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Joseph Fielding Smith Jr. (10th prophet):
Joseph Smith was sent to prepare the way for this second coming, by the proclamation of the fulness of the gospel and the granting to all men the means of escape from iniquity and transgression. The fulfilment of this prophecy by Malachi is even now at our doors, and before many years have passed away Christ shall come as the refiner and purifier of this earth which today is suffering in the throes of lawlessness and transgression.
When that day comes, then all that is evil shall he removed, and the words of the Lord shall be fulfilled wherein he has said: "I have trodden the winepress alone: and of the people there was none with me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my garments, and I will stain all my raiment. For the day of vengeance is in mine heart, and the year of my redeemed is come."
In this day messengers of the Lord have been sent. John the Baptist came to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery and gave them his priesthood, thus preparing the way for the coming of the Lord. Moreover, the Lord has come suddenly to his temple and in it ministered to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, April 3, 1836. In that temple Joseph and Oliver received authority for the purging of the sons of Levi, and for the gathering of the Jews so that eventually their offerings may be pleasant before the Lord, when they return to their land and are forgiven for their transgressions.
Source: McConkie, Bruce R., ed. Doctrines of Salvation: Sermons and Writings of Joseph Fielding Smith, Vol. 3. 11 - 12. Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954-1955.