Baptism For the Dead

Baptism For the Dead Phillip Eldred 2010 All scripture references are taken from the Inspired Version of the Bible, the 1908 edition of the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants. If there are differences from the King James Version of the Bible then it is shown, but if there are no differences, then the reference is for both. UBM references the Utah edition of the Book of Mormon. UDC references the Utah edition of the Doctrine and Covenants. DHC references The History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints commonly called the Documentary History of the Church. 1

IS BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD A TRUE OR FALSE DOCTRINE? THE UNCHANGEABLE NATURE OF GOD! The scriptures declare the unchangeable nature of God and show us that his ways never vary, but repeat through an eternal round. Wherefore, the course of the Lord is one eternal round. 1 Nephi 3:32 (UBM 1 Nephi 10:19) for he doth counsel in wisdom over all his works, and his paths are straight and his course is one eternal round. Alma 17:42 (UBM Alma 37:12) Neither doth he vary from that which he hath said, neither hath he a shadow of turning from the right to the left, nor from that which is right to that which is wrong; therefore, his course is one eternal round. Alma 5:35 (UBM Alma 7:20) For I know that God is not a partial God, neither a changeable being; but he is unchangeable from all eternity to all eternity. Moroni 8:19 (UBM Moroni 8:18) And if there were miracles wrought, then why has God ceased to be a God of miracles, and yet be an unchangeable being. And behold I say unto you, He changeth not; if so, he would cease to be God; and he ceaseth not to be God, and is a God of miracles. Mormon 4:81-82 (UBM Mormon 9:19) For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Malachi 3:6 (Also found in 3 Nephi 11:9 & UBM 3 Nephi 24:6) For he saith, I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, the Lord, who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty. Revelation 1:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 One eternal round denotes a concept of having no beginning and no end. This is the way of God because he has no beginning and no end. His ways are constant and unchanging, but they do repeat. When you start at one point and go all the way around on a ring or circle you will eventually get back to the same point where you first started, and then the process continues in a repetitious manner. Thus, the course of the Lord is a continuous repetition of events throughout history. Jesus tells us that the words of Isaiah were fulfilled once, but will also be fulfilled again: 2

Yea, a commandment I give unto you, that ye search these things diligently; for great are the words of Isaiah. For surely he spake as touching all things concerning my people which are of the house of Israel; therefore it must needs be that he must speak also to the Gentiles. And all things that he spake, hath been, and shall be, even according to the words which he spake. 3 Nephi 10:27-29 (UBM 3 Nephi 23:3) The Lord s counsel expands this concept letting us know that in all periods of time his gospel and procedures are the same: The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done; and there is no new thing under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:9 That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been, and God requireth that which is past. Ecclesiastes 3:15 Once this concept is understood it becomes very clear. God s plan for mankind is the same in all generations. There is nothing that is new. The gospel in Adam s day will be identical to our day. God does not take us by surprise when it comes to his gospel and his plan of salvation. God requires the past gospel for the present and for the future. The future requirements are those which have been in the past. Thus, there is a pattern to guide us: And again, I will give unto you a pattern in all things, that ye may not be deceived; for Satan is abroad in the land, and he goeth forth deceiving the nations; Doctrine & Covenants 52:4b (UDC 52:14) And again, he that is overcome and bringeth not forth fruits, even according to this pattern, is not of me; wherefore by this pattern ye shall know the spirits in all cases, under the whole heavens. Doctrine & Covenants 52:5a (UDC 52:18-19) The following scripture by Paul teaches us that if a man claims to be a prophet then he won t contradict other prophets, but they will all speak the same message because God is not the author of confusion: And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. 1 Corinthians 14:32-33 3

BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD or RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD? The following scripture has caused confusion and misconceptions which we will seek to examine: Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen; And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ; whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised; And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order; Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. Afterward cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule, and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy, death, shall be destroyed. For he saith, When it is manifest that he hath put all things under his feet, and that all things are put under, he is excepted of the Father who did put all things under him. And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead? And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? I protest unto you the resurrection of the dead; and this is my rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord daily, though I die. If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? Let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die. Be not deceived; evil communications corrupt good manners. Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God; I speak this to your shame. But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die; And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body which shall be, but grain, it may be of wheat, or some other; but God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh; but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. Also celestial 4

bodies, and bodies terrestrial, and bodies telestial; but the glory of the celestial, one; and the terrestrial, another; and the telestial, another. There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for one star differeth from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption; It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit, that which is natural first, and not that which is spiritual; but afterwards, that which is spiritual; The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy; and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the sound of the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:12-58 Inspired Version Paul was preaching that there was a resurrection of the dead, to people who did not believe in the resurrection, but they were practicing vicarious baptisms for their dead. The following statement is different in the King James Version of the Bible, and when this statement is inserted within the text, it clarifies that Paul was speaking of the resurrection: I protest unto you the resurrection of the dead. The King James Version and Inspired Version are compared as follows: I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 1 Corinthians 15:31 KJV I protest unto you the resurrection of the dead; and this is my rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord daily, though I die. 1 Corinthians 15:31 Inspired Version In July of 1986 Robert J. Matthews, the Dean of Religious Education at Brigham Young University gave a lecture where he discussed his twenty year study of the original 5

