membership by defending truth! Thank you again Greg, Eric, and everyone that helps to share truth through this website. My prayers go out to all of you!
I came across this scripture in my reading yesterday:
Alma 26:22
“Yea, and he that repenteth and exerciseth faith, and bringeth forth good works, and prayeth continually without ceasing – unto such it is given to know the mysteries of God; yea, unto such it is given to reveal things which never have been revealed…”
I don’t see anything in that scripture which says a person has to have a certain calling within the church to do that. Today I also came across Mormon 9: 7-8
“7. And again I speak unto you who deny the revelations of God, and say that they are done away, that there are no revelations, nor prophecies, nor gifts, nor healing, nor speaking with tongues, and the interpretation of tongues;
8. Behold I say unto you, he that denieth these things knoweth not the gospel of Christ; yea, he has not read the scriptures; if so, he does not understand them.”
I made note of that same scripture in Alma and had thoughts along those same lines! So cool! I love being taught by the spirit and I also love 2nd. Witnesses. Thank you for sharing. 🙂 We live far below our privileges and promises.
Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles reminded church members in the April 2013 general conference that “not every statement made by a Church leader, past or present, necessarily constitutes doctrine. It is commonly understood in the Church that a statement made by one leader on a single occasion often represents a personal, though well-considered, opinion, not meant to be official or binding for the whole Church.”
I’m going from only what’s been reported in this essay, but I’m at a loss to see how Eric’s well-considered opinions, expressed in a non-church setting, are any more worthy of excommunication than an Apostle’s over the pulpit to the entire Church. I can’t say that I agree with all of Eric’s opinions, but I can say that they are well-considered, thoroughly researched and, just that, his opinions. His opinions have given me much to consider, inspired further study of the scriptures, and have done anything but lead me away from the Church.
Fellow Ponderer,
Thank you for your defense of truth. I agree with everything you’ve said, including my own faulty opinions, which I fully realize I have expressed. Ultimately, I hope my listeners or readers take everything I say directly to the fountain of all Truth and get confirmation from Him.
I should probably clarify that I believe I’ve seen every video with you (Eric) and Julie Rowe, probably multiple times. Ok multiple times. If the council was called for the preaching of false doctrine, I’m unsure where the knowledge that anything you taught was actually false came from. Perhaps it has not been taught in church. Perhaps you have to read between the lines to make the connections. But where is the declaration from church leaders/prophets that anything you said was labeled as false doctrine?
I came across this quote from Elder Oaks this morning. A BYU address on September 11, 2011:
“In the words of President Joseph F. Smith: ‘We believe in all truth, no matter to what subject it may refer. No sect or religious denomination in the world possesses a single principle of truth that we do not accept or that we will reject. We are willing to receive all truth, from whatever source it may come; for truth will stand, truth will endure.’”
Too often, far, far too often we (generally speaking) have made it a habit to express our ignorance as knowledge. And our assumptions as knowledge. Our cultural beliefs as knowledge. That “I do not know” therefore “no one can know” therefore, “it must be false.” It is a vanity portrayed as a virtue, ignorance defended as knowledge. Disbelief touted as belief!
It can only lead to more ignorance!
I don’t know all the circumstances for convening the council and don’t write this information as an encouragement to continue any behavior that truly needs correcting. Having said that, from what I can tell, your heart seems to be in the right place and I wish you and your family well.
“It should be with extreme hesitancy that someone is cast out of the Church for expressing their beliefs.”
On this line, I completely agree with you and I am noting that this is just such a case where the casting out because of beliefs was truly done with great hesitancy. But on this subject, it goes both ways, doesn’t it? I’m confident that Eric’s “expressing” has also been done with great hesitancy as is appropriate, but he chose to continue to push forward. There is no shock here. He has expressed already that he knew what he was doing and understood the risks. I appreciate your standing up for your friend, but surely you can see what is going on here. Simply believing other things is not the concern here. He and the others are priding themselves about how “bold” they’re going to be now and they’re publishing and youtube’ing and being profiled on news shows and …. How loud does someone have to get before the church should clarify things? There’s no exact answer to that, but it’s clear that the church did act with great hesitancy. For him and his friends and his family and for the church, I regret that Eric has pushed things this far. I regret how he has interpreted scripture to glorify being excommunicated as a sign of being on the right side of things in the last days. It’s really a sad day.
