Doctrine & Covenants 51 – Study Guide
Overview
Date: May 20, 1831
Place: Thompson, Ohio
Recipient: Bishop Edward Partridge
Key Circumstance: The Colesville Saints had arrived in Ohio. As they began to settle, questions arose regarding how to fairly distribute land and resources under the Law of Consecration. Bishop Edward Partridge, overwhelmed by the task, sought divine guidance.
Purpose of the Revelation
To give Bishop Edward Partridge specific instruction on how to organize and distribute property according to the Lord’s law of consecration, and to establish practical policies for equity, accountability, and the temporary gathering in Ohio.
Themes
Stewardship and accountability
Consecration and equity
Temporary gathering in Ohio
The bishop's legal and spiritual duties
Unity and honesty among the Saints
Preparation for Zion
Significance
This section outlines one of the earliest operational blueprints for the Law of Consecration, including legal documents, storehouse management, and equitable distribution. It also introduces the idea of a temporary gathering place, anticipating the Saints’ future movement westward. It highlights the Lord’s concern for both spiritual and temporal welfare.
Verse by Verse Investigations:
Verses 1-2: Call to Order
Summary
Direct Revelation: The Lord speaks specifically to Edward Partridge in his role as bishop, emphasizing his authority and stewardship.
Urgency of Order: The repeated phrase “it must needs be” signals divine necessity and urgency.
Divine Blueprint: The people must be organized according to God’s laws, not human wisdom, or they risk spiritual failure ("cut off").
Spiritual Consequences: Disobedience to divine order results in loss of covenant blessings and potential separation from the Church community.
Language & Cultural Insights
“Hearken”
Hebrew: שָׁמַע (shema) — Means more than “listen”; it implies covenantal obedience and full hearted commitment.
“It must needs be”
Archaic English for “it is absolutely necessary.”
· In Greek: δεῖ γίνεσθαι (dei ginesthai) — It is necessary to happen
“Cut off”
Hebrew: כָּרַת (karat) — to cut (especially a covenant), and to be cut off from a covenant community implies separation, excommunication, or loss of blessings.
Reflection Questions
What does it mean to “organize according to God’s laws” in today’s Church?
How does the Lord’s instruction to Edward Partridge mirror the responsibilities of modern Church leaders?
What are some spiritual consequences of disorder or relying on our own wisdom over God’s order?
Cross-References
D&C 42:11–34 – The roles of bishops and the foundation of the Law of Consecration.
Exodus 18:13–26 – Moses delegates leadership under divine counsel to "organize" the people.
1 Corinthians 14:40 – “Let all things be done decently and in order.”
Mosiah 18:18–29 – Alma organizes a new Church community based on spiritual and temporal principles.
Relevant Conference Talks and Resources
“Our Earthly Stewardship” – Bishop Gérald Caussé (October 2022)Bishop Caussé discusses the sacred responsibility of stewardship over God's creations, emphasizing that everything on earth belongs to God and we are accountable for how we care for it.
“Righteous Stewards—Disciples of Jesus Christ” – President Camille N. Johnson (May 2025)President Johnson speaks about personal responsibility in our own conversion and the importance of using our gifts and talents to serve others, highlighting the concept of stewardship in our daily lives.
“Stewardship—a Sacred Trust” – Elder Quentin L. Cook (October 2009)Elder Cook emphasizes that stewardship encompasses both spiritual and temporal responsibilities, including caring for our families and the poor and needy.
“The Mantle of a Bishop” – Elder Robert D. Hales (April 1985)Elder Hales outlines the responsibilities of a bishop, including being a common judge in Israel and overseeing temporal matters, providing insight into the role Edward Partridge was called to fulfill.
“How Can We Be Like Edward Partridge?” – Liahona Article (April 2021)This article discusses the life and sacrifices of Edward Partridge, the first bishop of the restored Church, and encourages readers to emulate his faith and dedication.
Verses 3–5: Stewardship Assigned by Needs
Verses 6–8: Legal & Practical Structures
Verses 9–12: Unity and Accountability
Verses 13–15: Storehouse System
Verses 16–17: Temporary Gathering in Ohio
Verses 18–20: Promise of Joy to Faithful Stewards