manuscript of the Inspired Version or as it is sometimes called the Joseph Smith Translation. He has determined that the Inspired Version is printed correctly as corrected by Joseph Smith Jr. He also stated that the King James Version generally tells you what happened, but the Inspired Version will tell you why. What did Paul want to teach the people? He wanted to teach the people of the resurrection of the dead. Paul was not condoning or preaching in favor of such acts, but was using it as an example of their hypocrisy in not believing in the resurrection, yet performing rites for the dead: In 1 Corinthians 15:29, Paul presents an argument in support of the resurrection in the following words: Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead? Despite the fact that the practice receives no mention elsewhere in scripture, the most obvious interpretation of this statement is that some Christians in Corinth, and perhaps elsewhere, were being vicariously baptized on behalf of friends or relatives who had died in an unsaved condition. Many other interpretations of this problematic phrase have been given and it is impossible to be certain as to exactly what the apostle meant. It is well-known, however, that belief in the efficacy of vicarious symbolic acts was widespread and it does not seem unlikely that such was the case in Corinth. The Layman s Bible Encyclopedia, page 83. The following statement describes the act of literally applying water to dead bodies in order to baptize them. Was this possibly what Paul was witnessing? The Marcionites, and the Gnostics baptized the dead (1 Cor. 15:29) by proxy, some one answering for the dead, while the water was applied to the dead body; and the parents were baptized for their children, from a mistaken reading of the words of Paul. Smith s Bible Dictionary-Revised Edition, p. 32 In the above words of Paul, we find that he was preaching the resurrection of the dead, not the Baptism for the Dead. He was teaching those at Corinth that our dead bodies will arise to an incorruptible condition like unto Jesus body after his resurrection. Jesus physical body was raised to an immortal state: Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I, myself. Handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as you see me have. When he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet. Luke 24:38-39 (KJV Luke 24:39-40) Jesus was able to eat fish and honey comb with his Apostles after his resurrection: And while they yet wondered and believed not for joy, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and a honey comb. And he took it and did eat before them. Luke 24:40-42 (KJV Luke 24:41-43) 6

Jesus even entered a closed room without going through the door: Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. John 20:19 KJV & IV Jesus did these things, and yet the disciples were able to feel the nail prints in his hands and feet. He was physical because he was raised from the dead to immortality. The scriptures inform us that all persons will be resurrected from the dead to an immortal state: Now behold I have spoken unto you concerning the death of the mortal body, and also concerning the resurrection of the mortal body. I say unto you, that this mortal body is raised to an immortal body; that is from death; even from the first death, unto life, that they can die no more; their spirits uniting with their bodies, never to be divided; Alma 8:105-106 (UBM Alma 11:45) And he suffereth this, that the resurrection might pass upon all men, that all might stand before him at the great and judgment day. 2 Nephi 6:47 (UBM 2 Nephi 9:22) But behold, the resurrection of Christ redeemeth mankind, yea, even all mankind, and bringeth them back into the presence of the Lord; Helaman 5:71 (UBM Helaman 14:17) If they be good, to the resurrection of everlasting life; and if they be evil, to the resurrection of damnation, being on a parallel, the one on the one hand, and the other on the other hand, according to the mercy, and the justice, and the holiness which is in Christ, who was before the world began. 3 Nephi 11:33 (UBM 3 Nephi 26:5) If they be good, to the resurrection of endless life and happiness, and if they be evil, to the resurrection of endless damnation; Mosiah 8:84 (UBM Mosiah 16:11) ACT FOR OURSELVES! Common sense assures us that if all people are in an immortal state, then they can be baptized with water just as Jesus ate fish in his immortal state. After death our physical bodies will be resurrected and united with our spirits. In the beginning God gave man his agency of choice, and it is required that we choose and act for ourselves. We cannot have someone else baptized in our place. 7

Lehi stated: Wherefore, the Lord God gave unto man, that he should act for himself. Wherefore, man could not act for himself, save it should be that he was enticed by the one or the other. 2 Nephi 1:99-100 (UBM 2 Nephi 2:16) Lehi stated that we must repent while in the flesh: And the days of the children of men were prolonged, according to the will of God, that they might repent while in the flesh; Wherefore, their state became a state of probation, and their time was lengthened, according to the commandments which the Lord God gave unto the children of men. For he gave commandment that all men must repent; 2 Nephi 1:107-109 (UBM 2 Nephi 2:21) Lehi again stating that we must act for ourselves, and that we are free according to the flesh: And the Messiah cometh in the fullness of time, that he may redeem the children of men from the fall. And because that they are redeemed from the fall, they have become free for ever, knowing good from evil; To act for themselves, and not to be acted upon, save it be by the punishment of the Lord, at the great and last day, according to the commandments which God hath given. Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. 2 Nephi 1:116-119 (UBM 2 Nephi 2:26-27) Jacob, the son of Lehi stated: Therefore cheer up your hearts, and remember that ye are free to act for yourselves; to choose the way of everlasting death, or the way of eternal life. 2 Nephi 7:40 (UBM 2 Nephi 10:23) Samuel the Lamanite stated that we are free to choose, but it is unto our own selves: And now remember, remember, my brethren, that whosoever perisheth, perisheth unto himself; and whosoever doeth iniquity, doeth it unto himself; for behold ye are free; ye are permitted to act for yourselves; for behold, God hath given unto you a knowledge, and he hath made you free; He hath given unto you that ye might know good from evil, and he hath given unto you that ye might choose life or death, and ye can do good and be restored unto that which is good, or have that which is good restored unto you; or ye can do evil, and have that which is evil restored unto you. Helaman 5:85-86 (UBM Helaman 14:30-31) The following scripture is not found in the King James Version of the Bible, but was reinserted by Joseph Smith Jr. under inspiration while he was restoring those portions that had been taken out of the Bible: 8

Therefore, let every man stand or fall, by himself, and not for another; or not trusting another. Mark 9:44 Inspired Version Can a man who be baptized for another? Repentance is the first fruits of baptism, and is a pre-requisite for baptism. Baptism is a physical act which we must do before we die. We can only be free to act on the commandment of baptism while in the flesh. No one else can take our place for us. No one else makes a choice for us or supposes what choice we might choose. THE ONLY STATEMENT AS TO WHY! In regard to Baptism for the Dead, we find the following statement which was published after the death of Joseph Smith Jr. This is the only statement in any of the documents written on Baptism for the Dead which tell why Baptism for the Dead is necessary: for the salvation of the dead who should die without a knowledge of the gospel. Doctrine & Covenants 110:5 in Appendix (UDC 128:5) Why would Joseph Smith Jr. have written the above statement when we find statements from him and elsewhere that are in complete opposition to the above statement? We will now examine EIGHT TESTIMONIES which are in direct opposition to Baptism for the Dead and the above statement, and secondarily we will explore what happens to those who died without a knowledge of the gospel: WHAT BECOMES OF THOSE WHO DIED WITHOUT KNOWLEDGE OF THE GOSPEL? FIRST: The first testimony that contradicts Section 110:5 (UDC 128:5) on Baptism for the Dead is as follows: In a vision given to Joseph Smith Jr., in the House of the Lord at Kirtland, Ohio, January 21, 1836: I saw my brother Alvin, that has long since slept; And marveled how it was that he had obtained an inheritance in that kingdom, seeing that he had departed this life before the Lord had set his hand to gather Israel the second time, and had not been baptized for the remission of sins. Thus came the voice of the Lord unto me, saying: 9

All who have died without a knowledge of this gospel, who would have received it if they had been permitted to tarry, shall be heirs of the celestial kingdom of God; Also all that shall die henceforth without a knowledge of it, who would have received it with all their hearts, shall be heirs of that kingdom; For I, the Lord, will judge all men according to their works, according to the desire of their hearts. And I also beheld that all children who die before they arrive at the years of accountability are saved in the celestial kingdom of heaven. The History of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Vol. 2, page 16. [Also found in UDC, Section 137] From the testimony above we find that Baptism for the Dead is not necessary. The Lord s plan is merciful enough to cover all situations. SECOND: The second testimony that contradicts Section 110:5 (UDC 128:5) on Baptism for the Dead is from the words of Moroni: Behold I say unto you, that this thing shall ye teach, repentance and baptism unto those who are accountable and capable of committing sin; yea, teach parents that they must repent and be baptized, and humble themselves as their little children, and they shall all be saved with their little children: and their little children need no repentance, neither baptism. Behold, baptism is unto repentance to the fulfilling the commandments unto the remission of sins. But little children are alive in Christ, even from the foundation of the world; if not so, God is a partial God, and also a changeable God, and a respecter to persons; for how many little children have died without baptism. Wherefore, if little children could not be saved without baptism, these must have gone to an endless hell. Behold I say unto you, that he that supposeth that little children need baptism, is in the gall of bitterness, and in the bonds of iniquity; for he hath neither faith, hope, nor charity; wherefore, should he be cut off while in the thought, he must go down to hell. For awful is the wickedness to suppose that God saveth one child because of baptism, and the other must perish because he hath no baptism. Wo be unto him that shall pervert the ways of the Lord after this manner, for they shall perish, except they repent. Moroni 8:11-17 (UBM Moroni 8:10-16) For behold that all little children are alive in Christ, and also all they that are without the law. For the power of redemption cometh on all they that have no law; wherefore, he that is not condemned, or he that is under no condemnation, can not repent; and unto such baptism availeth nothing. 10

