Succession in the Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

Succession in the Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints by B. H. Roberts offers a detailed historical account of the leadership crisis following the martyrdom of Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum in 1844. The church was suddenly without its prophet-president, sparking multiple claims and schisms regarding rightful succession. Sidney Rigdon, Joseph’s counselor, asserted his right as 'Guardian' but was overwhelmingly rejected by the church body. Brigham Young and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles asserted their authority, supported by a remarkable event where Young was said to be 'transfigured' and spoke with Joseph Smith’s voice, convincing the majority to sustain the Twelve as the presiding quorum.

Other claimants emerged, including William Smith, Joseph’s brother, who based his claim on lineage and was appointed patriarch 'to' the church but not 'over' it. His turbulent and ungovernable nature led to his disfellowshipment and excommunication. Lucy Smith, mother of Joseph and William, supported William’s claims through visions but was counseled otherwise by church leaders. Lyman Wight and Bishop George Miller rebelled and were excommunicated, while James J. Strang claimed succession through a letter and revelation, even crowning himself king on Beaver Island before his assassination and the dissolution of his faction.

The book contrasts these failed schismatic efforts with the steadfast leadership of the Twelve Apostles, particularly Brigham Young, who led the church through the difficult Nauvoo exodus and settlement in the Rocky Mountains. Under their direction, the church expanded its stakes, increased missionary work worldwide, and emphasized temple ordinances for the salvation of the dead. Wilford Woodruff’s testimony affirms the divine authority and priesthood continuity from Joseph Smith through the Twelve.

Roberts also critically examines the claims of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Josephite Church), led by Joseph Smith’s eldest son. He highlights contradictions, weak testimonies, and the questionable authority of those who ordained Joseph Smith Jr. as president. The book distinguishes between offices that pass by lineage, such as patriarch and bishop, and the presidency, which requires divine calling, priesthood keys, and sustaining by the church body. It critiques the Josephite movement as a faction formed from 'corrupt, apostate streams' destined to fail.

Throughout, the author emphasizes the principle of common consent, revelation, and priesthood keys as essential for legitimate leadership. The narrative is authoritative and corrective, aiming to clarify church history and dissuade readers from following rival claimants by showing their ultimate failure and obscurity. It includes extensive quotations from contemporary sources, journals, and revelations, and underscores a recurring prophetic warning that those who attempt to draw away parties from the church will not prosper.

This work is not merely a history of events but a careful argument about authority, legitimacy, and faithfulness in church governance. It portrays Brigham Young and the Twelve Apostles as divinely chosen leaders who preserved the church’s unity and divine mission despite persecution and internal challenges. Meanwhile, rival claimants are depicted as ambitious, vain, or misguided, ultimately unable to sustain their movements. The book closes with a hopeful vision of the church’s growth and endurance under rightful leadership, grounded in divine authority and revelation.