“My Law to Govern My Church”
- CFMCorner
- Apr 28
- 31 min read
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The Restoration of the Ancient Church — The Law: The Same Yesterday, Today, and Forever
As we study Doctrine and Covenants 41–44, we encounter some of the most formative instructions in the early Restoration. These sections do more than organize a 19th-century church—they restore the divine structure, law, and patterns of worship established from the beginning with Israel, expanded upon by the Savior during His ministry, and now reinstated in preparation for His return.
The Lord refers to D&C 42 as “the law of the Church”—a phrase that deliberately echoes Torah, the Hebrew word for “law” or “instruction” (תּוֹרָה). Just as the Torah was revealed to Moses to sanctify the children of Israel and prepare them to enter the promised land, so too is the law of the Church given to sanctify the Saints and prepare them to build Zion. Both laws:
Emphasize obedience, stewardship, and consecration
Establish a community standard of holiness
Include laws of healing, purity, justice, and mercy
Reflect a covenantal relationship between God and His people
When Christ came, He taught a “higher law”—not to destroy the Torah, but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). He deepened its meaning, showing that true holiness begins in the heart. D&C 42 mirrors this progression: it addresses not only external commandments but internal discipleship, calling Saints to love, purity, sacrifice, and prophetic preparation.
General Conference and Ancient Pilgrimage Feasts
In D&C 44, the Lord commands His people to gather for a general conference—a sacred assembly where He promises to pour out His Spirit and organize His people. This follows the same divine pattern as the Old Testament Feasts of the Lord, which were not only festivals but pilgrimage gatherings where Israel came to the temple to be instructed, renewed, and unified.
These Moedim (appointed times) included:
Passover (Pesach) and the Spring Festivals (Feast of Unleavened Bread "Mazot," and First Fruits "Bikkorim) – Remembering deliverance and covenant
Pentecost (Shavuot) – Receiving the law at Sinai
Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) and the Fall Festivals, or High Holy Days (Day of Trumpets "Yom Teruach "Day of Trumpets" also referred to as Rosh Hashannah or the Jewish "New Year," the Day of Atonement "Yom Kippur," leading up to Sukkot – Celebrating God’s presence among Zion, who gathered at the Tabernacle or Temple.
Three times a year, all Israelite males were commanded to appear before the Lord in Jerusalem (Exodus 23:14–17; Deuteronomy 16:16). These were seasons of teaching, remembrance, and renewal, just as our modern conferences are seasons of revelation, repentance, and re-centering on Christ.
Why This Matters
Understanding these restored patterns helps us see that:
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is deeply rooted in ancient covenantal tradition.
The Restoration is not a new religion—it is the divine reconstitution of God's people, following ancient patterns and principles.
General Conference, Church law, and even the gathering of the Saints are temple-centered, covenant-based patterns meant to prepare us to meet God.
When we see the Restoration through this lens, we gain a richer appreciation for:
The purpose of commandments
The sacred nature of community
The ongoing role of prophets and revelation
The deep continuity between the Old Testament, the ministry of Christ, and the restored Church
Reflection Prompt
“As you study these sections, consider: What does it mean for us to be a modern Israel? How do our Church meetings, laws, and gatherings reflect ancient patterns meant to sanctify and prepare us for Zion and the Second Coming of Jesus Christ?”
Additional Info:
Insights from the Apostles: Ye are Called to Bring to Pass the Gathering, Elder Gerrit W. Gong and Sister Susan Gong
By the Prayer of Faith by Elder Bednar
Chapter Outlines
Doctrine & Covenants 41 — Section Outline & Study Guide
Overview
Date: February 4, 1831
Location: Kirtland, Ohio
Recipient: The Church, through Joseph Smith
Historical Context: Joseph Smith had just arrived in Kirtland. The Saints there were eager for further instruction. Leman Copley offered housing, but this revelation clarified arrangements and foreshadowed the giving of the “law” (Section 42).
Notable Appointment: Edward Partridge is called as the first bishop of the Church.
Timeframe & Setting
Follows Joseph and Sidney's arrival in Kirtland from New York.
The Saints in Kirtland were zealous but doctrinally confused, prompting the need for more structured governance.
Marks the first time the office of "bishop" is formally instituted in the restored Church.
Prepares the Saints for the reception of "the Law" (section 42).
Purpose of the Revelation
To instruct the elders to seek the Lord's law through unified prayer.
To underscore that discipleship requires both hearing and doing.
To confirm where Joseph and Sidney should reside.
To appoint Edward Partridge as bishop and explain his responsibilities.
Significance
Introduces the principle that Church governance must be directed by revelation.
Highlights the sacredness of God’s law and the importance of obedience.
Sets the precedent for the office of bishop—entrusted with temporal matters and caring for the poor.
Begins preparing the Saints for communal and consecrated living.
Main Themes & Language Insights | Cross-References & Supporting Resources |
1–3: Assemble in Unity to Receive the Law Summary of VersesThe Lord commands the elders of the Church to gather together in unity and faith to receive His law. This law would govern the Church and ensure that all things would be done "right" before God. The Lord emphasizes that revelation comes through prayerful unity among the elders, setting a spiritual precedent for leadership and Church order. This moment serves as a prelude to the forthcoming Section 42—the “law of the Church”—and underscores the principle that divine law is not imposed arbitrarily, but revealed to a prepared and prayerful people. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
| D&C 42:1–2 – The law they are about to receive (fulfilled shortly after this revelation). 3 Nephi 27:21 – “This is my gospel… what manner of men ought ye to be?” Mosiah 18:21 – “Having their hearts knit together in unity and in love one towards another.” Ephesians 4:11–13 – Unity of the faith and the knowledge of the Son of God. James 1:5–6 – Ask in faith, nothing wavering. Relevant Conference Talks & Apostle Addresses
Articles & Other Resources
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4–6: Discipleship Defined by Obedience Summary of VersesIn these verses, the Lord declares that He will rule His Church when He comes, and that His coming will be “quick.” True disciples are identified by their obedience to His law, while those who claim to receive the law but do not obey it are not His disciples and are to be removed from among the faithful. The Lord then uses sharp imagery: sacred things—those that “belong to the children of the kingdom”—must not be given to the unworthy, likened to “dogs” and “swine.” This emphasizes that gospel blessings are covenantal and must be treated with reverence. This segment draws a clear line between professing faith and living it. Discipleship is not defined by mere belief but by covenantal obedience. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
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🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
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7–8: Direction for Joseph and Sidney Summary of VersesIn these verses, the Lord addresses practical concerns for His servants. Joseph Smith is commanded to have a house built in which to live and continue his work of translation. Sidney Rigdon is given more flexible direction—he may live as he sees fit, “inasmuch as he keepeth my commandments.” This instruction not only resolves immediate logistical questions but underscores the sacred nature of the Prophet’s labor and the importance of providing a stable environment for the work of revelation and translation. The Lord’s concern for the temporal welfare of His servants also highlights a theme that will recur in future revelations: sacred work must be supported by temporal stewardship. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
| 📖 Cross-References
🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
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9–11: Call of Edward Partridge as Bishop SummaryThe Lord calls Edward Partridge to serve as the first bishop in the restored Church. He is to be officially appointed by the voice of the Church and set apart to labor full-time in the Church’s service, leaving behind his business endeavors. The Lord praises Edward’s character, likening him to Nathanael from the New Testament, “in whom there is no guile.” This appointment initiates the office of bishop in this dispensation—a role that would grow in importance as the Saints practiced the law of consecration and cared for the poor. This moment not only marks a pivotal organizational development but highlights the spiritual qualifications God values in His leaders: purity of heart, humility, and guilelessness. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
| 📖 Cross-References
🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
Articles & Other Resources
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12: A Warning About Sacred Revelation SummaryThe Lord concludes this brief but significant revelation with a solemn warning: the words He has given are “pure” and must be regarded with the utmost reverence. Individuals are accountable for how they receive and act upon His words—“for they are to be answered upon your souls in the day of judgment.” This sobering declaration elevates the authority of revelation, reminding the Saints that divine instruction is not optional, but binding and eternally significant. This verse also serves as a spiritual framing device for the next major revelation (D&C 42), calling attention to the sacredness of the law the Saints are about to receive. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
| 📖 Cross-References
🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
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Doctrine & Covenants 42 – Section Outline & Study Guide (V.1-39)
The Law of the Church
Overview & Setting:
Date: February 9 & 23, 1831
Location: Kirtland, Ohio
Recipients: Twelve Elders and the Church
Context & Background:
This pivotal revelation was given in two parts in response to a divine promise (see D&C 38:32) that the Saints would receive God’s “law” after gathering in Ohio. The first portion (vv. 1–72) was received in the presence of twelve elders and addresses gospel principles, missionary work, moral conduct, and the foundation of the Law of Consecration. The second portion (vv. 73–93), received later that month, further elaborates on Church discipline, moral law, and procedures for dealing with sin and reconciliation.
Joseph Smith referred to this section as “embracing the law of the Church.” It serves as a constitution of sorts for the early Saints, shaping their doctrinal understanding, communal organization, and practical holiness.
This revelation is one of the most doctrinally dense in the Doctrine and Covenants. It defines how a Zion people live—through faithful obedience, consecrated living, spiritual stewardship, healing compassion, and covenantal justice. It is both a personal and communal charter for preparing the Saints to become the people of the Lord and build up His kingdom.
Key Circumstances:
The Saints in Kirtland were zealous but disorganized, and false teachings had begun to spread.
The Lord gave His law to unify the Church, correct errors, and prepare the Saints for consecrated living.
Edward Partridge, the newly appointed bishop, would now begin administering the law of consecration among the Saints.
