"This priesthood and these keys were conferred upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery by Peter, James, and John, and by Moses and Elijah and others of the ancient prophets. They have been given to each man who has been set apart as a member of the Council of the Twelve. But since they are the right of presidency, they can only be exercised in full by the senior apostle of God on earth, who is the president of the Church.

"May I now say--very plainly and very emphatically--that we have the holy priesthood and that the keys of the kingdom of God are here.

They are found only in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

"By revelation to Joseph Smith, the Lord said that these keys 'belong always unto the Presidency of the High Priesthood'

(D&C 81:2), and also, 'Whosoever receiveth my word receiveth me, and whosoever receiveth me, receiveth those, the First Presidency, whom I have sent' (D&C 112:20).

"In this same connection the Prophet Joseph Smith said: 'You must make yourselves acquainted with those men who like Daniel pray three times a day toward the House of the Lord. Look to the Presidency and receive instruction.'

"Now, brethren, I think there is one thing which we should have exceedingly clear in our minds. Neither the President of the Church, nor the First Presidency, nor the united voice of the First Presidency and the Twelve will ever lead the Saints astray or send forth counsel to the world that is contrary to the mind and will of the Lord."  (Joseph Fielding Smith, "Eternal Keys and the Right to Preside," Ensign, July 1972, 87-88)

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