D&C 99

In studying the doctrine of the priesthood (121:45), we learn of -

"...the oath and covenant which belongeth to the priesthood."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:39)

That -

"...all they who receive this priesthood receive me, saith the Lord;
36 For he that receiveth my servants receiveth me..."  Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:35 - 36)

And that all that receive His servants -

"...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."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:37 - 38)

As John Murdock is called to proclaim the gospel, The Lord again teaches him -

"...who receiveth you receiveth me; and you shall have power to declare my word in the demonstration of my Holy Spirit.
3 And who receiveth you as a little child, receiveth my kingdom; and blessed are they, for they shall obtain mercy."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 99:2 - 3)

Obviously, being called to be a missionary, John Murdock became on of the Lord's servants.  As I read a brief history on the life, tribulations, and sacrifices of John Murdock this morning, I was so touched that I thought I would include it in my blog this morning -

"John Murdock was born on July 15, 1792. Thus, he was about thirteen and a half years older than Joseph Smith. Early in life, John had a vision in which he was asked if he were participating in the ordinances of the gospel. He was not. This led him to earnestly search for a religion that made gospel ordinances an important part of worship.

As he pursued his search for such a church, he joined several different religions, being ultimately disappointed with each. First, he joined a Lutheran sect but eventually decided that they did not follow the Bible. Next, he affiliated with the Presbyterians, then the Baptists and after that, the Methodists. By 1827, he and his wife of just over three years, Julia, were residing in the Kirtland, Ohio, area where he had joined the Cambellite faith, started by Alexander Campbell. However, he gradually became disappointed with them, too, because many Cambellites did not believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost, as spoken of in the scriptures.

By the time Parley P. Pratt, Oliver Cowdery, Ziba Peterson, and Peter Whitmer Jr. came through the Kirtland, Ohio, area, in the winter of 1830, preaching the restored gospel as they traveled to teach the Lamanites on the western frontier (D&C 32), John had decided that all religions were wrong, having departed from the teachings of the Bible.

As a result, when he heard of the four Mormon missionaries and that they taught the restoration of the ancient church, he traveled twenty miles to hear them for himself. He read the Book of Mormon and knew it was true. Parley P. Pratt baptized him on November 5, 1830. He had already been baptized by immersion twice, but this time he felt the power and authority of the true priesthood, and felt forgiveness of sins.

At the time of his baptism, John and his wife, Julia, had three children, and she was expecting twins. On April 30, 1831, she gave birth to a girl and a boy. Julia died six hours afterward.

John named the girl Julia Murdock and the boy Joseph Smith Murdock. Emma Smith also gave birth the same day, but her twins, a girl, Louisa, and a boy, Thaddeus, lived only about three hours and died. In deep sorrow, gave his twins to Joseph and Emma to raise.

On June 7, 1831, John Murdock was called to serve a mission to Missouri with Hyrum Smith (see D&C 52:8). Upon returning home, he found that his little son, Joseph, had died as a result of exposure after a mob broke into the home (March 24, 1832) where Joseph and Emma Smith were staying. The Prophet had stayed up late caring for little Joseph Smith Murdock, who was sick with the measles. The mob broke in and dragged the Prophet out over the frozen ground to tar and feather him. The door was left open, and the resulting cold air led to the baby's death.

Sometime during the winter of 1832–1833, John Murdock received a vision of the Savior. He said, “I saw the form of a man, most lovely, the visage of his face was sound and fair as the sun. His hair a bright silver grey, curled in most majestic form, His eyes a keen penetrating blue, and the skin of his neck a most beautiful white and he was covered from the neck to the feet with a loose garment, pure white, whiter than any garment I have ever before seen. His countenance was most penetrating, and yet most lovely” (typescript of the Journal of John Murdock, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University, page 18).

At the time of section 99, Brother Murdock is called on another mission, this time to the “eastern countries” (verse 1). He will preach in the Kirtland area from September 1832 to April 1833, at which time he will depart on a mission to New York. He will serve for a year, with his companion, Zebedee Coltrin.

John will participate in Zion's Camp, serve a mission to New York beginning on March 5, 1835, and will marry Amoranda Turner on February 4, 1836, in New York. They will have no Children. He will help settle Far West, Missouri, in 1836 and will serve on the high council there. His wife will die on August 16, 1837. He will marry Electa Allen on May 3, 1838, and they will have three children.

He will be ordained bishop of the Nauvoo 20th Ward on August 20, 1842, and will be called to serve a mission to the East in November 1844. His wife will die on October 16, 1845. He will marry Sarah Zuflet on March 13, 1846. They will have two children. In May 1846, he will go west with the Saints and will serve as a high councilor, a bishop in Salt Lake City, and a delegate to the House of Representatives in 1849. John will be called to serve a mission to Australia and will serve for about two years, after which he will be released by President Brigham Young, who will gently tell him his missionary days are over and to come home permanently and be at peace. He will be called as a patriarch, serving many Saints in Utah County for thirteen years. He will reside in Lehi, Utah, from 1854 to 1867, and will die faithful to the Church on the Prophet Joseph Smith's birthday, December 23, 1871, at the age of seventy-nine, in Beaver County, Utah."  (Ridges, David J. (2005-07-01). The Doctrine and Covenants Made Easier, Part 3)

D&C 98

As the Lord continues to teach His will concerning being offended or smitten by others, war, and forgiveness, He said something that was of interest to me -

"For they do not forsake their sins, and their wicked ways, the pride of their hearts, and their covetousness, and all their detestable things, and observe the words of wisdom and eternal life which I have given unto them.
21 Verily I say unto you, that I, the Lord, will chasten them and will do whatsoever I list, if they do not repent and observe all things whatsoever I have said unto them.
22 And again I say unto you, if ye observe to do whatsoever I command you, I, the Lord, will turn away all wrath and indignation from you, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against you."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:20 - 22)

Then He adds -

"Now, I speak unto you concerning your families—if men will smite you, or your families, once, and ye bear it patiently and revile not against them, neither seek revenge, ye shall be rewarded..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:23)

In both cases, the recipient experiences pain and tribulation.  But one is the result of disobedience to the commandments which is the justice of God.  The other is allowed by the Lord to help us grow and develop the strengths of godliness.  The first being a punishment, the other being a blessing.  Yet, both are not necessarily a pleasant experience.  My thoughts are that we have to be careful in tribulation assuming that we are being punished.  We may be even being blesses with the love of God.

