Galatians 2:6 But of those who seemed to be somewhat, whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me; God accepteth no man's person; for they who seemed to be somewhat in conference added nothing to me;
DC 1:Intro Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at a special conference held at Hiram, Portage County, Ohio, November 1, 1831. It was to serve as a preface to the "Book of Commandments." W.W. Phelps and Company began the printing of the "Book of Commandments" at Independence, Missouri, but the plant was destroyed by a mob in July 1833 before the book could be completed. The last section to be set up ended with the words, "blood of Ephraim" (D. and C. 64:7b).
When the first edition of the Doctrine and Covenants was published in 1835, it included the sections (chapters) set in type for the "Book of Commandments" and also instructions received prior to July 1833 but not included in the "Book of Commandments." To this was added further instruction received and a statement of principles approved prior to the date of publication. The preface was continued as Section 1.
If the preface had been included in the order it was received, it would have appeared immediately prior to Section 67 in recent editions.
A revelation received November 3, 1831, known as the Appendix, does not appear in the "Book of Commandments," as was originally intended, but will be found as Section 100 of the 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants and as Section 108 in all subsequent editions.
DC 17:13 The several elders composing this church of Christ are to meet in conference once in three months, or from time to time, as said conferences shall direct or appoint; and said conferences are to do whatever church business is necessary to be done at the time.
DC 17:15 Each priest, teacher, or deacon, who is ordained by a priest, may take a certificate from him at the time, which certificate, when presented to an elder, shall entitle him to a license, which shall authorize him to perform the duties of his calling; or he may receive it from a conference.
DC 17:17 Every president of the high priesthood (or presiding elder), bishop, high councilor, and high priest, is to be ordained by the direction of a high council, or General Conference.
DC 17:25a It shall be the duty of the several churches composing the church of Christ to send one or more of their teachers to attend the several conferences, held by the elders of the church, with a list of the names of the several members uniting themselves with the church since the last conference,
DC 22:Intro SECTION 22
Revelation given to Joseph Smith, Jr., at Colesville, New York, in June 1830, but was not included in the 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants. It was first printed in "Times and Season" (4:71) and has been included in the Doctrine and Covenants since the Cincinnati edition of 1864. It was specifically approved by the 1970 World Conference. It is also printed in the forepart of the Inspired Version (pp. 7-9).
DC 25:1a Behold, I say unto you, that you shall let your time be devoted to the studying of the Scriptures, and to preaching, and to confirming the church at Colesville; and to performing your labors on the land, such as is required, until after you shall go to the west, to hold the next conference; and then it shall be made known what you shall do.
DC 27:4a Thou shalt not leave this place until after the conference, and my servant Joseph shall be appointed to preside over the conference by the voice of it, and what he saith to thee thou shalt tell.
DC 28:Intro SECTION 28
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, prophet and seer to the church, in August 1830. This revelation was given at Fayette, New York, in the presence of six elders, prior to the second conference of the church which was held at that place on September 1, 1830.
DC 29:Intro SECTION 29
Revelation given to David Whitmer, Peter Whitmer, Jr., and John Whitmer through Joseph Smith, Jr., September 1830 at Fayette, New York. It was received at the close of the second conference of the church. The Hiram Page "peepstone" difficulty (see Section 27) was in the background of the message to David Whitmer.
DC 30:Intro SECTION 30
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Fayette, New York, September 1830 at the close of the second conference of the church. It is addressed to Thomas B. Marsh, who had recently been baptized. Thomas is here designated as physician to the church. Later he became the first president of the Council of Twelve.
DC 36:Intro SECTION 36
In June 1830 Joseph Smith began an inspired correction of the Holy Scriptures, the necessity for which had been pointed out in the revelation of June 1830 (D. and C. 22:24). While engaged in this work in December 1830, Joseph received the following revelation which is an extract from the prophecy of Enoch. This revelation now forms Genesis 7:1-78 of the Inspired Version of the Holy Scriptures. It was given at Fayette, New York. The 1835 edition did not include this section. It has appeared as Section 36 since 1864 and was specifically approved at the 1970 World Conference for retention in its present place.
DC 50:Intro SECTION 50
Revelation given to the elders of the church through Joseph Smith, Jr., May 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio. Some of the elders who returned from their missions in order to share in the June conference (D. and C. 44) reported that they had been embarrassed by strange and unedifying spiritual manifestations which were experienced among the congregations of the Saints. Joseph sought the Lord for guidance, and the following revelation as given him.
DC 52:Intro SECTION 52
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., early in June 1831 at Kirtland, Ohio. This revelation is addressed to the elders of the church. It was received the day following a conference at which the first high priests in the Restoration were ordained. Missouri is designated as the land of the inheritance of the Saints. The specific location of the point of gathering is not stated, but it must have been sufficiently understood for the elders to meet there after traveling and preaching along many different routes.
DC 52:1b I, the Lord, will make known unto you what I will that ye shall do from this time until the next Conference, which shall be held in Missouri, upon the land which I will consecrate unto my people, which are a remnant of Jacob, and those who are heirs according to the covenant.
