Commentary for Doctrine and Covenants: Section 45

 

Section 45

Background Information 

JS received this revelation sometime around March 7, 1831 during a period when, according to JS's history, “many false reports, lies, and fo[o]lish stories were published in the newspapers, and circulated in every direction, to prevent people from investigating the work, or embracing the faith.” The revelation, consequently, was a joy to the saints "who had to struggle against everything the prejudice and wickedness could invent." 

Although this revelation describes the establishment of the New Jerusalem and Christ's second coming, both of which had been prophesied in the Book of Mormon and JST, what makes this revelation notable is that it expounds upon the statements that the Lord told his disciples as recorded in Matthew 24 (staring in verse 18). Apparently the Lord said more to the disciples than what is recorded in Matthew 24. Section 45 contains those additional prophecies.  

Section 

1 Hearken, O ye people of my church [Lord is addressing the entire church, not the elders], to whom the kingdom has been given; hearken ye [the church] and give ear to him who laid the foundation of the earth, who made the heavens and all the hosts thereof, and by whom all things were made which live, and move, and have a being. 2 And again I say, hearken unto my voice, lest death shall overtake you; in an hour when ye think not the summer shall be past, and the harvest ended, and your souls not saved. 3 Listen to him who is the advocate with the Father, who is pleading your cause before him— 4 Saying: Father, behold the sufferings and death of him who did no sin, in whom thou wast well pleased; behold the blood of thy Son which was shed, the blood of him whom thou gavest that thyself might be glorified; 5 Wherefore, Father, spare these my brethren that believe on my name, that they may come unto me and have everlasting life.

• Verse 2: Summer Past
• President Joseph Fielding Smith noted: In all ages of the world it has been the peculiar belief of men that the sayings of the prophets were to be fulfilled in times still future. That is true of the people today. We have had ample warning of the nearness of the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. . . . In this revelation [section 45] we are given the warning that the summer is passing and if we are heedless of the warning we will find the summer past, the harvest ended and our souls not saved. While no man knows the day or the hour, yet if we are taken unawares, we will be without excuse for the signs are ample and we now see them being fulfilled (Church History and Modern Revelation, 1:195).

6 Hearken, O ye people of my church, and ye elders listen together, and hear my voice while it is called today, and harden not your hearts; 7 For verily I say unto you that I am Alpha and Omega [Alpha and Omega are the first and last letters in the Greek alphabet], the beginning and the end, the light and the life of the world—a light that shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not. 8 I came unto mine own [the Lord's covenant people], and mine own received me not; but unto as many as received me [through repentance and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost] gave I power to do many miracles, and to become the sons of God; and even unto them that believed on my name gave I power to obtain eternal life. 9 And even so I have sent mine everlasting covenant into the world, to be a light to the world, and to be a standard for my people, and for the Gentiles to seek to it, and to be a messenger [the everlasting covenant is to be the Lord's messenger] before my face to prepare the way before me.

10 Wherefore, come ye unto it [the everlasting covenant], and with him that cometh I will reason as with men in days of old, and I will show unto you my strong reasoning. 11 Wherefore, hearken ye together and let me show unto you even my wisdom—the wisdom of him whom ye say is the God of Enoch, and his brethren, 12 Who [Enoch and his people] were separated from the earth, and were received unto myself [see Moses 7:65-69]—a city reserved until a day of righteousness shall come—a day which was sought for by all holy men, and they [the holy men] found it not because of wickedness and abominations [because of the wickedness and abominations, Zion wasn't able to be established]; 13 And confessed they [the holy men] were strangers and pilgrims on the earth [likely quoting Hebrews 11]; 14 But obtained a promise [re: the restoring of Zion] that they should find it and see it in their flesh.

• Verses 1-15: Hearken 
• The Lord repeats the word Hearken or Listen 8 times in just 15 verses. Thus the Lord is telling the church and us that to pay attention to what He has to declare in section 45. 
• Verses 11-12: The City of Enoch
• Joseph Fieldings Smith taught: If we would carry out that which the Lord has revealed, as he has revealed it, then all things would be perfect; for the organization is a perfect organization the theory of it, the plan of it. is without flaw, and if we followed all the orders that have been given to us in the priesthood and otherwise, if we would put into practice the great doctrines which have been revealed in the revelations contained in the Holy Scriptures, it would only be a matter of a very short time until this great people would be in the same condition, absolutely, as were the people in the city of Enoch. We would be able to walk with God, we would be able to behold his face, because then faith would abound in the hearts of the people to the extent that it would be impossible for the Lord to withhold himself, and he would reveal himself unto us as he has done in times past. (Doctrines of Salvation, volume 1, 4) (emphasis added). 

15 Wherefore, hearken and I will reason with you, and I will speak unto you and prophesy, as unto men in days of old. 16 And I will show it [the prophesy] plainly as I showed it [prophesy] unto my disciples as I stood before them in the flesh [referring to Matthew 24], and spake unto them, saying: [what follows is what the Lord told his disciples during his ministry] As ye [the Lord's disciples] have asked of me concerning the signs of my coming, in the day when I shall come in my glory in the clouds of heaven, to fulfil the promises that I have made unto your fathers [see verse 14], 17 For as ye [the Lord's disciples] have looked upon the long absence of your spirits from your bodies to be a bondage [the disciples won't be resurrected until Christ comes again, hence they will be without bodies for a long period], I will show unto you [the disciples] how the day of redemption shall come, and also the restoration of the scattered Israel [the Lord explains how to He will restore and redeem Israel].

18 And now ye [the Lord's disciples] behold this temple which is in Jerusalem, which ye call the house of God, and your enemies say that this house shall never fall [the Jews believed that God would not let nothing happen to the Jerusalem temple]. 19 But, verily I say unto you, that desolation shall come upon this generation [those living during the Lord's time] as a thief in the night, and this people [those living during the Lord's time] shall be destroyed and scattered among all nations [this was fulfilled, as Rome took the Jews captive after it destroyed the temple]. 20 And this temple [the Jerusalem temple] which ye now see shall be thrown down that there shall not be left one stone upon another [occurred in 70 A.D]. 21 And it shall come to pass, that this generation of Jews [those who were around when the Jewish temple was destroyed] shall not pass away until every desolation which I have told you concerning them shall come to pass [the Jews alive during Christ's time will see the destruction of the Jerusalem temple and the final scattering of the Jews].

• Verse 19: Destroyed and Scattered
• As on commentator explained: 
• In AD 68, the Roman general Vespasian and his son Titus took a large Roman army into Israel to subdue rebellious Judah. In AD 70 Titus surrounded Jerusalem and placed it under siege. Soon the starvation of the Jews inside the walls of Jerusalem began. Citizens of Jerusalem who ventured outside the walls to search for roots to eat, if seized, were crucified by the Roman soldiers. Sometimes hundreds of Jews hanging on crosses could be seen from the city walls. A trench was dug around the city in order to make its isolation complete. 
• Prisoners of war were cut open, while still alive, to enable soldiers to search their bodies for gold which they might have swallowed. Six hundred thousand persons died within the walls, and the dead bodies, too numerous to be buried, were left in the houses. The Zealots, a fanatical sect whose members maintained that God would save them at the last moment, went about murdering and urging the people to resistance. Within the walls of the Holy City, rival political factions stole the possessions of citizens and the food from the mouths of women and children. 
• Pressed by the famine, mothers ate their babies. In their madness, the political gangs fought and killed each other for control of the city and even burned each other’s food supplies, all while the common enemy, the Romans, waited outside the walls for the inevitable (Ibid., 387-401, 416-17). Even Titus was sick at heart at the daily horrors he witnessed or heard about. At length the temple became a fort. Titus attacked it as such. A Roman soldier, contrary to order, set fire to it. After a while the scene was one of carnage and plunder. Six thousand Jews perished in the flames. In this awful war more than a million and a half of the Jews perished, and many were sold into slavery.
• Verse 20: Not One Stone Left
• Literal fulfillment: During the late twentieth century archaeologists uncovered the ancient road that ran at the base of the retaining wall built by Herod when he extended the original platform of the temples built under the direction of Solomon and Zerubbabel. They discovered that the massive stones of the temple had been pushed over the precipice of the temple mount down onto the road below. Huge ashlars, or hand- dressed stones, were broken on the road and revealed in the excavations. Today an archaeological garden stands as a witness to the Savior’s words.
• Symbolic meanings: the announcement that not one stone would be left standing on another meant that the house of Israel would be scattered among those of every nation, kindred, and tongue, that no two families would be left side by side when the end of their nation came. Conversely, in the last days, the gathering of Israel—family by family—will token God’s favor resting upon them once again, the crowning event of that latter-day gathering being the restoration of their temple and their nation.

22 Ye say that ye know that the end of the world cometh; ye say also that ye know that the heavens and the earth shall pass away [refers to the destruction and celestialization of the earth at the end of the Millennium]; 23 And in this ye say truly, for so it is; but these things which I have told you shall not pass away until all shall be fulfilled. 24 And this I have told you concerning Jerusalem; and when that day shall come, shall a remnant be scattered among all nations; 25 But they [the remnant] shall be gathered again; but they [the remnant] shall remain until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled [the remnant will not fully be gathered until the times of the Gentiles is complete].

• Verse 22: The End of the World
• As Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained: The end of the world is the end of unrighteousness or of worldliness as we know it, and this will be brought about by “the destruction of the wicked.” When our world ends and the millennial era begins, there will be a new heaven and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17-25; D&C 101:23-24). Lust, carnality, and sensuousness of every sort will cease, for it will be the end of the world (Mormon Doctrine, 848).
• We thus learn that the scriptural phrase “end of the world” refers to the destruction of the earth at the Lord’s second coming in glory.

26 And in that day [the fulness of the Gentiles, our day] shall be heard of wars and rumors of wars, and the whole earth shall be in commotion, and men’s hearts shall fail them, and they shall say that Christ delayeth his coming until the end of the earth. 27 And the love of men shall wax cold, and iniquity shall abound. 28 And when the times of the Gentiles is come in [referring to the restoration of the gospel], a light [the fulness of Christ's gospel] shall break forth among them that sit in darkness, and it shall be the fulness of my gospel; 29 But they [those living at the time the fulness of the gospel is restored] receive it not; for they perceive not the light, and they turn their hearts from me because of the precepts of men [people reject the fulness of the gospel because they couldn't recognize the light due their traditions as taught to them by men]. 

• Verses 26-29: Fulness of the Gentiles
• The days of the Gentiles will be marked with wars and rumor of wars, the earth will be in commotion, and love of men shall wax cold (inference: hate will be present), with iniquity abounding. 

