D&C 38

At one of the first conferences of the newly restored Church, the Lord teaches some significant doctrine as he testifies -

"THUS saith the Lord your God, even Jesus Christ, the Great I AM..."  (Doctrine and Covenants
Section 38:1)

"The same which knoweth all things, for all things are present before mine eyes..."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 38:2)  

As human offspring, we cannot yet comprehend the omniscience of a exalted being.  Obviously, there are limitations of our physical beings as we know them.  He continues -

"I am the same which spake, and the world was made, and all things came by me."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 38:3)

The Savior declares Himself to be the great Jehovah and I Am being the creator of the world as spoken in Genesis.  And -

"I am the same which have taken the Zion of Enoch into mine own bosom; and verily, I say, even as many as have believed in my name, for I am Christ, and in mine own name, by the virtue of the blood which I have spilt, have I pleaded before the Father for them."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 38:4)  

In my mind then, the righteous and pure in heart that believe in His holy name and have been purified through the atonement are considered "Zion".   After having denounced the wicked and their doom, He again returns to the saints in Zion that are striving to repent and be obedient and instructs them -  

"But now I tell it unto you, and ye are blessed, not because of your iniquity, neither your hearts of unbelief; for verily some of you are guilty before me, but I will be merciful unto your weakness.
15 Therefore, be ye strong from henceforth; fear not, for the kingdom is yours."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 38:14 - 15)

For through His atonement He has promised -

"...my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."  (Book of Mormon  Ether 12:27)

They will be saints in Zion.

D&C 36

In a visit to meet the Prophet Joseph Smith, in the revelation, the Lord instructed Edward Partridge (as a new convert) -

"...you are called to preach my gospel as with the voice of a trump..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 36:1)

This is not the first time the Lord has used such a metafor in preaching His word.  As I pondered the words "voice of a trump", I began to picture what this visual instruction represented.  In my mind, when a trump is sounded, it is clear and stands above the noise and voices of the world.  The sound of a trump catches peoples attention to listena and hear.  Trumps usually are sounded so the people will gather and hear an important proclamation or message.

There is no question that the Lord wants His messaged sounded "by the weak things of the earth" to all people.   His gospel is of great importance to be heard.  He wants the people to gather and hear.

In the very next section, the Lord instructs His people to gather to the Ohio.  But I find it very interesting that the Lord then comments -

"Behold, here is wisdom, and let every man choose for himself until I come..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 37:4)

The voice of the trump is the wisdom of the Lord, he always allows those that may hear their agency to choose.

D&C 35

In a revelation to Sidney Rigdon, the Lord again reiterates how his work will move forward -

"...I call upon the weak things of the world, those who are unlearned and despised, to thrash the nations by the power of my Spirit..."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 35:13)

And of these the Lord promises -

"...their arm shall be my arm, and I will be their shield and their buckler; and I will gird up their loins, and they shall fight manfully for me; and their enemies shall be under their feet; and I will let fall the sword in their behalf, and by the fire of mine indignation will I preserve them.

15 And the poor and the meek shall have the gospel preached unto them, and they shall be looking forth for the time of my coming..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 35:14 - 15)

Those that are looking forth  to Him coming are those that stand in "holy places" for -

"...they will hear my voice, and shall see me, and shall not be asleep, and shall abide the day of my coming; for they shall be purified, even as I am pure."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 35:21)

We even see among the the weak things that -

"...I have sent forth the fulness of my gospel by the hand of my servant Joseph; and in weakness have I blessed him;
18 And I have given unto him the keys of the mystery of those things which have been sealed, even things which were from the foundation of the world, and the things which shall come from this time until the time of my coming, if he abide in me, and if not, another will I plant in his stead."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 35:17 - 18)

Suggesting the even the Prophet Joseph Smith was not necessarily perfect and if he fails to "abide" in the Lord that the Lord will appoint another.  Which makes clear that the prophet will nor can ever lead His people astray.  Our duty to the prophet and our priesthood leaders is to -

"...watch over him that his faith fail not, and it shall be given by the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, that knoweth all things."  (Doctrine and Covenants   Section 35:19)

Where the prophet is to receive revelations concerning that which is sealed or unknowned in that  -

"...it shall be given unto him to prophesy; and thou shalt preach my gospel and call on the holy prophets to prove his words, as they shall be given him."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 35:23)

The promise is -

"Keep all the commandments and covenants by which ye are bound; and I will cause the heavens to shake for your good, and Satan shall tremble and Zion shall rejoice upon the hills and flourish..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 35:24)

D&C 35

I had a couple of thoughts this morning.  As the Lord instructed Orson Pratt in his duty, he said -

"...verily, I say unto you, the time is soon at hand that I shall come in a cloud with power and great glory."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 34:7)

Again, as we find in Exodus and in other scripture that we Lord even comes or leaves in a "cloud" of power an glory.  In a revelation on the priesthood the Lord provided some definition for this cloud saying -

"...this generation shall not all pass away until an house shall be built unto the Lord, and a cloud shall rest upon it, which cloud shall be even the glory of the Lord, which shall fill the house."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:5)

This cloud then is "even the glory of the Lord".  I would guess that the visual description of cloud would describe His glory.  In my mind, this cloud of glory is so glorious that it covers His person.