I am not going to address all the guidelines the Lord gives with offenses, war, and forgiveness for that are had in this revelation.  But I would like to add a quote from a modern day prophet concerning the Lord's will regarding reasons to participate in was as outlined by President David O. McKay -

“There are, however, two conditions which may justify a truly Christian man to enter—mind you, I say enter, not begin—a war: (1) An attempt to dominate and to deprive another of his free agency, and (2) Loyalty to his country. Possibly there is a third, viz., Defense of a weak nation that is being unjustly crushed by a strong, ruthless one. “Paramount among these reasons, of course, is the defense of man's freedom. An attempt to rob man of his free agency caused dissension even in heaven…. “To deprive an intelligent human being of his free agency is to commit the crime of the ages…. “So fundamental in man's eternal progress is his inherent right to choose, that the Lord would defend it even at the price of war. Without freedom of thought, freedom of choice, freedom of action within lawful bounds, man cannot progress….

“The greatest responsibility of the state is to guard the lives, and to protect the property and rights of its citizens; and if the state is obligated to protect its citizens from lawlessness within its boundaries, it is equally obligated to protect them from lawless encroachments from without—whether the attacking criminals be individuals or nations.” (in Conference Report, April 1942, pages 72–73)

D&C 98

As the Lord teaches His will concerning war and confrontations, He also touches on a few principles and truths that I would like to approach this morning.  First, even as the saints in Zion were struggling with persecution and tribulation, the Lord instructs the saints -

"...I say unto you my friends, fear not, let your hearts be comforted; yea, rejoice evermore, and in everything give thanks..." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:1)

Even when we are in the most difficult of circumstances, there is still many good and plentiful blessings that surround us.  Even the opportunity to gow with such challenge.  Thus the Lord instructs "in everything give thanks".  Life seems to be much better as we look upon all things in gratitude.

And even as we struggle with personal trials, the Lord instructs -

"Waiting patiently on the Lord, for your prayers have entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth, and are recorded with this seal and testament—the Lord hath sworn and decreed that they shall be granted."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:2)

Elder Neal A. Maxwell taught that faith in Jesus Christ includes faith in His timing.  Part of our persoanl growth must include patience. 

As we read that in doing so, that the Lord promises our prayers will be granted.  Reliance upon these words may be misleading if we do not include the following verse -

"Therefore, he giveth this promise unto you, with an immutable covenant that they shall be fulfilled; and all things wherewith you have been afflicted shall work together for your good, and to my name's glory, saith the Lord."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:3)

The promise then and covenant is that our prayers will be granted in a manner that it will be for our good which would suggest our eternal good from the prospective of the Lord.

Another truth the Lord shares is -

"...verily I say unto you concerning the laws of the land, it is my will that my people should observe to do all things whatsoever I command them.
5 And that law of the land which is constitutional, supporting that principle of freedom in maintaining rights and privileges, belongs to all mankind, and is justifiable before me.
6 Therefore, I, the Lord, justify you, and your brethren of my church, in befriending that law which is the constitutional law of the land..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:4 - 6)

Upon understanding the divine nature of the constitution of the United States, the Lord teaches -

"I, the Lord God, make you free, therefore ye are free indeed; and the law also maketh you free.
9 Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn.
10 Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:8 - 10)

This is sound counsel as we consider our privilege to vote.  But what I find most important is the Lord stresses that our focus and excuses should not be on what others are doing, but what we are personally doing.  It doesn't matter if others are not keeping the commandments of the Lord,  for the Lord continues -

"I give unto you a commandment, that ye shall forsake all evil and cleave unto all good, that ye shall live by every word which proceedeth forth out of the mouth of God.
12 For he will give unto the faithful line upon line, precept upon precept; and I will try you and prove you herewith.
13 And whoso layeth down his life in my cause, for my name's sake, shall find it again, even life eternal.
14 Therefore, be not afraid of your enemies, for I have decreed in my heart, saith the Lord, that I will prove you in all things, whether you will abide in my covenant, even unto death, that you may be found worthy.
15 For if ye will not abide in my covenant ye are not worthy of me."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:11 - 15)

The fact is the blessings of  exaltation has nothing to do with others, only you, for again, the purpose of the plan of salvation is about the individual where  -

"...I will prove you in all things, whether you will abide in my covenant..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:14)

That is the issue, not whether others choose to abide His covenant.  So when others mock and persecute, and do not keep the commandments, it should not matter to us.  It real issue is how we respond to keeping His commandments.

D&C 97

As the Lord commends as well as rebukes several saints in land of Zion or Jackson County Missouri, we learn a great deal more concerning the meaning or nature of Zion.  He begins with -

"that I may show unto you my will concerning your brethren in the land of Zion, many of whom are truly humble and are seeking diligently to learn wisdom and to find truth."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:1)

"...blessed are such, for they shall obtain; for I, the Lord, show mercy unto all the meek, and upon all whomsoever I will, that I may be justified when I shall bring them unto judgment."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:2)

In addition to those being humble, meek, and who are diligently striving to learn and find wisdom and truth, the Lord adds -

"...all among them who know their hearts are honest, and are broken, and their spirits contrite, and are willing to observe their covenants by sacrifice—yea, every sacrifice which I, the Lord, shall command—they are accepted of me."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:8)

It is of these people the Lord says -

"...I, the Lord, will cause them to bring forth as a very fruitful tree which is planted in a goodly land, by a pure stream, that yieldeth much precious fruit."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:9)

In these words, we are beginning to get a taste of what Zion is.  The Lord then adds that in Zion -

"...that it is my will that a house should be built unto me in the land of Zion..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:10)

Why?