If your assessment is accurate, which assessment would require you to have some insight into the hearts and minds of the accused, then the reason for Eric’s excommunication should have reflected such charges against him. However, he was not formally charged for any such thing as you claim he is guilty of. I am certainly comforted that all judgement flows unto Christ, and that our fellow members do not have the authority to cast us into hell, as much as that might be their desire.
Perfectly stated. AMEN!
Hello Curtis. Thank you for taking a more respectful tone in your comments than many you have made in the past which I felt required removal. There are some flaws and misconstructions in your arguments about what I have said, or at least what I intended in things I’ve said. I would like to point out that your tendency to troll anything related to Julie Rowe is taking an active stance “Against” something – an awesome topic addressed by Matt Palmer on this blog (Against Nothing).
I’d like to clarify also my sure knowledge and witness of the LDS church’s divine role in the plan of salvation. I know it to be the Lord’s authorized church led by those who have been called, with the ordinances of salvation, and the authority by which to administer those ordinances.
Is the church inspired? Is it difficult to see that some leaders are and some are not? Pedophiles and human traffickers in leadership positions speak for themselves. While those are dramatic cases, more commonly are those leaders who share uninspired opinions, which many take for truth, by virtue of their position. Recognizing this tendency in men, Nephi had a bit to say about the “Arm of flesh” vs the “Arm of the Lord”. My point is that while I listen sincerely to leaders (men), I have developed a preference for the infallible voice of the Lord. Should I be condemned for such a preference?
Concerning excommunication, you may have missed my specific messages on excommunication, or at least certainly misunderstood them. The patterns of Christ’s day and our own are unmistakable, and if nothing else, Isaiah’s words about the “outcasts of Israel” (banished, excommunicated, etc) in the last days justifies my comments and beliefs at best, and is at least scriptural at worst. I really could go on and on.
While I appreciate your sympathies, I don’t share your sadness. The church has fulfilled its purpose in my life to bring me to Christ. I rejoice in its role in my life. I remind you and others that the church is not the end goal, but the rock, our Savior and Redeemer Jesus Christ is the end goal. It is He in whom I trust.
It’s your blog, and your prerogative to frame my previous posts however you see fit. You’ve made your point. I’ll leave this last message and then leave you alone. I’m not trying to cause trouble.
I’ve rehearsed this in a message to you before I think. Originally, I was fascinated by Julie and trying to understand her because of my friend whose family eventually fell apart because his mother-in-law was on a similar path as Julie’s, with a very special role and prophetic gifts and all of that. Very similar. The studies issued to the court in the interest of child custody were full of ideas and practices that were so strange to me. I can’t remember how I first heard of Julie, but that was the next time I heard of someone else on a similar course. I was surprised to learn that my friend’s experience wasn’t entirely unique. Julie was someone I could learn more about and I started following her. Eventually I got to the point where I would comment on some of her videos cuz I was surprised to see all of the supportive messages, and I think this is a dangerous path. I’m like you, just doing the best I can with what I currently know and understand.
In particular regarding the infallible voice of the Lord, I think it’s dangerous to be too sure of ourselves relative to our communications with God. I believe God leads His church and guides His children, but I like to characterize Him doing it in a “mysterious” way. It’s too easy to go off the rails when we become too confident in these messages we get from God. And the whole concept of it doesn’t make sense to me…Is my goal to be so spiritual and tuned to God’s voice that I can just be directed to and fro at His direction. That whole idea really doesn’t make sense to me and we do see instances of that confidence leading to bad things, most recently with Chad Daybell. I’ve to a large extent come to believe that stories of interactions with God, including those in the scriptures and those told in Testimony meetings, are told in such a way that can lead us to believe something happened in a different way than it actually did. So then we start to expect things that aren’t reasonable. Our thoughts and feelings are our own, impacted by everything from biology to our upbringing to what we had for breakfast, but I’m confident that God is guiding and directing those thoughts and feelings and a mysterious way if when we are trying to align ourselves with Him (and to some extent I think even when we aren’t trying).
My personal experience with this stuff is with my friend who had to separate to protect the kids. In general, I particularly worry about families splitting up because I’m convinced of the long-term negative impact that can have on the only truly innocent parties….the children. This path puts a lot of pressure on those close to them. You’ve talked about that, that you’ve on some level lost some friends and family through this, so I recognize you’re aware of that, I’m sure concerned about it. But I understand your wanting to do what’s right as well, let the consequence follow. I’m like you, just doing the best I can with what I currently know and understand. Even when spouses are supportive, we all know that it’s more complicated than saying “Now my spouse believes it too.” We all want to keep families together, so there’s a certain pressure there for them to get on board.