The second thought came in a revelation to Sidney Rigdon where he was told -

"Thou art blessed, for thou shalt do great things. Behold thou wast sent forth, even as John, to prepare the way before me, and before Elijah which should come, and thou knewest it not."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 35:4)

With Sidney Rigdon, we learn that many of us could be preparing the way for others and great events where we have no idea that is so.  It is His work and we are instruments in His hands if we choose to follow Him and keep His commandments.

D&C 33

To Ezra Thayre and Northrup Sweet, the Lord instructs -

"...open your mouths and they shall be filled, saying: Repent, repent, and prepare ye the way of the Lord, and make his paths straight; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand;
11 Yea, repent and be baptized, every one of you, for a remission of your sins; yea, be baptized even by water, and then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 33:10 - 11)

And then He teaches -

"...verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and remember that they shall have faith in me or they can in nowise be saved..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 33:12)

And then He adds -

"...upon this rock I will build my church; yea, upon this rock ye are built..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 33:13)

Obviously, the rock then is the gospel or the gospel of Jesus Christ which includes faith, repentance, baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost.  In His ministry in the Americas, the Savior taught the same thing -

"...that whoso repenteth and is baptized in my name shall be filled; and if he endureth to the end, behold, him will I hold guiltless before my Father at that day when I shall stand to judge the world.
17 And he that endureth not unto the end, the same is he that is also hewn down and cast into the fire, from whence they can no more return, because of the justice of the Father.
18 And this is the word which he hath given unto the children of men. And for this cause he fulfilleth the words which he hath given, and he lieth not, but fulfilleth all his words.
19 And no unclean thing can enter into his kingdom; therefore nothing entereth into his rest save it be those who have washed their garments in my blood, because of their faith, and the repentance of all their sins, and their faithfulness unto the end.
20 Now this is the commandment: Repent, all ye ends of the earth, and come unto me and be baptized in my name, that ye may be sanctified by the reception of the Holy Ghost, that ye may stand spotless before me at the last day.
21 Verily, verily, I say unto you, this is my gospel; and ye know the things that ye must do in my church..."  (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 27:16 - 21)

Herein the Savior adds "endure to the end".  Jacob taught that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the doctrine of Jesus Christ teaching his people -

"...the gospel, or the doctrine of Christ..."  (Book of Mormon | Jacob 7:6)

The gospel of Jesus Christ is also then the doctrine of Christ where again in the Savior's ministry in the Americas, He taught -

"...I will declare unto you my doctrine.
32 And this is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of me, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me.
33 And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God.
34 And whoso believeth not in me, and is not baptized, shall be damned.
35 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and I bear record of it from the Father; and whoso believeth in me believeth in the Father also; and unto him will the Father bear record of me, for he will visit him with fire and with the Holy Ghost.
36 And thus will the Father bear record of me, and the Holy Ghost will bear record unto him of the Father and me; for the Father, and I, and the Holy Ghost are one.
37 And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and become as a little child, and be baptized in my name, or ye can in nowise receive these things.
38 And again I say unto you, ye must repent, and be baptized in my name, and become as a little child, or ye can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God.
39 Verily, verily, I say unto you, that this is my doctrine, and whoso buildeth upon this buildeth upon my rock..." (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 11:31 - 39)

It is important to understand that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the doctrine of Christ which includes faith, repentance, baptism, receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost and endure to the end to be "spotless" at the last day.  And if we teach more than this to become spotless, we are not built upon His rock.

D&C 32

In an earlier revelaton to the elders of the Church, the Lord said -

"...ye are called to bring to pass the gathering of mine elect; for mine elect hear my voice and harden not their hearts..."  (Doctrine and Covenants   Section 29:7)

It was and continues to be message to the missionaries of the Church -

"...I say unto you that ye are chosen out of the world to declare my gospel with the sound of rejoicing, as with the voice of a trump. 5 Lift up your hearts and be glad, for I am in your midst, and am your advocate with the Father; and it is his good will to give you the kingdom.

