Faith, Repentance, Baptism, Holy Ghost

Readings: See Lesson 7 in the Study Guide

The topic for this week covers many separate verses throughout the Doctrine and Covenants and The Book of Mormon.  I am taking the easy way out and referring you to the Study Guide to find them.  Verses I refer to, I will include within the post.

This was another great lesson for me to ponder this week.  I love to ponder about faith.  I find it interesting when people say "keep the faith," "you've got to have faith," or "I'm having a trial of faith."  What does this mean?  That you are just going through a hard time?  That you are losing interest in religion? Trying to maintain interest in religion? Just endure the trial until it's over?

The fourth Article of Faith states the first four principles and ordinances of the gospel:

4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.

As this article states, faith is not just hoping something turns out right, or holding out for better days, it is turning to and having trust in the being that will help you have an eternal perspective in your trial: Jesus Christ. How do we trust him?

DC 19:23

 23 Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me.

So, it seems to me that a true trial of your faith is whether you will turn to Christ in any given trial/emotion/experience.  But turning to Christ is not all the is included in having faith.  James (2:14-17) put it best:

 14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
 15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?
 17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

or DC 20:69

 69 And the members shall manifest before the church, and also before the elders, by a godly walk and conversation, that they are worthy of it, that there may be works and faith agreeable to the holy scriptures—walking in holiness before the Lord. 

Essentially, when we turn to the Lord for guidance and help through a trial of faith, we do it with real intent, which I posted about in December.  What are your intentions with the answer He will give you?

If the answer you receive after you have turned to the Savior, is not what you are looking for, perhaps a change of heart is necessary.  Change of heart = repentance.

DC 58:42-43

42 Behold, he who has repented of his sins, the same is forgiven, and I, the Lord, remember them no more.
 43 By this ye may know if a man repenteth of his sins—behold, he will confess them and forsake them.

A question offered in class today regarding repentance was: Is changing behavior the same as repenting?  President Benson says no:

“Repentance means more than simply a reformation of behavior. … True repentance is based on and flows from faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no other way. True repentance involves a change of heart and not just a change of behavior (see Alma 5:13)” (The Teachings of Ezra Taft Benson [1988], 71). 

So, not only are we relying on the Lord to help us have eternal perspective about our trials and life in general, we are relying on him to help us change our heart to understand that perspective or have patience until we do. This is His whole purpose:

DC 18:11-13

11 For, behold, the Lord your Redeemer suffered death in the flesh; wherefore he suffered the pain of all men, that all men might repent and come unto him.
 12 And he hath risen again from the dead, that he might bring all men unto him, on conditions of repentance.
 13 And how great is his joy in the soul that repenteth!

A good thing to be aware of if a person decides not to repent is this:
DC 18:17-18

 17 But if they would not repent they must suffer even as I;
 18 Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink— 

Heavenly Father, then, has given ordinances to help us increase our knowledge, faith and understanding: Baptism and the Gift of the Holy Ghost.

Baptism, according to the doctrine of Christ is absolutely, positively essential in order to return to Him.  Makes sense, right?  Why would you be admitted into his kingdom if you don't profess to know him or try to follow his doctrine?

DC 18:22

 22 And as many as repent and are baptized in my name, which is Jesus Christ, and endure to the end, the same shall be saved.

DC 49:13-14

13 Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, according to the holy commandment, for the remission of sins;
 14 And whoso doeth this shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, by the laying on of the hands of the elders of the church. 

The manner of baptism, some of its symbolism and importance is included in
DC 20:37

 37 And again, by way of commandment to the church concerning the manner of baptism—All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, shall be received by baptism into his church. 

It should be clarified that baptism by immersion (as well as receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands), by the proper authority, is what will admit a person into the kingdom of God.  This authority must come right from God.  How do you know it comes right from God? You've got to ask Him.  This will be addressed in the next post.

After the one-time performance of the ordinance of baptism by proper authority, a person received the Gift of the Holy Ghost.
DC 132:22

 22 The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. Were it not so, the Holy Ghost could not dwell in us.

The Holy Ghost has many functions:
DC 18:18

 18 Ask the Father in my name, in faith believing that you shall receive, and you shall have the Holy Ghost, which manifesteth all things which are expedient unto the children of men.

John 14:26

 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

DC 42:17

17 For, behold, the Comforter knoweth all things, and beareth record of the Father and of the Son. 

DC 11:12

 12 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.
 13 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; 

DC 31:11

 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. 

Through faith in Jesus Christ, changing our hearts through repentance, being baptized and following the promptings of the Holy Ghost, we will be led through life.  It's easier said than done, but it is THE way, HIS way.

Asking for and receiving revelation

Reading Doctrine and Covenants 6; 8; 9; 11

Note: This is the last lesson I teach as a Gospel Doctrine teacher.  I will continue to post on the weekly Sunday School lesson, but they won't be as lengthy as my lesson posts.


We are covering the same sections as last week and including section 11 for this week.  Last week we discussed how to prepare to receive revelation.  This week we will discuss actually receiving revelations.  We will discuss the gift of revelation, how revelation is a witness, what we need to know to receive answers, recognizing answers and what happens if you don’t recognize or listen to the answers.

Oliver Cowdery set the scene for us to learn about all these things and I will forever be grateful to him.  Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were engaged in translating the characters on the gold plates into English.  The first three revelations occur in April of 1829.  At this point, the priesthood had not been restored, which means no one had been baptized and the church had not been organized.  Joseph and Oliver were in their spiritual infancy and were both taught what personal revelation is, it’s importance and how to receive it.  So we will learn line by line just as Joseph and Oliver did.

We will begin with section 6.  Joseph and Oliver were engaged in translating The Book of Mormon and through the Urim and Thummim, received this revelation.  It is unclear to me what their exact question for the Lord was, or the subject leading to the revelation.  The heading says it is to both Joseph and Oliver, though there are obvious words to Oliver within.

 DC 6:10-13
What gift is the Lord talking about in verses 10-12?
Revelation.  How can they have the gift of revelation without having the gift of the Holy Ghost?
They aren’t even educated about the Holy Ghost yet.  This is the experience that will help them to know that.  They must know about personal revelation first before they can use the tool to receive it.

The gift of revelation leads to a second gift, which is mentioned in vs 13: the gift of salvation, “which is the greatest of all the gifts of God.”

These verses and the next few verses tell us the purpose of the gift of revelation, which we will list after reading.

 DC 6:14-17
What is the purpose of the gift of revelation?
• Reveals the mysteries (v11)
• Brings many to the knowledge of truth, convincing the error of ways (v 11)
• Gift of revelation leads to salvation (v12)
• Method of instruction (v14)
• Brings enlightenment (v 15)
• Witness that there is a God and he knows the thoughts and intents of your heart (v 16)
• Specific witness to Oliver and Joseph (and therefore to us) that the translated material is true (v 17)

To show that the gift of revelation brings witness to truth, the Lord recalls a night that he gave Oliver an answer to a sincere question of validity of The Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith.  The experience he recalls is one that Oliver had told no one about, not even Joseph.

 DC 6:22-25
• Remember! Remember is a word used often in the scriptures so that we do not forget witnesses and truths we have already received.
• Your answer was peace concerning the matter – THERE IS NO GREATER WITNESS!
• Peace is the one thing Satan cannot duplicate.
HOW CAN WE TRUST THE PEACE WE RECEIVE? Is that enough of an answer?

After this witness, Oliver is told he may have another gift.
 DC 6:25-26
A gift to translate other records if he asks.

So then, Oliver asks for the gift to translate. This section is specifically to Oliver Cowdery in response to his inquiry to translate.  In response, the Lord tells him about the gift of revelation, not much about the gift of translation. The first five verses are a great reference to put your own name in for application.

 DC 8:1-5
• Know in your mind and heart
• This is a gift of power, for example, it is the gift that Moses used to part the red sea! It is available to you!
• In order to keep this gift, keep the commandments

Why didn’t the Lord tell him about translation?
He didn’t use the proper method of asking or receiving revelation. We are told about this in section 9.

 DC 9:1-5
• You didn’t translate what YOU wanted (The Book of Mormon)
• But you did continue in what I asked you to do
• I told you about older records you could translate
• But right now, your work is to be a scribe for Joseph, so for now you don’t have the gift of translation

The Lord teaches him about being careful in asking for something to be revealed to you and also answers to watch for.

 DC 9:6-9

HAVING READ THROUGH THE REASONS FOR REVELATION AND INDICATIONS OF ANSWERS, WHAT THINGS SHOULD OLIVER HAD STUDIED?
• His calling
• The will of the Lord and the timing of the Lord
• The information already given him (other ancient plates)
• Purpose of his desire

The Lord though does not hold him accountable for not fulfilling his end of the bargain, because Oliver was not aware of the process of revelation.

 DC 9:10-14
• You feared because you were overwhelmed and didn’t know what translation included.
• It would’ve been helpful then, but the time is now past and I’ve given the strength to someone else.
• But keep working and you will be blessed.

In contrast to Oliver’s experience, Hyrum Smith was given information before his calling, to help him recognize the Spirit in section 11.  At this time, Joseph and Oliver had received the Aaronic Priesthood keys and were baptized and confirmed.  They were instructed to keep it secret for a while.  At the proper time, Joseph talked to his brother Samuel about the two subjects and then Hyrum wanted to know about it too.  Hyrum was given the revelation in section 11 regarding his calling and work.

 DC 11:12-14, 21
• Trust the spirit
• It leadeth to do good, do justly, walk humbly and judge righteously
• It will enlighten your mind, fill your soul with joy
• You will know all things by the Spirit
• You will have the Spirit if you obtain understanding of the word first

How blessed we are to have the experiences of these men so that we can obtain the word first, have understanding of revelation, and know how to receive revelation.  Because as the Savior said: “upon this rock (the rock of revelation) shall I build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matt 16:18.  He will build his church generally and individually upon revelation.

I testify that personal revelation is the only way I get through life without going crazy.  There are just too many decisions to make, too may choices that I think I would be paranoid my whole life whether I chose right or wrong.  I very much appreciate the peace that comes when I’ve made good choices and also the perspective the spirit brings when I make poor choices.  That peace and perspective come by the Spirit of Revelation from a loving Heavenly Father and an Older Brother who makes both peace and perspective hopeful.

"Remember the New Covenant, Even The Book of Mormon"

Readings: Joseph Smith – History 1:27-65; Doctrine and Covenants 3; 10; 5; 17; 20:5-15; 84:54-62.

The chapters we will discuss today concern the coming forth of The Book of Mormon.  I have felt the spirit so strongly as I’ve studied these accounts and experiences of many involved.  I am in awe of the miraculous coming forth and preservation of this book that witnesses to the events in the Old and New Testament and proclaims doctrines more plainly than has been known before.  One of the things I was struck most about was how Joseph Smith was tutored spiritually, emotionally and mentally as he worked to preserve, translate and collaborate regarding the ancient record.  In his tutoring process, he learns different methods of revelation, how his eye can be single to the glory of God, how to place the Lord’s purposes above anything else, how to draw on others for support, he learns the plain and precious truths from The Book of Mormon, but most importantly he learned about the character, perfections and attributes of the Lord and in learning that, he learns how to align himself with the will of God.

Here are three quotes that accentuate the importance and meaning of The Book of Mormon:

The coming forth of the Book of Mormon preceded the restoration of the priesthood. It was published just a few days before the Church was organized. The Saints were given the Book of Mormon to read before they were given the revelations outlining such great doctrines as the three degrees of glory, celestial marriage, or work for the dead. It came before priesthood quorums and Church organization. Doesn’t this tell us something about how the Lord views this sacred work?  President Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon – the Keystone of Our Religion,” Oct 1986, Gen. Conf.

The Book of Mormon brings men to Christ. The Doctrine and Covenants brings men to Christ’s kingdom, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth” (D&C 1:30). I know that.  The Book of Mormon is the “keystone” of our religion, and the Doctrine and Covenants is the capstone, with continuing latter-day revelation. The Lord has placed His stamp of approval on both the keystone and the capstone.   President Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants,” Ensigh May 1987.

Just as a man does not really desire food until he is hungry, so he does not desire the salvation of Christ until he knows why he needs Christ.  No one adequately and properly knows why he needs Christ until he understands and accepts the doctrine of the Fall and its effect upon all mankind. And no other book in the world explains this vital doctrine nearly as well as the Book of Mormon. President Ezra Taft Benson, “The Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants,” Ensigh May 1987.

After Joseph had received his first vision in which he saw God, the Father and Jesus Christ, who directed him to join none of the existing churches, he received no further direction until three years later.  Joseph initiated communication with Heavenly Father because he had been feeling particularly weak and guilty for what he calls, “foolish errors. . weakness of youth and the foibles of human nature, which led him in diverse temptations offensive to God.”  He was quick to assure the reader that it was not any great malignant sin to accuse him of, but the issues were of levity (lack of seriousness) and keeping questionable company.  So, the night of September 21, 1823 Joseph, having full confidence he would   receive and answer as he did before, began to pray and ask forgiveness.

JS-H 1:33-35

It is interesting to me that in reply to Joseph’s plea for forgiveness and question of his standing, he was called by name and told to get to work.  It made me think of what I expect when I ask for forgiveness.  Do I expect the words or feeling “you are forgiven, get on with your life?”  Do I expect to be told how to proceed? Do I expect to be put to work? What do I expect as an indication of forgiveness?  It's like the Lord said, I know you've done some things that aren't quite in line with what I would like, and now that I know you recognize them, learn from them and move on! Because Joseph was put to work, specifically filling the purpose of the Lord to restore the Gospel, that’s a good sign he was forgiven!

As we read, Joseph was called by name, introduced to Moroni, told he had a purpose in this work, he was told about the gold plates containing The Book of Mormon, which contained the fullness of the gospel (record of a people who had the fullness of the gospel, or President Benson said, the not every doctrine ever revealed, but the fullness of doctrines required for salvation), and that there were interpreters that would help him translate the plates.  He was assured this was fulfillment of prophecy and Moroni quoted the prophecies, warning and directions over the course of four visitations.

He was not given the plates at that time, but over a series of four annual tutoring sessions, he would then receive the plates to translate. 

When the time came to receive the plates, Joseph was given this warning:

JS-H 1:59-60

Warning and covenant to keep the plates safe.

Interesting that the angel left it up to Joseph to “use all his endeavors” to preserve them, THEN they will be protected.  (My grace is sufficient for thee after all that thou can do 2 Ne 25).

There were many close calls, hiding the plates in logs, floor boards, chests, attics, a barrel a beans and more.   But as Moroni said, the plates were protected, but the manuscript was that was lost.

Joseph began the work of translation and through the Urim and Thummim, produced a manuscript from the “book of Lehi.”  Martin Harris, who helped as scribe and offered financial support, asked if he could take the manuscript to satisfy his wife’s questions concerning Joseph and the translation and thereby put an end to the opposition she was causing.  Joseph asked the Lord two times, both with a negative answer.  The third time The Lord allowed Martin to take the 116 pages and show 4 or 5 people, to which he agreed in writing.  Martin took the manuscript home to Palmyra and was gone for three weeks.  When Joseph called for Martin, he came to the Smith house and admitted that he had lost the manuscript.

Joseph immediately began to ask the Lord for forgiveness for ignoring the first two answers and acting contrary to His will.  In response, Moroni appeared and requested the plates be returned, along with the Urim and Thummim, but promised they would be returned if Joseph humbled himself and became truly penitent.

Section 3 is a response to Joseph’s plea for forgiveness and is insightful into who the Lord is.  Joseph had received the Urim and Thummin again and received this revelation was received through them.

DC 3:1-8

DO YOU THINK THIS RESPONSE WAS COMFORTING FOR JOSEPH OR CONDEMNING? WHY?

Maybe a little of both – comfort in knowing that God is in Charge even though we make mistakes with his work, but also condemning because we slowed our own progress.

It is a great irony that we really don’t find our who God is until we make a mistake and ask for forgiveness or go through trial.

He does receive comfort in the next few verse:

READ 3:9-10

·      The lord calls Joseph by name

·      Reminds him he is chosen

·      Gives him a warning

·      Gives him another chance

·      Interesting thought: It seemed to take Martin and Joseph from February to June to translate 116 pages.  When Joseph and Oliver were working together it took from april to July to translate Mosiah to Moroni, as well as the small plates of Nephi.

The Lord instructs on the purpose and importance of The Book of Mormon

READ 3:16-20

·      Knowledge of the savior

·      Promises of the Lord fulfilled

·      Believe the gospel

·      Rely upon merits of Jesus Christ

·      Be glorified through faith in his name

·      Through their repentance be saved

After Joseph had received the revelation in section 3, the Urim and Thummim and plates were taken from him again, but were returned a few days later and Joseph received the revelation is section 10, where Joseph receives instruction on how to proceed and a reminder of what happens when you ignore the will of the Lord

READ 10:1-5

·      Recalls the consequences of his choices (removing Urim and Thummin/plates), your gift was taken and you mind became darkened

·      Be faithful, finish what you have begun

·      Do not run faster than you have strength and means provided

·      Be diligent

·      Pray Always

THIS IS THE TIME OF THE RESTORATION OF THE GOSPEL, WHY WOULD THE LORD GIVE THE INSTRUCTION TO NOT RUN FASTER THAN WE HAVE STRENGTH?

After making some mistakes, Joseph may have felt like he needed to make up for them.  The Lord assures him: "do not run faster or labor more than you have strength and means provided."  What a fine line to follow.  How do you determine between the strength you have and the strength given to you?  Is it the same thing?  I don't have the answer to these questions.  Maybe it is a case by case basis.

Note: These doctrines of not running faster than you have strength and that the Lord will provide strength and means, will be confirmed to him as he translates The Book of Mormon, in the book of Mosiah and 1 Nephi.

The next verses (in sec 10) educate Joseph about the power of Satan and what he will do to twart the work

·      V10,12 – Satan puts cunning plans in the hearts of men

·      V 15 – Gets people to tempt the Lord

·      V 22 – leads souls to destruction

However, the Lord comforts Joseph in this

·      I will not suffer that Satan shall accomplish his evil design in this thing

Receives direction

·      V 30 - Do not re-translate

·      V 34 – Do not show translation until I tell you (3 times he tells Joseph not to show it to the world) THAT HE MAY BE PRESERVED

·      Because you can’t always judge who is righteous

We learn more about the Book of Lehi in verses 38-46

DC 10:38-46

WHY DO WE NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE BOOK OF LEHI AND ALL THAT TRANSPIRED WITH IT?

There were so many things that happened to put things in motion for this situation:  Lehi painstakingly wrote it and preserved it, along with other prophets, Mormon abridged it, Moroni hefted it around, Joseph translated it along with Martin Harris.  All this only to have Martin lose it and not retranslate it.  WHY?

·      One more process of selection to give us what we need

·      Refiner’s fire for all involved

·      Following the will of the Lord, for whatever reason he had

·      In the selection we just read there are 14 “I” statement.  Our lesson to learn is that we must know who the Lord is and that he has all power and wisdom.  He is in charge, we can trust in him.

In section 5 Joseph receives good news!

DC 5:11-14

Joseph will no longer be the only one to have seen the plates! There will be others that will see the plates and testify of their existence. What a relief for Joseph!

DC 5:18-19 

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE TESTIMONY OF WITNESSES?

·      To hold people accountable for the availability of knowledge (see sec 20:13), But, it will be the spirit of the Lord that will convert, not the witnesses.

The next passage helps us really know why we need to follow the Lord’s will

DC 5:32-35

WHY SHOULD WE FOLLOW THE LORD’S WILL?

            Because it is his will for us!  He knows us!  He knows what’s ahead for us!  So, his message to “Stop and stand still until I command thee” and “I will provide the means” is the lesson we need to learn.

Lastly, there is one more passage that describes the purpose of The Book of Mormon

DC 20:9-12

·      Proving to the world, the holy scriptures are true

·      God does inspire men.

·      Calls them to his holy work.

·      He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Can you identify with Joseph Smith's Story?

Reading: Joseph Smith History 1:1-26; Our Heritage pg 1-4

As I read through the passage in Joseph Smith History this time, I was struck by how identifiable his story is to most people.  Although there are so many awful and derisive beliefs and comments about Joseph Smith, if a person is open enough to read this short history, they just might identify with the boy they question.

Joseph explains that in his 14th year, there was religious upheaval in his town between three main sects: Baptists, Presbyterians, and Methodists.  Religious upheaval still exists today between those sects and much more.  The list of different religions would take up a lot of room on this blog, so I won't name them.  But I will mention that we are faced with some other interesting decisions where religion is concerned: non-religion, hobbies that become passions, causes (noble or not) that become our beliefs, apathy, family tradition, to name a few.  With all of these and more, I would guess that a person in whatever stage of life, will one day ask what Joseph asked:

 10 In the midst of this war of words and tumult of opinions, I often said to myself: What is to be done? Who of all these parties are right; or, are they all wrong together? If any one of them be aright, which is it, and how shall I know it?

Joseph went to a resource he could trust: the Bible.  It is assumed that he already believed in God, but up until this time, had not had any personal experience with receiving answers from Him. So what kind of belief he had in God, is not sure. But he recognized enough to access the God he knew for enlightenment regarding religion.

When Joseph read the scripture in James 1:5:  "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."

He said: "Never did any passage of ascripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart."

The power he felt was the Spirit of Christ which is described here in The Book of Mormon (Moroni 7:16):

16 For behold, the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil; wherefore, I show unto you the way to judge; for every thing which inviteth to do good, and to persuade to believe in Christ, is sent forth by the power and gift of Christ; wherefore ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of God.

And from this power he was compelled to follow the scripture literally.  He would ask God for wisdom.

As soon as he knelt to pray an evil power overcame him:

I had scarcely done so, when immediately I was seized upon by some power which entirely overcame me, and had such an astonishing influence over me as to bind my tongue so that I could not speak. Thick darkness gathered around me, and it seemed to me for a time as if I were doomed to sudden destruction. 

This too, is something people can relate to, but they may or may not be cognizant of it.  An experience like this can be anything from following a curiosity about truth to following a prompting from God.  I dare to guess that almost always, truth seekers experience some sort of distraction while trying to discover answers to questions.  It may be a lack of time, jobs, other priorities, fear, laziness and more.  Some give in to distractions, others overcome it by will of wanting answers, like Joseph:

16 But, exerting all my powers to call upon God to deliver me out of the power of this enemy which had seized upon me, and at the very moment when I was ready to sink into despair and abandon myself to destruction—not to an imaginary ruin, but to the power of some actual being from the unseen world, who had such marvelous power as I had never before felt in any being—just at this moment of great alarm, I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.
 17 It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My fBeloved gSon. Hear Him!

Joseph, gathering himself after experiencing initial astonishment, proceeded to ask his intended question: Which of all the sects is right? To which he learned:

19 I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all corrupt; that: “they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof.” 

There was the answer to his question.  He also received answers he did not ask questions for.  He learned that God and Jesus Christ are separate beings and that man was actually created in their image, meaning they appeared as men. He learned that indeed, if you have a question and would like more wisdom, you can ask God and He will answer you.

From the point of feeling the overwhelming evil power, Joseph continued to experience opposing forces to his question, experience and direction from God.  But he stayed true. He wondered why something like this would happen to a young, poor, farm boy.  But it did happen and he explains the reality of it. Verses 24 and 25 are some of my favorite scriptures ever and have given me reason to continue to believe what I do based on the experiences I've had:

 23 It caused me serious reflection then, and often has since, how very strange it was that an obscure boy, of a little over fourteen years of age, and one, too, who was doomed to the necessity of obtaining a scanty maintenance by his daily labor, should be thought a character of sufficient importance to attract the attention of the great ones of the most popular sects of the day, and in a manner to create in them a spirit of the most bitter persecution and reviling. But strange or not, so it was, and it was often the cause of great sorrow to myself.

 24 However, it was nevertheless a fact that I had beheld a vision. I have thought since, that I felt much like Paul, when he made his defense before King Agrippa, and related the account of the vision he had when he saw a light, and heard a voice; but still there were but few who believed him; some said he was dishonest, others said he was mad; and he was ridiculed and reviled. But all this did not destroy the reality of his vision. He had seen a vision, he knew he had, and all the persecution under heaven could not make it otherwise; and though they should persecute him unto death, yet he knew, and would know to his latest breath, that he had both seen a light and heard a voice speaking unto him, and all the world could not make him think or believe otherwise.

 25 So it was with me. I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true; and while they were persecuting me, reviling me, and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart: Why persecute me for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision; and who am I that I can withstand God, or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen? For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it; at least I knew that by so doing I would offend God, and come under condemnation.

The integrity he had concerning this first vision is to be admired and thanked. Because of the reality of it and Joseph's integrity in testifying of it, The Church of Jesus Christ as it was established when He was on the earth, is established once more.  The truths contained within this Church is the gospel of Jesus Christ and bring understanding, wisdom, peace, joy and hope to those who seek for wisdom they lack.

Covenants with Christ

Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 2

This lesson is a different one as far as readings go, as it does not cover a group of sections, but is a smattering of scriptures that tell us about the Savior, or rather Christ telling us about himself.  In fact, the lessons covered this year in the Doctrine and Covenants are topical, so it will be important to have a class member study guide booklet, or find the study guide on lds.org, so you can follow along.

The title of the lesson today is: “Behold, I am Jesus Christ, the Savior of the World.”  I’ve thought a lot about the title of the Doctrine and Covenants in the last few weeks with respect to the topic.  The Doctrine and Covenants is yet another book of scripture that testifies of Jesus Christ, his mission and gospel.  Though the wording is not the same in the titles of other books of scripture, it is the same meaning.  In fact, the Bible Dictionary says the word “testament” can be exchanged with the word “covenant.”  So, an interesting way to look at our books of scripture and their purpose are:

Scriptural Texts:
The Old Covenant
The New Covenant
The Book of Mormon: Another Covenant of Jesus Christ
The Doctrine and Covenants

Or vice versa:
The Old Testament, the New Testament, The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, and the Doctrine and Testament.

I would like to read the definition of covenants from the Bible Dictionary about Covenants that helped me understand what I need to look for in my study of the Doctrine and Covenants this year:

Covenant. Sometimes denotes an agreement between persons or nations; more often between God and man; but in this latter case it is important to notice that the two parties to the agreement do not stand in the relation of independent and equal contractors. God in his good pleasure fixes the terms, which man accepts. The same word is sometimes rendered “testament.” The gospel is so arranged that principles and ordinances are received by covenant placing the recipient under strong obligation and responsibility to honor the commitment.

Not only do we need to know the terms God fixes, but we need to know what kind of a being we are making covenants with.  Joseph Smith said in order to exercise faith in God, we must have a knowledge of his “character, perfections and attributes.”

The Introduction to The Doctrine and Covenants says these are, “sacred revelations [that] were received in answer to prayer, in times of need, and came out of real-life situations involving real people.” We learn about the character, attributes and perfections of the Lord in reading about his interaction with regular people like us.  They receive some very personal revelations, which I am grateful they could share with us, because what they learn are universal truths.  Let’s read some of those examples:

Atonement
DC 19:15-20 This revelation was given to Martin Harris, who it seems was seeking assurance of his standing before God, two years after his issue with taking and losing some pages of the manuscript of The Book of Mormon.  President Joseph Fielding Smith said,
It was without question a revelation of great comfort to Martin, and it is one of the great revelations given in this dispensation; there are few of greater
import than this. The doctrine of the atonement of the Lord, as directly applying to the individual, and his exposition of ‘Eternal Punishment,’ as here set forth, give to the members of the Church light which was not previously known.” (Church History and Modern Revelation, 1:85.)

HOW DOES THIS PASSAGE HELP INSPIRE YOU TO WANT TO MAKE A COVENANT WITH HIM? WHAT IS THE PROMISE GIVEN, OR THE TERMS HE IS SETTING FORTH?
You don’t even understand the pain you will suffer, let me tell you a little about it.  I’ve provided a way for you to avoid that suffering.  Later in this section, the Savior tells Martin what he can do in this life to avoid the suffereing (repent, preach, follow him, pray, have humility, etc.)

Individual Atonement
DC 34:1-3 A very personal revelation given to 19-year-old Orson Pratt
DC 58:41-43 (if we repent, we will be forgiven)

Resurrection
DC 88:11-18  Revelation called “the olive leaf. . plucked from the Tree of Paradise, the Lord’s message of peace to us”  (resurrection is the redemption of the soul through Christ, to receive redemption of soul, seek for the light provided by Christ that quickens your understanding)

DC 93:33-38 (men are redeemed from the fall but are innocent at birth, we are to therefore seek for and receive light and intelligence, do not defile our body or spirit)

WHAT MOTIVATION DOES KNOWLEDGE OF A RESURRECTION PROVIDE FOR MAKING COVENANTS?
Without resurrection, there would be no point for the atonement, there would be no purpose to progress for. Resurrection is THE motivation for covenants, and is only provided through the Savior.

Empathy
DC 122:7-9 (the Savior has descended below all things)

HOW DOES KNOWING THE SAVIOR HAS EMPATHY FOR OUR ISSUES COMPELL US TO MAKE COVENANTS WITH HIM?
Endure, know there is someone who can help, that it is possible to pass through all tribulation, “fear not what man can do,” etc) I know what you are going through, you still have to go through it.  But I made it through and so can you, because I will help you.

WHAT DOES THY PRIESTHOOD SHALL REMAIN WITH THEE MEAN?
(the power of the Lord endures everything)

Advocate
DC 45:3-5 He is our advocate because of the atonement, resurrection and empathy. (testify of what advocate means to you)

Having discussed now, why we can trust Him to make life-altering covenants with, we come to what some of those covenants are.  In your Class Member Study Guide, you have been given a scriptures chain of Christ attributes.  These attributes are part of his covenant with us.

One of the ways I will study The Doctrine and Covenants this year is by writing down the terms of His covenants and what I accept to do.  I’ve given an example with some of the scripture chain verses you read in the class member study guide:

Scripture	Our covenant	His covenant/ testament/attributes
DC 6:20-21	Diligent in keeping commandments	Encircled in the arms of His love
DC 6:32-37	Be unified in belief Built upon his rock Keep commandments	He will be in our midst Enemies will not prevail Inherit kingdom of God
DC 29:1-2	Listen to the voice of Jesus Christ (humility, prayer)	Gather his people
DC 19:1-4	Use agency=just reward	Just judgment
DC 45:3-5	Listen to Him	Plead your cause and provide atonement
DC 50:44	Build upon Him as foundation	Will not fall
DC 76:5	Fear Him, Serve Him	Give mercy, grace and honor
DC 93:5-19	We are to learn from grace to grace	He learned from grace to grace

The Savior explained his desire for making covenants with us, and I imagine He would want us to feel the same in return:

DC 50:41-44 The Savior desires us to be one with him, so he gives us doctrine, commandments and covenants

What the Doctrine and Covenants represents

Reading: DC Introduction, DC Sec 1

Things to know about The Doctrine and Covenants:

It is divided in to sections, each section (usually) a separate revelation given for a separate issue, or directed to a certain person. Concerning the revelations, the introduction says:

"These sacred revelations were received in answer to prayer, in times of need, and came out of real-life situations involving real people. The Prophet and his associates sought for divine guidance, and these revelations certify that they received it."

Which makes the Doctrine and Covenants a different book of scripture than any other:

"The Doctrine and Covenants is unique because it is not a translation of an ancient document, but is of modern origin and was given of God through his chosen prophets for the restoration of his holy work and the establishment of the kingdom of God on the earth in these days."

Also:

The Prophet Joseph wrote, “In these infant days of the Church, there was a great anxiety to obtain the word of the Lord upon every subject that in any way concerned our salvation” (History of the Church, 1:207). 

It is significant the the title of the book contains the word "covenants" as the other books of scripture read within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints contain the word "Testament" which is synonymous with the word "covenant" (The Old Testament, The New Testament, The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ).  In fact, President Wilford Woodruf said this regarding the book:

"I consider that The Doctrine and Covenants, our testament, contains a code of the most solemn, most God-like proclamations ever made to the human family."

President Joseph F. Smith said:

“But this Doctrine and Covenants contains the word of God to those who dwell here now. It is our book. It belongs to the Latter-day Saints. More precious than gold, the Prophet says we should treasure it more than the riches of the whole earth. I wonder if we do? If we value it, understand it, and know what it contains, we will value it more than wealth; it is worth more to us than the riches of the earth.” (Doctrines of Salvation, 3:198–99.)

I feel like I have not appreciated it enough for what it is and why it was written.  I look forward to giving it the attention and respect it deserves and is required throughout this year.

To me, The Doctrine and Covenants stands as a witness for what The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is: a  "true and living church." All sections really are revelations from God, testifying to people that God really does know and care and speak to people of all time, not just to prophets of old.  In fact, that statement, "true and living church," comes from section 1:30

 30 And also those to whom these commandments were given, might have power to lay the foundation of this church, and to bring it forth out of obscurity and out of darkness, the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth, with which I, the Lord, am well pleased, speaking unto the church collectively and not individually—

It is a living church because it is constantly receiving revelation from God through those who have the authority to receive such revelations.  The Doctrine and Covenants is a great example of this. Section 1 is the preface that the Lord himself gave to Joseph Smith, specifically as an explanation of revelation and a warning to the world. The beginning verses in section one might seem a little harsh from the Lord, but the Introduction explains that the words of the Lord in this book are "tender but firm."  So, I like to read section one as just that, not like he's yelling at us, but that He really wants us to "Hearken" because the things within this book will show us how to return to Him, which is just what He and hopefully we want.

This is a great synopsis of the purpose of The Doctrine and Covenants (of course it's great, it's from the Lord!), in section 1:

 19 The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones, that man should not counsel his fellow man, neither trust in the arm of flesh—
 20 But that every man might speak in the name of God the Lord, even the Savior of the world;
 21 That faith also might increase in the earth;
 22 That mine everlasting covenant might be established;
 23 That the fulness of my gospel might be proclaimed by the weak and the simple unto the ends of the world, and before kings and rulers.
 24 Behold, I am God and have spoken it; these commandments are of me, and were given unto my servants in their weakness, after the manner of their language, that they might come to understanding.
 25 And inasmuch as they erred it might be made known;
 26 And inasmuch as they sought wisdom they might be instructed;
 27 And inasmuch as they sinned they might be chastened, that they might repent;
 28 And inasmuch as they were humble they might be made strong, and blessed from on high, and receive knowledge from time to time.

and

 37 Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.
 38 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.
 39 For behold, and lo, the Lord is God, and the Spirit beareth record, and the record is true, and the truth abideth forever and ever. Amen. 

Study Helps for the Doctrine and Covenants

I thought I would share a few links that I use to study the Doctrine and Covenants:

The text itself:
The Doctrine and Covenants

BYU Roundtable discussions on The Doctrine and Covenants

Student Manual for The Doctrine and Covenants, used for religion classes at LDS institutions.

I also use General Conference addresses, but they will be topical.  I will provide links to any conference addresses as they relate to post topics.