Like I said, I’ll leave you alone. I didn’t know I was a troll. I have no interest having a public back-and-forth, if that’s what that means (I think I’ve written to you in the past that I’d be interested in just emailing back-and-forth if you want; I wouldn’t publish what you say or anything). I’m sincere; not just having fun or something. I regret if I wrote something previously that was not “respectful”. I guess it’s easy to interpret something as not respectful, and I guess that can go both ways (Greg thinks your fellow members can cast you to hell? and that that’s their desire? I don’t know if he’s talking about me or someone else, but I don’t think it’s very respectful; the characterization of members of the church, in general, as not very sophisticated in their thinking is not respectful).
You’re concerned about something, so you have started publishing stuff cuz you think it’s important. My initial interest was personal in understanding better my friend’s experience; but now, like you, I sometime think it’s important to say something in a comment, so I’m not so different from you. It’s your site, your prerogative to print what I send or not, and your prerogative to characterize it however you want.
I confess, Curtis, that I spoke with some severity in defense of my friend, who you said “very carefully speaks against” the Church, and that he has “implied” this and that, as if there is some unspoken motive there rather than a sincere desire to uncover meanings in the scriptures which are relevant to our day. You then even speculated that he “has some history of mental illness.” You were unkind and unfair in your comments regarding him, and now call me disrespectful for daring to defend him against your speculative accusations. I suppose I have been disrespectful, and ask you to forgive me for it. Still, I feel I have some advantage here, because I actually know Eric, and have connected heart to heart with him time and time again, and know the great depths of his goodness. I therefore struggle to see him maligned without saying some words on his behalf. Forgive me for my severity, but I love my friend. I appreciate that you are sincere in your disagreements, and that you are not simply looking for a quarrel. Ultimately, I have no issue with the opinions you have expressed, only with the manner in which you have expressed them.
Greg has conducted much research, and invested much of his time and attention into the doctrinal theme of accusations, and condemnation. He wrote a book entitled Accuser of the Brethren on that theme. Respectfully, I believe his keen recognition of an accusing spirit was rightfully exercised in some of your comments, Curtis.
We welcome and encourage discussion on doctrinal differences supported by scripture, but feel discussions of an accusatory nature including labels and personal attacks are not in keeping with the spirit and are not welcome in this forum.
At the end of the day, we see things differently, and that is okay. In writing essays, producing podcasts, and publishing books, we do not try to convince anyone or change anyone’s beliefs, but feel we are being obedient to the spirit, in the hope of adding light to the lives of others. If people take what we say to the Lord and accept that light, we rejoice, and if they despise what we have to say, that is also okay.
It’s not just different beliefs. Julie said Satan was standing next to her stake president (the church) and Christ was standing next to her. Eric is on board with that. This is a lot more complicated than saying that he shouldn’t be teaching multiple probations or something like that. He has implied over and over again that the church is not inspired anymore, that it will be toppled and the “true” church will rise up, that he’s just ahead of the curve on this, that excommunication is somehow a good thing and a sign that the rise of this new church is around the corner, … I really could go on and on. Eric believes this church continues to fill some purpose in God’s great plan but that it is dead and that pushing against it will somehow expedite the second coming. It’s isn’t strange at all that the church he very carefully speaks against isn’t going to grant him membership anymore. Surely you can see/understand this side of the issue.
This is a very, very sad day. A good man cast from the church. These things are complicated. I suspect (but don’t have any actual info) that, like Julie, there is some history of mental illness (depression maybe). It’s a pretty common thread and one of the great struggles of our day. In the end, we each are the architects of our own lives. We are each navigating this world and seeking out purpose, meaning, serenity, …. Doing the best we can. That’s why we all have to try to be patient and compassionate.
Yes, Eric is guilty of seeking to understand the scriptures in the context of our day and in accordance with his experiences, and to engage in an open discussion of such things. Yet if it is better to say, “All is well in Zion,” and to pat ourselves on the backs to all eternity, then let us get on with making all the needed preparations for Christ to come and hand us our participation trophy. In the meantime, let us label all the naysayers of the kingdom as having some form of mental illness, so that we don’t have to take a hard look at any of their warning words.
Hello Curtis. Thank you for taking a more respectful tone in your comments than many you have made in the past which I felt required removal. There are some flaws and misconstructions in your arguments about what I have said, or at least what I intended in things I’ve said. I would like to point out that your tendency to troll anything related to Julie Rowe is taking an active stance “Against” something – an awesome topic addressed by Matt Palmer on this blog (Against Nothing).