30 And in that generation [the generation that is alive when the fulness of the gospel is rejected] shall the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled [the fulness of the Gentiles occurs when the Gentiles (us) reject the fulness]. 31 And there shall be men standing in that generation [the generation that is alive when the fulness of the gospel is rejected], that shall not pass until they shall see an overflowing scourge [the people who are alive when the fulness of the gospel is rejected by the Gentiles will not die before they see an overflowing scourge cover the land]; for a desolating sickness shall cover the land. 32 But my disciples [followers of today] shall stand in holy places, and shall not be moved [when desolation occurs his modern day disciples will remain in holy places]; but among the wicked, men shall lift up their voices and curse God and die [the wicked who have misunderstood God's character will not allow the trial and tribulation to soften their hearts. Instead they will harden their hearts against God and die -- both temporally and spiritually]. 33 And there shall be earthquakes also in divers places, and many desolations; yet men will harden their hearts against me, and they will take up the sword, one against another, and they will kill one another.

• Verses 31-33: Precepts of Men 

• Because of the teachings of men (precepts of men}, the Gentiles will reject the light. Many who are alive during the day that the Gentiles reject the light will not die until they see an "overflowing scourge". When the desolating scourge occurs, the Lord’s disciples must stand in places that are separate from the wicked and not move. 

• Verse 32: Holy Places
• If the Lord is using the Hebrew meaning for holy, then a holy place is a place set apart from the world. Given that persecution will be high during the end times -- especially when people are fighting against each other --- the holy places will be our homes, if we are created a home set apart from the world and its influence.

34 And now, when I the Lord had spoken these words unto my disciples [His followers during his ministry], they were troubled. 35 And I said unto them [His disciples]: Be not troubled, for, when all these things [referring to what the Lord described in verses 18 - 33] shall come to pass, ye may know that the promises which have been made unto you shall be fulfilled [Hebrews 2 outlines what these promises are]. 36 And when the light shall begin to break forth, it shall be with them like unto a parable which I will show you— 37 Ye look and behold the fig trees, and ye see them with your eyes, and ye say when they begin to shoot forth, and their leaves are yet tender, that summer is now nigh at hand; 38 Even so it shall be in that day when they shall see all these things, then shall they know that the hour is nigh.

• Verse 37: The Fig Tree
• As one commentator explained, "one characteristic of a fig tree is that it does not put forth its leaves until relatively late in the season, long after most trees are in full leaf. The Savior used this feature in a parable concerning his second coming." 
• "Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer [the Savior’s second coming] [is] nigh” (Matthew 24:32). Using the parable of the fig-tree, President Spencer W. Kimball made a prophetic pronouncement: “The leaves are commencing to show on the fig tree'" (Ensign, May 1976, 74). 

39 And it shall come to pass that he that feareth me shall be looking forth for the great day of the Lord to come, even for the signs of the coming of the Son of Man [those that properly fear the Lord will be looking for signs and be preparing for the end times]. 40 And they [those the fear the Lord] shall see signs and wonders, for they shall be shown forth in the heavens above, and in the earth beneath [signs and wonders are a reward to the faithful]. 41 And they shall behold blood, and fire, and vapors of smoke. 42 And before the day of the Lord shall come, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon be turned into blood, and the stars fall from heaven [see Amos 7].

43 And the remnant shall be gathered unto this place [the location where Jesus spoke these word to his diciples]; 44 And then they [the remnant] shall look for me, and, behold, I will come; and they shall see me in the clouds of heaven, clothed with power and great glory; with all the holy angels; and he that watches not for me shall be cut off. 45 But before the arm of the Lord shall fall [the appearing of the arm of the Lord signals the cutting off of those who would not heed the voice of the Lord, see D&C 1:14] , an angel shall sound his trump, and the saints that have slept shall come forth to meet me in the cloud. 46 Wherefore, if ye have slept in peace blessed are you; for as you now behold me and know that I am, even so shall ye come unto me and your souls shall live, and your redemption shall be perfected; and the saints shall come forth from the four quarters of the earth. 

47 Then [after the saints have gathered from the four quarters of the earth and the dead have resurrected] shall the arm of the Lord fall upon the nations [once the remnant is gathered into a place of safety, then the Lord will unleash his final judgment upon nations]. 48 And then shall the Lord set his foot upon this mount [mount of Olives (see Matt 24:3-46), since this is the mountain that the Lord is speaking to his disciples when answering their questions about the end times], and it [mount of Olives] shall cleave in twain, and the earth shall tremble, and reel to and fro, and the heavens also shall shake. 49 And the Lord shall utter his voice, and all the ends of the earth shall hear it; and the nations of the earth shall mourn, and they that have laughed shall see their folly. 50 And calamity shall cover the mocker, and the scorner shall be consumed; and they that have watched for iniquity shall be hewn down and cast into the fire. 51 And then shall the Jews look upon me and say [after the mount of Olives has be rent into two]: What are these wounds in thine hands and in thy feet? 52 Then shall they know that I am the Lord; for I will say unto them: These wounds are the wounds with which I was wounded in the house of my friends. I am he who was lifted up. I am Jesus that was crucified. I am the Son of God. 53 And then shall they [the Jews] weep because of their iniquities; then shall they [the Jews] lament because they [the Jews] persecuted their king. 54 And then shall the heathen nations be redeemed, and they that knew no law shall have part in the first resurrection; and it shall be tolerable for them. 55 And Satan shall be bound, that he shall have no place in the hearts of the children of men. 

• Verse 48: This Mount
• Parley P. Pratt, in a pamphlet published while Joseph smith was still alive, described the great events depicted here:
• Zechariah, chapter 14, has told us much concerning the great battle and overthrow of the nations who fight against Jerusalem, and he has said, in plain words, that the Lord shall come at the very time of the overthrow of that army; yet, in fact even while they are in the act of taking Jerusalem, and have already succeeded in taking one-half the city, spoiling their houses and ravishing their women. Then, behold, their long-expected Messiah, suddenly appearing, shall stand upon the Mount of Olives, a little east of Jerusalem, to fight against those nations and deliver the Jews. Zechariah says the Mount of Olives shall cleave in twain, from east to west, and one-half of the mountain shall remove to the north while the other half falls off to the south, suddenly forming a very great valley into which the Jews shall flee for protection from their enemies as they fled from the earthquake in the days of Uzziah, king of Judah; while the Lord cometh and all the saints with him. Then will the Jews behold that long, long-expected Messiah, coming in power to their deliverance, as they always looked for him. He will destroy their enemies and deliver them from trouble at the very time they are in the utmost consternation, and about to be swallowed up by their enemies. But what will be their astonishment when they are about to fall at the feet of their Deliverer and acknowledge him their Messiah! They discover the wounds which were once made in his hands, feet, and side; and on inquiry, at once recognize Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews, the man so long rejected. Well did the prophet say that they shall mourn and weep, every family apart, and their wives apart. But, thank heaven, there will be an end to their mourning; for he will forgive their iniquities and cleanse them from uncleanness. Jerusalem shall be a holy city from that time forth, and all the land shall be turned as a plain from Geba to Rimmon. She shall be lifted up and inhabited in her place, and men shall dwell there. There shall be no more utter destruction of Jerusalem, “And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one Lord, and his name one” (Zechariah 14:9) (Voice of Warning, 32-33).

56 And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins [see Matthew 25: 1-12]. 57 For they that are wise [the wise ones had enough oil] and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day. 58 And the earth shall be given unto them [those who have received the Holy Ghost] for an inheritance; and they shall multiply and wax strong, and their children shall grow up without sin unto salvation. 59 For the Lord shall be in their midst [those who have received the Holy Ghost], and his glory shall be upon them [those who have received the Holy Ghost], and he will be their king and their lawgiver.

• Verse 56 -- Parable of Ten Virgins
• The parable features 5 virgins who were wise and stored up enough oil for their lamps and five who were unwise and didn't store up enough oil. A notable detail of the parable of the ten virgins is that the 10 virgins are separate from the world to begin with. We know this because the 10 virgins were all aware of the wedding invitation. The important details is not everyone who was aware of the wedding took the steps to secure the required amount of oil. The wedding invitation is a metaphor for the second coming of Christ -- particularly the gathering of the saints in Zion when Christ arrives. 
• Applied to us, the 10 virgins are us -- either LDS or Christians, whichever way you want to view it. The five foolish virgins do not represent the world because the world is not thinking about the second coming of Christ, only Christians are. What this means is that just because one is a Christian and believes in Christ, does not mean they'll be attending the feast. Only those who have allowed the Holy Spirit to guide them to the acquisition of truth will be attending the wedding feast. The accumulation of oil represents the accumulation of light and truth. 
• Although the parable seems harsh because the wise virgins don't share the oil, I believe what the Lord is trying to convey is the fact that everyone who wants to attend the "wedding feast" must gain the oil on their own through diligence and obedience. This type of thing can't simply be shared. 
• Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught the following: “Salvation is a personal matter. It comes only to those who keep the commandments and whose souls are filled with the Holy Spirit of God. No man can keep the commandments for and on behalf of another; no one can gain the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit in his life and give or sell that holy oil to another. Every man must light his own lamp with the oil of righteousness which he buys at the market of obedience.” (Mortal Messiah, 3:468)
• The reason why the truth can't be shared is because a large part of enduring the end times is the acquiring of light and truth. Light and truth will provide the proper perspective and understanding to be able to endure the great tribulations that precede Zion. But this kind of knowledge, which involve the mysteries of God, can only be understand and obtained through patience, diligence, and heed. It is not something that can be dispensed all at once. 
• It is given unto many to know the mysteries of God; nevertheless they are laid under a strict command that they shall not impart only according to the portion of his word which he doth grant unto the children of men, according to the heed and diligence which they give unto him. 10 And therefore, he that will harden his heart, the same receiveth the lesser portion of the word; and he that will not harden his heart, to him is given the greater portion of the word, until it is given unto him to know the mysteries of God until he know them in full. 11 And they that will harden their hearts, to them is given the lesser portion of the word until they know nothing concerning his mysteries; and then they are taken captive by the devil, and led by his will down to destruction. Now this is what is meant by the chains of hell [chains of hell refers to ignorance, allowing Satan to have power of the person] (Alma 12: 9-11).
• John the Baptist came prepared the way for the Lord by dispensing greater light and truth than the Jews had been aware of. This knowledge then allowed John's followers to identify when the Savior came. There is a reason why some of Christ's disciples (such as John and Philip) were disciples of John the Baptist before they were Christ's. It's because John the Baptist prepared the way for them -- and for others. Once John was killed, his followers went to Christ. 
• It is through the dissemination of truth that the Lord will gather His elect in the end times. 
• And righteousness will I send down out of heaven; and truth will I send forth out of the earth, to bear testimony of mine Only Begotten; his resurrection from the dead; yea, and also the resurrection of all men; and righteousness and truth will I cause to sweep the earth as with a flood, to gather out mine elect from the four quarters of the earth, unto a place which I shall prepare, an Holy City, that my people may gird up their loins, and be looking forth for the time of my coming; for there shall be my tabernacle, and it shall be called Zion, a New Jerusalem. (Moses 7:62)
• The Lord will send truth forth to counter the growing degrees of darkness that invade the minds of the people. 

