This subject is also found in _Blood Atonement and the Origin of Plural
Marriage_, therefore only a brief outline will be given here. Joseph
Smith taught that there were certain sins so grievous that man may
commit, that will place the transgressors beyond the power of the
atonement of Christ. If these offenses are committed, then the blood of
Christ will not cleanse them from their sins even though they repent.
Therefore their only hope is to have their own blood shed to _atone_,
as far as possible, in their behalf. This is Scriptural doctrine, and
is taught in all the standard works of the Church. The doctrine was
established in the beginning, that "Whoso sheddeth man's blood, _by man
shall his_ blood shed to _atone_ as far as possible, in their behalf.
For a commandment I give, that every man's brother shall preserve the
life of man, for in mine own image have I made man."--(Genesis 9:12-13,
Inspired Scriptures).
This was the law among the Nephites: "Wo unto the murderer, who
deliberately killeth, _for he shall die_."--(II Nephi 9:35).
John says: "If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto
death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not
unto death. _There is a sin unto death_: I do not say that ye shall
pray for it."
Every nation since the world began has practiced blood atonement at
least in part as that doctrine is based upon the Scriptures. And men
for certain crimes have had to _atone_ for their sins wherein they have
placed themselves beyond the redeeming power of the blood of Christ.
But that the Church practices "Blood Atonement" on apostates or any
others, which is preached by ministers of the "Reorganization" is a
damnable falsehood for which the accusers must answer.