The Need for Persecution, Part 3 of Chapter 6 of Holy priesthood volume 1

The Need for Persecution, Part 3 of Chapter 6 of Holy priesthood volume 1

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For gold is tried in the fire, and acceptable men in the furnace of adversity. (Eccles. 2:5)

The worst forms of persecution seem to be the result of religious fanatics against other religious people–bringing judgment against the wicked, and purification and glory to the innocent. These sufferings prove to be a great benefit for the saints, since it is by trial that souls are purified and perfected.

When we come to look at the works of God, and witness the manifestation of His power, we see that everything that is excellent, everything that is desirable, comes forth from the midst of much tribulation. Even the jewels of the earth, and the riches thereof–the minerals, the gold and silver for which men thirst, and for which they have been willing to sacrifice life–are brought forth out of what seems to us the agonies of nature. And so in regard to violent deaths such as our brethren have suffered. In passing through such a trial bravely, faithfully, and truly, they have become jewels in the hands of God, and will continue to progress throughout the endless ages of eternity. (George Q. Cannon, JD 25:280-81)

Another reason the Lord allows tests and persecutions to come to those who bear the Priesthood is because it prevents the dross from joining the ranks of the faithful. Persecution screens out the weak. According to Brigham Young–

(JD 18:359)