The Way to Perfection

by Joseph Fielding Smith

The publication of this text, The Way to Perfection, has come about through repeated requests from our workers for a faith-promoting discussion of doctrinal principles and historical themes which justify the large place salvation for the living and the dead occupies in the life of every Latter-day Saint. After much hesitation on his part the author was persuaded, and appointed, by the Board of Directors of the Genealogical Society of Utah, to undertake such a work. The principles of the Gospel do not change. In connection with the lessons previously published, doctrines of the Church have been considered. This present text is not an attempt to give to the saints something new. The ordinances of baptism, laying on of hands, ordination, etc., are the same today as they have been through all generations since the beginning of time. Yet it is a fact, as every Latter-day Saint can say, that these principles which never change are in another sense always new. All who delight in the keeping of the commandments of the Lord are made to rejoice in every discussion of these principles. They never tire of hearing them. Yet old and familiar subjects may be dressed in new clothes; they need not always be presented in the self-same way; and it is always the application of Gospel truths in human lives which gives them their vital significance. It is hoped that the study and discussion of the principles here presented will inspire Latter-day Saints to be awake to their privileges and duties, to live more worthy lives, and to be more valiant in the service of God. This book has been prepared not only for study by genealogical workers, but for general use throughout the Church.

Genres: Religion, Church, Mormonism, Lds, Spirituality

365 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1978

About the author

Joseph Fielding Smith, Jr. was the tenth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) from 1970 until his death. He was the son of Joseph F. Smith, who was the sixth president of the LDS Church. His grandfather was Hyrum Smith, brother of LDS Church founder Joseph Smith, Jr., who was Joseph Fielding's great-uncle.

Reviews

[Marla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The start to the book was a little rough for me. I read a lot of history and I know you should not try to judge people of the past based on ideals of a current time. It brings up some controversial ideas. They were controversial at the time as well. It is good as you approach this book that you pause and research. In fact, that may be one of my favorite things about this book. It helped me pause. Look at things which are sometimes hard in church history and view them from the perspective of those living in that time.
It is written by the grandson of Hyrum Smith. Hyrum was killed when Joseph F Smith, Joseph Fielding Smiths father, was only 5 yrs old. Learning about Joseph F Smiths history is amazing and I highly recommend pausing to do so. Joseph F Smith was mentored a lot, therefore, by Brigham Young. So it is easy to see how some of his thinking may have been more influenced by Brigham than by Joseph and Hyrum Smith. And then, how his thinking would have influenced the author of this book. Especially in regard to who is allowed to hold the priesthood. A diligent student who wants to learn about this topic can find it on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint website. They will find there, that the ideas discussed in this book relative to who can hold the priesthood are totally disavowed by the church today. Under Joseph Smith, blacks did hold the priesthood and received all the temple blessings. It doesn’t take much to look at the churches history, the Missouri issues, the problems in Utah as a territory and in becoming a state and see the challenges Brigham was grappling with. Who can say but him. But it is extremely interesting that the changes with blacks and priesthood were never claimed to be from a revelation of a prophet. It was first addressed in a public political debate between two very early and great members of the church. Brigham vs Orson Pratt in 1856. Also interesting that Brigham Young in 1845 didn’t believe the things he was saying in 1856. It is very possible that the problems Brigham was facing politically for the saints in Utah could have been what caused him to change his words. Easy to see that the problems in this country eventually leading to the civil war, 1861-1865, were a driving force politically for Brigham. Especially when at the same time he was fighting battles with polygamy (another topic in the book which, for the diligent student, gives another opportunity to understanding ).
I was glad I did not put down the book. I did my research, put in the spiritual work, and came out understanding more for reading this book then I did before. It was a vehicle that challenged me to greater knowledge. That may not have been the intent of the author, but like a lot of older works of history, is often the case.
The rest of the book was interesting, in the sense of view,as well. A view from an earlier era. Some of which is still present and some of which I haven’t heard much. Like talking with someone living 100 years ago. A hundred years closer to those early saints and their vision and their struggles. I’m extremely glad I read it. It is now filled with my notes and will be a great reference for me of what I have learned.

[Gable Roth · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was an interesting book to read for sure! It was written almost 100 years ago and a lot of opinions and attitudes have changed within the church and world in that time so it was kind of fun to see some of that come through in the pages.

Maybe this book was ground breaking and whatnot when it was published but to me it was kind of like reading a scripture study manual. He brings up some interesting points and a few of them were noteworthy. But for the most part the average scriptorian would already understand most of what he talks about. The book didn't really flow very well and, as is often the case with these religious books, was not titled very well. A more appropriate title would have had something to do with the plan of salvation because that is basically what this book is. It talks of our pre-earth life, our mortal life, and our afterlife.

I guess I wouldn't really recommend it to anyone in this day and age. It is OK but not the best. Read something more modern instead.

[Kipling Peterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love historic works and this one comes from one of the greatest minds in religious history. The book is at times difficult to follow but it has never overwhelmed me or placed a sense of concern or doubt in my mind. Yes, it is a bit dated in tone and progressive view but not at all uninspired. A great source for anyone interested in church history and who is curious about deeper core beliefs.

The best portion, not to be missed, is Chapter 33, "The Glory of God is Intelligence". The chapter discusses the difference between intelligence and knowledge - absolutely stunning - I've shared it with family, friends, and touched on it when I teach. Loved it!

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Picked it up off my shelf. Old book of Grandma's. Interesting to read as it came from different time and a few ideas in it have been later disavowed....overall just good reminders of righteous living.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just your basic, old school, makes sense, interpretation of doctrine, from an established and inspired source.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book on a shelf in my house one day. It's very old and out of print and I didn't even know we had it, but I loved it! It was not light reading (it took me a few months of study to get through it). It was good instruction though. I learned a great deal about characters of the Old Testament and it clarified many scriptures that I thought I already understood. President Smith explains doctrines of salvation in a way that makes me want to know more and then to do more of what I know is right.

[goddess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read on an array of gospel topics.....from premortal life, to Ephraim's role in the 2nd Coming, to the Spirit World, to the Resurrection.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book. full of wisdom.