Commentary for Doctrine and Covenants: Sections 30-36

Section 30 

Background Information 

Section 30 is a combination of three revelations received following a three-day conference of the Church. Among other topics, the central topic of the three-day conference was concerning the false revelations that Hiram Page received with his seer stone. JS wrote about this conference: 

At length our conference assembled. The subject of the stone previously mentioned was discussed, and after considerable investigation, Brother Page, as well as the whole Church who were present, renounced the said stone, and all things connected therewith, much to our mutual satisfaction and happiness. We now partook of the Sacrament, confirmed and ordained many, and attended to a great variety of Church business on the first and the two following days of the conference, during which time we had much of the power of God manifested amongst us; the Holy Ghost came upon us, and filled us with joy unspeakable; and peace, and faith, and hope, and charity abounded in our midst. Before we separated we received the following . . .”

Section 

1 Behold, I say unto you, David, that you have feared man and have not relied on me for strength as you ought. 2 But your mind has been on the things of the earth more than on the things of me, your Maker, and the ministry whereunto you have been called; and you have not given heed unto my Spirit, and to those who were set over you, but have been persuaded by those whom I have not commanded. 3 Wherefore [therefore], you are left to inquire for yourself at my hand, and ponder upon the things which you have received [is the Lord saying that because David fear man, and thus ignored the SPirit, that he is left to figure out the questions he has?]. 4 And your home shall be at your father’s house, until I give unto you further commandments. And you shall attend to the ministry in the church, and before the world, and in the regions round about. Amen.

• Verses 1-3: Feared Man 
• David's Whitmer's sin was fearing man over God and not relying on the Lord for strength. I would argue, based on the information in the text, that at least one reason why we are commanded to not fear man is because of its effects 
• The serious negative effect of fearing man is that we don't rely on the Lord. And this is because when we fear man, we esteem the opinions of man greater than the will of the Lord. As a result, we gauge our life by man's estimation of us, and not the Lord's. When man has become the focus, then our "mind" is set on the things of the world. And a mind set upon the world, can't serve the Lord because no man can serve two masters. This leads to not heeding the Spirit, not waiting upon the Lord, and neglecting our duties. It also means that we are "persuaded" by man, ignoring the counsels of God.

5 Behold, I say unto you, Peter, that you shall take your journey with your brother Oliver; for the time has come that it is expedient in me that you shall open your mouth to declare my gospel; therefore, fear not, but give heed unto the words and advice of your brother, which he shall give you. 6 And be you afflicted in all his afflictions, ever lifting up your heart unto me in prayer and faith, for his and your deliverance; for I have given unto him [OC] power to build up my church among the Lamanites; 7 And none have I appointed to be his counselor over him in the church, concerning church matters, except it is his brother, Joseph Smith, Jun. 8 Wherefore, give heed unto these things and be diligent in keeping my commandments, and you shall be blessed unto eternal life. Amen.

• Verse 6: Mission to the Lamanites
• As a reminder, OC, in section 28:8, was called to preach the gospel to the Lamanites. Peter Whitmer Jr, Parley P. Pratt, and Ziba Peterson were also called to go with OC. Although the initial call was to the Lamanites, the work of these missionaries shaped the trajectory of the church. 
• Scope of their mission and influence 
• These missionaries set out on their 1,500 journey on foot. In their work, they visited the Catteraugus Indians, near Buffalo, New York, and left the Book of Mormon with them. From here, they traveled to Kirtland, Ohio where they met Sidney Rigdon and his Campbellite congregation. After learning about the Book of Mormon and admitting that he had not authority to minister the ordinances of the gospel, Rigdon, along with many of his congregation, converted. Afterward, these missionaries found themselves teaching day and night -- having much successes. 
• As Pratt noted: “In two or three weeks from our arrival in the neighborhood with the news, we had baptized one hundred and twenty-seven souls, and this number soon increased to one thousand. The disciples were filled with joy and gladness; while rage and lying was abundantly manifested by gainsayers; faith was strong, joy was great, and persecution heavy”
• Among the converts during these few weeks were Issac Morley, John Murdock, and Lyman Wight. 
• From Kirtland, these missionaries visited the Wyanddot tribe and preached the gospel to them. Later then passed through St. Louis and St. Charles. However, these cities took little interest in their message. 
• As Pratt described: “We travelled on foot for three hundred miles through vast prairies and through trackless wilds of snow— no beaten road; houses few and far between; and the bleak northwest wind always blowing in our faces with a keenness which would almost take the skin off the face. We traveled for whole days, from morning till night, without a house or fire, wading in snow to the knees at every step, and the cold so intense that the snow did not melt on the south side of the houses, even in the mid- day sun, for nearly six weeks. We carried on our backs our changes of clothing, several books, and corn bread and raw pork. We often ate our frozen bread and pork by the way, when the bread would be so frozen that we could not bite or penetrate any part of it but the outside crust”
• The missionaries eventually arrived in Jackson Country, Missouri. Once in Jackson County, the missionaries separated. Whitmer and Peterson set up a tailor shop to earn funds much needed funds, while OC, Pratt, and Williams crossed the state boundary (which they called the "boarder of the Lamanites") and peached the gospel to the Shawnees and Delaware tribes. Although the Delaware tribe was initially hostile to these efforts, the chief and his council, through an interpreter, sat and listened many days to OC's explanation and teaching of the Book of Mormon. Nevertheless, despite the possibility of establishing a "school" among the Delaware Indians, the missionaries were issued an order by the federal Indian agent, Richard W. Cummins, to desist contact and leave Indian land or else they would be arrested. Although Cowdrey, while in Independence, Missouri, applied for license to re-enter the lands, his request never was granted, thus halting efforts to reclaim the Lamanites for that time. 
• Notable is to point out that the Lord, speaking to Peter Whitmer, declares that OC shall have power to build up His church among the Lamanites. Thus OC, if he would have remained faithful, would have had this blessing. Sadly, OC's later apostasy  may have delayed the reclaiming of the Lamanites and invalidated the Lord's promise to OC. 