DC 58:13b And let a conference meeting be called, and after that let my servants Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith, Jr., return, and also Oliver Cowdery with them, to accomplish the residue of the work which I have appointed unto them in their own land, and the residue as shall be ruled by the conferences.
DC 58:15a Let the residue of the elders of this church, who are coming to this land, some of whom are exceedingly blessed, even above measure, also hold a conference upon this land.
DC 58:15b And let my servant Edward Partridge direct the conference which shall be held by them.
DC 59:Intro SECTION 59
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., prophet and seer to the church, August 7, 1831, in Missouri. Events were happening very rapidly during the week of August 1 to August 7. Monday, August 2, Joseph assisted the Colesville Saints to lay the first log for a house as the foundation for Zion. It was consecrated and dedicated by Elder Rigdon for the gathering of the Saints. August 3, the spot for the Temple, a little west of the center of Independence, was dedicated. August 4, the first conference in the land of Zion was held in the home of Joshua Lewis in Kaw township. August 7 was the funeral of Polly Knight, mother of Newel Knight. This was the first death in the church in the land of Zion. These important events constitute the background for this revelation.
DC 67:Intro SECTION 67
Revelation addressed to the elders of the church, given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at a special conference held at Hiram, Ohio, November 1831. There had been some criticism among the elders regarding the language of the revelations. William E. McLellin accepted the challenge of this revelation but was unable to produce any improvement.
DC 68:Intro SECTION 68
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., November 1831, at a special conference held at Hiram, Ohio. Joseph wrote, "The mind and will of the Lord was made known by the voice of the Spirit to a conference concerning certain elders, and also certain items as made known in addition to the covenants and commandments." The instructions concerning church government found in this revelation should be read in connection with the "Articles and Covenants" which now constitute Section 17.
The message is specifically addressed to Orson Hyde, Luke Johnson, Lyman Johnson, and William E. McLellin, although its contents are of continuing importance to the entire church.
DC 72:1f These things shall be had on record, to be handed over unto the bishop in Zion; and the duty of the bishop shall be made known by the commandments which have been given, and the voice of the conference.
DC 73:1 For verily thus saith the Lord, It is expedient in me that they should continue preaching the gospel, and in exhortation to the churches, in the regions round about, until Conference; and then, behold, it shall be made known unto them, by the voice of the Conference, their several missions.
DC 73:2a Now, verily I say unto you, my servants Joseph Smith, Jr., and Sidney Rigdon, saith the Lord, It is expedient to translate again, and, inasmuch as it is practicable, to preach in the regions round about until Conference, and after that it is expedient to continue the work of translation until it be finished.
DC 75:Intro SECTION 75
A conference was held at Amherst, Lorain County, Ohio, January 25, 1832. Some of the elders asked Joseph to "inquire of the Lord that they might know his will, or learn what would be most pleasing to him for them to do, in order to bring men to a sense of their condition." Joseph made inquiry of the Lord and received the following message. The conference is also noteworthy because here Joseph Smith was ordained President of the High Priesthood.
DC 76:Intro SECTION 76
On their return from the Amherst (Ohio) conference to Hiram, Ohio (D. and C. 75), Joseph Smith resumed translation of the Scriptures with Sidney Rigdon as his scribe. On February 16, 1832, while they were thus engaged, they came to John 5:29. While meditating on the rendition they were given by the spirit of revelation, they shared a vision which they reported in the words of this section.
DC 86:Intro SECTION 86
This revelation, now known as the Word of Wisdom, was given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to a conference of high priests assembled at Kirtland, Ohio, February 27, 1833. It was described as "A word of wisdom for the benefit of the council of high priests, assembled in Kirtland, and the church; and also, the Saints in Zion. To be sent greeting, not by commandment, or constraint, but by revelation and the word of wisdom; showing forth the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all Saints in the last days. Given for a principle, with promise; adapted to the capacity of the weak, and the weakest of all Saints, who are or can be called Saints."
DC 90:Intro SECTION 90
A conference of high priests met in Kirtland, Ohio, May 4, 1833, to consider the building of a schoolhouse for the instruction of the elders in the work of their ministry. This was in harmony with the revelation of December 27, 1832 (D. and C. 85:36). This revelation was received through Joseph Smith two days later, May 6, 1833, at Kirtland, Ohio.
DC 93:Intro SECTION 93
A conference of high priests was held at Kirtland, June 4, 1833, to consider the management of the French farm. The conference could not agree concerning the farm, but did agree to ask for divine guidance. Joseph inquired of the Lord and received the following message. Ahashdah (Newel K. Whitney), who was directed to take charge of the farm, was the bishop in Kirtland. "Zombre" was John Johnson.
DC 99:15c After prayer the conference adjourned.Oliver Cowdery, Orson Hyde, Clerks
DC 100:Intro SECTION 100
A delegation arrived in Kirtland, February 22, 1834, with information for the First Presidency regarding the condition of the Saints in Missouri. The following revelation was given through Joseph Smith two days later. For "Baurak Ale" read "Joseph Smith". This revelation was first published without conference approval in 1844 and its retention was specifically approved by the 1970 World Conference.
