D&C 123

As the Prophet wrote of the saints obligation in -

"...gathering up a knowledge of all the facts, and sufferings and abuses put upon them..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 123:1)

So , what I believe to be for the distinct purpose, that at some future date, the nation, country, and the world would come to realize what the saints suffered in patience, testimony, and obedience in their beliefs.  The truth is that would be few others that would be more oppressed in this nations history, that would never seem to take the position of a victim where society owes so much.  The saints have never taken that excuse and has been independent and industrious.

But what struck me of his writings is of all persecution, murders, tyranny, and oppressions was -

"...supported and urged on and upheld by the influence of that spirit which hath so strongly riveted the creeds of the fathers, who have inherited lies, upon the hearts of the children, and filled the world with confusion, and has been growing stronger and stronger, and is now the very mainspring of all corruption, and the whole earth groans under the weight of its iniquity."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 123:7)

The Prophet understood that the very thing that caused the persecution and hatred was the religious creeds and lies of men where men did not want to lose their control or power.  In my mind, this is priestcraft.   Nephi tells us that  -

"...priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world; but they seek not the welfare of Zion."  (Book of Mormon | 2 Nephi 26:29)

No wonder they resist the truth of the restoration of the Lord's true Church.  Thus, priestcraft exercised on people -

"...is an iron yoke, it is a strong band; they are the very handcuffs, and chains, and shackles, and fetters of hell."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 123:8)

That is why -

"...there are many yet on the earth among all sects, parties, and denominations, who are blinded by the subtle craftiness of men, whereby they lie in wait to deceive, and who are only kept from the truth because they know not where to find it—"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 123:12)

That is why we cannot give up in the work of salvation -

"Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 123:17)