9 Behold, I say unto you, my servant John, that thou shalt commence from this time forth to proclaim my gospel, as with the voice of a trump. 10 And your labor shall be at your brother Philip Burroughs’, and in that region round about, yea, wherever you can be heard, until I command you to go from hence. 11 And your whole labor shall be in Zion, with all your soul, from henceforth; yea, you shall ever open your mouth in my cause, not fearing what man can do, for I am with you. Amen.

Section 31 

Background Information 

Section 31 is the last of the four revelations that JS gave in the first conference while in Fayette, New York. Section 31 is directed to Thomas B. Marsh. Like previous revelations that called for the formation of a church and the gathering of delivers, this section emphasizes the urgency of the works and admonished Marsh to "thrust in they Sickle with all they Soul." The revelation also addressed Marsh's concerns about the welfare of his family while he did missionary work. The Lord promised that his family would be blessed during his absence. 

Moreover, According to Jospeh Fielding Smith and Craig Ostler, this section "announces how we as a people are to present our message to the world. Though it is a common practice among members of the Church to seek common ground with those who profess faith in Christ by an appeal to the Bible, the direction given in this revelation is that we declare the things that have been revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith."

Section 

1 Thomas, my son, blessed are you because of your faith in my work. 2 Behold, you have had many afflictions because of your family [apparently some of Marsh's afflictions occurred because some of his family did not believe and likely persecuted him]; nevertheless, I will bless you and your family, yea, your little ones; and the day cometh that they will believe and know the truth and be one with you in my church. 3 Lift up your heart and rejoice, for the hour of your mission is come; and your tongue shall be loosed, and you shall declare glad tidings of great joy unto this generation. 4 You shall declare the things which have been revealed to my servant, Joseph Smith, Jun. You shall begin to preach from this time forth, yea, to reap in the field which is white already to be burned.

• Verse 1: Because of Your Faith 
• Although he later apostatized from the church, Marsh was a man strong in the Spirit and faith. He followed it promptings when it led him to Boston, Massachusetts, and other promptings where the Spirit led him. Later he wrote: 
  I believed the Spirit of God dictated me to make a journey west. I started in company with one Benjamin Hall, who was also led by the Spirit. I went to Lima, Livingston county, New York, where I staid [stayed] some three months, and then left for home. I called on my return at Lyonstown, on a family, whose names I do not recollect. On leaving there next morning the lady enquired if I had heard of the Golden Book found by a youth named Joseph Smith. I informed her I never heard anything about it, and became very anxious to know concerning the matter. On enquiring, she told me I could learn more about it from Martin Harris, in Palmyra.

  
  

  I returned back westward and found Martin Harris at the printing office, in Palmyra, where the first sixteen pages of the Book of Mormon had just been struck off, the proof sheet of which I obtained from the printer and took with me. As soon as Martin Harris found out my intentions he took me to the house of Joseph Smith, sen., where Joseph Smith, jun. resided, who could give me any information I might wish. Here I found Oliver Cowdery, who gave me all the information concerning the book I desired. After staying there two days I started for Charleston, Mass., highly pleased with the information I had obtained concerning the new found book.

  
  

  After arriving home and finding my family all well, I showed my wife the sixteen pages of the Book of Mormon which I had obtained, with which she was well pleased, believing it to be the work of God. From this time for about one year I corresponded with Oliver Cowdery and Joseph Smith, jun., and prepared myself to move west.

  
  

  Learning by letter that the Church of Jesus Christ had been organized on the 6th day of April, 1830, I moved to Palmyra, Ontario co., in September following, and landed at the house of Joseph Smith, sen., with my whole family. During the month [on 3 September 1830] I was baptized by David Whitmer, in Cayuga lake, and in a few days I was ordained an Elder by Oliver Cowdery with six Elders, at Father Whitmer’s house. -- Millennial Star, 26:375; spelling as in original.