DC 102:Intro SECTION 102
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., June 22, 1834, at Fishing River, Missouri. The company of Saints known as "Zion's Camp" left Kirtland, Ohio, for Missouri, May 8, 1834 (D. and C. 100:5-6). They reached an elevated piece of land between two branches of the Fishing River June 19 and were obliged to stay there because of a heavy rain and hailstorm. The following revelation was given through Joseph Smith on June 22, 1834. It was first published in 1844 without conference approval and its retention was specifically authorized by the 1970 World Conference.
For "Baurak Ale" read Joseph Smith. "Baneemy" evidently referred to the other leading elders of the church.
DC 105:Intro SECTION 105
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., July 23, 1837, at Kirtland, Ohio. Having been received subsequent to the publication of the first (1835) edition of the Doctrine and Covenants, it was included in the second (1844) edition as Section 104. This edition was issued after the death of Joseph Smith. Specific approval for the continued publication of this section was given by the 1970 World Conference. This revelation is addressed to Thomas B. Marsh, president of the Council of Twelve, and was apparently prompted by his prayers concerning his brethren in the quorum. Elder Marsh's concern was itself prompted by a rift between Joseph and some of the apostles cause by financial and other difficulties in Kirtland. Note paragraphs 5, 6, 11, and 12 in this connection.
DC 106:Intro SECTION 106
This revelation was first published in the second (1844) edition of the Doctrine and Covenants as Section 107. By action of the 1970 World Conference its inclusion was confirmed. It was given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Far West, Missouri, July 8, 1838, in answer to the petition, "O Lord, show unto thy servants how much thou requirest of the properties of thy people for a tithing."
DC 107:Intro SECTION 107
This statement was removed from the main body of the book by the action of the 1970 World Conference. Its subject is primarily concerned with arrangements for the construction of a boardinghouse in Nauvoo and with the practice of the ordinance of baptism for the dead. It will be noted that several paragraphs are devoted to references to such practices as "washings," "anointings," and "memorials for your sacrifices" and matters which "have been kept hid from before the foundation of the world" (paragraphs 10, 11, 12, 13).
Concerning such esoteric practices the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints declared as early as April 9, 1886, that "we know of no temple building, except as edifices wherein to worship God, and no endowment except the endowment of the Holy Spirit of the kind experienced by the early saints on Pentecost Day." And also, "that 'baptism for the dead' belongs to those local questions of which the body has said by resolution: 'That the commandments of a local character, given to the first organization of the church, are binding on the Reorganization only so far as they are either reiterated or referred to as binding by commandments to this church.' And that principle has neither been reiterated nor referred to as a commandment" (Conference Resolution 308, paragraphs 2, 3).
Instruction to the church bearing on this matter is contained in a revelation through W. Wallace Smith on April 5, 1968, referring to temple building in which the church is told that "there is no provision for secret ordinances now or ever" and that one temple function is priesthood education (Doctrine and Covenants 149A:6).
This section is retained in the Appendix for its historical value in relation to the development of ordinances for the dead and other ordinances for which the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints finds no justification either in the historical scriptures or in the documents approved by the church as latter--day revelation.
A series of messages given by Joseph Smith, Jr., prophet and seer to the church, January 19, 1841, at Nauvoo, Illinois. A portion of it was published in "Times and Seasons," June 1, 1841, vol. 2, page 424. It was first included in the 1844 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants as Section 103. It has been included in every succeeding edition since that date. With other sections of the Doctrine and Covenants, it came under the blanket motion passed in the General Conference of 1878.
GENERAL CONFERENCE RESOLUTION NO. 215
"That this body, representing the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, recognize the Holy Scriptures, the Book of Mormon, the revelations of God contained in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, and all other revelations which have been or shall be revealed through God's appointed prophet, which have been or may be hereafter accepted by the church as the standard of authority on all matters of church government and doctrine, and the final standard of reference on appeal in all controversies arising, or which may arise in this Church of Christ."
Under this recognition it has been included in all editions of the Reorganization.
DC 107:28a Let my servant William go and proclaim my everlasting gospel with a loud voice, and with great joy, as he shall be moved upon by my Spirit, unto the inhabitants of Warsaw, and also unto the inhabitants of Carthage, and also unto the inhabitants of Burlington, and also unto the inhabitants of Madison, and await patiently and diligently for further instructions at my General Conference, saith the Lord.
DC 107:46c and a commandment I give unto you that you should fill all these offices and approve of those names which I have mentioned, or else disapprove of them, at my General Conference, and that ye should prepare rooms for all these offices in my house when you build it unto my name, saith the Lord your God. Even so. Amen.
DC 109:Intro SECTION 109
The following letter from Joseph Smith, Jr., addressed to the Saints of Nauvoo, Illinois, September 1, 1842, was published first in "Times and Seasons," 3:919. It was included in the second (1844) edition of the Doctrine and Covenants and has been continued in all subsequent editions. The Conference of 1970 ordered its removal to the Appendix. Concerning "baptism for the dead" see the introduction to Section 107 (Appendix A).
