Abstract: Church historical sources make four differing claims as to when, how, and by whom Melchizedek priesthood was restored. These seemingly conflicting sources have led to many theories about what happened, including the idea that Joseph Smith changed his narrative and rewrote history as his ideas of priesthood evolved. A closer look at the sources, more carefully defining the terminology, and being more aware of ancient patterns provide a better solution for understanding the purpose and relationship of these four narratives and thus the nature of the Melchizedek priesthood Joseph Smith restored.
“In establishing his kingdom, church, or order, in the world the Savior seems to have pursued a certain system.”
—Sidney Rigdon
On 27 August 1843, in the grove next to the Nauvoo temple site, Joseph Smith gave a sermon on the biblical Letter to the Hebrews, stating that it, particularly the seventh chapter, referenced “3 grand principles or orders of Priesthood” or “three different priesthoods.” According to those who left a record of the sermon, the Prophet referenced these three priestly orders as follows:
[Page 264]Willard Richards
* “King of Shiloam,” “the power of Melchisedick,” “Presthood of Melchisedek”
* “patriarchal authority”
* “Levitical Prest”
James Burgess
* “the priesthood of Aron,” “Levi’s [priesthood],” “priesthood of Levi,” “that of Levi or Aron,” “levitical priesthood”
* the “priesthood of . . . Abraham,” “Abraham’s priesthood,” “that of Abraham”
* “the priesthood of . . . Melchesedek,” “Melchesedeck’s [priesthood]” “the order of Melchesideck”
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