BLOOD ATONEMENT.
This subject is also found in Blood Atonement and the Origin of Plural Marriage, therefore only a brief outline will be given here. Joseph Smith taught that there were certain sins so grievous that man may commit, that will place the transgressors beyond the power of the atonement of Christ. If these offenses are committed, then the blood of Christ will not cleanse them from their sins even though they repent. Therefore their only hope is to have their own blood shed to atone, as far as possible, in their behalf. This is Scriptural doctrine, and is taught in all the standard works of the Church. The doctrine was established in the beginning, that "Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood shed to atone as far as possible, in their behalf. For a commandment I give, that every man's brother shall preserve the life of man, for in mine own image have I made man."—(Genesis 9:12-13, Inspired Scriptures).
This was the law among the Nephites: "Wo unto the murderer, who deliberately killeth, for he shall die."—(II Nephi 9:35).
John says: "If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that ye shall pray for it."
Every nation since the world began has practiced blood atonement at least in part as that doctrine is based upon the Scriptures. And men for certain crimes have had to atone for their sins wherein they have placed themselves beyond the redeeming power of the blood of Christ.
But that the Church practices "Blood Atonement" on apostates or any others, which is preached by ministers of the "Reorganization" is a damnable falsehood for which the accusers must answer.