Visions of Anna Phillips
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endorsed and sent forth with the power of influence which gives them
their force?
There are many things I shall not say now, which it will be neces-
sary to say hereafter. While I would do nothing to hurt this sister, I
would not dare to keep silent I am placed in a peculiar position, and
this matter should never have been so treated as to make it necessary
for me to speak on such a subject. It hurts my heart to do it, and were it
not that I see the future dangers, I would not utter one word in regard to
the matter, but would let it develop, and leave my brethren and sisters
to pursue their own course in regard to these manifestations, which
are not at all peculiar.... I fail to see in the writings of Sister Phillips
anything of a character that should create such movements as have
been made. And if things of this nature are to be so eagerly grasped,
you will have plenty of them, varied in some respects, yet such as you
could treat with as much confidence. I am so sorry, so sorry.
You seem to think I should be able to point out just where the
particularly objectionable sentiments lie. There is nothing so very
apparent in that which has been written; you have been able to discover
nothing objectionable; but this is no reason for using these writings as
you have done. Your course in this matter is decidedly objectionable.
Is it necessary that you should discern at once something that would
produce harm to the people of God, to make you cautious? If nothing
of this kind appears, is this a sufficient reason for you to set your
endorsement to these writings? ...
Do not spread abroad writings of this character without more con-
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sideration and deep insight as to the after consequences of your course
of action....
Fanaticism will appear in the very midst of us. Deceptions will
come, and of such a character that if it were possible they would mis-
lead the very elect. If marked inconsistencies and untruthful utterances
were apparent in these manifestations, the words from the lips of the
Great Teacher would not be needed. It is because of the many and
varied dangers that would arise, that this warning is given. The reason
why I hang out the danger signal is that through the enlightenment of
the Spirit of God I can see that which my brethren do not discern. It
may not be a positive necessity for me to point out all these peculiar
phases of deception that they will need to guard against. It is enough
for me to tell you, Be on your guard; and as faithful sentinels keep the