DC 46 Intro: SECTION 46
Revelation addressed to the church, given through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 8, 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio. This instruction was very important in setting the patterns of public worship in the church, especially in regard to the Sacrament services and the exercise of the spiritual gifts. It was greatly needed, since converts came into the church from so many diverse denominational backgrounds.
1a Hearken, O ye people of my church, for verily I say unto you, that these things were spoken unto you for your profit and learning;
1b but notwithstanding those things which are written, it always has been given to the elders of my church, from the beginning, and ever shall be, to conduct all meetings as they are directed and guided by the Holy Spirit;
1c nevertheless, ye are commanded never to cast anyone out from your public meetings, which are held before the world.
1d Ye are also commanded not to cast anyone, who belongeth to the church, out of your sacrament meetings; nevertheless, if any have trespassed, let him not partake until he makes reconciliation.
2 And again I say unto you, Ye shall not cast anyone out of your sacrament meetings, who is earnestly seeking the kingdom; I speak this concerning those who are not of the church.
3a And again I say unto you, concerning your confirmation meetings, that if there be any that is not of the church, that is earnestly seeking after the kingdom, ye shall not cast them out;
3b but ye are commanded in all things to ask of God, who giveth liberally, and that which the Spirit testifies unto you, even so I would that you should do in all holiness of heart,
3c walking uprightly before me, considering the end of your salvation, doing all things with prayer and thanksgiving, that ye may not be seduced by evil spirits, or doctrines of devils, or the commandments of men, for some are of men, and others of devils.
4a Wherefore, beware, lest ye are deceived, and that ye may not be deceived, seek ye earnestly the best gifts, always remembering for what they are given;
4b for verily I say unto you, They are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do, that all may be benefited, that seeketh or that asketh of me, that asketh and not for a sign that he may consume it upon his lusts.
