Brigham Young's motive in preaching blood atonement during the Reformation was not theological — it was practical. The Mormon prophet was not above using hyperbole or incendiary talk to bring about desired results. If biting invective would improve the people, Brigham would use it. The blood atonement statements were likely designed to frighten church members into conforming with Latter-day Saint principles. To Saints with good intentions, they were calculated to cause alarm, introspection, and ultimately repentance. For those who refused to comply with Mormon standards, it was hoped such ominous threats would hasten their departure from the Territory