• Verse 3: Tongue Shall Be Loosed
• Hyrum M. Smith and Janne M. Sjodahl noted: “As long as Thomas B. Marsh was faithful he was an eloquent speaker. At the time of the troubles in Clay County, Mo., he was elected a member of a committee to lay the grievances of the Saints before the authorities of the State. On that occasion he spoke so impressively that General Atchison, who was present, shed tears, and the meeting passed resolutions to assist the Saints in finding a new location.”
• Verse 4: Thomas Marsh's Calling 
• Marsh's call was to preach the things the Lord revealed to JS. 

5 Therefore, thrust in your sickle with all your soul, and your sins are forgiven you [service towards others, removes our sins], and you shall be laden with sheaves upon your back [Marsh is promised success in his missionary efforts], for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Wherefore, your family shall live. 6 Behold, verily I say unto you, go from them [his family] only for a little time, and declare my word, and I will prepare a place for them [His family. Marsh is promised that if he declares the world with all his souls, his family will be taken care of]. 7 Yea, I will open the hearts of the people, and they will receive you [Marsh's success will come from the Lord "opening" the hears of the people]. And I will establish a church by your hand [not only will Marsh have success in converts, but by his efforts, the Lord will establish a church]; 8 And you shall strengthen them and prepare them against the time when they shall be gathered [Marsh's call was to prepare the converts for the end-times]. 

9 Be patient in afflictions, revile not against those that revile. Govern your house in meekness, and be steadfast. 10 Behold, I say unto you that you shall be a physician unto the church, but not unto the world, for they will not receive you. 11 Go your way whithersoever I will, and it shall be given you by the Comforter what you shall do and whither you shall go. 12 Pray always, lest you enter into temptation and lose your reward. 13 Be faithful unto the end, and lo, I am with you. These words are not of man nor of men, but of me, even Jesus Christ, your Redeemer, by the will of the Father. Amen.

• Verse 12: Pray Always
• Despite the blessing in store for Marsh, the Lord also instruct him to pray always. When reading this revelation and the blessing in store for Marsh, as well as him being a man of faith, strong in the Spirit, one has to wonder what happened? Traditionally, the story of his faith is related to a milk strippings incident. And that may have contributed to it. However, Marsh, when he came back to the church explained to Brigham Young what led to his apostasy. He was reported to have said the following: 
• I have frequently wanted to know how my apostacy began, and I have come to the conclusion that I must have lost the Spirit of the Lord out of my heart. The next question is, “How and when did you lose the Spirit?” I became jealous of the Prophet, and then I saw double, and overlooked everything that was right, and spent all my time in looking for the evil; and then, when the Devil began to lead me, it was easy for the carnal mind to rise up, which is anger, jealousy, and wrath. I could feel it within me; I felt angry and wrathful; and the Spirit of the Lord being gone…I was blinded, and I thought I saw a beam in brother Joseph’s eye, but it was nothing but a mote, and my own eye was filled with the beam; but I thought I saw a beam in his, and I wanted to get it out; and, as brother Heber says, I got mad, and I wanted everybody else to be mad. I talked with Brother Brigham and Brother Heber, and I wanted them to be mad like myself; and I saw they were not mad, and I got madder still because they were not…Well, this is about the amount of my hypocrisy.Section 32
• Given the Lord's warning to Marsh, I'm included to believe that Marsh's jealousy of the prophet likely came from his failure to pray always, which made him susceptible to temptations, one of these being jealousy. 
• Marsh's fall (and thankfully redemption) is once a against a warning to all of us that no matter the blessings we've received, the visions we've had, the promises we've been given, we can fall. And this also applies to our leaders. No one is immune for falling away. Hence why our faith (trust) is on the Lord, because he has demonstrated repeatedly that he is reliable and will never fail us. 

Section 32

Background Information 

After OC and Peter Whitmer Jr. were called to preach to the Lamanites in September 1830, several other elders expressed a desire to see the fulfillment of God's purposes among "the remnants of the house of Joseph -- the Lamanites residing in the west." JS inquired of the Lord resulting in section 32 addressed to Parley P. Pratt and Ziba Peterson. According to the JS papers, Pratt has a "longstanding interest in the American Indians" and therefore welcomed the call. 

Section 

1 And now concerning my servant Parley P. Pratt, behold, I say unto him that as I live I will that he shall declare my gospel and learn of me, and be meek and lowly of heart. 2 And that which I have appointed unto him is that he shall go with my servants, Oliver Cowdery and Peter Whitmer, Jun., into the wilderness among the Lamanites. 3 And Ziba Peterson also shall go with them; and I myself will go with them [the missionaries] and be in their midst; and I am their advocate with the Father, and nothing shall prevail against them. 4 And they shall give heed to that which is written, and pretend to no other revelation [they are to teach from what has been revealed to JS]; and they shall pray always that I may unfold the same [revelation?] to their understanding. 5 And they shall give heed unto these words and trifle not, and I will bless them. Amen.

