Our Dependence Upon the Prophet: Ezekial 14: Prophet Never Leads Us Astray

Joseph Smith gave the following quote to the members of the church. It is published in the TPJS but I have taken it from the linked website.

President Joseph Smith read the 14th chapter of Ezekiel--said the Lord had declared by the Prophet, that the people should each one stand for himself, and depend on no man or men (2) in that state of corruption of the Jewish church--that righteous persons could only deliver their own souls (3)--applied it to the present state of the Church of Jesus Christ (4) of Latter-day Saints--said if the people departed from the Lord, they must fall--that they were depending on the Prophet, hence were darkened in their minds (5), in consequence of neglecting the duties devolving upon themselves, envious towards the innocent, while they afflict the virtuous with their shafts of envy.(Joseph Smith, Section Five 1842-43, p.237)

There are many points from this we can learn. Lets look at some of them.

What is the message of Ezekial 14? How did it relate to the latter day saints? What does dependence upon the prophet look like? Why was the LDS being compared to the same state of corruption as shown in Ezekial 14?

 For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward. (D&C 58:28)

 [that we] may stand independent above all other creatures (D&C 78:14)

Dependence is the opposite of independence. However indepdence can also go to far when its pulls you away from dependence upon God who gives you your daily life (your life literally depends upon Him).
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All were prophets 
I have mentioned this scripture by Moses in Numbers. Lets examine it further.

27 And there ran a young man, and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp.
28 And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, one of his young men, answered and said, My lord Moses, forbid them.
29 And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit upon them! (Numbers 11:27-20)

First we learn that two people were prophesying without  Moses knowing in the camp. Someone complained to moses saying, they speak revelation to the people without "your authority" or "keys". What was Moses response? " Enviest thou for my sake? Would God that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit upon them!". Do you see the message he was teaching the people? That Joseph was trying to teach? That we ALL should be prophets, that we ALL should receive revelation, and that we ALL should exhort each other by the spirit of prophecy (revelation). After all D&C 4 was a revelation to the members NOT missionaries, and the only qualification you need to be called is a desire.

And he told them (by approving what they were doing) they should listen to what they said. For if a man "speaks by the power of the holy ghost" it is the same as the "word of the Lord".

They went to Moses thus becoming dependent upon him. Instead of relying on the spirit of God, to teach them the truth of all things.

D&C 101 on the redemption of Zion tells us the same thing about the last days.

12 And in that day all who are found upon the watch-tower, or in other words, all mine Israel, shall be saved.

Who are those who are on the watchtower? They are watchmen or as we also know "prophets", they are the ones that are saved. Those who have "put on thy strength" (2 Nephi 8:24).He is teaching us to all be a "prophet" or if female "prophetess". "And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest" (Hebrews 8:11; Jeremiah 31:34). In Zion, knowing the Lord is only the beginning of Gods great work. Not an end.

Exceedingly many prophets

And there were exceedingly many prophets among us. And the people were a stiffnecked people, hard to understand. (Enos 1:22) 

Check the following references plus many many more. Or a lds.org search for "many prophets".
1 Nephi 1:4, Helaman 8:19, Ether 11:1, Ether 11:12, Ether 11:20

Lehi
I think Lehi is a great example of this. He lived in Jerusalem during a time of "many prophets" (1 Nephi 1:4). Than after he was rejected as a true messenger, the Lord asked him to leave with his family. His stewardship was his family and all those whom he ministered and they were willing to go with him to the promised land. Yet we know there were others such as Joshua. It may just be some prophets are rejected and flee before they are destroyed others are sometimes asked to stay and be "destroyed" with the city. Than Nephi preaches and adds his own record by the authority of the Holy Ghost. Why didn't it come from Lehi?

And the Holy Ghost giveth authority that I should speak these things, and deny them not.
(1 Nephi 10:22)

Prophet, Seer, and Revelators

" it is not proper to speak commonly of the President of the Church, and [it is] incorrect to address him, as “Prophet,” “Seer,” or “Revelator,” though these exalted titles are specifically his, and belong also to each of his counselors, to each of the Twelve. … These are designations of spiritual powers and functions, and are of too sacred a character to be employed as common appellations." (Joseph Fielding Smith)

Do we do this today? I really like how he said they are titles. As oaks said, in last conference which i will paraphrase, it doesn't matter what rights someone asserts, they must qualify for their responsibilities. Just because you are in a  specific office does not make you a prophet seer or revelator, and just because you have no office does not mean you cannot become one in your own sphere.

To illustrate this I will quote from Orson Pratt.

This failure to realize all the blessings and powers of the Priesthood does not apply to the elders and lesser Priesthood only; but it applies to the higher quorums, and comes home to ourselves, who are Apostles of Jesus Christ. We are presented before the Church, and sustained as prophets, seers and revelators, and we have received oftentimes the gift of prophecy and revelation, and have received many great and glorious gifts. But have we received the fullness of the blessings to which we are entitled? No, we have not. Who, among the Apostles have become seers, and enjoy all the gifts and powers pertaining to that calling? And those who are called to perform special missions in opening up dispensations of the Gospel to the children of men, as Joseph and others were called of the Lord, He endows more fully with these gifts; but this does not hinder others from enjoying similar gifts according to His promises, and according to our faithfulness. And I have thought the reason why we have not enjoyed these gifts more fully is, because we have not sought for them as diligently as we ought. I speak for one, I have not sought as diligently as I might have done. More than forty years have passed away since these promises were made. I have been blessed with some revelations and prophecies, and with dreams of things that have come to pass; but as to seeing things as a seer, and beholding heavenly things in open vision, I have not attained to these things. And who is to blame for this? Not the Lord; not brother Joseph—they are not to blame. And so it is with the promises made to you in your confirmations and endowments, and by the patriarchs, in your patriarchal blessings; we do not live up to our privileges as saints of God and elders of Israel; for though we receive many blessings that are promised to us, we do not receive them in their fullness, because we do not seek for them as diligently and faithfully as we should." (Orson Pratt, JD 25:145-146, http://jod.mrm.org/25/144)

Prophet, Seer and Revelator Are Gifts 
Just with all gifts, we can seek after them and we should. The offices of the priesthood are not the same as the gifts of the spirit.

16 And Ammon said that a seer is a revelator and a prophet also; and a gift which is greater can no man have, except he should possess the power of God, which no man can; yet a man may have great power given him from God.
17 But a seer can know of things which are past, and also of things which are to come, and by them shall all things be revealed, or, rather, shall secret things be made manifest, and hidden things shall come to light, and things which are not known shall be made known by them, and also things shall be made known by them which otherwise could not be known.
18 Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles; therefore he becometh a great benefit to his fellow beings. (Mosiah 8:16-18)

Prophecy of Joel
When Moroni appeared to Joseph smith he quoted Joel and said this prophecy would soon be fulfilled. (JSH 1:41) This is a Zion characteristic. Restrictive revelation or laws  upon the people is the ante-type of Zion.

