Isaiah 29:12 And behold, the book shall be sealed; and in the book shall be a revelation from God, from the beginning of the world to the ending thereof.
Isaiah 29:15 For the book shall be sealed by the power of God, and the revelation which was sealed shall be kept in the book until the own due time of the Lord, that they may come forth; for behold, they reveal all things from the foundation of the world unto the end thereof.
Romans 2:5 but, after thy hardness and impenitent heart, treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;
Romans 16:25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to the gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,
1 Corinthians 14:6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?
1 Corinthians 14:26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
Galatians 1:Intro The gospel unchangeable -- Paul received it by revelation.
Galatians 1:12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Galatians 2:2 And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.
Ephesians 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him;
Ephesians 3:3 As ye have heard that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery of Christ; as I wrote before in few words;
1 Peter 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
Revelation 1:1 The Revelation of John, a servant of God, which was given unto him of Jesus Christ, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass, that he sent and signified by his angel unto his servant John,
Title Page 1:3 written by way of commandment, and also by the spirit of prophecy and of revelation.
2 Nephi 11:126 And behold the book shall be sealed: and in the book shall be a revelation from God, from the beginning of the world to the ending thereof.
2 Nephi 11:130 For the book shall be sealed by the power of God, and the revelation which was sealed, shall be kept in the book until the own due time of the Lord, that they may come forth: for, behold, they reveal all things from the foundation of the world unto the end thereof.
Jacob 1:4 And if there were preaching which was sacred, or revelation which was great, or prophesying, that I should engrave the heads of them upon these plates, and touch upon them as much as it were possible, for Christ's sake, and for the sake of our people:
Omni 1:17 And I know of no revelation, save that which has been written, neither prophecy; wherefore, that which is sufficient is written. And I make an end.
Alma 2:28 And thus in the commencement of the ninth year of the reign of the Judges over the people of Nephi, Alma delivered up the judgment seat to Nephihah, and confined himself wholly to the high priesthood of the holy order of God, to the testimony of the word, according to the spirit of revelation and prophecy.
Alma 3:80 And now I do know of myself that they are true; for the Lord God hath made them manifest unto me by his Holy Spirit; and this is the spirit of revelation which is in me.
Alma 4:9 And Alma went and began to declare the word of God unto the church which was established in the valley of Gideon, according to the revelation of the truth of the word which had been spoken by his fathers,
Alma 6:31 And behold, I have been called to preach the word of God among all this people, according to the spirit of revelation and prophecy;
Alma 7:31 And having the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and also many gifts; the gift of speaking with tongues, and the gift of preaching, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, and the gift of translation:
Alma 12:5 But this is not all: they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting, therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority, even as with the power and authority of God.
Alma 14:10 And as sure as the Lord liveth, so sure as many as believed, or as many as were brought to the knowledge of the truth, through the preaching of Ammon and his brethren, according to the spirit of revelation and of prophecy, and the power of God, working miracles in them;
Alma 20:2 Now we shall say no more concerning their preaching, except that they preached the word, and the truth, according to the spirit of prophecy and revelation: and they preached after the holy order of God, by which they were called.
Alma 21:9 And these are the words: Behold, I perceive that this very people, the Nephites, according to the spirit of revelation which is in me, in four hundred years from the time that Jesus Christ shall manifest himself unto them, shall dwindle in unbelief;
Helaman 2:45 And it was because of the pride of their hearts, because of their exceeding riches, yea, it was because of their oppression to the poor, withholding their food from the hungry, withholding their clothing from the naked, and smiting their humble brethren upon the cheek, making a mock of that which was sacred, denying the spirit of prophecy and of revelation, murdering, plundering, lying, stealing, committing adultery, rising up in great contentions, and deserting away into the land of Nephi, among the Lamanites;
Helaman 2:58 And because of their iniquity, the church had begun to dwindle; and they began to disbelieve in the spirit of prophecy, and in the spirit of revelation; and the judgments of God did stare them in the face.
3 Nephi 2:24 Now it was the custom among all the Nephites, to appoint for their chief captains, save it were in their times of wickedness, some one that had the spirit of revelation, and also prophecy; therefore this Gidgiddoni was a great prophet among them, and also was the chief judge.
3 Nephi 13:59 Yea, wo unto him that shall deny the revelations of the Lord, and that shall say, The Lord no longer worketh by revelation, or by prophecy, or by gifts, or by tongues, or by healings, or by the power of the Holy Ghost;
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 2:Intro SECTION 2
By July 1828 a total of 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript had been translated. Martin Harris served as Joseph's scribe at this time and wrote most of the translation. To quiet the ridicule of some of his relatives, Martin borrowed the manuscript, promising to preserve it with the utmost care, but the foolscap sheets were stolen from him and never recovered. Under these circumstances the following instruction and rebuke were given to Joseph. The revelation was received at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in July 1828.
DC 3:Intro SECTION 3
After the loss of that portion of the Book of Mormon manuscript which had been translated before July 1828, the mind of Joseph was "darkened" (D. and C. 3:1b). After humbling himself, Joseph was again enlightened, and was permitted to resume his work. Instruction received in this connection is recorded in the following revelation, which was received while Joseph was still at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in July or August 1828.