I’d like to clarify also my sure knowledge and witness of the LDS church’s divine role in the plan of salvation. I know it to be the Lord’s authorized church led by those who have been called, with the ordinances of salvation, and the authority by which to administer those ordinances.
Is the church inspired? Is it difficult to see that some leaders are and some are not? Pedophiles and human traffickers in leadership positions speak for themselves. While those are dramatic cases, more commonly are those leaders who share uninspired opinions, which many take for truth, by virtue of their position. Recognizing this tendency in men, Nephi had a bit to say about the “Arm of flesh” vs the “Arm of the Lord”. My point is that while I listen sincerely to leaders (men), I have developed a preference for the infallible voice of the Lord. Should I be condemned for such a preference?
Concerning excommunication, you may have missed my specific messages on excommunication, or at least certainly misunderstood them. The patterns of Christ’s day and our own are unmistakable, and if nothing else, Isaiah’s words about the “outcasts of Israel” (banished, excommunicated, etc) in the last days justifies my comments and beliefs at best, and is at least scriptural at worst. I really could go on and on.
While I appreciate your sympathies, I don’t share your sadness. The church has fulfilled its purpose in my life to bring me to Christ. I rejoice in its role in my life. I remind you and others that the church is not the end goal, but the rock, our Savior and Redeemer Jesus Christ is the end goal. It is He in whom I trust.
I suspected Eric’s church leadership might react to some of his teachings. It is sad, but not unusual.
So many of us have been threatened with temple recommend liss or church membership loss, just for sharing gospel truths we feel the spirit has given us (personal revelation).
The prophet joseph and other leaders were very forthright when a member was criticized for their beliefs…
They published words expounding the fact that Saints who only followed THEIR (leaders beliefs) could readily be led astray and that we all should be prophets.
Eric has only spoken what the spirit has taught him and it conforms in word to a chart Joseph offered in Words of Joseph Smith.
Understanding “condescension” offers layers of meanings and some of us appreciate the layers (like Eric) to have meanings aligned with the Savior.
Obviously the brethren have not become invested or converted to these concepts and truths.
Avraham Gileadi was once thought to be sharing truths about Isaiah that were not traditional. He was excommunicated. Then Br. Maxwell reviewed the truths Gileadi was teaching/writing and had his excommunication EXPUNGED.
It is one thing to excommunicate wicked, unrepentant, evil doers … it is another to do so to those living the gospel, fulfiling their stewardships, being exemplary saints. Eric is the latter.
As expressed above in an earlier post, perhas excommunication from the church in question may be a precursor to membership of the Church of the Fitstborn, the millenial church.
So well put. Thank you. I just don’t understand how someone who believes in the church to be true, honors his Priesthood, honors the Prophet, his teachings brings you to Christ and His church, can ever be excommunicated
.
I am reading “Church of the Firstborn” authored by Eric – it is the most brilliant book I have read!! Yes – every dispensation comes with new knowledge and revelation – it happened in Joseph Smith’s time. The same thing happened in Christ’s time. It will always be met with resistance – from within the Church. President Nelson said changes are coming and will come faster every year. We are seeing it already in the Temple and in the Church – which has already met resistance within the Church. It will be the same test as what the Jews faced when Christ was excommunicated from the Church. Did they believe Christ or play it safe and stay with the leaders.
Eric and Julie are not creating new doctrine – they are helping us make sense of current and future events. They are teaching us the forgotten doctrines taught by Joseph Smith – and helping search and understand the mysteries which we have been commanded to do. They are putting together the puzzle pieces and the roadmap of things to come. They are helping us prepare for those changes – what part of this is worthy of excommunication?
I am very grateful for all the hard work they are doing for us!!!!!
Thank you Julian. I appreciate your kind comments toward me, Julie, and Greg, but sense your real defense of truth here. I love what you’ve said about putting the puzzle pieces together!
Julian, amen!!!!! Exactly how I feel!!!!
Greg…I stand with you in these truths. Thank you so much for expressing them in writing as a testimony that indeed ” The decision that was unrighteously made for Eric”…. It too ” saddens me, as he is just a humble truth seeker at heart and would do anything for the Lord.”
I want you to know I personally know the Lord is very mindful of Eric, He loves him very much, and He appreciates the love Eric feels for Him.
Its doesn’t feel right to be afraid to speak truths we know to be divine in nature.
