Brigham Young and Church Leadership After Joseph's Death

The dissolution of leadership positions and the reorganization of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (The Church) during the succession crisis of the 1840s are subjects of historical debate. The question often arises regarding whether Brigham Young usurped powers that rightfully belonged to the Twelve Apostles, the Seventies, and the High Council. This article delves into the events and context surrounding this period, emphasizing the role of Parley P. Pratt and the spiritual guidance received by the leaders of the Church.

Brigham Young's Return and Reorganization

Following the tragic deaths of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, Brigham Young returned to Nauvoo. The timing of his arrival and the actions taken by Young have been subjects of much scrutiny. It is important to understand that Young did not immediately solidify his authority; rather, he worked to reestablish order and continue the mission as dictated by the Second Counselor in the First Presidency, Parley P. Pratt.

Upon recounting his experiences in Nauvoo, Pratt described a profound spiritual encounter:

On a sudden the Spirit of God came upon me and filled my heart with joy and gladness indescribable and while the spirit of revelation glowed in my bosom with as visible a warmth and gladness as if it were fire. The Spirit said unto me: …Go and say unto my people in Nauvoo that they shall continue to pursue their daily duties and take care of themselves and make no movement in Church government to reorganize or alter anything until the return of the remainder of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. But exhort them that they continue to build the House of the Lord which I have commanded them to build in Nauvoo.

Pratt’s account emphasizes the importance of maintaining order and adhering to the directives of the remaining leaders of the Church. Young’s actions demonstrated a commitment to the faith and the preservation of its structure, rather than a unilateral reorganization of leadership.

The Significance of the Keys of the Kingdom

A deeper understanding of the church’s structure and authority is necessary to grasp the significance of the keys of the kingdom of heaven. In his teachings, Jesus explicitly entrusted Peter with these keys, describing them as the authority to bind or loose in heaven and on earth. This authority was then passed to the Twelve Apostles shortly before his crucifixion, as recorded in the Gospel according to Matthew:

And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That in whatever house ye enter, there abide ye, and whatsoever city ye enter, there abide ye: And whoso receiveth you receiveth me, and whoso receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. And verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall give you a cup of cold water in my name, ye shall in no wise lose your reward. (Matthew 10:11-13)

Parley P. Pratt, a witness to these events, reported Joseph Smith’s own recollection of the endowment and the keys of the kingdom:

I know not why but for some reason I am constrained to hasten my preparations and to confer upon the Twelve all the ordinances keys covenants endowments and sealing ordinances of the priesthood and so set before them a pattern in all things pertaining to the sanctuary and the endowment therein.

Wilford Woodruff further corroborated these events, affirming that Joseph Smith’s teaching and ministering to the Twelve Apostles lasted “for some months before his death ... he spent day after day week after week and month after month teaching them.” This period of instruction was critical in preparing the apostles for future responsibilities.

The Continued Mission and Leadership

The continued mission and leadership of the apostles were paramount in maintaining the structure and faith. Joseph Smith’s final teachings encapsulated the importance of the keys and authority bestowed upon the apostles:

I now rejoice. I have lived until I have seen this burden which has rested on my shoulders rolled on to the shoulders of other men now...

These words underscore the transition of leadership and the importance of the apostles in leading the Church, even in the aftermath of Joseph’s death. Brigham Young’s role was to maintain the faith and structure of the Church, ensuring that the apostles could continue their mission without disruption.

The succession crisis was a tumultuous period, but through spiritual guidance and the tradition of Joseph Smith, the apostles were able to continue leading the Church. The key figures, such as Parley P. Pratt, played a crucial role in ensuring the preservation of the Church’s structure and authority.

Conclusion

Far from usurping power, Brigham Young’s actions were focused on maintaining the order and faith of the Church. The spiritual guidance received by the leaders, particularly Parley P. Pratt, ensured that the transition of leadership occurred smoothly and with the best interests of the Church in mind. The keys of the kingdom and the teachings of Joseph Smith became the foundational principles for the continued growth and leadership of the Church.

Through a careful examination of historical accounts and the teachings of the apostles, it becomes clear that the reorganization of the Church was a natural process of maintaining and strengthening the faith, rather than a sudden usurpation of power.

Keywords: Brigham Young, Joseph Smith, Twelve Apostles, Church Hierarchy, Nauvoo