DC 4:Intro SECTION 4
Revelation given to Joseph Smith, Sr., through his son, the prophet, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, February 1829.
DC 5:Intro SECTION 5
Revelation given to Joseph Smith and Martin Harris in Harmony, Pennsylvania, March 1829. It was called forth by Martin's insistent desire to know whether Joseph had the records of the Nephites in his possession.
DC 7:Intro SECTION 7
Revelation given to Joseph Smith, Jr., and Oliver Cowdery in Harmony, Pennsylvania, April 1829, in response to their prayers concerning the meaning of John 21:20-24. The 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants states that this was "translated from parchment, written and hid up by himself (John)."
DC 8:Intro SECTION 8
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to Oliver Cowdery, April 1829, at harmony, Pennsylvania. It was occasioned by Oliver's questions and concerns as he entered into more intimate association with Joseph during this first month of their acquaintance.
DC 8:2a Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation; behold, this is the Spirit by which Moses brought the children of Israel through the Red Sea on dry ground;
DC 9:Intro SECTION 9
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to Oliver Cowdery in Harmony, Pennsylvania, during April 1829. It followed and explained Oliver's failure as a translator and encouraged him to continue as Joseph's scribe, which he did.
DC 10:Intro SECTION 10
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to his brother, Hyrum Smith, May 1829, at Harmony, Pennsylvania. The first four paragraphs contain the same assurances and counsel as had been given to Oliver Cowdery during the preceding months (D. and C. 6).
DC 10:11b Build upon my rock, which is my gospel; deny not the spirit of revelation, nor the spirit of prophecy, for woe unto him that denieth these things;
DC 11:Intro SECTION 11
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., the prophet, in response to the earnest prayers of Joseph Knight, Sr. On several occasions Mr. Knight brought provisions to Joseph and Oliver so they could continue their work of translation without interruption. This revelation was given in May 1829, at Harmony, Pennsylvania. Note the similarity between the opening affirmations and commandments of this revelation and those given to Oliver Cowdery (D. and C. 6), Hyrum Smith (D. and C. 10), and David Whitmer (D. and C. 12).
DC 12:Intro SECTION 12
At the invitation of the Whitmer family, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery went from Harmony, Pennsylvania, to Fayette, Seneca County, New York, where they stayed in the Whitmer home until the translation of the Book of Mormon was completed. The following revelation, addressed to David Whitmer, was received in June 1829, while the prophet was still in Fayette.
DC 13:Intro SECTION 13
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., the prophet, to John Whitmer, June 1829, at the home of Peter Whitmer, Sr., John's father, at Fayette, Seneca County, New York. John Whitmer became one of the eight witnesses whose testimony is published with all editions of the Book of Mormon.
DC 14:Intro SECTION 14
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to Peter Whitmer, Jr. It is identical with the message to John, Peter's brother, and was received at the same time and place, June 1829, at Fayette, Seneca County, New York.
DC 15:Intro SECTION 15
In June, 1829, Martin Harris visited Fayette, New York, to inquire concerning the progress being made in the translation of the Book of Mormon. During this visit he joined Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer in asking that they might be chosen as the three special witnesses to the divinity of the Book of Mormon, mentioned in the prophecies of Nephi and Moroni (II Nephi 11:133; Ether 2:2-3).
The following revelation was received in answer to Joseph's prayer on behalf of his three associates. A few days later the promise it contained was fulfilled, and Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris became the three special witnesses to the fact that Joseph truly had the Book of Mormon plates and that these plates had been translated "by the gift and power of God." Their testimony was maintained to the end of their lives and has been included in every edition of the Book of Mormon.
DC 16:Intro SECTION 16
Although Martin Harris is not mentioned in this revelation given in June 1829, at Fayette, he joined Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer in selecting the first apostles in the Quorum of Twelve in the Restoration. The selection was made at Kirtland, February 14, 1835. Those chosen were ordained under the hands of Oliver, David, and Martin (the Three Witnesses), each praying separately.
DC 17:Intro SECTION 17
This section is a compilation of instructions received from time to time in connection with the organization of the church. The "Book of Commandments" describes the section as "the Articles and Covenants of the Church of Christ, given in Fayette, New York, June, 1830," but that part of the instruction which set the date for the organization of the church was given prior to April 6, 1830.
Joseph wrote in "Times and Seasons" (3:928):
"In this manner did the Lord continue to give us instructions from time to time concerning the duties which now devolved upon us, and among many other things of the kind, we obtained of him the following, by the spirit of prophecy and revelation, which not only gave us much information, but also pointed out to us the precise day upon which according to his will and commandment, we should proceed to organize his church once again, here upon the earth."
All editions of the Doctrine and Covenants include paragraphs 16 and 17 of this section, which did not appear in the "Book of Commandments." This further instruction was probably received after July 20, 1833, and selected for inclusion with related material in this section on the same principle as other material received at different times.
DC 18:Intro SECTION 18
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to Martin Harris, March 1830, at Manchester, New York.
DC 19:Intro SECTION 19
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., the prophet, on the day the church was organized, April 6, 1830, at Fayette, Seneca County, New York, before or, possibly, during the organization meeting, and is addressed to both Joseph and the church. It refers to the organization in the past tense and gives instruction concerning the ordination of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery as though this were yet to be consummated. The ordinations did take place at the organization meeting, after the other brethren participating had indicated their willingness to accept Joseph and Oliver as their teachers and leaders.
DC 20:Intro SECTION 20
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., prophet and seer to the church, April 1830, at Manchester, New York. This instruction came in answer to Joseph Smith's inquiry concerning the status of those who desired to unite with the church and who had already been baptized.
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 23:Intro SECTION 23
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., July 1830, at Harmony, Pennsylvania. It is addressed to Joseph and Oliver, who were in need of reassurance because of the persecution to which they had been subjected after the publication of the Book of Mormon and the organization of the church.
DC 24:Intro SECTION 24
Revelation addressed to Emma Smith, wife of the prophet. It was given through Joseph Smith at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in July 1830. The selection of hymns that Emma was directed to make was completed and published in 1835. This hymnbook was used at the dedication of the Kirtland Temple.
DC 24:1b A revelation I give unto thee concerning my will, and if thou art faithful and walk in the paths of virtue before me, I will preserve thy life, and thou shalt receive an inheritance in Zion.
DC 25:Intro SECTION 25
Revelation given through Joseph Smith at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in July 1830, to Joseph Smith, Jr., Oliver Cowdery, and John Whitmer. It is specifically important because of its affirmation of the principle of "common consent" in the government of the church.
DC 26:Intro SECTION 26
The first paragraph of this revelation was given to Joseph Smith, Jr., early in August 1830 at Harmony, Pennsylvania, and was written down at that time. It was given through the personal ministry of a "heavenly messenger" as Joseph was seeking wine for the Sacrament which he and his wife and John Whitmer (Joseph's secretary at the time) wished to share with Newel Knight and his wife. Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Knight had just been confirmed. The "Book of Commandments" gives the date of this revelation as September 4, 1830. This was probably when the later paragraphs of the revelation were received.
DC 27:Intro SECTION 27
Revelation given to Oliver Cowdery through Joseph Smith, Jr., in September 1830 at Fayette, New York.
Hiram Page had come into possession of a stone by use of which he had obtained certain "revelations" concerning the building of Zion, church organization, and similar matters. Oliver Cowdery and the Whitmer family, to whom Hiram was related, tended to accept his claims. The instruction now received appoints Oliver to an important mission and then sets forth the associated principles of prophetic guidance and common consent according to the church covenants and the prayer of faith. It should be noted that Oliver, who had shared responsibility for the difficulties which had arisen, is now commanded to take responsibility for their settlement.
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 31:Intro SECTION 31
Revelation to Parley P. Pratt and Ziba Peterson, given through Joseph Smith, Jr., prophet and seer to the church, October 1830 at Fayette, New York. The appointment of Oliver Cowdery and Peter Whitmer to take the message of the Restoration to the Lamanites aroused considerable interest and enthusiasm among the ministry. This mission to the West was most important. Men were anxious to go.
DC 31:1d And they shall give heed to that which is written and pretend to no other revelation, and they shall pray always that I may unfold them to their understanding;
DC 32:Intro SECTION 32
Revelation given to Ezra Thayre and Northrop Sweet through the prophet, Joseph Smith, Jr., October 1830 at Fayette, New York.
DC 33:Intro SECTION 33
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to Orson Pratt November 1830 at Fayette, New York. Orson had recently been baptized by his brother, Parley P. Pratt. Later both he and Parley became members of the Council of Twelve.
DC 34:Intro SECTION 34
Revelation addressed to Sidney Rigdon, given through Joseph Smith, Jr. It was received at Fayette, New York, in December 1830. Sidney Rigdon, Edward Partridge, and others had been converted at Mentor and Kirtland, Ohio, by the missionaries going west, and these two had come to visit Joseph in order to learn more about the church. It will be noted that Sidney was immediately called into close association with Joseph. The prophet had commenced the revision of the Bible in June 1830, and this close association with Sidney was undoubtedly of great value to him.
DC 35:Intro SECTION 35
Revelation given to Edward Partridge through Joseph Smith, Jr., in December 1830 at Fayette, New York. Edward Partridge had accompanied Sidney Rigdon from Ohio. Three months later he became the first bishop of the church (D. and C. 41:3).
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 37:Intro SECTION 37
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to Joseph and Sidney Rigdon in December 1830. It led to a temporary suspension of their work on the Inspired Version, and called for the removal of the body of the Saints to Ohio. There was already a strong nucleus in the Kirtland area.
DC 38:Intro SECTION 38
Revelation given to Joseph Smith, Jr., at Fayette, New York, in the opening days of 1831. It gives basic instruction concerning the work of the priesthood, the principle of stewardship, and the care of the poor. It was in preparation for the gathering to Ohio for which the Saints were already making preparation.
DC 39:Intro SECTION 39
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., January 1831, at Fayette, New York. This message was addressed to James Covill, a Baptist minister, who had sought light concerning his relation to the Restoration movement.
DC 40:Intro SECTION 40
Revelation addressed to Joseph Smith, Jr., and Sidney Rigdon. It was received through Joseph at Fayette, New York, January 1831, and is a sequel to the revelation given to James Covill (D. and C. 39).
DC 41:Intro SECTION 41
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., February 4, 1831. This was the first revelation received in Kirtland, Ohio, Joseph having arrived shortly before this time. It should be noted that while the revelation is addressed to the whole church, special responsibilities are placed on the elders in connection with the administration of church affairs.
DC 42:Intro SECTION 42
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., and addressed to the elders of the church. It was given February 9, 1831, in the presence of twelve elders who had assembled at Kirtland, Ohio, in harmony with instruction given them in an earlier revelation (D. and C. 41:1b). In the 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants this revelation appears as Section 13, and is headed "Laws of the Church."
DC 42:17a If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries, and peaceable things; that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal.
DC 43:Intro SECTION 43
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., February 1831 at Kirtland, Ohio. It is addressed to the elders of the church, and contains directions sought by Joseph for the guidance of some who had been misled by a Mrs. Hubble, who claimed to have received "revelations" concerning the government of the church. A similar difficulty had arisen in connection with Hiram Page's "peepstone" (see section 27). The church was not again disturbed over this question until the death of Joseph Smith in 1844.
DC 44:Intro SECTION 44
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Kirtland, Ohio, February 1831. Two urgent problems prompted the prayers which led to this revelation: the need for enough members to enable the Saints to organize for their work and the economic situation in Kirtland. The poor were in great distress.
DC 45:Intro SECTION 45
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 7, 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio. In connection with this manifestation Joseph wrote: "To the joy of the Saints who had to struggle against everything that prejudice and wickedness could invent, I received the following":
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.
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.
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.
DC 49:Intro SECTION 49
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio, addressed to Sidney Rigdon, Parley P. Pratt, and Lemon Copley. These elders were sent on a mission to the Shakers. Copley had been a member of the Society of Shakers but had recently joined the church. The revelation sets forth the major teachings of the Restoration wherein they differ from those of the Shakers.
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 51:Intro SECTION 51
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to Edward Partridge at Kirtland, Ohio, May 1831. This revelation has the same background as Doctrine and Covenants 48, both being concerned with locating the Saints from the East in harmony with Zionic principles. Edward Partridge was the only bishop in the church at this time.
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 53:Intro SECTION 53
Revelation given to Sidney Gilbert through Joseph Smith, Jr., June 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio. Sidney went to Missouri and served ably and faithfully until his death in June 1834.
DC 54:Intro SECTION 54
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Kirtland, Ohio, in June 1831. It is addressed to Newel Knight, who was president of the Colesville, New York, branch of the church whose members had recently settled at Thompson, Ohio, in the vicinity of Kirtland. Some of the brethren previously settled at Thompson had broken an agreement to share their land with the Colesville Saints, and this caused resentment and confusion. The revelation enabled Elder Knight to unite the faithful and to lead them to Missouri in a body. They arrived in what is now Kansas City late in July 1831.
DC 55:Intro SECTION 55
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Kirtland, Ohio, in June 1831. While Joseph and those who were to accompany him were preparing for their journey to Missouri, William W. Phelps and his family arrived at Kirtland. William desired to know the will of God concerning his work and was instructed to join the church and accompany Joseph and his party to Missouri. He made a major literary and musical contribution to the church during the next few years.
DC 56:Intro SECTION 56
Revelation given through the prophet Joseph Smith, Jr., at Kirtland, Ohio, June 1831. Lemon Copley and Ezra Thayre had entered into a stewardship covenant with the Saints at Thompson, but later refused to carry out its provisions. In view of this, Ezra Thayre's commission to travel with Thomas B. Marsh to Missouri was revoked. Of more permanent interest is the fundamental statement of stewardship which the situation called forth (vs. 5).
DC 57:Intro SECTION 57
Revelation addressed to the elders who had come to Independence, Missouri, in fulfillment of the instructions given them in Kirtland. It was given through Joseph Smith, Jr., in July 1831. In it the Center Place and "the spot for the temple" are designated, and the instructions previously given to Edward Partridge, Sidney Gilbert, W. W. Phelps, and Oliver Cowdery are confirmed.
DC 58:Intro SECTION 58
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., prophet and seer to the church, August 1, 1831, in Jackson County, Missouri. Groups of Saints were arriving in Jackson County. The Colesville Saints from the Thompson Branch arrived under the leadership of Newel Knight. On the first Sunday after the arrival of the prophet and party, W. W. Phelps preached to a mixed audience of white pioneers, Negroes, and Indians. On this day two were baptized. The Saints were eager for the dedication of the land and to learn of God's will concerning their work. This revelation is addressed to the elders of the church in Missouri, the "Land of Promise," the place for the "City of Zion."
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 61:Intro SECTION 61
Revelation given to eleven elders camped at McIlwain's Bend on the Missouri River, August 12, 1831. It was received by Joseph Smith, Jr., after prayer concerning a vision received by W. W. Phelps in which was depicted the danger of travel by water.
DC 62:Intro SECTION 62
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., on the bank of the Missouri River, August 13, 1831. The prophet and his party on their way from Independence to Kirtland met several elders who were going to the land of Zion. This revelation is addressed to these elders.
DC 63:Intro SECTION 63
Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, and Oliver Cowdery arrived in Kirtland, August 27, 1831, from their first visit to the land of Zion. Joseph wrote in his history,
"In these infant days of the church, there was great anxiety to obtain the word of the Lord upon every subject that in any way concerned our salvation; and as the "land of Zion" was the most temporal object in view, I inquired of the Lord for further information upon the gathering of the Saints, and the purchase of the land and other matters."
It was in answer to this petition that Joseph Smith received the following revelation.
DC 64:Intro SECTION 64
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., September 11, 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio. Joseph was preparing to go to Hiram, more than thirty miles southeast of Kirtland, to continue his work on the Inspired Version of the Scriptures. Meanwhile some of the brethren were busy preparing for their journey to Independence. This revelation is directed primarily to the elders who were leaving for Zion.
This was the last revelation printed in the Book of Commandments, the type having been set as far as "blood of Ephraim" (7b) when the mob at Independence, Missouri, destroyed the press.
DC 64:2f And he that repenteth not of his sins, and confesseth them not, then ye shall bring him before the church, and do with him as the Scriptures saith unto you, either by commandment, or by revelation.
DC 65:Intro SECTION 65
Joseph Smith, Jr., and Sidney Rigdon lived in the home of John Johnson at Hiram, Ohio, during September and October 1831 while they continued work on the Holy Scriptures. Here Joseph received the following revelation on prayer.
DC 66:Intro SECTION 66
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Orange, Ohio, October 1831. William E. McLellin had recently joined the church. He asked for instruction concerning his work, and this revelation was given in answer to Joseph's prayer on his behalf. In 1835 Elder McLellin became one of the charter members of the Council of Twelve.
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 68:2g but by virtue of the decree concerning their right of the priesthood descending from father to son, they may claim their anointing, if at any time they can prove their lineage, or do ascertain it by revelation from the Lord under the hands of the above-named presidency.
DC 69:Intro SECTION 69
Revelation given through rough Joseph Smith, Jr., November 1831, at Hiram, Ohio. The compilation of the revelations to comprise the "Book of Commandments" was authorized at one of the four special conferences held in Hiram during the first half of November 1831. It was decided that Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer should carry the revelations to Independence, Missouri, where they would be printed by W. W. Phelps and Company. This instruction was sought and received in connection with the mission of these brethren.
DC 70:Intro SECTION 70
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., November 12, 1831, at Hiram, Ohio. The editing and publishing of the revelations occupied much of the time of the elders who were commissioned to do this. In this revelation six of these elders were designated as "stewards over the revelations and commandments," and their remuneration was set forth as part of the basic stewardship law.
DC 71:Intro SECTION 71
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Hiram, Ohio, late in November or on the first of December, 1831. Ezra Booth had apostatized and was attacking the church in print. In harmony with the instructions received, Joseph and Sidney returned to Kirtland and from this base preached in Shalersville, Ravenna, and other places where the people had become disturbed. Joseph later wrote that he and Sidney "did much towards allaying the excited feelings" which had developed.
DC 72:Intro SECTION 72
Late in 1831 the high priests in Kirtland agreed that since Bishop Partridge was in Missouri, and so unable to give close attention to temporal affairs in Kirtland, a second bishop was needed for Kirtland. In the following revelation, given through Joseph Smith, Jr., they are commended for their care, and further instruction concerning stewardship is given. The revelation was received December 4, 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio.
DC 73:Intro SECTION 73
Joseph and Sidney continued preaching and counseling with the elders of the Kirtland region until January 10, 1832, when Joseph received the following revelation.
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 77:Intro SECTION 77
Revelation addressed to the high priests, given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Hiram, Portage County, Ohio, March 1832. It is concerned with the establishment of a storehouse and the care of the poor, both in the Kirtland area and in Zion.
The unusual names found in this and other revelations were probably used to hide the identity of the men and places mentioned from the enemies of the church. Identifications are suggested as follows:
"City of Enoch" City of Joseph
"Ahashdah" Newel K. Whitney
"Gazelam" or "Enoch" Joseph Smith
"Pelagoram" Sidney Rigdon
DC 78:Intro SECTION 78
Revelation addressed to Jared Carter given through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 1832, at Hiram, Ohio.
DC 79:Intro SECTION 79
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Hiram, Ohio, during March 1832. It concerns the missionary labors of Stephen Burnett and Eden Smith.
DC 80:Intro SECTION 80
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., in March 1832 at Hiram, Ohio. It is addressed to Frederick G. Williams, who is called to be a high priest and a counselor in the First Presidency. His ordination took place March 18, 1833.
DC 81:Intro SECTION 81
Joseph Smith left Hiram, Ohio, April 1, 1832, and he and his party reached Independence, Missouri, on April 24. A general council of the church was immediately called to convene April 26, 1832. At this council more inspired instruction was received through Joseph concerning the poor and the enlargement of Zion.
More unusual names are used in this revelation (see D. and C. 77). Their meanings are interpreted as follows:
"Alam and Ahashdah"
"Mahalaleel and Pelagoram"
"Gazelam"
"Horah and Olihah"
"Shalemanasseh and Mehemson"
"Land of Shinehah"
Newel K. Whitney
Sidney Rigdon
Joseph Smith
Oliver Cowdery
Martin Harris
Kirtland
DC 82:Intro SECTION 82
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., April 30, 1832, at Independence, Missouri. It was received following council discussion concerning the security of widows and orphans under the stewardship arrangements being worked out.
DC 83:Intro SECTION 83
Joseph Smith and some of his close associates returned from Independence to Kirtland, and here work on the Scriptures was resumed. During August and September many of the elders who had been on missions in the East also returned to Kirtland. Here, on September 22 and 23, 1832, the following revelation was given through Joseph Smith. It was received in the presence of six elders and is known as "the revelation on priesthood."
In the 1835 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants, this revelation comprised Section 4. It followed the revelations now numbered 17 and 104 and came immediately before those which are now numbered 99, 84, and 85. These six revelations were all concerned with priesthood and church government.
DC 83:1a A revelation of Jesus Christ unto his servant Joseph Smith, Jr., and six elders, as they united their hearts and lifted their voices on high;
DC 83:12b And this revelation unto you, and commandment, is in force from this very hour upon all the world, and the gospel is unto all who have not received it.
DC 85:Intro SECTION 85
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Kirtland, Ohio, December 27, 1832. There had been some friction between leaders in Independence and those in Kirtland. Joseph sent a copy of this revelation with a letter to William W. Phelps, who was in Missouri, and referred to it as the "Olive leaf . . . the Lord's message of peace to us." It has since been known as "The Olive Leaf."
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 86:1a Behold, verily thus saith the Lord unto you, In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation,
DC 87:Intro SECTION 87
Revelation received through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 8, 1833, at Kirtland, Ohio. By virtue of this revelation, the First Presidency was fully constituted for the first time in this dispensation. Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams, who are named here, were ordained under the hands of Joseph Smith, March 18, 1833, to be counselors in the First Presidency and in the Presidency of the High Priesthood.
DC 87:4 For it shall come to pass in that day, that every man shall hear the fullness of the gospel in his own tongue, and in his own language, through those who are ordained unto this power, by the administration of the Comforter, shed forth upon them, for the revelation of Jesus Christ.
DC 88:Intro SECTION 88
While working on the revision of the Holy Scriptures, Joseph Smith, Jr., came to the books of the Apocrypha. He inquired of the Lord whether these should be included in the revision and was given the following instruction. The revelation was received March 9, 1833, at Kirtland, Ohio.
DC 89:Intro SECTION 89
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 15, 1833, at Kirtland, Ohio. Shederlaomach (Frederick G. Williams, recently ordained a counselor in the First Presidency) is named for admission into the Order of Enoch.
DC 89:1 Verily, thus saith the Lord, I give unto the united order, organized agreeable to the commandment previously given, a revelation and commandment concerning my servant Shederlaomach, that ye shall receive him into the order. What I say unto one I say unto all.
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 91:Intro SECTION 91
Instruction given through Joseph Smith, Jr., prophet and seer to the church, at Kirtland, Ohio, on May 6, 1833, the same day that the preceding revelation was received.
DC 92:Intro SECTION 92
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., June 1, 1833, at Kirtland, Ohio. It should be studied in connection with sections 85:36, 90, and 91. Following the instruction contained in Doctrine and Covenants 85:36, a schoolhouse building committee had been appointed. It consisted of Hyrum Smith, Jared Carter, and Reynolds Cahoon. This revelation modified the purpose of the committee but retained the same personnel, which now became the building committee for the temple.
DC 94:Intro SECTION 94
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Kirtland, Ohio, August 2, 1833. This has to do with the work of the church in Zion. Before the revelation was given the Saints in Independence had been forced to sign an agreement to leave Jackson County (July 23, 1833). Word of the agreement did not reach Kirtland until early in September.
DC 95:Intro SECTION 95
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., August 6, 1833, at Kirtland, Ohio. No word of the culmination of the Missouri troubles had yet reached the Saints in Kirtland. The contents of this revelation are particularly significant in view of this fact.
DC 96:Intro SECTION 96
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., to Elder John Murdock, on august 1832, at Kirtland, Ohio. Murdock's wife Julia had died on April 30, 1831, after giving birth that day to twins, Julia and Joseph. Joseph and Emma Smith soon adopted these twins. In 1832 Murdock sent his older three children (with means for their support) to Bishop Edward Partridge in Missouri, and in April 1833 left for a mission to the eastern part of the United States.
Through an oversight the date "August 1833" was assigned to this revelation in the 1864 edition; hence the number "96," when it should have been "83."
DC 97:Intro SECTION 97
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Perrysburg, New York, October 12, 1833. Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon had stopped here at the home of Freeman Nickerson. They were on a mission to Canada and the East.
DC 98:Intro SECTION 98
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., December 16, 1833, at Kirtland, Ohio. The revelation is addressed to the Saints in Ohio and is concerned with the "brethren who had been afflicted and persecuted and cast from their land of inheritance."
DC 98:5a Behold, it is my will, that all they who call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting gospel, should gather together and stand in holy places, and prepare for the revelation which is to come when the veil of the covering of my temple, in my tabernacle, which hideth the earth, shall be taken off, and all flesh shall see me together.
DC 99:Intro SECTION 99
This is not a revelation, although it states that the High Council was "appointed by revelation"; it is the minutes of the organization of the Council at Kirtland, February 17, 1834. The day after the Council was organized, President Smith reviewed and corrected the minutes of the initial meeting. On February 19 the Council reassembled, the minutes were read three times, and were then unanimously adopted as a form and constitution of the High Council of the church.
DC 99:1a This day a general council of twenty-four high priests assembled at the house of Joseph Smith, Jr., by revelation, and proceeded to organize the high council of the church of Christ, which was to consist of twelve high priests, and one or three presidents, as the case might require.
DC 99:1b This high council was appointed by revelation for the purpose of settling important difficulties, which might arise in the church, which could not be settled by the church, or the bishop's council, to the satisfaction of the parties.
DC 99:6a The president of the church, who is also the president of the council, is appointed by revelation, and acknowledged, in his administration, by the voice of the church;
DC 99:10 In cases of difficulty respecting doctrine, or principle (if there is not a sufficiency written to make a case clear to the minds of the council), the president may inquire and obtain the mind of the Lord by revelation.
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 100:1a Verily I say unto you, my friends, Behold, I will give unto you a revelation and commandment, that you may know how to act in the discharge of your duties concerning the salvation and redemption of your brethren, who have been scattered on the land of Zion, being driven and smitten by the hands of mine enemies; on whom I will pour out my wrath without measure in mine own time;
DC 101:Intro SECTION 101
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., April 23, 1834, at Kirtland, Ohio. A "United Order of Enoch" had been established to manage the temporal affairs of the church in Kirtland and in Zion. The Order was now in financial difficulties, largely because of losses sustained through mob action. In accordance with this revelation, the Order was now dissolved, its properties being divided among the members of the Order in such fashion as to constitute their individual stewardships. For an explanation of the unusual names used in this revelation, consult the introduction to Doctrine and Covenants 77. The probable significance of these names is as follows:
The "Order"
"Pelagoram"
"Tahhanes"
"Mahemson"
"Zombre"
"Gazelam"
"Shederlaomach"
"Olihah" The United Order of Enoch
Sidney Rigdon
Tannery
Martin Harris
John Johnson
Joseph Smith
Frederick G. Williams
Oliver Cowdery
"Lane-shine-house"
"Ahashdah"
"Ozondah"
"Shinehah"
"Shinelah"
"Shinelane"
"Cainhannoch"
"Shule" Printing Office
Newel K. Whitney
Store
Kirtland
Print
Printing
New York
Ashery
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 103:Intro SECTION 103
Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Kirtland, Ohio, November 25, 1834. It was addressed to Warren A. Cowdery of Freedom, New York.
DC 104:Intro SECTION 104
The first members of the Council of Twelve of the Restoration were chosen February 14, 1835. At a meeting held to prepare for their first mission as a quorum of apostles, the brethren asked Joseph Smith to inquire of God and attain a revelation for their comfort and for their enlightenment concerning their duty. In response to this request, the following instruction was received through Joseph at Kirtland, Ohio, March 28, 1835.
DC 104:17 It is the duty of the Twelve, in all large branches of the church, to ordain evangelical ministers, as they shall be designated unto them by revelation.
DC 104:30 It is the duty of the Twelve, also, to ordain and set in order all the other officers of the church, agreeably to the revelation which says:
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 108:Intro SECTION 108
Revelation received through Joseph Smith, Jr., prophet and seer to the church, November 3, 1831, at Hiram, Ohio. The revelation, originally given as the "Preface" to the "Book of Commandments,"* given November 1, 1831, is now Section 1 of the Doctrine and Covenants. The following revelation was to constitute the "close" or "appendix" to the "Book of Commandments." The "Book of Commandments" was never completed; the printing press was destroyed by a mob while the book was in the process of being printed, and the printed material was scattered in the street. This revelation was not included in the incomplete copy. However, it was included in the revelations contained in the 1835 edition as the "appendix." It will be better understood if read in connection with the revelations given prior to November 1831. To follow the precedent of previous editions, it is retained in this place as Section 108.
*A number of bound copies of the "Book of Commandments" are in the Historian's Library of the Reorganized Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints.
DC 110:2a I wrote a few words of revelation to you concerning a recorder. I have had a few additional views in relation to this matter, which I now certify.
DC 110:6a And further, I want you to remember that John the Revelator was contemplating this very subject in relation to the dead, when he declared, as you will find recorded in Revelation 20:12,
DC 110:7c And the book which was the book of life, is the record which is kept in heaven; the principle agreeing precisely with the doctrine which is commanded you in the revelation contained in the letter which I wrote to you, previous to my leaving my place, "that in all your recordings it may be recorded in heaven."
DC 110:8a Now the nature of this ordinance consists in the power of the priesthood, by the revelation of Jesus Christ, wherein it is granted that whatsoever you bind on earth should be bound in heaven, and whatsoever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven;
DC 110:9a It may seem to some to be a very bold doctrine that we talk of--a power which records or binds on earth and binds in heaven; nevertheless, in all ages of the world, whenever the Lord has given a dispensation of the priesthood to any man by actual revelation, or any set of men, this power has always been given.
DC 111:Intro SECTION 111
This section on marriage is not a revelation. It was prepared while the Book of Doctrine and Covenants was being compiled and was read by W. W. Phelps at the general assembly of August 17, 1835. It was adopted unanimously by that assembly as part of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants. It has been retained in every edition of the book published by the Reorganization, and the church knows no other law of marriage than that which is set forth here.
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 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 119:7a And the Spirit saith further: Inasmuch as there has been much discussion in the past concerning the Sabbath of the Lord, the church is admonished that until further revelation is received, or the quorums of the church are assembled to decide concerning the law in the church articles and covenants,
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 120:2d 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 120:9d 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 120:10b In making these selections the presidents of Seventy should confer with the several quorums before so selecting, and be guided by wisdom and the spirit of revelation, choosing none but men of good repute.
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 122:2b and they shall teach according to the spirit of wisdom and understanding, and as they shall be directed by revelation, from time to time.
DC 122:6c and the bishop and his counselors, and the high council, and the bishop and his council, and the storehouse and the temple and the salvation of my people, are the same to me now that they were in that day when I gave the revelation;
DC 122:6g these last named being within the province of the Presidency, the Twelve as a quorum, the councils or other officers of the branches or stakes where houses of worship are to be built, the conferences and the general assembly of the church, and the direction of the Lord by revelation.
DC 122:8a That part of the law which says: "It is the duty of the Twelve, also, to ordain and set in order all the other officers of the church," is to be understood by the revelation which went before and in accordance with which it was written; and which follows after it in the book;
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 123:20 After some deliberation the consensus of opinion of the council was secured to the effect that the words "the Bishop and his council" found in paragraph 6 of the revelation of 1894, mean the Bishop and his two counselors, and a vote obtained in support of such understanding.
PRESIDENTS OF HIGH COUNCIL
DC 123:22a Resolved that it is the opinion of this council that the statements found in paragraphs 1, 2, and 3 of the revelation of 1894 should be understood in the same sense as paragraph 3 of the revelation of 1882 and paragraph 4 of the revelation of 1890,
DC 123:23d "nor do we mean by this that the word 'abroad' is to be construed to mean foreign lands, but in the field of itinerant gospel labor everywhere, as contradistinguished from branch, district, or other local organizations."
REVELATION OF 1861
DC 123:24a Resolved that paragraph 5 of the revelation of April 15, 1894, relating to the duty of the Twelve under the authority of the revelation of 1861 (Doctrine and Covenants, section 114), teaches that said revelation is still in force;
DC 123:24b but that whatever duty the Twelve might have felt rested upon them in "looking after the disbursements of the moneys in the treasury, or the management of the properties of the church," more than what is set forth in the agreement between the Twelve and the Bishopric, as effected in April, 1878, and reaffirmed in April, 1888, or indicated in the revelation of April, 1894, "they are now absolved from, the end designed by it having been reached."
REQUEST FOR ARTICLES FOR PUBLICATION
DC 123:29a Thus ended the work of the council convened in accordance with the requirement of the revelation which had been formerly accepted by the church.
DC 124:Intro SECTION 124
Revelation given through Joseph Smith III at Lamoni, Iowa, April 1897. The Twelve had renewed their request of 1894 for direction concerning the calling and responsibilities of patriarch-evangelists. They and the church in general were also anxious that the presiding quorums should be more nearly filled. Temporary completion of the First Presidency and more permanent completion of the Quorum of Twelve were authorized in this revelation.
This was the first time that the Twelve had been filled since the Reorganization.
DC 124:3 The Quorum of Twelve, my servants, may choose and appoint one of their number to take the place of my servant Alexander H. Smith, and if they shall choose William H. Kelley, from among them for this place it will be pleasing unto me; nevertheless, if directed by the spirit of revelation and wisdom they may choose another.
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 125:14a Branches and districts are to be conducted according to the rules given in the law as directed in a former revelation: They shall take the things which have been given unto them as my law to the church to be my law to govern my church.
DC 126:10b To this question I was answered, that the Book of Doctrine and Covenants as accepted by the church was to guide the advice and action of the Bishopric, taken as a whole, each revelation contained therein having its appropriate bearing upon each of the others and their relation thereto;
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 127:7b and must be done in accordance with the revelation given to the church upon Fishing River and in accordance with the counsel and advice of the elders of the church whose duty it has been made to counsel and advise the Saints.
DC 127:8a Inasmuch as misunderstanding has occurred in regard to the meaning of a revelation hitherto given through my servant Joseph Smith in regard to who should be called to preside in case my servant should be taken away or fall by transgression,
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 128:3b and they will be guided by the spirit of wisdom and revelation to do the work intrusted to their care.
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 129:8a The Spirit saith further: The attention of the church is called to the consideration of the revelation, given in answer to earnest supplication, with regard to temporal things.
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 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 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 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 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: