John C Bennett's claims against Joseph Smith | with Matthew Godfrey
Mar 29, 2024
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Historian Matthew Godfrey discusses John C Bennett's controversial role in LDS history, from his initial praise of Joseph Smith to his betrayal. Bennett's varied career, popularity in Nauvoo, and involvement in scandalous accusations against Smith are explored, shedding light on the intricacies of church history.
John C Bennett rose to prominence in the LDS Church but was excommunicated for alleged immoral conduct.
Bennett's false accusations against Joseph Smith, including spiritual wifery, shaped the church's historical narrative.
Deep dives
John C. Bennett's Arrival in Nauvoo and Rise to Prominence
John C. Bennett arrives in Nauvoo in 1840 and quickly gains favor with Joseph Smith, becoming the mayor of Nauvoo and second in command of the Nauvoo Legion. Despite his rapid rise, concerns arise about his character, including allegations of adultery and immoral conduct.
John C. Bennett's Controversial Conduct and Excommunication
Bennett's behavior leads to private reprimands by Joseph Smith regarding claims of promiscuous intercourse with women in Nauvoo. After multiple warnings, Bennett is officially excommunicated from the church in 1842 due to his conduct and false accusations against Joseph Smith.
Allegations Made by John C. Bennett and Controversy Surrounding Sarah Pratt
Bennett makes public accusations against Joseph Smith, alleging various immoral practices, including claims of spiritual wifery and adultery. Sarah Pratt, wife of apostle Orson Pratt, is implicated in the controversy, with conflicting accounts about her relationship with Bennett.
Legacy of John C. Bennett and Historical Interpretations
Bennett's actions and accusations have lasting effects on the portrayal of plural marriage and church history. Scholars continue to debate Bennett's motives and the validity of his claims, highlighting the challenge of navigating complex historical narratives surrounding figures like John C. Bennett.
Today we had the incredible opportunity to talk to Matthew Godfrey about a unique character in LDS church history, John C Bennett. Matthew shares John's fascinating story and explains how he fits in church history.
Matthew is a historian for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (otherwise known as the Mormon Church). He has done extensive research for the Joseph Smith Papers and continues to work with the church in sharing church history.
John C Bennett had a variety of professional interests throughout his life including a medical background and military background. He reached out to Joseph Smith to express his disappointment in how Joseph had been treated. He then meets Joseph and joins the young LDS Church. He quickly gains popularity in the church, becoming the mayor in Nauvoo, and an assistant president to the First Presidency of the Church. However, soon John finds himself in the midst of controversy.
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