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C.C.A. Christensen (1831–1912), Saints Driven from Jackson County Missouri , c. 1878, tempera on muslin, 77 ¼ x 113 inches. Brigham Young University Museum of Art, gift of the grandchildren of C.C.A. Christensen, 1970. Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

August 11–17 Doctrine and Covenants 88  Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material Videos & Podcasts Media Resource BYU RSC Library D&C 88 The Olive Leaf and the Family of Heaven “Have We Not Had a Prophet Among Us?” Video: The School of the Prophets Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson D&C 88 Come Follow Me Kid D&C 88 Come Follow Me Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths D&C 88 Understanding God & The Nature of Life | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey | August 11-17 The Surprising Truth About God’s Laws | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey | August 11-17 How Joseph Smith Predicted the Civil War I The Complete Story (Restoration Revealed Episode 14) Come Follow Up D&C 88 D&C Historical Background D&C 88 Don't Miss This D&C 88 Follow Him D&C 88 Doctrine & Covenants 88 Part 1 • Sister Noelle Pikus Pace • Aug 11 - 17 • Come Follow Me Doctrine & Covenants 88 Part 2 • Sister Noelle Pikus Pace • Aug 11 - 17 • Come Follow Me Grounded with Barbara Morgan D&C 88 Doctrine and Covenants 88 | Dr. Barbara Morgan Gardner and Amy Jo Young | August 11-18 Gospel For Kids D&C 88 Learn Things of Heaven and Earth | Come Learn with Me | Doctrine and Covenants 88 Hurricane Adult Religion Class D&C 88 “The Olive Leaf”; the divine natures of God and man Latter Day Kids D&C 88 Draw Near Unto Me | Animated Scripture Lesson for Kids (Come Follow Me: Aug 11-17) Line Upon Line D&C 88 Not Yet Posted Meridian Magazine D&C 88 Our Mothers Knew It D&C 88 D&C Week 33 [D&C 88] Insights and Object Lessons with Maria Eckersley Saving Talents D&C 88 Scripture Study Central D&C 88 Website Study Guide Taylor & Tyler Scripture Explorers D&C 88 Establish A House of God Scripture Gems D&C 88 Scripture Insights D&C 88 Seminary Decks D&C 88 Talking Scripture D&C 88 Video Show Notes Teaching With Power D&C 88 Doctrine and Covenants 88 Insights Doctrine and Covenants 88 Teaching Activities The Interpreter Foundation D&C 88 The Red Crystal D&C 88 Primary Youth The Scriptures are Real D&C 88 Understanding Temples and Their Role in Preparing for the Second Coming Thumb Follow Me D&C 88 Survive or Be Devoured Unshaken D&C 88 Deep Doctrine Chapter & Section Summaries D&C 88 Revelations in Context “A House for Our God” A School and an Endowment Saints Volume 1, Chapter 15 Holy Places Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson   Doctrine & Covenants 88: The Olive Leaf Finding Joy in God's Perfect Patterns of Peace Opening: The Message After the Storm Imagine Noah, watching the dove return with an olive leaf—a small token promising that the storm has passed and new life awaits. In December 1832, after receiving the prophecy of war and destruction (D&C 87), the Lord gave Joseph Smith what he called "the Olive Leaf... plucked from the Tree of Paradise"—a message of peace amidst prophecies of tribulation. This revelation teaches us that JOY is found not in the absence of trials, but in recognizing God's patterns that always lead from chaos to peace, from death to resurrection, from darkness to light. Core Teaching: Three Divine Patterns That Bring Joy Pattern 1: Light Always Conquers Darkness "The light shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not" (D&C 88:49) The Light of Christ Framework (vv. 6-13) Christ descended below all things and ascended above all things His light fills the immensity of space This light is simultaneously: Physical  (powers the sun, moon, stars) Spiritual  (enlightens understanding) Governing  (the law by which all things operate) Joy Application:  When we understand that Christ's light is literally in everything—from the sunrise to our very thoughts—we realize darkness is temporary. Light isn't just coming; it's already here, working in and through us. Activity: "Finding the Light" Identify three areas where you see Christ's light operating: In creation around us In our understanding/intelligence In the laws that bring order to our lives Pattern 2: God's Calendar of Redemption "All kingdoms have a law given... unto every law there are certain bounds also and conditions" (D&C 88:36-38) Understanding God's Ancient Calendar When the Lord gave Israel their law through Moses, He didn't just give commandments—He outlined a divine calendar, a clock, a sequence of events, outlining the plan of salvation.  In this plan, he organized the Redemption of Israel as the Bride of Christ.  Seven sacred feast days were established in the Torah as "divine appointments" (in Hebrew: these are called moedim , pronounced "moh-eh-DEEM," meaning "appointed times" or "set meetings"). Think of these feasts like standing appointments with God—specific times when heaven's schedule intersected with God’s covenant people. Just as we might mark important dates months in advance, God marked these times for Israel to meet with Him in special ways. What made these feasts special? They pointed to Christ They were parables, using the agricultural seasons  (harvest times) and lunar cycles  (new moons) to teach the Israelites how to recognize the Savior in tangible ways They required Israel to pause regular life  and gather at appointed times for worship and covenant renewal They served as prophetic emblems  of what God would do for his people They created a rhythm of remembrance and anticipation Let’s examine a few Book of Mormon passages where we see these concepts reflected: "Behold, my soul delighteth in proving unto my people the truth of the coming of Christ; for, for this end hath the law of Moses been given; and all things which have been given of God from the beginning of the world, unto man, are the typifying of him ." Jacob 4:5   "Behold, they believed in Christ and worshiped the Father in his name, and also we worship the Father in his name. And for this intent we keep the law of Moses, it pointing our souls to him ; and for this cause it is sanctified unto us for righteousness" Mosiah 13:29-30   "And now I say unto you that it was expedient that there should be a law given to the children of Israel, yea, even a very strict law... And now, did they understand the law? I say unto you, Nay, they did not all understand the law; and this because of the hardness of their hearts; for they understood not that there could not any man be saved except it were through the redemption of God." Alma 34:14   "And behold, this is the whole meaning of the law, every whit pointing to that great and last sacrifice ; and that great and last sacrifice will be the Son of God, yea, infinite and eternal." Jarom 1:11   "Wherefore, the prophets, and the priests, and the teachers, did labor diligently... persuading them to look forward unto the Messiah, and believe in him to come as though he already was ." D&C 88 echoes this pattern when it describes his “times and seasons,” using the parable of the Lord’s vineyard, how the Lord visits each kingdom "in its hour, and in its time, and in its season" (v. 59), and how "times and seasons" are divinely patterned to teach us powerful truths about His Holy Order (v. 42). The Seven Feasts as God's Timeline These Holy Days weren't random celebrations—they form a powerful map of God's entire plan of salvation: Spring Feasts  (Christ's First Coming - Already Fulfilled): Passover (Pesach)  → The angel of death "passed over" Israel's firstborn in Egypt. Christ, our Passover Lamb, was crucified on Passover, saving us from spiritual death. Unleavened Bread (Matzot)  → Seven days eating bread without yeast (symbol of sin/corruption). Christ's sinless body lay in the tomb for three days during this feast.  The Hebrew word Matza means “to find,” and part of the festival of Matzot is to find the bread of life, representing the body of Christ. Firstfruits (Bikkurim)  → The first sheaf of barley harvest waved before God. Christ rose on this exact day as "the firstfruits of them that slept" (1 Cor. 15:20; D&C 88:98) Summer Feast : Pentecost/Weeks (Shavuot)  → The Israelites were instructed to count 7 weeks after Passover to celebrate the Feast of Weeks. 7x7+1=50, and this is where we get the name Pentecost, meaning 50th day.  The wheat harvest and the giving of the Law at Sinai were celebrated during this season.  This was one of the three pilgrimage celebrations where the obedient followers would gather at the Temple.  It was while observing this feast day that the Holy Ghost was poured out on the apostles (Acts 2).  This was possibly the same time Christ appeared to the Nephites at the Temple in Bountiful, when they would have been gathered as they faithfully observed the Feast Days per the Law.  Fall Feasts  (Second Coming - Yet to Fulfill): Trumpets (Yom Teruach/Rosh Hashanah)  → A day of trumpet blasts calling Israel to prepare. D&C 88:92-109 describes seven angels with trumpets announcing Christ's return. The sound of the Trumpet was a beacon call to gather Israel to the Temple. This was also the Day that the Angel Moroni (known for his trumpet) gave Joseph Smith the Golden Plates, ushering in a new dispensation, calling Israel once again to return to the covenant in preparation for the return of Jesus Christ.  Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)  → The holiest day of the year when the High Priest entered the Holy of Holies with the blood of sacrifice to cleanse Israel. Interestingly, scripture often uses the plural form "Kippurim" (atonements/coverings), suggesting multiple layers of meaning. Jewish scholars note a profound connection: "Kippur-im" can be read as "K-Purim" (like Purim, using the kaph as a prefix to mean "like or as"). Purim celebrates Queen Esther's story—when a bride approached the king's throne unbidden, risking her life to save her people, resulting in deliverance and covenant renewal. This beautiful parallel points to the ultimate Day of Atonement when Christ, our High Priest, will present His bride (covenant Israel/the Church) before the Father's throne, completing the final cleansing and restoration. D&C 88:95 appears to echo this moment in reverse: "the curtain of heaven be unfolded... and the face of the Lord shall be unveiled" Tabernacles (Sukkot)  → Seven days of dwelling in temporary booths, remembering the wilderness wandering and celebrating the final harvest. Pictures the Millennium when God "tabernacles" with His people.  This is a reflection of the Temple Covenant, where God and His people are reunited in the new and everlasting covenant. The Feast of Sukkot is concluded with Simchat Torah, or “Rejoicing in the Torah/ Law” The Amazing Pattern : Christ fulfilled the spring feasts to the very day  during His mortal ministry. The fall feasts await fulfillment at His Second Coming. This isn't a coincidence—it's divine design! The Parable of Divine Visitation (vv. 51-59) The Lord visits each "kingdom" in its appointed hour: Every person/nation has their "season" of divine encounter No one will be forgotten; all receive their invitation The pattern moves in a chiasmic structure, "from first to last, and from last to first" Joy Application:  God has an appointment with YOU. Your struggles and experiences aren't random—they're part of a divine design leading to your personal "feast day" with Him. Pattern 3: Resurrection and Glory by Law "That which is governed by law is also preserved by law and perfected and sanctified by the same" (D&C 88:34) The Law-Glory Connection (vv. 20-32) Three profound truths about resurrection and joy: Everyone receives a glory  suited to the law they can abide by The Earth itself follows celestial law  and will be resurrected We receive what we're willing to receive  - God doesn't impose glory The Seven Houses Become One (v. 119) The temple/School of Prophets is described in seven divisions that together establish the House of God: House of Prayer  (communion) House of Fasting  (sacrifice) House of Faith  (trust) House of Learning  (intelligence) House of Glory  (divine presence) House of Order  (divine patterns reflected in Priesthood and ordinances) House of God  (complete unity) Joy Application:  These aren't seven different places—they're seven aspects of ONE joyful life in Christ. When we integrate all seven, His Spirit abides in us, and we become living tabernacles of His glory. The Olive Leaf Promise: Tokens of Peace in Your Life Recognizing Your Personal Olive Leaves Just as Noah received the olive leaf before the ground was fully dry, God sends us tokens of peace before our trials are fully resolved: Look for these "olive leaves" in your life: Unexpected moments of peace during turmoil Small confirmations that God remembers you Patterns from past deliverances that strengthen faith Glimpses of light when surrounded by darkness People sent at just the right moment The Washing of Feet: From Service to Sanctification (vv. 138-141) The School of the Prophets concluded with the washing of feet—connecting: Ancient priest preparation (Exodus 30:19-21) Christ's example (John 13) Personal sanctification for God's presence Modern Application:  In addition to the temple, what daily "washings" prepare us for divine encounters? Morning prayer (washing the mind) Scripture study (washing the heart) Service (washing away selfishness) Repentance (washing the soul) Forgiveness (washing away hurt and pride) Practical Application: Living the Patterns Daily Pattern Practice Morning - Seek the Light (vv. 11-13) "The light which shineth, which giveth you light, is through him who enlighteneth your eyes" Begin each day recognizing Christ's light already present Practice: Identify three ways you see His light today Midday - Remember the Calendar (vv. 42-44) "He hath given a law unto all things, by which they move in their times and their seasons" Trust that your current "season" has divine purpose Practice: Identify which "feast season" you're in spiritually, consider what lessons he is trying to teach you, and how you should prioritize your time. Evening - Choose Your Law (vv. 32-35) "Enjoy that which they are willing to receive." Evaluate what laws you're living by and what glory you're preparing for Practice: Choose one celestial law to explore and embrace more fully Weekly Sabbath Pattern Create your own "solemn assembly" as you approach the sacrament (v. 70): Gather with purpose Study and Ponder with purpose "by study and also by faith" (v. 118) Share the light you've received through word and action Help to guide others on their way by pointing them to Christ Testimony Moments: Where Participants Share Discussion Questions for Deep Engagement The Light Question : "When have you experienced the Light of Christ helping you comprehend something you couldn't understand before?" The Season Question : "Looking back, can you identify a 'divine appointment' in your life—a time when God visited you in your season?" The Glory Question : "What 'glory' are you preparing yourself to receive? What law do you need to embrace more fully?" The Olive Leaf Question : "What small token of peace has God sent you recently that testifies His storm in your life will end in peace?" Closing: The Joy of Sure Promises D&C 88 begins with angels rejoicing over our prayers (v. 2) and ends with the promise that Christ will "come quickly and receive you unto myself" (v. 126). Between these bookends lies the entire plan—complex yet simple, vast yet personal, challenging yet joyful. The Ultimate Joy:  We're not random beings in a chaotic universe. We're covenant children moving through divine patterns with purpose toward a glorious, promised end. Every sunset follows a pattern. Every season returns. Every promise God makes is kept. And every child of God who seeks the light will find it. Final Invitation:   "Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you" (D&C 88:63) This week, look for: Your olive leaves (tokens of coming peace) Your divine appointment (your season with God) Your increasing light (growing intelligence and joy) Your Hero's Journey (facing challenges with courage and hope) Remember: In God's pattern, joy isn't the absence of winter—it's knowing spring always comes. Additional Resources for Teachers Visual Aids Feast Calendar Wheel : Connect the seven feasts to D&C 88's prophecies An Eye Single to the Glory of God: Learning to receive His image in our countenance comes as we cultivate His attributes, developing charity toward both ourselves and others. Music to Consider "The Light Divine" (Hymn 305) "I Know That My Redeemer Lives" (Hymn 136) "Press Forward, Saints" (Hymn 81) Extended Study References Genesis 8:11 (Noah's olive leaf) Leviticus 23 (Feast patterns) John 13 (Washing of feet) Revelation 8-11 (Trumpet patterns) D&C 84:45-47 (Light of Christ) D&C 93:36 (Glory and light) "Wherefore, I now send upon you another Comforter, even upon you my friends, that it may abide in your hearts, even the Holy Spirit of promise; which other Comforter is the same that I promised unto my disciples" (D&C 88:3) The olive leaf has been delivered. Peace is coming. Joy is sure. Additional Resources The Scripture Citation Index Doctrine & Covenants Stories Scripture Stories Coloring Book - D&C Liahona , For the Strength of Youth , Friend Saints The Gospel Learning and Teaching email subscription Revelations in Context: The Stories Behind the Sections of the Doctrine and Covenants Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Joseph Smith Papers   Joseph Smith’s Revelations: A Doctrine and Covenants Study Companion from the Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith Accounts of the First Vision Prophets of the Restoration Gospel Topics Essays Gospel Topics and Questions Church History Topics Answers to Church History Questions Global Histories Saints, Volume 1 Saints, Volume 2 Revelations in Context Joseph Smith’s Revelations Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Church History Topics Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

