D&C 108

In the preface to this revelation, we learn that Lyman Sherman had been faithful, even being ordained a high priest and seventy.  But obviously, Lyman must have still questioned his worthiness and maybe it he had satisfied all requirements of repentance.  (Maybe he had OCD...just a thought).   But what I find significant and of personal meaning to me where I may have felt the same as Lyman in my calling, the Lord said to him -

"Your sins are forgiven you, because you have obeyed my voice in coming up hither this morning to receive counsel of him whom I have appointed.
2 Therefore, let your soul be at rest concerning your spiritual standing, and resist no more my voice."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 108:1 - 2)

I sense the Lord is instructing him to quite questioning his worthiness.  He had been called and ordained.  But more important, in my mind, Lyman had experienced the promptings of the Holy Ghost even tpromptings that he had been forgiven as the Lord said - "resist no more my voice".  I believe that the Holy Ghost would not continue with an individual, providing spiritual promptings, if a person had not repented and is not worthy.  Thus again -

"...let your soul be at rest concerning your spiritual standing, and resist no more my voice."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 108:2)

And understanding that -

"...arise up and be more careful henceforth in observing your vows, which you have made and do make, and you shall be blessed with exceeding great blessings."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 108:3)

In other words, continue to demonstrate that one has repented by keeping covenants and commandments.

D&C 107

It is in this revelation, that the Lord provides for the growth of the Church in the latter days.  This becomes apparent as the Lord outlines the calling and duty of the Seventy -

"And it is according to the vision showing the order of the Seventy, that they should have seven presidents to preside over them, chosen out of the number of the seventy;
94 And the seventh president of these presidents is to preside over the six;
95 And these seven presidents are to choose other seventy besides the first seventy to whom they belong, and are to preside over them;
96 And also other seventy, until seven times seventy, if the labor in the vineyard of necessity requires it.
97 And these seventy are to be traveling ministers, unto the Gentiles first and also unto the Jews."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:93 - 97)

It appears that when the Lord references the office of Seventy n the Melchizedek priesthood, He uses the term "Seventy" (with a capital letter).  When He is speaking in reference to quantity, He uses the term "seventy".

It is in this revelation that the seven presidents of the Seventy are to preside over all quorums of seventy.  And that the number of quorums of seventy would be in relationship to the needs of the growth.  And in addition, the Lord also allowed -

"Whereas other officers of the church, who belong not unto the Twelve, neither to the Seventy, are not under the responsibility to travel among all nations, but are to travel as their circumstances shall allow, notwithstanding they may hold as high and responsible offices in the church."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:98)

We have seen this in the past with the callings of Assistants to the Quorum of the Twelve, and regional representatives.

D&C 107

The Lord did covenant with Abraham -

"I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee above measure, and make thy name great among all nations, and thou shalt be a blessing unto thy seed after thee, that in their hands they shall bear this ministry and Priesthood unto all nations;
10 And I will bless them through thy name; for as many as receive this Gospel shall be called after thy name, and shall be accounted thy seed, and shall rise up and bless thee, as their father;
11 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them that curse thee; and in thee (that is, in thy Priesthood) and in thy seed (that is, thy Priesthood), for I give unto thee a promise that this right shall continue in thee, and in thy seed after thee (that is to say, the literal seed, or the seed of the body) shall all the families of the earth be blessed, even with the blessings of the Gospel, which are the blessings of salvation, even of life eternal."  (Pearl of Great Price | Abraham 2:9 - 11)

The Lord explains to Abraham his seed "shall bear this ministry and Priesthood".  And that any one that receives the Gospel or is baptized and confirmed a member of the Savior's Church shall be considered Abraham's seed.  It is with his seed then that the right of the priesthood shall be held. 

This covenant was then extended to his grandson Jacob or Israel.  It was through this line and the House of Israel that this covenant would continue.  It is in this revelation that the Savior stated -

"The order of this priesthood was confirmed to be handed down from father to son, and rightly belongs to the literal descendants of the chosen seed, to whom the promises were made."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:40)

In my mind, the "chosen seed" is Abraham's seed or the seed or children of Israel.  The promises and rights of the priesthood then are reserved for Israel or the House of Israel which in our day, is the Church and baptized members.  The priesthood right then can only exists presently within the Savior's Church overseen by priesthood keys.

It is the House of Israel or family of Israel that will be linked together in the celestial kingdom.

 

D&C 107

As the topic switches from the powers and authority of the general quorums of the Church to that of stakes of Zion, the Lord teaches -

"The standing high councils, at the stakes of Zion, form a quorum equal in authority in the affairs of the church, in all their decisions, to the quorum of the presidency, or to the traveling high council."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:36)

The stakes of Zion then follow the same pattern set by the general quorums of the Church where the quorum of twelve high councilors for a quorum equal in authority in the affairs of the Church to that of the stake presidency and the traveling twelve apostles.  This does not mean they are not subordinate to the quorum of the twelve apostles for just as in the pattern of the general quorums of the Church in that they are to  -

"...act in the name of the Lord, under the direction of the Twelve or the traveling high council..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:34)

They are high priests given authority or set apart in their callings in their duties within the jurisdictional boundaries of a stake.  Equal in authority suggests to me that they have authority (priesthood authority and delegated authority)  to sustain and approve decisions of the stake presidency.  And in doing so -

"The decisions of these quorums, or either of them, are to be made in all righteousness, in holiness, and lowliness of heart, meekness and long suffering, and in faith, and virtue, and knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness and charity;
31 Because the promise is, if these things abound in them they shall not be unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:30 - 31)

These attributes are essential to receive the knowledge or instruction of the Lord.

D&C 107

On the topic of the priesthood, the Lord teaches -

"The power and authority of the higher, or Melchizedek Priesthood, is to hold the keys of all the spiritual blessings of the church—"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:18)

In the early days of modern revelation, many words were used interchangebly with different meanings just as the dictionary can provide different meanings for the same word.  Some of these words were - keys, ordain, etc.  As the Church has grown, there was more of an effort to use different words as to not confuse the meaning with the members.  For example, the word "ordain" now is used more in reference with priesthood ordinations where "set apart" is in reference to callings even though in the early days of the Church they were used interchangebly.

I believe the same is in regards to the word "keys" where today we reference priesthood keys as the right of a president to direct, control, and govern.  But in the case in this revelation, I believe the use of the word "keys" is in reference to the authority and privilege to unlock doors to ministering spiritual blessings, which would include when authorized, higher priesthood ordinances of the Melchizedek priesthood.  I believe that because of the words "is to hold".  Those that hold such authority and power to give priesthood blessings, and are to teach and be a example (Alma 13).  These are key to spiritual blessings.

The Lord then continues regarding these keys which are the keys of knowledge saying -

"To have the privilege of receiving the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, to have the heavens opened unto them..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:19)

Is this not a great spiritual blessing?

The Bible Dictionary defines "mystery" as:

"...a spiritual truth that was once hidden but now is revealed, and that, without special revelation, would have remained unknown. "  (Bible Dictionary | M Mystery:Entry)

Which suggests that we have the privilege to learn and come to understand truth and doctrine prophetic (scriptures) and personal revelation by the Holy Ghost.  I believe the scriptures are full of mysteries that as we study and keep His commandments, truths are revealed and understood.

D&C 107

As I ponder the teachings on the Priesthood in this section, I would like to define two words -

Standing: established by law or custom.

In my mind, "standing" would suggest position by virtue of calling.

Officiate: to perform a ceremony, function, or duty

In my mind, "officiate" would be, where granted by authority, perform duties and responsibilities.

We are taught of the Melchizedek priesthood -

"...it was called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God.
4 But out of respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme Being, to avoid the too frequent repetition of his name, they, the church, in ancient days, called that priesthood after Melchizedek, or the Melchizedek Priesthood."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:3 - 4)

This would suggest to me that of the Grand Priesthood, that there is an order or segment that we fall under, being an order presided over by the Son of God.  This order is His priesthood order.

And that within this order there are -

"...offices in the church..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:5)

This order of priesthood also -

"...holds the right of presidency, and has power and authority over all the offices in the church in all ages of the world, to administer in spiritual things."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:8)

We begin to understand the purpose of this higher priesthood is to administer in "spiritual things".

Now we learn of these offices and rights within this priesthood regarding officiating -

"The Presidency of the High Priesthood, after the order of Melchizedek, have a right to officiate in all the offices in the church.
10
High priests after the order of the Melchizedek Priesthood have a right to officiate in their own standing, under the direction of the presidency, in administering spiritual things, and also in the office of an elder, priest (of the Levitical order), teacher, deacon, and member.
11 An elder has a right to officiate in his stead when the high priest is not present.
12 The high priest and elder are to administer in spiritual things, agreeable to the covenants and commandments of the church; and they have a right to officiate in all these offices of the church when there are no higher authorities present."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 107:9 - 12)

Note that high priests have a right to officiate in their own standing or their duty and callings.

These verses do not specifically address priesthood keys which is a topic for another days.  It only oulines standing and officiating of priesthood offices.

D&C 105

Having defined Zion as -

"...for this is Zion—THE PURE IN HEART"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 97:21)

And -

"...the Lord 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)

Where Zion, as previously blogged, is living according to the law of the celestial, we learn, as Zions Camp was being disbanded that -

"There has been a day of calling, but the time has come for a day of choosing; and let those be chosen that are worthy.
36 And it shall be manifest unto my servant, by the voice of the Spirit, those that are chosen; and they shall be sanctified..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 105:35 - 36)

Herein we learn that to be "chosen" is to be sanctified or become clean and pure.  Which also suggests that in being chosen and sanctified. in that -

"...inasmuch as they follow the counsel which they receive, they shall have power after many days to accomplish all things pertaining to Zion."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 105:37)

It becomes apparent that that the establishment of Zion would not happen over night, but according to the timing and will of the Lord, as obedience is performed, hearts are changed and made pure, as the saints are chosen and become holy, as the grace of the atonement is manifest, as the endowments and covenants are entered into, then, and only then will Zion or celestial life on earth as defined previously be established for -

"...let those commandments which I have given concerning Zion and her law be executed and fulfilled, after her redemption. (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 105:34)

D&C 105

"...the Lord 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)

As the so called "Zions Camp" was encamped at Fishing River, the Lord explained that -

"...were it not for the transgressions of my people, speaking concerning the church and not individuals, they might have been redeemed even now.
3 But behold, they have not learned to be obedient to the things which I required at their hands, but are full of all manner of evil, and do not impart of their substance, as becometh saints, to the poor and afflicted among them..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 105:2 - 3)

And then He taught the concept of Zion telling them that they -

"...are not united according to the union required by the law of the celestial kingdom;
5 And Zion cannot be built up unless it is by the principles of the law of the celestial kingdom; otherwise I cannot receive her unto myself."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 105:4 - 5)

Zion then, in my mind, would be living in a manner and according to the laws of the celestial kingdom on earth.  Therefore, Zion would then be celestial life on earth.

Obviously, this was and still remains very difficult as we as saints are still striving to overcome the world, their selfish inclinations, and to repent and commit to such a life.  The Lord knew that, that is why He then explains to these early saints -

"That they themselves may be prepared, and that my people may be taught more perfectly, and have experience, and know more perfectly concerning their duty, and the things which I require at their hands.
11 And this cannot be brought to pass until mine elders are endowed with power from on high.
12 For behold, I have prepared a great endowment and blessing to be poured out upon them, inasmuch as they are faithful and continue in humility before me."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 105:10 - 12)

Though this may be more in reference to the endowment of power received in the Kirtland Temple, I also believe it also has great reference to the endowment given in all temples.  It is therein that we really learn our duties, receive covenants, and endowed with power and knowledge that put us on the course to live according the laws of the celestial kingdom or become one of Zion.

D&C 104

As the Lord reorganizes the United Order in Kirtland and Zion, He teaches important doctrine and principles concerning our sustenance, possessions, and wealth.  Concerning our wealth and property -

"...a commandment I give unto you, that ye shall organize yourselves and appoint every man his stewardship;
12 That every man may give an account unto me of the stewardship which is appointed unto him.
13 For it is expedient that I, the Lord, should make every man accountable, as a steward over earthly blessings, which I have made and prepared for my creatures.
14 I, the Lord, stretched out the heavens, and built the earth, my very handiwork; and all things therein are mine.
15 And it is my purpose to provide for my saints, for all things are mine."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 104:11 - 15)

The Lord provides a different perspective to ownership thant that of the world.  He tells us that all things are really His.  We are to look at our wealth and property as stewards.  Obviously, He controls whether we are allowed to keep our lose our property.  With that understanding our stewardship -

"...must needs be done in mine own way; and behold this is the way that I, the Lord, have decreed to provide for my saints, that the poor shall be exalted, in that the rich are made low."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 104:16)

As stewards then, we have an obligation to care for the poor and needy and use that we have been given for good, for -

"...I prepared all things, and have given unto the children of men to be agents unto themselves.
18 Therefore, if any man shall take of the abundance which I have made, and impart not his portion, according to the law of my gospel, unto the poor and the needy, he shall, with the wicked, lift up his eyes in hell, being in torment."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 104:17 - 18)

Obviously, the Lord considers this a serious matter.  For those that argue that the world is limited in resources and we must scale back in bringing His children into the world, the Savior teaches -

For the earth is full, and there is enough and to spare..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 104:17)

D&C 103

Recently, many of the leaders of wards and stakes (ward & stake councils) as well as any interested saints were invited to a session of the training of new mission presidents and their spouses.  The topic was centered around the work of salvation and our individual responsibilities concerning such.  Having heard this instruction, I was touched by the word of the Lord concerning the saints that they are -

"...set to be a light unto the world, and to be the saviors of men;
10 And inasmuch as they are not the saviors of men, they are as salt that has lost its savor, and is thenceforth good for nothing but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 103:9 - 10)

In my mind, being a savior would be doing that which others may not necessarily accomplish on their own.  Missionary work and preaching the gospel would fall under that definition in my mind.  If we are faithful in this and every commandment the Lord has given us, the Lord informs us -

"...verily I say unto you, that I have decreed a decree which my people shall realize, inasmuch as they hearken from this very hour unto the counsel which I, the Lord their God, shall give unto them.
6 Behold they shall, for I have decreed it, begin to prevail against mine enemies from this very hour.
7 And by hearkening to observe all the words which I, the Lord their God, shall speak unto them, they shall never cease to prevail until the kingdoms of the world are subdued under my feet, and the earth is given unto the saints, to possess it forever and ever.
8 But inasmuch as they keep not my commandments, and hearken not to observe all my words, the kingdoms of the world shall prevail against them."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 103:5 - 8)

I note that the conditions set for this promise and warning is based upon following His counsel and "all the words" He gives us.

D&C 103

After Parley P. Pratt and Lyman Wight had physically reported the conditions of the saints in Zion, after which the Prophet Joseph Smith had inquired of the Lord in what they should do, the Lord began His response with -

"VERILY I say unto you, my friends, behold, I will give unto you a revelation and commandment, that you may know how to act in the discharge of your duties concerning the salvation and redemption of your brethren, who have been scattered on the land of Zion;
2 Being driven and smitten by the hands of mine enemies, on whom I will pour out my wrath without measure in mine own time."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 103:1 - 2)

Like always, the Lord tests us then teaches us our duties or the principles of godliness we must learn to become more like Him.  In addition, he promises to punish the wicked, but always according to His own time which suggests to me His love for them giving the wicked time to repent.

With the matters related to thes section, I was touched by the historical records of Parley and a letter written by the Prophet Joseph Smith.  I thought I would include these in my blog this morning.  Elder Pratt recorded -

“After making our escape into the county of Clay—being reduced to the lowest poverty—I made a living by day labor, jobbing, building, or wood cutting, till some time in the winter of 1834, when a general Conference was held at my house, in which it was decided that two of the Elders should be sent to Ohio, in order to counsel with President Smith and the Church at Kirtland, and take some measures for the relief or restoration of the people thus plundered and driven from their homes. The question was put to the Conference: ‘Who would volunteer to perform so great a journey?’

“The poverty of all, and the inclement season of the year made all hesitate. At length Lyman Wight and myself offered our services, which were readily accepted. I was at this time entirely destitute of proper clothing for the journey; and I had neither horse, saddle, bridle, money nor provisions to take with me; or to leave with my wife, who lay sick and helpless most of the time.

“Under these circumstances I knew not what to do. Nearly all had been robbed and plundered, and all were poor. As we had to start without delay, I almost trembled at the undertaking; it seemed to be all but an impossibility; but ‘to him that believeth all things are possible.’ [Mark 9:23.] I started out of my house to do something towards making preparation; I hardly knew which way to go, but I found myself in the house of brother John Lowry, and was intending to ask him for money; but as I entered his miserable cottage in the swamp, amid the low, timbered bottoms of the Missouri river, I found him sick in bed with a heavy fever, and two or three others of his family down with the same complaint, on different beds in the same room. He was vomiting severely, and was hardly sensible of my presence. I thought to myself, ‘well, this is a poor place to come for money, and yet I must have it; I know of no one else that has got it; what shall I do?’ I sat a little while confounded and amazed. At length another Elder happened in; at that instant faith sprung up in my heart; the Spirit whispered to me, ‘is there anything too hard for the Lord?’ I said to the Elder that came in: ‘Brother, I am glad you have come; these people must be healed, for I want some money of them, and must have it.’

