[Joseph F. Smith to Henry Tingey, Aug. 28, 1883; emphasis in original] I have read your letter and noted its contents. I am of the opinion that the parties should have ample time to prove their sincerity and repentance before they are recommended to the House of the Lord. "The way of the transgress[o]r is hard," and I know of no way to make it easy. If people will transgress the laws of God they must abide the consequences. I never believed a transgressor can jump from crime to innocence in one leap. The road back from vice to virtue is a long one, lost confidence returns but slowly and very cautiously, and then only when room for doubt and distrust is fully removed by a life of unimpeachable integrity, humility, honesty & sincerity. I should want them to prove themselves worthy before giving a recommend, if I were their Bishop.
[Source: Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History, http://amzn.to/TempleWorship]
No comments:
Post a Comment