As Joseph Smith’s ministry matured, he understood himself as a key player in the kingdom of God on earth and in heaven. He believed and plainly stated that he had companionship among the ranks of a few choice prophets and seers in earth’s history. He argued that the same God who called upon them, called upon him. Their fate was his fate.
Joseph knew this work might cost him his life. Even before the Church was officially organized the Lord began hinting: “I grant unto you eternal life, even if you should be slain” (D&C 5:22). How it would all end was very clear.
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