“We laid hands on them and rebuked the disease; brother Lowry rose up well; I did my errand, and readily obtained all I asked. This provided in part for my family's sustenance while I should leave them. I went a little further into the woods of the Missouri bottoms, and came to a camp of some brethren, by the name of Higbee, who owned some horses; they saw me coming, and, moved by the Spirit, one of them said to the other, ‘there comes brother Parley; he's in want of a horse for his journey—I must let him have old Dick;’ this being the name of the best horse he had. ‘Yes,’ said I, ‘brother, you have guessed right; but what will I do for a saddle?’ ‘Well,’ says the other, ‘I believe I'll have to let you have mine.’ I blessed them and went on my way rejoicing.

“I next called on Sidney A. Gilbert [actually, A. Sidney Gilbert—see D&C 53, heading], a merchant, then sojourning in the village of Liberty—his store in Jackson County having been broken up, and his goods plundered and destroyed by the mob. ‘Well,’ says he, ‘brother Parley, you certainly look too shabby to start a journey; you must have a new suit; I have got some remnants left that will make you a coat,’ etc. A neighboring tailoress and two or three other sisters happened to be present on a visit, and hearing the conversation, exclaimed, ‘Yes, brother Gilbert, you find the stuff and we'll make it up for him.’ This arranged, I now lacked only a cloak; this was also furnished by brother Gilbert.

“Brother Wight was also prospered in a similar manner in his preparations. Thus faith and the blessings of God had cleared up our way to accomplish what seemed impossible. We were soon ready, and on the first of February we mounted our horses, and started in good cheer to ride one thousand or fifteen hundred miles through a wilderness country. We had not one cent of money in our pockets on starting.

“We travelled every day, whether through storm or sunshine, mud, rain or snow; except when our public duties called us to tarry. We arrived in Kirtland early in the spring, all safe and sound; we had lacked for nothing on the road, and now had plenty of funds in hand. President Joseph Smith and the Church in Kirtland received us with a hospitality and joy unknown except among the Saints; and much interest was felt there, as well as elsewhere, on the subject of our persecution (Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt, pages 107–9).

The Prophet wrote to Orson Pratt -

“Kirtland, April 7, 1834.

“Dear Brother Orson:—We received yours of the 31st ultimo in due course of mail, and were much grieved on learning that you were not likely to succeed according to our expectations. Myself, Brothers Newel, Frederick and Oliver, retired to the translating room, where prayer was wont to be made, and unbosomed our feelings before God; and cannot but exercise faith yet that you, in the miraculous providences of God, will succeed in obtaining help. The fact is, unless we can obtain help, I myself cannot go to Zion, and if I do not go, it will be impossible to get my brethren in Kirtland, any of them, to go; and if we do not go, it is in vain for our eastern brethren to think of going up to better themselves by obtaining so goodly a land, (which now can be obtained for one dollar and one quarter per acre,) and stand against that wicked mob; for unless they do the will of God, God will not help them; and if God does not help them, all is vain.

“Now the fact is, this is the head of the Church and the life of the body; and those able men, as members of the body, God has appointed to be hands to administer to the necessities of the body. Now if a man's hand refuses to administer to the necessities of his body, it must perish of hunger; and if the body perish, all the members perish with it; and if the head fail, the whole body is sickened, the heart faints, and the body dies, the spirit takes its exit, and the carcase remains to be devoured by worms.

“Now, Brother Orson, if this Church, which is essaying to be [claiming to be] the Church of Christ will not help us, when they can do it without sacrifice, with those blessings which God has bestowed upon them, I prophesy—I speak the truth, I lie not—God shall take away their talent, and give it to those who have no talent, and shall prevent them from ever obtaining a place of refuge, or an inheritance upon the land of Zion; therefore they may tarry, for they might as well be over taken where they are, as to incur the displeasure of God, and fall under His wrath by the way side, as to fall into the hands of a merciless mob, where there is no God to deliver, as salt that has lost its savor, and is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be trodden under foot of men” (History of the Church, Vol. 2, page 48).

D&C 102

As we ponder the Lord's way in conducting a disciplinary council, He instructs us -

"The accused, in all cases, has a right to one-half of the council, to prevent insult or injustice.
16 And the councilors appointed to speak before the council are to present the case, after the evidence is examined, in its true light before the council; and every man is to speak according to equity and justice."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 102:15 - 16)

Obviously, this is not as is done on the courts of law of this world with prosecutors and defendors.  The purpose and work of the entire body is to bring forth the matter "in its true light".  Questions are asked for the single purpose and love on behalf of the eternal welfare of the so called "accused" or transgressor.  Each individual is to speak with equity, whic suggests to me, with freedom from bias, prejudice, or favortism.  Yet doing so with justice such that -

"...this ye shall do that God may be glorified—not because ye forgive not, having not compassion, but that ye may be justified in the eyes of the law, that ye may not offend him who is your lawgiver—
14 Verily I say, for this cause ye shall do these things."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 64:13 - 14)

This is why in more modern day, this councils are considered councils of true love!.

D&C 101

I find it interesting that even as the saints in Zion are experiencing great persecution and being driven from their homes and property, the Lord commands -

"...in order that all things be prepared before you, observe the commandment which I have given concerning these things—
70 Which saith, or teacheth, to purchase all the lands with money, which can be purchased for money, in the region round about the land which I have appointed to be the land of Zion, for the beginning of the gathering of my saints..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:69 - 70)

And -

"...let all the churches gather together all their moneys; let these things be done in their time, but not in haste; and observe to have all things prepared before you.
73 And let honorable men be appointed, even wise men, and send them to purchase these lands.
74 And the churches in the eastern countries, when they are built up, if they will hearken unto this counsel they may buy lands and gather together upon them; and in this way they may establish Zion."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:72 - 74)

But because of little hope, faith, and commitment, this commandment was not followed.  In fact, to the contrary, some even began to sell their land including Oliver Cowdery.  The Lord then follows -

"...I say unto you, it is contrary to my commandment and my will that my servant Sidney Gilbert should sell my storehouse, which I have appointed unto my people, into the hands of mine enemies.
97 Let not that which I have appointed be polluted by mine enemies, by the consent of those who call themselves after my name..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:96 - 97)

Adding -

"Therefore, it is my will that my people should claim, and hold claim upon that which I have appointed unto them, though they should not be permitted to dwell thereon."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:99)

This was the will of the Lord.  But He would later comment -

"Behold this is my will; ask and ye shall receive; but men do not always do my will."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 103:31)

As we look back in history, we know that all the saints including those residing in  Kirtland and Eastern states did not keep this commandment wherein the Lord explained His purpose and will -

"Nevertheless, I do not say they shall not dwell thereon; for inasmuch as they bring forth fruit and works meet for my kingdom they shall dwell thereon.
101 They shall build, and another shall not inherit it; they shall plant vineyards, and they shall eat the fruit thereof."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:100 - 101)

This may have happend had the saints (all the saints) obeyed His will.  Sounds disappointing.

D&C 101

Again, the Savior emphasizes His influence in the constitution of the United Sates, as the saints were deprived of their constitutional rights of property and freedom, saying -

"...those who have been scattered by their enemies, it is my will that they should continue to importune for redress, and redemption, by the hands of those who are placed as rulers and are in authority over you—
77 According to the laws and constitution of the people, which I have suffered to be established, and should be maintained for the rights and protection of all flesh, according to just and holy principles..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:76 - 77)

But with these constitutional rights, we have an obligation to exercise those rights in such a manner -

"That every man may act in doctrine and principle pertaining to futurity, according to the moral agency which I have given unto him, that every man may be accountable for his own sins in the day of judgment.
79 Therefore, it is not right that any man should be in bondage one to another."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:78 - 79)

Thus -

"...for this purpose have I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose, and redeemed the land by the shedding of blood."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:80)

But we are also taught -

"Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 98:9)

So the Lord counsels the saints -

Let them importune at the feet of the judge;
87 And if he heed them not, let them importune at the feet of the governor;
88 And if the governor heed them not, let them importune at the feet of the president;
89 And if the president heed them not, then will the Lord arise and come forth out of his hiding place, and in his fury vex the nation;
90 And in his hot displeasure, and in his fierce anger, in his time, will cut off those wicked, unfaithful, and unjust stewards, and appoint them their portion among hypocrites, and unbelievers;
91 Even in outer darkness, where there is weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth.
92 Pray ye, therefore, that their ears may be opened unto your cries, that I may be merciful unto them, that these things may not come upon them.
93 What I have said unto you must needs be, that all men may be left without excuse..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:86 - 93)

We learn from history that the Prophet Joseph Smith approached the President of the United States and this is what he recorded -

“During my stay I had an interview with Martin Van Buren, the President, who treated me very insolently, and it was with great reluctance he listened to our message, which, when he had heard, he said: “Gentlemen, your cause is just, but I can do nothing for you;” and “If I take up for you I shall lose the vote of Missouri.” His whole course went to show that he was an office-seeker, that self-aggrandizement was his ruling passion, and that justice and righteousness were no part of his composition. I found him such a man as I could not conscientiously support at the head of our noble Republic. I also had an interview with Mr. John C. Calhoun, whose conduct towards me very ill became his station. I became satisfied there was little use for me to tarry, to press the just claims of the Saints on the consideration of the President or Congress, and stayed but a few days, taking passage in company with Porter Rockwell and Dr. Foster on the railroad and stages back to Dayton, Ohio” (History of the Church, Vol. 4, page 80).
Ridges, David J. (2005-07-01). The Doctrine and Covenants Made Easier, Part 3 (The Gospel Studies Series) (Kindle Locations 1687-1694). Cedar Fort, Inc.. Kindle Edition.

With the political motives of our day, I wonder if the same would happen today. This is a great example where the Lord "will come forth from His hiding place" and vex the nation.  But it will be according to His timing and will.

D&C 101

Even though we are promised great blessings conditional upon blessings, it is important to understand that -

"...it shall be in his own time, and in his own way, and according to his own will."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 88:68)

We see this principle as He tells the parable of the Lord's vinyard and in the redemption of Zion as the commands the "strength of my house" to -

"...go ye straightway unto the land of my vineyard, and redeem my vineyard; for it is mine; I have bought it with money.
57 Therefore, get ye straightway unto my land; break down the walls of mine enemies; throw down their tower, and scatter their watchmen."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:56 - 57)

How was Zion to be redeemed? -

"...observe the commandment which I have given concerning these things—
70 Which saith, or teacheth, to purchase all the lands with money, which can be purchased for money, in the region round about the land which I have appointed to be the land of Zion..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:69 - 70)

And to do this -

"...let not your gathering be in haste, nor by flight; but let all things be prepared before you."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:68)

Obviously, this commandment could be done for the Lord said -

"There is even now already in store sufficient, yea, even an abundance, to redeem Zion..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:75)

But the servant asked of the redemption of Zion -

"...When shall these things be?"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:59)

The Lord then suggested that it doesn't matter as long as they are obedient, for as they did, they were to  -

"...leave the residue in mine hand."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:71)

Of which the Lord then promised in parable -

"...When I will..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:60)

adding that -

"...after many days all things were fulfilled." (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:62)

The Lord continues to teach us that our responsibility is to go straightway and keep His commandments.  He will decide when and how the blessings are fulfilled...but they will be fulfilled.

D&C 101

As the Lord taught the conditions of life during the millenium, I was touched with the prophecy -

"...in that day when the Lord shall come, he shall reveal all things—
33 Things which have passed, and hidden things which no man knew, things of the earth, by which it was made, and the purpose and the end thereof—
34 Things most precious, things that are above, and things that are beneath, things that are in the earth, and upon the earth, and in heaven."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:32 - 34)


For me personally, to have all questions answered and all these truths revealed would be so enlightening, thrilling and  satisfying.  As I have read the scriptures, we have read of many great prophets, having so called "high mountain" experiences, where many of these things were revealed.  In a way, I have longed for the same.  Wouldn't it be wonderful to live during this period.  Speaking of "high mountain" experiences which would mean to me to step back and take an eternal perspective to all things, the Lord taught -

"...all they who suffer persecution for my name, and endure in faith, though they are called to lay down their lives for my sake yet shall they partake of all this glory.
36 Wherefore, fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full.
37 Therefore, care not for the body, neither the life of the body; but care for the soul, and for the life of the soul.
38 And seek the face of the Lord always, that in patience ye may possess your souls, and ye shall have eternal life."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:35 - 38)

The Lord said to the Prophet Joseph Smith -

"My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 121:7)

From an eternal perspective or stepping back with a "high mountain" observation, this life is just a moment.  That is why we should not care for body or life, but bear in patience our temporal body and experience.  In an eternal sense, it is just for a moment compared to "eternal life".

