9a And again I say unto you, All things must be done in the name of Christ, whatsoever you do in the spirit;
9b and ye must give thanks unto God in the spirit for whatever blessing ye are blessed with; and ye must practice virtue and holiness before me continually. Even so. Amen.
DC 47 Intro: SECTION 47
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 8, 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio, and addressed to John Whitmer. Oliver Cowdery's departure upon the mission to the West had left Joseph without a scribe who could keep an official record of the church's history. John Whitmer, who was now called to this responsibility, wrote only eighty-five pages. These included many of the revelations given prior to 1838.
1a Behold, it is expedient in me that my servant John should write and keep a regular history, and assist you, my servant Joseph, in transcribing all things which shall be given you, until he is called to further duties.
1b Again, verily I say unto you, that he can also lift up his voice in meetings, whenever it shall be expedient.
2a And again, I say unto you, that it shall be appointed unto him to keep the church record and history continually, for Oliver Cowdery I have appointed to another office.
2b Wherefore, it shall be given him, inasmuch as he is faithful, by the Comforter, to write these things. Even so. Amen.
DC 48 Intro: SECTION 48
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 8, 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio. This is addressed to the Saints in Kirtland who needed guidance concerning the manner of locating members of the church arriving from the East (D. and C. 45:12). They were uncertain about the advisability of purchasing land in view of the projected move farther west, and about the Zionic principles on which lands should be allocated.
1a It is necessary that ye should remain, for the present time, in your places of abode, as it shall be suitable to your circumstances;
1b and inasmuch as ye have lands, ye shall impart to the eastern brethren;
1c and inasmuch as ye have not lands, let them buy for the present time in those regions round about as seemeth them good, for it must needs be that they have places to live for the present time.