NAUVOO, SEPTEMBER 1, 1842
DC 110:Intro SECTION 110
This section is a continuation of the letter of Joseph Smith, Jr., addressed to the Saints of Nauvoo, Illinois (Doctrine and Covenants 109). It was written September 6, 1842, while Joseph was hiding from his persecutors and was first published in the "Times and Seasons" for October 1, 1842 (3:934). It was included in the second (1844) edition of the Doctrine and Covenants and has been retained in all subsequent editions. The Conference of 1970 ordered its removal to the Appendix. Concerning "baptism for the dead" see the Introduction to Section 107 (Appendix A).
NAUVOO, SEPTEMBER 6, 1842
DC 112:Intro SECTION 112
This section, which deals with governments and laws in general, is not a revelation. It was prepared in connection with the publication of the 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants and was read by Oliver Cowdery at the general assembly of August 17, 1835. It was adopted unanimously and ordered to be printed in the first edition of the Doctrine and Covenants (108A:14). It was also published as the political sentiment of the church by authority of the conference of 1863. This was during the American Civil War.
DC 113:Intro SECTION 113
This section is not a revelation. It was published in the 1844 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants and has been retained in all subsequent editions. The Reorganized Church has deemed it better to leave it as it is rather than to omit or revise it. As far as the facts are stated, they are a part of the history of the event discussed. The conference of 1970 ordered its removal to the Appendix.
DC 114:Intro SECTION 114
The first General Epistle of the Twelve under the presidency of Joseph Smith III, son of the Martyr, was addressed: "To all the Saints scattered abroad." To this Epistle an appendix was added by President Smith. The appendix was in the nature of a revelation from God and was so accepted by the church at the semiannual conference of 1871. Its inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants was authorized by the semiannual conference of 1878.
This is the first revelation given to the church through President Joseph Smith III. It was dated October 7, 1861. The Epistle and appendix were published October 25, 1861.
DC 115:Intro SECTION 115
Revelation given through Joseph Smith III in March 1863. It is addressed to the elders of the church. The revelation was approved by the 1863 annual conference and inserted in the Doctrine and Covenants by authority of the semiannual conference of 1878.
DC 116:Intro SECTION 116
Revelation given through President Joseph Smith III, May 4, 1865.
A council of the first Presidency and the Quorum of Twelve was in session at the home of Bishop Israel L. Rogers in Kendall County, Illinois, May 1-5, 1865. Among other things the council was concerned about "the ordination of men of the Negro race." President Joseph Smith was asked to seek divine guidance in this connection, and the revelation was received in response to the fasting and prayers of the members of the council. It should be studied against the background of the American Civil War and with the social and educational status of the American Negro of that period in mind.
The revelation was presented to the Quorum of Twelve, who voted unanimously to approve it. The semiannual conference of 1878 authorized its inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants.
DC 117:Intro SECTION 117
As he approached the annual conference of 1873, President Smith was deeply concerned that he was again the only member of the First Presidency (Counselor William Marks had died in May 1872) and that the death of Apostle Samuel Powers in February 1873 had left the Quorum of Twelve with but five members. This concern was shared by the remaining members of the Twelve, and these were joined by a number of the Seventy in requesting that the prophet seek divine guidance.
In presenting the following revelation to the elders of the church, President Smith stated that it had been received "in answer to long and continued and earnest prayer to God upon the condition of the Quorums of the Church."
The revelation was approved by the available apostles and, on April 10, 1873, was endorsed by the conference. With the ordination of William Wallace Blair and David H. Smith, as provided for in this instruction, the quorum of the First Presidency was now complete for the first time since the reorganization of the church. This was also the first time in the Reorganization that members of the Twelve had been called by revelation through the President of the Church. Prior to this time, and on occasions in the early church, members of the Twelve had been selected by committees.
DC 118:Intro SECTION 118
Revelation given through President Joseph Smith III, September 28, 1882, at Lamoni, Iowa, in answer to the prayers of the General Conference.
DC 118:1c Nor is it expedient now to further fill up the quorums, except it be the elders, priests, teachers, and deacons: which ye may do, as ye deem wise, by the direction of conference.
DC 118:2 Continue the mission in Chicago until the April conference, when if it be found expedient it may be left in the charge of the authorities of the Northern Illinois District.
DC 119:Intro SECTION 119
Revelation given through Joseph Smith III, April 11, 1887, at Kirtland, Ohio. This inspired instruction was received after the General Conference had observed Saturday, April 9, as a day of fasting and prayer for light concerning "the depleted condition of the Quorum of the Twelve."