6 And, as it is written—Whatsoever ye shall ask in faith, being united in prayer according to my command, ye shall receive."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 29:4 - 6)

The promise is that He will be in the midst of the missionaries and an advocate to the Father.  As Ziba Peterson was called to the work, again the Lord emphasized -

"...I myself will go with them and be in their midst; and I am their advocate with the Father, and nothing shall prevail against them."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 32:3)

This promise must serve and provide a great deal of comfort to missionaries and their parents.  The Lord then provides this instruction to missionaries -

"And they shall give heed to that which is written, and pretend to no other revelation; and they shall pray always that I may unfold the same to their understanding.
5 And they shall give heed unto these words and trifle not, and I will bless them..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 32:4 - 5)

It becomes clear that it is to be by the Spirit and the scriptures that should be that which they should preach.

D&C 30

With my reading this morning, I have two thoughts I would like to touch on.  First, the Lord again teaches the saints concerning children -

"...that little children are redeemed from the foundation of the world through mine Only Begotten;
47 Wherefore, they cannot sin, for power is not given unto Satan to tempt little children, until they begin to become accountable before me..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 29:46 - 47)

Thus -

"For it is given unto them even as I will, according to mine own pleasure, that great things may be required at the hand of their fathers."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 29:48)

Suggesting that their is a great obligations for parents to teach their children in preparation for the days they will become accountable.  And then the Lord adds, which has great application to my wife and I in that we have a handicap daughter -

"...I say unto you, that whoso having knowledge, have I not commanded to repent?
50 And he that hath no understanding, it remaineth in me to do according as it is written."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 29:49 - 50)

In my mind, "according as it is written" would be the same as little children.

My second thought has to do with counsel given to Peter Whitmer, Jun.  Peter was given the charge to go with Oliver Cowdery to preach to the Lamanites.  Oliver was the second elder of the Church for -

"...none have I appointed to be his counselor over him in the church, concerning church matters, except it is his brother, Joseph Smith, Jun."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 30:7)

He was Peter's file leader therefore we read -

"...Peter, that you shall take your journey with your brother Oliver; for the time has come that it is expedient in me that you shall open your mouth to declare my gospel; therefore, fear not, but give heed unto the words and advice of your brother, which he shall give you."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 30:5)

Peter was to be diligent in this calling as was to follow the counsel of Oliver, as his file leaders.  And with that, Peter was to -

"...be you afflicted in all his afflictions, ever lifting up your heart unto me in prayer and faith, for his and your deliverance; for I have given unto him power to build up my church..."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 30:6)

Where I presently serve as a counselor, I believe this has the same application for me, where I should me where I should pray for my file leader, be diligent and faithful, and be "afflicted in his afflictions".


"Wherefore, give heed unto these things and be diligent in keeping my commandments, and you shall be blessed unto eternal life."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 30:8)

D&C 29

As the Savior outlines the plan of salvation, he shares a doctrinal point for those that seek fame, celebrity status, or power.  In doing so, the Joseph Smith translation of Mark 10:31, where we read in the bible -

"But many that are first shall be last; and the last first."  (New Testament Mark 10:31)

The JST reads -

"...But there are many who make themselves first, that shall be last, and the last first..."  (JST Mark 10:30–31)

Suggesting that when we make ourselves more important or of greater priority the God and godliness, we will be "last" or those that will be on the left hand of the Savior where -

"...the righteous shall be gathered on my right hand unto eternal life; and the wicked on my left hand will I be ashamed to own before the Father..."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 29:27)

With all there worldly power and glory, it is interesting that the Savior declared -

"...never at any time have I declared from mine own mouth that they should return, for where I am they cannot come, for they have no power."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 29:29)

It is interesting that worldly power does not mean or even suggest exalted power for -

"For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."  (New Testament  Matthew 16:25)

For -

"...If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me."  (New Testament   Matthew 16:24)

D&C 29

In this revelation from the Lord, we are taught much of the work of the priesthood in the latter days is that  -

"...ye are called to bring to pass the gathering of mine elect; for mine elect hear my voice and harden not their hearts..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 29:7)

The  emphasis and need to gather the elect, the righteous, the saints, "His people", even the House of Israel is found in throughout the scriptures in parables (the parable of the wheat and tares), allegories (the allegory of the olive tree), and prophecies and revelations.  The are to gather to "holy places" for -

"...the decree hath gone forth from the Father that they shall be gathered in unto one place upon the face of this land, to prepare their hearts and be prepared in all things against the day when tribulation and desolation are sent forth upon the wicked."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 29:8)

The reason again is found throughout these referenced teachings because -

"...the hour is nigh and the day soon at hand when the earth is ripe; and all the proud and they that do wickedly shall be as stubble; and I will burn them up, saith the Lord of Hosts, that wickedness shall not be upon the earth;
10 For the hour is nigh, and that which was spoken by mine apostles must be fulfilled; for as they spoke so shall it come to pass..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 29:9 - 10)

I strongly believe this burning will literally happen.  But not necessarily with the common thought of fire, but spiritual fire which is the His glory for -

"...the majesty of his glory shall smite them..."  (Book of Mormon | 2 Nephi 12:21)

As the Savior teaches that he twelve apostles will judge the "house of Israel", we learn who are of the house of Israel -

"...to judge the whole house of Israel, even as many as have loved me and kept my commandments, and none else."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 29:12)

The House of Israel will then only be those that have loved God and kept His commandments...none else

D&C 29

Throughout the scriptures, we find a doctrine commonly known as "Divine investiture" where an angel or the Savior speaks as the divine entity they are representing.  This is apparent in this revelation where the Savior begins -

"LISTEN to the voice of Jesus Christ, your Redeemer, the Great I AM, whose arm of mercy hath atoned for your sins;
2 Who will gather his people even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, even as many as will hearken to my voice and humble themselves before me..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 29:1 - 2)

Then adds as if He is the Father saying -

"...and call upon me in mighty prayer."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 29:2)

We know He is speaking as the Father in that He has already instructed the people in the Americas -

"...ye must always pray unto the Father in my name..."  (Book of Mormon | 3 Nephi 18:19)

This becomes even more apparent as later in this revelation, the Savior says twice -

"...through faith on the name of mine Only Begotten Son."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 29:42)

And again -

"...little children are redeemed from the foundation of the world through mine Only Begotten..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 29:46)

Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained -

“CHRIST MAY SPEAK AS THE FATHER. In giving revelations our Savior speaks at times for himself; at other times for the Father, and in the Father’s name, as though he were the Father, and yet it is Jesus Christ, our Redeemer who gives the message. So, we see, in Doctrine and Covenants 29:1, that he introduces himself as ‘Jesus Christ, your Redeemer,’ but in the closing part of the revelation he speaks for the Father, and in the Father’s name as though he were the Father, and yet it is still Jesus who is speaking, for the Father has put his name on him for that purpose.” (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 3 vols., edited by Bruce R. McConkie [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1954–56], 1:27.)

D&C 28

My understanding is that a new convert, Hiram Page, had acquired a so-called seer stone and was claiming to receive revelations and commandments through the stone which was not unusual in that day amongst many churches. It seemed that anyone could receive revelations for the congregation.  Obviously, this concerned the Prophet Joseph Smith.  Even present members of the Church including Oliver Cowdery has suggested that some of the revelations the Prophet had received was in error.  It was under these conditions that the Lord declared to Oliver -

"...I say unto thee, Oliver, that it shall be given unto thee that thou shalt be heard by the church in all things whatsoever thou shalt teach them by the Comforter, concerning the revelations and commandments which I have given."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 28:1)

It is apparent that Oliver was entitled to teach by the Holy Ghost only concerning that which had been revealed for -

"...I say unto thee, no one shall be appointed to receive commandments and revelations in this church excepting my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., for he receiveth them even as Moses."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 28:2)

And adding, which would be said to all -

"...thou shalt be obedient unto the things which I shall give unto him, even as Aaron, to declare faithfully the commandments and the revelations, with power and authority unto the church."  (Doctrine and Covenants
Section 28:3)  

What are the commandments and revelations that would come through the prophet and why through the prophet only?  The Lord explains -  

"For I have given him the keys of the mysteries, and the revelations which are sealed, until I shall appoint unto them another in his stead."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 28:7)  

But -  

"...all things must be done in order, and by common consent in the church, by the prayer of faith."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 28:13)  

Thus all other revelations, inspirations, teachings, and counseling for -  

"...if thou art led at any time by the Comforter to speak or teach, or at all times by the way of commandment unto the church, thou mayest do it. 5 But thou shalt not write by way of commandment, but by wisdom..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 28:4 - 5)

That is within the order and parameters of the revelations and commandment revealed by His prophet. So -

"...thou shalt not command him who is at thy head, and at the head of the church..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 28:6)

D&C 27

Yesterday, I blogged concerning the great sacrament meeting that will take place with the Savior, the prophets, and -

"...also with all those whom my Father hath given me out of the world."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 27:14)

To qualify as one given our of the world, the Lord counsels -

"Wherefore, lift up your hearts and rejoice, and gird up your loins, and take upon you my whole armor, that ye may be able to withstand the evil day, having done all, that ye may be able to stand.
16 Stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, having on the breastplate of righteousness, and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, which I have sent mine angels to commit unto you;
17 Taking the shield of faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked;
18 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of my Spirit, which I will pour out upon you, and my word which I reveal unto you, and be agreed as touching all things whatsoever ye ask of me, and be faithful until I come, and ye shall be caught up, that where I am ye shall be also."  (Doctrine and Covenants
Section 27:15 - 18)   Almost all the armor of God, is a source of protection from the things of this world, except the "sword of my Spirit" which in my mind is an obligation to be on the offensive in moving his kingdom forward or building his kingdom on the earth.  With His Spirit and His word, we have an obligation to preach, teach and testify to the world.  In my mind, without doing so, we will not qulify to be caught to be with him and participate in the great event.

D&C 27

As the Prophet Joseph Smith went to purchase wine for the sacrament, he was intercepted by an angelic messenger which instructed -

"LISTEN to the voice of Jesus Christ, your Lord, your God, and your Redeemer, whose word is quick and powerful.

2 For, behold, I say unto you, that it mattereth not what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink when ye partake of the sacrament, if it so be that ye do it with an eye single to my glory—remembering unto the Father my body which was laid down for you, and my blood which was shed for the remission of your sins.
3 Wherefore, a commandment I give unto you, that you shall not purchase wine neither strong drink of your enemies;
4 Wherefore, you shall partake of none except it is made new among you; yea, in this my Father's kingdom which shall be built up on the earth."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 27:1 - 4)

As the Savior instituted the sacrament, He used symbolic bread and wine.  Probably one reason was that it was so common and readily available.  We now begin to understand that the symbolism or emblems is of greater importance with a eye single to the glory of God than the actual type of food or drink.  Again, He states that the symbolism is "my body" which I would suggest is justification, and "my blood" suggesting sanctification.

A short time later, it was revealed what the Savior meant when He said -

"I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom."  (New Testament  Matthew 26:29)

In my mind suggesting that He would not partake of the ordinance of the sacrament until He would so with the fellow saints in the Kingdom of God.  It was in this very revelation that we receive greater incite when it was revealed to the Prophet that this event was coming soon and not far distant for -

"Behold, this is wisdom in me; wherefore, marvel not, for the hour cometh that I will drink of the fruit of the vine with you on the earth..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 27:5)

He then explains others that will be in attendance including, Moroni,  Elias (a composite of many heavenly beings sent by God to earth), John the Baptist, Elijah, Joseph (sold in Egypt), his father Jacob, Isaac, Abraham, Adam, Peter, James, and John -

"And also with all those whom my Father hath given me out of the world."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 27:14)

Which I believe to be all His chosen saints.  This will be a great day and a grand experience.

D&C 26

Shortly after the Church was organinzed, the Lord instructed -

"...all things shall be done by common consent in the church, by much prayer and faith, for all things you shall receive by faith."   (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 26:2)

This new law of common consent has evolved to a more common word of "sustaining" Church leaders and teachers.  Obviously, common consent or sustaining is not to be done at a whim but by "prayer and faith".  Callings were never intended to be by democratic voting or personal preferences or feelings, but by the the authority and keys of the priesthood.  That is where prayer and faith comes in.  President Joseph Fielding Smith taught -

“I have no right to raise my hand in opposition to a man who is appointed to any position in this Church, simply because I may not like him, or because of some personal disagreement or feeling I may have, but only on the grounds that he is guilty of wrong doing, of transgression of the laws of the Church which would disqualify him for the position which he is called to hold.” (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, Vol. 3, p. 124.)

I would suggest that "wrong doing" would be serious transgressions, for all of us have weaknesses and are not perfect.

Another purpose of common consent is that nothing is done in secret but for all that are members of the organization for President Smith continued -

“No man can preside in this Church in any capacity without the consent of the people. The Lord has placed upon us the responsibility of sustaining by vote those who are called to various positions of responsibility. No man, should the people decide to the contrary, could preside over any body of Latterday Saints in this Church, and yet it is not the right of the people to nominate, to choose, for that is the right of the priesthood.” (J. F. Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 3:123; see also D&C 20:65.)

In that in many cases, what the Lord speaks to one He speaks to all, those called are then instructed that they -

"...shall let your time be devoted to the studying of the scriptures, and to preaching, and to confirming the church...and to performing your labors on the land, such as is required..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 26:1)

I note the obligation of spiritual work as well as temporal work of performing "labors on the land" for support.