Section 33

Background Information 

JS received this revelation for Ezra Thayer and Northrop Sweet in early October 1830, within a month of their baptisms in the Church of Christ. Section 33 appoints Ezra and Northrop to the ministry and provided instruction regarding their preaching. Later in life, Thayer wrote that he was prepared for the revelation by a vision in which a man: 

[C]ame and brought me a roll of paper and presented it to me, and also a trumpet and told me to blow it. I told him that I never blowed any in my life. He said you can blow it, try it. I put it in my mouth and blowed on it, and it made the most beautiful sound that I ever heard. The roll of paper was the revelation on me and Northrop Sweet. Oliver [Cowdery] was the man that brought the roll and trumpet. When he brought the revelation on me and Northrop Sweet, he said, here is a revelation from God for you.

Thayer also recalled that following this revelation Sweet "soon left the church." George A Smith explains: 

Joseph Smith came to Kirtland, and taught that people in relation to their error. He showed them that the Spirit of God did not bind men nor make them insane, and that the power of the adversary which had been manifested in many instances was visible even from that cause, for persons under its influence became helpless, and were bound hand and foot as in chains, being as immovable as a stick of timber. When Joseph came to instruct these Saints in relation to the true Spirit, and the manner of determining the one from the other, in a short time a number of those who had been influenced by those foul manifestations, apostatized. Among the number was Wycom Clark; he got a revelation that he was to be the prophet— that he was the true revelator; and himself, Northrop Sweet and four other individuals retired from the Church, and organized the ‘Pure Church of Christ,’ as they called it, composed of six members, and commenced having meetings, and preaching, but that was the extent of the growth of his early schism.

Section 

1 Behold, I say unto you, my servants Ezra and Northrop, open ye your ears and hearken to the voice of the Lord your God, whose word is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword, to the dividing asunder of the joints and marrow, soul and spirit; and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 2 For verily, verily, I say unto you that ye are called to lift up your voices as with the sound of a trump, to declare my gospel unto a crooked and perverse generation [i.e., an iniquitous generation]. 3 For behold, the field is white already to harvest; and it is the eleventh hour, and the last time that I shall call laborers into my vineyard. 4 And my vineyard [the world] has become corrupted every whit; and there is none which doeth good save it be a few; and they err in many instances because of priestcrafts, all having corrupt minds [even the good falter because of the false doctrine perpetuated by priestcraft].

• Verse 1 -- Two-Edged Sword
• Ezra Thayre wrote concerning his person experience with the "two-edged sword" of God: 
• "When Hyrum [Smith] began to speak, every word touched me to the inmost soul. I thought every word was pointed to me. God punished me and riveted me to the spot. I could not help myself. The tears rolled down my cheeks, I was very proud and stubborn. There were many there who knew me, I dare not look up. I sat until I recovered myself before I dare look up. They sung some hymns and that filled me with the Spirit. When Hyrum got through, he picked up a book and said, ‘here is the Book of Mormon.’ I said, let me see it. I then opened the book, and I received a shock with such exquisite joy that no pen can write and no tongue can express. I shut the book and said, what is the price of it? ‘Fourteen shillings’ was the reply. I said, I’ll take the book. I opened it again, and I felt a double portion of the Spirit, that I did not know whether I was in the world or not. I felt as though I was truly in heaven. Martin Harris rushed to me to tell me that the book was true. I told him that he need not tell me that, for I knew that it is true as well as he.”

5 And verily, verily, I say unto you [Ezra and Northrop], that this church have I established and called forth out of the wilderness. 6 And even so will I gather mine elect from the four quarters of the earth, even as many as will believe in me, and hearken unto my voice. [those who believe and hearken are those who are gathered into Zion] 7 Yea, verily, verily, I say unto you, that the field is white already to harvest; wherefore, thrust in your sickles, and reap with all your might, mind, and strength. [the salvation of souls requires us to expend much effort] 8 Open your mouths and they shall be filled, and you shall become even as Nephi of old, who journeyed from Jerusalem in the wilderness. 9 Yea, open your mouths and spare not, and you shall be laden with sheaves upon your backs, for lo, I am with you. 10 Yea, open your mouths and they shall be filled, saying: Repent, repent, and prepare ye the way of the Lord, and make his paths straight; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand; 11 Yea, repent and be baptized, every one of you, for a remission of your sins; yea, be baptized even by water, and then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost.

