Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 48a, 1878

Smith, Uriah

August 1878

Previously unpublished.

Elder Uriah Smith or any one acting in his place as editor:

I feel it my duty to caution you in regard to putting in the columns of Review flattering notices exalting individuals. 3LtMs, Lt 48a, 1878, par. 1

I have been shown these things are not as God would have them. Exalt Christ, magnify the Saviour, but in no case flatter and extol man. 3LtMs, Lt 48a, 1878, par. 2

There are, I am sorry to say, notices sent in by our ministers, flattering notices of the work of this minister and that young man who was doing a work, an excellent work; and these men are exalted, and every such notice better not go into the paper. 3LtMs, Lt 48a, 1878, par. 3

I cannot speak to every one who has so little wisdom as to lift up poor, weak, failing man to notice and applause, but I speak to you as a man in a responsible position to leave out everything of a personal character in applause of these men whatever good work they may be doing. 3LtMs, Lt 48a, 1878, par. 4

It is a species of idolatry. It has ruined its thousands and tens of tens of thousands. Lift up Jesus, exalt Jesus, and say nothing to call attention to poor, erring, failing man. 3LtMs, Lt 48a, 1878, par. 5

You may correct this as you think best and have it placed in the Review. 3LtMs, Lt 48a, 1878, par. 6

P.S. I am disgusted with notices which appear of individuals whom I know are corrupt at heart. There is a flaming notice of Brother Miller’s elocutionary efforts. The Millers are all in danger of thinking too much of themselves. Let the watchmen guard these matters. 3LtMs, Lt 48a, 1878, par. 7