August 18-24, 2025 Doctrine & Covenants 89-92  Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material OFFICIAL CHURCH RESOURCES Resource Name Link YouTube Videos Doctrine and Covenants Scripture Stories for Kids D&C Stories Manual Gospel for Kids Children’s Gospel Videos Insights from the Apostles Monthly Video Series StriveToBe (Youth Channel) Youth Videos The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Official Church Channel Websites Additional Resources for Teaching Children Teaching Resources Come Follow Me Manual D&C 89-92 Lesson Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Lesson 34 Historical Context Friend Magazine Resources Children’s Magazine Gospel Topics Essays - Word of Wisdom Word of Wisdom Essay Joseph Smith Papers - D&C 89 Revelation 27 February 1833 Joseph Smith Papers - D&C 90 Revelation 8 March 1833 Joseph Smith Papers - D&C 91 Revelation 9 March 1833 Joseph Smith Papers - D&C 92 Revelation 15 March 1833 Joseph Smith’s Revelations: D&C Study Companion Study Resources Revelations in Context - “The Word of Wisdom” D&C 89 Background Revelations in Context - “The Keys of the Kingdom” D&C 90 Background Saints Volume 1 - Chapter 15 Holy Places Seminary Teacher Manual Teacher Resources Student Manual (Institute) Student Commentary Teacher Manual Teaching Helps GENERAL AUDIENCE VIDEO & AUDIO RESOURCES Resource Name Link Scripture Central Resources Come Follow Church History - Lynne Wilson D&C 89-91: Word of Wisdom, Visions of God, Apocrypha Church History Matters - D&C 89 A Deep Dive on the Word of Wisdom Church History Matters - D&C 90-92 Learning Is A Divine Duty Scripture Central (Taylor & Tyler) D&C 89-92: Visual Scripture Study YouTube Channels Come Follow Up D&C 89-92: Weekly Supplement Don’t Miss This D&C 89-92: Weekly Study Follow Him Part 1 D&C 89-92: Sister Karen Hepworth Part 1 Follow Him Part 2 D&C 89-92: Sister Karen Hepworth Part 2 Scripture Gems D&C 89-92: Family Study Scripture Insights D&C 89-92: Learning Focus Talking Scripture D&C 89-92: Discussion Teaching With Power D&C 89-92: Teaching Methods The Scriptures Are Real D&C 89-92: Testimony Building Unshaken D&C 89-92: Faith Perspectives Podcasts Follow Him Podcast D&C 89-92 Show Notes Scripture Gems Podcast D&C 89-92 Audio ACADEMIC RESOURCES Resource Name Link BYU Religious Studies Center Come Follow Me Articles Chad Nielsen’s D&C Commentary D&C 89-92 Analysis Doctrine and Covenants Central D&C 89-92 Commentary Gospel Doctrine - D&C 89 Section 89 Commentary Gospel Doctrine - D&C 90 Section 90 Commentary Gospel Doctrine - D&C 91 Section 91 Commentary Gospel Doctrine - D&C 92 Section 92 Commentary Hurricane Adult Religion Class D&C Study Resources Hyrum M. Smith & Janne M. Sjodahl Commentary Classic 1916 Commentary Steven Harper’s D&C Commentary Historical Analysis The Interpreter Foundation D&C Lesson 34 Analysis WOMEN’S PERSPECTIVES Resource Name Link Books & Academic Resources Women in the Scriptures D&C 89-92 Women’s Analysis Video Channels Grounded with Barbara Morgan Gardner D&C 89-92: Women’s Academic Perspective Our Mothers Knew It - Insights D&C 89-92: Women’s Insights Our Mothers Knew It - Object Lesson D&C 89-92: Object Lesson FAMILY & CHILDREN’S RESOURCES Resource Name Link Family Websites Come Follow Me FHE (Family Home Evening) D&C 89-92 Family Lesson Come Follow Me Kid D&C 89-92 Activities Teaching Children the Gospel D&C 89-92 Teaching Helps The Red Crystal D&C 89-92 Creative Activities Video Channels Latter Day Kids D&C 89-92 Kids Video Line Upon Line D&C 89-92 Family Stories Scripture Explorers D&C 89-92 Interactive Learning Thumb Follow Me D&C 89-92 Family Study Podcasts Come Follow Me Kids D&C 89-92 Kids Episode CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES D&C 89 D&C 90 D&C 91 D&C 92 Additional Resources For the Strength of Youth: “Your body is sacred”  - Life Help Resources: Addiction Help Physical Health Gospel Topics: “ Word of Wisdom ” Historical Context Resources Temperance Movement (1830s) : School of the Prophets 19th Century Medicine First Presidency Formation The Apocrypha Explained United Order/Firm Scripture Central Resources D&C 89 Commentary D&C 90 Commentary D&C 91 Commentary D&C 92 Commentary How Does the Book of Mormon Help Explain the Origins of the Word of Wisdom? Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson   Weekly Insights Article: “A Principle with Promise” Doctrine & Covenants 89-92 | August 18-24, 2025 “A Principle with Promise” - Living the Lord’s Law of Health This week’s study of Doctrine and Covenants 89-92 reveals profound truths about how the Lord prepares His people for both temporal and eternal purposes. These four revelations, given within just over two weeks in early 1833, work together to establish patterns that still guide the Church today: health as a foundation for revelation, priesthood keys that ensure divine authority, discernment in an age of mixed truth and error, and unity among the Saints. Wisdom as the Tree of Life: Understanding the Deeper Pattern Before examining the specific promises of D&C 89, we must understand that this revelation represents far more than a health code—it embodies divine wisdom in its fullest sense. The Hebrew title “Word of Wisdom” ( chokmah ) connects directly to the personified Wisdom of Proverbs, who declares herself to be the Tree of Life: “She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her” ( Proverbs 3:18 ). Philo of Alexandria and the Four Rivers of Wisdom Philo of Alexandria (20 BCE - 50 CE), the great Jewish philosopher who bridged Hebrew scripture with Greek philosophy, provided profound insights into the nature of divine wisdom that illuminate our understanding of the Word of Wisdom. Writing during the time of Christ, Philo interpreted the Garden of Eden allegorically, seeing it as a pattern for the human soul’s relationship with divine wisdom. According to Philo, Eden was divided into four quadrants by intersecting rivers, with the Tree of Life placed at the center—the navel of creation. He taught that these four rivers represented the four cardinal virtues that flow from divine wisdom: Prudence ( Phronesis ) - The river that “appoints what is to be done” Courage ( Andreia ) - The river that determines “what is to be endured” Temperance ( Sophrosyne ) - The river that discerns “what is to be chosen” Justice ( Dikaiosyne ) - The river that governs “what is to be distributed” These four virtues, flowing from the Tree of Life at Eden’s center, create the pattern for righteous living. Remarkably, D&C 89 contains all four elements: prudence in our choices, courage to resist social pressure, temperance in consumption, and justice in how we treat our bodies as temples. The Celestial Hierarchy of the Word of Wisdom Just as the Savior taught that His laws operate on telestial, terrestrial, and celestial levels—moving from “thou shalt not kill” to “love your enemies”—the Word of Wisdom functions as a three-tiered law that can elevate us through the degrees of glory: Telestial Level (Good): Avoiding Harmful Substances At the basic level, we abstain from alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea, and harmful drugs. This protects us from addiction, illness, and the spiritual dulling that comes from substance abuse. We avoid what conspiring men would use to enslave us physically and spiritually. Terrestrial Level (Better): Actively Choosing Health Moving beyond mere avoidance, we embrace the positive aspects: eating herbs and fruits “in the season thereof,” consuming meat “sparingly,” making grain the “staff of life,” and approaching all consumption “with prudence and thanksgiving.” We exercise, get adequate rest, and treat our bodies as temples through active stewardship. Celestial Level (Best): Wisdom and Self-Regulation for Revelation At the highest level, we understand that physical discipline enhances spiritual receptivity. Every food choice becomes an opportunity for self-mastery. Every meal begins with gratitude that sanctifies consumption. We develop the spiritual sensitivity to discern what enhances our capacity to receive revelation versus what diminishes it. Physical temperance becomes the foundation for spiritual temperance in all areas of life. This progression mirrors Philo’s understanding of wisdom flowing from the Tree of Life at Eden’s center. When we place divine wisdom at the center of our lives—the navel of our spiritual existence—the four rivers of virtue naturally flow outward, creating patterns of prudent choice, courageous obedience, temperate consumption, and just stewardship. The Physical Foundation of Spiritual Power What stands out most powerfully in D&C 89 is the Lord’s declaration that this law is given for “temporal salvation” (v. 2), yet the promises are deeply spiritual—wisdom, hidden treasures of knowledge, and divine protection. This isn’t coincidental. The body and spirit are “inseparably connected” (D&C 93:33), and what we do to one affects the other. When Emma Smith complained about tobacco stains on the floor of the School of the Prophets, she probably didn’t realize she was prompting a revelation that would become one of the most distinctive markers of Latter-day Saint identity. But the Lord used this practical concern to teach a profound principle: our physical choices either enhance or diminish our capacity for spiritual communication. The Hebrew phrase translated as “health in their navel and marrow to their bones” (v. 18) speaks of vitality flowing from the very core of our being. Ancient peoples understood the navel as the center of life force and marrow as the essence of strength. When we honor our bodies as temples through Word of Wisdom obedience, we’re not just avoiding harmful substances—we’re optimizing our spiritual receptivity. Protection from Conspiring Men The Lord’s warning about “evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days” (v. 4) has proven remarkably prescient. In 1833, tobacco was widely considered harmless, even medicinal. The tobacco industry wouldn’t systematically hide cancer research for another century. Yet the Lord saw through the eventual conspiracies of Big Tobacco, knowing that financial interests would one day put profit above human welfare. This principle extends far beyond the substances specifically mentioned in section 89. We live in an era of sophisticated manipulation—from social media algorithms designed to create addiction, to complicated situations with political, financial, corporate, food, and health institutions that frequently prioritize market share over humanities welfare. The Word of Wisdom teaches us to be discerning consumers, asking not just “Is this legal?” but “Will this enhance my capacity to receive revelation?” Keys That Never Fail Section 90’s promise that the keys of the kingdom will “never be taken from you, while thou art in the world, neither in the world to come” (v. 3) provided crucial stability during a period of intense opposition. This assurance that divine authority would remain unbroken has been repeatedly tested and vindicated throughout Church history. The section also establishes a vital principle about how we receive divine guidance: we must not treat the “oracles of God” as “a light thing” (v. 5). In our age of information overload, this warning is particularly relevant. We can become so accustomed to prophetic counsel that we stop truly hearing it, like background noise. The Lord promises that “all things shall work together for your good” (v. 24), but only if we receive His words with the reverence they deserve. Vienna Jaques provides a beautiful example of faithful response to prophetic direction. When called to consecrate her property and move to Missouri, she obeyed promptly and lived the rest of her 96 years as one who was “faithful, and not idle” (v. 31). Her story reminds us that following prophetic counsel often requires sacrifice but leads to lasting fulfillment. Discerning Truth in an Age of Information Section 91’s brief instruction about the Apocrypha contains principles urgently needed in our digital age. The Lord acknowledges that these books contain “many things that are true” but also “many things that are not true, which are interpolations by the hands of men” (v. 1-2). The key to navigating this mixture? “The Spirit manifesteth truth” (v. 4). Understanding the Apocrypha: What Joseph Was Considering The Apocrypha (from Greek apokryphos  meaning “hidden things”) consists of books written primarily during the intertestamental period (roughly 400 BCE to 100 CE) that bridge the Old and New Testaments. These texts were included in the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament) and later in Jerome’s Latin Vulgate, but their canonical status was debated by early Christians and remains disputed today. Major Apocryphal Books Include: 1 & 2 Maccabees - Historical accounts of Jewish resistance under Antiochus IV Tobit - A moral tale about faithfulness and divine intervention Judith - Story of a heroic Jewish woman who saves her people Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) - Wisdom literature similar to Proverbs Wisdom of Solomon - Philosophical reflections on divine wisdom Baruch - Prophetic text attributed to Jeremiah’s scribe Prayer of Manasseh - King Manasseh’s repentance prayer Additions to Daniel - Including Susanna, Bel and the Dragon Additions to Esther - Expanding the canonical narrative Why the Controversy? The canonical status of these books divided along cultural lines. Eastern Orthodox churches generally accept most of them, the Roman Catholic Church officially canonized them at the Council of Trent (1546), while Protestant reformers rejected them based on their absence from the Hebrew Bible ( Tanakh ). The Church of England’s Thirty-Nine Articles (1563) declared them “good and useful for reading” but not authoritative for doctrine. Joseph Smith would have encountered the Apocrypha in the King James Version available