Major Doctrinal Themes:
Missionary Work – Elders are called to go forth, preach, and baptize in the name of Christ.
Authority & Teaching – Only those ordained may teach; all instruction must align with scripture and be guided by the Spirit.
Moral Purity – Clear commandments are given against killing, adultery, stealing, lying, and speaking evil.
Law of Consecration – Saints are commanded to consecrate their properties to care for the poor and build the Church.
Healing & Faith – The sick are to be cared for with prayer, natural means, and priesthood blessings.
Scriptures & Revelation – The scriptures govern the Church; revelation continues through the Spirit.
Church Discipline – Procedures are outlined for addressing sin, ensuring justice, privacy, and reconciliation.
Stewardship – All members are accountable before God for what they receive and how they serve.
Why It Matters:
Doctrine and Covenants 42 is a foundational revelation that gives spiritual structure to the Church in the last days. It brings together divine law, practical commandments, and moral integrity, all centered in Christ. It teaches that holiness is communal, that obedience leads to empowerment, and that consecration is the pattern of Zion. This section remains deeply relevant for modern Saints striving to live by covenants in a world of confusion.
Main Themes & Language Insights | Cross-References & Supporting Resources |
📖 D&C 42:1–10 – Call to Preach and Build the ChurchSummary of VersesThe Lord opens this revelation by addressing the elders of the Church who had gathered together in obedience to previous instruction. Because they assembled in unity and asked in faith, He begins to reveal His law. The first commandment He gives is a renewed call to missionary work: all elders (except Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon, for a short season) are to go forth in the power of the Spirit, two by two, preaching the gospel and baptizing with authority. The Lord instructs them to declare repentance boldly, like angels sounding a trumpet, and to prepare for the gathering of the Saints and the eventual revelation of the New Jerusalem. Edward Partridge is confirmed in his appointment as bishop, and a warning is given: if he transgresses, another will be appointed in his stead. This opening section lays the groundwork for the Church’s unified missionary efforts and establishes the connection between spiritual unity, revelation, and the building of Zion. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
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🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
Articles & Other Resources
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📖 D&C 42:11–12 – Authority to PreachSummary of VersesThe Lord affirms that no one is authorized to preach the gospel or build up His Church unless they are ordained by someone who holds priesthood authority. That authority must be publicly recognized and sustained by the Church. In verse 12, the Lord commands that elders, priests, and teachers teach only the principles of the gospel as found in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, where the fulness of the gospel is contained. This passage underscores the importance of proper priesthood authority, scriptural grounding, and spiritual accountability in teaching truth. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
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🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
Articles & Other Resources
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📖 D&C 42:13–17 – Teach by the Spirit Summary of VersesThe Lord instructs that all teaching in the Church must be directed by the Holy Spirit. Elders, priests, and teachers are to observe and teach the Church's covenants and articles of faith, but only as they are moved upon by the Spirit. The Spirit is given through the prayer of faith, and without it, no one is authorized to teach. When teachers speak by the Comforter, they will prophesy and declare truth as directed by God. The Comforter, or Holy Ghost, knows all things and bears record of the Father and the Son. These verses emphasize the divine source of true teaching—not just correct doctrine, but Spirit-filled delivery—and establish that revelation through the Spirit is not optional, but essential. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
| 📖 Cross-References
🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
Articles & Other Resources
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📖 D&C 42:18–29 – Moral CommandmentsSummary of VersesIn this segment, the Lord reaffirms key commandments that govern moral behavior within the Church. These include prohibitions against murder, theft, lying, adultery, lust, and speaking evil of others. Each sin is paired with clear consequences, especially for those who refuse to repent—such as being cast out from among the Saints. A powerful principle is repeated: repentance is essential to forgiveness and fellowship. Love and loyalty within marriage are emphasized (“cleave unto her and none else”), and even internal desires (such as lustful thoughts) are included in the standard of righteousness. This passage underscores that the Lord’s law governs both actions and intentions. Holiness begins in the heart and is made visible through repentance and obedience. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
| 📖 Cross-References
🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
Articles & Other Resources
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📖 D&C 42:30–39 – Consecration and StewardshipSummary of VersesThese verses introduce the law of consecration, a divine economic and spiritual system designed to care for the poor and build Zion. The Saints are commanded to remember the poor and consecrate a portion of their properties for their support. This is to be done through a formal covenant and deed, administered by the bishop and his counselors, ensuring that offerings are sacred and irrevocable. Each person is appointed a stewardship—sufficient for their needs—and any surplus becomes part of the bishop’s storehouse to bless others. This system emphasizes personal responsibility, communal care, and the divine principle that "inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these… ye do it unto me" (v. 38). This section forms the heart of the Lord’s economic vision for Zion: equal access through divine order, agency, and generosity. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights
💭 Reflection Questions
| 📖 Cross-References
🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks
Articles & Other Resources
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