To the Elders of the Church:
Thus saith the Spirit:
DC 120:Intro SECTION 120
The members of the Quorum of Twelve who were present at the General Conference of 1887 remained in Kirtland and on April 21, 1887, issued an "Epistle" which discussed the duties of branch and district presidents and other matters. The Quorum revised this "Epistle" in 1888 and then asked the General Conference to endorse it. Action was postponed until 1889 and then until 1890. Under these circumstances the Quorum of Twelve asked the President of the Church to seek divine guidance, and in response to their prayers the following revelation was received through President Joseph Smith. It is dated April 8, 1890, at Lamoni, Iowa, and is addressed to "The First Presidency and Traveling High Council" (the Council of Twelve).
Unto my servants, the First Presidency and the traveling High Council of my church; thus saith the Spirit:
DC 120:1a The epistle is to be left without approval, or disapproval by the conference, as the judgment of the Quorum of the Twelve, until further experience shall have tested the matters therein stated.
DC 120:2d or if an elder be chosen who may by experience be found qualified to preside, as soon as practicable thereafter he should be ordained an high priest by the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the one ordaining, and by direction of a high council, or General Conference, as required in the law.
DC 120:9a Those who were presented by the high priests for ordination to their number, if approved by the council of the high priests now present, and the conference, may be ordained;
DC 120:9b and from their number there may be selected by a committee of conference composed of one of the First Presidency, the president of the Twelve and one other to be chosen by the Council of Twelve, the president of the high priests and one other to be chosen by that council of their number,
DC 120:9d And this committee shall make these selections according to the spirit of wisdom and revelation that shall be given unto them, to provide that such council may be convened at any General Conference when emergency may demand, by reason of their residing at or near to places where conferences may be held.
DC 121:Intro SECTION 121
A series of inspired instructions were given to the General Conference of 1885 at Independence, Missouri, through President Joseph Smith III. Read paragraph 6 before studying the section as a whole.
DC 121:1a At the April session of conference of 1885, during the consideration of the sustaining of the officers of the church made the special order for the 11th, when David H. Smith, second counselor to the President, was presented, the question was asked whether any communication had been received in regard to it.
DC 121:4a "It is my will that my servants shall contend no longer one with another in regard to the Chicago Branch. Let the branch be instructed to report to the conference of my Saints of the district where the branch is located, the Northern Illinois District.
DC 121:5a The following also received in 1885, is added by direction of the conference of 1894:
DC 121:6a The foregoing was accepted as proper instruction, and the conference acted upon it as such; but the word received was not presented to the quorums, nor acted upon by them as is the usual custom of the church in regard to revelations received for the guidance of the church.
DC 122:Intro SECTION 122
During the General Conference of 1894 the First Presidency, the Quorum of Twelve, and the Quorum of High Priests held a joint meeting at which they discussed their respective callings and responsibilities. A report of this Council was submitted to the Conference, but since the Twelve felt that the report did not cover all the issues under consideration they adopted a resolution requesting President Smith to "ask for further revelation in explanation of the authority and duties of the several quorums and their members, also for instruction providing for filling the vacancies in the leading quorums, including a designation of the Patriarch, if it shall be the pleasure of our heavenly Father to so enlighten us."
The revelation given to President Smith, April 15, 1894, at Lamoni, Iowa, in answer to the petitions of the Saints, was endorsed by the quorums and the Conference, but it was not until the General Conference of 1897 that its inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants was authorized.
I was, on the fifteenth day of the fourth month, of the year 1894, in fasting and prayer before the Lord, and being commanded of the Spirit I arose from my praying and wrote:
Thus saith the Spirit unto the elders and the church:
DC 122:12a The Spirit saith further: That Lamoni, Iowa, having been made by the agreement of the church under the law of the land the principal place of business of the church, it is wise and expedient that it should be considered and declared by the conference to be the seat of the Presidency of the church, and in due time be made a stake.
DC 122:12b In the meantime the district may be left to the care of its districts organization subject to the direction of the Presidency, no one of the missionary force being appointed to the charge thereof for the conference year, or longer if it shall be found advisable.
DC 122:13a The Spirit saith further: The Twelve should remain at Lamoni, and continue in council with the Presidency and the Bishop, and his counselors if practicable, a sufficient time after the adjournment of conference to counsel together, and agree on the things of the law and the general affairs of the church,
DC 123:Intro SECTION 123
This section is a report of the Joint Council held in compliance with the instruction of Doctrine and Covenants 122:13. It was included in the Doctrine and Covenants at the request of the Council of Twelve and concurred in by the General Conference of 1895. It is not a revelation. The Conference of 1970 ordered its removal to the Appendix.
JOINT COUNCIL
DC 123:1a In compliance with the requirement of paragraph thirteen of the revelation received during conference and by agreement between the quorums affected, the First Presidency, the Twelve, and the Bishopric met in joint council in the editor's room of the Herald Office at nine a.m., Friday, April 20, 1894.
DC 124:2b Also, appoint my servant E. L. Kelley, Bishop of the church, to act as counselor to the President of the church, for the conference year, or until one shall be chosen to succeed my servant W. W. Blair, whom I have taken unto myself;
DC 125:Intro SECTION 125
Revelation given through Joseph Smith III, April 15, 1901, at Independence, Missouri. This revelation was unusual in that --- for the first time --- the inspired message was presented to the General Conference without prior consideration by the quorums. Joseph explained that he was "bidden" to follow this procedure. The Conference referred the document to the quorums. After the quorums had reported favorably, it was approved by the body. At the same time it was ordered to be included in the Doctrine and Covenants.