to him, where they appeared between the Old and New Testaments in many editions. As he worked on his inspired translation, questions naturally arose about whether these disputed books deserved the same attention as canonical scripture. Credible Sources for Studying the Apocrypha: Academic Translations: New Revised Standard Version Apocrypha  - Widely used scholarly translation. Click on Bible Book List, and you will find the texts. The New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE) has the one of the most academically reliable translations. Oxford Annotated Apocrypha  - Excellent scholarly commentary Harper Collins Study Bible with Apocrypha  - Comprehensive study notes Online Resources: Early Christian Writings  - Free access to multiple translations Bible Gateway Apocrypha Section  - Searchable NRSV Apocrypha Jewish Virtual Library  - Historical context from Jewish perspective Pseudepigrapha.com  - Broader collection including non-canonical texts Academic Study: The Oxford Handbook of the Apocrypha  - Scholarly examination Journal for the Study of the Pseudepigrapha  - Peer-reviewed academic research Dead Sea Scrolls Online  - Related intertestamental texts Historical Context Resources: Britannica: Intertestamental Period  - Historical background Jewish History: Second Temple Period  - Cultural context Ancient History Encyclopedia: Hellenistic Judaism  - Religious development The Principle of Spiritual Discernment What makes D&C 91 so relevant today isn’t primarily the question of the Apocrypha’s canonicity, but rather the principle it establishes: when encountering any text that mixes truth with error, “the Spirit manifesteth truth” (v. 4). The Lord’s approach was neither wholesale acceptance nor total rejection, but discernment. “Whoso is enlightened by the Spirit shall obtain benefit therefrom; and whoso receiveth not by the Spirit, cannot be benefited” (v. 5-6). This revelation came as Joseph was working on his inspired translation of the Bible, wondering whether to include the disputed Apocryphal books. The Lord’s response was essentially: “Use your spiritual discernment. Those who are enlightened by the Spirit will obtain benefit; those who aren’t, won’t.” Modern Application Beyond Ancient Texts Today we encounter far more complex information challenges than Joseph faced. Social media feeds us carefully curated content designed to confirm our biases. Artificial intelligence can create convincing but false images, videos, and text. Traditional authorities in media, academia, and government have lost much of their credibility. In this environment, the ability to “prove all things; hold fast that which is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21) through spiritual discernment becomes essential. Unity in Temporal and Spiritual Things Section 92’s brief call for Frederick G. Williams to join the United Order represents a profound principle often overlooked in our individualistic culture. The Lord wanted His leaders to be “equal in earthly things” (D&C 78:6), not because temporal equality is an end in itself, but because unity in temporal matters facilitates unity in spiritual things. The United Order experiment of the 1830s ultimately failed because the Saints weren’t ready for such a high law. But the principle remains: our relationship with material possessions affects our spiritual relationships. When leaders are unified temporally, they can focus on spiritual purposes without the distraction of financial disparity or competition. Modern applications might include generous fast offerings, ethical business practices, and treating temporal stewardships (like callings) as opportunities for consecration rather than personal advancement. Living the Promises Today These revelations work together to paint a picture of Saints who are physically healthy, spiritually discerning, unified in purpose, and protected by divine authority. The promises in D&C 89:18-21—physical health, hidden treasures of knowledge, supernatural endurance, and divine protection—aren’t just future rewards but present possibilities for those who live these principles with faith. The Word of Wisdom isn’t ultimately about rule-following but about optimizing our capacity to receive revelation. When we can “run and not be weary, and walk and not faint” (v. 20), we’re better able to fulfill our divine missions. When we eat “with prudence and thanksgiving” (v. 11), we transform ordinary meals into moments of gratitude and mindfulness. Perhaps most importantly, these revelations teach us that the Lord cares about every aspect of our lives—what we eat, how we lead, what we study, and how we relate to each other temporally. There is no separation between “secular” and “sacred” in the kingdom of God. Everything can be sanctified when done with the right spirit and according to divine principles. As we apply these teachings, we join the ranks of Saints throughout history who have found that obedience to divine law leads not to restriction but to liberation—freedom from the deceptions of conspiring men, freedom to receive revelation, and freedom to participate in building Zion through unity and consecration. Key Takeaways Physical obedience enhances spiritual capacity - The body and spirit are inseparably connected; what we do to one affects the other’s ability to function optimally. Divine authority provides unwavering guidance - Priesthood keys ensure we always have access to revelation, but we must receive prophetic counsel with proper reverence. Spiritual discernment is essential for truth - In an age of information overload and sophisticated deception, the Spirit remains our most reliable guide to truth. Additional Resources The Scripture Citation Index Doctrine & Covenants Stories Scripture Stories Coloring Book - D&C Liahona , For the Strength of Youth , Friend Saints The Gospel Learning and Teaching email subscription Revelations in Context: The Stories Behind the Sections of the Doctrine and Covenants Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Joseph Smith Papers   Joseph Smith’s Revelations: A Doctrine and Covenants Study Companion from the Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith Accounts of the First Vision Prophets of the Restoration Gospel Topics Essays Gospel Topics and Questions Church History Topics Answers to Church History Questions Global Histories Saints, Volume 1 Saints, Volume 2 Revelations in Context Joseph Smith’s Revelations Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Church History Topics Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

August 25–31 Doctrine and Covenants 93  Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material OFFICIAL CHURCH RESOURCES GENERAL AUDIENCE VIDEO & AUDIO RESOURCES ACADEMIC RESOURCES WOMEN’S PERSPECTIVES FAMILY & CHILDREN’S RESOURCES CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson   Additional Resources The Scripture Citation Index Doctrine & Covenants Stories Scripture Stories Coloring Book - D&C Liahona , For the Strength of Youth , Friend Saints The Gospel Learning and Teaching email subscription Revelations in Context: The Stories Behind the Sections of the Doctrine and Covenants Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Joseph Smith Papers   Joseph Smith’s Revelations: A Doctrine and Covenants Study Companion from the Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith Accounts of the First Vision Prophets of the Restoration Gospel Topics Essays Gospel Topics and Questions Church History Topics Answers to Church History Questions Global Histories Saints, Volume 1 Saints, Volume 2 Revelations in Context Joseph Smith’s Revelations Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Church History Topics Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

August 4–10 Doctrine and Covenants 85–87 Detail from The Restoration of the Melchizedek Priesthood , by Liz Lemon Swindle  Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material D&C 84 VIDEOS & PODCASTS Media Resource Links BYU RSC Library D&C 85-87 “It Maketh My Bones to Quake”: Teaching Doctrine and Covenants 85 “Have We Not Had a Prophet Among Us?” Video: The School of the Prophets Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson D&C 85-87 D&C 85-87 I Consecrate, Gathering, Prophecy on War I Come Follow Church History with Lynne Wilson Handout Come Follow Me Kid D&C 85-87 Come Follow Me Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths D&C 85-87 The Apostasy Isn’t All You Think | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey | August 4-10 The Revelation on War | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey | August 4-10 How Joseph Smith Predicted the Civil War I The Complete Story (Restoration Revealed Episode 13) Come Follow Up D&C 85-87 Doctrine and Covenants | Aug 4-10 | Sections 85-87 | Come Follow Up on BYUtv D&C Historical Background D&C 85-87 Don't Miss This D&C 85-87 Follow Him D&C 85-87 Doctrine & Covenants 85-87 Part 1 • Prof. Robert Freeman • Aug 4 - 10 • Come Follow Me Doctrine & Covenants 85-87 Part 2 • Prof. Robert Freeman • Aug 4 - 10 • Come Follow Me Transcripts Grounded with Barbara Morgan D&C 85-87 Gospel For Kids D&C 85-87 Wheat and Tares | Come Learn with Me | Doctrine and Covenants 86 Seminary Decks Hurricane Adult Religion Class D&C 85-87 Latter Day Kids D&C 85-87 Olivia the Owl | Animated Scripture Lesson for Kids (Come Follow Me: Aug 4-10) Line Upon Line D&C 85-87 Not Yet Posted Meridian Magazine Podcast D&C 85-87 Our Mother's Knew It D&C 85-87 D&C Week 32 [D&C 85-87] Insights and Object Lessons with Maria Eckersley Saving Talents D&C 85-87 Scripture Study Central D&C 85-87 Taylor & Tylor Study Plans Scripture Explorers D&C 85-87 D&C 85-87 Joseph Smith Prophecy of the Civil War Scripture Gems D&C 85-87 Scripture Insights D&C 85-87 Doctrine & Covenants 85-87. Lesson 32. CFM 2025. Scripture Insights Talking Scripture D&C 85-87 Ep 332 | D&C 85-87, Come Follow Me 2025 (August 4-10) Show Notes Teaching With Power D&C 85-87 Doctrine and Covenants 85-87 Insights Doctrine and Covenants 85-87 Teaching Activities Thumb Follow Me D&C 85-87 Not Yet Posted The Red Crystal D&C 85-87 Primary Youth The Scriptures are Real D&C 85-87 S4 E41 Finding Safety in the Last Days: Holy Places (D&C 85-87) The Interpreter Foundation D&C 85-87 Study and Teaching Helps: 2025 Doctrine & Covenants Interpreter Come, Follow Me Podcast: Doctrine & Covenants Come, Follow Me  Study and Teaching Helps — Lesson 32: D&C 85–87 Audio Roundtable: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 32 (D&C 85–87) “Thou Shalt…Offer Up Thy Sacraments upon My Holy Day” D&C 87-92 Unshaken D&C 85-87 Come Follow Me - D&C 85-87 - A World at War CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES I won't be able to plug these in this week, I'm sorry! Saints: Volume 1, Chapter 15 Holy Places Volume 1, Chapter 42 Round Up Your Shoulders Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson   A Note to Readers: Life has been hectic lately—between work responsibilities and some family medical emergencies, I'm navigating a bit more than usual. Thank you for your patience as I continue sharing these reflections amid some of life's spicy moments. Although I won't have time to format and import my usual Chapter Outline Summaries this week, I'd like to share a few thoughts that stood out to me in the materials. In Hebrew, the word for "wilderness"— midbar  (מִדְבָּר)—carries a hidden treasure. It's built on the root davar  (דָּבַר), which means "word" or "speech." At first glance, this seems paradoxical: how can the desolate wilderness be connected to divine speech? Yet this linguistic link reveals something profound about where and how God frequently chooses to speak to His children. As we explore D&C 85-87 this week, we'll discover that the wilderness isn't just a place of wandering—it's where God's voice frequently becomes clearest, where competing voices fall silent, and where His people learn to hear again. "From Egypt to Exodus: Finding God's Voice in the Wilderness" Opening: The Sacred Pattern of Wilderness Throughout scripture, God leads His people through the same pattern: Out of Egypt  (bondage to false systems) Through the wilderness  ( midbar  - where He speaks) Into the promised land  (covenant relationship) This pattern appears in: Ancient Israel's exodus The Book of Mormon The early Church's restoration Our personal discipleship today In D&C 85-87, we witness this pattern unfolding for the early Saints—and discover how it applies to us. Part 1: Leaving Our Egypts Behind Ancient Israel's Egypt For 400 years, Israel absorbed Egyptian ways: Their gods and hierarchies Their understanding of power and provision Their politics and customs Their very imagination of what was possible Even after the Red Sea miracle, they continued to carry the chains of Egypt in their hearts. When Moses delayed on Sinai, they built a golden calf—reflective of cultural idolatry. The Early Saints' Religious Egypt The early converts came from a society deeply divided by powerful ideologies: Political divisions : Jacksonian Democrats vs. Whigs, states' rights vs. federal authority The slavery question : Already tearing apart denominations and communities Economic pressures : Land speculation fever, debt cycles, competitive individualism Social hierarchies : Class distinctions, educational elitism, racial prejudices Intellectual movements : Rationalism dismissing miracles, emotionalism mistaken for revelation As revealed in D&C 86, truth had become mixed with error—wheat growing with tares. The cultural and political turmoil of 1830s America was both a preparation and a problem. Each ideology demanded allegiance, shaping how converts understood authority, community, and even revelation itself. Our Modern Egypt We too, carry influences that compete with God's voice: Digital Egypt : The endless scroll, the algorithmic feed, the dopamine economy Political Egypt : Partisan ideologies that demand ultimate allegiance Cultural Egypt : Success metrics that measure worth by worldly standards Economic Egypt : Consumerism, debt culture, the prosperity gospel Intellectual Egypt : Philosophies that explain away the sacred Reflection Question : What "Egyptian" influences still shape how you hear—or fail to hear—God's voice? Part 2: The Wilderness as Decluttered Communication Space (Midbar) מִדְבָּר: Where God Speaks The Hebrew word for wilderness, midbar  (מִדְבָּר), contains its own revelation. Built on the root דבר ( davar   - "speak, arrange"), the wilderness is literally the place of speech . Consider the pattern: Moses  receives the Torah in the midbar  of Sinai Elijah  hears the still small voice in the midbar  cave John the Baptist  prepares the way in the midbar Jesus  defeats Satan with scripture in the midbar Joseph Smith  receives revelation in moments of displacement The wilderness strips away competing voices until only God's davar  remains. D&C 85: Bringing Order from Chaos The Lord's command to keep careful records (D&C 85) wasn't simply bureaucracy—it was a reset. By establishing divine order, the Saints learned to distinguish between: God's patterns vs. their former church, cultural, and social traditions Priesthood authority vs. congregational democracy Revelation vs. religious enthusiasm The "one mighty and strong" (v. 7) would "set in order the house of God"—not through force, but through the word, establishing divine patterns that would gradually repair the corrupted worldly ones. D&C 86: Patient Cultivation "Let the wheat and the tares grow together until the harvest" (D&C 86:7) This divine patience recognizes that refinement takes time. You can't rip out mental tares without damaging tender wheat. The Saints needed space and time to mature, to gradually: Unlearn sectarian prejudices Release competitive denominationalism Embrace continuing revelation Learn the priesthood order and keys The field ( community ) and the wilderness ( spiritual isolation ) work together. In the field, wheat and tares mingle. In the wilderness, we learn to tell them