"...for the salvation of Zion—"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:12)

On my mind, as the saints are living in a Christlike manner, that in doing so, it is in His house that He will provide that which is necessary for salvation.  Not only essentials ordinances and covenants, but also -

"For a place of thanksgiving for all saints, and for a place of instruction for all those who are called to the work of the ministry in all their several callings and offices;
14 That they may be perfected in the understanding of their ministry, in theory, in principle, and in doctrine, in all things pertaining to the kingdom of God on the earth, the keys of which kingdom have been conferred upon you."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:13 - 14)

All conditioned upon the saints -

"...inasmuch as my people build a house unto me in the name of the Lord, and do not suffer any unclean thing to come into it, that it be not defiled, my glory shall rest upon it;
16 Yea, and my presence shall be there, for I will come into it, and all the pure in heart that shall come into it shall see God."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:15 - 16)

But He also warns them that -

"...if it be defiled I will not come into it, and my glory shall not be there; for I will not come into unholy temples."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:17)

This could also include our own bodies which Paul taught -

"...which temple ye are."  (New Testament | 1 Corinthians 3:17)

Living in this manner according to the celestial law of God and having a house of the Lord, the Lord then promises us -

"...if Zion do these things she shall prosper, and spread herself and become very glorious, very great, and very terrible.
19 And the nations of the earth shall honor her, and shall say: Surely Zion is the city of our God, and surely Zion cannot fall, neither be moved out of her place, for God is there, and the hand of the Lord is there;
20 And he hath sworn by the power of his might to be her salvation and her high tower.
21 Therefore, verily, thus saith the Lord, let Zion rejoice, for this is Zion—THE PURE IN HEART; therefore, let Zion rejoice, while all the wicked shall mourn."  "Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:18 - 21)

Zion then is "The pure in hearts" for He also -

"...called his people ZION, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them."  (Pearl of Great Price | Moses 7:18)

In my mind then, Zion is living in a celestial life or manner here on earth having His house to learn and receive the ordinances and covenants of exaltation.

D&C 96

As the Prophet Joseph Smith approached the Lord on some temporal matters, the Lord instructed -

"...here is wisdom, whereby ye may know how to act concerning this matter, for it is expedient in me that this stake that I have set for the strength of Zion should be made strong."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 96:1)

And then He proceed to teache the way a stake may be made strong.  Being that the matter was concerning the purchasing of land and the dividing of lots, He teaches that these temporal matters be done -

"...according to wisdom...as it shall be determined in council among you.  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 96:3)

In my mind, the Lord was teaching that His work was to be done in working of councils.  We note today that modern day leaders continue to teach that the work of salvation is to be done in councils such as high councils, stake councils, and especially wark councils.  And as these members sit in council, their purpose and goal is to be according to, as the Lord instructs to  -

"...take heed that ye see to this matter, and that portion that is necessary to benefit mine order, for the purpose of bringing forth my word to the children of men.
5 For behold, verily I say unto you, this is the most expedient in me, that my word should go forth unto the children of men, for the purpose of subduing the hearts of the children of men for your good. Even so. Amen. (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 96:4 - 5)

Again, in my mind, adding the word "Amen" suggests that as we sit in council our sole purpose, inspiration, and decisions should be the message and "word to the children of men"..."for the purpose of subduing the hearts of the children of men for your good -

"...for I, the Lord, require the hearts of the children of men."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 64:22)

Even -

"...the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 64:34)

This is the purpose of councils in the Church.

D&C 95

Some six months previous to this revelation, the Lord had instructed -

"Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:119)

Being that the Church was still in its early stages, I would suspect that there were many that may have not understood this instruction that the Lord literally wanted a temple built for sacred and divine purposes.  There are many today that use these words in reference to establishing any place that could be considered holy such as the home.  To me this seems apparent as nothing seemed to move forward with this instruction.  Now six months later the Lord rebukes the saints saying -

"...ye have sinned against me a very grievous sin, in that ye have not considered the great commandment in all things, that I have given unto you concerning the building of mine house..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 95:3)

Obviously, this caught their attention (and understanding) and the work began immediately.  But what caught my attention is the manner in which He did so.  He first begins with the words -

"...thus saith the Lord unto you whom I love..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 95:1)

First, He wanted the saints to know that He loved them.  And because of that -

"...whom I love I also chasten that their sins may be forgiven, for with the chastisement I prepare a way for their deliverance in all things out of temptation, and I have loved you—
2 Wherefore, ye must needs be chastened and stand rebuked before my face..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 95:1 - 2)

This is a great lesson on how leaders and parents should approach rebuking those than need such.  After He explains the the cause for which He is chastening them, He explains then why He gave the commandment.  It was because this house was to built -

"For the preparation wherewith I design to prepare mine apostles to prune my vineyard for the last time, that I may bring to pass my strange act, that I may pour out my Spirit upon all flesh—"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 95:4)

"...for this cause I gave unto you a commandment that you should call your solemn assembly, that your fastings and your mourning might come up into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth, which is by interpretation, the creator of the first day, the beginning and the end.
8 Yea, verily I say unto you, I gave unto you a commandment that you should build a house, in the which house I design to endow those whom I have chosen with power from on high..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 95:7 - 8)

And because they have not built this house, presently -

"...they are walking in darkness at noon-day." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 95:6)

And then the Lord (always allowing repentance) again lays out the commandment and the consequences through disobedience -

"...it is my will that you should build a house. If you keep my commandments you shall have power to build it.
12 If you keep not my commandments, the love of the Father shall not continue with you, therefore you shall walk in darkness."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 95:11 - 12)

In other words, He desires to reveal additional truths and light that He will only do so within the walls of a temple.  And if not they will not receive such light and will continue in darkness.

