D&C 84

The Lord said to those who are called to preach his gospel -

"Neither take ye thought beforehand what ye shall say; but treasure up in your minds continually the words of life, and it shall be given you in the very hour that portion that shall be meted unto every man." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:85)

I've heard on many occasions where this scripture has been used to insinuate that those who are asked to speak in church should not prepare any notes and that the Spirit will dictate that which should be spoken. I do not necessarily believe that this is what this scriptures instructs. I am not suggesting that those asked to speak, should not "speak as they are moved upon by the Holy Ghost." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 68:3), what I believe the Lord is emphasizing is that we must "treasure up in [our] minds continually the words of life..." That is the scriptures and the words of latter-day prophets. As we study and prepare he will give us "in the very hour" what is meted for man.

In this particular scripture, he didn't say in the moment, or at the very instance, but in the hour. There is no question throughout the scriptures that there is a different perspective of time between the Lord's and man's. We read -

"...be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day (New Testament 2 Peter 3:8), "...reap while the day lasts" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 6:3), and "...behold, the field is white already to harvest; and it is the eleventh hour, and the last time that I shall call laborers into my vineyard." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 33:3)

I believe when he uses the term "in the hour", it means sufficient time to study, receive inspiration and guidance, and be prepared to provide the instruction the Lord would desire. The Holy Ghost can provide inspiration and guidance in front of a computer monitor as easily as from the pulpit. As we are diligent and prepare "in the hour", he promises also that he will also tell us "in the very moment, what ye shall say." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 100:6)

For as we go about our duty and "...reprove the world of all their unrighteous deeds, and ... teach them of a judgment which is to come." The Lord promises "...I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:87 - 88)

I must finish my thoughts of the 84th Section with -

"...let every man stand in his own office, and labor in his own calling; and let not the head say unto the feet it hath no need of the feet; for without the feet how shall the body be able to stand?
110 Also the body hath need of every member, that all may be edified together, that the system may be kept perfect." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:109 - 110)

"And if any man among you be strong in the Spirit, let him take with him him that is weak, that he may be edified in all meekness, that he may become strong also.
107 Therefore, take with you those who are ordained unto the lesser priesthood, and send them before you to make appointments, and to prepare the way, and to fill appointments that you yourselves are not able to fill.
108 Behold, this is the way that mine apostles, in ancient days, built up my church unto me."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:106 - 108)

D&C 84

With this great revelation on the priesthood, the Lord also revealed a simple but great truth that every child of God that has been given sufficient guidance or direction to exhibit faith and strive to learn the purpose of life and the will of God -

"For the word of the Lord is truth, and whatsoever is truth is light, and whatsoever is light is Spirit, even the Spirit of Jesus Christ.
46 And the Spirit giveth light to every man that cometh into the world; and the Spirit enlighteneth every man through the world..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:45 - 46)

The burden at that point is on man to choose the right, "...that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:46)

For he that does not hearken to the voice of the Spirit, and "...repents not, from him shall be taken even the light which he has received; for my Spirit shall not always strive with man..."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 1:33) but, "...every one that hearkeneth to the voice of the Spirit cometh unto God, even the Father." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:47)

It is this simple truth that all men cannot stand blameless.

D&C 83 - 84

The priesthood is an order of men, an order "...after the holiest order of God." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:18) Not an order of all men, but an order of those who choose to be "faithful" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:33), and desire "...to be a greater follower of righteousness, and to possess a greater knowledge, and to be a father of many nations, a prince of peace, and desiring to receive instructions, and to keep the commandments of God..." (Pearl of Great Price Abraham 1:2)

For I see three purposes of this priesthood order -

1) "..this greater priesthood administereth the gospel and holdeth the key of the mysteries of the kingdom, even the key of the knowledge of God." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:19) It is through this order through the presidents and presidencies with administering keys that revelations flow, instruction and counsel is given, members are reproved, rebuked, and admonished in love and righteousness. It is through this order that fathers teach their families and individual revelations and testimonies are received by the Spirit.
2) "...in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:20) It is in the authority of this order that ordinances are performed, members receive the Holy Ghost, and promises, blessings, and gifts are bestowed to the witness of all.
3) "...without this no man can see the face of God, even the Father, and live." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:22) For it is through this order that we come to learn and understand the principles of the gospel and the will of the Lord. It is through this order that essential ordinances and covenants are administered and received. And it is because of this order that we are sanctified as "Moses sought diligently to sanctify his people that they might behold the face of God;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:23) for is was "...them who are sanctified before his throne, worshiping God, and the Lamb..."(Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:21) that the Prophet witnessed were before the face of God.

And regarding this order, there are really only three choices men have -

Those that are "...faithful unto the obtaining these two priesthoods [Aaronic and Melchizedek) of which I have spoken, and the magnifying their calling... " (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:33). To those the promises are that they will be -

"sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies.
34 They become the sons of Moses and of Aaron and the seed of Abraham, and the church and kingdom, and the elect of God.
35 And also all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord;
36 For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me;
37 And he that receiveth me receiveth my Father;
38 And he that receiveth my Father receiveth my Father's kingdom; therefore all that my Father hath shall be given unto him.
39 And this is according to the oath and covenant which belongeth to the priesthood.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:33 - 39)

And it is an "...oath and covenant of my Father, which he cannot break, neither can it be moved." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:40)

The second choice is receive this priesthood and choose to not magnify my calling - for he that "...breaketh this covenant after he hath received it, and altogether turneth therefrom, shall not have forgiveness of sins in this world nor in the world to come." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:41)

That last choice is to not even become part of the order at all. To that the Lord said -

"And wo unto all those who come not unto this priesthood..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:42) To me, the word "wo" is sufficient.

My choice is the first and to do so, I need "to beware concerning [myself], to give diligent heed to the words of eternal life.
44 For you shall live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:43 - 44)

D&C 79 - 82

Many seem to desire and rejoice in new revelation, but with new revelation also comes additional responsibility. To a general council in Jackson County, Missouri, the Lord said -

"Ye call upon my name for revelations, and I give them unto you; and inasmuch as ye keep not my sayings, which I give unto you, ye become transgressors; and justice and judgment are the penalty which is affixed unto my law." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:4)

With the reminder -

"For of him unto whom much is given much is required; and he who sins against the greater light shall receive the greater condemnation." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:3)

"Or, in other words, I give unto you directions how you may act before me, that it may turn to you for your salvation.
10 I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:9 - 10)

Directions on how to act, accompanied with promised blessings were given to Frederick G. Williams as he was called a counselor in the Presidency of the High Priesthood -

"I ...will bless ...thee, inasmuch as thou art faithful in counsel, in the office which I have appointed unto you, in prayer always, vocally and in thy heart, in public and in private, also in thy ministry in proclaiming the gospel in the land of the living, and among thy brethren." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 81:3)

I believe this direction as well as the following applies to all that are appointed as counselors -

"...stand in the office which I have appointed unto you; succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 81:5)

"For Zion must increase in beauty, and in holiness; her borders must be enlarged; her stakes must be strengthened; yea, verily I say unto you, Zion must arise and put on her beautiful garments." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:14)

And it is in the 82nd section that the Lord "consecrated the land of Kirtland" as the first "stake to Zion." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:13)

To those willing to live a Law of Consecration, willing to consecrate all they possess to the Church, the Lord commands "...be bound together by a bond and covenant... (Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:11)...I give unto you this commandment, that ye bind yourselves by this covenant, and it shall be done according to the laws of the Lord..."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:15) A covenant "...that cannot be broken by transgression, except judgment shall immediately follow, in your several stewardships—
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:11)

This covenant being -

"..you are to be equal, or in other words, you are to have equal claims on the properties, for the benefit of managing the concerns of your stewardships, every man according to his wants and his needs, inasmuch as his wants are just—
18 And all this for the benefit of the church of the living God, that every man may improve upon his talent, that every man may gain other talents, yea, even an hundred fold, to be cast into the Lord's storehouse, to become the common property of the whole church—
19 Every man seeking the interest of his neighbor, and doing all things with an eye single to the glory of God." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 82:17 - 19)


6 And if thou art faithful unto the end thou shalt have a crown of immortality, and eternal life in the mansions which I have prepared in the house of my Father.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 81:6)

D&C 76 - 78

The Lord revealed "...concerning them who shall come forth in the resurrection of the just—" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:50) were -

"...they who received the testimony of Jesus, and believed on his name and were baptized after the manner of his burial...that by keeping the commandments they might be washed and cleansed from all their sins, and receive the Holy Spirit by the laying on of the hands of him who is ordained and sealed unto this power;
53 And who overcome by faith, and are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise...are they into whose hands the Father has given all things...who have received of his fulness, and of his glory...(Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:51 - 56)

The following month, the Lord teaches the doctrine of consecration to those "...who are ordained unto the high priesthood of my church..." -

"...listen to the counsel of him who has ordained you from on high, who shall speak in your ears the words of wisdom, that salvation may be unto you in that thing which you have presented before me, saith the Lord God.
3 For verily I say unto you, the time has come, and is now at hand; and behold, and lo, it must needs be that there be an organization of my people, in regulating and establishing the affairs of the storehouse for the poor of my people...
4 For a permanent and everlasting establishment and order unto my church, to advance the cause, which ye have espoused, to the salvation of man, and to the glory of your Father who is in heaven;
5 That you may be equal in the bonds of heavenly things, yea, and earthly things also, for the obtaining of heavenly things.
6 For if ye are not equal in earthly things ye cannot be equal in obtaining heavenly things...(Doctrine and Covenants Section 78:3 - 6)

If by an Oath and Covenant, the Lord promises -

"...all that my Father hath shall be given unto him..[an] oath and covenant of my Father, which he cannot break, neither can it be moved. "(Doctrine and Covenants Section 84:38,40)

This being the case, he says to the saints -

7 For if you will that I give unto you a place in the celestial world, [and to be joint heirs and share in all my Father hath] you must prepare yourselves [first] by doing the things which I have commanded you and required of you.
8 And now, verily thus saith the Lord, it is expedient that all things be done unto my glory, by you who are joined together in this order...
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 78:7 - 8)

And with reasoning the Lord teaches -

13 Behold, this is the preparation wherewith I prepare you, and the foundation, and the ensample which I give unto you, whereby you may accomplish the commandments which are given you;
14 That through my providence, notwithstanding the tribulation which shall descend upon you, that the church may stand independent above all other creatures beneath the celestial world;
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 78:13 - 14)

15 That you may come up unto the crown prepared for you, and be made rulers over many kingdoms... (Doctrine and Covenants Section 78:15)

And then with great love he admonishes -

"...ye are little children, and ye have not as yet understood how great blessings the Father hath in his own hands and prepared for you;
18 And ye cannot bear all things now; nevertheless, be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours.
19 And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 78:17 - 19)

D&C 76

The Lord describes those that receive the glory of the terrestrial kingdom - these are

" … they who are the spirits of men kept in prison, whom the Son visited, and preached the gospel unto them, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh;
74 Who received not the testimony of Jesus in the flesh, but afterwards received it."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:76)

It continues -

"76 These are they who receive of his glory, but not of his fulness."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:76)

These are they who were indifferent or distracted with the things of this world. That didn’t bother getting a testimony of Jesus in this life.

Amulek pleaded –

"…I beseech of you that ye do not procrastinate …until the end; … behold, if we do not improve our time while in this life, then cometh the night of darkness wherein there can be no labor performed. "(Book of Mormon Alma 34:33)

Receiving a testimony is not easy, it takes work. It requires reading and

Ponder[ing things of God] in your hearts.

Then -

"…ask[ing] God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost." (Book of Mormon Moroni 10:4)

For he promises -

"...I will tell you in your mind and in your heart..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 8:2)

The testimony of Jesus is not a destination but a process of -

…line upon line, precept upon precept..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 98:12)

There is also another “so called” homework assignment that also needs to be done while in the flesh to receive full credit – "receive of his fulness"

(Doctrine and Covenants Section 41:5)

"He that receiveth my law and doeth it, the same is my disciple; and he that saith he receiveth it and doeth it not, the same is not my disciple…"(Doctrine and Covenants Section 41:5)

We read of those of the glory of the terrestrial world –

"…these are they who died without law;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:72)

"These are they who receive of his glory, but not of his fulness." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:76)

To receive of his fulness, we must diligently seek to receive his law. For it is -

"…the law [that] maketh you free."( Doctrine and Covenants Section 98:8)

In the early days of the Church, the saints were commanded to

"… go to the Ohio; and there I will give unto you my law; and there you shall be endowed with power from on high;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 38:32)

And then they were commanded -

"Ye shall observe the laws which ye have received and be faithful."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:66) "...And thus ye shall become instructed in the law of my church, and be sanctified by that which ye have received…" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 43:9) "… [for] that which is governed by law is also preserved by law and perfected and sanctified by the same." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 88:34)

21 And they who are not sanctified through the law which I have given unto you, even the law of Christ, must inherit another kingdom, even that of a terrestrial kingdom, or that of a telestial kingdom. (Doctrine and Covenants Section 88:21 - 22)

Though the glory of the Terrestrial Kingdom is a gift - it is not the greatest of all the gifts of God.

D&C 76

As this "heavenly vision" was opened, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon witnessed the two opposites of all God's children, first they " beheld the glory of the Son, on the right hand of the Father, ...And saw the holy angels, and them who are sanctified before his throne, worshiping God, and the Lamb, who worship him forever and ever." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:20 - 21).

Then they .".. saw also, and bear record, that an angel of God who was in authority in the presence of God, who rebelled against the Only Begotten Son whom the Father loved and who was in the bosom of the Father, was thrust down from the presence of God and the Son,
26 And was called Perdition, for the heavens wept over him—he was Lucifer, a son of the morning." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:25 - 26) And Satan "...that old serpent, even the devil, who rebelled against God, and sought to take the kingdom of our God and his Christ—
29 Wherefore, he maketh war with the saints of God, and encompasseth them round about." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:28 - 29)

The prophet "... saw a vision of the sufferings of those with whom he made war and overcame, for thus came the voice of the Lord unto us:" But of those that were overcome, there was a select group whom the Lord describes as "... those who know my power, and have been made partakers thereof, and suffered themselves through the power of the devil to be overcome, and to deny the truth and defy my power—

These are they who are born who side with the opposition of Satan for -

"They are they who are the sons of perdition, of whom I say that it had been better for them never to have been born;
33 For they are vessels of wrath, doomed to suffer the wrath of God, with the devil and his angels in eternity;...Having denied the Holy Spirit after having received it, and having denied the Only Begotten Son of the Father, having crucified him unto themselves and put him to an open shame.
36 These are they who shall go away into the lake of fire and brimstone, with the devil and his angels—" Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:30 - 36)

Of these the Lord said - "...there is no forgiveness in this world nor in the world to come—
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:34)

And then comes the most revealing saying -

"...And the only ones on whom the second death shall have any power;
38 Yea, verily, the only ones who shall not be redeemed in the due time of the Lord, after the sufferings of his wrath."(Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:37 - 38)

If they are the only ones not redeemed, then that means everyone else will be redeemed. As the vision continues, we learn that all (except those so mentioned) are redeemed in various levels of glory and bodies for as the Apostle Paul wrote - "All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds.
40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.
41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.
42 So also is the resurrection of the dead..." (New Testament 1 Corinthians 15:39 - 42)

As we ponder this, we come to realize that all are redeemed, for some maybe "after the sufferings of his wrath", "...through Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, who wrought out this perfect atonement through the shedding of his own blood." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:69)

For all "...shall come forth; they who have done good in the resurrection of the just; and they who have done evil, in the resurrection of the unjust." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:17)

I started this blog with the two great opposites. How we fit in between these opposites will depend upon ourselves and our faith.

"2 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works." (New Testament Revelation 20:12)

Can words even describe the magnitude of the gift of our Savior's infinite atonement!

D&C 76

There is so much to ponder in the 76th Section that I feel whatever I write is inadequate. As I read this morning, I would re-read verses over and over. Each time feeling more and more insight.

"...I, the Lord, am merciful and gracious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and in truth unto the end.
6 Great shall be their reward and eternal shall be their glory.
7 And to them will I reveal all mysteries, yea, all the hidden mysteries of my kingdom from days of old, and for ages to come, will I make known unto them the good pleasure of my will concerning all things pertaining to my kingdom.
8 Yea, even the wonders of eternity shall they know, and things to come will I show them, even the things of many generations.
9 And their wisdom shall be great, and their understanding reach to heaven; and before them the wisdom of the wise shall perish, and the understanding of the prudent shall come to naught.
10 For by my Spirit will I enlighten them, and by my power will I make known unto them the secrets of my will—yea, even those things which eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor yet entered into the heart of man." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:5 - 10)

I read those verses over and over this morning. To be honest, it is very early in the morning. I have struggled with sleep. For some reason, a great deal has been on my mind and in my heart - as if I need a combination of wisdom, enlightenment, and peace. Again "For ...I, the Lord, am merciful and gracious unto those who fear me, and delight to honor those who serve me in righteousness and in truth unto the end." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:5)

As I read and re-read, and as I "..meditated upon these things, the Lord touched the eyes of [my] understanding..."(Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:19) "By the power of the Spirit our eyes were opened and [my] understanding [was] enlightened, so as to see and understand [a few of the] things of God—" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:12)

The Prophet and Sidney Rigdon testified -

"..we beheld the glory of the Son, on the right hand of the Father, ...
21 And saw the holy angels, and them who are sanctified before his throne, worshiping God, and the Lamb, who worship him forever and ever.
22 And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
23 For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father—
24 That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God. (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:20 - 24)

I was touched with "...them who are sanctified before his throne, worshiping God, and the Lamb, who worship him forever and ever." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 76:21) It is those sanctified that worship in reverence forever and ever. And what that means to me and my struggles of the evening is -

"...No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned [and] by kindness, and pure knowledge...and without guile—..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 121:41 - 42)

D&C 73 - 75

It seems the elders of the Church are always approaching the Prophet requesting guidance in what the Lord would have them do. Time and time again the instruction is very much the same -

"...I say unto you that it is my will that you should go forth and not tarry, neither be idle but labor with your might—
4 Lifting up your voices ..., proclaiming the truth according to the revelations and commandments which I have given you." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 75:3 - 4)

10 Calling on the name of the Lord for the Comforter, which shall teach them all things that are expedient for them—...Praying always that they faint not;
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 75:10 - 11)

For those who liken the scriptures unto themselves, he says -

...this is the will of the Lord your God concerning you...(Doctrine and Covenants Section 75:12)

But he also admonishes that in so doing -

"...that every man who is obliged to provide for his own family, let him provide" as well as "...and let him labor in the church.
29 Let every man be diligent in all things. And the idler shall not have place in the church, except he repent and mend his ways." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 75:28 - 29)

D&C 133

I decided to jump to section 133 this morning in that this revelation was received in the latter part of 1831. I assume this revelation was received why the Prophet was immersed in the translation of the Bible. As I read this section, I felt there were basically two lands - Zion and Babylon.

"...the time has come when the voice of the Lord is unto you: Go ye out of Babylon; gather ye out from among the nations." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:7) and to "Go ye forth unto the land of Zion..."(Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:9)

What is Zion? "...thus saith the Lord, let Zion rejoice, for this is Zion—THE PURE IN HEART;
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 97:21)

Zion seems more of a condition than a physical place. As the the Lord commanded "Send forth the elders of my church unto the nations which are afar off;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:8) "Hearken and hear, O ye inhabitants of the earth. Listen, ye elders of my church together, and hear the voice of the Lord; for he calleth upon all men, and he commandeth all men everywhere to repent." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:16) "Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:5)

This seems apparent as the Lord describes the growth of Zion "...that the borders of my people may be enlarged, and that her stakes may be strengthened, and that Zion may go forth unto the regions round about." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:9) - and throughout the earth. For we are commanded to "..Go ye out from among the nations, even from Babylon, from the midst of wickedness, which is spiritual Babylon." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:14)

And as we do so "let not your flight be in haste, but let all things be prepared before you;"(Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:15) It seems this is done line upon line, precept upon precept. And with a warning for those who may still desire a few things of the world - "...let him not look back lest sudden destruction shall come upon him."(Doctrine and Covenants Section 133:15)"

My hope is that we can all leave Babylon, not looking back, with an eye single to obtaining Zion.

D&C 68 - 72

As I finished Section 72, my thoughts were more on the phenominal year of 1831. 1831 began with a revelation (section 38) given in Fayette, New York. From there the Prophet Joseph Smith and Emma moved to Kirtland, Ohio by horse and sleigh in the middle of the winter. Later that summer, the Prophet travels to Jackson County, Missouri to begin the gathering of the saints in Zion, and then returns to finish the year in Hiram, Ohio by Kirtland. Without taking the time to actually count, the Prophet received around 35 to 40 revelations in that year. It is obvious that there was no plan on the Prophets part how these revelations were to be received. As we now have the opportunity to study them, it is easy to see the Lord's plan as principles and laws are giving line upon line and precept upon precept.

While the Prophet and Sidney Rigdon were translating the Bible, the Prophet received a revelation that they were to temporarily set aside their work on the Bible and proceed to preach the gospel -

"1 BEHOLD, thus saith the Lord unto you my servants Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon, that the time has verily come that it is necessary and expedient in me that you should open your mouths in proclaiming my gospel, the things of the kingdom, expounding the mysteries thereof out of the scriptures, according to that portion of Spirit and power which shall be given unto you, even as I will.
2 Verily I say unto you, proclaim unto the world in the regions round about, and in the church also..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 71:1 - 2)

And the Lord instructs them -

"...for the space of a season, even until it shall be made known unto you.
3 Verily this is a mission for a season, which I give unto you." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 71:2 - 3)

As I liken the scriptures to me, it becomes apparent that the Lord calls or gives unto us as members by revelation to serve in callings or "mission" for a period of time or "season" until we are released or "until it shall be made know unto [us]". It is during this season that we are to "labor ye in my vineyard" in that mission or work in making a difference. "Wherefore, keep my commandments; they are true and faithful." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 71:11)

D&C 65 - 67

The more I study the scriptures, the more I am in "awe" of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Before I continue this blog, I must say that I have come to know that Joseph Smith is the Prophet of the Restoration, not because of reason, logic, or mere belief, but because I have received a personal witness by the power of the Holy Ghost. Besides this witness, the more I study his life, his writings, his revelations, and his testimony, the more logic and reason supports this testimony.

Periodically I come across writings and literature that attempt to challenge the prophet's claims and his divine authority. This is nothing new, there were those who challenged his claims and revelations in his day - even members of the Church. Moroni told him his name "...should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people." (Pearl of Great Price JS-History 1:33)

As the revelations that had received to date by the Prophet were about to be published, Joseph Smith received a revelation that was to preface the published revelations of what was to called "The Book of Commandments". The Prophet asked the Brethren if they were willing to bear testimony that they were of the Lord. It appears to be some that weren't quite sure or willing to do so. The Lord then in revelation said -

"I, the Lord, give unto you a testimony of the truth of these commandments which are lying before you.
5 Your eyes have been upon my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., and his language you have known, and his imperfections you have known; and you have sought in your hearts knowledge that you might express beyond his language; this you also know." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 67:4 - 5)

And then the Lord in the revelation extended an interesting challenge -

"Now, seek ye out of the Book of Commandments, even the least that is among them, and appoint him that is the most wise among you;
7 Or, if there be any among you that shall make one like unto it, then ye are justified in saying that ye do not know that they are true;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 67:6 - 7)

And if they couldn't do it, he commanded -

"But if ye cannot make one like unto it, ye are under condemnation if ye do not bear record that they are true." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 67:8)

Because -

"...ye know that there is no unrighteousness in them, and that which is righteous cometh down from above, from the Father of lights. " (Doctrine and Covenants Section 67:9)

I'm sure the challenge continues to be extended to all, but most men choose, rather to accept the challenge, the choose to criticize and find fault. That always is the case people that choose to tear down or find fault in an attempt to bring others down instead of improving one self to higher levels.

I believe Wm E. McLellin accepted the Lord's offered but failed miserably which led many to bear testimony of that they were true.

For those who sincerely read his revelations and study the Book of Mormon, will also come to "know that there is no unrighteousness in them" and will come to know, as I know by the power of the Spirt that they are "from the Father of lights" and the promise is that "...inasmuch as you strip yourselves from jealousies and fears, and humble yourselves before me, for ye are not sufficiently humble, the veil shall be rent and you shall see me and know that I am—not with the carnal neither natural mind, but with the spiritual." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 67:10)

D&C 62 - 64

To the saints in Zion, the Lord commanded -

"Wherefore, it is wisdom that the land should be purchased by the saints, and also every tract lying westward, even unto the line running directly between Jew and Gentile" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 57:4) and that "...the land of Zion shall not be obtained but by purchase or by blood, otherwise there is none inheritance for you"."

There was a right way to inherit the land and a wrong way -

"...if by purchase, behold you are blessed;.. And if by blood, as you are forbidden to shed blood, lo, your enemies are upon you, and ye shall be scourged from city to city, and from synagogue to synagogue, and but few shall stand to receive an inheritance.(Doctrine and Covenants Section 63:29 - 31)

For "let no man break the laws of the land, for he that keepeth the laws of God hath no need to break the laws of the land." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 58:21)

And the saints were counseled to purchase with the land with money as they were able -

Behold, it is said in my laws, or forbidden, to get in debt to thine enemies;
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 64:27)

...it is not said at any time that the Lord should not take when he please, and pay as seemeth him good. (Doctrine and Covenants Section 64:28)

There is no question that if the Lord wanted property, he could take property but in great wisdom he teaches his leaders - stay out debt, purchase as you are able, and do so in accordance with the laws of the land.

And in this -

"...be not weary in well–doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.
34 Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind; and the willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land of Zion in these last days" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 64:33 - 34)

D&C 59 - 61

From the earliest of days, the Lord gave commandments of sacrifice. Sacrifices to remind man of the greatest sacrifice of all - that by the Savior in providing an infinite atonement. Though we are far from possessing the capacity to sacrifice as the Savior, he still requires us to sacrifice as much of our capacity as required. To the saints in Zion he commanded -

"Thou shalt offer a sacrifice unto the Lord thy God in righteousness, even that of a broken heart and a contrite spirit." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 59:8) This is our modern-day sacrament, oblation, or our obligation of sacrifice. We are commanded to -

"...go to the house of prayer and offer up thy sacraments upon my holy day;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 59:9) and "remember that on this, the Lord's day, thou shalt offer thine oblations and thy sacraments unto the Most High, confessing thy sins unto thy brethren, and before the Lord." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 59:12)

There are many saints that religiously do this in great reverence. They come early to sacrament meeting, they listen to the prelude music, and they come with a broken heart and contrite spirit confessing there sins before the Lord. What great irreverence, disrespect, uncourteousness, and rudeness it is as some members opt to come to sacrament meetings late disrupting the sacred sacrament and oblations of God fearing saints.

D&C 58

Keeping in perspective the circumstances, this revelation was given as some of the most valiant of the early saints including the members of the Colesville branch assembled for the first time at Zion. To these saints, the Lord gave a great blessing in "...that you might be honored in laying the foundation, and in bearing record of the land upon which the Zion of God shall stand;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 58:7)

But with love, the Lord knowing the tribulation they were yet to experience said-

"...and he that is faithful in tribulation, the reward of the same is greater in the kingdom of heaven.
3 Ye cannot behold with your natural eyes, for the present time, the design of your God concerning those things which shall come hereafter, and the glory which shall follow after much tribulation.
4 For after much tribulation come the blessings. Wherefore the day cometh that ye shall be crowned with much glory; the hour is not yet, but is nigh at hand.
5 Remember this, which I tell you before, that you may lay it to heart, and receive that which is to follow." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 58:2 - 5)

Whether they understood or not, church history testifies of the fulfillment of these words.

As valiant as these saints were, they still had much to learn of what was expected of them. There is a higher law than only doing what is commanded of them. The Lord counseled -

"...it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.
27 Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness;
28 For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward.
29 But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 58:26 - 29)

Many were called to repentance. All of which applies to eveyone. Of Bro. Phelps the Lord said -

"...he hath need to repent, for I, the Lord, am not well pleased with him, for he seeketh to excel, and he is not sufficiently meek before me.
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." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 58:41 - 43)

To those that gathered that Sunday in Zion, must have been felt direct love and concern of the Savior.

D&C 55 - 57

"Wo unto you rich men, that will not give your substance to the poor, for your riches will canker your souls;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 56:16)

I periodically get canker sores in my mouth or on my tongue. They are always annoying and painful. They make it difficult to really enjoy eating. At times it is difficult to talk depending where they are. The thought of the cankering of my soul, is a soul searching warning. Riches is a relative thing. I'm sure the point is that all should give of their substance to the poor.

I think it is interesting when the Lord also warns the poor -

"Wo unto you poor men, whose hearts are not broken, whose spirits are not contrite, and whose bellies are not satisfied, and whose hands are not stayed from laying hold upon other men's goods, whose eyes are full of greediness, and who will not labor with your own hands!"
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 56:17)

Neither group is exempt from doing that which is right and good. Those that have must give. Those that have not must not only be humble and grateful for that which they receive but must work to their own best efforts to be self-reliant.

Another scripture seemed to spur my thoughts this morning -

13 And let my servant Oliver Cowdery assist him (William W. Phelps), even as I have commanded, in whatsoever place I shall appoint unto him, to copy, and to correct, and select, that all things may be right before me, as it shall be proved by the Spirit through him.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 57:13)

This verse seemed to touch me on the issue of pride. Through the previous few years, Oliver Cowdery had been a participant and witness to some of the most marvelous manifestations of the modern Church. He had held position in the Church that was second only to the Prophet. Without doing any historical research, he may have still held that position at this point in time. But this verse suggests that he is now being asked "to assist". I don't know if that was even an issue for Oliver, but we know that as the Church grew others were called to positions and others were released. Sometimes members feel that as one is called an serves valiantly, he should be "promoted" so to speak. But that is not always the case. I think it is in this way that men have opportunities to show their desire and willingness to serve but also learn to check their pride. We see historical evidence in Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, Martin Harris, Sidney Rigdon, and the list goes on and on. We don't earn position, we only follow the will of the Lord.

All men should be willing to serve in any position, at any point in time, to the best of their ability when called. It will always be that at times we are the leaders and at times the subordinate, at times the teacher and at times the student. I believe this is what the Lord meant when he said -
"...he that will not take up his cross and follow me, and keep my commandments, the same shall not be saved." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 56:2) In this case "his cross" meaning to check his pride.

D&C 52 - 54

As wonderful as it was with the restoration and dispensation of the gospel, it must have been very difficult times for the obedient saints as they witnessed the "manifestations of different spirits abroad in the earth" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 50:Heading), and many of the priesthood being assigned proselyting travels and journeys (Section 50), and in addition to, the demanding covenants of the consecration of properties. The early difficult times seemed to seperate the wheat from the tares.

To those who failed to keep their promises and covenants, the Lord said - "...as the covenant which they made unto me has been broken, even so it has become void and of none effect."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 54:4) And to those who was the cause he said "...wo to him by whom this offense cometh, for it had been better for him that he had been drowned in the depth of the sea..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 54:5)

But with any of our failures, the still Lord loves us and will forgive us - but "...let them repent of all their sins, and become truly humble before me and contrite. (Doctrine and Covenants Section 54:3)

I love the Lord's words to Newel Knight and the Colesville saints living Thompson, Ohio who did not break their promises and covenants but remained true -

6 But blessed are they who have kept the covenant and observed the commandment, for they shall obtain mercy.

As difficult as it is for his saints, he said -

"...be patient in tribulation until I come; and, behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, and they who have sought me early shall find rest to their souls.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 54:10)
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 54:6)

D&C 50 - 52

Speaking of Satan, the Savior said that he "...abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
(New Testament John 8:44)

Mormon said the same of Satan's followers -
"...whatsoever thing persuadeth men to do evil, and believe not in Christ, and deny him, and serve not God, then ye may know with a perfect knowledge it is of the devil; for after this manner doth the devil work, for he persuadeth no man to do good, no, not one; neither do his angels; neither do they who subject themselves unto him.
(Book of Mormon Moroni 7:17)

In the early days of the Church, truth was revealed "...precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little..."(Old Testament Isaiah 28:10). The Lord warned the saints that in opposition "...there are many spirits which are false aspirits, which have gone forth in the earth, deceiving the world.
3 And also Satan hath sought to deceive you, that he might overthrow you.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 50:2 - 3)

Even amongst the saints, he warned "...I, the Lord, have looked upon you, and have seen abominations in the church that profess my name. " (Doctrine and Covenants Section 50:4) "...verily I say unto you, there are hypocrites among you, who have deceived some, which has given the adversary power;"(Doctrine and Covenants Section 50:7) "Wherefore, let every man beware lest he do that which is not in truth and righteousness before me." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 50:9)

The Savior then guides us in not being deceived -

"...he that is ordained of me and sent forth to preach the word of truth by the Comforter, in the Spirit of truth, doth he preach it by the Spirit of truth or some other way?
18 And if it be by some other way it is not of God.
19 And again, he that receiveth the word of truth, doth he receive it by the Spirit of truth or some other way?
20 If it be some other way it is not of God.
21 Therefore, why is it that ye cannot understand and know, that he that receiveth the word by the Spirit of truth receiveth it as it is preached by the Spirit of truth?
22 Wherefore, he that preacheth and he that receiveth, understand one another, and both are edified and rejoice together.
23 And that which doth not edify is not of God, and is darkness.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 50:17 - 23)

