Excerpts -- The Joseph Smith Revelations

Introduction to Chapters 3 to 6: Church of Christ Years, April 1830 - May 1834
3. Laying the Foundation, April 1830 -January 1831

8. Early Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Period, April 1838 - November
1843

Revelation is usually thought of as the imparting of truth to men and women by Deity. How this wisdom has been communicated between heaven and earth and bow it is different from ordinary human thought remains a mystery. For instance, Mormon church founder Joseph Smith (1805-44) was accompanied by scribes who sometimes recorded his most casual observations. For Smith, revelation seemed to come from day-to-day experience, from interactions with other people, and from the study of biblical texts.

In the early years of his life, Smith was a treasure seer who divined where precious things were hidden. As he acquired a prophetic mantle, he used the same methods, including seer-stone gazing, to produce his church's foundational scripture, the Book of Mormon, and his first fifteen revelations.¹

Smith began his ministry in the spring of 1828 at age twenty-two by dictating the contents of ancient gold plates to his scribe Martin Harris. When over one hundred manuscript pages of the dictated text were lost, Smith inquired of God about this matter. In July his prayer was answered, and this response became his first revelation: "The works, and the designs, and the purposes of God, can not be frustrated, neither can they come to nought, for God doth not walk in crooked paths; neither doth he turn to the right hand nor to the left; neither doth he vary from that which he hath said: Therefore his paths are strait and his course is one eternal round."²

While these words were reportedly uttered by God through Smith, there is no first-person emphasis. The language is matter of fact and relates directly to the subject at hand: the lost manuscript of the dictated Book of Mormon text. However, in April 1829 one of Smith's revelations to another scribe, Oliver Cowdery, uses the first person: "Behold I am Jesus Christ" and "Verily, verily, I say unto you."³

While Smith did not comment on the manner in which he perceived God's mind, the linguistic idiosyncracies are assumed to be his own. Whether he believed that the ideas or the words themselves were God's is not completely understood. For instance, expressions that are borrowed from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible seem to highlight the importance of the message.

Smith frequently revised the revelations in accordance with his developing theology. God's word, relayed through fallible prophets, was neither inerrant nor static in Smith's view—so as the need arose he revised the Bible and his own autobiography as well as the revelations.

However, in June 1829 instructions were given to twelve future apostles called to serve in the ministry:

And on 6 April 1830, the day the church was organized, a revelation referred to Smith's authority as spokesman: "For his word ye shall receive, as if from mine own mouth."⁵

One early disciple, Parley P. Pratt, wrote about the process of revelation:

William E. McLellin was the scribe for Smith's October 1831 revelation and for David Whitmer's September 1847 illumination. McLellin wrote of the revelatory process:

Note that McLellin has each sentence read aloud by the scribe while Pratt states that there was no reading back. Many of the manuscripts do not have punctuation marks, perhaps indicating they were dictated too rapidly to have been read back and corrected. In any case, the revelations were written as nearly as possible as Smith spoke them. The early manuscripts have crossed-out words with substituted words above lines, which appear to have been written near the time of the first composition. The orthography is unique for each particular scribe. Smith, on the other hand, was responsible for the content of every message.

Many of the revelations are explicitly attributed to God, as illustrated by the following salutations:

In a revelation received on 25 January 1832, the wording commences: "Verily verily I say unto you I who speak even by the voice of my spirit even Alpha and Omega your Lord and your God ... behold this is the will of the Lord your God concerning you even so Amen."⁸ Smith stated this was a "commandment of Jesus Christ."⁹ In another revelation, he dictated, "these are the words of Alpha & Omega even Jesus Christ."¹⁰ William W. Phelps underscored Smith's role as God's voice in a song, a portion of which reads: "The commandments to the church,/ Which the saints will always search,/ (Where the joys of heaven perch,)/ Came through him from Jesus Christ."¹¹

A peculiarity in the revelations is that when there are minor differences between the original and subsequent versions, the meaning has usually remained the same. Theological and historical revisions are more apparent. The most drastic alterations were made in 1835, when the texts were amended, added to, excised, and in some cases assigned different historical settings. About a third of the texts from July 1828 to 23 April 1834 were revised. Among other emendations, the changes softened language, reinterpreted economic matters, added offices existing at the time of revision, and inserted references to priesthood restoration.

The earliest prophetic statements were addressed to individuals as a comfort or chastisement or to the church regarding organizational issues. Economic ideals, religious expectations, and millennial warnings were also prominent features. Missionaries were called to preach to the world for the last time.

The majority (51.7 percent) of the commandments, revelations, and instructions was received in Kirtland and Hiram, Ohio (1831-38), as doctrines, ordinances, and authority structures were solidified. From the revelations, it becomes clear that dissent was common and forgiveness was often offered to those who transgressed.

Some of the revelations were not only for a specific recipient, but were specifically withheld from the public. Martin Harris was instructed in March 1830: "And I command you, that you preach nought but repentance; and show not these things, neither speak these things unto the world, for they can not bear meat, but milk they must receive[.]"¹² Almost a year later in March 183,1 the church was told: "& now I say unto you keep these things from going abroad unto the world that ye may accomplish this work in the eyes of the people & in the eyes of your enemies that they may not know your works until ye have accomplished the thing which I have commanded you[.]"¹³

At the 1 November 1831 church conference, a revelation authorized publication of the Book of Commandments: "What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself, and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice, or by the voice of my servants, it is the same[.]"¹⁴ Originally the commandments were to be kept from the world—"And for this cause these commandments were given; they were commanded to be kept from the world in the d[a]y that they were given, but now [November 1831] are to go forth unto all flesh."¹⁵

Realizing that some of the revelations were not intended for the world underscores the importance of the early texts. Joseph Smith together with a few associates selected the revelations from the original handwritten copies for canonization. Chapter 1 discusses these manuscripts as it explores the historical development of the canon.
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1. See Dean C. Jessee, ed., The Papers of Joseph Smith: Autobiographical and Historical Writings (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1989), 1:287, 289, 292, 294. See also H. Michael Marquardt and Wesley P. Walters, Inventing Mormonism: Tradition and the Historical Record (San Francisco: Smith Research Associates, 1994), 104, 188-89, 195n49-51.
2. BC 2:1; LDS D&C 3:1-2; RLDS D&C 2:1.
3. The words "Verily, verily, I say unto you" are in the Gospel of John (KJV) and in the Book of Mormon. The shorter wording "verily I say unto you" is in the New Testament Gospels
4. BC 15:36-41, 50; LDS D&C 18:33-36, 47; RLDS D&C 16:5, 7.
5. BC 22:5; LDS D&C 21:5; RLDS D&C 19:2.
6. Parley P. Pratt [Jr.], ed., Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1994), 48. See LDS and RLDS D&C 50.
7. William E. McLellin, ed., The Ensign of Liberty 1 (Aug. 1849): 98, Kirtland, Ohio.
8. See LDS D&C 75:1, 12; RLDS D&C 75:1-2.
9. Smith toW. W. Phelps, 3l July 1832, LDS archives. See Dean C. Jessee, ed., The Personal Writings of Joseph Smith (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1984), 244.
10. See LDS D&C 81; RLDS D&C 80 (15 Mar. 1832).
11. Latter Day Saints' Messenger and Advocate 2 (Oct. 1835): 208; A Collection of Sacred Hymns, for the Church of the Latter Day Saints (Kirtland, OH: Printed by F. G. Williams & Co., 1835 [1836]), 33-34.
12. BC 16:22. For the 1835 D&C the instruction to Harris deleted "neither speak these things," while adding "until it is wisdom in me," to read: "show not these things unto the world until it is wisdom in me; for they cannot bear meat now, but milk they must receive" (1835 D&C 44:2). See LDS D&C 19:21-22; RLDS D&C 18:2.
13. Manuscript in LDS archives. After the words "keep these things from going abroad unto the world," six words were added for the BC: "until it is expedient in me" (BC 48:68; LDS D&C 45:72; RLDS D&C 45:15). The manuscript written by Edward Partridge does not contain these words nor does a copy made by William E. McLellin. See Jan Shipps and John W. Welch, eds., The Journals of William E. McLellin 1831-1836 (Provo, UT: BYU Studies/Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1994), 240.
14. BC 1:7; LDS D&C 1:38; RLDS D&C 1:8.
15. The Evening and the Morning Star 1 (May 1833): [2; whole page no. 90], Independence, MO; LDS D&C 133:60; RLDS D&C 108:11 (3 Nov. 1831).

Joseph Smith, Jr., with his wife, Emma, were living in Harmony, Pennsylvania, in the summer of 1828. The writing of the early portion of the book of Lehi occupied about two months before Smith allowed Martin Harris, an early scribe and benefactor, to take the manuscript to show it to family members. It is not clear if Lucy Harris, Martin's wife, destroyed the manuscript or gave it to others. The result was that the pages were lost and Smith asked God how this could be. He was told that Harris and he transgressed. A couple of other persons helped take dictation from Smith until a new scribe, Oliver Cowdery, assisted Smith and the work progressed rapidly from then on. They were instructed not to rewrite the lost manuscript pages. Revelations were given to Cowdery and other new acquaintances impressing upon them the marvelous work to come forth. In June 1829 Smith went to the home of Peter Whitmer, Sr., in Fayette, New York, to finish the Book of Mormon. The revelations he received are considered inspired instructions relating to the forthcoming Book of Mormon and to early followers of Smith. Once the Book of Mormon was completed, Harris mortgaged his farm to pay for the book. The idea of a church organization was considered during this period.

Revelation received at Harmony [now Oakland], Pennsylvania, in [1-31] July 1828 for Joseph Smith, Jr., regarding the lost manuscript pages of the forepart of the Book of Mormon¹

A Revelation given to Joseph [Smith, Jr.], in Harmony, Pennsylvania, July, 1828, after Martin [Harris] had lost the Manuscript of the forepart of the book of Mormon, translated from the book of Lehi, which was abridged by the hand of Mormon, saying:

The works, and the designs, and the purposes of God, can not be frustrated, neither can they come to nought, for God doth not walk in crooked paths; neither doth he turn to the right hand nor to the left; neither doth he vary from that which he hath said: Therefore his paths are strait and his course is one eternal round.

Remember, remember, that it is not the work of God that is frustrated, but the work of men: for although a man may have many revelations, and have power to do many mighty works, yet, if he boasts in his own strength, and sets at nought the counsels of God, and follows after the dictates of his own will, and carnal desires, he must fall and incur the vengeance of a just God upon him.

Behold, you have been intrusted with these things, but how strict were your commandments; and remember, also, the promises which were made to you, if you did not transgress them; and behold, how oft you have transgressed the commandments and the laws of God, and have gone on in the persuasions of men: for behold, you should not have feared man more than God, although men set at nought the counsels of God, and despise his words, yet you should have been faithful and he would have extended his arm, and supported you against all the fiery darts of the adversary; and he would have been with you in every time of trouble.

Behold thou art Joseph, and thou wast chosen to do the work of the Lord, but because of transgression, if thou art not aware thou wilt fall, but remember God is merciful: Therefore, repent of that which thou hast done, and he will only cause thee to be afflicted for a season, and thou art still chosen, and wilt again be called to the work; and except thou do this, thou shalt be delivered up and become as other men, and have no more gift.

And when thou deliveredst up that which God had given thee sight and power to translate, thou deliveredst up that which was sacred, into the hands of a wicked man,² who has set at nought the counsels of God, and has broken the most sacred promises, which were made before God, and has depended upon his own judgment, and boasted in his own wisdom, and this is the reason that thou hast lost thy privileges for a season, for thou hast suffered the counsel of thy director to be trampled upon from the beginning.

Nevertheless, my work shall go forth and accomplish my purposes, for as the knowledge of a Savior has come into the world, even so shall the knowledge of my people, the Nephites, and the Jacobites, and the Josephites, and the Zoramites, come to the knowledge of the Lamanites, and the Lemuelites and the Ishmaelites,³ which dwindled in unbelief, because of the iniquities of their fathers, who have been suffered to destroy their brethren, because of their iniquities, and their abominations: and for this very purpose are these plates preserved which contain these records, that the promises of the Lord might be fulfilled, which he made to his people; and that the Lamanites might come to the knowledge of their fathers, and that they might know the promises of the Lord, and that they may believe the gospel and rely upon the merits of Jesus Christ, and be glorified through faith in his name and that through their repentance they might be saved: Amen.

Revision
1835 D&C 30
(cf. LDS D&C 3:10, 16-18; RLDS D&C 2:4, 6)

therefore, repent of that which thou hast done, which is contrary to the commandment which I gave you, and thou art still chosen, and art again called to the work

Nevertheless my work shall go forth, for, inasmuch as the knowledge of a Savior has come unto to the world, through the testimony of the Jews, even so shall the knowledge of a Savior come unto my people; and to the Nephites, and the Jacobites, and the Josephites, and the Zoramites, through the testimony of their fathers; and this testimony shall come to the knowledge of the Lamanites, and the Lemuelites, and the Ishmaelites, who dwindled in unbelief because of the iniquity of their fathers, whom the Lord has suffered to destroy their brethren the Nephites, because of their iniquities and their abominatons

A Revelation given to Joseph [Smith, Sr.], the father of Joseph [Smith, Jr.], in Harmony, Pennsylvania, February, 1829, saying:

Now, behold, a marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men, therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day: Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God, ye are called to the work, for behold, the field is white already to harvest, and lo, he that thrusteth in his sickle with his might, the same layeth up in store that he perish not, but bringeth salvation to his soul, and faith, hope, charity, and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualifies him for the work.

Remember temperance, patience, humility, diligence, &c., ask and ye shall receive, knock and it shall be opened unto you: Amen.