STATEMENT AND REVELATION
DC 125:13e and also selecting and ordaining a high priest to act in the office of bishop, carrying with him the authority of the conference.
DC 125:16b Their right to free speech, their right to liberty of conscience, does not permit them as individuals to frustrate the commands of the body in conference assembly.
DC 125:16c They are sent out as ministers to preach the gospel, and their voices if opposed to what may be presented to the conference should be heard in the conferences, and not in the mission fields, to prevent the accomplishment of the object with which the officers of the church have been intrusted.
DC 126:Intro SECTION 126
This section is an account of an open vision received by President Joseph Smith at Lamoni, April 16, 1902. It was accepted by the quorums and the General Conference as inspired guidance to meet the existing needs of the church.
To the Officers and Members of the Conference:
DC 127:Intro SECTION 127
In the first decade of the twentieth century, the establishment of the Independence and Lamoni stakes (1901) and the kingdom concern of President Frederick M. Smith combined with other favorable factors to quicken church-wide interest in the Gathering. The building of Zionic institutions is vital to any significant gathering. By 1906 Graceland College had weathered her fist ten difficult years, the Saints' Home was giving good ministry, and leading women were showing interest in a children's home.
At the pre-Conference sessions of April 1906, the First Presidency recommended to the Quorum of Twelve that a sanitarium be established with Dr. Joseph Luff of that quorum as its presiding officer. The Twelve favored the basic proposal, but expressed concern regarding the assignment of an apostle to the responsibilities proposed for Dr. Luff. The Quorum stated that they would "gladly engage in an effort to learn the Master's will" in this matter. The prayerful inquiries resulting from this action prepared the way for the following revelation given through President Joseph Smith. It was presented to the General Conference, April 14, 1906, at Independence, Missouri, and accepted by unanimous vote.
Thus saith the Spirit unto the Church:
DC 128:Intro SECTION 128
At the annual Conference of 1909, Presiding Bishop E. L. Kelley requested that a meeting of the eldership be called to consider organizations and procedures in connection with the Gathering and the care of the poor. At the meeting called in this connection the elders asked the First Presidency for instruction. At a subsequent meeting President Smith asked for the support and prayers of the ministry as he sought divine guidance, and accordingly April 18, was observed by the eldership as a day of fasting and prayer for such guidance.
The following revelation through President Joseph Smith was presented to the elders April 19, 1909, and by them referred to the quorums. After receiving their approval, the elders adopted a resolution "that the document be accepted as a whole," and their action was reported to the Conference. The revelation is dated April 18, 1909, at Lamoni, Iowa. It was accepted by the Conference and ordered included in the Doctrine and Covenants.
To the Eldership; Brethren: So far as the burden of the conference and its peculiar conditions have enabled me to do I have steadfastly presented the matter stated by the Bishop for our consideration to the Lord for instruction. Whether that which has come to me will bring relief to the situation, I know not; but such as it is, I hereby present it.
DC 129:Intro SECTION 129
The General Conference of 1909 observed Thursday, April 15, as a day of fasting and prayer for divine direction. The following revelation was given through the prophet Joseph Smith III at Lamoni, Iowa, and dated April 18, 1909. It was endorsed by the Conference, and provision was made for its inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants.
To the Church: After constant meditation and prayer, both before and after coming to conference and during the sessions, so far as the peculiar conditions obtaining in our sittings had permitted, I was in the Spirit during the nights of the 15th and 16th of the month and the day passing between at such times during the calm that occasionally ensued and the quiet of the night when the burden of my care forbade sleep. My dreams also have been enlightening and encouraging.
DC 129:9a The Spirit saith further unto the church: The Lord is well pleased with the advancement which has been made in approaching unity during the conference year;
DC 130:Intro SECTION 130
Instruction given through President Joseph Smith III, April 14, 1913, at Lamoni, Iowa. It was endorsed by the quorums and the assembly as a revelation from God, and the Conference authorized its inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants.
Elder Joseph R. Lambert had been acting as Presiding Evangelist since the death of Elder Alexander H. Smith in 1909. There was widespread concern that a more permanent successor should be selected. Bishop E. L. Kelley and Apostles W. H. Kelley, I. N. White, and J. W. Wight were also finding the burdens of their several responsibilities arduous. These, and other needs of the church, undoubtedly found a prominent place in the petitions of the prophet and of the Saints in general prior to the convening of the Conference and while it was yet in session.
DC 131:Intro SECTION 131
Revelation given through Joseph Smith III, prophet and seer to the church, April 14, 1914, at Independence, Missouri. It was addressed to the officers, delegates, and members of the church. It was first presented to the various quorums of the church and endorsed by them. Later it was placed before the assembly of delegates to the Conference and endorsed by standing vote. Provision was made for its incorporation in the Doctrine and Covenants. It was the last revelation given to the church through Joseph Smith III, who died December 10, 1914. He had served the church as President of the High Priesthood for more than fifty-four years.