28 ¶And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
29 And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.
30 And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke.
31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come.
32 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the Lord hath said, and in the remnant whom the Lord shall call. (Joel 2:28-32) 

Arm of Flesh

President George Q. Cannon, 

Do not, brethren, put your trust in man though he be a Bishop, an apostle or a president; if you do, they will fail you at some time or place; they will do wrong or seem to, and your support will be gone; but if we lean on God, He will NEVER fail us. When men and women depend upon GOD ALONE and trust in HIM ALONE, their faith will not be shaken if the highest in the Church should step aside. (DW 43:322 [Mar 7, 1891]).

Depend Upon No Man or Leader
Brigham Young said,

"There are those among this people who are influenced, controlled, and biased in their thoughts, actions, and feelings by some other individual or family, on whom they place their dependence for spiritual and temporal instruction, and for salvation in the end. These persons do not depend upon themselves for salvation, but upon another of their poor, weak, fellow mortals. I do not depend upon any inherent goodness of my own, say they, to introduce me into the kingdom of glory, but I depend upon you, brother Joseph, upon you, brother Brigham, upon you, brother Heber, or upon you, brother James; I believe your judgment is superior to mine, and consequently I let you judge for me; your spirit is better than mine, therefore you can do good for me; I will submit myself wholly to you, and place in you all my confidence for life and salvation; where you go I will go, and where you tarry there I will stay; expecting that you will introduce me through the gates into the heavenly Jerusalem....Now those men, or those women, who know no more about the power of God, and the influences of the Holy Spirit, than to be led entirely by another person, suspending their own understanding, and pinning their faith upon another's sleeve, will never be capable of entering into the celestial glory, to be crowned as they anticipate; they will never be capable of becoming Gods. They cannot rule themselves, to say nothing of ruling others, but they must be dictated to in every trifle, like a child. They cannot control themselves in the least, but James, Peter, or somebody else must control them, They never can become Gods, nor be crowned as rulers with glory, immortality, and eternal lives. They never can hold scepters of glory, majesty, and power in the celestial kingdom. Who will? Those who are valiant and inspired with the true independence of heaven, who will go forth boldly in the service of their God, leaving others to do as they please, determined to do right, though all mankind besides should take the opposite course." - (Brigham Young, JD 1:312, Salt Lake Tabernacle on February 20, 1853,)

Did you read that? If we do depend on anyone, including a leader, to give us the knowledge that is needed for us to be saved we will not be capable of entering into the celestial glory. If we want them to give us the information we will be damned. If we have this mind-sight which I have heard "if it was important for my salvation they would say it in General Conference", "I will wait for someone else to reveal it" that causes us dependence upon others. Besides not everything is said is the will of the Lord. We should not depend upon "another of [our] poor, weak, fellow mortals".

Also that which is holy is kept from us because we are unworthy (2 Nephi 32:6-7) and the greater portion of the word is not lawful to utter. The Book of Mormon contains the lesser part and the greater will be withheld to their condemnation if they don't believe the lesser part. (3 Nephi 26:8-11). If you want to KNOW that (greater portion), to ascend to that level of knowledge you must BECOME holy. For we must be precisely like Christ. And you won't be allowed to give it to those that are unholy.

Why dependence?
"Your spirit is better than mine," and Brigham continues "Now those men, or those women, who know no more about the power of God, and the influences of the Holy Spirit" as the reasoning for doing so. When a group of people, lack ability to have the spirit to receive truth they cannot gain the knowledge or reliance upon God, and He alone, to be guided in ALL things. We are to govern ourselves with the "true independence of heaven".

So Why? Spiritual laziness. Why do the work others can do for you? Why learn to become like God and act independent above all other creatures when someone can just reveal it to us? Are we so afraid to be deceived that we won't experiment upon the word to learn "good from evil"?

What a pity it would be if we were led by one man to utter destruction! Are you afraid of this? I am more afraid that this people have so much confidence in their leaders that they will not inquire for themselves of God whether they are led by Him. I am fearful they settle down in a state of blind self-security, trusting their eternal destiny in the hands of their leaders with a reckless confidence that in itself would thwart the purposes of God in their salvation, and weaken that influence they could give to their leaders, did they know for themselves, by the revelations of Jesus, that they are led in the right way. Let every man and woman know, by the whispering of the Spirit of God to themselves, whether their leaders are walking in the path the Lord dictates, or not. This has been my exhortation continually. 

Brother Joseph W. Young remarked this morning that he wished the people to receive the word of the Lord through his servants, be dictated by them, and have no will of their own. I would express it in this wise: God has placed within us a will, and we should be satisfied to have it controlled by the will of the Almighty. Let the human will be indomitable for right.... 

Let all persons be fervent in prayer, until they know the things of God for themselves and become certain that they are walking in the path that leads to everlasting life; then will envy, the child of ignorance, vanish, and there will be no disposition in any man to place himself above another; for such a feeling meets no countenance in the order of heaven. Jesus Christ never wanted to be different from his father: they were and are one. If a people are led by the revelations of Jesus Christ, and they are cognizant of the fact through their faithfulness, there is no fear but they will be one in Christ Jesus, and see eye to eye.
—Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, Vol. 9, p. 150, 12 January 1862. off-site

So Brigham Young warns us that a leader can lead us to utter destruction. Why say that if it were not possible?

Lessons Of Ezekial 14
Lets get back to Josephs quote. What is the message of Ezekiel 14. Its about idolatry.

3 Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumblingblock of their iniquity before their face: should I be inquired of at all by them?

4 Therefore speak unto them, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Every man of the house of Israel that setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumbling block of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to the prophet; I the Lord will answer him that cometh according to the multitude of his idols;

Lesson 1: If we set up idols in our heart, and cometh to the prophet, the Lord will give us according to our idols. He will allow us to stay blind and ignorant.
Lesson 2: Prophets Can be Idols. Look at D&C 76 about those who are telestial in nature.

100 These are they who say they are some of one and some of another—some of Christ and some of John, and some of Moses, and some of Elias, and some of Esaias, and some of Isaiah, and some of Enoch; [Some of Joseph...](D&C 76:100)

They never learn to deliver their own souls. So they become "Some of" another. They depend upon another to save them, when Christ is the keeper of the Gate and employeth no Servant there (2 Nephi 9). Faith in God, not Man. (Mark 11:22) Even some proclaim to be "Some of Christ" but know him not.

8 This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, andhonoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.
9 But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. (Matthew 15:8-9; Cross reference 2 Nephi 28:14 about our day)

Lesson 3: "turn away your faces from all your abominations." (vs 6)

7 For every one of the house of Israel, or of the stranger that sojourneth in Israel, which separateth himself from me, and setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumblingblock of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to a prophet to inquire of him concerning me; I the Lord will answer him by myself:
8 And I will set my face against that man, and will make him asign and a proverb, and I will cut him off from the midst of my people; and ye shall know that I am the Lord.

