. . . the Church
today, like the Church in the first centuries of the Christian Era, is
constantly in danger. As it was in the first century, so now, we must guard
against the introduction of false doctrines, theories, and practices into the
Church for in this day there are those who arise, as they arose in the days of
the apostles of old, who would pervert the way of the Lord; those of an
apostate spirit, who would lead away many after them. If we are informed as we
should be, then these evil designing persons will have no influence upon the
members of the Church. (Joseph Fielding Smith, Church History and Modern
Revelation: Being a Course of Study for the Melchizedek Priesthood
Quorums for the year 1947 First Series [Salt Lake City: The Deseret News Press, 1946],
Preface)
If the members of the
Church will carefully consider the word of the Lord and follow the precepts
here given they will not be deceived by the evil spirits of man or devils. The
promise is made in a positive manner that all "who buildeth upon this rock
shall never fall." Yet, said to say, there are members of the Church who
are ready to follow any theory, philosophy, or strange doctrine especially if
with it there is something mysterious. (Ibid., 184)
