I thought you didn't want me to post to you anymore?
So I didn't.
But since you did, how about we talk - in a civil manner.
Concerning this particular thread, I found the arguments that Joeseph Smith was not a "martry" at all to be with foundation - simply because Smith was in jail for offenses which would be considered criminal even today....to wit:
- Threats and Assault {Intentionally or knowingly causes physical contact with another when the person knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative}
- Destruction of Private Property {Willful injury to private building and or property. Damage to materials of construction project. Arson. Trespass, generally, and other offenses.}
- Felonious Sexual Assault {Engages in sexual penetration with a person, other than his legal spouse, who is 13 years of age or older and under 16 years of age where the age difference between the actor and the other person is 3 years or more}**
**Joseph Smith's youngest sexual assault victim was 14 years old. Her name was HELEN MAR KIMBALL
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You won't find Jesus Christ's history in such a terrible shambles and horrific mess such as this. He was a true martyr - and He paid for all of our sins with His blood.
The biggest problem with Joseph Smith Old Mountain man was his pursuit of women. His adulterous lust led to his downfall.
Our Sunday's sermon was about the attitude we should have as Christian believers. Paul was literally in chains in Phillipi. Yet, he rejoiced in that, because he knew he was preaching to the Pretorian Guard (the elite to Caesar) who were chained to him to guard him. He took joy in the fact that the cause of Christ was being spread in the open.
12Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard[a] and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly. 15It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. 16The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. 17The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.[b] 18But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.[c] 20I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
Philippians 1: 12-20
I admire Paul's attitude towards the cause of Jesus Christ. He wanted to either live or die to spread the good news of Christ to the lost.
Joseph Smith wanted to suppress the publication of his sins and crimes in a newspaper, and he murdered people before he was himself killed before he could kill any more.
That is quite a difference.
One last thing - the Masonic details and their use in Mormonism should trouble you greatly.
If you have any questions about them, Freeper Zakeet can send you information.
Thanks.