12 Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and remember that they shall have faith in me or they can in nowise be saved; 13 And upon this rock [the gospel] I will build my church; yea, upon this rock [the gospel] ye are built, and if ye continue, the gates of hell shall not prevail against you. 14 And ye shall remember the church articles and covenants to keep them [as recorded in section 20]. 15 And whoso having faith you shall confirm in my church, by the laying on of the hands, and I will bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost upon them. 16 And the Book of Mormon and the holy scriptures are given of me for your instruction; and the power of my Spirit quickeneth all things. 17 Wherefore, be faithful, praying always, having your lamps trimmed and burning, and oil with you, that you may be ready at the coming of the Bridegroom— 18 For behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, that I come quickly. Even so. Amen.

• Verse 17: Having Your Laps Trimmed
• President Spencer W. Kimball provided his take on the meaning and significance of this parable: 

I believe that the ten virgins represent the people of the Church of Jesus Christ and not the rank and file of the world. All of the virgins, wise and foolish, had accepted the invitation to the wedding supper; they had knowledge of the program and had been warned of the important day to come. They were not the Gentiles or the heathens or the pagans, nor were they necessarily corrupt and reprobate, but they were knowing people who were foolishly unprepared for the vital happenings that were to affect their eternal lives.

They had the saving, exalting gospel, but it had not been made the center of their lives. They knew the way but gave only a small measure of loyalty and devotion. . . . They had heard of his [the bridegroom’s] coming for so long, so many times, that the statement seemingly became meaningless to them. Would he ever come? So long had it been since they began expecting him that they were rationalizing that he would never appear. Perhaps it was a myth.

Hundreds of thousands of us today are in this position. Confidence has been dulled and patience worn thin. It is so hard to wait and be prepared always. But we cannot allow ourselves to slumber. The Lord has given us this parable as a special warning. . . .

The foolish asked the others to share their oil, but spiritual preparedness cannot be shared in an instant. The wise had to go, else the bridegroom would have gone unwelcomed. They needed all their oil for themselves; they could not save the foolish. The responsibility was each for himself. This was not selfishness or unkindness. The kind of oil that is needed to illuminate the way and light up the darkness is not shareable. How can one share obedience to the principle of tithing; a mind at peace from righteous living; an accumulation of knowledge? How can one share faith or testimony? How can one share attitudes or chastity, or the experience of a mission? How can one share temple privileges? Each must obtain that kind of oil for himself.

In the parable, oil can be purchased at the market. In our lives, the oil of preparedness is accumulated drop by drop in righteous living. Attendance at sacrament meetings adds oil to our lamps, drop by drop over the years. Fasting, family prayer, home teaching, control of bodily appetites, preaching the gospel, studying the scriptures—each act of dedication and obedience is a drop added to our store. Deeds of kindness, payment of offerings and tithes, chaste thoughts and actions, marriage in the covenant for eternity—these, too, contribute importantly to the oil with which we can at midnight refuel our exhausted lamps. (Faith Precedes the Miracle, 256) 

Section 34

Background Information 

Orson Pratt was baptized by his older brother Parley on September 19, 1830, Orson's nineteenth birthday, in Canaan, New York. He later wrote: 

From the age of ten to nineteen I saw much of the world, and was tossed about without any permanent abiding place; but through the grace of God, I was kept from many of the evils to which young people are exposed; the early impressions of morality and religion, instilled into my mind by my parents, always remained with me; and I often felt a great anxiety to be prepared for a future state; but never commenced, in real earnest, to seek after the Lord, until the autumn of 1829. I then began to pray very fervently, repenting of every sin. In the silent shades of night, while others were slumbering upon their pillows, I often retired to some secret place in the lonely fields or solitary wilderness, and bowed before the Lord, and prayed for hours with a broken heart and contrite spirit; this was my comfort and delight. The greatest desire of my heart was for the Lord to manifest his will concerning me. I continued to pray in this fervent manner until September, 1830, at which time two elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints, came into the neighborhood, one of which was my brother Parley. They held several meetings which I attended.

In October he traveled over two hundred miles to Fayette Township, New York, to meet JS. Orson arrived immediately after Parley and the other missionaries were called to "go forth unto the Lamanites..." Orson later explained that he also wanted to know his duty. JS received this revelation on November 4, 1830, as a response to Orson's request. Orson later remarked that this revelation left a deep impression on him. He wrote: 

I thought that was a very great and important calling. . . . I felt, therefore, the importance of those sayings; and truly, when I looked at the magnitude and importance of the command given to me to prophesy by the power of the Holy Ghost, I felt oftentimes to tremble and shrink, for fear I never should be able to fulfill and accomplish so great a work.

Although this revelation did not specify the area where Orson was to preach, he later explained that his "mission was to Colesville, Broome County, N.Y." 