D&C 93

It is in this revelation that we learn some important eternal doctrines.  The first being -

"The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:36)

In spiritual and eternal terms, then, light and truth is intelligence.  And -

"Light and truth forsake that evil one."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:37)

Given the eternal law of agency, it becomes clear that as we follow light and truth, we become more intelligent.  We become more like God or acquire godliness.  The opposite then would prove true...if we choose to follow Satan, we loose intelligence for -

"...that wicked one cometh and taketh away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men..." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:39)

Therefore, it becomes apparent that -

"Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.
19 And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 130:18 - 19)

Or in other words, he acquires more light and truth.  In my mind, when -

 "...the Lord had shown unto me, Abraham, the intelligences that were organized before the world was; and among all these there were many of the noble and great ones..."  (Pearl of Great Price | Abraham 3:22)

These words would suggest to me that before we were born as spiritual offspring, we were personages of intelligence or in other words, had progressed to that point following "light and truth".  We also learn that as we were born as spiritual offspring -

"Every spirit of man was innocent in the beginning; and God having redeemed man from the fall, men became again, in their infant state, innocent before God."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:38)

Obviously, just as when we were born in this life, we were born innocent as spirits.  But again, with agency in this pre-mortal existence, we were given the choice to choose light and truth or not.  Knowing that there was a war in heaven would suggest that we made mistakes there also and the atonement was already in place to learn faith and repentance.  As John saw the spirits in the pre-mortal existence and the war in heaven, he testified of these spirits -

"...they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony..."  (New Testament | Revelation 12:11)

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland taught -

“We could remember that even in the Grand Council of Heaven [in the premortal realm] He loved us and was wonderfully strong, that we triumphed even there by the power of Christ and our faith in the blood of the Lamb.” (“‘This Do in Remembrance of Me,’” Ensign, November 1995, page 68.)

Thus the Lord has said to parents -

"...I have commanded you to bring up your children in light and truth."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:40)

So that they too may become intelligent.

One final thought concerning priesthood leaders.  The Lord instructed them -

"I called you servants for the world's sake, and ye are their servants for my sake—"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:46)

In my mind, this is what preside means in the priesthood...to become servants to mankind for the Savior's sake.

D&C 93

After learning from the testimony of John that the Savior -

"...received not of the fulness at the first, but received grace for grace;
13 And he received not of the fulness at first, but continued from grace to grace, until he received a fulness..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:12 - 13)

And upon bearing testimony that the Savior received a "fulness" of the glory of the Father, he then testifies to us -

"...that if you are faithful you shall receive the fulness of the record of John.
19 I give unto you these sayings that you may understand and know how to worship, and know what you worship, that you may come unto the Father in my name, and in due time receive of his fulness.
20 For if you keep my commandments you shall receive of his fulness, and be glorified in me as I am in the Father; therefore, I say unto you, you shall receive grace for grace."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:18 - 20)

To better understand this potential, we learn that in the pre-mortal life, the Savior said -

"...I was in the beginning with the Father, and am the Firstborn;
22 And all those who are begotten through me are partakers of the glory of the same, and are the church of the Firstborn.
23 Ye were also in the beginning with the Father; that which is Spirit, even the Spirit of truth..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:21 - 23)

Which truth is defined as -

"...truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:24)

So in the pre-mortal existence, we were also spirits, where -

"Man was also in the beginning with God...."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:29)

"For man is spirit. The elements are eternal, and spirit and element, inseparably connected, receive a fulness of joy;
34 And when separated, man cannot receive a fulness of joy.
35 The elements are the tabernacle of God; yea, man is the tabernacle of God, even temples; and whatsoever temple is defiled, God shall destroy that temple."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:33 - 35)

Thus we were spiritual offspring of Heavenly Parents with the plan to receive bodies of flesh and bone (elements) which will allow us to receive the fulness of our Heavenly Parents if we are faithful and keep His commandments.

That is why, Paul taught -

The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
17And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.  (New Testament | Romans 8:16 - 17)

D&C 93

Abinadi taught how the Savior was the Father and the Son.  The Father because He is literally the Father of salvation or eternal life.  In modern day, the Lord again teaches this doctrine saying -

"...I am the true light that lighteth every man that cometh into the world;
3 And that I am in the Father, and the Father in me, and the Father and I are one—
4 The Father because he gave me of his fulness, and the Son because I was in the world and made flesh my tabernacle, and dwelt among the sons of men."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:2 - 4)

As I have previously blogged, He is the true light -

"...the light which shineth, which giveth you light, is through him who enlighteneth your eyes, which is the same light that quickeneth your understandings;
12 Which light proceedeth forth from the presence of God to fill the immensity of space—
13 The light which is in all things, which giveth life to all things, which is the law by which all things are governed, even the power of God who sitteth upon his throne, who is in the bosom of eternity, who is in the midst of all things."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:11 - 13)

Of such, John the Baptist also testified, writing -

"...I saw his glory, that he was in the beginning, before the world was;
8 Therefore, in the beginning the Word was, for he was the Word, even the messenger of salvation—
9 The light and the Redeemer of the world; the Spirit of truth, who came into the world, because the world was made by him, and in him was the life of men and the light of men.
10 The worlds were made by him; men were made by him; all things were made by him, and through him, and of him."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 93:7 - 10)

I love the title...the Messenger of Salvation.  It was He that taught the plan of salvation as instructed by the Father.

Thus, not only did the Saviorbecome the Father and Author of salvation and exaltation, He is also the Father of heaven and earth.  It is not uncommon for men to call an individual a "Father" if he is the founding individual of an organization or technology.