Lesson 4: "Leaders" can become idols when we rely upon them or we put their word above the revelations of God dictated to us personally even if it differs.

This is how I see what Joseph stated to be true. Our dependence upon Him causes our minds to be darkened (inability to receive truth, under condemnation). Or as Ezekiel 14 says "cometh to a prophet to inquire of him concerning me"..."I will cut him off from the midst of my people". This is the antetype of Zion where we each know the Lord and each exist as self existent beings (See Lectures on Faith) We must turn to God and He alone. Ezekial informs us, that by going to the prophet to inquire of the Lord, we will be cast off. This is exactly what the children of Israel did with Moses. "They prayed that Moses would speak for them" what the Lord wanted to share instead of going to God with Moses upon the mount. They went to Moses to inquire of the Lord. They waited for Moses to reveal truth. Moses wanted them to sanctify themselves that they could behold His face, enter in his rest, which rest is eternal glory but they would not. (D&C 84:23-25) They lost sight of what devolved upon themselves.

Clarify: We receive true messengers but not follow them.

Joseph applied the LDS church to the "state of corruption of the Jewish church". This was from almost the beginning of the restoration. Two years after it was restored it was put under condemnation by the Lord (D&C 84) He gave this lecture at least twice to the relief society during his life

Verses 14 and 20 inform us "they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness."

Willingly Degrade Himself: Should we do something that is wrong?
I have talked about how we won't be blessed for doing something that is wrong even if our leaders tell us to do so in my prior post. President Tells you to Do Something Wrong, You will Be Blessed.

I want to bring up this part of it.

The Lord will never let his mouthpiece lead the people astray.’” (Conference Report, October 1960, p. 78.)

Scriptures are our Measuring Stick

 It makes no difference what is written or what anyone has said, if what has been said is in conflict with what the Lord has revealed, we can set it aside. My words, and the teachings of any other member of the Church, high or low, if they do not square with the revelations, we need not accept them. Let us have this matter clear. We have accepted the four standard works as the measuring yardsticks, or balances, by which we measure every man's doctrine. (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation 3:203-204. (Italics in original.))

We learn that Aaron was allowed to build a golden idle and got those who were with him to worship it. This cursed (damned) the people to remain in the wilderness for 40 years along with other things (looking to Moses for answers). We have the example of the two prophets in 1 kings, one listened to the other, who lied to him, and lost his soul. The Lord told the first prophet not to do something, the second came and told him it was the Lords will to do it that it was ok because he was also a prophet (1 Kings 13) Than we have the example of Brigham Young teaching the Adam God theory as doctrine for the church, incorporating it into the endowments of the temple which were not entirely removed until the early 1900's. Which now is denounced as false doctrine.

A Lay Member Oppposing in Church set the Example: Bishop Edward Bunker
It took an ordinary member Bishop Edward Bunker to set the process in order that eventually led to the denunciation as a church of the false doctrines of the Adam God theory taught by Brigham Young as president of the Church.

"Edward Bunker: a study in commitment and leadership" written by Gaylen K. Bunker which can be purchased on Amazon or read online for free here.

"In addition to the Stake Leadership, Wilford Woodruff, President of the Church and his first counselor George Q. Cannon, had traveled from Salt Lake to St. George specifically for the court and were in attendance."... 

"He was warned that his course was dangerous, could lead to darkness, and possibly loss of church membership." (Ch 19)

A few points
Edward Bunker's works while challenged at the time have become the accepted doctrine of the church.
Edward Bunker stood up to the established leadership in face of excommunication.
Edward Bunker attempted to live a Zion society.
Edward Bunker taught the true nature of God.
My personal belief is Edward Bunker stood by his works because he had (working) knowledge of their truths. His challengers and disciplinary council including the president of the church DID NOT on this doctrine
Edward Bunker submitted to censure and admonition of church leaders.
The other issue he was tried on was that of the Law of Adoption. Again Edward Bunker seemed to have knowledge about this.
The book suggests many changes in temple worship. Namely a lecture to be given at a certain place (veil) and ordinance of adoption was regularly performed.

In his excommunication council he made this statement "With due respect the Council and to all my brethren, I cannot, I dare not ignore the written word of God. I subscribe myself your friend and brother in the Gospel of Christ.""

So Edward Bunker set in motion what is now considered truth.

We warn you against the dissemination of doctrines which are not according to the Scriptures and which are alleged to have been taught by some of the General Authorities of past generations. Such, for instance, is the Adam-God theory. We denounce that theory and hope that everyone will be cautioned against this and other kinds of false doctrine.
(Spencer W. Kimball, "Our Own Liahona," Ensign (November 1976), 77. here)

The Lord will never let his mouthpiece lead the people astray.
Our agency allows us to determine what we accept as doctrine. Our salvation depends upon our ability to accept true doctrine and throw away false doctrines. To determine the traditions of our fathers versus truth (pure doctrine). Your salvation depends upon your ability to clearly see what is true and what is not.

If all these presidents were allowed to teach false doctrines than was the other half as stated by Grant correct? If Grant said in the first instance that we should do something wrong if asked and still be blessed while Joseph condemned such practices should we believe the prophet can never lead us astray? No wonder why its dangerous to depend upon another man. To receive something as the word of God that was not.

Let me quote another president.

...I told the people that if they would not believe
the revelations that God had given,
He would suffer the devil to give revelations
that they -- priest and people -- would follow
after. Have I seen this fulfilled? I have. 

I told the people that as true as God lived,
if they would not have truth,
they would have error sent unto them
and they would believe it."
-- Brigham Young

Again we have another decision. Why is it that both "priest and people" will believe these false teachings? Are these teachings among us today? How does this go along with "being led astray"? Are not false teachings being "led astray"? Adam-God Theory? De-cannonization of the Lectures on Faith by a committee without the members consent or vote when it was voted in by common consent as doctrine by the entire church? (See my post Changing The Commandments of God: Lectures on Faith)

For Brigham Young, conformity is the danger signal: “I am not a stereotyped Latter-day Saint,” he said, “and do not believe in the doctrine. . . . Away with stereotyped ‘Mormons’!” When, as a boy, he was asked by his father to sign a temperance pledge, he resolutely refused. Youth rebelling against respectability? No, honesty resisting social pressure and hypocrisy. Approaching Zion, transcript – Hugh Nibley

So the question is why?
Joseph said you can only elevate those on lower ground. Is it possible for a "prophet" to teach truth's they don't yet understand? Can you be a prophet and not understand the nature of God? Is it possible for them to raise you up if they themselves are not yet in a position to comprehend heaven and have entered into His presence? We know Joseph was from D&C 76. Can you have the title of prophet when you have not received the Testimony of Jesus yet? Which only those who have a correct idea of Gods's perfections, attributes and Character can receive?