Or in other words, darkness is the deceptions of Satan, For "that which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light; and that light groweth brighter and brighter until the perfect day." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 50:24)

"...And if ye are purified and cleansed from all sin, ye shall ask whatsoever you will in the name of Jesus and it shall be done.
30 But know this, it shall be given you what you shall ask[see D&C 46:28,30]; and as ye are appointed to the head, the spirits shall be subject unto you.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 50:29 - 30)

:...for Satan desireth to sift [you] as chaff."(Doctrine and Covenants Section 52:12). But "...I will give unto you a pattern in all things, that ye may not be deceived;"(Doctrine and Covenants Section 52:14) For "...he that prayeth, whose spirit is contrite, the same is accepted of me if he obey mine cordinances." For "...he that speaketh, whose spirit is contrite, whose language is meek and edifieth, the same is of God if he obey mine ordinances. (Doctrine and Covenants Section 52:15 - 16)

As we follow these divine directives, we will not be deceived.

D&C 48 - 49

The Lord said, "...I will go before you and be your rearward; and I will be in your midst..."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 49:27) and "...ask and ye shall receive; knock and it shall be opened unto you." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 49:26)

As a person reads the scriptures such as these, a person may have the inclindation that the Lord will just take care of everything for the saints. But as you further read and ponder it becomes apparent that the Lord still requires work and great faith. As the saints begin to gather in Ohio, the Lord says -

"IT is necessary that ye should remain for the present time in your places of abode, as it shall be suitable to your circumstances.
2 And inasmuch as ye have lands, ye shall impart to the eastern brethren;
3 And inasmuch as ye have not lands, let them buy for the present time in those regions round about, as seemeth them good, for it must needs be necessary that they have places to live for the present time.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 48:1 - 3)

The Lord could have easily stretched forth his hand and provided as much land the new converts needed. But instead, placing the burden on the saint, that they were still obligated to buy lands where ever they could. And even as "...needs be necessary that ye save all the money that ye can..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 48:4)

And another thought - that are many good people of the earth that are willing to do good, to serve others, and live the Saviors teaching, but only when it is convenient or when it works for them. For "..they desire to know the truth in part, but not all..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 49:2)

I believe the Gospel of Christ is much more. It is the Gospel of inconvenience, sacrifice, consecration, and obedience to the will of God.

D&C 46 - 47

But notwithstanding those things which are written, it always has been given to the elders of my church from the beginning, and ever shall be, to conduct all meetings as they are directed and guided by the Holy Spirit. (Doctrine and Covenants Section 46:2)

What organization, whether in the private sector or public sector, or in business or for non-profit, or association, religion, society, our whatever, would ever allow its members to go outside of policy, guidelines, etc. (things which or written) to do as they are directed by a inspiration. I believe this statement is as much a testimony of the restored Church and priesthood as there could be. But there are additional instructions in regards to being "directed and guided by the Holy Spirit" in this section -

"...ye are commanded in all things to ask of God, who giveth liberally; and that which the Spirit testifies unto you even so I would that ye should do in all holiness of heart, walking uprightly before me, considering the end of your salvation, doing all things with prayer and thanksgiving..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 46:7)

"...seek ye earnestly the best gifts, always remembering for what they are given;...they are given for the benefit of those who love me and keep all my commandments, and him that seeketh so to do; that all may be benefited that seek or that ask of me, that ask and not for a sign that they may consume it upon their lusts...I would that ye should always remember, and always retain in your minds what those gifts are...For all have not every gift given unto them; for there are many gifts, and to every man is given a gift by the Spirit of God.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 46:8 - 11)

And it shall come to pass that he that asketh in Spirit shall receive in Spirit;
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 46:28)

And why is that so? Because -

"He that asketh in the Spirit asketh according to the will of God; wherefore it is done even as he asketh. (Doctrine and Covenants Section 46:30)

The Lord warned -

5 And if ye ask anything that is not expedient for you, it shall turn unto your condemnation.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 88:65)

The requirement then is to ask "in the Spirit". And if so, it will be "according to the will of God". He continues that to be "in the Spirit" -

"...ye must practise virtue and holiness before me continually."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 46:33)

And in addition to -

"...all things must be done in the name of Christ, whatsoever you do in the Spirit;
32 And ye must give thanks unto God in the Spirit for whatsoever blessing ye are blessed with."
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 46:31 - 32)

D&C 44 - 45

Which of us is not "poor" or "needy" in some way, spiritually or temporally? To the elders of the Church, the Lord commanded - "Behold, I say unto you, that ye must visit the poor and the needy and administer to their relief..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 44:6) "Must" seems rather clear, so does "visit". I think we understand what our responsibility is.

Another thought that came to mind this morning -

Hearken, O ye people of my church, and ye elders listen together, and hear my voice while it is called today, and harden not your hearts;
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 45:6)

Wherefore, come ye unto it, and with him that cometh I will reason as with men in days of old, and I will show unto you my strong reasoning.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 45:10)

In my mind, to reason is to talk, discuss, to argue logically, to pursuade and conclude intelligently regarding fact or truth. I marvel that the Lord will reason with us, and with "strong reasoning" the truth of these things by the power of his Spirit, "and by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things" (Book of Mormon Moroni 10:5).

The only way man can really reason is when he is humble, teachable, has an open mind, and is willing to accept new found knowledge or understanding. What a wonderful promise this is. For he continues -

For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, ...have not been deceived...
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 45:57)

D&C 43 - 44

This past weekend, the 175th general conference of the Church was held. I read again this morning -

...Behold, I give unto you a commandment, that when ye are assembled together ye shall instruct and edify each other, that ye may know how to act and direct my church, how to act upon the points of my law and commandments, which I have given.
9 And thus ye shall become instructed in the law of my church, and be sanctified by that which ye have received, and ye shall bind yourselves to act in all holiness before me—
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 43:8 - 9)

The Saviors words could not better summarize this past conference. Instruction after instruction covered how we are "to act upon the points of [his] law and commandments, which [he has] given" being admonished "to act in all holiness."

Hearken, O ye nations of the earth, and hear the words of that God...how often would I have gathered you together as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, but ye would not!
25 How oft have I called upon you by the mouth of my servants, and by the ministering of angels, and by mine own voice, ... and by the voice of mercy all the day long, and by the voice of glory and honor and the riches of eternal life, and would have saved you with an everlasting salvation, but ye would not! (Doctrine and Covenants Section 43:23 - 25)

We were "taught from on high" (verse 16). I was very much edified.

15 Again I say, hearken ye elders of my church, whom I have appointed: Ye are not sent forth to be taught, but to teach the children of men the things which I have put into your hands by the power of my Spirit;
16 And ye are to be taught from on high. Sanctify yourselves and ye shall be endowed with power, that ye may give even as I have spoken. (Doctrine and Covenants Section 43:15 - 16)

As elders of the Church, we are not sent to be taught or in my mind, contention of tenets, but to teach by the Spirit to those who receive by the same Spirit (the elect) things that are given by the Spirit. As we are taught by the Spirit and strive for holiness, we are sanctified by the same Spirit and are endowed with power. In my mind, the power of testimony given by the Spirit to witness to the inhabitants of the earth to truth of these things.

D&C 42 - 43

Much of the Law given in the 42nd section is the law of the gospel given by the Savior in his ministry to amongst the Jews in his mortal like and in his ministry amongst those in the new world shortly after his resurrections. As a result of several events in my life, some seem to stand out to me at this time -

21 Thou shalt not lie; he that lieth and will not repent shall be cast out.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:21)
22 Thou shalt love thy wife with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her and none else.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:22)
25 But he that has committed adultery and repents with all his heart, and forsaketh it, and doeth it no more, thou shalt forgive;
26 But if he doeth it again, he shall not be forgiven, but shall be cast out.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:25 - 26)
27 Thou shalt not speak evil of thy neighbor, nor do him any harm.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:27)
...remember the poor, and consecrate of thy properties for their support that which thou hast to impart unto them, with a covenant and a deed which cannot be broken...
...every man shall be made accountable unto me... which he has received by consecration...
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:30)

And finally -

28 Thou knowest my laws concerning these things are given in my scriptures; he that sinneth and repenteth not shall be cast out.
29 If thou lovest me thou shalt serve me and keep all my commandments.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:28 - 29)

11 Purge ye out the iniquity which is among you; sanctify yourselves before me;
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 43:11)

For those who do this and seek the Spirit, the Lord promises -

65 Behold, thou shalt observe all these things, and great shall be thy reward; for unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom, but unto the world it is not given to know them.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:65)

68 Therefore, he that lacketh wisdom, let him ask of me, and I will give him liberally and upbraid him not.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:68)

I have come to believe the "mysteries of the kingdom" is the personal knowledge and testimony that comes from the still small voice, the witness of the Spirit, and personal inspiration and revelation of the Holy Ghost. Of this the "world" knows little about.

D&C 41 - 42

In the preface to the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord referred to the Church as the "the only true and living church upon the face of the whole earth" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 1:30) A "living church" would be organic in nature in that it would grow and develop. This becomes evident in the 41st and 42nd sections. Edward Partridge is called to be the first Bishop in the Church and "that he should be appointed by the voice of the church, and ordained a bishop unto the church, to leave his merchandise and to spend all his time in the labors of the church;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 41:9) But even at that time, the Law and his duties were not yet known in that he was told "see to all things as it shall be appointed unto him in my laws in the day that I shall give them." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 41:10)

The saints were told to "go to the Ohio; and there I will give unto you my law;" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 38:32) In the 42nd section the Lord begins to give that law - "hearken and hear and obey the law which I shall give unto you." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:2)

The first commandment of the law that was given to the elders of the Church was to "go forth in my name, every one of you...in the power of my Spirit, preaching my gospel, two by two, in my name, lifting up your voices as with the sound of a trump, declaring my word like unto angels of God.
7 And ye shall go forth baptizing with water, saying: Repent ye, repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
...inasmuch as ye shall find them that will receive you ye shall build up my church in every region—" (Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:4, 6 - 8). And the commandment was given "that they shall go forth for a little season, and it shall be given by the power of the Spirit when they shall return." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:5)

My first thought was this commandment was given only to those in Kirtland at that time and that the spirit would tell those bethren when they should return. But the more I study the scriptures, the more I realize that his mind or perspective is higher than ours and his words are for all; that a little season in the Lord's perspective may be a great deal different than our own.

If this commandment was for all, then this little season may be "two years" as is presently "given by the power of the Spirit" for all missionaries. We know that at other times, the Spirit has dictated other times when they should return.

11 Again I say unto you, that it shall not be given to any one to go forth to preach my gospel, or to build up my church, except he be ordained by some one who has authority, and it is known to the church that he has authority and has been regularly ordained by the heads of the church.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:11)

12 And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel, which are in ...the Book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel.
13 And they shall observe the covenants and church articles to do them, and these shall be their teachings, as they shall be directed by the Spirit.
14 And the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach.
(Doctrine and Covenants Section 42:12 - 14)

I see this as the first commandment or the law for all missionaries.