Revision
1835 D&C 31
(cf LDS D&C 4:6-7; RLDS D&C 4:2)

Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence. - Ask and ye shall receive, knock and it shall be opened unto you. Amen.

Commentary: Personal Traits Added
BC 3 is a revelation dated February 1829, for Joseph Smith, Sr. Verse 2 reads: "Remember temperance, patience, humility, diligence, &c., ask and ye shall receive, knock and it shall be opened unto you: Amen." The 1835 D&C added other virtuous personality traits. The words added are: "faith, virtue, knowledge" and "brotherly kindness, godliness, charity" (see 2 Pet. 1:5-7). At the same time the symbol "&c" was not in the 1835 D&C. While this is perhaps a small and seemingly insignificant change, it is not supported by either the BC or a manuscript in the handwriting of Edward Partridge located in LDS archives. The manuscript has a small lacuna where a brief background to the revelation was given. The altered portion of the text is not in the area affected by the hole and can be clearly read. It is reasonably certain that the additional words would not have been in the revelation of February 1829. Therefore the earliest text and shortest text all favor the BC reading.

Behold I say unto you that my servant hath desired A witness that my servant Joseph [Smith, Jr.] hath got the things which he hath testified that he hath got and now Behold this shall ye say Unto him I the Lord am God I have given these things unto him & I have commanded him that he should stand as a witness of these things nevertheless I have caused him that he should enter into a covenant with me that he should not show them except I command him & he hath no power over them e[x]cept I grant it unto him & he hath A gift to translate the Book & I have commanded him that he shall pretend to no other gift for I will grant unto him no other gift

and verily I say unto you that woe shall come unto the Inhabitents of the Earth if they will not hearken unto my words for Behold if they will not believe my words they would not believe my servants if it were possible he could show them all things O ye unbelieving ye stiffnecked Generation

Behold I have reserved the things which have been spoken of which I have entrusted to my servant for a wise purpose in me & it shall be made known unto future Generations but for this Generation they shall have my word yea & the testimony of three of my servants shall go forth with my word unto this Generation yea three shall know of a surety that those things are true for I will give them power that they may Behold & view those things as they are & to none else will I grant this power among this Generation & the testimony of three Witnesses will I send forth & my word & behold whosoever believeth in my word him will I visit with the manifestations of my spirit & they shall be Born of me & their testimony Shall also go forth

& thus if the People of this Generation harden not their hearts I will work a reformation among them & I will put down all lieings & deceivings & Priestcraft & envyings & strifes & Idolatries and sorceries & all manner of Iniquities & I will establish my Church yea even the church which was taught by my Desiples [Disciples]

& now if this Generation do harden their hearts against my words Behold I deliver them up unto Satan for he reigneth & hath much Power at this time for he hath got great hold upon the hearts of the People of this Generation & how far from the iniquities of Sodom and Gomorrah do they come at this time & Behold the Sword of justice doth hang above their heads & if they persist in the hardness of the[i]r hearts the time cometh that it must fall upon them Behold I tell you these things even as I also told the People of the destruction of Jerusalem & my word shall be verified at this time as it hath hitherto been verrified

& now I command my Servant Joseph [Smith, Jr.] that he repenteth & walketh more uprightly before me & yield to the persuations [persuasions] of men no more & that he be firm in keeping the commandments which I have commanded him & if he do this Behold I grant unto him Eternal life even if he should be slain

And now I speak again concerning the man⁵ that desireth the Witness Behold I say unto him if he exalteth himself & doth not humble himself sufficiently before me I will grant unto him no such v[i]ews but if he will go out & bow down before me & humble himself in mightly prayer & faith in the sincerity of his heart then will I grant unto him a v[i]ew of the things which he desireth to v[i]ew then shall he say unto the People of this Generation Behold I have seen the things & I know of a surety that they are true for I have seen them & they have been shone [shown] unto me by the Power of God & I command him that he shall say no more except I have seen them & they have been shone [shown] un[to] me by the Power of God

& these are the words which he shall say but if he deny this he shall break the covenant which he hath covenanted with me & Behold he is condemned & now except he humble himself & acknowledge unto me the things which he hath done that is wrong & covenant with me that he will keep my commandments & exercise faith in me Behold I say unto him he shall have no such v[i]ews for I will grant unto him no such v[i]ews of which I have spoken & if this be the case I command him that he shall do no more nor trouble me no more concerning this matter

& if this be the case Behold I say unto you Joseph [Smith, Jr.] when thou hast translated a few more pages & then shalt thou stop for a season even until I command thee again then thou mayest translate & excep[t] thou do this Behold thou shalt have no more gift & I will take away the things which I have entrusted with thee

& now because I forsee the lieing in wait to destroy thee yea I forsee that if my Servant humbleth not himself & receive a witness from my hand that he will fall into transgression & there are many that lie in wait to destroy thee off the face of the Earth & for this cause that thy days may be prolounged [prolonged] I have given unto you these Commandments yea for this Cause have I said stop & stand still until I Command thee & I will provide means whereby thou mayest accomplish the thing I have commanded thee & if thou art faithful in keeping my Commandments ye shall be lifted up at the last day⁶

Revision
1835 D&C 32
(cf. LDS D&C 5:1-19; RLDS D&C 5:1-3)

Behold I say unto you, that as my servant Martin Harris has desired a witness at my hand, that you, my servant Joseph Smith, jr. have got the plates of which you have testified and borne record that you have received of me:

and now behold, this shall you say unto him, He who spake unto you said unto you, I the Lord am God, and have given these things unto you, my servant Joseph Smith ,jr. and have commanded you that you shall stand as a witness of these things, and I have caused you that you should enter into a covenant with me that you should not show them except to those persons to whom I commanded you; and you have no power over them except I grant it unto you.

And you have a gift to translate the plates; and this is the first gift that I bestowed upon you, and I have commanded that you should pretend to no other gift until my purpose is fulfilled in this; for I will grant unto you no other gift until it is finished.

Verily I say unto you, that wo shall come unto the inhabitants of the earth if they will not hearken unto my words: for hereafter you shall be ordained and go forth and deliver my words unto the children of men. Behold if they will not believe my words, they would not believe you, my servant Joseph, if it were possible that you could show them all these things which I have committed unto you.

O this unbelieving and stiffnecked generation, mine anger is kindled against them. Behold verily, I say unto you, I have reserved those things which I have entrusted unto you, my servant Joseph, for a wise purpose in me, and it shall be made known unto future generations; but this generation shall have my word through you;

and in addition to your testimony the testimony of three of my servants, whom I shall call and ordain, unto whom I will show these things: and they shall go forth with my words that are given through you, yea, they shall known of a surety that these things are true: for from heaven will I declare it unto them: I will give them power that they may behold and view these things as they are; and to none else will I grant this power, to receive this same testimony, among this generation, in this, the beginning of the rising up, and the coming forth of my church out of the wilderness - clear as the moon and fair as the sun and terrible as an army with banners. And the testimony of three witnesses will I send forth of my word. And behold, whosoever believeth on my words, them will I visit with the manifestation of my Spirit; and they shall be born of me, even of water and of the Spirit. And you must wait yet a little while; for ye are not yet ordained - and their testimony shall also go forth unto the condemnation of this generation if they harden their hearts against them:

for a desolating scourge shall go forth among the inhabitants of the earth, and shall continue to be poured out, from time to time, if they repent not, until the earth is empty, and the inhabitants thereof are consumed away, and utterly destroyed by the brightness of my coming.

Commentary: No Other Gift: Judgements upon the People of this Generation
Jonathan B. Turner, nearly seven years after the publication of the 1835 D&C, commented on the revelation given in March 1829:

William E. McLellin, a former apostle, and Book of Mormon witness David Whitmer also noticed the alteration of this text.⁸

There is an early manuscript copy of this revelation to Joseph Smith and Martin Harris that contains this passage. There are four major variations. First, there is a minor substitution of the word "plates" for "book." Second, an additional phrase was added: "and this is the first gift that I bestowed upon you." In March 1829 Smith was not told that this was his "first gift" but that he would have no other. The other additions are, third, "until my purpose is fulfilled in this," and, fourth, "until it is finished." David Whitmer emphasized the significance: "they change and reverse the original meaning: as if God had commanded Joseph to pretend to no other gift but to translate the Book of Mormon, that he would 'grant [unto] him no other gift,' and then afterwards God had changed his mind and concluded to grant him another gift."⁹

To summarize, Joseph Smith was commanded to translate the book or plates, which would be his only work, as, indeed, the project consumed most of his time for the next several months. The revelation indicated that Smith should pretend to no other gift/work, as he would not receive another.

But after Smith completed the Book of Mormon dictation and had it published, he started to revise the Bible without any knowledge of Hebrew or Greek, which would be considered another gift. When he revised the ending of Genesis in 1832, he included material from the Book of Mormon which has been assumed to refer to himself: "he shall do none other work, save the work which I shall command him,"¹⁰ but dropped the words "none other" for the new text to read, "and he shall do whatsoever work I shall command him."¹¹

The change in the March 1829 revelation appears to have been made to eliminate problems with Smith's later involvement with the Bible revision. Since the Bible revision was still in manuscript form in 1835, three of the additions made sure that no work would be excluded from Smith. The textual additions changed the meaning of the revelation's original 1829 intent.

Included in the March 1829 instructions to Smith and Martin Harris is an apocalyptic passage.¹² The 1835 D&C, however, presented a largely reworked version of this. This later version is much shorter than the earlier one. In comparing the 1835 D&C with the early manuscript copy, a number of features have been deleted from the earlier version, namely: (1) Satan "hath got great hold upon the hearts of the People of this Generation"; (2) the current generation of 1829 are not "far from the iniquities of Sodom and Gomorrah"; and (3) "Behold the Sword of justice doth hang above their heads & if they persist in the hardness of the[i]r hearts the time cometh that it must fall upon them." These items are also found in the BC.

It is clear that the 1835 D&C also adds to what is found in the manuscript. In particular, the "desolating scourge" would occur periodically until the inhabitants are destroyed "by the brightness of my coming." It is not clear how the editorial decision was made that resulted in the 1835 version, nor how it would have affected Martin Harris. But it is clear in this case that the uniformity of the manuscript and the BC against the later 1835 version argues that the earliest was closer to the original. Even though the later text is shorter, it shows evidence of being a revision.

A Revelation to Oliver [Cowdery], given in Harmony, Pennsylvania, April, 1829, when employed a scribe for Joseph [Smith, Jr.], while translating the book of Mormon.

A great and marvelous work is about to come forth unto the children of men: behold I am God, and give heed unto my word, which is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword, to the dividing asunder of both joints and marrow:— Therefore give heed unto my words.

Behold the field is white already to harvest, therefore whoso desireth to reap, let him thrust in his sickle with his might and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God: Yea, whosoever will thrust in his sickle and reap, the same is called of God; therefore, if you will ask of me you shall receive; if you will knock it shall be opened unto you.

Now as you have asked, behold I say unto you, keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion: seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich. Behold he that hath eternal life is rich.

Verily, verily I say unto you, even as you desire of me, so shall it be unto you; and, if you desire, you shall be the means of doing much good in this generation. Say nothing but repentance unto this generation; keep my commandments and assist to bring forth my work according to my commandments, and you shall be blessed.

Behold thou hast a gift, and blessed art thou because of thy gift. Remember it is sacred and cometh from above; and if thou wilt inquire, thou shalt know mysteries vhich are great and marvelous: therefore thou shalt exercise thy gift, that thou mayest find out mysteries, that thou mayest bring many to the knowledge of the truth; yea, convince them of the error of their ways. Make not thy gift known unto any, save it be those which are of thy faith.—Trifle not with sacred things. If thou wilt do good, yea and hold out faithful to the end, thou shalt be saved in the kingdom of God, which is the greatest of all the gifts of God; for there is no gift greater than the gift of salvation.

Verily, verily I say unto thee, blessed art thou for what thou hast done, for thou hast inquired of me, and behold as often as thou hast inquired, thou hast received instruction of my Spirit. If it had not been so, thou wouldst not have come to the place where thou art at this time.

Behold thou knowest that thou hast inquired of me, and I did enlighten thy mind; and now I tell thee these things, that thou mayest know that thou hast been enlightened by the Spirit of truth; yea, I tell thee, that thou mayest know that there is none else save God, that knowest thy thoughts and the intents of thy heart: I tell thee these things as a witness unto thee, that the words or the work which thou hast been writing is true:

Therefore be diligent, stand by my servant Joseph [Smith, Jr.] faithfully in whatsoever difficult circumstances he may be, for the word's sake. Admonish him in his faults and also receive admonition of him. Be patient; be sober; be temperate; have patience, faith, hope and charity.

Behold thou art Oliver [Cowdery], and I have spoken unto thee because of thy desires, therefore, treasure up these words in thy heart. Be faithful and diligent in keeping the commandments of God, and I will incircle [encircle] thee in the of my love.

Behold I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I am the same that came unto my own and my own received me not. I am the light which shineth in darkness the darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not.

Verily, verily I say unto you, if you desire a further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart, that you might know concerning the truth of these things; did I not speak peace to your mind concer[n]ing the matter?— What greater witness can you have than from God? And now behold, you have received a witness, for if I have told you things which no man knoweth, have you not received a witness? And behold I grant unto you a gift if you desire of me, to translate even as my servant Joseph [Smith, Jr.].

Verily, verily I say unto you, that there are records which contain much of my gospel, which have been kept back because of the wickedness of the people; and now I command you, that if you have good desires, a desire to lay up treasures for yourself in heaven, then shall you assist in bringing to light, with your gift, parts of my scriptures which have been hidden because of iniquity.

And now behold I give unto you, and also unto my servant Joseph [Smith, Jr.], the keys of this gift, which shall bring to light this ministry; and in the mouth of two or three witnesses, shall every word be established.

Verily, verily I say unto you, if they reject my words, and this part of my gospel and ministry, blessed are ye, for they can do no more unto you than unto me; and if they do unto you, even as they have done unto me, blessed are ye, for you shall dwell with me in glory: but if they reject not my words, which shall be established by the testimony which shall be given, blessed are they; and then shall ye have joy in the fruit of your labors.

Verily, verily I say unto you, as I said unto my disciples, where two or three are gathered together in my name, as touching one thing, behold there will I be in the midst of them: even so am I in the midst of you. Fear not to do good my sons, for whatsoever ye sow, that shall ye also reap: therefore, if ye sow good, ye shall also reap good for your reward:

Therefore fear not little flock, do good, let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my Rock, they cannot prevail. Behold I do not condemn you, go your ways and sin no more: perform with soberness the work which I have commanded you: look unto me in every thought, doubt not, fear not: behold the wounds which pierced my side, and also the prints of the nails in my hands and feet: be faithful; keep my commandments, and ye shall inherit the kingdom of heaven: Amen.

A revelation concerning John the beloved deciple [disciple]

And the Lord said unto me John my beloved, what desirest thou[?] And I said Lord give unto me power that I may bring souls unto thee, and the Lord said unto me verily I say unto thee becau[se] thou desirest this; thou shalt tarry till I come in my glory

and for this cause the Lord said unto Peter if I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee[?] for he desirest of me that he might bring souls unto me, but thou desirest that thou might speedely come unto me in my kingdom I say unto thee Peter this was a good desire, But my beloved hath undertaken a greater work;

verily I say unto you ye shall both have according to your desires for ye hath Joy in th[at] which ye have desired &c &c &c

Revision

1835 D&C 33
(cf. LDS D&C 7:1-3, 5-7; RLDS D&C 7:1-2)

And the Lord said unto me, John, my beloved, what desirest thou? For if ye shall ask, what you will, it shall be granted unto you. And I said unto him. Lord, give unto me power over death, that I may live and bring souls unto thee. And the Lord said unto me, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, because thou desirest this thou shalt tarry until I come in my glory, and shall prophesy before nations, kindreds, tongues and people.

I say unto thee, Peter, this was a good desire, but my beloved has desired that he might do more, or a greater work, yet among men than what he has before done; yea, he has undertaken a greater work; therefore, I will make him as flaming fire and a ministering angel: he shall minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation who dwell on the earth; and I will make thee to minister for him and for thy brother James: and unto you three I will give this power and the keys of this ministry until I come.

Commentary: John the Beloved Disciple

In April 1829 a revelation was received which was called "A revelation concerning John the beloved deciple [disciple]." There are two early manuscripts which agree in wording.¹⁵ When this revelation was published in the BC, the following background information was given: "A Revelation given to Joseph and Oliver, in Harmony, Pennsylvania, April, 1829, when they desired to know whether John, the beloved disciple, tarried on earth. Translated from parchment, written and hid up by himself."¹⁶ This idea of a translation from parchment fits the time frame when they were working on the Book of Mormon.

The 1839 Manuscript History explains that Cowdery and Smith wanted to know if John the Apostle "died, or whether he continued" on the earth.¹⁷ When this revelation was prepared for republication, to the question, "John my beloved, what desirest thou," the following words were added: "For if ye shall ask, what you will, it shall be granted unto you." This promise is more than what was originally offered. In the original version the Lord simply asked John what he wanted. Being granted whatever he asked is outside the scope of the original revelation.

In the manuscript version John requests "power that I may bring souls unto thee." This was expanded in just two words, to power "over death," which is beyond his original request.

To the wording that John would "tarry till I come in my glory" was added words which appear to follow the promise that his request would be granted. The 1835 text reads at this point: "and shall prophesy before nations, kindreds, tongues and people." The early text has the Lord tell Peter that John "has undertaken a greater work." To this was made an important addition that John had become a ministering angel who, with Peter and James, holds "this power and the keys of this ministry until I come." The complete interpolation is as follows:

therefore, I will make him as flaming fire and a ministering angel: he shall minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation who dwell on the earth; and I will make thee to minister for him and for thy brother James: and unto you three I will give this power and the keys of this ministry until I come.

The manuscript ending has "&c &c &c." This is at the end of the text of the document. The added words are previous and not after BC 6:3. Since the earlier text is the shorter of the two and BC follows the manuscript version, in terms of text criticism this appears to support the early text. One of the manuscripts (Woodford's #1) needs to be made available for further study.¹⁸ While there is space at the bottom of BC page 18 for additional material, this would be after the last words and, like page 21 or 30, would not mean that there was more text to be added.

The additions refer to a presidency of three, which might relate to the establishment of a church presidency in 1832. A March 1832 revelation states, "unto whom I have given the keys of the Kingdom which belongs always to the presidency of the high Priest Hood."¹⁹At a meeting held on 17 February 1834, Joseph Smith established the Kirtland High Council. He taught: "The apostle, Peter, was the president of the Council and held the keys of the Kingdom of God on the earth[,] was appointed to this office by the voice of the Savior and acknowledged in it by the voice of the Church. He had two men appointed as Counsellors with him, and in case Peter was absent, his counsellors could transact business, or either one of them."²⁰ In 1834 the presidency was given additional responsibilities in presiding over the twelve members of the high council. They became known as the First Presidency of the church.

The change regarding Peter being one of the "three" with John and James would seem to be a later addition arising from a time when the church had three presiding officers, appealing to Peter's alleged position as head of the high council in the New Testament church.

6. Spirit of Revelation

From BC 7 (cf. LDS and RLDS D&C 8)
Revelation received at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in [7-30] April 1829 for Oliver Cowdery

A Revelation given to Oliver, in Harmony, Pennsylvania, April, 1829.

Oliver [Cowdery], verily, verily I say unto you, that assuredly as the Lord liveth, which is your God and your Redeemer, even so sure shall you receive a knowledge of whatsoever things you shall ask in faith, with an honest heart, believing that you shall receive a knowledge concerning the engravings of old records, which are ancient, which contain those parts of my scripture of which have been spoken, by the manifestation of my Spirit; yea, behold I will tell you in your mind and in your heart by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.

Now, behold this is the Spirit of revelation:— behold this is the spirit by which Moses brought the children of Israel through the Red sea on dry ground: therefore, this is thy gift; apply unto it and blessed art thou, for it shall deliver you out of the hands of your enemies, when, if it were not so, they would slay you and bring your soul to destruction.

O remember, these words and keep my commandments. Remember this is your gift. Now this is not all, for you have another gift, which is the gift of working with the rod: behold it has told you things: behold there is no other power save God, that can cause this rod of nature, to work in your hands,²¹ for it is the work of God; and therefore whatsoever you shall ask me to tell you by that means, that will I grant unto you, that you shall know.

Remember that without faith you can do nothing. Trifle not with these things. Do not ask for that which you ought not. Ask that you may know the mysteries of God, and that you may translate all those ancient records, which have been hid up, which are sacred, and according to your faith shall it be done unto you.

Behold it is I that have spoken it, and I am the same which spake unto you from the beginning:— Amen.

Revision

1835 D&C 34
(cf. LDS D&C 8:6-11; RLDS D&C 8:3)

Now this is not all thy gift; for you have another gift, which is the gift of Aaron: Behold it has told you many things: behold, there is no other power save the power of God that can cause this gift of Aaron to be with you; therefore, doubt not, for it is the gift of God, and you shall hold it in your hands, and do marvelous works; and no power shall be able to take it away out of your hands; for it is the work of God. And therefore, whatsoever you shall ask me to tell you by that means, that will I grant unto you and you shall have knowledge concerning it: remember, that without faith you can do nothing. Therefore, ask in faith.

Trifle not with these things: do not ask for that which you ought not: ask that you may know the mysteries of God, and that you may translate and receive knowledge from all those ancient records which have been hid up, that are sacred, and according to your faith shall it be done unto you.

Commentary: Rod of Nature

In BC 7 Oliver Cowdery is told that he has the gift of the Spirit of revelation. He is also told that he has "another gift, which is the gift of working with the rod." Cowdery is told that God can cause this rod of nature, to work in your hands. In the 1835 D&C the wording "rod of nature, to work in your hands" has been replaced by "gift of Aaron to be with you."

This addition, which is not in the BC, still identifies Cowdery's gift as being in his hands. The deletion of the words "working with the rod" and the "rod" of "nature" makes the meaning less clear as to how he might work his gift in obtaining revelations. It seems that Cowdery obtained revelations as he worked with a divining rod, but, with the change, the allusion to Aaron's rod which budded (Num. 17:8), is obscurantist.

7. Be Patient My Son

From BC 8 (cf. LDS and RLDS D&C 9)
Revelation received at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in [7-30] April 1829 for Oliver Cowdery

A Revelation given to Oliver, in Harmony, Pennsylvania, April, 1829.

Behold I say unto you, my son, that, because you did not translate according to that which you desired of me, and did commence again to write for my servant Joseph [Smith, Jr.], even so I would that you should continue until you have finished this record, which I have intrusted unto you: and then behold, other records have I, that I will give unto you power that you may assist to translate.

Be patient my son, for it is wisdom in me, and it is not expedient that you should translate at this present time. Behold the work which you are called to do, is to write for my servant Joseph [Smith, Jr.]; and behold it is because that you did not continue as you commenced, when you begun to translate, that I have taken away this privilege from you. Do not murmur my son, for it is wisdom in me that I have dealt with you after this manner.

Behold you have not understood, you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought, save it was to ask me; but behold I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right, I will cause that your bosom shall bum within you: therefore, you shall feel that it is right; but if it be not right, you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought, that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong: therefore, you cannot write that which is sacred, save it be given you from me.

Now if you had known this, you could have translated: nevertheless, it is not expedient that you should translate now. Behold it was expedient when you commenced, but you feared and the time is past, that it is not expedient now: for, do you not behold that I have given unto my servant Joseph [Smith, Jr.] sufficient strength, whereby it is made up? and neither of you have I condemned.

Do this thing which I have commanded you, and you shall prosper. Be faithful, and yield to no temptation. Stand fast in the work wherewith I have called you, and a hair of your head shall not be lost, and you shall be lifted up at the last day: Amen.

From BC 9 (cf. LDS D&C 10; RLDS D&C 3)

Revelation received at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in [1-31] May 1829 for Joseph Smith, Jr., regarding the alteration of the lost manuscript pages of the forepart of the Book of Mormon²²

A Revelation given to Joseph, in Harmony, Pennsylvania, May, 1829, informing him of the alteration of the Manuscript of the fore part of the book of Mormon.

Now, behold I say unto you, that because you delivered up so many writings, which you had power to translate, into the hands of a wicked man,²³ you have lost them, and you also lost your gift at the same time, nevertheless it has been restored unto you again: therefore, see that you are faithful and go on unto the finishing of the remainder of the work as you have begun. Do not run faster than you have strength and means provided to translate, but be diligent unto the end, that you may come off conquerer [conqueror]; yea, that you may conquer satan, and those that do uphold his work.

Behold they have sought to destroy you; yea, even the man in whom you have trusted, and for this cause I said, that he is a wicked man, for he has sought to take away the things wherewith you have been intrusted; and he has also sought to destroy your gift, and because you have delivered the writings into his hands, behold they have taken them from you: therefore, you have delivered them up; yea, that which was sacred unto wickedness. And behold, satan has put it into their hearts to alter the words which you have caused to be written, or which you have translated, which have gone out of your hands; and behold I say unto you, that because they have altered the words, they read contrary from that which you translated and caused to be written; and on this wise the devil has sought to lay a cunning plan, that he may destroy this work; for he has put it into their hearts to do this, that by lying they may say they have caught you in the words which you have pretended to translate.

Verily I say unto you, that I will not suffer that satan shall accomplish his evil design in this thing, for behold he has put it into their hearts to tempt the Lord their God; for behold they say in their hearts. We will see if God has given him power to translate, if so, he will also give him power again; and if God giveth him power again, or if he translate again, or in other words, if he bringeth forth the same words, behold we have the same with us, and we have altered them: Therefore, they will not agree, and we will say that he has lied in his words, and that he has no gift, and that he has no power: therefore, we will destroy him, and also the work, and we will do this that we may not be ashamed in the end, and that we may get glory of the world.

Verily, verily I say unto you, that satan has great hold upon their hearts; he stirreth them up to do iniquity against that which is good, that he may lead their souls to destruction, and thus he has laid a cunning plan to destroy the work of God; yea, he stirreth up their hearts to anger against this work; yea, he saith unto them, Deceive and lie in wait to catch, that ye may destroy: behold this is no harm, and thus he flattereth them and telleth them that it is no sin to lie, that they may catch a man in a he, that they may destroy him, and thus he flattereth them, and leadeth them along until he draggeth their souls down to hell; and thus he causeth them to catch themselves in their own snare; and thus he goeth up and down, to and fro in the earth, seeking to destroy the souls of men.

Verily, verily I say unto you, wo be unto him that lieth to deceive [deceive], because he supposeth that another lieth to deceive [deceive], for such are not exempt from the justice of God.

Now, behold they have altered those words, because satan saith unto them, He hath decieved [deceived] you, and thus he flattereth them away to do iniquity, to tempt the Lord their God.

Behold I say unto you, that you shall not translate again those words which have gone forth out of your hands; for behold, they shall not lie any more against those words; for behold, if you should bring forth the same words, they would say that you have lied; that you have pretended to translate, but that you have contradicted your words; and behold they would publish this, and satan would harden the hearts of the people, to stir them up to anger against you, that they might not believe my words: thus satan would overpower this generation, that the work might not come forth in this generation: but behold here is wisdom, and because I show unto you wisdom, and give you commandments concerning these things, what you shall do, show it not unto the world until you have accomplished the work.

Marvel not that I said unto you, here is wisdom, show it not unto the world, for I said, show it not unto the world, that you may be preserved. Behold I do not say that you shall not show it unto the righteous; but as you cannot always judge the righteous, or as you cannot always tell the wicked from the righteous: therefore, I say unto you, hold your peace until I shall see fit to make all things known unto the world concerning the matter.

And now, verily I say unto you, that an account of those things that you have written, which have gone out of your hands, are engraven upon the plates of Nephi; yea, and you remember, it was said in those writings, that a more particular account was given of these things upon the plates of Nephi.

And now, because the account which is engraven upon the plates of Nephi, is more particular concerning the things, which in my wisdom I would bring to the knowledge of the people in this account: therefore, you shall translate the engravings which are on the plates of Nephi, down even till you come to the reign of king Benjamin, or until you come to that which you have translated, which you have retained; and behold, you shall publish it as the record of Nephi, and thus I will confound those who have altered my words. I will not suffer that they shall destroy my work; yea, I will show unto them that my wisdom is greater than the cunning of the devil.

Behold they have only got a part, or an abridgment of the account of Nephi. Behold there are many things engraven on the plates of Nephi, which do throw greater views upon my gospel: therefore, it is wisdom in me, that you should translate this first part of the engravings of Nephi, and send forth in this work. And behold, all the remainder of this work, does contain all those parts of my gospel which my holy prophets; yea, and also my disciples desired in their prayers, should come forth unto this people. And I said unto them, that it should be granted unto them according to their faith in their prayers; yea, and this was their faith, that my gospel which I gave unto them, that they might preach in their days, might come unto their brethren, the Lamanites,²⁴ and also, all that had become Lamanites, because of their dissensions.

Now this is not all, their faith in their prayers were, that this gospel should be made known also, if it were possible that other nations should possess this land; and thus they did leave a blessing upon this land in their prayers, that whosoever should believe in this gospel, in this land, might have eternal life; yea, that it might be free unto all of whatsoever nation, kindred, tongue, or people, that may be.

And now, behold, according to their faith in their prayers, will I bring this part of my gospel to the knowledge of my people. Behold, I do not bring it to destroy that which they have received,²⁵ but to build it up.

And for this cause have I said, if this generation harden not their hearts, I will establish my church among them.²⁶ Now I do not say this to destroy my church, but I say this to build up my church: therefore, whosoever belongeth to my church need not fear, for such shall inherit the kingdom of heaven: but it is they who do not fear me, neither keep my commandments, but buildeth up churches unto themselves, to get gain; yea, and all those that do wickedly, and buildeth up the kingdom of the devil; yea, verily, verily I say unto you, that it is they that I will disturb, and cause to tremble and shake to the centre [center].

Behold, I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God: I came unto my own, and my own received me not. I am the light which shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not. I am he who said other sheep have I which are not of this fold, unto my disciples, and many there were that understood me not.

And I will show unto this people, that I had other sheep, and that they were a branch of the house of Jacob; and I will bring to light their marvelous works, which they did in my name; yea, and I will also bring to light my gospel, which was ministered unto them, and behold they shall not deny that which you have received, but they shall build it up, and shall bring to light the true points of my doctrine: Yea, and the only doctrine which is in me; and this I do, that I may establish my gospel, that there may not be so much contention: Yea, satan doth stir up the hearts of the people to contention, concerning the points of my doctrine; and in these things they do err, for they do wrest the scriptures, and do not understand them: therefore, I will unfold unto them this great mystery, for behold, I will gather them as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, if they will not harden their hearts: Yea, if they will come, they may, and partake of the waters of life freely.

Behold this is my doctrine: whosoever repenteth, and cometh unto me, the same is my church: whosoever declareth more or less than this, the same is not of me, but is against me: therefore, he is not of my church.

And now, behold whosoever is of my church, and endureth of my church to the end, him will I establish upon my Rock, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against them.

And now, remember the words of him who is the life and the light of the world, your Redeemer, your Lord and your God: Amen.

1835 D&C 36
(cf. LDS D&C 10:1-5, 20-23; RLDS D&C 3:1, 3)

Now, behold I say unto you, that because you delivered up those writings which you had power given unto you to translate, by the means of the Urim and Thummim, into the hands of a wicked man, you have lost them; and you also lost your gift at the same time, and your mind became darkened; nevertheless, it is now restored unto you again, therefore see that you are faithful and continue on unto the finishing of the remainder of the work a/translation as you have begun: do not run faster, or labor more than you have strength and means provided to enable you to translate; but be diligent unto the end: pray always, that you may come off conquerer; yea, that you may conquer satan and that you may escape the hands of the servants of satan, that do uphold his work.

Verily, verily I say unto you, that satan has great hold upon their hearts; he stirreth them up to iniquity against that which is good, And their hearts are corrupt, and full of wickedness and abominations, and they love darkness rather than light, because their deeds are evil: therefore they will not ask of me. Satan stirreth them up, that he may lead their souls to destruction. And thus he has laid a cunning plan, thinking to destroy the work of God, but I will require this at their hands, and it shall turn to their shame and condemnation in the day of judgment

From BC 10 (cf. LDS D&C n; RLDS D&C 10)

Revelation received at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in [1-31] May 1821 for Hyrum Smith²⁷

A Revelation given to Hyrum, in Harmony, Pennsylvania, May, 1829.

A great and marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men: behold I am God and give heed to my word, which is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword, to the dividing asunder of both joints and marrow: therefore, give heed unto my word.

Behold the field is white already to harvest, therefore, whoso desireth to reap, let him thrust in his sickle with his might, and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God; yea, whosoever will thrust in his sickle and reap, the same is called of God: therefore, if you will ask of me, you shall receive; if you will knock, it shall be opened unto you.

Now as you have asked, behold I say unto you, keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion. Seek not for riches but for wisdom, and behold the mysteries of God shall be unfolded unto you, and then shall you be made rich; behold he that hath eternal life is rich.

Verily, verily I say unto you, even as you desire of me, so shall it be done unto you; and, if you desire you shall be the means of doing much good in this generation. Say nothing but repentance unto this generation. Keep my commandments, and assist to bring forth my work according to my commandments, and you shall be blessed.

Behold thou has a gift, or thou shalt have a gift, if thou wilt desire of me in faith, with an honest heart, believing in the power of Jesus Christ, or in my power which speaketh unto thee: for behold it is I that speaketh: behold I am the light which shineth in darkness, and by my power I give these words unto thee.

And now, verily, verily I say unto thee, put your trust in that Spirit which leadeth to do good: Yea, to do justly; to walk humbly; to judge righteously; and this is my Spirit.

Verily, verily I say unto you, I will impart unto you of my Spirit, which shall enlighten your mind, which shall fill your soul with joy, and then shall you know, or by this shall you know, all things whatsoever you desire of me, which is pertaining unto things of righteousness, in faith believing in me that you shall receive.

Behold I command you, that you need not suppose that you are called to preach until you are called: wait a little longer, until you shall have my word, my Rock, my church, and my gospel, that you may know of a surety my doctrine; and then behold, according to your desires, yea, even according to your faith, shall it be done unto you.

Keep my commandments; hold your peace; appeal unto my Spirit: Yea, cleave unto me with all your heart, that you may assist in bringing to light those things of which have been spoken: Yea, the translation of my work: be patient until you shall accomplish it.

Behold this is your work, to keep my commandments: Yea, with all your might, mind, and strength: seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain my word, and then shall your tongues be loosed; then, if you desire you shall have my Spirit, and my word: Yea, the power of God unto the convincing of men: but now hold your peace; study my word which hath gone forth among the children of men; and also study my word which shall come forth among the children of men; or that which you are translating: Yea, until you have obtained all which I shall grant unto the children of men in this generation; and then shall all things be added thereunto.

Behold thou art Hyrum, my son; seek the kingdom of God and all things shall be added according to that which is just. Build upon my Rock, which is my gospel; deny not the Spirit of revelation, nor the Spirit of prophecy, for wo unto him that denieth these things: therefore, treasure up in your hearts until the time which is in my wisdom, that you shall go forth: Behold I speak unto all who have good desires, and have thrust in their sickles to reap.

Behold I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God: I am the life and the light of the world: I am the same which came unto my own, and my own received me not: but verily, verily I say unto you, that as many as receiveth me, them will I give power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on my name: Amen.

From BC 11 (cf. LDS D&C 12; RLDS D&C 11)

Revelation received at Harmony, Pennsylvania, in [1-31] May 1829 for Joseph Knight, Sr.²⁸A Revelation given to Joseph (K.,) in Harmony, Pennsylvania, May, 1829, informing him how he must do, to be worthy to assist in the work of the Lord.

A great and marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men: behold I am God, and give heed to my word, which is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword, to the dividing asunder of both joints and marrow: therefore, give heed unto my word.

Behold the field is white already to harvest, therefore whoso desireth to reap, let him thrust in his sickle with his might, and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God: Yea, whosoever will thrust in his sickle and reap, the same is called of God: therefore, if you will ask of me you shall receive; if you will knock it shall be opened unto you.

Now as you have asked, behold I say unto you, keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion.

Behold I speak unto you, and also to all those who have desires to bring forth and establish this work, and no one can assist in this work, except he shall be humble and full of love, having faith, hope and charity, being temperate in all things, whatsoever shall be intrusted to his care.

Behold I am the light and the life of the world, that speaketh these words: therefore, give heed with your might, and then you are called: Amen.

11. Keep My Commandments in All Things

From BC 12 (cf. LDS D&C 14; RLDS D&C 12)
Revelation received at Fayette, New York, in [1-14] June 1829 for David Whitmer²⁹A Revelation given to David, in Fayette, New-York, June, 1829.

A great and marvelous work is about to come forth unto the children of men: behold I am God, and give heed to my word, which is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword, to the dividing asunder of both joints and marrow: therefore, give heed unto my word.

Behold the field is white already to harvest, therefore, whoso desireth to reap, let him thrust in his sickle with his might, and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God: Yea, whosoever will thrust in his sickle and reap, the same is called of God: therefore, if you will ask of me you shall receive; if you will knock it shall be opened unto you.

Seek to bring forth and establish my Zion.— Keep my commandments in all things, and if you keep my commandments, and endure to the end, you shall have eternal life; which gift is the greatest of all the gifts of God.

And it shall come to pass, that if you shall ask the Father in my name, in faith believing, you shall receive the Holy Ghost, which giveth utterance, that you may stand as a witness of the things of which you shall both hear and see; and also, that you may declare repentance unto this generation.

Behold I am Jesus Christ the Son of the living God, which created the heavens and the earth; a light which cannot be hid in darkness: wherefore, I must bring forth the fulness of my gospel from the Gentiles unto the house of Israel. And behold thou art David, and thou art called to assist: Which thing if ye do, and are faithful, ye shall be blessed both spiritually and temporally, and great shall be your reward: Amen.

From BC 13 (cf. LDS D&C 15; RLDS D&C 13)
Revelation received at Fayette, New York, in [1-14] June 1829 for John Whitmer³⁰A Revelation given to John, in Fayette, New-York, June, 1829.

Hearken my servant John [Whitmer], and listen to the words of Jesus Christ, your Lord and your Redeemer, for behold I speak unto you with sharpness and with power, for mine arm is over all the earth, and I will tell you that which no man knoweth save me and thee alone: for many times you have desired of me to know that which would be of the most worth unto you.

Behold, blessed are you for this thing, and for speaking my words which I have given you, according to my commandments:

And now behold I say unto you, that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you, will be to declare repentance unto this people, that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father. Amen.

From BC 14 (cf. LDS D&C 16; RLDS D&C 14)
Revelation received at Fayette, New York, in [1-14] June 1820) for Peter Whitmer, Jr.³¹A Revelation given to Peter, in Fayette, New-York, June, 1829.

Hearken my servant Peter [Whitmer, Jr.], and listen to the words of Jesus Christ, your Lord and your Redeemer, for behold I speak unto you with sharpness and with power, for mine arm is over all the earth, and I will tell you that which no man knoweth save me and thee alone: for many times you have desired of me to know that which would be of the most worth unto you.

Behold, blessed are you for this thing, and for speaking my words which I have given you, according to my commandments:

And now behold I say unto you, that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you, will be to declare repentance unto this people, that you may bring souk unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father. Amen.

From BC 15 (cf. LDS D&C 18; RLDS D&C 16)
Revelation received at Fayette, New York, in [1-14] June 1829 for Joseph Smith, Jr., Oliver Cowdery, and David Whitmer³²

A Revelation to Joseph, Oliver and David, making known the calling of twelve disciples in these last days, and also, instructions relative to building up the church of Christ, according to the fulness of the gospel: Given in Fayette, New-York, June, 1829.

Now behold, because of the thing which you have desired to know of me, I give unto you these words:

Behold I have manifested unto you, by my Spirit in many instances, that the things which you have written are true:

Wherefore you know that they are true; and if you know that they are true, behold I give unto you a commandment, that you rely upon the things which are written; for in them are all things written, concerning my church, my gospel, and my rock.

Wherefore if you shall build up my church, and my gospel, and my rock, the gates of hell shall not prevail against you.

Behold the world is ripening in iniquity, and it must needs be, that the children of men are stirred up unto repentance, both the Gentiles, and also the house of Israel:

Wherefore as thou hast been baptized by the hand of my servant, according to that which I have commanded him:

Wherefore he hath fulfilled the thing which I commanded him.

And now marvel not that I have called him unto mine own purpose, which purpose is know in me: