The Progress of Man - 1952

by Joseph Fielding Smith

1936. Written by an Elder and Historian of the Church and a member of the Council of the Twelve Apostles. This is a brief treatise on the outlines of man's history upon the earth, his periods of advancement and retrogression, the governments and laws-divine and human-to which he has been subject through the ages, with a declaration that it is the right of Jesus Christ to rule and reign upon the Earth. Also a declaration that the hand of the Almighty has been over the nations, limiting them in their exercise of power, and turning their designs to His own purposes. The facts of history are interpreted in the light of the revealed Word of God, and the final destiny of the Earth and Man is foreshadowed. See other titles by this author available from Kessinger Publishing.

Genres: Religion, Lds

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1964

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

[William Nixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read!

A prophet of God reveals the Destiny of man and our progress. Humbly read and pray about his message. Glory be the Father and the Son and the Holy Ghost.

[Ethan Chappell · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was interesting to see the view of world history in the eyes of a prophet of God. The Constitution of the United States was a big focus and the end of the world.

[Craig · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Progress of Man" was written by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith (then an Apostle) in 1936 as a lesson text for the classes of the Genealogical Society of Utah. It is an outline history of man interpreted in light of revelation. It is the story of Man's progress in life upon the earth until he reaches his exaltation in the celestial kingdon, having overcome all things in compliance with divine, eternal law. It is also a story of the despotic, wicked governments of fallen man which have been extant on the earth since the days of Adam. Notwithstanding the wickedness of most governments during the earth's history, the Kingdom of God and of Heaven will prevail, and one day the earth will be celestialized and become the habitation of all celestial and exalted beings who lived on it during their mortal probation.

[goddess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and thought-provoking book. Definitely not one that could or should be read quickly (500+ pages), as there are many concepts to contemplate. This book covers many topics that have to do with this earth and its development, and the progress of man (hence the title): The Govt of God, the Nephites and Lamanites, the Discovery of America, the American Revolution, the mission of the United States, the destiny of man, etc. I enjoy these kind of books, because I like having things put in perspective and viewed as an overall 'big picture'.

[Jack Nieporte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book