Section 

1 My son Orson, hearken and hear and behold what I, the Lord God, shall say unto you, even Jesus Christ your Redeemer; 2 The light and the life of the world, a light which shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not; 3 Who so loved the world that he gave his own life, that as many as would believe might become [the phrase "son of God" is a title one receives through belief upon the Lord, which belief is rooted in the Gospel] the sons of God. Wherefore you are my son; 4 And blessed are you because you have believed; 5 And more blessed are you because you are called of me to preach my gospel— 6 To lift up your voice as with the sound of a trump, both long and loud, and cry repentance unto a crooked and perverse generation, preparing the way of the Lord for his second coming.

7 For behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, the time is soon at hand that I shall come in a cloud with power and great glory. 8 And it shall be a great day at the time of my coming, for all nations shall tremble. 9 But before that great day shall come, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon be turned into blood; and the stars shall refuse their shining, and some shall fall, and great destructions await the wicked. 10 Wherefore, lift up your voice and spare not, for the Lord God hath spoken; therefore prophesy, and it shall be given by the power of the Holy Ghost. 11 And if you are faithful, behold, I am with you until I come— 12 And verily, verily, I say unto you, I come quickly. I am your Lord and your Redeemer. Even so. Amen.

• Verse 10: Lift Up Your Voice ... and Prophesy
• Orson Pratt is not the prophet of the church, yet the Lord commands him to prophesy. This is because all who have been born of God are entitled to prophesy -- regardless of their position in the church or gender. As one scholar noted: "The fact that certain biblical texts presuppose that there were women prophets, there can be no debate. There were women prophets in ancient Israel and in Early Christianity. And the term that is used in Hebrew and in Greek for women prophets is the same as the term used for men prophets, with the only difference being the marker of gender that is a linguistic component of these ancient languages." 
• Women in the scriptures who prophesied: 
• Miriam: “Then Miriam the prophet, Aaron’s sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women followed her, with timbrels and dancing. Miriam sang to them: “Sing to the LORD, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea.” (Ex 15:20­–21)
• Deborah: Deborah was a prophet and one of the twelve major judges God called forth to lead the nation Israel. She spoke the Word of the Lord to Barak. Under her command, the Israelites defeated King Sisera and the Canaanites, thereby ensuring forty years of peace. And, her song of victory and praise is recorded in Judges 5.
• Huldah: A prophet and wife of Shallum, confirmed that a scroll discovered in the Temple was part of the Torah. She prefaced her prophetic message to King Josiah’s priestly entourage with, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says (2 Kgs 22:16).” 
• Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read: Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched. (2 Kgs 22:16-17) 
• Isaiah's wife: Although the Bible does not give her name, the wife of Isaiah is described as a “prophetess.”
• Anna: A prophet in the temple court, “worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.” She was a widow. After Simeon spoke, Anna prophesied over the baby Jesus “to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.”

Section 35

Background Information 

This revelation was received shortly after Sidney Rigdon and Edward Partridge arrived in Fayette, New York. However, there is some confusion regarding the exact date of this revelation. Two early versions of section 35 were printed in the Ohio Star, on January 5, 1832 and in the Painesville Telegraph on January 17, 1832. These both give the date of this revelation as December 7, 1830. Lucy Mack Smith, however, states that Sidney and Edward Partridge arrived at the Smith’s new home in East Waterloo, near Fayette, the day before Edward was baptized. Since Partridge was baptized in December 11, 1830, Lucy’s account has them arriving on December 10, thus conflicting with the December 7 date. The general date of December 1830 has been given for section 35. 

Section

1 Listen to the voice of the Lord your God, even Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, whose course is one eternal round, the same today as yesterday, and forever. 2 I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who was crucified for the sins of the world, even as many as will believe on my name, that they may become the sons of God, even one in me as I am one in the Father, as the Father is one in me, that we may be one.

3 Behold, verily, verily, I say unto my servant Sidney, I have looked upon thee and thy works. I have heard thy prayers, and prepared thee for a greater work. 4 Thou art blessed, for thou shalt do great things. Behold thou wast sent forth, even as John, to prepare the way before me, and before Elijah which should come, and thou knewest it not. 5 Thou didst baptize by water unto repentance, but they received not the Holy Ghost; 6 But now I give unto thee a commandment, that thou shalt baptize by water, and they shall receive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of the hands, even as the apostles of old.