DC 132:Intro SECTION 132
President Joseph Smith died at Independence, Missouri, December 10, 1914. His oldest living son, Frederick Madison Smith, had been designated as his successor and was accepted by the church in this capacity. He was set apart as President of the Church and the High Priesthood at the Stone Church in Independence on May 5, 1915.
The Conference of 1915 had given consideration to the honorable release of Presiding Bishop E. L. Kelley, but referred any necessary action to the Presidency and Council of Twelve. President F. M. Smith reported the situation to a council of the Presidency, Council of Twelve, and Presiding Bishopric. By action of this council the text of the revelation was taken from the body of President F. M. Smith's report and presented to the General Conference, where it was endorsed and approved for inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants.
The matter of selecting one to succeed Bishop E.L. Kelley in the office of Presiding Bishop has received by me careful and prayerful consideration.
DC 132:2 Let Benjamin R. McGuire be set apart and ordained Presiding Bishop of the church, and two of the brethren be set apart as counselors to him, one to be selected by him and supported by the conference, the other to be Bishop James F. Keir.
DC 133:Intro SECTION 133
Revelation given through President Frederick Madison Smith at Independence, Missouri, April 7, 1920. This message was submitted first to the General Conference and then presented to the various quorums. After it was approved by the quorums and the Conference, provision was made for its inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants.
To the Church: Having given to the general missionary needs of the church and the condition of the Quorum of Twelve much thought and prayer, I am permitted to say to the church by way of instruction, through inspiration received:
DC 134:Intro SECTION 134
Revelation given through President Frederick M. Smith at Independence, Missouri, October 2, 1922.
This message was presented to the General Conference, and by them referred to the various quorums. The Council of Twelve and Presiding Bishopric joined in recommending that action on it be "deferred pending the settlement of important matters pending before the Joint Council of Presidency, Twelve, and presiding Bishopric, in which the . . . personnel of the Twelve are vitally interested." Debate on this procedural matter broadened into a review of the entire administration of President Smith. The document was approved by a divided vote on October 12.
To the Church: To the matter of filling the leading quorums of the church in which vacancies now exist I have given prayerful and careful consideration and meditation, and the voice of inspiration to me is:
DC 135:Intro SECTION 135
In the years prior to 1925 the Reorganization was passing through a period which brought to the fore problems of administrative prerogatives. These involved the leading quorums of the church. A climax was reached in the General Conference of 1925. A conflict of views between the First Presidency and the Presiding Bishopric occurred. The Order of Bishops presented a motion to the Conference recommending the honorable release from their positions of members of the Presiding Bishopric. The General Conference by motion deferred action and approved an appeal to the Lord through the prophet, in fasting and prayer. In response to the plea of the church the following revelation was received through President Frederick M. Smith, prophet and seer to the church, April 18, 1925.
To the Church: Before and since the decision of the conference to have a season of prayer for divine direction in the matter before the conference I have presented to the Lord the needs of the people; and through the voice of inspiration I am directed to say to the church:
DC 136:Intro SECTION 136
The widespread financial and economic depression which began near the close of 1929 put the church into serious financial difficulties. Early in 1930 the counselors in the Presiding Bishopric resigned; and by agreement between the Presidency, Twelve, and Presiding Bishop, Bishops L. F. P. Curry and G. Leslie DeLapp were chosen to serve as counselors to Bishop Albert Carmichael subject to the action of the next General Conference. The following revelation was approved by the quorums and the Conference.
To the Church: To the condition of the church and the personnel of the Quorum of Twelve and Presiding Bishopric I have in official capacity as well as in personal meditation and prayer given much thought, and have earnestly sought divine wisdom and guidance. Believing that such wisdom and inspiration have been given me, I present the following as the word of the Lord to us now:
DC 136:1c In the work of the office Bishop G. Leslie DeLapp should be associated as counselor, and one other be named by Bishop Curry, as wisdom and the voice of inspiration may indicate, the selection to be ratified by the conference.
DC 137:Intro SECTION 137
Revelation given through President Frederick M. Smith at Independence, Missouri, April 7, 1938. The conference adopted this "communication with its provisions as the voice of divine inspiration to the church."
To the Church: Since the creation of two vacancies in the Quorum of Twelve I have been quite concerned about the condition of that quorum, as well as other bodies in the church, and after due meditation and prayer for divine light, I am permitted to present the following for the consideration and action of the conference members:
DC 138:Intro SECTION 138
After Elder Elbert A. Smith was ordained Presiding Evangelist at the Conference of 1938, the First Presidency continued with Elder F. M. McDowell as the sole remaining counselor to President Frederick M. Smith. President McDowell resigned in October 1938. With the approval of the Council of Twelve, acting under the inspiration given to him at the time, President Frederick M. Smith associated Elders Israel A. Smith and L. F. P. Curry with himself in the Presidency. In the following revelation this arrangement is confirmed. The revelation was received by unanimous action of the Conference and was ordered included in the Doctrine and Covenants.
