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Source: Church History Vol. 3 Chapter 14 Page: 300 (~1862)

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300 oppressive. To such as are willing to live by every word of God, and inquire, what is required by this law? we point to the law itself. Firstly, your surplus is required. Secondly, after this, one tenth of your interest or gains from time to time. You are all stewards of the great Master, and what is needed to prosecute your own stewardship is not required, but above this is your surplus; that is required, and of this you, and each of you, are to judge, and be your own exactors, and Israel's exactors are to be all righteous. It is for all that have surnamed themselves Israel, to see that they deal righteously in this matter, as between themselves and Him that seeth the hearts as well as the acts of men. It is but a systematic freewill offering, gathered where it is not needed and placed where it is, for the general weal.

"Finally, brethren, be of good cheer, for the light of truth shines with renewed brilliancy upon the pathway that saints are called to walk. Zion, the pure in heart, must be redeemed by righteousness, but the land of Zion by power. The first we may, by the grace of God, work out; the second, we leave in the hands of him that hath power and that doeth all things well.

"Commending all saints to the mercy of God, and fellowship of his Spirit, through our Lord Jesus Christ.

"By order of the quorum.

"JASON W. BRIGGS, President.

"October 25, 1861."

-True Latter Day Saints' Herald, vol. 2, pp. 155-157.

To this Epistle of the Twelve an "appendix" was subsequently added in the language of President Joseph Smith, partaking of the nature and authority of a revelation from God. It is as follows:-

"APPENDIX TO THE EPISTLE OF THE TWELVE.

"In order to place the church in a position to carry on the promulgation of the gospel, and as a means of fulfilling the law, the Twelve will take measures in connection with the Bishop, to execute the law of tithing; and let them before God see to it, that the temporal means so obtained is truly

(page 300)

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