Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith

Section Four (1839-1842) | Synopsis of the Prophet's Remarks to the Female Relief Society

1President Joseph Smith arose. Spoke of the organization of the Female Relief Society; said he was deeply interested, that it might be built up to the Most High in an acceptable manner; that its rules must be observed; that none should be received into it but those who were worthy; proposed a close examination of every candidate; that the society was growing too fast.

2It should grow up by degrees, should commence with a few individuals, thus have a select society of the virtuous, and those who would walk circumspectly; commended them for their zeal, but said sometimes their zeal was not according to knowledge. One principle object of the institution was to purge out iniquity; said they must be extremely careful in all their examinations, or the consequences would be serious. All difficulties which might and would cross our way must be surmounted.

3Though the soul be tried, the heart faint, and the hands hang down, we must not retrace out steps; there must be decision of character, aside from sympathy. When instructed, we must obey that voice, observe the laws of the Kingdom of God, that the blessings of heaven may rest down upon us.

4All must act in concert, or nothing can be done, and should move according to the ancient Priesthood; hence the Saints should be a select people, separate from all the evils of the world--choice, virtuous, and holy.

5The Lord was going to make of the Church of Jesus Christ a kingdom of Priests, a holy people, a chosen generation, as in Enoch's day, having all the gifts as illustrated to the Church in Paul's epistles and teachings to the churches in his day--that it is the privilege of each member to live long and enjoy health. He then blessed the Saints. (March 30, 1842.) DHC 4:570.