RLDS Chapter Context

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)."

1a And the Lord said unto me, John, my beloved, what desirest thou? For if ye shall ask what you will, it shall be granted unto you.

1b And I said unto him, Lord, give unto me power over death, that I may live and bring souls unto thee.

1c And the Lord said unto me, Verily, verily I say unto thee, because thou desirest this thou shalt tarry until I come in my glory, and shalt prophesy before nations, kindreds, tongues, and people.

2a And for this cause the Lord said unto Peter, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? For he desiredst of me that he might bring souls unto me; but thou desiredst that thou might speedily come unto me in my kingdom.

2b I say unto thee, Peter, this was a good desire, but my beloved has desired that he might do more, or a greater work yet among men, than what he has before done; yea, he has undertaken a greater work;

2c therefore, I will make him as flaming fire, and a ministering angel; he shall minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation who dwell on the earth;

2d and I will make thee to minister for him and for thy brother James; and unto you three I give this power and the keys of this ministry until I come.

3 Verily I say unto you, Ye shall both have according to your desires, for ye both joy in that which ye have desired.