But is mockery before God, denying the mercies of Christ, and the power of his Holy Spirit, and putting trust in dead works. Behold, my son, this thing ought not to be; for repentance is unto them that are under condemnation, and under the curse of a broken law. And the first-fruits of repentance is baptism; and baptism cometh by faith, unto the fulfilling the commandments; and the fulfilling the commandments bringeth remission of sins; and the remission of sins bringeth meekness, and lowliness of heart; and because of meekness and lowliness of heart, cometh the visitation of the Holy Ghost, which Comforter filleth with hope and perfect love, which love endureth by diligence unto prayer, until the end shall come, when all the saints shall dwell with God. Moroni 8:25-29 (UBM Moroni 8:22-26) The concept of Baptism for the Dead is completely opposite from the Book of Mormon teachings. From the above words of Moroni and the vision of Joseph Smith Jr., we have been informed that those who died without the law are redeemed and need no baptism. How does this fit in with Baptism for the Dead? Moroni informs us by the Spirit of God that this is mockery before God and putting trust in Dead Works. According to Moroni all they that are without the law are not condemned and can not repent, therefore baptism availeth nothing and it is mockery before God. Moroni stated that those who think otherwise are putting trust in dead works. Moroni also stated that baptism is only necessary for those who are accountable and capable of committing sin. After we die, are we capable of committing sin? Moroni has previously explained that those who die without the law or those who knew no law are under no condemnation. Doesn t this mean that they are not capable of committing sin? To sin one must know the commandments and then openly break them or go against them. The Lord has told us that to whom much is given more is expected: For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required; and to whom the Lord has committed much, of him will men ask the more. Luke 12:57 (KJV Luke 12:48) The Lord has stated through Joseph Smith Jr.: Behold, I say unto you, that all old covenants have I caused to be done away in this thing, and this is a new and everlasting covenant; even that which was from the beginning. Wherefore, although a man should be baptized an hundred times, it availeth him nothing; for you can not enter in at the strait gate by the Law of Moses, neither by your dead works; for it is because of your dead works, that I have caused this last covenant, and this church to be built up unto me; even as in days of old. Wherefore, enter ye in at the gate, as I have commanded, and seek not to counsel your God. Amen. Doctrine & Covenants 20:1 (UDC 22:1-4) 11

Jesus stated: Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. John 10:1 KJV & IV Baptism an hundred times availeth nothing if we try to enter in by your dead works. Baptism for the Dead is Dead Works. Moroni has told us that Baptism for little children and those who died without the law is mockery before God and is putting trust in Dead Works. Isn t the concept of Baptism for the Dead trying to enter in by another entrance rather than coming in by the door? If so, then that person would be a thief and a robber. THIRD: The third testimony that contradicts Section 110:5 (UDC 128:5) on Baptism for the Dead is from the words of the Apostle Paul who stated: For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law; and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; Romans 2:12 KJV & IV But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Romans 3:21 KJV & IV Because the law worketh wrath; for where no law is, there is no transgression. Romans 4:15 KJV & IV But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. Romans 7:8 KJV & IV FOURTH: The fourth testimony that contradicts Section 110:5 (UDC 128:5) on Baptism for the Dead is from Jacob, son of Lehi who also states that when someone dies without knowing the law, there is no punishment or condemnation, and the mercies of Christ apply: Wherefore he hath given a law; and where there is no law given there is no punishment; And where there is no punishment, there is no condemnation; And where there is no condemnation, the mercies of the Holy One of Israel have claim upon them, because of the atonement: 12

For they are delivered by the power of him: for the atonement satisfieth the demands of his justice upon all those who have not the law given to them, that they are delivered from that awful monster, death and hell, and the devil, and the lake of fire and brimstone, which is endless torment; And they are restored to that God who gave them breath, which is the Holy One of Israel. 2 Nephi 6:51-55 (UBM 2 Nephi 9:25-26) FIFTH: The fifth testimony that contradicts Section 110:5 (UDC 128:5) on Baptism for the Dead is from an angel of the Lord who spoke to King Benjamin and told him that all those who die not knowing the Lord s will or who have ignorantly sinned are atoned for by the blood of Jesus: For behold, and also his blood atoneth for the sins of those who have fallen by the transgression of Adam, who have died, not knowing the will of God concerning them, or who have ignorantly sinned. But wo, wo unto him who knoweth that he rebelleth against God; for salvation cometh to none such, except it be through repentance and faith on the Lord Jesus Christ. And the Lord God hath sent his holy prophets among all the children of men to declare these things to every kindred, nation, and tongue, that thereby whosoever should believe that Christ should come, the same might receive remission of their sins, and rejoice with exceedingly great joy, even as though he had already come among them. Mosiah 1:107-109 (UBM Mosiah 3:11-13) SIXTH: The sixth testimony that contradicts Section 110:5 (UDC 128:5) on Baptism for the Dead is from the prophet Abinadi as he preached to the people of the wicked King Noah: And now, the resurrection of all the prophets, and all those that have believed in their words, or all those that have kept the commandments of God, shall come forth in the first resurrection; therefore, they are the first resurrection. They are raised to dwell with God who has redeemed them: thus they have eternal life through Christ, who has broken the bands of death. And these are those who have part in the first resurrection; and these are they that have died before Christ came, in their ignorance, not having salvation declared unto them. And thus the Lord bringeth about the restoration of these; and they have a part in the first resurrection, or have eternal life, being redeemed by the Lord. And little children also have eternal life. 13

But behold, and fear, and tremble before God; for ye ought to tremble: for the Lord redeemeth none such that rebel against him, and die in their sins; Yea, even all those that have perished in their sins ever since the world began, that have willfully rebelled against God, that have known the commandments of God, and would not keep them; these are they that have no part in the first resurrection. Mosiah 8:56-62 (UBM Mosiah 15:22-26) Peter spoke of preaching to those who were dead so that they might be judged the same as those who were alive in the flesh, but he states that those who were preached to, who were dead, should live in the spirit according to the will of God. There is never any mention of someone in the flesh being vicariously baptized for those who are in the spirit world. Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. Because of this, is the gospel preached to them who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live in the spirit according to the will of God. 1 Peter 4:5-6 KJV & IV Peter also spoke of Jesus going to the prison house and preaching to those who were disobedient in the days of Noah : For Christ also once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit, that he might bring us to God. For which cause also, he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Some of whom were disobedient in the days of Noah, while the longsuffering of God waited, while the ark was preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. 1 Peter 3:18-20 KJV & IV SEVENTH: When Peter spoke of the prison house, he was speaking of the same place that Joseph Smith Jr. saw as he relates it in Section 76 of the Doctrine and Covenants. This is the seventh testimony which contradicts Section 110:5 (UDC 128:5) on Baptism for the Dead: And again, we saw the terrestrial world, and, behold, and lo; these are they who are of the terrestrial, whose glory differs from that of the church of the Firstborn, who have received the fullness of the Father, even as that of the moon differs from the sun of the firmament. Behold, these are they who died without law; and also they who are the spirits of men kept in prison, whom the Son visited, and preached the gospel unto them, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, who received not the testimony of Jesus in the flesh, but afterwards received it; 14

these are they who are honorable men of the earth, who were blinded by the craftiness of men: these are they who receive of his glory, but not of his fullness; these are they who receive of the presence of the Son, but not of the fullness of the Father; wherefore they are bodies terrestrial, and not bodies celestial, and differ in glory as the moon differs from the sun; these are they who are not valiant in the testimony of Jesus; wherefore they obtained not the crown over the kingdom of our God. And now this is the end of the vision which we saw of the terrestrial, that the Lord commanded us to write while we were yet in the Spirit. Doctrine & Covenants 76:6 (UDC 76:71-80) The above scripture never mentions that they must be baptized vicariously by a mortal. On the contrary they are judged according to men in the flesh. Please notice the phrase who received not the testimony of Jesus in the flesh, but afterwards received it. Where is the requirement of Baptism for the Dead? Why isn t that mentioned here? This revelation would be an ideal place to inform us that these people in the Terrestrial Kingdom (Prison House) must be baptized vicariously, if indeed that is the case. If the Lord requires baptism while in the flesh, they will get their bodies back in the resurrection and then they can be baptized in the millennium in their immortal bodies. EIGHTH: Those in the prison house who knew no law (Terrestrial Kingdom) will be resurrected in the first resurrection with those who are in the Celestial Kingdom. This is the eighth testimony contradicting Section 110:5 (UDC 128:5) on Baptism for the Dead: And then shall the heathen nations be redeemed, and they that knew no law shall have part in the first resurrection; and it shall be tolerable for them; and Satan shall be bound that he shall have no place in the hearts of the children of men. Doctrine & Covenants 45:10a (UDC 45:54-55) LIFE IS PROBATIONARY: Alma II spoke of how this life is a probationary period of time: Then is a time that whosoever dieth in his sins, as to a temporal death, shall also die a spiritual death: yea, he shall die as to things pertaining unto righteousness; Then is the time when their torments shall be as a lake of fire and brimstone, whose flames ascendeth up for ever and ever; 15