D&C 90

As Nephi taught his people, he tells us -

"...I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning."  (Book of Mormon | 1 Nephi 19:23)

I feel the same way as I read this revelation.  In this revelation, the Prophet Joseph Smith, a president of the Church is told -

"...thou art blessed from henceforth that bear the keys of the kingdom given unto you..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 90:2)

And of these keys -

"...the keys of this kingdom shall never be taken from you, while thou art in the world, neither in the world to come..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 90:3)

Of priesthood keys, according to the Handbook of Instructions, Book 2, 2.1.1, we read -

"Priesthood keys are the authority God has given to priesthood leaders to direct, control, and govern the use of His priesthood on earth. The exercise of priesthood authority is governed by those who hold its keys (see D&C 65:2; 81:2; 124:123). Those who hold priesthood keys have the right to preside over and direct the Church within a jurisdiction."

In this revelation, we begin to understand the doctrine of presidencies as the Lord then instructs, the two counselors in the First Presidency -

"...verily I say unto thy brethren, Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams, their sins are forgiven them also, and they are accounted as equal with thee in holding the keys of this last kingdom..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 90:6)

At first it may appear that these two counselors held priesthood keys, but in the same section of the Handbook of Instructions we read -

"Counselors to priesthood leaders do not receive keys. They are set apart and function in their callings by assignment and delegated authority."
Thus in my mind, "they are accounted as equal with thee in holding the keys", would suggest that a unified presidency also hold keys even though the president is the only individual that holds priesthood keys.

But what is important for our profit and learning is the counsel given to those that serve in the presidency -

"...now, verily I say unto you, I give unto you a commandment that you continue in the ministry and presidency...you shall from thenceforth preside over the affairs of the church and the school;
14 And from time to time, as shall be manifested by the Comforter, receive revelations to unfold the mysteries of the kingdom;
15 And set in order the churches, and study and learn, and become acquainted with all good books, and with languages, tongues, and people.
16 And this shall be your business and mission in all your lives, to preside in council, and set in order all the affairs of this church and kingdom.
17 Be not ashamed, neither confounded; but be admonished in all your high-mindedness and pride, for it bringeth a snare upon your souls.
18 Set in order your houses; keep slothfulness and uncleanness far from you.  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 90:12 - 18)

There seems to be a strong warning in counsel given in verses 17 & 18 to those that preside...beware of high-mindness, pride, slothfulness, and uncleaness.  Absolutely critical to be guided by the Holy Ghost.

D&C 89

As I read the Lord's word or wisdom concerning our temporal salvation, I remembered the revelation concerning some of the teachings of the Shakers (49th Section).  The preface to the revelation stated -

"Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to Sidney Rigdon, Parley P. Pratt, and Leman Copley, at Kirtland, Ohio, March 1831. HC 1:167–169. (Some historical sources give the date of this revelation as May 1831.) Leman Copley had embraced the gospel, but still held to some of the teachings of the Shakers (United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing) to which he had formerly belonged. Some of the beliefs of the Shakers were that Christ's second coming had already occurred and he had appeared in the form of a woman, Ann Lee; baptism by water was not considered essential; the eating of pork was specifically forbidden, and many did not eat any meat; and a celibate life was considered higher than marriage. In prefacing this revelation, the Prophet wrote, "In order to have a more perfect understanding on the subject, I inquired of the Lord, and received the following." The revelation refuted some of the basic concepts of the Shaker group. The aforementioned brethren took a copy of the revelation to the Shaker community (near Cleveland, Ohio) and read it to them in its entirety, but it was rejected." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 49:Heading)

Included in this meeting was the instruction concerning the Shakers belief concerning meat -

"...whoso forbiddeth to abstain from meats, that man should not eat the same, is not ordained of God;
19 For, behold, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the air, and that which cometh of the earth, is ordained for the use of man for food and for raiment, and that he might have in abundance."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 49:18 - 19)

Understanding that, now consider the word of wisdom given concerning the eating of meats wherein the Lord said  -

"...flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless they are to be used sparingly;
13 And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 89:12 - 13)

I've wondered if again the Lord inserted this last verse in respect to some beliefs that meat should only be used in times of winter, or of cold,  or famine.  In these words the Lord inserts the negative "not" suggesting to me that anyone that teaches that meat should only be used in winter or famine is incorrect and may be eaten year round.

D&C 88

As the Savior returned to the topic of holding solemn assemblies, He provided instruction on how such should be held and in what manner to participants should prepare.  I will note in my mind, modern day priesthood meetings and priesthood leadership meetings follow much the same instruction.  In holding such meetings, the Lord instructs -

"...the order of the house prepared for the presidency of the school of the prophets, established for their instruction in all things that are expedient for them, even for all the officers of the church, or in other words, those who are called to the ministry in the church, beginning at the high priests, even down to the deacons—
128  And this shall be the order of the house of the presidency of the school: He that is appointed to be president, or teacher, shall be found standing in his place, in the house which shall be prepared for him.
129 Therefore, he shall be first in the house of God, in a place that the congregation in the house may hear his words carefully and distinctly, not with loud speech.
130 And when he cometh into the house of God, for he should be first in the house—behold, this is beautiful, that he may be an example—"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:127 - 130)

I have always argued that when a priesthood leaders calls a meeting, he should be there early to see all things are in order where the attendees feel welcome.  No attendee should come to a meeting not having a presiding or responsible leader present. 

These meetings should be conducted as guided by the Spirit where the presiding authority should speak, and not only speak, but be allowed to give concluding remarks if guided by the Spirit.  After a presiding authority is given the opportunity to provide concluding remarks, the meeting should adjourn.

These meeting should be conducted where -

"...as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:118)

"Even by study and also by faith" does not follow the methods and philosophies of men.  Faith must be included.  All are to prepare for such meetings as follows -

"Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God;
120 That your incomings may be in the name of the Lord; that your outgoings may be in the name of the Lord; that all your salutations may be in the name of the Lord, with uplifted hands unto the Most High.
121 Therefore, cease from all your light speeches, from all laughter, from all your lustful desires, from all your pride and light-mindedness, and from all your wicked doings.
122 Appoint among yourselves a teacher, and let not all be spokesmen at once; but let one speak at a time and let all listen unto his sayings, that when all have spoken that all may be edified of all, and that every man may have an equal privilege.
123 See that ye love one another; cease to be covetous; learn to impart one to another as the gospel requires.
124 Cease to be idle; cease to be unclean; cease to find fault one with another; cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated.
125 And above all things, clothe yourselves with the bond of charity, as with a mantle, which is the bond of perfectness and peace.
126 Pray always, that ye may not faint..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:119 - 126)

In that this revelation is in regards to "solemn assemblies", there is a time and place, and "type" for laughter and humor.  This is different from "loud laughter" which I perceive as rudeness and light-mindedness.  We are always to be happy and cheerful.  That we "not faint" suggests that our faith does not fail.