apart. Part 3: Learning to Hear Again D&C 87: When Babylon Rages The Christmas 1832 prophecy of war (D&C 87) adds urgency to wilderness preparation. When: Nations rage against nations Social order collapses Familiar structures fail ...those who have learned to hear God's voice in the wilderness will know where to stand. "Stand ye in holy places, and be not moved" (D&C 87:8) Holy places are our personal midbar —spaces where we've learned to: Recognize His voice among many voices Trust His patterns over worldly wisdom Find peace amid chaos Creating Modern Wilderness Spaces How do we cultivate midbar  moments today? Daily Wilderness : Morning scripture before checking phones Prayer walks without podcasts Sabbath spaces free from screens Temple attendance as a wilderness retreat Mental Wilderness : Questioning cultural assumptions Examining inherited prejudices Releasing political idolatries Embracing holy curiosity Communal Wilderness : Family councils without devices and distractions Testimony meetings focused on Christ Service that disrupts comfort zones Covenant communities that challenge worldly values Part 4: From Wilderness to Harvest The Promise Pattern Each revelation contains a promise for those who enter the wilderness: D&C 85 : Your name will be recorded (numbered) in the Lamb's book of life D&C 86 : You are "lawful heirs" with a divine destiny D&C 87 : You will stand unmoved when everything shakes The Harvest Vision The wheat and tares won't grow together forever. The Lord sees the end from the beginning: Every Egyptian influence will be stripped away Every competing voice will be silenced Every covenant child will be gathered Every promise will be fulfilled But first—the wilderness. First—learning to hear. Family Application Activities For Children: "Hearing God's Voice" Game Play background noise (music, TV, conversation) while trying to hear a parent whisper instructions. Discuss how "wilderness quiet time" helps us hear God better. For Youth: "Digital Detox Challenge" Choose one hour daily this week as "wilderness time"—no distractions, just scripture, prayer, and pondering. Journal what you notice. For Adults: "Egypt Inventory" List influences that shape your thinking (news sources, social media, cultural expectations). Prayerfully identify which ones might be drowning out God's voice. For Families: "Holy Place Mapping" Together, identify your family's "holy places"—physical and temporal spaces where you best hear God. Commit to protecting these wilderness moments. Synthesis: The Ongoing Exodus We are all somewhere on the exodus journey: Some are still discovering they're in Egypt Some stand at the Red Sea, terrified to leave Some are wandering in the wilderness, learning to hear Some are beginning to glimpse the promised land ahead Wherever we are, these revelations remind us: God keeps a careful record of His covenant people  (D&C 85) He patiently cultivates wheat among tares  (D&C 86) He prepares holy places for coming storms  (D&C 87) The wilderness isn't punishment—it's preparation. It's where we unlearn Egypt and learn to hear the God who speaks. Closing Testimony: He Still Speaks in the Wilderness In Hebrew, the books of Moses tell the story: Genesis  ( Bereshit ): "In the beginning"—creation Exodus  ( Shemot ): "Names"—identity Leviticus  ( Vayikra ): "And He called"—holiness Numbers  ( Bemi dbar ): "In the wilderness "—testing Deuteronomy  ( Devarim ): " Words "—covenant renewal The pattern is eternal: God creates, calls, sanctifies, tests, and speaks His covenant again. Today, He calls us into our midbar —not to abandon us, but to speak. In a world of competing voices, chaos, and confusion, He still whispers in the wilderness: "Be still, and know that I am God." Additional Resources Scripture Chain for Personal Study : Hosea 2:14-15 (Israel's restoration) 1 Kings 19:11-12 (Elijah's still small voice) Matthew 4:1-11 (Jesus in the wilderness) 1 Nephi 8 (Lehi's wilderness vision) D&C 101:16 (standing in holy places) Journaling Prompts : What Egyptian influences do I need to leave behind? Where is my personal wilderness—my midbar ? What holy places is God preparing for me? How can I better discern His voice among all others? Additional Resources The Scripture Citation Index Doctrine & Covenants Stories Scripture Stories Coloring Book - D&C Liahona , For the Strength of Youth , Friend Saints The Gospel Learning and Teaching email subscription Revelations in Context: The Stories Behind the Sections of the Doctrine and Covenants Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Joseph Smith Papers   Joseph Smith’s Revelations: A Doctrine and Covenants Study Companion from the Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith Accounts of the First Vision Prophets of the Restoration Gospel Topics Essays Gospel Topics and Questions Church History Topics Answers to Church History Questions Global Histories Saints, Volume 1 Saints, Volume 2 Revelations in Context Joseph Smith’s Revelations Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Church History Topics Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

July 28–August 3 Doctrine and Covenants 84 Detail from The Restoration of the Melchizedek Priesthood , by Liz Lemon Swindle  Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material D&C 84 VIDEOS & PODCASTS Media Resource Links BYU RSC Library D&C 84 The Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood (D&C 84) The Covenant among Covenants Using Section 84 to Emphasize the Priesthood Power of Women Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson D&C 84 The Priesthood for Men and Women Come Follow Me Kid D&C 84 Come Follow Me Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths D&C 84 The Power of Godly Living Clarity on the Priesthood in the Church Come Follow Up D&C 84 D&C Historical Background D&C 84 Don't Miss This D&C 84 For the Sake of the World Follow Him D&C 84 Doctrine & Covenants 84 Part 1 • Dr. Jared Halverson • July 28 - Aug 3 • Come Follow Me Doctrine & Covenants 84 Part 2 • Dr. Jared Halverson • July 28 - Aug 3 • Come Follow Me Show Notes Grounded with Barbara Morgan D&C 84 Not Yet Posted Gospel For Kids D&C 84 Joseph and Sidney Are Attacked Seminary Decks Hurricane Adult Religion Class D&C 84 The Priesthood & Its Quorums Latter Day Kids D&C 84 Not Yet Posted Line Upon Line D&C 84 Not Yet Posted Meridian Magazine Podcast D&C 84 Not Yet Posted Our Mother's Knew It D&C 84 Not Yet Posted Saving Talents D&C 84 Scripture Study Central D&C 84 Taylor, Tyler, and Anthony Sweat Study Plans Scripture Explorers D&C 84 Scripture Gems D&C 84 Scripture Insights D&C 84 Talking Scripture D&C 84 Teaching With Power D&C 84 Doctrine and Covenants 84 Insights Doctrine and Covenants 84 Teaching Activities Thumb Follow Me D&C 84 Not Yet Posted The Red Crystal D&C 84 Primary Youth The Scriptures are Real D&C 84 Not Yet Posted The Interpreter Foundation D&C 84 Study and Teaching Helps: 2025 Doctrine & Covenants Interpreter Come, Follow Me Podcast: Doctrine & Covenants Come, Follow Me  Study and Teaching Helps — Lesson 31: D&C 84 Audio Roundtable: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 31 (D&C 84) KnoWhy OTL23A — How Does the Story of David’s Loyalty to Saul Apply in Our Day? “The Restoration of the Priesthood”: D&C 13; 20:38-67; 27:12-13; 84:6-30; 107:1-20; 110:11-16; Joseph Smith—History 1:66-73 Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 8 (2013) Scripture Roundtable: Book of Mormon Gospel Doctrine Lesson 1, “The Keystone of Our Religion” Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 8, The Restoration of the Priesthood Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 25, "Priesthood: 'The Power of Godliness'" Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 42, Continuing Revelation to Latter-day Prophets Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 4, "Remember the New Covenant, Even the Book of Mormon" Dissenters: Portraying the Church as Wrong So They can be Right Without It “How long can rolling waters remain impure?”: Literary Aspects of the Doctrine and Covenants Joseph Smith and the Doctrine of Sealing On Being the Sons of Moses and Aaron: Another Look at Interpreting the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood Unshaken D&C 84 The Power of Godliness CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES D&C 84a D&C 84b Saints: Volume 1, Chapter 15 Holy Places Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson   Section 84 is one of my favorite sections in all of Scripture, and there is so much in these verses.  There is no way I can possibly do them justice.  We could spend months on this section alone, and barely scratch the surface.  So I am going to focus my thoughts on just one concept for this week, one of my personal favorite gems.  But, keep in mind, there are many more waiting to be discovered, and I encourage my readers to really dive into the Section summary for this week.  There is so much to learn; it is truly a treasure hunt with huge payoffs!   My advice, follow the words. Dive into the concordance links and look for connections. There are literally thousands of them. I have provided quite a few leads for you to follow on your adventure, but your best tutor is always the Spirit. Diligently follow the promptings that speak to your heart, the things that are specifically relevant to your needs and circumstances, and you will find pearls of great wisdom in this section.  The New Song and the Star in the Scripture: A Chiasmic Witness of Zion I. Introduction: A Song from Heaven and Earth In the final verses of Doctrine and Covenants 84, the Lord introduces a new song —a sacred anthem sung by the redeemed of Zion at the end of days: 98. Until all shall know me, who remain, even from the least unto the greatest, and shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, and shall see eye to eye, and shall lift up their voice, and with the voice together sing this new song, saying: 99. The Lord hath brought again Zion; The Lord hath redeemed his people, Israel, According to the election of grace, Which was brought to pass by the faith And covenant of their fathers. 100. The Lord hath redeemed his people; And Satan is bound and time is no longer. The Lord hath gathered all things in one. The Lord hath brought down Zion from above. The Lord hath brought up Zion from beneath. 101. The earth hath travailed and brought forth her strength; And truth is established in her bowels; And the heavens have smiled upon her; And she is clothed with the glory of her God; For he stands in the midst of his people. 102. Glory, and honor, and power, and might, Be ascribed to our God; for he is full of mercy, Justice, grace and truth, and peace, Forever and ever, Amen.   But this is more than a poetic conclusion. It serves a significant purpose. In scripture, songs often do more than express praise—they mark turning points in history, seal covenants, and testify of deliverance. The “new song” in D&C 84 is no exception. It echoes the Song of Moses  sung as Israel entered the promised land (Deuteronomy 31–32), and the Song of the Lamb  heard in the heavens by John the Revelator (Revelation 15:3). Here in modern revelation, these two ancient songs merge—sung by a people preparing to meet the Lord as heaven and earth reunite in Zion. And hidden in the structure of this passage is a pattern as old as scripture itself: a type of symbolic chiasm . Ancient prophets, such as Isaiah, Nephi, and even Moses, often employed this mirrored poetic form to convey sacred truths. Chiasm uses repetition and inversion to form a symmetrical pattern that draws attention to the center—the heart of the message. In the “new song,” this pattern forms not just a poetic shape—but a symbolic Star of David , representing the union of heaven and earth , law and grace , past and future , and the divine harmony that Zion embodies. This article explores the structure  and spirit  of this new song—how it is not only written to be sung, but to be lived. In its symmetry, we discover a covenant. In its music, a message. And in its center, a witness of the Redeemer and the gathering of His people. II. What Is Chiasm (and Why It Matters)? At first glance, ancient scripture can feel unfamiliar—layers of poetic turns, unfamiliar customs, and archaic imagery. But within these ancient texts lies a hidden structure that is both elegant and intentional: chiasm . What Is a Chiasm? A chiasm  (from the Greek letter chi , Χ) is a literary device where ideas are presented and then repeated in reverse order, creating a mirror-like pattern. It's like walking into a room with mirrors on either side—what you see forward is reflected back in reverse. In simple terms, the structure looks like this: A   B     C   B’ A’ Rather than moving in a straight line, chiasm draws our attention to the center , making the middle the focal point. That central verse or idea often holds the deepest insight—the turning point, the covenant, or the revelation God most wants His people to understand. Why Did Ancient Writers Use It? Chiasm served many purposes in the ancient world: Memory aid : In a culture of oral tradition, mirrored patterns helped listeners remember long texts. Thematic emphasis : The structure visually and verbally highlights key ideas. Spiritual symmetry : Chiasm reflects divine balance—justice and mercy, heaven and earth, alpha and omega. Where Does Chiasm Show Up in Scripture? Chiasm isn’t just a quirky trick—it’s woven throughout the Bible, Book of Mormon, and Doctrine & Covenants. A few examples: Genesis 9:6 :  “Whoever sheds the blood of man , by man shall his blood be shed .” Mosiah 5:10–12 : King Benjamin uses a beautifully layered chiasm to explain the importance of taking Christ’s name. 10. And now it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall not take upon him the name of Christ must be called by some other name; therefore, he findeth himself on the left hand of God. 11. And I would that ye should remember also, that this is the name that I said I should give unto you that never should be blotted out , except it be through transgression ; therefore, take heed that ye do not transgress , that the name be not blotted out of your hearts. 12. I say unto you, I would that ye should remember to retain the name written always in your hearts , that ye are not found on the left hand of God, but that ye hear and know the voice by which ye shall be called, and also, the name by which he shall call you. Matthew 23:12 :  “Whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased ; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted .” Each example mirrors truth, highlighting reversal and restoration. But sometimes, these mirrored ideas do more than teach—they sing . And that’s what makes the “new song” in D&C 84 so significant. It's not just poetic—it’s structured to echo heaven . In that echo lies Zion’s identity—and its preparation for the Lord’s return. III. Chiasm in the “New Song” (D&C 84:98–102) Near the conclusion of Doctrine and Covenants 84, the Lord introduces a sacred anthem—a “new song” to be sung by the redeemed at the rise of Zion: “The Lord hath brought again Zion; the Lord hath redeemed his people, Israel, according to the election of grace…” ( D&C 84:99–101 ) But this is not a random poetic flourish. When viewed from a broader perspective, the passage reveals what appears to be a symbolic chiasmic structure —a literary mirror that encodes profound theological meaning. Let’s break down the pattern: The Chiasm Pattern in D&C 84:98–102 Literary example 99-100 A – The Lord hath brought again Zion  (v. 99)       B – The Lord hath redeemed his people ; According to the election of grace (v. 99)           C – Which was brought to pass by the faith and covenant of their fathers  (v. 99)    B' –The Lord hath redeemed hs people ; And Satan is bound and time is no longer;    The Lord hath gathered all things in one. A' –  The Lord hath brought down Zion from above . (v. 100) And within this song we also see a broader symbolic chiasm, not obviously outlined in the literary sense but within the thematic sense, which is beautifully encapsulated in one of my favorite pieces of artwork, which I have hanging in my home. The painting is called At One Ment, painted by the talented Jennifer Pagent.  