No man is a minister of Jesus Christ without being a prophet,"
(DHC 3: 389)

Salvation cannot come without revelation; it is in vain for anyone to minister without it. No man is a minister of Jesus Christ without being a Prophet. No man can be a minister of Jesus Christ except he has the testimony of Jesus; and this is the spirit of prophecy. Whenever salvation has been administered, it has been by testimony. Men of the present time testify of heaven and hell, and have never seen either; and I will say that no man knows these things without this.Joseph Fielding Smith (editor), Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 160

We are all to be prophets, to gain the testimony of Jesus which is the spirit of prophecy. ALL who receive this testimony, which is the testimony Jesus has of YOU (not you of Him) which is declared to You from Him out of the heavens, are prophets.

This consists with "gazing into heaven" (TPJS, p. 324; cf. HC 6:50) for five minutes. Until than they will continue to error no matter what office they hold. And all who listen will continue to error until they learn to follow the Holy Ghost in all things (2 Nephi 32:1-5, 2 Nephi 28:14).

Just Perhaps? You Tell Me.
If one can hold any office and not yet be in a spiritual position to experience many of the spiritual gifts than could this explain why such false doctrines, that some believe were required for exaltation, while others believe they will be damned for them, are taught?

Does this quote by Joseph partially explain the WHY on this dilemma?

"Men of the present time testify of heaven and hell, and have never seen either; and I will say that no man knows these things without this." (TPJS p 160)

I quoted Brigham Young in my post here as president of the Church. Does this explain the why?

"that perhaps I then may hold communion with the Lord, as did Moses. I am not now in that position...If I am faithful until I am eighty years of age, perhaps the Lord will appear to me and personally dictate me in the management of his Church and people." (Journal of Discourses, 7:243. Brigham Young, September 1, 1859, here) 

"We have not seen the person of the Father, neither have we seen that of the Son;" (Journal of Discourses 11:42. Brigham Young, January 8, 1865, here)

 Perhaps that is why the Lord warned us.

91 And again, the duty of the President of the office of the High Priesthood is to preside over the whole church, and to be like unto Moses— 92 Behold, here is wisdom; (D&C 107:91-92)

The Godhead

Reread this post: Holy Ghost versus Holy Spirit

I used color coding as followings.
Red: Holy Spirit
Blue: Holy Ghost

I will re-quote the most important scriptures for this post however. The church teaches (currently) the following as the definition of the Godhead.

The Church's first article of faith states, “We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son,Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.” These three beings make up the Godhead.  (Topics: Godhead, https://www.lds.org/topics/godhead?lang=eng)

The current defintion in the church is that the Godhead consists of God the Father, The Son, and The Holy Ghost. Three personages.

 The definition continues:

The true doctrine of the Godhead was lost in the apostasy that followed the Savior's mortal ministry and the deaths of His Apostles.

The church's website takes these definitions from "—See True to the Faith (2004), 73-74". If you search recent conference talks they give the same definition. You can look through some here.

Correct Idea of His Character, Perfections and Attributes
I will re-quote Lectures on Faith.

2 Let us here observe, that three things are necessary, in order that any rational and intelligent being may exercise faith in God unto life and salvation.

First, the idea that he [God] actually exists. Secondly, a correct idea of his character, perfections, and attributes. Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing is according to his will.(Lectures on Faith 3:2–5)

Godhead: How many personages does the Godhead consist of?
Lets see what Joseph said in the Lectures on Faith.

The Father being a personage of spirit, glory and power: possessing all perfection and fulness: The Son, who was in the bosom of the Father, a personage of tabernacle, ... And he being the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth, and having overcome, received a fulness of the glory of the Father-possessing the same mind with the Father, which mind is the Holy Spirit, that bears record of the Father and the Son, and these three are one, or in other words, these three constitute the great, matchless, governing and supreme power over all things: by whom all things were created and made, that were created and made: and these three constitute the Godhead, and are one: (Lectures on Faith, Lecture 5:2)

The Father is a personage of spirit
The Son is a personae of spirit.
The Holy Spirit is the mind of God.

These three make up the Godhead according to the Lectures on Faith.

The Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit. (D&C 130:22)

Sermon In The GroveJoseph Smith gave this lecture. A Meeting in the Grove, east of the Temple, June 16, 1844
History of the Church 6:473-479; Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pp. 369-376 or a link here

I have always declared God to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ a separate and distinct personage from God the Father, and the Holy Ghost was a distinct personage and a Spirit: and these three constitute three distinct personages and three Gods. If this is in accordance with the New Testament, lo and behold! we have three Gods anyhow, and they are plural; and who can contradict it? (Sermon in the Grove, paragraph 5)

So here we have Joseph declaring these three constitute THREE God's. Holy Ghost, The Son, and The Father. Three distinct Personages.

The Confusion: How many personages are in the Godhead?

Beginning of Lecture 5.

 We shall, in this lecture speak of the Godhead: we mean the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Lecture 5)

The end of the Lecture 5.

Q. How many personages are there in the Godhead?Q. Two: the Father and the Son. (5:1.)Q. How do you prove that there are two personages in the Godhead?A. By the Scriptures. Gen. 1:26. Also (2:6.) And the Lord God said unto the Only Begotten, who was with him from the beginning, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:--and it was done. Gen. 3:22. And the Lord God said unto the Only Begotten, Behold, the man is become as one of us: to know good and evil. John, 17:5. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. (5:12.) 

So here is the confusion. Why did Joesph Smith in the Lectures on Faith which was voted in as doctrine for the church state the Godhead is ONLY TWO Personages? Why do we teach it has three today? Why is the Holy Spirit NOT a personage? Why is the Holy Ghost A PERSONAGE of spirit? How can they be the same if one is a personage and one is not? Why did Joseph say he ALWAYS taught the Holy Ghost to be a personage of spirit yet teach here the Godhead had only two personage of spirit? Perhaps we have mixed up the meaning of the words Godhead and Holy Spirit and the Holy Ghost? Perhaps we take to lightly the revelations of God revealed to us through Joseph Smith? Perhaps we have taken some of the very false beliefs from the doctrine of the trinity and continue to teach them today?

No wonder why the seriousness of  removing the Lectures on Faith from our cannon (Which were the Doctrine for the Church, The current D&C only contains the covenants portion). See my post (Changing The Commandments of God: Lectures on Faith) where I discuss how they were removed and why they were removed. One being, Joseph Fielding Smith, believed it taught an incorrect idea of the Godhead.

Changing The Commandments of God: Lectures on Faith
One or the other is true because they disagree on the definition of God. And you must have a correct idea of His character, perfection and attributes in order to exercise faith in Him. And so now we find ourselves having to choose. 

Abinadi's Discourse on the Godhead

Interesting how out of all the things to testify against the King, Abinadi taught about the Godhead.

Go read Mosiah 15

Further Study

This is long enough. So the next few items are just for those who want further study in this matter.