D&C 88

As I have studied the scriptures over the years, I have found that many revelations sometimes jump chronologically in their message which at times may confuse us.  Sometimes we do the same thing when we are telling and explaing a story even though we may not be aware of it.  It is in this revelation that the Lord details the order of resurrection, the order order of judgement.  Afterwards, He then jumps back and proveds the order of events in the millenium.

The first to be resurrected are those to receive celestial bodies where at His second coming -

"...the saints that are upon the earth, who are alive, shall be quickened and be caught up to meet him.
97 And they who have slept in their graves shall come forth, for their graves shall be opened; and they also shall be caught up to meet him in the midst of the pillar of heaven—
98 They are Christ's, the first fruits, they who shall descend with him first, and they who are on the earth and in their graves, who are first caught up to meet him; and all this by the voice of the sounding of the trump of the angel of God."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:96 - 98)

Many call this the morning of the first resurrection.  This first resurrection began with the Savior's resurrection.  After the resurrection of the just -

"...another angel shall sound, which is the second trump; and then cometh the redemption of those who are Christ's at his coming; who have received their part in that prison which is prepared for them, that they might receive the gospel, and be judged according to men in the flesh."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:99)

In my mind, these are those receiving a terrestrial body.  Though they received the gospel, the point is -

"These are they who are not valiant in the testimony of Jesus..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 76:79)

"In other words, was not valian in making and keeping sacred covenants.  Then follows those that receive a body of telestial glory -

"...again, another trump shall sound, which is the third trump; and then come the spirits of men who are to be judged, and are found under condemnation;
101 And these are the rest of the dead; and they live not again until the thousand years are ended, neither again, until the end of the earth."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:100 - 101)

Obviously, these are they that would not repent which therefore thererore are they that no redemption was made.  They will suffer for there sins.  And last will be those that receive no glorified body where  -

"...another trump shall sound, which is the fourth trump, saying: There are found among those who are to remain until that great and last day, even the end, who shall remain filthy still."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:102)

They will be filthy forever in that they will forever rebel against goodness.  After these resurrections -

"...another trump shall sound, which is the fifth trump, which is the fifth angel who committeth the everlasting gospel—flying through the midst of heaven, unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people;
104 And this shall be the sound of his trump, saying to all people, both in heaven and in earth, and that are under the earth—for every ear shall hear it, and every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess, while they hear the sound of the trump, saying: Fear God, and give glory to him who sitteth upon the throne, forever and ever; for the hour of his judgment is come.
105 And again, another angel shall sound his trump, which is the sixth angel, saying: She is fallen who made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication; she is fallen, is fallen!
106 And again, another angel shall sound his trump, which is the seventh angel, saying: It is finished; it is finished! The Lamb of God hath overcome and trodden the wine-press alone, even the wine-press of the fierceness of the wrath of Almighty God."   (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:103 - 106)

And then those that are of the first resurrection -

"...shall the angels be crowned with the glory of his might, and the saints shall be filled with his glory, and receive their inheritance and be made equal with him."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:107)

Of the judgement, the Lord provides the order in that -

"And then shall the first angel again sound his trump in the ears of all living, and reveal the secret acts of men, and the mighty works of God in the first thousand years.
109 And then shall the second angel sound his trump, and reveal the secret acts of men, and the thoughts and intents of their hearts, and the mighty works of God in the second thousand years—
110 And so on, until the seventh angel shall sound his trump..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:108 - 110)

It will be quite revealing of those that will not repent that all secret acts of men will be revealed.

Then we are taught the order of the millenium -

"...he shall stand forth upon the land and upon the sea, and swear in the name of him who sitteth upon the throne, that there shall be time no longer; and Satan shall be bound, that old serpent, who is called the devil, and shall not be loosed for the space of a thousand years.
111 And then he shall be loosed for a little season, that he may gather together his armies.
112 And Michael, the seventh angel, even the archangel, shall gather together his armies, even the hosts of heaven.
113 And the devil shall gather together his armies; even the hosts of hell, and shall come up to battle against Michael and his armies.
114 And then cometh the battle of the great God; and the devil and his armies shall be cast away into their own place, that they shall not have power over the saints any more at all.
115 For Michael shall fight their battles, and shall overcome him who seeketh the throne of him who sitteth upon the throne, even the Lamb."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:110 - 115)

There is a plan and order in all things.

D&C 88

As the Lord again refers to the signs of the times of His coming, He specifically notes that these things will be  -

"...not many days hence..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:87)

We do not necessarily know the His timing, but we can recognize the progressive signs to His coming.  One thing for sure that shortly before His coming -

"...all things shall be in commotion; and surely, men's hearts shall fail them; for fear shall come upon all people."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:91)

Commotion, in my mind, would be the world would be full of the deceptions of Satan where there is great confusion of the truth.  Because Satan will not support those that are deceived, obviously "men's hearats shall fail them". 

