“My Law to Govern My Church” Part 2

CFM:

April 28–May 4

D&C 41–44

 Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material

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Chapter Outlines Continued

Doctrine & Covenants 42 Section Overview & Study Guide (V. 40-93)

Major Topic & Themes	Cross References & Supporting Resources
📖 D&C 42:40–42 – Warnings Against Pride and Idleness Summary of Verses The Lord gives practical counsel to avoid pride, vanity, and laziness. He commands the Saints not to be “proud in [their] hearts,” instructing that garments should be plain, with beauty arising from “the work of thine own hands.” Cleanliness is expected in all things before God. Finally, He warns against idleness: “he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer.” These verses reinforce the covenant expectation of humility, modesty, self-reliance, and diligence as foundational to a Zion society. Work is not just temporal but spiritual—it is part of one’s stewardship and offering to the Lord. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights “Proud in thy heart” (v. 40) Hebrew: גָּבַהּ לֵב (gavah lev) – (gavah – to be high, haughty) + (lev – heart) Pride in the heart is not merely external arrogance, but inner self-exaltation and rebellion against God. In scripture, pride is the root of apostasy (see Proverbs 16:18; Alma 38:11–12). “Let all thy garments be plain” (v. 40) Garments in ancient Israel symbolized identity, status, and sanctity. To make them “plain” suggests a return to humble dignity and personal craftsmanship over showiness or vanity. “Beauty… the work of thine own hands” suggests a shift from display to creation—honoring personal industry. “Cleanliness” (v. 41) Hebrew: טָהוֹר (tahor) – clean, pure, ceremonially and morally. Cleanliness is a symbol of spiritual preparation and worthiness (cf. Psalm 24:4; Isaiah 1:16). This may also reference temple imagery, where outer cleanliness reflects inner holiness. “Idle… shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer” (v. 42) Echoes 2 Thessalonians 3:10 – “If any would not work, neither should he eat.” Idleness is condemned not because work earns salvation, but because work is part of divine partnership in creation and consecration. 💭 Reflection Questions How do I guard against pride in subtle forms—status, appearance, education, or spiritual achievements? What does it mean for my work to be my beauty? How can I elevate the spiritual value of my daily efforts? Is my life marked by modesty and humility in both appearance and attitude? What does true cleanliness before the Lord look like—physically, emotionally, spiritually? Do I honor the Lord through my labor and diligence? How do I contribute meaningfully to my home, church, or community?	📖 Cross-References Mosiah 18:27 – Those with more should give freely; those with little should labor with their hands. 2 Nephi 9:28–30 – Pride and worldly wisdom can lead to destruction. Alma 4:6–12 – Prosperity leads to pride; pride leads to downfall. Proverbs 31:13, 17, 27 – The virtuous woman works willingly with her hands and avoids idleness. Jacob 2:13 – Pride due to costly apparel condemned among the Nephites. 🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks “Pride and the Priesthood” – President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, October 2010 “Pride is a switch that turns off priesthood power. Humility is a switch that turns it on.” “We Are Daughters of Our Heavenly Father” – Elaine S. Dalton, April 2013 Virtue is an outward manifestation of an inward knowledge of who we are.” “The Joy of Honest Labor” – Elder L. Tom Perry, April 1986 “Labor is the foundation of all honor.” “Two Principles of Any Economy". The Dignity of Work, and the Value of Education – Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, April 2009 “Work is an antidote to anxiety. It is a symbol of our partnership with God.”
📖 D&C 42:43–52 – Healing and Faith Summary of Verses This section outlines the Lord’s law of healing. Those who are sick are to be cared for tenderly, nourished with herbs and mild food, and blessed by the prayer of faith and priesthood administration. If they are appointed unto death, they die unto the Lord; if they live, they live unto Him. The Saints are instructed to weep for those who die without hope, but to rejoice for those who “die in [the Lord]”—for death to them will be sweet. The Lord affirms that faith opens the way for miracles, spiritual gifts, and eternal identity as sons and daughters of God. Even those who are not healed physically, but who believe and remain faithful, receive divine strength. This passage reflects the intersection of physical healing, spiritual power, and covenantal identity, emphasizing that faith always brings divine blessings, even if the outcomes differ. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights “Nourished… with herbs and mild food” (v. 43) The Lord shows sensitivity to natural and medicinal remedies, suggesting that faith and physical care are complementary. In ancient Israel, herbs were used in both ritual cleansing (Exodus 12:22; Leviticus 14:4) and healing (see Isaiah 38:21). “Lay their hands upon them in my name” (v. 44) Greek: ἐπιτίθημι χεῖρας (epitithēmi cheiras) –  Used in the New Testament to describe how Christ and His apostles healed (Mark 6:5; Acts 9:17). Priesthood blessings continue this sacred pattern of divine contact and sanctified touch. “Die unto me… live unto me” (v. 44) Echoes Romans 14:8 – “Whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.” This language implies belonging in life and death—our covenant with Christ extends beyond the veil. “They shall not taste of death… it shall be sweet unto them” (v. 46) Hebrew: מָתוֹק (matoq) – sweet, pleasant. Death is not bitter to the righteous—it is a transition wrapped in peace and covenantal joy. “He who hath faith… shall leap / hear / see” (vv. 48–51) These reflect Isaiah 35:5–6, a prophecy of healing and restoration in Zion. Suggests both literal healing and spiritual awakening through faith in Christ. “Power to become my sons” (v. 52) Greek: τέκνα Θεοῦ (tekna Theou) – children of God Echoes John 1:12 – “As many as received him… to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” 💭 Reflection Questions How do I approach healing in my life—with faith in divine power and responsibility for physical care? What does it mean to “die unto the Lord”? How can that perspective change how I view death and grief? How has the power of the priesthood blessed me or my family during times of illness or hardship? Am I seeking to be “healed” in both body and spirit through faith and obedience? What small acts of tenderness or belief can I offer to those who are sick or suffering around me?	📖 Cross-References James 5:14–15 – “Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church…” Mosiah 24:14–15 – The Lord eases burdens even if He does not immediately remove them. Alma 7:11–12 – Christ takes upon Himself sicknesses and infirmities. Isaiah 35:3–6 – The eyes of the blind shall be opened, the lame shall leap. John 11:25–26 – “Whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.” Alma 46:40 – This verse beautifully parallels D&C 42:43 where the Lord instructs the Saints to nourish the sick with herbs and mild food alongside priesthood blessings. 🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks “Faith Is Not by Chance, but by Choice” – Elder Neil L. Andersen, October 2015 “Whether in life or in death, faith centers us in Christ.” “Miracles, Angels, and Priesthood Power” – Elder Shayne M. Bowen, April 2024 “If you desire the blessings of the priesthood, including miracles and the ministry of angels, walk the path of covenants God has made available.” “The Sustaining Power of Faith in Times of Uncertainty and Testing” – Elder Richard G. Scott, April 2003 Faith can move mountains, but sometimes it moves us to climb them. "Your exercise of faith builds character. Fortified character expands your capacity to exercise faith. Thus, your confidence in conquering the trials of life is enhanced. And the strengthening cycle continues. The more your character is fortified, the more enabled you are to exercise the power of faith." "The Doors of Death" – President Russell M. Nelson, April 1992 "The only way to take sorrow out of death is to take love out of life. Eternal perspective provides peace “which passeth all understanding”
📖 D&C 42:53–60 – Scriptures and Revelation Summary of Verses In these verses, the Lord declares that the scriptures shall govern the Church. The Saints are commanded to seek knowledge through revelation, but also to preserve the scriptures and teach them to all nations. Leaders are instructed to wait until they have received the full body of scripture before teaching them, emphasizing order, reverence, and divine timing. The doctrines revealed in the scriptures are to become God’s law for governing the Church. Obedience to these teachings leads to salvation, while persistent disobedience leads to condemnation. This passage reveals the deep connection between scripture, revelation, and salvation, showing that divine knowledge is both preserved in text and received through the Spirit. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights “Ask, and my scriptures shall be given” (v. 56) Echoes Matthew 7:7 – “Ask, and it shall be given you…” Reveals the principle that revelation requires active seeking and divine readiness. “Preserved in safety” (v. 56) The word “preserve” often translates the Hebrew שָׁמַר (shamar)  – to guard, protect, watch over. Indicates that scripture is sacred trust, not merely information. Anciently, scribes preserved sacred texts in temple repositories (cf. 2 Kings 22). “Hold thy peace concerning them” (v. 57) Implies sacred restraint—one must not teach prematurely or without the Spirit’s direction. Reflects the pattern of progressive revelation, where truths unfold “line upon line” (Isaiah 28:10; D&C 98:12). “Taught unto all nations” (v. 58) Greek: ἔθνος (ethnos) – nations, peoples, often translated as “Gentiles.” Emphasizes the universal nature of God’s word—its global reach and inclusive invitation. “To be my law to govern my church” (v. 59) The Lord equates the scriptures with divine legislation—not optional guidance, but binding commandments. Hebrew: תּוֹרָה (Torah)  – instruction, law, teaching. This underscores that scripture is covenantal law. 💭 Reflection Questions How do I treat the scriptures—as sacred law or simply inspirational literature? In what ways am I actively seeking revelation “upon revelation” through prayer and scripture study? Do I teach or share sacred truths with appropriate timing, reverence, and spiritual readiness? How can I better preserve the scriptures in my family, my study habits, and my heart? What role do the scriptures play in governing my choices, conversations, and commitments?	📖 Cross-References 2 Timothy 3:16–17 – “All scripture is given by inspiration of God…” 2 Nephi 4:15–16 – “My soul delighteth in the scriptures…” D&C 68:4 – When moved by the Holy Ghost, what the Lord’s servants speak becomes scripture. Mosiah 1:5–7 – Scriptures preserve language and faith across generations. Jacob 4:6–13 – We search the scriptures because they testify of Christ. 🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks “The Power of Scripture” – Elder Richard G. Scott, October 2011 When we study the scriptures, we unlock heaven’s storehouse of knowledge.”Scriptures are like packets of light that illuminate our minds and give place to guidance and inspiration from on high." “The Power of the Book of Mormon” – President Thomas S. Monson, April 2017 A man becomes closer to God by abiding by its precepts. “With the Power of God in Great Glory” – Elder David A. Bednar, October 2021 “Moroni’s teachings in September of 1823 about the Book of Mormon and the mission of Elijah established the doctrinal foundation for the work of salvation and exaltation on both sides of the veil.”
📖 D&C 42:61–69 – Mysteries and the New Jerusalem Summary of Verses In this powerful passage, the Lord promises that greater revelation will come to those who seek it: “revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge.” This revelation will include the mysteries of the kingdom, the location of the New Jerusalem, and the peaceable things of the Spirit. The Saints are promised joy and eternal life as a result of faithful seeking. God’s laws must be observed and lived in order to receive more light. The faithful will be given church covenants sufficient to establish them in this life and prepare them for the city of Zion. A reminder is given: “he that lacketh wisdom, let him ask of me.” The Saints are to rejoice, for they have received the keys of the kingdom. This section blends personal revelation with prophetic destiny—inviting Saints to actively seek divine knowledge and prepare for Zion by keeping the Lord’s law and participating in revealed covenants. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights “Revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge” (v. 61) Mirrors Isaiah 28:10 – “precept upon precept, line upon line…” Hebrew: דַּעַת (daʿat) – knowledge, often linked to covenantal and spiritual discernment. This shows a pattern of progressive revelation—God gives more light as we live what we have. “Mysteries” (v. 61) Greek: μυστήριον (mystērion)  – a hidden or sacred secret, known only by divine revelation. Refers to higher truths not accessible through reason alone, but given through the Spirit (see 1 Cor. 2:7–10). “Peaceable things… that bringeth life eternal” (v. 61) Hebrew: שָׁלוֹם (shalom)  – peace, wholeness, well-being. These “peaceable things” are not just emotional calm, but the fruit of divine alignment with God’s law. “The New Jerusalem” (v. 62) Hebrew: יְרוּשָׁלַיִם חֲדָשָׁה (Yerushalayim ḥadashah) This is the prophesied holy city (see Ether 13:6–10; Revelation 21:2) where Christ will reign. Its location will be revealed in due time—a key part of millennial preparation. “Observe the laws… and be faithful” (v. 66) Reflects the covenantal language of obedience as the gateway to revelation (John 7:17). “He that lacketh wisdom…” (v. 68) Echoes James 1:5, Joseph Smith’s First Vision scripture. Suggests that asking in faith is the eternal key to all revelation—personal and prophetic. 💭 Reflection Questions Am I actively seeking revelation, or am I waiting passively for inspiration to come? What “mysteries” or “peaceable things” might the Lord be ready to teach me—if I prepare myself spiritually? How does obedience open the doors to knowledge and joy? In what ways do I participate in the building of Zion and the preparation for the New Jerusalem? How often do I ask God for wisdom? What do I do with the answers I receive?	📖 Cross-References James 1:5–6 – “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God…” Isaiah 2:2–3 – The mountain of the Lord’s house established; the Lord shall teach His ways. Ether 13:6–10 – New Jerusalem to be built in the Americas as a land of inheritance for the righteous. D&C 1:28 – The Lord’s people “shall be taught more perfectly…” D&C 76:5–10 – To those who fear God and serve Him, He will reveal all His mysteries. 🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks “Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives” – President Russell M. Nelson, April 2018 “In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.” “Seek Ye Out of the Best Books” – Elder Ian S. Arden, October 2017 "As we study from the best books, we protect ourselves against the menacing jaws of those that seek to gnaw at our spiritual roots." “Daily Restoration” – Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, October 2021 “We need an ongoing, daily infusion of heavenly light. We need “times of refreshing.” Times of personal restoration.” “Come to Zion” – Elder D. Todd Christofferson, October 2008 “In our families and in our stakes and districts, let us seek to build up Zion through unity, godliness, and charity.” Articles and Other Resources
📖 D&C 42:70–73 – Support for Church Officers Summary of Verses These verses provide instruction for how Church officers—specifically priests, teachers, elders, high priests, counselors, and bishops—are to be supported in their callings. They are to have stewardships or receive a just remuneration from the consecrated properties of the Saints. The purpose of this support is to allow Church leaders to focus fully on their spiritual responsibilities and service to the Saints. The system emphasizes equity, wise use of consecrated resources, and the principle that those who labor in the Lord’s vineyard are worthy of temporal support. This segment reflects a divine pattern where spiritual laborers are sustained by the generosity and consecration of the Saints, creating balance, accountability, and shared responsibility in the administration of the Church. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights “Stewardships” (v. 70) Greek: οἰκονομία (oikonomia)– "house law" administration, stewardship, management This is the root of the word “economy.” It implies entrusted responsibility over a portion of the Lord’s resources. In the gospel context, a stewardship is both a sacred duty and a divine trust (see D&C 104:11–13). “Just remuneration” (vv. 72–73) Remuneration = payment or compensation considered fair and appropriate for one’s labor. The use of the word “just” indicates that compensation must be governed by principles of fairness and need, not extravagance or inequality. “Consecrated to the bishop… for the good of the poor” (v. 71) This clause shows the dual purpose of consecrated offerings: to sustain leaders and to serve the poor. Consecration is not about creating a class of privileged leadership—it is about collective responsibility. “As may be thought best or decided by the counselors and bishop” (v. 72) Indicates that Church financial decisions should be made with counsel and spiritual discretion, not unilaterally. Follows the pattern of governing by council, a principle that safeguards against abuse and reinforces unity. 💭 Reflection Questions How can I sustain my Church leaders—not only spiritually, but temporally when appropriate? Do I view my tithes and offerings as sacred tools to build Zion and sustain those who labor in the vineyard? What is my personal “stewardship,” and how can I magnify it with faith and diligence? How does the principle of just remuneration reflect God's concern for fairness and dignity in labor? In what ways do I counsel with others when making financial or stewardship decisions in the Church or my family?	📖 Cross-References Mosiah 18:26–28 – Those who had means were to impart freely; those who labored in spiritual things were supported. 1 Corinthians 9:13–14 – “They which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.” D&C 24:18 – The Lord promises to provide for His servants in His own way. D&C 104:11–18 – Detailed description of stewardships and accountability. Jacob 2:18–19 – Seek riches to do good—to clothe the naked, feed the hungry, and build the kingdom. 🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks ““For Whatsoever a Man Soweth, That Shall He Also Reap,” outlining the The Law of the Harvest – Elder L. Tom Perry, October 1980 “As we give of our time and talents, we help support the Lord’s work and those who are called to carry it out.” “Stewardship – a Sacred Trust” – Elder Quentin L. Cook, October 2009 We are all stewards over the means the Lord has placed in our hands. “The Windows of Heaven” – Elder David A. Bednar, October 2013 Church funds are sacred. The systems for their use must reflect the sacred trust placed in them. “Through our obedience, God’s work moves forward—and His servants are supported.”
📖 D&C 42:74–93 – Church Discipline and Moral Law Summary of Verses This concluding portion of Section 42 provides detailed instructions on how the Church should handle serious transgressions, including fornication, adultery, murder, theft, lying, and offenses between members. The Lord outlines standards of due process, including confession, witnesses, private correction, and Church involvement when needed. Specific procedures are given for married and unmarried individuals, as well as guidelines on when to rebuke openly or reprove privately. The goal of discipline is not shame, but repentance, reconciliation, and restoration. These verses illustrate the Lord’s commitment to both justice and mercy, showing how the Church is to be governed by law, order, and love—balancing protection of the body with opportunities for repentance and forgiveness. 🕊️ Language & Cultural Insights “Put away their companions for the cause of fornication” (v. 74) Echoes Matthew 5:32 and Matthew 19:9, where Christ allows separation for sexual immorality. (See our lesson "What Lack I Yet," for more details about what these passages are referring to and some helpful insights pertaining to Jewish law regarding how Christ was actually condemning the Jewish legal system for mistreating women, he was not condemning women. In fact he wa advocating for them. Greek: πορνεία (porneia)  – fornication, sexual sin, impurity. “Cast them out” (vv. 75, 77, 91) Ancient Israelite communities would cut off or remove unrepentant covenant-breakers to preserve holiness (Lev. 18; Deut. 17). In the New Testament, Paul commands similar action in 1 Corinthians 5:13. “Every word shall be established… by two witnesses” (v. 80) Based on the Law of Moses (Deuteronomy 19:15) and reinforced in New Testament church law (Matthew 18:16). Ensures fairness and integrity in judgment. “Not to the members, but to the elders” (v. 89) Protects individuals from public humiliation, ensuring discipline is administered through priesthood structure. Aligns with Christ’s counsel to resolve offenses “between thee and him alone” (Matthew 18:15). “Speak reproachfully” (v. 92) Greek: ὀνειδίζω (oneidizō) – to revile, insult, shame publicly The Lord discourages gossip or shaming as discipline—it is to be private, redemptive, and guided by love. 💭 Reflection Questions How do I respond when someone in my circle falls short? Am I more like the Pharisees—or the Savior? What role does confession play in personal healing and Church unity? Do I show enough humility to correct my own behavior before calling out others? How do I uphold righteousness while still creating an environment of compassion and invitation to repent? Am I prepared to forgive and reconcile when someone sincerely repents?	📖 Cross-References Mosiah 26:29–32 – Those who confess and repent are forgiven. Matthew 18:15–17 – Step-by-step process for dealing with offenses in the Church. D&C 58:42–43 – True repentance includes confessing and forsaking sin. Moroni 6:7–8 – Church members who repent are forgiven and retained in fellowship. 🎙️ Relevant Conference Talks “He is Risen with Healing in His Wings” – Elder Patrick Kearon, April 2022 “Christ’s discipline is to heal, not to wound.” “The Righteous Judge” – Elder Lynn G. Robbins, October 2016 Discipline in the Lord’s Church is evidence of His love and desire to save. ""Compassion doesn’t nullify the need for discipline. The word discipline comes from the Latin word discere, “to learn,” or discipulus, “learner,” making a disciple a student and follower. To discipline in the Lord’s way is to lovingly and patiently teach." (Greek μαθητής mathētḗs, Hebrew תַּלְמִיד (talmid) from לִמּוּד limmûwd/ root לָמַד lâmad) “Repentance and Conversion” – Elder Russell M. Nelson, April 2007 “Divine love includes discipline and opportunities to change.” “The Divine Gift of Repentance (and Forgiveness)” – Elder D. Todd Christofferson, October 2011 “The divine gift of repentance is the key to happiness here and hereafter. In the Savior’s words and in deep humility and love, I invite all to “repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). I know that in accepting this invitation, you will find joy both now and forever.”

Doctrine & Covenants 43

Doctrine & Covenants 44 – Section Overview & Study Guide

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