60 And now, behold, I say unto you, it shall not be given unto you to know any further concerning this chapter [Matthew 24, which JS was translating], until the New Testament be translated [the Lord won't reveal anything more about the events he prophesied about in Matthew 24 until JS completes the New Testament], and in it all these things shall be made known; 61 Wherefore I give unto you that ye may now translate it [the New Testament], that ye may be prepared for the things to come [apparently JS' translation of the NT would serve to prepare the saints for future events]. 62 For verily I say unto you, that great things await you; 63 Ye hear of wars in foreign lands; but, behold, I say unto you, they are nigh, even at your doors, and not many years hence ye shall hear of wars in your own lands. [This prophecy undoubtedly refers to the Civil War, at this time still thirty years away, and perhaps also to other wars we have not yet experienced (see D&C 38:29-32; 87:1-8).]

64 Wherefore I, the Lord, have said, gather ye out from the eastern lands, assemble ye yourselves together ye elders of my church; go ye forth into the western countries, call upon the inhabitants to repent, and inasmuch as they do repent, build up churches unto me [the Lord specifically addresses the elders of the church in verse 24. This is because the elders are the ones called to preach repentance]. 65 And with one heart and with one mind, gather up your riches that ye may purchase an inheritance which shall hereafter be appointed unto you. 66 And it shall be called the New Jerusalem, a land of peace, a city of refuge, a place of safety for the saints of the Most High God; 67 And the glory of the Lord shall be there, and the terror of the Lord also shall be there, insomuch that the wicked will not come unto it, and it shall be called Zion. 68 And it shall come to pass among the wicked, that every man that will not take his sword against his neighbor must needs flee unto Zion for safety. [Eventually the hatred and strife against men will be so great that those who are wicked will take up arms and fight against each others. Those who refuse must flee to Zion]. 69 And there shall be gathered unto it out of every nation under heaven; and it shall be the only people that shall not be at war one with another. 

• Verse 68: Take Up His Sword
• The accounts in the Book of Mormon concerning the destruction of the Nephites and Jaredites serve as a model for what the end times will be like. Both these groups received tremendous blessings and were held to a higher standard. However, they rejected the light and truth and as a consequence become a depraved people. Their depravation led them to hatred which eventually led to fighting and bloodshed. 
• Likewise, the Lord has blessed the United States, in particular, with great and abundant blessings. The US is the most prosperous nation ever. Through the blessings of the Lord, the US has been able to reach heights that previous societies couldn't even imagine. But like the Jaredites and Nephites, the nation as a whole as denied its maker and the people have turned their hearts away from hearkening to His voice.   
• Consequently, they have elected darkness over light. The degree of darkness embraced is commensurate with the degree of light obtained. Since the US has received (or had the change to receive greater light) as the restored gospel was given to this nation and the Lord has protected this nation from invasions and massive destruction, the rejection of the light will result in greater darkness (See Jacob 2:34). The result is will be anger and hatred towards each other -- eventually leading to violence and wars. Only the righteous, who have love in their hearts, will refrain from fighting. 
• Verse 69: Those Who Will Not Be At War
• JS taught: Without Zion, and a place of deliverance, we must fall, because the time is near when the sun will be darkened, and the moon turn to blood, and the stars fall from heaven, and the earth reel to and fro. Then, if this is the case, and if we are not sanctified and gathered to the places God has appointed, with all our former professions and our great love for the Bible, we must fall. We cannot stand. We cannot be saved, for God will gather out his saints from the Gentiles, and then comes desolation and destruction, and none can escape except the pure in heart who are gathered (TPJS, 71).

70 And it shall be said among the wicked: Let us not go up to battle against Zion, for the inhabitants of Zion are terrible; wherefore we cannot stand. 71 And it shall come to pass that the righteous shall be gathered out from among all nations, and shall come to Zion, singing with songs of everlasting joy [Isaiah likens this "gathering out" to the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt]. 72 And now I say unto you, keep these things from going abroad unto the world until it is expedient in me, that ye may accomplish this work in the eyes of the people, and in the eyes of your enemies, that they may not know your works until ye have accomplished the thing which I have commanded you; 73 That when they shall know it, that they may consider these things. 74 For when the Lord shall appear he shall be terrible unto them, that fear may seize upon them, and they shall stand afar off and tremble. 75 And all nations shall be afraid because of the terror of the Lord, and the power of his might. Even so. Amen.

Commentary for Doctrine and Covenants: Sections 41-44

 

Section 41

Background Information 

Section 41 was the first of many revelations that were received in Ohio. The majority of the sections in Doctrine and Covenants were given in Kirtland, Ohio. Section 41 was given to the JS the same day that he arrived in Kirtland. There are differing accounts as to why section 41 was given. 

According to John Whitmer's headnote written a few months later in spring 1831, this revelation was given in response to JS's prayer concerning an offer made by Leman Copley (a new convert) to provide "houses & provisions" on his farm in Thompson Township, Ohio. Because of their recent move, JS and his family were in need of housing and Sidney and Phebe Rigdon had lost their home that under construction when they converted to Mormonism. Whiter also listed another purpose, which was the "pointing at [out] the office of Edward [Partridge],” who the revelation commanded to be ordained as the Church’s first bishop.

However, early published versions of section 41 place this revelation in "the context of concerns about religious excess among the church members in Ohio, although the revelation does not explicitly address this matter, making John Whitmer's explanation the more accurate statement. 

In providing context for this revelation, John Whitmer wrote in his history: 

About these days Joseph the Prophet and Sidney [Rigdon] arrived at Kirtland to the joy and satisfaction of the Saints. The disciples had all things common, and were going to destruction very fast as to temporal things: for they considered from reading the scripture that what belonged to a brother belonged to any of the brethren, therefore they would take each others clothes and other property and use it without leave: which brought on confusion and disappointments: for they did not understand the scripture. After Joseph lived here a few days the word of the Lord came.

JS's history provides a similar introduction: 

The branch of the church in this part of the Lord’s vineyard, which had increased to nearly one hundred members, were striving to do the will of God, so far as they knew it; though some strange notions and false spirits had crept in among them. With a little caution, and some wisdom, I soon assisted the brethren and sisters to overcome them. The plan of ‘common stock,’ which had existed in what was called ‘the family,’ whose members generally had embraced the ever lasting gospel, was readily abandoned for the more perfect law of the Lord: and the false spirits were easily discerned and rejected by the light of revelation.

This revelation was given on February 4, 1831.  

Section 

1 Hearken and hear, O ye my people [The Lord first address the Church as a whole. The phrase "my people" is covenant language. The Church is called his people because they are under his covenant. Covenant is entered into at baptism], saith the Lord and your God, ye whom I delight to bless with the greatest of all blessings, ye that hear me; and ye that hear me not will I curse, that have professed my name, with the heaviest of all cursings [Note: the "heaviest of all cursing" is directed to the members of the church, not the world, who do not hear the Lord]. 2 Hearken, O ye elders [the Lord then shift His message to the elders of the Church] of my church whom I have called, behold I give unto you [the elders] a commandment, that ye [the elders] shall assemble yourselves together to agree upon my word [referring to a special meeting. This meeting takes place 5 days later on February 9, 1831]; 3 And by the prayer of your faith ye shall receive my law, that (so that) ye may know how to govern my church and have all things right before me [The law the elders are to seek to obtain from the Lord will instruct them more properly on how to govern the Church. The Lord teaches line-upon-line. The elders are worthy to receive more light if they seek so in faith.] 4 And I will be your ruler when I come; and behold, I come quickly, and ye shall see that my law is kept. 

• Verse 2: Heaviest of Cursing
• The Lord will repeat this warning other times throughout Doctrine and Covenants. Those who receive the Lord and reject Him by not hearkening to him are subjected to heavy cursing. As the common adage goes -- to much is given, much is required. The Lord also echoed this warning when describing those who after being born again turn away from the Lord. 
• 14 But, behold, my beloved brethren, thus came the voice of the Son unto me, saying: After ye have repented of your sins, and witnessed unto the Father that ye are willing to keep my commandments, by the baptism of water, and have received the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost, and can speak with a new tongue, yea, even with the tongue of angels, and after this should deny me, it would have been better for you that ye had not known me. (2 Nephi 31) 
• As one blogger appropriately stated: "The system of covenants allows them to rise higher or sink lower than they could otherwise have done. There is no blessing higher than that received by faithful saints, and no cursing harsher than that received by willful apostates."
• Thus the Lord's people are held to a higher standard than the world because they know more. This principle is the reason why Israel and Judah were judged so severely by the Lord and scattered. They had greater knowledge and thus should have chosen the better way, instead of following the ways of the world. This principle was also the reason why the Lord allowed the Saints to be afflicted in Missouri because they treated His commandments lightly. (see Doctrine and Covenants 98). 

5 He that receiveth my law [refers to section 42] and doeth it [the law], the same is my disciple; and he that saith he receiveth it and doeth it not, the same is not my disciple, and shall be cast out from among you [The Lord defines disciple as those who do the law, not merely those who believe in it as a mental asscent]; 6 For it is not meet [acceptable] that the things which belong to the children of the kingdom should be given to them that are not worthy, or to dogs, or the pearls to be cast before swine. 7 And again, it is meet that my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., should have a house built, in which to live and translate. 8 And again, it is meet that my servant Sidney Rigdon should live as seemeth him good, inasmuch as he keepeth my commandments. 

• Verse 5: Cast Out 
• Although this idea of casting someone out may sound extreme to our modern sensibilities, the purpose of casting out is not punitive, but protective. The Lord seeks to create a Zion people. To do this, he needs a people who are worthy to receive the knowledge to know how to bring Zion about, since Zion is entirely foreign to any secular system heretofore instituted by man. But the Lord can only reveal that necessary truth is the Church is prepared. Wicked members stand in the way. They also pollute the church with their unrighteousness, causing many to adopt false teachings. Therefore in order to protect His flock, the Lord removes those who are unable (and unwilling) to abide by His law from His flock. 
• The Book of Mormon teaches this principle 
• 1 Now it came to pass that there were many of the rising generation that could not understand the words of king Benjamin, being little children at the time he spake unto his people; and they did not believe the tradition of their fathers. 2 They did not believe what had been said concerning the resurrection of the dead, neither did they believe concerning the coming of Christ. 3 And now because of their unbelief they could not understand the word of God; and their hearts were hardened. 4 And they would not be baptized; neither would they join the church. And they were a separate people as to their faith, and remained so ever after, even in their carnal and sinful state; for they would not call upon the Lord their God. 5 And now in the reign of Mosiah they were not half so numerous as the people of God; but because of the dissensions among the brethren they became more numerous. 6 For it came to pass that they did deceive many with their flattering words, who were in the church, and did cause them to commit many sins; therefore it became expedient that those who committed sin, that were in the church, should be admonished by the church. (Mosiah 26) 
• It's also to note that law the Lord will reveal in section 42 is the law of consecration. It is this law that must be obeyed in order to Zion to be established. Obedience to this law means the Lord will teach us light and truth. The law of consecration, moreover, is a sifting tool, which the Lord uses to determine who is worthy of Zion. 
• Verse 6: Casting Pearls Before Swing 
• Only the righteous can receive the things of the kingdom. As Joseph Fielding Smith explained: 
• The things of the kingdom are not for the unworthy, whether they are in or out of the Church. It is the duty of the members to hold in the most solemn and sacred manner every commandment, every covenant, every principle of truth which the Lord has revealed for their salvation. He has given to the members, if they will humbly receive them, covenants and obligations which are not for the world. Things that are most holy and sacred, which are revealed to those who have made covenant to be “just and true,” and who have “overcome by faith,” things which are imparted to them as a means of bringing to pass their exaltation, should not be lightly treated, ridiculed, or spoken of before the world. “For it is not meet that the things which belong to the children of the kingdom should be given to them that are not worthy, or to dogs, or the pearls to be cast before swine.” Yet how often do we see the foolish, the ignorant and those who fail to comprehend the vastness of these sacred principles and covenants, treating them lightly and unworthily even before the world! (Church History and Modern Revelation, 1:179-80)

And again, I have called my servant Edward Partridge; and I give a commandment, that he should be appointed by the voice of the church, and ordained a bishop unto the church, to leave his merchandise and to spend all his time in the labors of the church; 10 To see to all things as it shall be appointed unto him in my laws in the day that I shall give them [EP's role is oversee the implementation of the laws given my the Lord]. 11 And this because his [EP] heart is pure before me, for he is like unto Nathanael of old, in whom there is no guile. 12 These words [referring to section 41] are given unto you, and they are pure before me; wherefore, beware how you hold them, for they are to be answered upon your souls in the day of judgment. Even so. Amen

• Edward Partridge as Bishop
• EP is called to be bishop. First by the Lord, second by consent (appointment) by the church, and third by ordination. His calling consists in giving up his merchandise and spending all his time laboring for the church. 
• It should be kept in mind, however, that EP was not a ward bishop. He was a bishop of the Church under the law of consecration. In the law of consecration, the bishop was the spiritual and temporal agent who directed the program, assigned stewardships, received properties and so on.
• Seeing what kind of character EP was, it clear as to why the Lord called him to be a bishop because he could be trusted. 

Section 42    

Background Information 

This revelation was given on February 9, 1831, received in the presence of the 12 elders (not apostles) during the course of a meeting who were "called together, and united in might prayer." John Whitmer titled it "The Laws of the Church of Christ." The calling of EP has bishop created the office necessary to prepare the implementation of the law of consecration.  Although section 42 contains 93 verses in total, only verses 1-73 were given on February 9; the others verses were given two weeks later, in response to further questions that JS had to determine "How the Elders of the church of Christ are to act upon the points of the Law."  

Beyond the articles and covenants of the Church (section 20), which explain the duties of the members and the policies and practices of the Church, the law of the Church (section 42) will explain the standards of personal behavior and social organization upon which membership and fellowship in the Church and kingdom depends. This law of personal righteousness and consecration directly prepares church members to establish a Zion society, for if they live this law, they will be of one heart and one mind, will dwell in righteousness, and will have no poor among them (Moses 7:18). Receiving and living this law of the Church, including the law of consecration, is a necessary step, and a substantial one, in establishing Zion then or now.

In reading this section, it's helpful to note this section addresses more than the law of consecration, but that of a series of law. As pointed out by a blogger, this section introduces the following laws: 

1) the law of missionary work; 2) the law of ordination; 3) the law of moral conduct; and 4) the law of consecration.  

Section

1 Hearken, O ye elders of my church, who have assembled yourselves together in my name, even Jesus Christ the Son of the living God, the Savior of the world; inasmuch as ye believe on my name and keep my commandments. 2 Again I say unto you, hearken and hear and obey the law [referring specially to the law of consecration] which I shall give unto you. 3 For verily I say, as ye have assembled yourselves together according to the commandment wherewith I commanded you [as given in section 41], and are agreed as touching this one thing, and have asked the Father in my name, even so ye shall receive [The elders receive the law of consecration because they have one heart and one mind].

I. The Law of Missionary Work 

4 Behold, verily I say unto you, I give unto you this first commandment, that ye shall go forth in my name, every one of you, excepting my servants Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon. 5 And I give unto them [JS and SR] a commandment that they shall go forth for a little season, and it shall be given by the power of the Spirit when they shall return. 6 And ye [plural -- speaking to the 12 elders] shall go forth in the power of my Spirit, preaching my gospel, two by two, in my name, lifting up your voices as with the sound of a trump, declaring my word like unto angels of God. 7 And ye shall go forth baptizing with water, saying: Repent ye, repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8 And from this place [Kirtland Ohio] ye shall go forth into the regions westward; and inasmuch as ye shall find them that will receive you ye shall build up my church in every region— 9 Until the time shall come when it shall be revealed unto you from on high, when the city of the New Jerusalem shall be prepared [the 12 elders are instructed to build churches wherever they're able until the Lord reveals where the New Jerusalem should be built], that ye may be gathered in one, that ye may be my people and I will be your God. 10 And again, I say unto you, that my servant Edward Partridge shall stand in the office whereunto I have appointed him. And it shall come to pass, that if he transgress [leaves upon the possibility that despite how righteousness and faithful EP has been, he could fall -- fortunately he never did] another shall be appointed in his stead. Even so. Amen.

II. The Law of Ordination 

11 Again I say unto you, that it shall not be given to any one to go forth to preach my gospel, or to build up my church, except he be ordained by some one who has authority, and it is known to the church that he has authority and has been regularly ordained by the heads of the church. 12 And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel, which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel. 13 And they shall observe the covenants and church articles to do them, and these shall be their teachings, as they shall be directed by the Spirit. 14 And the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach. 15 And all this ye shall observe to do as I have commanded concerning your teaching, until the fulness of my scriptures is given. 16 And as ye shall lift up your voices by the Comforter, ye shall speak and prophesy as seemeth me good; 17 For, behold, the Comforter knoweth all things, and beareth record of the Father and of the Son.

III. The Law of Moral Conduct 

18 And now, behold, I speak unto the church. Thou shalt not kill; and he that kills shall not have forgiveness in this world, nor in the world to come. 19 And again, I say, thou shalt not kill; but he that killeth shall die. 20 Thou shalt not steal; and he that stealeth and will not repent shall be cast out. 21 Thou shalt not lie; he that lieth and will not repent shall be cast out. 22 Thou shalt love thy wife with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her and none else. 23 And he that looketh upon a woman to lust after her shall deny the faith, and shall not have the Spirit; and if he repents not he shall be cast out. 24 Thou shalt not commit adultery; and he that committeth adultery, and repenteth not, shall be cast out. 25 But he that has committed adultery and repents with all his heart, and forsaketh it, and doeth it no more, thou shalt forgive; 26 But if he doeth it again, he shall not be forgiven, but shall be cast out. 27 Thou shalt not speak evil of thy neighbor, nor do him any harm. 28 Thou knowest my laws concerning these things are given in my scriptures; he that sinneth and repenteth not shall be cast out. 29 If thou lovest me thou shalt serve me and keep all my commandments.

IV. The Law of Consecration 

30 And behold, thou wilt remember the poor, and consecrate of thy properties for their support that which thou hast to impart unto them, with a covenant and a deed which cannot be broken [The law of consecration is entered by covenant and deed. Because it was by covenant, the violating of the law is the serious offense. The church was also to legally transfer title to their property to the Church by deed]. 31 And inasmuch as ye impart of your substance unto the poor, ye will do it unto me; and they [properties] shall be laid before the bishop [Edward Partridge] of my church and his counselors, two of the elders, or high priests, such as he shall appoint or has appointed and set apart for that purpose. 

• Verse 31: High Priest
• According to Orson Pratt (see HC, 1:150,152), JS added the words "high priest" several years after section 42 was received (same follows for the words high council). When Section 42 was first given, there were no high priests or high council in the Church. These officers were revealed concurrent with the conferral of the Melchizedek priesthood, which happened on June 6, 1831 at Issac Morley's farm. In section 44, the Lord instructs to hold this conference. 

32 And it shall come to pass, that after they [the properties] are laid before the bishop of my church, and after that he has received these testimonies [the transfer of one's properties to the bishop served as a testimony that one is willing to abide by the law of consecration] concerning the consecration of the properties of my church, that they cannot be taken from the church, agreeable to my commandments, every man shall be made accountable unto me, a steward over his own property, or that which he has received by consecration, as much as is sufficient for himself and family [Whether one has property or receives property from the church, each man is accountable before the Lord in how he uses the property]. 

33 And again, if there shall be properties in the hands of the church, or any individuals of it, more than is necessary for their support after this first consecration, which is a residue to be consecrated unto the bishop, it shall be kept to administer to those who have not, from time to time, that every man who has need may be amply supplied and receive according to his wants [the Church has a property interest in the residue (surplus) of property not used by the member]. 34 Therefore, the residue shall be kept in my storehouse, to administer to the poor and the needy, as shall be appointed by the high council of the church, and the bishop and his council; 35 And for the purpose of purchasing lands for the public benefit of the church, and building houses of worship, and building up of the New Jerusalem which is hereafter to be revealed— 36 That my covenant people may be gathered in one in that day when I shall come to my temple. And this I do for the salvation of my people. 37 And it shall come to pass, that he that sinneth and repenteth not shall be cast out of the church, and shall not receive again that which he has consecrated unto the poor and the needy of my church, or in other words, unto me— 38 For inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these, ye do it unto me. 

• Verses 30-38: Structure of the Law of Consecration 
• First, the Law of Consecration (LOC) is established by covenant and deed. The deed served as the instrument used to transfer title of the person's property the Church. Accompanying the deed was a covenant the person makes with the Lord. 
• Second, each person would then determine what amount of the property is surplus property (property they are divested from) and and what is not surplus. The person could claim title (ownership) to property that was not considered surplus. The Church claims title to surplus property. Doctrine and Covenants 82 explains what property is not considered surplus -- property which is needful and according to wants that are just. 
• Third, the man is to be a steward over the property he claims title to. This means he is accountable before the Lord in how he uses his property. 
• Fourth, the surplus of property is to be kept for two reasons: 1) to administer to the poor and needy and 2) for the purpose of purchasing lands for the New Jerusalem. Doctrine and Covenants 82 also adds another reason for this law: "to benefit the Church." This means: "that every man may improve upon his talent, that every man may gain other talents, yea, even an hundred fold, to be cast into the Lord’s storehouse, to become the common property of the whole church..." By ensuring a level of equality, no person had more than the other and therefore it allowed for others to improve upon their talents because they had the resources to do so. The result, would be that the person who would improve and increase his assets, would then turn over additional surplus, thereby enriching Zion and the poor even more -- creating a positive feedback loop. 
• Distinction between the Law of Consecration and Communism: Although both economic systems are similar there are very important distinctions: First, each person has title over their property to use how they see fit. Second, the divesting and transfer of property was 100% voluntary. Of course, at this time, one who didn't consecrate was removed from the church, there were no legal penalties -- one couldn't be arrested or sanctioned for violated the law. There was also no coercion. Third, the purpose of consecration was for the glory of God, not of man. Fourth, the person, the government, was able to decide what of portion of his property was surplus and what was not. Fifth, the steward of the storehouse was not elected, but called by the Lord. If the person used the property for his own benefit, he would be removed. Sixth, those who are idle or sinners, are removed. Free-loaders are removed. 
• Fifth, those who sin against the LOC are removed from the church. 

39 For it shall come to pass, that which I spake by the mouths of my prophets shall be fulfilled [referring to Isaiah 60:3-7, 16; 61:5-6] for I will consecrate of the riches of those who embrace my gospel among the Gentiles unto the poor of my people who are of the house of Israel. 40 And again, thou shalt not be proud in thy heart; let all thy garments be plain, and their beauty the beauty of the work of thine own hands; 41 And let all things be done in cleanliness before me. 42 Thou shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer.

43 And whosoever among you are sick, and have not faith to be healed, but believe, shall be nourished with all tenderness, with herbs and mild food, and that not by the hand of an enemy. 44 And the elders of the church, two or more, shall be called, and shall pray for and lay their hands upon them in my name; and if they die they shall die unto me, and if they live they shall live unto me. 45 Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die, and more especially for those that have not hope of a glorious resurrection. 46 And it shall come to pass that those that die in me shall not taste of death, for it shall be sweet unto them; 47 And they that die not in me, wo unto them, for their death is bitter. 48 And again, it shall come to pass that he that hath faith in me to be healed, and is not appointed unto death, shall be healed. 49 He who hath faith to see shall see. 50 He who hath faith to hear shall hear. 51 The lame who hath faith to leap shall leap. 52 And they who have not faith to do these things, but believe in me, have power to become my sons; and inasmuch as they break not my laws thou shalt bear their infirmities.

53 Thou shalt stand in the place of thy stewardship. 54 Thou shalt not take thy brother’s garment; thou shalt pay for that which thou shalt receive of thy brother. 55 And if thou obtainest more than that which would be for thy support, thou shalt give it into my storehouse, that all things may be done according to that which I have said. 56 Thou shalt ask, and my scriptures [JST] shall be given as I have appointed, and they shall be preserved in safety; 57 And it is expedient that thou shouldst hold thy peace concerning them [JST], and not teach them until ye have received them in full [The Lord instructs the Church not to use the JST and the other new scriptures in preaching publicly until they had been given “in full,” or completed.] 58 And I give unto you a commandment that then [when the JST is completed] ye shall teach them unto all men; for they shall be taught unto all nations, kindreds, tongues and people.

59 Thou shalt take the things which thou hast received [referring to this section 42], which have been given unto thee in my scriptures for a law, to be my law to govern my church; 60 And he that doeth according to these things [what's contained in section 42] shall be saved, and he that doeth them not shall be damned if he so continue. 61 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. 62 Thou shalt ask, and it shall be revealed unto you in mine own due time where the New Jerusalem shall be built.

63 And behold, it shall come to pass that my servants shall be sent forth to the east and to the west, to the north and to the south. 64 And even now, let him that goeth to the east teach them that shall be converted to flee to the west, and this in consequence of that which is coming on the earth, and of secret combinations. 65 Behold, thou shalt observe all these things, and great shall be thy reward; for unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom, but unto the world it is not given to know them. 66 Ye shall observe the laws which ye have received and be faithful. 67 And ye shall hereafter receive church covenants, such as shall be sufficient to establish you, both here and in the New Jerusalem. 68 Therefore, he that lacketh wisdom, let him ask of me, and I will give him liberally and upbraid him not. 69 Lift up your hearts and rejoice, for unto you the kingdom, or in other words, the keys of the church have been given. Even so. Amen. 

70 The priests and teachers shall have their stewardships, even as the members. 71 And the elders or high priests who are appointed to assist the bishop as counselors in all things, are to have their families supported out of the property which is consecrated to the bishop, for the good of the poor, and for other purposes, as before mentioned; 72 Or they are to receive a just remuneration for all their services, either a stewardship or otherwise, as may be thought best or decided by the counselors and bishop. 73 And the bishop, also, shall receive his support, or a just remuneration for all his services in the church.

V. Additional Revelation -- How the Elders to act Concerning the Law 

74 Behold, verily I say unto you, that whatever persons among you, having put away their companions for the cause of fornication, or in other words, if they shall testify before you in all lowliness of heart that this is the case, ye shall not cast them out from among you; 75 But if ye shall find that any persons have left their companions for the sake of adultery, and they themselves are the offenders, and their companions are living, they [the adulterer, not both the adulterer and the companion] shall be cast out from among you. 76 And again, I say unto you, that ye shall be watchful and careful, with all inquiry, that ye receive none such among you if they are married; 77 And if they are not married, they shall repent of all their sins or ye shall not receive them.

78 And again, every person who belongeth to this church of Christ, shall observe to keep all the commandments and covenants of the church. 79 And it shall come to pass, that if any persons among you shall kill they shall be delivered up and dealt with according to the laws of the land; for remember that he hath no forgiveness; and it shall be proved according to the laws of the land. 80 And if any man or woman shall commit adultery, he or she shall be tried before two elders of the church, or more, and every word shall be established against him or her by two witnesses of the church, and not of the enemy; but if there are more than two witnesses it is better. 81 But he or she shall be condemned by the mouth of two witnesses; and the elders shall lay the case before the church, and the church shall lift up their hands against him or her, that they may be dealt with according to the law of God. 82 And if it can be, it is necessary that the bishop be present also. 83 And thus ye shall do in all cases which shall come before you.

84 And if a man or woman shall rob, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law of the land. 85 And if he or she shall steal, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law of the land. 86 And if he or she shall lie, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law of the land. 87 And if he or she do any manner of iniquity, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law, even that of God. 

88 And if thy brother or sister offend thee, thou shalt take him or her between him or her and thee alone; and if he or she confess thou shalt be reconciled. 89 And if he or she confess not thou shalt deliver him or her up unto the church, not to the members, but to the elders. And it shall be done in a meeting, and that not before the world. 90 And if thy brother or sister offend many, he or she shall be chastened before many. 91 And if any one offend openly, he or she shall be rebuked openly, that he or she may be ashamed. And if he or she confess not, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law of God. 92 If any shall offend in secret, he or she shall be rebuked in secret, that he or she may have opportunity to confess in secret to him or her whom he or she has offended, and to God, that the church may not speak reproachfully of him or her. 93 And thus shall ye conduct in all things.

• Verses 88-93: Offenses
• Private Offenses: Private offenses are to be handled by the Church privately, giving the offender the opportunity to make amends to the injured and to God and not to suffer public humiliation for a private fault. “Note the caution that this remedy is to be private—‘not before the world.’ This is not done in order to hide the facts, but rather to increase the chance that the correction will improve the life of a brother or sister” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Speaking Today: Criticism,” 72).
• Public Offenses: Public offenses, however, are generally wrought by more high-handed, rebellious, and proud individuals. Therefore, church discipline for public offenses is to be made public, in order that the offending individuals may be ashamed and curb their pride (see verse 91), thus giving them greater motivation for repentance. Unfortunately, for those whose pride is very great, a public rebuke will often cause them, in self-justification, to become dissident former members, and enemies of the Church.

Section 43

Background Information

The exact date of this revelation is not clear.  John Whitmer recorded this revelation after February 9th dated the revelation "Febu. 1831." Prior to receiving the revelations some members in the church purported to receive revelation on behalf of God. When John Whiterm arrived in Ohio in mid-Janurary, he wrote his following observations:

The enemy of all righteous had . . . made them think that an angel of God appeard (sic) to them, and showed them writings on the outside cover of the Bible, and on parchment, which flew through the air, and on the back of their hands, and many such foolish and vain things, others lost their strength, and some slid on the floor, and such like maneuvers, which proved greatly to th[e] injury of the cause.” Whitmer concluded that it was “ne[ce]ssary that this people should have instruction, and learn to decern (sic) between the things of God and the works of Satan.

Moreover, in February 1831, the same month JS arrived in Kirtland and other members arrived from New York, a woman referred to as "Mrs. Hubble" claimed to receive revelations which she shared publicly with other members. John Whitmer later wrote about the events: 

About these days there was a woman by the name of Hubble who professed to be a prophetess of the Lord. and professed to have many revelations, and knew that the Book of mormon was true; and that she should become a teacher in the Church of Christ. She appeard (sic) very sanctimonious and deceived some, who were not able to detect her in her hypocracy (sic).

Section 43 was directed to the elders of the Church (verse 1 addresses the elders of the Church) so that they might have understanding concerning the false revelations circulating among the members of the Church.  

John Whitmer recorded the effect that section 43 had upon the Kirtland saints: 

After this commandment was received, the saints came to understanding on this subject, and unity and harmony prevailed throughout the church of God: and the saints began to learn wisdom, and treasure up knowledge which they learned from the word of God, and by experience as they advanced in the way of eternal life 

Section 

1 O hearken, ye elders of my church, and give ear to the words which I shall speak unto you. 2 For behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, that ye have received a commandment for a law [section 42] unto my church, through him [JS] whom I have appointed unto you to receive commandments and revelations from my hand. 3 And this ye shall know assuredly—that there is none other appointed unto you to receive commandments and revelations until he be taken, if he abide in me. 4 But verily, verily, I say unto you, that none else shall be appointed unto this gift [receiving revelation on behalf of the church] except it be through him [JS is to call his successor]; for if it be taken from him [JS] he shall not have power except to appoint another in his stead [apparently the only power JS will have if the gift is taken from him is to appoint a successor].

5 And this shall be a law unto you [verse 4], that ye receive not the teachings of any that shall come before you as revelations or commandments; 6 And this I give unto you that you may not be deceived, that you may know they are not of me. 7 For verily I say unto you, that he that is ordained [to receive revelations on behalf of the church] of me shall come in at the gate [baptism] and be ordained as I have told you before, to teach those revelations which you have received and shall receive through him whom I have appointed.

8 And now, behold, I give unto you a commandment, that when ye are assembled together ye shall instruct and edify each other, that ye may know how to act and direct my church, how to act upon the points of my law and commandments, which I have given. 9 And thus ye shall become instructed in the law of my church, and be sanctified by that which ye have received, and ye shall bind yourselves to act in all holiness before me— 10 That inasmuch as ye do this, glory shall be added to the kingdom which ye have received. Inasmuch as ye do it not, it shall be taken, even that which ye have received.

11 Purge ye out the iniquity which is among you [the elders are to remove iniquity from the Church]; sanctify yourselves before me; 12 And if ye desire the glories of the kingdom, appoint ye my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., and uphold him before me by the prayer of faith. 13 And again, I say unto you, that if ye desire the mysteries of the kingdom, provide for him food and raiment, and whatsoever thing he needeth to accomplish the work wherewith I have commanded him; 14 And if ye do it not he shall remain unto them that have received him, that I may reserve unto myself a pure people before me.

15 Again I say, hearken ye elders of my church, whom I have appointed: Ye are not sent forth to be taught, but to teach the children of men the things which I have put into your hands by the power of my Spirit; 16 And ye are to be taught from on high [by heaven]. Sanctify yourselves and ye shall be endowed with power, that ye may give even as I have spoken [The Lord is likely alluding to the June conference when he speaks about being "endowed with power."]. 17 Hearken ye, for, behold, the great day of the Lord is nigh at hand. 18 For the day cometh that the Lord shall utter his voice out of heaven; the heavens shall shake and the earth shall tremble, and the trump of God shall sound both long and loud, and shall say to the sleeping nations: Ye saints arise and live; ye sinners stay and sleep until I shall call again.

19 Wherefore gird up your loins lest ye be found among the wicked. 20 Lift up your voices and spare not. Call upon the nations to repent, both old and young, both bond and free, saying: Prepare yourselves for the great day of the Lord; 21 For if I, who am a man, do lift up my voice and call upon you to repent, and ye hate me, what will ye say when the day cometh when the thunders shall utter their voices from the ends of the earth, speaking to the ears of all that live, saying—Repent, and prepare for the great day of the Lord? 22 Yea, and again, when the lightnings shall streak forth from the east unto the west, and shall utter forth their voices unto all that live, and make the ears of all tingle that hear, saying these words—Repent ye, for the great day of the Lord is come?

23 And again, the Lord shall utter his voice out of heaven, saying: Hearken, O ye nations of the earth, and hear the words of that God who made you. 24 O, ye nations of the earth, how often would I have gathered you together as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, but ye would not! 25 How oft have I called upon you by the mouth of my servants, and by the ministering of angels, and by mine own voice, and by the voice of thunderings, and by the voice of lightnings, and by the voice of tempests, and by the voice of earthquakes, and great hailstorms, and by the voice of famines and pestilences of every kind, and by the great sound of a trump, and by the voice of judgment, and by the voice of mercy all the day long, and by the voice of glory and honor and the riches of eternal life, and would have saved you with an everlasting salvation, but ye would not! [The Lord initially calls people to repentance through the voice of his servants and angels. If people don't repent after this, then the Lord will increase the intensity. The call to repentance will be greater and more severe] 26 Behold, the day has come, when the cup of the wrath of mine indignation is full. 27 Behold, verily I say unto you, that these are the words of the Lord your God. 28 Wherefore, labor ye, labor ye in my vineyard for the last time—for the last time call upon the inhabitants of the earth.

• Verse 26: God's Wrath 
• According to the apostle Paul, God's wrath refers to God turning people over to the desires of their carnal heart because His Spirit can no longer abide due to the gross wickedness and abominations. 

26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

29 For in mine own due time will I come upon the earth in judgment, and my people [those who have made and honored their covenant with the Lord] shall be redeemed and shall reign with me on earth. 30 For the great Millennium, of which I have spoken by the mouth of my servants, shall come. 31 For Satan shall be bound, and when he is loosed again he shall only reign for a little season, and then cometh the end of the earth. 32 And he that liveth in righteousness shall be changed in the twinkling of an eye, and the earth shall pass away so as by fire. 33 And the wicked shall go away into unquenchable fire, and their end no man knoweth on earth, nor ever shall know, until they come before me in judgment. 34 Hearken ye to these words. Behold, I am Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. Treasure these things up in your hearts, and let the solemnities of eternity rest upon your minds. 35 Be sober. Keep all my commandments. Even so. Amen.

Section 44

Background Information 

A short time after receiving section 42, JS received section 44, which commanded the the elders to assemble together so that the Lord could "pour out" his Spirit in preparation for more missionary work. Although section 42 doesn't provide a date for this meeting to be held by the elders, this meeting  was the June conference at Issac Morley's farm where according to JS, "the Melchizedek Priesthood was manifested and conferred for the first time upon several of the Elders." JS, shortly after receiving this section 42, wrote to his brother Hyrum explain that "the work is brakeing forth on the right hand and on the left and there is a great Call for Elders in this place.”

Section 

1 Behold, thus saith the Lord unto you my servants, it is expedient in me that the elders of my church should be called together, from the east and from the west, and from the north and from the south, by letter or some other way. 2 And it shall come to pass, that inasmuch as they are faithful, and exercise faith in me, I will pour out my Spirit upon them in the day that they assemble themselves together [this promise was fulfilled as many in attendance reported seeing angels and some saw the Lord]. 3 And it shall come to pass that they [the elders] shall go forth into the regions round about, and preach repentance unto the people [The purpose of the June conference/meeting was for the Lord to prepare the elders for the missions by pouring out His Spirit upon them. The outpouring of the Spirit would serve to support them through their hardships and trials as missionaries.]

4 And many shall be converted [The population of the Church in Ohio, and particularly in Kirtland, increased roughly 50 to 100 percent annually between 1830 and 1838], insomuch that ye shall obtain power to organize yourselves according to the laws of man [the power for the Church to organize itself came through the converts]; 5 That your enemies may not have power over you; that you may be preserved in all things; that you may be enabled to keep my laws; that every bond may be broken wherewith the enemy seeketh to destroy my people. 6 Behold, I say unto you, that ye must visit the poor and the needy and administer to their relief, that they may be kept until all things may be done according to my law which ye have received. Amen.

• Verse 4: The Result of Converts
• The Lord lists three things that will result from conversion: 
• The Church will have power to organize itself
• One commentor explained: 
• The law in Ohio at that time required any religious society, that desired to be incorporated so that they could legally own property as a church and perform all the functions of a church, to register the name of their church and the names of their trustees with the clerk of common pleas. In this law, no recognition was given to a central organization, but each congregation in each community was required to register within their own county. Each congregation had to have at least twenty members in order for them to be able to incorporate. Therefore, it was important for the Church to have at least that many in each congregation. If they did not qualify, they would be denied authority to perform marriages, hold tax-free property, and have their own cemetery, etcEnemies will not have power over the Church
• Enemies won't have power over the Church 
• Jospeh F. Smith wrote: 
• When the Lord restored the gospel, the spirit of gathering came with it. The Lord commanded the people to gather together, and that they should not only be organized as a church, but that they should be organized under the laws of the land, so that they might not be helpless and dependent and without influence or power; but that by means of united effort and faith they should become a power for the accomplishment of righteousness in the earth (CR, April 1900, 47)
• The Church will be preserved in all things so that it can keep the laws of the Lord
• Verse 6: Visit the Poor and the Needy
• George Q. Cannon recorded the following insight about JS: 
• At no time during the prophet’s career did the care of the poor escape his attention or become a matter of indifference to him. He was a man of large benevolence, and his sympathies were quickly aroused by any tale of sorrow or appeal for relief. In the most busy and trying periods of his life those who went to him for counsel in their troubles, always found him willing to listen, and they were sure to receive encouragement and assistance. To extend comfort to the bruised spirit, and to help the needy and distressed appeared a constant pleasure to him. His hospitality, also, was a marked feature in his character. His house was always open to entertain the stranger. One of the most cherished recollections of many of the old members of the Church is the kindness with which they were treated by “Brother Joseph,” and the warm welcome he gave them to his house upon their arrival at Kirtland and other places where he lived (Life of Joseph Smith, 109-10).

Commentary for Doctrine and Covenants: Sections 37-40

 

Section 37

Background Information 

As noted on in the heading for this section, this revelation was given on December 1830. Prior to this revelation, JS received a revelation in September 1830 (section 29:8) that all members of the Church of Christ (as it was called at that time) should gather into "one place." Section 29:9 further declared that a "City" would be located "among the Lamanites." A month after receiving this revelation, JS sent missionaries (those stated in section 30 -- OC, Peter Whitmer Jr, Parley P. Pratt, and Ziba Peterson) to search out the location for the New Jerusalem, which was understood to be the future gathering place. The missionaries were also to preach to the Lamanites. 

In late 1830, Sidney Rigdon and Edward Partridge visited JS in New York, where opposition against the church was "intensifying." Rigdon stayed with JS, becoming his scribe and close confidant. Rigdon and Partridge had hoped to convince JS that he ought to visit the newly converted saints in Kirtland. But by December 1830, they got more the the wished for as the Lord, in revelation, commanding all of the saints in New York to move to "the Ohio." At that time, Ohio was a territory, not a state, and thus was referred to as “the Ohio,” the “Ohio Reserve,” or the “Western Reserve.

Through the  winter and spring, the New York saints made their way to Kirtland in small parties. By June 1831 the bulk of the New York converts had moved, many of them having sold their property in New York at a loss, to join the saints in Kirtland.

In addition to commanding the saints to move, this revelation also directs JS and SR to temporarily stop their revisions of the Bible so they could preach and strengthen the church. 

Section 

1 Behold, I say unto you that it is not expedient in me that ye should translate any more until ye shall go to the Ohio, and this because of the enemy and for your sakes.  2 And again, I say unto you that ye shall not go until ye have preached my gospel in those parts, and have strengthened up the church whithersoever it is found, and more especially in Colesville; for, behold, they pray unto me in much faith [the faith of the saints in Colesville caused the Lord to instruct JS and SR to halt translation of the inspired Bible].  3 And again, a commandment I give unto the church, that it is expedient in me that they should assemble together at the Ohio ["the Ohio" because Ohio was a territory at this time], against the time that my servant Oliver Cowdery shall return unto them.  4 Behold, here is wisdom, and let every man choose for himself until I come [although the Saints were commanded to move, they had the choice of whether to heed the command or not]. Even so. Amen.

Section 38

Background Information 

This revelation was given at a quarterly conference in Fayette, New York. JS briefly described the conference: 

The year 1831 opened with a prospect great and glorious for the welfare of the kingdom; for on the 2nd of January, 1831, a conference was held in the town of Fayette, New York, at which the ordinary business of the Church was transacted; and in addition, the following revelation was received -- (HC, 1:140)

In section 38, the Lord provided reasons for why He commanded the Saints to move west. This is because the Lord's command in section 37 was upsetting and hard for some of the saints, and when they assembled for the quarterly conference in January many of them challenged JS about section 37. The command for the saints to move would require them to make many sacrifices. Many saints sold their land and homes at a loss. While JS sat and listening to the inquiries from the saints regarding the Lord's command, he dictated section 38. SR, serving as scribe, recorded the revelation. 

Although there are no official minutes of this conference, John Whitmer was in attendance and recorded his following observations: 

The time had now come for the general conference to be held. Which was the first of January 1831 and according to this appointment the saints assembled themselves together. After transacting the necessary business, Joseph the Seer addressed the congregation and exhorted them to stand fast, looking forward considering the end [i.e., the object or goal] of their salvation. The solemnities of eternity rested on the congregation, and having previously received a revelation to go to the Ohio [section 37], they desired to know somewhat more concerning the matter. Therefore, the Seer inquired of the Lord in the presence of the whole congregation, and thus came the word of the Lord saying: [D&C 38].

After the Lord had manifested the above words, through Joseph the Seer, there were some divisions among the congregations, some would not receive the above as the word of the Lord: but that Joseph had invented it himself to deceive the people that in the end he might get gain. Now this was because, their hearts were not right in the sight of the Lord, for they wanted to serve God and man; but our Savior has declared that it was impossible to do so.

The conference was now closed, and the Lord had manifested his will to his people. Therefore they made preparations to journey to the Ohio, with their wives, and children and all that they possessed, to obey the commandment of the Lord (Whitmer, Early Latter-Day Saint History, 32-34; see also Woodford, “Historical Development,” 1:491).

In addition to this background, it's also helpful to keep in the mind that, prior to receiving this revelation, JS has spent the previous months dictating revelation from the book of Enoch (Moses 6:26-through Moses 7). The book of Enoch concerns Enoch's establishment of Zion. As a reminder, section 37, which commanded the saints to move to the Ohio, dealt also with the establishment of Zion, as the saints were commanded to leave their homes to establish prepare to establish Zion for their day. 

Thus, as one commentator noted, when JS received section 38 his mind was "saturated with the thoughts and expressions contained in the book of Enoch." And section 38 evinces this. "For example, the word “eternity” is found for the first time in the Doctrine and Covenants and it is mentioned nine times in section 38. Other examples include “Zion of Enoch” in verse 4 (Moses 7), “chains of darkness” in verse 5 (Moses 7:57), “wo, wo, wo” in verse 6 (Moses 7:25), and “veil of darkness” in verse 8 (Moses 7:61). Also the beginnings of the concept of the law of consecration emerge, as was practiced in the City of Enoch."

Section 

1 Thus saith the Lord your God, even Jesus Christ, the Great I Am, Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the same which looked upon the wide expanse of eternity, and all the seraphic hosts of heaven, before the world was made; 2 The same which knoweth all things, for all things are present before mine eyes; 3 I am the same which spake, and the world was made, and all things came by me. 4 I am the same which have taken the Zion of Enoch into mine own bosom; and verily, I say, even as many as have believed in my name, for I am Christ, and in mine own name, by the virtue of the blood which I have spilt, have I pleaded before the Father for them [those who believed in the Lord's name]. 5 But behold, the residue of the wicked have I kept in chains of darkness until the judgment of the great day, which shall come at the end of the earth;  6 And even so will I cause the wicked to be kept, that will not hear my voice but harden their hearts, and wo, wo, wo, is their doom.

• Verse 1: The Seraphic Hosts of Heaven 
• The word seraphim שְׂרָפִים is the plural of the word שָׂרָף saraph, which means burning or fiery serpent. The word ‘Seraphim’ is the name given to the beings singing to Lord as king in Isaiah 6:2-3 and carrying out the act of purification in vv 6-7.
• 1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.  2 Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.  3 And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
• Notice that the seraphim cover themselves to protect themselves from the Lord's consuming glory. 
• Notable is that the text of Deuteronomy has Moses describing God as a "consuming fire." (see Deut. 4:24)
• JS also explained: 
• "God Almighty Himself dwells in eternal fire; flesh and blood cannot go there, for all corruption is devoured by the fire. 'Our God is a consuming fire.' When our flesh is quickened by the Spirit, there will be no blood in this tabernacle. Some dwell in higher glory than others...[a]ll men who are immortal dwell in everlasting burnings" (TPJS, 367)
• "I saw the transcendent beauty of the gate through which the heirs of that kingdom will enter, which was like unto circling flames of fire; also the blazing throne of God, whereon was seated the Father and the Son" (Blessing Given to JS, January 23, 1833 at the School of Prophets in Kirtland, Ohio) 
• When reading this descriptions of heaven and its hosts, it's not clear whether they are to be taken literally or figuratively. We often find that the scriptures use fire to depict the presence of God. But this could be an imagery to convey the power and intensity of coming into God's presence. For instance, in Exodus, Moses sees a burning bush, but that fire did not consume it, suggesting that fire is more figurative than literal -- after all, literal fire would have burned the bush. It's also possible that God is surrounded by some type of energy, and the ancients used fire to convey that idea. In fact, this is something the Bible does -- it uses real world imagery to convey spiritual concepts -- e..g, the depth of hell is like the depths of the seas. 
•  In any case, the imagery of fire is instructive. Whether or not God dwells in actual/literal fire (or fire-esque surroundings) is not important as understanding the significance of fire in connection with God's presence. Throughout the scriptures fire represents purification. 
• Numbers 31:21 -- Every thing that may abide the fire, ye shall make it go through the fire, and it shall be clean: nevertheless it shall be purified with the water of separation: and all that abideth not the fire ye shall make go through the water.
• 1 Peter 1: 7 -- That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ...
• Revelation 3:18 -- I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
• Thus when the scriptures describe God being surrounded by fire (everlasting burnings), what could be happening with these descriptions is the writer's attempt to approximate the experience of being in God's presence. God is so great and glorious that standing before Him is akin to standing in the fire. To be near him, means that we must go through the fire of purification.  

7 But behold, verily, verily, I say unto you that mine eyes are upon you. I am in your midst and ye cannot see me; 8 But the day soon cometh that ye shall see me, and know that I am; for the veil of darkness shall soon be rent, and he that is not purified shall not abide the day [referring to the end times].  9 Wherefore, gird up your loins and be prepared. Behold, the kingdom is yours, and the enemy shall not overcome.  10 Verily I say unto you, ye are clean [according to the Leviticus, being clean is not the same as being purified], but not all; and there is none else with whom I am well pleased [why is the Lord not pleased with anyone else besides some of the members of the church? Verse 11 provides the answer]; 11 For all flesh is corrupted before me; and the powers of darkness prevail upon the earth, among the children of men [the Lord is not pleased because "flesh is corrupted" (unable to abide the Lord's presence) and the earth is covered in darkness (due to widespread sin and iniquity)], in the presence of all the hosts of heaven— 12 Which [corruption and sin] causeth silence to reign,  and all eternity is pained, and the angels are waiting the great command to reap down the earth, to gather the tares that they may be burned; and, behold, the enemy is combined.

• Verse 12: All Eternity is Pained
• It's possible that JS' translation Moses 6-7 was fodder for this statement. 
• “And it came to pass that the God of heaven looked upon the residue of the people, and he wept; and Enoch bore record of it, saying: How is it that the heavens weep, and shed forth their tears as the rain upon the mountains?” “And Enoch said unto the Lord: How is it that thou canst weep, seeing thou art holy, and from all eternity to all eternity?” (Moses 7:28-29)
• What these passages from Enoch reveal is that heaven is pained by sin. This a truth that JS recovered. These passages show that despite God's glory and exalted status, He is not immune for suffering feeling pain. God is intimately concerned with the well-being of all his creation. As Daniel C. Peterson remarked, "God is love...therefore, God must be thought of as emotionally passable. In fact, not only as passable, but as the most passable. God's love is more perfect than any love we could imagine. Therefore, God must feel pain and joy for his children."

13 And now I show unto you a mystery, a thing which is had in secret chambers, to bring to pass even your destruction in process of time, and ye knew it not; [part of the reason the people are commanded to move out of Fayette is because evil men are conspiring to kill them -- see verse 28] 14 But now I tell it unto you, and ye are blessed, not because of your iniquity, neither your hearts of unbelief; for verily some of you are guilty before me [likely referring to the saints who have complained against the Lord's command to move], but I will be merciful unto your weakness. 15 Therefore, be ye strong from henceforth; fear not, for the kingdom is yours [Lord provides encouragement to the doubting and struggling saints who don't want to move]. 16 And for your salvation [the commandment to move is for the saint's salvation] I give unto you a commandment, for I have heard your prayers, and the poor have complained before me, and the rich have I made, and all flesh is mine, and I am no respecter of persons.

17 And I have made the earth rich, and behold it is my footstool, wherefore, again I will stand upon it. 18 And I hold forth and deign to give unto you greater riches, even a land of promise, a land flowing with milk and honey, upon which there shall be no curse when the Lord cometh; [although the Saints will give up their property at this time, greater blessings await them in Zion] 19 And I will give it [the land flowing with "milk and honey" -- i.e., Zion] unto you for the land of your inheritance, if you seek it with all your hearts.  20 And this shall be my covenant with you, ye shall have it for the land of your inheritance, and for the inheritance of your children forever, while the earth shall stand, and ye shall possess it again in eternity, no more to pass away.

• Verse 20:  Shall Be My Covenant
• The covenant the Lord had made with the saints is a conditional one: if the saints move and seek for Zion with all their hearts, then the Lord will give it to them and to their posterity. 
• But how do we reconcile this with the fact that the saints did not receive Zion? The answer is simple: although the saints were privileged to establish Zion, they failed to do so because of their disobedience. In other words, they did not seek after Zion with all their hearts, as for many, their hearts were set upon the things of the world. 
• Having failed the condition required for the covenant, the Lord was not bound to honor His side of the covenant. 
• We'll learn more about the saints failure in later sections 

21 But, verily I say unto you that in time ye shall have no king nor ruler, for I will be your king and watch over you. 22 Wherefore, hear my voice and follow me, and you shall be a free people, and ye shall have no laws but my laws when I come, for I am your lawgiver, and what can stay my hand? [true freedom comes from following the Lord] 23 But, verily I say unto you, teach one another according to the office wherewith I have appointed you; 24 And let every man esteem his brother as himself, and practice virtue and holiness before me. 25 And again I say unto you, let every man esteem his brother as himself. 26 For what man among you having twelve sons, and is no respecter of them, and they serve him obediently, and he saith unto the one: Be thou clothed in robes and sit thou here; and to the other: Be thou clothed in rags and sit thou there—and looketh upon his sons and saith I am just? 27 Behold, this I have given unto you as a parable, and it is even as I am. I say unto you, be one; and if ye are not one ye are not mine [establishing Zion requires that we are one -- thus it requires us to put in the labor to love all of humanity and for humanity to be united].

28 And again, I say unto you that the enemy in the secret chambers seeketh your lives.  29 Ye hear of wars in far countries, and you say that there will soon be great wars in far countries, but ye know not the hearts of men in your own land [in other words, the wars that you hear in distant countries will also come upon the United States due to the evil hearts of men]. 30 I tell you these things because of your prayers; wherefore, treasure up wisdom in your bosoms, lest the wickedness of men reveal these things unto you by their wickedness, in a manner which shall speak in your ears with a voice louder than that which shall shake the earth; but if ye are prepared ye shall not fear. 31 And that ye might escape the power of the enemy, and be gathered unto me a righteous people, without spot and blameless [Lord is drawing from the ritual imagery and rites in Leviticus -- the offering was to be spotless and blameless. Likewise as we are the offering, we are to be spotless and blameless in order that Zion is established]— 32 Wherefore, for this cause [to protect you] I gave unto you the commandment that ye should go to the Ohio; and there I will give unto you my law; and there you shall be endowed with power from on high (see also verse 38); 33 And from thence, whosoever I will shall go forth among all nations, and it shall be told them what they shall do; for I have a great work laid up in store, for Israel shall be saved, and I will lead them whithersoever I will, and no power shall stay my hand.

• Verse 30: Lest the Wickedness of Men...
• The Lord is warning the destruction that will fall upon the United States due to their evil hears of men (part of this likely refers to the Civil War). In verse 30, He states that because the saints prayed (seemingly to know about these occurrences) the Lord revealed these to them. However, the implication of the remainder of the verse is that if the saints did not pray for this understanding, they would have learned about it by experiencing it. In other words, the acts of wicked men would've "revealed" the hearts of men to the saints. In short, the Lord can teach us about what it is to come or we can learn about the hard way -- by experiencing it without prior preparation. 
• In verse 32, the Lord then explains that because what men will do to each others, He has called to saints to gather 
• Verse 32: Endowed With Power on High 
• Before the Saints could establish Zion, they had to be united and also have to be endowed with power from on high. This endowment does not refer to the temple endowment that we have today. Instead, this endowment was reserved for those whom the Lord would send out to gather Israel through missionary work. In order to do the work they were called to do, they had to endowed with power from heaven. 
• When JS arrived the Kirtland with the Saints many of his correspondences and journal entries show how anxious and concerned he was about preparing the some of the saints to receive their "endowment from on high." To reach this end, JS established a School of Prophets so that they might be better instructed in the principles of godliness. 
• This endowment (distinct from our current temple endowment) took place on January 21, 1836 in the "west school room of the temple." The following are excerpts from what transpired (source is History of the Church, Vol.2, pp. 379,): 
• The heavens were opened upon us, and I beheld the celestial kingdom of God, and the glory thereof, whether in the body or out I cannot tell. I saw the transcendent beauty of the gate through which the heirs of that kingdom will enter, which was like unto circling flames of fire; also the blazing throne of God, whereon was seated the Father and the Son. I saw the beautiful streets of that kingdom, which had the appearance of being paved with gold. I saw Fathers Adam and Abraham, and my father and mother, my brother, Alvin, that has long since slept, and marvelled as that he had obtained an inheritance in that kingdom, seeing that he had departed this life before the Lord had set His hand to gather Israel the second time, and had not been baptized for the remission of sins.
• Many of my brethren who received the ordinance with me saw glorious visions also. Angels ministered unto them as well as to myself, and the power of the Highest rested upon us, the house was filled with the glory of God, and we shouted Hosanna to God and the Lamb. My scribe also received his anointing with us, and saw, in a vision, the armies of heaven protecting the Saints in their return to Zion, and many things which I saw. 
• We then invited the High Councilors of Kirtland and Zion into our room, and President Hyrum Smith anointed the head of the President of the Councilors in Kirtland, and President David Whitmer the head of the President of the Councilors of Zion. The President of each quorum then anointed the heads of his colleagues, each in his turn, beginning at the oldest.
• The visions of heaven were opened to them also. Some of them saw the face of the Savior, and others were ministered unto by holy angels, and the spirit of prophecy and revelation was poured out in mighty power; and loud hosannas, and glory to God in the highest, saluted the heavens, for we all communed with the heavenly host. And I saw in my vision all of the Presidency in the celestial kingdom of God, and many others that were present. Our meeting was opened by singing, and prayer was offered up by the head of each quorum; and closed by singing, and invoking the benediction of heaven, with uplifted hands. Retired between one and two o'clock in the morning. 

34 And now, I give unto the church in these parts a commandment, that certain men among them shall be appointed, and they shall be appointed by the voice of the church; 35 And they shall look to the poor and the needy, and administer to their relief that they shall not suffer; and send them forth to the place which I have commanded them; 36 And this shall be their work, to govern the affairs of the property of this church. 37 And they that have farms that cannot be sold, let them be left or rented as seemeth them good. 38 See that all things are preserved; and when men are endowed with power from on high and sent forth, all these things shall be gathered unto the bosom of the church. 39 And if ye seek the riches which it is the will of the Father to give unto you, ye shall be the richest of all people, for ye shall have the riches of eternity; and it must needs be that the riches of the earth are mine to give; but beware of pride, lest ye become as the Nephites of old.

40 And again, I say unto you, I give unto you a commandment, that every man, both elder, priest, teacher, and also member, go to with his might, with the labor of his hands, to prepare and accomplish the things which I have commanded. 41 And let your preaching be the warning voice, every man to his neighbor, in mildness and in meekness. 42 And go ye out from among the wicked. Save yourselves. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord. Even so. Amen.

Section 39

Background Information 

JS received this revelation in Fayette, New York, for James Covill (surname was actually Covel, but it is spelled Covill in the majority of the church’s documents and materials), a Protestant minister. JS received this revelation three days after the quarterly conference. When John Whitmer originally recorded this revelation, he wrote that Covel “covenanted with the Lord that he would obey any commandment that the Lord would give through his servent (sic) Joseph.”

In this revelation, Covill was called to be baptized into the Lord's church and preach the gospel. As being a minister, accepting this call and command would require him to sacrifice his employment as a minister, requiring him to leave the ministry of which we have been involved for 40 years. Unfortunately, unlike Sidney Rigdon, Covill rejected the Lord's call and forfeited his future blessings. 

Section 

1 Hearken and listen to the voice of him who is from all eternity to all eternity, the Great I Am, even Jesus Christ— 2 The light and the life of the world; a light which shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not; 3 The same which came in the meridian of time unto mine own, and mine own received me not; [many at the time of the Lord's ministry did not receive the Lord (accept His gospel) because His teachings challenged and contradicted their established traditions] 4 But to as many as received me [by accepting His gospel, which gospel is accepted through the baptism of fire (see verse 6)], gave I power to become my sons; and even so will I give unto as many as will receive me, power to become my sons.  5 And verily, verily, I say unto you, he that receiveth my gospel receiveth me; and he that receiveth not my gospel receiveth not me. 

• Verse 5: Receiveth Not Me 
• To receive the Lord is simple: accept the gospel by repenting and being born again. Those who have not been born again have not received the Lord.  

6 And this is my gospel—repentance and baptism by water, and then cometh the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which [Holy Ghost/Comforter] showeth all things, and teacheth the peaceable things of the kingdom. 7 And now, behold, I say unto you, my servant James [James Covill], I have looked upon thy works and I know thee. 8 And verily I say unto thee, thine heart is now right before me at this time; and, behold, I have bestowed great blessings upon thy head; 9 Nevertheless, thou hast seen great sorrow, for [because] thou hast rejected me many times because of pride and the cares of the world [Covill added to his sufferings because of his pride and fixation upon the things of the world. Notwithstanding Covill's rejection of the Lord, the Lord was still willing to receive and bless him]. 10 But, behold, the days of thy deliverance are come, if thou wilt hearken to my voice, which saith unto thee: Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on my name, and you shall receive my Spirit, and a blessing so great as you never have known [is the reception of the Spirit the great blessing? Or is the Lord referring to something else -- missionary work perhaps?]. 11 And if thou do this [be baptize and call upon the Lord's name], I have prepared thee for a greater work [the greater work = preaching of the gospel]. Thou shalt preach the fulness of my gospel, which I have sent forth in these last days, the covenant which I have sent forth to recover my people, which are of the house of Israel.

12 And it shall come to pass that power shall rest upon thee; thou shalt have great faith, and I will be with thee and go before thy face. 13 Thou art called to labor in my vineyard, and to build up my church, and to bring forth Zion, that it may rejoice upon the hills and flourish. 14 Behold, verily, verily, I say unto thee, thou art not called to go into the eastern countries, but thou art called to go to the Ohio. 15 And inasmuch as my people shall assemble themselves at the Ohio, I have kept in store a blessing such as is not known among the children of men, and it shall be poured forth upon their heads. And from thence men shall go forth into all nations.

• Verse 14: Go to The Ohio
• Not only would Covill be required to give up his ministry, but he would have to give up his associations. This was the sacrifice the Lord required Covill to make. It was the sacrifice that the Lord required of Him. It was how he could make a sacrifice of a broken heart and contrite spirit. 
• The price for receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost is the sacrifice of something. We don't choose the sacrifice; the Lord does. The purpose of the sacrifice is to remove the thing that is keeping us from the Lord, and thus preventing us from being fully imbued with the Spirit. Until we make that sacrifice, we'll forfeit the greater blessings. 
• As we learn from this section, Covill's weakness was his pride and his interest in the things of the world. The Lord's call for him to give up his ministry and association, which was the cause of his pride, was likely designed to cause him to give up the very sources of his pride. This is how sacrifice works. 
• Is it possible that Abraham, who finally received a son after many years, placed too much of his attention on his son instead of God? And doing so was this very thing kept Abraham from experiencing God more? And thus the command to sacrifice his son was the Lord's way of testing his loyalty? 

16 Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, that the people in Ohio call upon me in much faith, thinking I will stay my hand in judgment upon the nations, but I cannot deny my word. 17 Wherefore lay to with your might and call faithful laborers into my vineyard, that it may be pruned for the last time. 18 And inasmuch as they [the nations] do repent and receive the fulness of my gospel, and become sanctified, I will stay mine hand in judgment. 19 Wherefore, go forth, crying with a loud voice, saying: The kingdom of heaven is at hand; crying: Hosanna! blessed be the name of the Most High God. 20 Go forth baptizing with water, preparing the way before my face for the time of my coming; 21 For the time is at hand; the day or the hour no man knoweth; but it surely shall come. 22 And he that receiveth these things receiveth me; and they shall be gathered unto me in time and in eternity. 23 And again, it shall come to pass that on as many as ye shall baptize with water, ye shall lay your hands, and they shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, and shall be looking forth for the signs of my coming, and shall know me. 24 Behold, I come quickly. Even so. Amen.

Section 40 

Background Information 

By January 6, 1831, the day after receiving section 39, JS and SR received this revelation explaining why James Covill did not obey the word. 

Section 

1 Behold, verily I say unto you, that the heart of my servant James Covel was right before me, for he covenanted with me that he would obey my word. 2 And he received the word with gladness, but straightway Satan tempted him; and the fear of persecution and the cares of the world caused him to reject the word. 3 Wherefore he broke my covenant, and it remaineth with me to do with him as seemeth me good. Amen.

• Verse 2: Satan Tempted Him 
• Satan temptation of Covill wasn't that he do anything bad, per se. Instead, he tempted Covill by causing him to fear the possibility of persecution and to get him to focus on the cares of the world. Likewise, Satan's temptation does not deal with getting us to do something bad -- like view pornography, commit adultery, steal, or kill. He can also tempt us by causing us to forgo a higher responsibility and commitment. This means that temptations can be more subtle than we realize. Hence why we are to watch and pray always, as doing so connects us with the Spirit, which will guide us away from temptation.