And then is the time that they shall be chained down to an everlasting destruction, according to the power and captivity of Satan: he having subjected them according to his will. Then I say unto you, They shall be as though there had been no redemption made; for they can not be redeemed according to God's justice; and they can not die, seeing there is no more corruption. Therefore this life became a probationary state; a time to prepare to meet God; a time to prepare for that endless state, which has been spoken of by us, which is after the resurrection of the dead. Alma 9:29-32, 41 (UBM Alma 12:16-18, 24) Amulek stated that at death it is too late to repent. The act of baptism is the first fruits of repentance in this probationary time here on earth, and is a step in preparing us to meet God: For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God: yea, behold, the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors. And now as I said unto you before, as ye have had so many witnesses, therefore I beseech of you, that ye do not procrastinate the day of your repentance until the end; For after this day of life, which is given us to prepare for eternity, behold, if we do not improve our time while in this life, then cometh the night of darkness, wherein there can be no labor performed. Ye can not say, when ye are brought to that awful crisis, that I will repent, that I will return to my God. Nay, ye can not say this; for that same spirit which doth possess your bodies at the time that ye go out of this life, that same spirit will have power to possess your body in that eternal world. For behold, if ye have procrastinated the day of your repentance, even until death, behold, ye have become subjected to the spirit of the devil, and he doth seal you his; Therefore the Spirit of the Lord hath withdrawn from you, and hath no place in you, and the devil hath all power over you; and this is the final state of the wicked. Alma 16:228-234 (UBM Alma 34:32-35) Amulek has told us we shouldn t procrastinate or put off our repentance because if we die without repentance we become subject to the spirit of the devil. Where does Baptism for the Dead come in? Alma II stated to his son Corianton: And now behold, my son, do not risk one more offense against your God upon those points of doctrine, which ye have hitherto risked to commit sin. Do not suppose, because it has been spoken concerning restoration, that ye shall be restored from sin to happiness. Behold, I say unto you, Wickedness never was happiness. 16

And now, my son, all men that are in a state of nature, or I would say, in a carnal state, are in the gall of bitterness, and in the bonds of iniquity; they are without God in the world, and they have gone contrary to the nature of God; therefore they are in a state contrary to the nature of happiness. And now behold, is the meaning of the word restoration, to take a thing of a natural state, and place it in an unnatural state, or to place it in a state opposite to its nature? O, my son, this is not the case; but the meaning of the word restoration, is to bring back again evil for evil, or carnal for carnal, or devilish for devilish; good for that which is good; righteous for that which is righteous; just for that which is just; merciful for that which is merciful; Therefore, my son, see that ye are merciful unto your brethren; deal justly, judge righteously, and do good continually; and if ye do all these things, then shall ye receive your reward; Yea, ye shall have mercy restored unto you again; ye shall have justice restored unto you again; ye shall have a righteous judgment restored unto you again; And ye shall have good rewarded unto you again; for that which ye do send out, shall return unto you again, and be restored; therefore the word restoration, more fully condemneth the sinner, and justifieth him not at all. Alma 19:72-80 (UBM Alma 41:9-15) What, do ye suppose that mercy can rob justice? I say unto you, Nay; not one whit. If so, God would cease to be God. And thus God bringeth about his great and eternal purposes, which were prepared from the foundation of the world. And thus cometh about the salvation and redemption of men, and also their destruction and misery; therefore, O my son, whosoever will come, may come, and partake of the waters of life freely; And whosoever will not come, the same is not compelled to come; but in the last day it shall be restored unto him, according to his deeds. If he has desired to do evil, and has not repented in his days, behold evil shall be done unto him, according to the restoration of God. Alma 19:107-111 (UBM Alma 42:25-28) Alma has stated in the above scripture that if we don t repent in our days, that we are restored to that same condition. We reap what we sow. How does Baptism for the Dead fit in with this knowledge? FULLNESS OF THE GOSPEL! The Book of Mormon contains the Fullness of the Gospel and therefore the prophets would have recorded in its pages information regarding Baptism for the Dead, had it been a part of the plan. Nothing is ever spoken of in regard to Baptism for the Dead in the 17

Book of Mormon. Revelation from Joseph Smith Jr. teaches us that the Book of Mormon contains the fullness of the gospel, and the term fullness means complete : the Book of Mormon, which contains a record of a fallen people, and the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, and to the Jews also, which was given by inspiration Doctrine & Covenants 17:2c-d (UDC 20:8-10) Behold, this is wisdom in me; wherefore marvel not, for the hour cometh that I will drink of the fruit of the vine with you on the earth, and with Moroni, whom I have sent unto you to reveal the Book of Mormon, containing the fullness of my everlasting gospel; Doctrine & Covenants 26:2a (UDC 27:5) And there are none that doeth good except those who are ready to receive the fullness of my gospel, which I have sent forth unto this generation. Doctrine & Covenants 34:3e (UDC 35:12) CHURCH CONDEMNED: The church had already gone contrary to the will of the Lord by September 22, 1832 according to the following statement by the Lord where we are told that the whole church is under condemnation, and we will remain under this condemnation until we repent and remember the new covenant, even the Book of Mormon and the former commandments. We have yet to remember or even accept the doctrine of the Book of Mormon and former commandments. We hold onto the false traditions of our fathers in the same way that the Lamanites did. Tradition can be used as a good thing or a bad thing. Many Book of Mormon believers claim to believe in the teachings of the Book of Mormon, but when hearing various quotes from its pages, many become offended. The Lord knew the hearts of the people, and this is why they were not permitted to stay in the land of Zion. Many were sent away to the land of Utah, while others were scattered: And your minds in times past have been darkened because of unbelief, and because you have treated lightly the things you have received, which vanity and unbelief hath brought the whole church under condemnation. And this condemnation resteth upon the children of Zion, even all; and they shall remain under this condemnation until they repent and remember the new covenant, even the Book of Mormon and the former commandments which I have given them, not only to say, but to do according to that which I have written, That they may bring forth fruit meet for their Father's kingdom, otherwise there remaineth a scourge and a judgment to be poured out upon the children of Zion; for, shall the children of the kingdom pollute my holy land? Verily, I say unto you, Nay. Doctrine and Covenants 83:8a-c (UDC 84:54-59) 18

Joseph Smith Jr. was told that his name would be used for good and evil. It seems ironic that most of the evil comes from those who claim to believe him to be a prophet, since many false doctrines have been attached to his name. Joseph had accused the twelve Apostles of being outlaws on August 4, 1835: We further inform the Twelve, that, as far as we can learn from the Churches through which we have traveled, you have set yourselves up as an independent council, subject to no authority of the church, a kind of outlaws! This impression is wrong, and will, if persisted in, bring down the indignation of heaven upon your heads. DHC 2:240, Millennial Star 15:298. (The word No was not published in the Millennial Star 15:298 (May 7, 1853), but is found in the DHC.) In November of 1839 a paper began to be printed entitled Times and Seasons. On November 30, 1841 Willard Richards, one of the Twelve, took over the Times and Seasons. (RLDS Church History, Vol. 2, p. 554) On March 1, 1842 Joseph Smith Jr. assumed editorial charge of the Times and Seasons and gave the following disclaimer to anything printed in it up until this time: TO SUBSCRIBERS This paper (Times and Seasons) commences my editorial career. I alone stand responsible for it, and shall do for all papers having my signature henceforward. I am not responsible for the publication or arrangement of the former paper; the matter did not come under my supervision. Joseph Smith, Jr. RLDS Church History, Vol. 2, p. 570. & Times and Seasons, Vol. 3, p. 710. On November 15, 1842 Joseph Smith Jr. resigned as editor of the Times and Seasons. (RLDS Church History, Vol. 2, p. 605 & Times and Seasons, vol. 4, p.8) His time as editor of the Times and Seasons was only for approximately eight months. During that period of time it is not likely that he really was able to do the job because of severe persecution which resulted in him not being in Nauvoo for much of this time. John Taylor took over as editor, and this gave the twelve Apostles complete control of everything that was printed by the church, and this allowed false doctrine to enter into the church. The Lord stated through the prophet Joseph Smith Jr. in 1828: Behold, this is my doctrine: Whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church; whosoever declareth more or less than this, the same is not of me, but is against me; therefore, he is not of my church. Doctrine & Covenants 3:16a-b (UDC 10:67-68) The documents which speak of Baptism for the Dead [Doctrine and Covenants 107 (UDC 124), 109 (UDC 127), and 110 (UDC 128)] were not printed until after the Prophet Joseph Smith s death in 1844. These documents, as well as the document on polygamy were not revelations from the prophet Joseph Smith Jr. simply because God is not the author of confusion and because He is unchangeable. Because Brigham Young was president of the twelve Apostles, he had complete control over the affairs of the church. 19