Much Love,
Patty Hurt
I have read and reread President Nelson’s talk on the Future of the church in the April Ensign. I find it incredibly insightful that he talks of 1) upcoming persecution and betrayal from our family and friends
2)the need to defend truth and pure doctrine and 3)focus on building up the faith of individuals. Here’s a couple of quotes:
“The Apostle Paul warned that in the latter days, those who diligently follow the Lord “shall suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). That very persecution can either crush you into silent weakness or motivate you to be more exemplary and courageous in your daily lives. (…)
You will have days when you will be discouraged. So pray for courage not to give up! Sadly, some who you thought were your friends will betray you. And some things will simply seem unfair.
However, I promise you that as you follow Jesus Christ, you will find sustained peace and true joy.
Do whatever it takes to strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ by increasing your understanding of the doctrine taught in His restored Church and by relentlessly seeking truth. Anchored in pure doctrine, you will be able to step forward with faith and dogged persistence and cheerfully do all that lies in your power to fulfill the purposes of the Lord”.
Just to clarify, I feel like Eric is doing exactly what the prophet has admonished all of us to by seeking and upholding Truth. It’s heartbreaking to me that he has become victim of persecution, which again, the prophet is warning us of. There was no doubt expressed on either the count of the Church as a whole nor on the count of the prophet. Sorry if it came across that way.
I think your comment came across as you intended, Olya. I thought those things applied wonderfully to the situation, and were very supportive of Eric and all of us. My comment that followed it was not at all meant as a response to yours, if that was your concern. It had simply occurred to me that some people might have misinterpreted my defense of Eric as an attack on the Church, rather than an attack against unrighteous dominion within the Church. (There is an important difference there, I promise.) I hope it did not cause you any worry!
It is touching how much loving support there is for Eric in all of these comments, as well as insightful observations. He has paid a high price for his convictions and has suffered greatly because of it. If anyone thinks he glories in it, they have never had a conversation with him on the topic.
I will also clarify, for any who are in doubt, that the purpose of this essay was not to accuse the Church as a whole or to cast doubt on its divine role. I sustain President Nelson as the Prophet, and believe him to be a righteous and inspired servant of the Lord. The purpose of this essay is to defend the right of expression within the Church, because it certainly needs defending.
Well said, spot on Greg as always! Eric Smith is the last guy that this should ever happen to! He is a wise cherished friend and brother. This injustice meted out from a place it ought never be is a sobering reminder of how infiltrated with corrupt philosophies of men this fallen world’s institutions have become. It should have no place in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I suppose no one should be very surprised that the adversary has increasingly focused his super powers of persuasion on as many in our church’s leadership councils as he can. This is an unjustifiable action taken against this great & good disciple of the Master and I enthusiastically support and love him. Eric’s courage and desire for truth and right is inspiring and I sincerely hope to stand with him and call him my friend for many eternal rounds to come!
Thank you all for commenting. Greg, thank you most sincerely for writing this inspired piece, which is certainly written in my defense, but is almost more a defense of truth. You put yourself and your reputation on the line in a way that demands the utmost respect. I believe these are the fearless actions that bring heavens nod of approval and blessings. I’m blessed to have such a friend as you, and such as so many who have bravely defended me and truth, here in this post. I’m very grateful. May the Lord bless you all!
“And when he had [read] these things he wept.”
That is exactly what I did as I read the paragraph that mentioned what happened to Eric. I was so moved to tears that I was unable to finish the article. Eventually, I did finish it.
Greg, thank you for defending the truth. Eric, for bringing the truth. And Julie, for leading the way for the truth to be made known.
P.S. – I do not know where in the scriptures my quote comes from or even if it originally said “saw” or “read”. I believe it to be “saw”.
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2017/04/kindness-charity-and-love?lang=eng
This talk is the last message of Thomas S. Monson to the Saints. He speaks of “Kindness, Charity and Love”. We will not wrongfully judge, use unrighteous dominion and seek to suppress others if we are filled with love towards God and our fellow men.
Joseph Smith said on November 7th, 1841:
I charged the Saints not to follow the example of the adversary in accusing the brethren, and said “if you do not accuse each other God will not accuse you. If you have no accuser you will enter heaven; and if you will follow the Revelations and instructions which God gives you through me, I will take you into heaven as my back load. If you will not accuse me, I will not accuse you. If you will throw a cloak of charity over my sins, I will over yours— for charity covereth a multitude of sins. What many people call sin is not sin; I do many things to break down superstition, and I will break it down”
(https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/history-1838-1856-volume-c-1-addenda/20)
(The Words of Joseph Smith, page 80, edited and compiled by Andrew F. Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook)