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).