Gospel Doctrine: "Whosoever Killeth You..."

by Nola Redd | More from this Blogger

As I reviewed the Gospel Doctrine lesson for this week, the second half of John 16:2 stood out to me. Here, Jesus tells His disciples that "whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service." Given that today is the anniversary of the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith, these words took on a special significance to me.

Of course, Joseph was not the only person in the restored church who died because of his faith. Early church history is filled with a number of Saints who gave their lives because of their faith.

One story that stood out was the story of the tarring and feathering of Edward Partridge, the first Presiding Bishop of the early church. He and Josiah Gregg were captured by the mob burning the office of The Evening and the Morning Star, the LDS newspaper at the time. When the angry mob demanded that the two leave the state of Missouri, Partridge refused. In his autobiography, he states, "I told them that the saints had had to suffer persecution in all ages of the world, that I had done nothing which ought to offend any one. That if they abused me, they would abuse an innocent person. That I was willing to suffer for the sake of Christ; but, to leave the country I was not then willing to consent to it...Until after I had spoken, I knew not what they intended to do with me, whether to kill me, to whip me, or what else I knew not. I bore my abuse with so much resignation and meekness, that it appeared to astound the multitude, who permitted me to retire in silence, many looking very solemn, their sympathies having been touched as I thought; and, as to myself, I was so filled with the spirit and love of God, that I had no hatred towards my persecutors, or any one else." (Edward Partridge "autobiography," qtd. in TS 6 no. 4 (Mar. 1, 1845): 819.) The Prophet Joseph attributed his death in 1840 to the stresses and persecutions he received as a Saint in Missouri, which include the aforementioned tar and feathering.

Another tale of martyrdom was given during last October's General Conference. President James E. Faust tells the story of Rafael Monroy and Vicente Morales. In 1915, the Zapatistas captured them, promising to release them only if they would renounce their religion. The two were tortured, then again promised freedom if they would deny their faith. According to President Faust, 'Brother Monroy replied, "My religion is dearer to me than my life, and I cannot forsake it.'"

In our lives, we are rarely asked to die for the gospel. But on a daily basis, we are asked to live for it. We must commit to it with all of our heart, each day that we are on this earth. It is always good to take time to re-evaluate our position in our walk with Him and make sure that we are, in fact, fully committed. In doing so, we can recommit ourselves to the Lord and keep our focus on Him.

Related Articles:

The Martyrdom of Joseph Smith

Trials and Faith: The First Christian Martyr

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Freelance writer Nola Redd is a stay-at-home mom to three kids, with a fourth on the way.

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