D&C 25

Having already received an increase in persecution in the very beginnings of the restoration of the Church, I wonder what was going on in the minds and and conversations between the Prophet Joseph Smith and his wife Emma.  While all this was going on, the Lord provided some interesting counsel.  First, the Lord told the Prophet -

"...in temporal labors thou shalt not have strength, for this is not thy calling..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 24:9)

I wonder how those words effect the Prophet and especially Emma.  Obviously, this affected her also.  And then the Lord spoke to Emma -

"...Emma Smith, my daughter; for verily I say unto you, all those who receive my gospel are sons and daughters in my kingdom."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 25:1)

He not only called her "my daughter" but also then tells her -

"...thou art an elect lady, whom I have called."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 25:3)

Suggesting in my mind that Emma was a valiant spirit in the pre-mortal existence as was foreordained for this significant calling which included -

"...the office of thy calling shall be for a comfort unto my servant, Joseph Smith, Jun., thy husband, in his afflictions, with consoling words, in the spirit of meekness.
6 And thou shalt go with him at the time of his going, and be unto him for a scribe, while there is no one to be a scribe for him, that I may send my servant, Oliver Cowdery, whithersoever I will.
7 And thou shalt be ordained under his hand to expound scriptures, and to exhort the church, according as it shall be given thee by my Spirit."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 25:5 - 7)

There is no question that the burdens placed on the Prophet would be great.  The Prophet needed an "elect" lady to sustain and be with him through his life.  I personally believe that she magnified this calling.

As I read these words spoken to Emma, and can't help but relate this to my dear wife.  I consider her also an "elect" lady and she has proven to be a wonderful support and sustaining companion.  Just as the Prophet loved Emma,  I love my wife very much.

D&C 24

Being the first two elders of the Church, the Lord provided instructions concerning the administration of priesthood blessings saying -

"Require not miracles, except I shall command you, except casting out devils, healing the sick, and against poisonous serpents, and against deadly poisons;
14 And these things ye shall not do, except it be required of you by them who desire it, that the scriptures might be fulfilled; for ye shall do according to that which is written."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 24:13 - 14)

Speaking of  "healing the sick" the Lord instructs that "these things ye shall not do, except it be required of you by them who desire it".  I've thought much on this instruction.  I understand that James instructed much the same asking -

"Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him."   (New Testament  James 5:14 - 15)

Again, the instruction is that he that is sick should call for the elders of the Church.  Obviously, it is because their is a requirement of prayer of faith.  I understand the current Handbook of Instruction instructs -

"Melchizedek Priesthood holders who visit hospitals should not solicit opportunities to administer to the sick."

Again supporting the idea that "except it be required of you by them who desire it".  But the Lord provided the condition of "except I shall command".  I personally believe as we visit the homes of the ill and the poor and needy, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost, sensing such desire and faith, it may not necessarily be inappropriate to ask if one would desire a blessing.  I have experienced sensing that desire, where upon asking an individual, that individual broke into tears hoping that I would be willing to do so.  The desire was not necessarily looking for a miracle but a desire to be comforted.

I believe the real purpose of this instruction to not solicit to give blessings is more related to the intent of giving the blessing as is it more related to as desire to "Require...miracles".  

D&C 23

As several brethren again approached the Prophet concerning their duties, the Lord provided individual instructions and some warnings.  I note that Oliver Cowdery was warned -

"...beware of pride, lest thou shouldst enter into temptation."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 23:1)

History records that this warning was prophecy fulfilled.  Oliver, having received many special revelations with the Prophet, having been with the Prophet with the restoration of the priesthood, holding the keys of the kingdom with the Prophet and being the second elder of the Church or in a sense an assistant or co-president, could not handle not being given priority treatment in Missouri.  As a result of pride, Oliver was eventually excommunicated from the Church.

Pride was one of the downfalls of many in the Nephite nation.  Pride continues to challenge many in the Church today.  Thank goodness, Oliver eventually humbly repented and returned to full fellowship in the Church.

I note the the duty of the Prophet's father and two of his brothers were to -

"...to exhortation, and to strengthen the church..." (Doctrine and Covenants Section 23:4)

Exhortation and strengthening the Church is a wide spread duty but would include leadership, preaching and teaching, missionary work, visiting the poor and needy, and the list goes on and on.

D&C 22

As there were some that desired membership in the newly restored Church having been baptized in some manner in another religious organization wanted to join without rebaptism, the Lord instructed the Prophet Joseph Smith -

"BEHOLD, I say unto you that all old covenants have I caused to be done away in this thing; and this is a new and an everlasting covenant, even that which was from the beginning."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 22:1)

"This thing" in my mind is in reference to the restoration of His Church and His priesthood power and authority.  One may wonder how this new covenant in reference to old covenants could be new if it was from the beginning.  My thoughts are that first, this new covenant or "last covenant' is in reference to previous covenants or "old" covenants which covenants were either made without divine priesthood authority or power or covenants that are of no efficacy, validity, force, or in other words, "dead" or of no avail.  For the Lord explained -

"Wherefore, although a man should be baptized an hundred times it availeth him nothing, for you cannot enter in at the strait gate by the law of Moses, neither by your dead works.
3 For it is because of your dead works that I have caused this last covenant and this church to be built up unto me, even as in days of old."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 22:2 - 3)

Thus the "...and an everlasting covenant" is not dead but eternal being authorized and administered by His priesthood.  Such everlasting covenant by his authorization has been around even from the days of Adam.  Covenants made that are not His covenants by His authority or covenants that are not everlasting are "dead" covenants.

D&C 21

In a world of cynics, this revelation that was given on the day the Church was organized must be very difficult.  But yet, understanding that this is really the Lord's truely restored Church, the Savior followed much the same historical pattern in declaring His chosen Prophet.  The burden to know this is true falls on the believer.

Herein the Lord instructs the Prophet Joseph Smith -

BEHOLD, there shall be a record kept among you; and in it thou shalt be called a seer, a translator, a prophet, an apostle of Jesus Christ, an elder of the church through the will of God the Father, and the grace of your Lord Jesus Christ..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 21:1)

To the Prophet, this must have been very humbling.  To better understand what a seer, a translator, a prophet, and an apostle is, I quote from the writings of David J. Ridges -

Seer

Elder John A. Widtsoe defined a seer as “one who sees with spiritual eyes. He perceives the meaning of that which seems obscure to others; therefore he is an interpreter and clarifier of eternal truth. He foresees the future from the past and the present. This he does by the power of the Lord operating through him directly,
indirectly with the aid of divine instruments such as the Urim and Thummim. In short, he is one who sees, who walks in the Lord’s light with open eyes” (Mosiah 8:15–17). (Evidences and Reconciliations, 1:205–6; see also Moses 6:36.)

Translator

The title “translator” may refer to one who has received two blessings given a prophet by the spirit of God: 1. The power to convert the written or spoken word into another language (see D&C 20:8). 2. The power to give a clearer meaning to a given language. Through the gift of translation a prophet does not merely convey in the language of the reader the words that were recorded by the writer but by revelation preserves for the reader the thoughts or intent of the original writer.

Prophet

According to Elder Widtsoe, “ A prophet is a teacher. That is the essential meaning of the word. He teaches the body of truth, the gospel, revealed by the Lord to man; and under inspiration explains it to the understanding of the people. He is an expounder of truth. Moreover, he shows that the way to human happiness is through obedience to God’s law. He calls to repentance those who wander away from the truth. He becomes a warrior for the consummation of the Lord’s purposes with respect to the human family. The purpose of his life is to uphold the Lord’s plan of salvation. All this he does by close communion with the Lord, until he is ‘full of power by the spirit of the Lord.’ (Micah 3:8; see also D&C 20:26; 34:10; 43:16) “In the course of time the word ‘prophet’ has come to mean, perhaps chiefly, a man who receives revelations and directions from the Lord. The principal business of a prophet has mistakenly been thought to foretell coming events, to utter prophecies, which is only one of the several prophetic functions. “In the sense that a prophet is a man who receives revelations from the Lord, the titles ‘seer and revelator’ merely amplify the larger and inclusive meaning of the title ‘prophet.’” (Evidences and Reconciliations, 1:204–5.)

Apostle

An Apostle is a special witness of Jesus Christ to all the world (see D&C 107:23). The Prophet Joseph Smith explained the important calling of an Apostle by asking a question and then giving the answer: “What importance is there attached to the calling of these Twelve Apostles, different from the other callings or officers of the Church? . . . “They are the Twelve Apostles, who are called to the office of the Traveling High Council, who are to preside over the churches of the Saints, among the Gentiles, where there is a presidency established; and they are to travel and preach among the Gentiles, until the Lord shall command them to go to the Jews. They are to hold the keys of this ministry, to unlock the door of the Kingdom of heaven unto all nations, and to preach the Gospel to every creature. This is the power, authority, and virtue of their apostleship.” (History of the Church, 2:200.)   (Ridges, David J. (2004-12-01). Doctrine and Covenants Made Easier Volume 1 (Kindle Locations 3014-3021). Cedar Fort, Inc.. Kindle Edition.)

D&C 20

After baptism, it is given that one who holds the Melchizedek priesthood (elder) under the direction of the bishop who holds keys to this ordinance, is -

"...to confirm those who are baptized into the church, by the laying on of hands for the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, according to the scriptures..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 20:41)

What I find interesting was in the Lord's initial instructions was -

"The duty of the members after they are received by baptism.—The elders or priests are to have a sufficient time to expound all things concerning the church of Christ to their understanding, previous to their partaking of the sacrament and being confirmed by the laying on of the hands of the elders, so that all things may be done in order.
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."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 20:68 - 69)

It almost sounds like that there must be some waiting time period between baptism and confirmation for teaching, expounding, and the manifesting of worthinesss  But I don't necessarily believe that was to be the intent.  The statement of "The duty of the members after they are received by baptism" suggests to me that this teaching and learning was not only related to immediately after baptims but was considered to be an ongoing process of being a member of the Church and in coming to better understand the Church of Christ as we continute to partake of the sacrament.  We read that to qualify for baptism in the days of Moroni that -

"...they were not baptized save they brought forth fruit meet that they were worthy of it.
2 Neither did they receive any unto baptism save they came forth with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, and witnessed unto the church that they truly repented of all their sins.
3 And none were received unto baptism save they took upon them the name of Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end.
4 And after they had been received unto baptism, and were wrought upon and cleansed by the power of the Holy Ghost, they were numbered among the people of the church of Christ; and their names were taken, that they might be remembered and nourished by the good word of God, to keep them in the right way, to keep them continually watchful unto prayer, relying alone upon the merits of Christ, who was the author and the finisher of their faith."  (Book of Mormon | Moroni 6:1 - 4)

So obviously, much of this expounding and manifesting of worthiness would and should take place before baptism and qualify one to be confirmed and receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost according to these instructions after baptism, with the intent to be continually nourished by the word of God.  I think verse only suggests that expounding and manifesting of worthiness must take place before confirmation, not necessarily between baptism and confirmation.

D&C 20

As we review this "first handbook of instructions" of the Church, we learn the duties and responsibilities of the priesthood offices of the Church.  In these first instructions, we must understand that the title "Elder" used is in reference to any Melchizedek priesthood holder for even -

"...An apostle is an elder..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:38)

It appears any priesthood holder has the duty and responsibility to -

"...to warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ."  (Doctrine and Covenants
Section 20:59)   In the Aaronic priesthood, priests have authority to -   "...baptize, and administer the sacrament..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:46)   And -   "...also ordain other priests, teachers, and deacons."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 20:48)   Teachers and deacons seem to have the duty to assist priests in all their duties -   "But neither teachers nor deacons have authority to baptize, administer the sacrament, or lay on hands..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:58)   Those who hold the Melchizedek priesthood  have additional authority of -   "...the laying on of hands for the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, according to the scriptures..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:41)   "And to confirm the church by the laying on of the hands, and the giving of the Holy Ghost..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:43)   Which suggests to me "to confirm" would be to set apart or ordain other officers and callings in the Church. And to -   "...to ordain other elders, priests, teachers, and deacons..."  (Doctrine and Covenants Section 20:39)   But what is of great importance in all this work is that this work is not done in secret but -   "No person is to be ordained to any office in this church, where there is a regularly organized branch of the same, without the vote of that church..."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:65)   Or -   "Every president of the high priesthood (or presiding elder), bishop, high councilor, and high priest, is to be ordained by the direction of a high council or general conference."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:67)   From the organization of the Church, there has always been an established order of things.

D&C 20

We learn that it is after we follow the gospel or doctrine of Christ exhibiting faith in Jesus Christ in that  -

"...we know that all men must repent and believe on the name of Jesus Christ, and worship the Father in his name, and endure in faith on his name to the end, or they cannot be saved in the kingdom of God."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:29)

And having been baptized and received the Gift of the Holy Ghost (Section 20) that -

"...we know that justification through the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is just and true;
31 And we know also, that sanctification through the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is just and true, to all those who love and serve God with all their mights, minds, and strength."  (Doctrine and Covenants  Section 20:30 - 31)

The consequence of faith, repentance, baptism for the remission of sins, receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end brings about justification and sanctfication through the atonement of Jesus Christ.

In my mind, justification is satisfying the demands of justice or in other words, becoming more like the Savior.  The Savior's atonement fulfils the demands of justice, if we satisfy the conditions He has outlined.  Thus justice is satisfied and mercy is extended.  Justification then requires two players...the repentant and obedient and another that satisfies the demands of justice or punishment.

Sanctification is the process of overcoming the natural man and becoming clean and worthy to serve.  An actual cleansing, purification, and refining process.  Such process again has conditions dependent on faithfulness "to all those who love and serve God with all their mights, minds, and strength."  Thus -

"...by the water ye keep the commandment; by the Spirit ye are justified, and by the blood ye are sanctified..."  (Pearl of Great Price Moses 6:60)

I sense that as we partake of the sacrament, our mind and heart turns to remembrance of His body and blood suggesting the price of His body paid for justification and the price of His blood to be cleansed.   I personally do not understand how the blood actually sanctifies and cleans us, but in faith, I believe that it provides the power to the Holy Ghost to do so.  Paul taught this doctrine to the Corinthians -

"Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God."  (New Testament  1 Corinthians 6:9 - 11)