The Holy Spirit is described in D&C 88

11 And the light which shineth, which giveth you light, is through him who enlighteneth your eyes, which is the same light that quickeneth your understandings;
12 Which light proceedeth forth from the presence of God to fill the immensity of space—
13 The light which is in all things, which giveth life to all things, which is the law by which all things are governed, even the power of God who sitteth upon his throne, who is in the bosom of eternity, who is in the midst of all things. (D&C 88:11-13)

The Holy Spirit is also described in D&C 84

44 For you shall live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God.
45 For the word of the Lord is truth, and whatsoever is truth is light, and whatsoever is light is Spirit, even the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
46 And the Spirit giveth light to every man that cometh into the world; and the Spirit enlighteneth every man through the world, that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit.
47 And every one that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit cometh unto God, even the Father. (D&C 84:44-47)

The Lectures on Faith further clarified the Holy Spirit in the lecture quoted above.

We shall in this lecture speak of the Godhead; we mean the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. There are two personages who constitute the great, matchless, governing, and supreme power over all things - by whom all things were created and made that are created and made, whether visible or invisible; whether in heaven, on earth, or in the earth, under the earth, or throughout the immensity of space. They are the Father and the Son: (Lecture 5)

Evidence of Things Not Seen: The Invisble
I would like to point out a specific definition they have included here. "by whom all things were created and made that are created and made, whether visible or invisible" If you look at many of the scriptures the lectures use to illustrate these points they make an interesting comparison. See the verse below.

11 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)

Many think this means you have faith of things "not seen" because you have not seen it. But here in the lectures they don't use that definition. They instead use the word not seen to mean the invisible. Not because you haven't seen it but you have done as Joseph told us to do. Gaze into heaven 5 minutes and you will know more than all the books written about the subject. They have seen angels, so they have evidence of things not seen (invisble). They have a fellowship with the divine so piece by piece, grace by grace, they gain a greater evidence of things not seen (invisible) until their faith becomes knowledge and they cannot be kept from within the veil of unbelief.

Holy Ghost State of Probation
Joseph also said that the Holy Ghost is now in a state of probation which if he should perform in righteousness, he may pass through the same or similar course of things that the Son has.

The Holy Ghost is now in a state of probation which if he should perform in righteousness he may pass through the same or a similar course of things that the Son has. (Joseph Smith, The Words of Joseph Smith, p. 245; Sabbath address, Nauvoo, 27 August 1843. Reported by Franklin D. Richards.)

Some more thought can be found in John 17.

Interesting scriptures to also ponder.

Kingdoms of Glory

76:86 These are they who receive not of his fulness in the eternal world, but of the Holy Spirit through the ministration of the terrestrial;87 And the terrestrial through the ministration of the celestial.88 And also the telestial receive it of the administering of angels who are appointed to minister for them, or who are appointed to be ministering spirits for them; for they shall be heirs of salvation. (D&C 76:86-88)

Interesting three verses if you take time to think about them.

Changing The Commandments of God: Lectures on Faith

We are so prone to alter the commandments of God. As soon as they are revealed, we add to them. Its in the human nature to. Than we go on believing these additions or changes are revelations of God.

Look how quickly Eve changed the commandments given to her from God.

But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. (Genesis 2: 17)

Eve immediately adds to the commandments of God.

And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:
But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said , Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die . (Genesis 3:2-3)

Eve added the declaration "neither shall ye touch it". Which were never part of the commandments given from God. While it may seem harmless in this instance, it was these additions that allowed her to be deceived. Altering the commandments of God keeps us in ignorance, lacking knowledge, and allows us to be beguiled by the serpent. Also it brings guilt from "transgressing" those things that were not commandments in the first place which guilt is from the snares of the adversary.

When Abel and Cain offered sacrifices up to the Lord, Abel gave a proper sacrifice of his flocks, while cain changed the ordinance and offered of his food thinking it would be acceptable unto the Lord. But the Lord rejected his sacrifice but gave him a chance to repent which he rejected. (See Lectures on Faith)

The Lord has seen the beginning from the End (Isaiah 46:10). He warned as early as 1830 of possible change of ordinances. Read the following verses about a FUTURE date.

12 Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh;
13 And the anger of the Lord is kindled, and his sword is bathed in heaven, and it shall fall upon the inhabitants of the earth.
14 And the arm of the Lord shall be revealed; and the day cometh that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord, neither the voice of his servants, neither give heed to the words of the prophets and apostles, shall be cut off from among the people;
15 For they have strayed from mine ordinances, and have broken mine everlasting covenant;(D&C 1)

Isaiah tells us the same thing, again remember these are end-time types and symbols before the Lord return again (second coming).

The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. (Isaiah 24:5.)

I also enjoy Avraham Gileadi's commentary on this verse here.

Changing the Ordinances

“The Priesthood is everlasting. The Savior, Moses, and Elias [Elijah], gave the keys to Peter, James, and John, on the mount, when they were transfigured before him. The Priesthood is everlasting—without beginning of days or end of years; without father, mother, etc. If there is no change of ordinances, there is no change of Priesthood. Wherever the ordinances of the Gospel are administered, there is the Priesthood.  (Teachings of Joseph Smith, Chapter 8)

Whenever there is a change of ordinances there is a change of priesthood. Or if there is a change of priesthood, than there was a change of ordinances.

To quickly remind us about the fulness of the priesthood. What is the everlasting covenant?

“The power of the Melchizedek Priesthood is to have the power of ‘endless lives;’ for the everlasting covenant cannot be broken. … What was the power of Melchizedek? ‘Twas not the Priesthood of Aaron which administers in outward ordinances, and the offering of sacrifices. Those holding the fullness of the Melchizedek Priesthood are kings and priests of the Most High God, holding the keys of power and blessings. In fact, that priesthood is a perfect law of theocracy, and stands as God to give laws to the people, administering endless lives to the sons and daughters of Adam. …(ibid)

 Can this priesthood be passed by descent of man?

“‘Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like unto the Son of God, abideth a priest continually.’ [Hebrews 7:3.] The Melchizedek Priesthood holds the right from the eternal God, and not by descent from father and mother; and that priesthood is as eternal as God Himself, having neither beginning of days nor end of life. …(ibid)

This priesthood cannot be passed from Father and mother. This priesthood is received, by the "voice of God" (JST Gen 14). It is no wonder why Oliver Cowdery told the early saints their ordinations were not completed "until God had laid their hands on their head" (paraphrasing, quoted in "Declare These Things" post). Because this power, could not be passed by descent but only given with God's voice. "Which I now confirm upon you who are present this day, by mine own voice out of the heavens"(D&C 84.42). Also seen in the story of Elisha and Elijah. Elisha asked for the mantle" I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me." or he wanted the power in the priesthood and Elijah responded "Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so." knowing that it was only God that could bestow it.

I bring this up to show (again and again), it is not evidenced that it exists among a people because one person had it. This priesthood is NOT passed by descent (from Father to Son) by mortals. Also if there is a change of priesthood there is a change of ordinance. Was the priesthood ever lost?

There are four associations with heaven ,also shown in the temple endowment. Aaronic1: men with men, Aaronic2: men with Angels, Melchezidek1: men with Christ, Melchezidek2, men with the Father (fulness of the priesthood). The purest and exalting form being that which is with the Father. When He will take his abode with you allowing you to endure his presence in eternal glory while in the flesh and the world to come  (D&C 88:1-4, D&C 76:117-118) So by their fruits you will know. 

Loss of the Fulness of the Priesthood.

Nauvoo period, the Lord gave the following revelation.

28 For there is not a place found on earth that he may come to and restore again that which was lost unto you, or which he hath taken away, even the fulness of the priesthood. (D&C 124:28)

They (The saints, not Joseph) lost the fulness of the priesthood. The Lord had to "come to" the temple to restore it. This is why they were trying to build the Nauvoo temple. If they lost this priesthood, than there was a change of ordinances. Think about the differences between kirtland and nauvoo. Kirtland, angels were present, the Son was present, the Father was present, people were experiencing the "manifestations of the spirit" in great abundance. Are these same experiences happening in abundance today? Also how did they loose it when we are told the priesthood would never be taken off the earth again? Doesn't this constitute loosing the priesthood for a time? Why are we taught the preisthood can never be taken off the earth when our very own history says otherwise? Perhaps the prophecies referring to the Aaronic Priesthood,the same which the Children of Israel were cursed with? Or something else altogether like Zion?

The Lord told them all about what would happen in the Parable of the Watchtower. (D&C 101:43-70, discussed in a later post)

Church would be Rejected
The Lord told them they had a certain amount of time to restore it.

32 But behold, at the end of this appointment your baptisms for your dead shall not be acceptable unto me; and if you do not these things at the end of the appointment ye shall be rejected as a church, with your dead, saith the Lord your God. (D&C 124:32)

The Lord Gives Us A Chance to Repent: Arms Outstretched Still
Discussed in a later post. 3 Nephi 16:10 -15

10 And thus commandeth the Father that I should say unto you: At that day when the Gentiles shall sin against my gospel, and shall reject the fulness of my gospel, and shall be lifted up in the pride of their hearts above all nations, and above all the people of the whole earth, and shall be filled with all manner of lyings, and of deceits, and of mischiefs, and all manner of hypocrisy, and murders, and priestcrafts, and whoredoms, and of secret abominations; and if they shall do all those things, and shall reject the fulness of my gospel, behold, saith the Father, I will bring the fulness of my gospel from among them. [First rejection]

13 But if the Gentiles will repent and return unto me, saith the Father, behold they shall be numbered among my people, O house of Israel. [Second chance, Last opportunity to repent before they are destroyed in verses 14-15](3 Nephi 16:10,13)

Changing of Ordinances
I have shown how quickly Eve changed the commandments given to her. I have shown how quickly cain changed the ordinances. We must learn what they are with "exactness". We must observe them with exactness. Could it be considered a change of ordinances when penalties and the "preacher" are removed from the endowment in 1990? Are we still under covenant to suffer those penalties if we know nothing about them? What about other laws? Has the law of tithing changed since first revealed to Joseph Smith? Does changing the commandment from surplus which the early saints paid on to net/gross constitute changing the law? Word of Wisdom (not by commandment to a commandment? Polygamy which was believed by Brigham Young to be required for exaltation and many others like John Taylor? What about the sacrament which we are commanded to always do even as He has done "no more or less" (3 Nephi 18:6,13)? At one time they blessed the sacrament with outstretched arms palms down. Has other things been added? Even if 90% of it is given to us correctly, could we be in error in just a small portion of the commandments of God?

Just a few thoughts I have been thinking about. I certainly don't have the all the answers.

If any man writes to you, or preaches to you, doctrines contrary to the Bible, the Book of Mormon, or the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, set him down as an imposter.
(Joseph Smith, Times & Seasons, April 1, 1844)

Are the servants of the Lord allowed to reveal something that contradicts the Book of Mormon? Doctrine and Covenants? Even if they do it out of ignorance and are trying their best?

Contradicting a Former Revelation: Satan Deceives

There have also been ministering angels in the Church which were of Satan appearing as an angel of light. A sister in the state of New York had a vision, who said it was told her that if she would go to a certain place in the woods, an angel would appear to her. She went at the appointed time, and saw a glorious personage descending, arrayed in white, with sandy colored hair; he commenced and told her to fear God, and said that her husband was called to do great things, but that he must not go more than one hundred miles from home, or he would not return; whereas God had called him to go to the ends of the earth, and he has since been more than one thousand miles from home, and is yet alive. Many true things were spoken by this personage, and many things that were false. How, it may be asked, was this known to be a bad angel? By the color of his hair; that is one of the signs that he can be known by, and by his contradicting a former revelation. (Joseph Smith, HC vol 4, ch. 33)

Doctrine & Covenants
As I have searched and compared some of the original documents in our D&C with today's edition, I have noticed many changes. These changes were not made by Joseph Smith but other men such as Oliver Cowdery (who's calling it was to do so). I will leave it to the reader to take this challenge and compare the originals to later editions and determine which parts are part of the revelations of Joseph Smith and which parts were added later. The question arises, what purpose were they added? Were they part of the original revelations or another mans interpretation of those revelations (precept of men)? (2 Nephi 28:14)

Lectures on Faith
One of the most significant changes in church history is the removal of doctrine from our cannon.

Sustained as Doctrine: LOF
If you read the 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants it gives this summary of it being sustained as doctrine for the Church. This edition included the Lectures on Faith which were also voted upon, through common consent, to be Doctrine for the Church.

“President Cowdery arose and introduced the ‘book of doctrine and covenants of the Church of the Latter Day Saints,’ in behalf of the committee: he was followed by President Rigdon, who explained the manner by which they intended to obtain the voice of the assembly for or against said book: the other two committee, named above, were absent. According to said arrangement W.W. Phelps bore record that the book presented to the assembly, was true. President John Whitmer, also arose, and testified that it was true. Elder John Smith, taking the lead of the high council in Kirtland, bore record that the revelations in the said book were true President Cowdery arose and introduced the ‘book of doctrine and covenants of the Church of the Latter Day Saints,’ in behalf of the committee: he was followed by President Rigdon, who explained the manner by which they intended to obtain the voice of the assembly for or against said book: the other two committee, named above, were absent. According to said arrangement W.W. Phelps bore record that the book presented to the assembly, was true. President John Whitmer, also arose, and testified that it was true. Elder John Smith, taking the lead of the high council in Kirtland, bore record that the revelations in the said book were true… Elder Levi Jackman, taking the lead of the high council of the church in Missouri bore testimony that the revelations in the said book were true, and that the said High Council in Missouri, bore testimony that the revelations in said book were true, and the said high council of Missouri accepted  and  acknowledged  them  as  the  doctrine  and  covenants  of  their  faith,  by  a  unanimous  vote. President W.W. Phelps then read the written testimony of 12 as follows. ‘The testimony of the witnesses of the book of the Lord's commandments, which he gave to his church through Joseph Smith, jr. who was appointed by the voice of the church for this purpose: we therefore feel willing to bear testimony to all the world of mankind, to every creature upon the face of the earth, and upon the islands of the sea, that the Lord  has  borne  record  to  our  souls,  through  the  Holy  Ghost,  shed  forth  upon  us,  that  these  commandments were given by inspiration of God, and are profitable for all men, and are verily true... (Revelations and Translations, Joseph Smith Papers, 1835 Doctrine and Covenants)

And it continues on. This is in the back of the book, you can read it online here.

McConkie also taught it to be eternally true.

"In my judgment ... It is, in effect, eternal scripture; it is true (239)"7 

"It is without question the most excellent summary of revealed and eternal truth relative to the Godhead that is now extant in mortal language. . . . To spiritually illiterate persons, it may seem hard and confusing; to those whose souls are aflame with heavenly light, it is a nearly perfect summary of those things which must be believed to gain salvation" (221).4 (Both quotes take from byustudies: The Lectures on Faith in Historical Perspective)

A Committee Removes Doctrine

The Lectures on Faith were removed from the scriptures in 1921 by a committee.

The following were in that committee: George Richards, Anthony Ivins, Melvin J. Ballard, James E. Talmage, John A.Widstoe and Joseph Fielding Smith.

There was no vote to remove these doctrines.

Reason For Removal
The committee gave this reason along with saying it had an incorrect understanding of God's character and attributes..

“they were never presented nor accepted by the Church as being otherwise than theological lectures or lessons.“ 

Which I have shown to be false.

Commanded to Receive Revelations Given through Joseph

Ye have received a commandment for a law unto my church through him who I have appointed unto you to receive commandments and revelations from my hand (D&C 43:2)

Yet the children of men are so inclined to change the ways of God as soon as they are revealed.

A Correct Idea of God To Gain Salvation

The Prophet said that three things were necessary for any rational and intelligent being to obtain life unto salvation

First, the idea that he [God] actually exists. Secondly, a correct idea of his character, perfections, and attributes. Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of life which he is pursuing is according to his will.(Lectures on Faith 3:2–5)

What does this mean?
Either Joseph Smith did not, indeed could not, have faith. Or alternatively George F. Richards, Anthony W. Ivins, Melvin J. Ballard, James E. Talmage, John A. Widstoe, and Joseph Fielding Smith did not, indeed could not, have faith. One or the other is true because they disagree on the definition of God. And you must have a correct idea of His character, perfection and attributes in order to exercise faith in Him. And so now we find ourselves having to choose. It's a healthy thing. You ought to have to choose. You ought to have your salvation at peril on how you choose. You ought to have to decide between whether you believe a man who stood in the presence of God, and bore testimony of what he saw, and what he felt, and what he heard, and others who constitute a committee that disagree with him. You should have to choose. And your eternal peril should hang in the balance as you make that choice. That is a perfect conundrum, in my view. Grow up. Accept the burden. Find out. Learn about God. Or be damned by your carelessness, by your indifference, by your refusal to go forward. It ought to be so. And it ought to be put to you plainly. And you ought to have to choose. And you ought to have to choose every time you hear someone get up and offer something to you and conclude in the name of Jesus Christ. Because they are either offering you something from Him that will save you, or they are offering something that they hope will damn you, because they're signing you up on the wrong team. It ought to be so. Everlastingly, it ought to be so.

Beware

Be careful about how you interpret the scriptures. Be careful about how flexible you think an unchanging God can be made into Shifting Sands a changeable Being who has given His power unto men. (2 Ne. 28: 5.) Be careful about believing that the God who is the same today, yesterday, and forever is now so whimsical that on one day one thing can be asked of you, and on another day something altogether different can be asked of you. And to the extent that you detect the varying shifting sand beneath your feet, ask yourself why that is so. And ask yourself, where might I go to find the rock upon which to establish my feet, so that the winds and the rains might not mow me down. Because God vouched for Joseph Smith, and God vouched for those things committed to you, through him.

Worth our Study
I agree with McConkie and would advise all of us to take the lectures on faith seriously. It is eternally binding on all of us.

President Tells you to Do Something Wrong, You will Be Blessed.

This is part of a bigger post (which is yet to be published). I wanted to get it out there after my day at church.

Willingly Degrade Himself: Should we do something that is wrong?
The following statement highlighted in red was brought up in Sunday School and stated to be true. The teacher nodded, acknolwedged it and others in the class all agreed. While I felt constrained to remain quiet I felt to post it here.

“I remember years ago when I was a bishop I had President Heber J. Grant talk to our ward. After the meeting I drove him home … Standing by me, he put his arm over my shoulder and said: ‘My boy, you always keep your eye on the President of the Church and if he ever tells you to do anything, and it is wrong, and you do it, the Lord will bless you for it.’ Then with a twinkle in his eye, he said, ‘But you don’t need to worry. The Lord will never let his mouthpiece lead the people astray.’” (Conference Report, October 1960, p. 78.)

This is a common teaching in the LDS Church, as shown being taught in General Conference. Its this same original quote (not cited or referenced here) that the doctrine "the prophet will never lead you astray" was canonized into the manifesto.

Joseph was known to say the following,

“I say to all those who are disposed to set up stakes for the Almighty, You will come short of the glory of God. To become a joint heir of the heirship of the Son, one must put away all his false traditions.”8

This doctrine is one of those precepts of men.

Slavery
I copied the following from fairmormon.org. Its another quote by Brigham Young to illustrate this principle.

Because of...the apparent imperfections of men on whom God confers authority, the question is sometimes asked,—to what extent is obedience to those who hold the priesthood required? This is a very important question, and one which should be understood by all Saints. In attempting to answer this question, we would repeat, in short, what we have already written, that willing obedience to the laws of God, administered by the Priesthood, is indispensable to salvation; but we would further add, that a proper conservative to this power exists for the benefit of all, and none are required to tamely and blindly submit to a man because he has a portion of the Priesthood. We have heard men who hold the Priesthood remark, that they would do any thing they were told to do by those who presided over them, if they knew it was wrong: but such obedience as this is worse than folly to us; it is slavery in the extreme; and the man who would thus willingly degrade himself, should not claim a rank among intelligent beings, until he turns from his folly. A man of God, who seeks for the redemption of his fellows, would despise the idea of seeing another become his slave, who had an equal right with himself to the favour of God; he would rather see him stand by his side, a sworn enemy to wrong, so long as there was place found for it among men. Others, in the extreme exercise of their almighty (!) authority, have taught that such obedience was necessary, and that no matter what the Saints were told to do by their Presidents, they should do it without asking any questions. 