This painting beautifully depicts the chiastic form that is represented in this song.            The Lord hath gathere d all things in one. The Lord hath brought down Zion from above. The Lord hath brought up Zion from beneath. To see more of Jennifer's beautiful work go to: https://www.jenniferpagetart.com/art-work These mirrored lines form two intersecting movements : Descent from Heaven : “The Lord hath brought again Zion”—Zion descending from above.  This is represented in verses 99-100, which outline God's descent to mankind, even descending below all things to rescue them from the fall. Ascent from Earth : “They are gathered together in one”—Zion rising from below.  We see this represented in verses 101-102, where we see Zion as the bride of Israel, ascending the mountain of the Lord.  This encapsulates the purpose of D&C 84, preparing the people to build a temple, to become priests and priestesses unto the Most High, united with and bound to God through sacred covenant.  This poetic symmetry mirrors the Star of David  (✡), an ancient symbol made of two overlapping triangles . In this context, it represents the covenantal intersection  of heaven and earth, justice and mercy, past and future, God and His people. Just as the Urim and Thummim reflect divine knowledge through light and truth, so this “new song” reflects divine harmony  through language and structure. It is Zion’s echo of God’s voice—a sacred refrain testifying that God’s covenant people are listening and being made ready, sanctified, and gathered. 🎵 What Makes the Song “New”? The “new song” isn’t new in content—it’s renewed in context . It recalls the Song of Moses  from Deuteronomy 32 , a covenantal witness sung before Israel entered the promised land. It parallels the Song of the Lamb  in Revelation 15 , sung by those redeemed through the Atonement. It echoes Joseph Smith’s vision  of a future Zion where all is gathered, sanctified, and one. In combining these ancient patterns into a modern anthem, the Lord signals that something new, renewed, has begun: Zion is being born again , both from above and beneath. The restoration of Temple ordinances and God’s priesthood plays a significant role in that renewal. The importance of this cannot be overstated. The Echo and the Mirror This song is a response—a reverberation. God speaks, and Zion echoes. Heaven gives, and earth reflects. The covenant is not just kept; it is sung  back. And just as all creation sings in the Psalms, this “new song” becomes a signal: Zion is listening and tuning in. IV. Why This Matters: Echo, Law, and Covenant The structure of the “new song” in D&C 84 isn’t just poetic—it’s prophetic. It isn’t merely a mirror—it’s a covenantal call and response , linking the redeemed of the latter days with the faithful of every dispensation. Echo Theology: What God Sends Out, Zion Returns The Lord’s voice is described throughout scripture as an echoing sound —whether heard on Mount Sinai, at the waters of baptism, or in the still, small whisper to Elijah. In D&C 84, Zion becomes not only the recipient  of divine speech, but its reflection : “The Lord hath brought again Zion…”   “They are gathered together in one…” The new song echoes what God has declared from the beginning. His covenant, His election, His grace—it all comes full circle. Zion didn't originate the song. She learns from it; she emulates it, and she harmonizes with it. Law as a Mirror: From Torah to Zion In ancient Israel, Moses taught the people that obedience to the law was their covenantal echo— their way of singing back to God . “ The song of the heart is a prayer unto me .” In the Old Testament, the Song of Moses  (Deuteronomy 32) was composed as a witness to this covenant: “This song shall testify against them…”  (See   Deuteronomy 31:19–21 ) In like manner, the “new song” becomes Zion’s testimony and witness. It fulfills the Torah’s purpose: to create and unite a holy people who reflect God’s nature and countenance. The Star Pattern and the Covenant of Gathering The chiastic Star of David’s  shape in the structure of the new song symbolizes the convergence of: Law and Grace Heaven and Earth Past and Future Moses and Messiah And, as we have discussed in previous lessons , the Atonement itself. This is no coincidence. It is a fulfillment of prophecy: “The Lord shall bring again Zion.”   “The Lord hath gathered all things in one.”   In Jewish tradition, the six-pointed star represents God’s rule in all directions—north, south, east, west, above, and below. It is the geometric emblem of divine order, and life itself . It oulines his sacred compass and purpose. And here, it becomes the poetic witness  of God’s people united, gathered, and prepared to receive Him. V. Reflection & Application: Singing the Song of Redeeming Love In Alma’s day, he posed a haunting question: “Have ye spiritually been born of God? Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?... Can ye feel so now?”   (See   Alma 5:14–26 ) He then asked: “Have ye spiritually sung the song of redeeming love?” The “new song” in Doctrine and Covenants 84 isn’t just a future prophecy—it’s a present invitation. It asks us whether we are in harmony  with God’s covenant. Whether we have become one— echad/ united —with His purposes. Whether our lives reflect His light, His law, and His love. 🎶 So how do we sing this song today? We remember the covenants  made by our ancestors and renewed in our own ordinances. We reflect divine order  in our relationships, in our homes, and in our worship. We participate in the gathering —through missionary work, temple work, scripture study, and becoming “pure in heart.” We prepare Zion  not only as a place, but as a people. When the Song Echoes in Us The new song is sung by a people who have been redeemed, sanctified, and gathered—by a people who “live by every word that proceedeth forth from the mouth of God” (see   D&C 84:44 ). It is sung by those who have turned their hearts to their fathers, who have received both the New Covenant and the Old. By those who have been freed from the condemnation described in verses 54-57, who are not waiting for Zion, but are actively striving to build it. In the end, Zion does not perform  the song. Zion is  the song. And when that happens—when God’s people mirror and reflect His majesty—the heavens and earth sing together. Additional Resources The Scripture Citation Index Doctrine & Covenants Stories Scripture Stories Coloring Book - D&C Liahona , For the Strength of Youth , Friend Saints The Gospel Learning and Teaching email subscription Revelations in Context: The Stories Behind the Sections of the Doctrine and Covenants Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Joseph Smith Papers   Joseph Smith’s Revelations: A Doctrine and Covenants Study Companion from the Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith Accounts of the First Vision Prophets of the Restoration Gospel Topics Essays Gospel Topics and Questions Church History Topics Answers to Church History Questions Global Histories Saints, Volume 1 Saints, Volume 2 Revelations in Context Joseph Smith’s Revelations Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Church History Topics Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

July 21–27 Doctrine and Covenants 81–83  Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material D&C 76 VIDEOS & PODCASTS Media Resource Links BYU RSC Library D&C 81-83 “Her Stakes Must Be Strengthened”: The Symbolism of Isaiah’s Tent” Sharing Authority: Developing the First Presidency in Ohio Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson D&C 81-83 Handout Come Follow Me Kid D&C 81-83 Come Follow Me Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths D&C 81-83 Come Follow Up D&C 81-83 D&C Historical Background D&C 81-83 Don't Miss This D&C 81-83 Follow Him D&C 81-83 Doctrine & Covenants 81-83 Part 1 • Dr. Eva Witesman • July 21-27 • Come Follow Me * Doctrine & Covenants 81-83 Part 2 • Dr. Eva Witesman • July 21-27 • Come Follow Me * Transcripts Grounded with Barbara Morgan D&C 81-83 Gospel For Kids Lift Up the Hands Seminary Decks Hurricane Adult Religion Class D&C 81-83  The Office of High Priest; the United Firm Latter Day Kids D&C 81-83 The Bike Ride Line Upon Line D&C 81-83 Not Yet Available Meridian Magazine Podcast D&C 81-83 Our Mother's Knew It D&C 81-83 Saving Talents D&C 81-83 Scripture Study Central D&C 81-83 Website Scripture Explorers D&C 81-83 Missed Blessings Scripture Gems D&C 81-83 Scripture Insights D&C 81-83 Talking Scripture D&C 81-83 Show Notes Teaching With Power D&C 81-83 Insights Teaching Activities Thumb Follow Me D&C 81-83 The Red Crystal D&C 81-83 Primary Youth The Scriptures are Real D&C 81-83 The Interpreter Foundation D&C 81-83 Study and Teaching Helps: 2025 Doctrine & Covenants Interpreter Come, Follow Me Podcast: Doctrine & Covenants Nibley Lectures: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 30 (D&C 81-83) Come, Follow Me  Study and Teaching Helps — Lesson 30: D&C 81–83 Audio Roundtable: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 30 (D&C 81–83) Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 14, "The Law of Consecration" Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 35, "A Mission of Saving" Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 46, "Zion—The Pure in Heart" Unshaken D&C 81-83 CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES D&C 81 D&C 82 D&C 83 Saints: Volume 1, Chapter 14 " Visions and Nightmares " Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson   When God Calls in Crisis: Three Timeless Principles from D&C 81-83 Be Called. Counsel with Mercy. Care for All. Callings rarely come at a convenient time. I remember when my husband was called to serve in the bishopric during our time in Nebraska. He was working full-time as a general surgeon, covering grueling trauma shifts every weekend at the University Hospital—intense 24-hour rotations where sleep was a luxury. Most Saturdays, he'd leave for the hospital at 6:00 AM, work straight through the night, then drive directly from his trauma shift to bishopric meetings and spend the entire Sunday at church. I'll admit there were more than a few Sundays when exhaustion caught up with him and he'd nod off briefly while sitting on the stand. But despite the overwhelming demands—or perhaps because of them—the Lord magnified his capacity to serve. What should have been impossible became possible through divine grace. Two hundred years ago, Joseph Smith faced an even greater moment of overwhelming responsibility. His clothes still smelled of tar and feathers from mob violence—an attack that exposed his infant twins to the bitter cold and contributed to the death of one of them. Yet in the midst of this devastating persecution and fresh grief, the Lord had work for Joseph to do. It was during this period of trauma that God instructed Joseph to call counselors to help bear the burden of leadership, reaching out to Jesse Gause (and later Frederick G. Williams) with the message: "You stand with me at the helm of my Kingdom." From those revelations emerged three principles that still map the heroic journey for every disciple today, especially when life feels impossible: Be Called. Counsel with Mercy. Care for All. 1. Be Called: When God's Promises Meet Our Weakness Key Verse:   "Unto whom I have given the keys of the kingdom… inasmuch as thou art faithful in counsel… succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees."  (D&C 81:2–5) The Lord's promise in D&C 81 comes with divine "if-thens." Notice He doesn't say "because you're already strong" but "inasmuch as thou art faithful." God's calls often come precisely when we feel least qualified. The Ancient Echo:  Isaiah beckoned Israel to "strengthen the weak hands" (Isa 35:3). The Hebrew word for "counsel" here is עֵצָה  ( ʿetsah )—"purposeful advice"—the same root used when God calls Jesus the "Wonderful Counselor" (Isa 9:6). When we accept callings, we're invited to share divine ʿetsah . Living It Today:  Think of the single mother called to teach Primary while juggling two jobs, or the new convert asked to serve as ward mission leader. God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the called. The "key" isn't in our ability—it's in our willingness to let Him work through our weakness. Reflection:  What calling have you received that seemed impossible at first? How did you discover God's strength in your weakness? 2. Counsel with Mercy: The Balance Every Leader Needs Key Verse:   "I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise."  (D&C 82:10) This might be the Restoration's most quoted verse about divine contracts, but we often miss the context. D&C 82 was given to establish the United Order—a community where everyone would share equally in both resources and responsibilities. Yet the Lord knew this idealistic vision would be challenging to actually live, requiring both unwavering standards and abundant mercy from everyone. Notice what comes immediately before verse 10: "Inasmuch as ye have forgiven one another your trespasses, even so I, the Lord, forgive you" (v. 1). Here, God establishes the law, then demonstrates how mercy must season justice. He's essentially saying, "Yes, I will absolutely keep my promises when you obey—but remember, this whole system only works with continuous repentance and forgiveness." He knows we will fail, recognizing that each failure brings opportunities for learning and growth. The Divine Contract:  When we do what God asks—even when we stumble—if we are willing to forgive ourselves and others, He literally "binds" Himself to bless us like signing a contract in heaven's courts. The power of His Atonement fills in the gaps. His Spirit succors us. This applies to leaders and members alike. There have been several times in my life where leaders have disappointed me. There have been times I have failed as a leader, learning firsthand that "the arm of flesh will fail you." However, I have also experienced that those moments of failure often become the very times when the Lord personally steps in to heal the broken pieces. This kind of healing cannot happen when we hold resentment toward those who have disappointed us—that only prevents the Lord from working miracles in us. Healthy leadership in any calling and productive discipleship requires both holding fast to God's standards and  extending His mercy to those who stumble. This requires balance and grace. The United Order failed in Joseph's day partly because people struggled to balance accountability with forgiveness, and these same challenges persist in family and church communities today. The Ancient Echo:  The Levites in Israel were landless, relying entirely on the community's tithes for temporal sustenance (Num 18). They had to trust others to provide for them while they provided spiritual service. Today, our system is different, but the principle remains: local leaders must sustain themselves temporally while serving the spiritual needs of their wards and stakes. This creates an overwhelming responsibility, and the Lord expects us as members to sustain our leaders by stepping up to lighten their load—serving one another so our leaders aren't carrying every burden alone. Similarly, D&C 82:17–18 calls us to honor fair "claims" on consecrated property— צֶדֶק  ( tsedeq , justice) in action. But justice without mercy destroys the very community it's meant to protect. Living It Today:  Think of the bishop who must lovingly uphold Church standards while embracing the teenager struggling with worthiness issues. He must carefully weigh all the underlying factors, ensuring his approach helps rather than hinders that youth's long-term spiritual progress. Or consider the Relief Society president addressing a family's financial crisis—her aim is to provide meaningful support while carefully protecting the dignity of those being served. Think of the Sunday School teacher who maintains classroom reverence while showing patience with the disruptive child who may be on the spectrum or whose family is experiencing crisis. True spiritual leadership—whether formal or informal—requires balancing doctrinal truth and church policies with compassion for those who struggle. We must be "bound" to God's standards while following His example to meet people where they are, offer them a boost, and help them find their way forward when they fall short. Reflection:  When have you seen a leader effectively balance truth and mercy? How did that impact those they served? 3. Care for All: Building God's Safety Net Key Verse:   "The storehouse shall be kept by the consecrations of the church; and widows and orphans shall be provided for, as also the poor."  (D&C 83:6) D&C 83 isn't just historical background—it's the blueprint for our modern welfare system. But notice the order: families provide first (v. 1–4), then the community safety net kicks in. The Sacred Storehouse:  The Hebrew word for "storehouse" is אוֹצָר  ( otsar )—the same term used in Malachi 3:10 for the temple treasury. God's storehouse has always been sacred space where heaven meets human need. Living It Today:  Who are today's "widows and orphans"? The single father working three jobs. The elderly sister whose children live far away. The refugee family learning English. The young adult aging out of foster care. The woman fleeing domestic violence. Our "consecrations" aren't just money—they're time spent with the lonely, skills shared with the struggling, and hearts opened to the hurting. Reflection:  Who in your sphere might be waiting for someone to "claim" them? How can you be part of filling God's storehouse this week? The Unbroken Melody: From Israel to You From Israel's temple courts to Ohio's tar-soaked pulpits to your living room tonight, God's covenant economy has one unbroken melody: Succor the Weak  (Isa 35:3) → ʿāzar  (עָזַר) in D&C 81 Equal Claims  (Num 18) → yāshār  (יָשָׁר) in D&C 82–83 Covenant Binding  (Gen 17:1) → בְּרִית  ( berît ) in D&C 82:10 The same God who called Moses from the burning bush and Joseph from the Sacred Grove is calling you from whatever crisis or chaos defines your current moment. Your Next Steps Be Called:  Write down your current callings—formal and informal. What "keys" has God placed in your hands? What promises are attached to your faithfulness? Counsel with Mercy:  Identify one person you can "lift up" this week. Maybe it's listening without judgment, offering practical help, or simply choosing forgiveness over frustration. Care for All:  Look for today's "widows and orphans." Consider volunteering at the bishop's storehouse, checking on elderly neighbors, or mentoring someone facing challenges you've overcome. God's conditional promises remain unshaken 200 years after these revelations were first received. His tender ministry endures, and He's still calling ordinary people to do extraordinary things—not because we're strong enough, but because He is. The question isn't whether you're qualified. The question is: Will you answer? Additional Resources The Scripture Citation Index Doctrine & Covenants Stories Scripture Stories Coloring Book - D&C Liahona , For the Strength of Youth , Friend Saints The Gospel Learning and Teaching email subscription Revelations in Context: The Stories Behind the Sections of the Doctrine and Covenants Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Joseph Smith Papers   Joseph Smith’s Revelations: A Doctrine and Covenants Study Companion from the Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith Accounts of the First Vision Prophets of the Restoration Gospel Topics Essays Gospel Topics and Questions Church History Topics Answers to Church History Questions Global Histories Saints, Volume 1 Saints, Volume 2 Revelations in Context Joseph Smith’s Revelations Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Church History Topics Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

CFM : July 7–13 D&C 76 and July 14–20 D&C 77–80  Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material D&C 76 VIDEOS & PODCASTS Media Resource Links BYU RSC Library D&C 76 Six Visions of Eternity Joseph Smith, Emanuel Swedenborg, and Section 76 Joseph Smith and "The Vision," 1832 Voices of the Restoration: Testimonies of “the Vision” Video: Doctrines of Exaltation: Doctrine and Covenants 76, 84, 88, 93, 137 Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson D&C 76 D&C 76 I The Mysteries of Heaven Revealed I Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson Come Follow Me Kid D&C 76 Come Follow Me Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths D&C 76 The Vision that Changed Heaven Forever | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey | July 7-13 Early Saints Respond to the Plan of Salvation with Matt McBride | Church History Matters | July 7-13 The Vision: The Plan of Salvation w/ Tyler Griffin (Restoration Revealed Episode 12) Come Follow Up D&C 76 D&C Historical Background D&C 76 Don't Miss This D&C 76 Follow Him D&C 76 Doctrine & Covenants 76 Part 1 • Dr. J. Spencer Fluhman • July 7 - July 13 • Come Follow Me Doctrine & Covenants 76 Part 2 • Dr. J. Spencer Fluhman • July 7 - July 13 • Come Follow Me Transcripts Grounded with Barbara Morgan D&C 76 Gospel For Kids Seminary Decks Hurricane Adult Religion Class D&C 76 Latter Day Kids D&C 76 Line Upon Line D&C 76 Meridian Magazine Podcast D&C 76 Our Mother's Knew It D&C 76 Saving Talents D&C 76 Scripture Study Central D&C 76 Website D&C 76 | Taylor & Tyler | Come Follow Me Insights   Come Follow Me with Casey Paul Griffiths (Doctrine and Covenants 76, July 5-11) Come Follow Me: Act in Doctrine (Doctrine and Covenants 76, Jul 5-11) Come, Follow Me with John Hilton III (Doctrine and Covenants 76, July 5-11) Come Follow Me with Taylor Halverson (Doctrine and Covenants 76, July 5-11) Scripture Explorers D&C 76 D&C 76 Joseph Smith's Prophetic Testimony Scripture Gems D&C 76 Scripture Insights D&C 76 Talking Scripture D&C 76 Show Notes Teaching With Power D&C 76 Teaching Activities Thumb Follow Me D&C 76 Duke it Out The Red Crystal D&C 76 Primary Youth The Scriptures are Real D&C 76 The Interpreter Foundation D&C 76 Study and Teaching Helps: 2025 Doctrine & Covenants Interpreter Come, Follow Me Podcast: Doctrine & Covenants Nibley Lectures: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 28 (D&C 76) Come, Follow Me  Study and Teaching Helps — Lesson 28: D&C 76 Audio Roundtable: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 28 (D&C 76) KnoWhy OTL13A — What Did the Lord Mean When He Said Moses Would Become “God to Pharaoh” During the Plagues of Egypt? “The Kingdoms of Glory”: D&C 76; 131; 132:19-24; 137 Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 20, "The Kingdoms of Glory" “How long can rolling waters remain impure?”: Literary Aspects of the Doctrine and Covenants The Doctrine of Resurrection in the Book of Mormon Unshaken D&C 76 Is Your Heaven Too Small? (D&C 76) CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES D&C 76 Voices of the Restoration: Testimonies of “the Vision” Testimonies of “the Vision” Revelations in Context “The Vision” Joseph Smith’s Bible Translation Saints: Volume 1, Chapter 14 " Visions and Nightmares " Volume 1, Chapter 15 " Holy Places " Volume 1, Chapter 40 " United in an Everlasting Covenant " D&C 77-80 VIDEOS & PODCASTS Media Resource Links BYU RSC Library D&C 77-80 Section 77 and Book of Revelation Scholarship The Laws of Consecration, Stewardship, and Tithing Video: Consecration Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson D&C 77-80 Handout Come Follow Me Kid D&C 77-80 Come Follow Me Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths D&C 77-80 Understanding the Book of Revelation | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey | July 14-20 Codenames & Early Business Ventures | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey | July 14-20 Come Follow Up D&C 77-80 D&C Historical Background D&C 77-80 Don't Miss This D&C 77-80 Follow Him D&C 77-80 Doctrine & Covenants 77-80 Part 1 • Dr. Matthew Hinton • July 14 - July 20 • Come Follow Me Doctrine & Covenants 77-80 Part 2 • Dr. Matthew Hinton • July 14 - July 20 • Come Follow Me Grounded with Barbara Morgan D&C 77-80 Gospel For Kids Seminary Decks Hurricane Adult Religion Class D&C 77-80 Latter Day Kids D&C 77-80 Line Upon Line D&C 77-80 Not Yet Posted Meridian Magazine Podcast D&C 77-80 Not Yet Posted Our Mother's Knew It D&C 77-80 Saving Talents D&C 77-80 Scripture Study Central D&C 77-80 Website ( Not Yet Posted ) Taylor & Tyler Scripture Explorers D&C 77-80 D&C 77-80 The United Firm - FINISH DESCRIPTION Scripture Gems D&C 77-80 Scripture Insights D&C 77-80 Talking Scripture D&C 77-80 Show Notes Teaching With Power D&C 77-80 Doctrine and Covenants 77-80 Insights Doctrine. andCovenants 77-80 Teaching Activities Thumb Follow Me D&C 77-80 Not Yet Posted The Red Crystal D&C 77-80 Primary Youth The Scriptures are Real D&C 77-80 Not Yet Posted The Interpreter Foundation D&C 77-80 Study and Teaching Helps: 2025 Doctrine & Covenants Interpreter Come, Follow Me Podcast: Doctrine & Covenants Nibley Lectures: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 29 (D&C 77-80) Come, Follow Me  Study and Teaching Helps — Lesson 29: D&C 77–80 Audio Roundtable: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 29 (D&C 77–80) Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 14, "The Law of Consecration" Unshaken D&C 77-80 Come Follow Me - D&C 77-80 - Leading Us Along CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES D&C 77 D&C 78 D&C 79 D&C 80 Revelations in Context Essays on the background of each revelation Joseph Smith’s Bible Translation Newel K. Whitney and the United Firm “I Quit Other Business”: Early Missionaries Saints Volume 1, Chapter 14 " Visions and Nightmares " Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson   Thank you for your patience this week. I had to handle some urgent work projects, so I wasn't able to get last week's lesson out. So, I am combining both weeks' materials into this week's content, and I will continue to add the Chapter outlines over the weekend. As you approach these sections, please keep in mind several key topics we've discussed. Remember our conversations about symbolism, the PaRDes model, and the principles for responsibly approaching apocalyptic literature. These foundational concepts are essential for understanding these materials properly. Even while reviewing podcasts for these lessons, I've noticed considerable speculation occurring, which can be problematic. Please exercise caution and do your homework. While there are amazing discoveries to be made in these materials, there are also many potential pitfalls that can cause a lot of confusion, so remain mindful. Contrary to what many people think, sections 76 and 77 are more closely related than people realize. Both are examples of Throne Theophany—divine visions of God's heavenly court and celestial hierarchies. Joseph and Sidney's vision of the Heavenly Hierarchies are not unique. This is the same essential vision that John received in the book of Revelation, and other prophets have experienced similar revelations: Isaiah, Nephi, Lehi, Ezekiel, and others. However, different accounts focus on different aspects of the vision, which is understandable given how much there is to absorb. With this in mind, Joseph's questions in 77 appear to be clarifying things that he saw in his vision, not only topics he read in Revelation. This will become even more apparent as we examine another ancient record that is outlined below. Many people assume that "The Vision" of heavenly hierarchies is unique to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However, this is also an incorrect assumption. Records indicate that these concepts were understood in the early Church. However, much of that knowledge was lost over time for various reasons, which makes Joseph Smith's restoration of these principles all the more remarkable. The Prophet's Vision: How Joseph Smith Restored Ancient Christian Truths Lost for Centuries When Joseph Smith and Sydney Rigdon received their vision of three degrees of glory in 1832, they faced fierce opposition from Christian communities who viewed these teachings as radical departures from traditional faith. What they didn't know—and couldn't have known—was that this revelation actually restored ancient Christian beliefs that had been lost to the Western world for over a thousand years. The controversial revelation that shook Christianity Imagine the scandal this vision caused both within and outside the Church community. Joseph Smith's revelation about three kingdoms of heaven—celestial, terrestrial, and telestial—was so radically different from mainstream Christian teaching that it was met with immediate resistance, even from his own followers. The problem wasn't just theological—it struck at the heart of what Christians had believed for centuries. For over 1,600 years, Christian doctrine had taught a simple binary: heaven for the saved, hell for the damned. Joseph's vision suggested something far more complex and merciful: multiple levels of glory where nearly everyone would receive some degree of heavenly reward. The reaction was swift and harsh. Critics accused Joseph of making up doctrine to please people's ears. Even committed early members struggled with the revelation. Brigham Young later admitted it was "directly contrary and opposed to my former education." Some converts left the church entirely over this teaching, unable to reconcile it with their understanding of Christianity. What makes this controversy particularly significant is that Joseph was essentially alone in proposing such ideas. The 1830s American religious landscape was dominated by revival movements emphasizing the urgent choice between salvation and damnation. Joseph's revelation of graduated heavens seemed to contradict not just popular Christianity, but Christianity itself. The ancient text that was lost to the world Here's where the story becomes truly remarkable. Unknown to anyone in Joseph's time, there existed an ancient Christian text that described a heavenly hierarchy strikingly similar to what Joseph revealed. This text, initially attributed to Dionysius the Areopagite—was believed to be written by a convert that the Apostle Paul mentioned in Acts 17:34—and this record had been gathering dust in monastic libraries for close to a millenium. According to Dionysius "De Coelesti Hierarchia"  (On the Celestial Hierarchy ), the heavenly realm was recorded to be organized into nine orders of angelic beings  arranged in three triadic hierarchies . These records describe a sophisticated hierarchy, with each level representing a successive progression to the proximity of God. It also describes higher orders ministering to lower ones, with all receiving divine illumination according to the communities ability to comprehend. But here's the crucial point: this text was completely inaccessible to Joseph Smith or anyone else in the English-speaking world . No complete English translation existed until 1897—over fifty years after Joseph's death. The work survived only in Latin and Greek manuscripts locked away in European theological libraries. Even if Joseph had somehow known about these texts, he would have needed advanced university training in classical languages to read them. The first scholars to seriously study these works didn't realize their true historical origins until 1895, when researchers J. Stiglmayr and H. Koch independently proved they were written centuries after the apostolic period, likely in the 5th-6th century CE. The designation "Pseudo-Dionysius," was subsequently adopted following this scholarly discovery. It is important to understand that this recognition does not discredit the theological content nor diminish