D&C 101

As word of the conditions of the saints in Zion began to trickle in to Kirtland, the Lord again began to outline the purpose of this life and the conditions and a His will concerning that plan.  He begins -

"...concerning your brethren who have been afflicted, and persecuted, and cast out from the land of their inheritance—
2 I, the Lord, have suffered the affliction to come upon them, wherewith they have been afflicted, in consequence of their transgressions..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:1 - 2)

I note that part of His plan is that He allows (using the word "suffer) these things to happen...even confessing that these He considers to be the valiant as he reveals -

"Yet I will own them, and they shall be mine in that day when I shall come to make up my jewels."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:3)

"Yet" would suggest they still have much to learn and prove -

"Therefore, they must needs be chastened and tried, even as Abraham, who was commanded to offer up his only son.
5 For all those who will not endure chastening, but deny me, cannot be sanctified.  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:4 - 5)

The more we ponder "even as Abraham" seems significant to me!  Thus affliction and chastening is part of the process whereby we may become sanctified.  Why?  Because without such we tend to become slothful and forgetful for -

"They were slow to hearken unto the voice of the Lord their God; therefore, the Lord their God is slow to hearken unto their prayers, to answer them in the day of their trouble.
8 In the day of their peace they esteemed lightly my counsel; but, in the day of their trouble, of necessity they feel after me."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:7 - 8)

But the Lord again comforts us if we are willing to repent and endure -

"...notwithstanding their sins, my bowels are filled with compassion towards them. I will not utterly cast them off; and in the day of wrath I will remember mercy."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:9)

Tribulations, trials, and chastening should not be confused with His wrath where -

I have sworn, and the decree hath gone forth by a former commandment which I have given unto you, that I would let fall the sword of mine indignation in behalf of my people; and even as I have said, it shall come to pass.
11 Mine indignation is soon to be poured out without measure upon all nations; and this will I do when the cup of their iniquity is full."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:10 - 11)

With these teachings, the Lord provides some interesting insights to me.  The first being that  -

"Zion shall not be moved out of her place, notwithstanding her children are scattered.
18 They that remain, and are pure in heart, shall return, and come to their inheritances, they and their children, with songs of everlasting joy, to build up the waste places of Zion—"  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:17 - 18)

It becomes apparent that Zion will not become a glorious place in the short term because the saints will be "scattered".  But I not the when they return to Zion it will be a "waste place" which means to me that the place will be either desolate or abandoned and there will be no opposition. 

The second point I noticed was that in the last days, the world will be full of wickedness and there will not be and unhabitable place to flee to as we have found amongst many righteous throughtout the scriptures.  Therefore the Lord instructs -

"...there is none other place appointed than that which I have appointed; neither shall there be any other place appointed than that which I have appointed, for the work of the gathering of my saints—
21 Until the day cometh when there is found no more room for them; and then I have other places which I will appoint unto them, and they shall be called stakes, for the curtains or the strength of Zion.
22 Behold, it is my will, that all they who call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting gospel, should gather together, and stand in holy places..."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 101:20 - 22)

In the last days then, the saints will be instructed to gather in stakes of Zion and "stand in Holy places"

D&C 100

After having comforted the Prophet Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon, as they preached the gospel being away from their families, I find it interesting what the Lord taught Sidney Rigdon saying -

"...it is expedient in me that you, my servant Sidney, should be a spokesman unto this people; yea, verily, I will ordain you unto this calling, even to be a spokesman unto my servant Joseph."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 100:9)

Being a counselor in the First Presdency, Sidney was to speak on matters as a representative and spokesman for the Prophet.  And as a spokesman -

"...I will give unto thee power to be mighty in expounding all scriptures, that thou mayest be a spokesman unto him, and he shall be a revelator unto thee, that thou mayest know the certainty of all things pertaining to the things of my kingdom on the earth."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 100:11)

As a counselor, Sidney was given power to expound the scriptures and the inspiration and revelations of the Prophet Joseph Smith.  It was not given Sidney to receive revelations because the Prophet held the keys to do so.   And having received such power to expound the Lord instructed and promised -

"...lift up your voices unto this people; speak the thoughts that I shall put into your hearts, and you shall not be confounded before men;
6 For it shall be given you in the very hour, yea, in the very moment, what ye shall say."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 100:5 - 6)

And then we learn what it really takes for others to be edified and touched by the Holy Ghost by our teaching and preaching with -

"...a commandment I give unto you, that ye shall declare whatsoever thing ye declare in my name, in solemnity of heart, in the spirit of meekness, in all things.
8 And I give unto you this promise, that inasmuch as ye do this the Holy Ghost shall be shed forth in bearing record unto all things whatsoever ye shall say."  (Doctrine and Covenants | Section 100:7 - 8)

"Solemnity of heart" and the "spirit of meekness" is far what method is considered effective in many denominations.  But this is what it takes for others to receive the Holy Ghost, not experience stirred up emotion.