One of those signs is that -

"...angels shall fly through the midst of heaven, crying with a loud voice, sounding the trump of God, saying: Prepare ye, prepare ye, O inhabitants of the earth; for the judgment of our God is come. Behold, and lo, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:92)

The sounding of a trump would be in my mind a sound to catch everyone's attention.  As a listened to a recent general conference where those that we sustain as prophets, seers, and revelators spoke, I thought, surely, with the satellite technology of today, there voices were declaring the world to prepare for His second coming.  And if the people will not here this testimony or the testimony of missionaries sent throughout the world, they will experience or hear the warning voice of -

"...the testimony of earthquakes, that shall cause groanings in the midst of her, and men shall fall upon the ground and shall not be able to stand.
90 And also cometh the testimony of the voice of thunderings, and the voice of lightnings, and the voice of tempests, and the voice of the waves of the sea heaving themselves beyond their bounds."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:89 - 90)

What more can the Lord do to catch their attention.  Eventually, those that continue "not to hear", the Lord warns us that -

"...another angel shall sound his trump, saying: That great church, the mother of abominations, that made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, that persecuteth the saints of God, that shed their blood—she who sitteth upon many waters, and upon the islands of the sea—behold, she is the tares of the earth; she is bound in bundles; her bands are made strong, no man can loose them; therefore, she is ready to be burned."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:94)

Obviously, these are those that will never repent no matter what voice they hear for "no man can loose them" for they will bundle themselves.  In order to not be burned, we must hear and hearken to the voices preparatory  to His coming.

D&C 88

In this revelation, the Lord provides some significant counsel with related promises to the faithful.  Some of which being -

"...if your eye be single to my glory, your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:67)

"...sanctify yourselves that your minds become single to God, and the days will come that you shall see him; for he will unveil his face unto you, and it shall be in his own time, and in his own way, and according to his own will."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:68)

Which would include -

"Remember the great and last promise which I have made unto you; cast away your idle thoughts and your excess of laughter far from you."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:69)

I should note that the Lord was very specific in this promise that "it shall be in his own time, and in his own way, and according to his own will."

"...a commandment that you assemble yourselves together, and organize yourselves, and prepare yourselves, and sanctify yourselves; yea, purify your hearts, and cleanse your hands and your feet before me, that I may make you clean..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:74)

With the promise mentioned in verse 68 -

"...that I may fulfil this promise, this great and last promise, which I have made unto you, when I will."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:75)

"...I give unto you a commandment that ye shall continue in prayer and fasting from this time forth."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:76)

I give unto you a commandment that you shall teach one another the doctrine of the kingdom.
78 Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand;
79 Of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—
80 That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:77 - 80)

"...it becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:81)

All with the promise to those that follow this counsel -

"He that seeketh me early shall find me, and shall not be forsaken."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:83)

There is much more, but I conclude this blog with the Lord's counsel -

"Abide ye in the liberty wherewith ye are made free; entangle not yourselves in sin, but let your hands be clean, until the Lord comes."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:86)

D&C 88

As the Lord continues to teach the mysteries of the universe, He informs us that -

"...there are many kingdoms; for there is no space in the which there is no kingdom; and there is no kingdom in which there is no space, either a greater or a lesser kingdom."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:37)

This explanation may seem to be very deep and hard to comprehend.  But the promise is that if we continue in faith being steadfast in all His commandments -

"...the day shall come when you shall comprehend even God, being quickened in him and by him."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:49)

The Lord continues to explain that -

"...unto every kingdom is given a law; and unto every law there are certain bounds also and conditions.
39 All beings who abide not in those conditions are not justified."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:38 - 39)

Or in other words, unable to live in accordance or live in line with the conditions of that kingdom.  Obviously then, God lives in a kingdom, the greatest kingdom, which also possess bounds and conditions.  He also lives by law for he continues to explain -

"For intelligence cleaveth unto intelligence; wisdom receiveth wisdom; truth embraceth truth; virtue loveth virtue; light cleaveth unto light; mercy hath compassion on mercy and claimeth her own; justice continueth its course and claimeth its own..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:40)

And of the conditions and bounds where God lives is that -

"He comprehendeth all things, and all things are before him, and all things are round about him; and he is above all things, and in all things, and is through all things, and is round about all things; and all things are by him, and of him, even God, forever and ever."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:41)

And with this authority and power -

"...he hath given a law unto all things, by which they move in their times and their seasons;
43 And their courses are fixed, even the courses of the heavens and the earth, which comprehend the earth and all the planets.
44 And they give light to each other in their times and in their seasons, in their minutes, in their hours, in their days, in their weeks, in their months, in their years—all these are one year with God, but not with man.
45 The earth rolls upon her wings, and the sun giveth his light by day, and the moon giveth her light by night, and the stars also give their light, as they roll upon their wings in their glory, in the midst of the power of God."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:42 - 45)

As evidence of such, He teaches -

"...all these are kingdoms, and any man who hath seen any or the least of these hath seen God moving in his majesty and power."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:47)

Because we can witness His majesty and power -

"...shall ye know that ye have seen me, that I am, and that I am the true light that is in you, and that you are in me; otherwise ye could not abound."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:50)

Again, if we find this confusing -

"...the day shall come when you shall comprehend even God, being quickened in him and by him."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:49)

D&C 88

In revelation, the Lord provides the true definition of the "soul" -

"...the spirit and the body are the soul of man.
16 And the resurrection from the dead is the redemption of the soul."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:15 - 16)

But in the redemption of the soul, not all souls are equal in glory for  -

"They who are of a celestial spirit shall receive the same body which was a natural body; even ye shall receive your bodies, and your glory shall be that glory by which your bodies are quickened.
29 Ye who are quickened by a portion of the celestial glory shall then receive of the same, even a fulness.
30 And they who are quickened by a portion of the terrestrial glory shall then receive of the same, even a fulness.
31 And also they who are quickened by a portion of the telestial glory shall then receive of the same, even a fulness.
32 And they who remain shall also be quickened; nevertheless, they shall return again to their own place, to enjoy that which they are willing to receive, because they were not willing to enjoy that which they might have received."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:28 - 32)

For -

"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.
22 For he who is not able to abide the law of a celestial kingdom cannot abide a celestial glory.
23 And he who cannot abide the law of a terrestrial kingdom cannot abide a terrestrial glory.
24 And he who cannot abide the law of a telestial kingdom cannot abide a telestial glory; therefore he is not meet for a kingdom of glory. Therefore he must abide a kingdom which is not a kingdom of glory."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:21 - 24)

The Lord then explains why these things are -

"For what doth it profit a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the gift? Behold, he rejoices not in that which is given unto him, neither rejoices in him who is the giver of the gift.
34 And again, verily I say unto you, that which is governed by law is also preserved by law and perfected and sanctified by the same.
35 That which breaketh a law, and abideth not by law, but seeketh to become a law unto itself, and willeth to abide in sin, and altogether abideth in sin, cannot be sanctified by law, neither by mercy, justice, nor judgment. Therefore, they must remain filthy still."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:33 - 35)

It all comes down to that law we are willing to abide by for -

"All kingdoms have a law given..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:36)

The soul of all men will live in that kingdom they feel most comfortable and willing to live.

D&C 88

It is in this revelation, that the Lord teaches some of the "spiritual physics" of the universe.  He begins His explanation of Himself, that =

"He that ascended up on high, as also he descended below all things, in that he comprehended all things, that he might be in all and through all things, the light of truth..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:6)

Alma explained "descended below all things" as he taught the people in Gideon -

"...he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people.
12 And he will take upon him death, that he may loose the bands of death which bind his people; and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.
13 Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; and now behold, this is the testimony which is in me."  (Book of Mormon | Alma 7:11 - 13)

By descending below and above all things, that through the atonement, the Savior comprehended all things, thus possessing the light of truth -

"Which truth shineth. This is the light of Christ..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:7)

Which light "is in all and through all things".  Thus -

"...As also he is in the sun, and the light of the sun, and the power thereof by which it was made.
8 As also he is in the moon, and is the light of the moon, and the power thereof by which it was made;
9 As also the light of the stars, and the power thereof by which they were made..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:7 - 9)

Thus, it is -

"The light which is in all things, which giveth life to all things, which is the law by which all things are governed, even the power of God who sitteth upon his throne, who is in the bosom of eternity, who is in the midst of all things."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:13)

This light is not only that which gives truth, structure, and life to the universe, it is also -

"...the light which shineth, which giveth you light, is through him who enlighteneth your eyes, which is the same light that quickeneth your understandings..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:11)

Which light then is the source by which we learn the mysteries of God.  Basically, the Light of Christ is a medium, energy, power, influence... -

"Which light proceedeth forth from the presence of God to fill the immensity of space—"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:12)

As I pondered these words this morning, it seemed to become apparent to me that this light, influence or energy of truth is controlled, utilized, and governed by God..."even the power of God".  In my mind, though this light permeates the universe, it is controlled by the "priesthood".  I believe God (or the Savior) controls this light through the priesthood.  And -

"...the rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:36)

Synonyms, in my mind for the priesthood are "power of Godliness, Holiness, powers of Heaven" and so forth. That is why the priesthood  -

"...holdeth the key of the mysteries of the kingdom, even the key of the knowledge of God.
20 Therefore, in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:19 - 20)

These blessings come through the Light of Christ.  As we ponder that holding the priesthood is the authority to act in the name of God, this would suggest that we have the capacity to perform truth and the Lord's will concerning the Light of Christ.

D&C 88

The Savior told His disciples -

"...I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever..."  (New Testament | John 14:16)

Again in our day, He said to His disciples -

"...I now send upon you another Comforter, even upon you my friends, that it may abide in your hearts, even the Holy Spirit of promise; which other Comforter is the same that I promised unto my disciples, as is recorded in the testimony of John."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:3)

His friends being -

"...they whom my Father hath given me; ye are my friends..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 84:63)

Obviuosly, these are they that have received their saving ordinances and continue to keep their covenants are they given by the Father. 

We learn that this Comforter is the Holy Spirit of promise or the Holy Ghost.  The Holy Ghost is the Holy Spirit that was promised...thus is the Holy Spirit of Promise.  The Lord then teaches the very purpose of this promised Spirit -

"This Comforter is the promise which I give unto you of eternal life, even the glory of the celestial kingdom..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:4)

Thus it is this Comforter that leads us to eternal life.  And as we follow His guidance, receive the saving ordinances, and obey the commandments and covenants, such actions then are -

"...sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 132:7)

Or thus approved by this Comforter.

D&C 87

After prophecying concerning the beginning of the Civil War, the Prophet Joseph Smith continued to foretel that -

"...the time will come that war will be poured out upon all nations..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 87:2)

And that the day would come that this nation as well as other nations -

"...shall also call upon other nations, in order to defend themselves against other nations; and then war shall be poured out upon all nations."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 87:3)

The prophecy reminds me of World Wars I & II.  As I consider the events in our day, what struck me was the prophecy -

"...it shall come to pass also that the remnants who are left of the land will marshal themselves, and shall become exceedingly angry, and shall vex the Gentiles with a sore vexation.
6 And thus, with the sword and by bloodshed the inhabitants of the earth shall mourn..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 87:5 - 6)

There is no question that many nations and people of the world have been oppressed by other nations, people, and organizations.  This leads my thoughts to remnants of our day that have marshalled themselves in a religious zeal to vex all nations causing great mourning.

And then the Lord reveals that all nations will not mourn only because of war and bloodshed, but even -

"...with famine, and plague, and earthquake, and the thunder of heaven, and the fierce and vivid lightning also, shall the inhabitants of the earth be made to feel the wrath, and indignation, and chastening hand of an Almighty God, until the consumption decreed hath made a full end of all nations..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 87:6)

Because the terrible events that will transpire before His second coming, the Lord still wants to protect His righteous saints, so he has commanded the saints to gather in stakes throughout the world -

"...that the gathering together upon the land of Zion, and upon her stakes, may be for a defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth."   (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 115:6)

Thus for our protection, we are commanded -

"Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come; for behold, it cometh quickly, saith the Lord..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 87:8)