• Verse 3: Sidney Rigdon
• Although the character of Rigdon is mixed, as at time he was a firebrand, and he also parted from the church, while at the same time serving as a scribe to JS and being present with him during some of his most significant revelations, as well as by near JS during some of his greatest trials in Ohio.  Lest we condemn Rigdon too harshly, we should recognize what Rigdon gave up for the gospel and his humility in doing so. 
• Rigdon was also a man of great faith. Before converting to the church, Rigdon's efforts as a preacher for the Campbellite church resulted in many members converting to the Church of Christ. Over 100 people were convinced of the truthfulness of the Restoration and were baptized. Not only did this significantly increase the overall membership of the Church, but it also provided a number of the future leaders for the Church. Among those early members of the Church were Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams, future members of the First Presidency (D&C 35, 81, 90:6), as well as Edward Partridge, future presiding bishop (D&C 41:9).
• In addition to his contribution, Rigdon has sacrificed much when he converted to the Church of Christ. One particular sacrifice was his employment, which had provided a comfortable living for him and his family. Some members of the congregation even started building homes for his children. Converting to the Church of Christ would mean that his family would walk away from the comfort they enjoyed. 
• Rigdon is also the example of what it looks like to be a humble truth seeker. Although Rigdon was hesitant and skeptical of the Book of Mormon, as he taught the Bible was enough, Rigdon did not reject reading it outright. Instead, he followed Paul's counsel to "prove all things." As a result, he gained a testimony of the veracity of the Book of Mormon. As result he left all he knew to follow after the greater truth. 
• Thus despite whatever flaws and mistakes he made, Rigdon is like king Lamoni in many ways -- nothing could keep him from seeking out the truth, regardless of the cost. Many of us have not had to make this challenging choice and having to make so great a sacrifice. 

7 And it shall come to pass that there shall be a great work in the land, even among the Gentiles, for their folly and their abominations shall be made manifest in the eyes of all people [the purpose of the "great work" is to reveal the folly and abominations of the Gentiles to the world]. 8 For I am God, and mine arm is not shortened; and I will show miracles, signs, and wonders, unto all those who believe on my name [those who believe in the Lord will see miracles, signs, and wonders; if we don't see these things, then we don't really believe in the Lord]. 9 And whoso shall ask it in my name in faith, they shall cast out devils; they shall heal the sick; they shall cause the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak, and the lame to walk. 10 And the time speedily cometh that great things are to be shown forth unto the children of men; 11 But without faith shall not anything be shown forth except desolations upon Babylon, the same which has made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication [Those without faith will see wonders of the Lord, but it will be the works of desolation and destruction. They will not see beyond that].

12 And there are none that doeth good except those who are ready to receive the fulness of my gospel, which I have sent forth unto this generation. 13 Wherefore, I call upon the weak things of the world, those who are unlearned and despised, to thresh the nations by the power of my Spirit; 14 And their arm shall be my arm, and I will be their shield and their buckler; and I will gird up their loins, and they shall fight manfully for me; and their enemies shall be under their feet; and I will let fall the sword in their behalf, and by the fire of mine indignation will I preserve them.

• Verse 12: None that Doeth Good
• Here, the Lord shares an important truth that is often either misunderstood or not understood at all. This world is alluring, especially in modern days where developed countries (particularly the US) have reached a standard of living that no other people have experienced. The amount of wealth that has been generated is staggering. And the lifestyles we have would be unknown to people just 100 years ago. 
• But as a result of this level of success, we may be tempted to view the world and the people in it as good. This is because living in the world and receiving its fruits of prosperity can lead us to conclude that the world is generally good. Although people may not be perfect, most people out there -- whether it be leaders, celebrities, athletes, professors, etc -- are generally good people, even if their morals are contrary to ours. 
• We may even hold these people up as important figures who should be revered and respected. And even though we don't agree with all their lifestyle choices, we ignore those because of the value they provide to us. Eventually as we ignore their lifestyle, we begin to rationalize their behavior or even redefining God's standard of goodness and righteousness. 
• But in verse 12 the Lord is clear what his definition of good is -- it is those who receive the fulness of His gospel. And because it's the Lord's standard, it should be our standard as well. This means that people who don't meet this definition are not good, despite what we wish were true. 
• However, there is an important caveat. One can be evil but still teach truth. Thus we should not reject listening to someone's message even if they haven't come unto Christ. Truth is accessible to all -- even those who don't believe in Christ. What Christ provides is that opportunity to learn all truth. 

15 And the poor and the meek shall have the gospel preached unto them, and they shall be looking forth for the time of my coming, for it is nigh at hand [Why will the poor and meek have the gospel preached to them? Because, due to their afflictions, they will be looking for the coming of the Lord, thus receptive the message]— 16 And they [the poor and meek] shall learn the parable of the fig tree, for even now already summer is nigh. 17 And I have sent forth the fulness of my gospel by the hand of my servant Joseph; and in weakness have I blessed him; 18 And I have given unto him the keys of the mystery of those things which have been sealed, even things which were from the foundation of the world, and the things which shall come from this time until the time of my coming, if he abide in me, and if not, another will I plant in his stead.

• Verse 17: In Weakness Have I Blessed Him
• Wilford Woodruff wrote of the Prophet Joseph: “He lived until he received every key, ordinance and law ever given to any man on the earth, from father Adam down, touching this dispensation” (JD, 16:267).