It must be remembered that Brigham Young didn t print the document on polygamy until 1852, which was long after Joseph s death. Everything that we now have in regard to the Times and Seasons was carried to Utah and is from the Utah church. John Taylor who succeeded Brigham Young as president of the LDS Church (Mormon) stated on March 20, 1870 in the Journal of Discourses 14:187: We know something about our progenitors, and God has taught us how to be saviors for them by being baptized for them in the flesh, that they may live according to God in the Spirit. The above statement is not consistent with the scriptures. In Hebrew, the word Savior means bring salvation. We mortals will not become saviors of mankind. The eternal sacrifice was made and there is only One Savior for mankind that is Jesus Christ our Lord. Jesus is our only redeemer and the only mediator between God and man. Paul stated: Who is willing to have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth which is in Christ Jesus, who is the Only Begotten Son of God, and ordained to be a Mediator between God and man; who is one God, and hath power over all men. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 1 Timothy 2:4-5 IV Lehi also spoke of the Lord being the Mediator and how we are to hearken unto his great commandments : And now, my sons, I would that ye should look to the great Mediator, and hearken unto his great commandments; 2 Nephi 1:122 (UBM 2 Nephi 2:28) Where is it recorded that Jesus ever spoke of Baptism for the Dead? To believe in Baptism for the Dead one must believe that all those who died without baptism must have someone here on earth baptized for them in order for them to inherit the Kingdom of God. David stated: None can by any means redeem his brother; Nor give to God a ransom for him that he should still live forever, that it ceaseth not forever to see corruption. For the redemption of their souls is through God, and precious. But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave, for he shall receive me. Psalms 49:7-9, 15 IV & KJV Wilford Woodruff who succeeded John Taylor as president of the LDS Church (Mormon) stated on June 26, 1881 in the Journal of Discourses 22:234: 20

We have a great work before us in the redemption of our dead There are fifty thousand millions of people in the Spirit world Those persons may receive their testimony, but they cannot be baptized in the spirit world, for somebody on earth must perform this ordinance for them in the flesh before they can receive part in the first resurrection and be worthy of eternal life. The above statement is contrary to the following scripture: And then shall the heathen nations be redeemed, and they that knew no law shall have part in the first resurrection; and it shall be tolerable for them; and Satan shall be bound that he shall have no place in the hearts of the children of men. Doctrine & Covenants 45:10a (UDC 45:54-55) GENEALOGIES: The concept of Baptism for the Dead requires genealogies to be kept. What does the Lord say about genealogies? Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith; so do. 1 Timothy 1:4 KJV & IV But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. Titus 3:9 KJV & IV GOSPEL PRINCIPLES ARE PROVEN! The Lord has told us that we must have two or three witnesses for all things to be proven: in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. Matthew 18:16 KJV & IV In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. 2 Corinthians 13:1 KJV & IV Wherefore, by the words of three, God hath said, I will establish my word. Nevertheless, God sendeth more witnesses; and he proveth all his words. 2 Nephi 8:5-6 (UBM 2 Nephi 11:3) And the testimony of three witnesses will I send forth of my word; and, behold, whosoever believeth on my words, them will I visit with the manifestation of my Spirit, and they shall be born of me, even of water and of the Spirit. Doctrine & Covenants 5:3e (UDC 5:15-16) 21

And in the mouth of two or three witnesses, shall every word be established. Doctrine & Covenants 6:13b (UDC 6:28) Notice that Nephi states that God will send more witnesses, and he proveth all his words. This shows that God is not the author of confusion but of order. Jesus always stated: It is written! Therefore, if we use the scriptures to prove his words we cannot be deceived, but if we accept prophecy or revelation that is not proven by his previously given word, then we fall into the trap Satan desires of us, and we are led away from the true words of God. Paul reasoned out of the scriptures: And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three Sabbath days reasoned with them out of the Scriptures These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Acts 17:2, 11 KJV & IV These early saints searched the scriptures so as to prove the truthfulness or falseness of Paul s words to them. They did not take his words to be truth just because Paul was the one speaking to them. In fact Paul told them: But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. Galatians 1:8 KJV & IV Paul wanted the early saints to realize that the Lord s gospel was unchangeable. He was emphasizing the point that Satan could appear as an angel of light to deceive them, and they had to be on the alert always recognizing the unchangeable pattern of God. The question must be asked, If God wanted to prove that Baptism for the Dead was a true doctrine, wouldn t He have told his prophets throughout the scriptures that this was a doctrine that He wanted established? The Lord states that he sendeth more witnesses; and he proveth all his words. There is no proof that Baptism for the Dead is a doctrine of Jesus Christ. The scripture in 1 Corinthians 15:29 is not a testimony proving that Paul is supporting the proposition that Baptism for the Dead is part of the doctrine of Christ. There is no other scripture in the Bible to support this proposition; neither is there in the Book of Mormon. There isn t any mention of it until the 1840 s when Joseph Smith Jr s name was attached to the documents which speak of it, and they weren t printed until after his death. The church history has been distorted and changed by those leaders in the church who sought after their own interests and not after the Lord s. Satan always finds a way to lead people into false doctrine. Jesus gave the way that we are to be baptized, and he makes it clear that this is to be the only way of baptism. Jesus did not mention Baptism for the Dead! And he said unto them, On this wise shall ye baptize; and there shall be no disputations among you. 22