To the Saints in General Conference Assembled:
DC 139:Intro SECTION 139
President Frederick Madison Smith died March 20, 1946, and was succeeded as prophet, seer, and revelator by his brother, Elder Israel A. Smith. The need to fill the quorum of the First Presidency was urgent, and the newly ordained president gave this his immediate and prayerful attention. The following revelation was presented to the quorums and to the Conference by President Israel A. Smith early in the Conference sessions. After it had been approved in the usual manner, and those named had been ordained to their respective offices, the work of the Conference proceeded under the direction of the newly constituted Presidency.
To the Quorums and to the General Conference; Beloved Brethren:
Realizing our urgent need to receive light and instruction in order that the quorums might be filled, I have wrestled in prayer to God in my weakness, on behalf and in the interest of the church, sensing deeply that it has been but a few hours ago when the burden of the church was laid upon me, yet in confidence and faith that God will not fail the church when called upon.
In the early hours of yesterday and today I was blessed by the Spirit in power and assurance such as I have never before experienced. The mind of the Lord was manifested to me, and in the order named my brethren have been presented to me, as follows, and accordingly I have written:
DC 140:Intro SECTION 140
Revelation given through President Israel A. Smith, April 7, 1947, at Independence, Missouri. It was approved by the various councils and quorums of the church and then endorsed by the Conference as an expression of the divine will and ordered to be published in the Doctrine and Covenants.
To the Quorums and Councils of the Church and to the General Conference:
For some time I have given prayerful consideration to the church and its present needs, in harmony with the call for prayer, and I am directed to present the following as the will of the Lord:
DC 141:Intro SECTION 141
Revelation given through President Israel A. Smith during the World Conference of 1948 held at Independence, Missouri. There was a vacancy in the ranks of the Twelve because of the death of Elder G. G. Lewis. Also, Elder M. A. McConley had become incapacitated by illness. The instruction given was endorsed by the various quorums and by the Conference, and provision was made for its inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants.
To the Quorums, Councils and Orders of the Church and the General Conference:
Since the day set for a fast and especially since the loss by death of Apostle Lewis, I have been led to seek the divine mind respecting the needs of the body. Light and intelligence have been manifested as a result, and I am permitted to present the following by way of encouragement and direction:
To the Church:
DC 141:5 The hastening time is upon us; the period until the next General Conference, as already provided, must be one of unusual preparation for my church as an organization, for my people, and especially for my priesthood if there shall be those who will be qualified to assume and to carry the responsibilities of those who fall or fail or who are released.
DC 142:Intro SECTION 142
Revelation presented by President Israel A. Smith to the General Conference on April 2, 1950. It was considered and approved by the quorums and the Conference and accepted as the word of God to the church. Provision was made for its inclusion in future editions of the Doctrine and Covenants. In an introductory paragraph, the prophet said:
"We approach the general Conference with a vacancy in our official circle. The death of President Garver left the Quorum of the First Presidency incomplete. This and other conditions have given me grave concern for the church.
"I have earnestly sought divine guidance, and it is with gratitude that I am able to transmit through the appointed channels that which the voice of inspiration directs me to say:"
To the Elders and to the Church:
DC 142:4a The church as a whole is commended for the spiritual growth and the preparation of the priesthood during the conference period, and this necessary work should proceed.
DC 143:Intro SECTION 143
Revelation given through President Israel A. Smith during the World Conference of 1954.
A vacancy in the Quorum of Twelve and the need for more seventies to meet the opportunities for missionary expansion had occupied the thought and prayers of the prophet. After some debate the revelation was approved in the usual manner.
To the Councils, Quorums, and Orders of the Church and to the General Conference:
DC 144:Intro SECTION 144
On May 28, 1952, President Israel A. Smith prepared and signed the following statement and placed it in the hands of his counselor, Elder F. Henry Edwards. After the death of President Smith on June 14, 1958, this document was brought to the attention of the Council of Twelve and other general church officers, and at the World Conference of 1958 it was unanimously approved by the quorums and orders of the priesthood and by the Conference assembly. The Conference ordered its insertion in the Doctrine and Covenants.
Elder William Wallace Smith was ordained as President of the High Priesthood and prophet, seer, and revelator to the church at the Auditorium at Independence, Missouri, on October 6, 1958.
To the church and to the Council of Twelve Apostles:
DC 144:1 As I am about to go overseas and realize the usual hazards of travel, and being ever conscious of the uncertainties of life and the certainty of death, and in order that my demise, whether soon or longer postponed, may not cause confusion, I hereby declare that in the event of my death, whenever it shall occur, my brother, William Wallace Smith, should be selected to succeed me as president of the high priesthood of the church, this having been manifested to me by the Lord at the time he was chosen and set apart as an apostle and again when he was called to be a counselor and member of the Quorum of the First Presidency, at the General Conference of 1950.