When the Elders of Israel will so far indulge in these extreme notions of obedience, as to teach them to the people, it is generally because they have it in their hearts to do wrong themselves, and wish to pave the way to accomplish that wrong; or else because they have done wrong, and wish to use the cloak of their authority to cover it with, lest it should be discovered by their superiors, who would require an atonement at their hands.
—"Priesthood," Millennial Star 14/38 (13 November 1852), 594–95; italics in the original. off-site

The person in the class stated if we do it and its wrong we will still be blessed (other-wards be obedient no matter what). Who cares if its wrong, because God will bless you for it!. Thus we can blindly follow those who lead us and receive exaltation with  no fear for our souls, because they won't lead us astray.

Joseph said,
Saints of God should Despise the idea.
It is SLAVERY.
The person should "not claim a rank among intelligent beings" 

nor can he.

And also in the reign of Shule there came prophets among the people, who were sent from the Lord, prophesying that the wickedness and idolatry of the people was bringing a curse upon the land, and they should be destroyed if they did not repent. (Ether 7:23)

My heart continuously grieves for the precepts of men that pacify us, binding us by the chains of hell, while we exclaim all is well in Zion (2 Nephi 28:21) that will carefully bring us down to hell if we do not awake and arise to our awful situation. My eyes water my pillow by night but I must exclaim.

7 O the pain, and the anguish of my soul for the loss of the slain of my people! For I, Nephi, have seen it, and it well nigh consumeth me before the presence of the Lord; but I must cry unto my God: Thy ways are just. (2 Nephi 26:7)

Declare These Things Part 3: Angels: Temple

I grouped this thread into three parts. .

In the temple ceremony as originally performed, the man Adam and the woman Eve were promised they would receive, from time to time, true messengers. It is clear to those who participated that there were no mortal sources who could claim they were “true messengers.” The original ceremony universally depicted mortal men as false ministers. The only source of true messengers is God or angels sent by Him. The true messengers He sent came directly from God and delivered only His instruction. They were depicted as angels. Even so, any angel claiming to have such a message was not be accepted until they were first tested to determine they bore correct signs of truth and light (see D&C 129:4-8). We have scriptures that warn us Satan can transform himself to seem as an angel of light. (2 Cor. 11:14). It took Michael to come and detect the false angel of light that appeared to Joseph Smith. (JSH) The full meaning of that warning has been lost by almost everyone. False messengers always imitate the true ones, claiming to be what they are not. They seek, of course, to deceive the very elect if it is possible. (Matt 24:22-28). The temple ceremony confirmed angles were intended as God’s authorized means to minister to men, women and children. (Alma 32:23). The temple tells us to look for true messengers sent by Him, bearing signs and tokens, have hidden knowledge, who will inform us in the way of truth and light. As originally portrayed, these angelic ministers would become the exclusive conduit through which the Lord would give us guidance and instruction. Angels are sent to declare the conditions of repentance to you if you seek redemption. Then when you repent, you are brought to the presence of the Son. It is only through Christ, not men, that you obtain forgiveness of sin, and the promise of eternal glory. (Hel. 5:10-11)
Elder Bednar, "Patterns of Light" beginning at 2:40 , on the youtube video (Just search google for it).

"You may have an occasion where you fail to say your morning prayers, and you all of a sudden hear the voice of your mother, who when you were a small boy would say, 'say your morning prayers, remember to say your evening prayers'.  

Why would God send an Angel to deliver that message to you?, when the HG can bring back to you the recollection or remembrance of your angel mother reminding you to pray- the effect is the same. Everything that invites and entices to do good comes from God." 

 "Why would God send an Angel to deliver that message to you?" It seems out of place to me, like its forced. He could make the same point without minimizing the appearance of angels.

If you read the scriptures or the book of Mormon, the purpose of angels have nothing to do with reminding someone of anything. But what is the importance of angels? Why not teach us what their purpose is? If angels are important to our salvation why ignore their true purpose? I have learned from sad experience to not teach anything unless its first taught in the book of Mormon which can draw you closer to God than ANY other book. I try anyways.

There is a specific verse that gives us a different lesson than illustrated. I don't feel to comment on it but relate it here to ponder on.

For if ye would hearken unto the Spirit which teacheth a man to pray, ye would know that ye must pray; for the evil spirit teacheth not a man to pray, but teacheth him that he must not pray. (2 Nephi 32:8, emphasis added)

Angels
Mormon's sermon on faith, included in Moroni 7, enters the topic of the ministry of angels (Moro. 7:22).  Angels were sent to minister "unto the children of men" to teach them about Christ.  This statement about angels ministering unto men is general, not limited to a small group of leaders.  All men and women may and should receive angels, or true messengers.  These messengers are sent from the presence of God to teach them how to "begin" to exercise faith in Christ (Moro. 7:25).  This is the beginning of revealed religion.

If faith ceases, than angels also cease. If there is faith, than angels are sent to minister to the children of Men. (Moroni 10:19, 24). While there is one man to be saved they will continue to minister. (Moroni 7:36)

To Minister to Heirs of Salvation
I have touched on how angels minister to those who will be heirs of salvation. Lets re-quote the lectures on faith.

4 It surely will not be required of us to prove, that this is the principle upon which all eternity has acted and will act; for every reflecting mind must know, that it is by reason of this power that all the hosts of heaven perform their works of wonder, majesty and glory: Angels move from place to place by virtue of this power--it is by reason of it that they are enabled to descend from heaven to earth; and were it not for the power of faith they never could be ministering spirits to them who should be heirs of salvation, neither could they act as heavenly messengers; for they would be destitute of the power necessary to enable them to do the will of God... 

...what is the difference between a saved man and one who is not saved? We answer from what we have before seen of the heavenly worlds, they must be persons who can work by faith, and who are able, by faith to be ministering spirits to them who shall be heirs of salvation. (Lecture 7)

See also Hebrews 1:14. If angels, or heavenly messengers, (another name for angels) are required to minister to those who will be heirs of salvation than can you be saved without having an angel minister to you? Will angels cease to minister if there is one man to be saved upon the earth?

36 Or have angels ceased to appear unto the children of men? Or has he withheld the power of the Holy Ghost from them? Or will he, so long as time shall last, or the earth shall stand, or there shall be one man upon the face thereof to be saved? 37 Behold I say unto you, Nay;(Moro. 7:36)

This is part of the "Doctrine of Christ".

Angels and Spirits He explained a difference between an angel and a ministering spirit; the one a resurrected or translated body, with its spirit, ministering to embodied spirits-- the other a disembodied spirit, visiting and ministering to disembodied spirits. (Boap, October 3 1841,Sermon delivered at General Conference of the Church in Nauvoo, (Sunday Morning))

Alma on Faith,

23 And now, he imparteth his word by angels unto men, yea, not only men but women also. Now this is not all; little children do have words given unto them many times, which confound the wise and the learned. (Alma 32:23)