the significance of these materials. Rather, the existence of these records demonstrates that these hierarchical concepts were widely circulating in early Christian communities and they had been preserved by multiple devoted scholars for centuries. While some try to dismiss Pseudonymous authorship as "forgeries," one must understand that this practice was very common and in many cases a respected literary convention of the era, where anonymous writers attributed their works to revered earlier figures as a gesture of honor and to connect their teachings with apostolic tradition—a practice seen even within the biblical canon , where several New Testament epistles are debated, particularly some that are traditionally attributed to Paul (i.e.1st & 2nd Timothy, Titus, & Ephesians). So, don't let the Pseudo-Dionysius title alarm you, this was a normal practice for the time and these writings were likely intended to connect to and expand upon Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians 15:40-49 , where Paul briefly introduced the three degrees of glory. Ancient Manuscript References  Complete Greek: Περὶ τῆς Οὐρανίᾱς Ἱεραρχίᾱς (Peri tēs Ouraníās Hierarchíās), Sinai Saint Catherine Syria. Written in Greek and dated to ca. AD the 5th century, this is the earliest witness to the Areopagitic writings overall (Syriac translation) Complete Latin: "De Coelesti Hierarchia," The first translation, made around 838 by Hilduin, abbot of a monastery near Paris John Scottus Eriugena, to make a new translation that he completed in 862 and that was subsequently revised with clarifications in 875 Partial References in other manuscripts John of Scythopolis Commentary: John of Scythopolis composed an extensive set (c. 600) of scholia (that is, marginal annotations) to the works of Dionysius Influence: All Greek manuscripts of the Corpus Areopagiticum surviving today stem from an early sixth-century manuscript containing John's Scholia and Prologue Dating: The commentary on the Corpus Dionysiacum composed by John of Scythopolis within 548 CE was expressly designed for the margins of the text Translation History Syriac: Sergius of Reshaina's early Syriac translation (early sixth century) Latin Tradition: The Versio Dionysii of John Scottus Eriugena. A Study of the Manuscript Tradition and Influence of Eriugena's Translation of the Corpus Areopagiticum From the 9th through the 12th century Scholastic Editions Patrologia Graeca (Migne,1857 Greek , Latin ) Location: PG 3 Heavenly Heirarchy, Church Heirarchy, Divine Names, Mystical Theology, Epistles, Liturgy PG 4 On Ps-Dionysius: Maximus the Confessor (7th century), George Pachymeres (14th century) et al. Volumes: PG 3: Dionysius the Areopagite, pt. 1 · PG 4: Dionysius the Areopagite, pt. 2 Details: Almost all the Greek writings have a Latin translation on the facing column Modern Critical Editions Heil & Ritter: G. Heil, A. M. Ritter, Pseudo-Dionysius Areopagita. De Coelesti Hierarchia, De Ecclesiastica Hierarchia, De Mystica Theologia, Epistulae (1991) ISBN 978-3-11-012041-7 Shrine of Wisdom: Pseudo-Dionysius Areopagita, De Coelesti Hierarchia, Surrey, 1935. Shrine of Wisdom ISBN 978-0-90 066-403-8 Corrigan, Kevin and L. Michael Harrington, "Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite", The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Summer 2023 Edition), Edward N. Zalta & Uri Nodelman (eds.), URL = . Free Online Digital Resources: Patrologia Graeca Archive.org English translation Rev. John Parker 1897 Remarkable parallels across the centuries When we compare Joseph's 1832 revelation with Dionysius' ancient writings, the similarities are striking: Multiple levels of heaven : While mainstream Christianity taught a simple heaven-hell division, both Joseph and Dionysius described complex, graduated levels of heavenly existence. Dionysius organized celestial beings into nine orders of three groups ; Joseph likewise revealed three kingdoms of varying glory. Divine light flowing downward : Both systems teach that divine light flows from higher to lower levels. Dionysius wrote that superior angels "possess the illuminations and powers of their subordinates" and pass divine knowledge downward. Joseph's revelation similarly describes how beings in higher kingdoms minister to those in lower ones. Receiving according to capacity : Perhaps most significantly, both taught that beings receive divine light according to the level of their spiritual capacity. Dionysius emphasized that divine illumination comes "according to their merit" and "in accordance with the unchangeable fashioning of those who are being perfected." Joseph's revelation states that beings can only receive what they can "abide" and are assigned based on "the desire of their hearts." Spiritual progression : Both systems view the hierarchy not as a fixed caste system, but as organized around spiritual growth and development toward greater divine understanding. Dionysius' Three-Tiered Heavenly System First Hierarchy - "Angels of Presence" : The Greek term Hierarchy , literally means " sacred ruling," and it was frequently used to refer to temple or priestly order (Hieros + archo ). Dionysius describes beings from this order who dwell with God, these individuals have attained exalted minds and have been freed from stains and blemish. They are symbolically represented as Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones dwelling closest to God's throne. The Seraphim with six wings burn with divine love and continuously worship God (consider the structure of the Menorah). The Cherubim, described with four faces (human, lion, ox, and eagle), possess the "fullness of knowledge" and guard sacred spaces. The Thrones appear as great wheels covered with eyes (wisdom, insight), embodying God's justice. Note: These are all temple themes that appear in other apocalyptic writings as well, such as: The two six-branched Menorahs flanking the Ark of the Covenant, which represents the Mercy Seat protected by Cherubim, The Garden of Eden- Cherubim guarding the Tree of Life, Ezekiel's Vision of Cherubim and the Wheels within Wheels following the destruction of Jerusalem, and John’s description in Revelation.  Second Hierarchy - "Cosmic Governors" : Dominions, Virtues, and Powers regulate cosmic order and natural laws. They serve as divine middle management, receiving illumination from the first hierarchy and directing it toward earthly affairs. Third Hierarchy - "The Messengers" : Principalities, Archangels, and Angels interact most directly with humanity and the material world, serving as guardians of nations, deliverers of divine messages, and individual guides. Striking Parallels with Joseph's Revelations : This ancient system remarkably aligns with Joseph Smith's revelations. D&C 76's three degrees of glory mirror Dionysius' three hierarchies, each with different capacities for divine light. More striking connection is found in D&C 77, where Joseph asked about "the four beasts" mentioned in Revelation, including questions about heavenly classes and orders. His answer describes them as having faces of a lion, calf, man, and eagle - identical to Dionysius' and Ezekiels’s Cherubim - representing "the glory of the classes of beings in their destined order or sphere of creation." Dyonisius' and Joseph's descriptions of the movement of the Seraphim, the protection of the Cherubim, and the vision and knowledge in connection with the eyes and wings depict the same interpretations, with Dionysius' going into further detail. Both systems use the same symbolic language and structure to describe God's organized eternal kingdom, despite Joseph or anyone else having access to these ancient records. The prophetic significance The implications of these parallels are profound. Joseph Smith, a young man with limited formal education living on the American frontier, revealed theological principles that aligned perfectly with sophisticated early Christian thought that wouldn't be rediscovered by scholars for another fifty to sixty years, and even then, these writings are still obscure to most Christians and scholars to this day. This pattern—Joseph receiving revelations that later proved to align with ancient texts unknown in his time—appears repeatedly in his prophetic ministry. But the degrees of glory revelation is particularly compelling because of how controversial it was. If Joseph were simply making up appealing doctrines, why choose something so divisive? Why risk alienating followers and facing fierce criticism? The answer suggests itself: Joseph was receiving genuine revelation that restored ancient truths, regardless of their popularity. His willingness to teach such controversial doctrine, combined with its later vindication through scholarly discovery, supports his prophetic calling. How early Christianity lost these truths The question naturally arises: if these were early Christian beliefs, how did they disappear? The answer lies in the historical development of Christian doctrine. As Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire and became institutionalized, many early teachings were simplified or abandoned. Several factors contributed to this loss: Challenges to Trinitarian Dogma: While Dionysius wasn't explicitly anti-Trinitarian, his works consistently use the term "Godhead," and contained several elements that challenged developing orthodox formulations. No theologian in the first three Christian centuries was a trinitarian in the sense of a believing that the one God is tri-personal, containing equally divine "persons", Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and several “heretical” groups were using Dyonysis’ writings to challenge the growing monotheistic consensus. Dionysius wrote just as Trinitarian doctrine was becoming rigidly defined (5th-6th centuries). His more fluid, mystical approach to divine persons and emanations didn't fit the increasingly systematized doctrine emerging from the authoritative councils. Political pressures : As Christianity became the official religion of Rome, complex theological concepts were often simplified for mass appeal and political unity. Language barriers : As the church moved from Greek to Latin in the West, many Eastern Christian texts were no longer accessible to Western theologians. Institutional consolidation : Church councils standardized doctrine, sometimes at the expense of earlier, more nuanced teachings. Persecution and war : Many early manuscripts were lost during invasions, persecution, and the general chaos of the medieval period. By Joseph Smith's time, these ancient perspectives on heavenly hierarchy had been so thoroughly forgotten that his revelation seemed completely foreign, revolutionary rather than restorative. A validation of prophetic calling For those who accept Joseph Smith as a prophet, the degrees of glory revelation provides powerful validation of his calling. The fact that his most controversial teaching aligned so closely with ancient Christian thought unavailable in his time suggests divine inspiration rather than human innovation. The revelation also demonstrates the restorative nature of Joseph's mission. Rather than inventing new doctrines, he was recovering eternal truths that had been lost through the "great apostasy" he taught about. His role was not as an innovator but as a restorer, bringing back to earth knowledge that had been preserved in heaven but lost among mortals. The merciful doctrine hidden in ancient wisdom Perhaps most importantly, both Joseph's revelation and Dionysius' ancient text reveal a God far more merciful than traditional Christianity portrayed. Instead of the harsh binary of heaven and hell, they present a divine order where nearly everyone receives some degree of glory according to their capacity and desires. This doctrine offers hope to those troubled by questions of divine justice: What about those who never heard the gospel? What about those who tried to live good lives but weren't Christian? What about the billions who lived before Christ? Both Joseph's revelation and the ancient texts suggest that God's mercy extends far beyond what mainstream Christianity taught. Conclusion: Ancient wisdom restored The story of Joseph Smith's degrees of glory revelation is ultimately a story about the restoration of lost truth. At a time when Christianity had settled into rigid doctrinal patterns, a young prophet received a vision that seemed revolutionary but was actually ancient. His willingness to teach such controversial doctrine, despite fierce opposition, speaks to the genuineness of his calling and character. The later discovery of parallel ancient texts validates what Latter-day Saints had long believed: that Joseph Smith was indeed a prophet called to restore eternal truths that had been lost from the earth. His revelation didn't contradict early Christianity—it restored it. For those seeking evidence of Joseph Smith's prophetic calling, the degrees of glory revelation provides compelling testimony. The odds against a frontier farmer randomly aligning with sophisticated ancient Christian theology unavailable in his time stretch credibility beyond the breaking point. The simpler explanation is that Joseph Smith was exactly what he claimed to be: a prophet called to restore ancient truths for the blessing of all God's children. In recovering this lost doctrine, Joseph didn't just restore theological knowledge—he restored hope, revealing a God whose love and justice extend far beyond what previous generations could imagine. That may be the greatest miracle of all. Additional Resources The Scripture Citation Index Doctrine & Covenants Stories Scripture Stories Coloring Book - D&C Liahona , For the Strength of Youth , Friend Saints The Gospel Learning and Teaching email subscription Revelations in Context: The Stories Behind the Sections of the Doctrine and Covenants Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Joseph Smith Papers   Joseph Smith’s Revelations: A Doctrine and Covenants Study Companion from the Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith Accounts of the First Vision Prophets of the Restoration Gospel Topics Essays Gospel Topics and Questions Church History Topics Answers to Church History Questions Global Histories Saints, Volume 1 Saints, Volume 2 Revelations in Context Joseph Smith’s Revelations Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Church History Topics Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