19 Wherefore, watch over him that his faith fail not, and it shall be given by the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, that knoweth all things. 20 And a commandment I give unto thee—that thou shalt write for him; and the scriptures [referring to the Joseph Smith translation] shall be given, even as they are in mine own bosom, to the salvation of mine own elect [the JST is purposed for the elect] ; 21 For they [the elect] will hear my voice, and shall see me, and shall not be asleep, and shall abide the day of my coming; for they shall be purified, even as I am pure.

• Verses 20-21: The Elect
• The Lord further explain who the elect are. He repeats he said in a previous section -- that the elect hear His voice. But the Lord also adds some new descriptions. First, the elect are not asleep, and abide they day of His coming, and they will be purified (by the time Christ comes). 
• There are two important details to unpack: First, the elect are not asleep because they hear the Lord's voice. What does that mean? It means that they are keenly aware of the Lord's will for them and they act accordingly. Like Nephi, it means that they recognize the Lord's voice and receive instruction from Him and follow it. And one can't follow the Lord's voice if their attention is fixated on the clamor of worldly voice -- what've they may be or consist of. Because they obey the Lord's voice, they are awake. 
• Second, the elect are able to abide the day (i.e., end times) because they have become purified. Thus their purification does not happen after Christ comes, but before He comes. It is their purity that gives them power to abide. And they've become purified because they hear/obey the Lord's voice. By hearing the Lord's voice, they have allowed the Lord to lead them through the fires of refinement -- thus becoming pure like the Lord

22 And now I say unto you, tarry with him [JS], and he shall journey with you; forsake him not, and surely these things shall be fulfilled. 23 And inasmuch as ye do not write, behold, it shall be given unto him to prophesy; and thou shalt preach my gospel and call on the holy prophets to prove his words, as they shall be given him. 24 Keep all the commandments and covenants by which ye are bound; and I will cause the heavens to shake for your good, and Satan shall tremble and Zion shall rejoice upon the hills and flourish; 25 And Israel shall be saved in mine own due time; and by the keys which I have given shall they be led, and no more be confounded at all. 26 Lift up your hearts and be glad, your redemption draweth nigh. 27 Fear not, little flock, the kingdom is yours until I come. Behold, I come quickly. Even so. Amen. 

Section 36

Background Information 

This revelation was given to Edward Partridge who had accompanied Rigdon to meet JS. Prior to converting, Partridge become interested in the Church of Christ when the OC and the other missionaries preached the restoration to the Campbellite, to which Partridge was a member. Although his wife and others converted, he was not convinced and insisted upon meeting JS in New York before he would convert. Partridge and Rigdon arrived at Joseph Smith Sr's homes, where JS was giving a sermon. Partridge asked JS to baptize him that day. JS replied, “You have traveled a long way this morning and you are much fatigued and I think you had better rest and take some refreshment and tomorrow morning be baptized.”

Soon after the baptism, Partridge received this revelation. 

Section

1 Thus saith the Lord God, the Mighty One of Israel: Behold, I say unto you, my servant Edward, that you are blessed, and your sins are forgiven you, and you are called to preach my gospel as with the voice of a trump; 2 And I will lay my hand upon you by the hand of my servant Sidney Rigdon, and you shall receive my Spirit, the Holy Ghost, even the Comforter, which shall teach you the peaceable things of the kingdom; 3 And you shall declare it with a loud voice, saying: Hosanna, blessed be the name of the most high God.

• Verse 1: Edward Partridge 
• JS described EP as a a “a pattern of piety, and one of the Lord’s great men known by his steadfastness and patient endurance to the end”.  Early revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants refer to him as a man without guile “like Nathanael of old,” and commend him for the “integrity” of his heart (D&C 41:11; History of the Church, 2:302). Within two months of his baptism, he was called to the office of bishop unto the Church. He was told to "leave his merchandise and to spend all his time in the labors of the church” (D&C 41:9). Four months later he was among those named to accompany Joseph Smith to Missouri, a place designated “the land of your inheritance” (D&C 52:24, 42).
• EP was a successful and well-educated hatter in Painesville, Ohio, with significant property holdings and his communities respect. But from the day that EP converted, his life would never be the same. In following the Lord, EP lost all his property, was disowned by his father, and his own family suffered "extreme poverty and hardship, with EP personally becoming a victim of mob violence and persecution. He died at the age of 43 due to ill-health.  

4 And now this calling and commandment give I unto you concerning all men— 5 That as many as shall come before my servants Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith, Jun., embracing this calling and commandment, shall be ordained and sent forth to preach the everlasting gospel among the nations— 6 Crying repentance, saying: Save yourselves from this untoward generation, and come forth out of the fire, hating even the garments spotted with the flesh.

7 And this commandment [what the Lord said in verses 5 and 6 above] shall be given unto the elders of my church, that every man which will embrace it with singleness of heart may be ordained and sent forth, even as I have spoken. 8 I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God; wherefore, gird up your loins and I will suddenly come to my temple. Even so. Amen.