Will We Preserve the Constitution?

Will We Preserve the Constitution?


I remember being taught as a child that one day the Constitution would hang by a thread, and that the Latter-day Saints would save it. I think some versions of this oral tradition is that the Elders of the Church would be called in to save it, that it would not be saved from within. I believe that it may have been originally spoken by Joseph Smith, the first prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

I believe that it will take righteous people of many faiths to turn the Country around from the direction it is now headed. We know that when we turn to the Lord and repent, He will turn to us and forgive and bless us again.

Will you please find sources for the quote I mentioned and the main thoughts about it from Church leaders?





ChatGPT’s response:

The idea that the Constitution will "hang by a thread" and that the Latter-day Saints will save it is a well-known concept within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as the "White Horse Prophecy." This prophecy is commonly attributed to Joseph Smith, though its authenticity and exact wording are subjects of debate. Here are some sources and thoughts from Church leaders on this topic:

  1. Joseph Smith's Statements:
    • While there are references to Joseph Smith discussing the future peril of the Constitution, the most specific version, known as the "White Horse Prophecy," is not officially canonized or fully verified by the Church. It is said that Joseph Smith mentioned that the time would come when the Constitution would be in danger and that the Elders of the Church would be pivotal in its preservation.
  2. Church Leaders' Views:
    • Ezra Taft Benson: President Benson frequently spoke about the Constitution and the need for Latter-day Saints to uphold and defend it. He emphasized the divine origin of the Constitution and the role of Church members in its preservation.
      • In his talk "The Constitution—A Heavenly Banner" (1986), President Benson stated, "It is our duty to recognize in the Constitution a glorious standard, a heavenly banner."
      • He also mentioned the prophecy indirectly, encouraging members to be vigilant and proactive in defending constitutional principles.
    • David O. McKay: President McKay also spoke about the Constitution and its importance, urging members to be active in civic duties and to uphold constitutional principles.
    • Orson Hyde: In a discourse given in 1858, Orson Hyde mentioned, "Will the Constitution be destroyed? No: it will be held inviolate by this people; and as Joseph Smith said, 'The time will come when the Constitution of our country will hang as it were by a thread, and that thread as fine as the finest silk fiber.'"
  3. Modern Context:
    • Church leaders continue to emphasize the importance of civic engagement and adherence to constitutional principles. They encourage members to be active participants in their communities and to work with people of all faiths and backgrounds to uphold freedom and righteousness.
  4. Official Church Position:
    • The Church has not officially canonized the "White Horse Prophecy" and often advises caution in its interpretation and application. The emphasis is placed on the broader principles of upholding and defending the Constitution and engaging in righteous civic duties.

For a deeper exploration of these themes, you might consider looking at talks from General Conferences, especially those focused on patriotism, civic duty, and the importance of the Constitution. Additionally, the Church History Library and other official Church publications can provide more context and detailed discussions on this topic.

 

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