CFM : June 30–July 6 D&C 71–75  Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material VIDEOS & PODCASTS Media Resource Links BYU RSC Library D&C 71-75 The Joseph Smith Translation Video: The Joseph Smith Translation: “A Branch of My Calling” Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson D&C 71-75 D&C 71-75 I Can God's Revelations Be Changed? I Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson Handout Come Follow Me Kid D&C 71-75 Come Follow Me Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths D&C 71-75 Responding to Opposition & The Lord’s Surprising Command | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey How to Handle Mixed Faith Marriages | Church History Matters with Scott & Casey | June 30-July 6 Come Follow Up D&C 71-75 D&C Historical Background D&C 71-75 Don't Miss This D&C 71-75 Follow Him D&C 71-75 Doctrine & Covenants 71-75 Part 1 • Dr. Rosalynde Welch • June 30 - July 6 • Come Follow Me Doctrine & Covenants 71-75 Part 2 • Dr. Rosalynde Welch • June 30 - July 6 • Come Follow Me Grounded with Barbara Morgan D&C 71-75 Gospel For Kids D&C 71-75 Seminary Decks D&C 71-75 Hurricane Adult Religion Class D&C 71-75 Joseph Smith’s “New Translation” of the Bible Latter Day Kids D&C 71-75 Not Yet Posted Line Upon Line D&C 71-75   D&C 71-75 (June 28 - July 4) (Doctrine and Covenants) - Whitneys' Witness Meridian Magazine Podcast D&C 71-75 Our Mother's Knew It D&C 71-75 Not Yet Posted Saving Talents D&C 71-75 Scripture Study Central D&C 71-75 Come Follow Me Insights with Taylor and Tyler Scripture Explorers D&C 71-75 Not Yet Posted Scripture Gems D&C 71-75 Scripture Insights D&C 71-75 Talking Scripture D&C 71-75 Show Notes Teaching With Power D&C 71-75 Insights Teaching Activities Thumb Follow Me D&C 71-75 Not Yet Posted The Red Crystal D&C 71-75 The Scriptures are Real D&C 71-75   Not Yet Posted The Interpreter Foundation D&C 71-75 Study and Teaching Helps: 2025 Doctrine & Covenants Nibley Lectures: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 27 (D&C 71-75) Come, Follow Me  Study and Teaching Helps — Lesson 27: D&C 71–75 Audio Roundtable: Come, Follow Me Doctrine and Covenants Lesson 27 (D&C 71–75) Scripture Roundtable: D&C Gospel Doctrine Lesson 11, "The Field Is White Already to Harvest" Unshaken D&C 71-75 Confronting Anti-Mormonism CHAPTER & SECTION SUMMARIES D&C 71 D&C 72 D&C 73 D&C 74 D&C 75 Saints: Volume 1, Chapter 13 The Gift Has Returned Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson   Weekly Reflection: "Are You for Real?" — On Miscommunication, Scripture, and the Lord's Unchanging Voice Have you ever found yourself completely misunderstood—even when you were sure you were making sense? This week, I had one of those moments. A text conversation with my son spiraled quickly. He asked if I was "for real," and in my effort to match what I perceived as humor, I leaned in with some clever comebacks. What I missed was that in his teenage slang, "Are you for real?" wasn't an invitation to banter—it was a boundary. While we were both speaking English, our languages were worlds apart. That experience stayed with me as I studied Doctrine and Covenants 71–75—sections rich with their own communication challenges and needs for divine clarifications. Miscommunication Moments in the Church These sections weren't written in a vacuum. They address real miscommunication crises among the early saints. Some escalated far beyond simple misunderstandings, others required patience and clarification, particularly as the Saints were trying to figure things out and manage challenging circumstances. Consider the crisis with Ezra Booth, whose initial enthusiasm for the restored gospel soured into bitter opposition. What began as questions and disappointments—perhaps legitimate concerns that could have been addressed through patient dialogue—escalated into public attacks against Joseph Smith and the Church through his inflammatory letters published in the Ohio Star newspaper. Booth's accusations spread confusion and doubt throughout Ohio, creating a communication crisis that threatened the very foundation of the early Church community. The situation became so urgent that the Lord instructed Joseph to temporarily pause his work on the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible—a significant undertaking—to address these pressing issues directly. In D&C 71, we see the Lord directing Joseph and Sidney Rigdon to engage in open communication with the community, to "confound" the false accusations not through silence or dismissal, but through clear, bold testimony delivered "in mildness and in meekness." This wasn't just about defending doctrine—it was about preventing communication breakdown from destroying relationships and faith. What began as Ezra Booth's personal misunderstandings had metastasized into community-wide contention, causing "confusion and great heartache among many." The Lord counseled that sometimes miscommunication requires immediate, direct intervention to prevent further spiritual damage. Then we see a different kind of communication challenge in D&C 74, where Joseph is instructed to clarify Paul's teachings about circumcision and marriage. Here, the confusion wasn't coming from opposition but from sincere saints trying to understand how ancient scriptures applied to their new covenant circumstances. Unlike the Ezra Booth situation, this required patient teaching rather than public defense. Similarly, D&C 75 addresses practical communication breakdowns: How do families survive when missionaries leave for extended periods? How do we balance spiritual callings with temporal and practical responsibilities? The saints needed clear direction because mixed messages were causing confusion and real hardship. In such challenging circumstances, it is not uncommon for misunderstandings to flourish, and these are times when good communication is absolutely essential. Perhaps we can see striking similarities between these communication breakdowns and those we witness and experience today, both within the Church and in our broader circumstances. Like Ezra Booth's letters in the Ohio Star, social media can amplify personal grievances into public controversies that spread confusion far beyond their original scope. Sincere questions about doctrine or policy—the kind that could be approached through thoughtful and patient dialogue—sometimes escalate into divisive debates that fragment communities and strain relationships. Just as the early saints struggled to balance spiritual callings with practical responsibilities, modern Church members navigate similar tensions between faith commitments and contemporary pressures. In our polarized world, we see these same patterns playing out repeatedly: misunderstandings that begin in good faith quickly devolve into entrenched positions that seem impossible to bridge. Whether it's disagreements about Church policies, political divisions that fragment families, or social issues that split communities, the escalation follows a familiar trajectory—genuine questions or concerns become hardened and dogmatic opposition, amplified by echo chambers and reinforced by tribal loyalties. Like the early saints facing Ezra Booth's accusations, we find ourselves needing the same divine approach the Lord outlined in D&C 71: honest and bold declarations of truth, balanced with the "mildness and meekness" that disarms hostility and opens hearts to understanding (on all sides). These weren't just theological puzzles—they were relationship challenges that threatened unity and faith, revealing insightful principles about communication that remain as relevant now as they were then. Bridging Understanding: From Human Communication to Divine Revelation These experiences with miscommunication—both ancient and modern—teach us vital principles that extend beyond our relationships with each other to our most sacred communication: our dialogue with the Lord through scripture. In fact, as we improve our communication with the Lord, we discover that His word provides the wisdom and grace necessary to manage and possibly even heal our most strained and challenging relationships when approached with humility and faith. Just as the early saints needed clarification about Paul's teachings, and just as we need "mildness and meekness" to bridge our contemporary divides, we also need divine help to truly understand what the Lord is saying to us through His word. The same humility that prevents communication breakdowns in our families and communities is essential when we approach scripture. We must be willing to seek understanding rather than defend our dogmatic positions, especially when our perceived interpretations and misunderstandings might be limiting our spiritual growth and potential. The Evolution of Understanding Consider how our "lenses" for interpreting scripture have evolved throughout Church history. The Law of Moses was the foundational instruction for the Israelites. For centuries, it was understood primarily as a series of strict commandments— "Thou Shalt Nots," the baseline, "good" interpretation. But when the Savior delivered the Sermon on the Mount, He revealed the "better" and "best" interpretations: the law wasn't just about external compliance but internal transformation. "Thou shalt not kill" became "be not angry." "Thou shalt not commit adultery" became "look not upon a woman to lust after her." This wasn't the Savior contradicting Moses—it was Him revealing the fuller expression of the Law, corresponding to terrestrial rather than telestial understanding. The "good" translation of "Thou shalt not kill" gives way to the "better" call to "first be reconciled to thy brother, and then the best comes as we "offer our gifts, our broken hearts and contrite spirits, upon the Lord's altar." This process of refinement allows the Atonement to work in and through us, helping us to understand the higher call, to "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, and do good to them that hate you." At its pinnacle, this progression of refinement rewards not just our "good behavior," but outlines our celestial transformation—allowing us to become the kinds of beings who live celestial law because it has become our nature. These same principles apply to how we interpret scripture today: we must seek interpretations that surpass the limited scope of contemporary culture and reach toward eternal truths. What might seem like a "good" understanding in our current context may only be scratching the surface— when, in reality, profound spiritual treasures are waiting to be discovered by those willing to seek and work for deeper understanding. When Prophets Need Clarification This is precisely what Joseph Smith did, and this was the pattern of his life. D&C 74, like so many others, exists precisely because Joseph asked for clarification. In this case, he sought deeper insights into Paul's writings on marriage and circumcision. Think about this: the Prophet—translator of the Book of Mormon, seer of the First Vision, receiver of continuous revelation—still needed divine help understanding ancient texts. He didn't assume his calling exempted him from the work of careful study and seeking further light. If Joseph needed clarification, how much more do we? But notice Joseph's approach: he didn't simply pray for instant understanding. He studied, wrestled with the text, recognized his limitations, and then went to the Lord with specific questions born from diligent effort. Joseph's example demonstrates that the Holy Ghost serves as our ultimate "translation app"—the divine interpreter who can help us understand not just what the words say, but what the Lord means for us personally. However, this divine assistance doesn't come simply because we ask for it. Like Joseph, we must first do our part: research the context, study it out in our minds, examine the patterns of how the Lord teaches His children across all scripture, compare passage with passage, seek understanding through multiple sources, ponder deeply, and then pray for clarification and revelation. The Lord honors this process. He expects us to "study it out in your mind" (D&C 9:8) before seeking confirmation. When we approach scripture with the same diligence Joseph demonstrated—combining faithful study with humble inquiry—we position ourselves to receive the same kind of revelatory understanding that produced sections like D&C 74.  This divine pattern of progressive revelation is captured perfectly in D&C 71:5-6: "Now, behold this is wisdom; whoso readeth, let him understand and receive also; For unto him that receiveth it shall be given more abundantly, even power." The Lord promises that when we truly receive His word—not just read it, but understand and internalize it—we qualify for even greater revelation and spiritual power. It's a beautiful cycle: faithful study leads to understanding, understanding leads to receiving, and receiving opens the door to "more abundantly." Context Matters, Purpose Remains When we encounter confusing or seemingly contradictory scriptures, we can again follow Joseph's example: compare passages, looking for similarities and differences based on their contexts. Different situations often require different approaches. The Lord's counsel to missionaries in D&C 75 differs from His guidance to families in D&C 74, just as His instructions to enemies in D&C 71 differ from His promises to the faithful. But these varying approaches don't invalidate the Lord's central purpose: "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man" (Moses 1:39). Whether He's correcting, instructing, comforting, or calling, His ultimate goal never changes. Resolving Sacred Misunderstandings Sometimes, like my text exchange with my son, our misunderstandings arise with those we love most—including our Heavenly Father. When we struggle with His words, feel confused by His timing, or question His methods, we can apply the same principles that heal human relationships: Step back.  Remember that He loves us infinitely. Remember  all He has done for us—particularly the Savior's atoning sacrifice. Maintain trust and honesty  in our prayers and study. Then, through work, humility, patience, and grace, understanding can come. The Lord's Consistent Voice Despite evolving language, changing cultures, and our own limited perspectives, God's voice remains remarkably consistent throughout his scriptural records. In D&C 71, He counsels to "confound your enemies… in mildness and in meekness." In D&C 75, He promises that "he who is faithful shall overcome all things." The tone echoes throughout all scripture: humble boldness, faithful endurance, divine companionship through difficulty. These chapters remind us that communication is sacred work —whether we're interpreting ancient revelation or navigating modern relationships. It requires listening, interpreting in good faith, seeking divine help, and sometimes stepping back to realign with the Lord's language, not just our own. So as we wrestle with ancient words and present-day relationships, let's remember: the Lord's voice is still speaking. The Holy Ghost is still translating. And if we seek with humility, comparing scripture with scripture, remembering His love and our need for His grace, we can begin to hear what He's been saying all along. Are you for real?  In the Lord's case, the answer is always yes—and His reality is more loving, more patient, and more consistent than we sometimes dare to believe. Additional Resources The Scripture Citation Index Doctrine & Covenants Stories Scripture Stories Coloring Book - D&C Liahona , For the Strength of Youth , Friend Saints The Gospel Learning and Teaching email subscription Revelations in Context: The Stories Behind the Sections of the Doctrine and Covenants Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources Joseph Smith Papers   Joseph Smith’s Revelations: A Doctrine and Covenants Study Companion from the Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith Accounts of the First Vision Prophets of the Restoration Gospel Topics Essays Gospel Topics and Questions Church History Topics Answers to Church History Questions Global Histories Saints, Volume 1 Saints, Volume 2 Revelations in Context Joseph Smith’s Revelations Joseph Smith Papers Podcasts Church History Topics Maps: Church History Maps Northeastern United States Palmyra-Manchester, New York, 1820–31 The New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio Area of the USA Joseph Smith Papers Joseph Smith's Residences The Scriptures, Mapped

CFM: Thoughts to Keep in Mind Prophets and Prophecy CFM: November 28–December 4 Nahum ; Habakkuk ; Zephaniah “His Ways Are Everlasting” Videos and Podcasts BOMC: Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah LUL: Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah CFMME: Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah are not yet posted ( also available on Apple and Audible ) TWP: Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah (also available on Apple ) DMT: Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah MM: Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah RV: Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah Podcast CFH: Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah Part 1 , Part 2 (also available on Apple ) Link to the Google Doc THIS WEEK’S TOP STORIES Resources and insights about this Week's Lessons The Bible Project, How to read the Prophets Book of Mormon Central Study Guide General Timeline Nahum (~660-625 BC) “Comfort, consolation” From Naham נָחַם (H5162) This book foretells the destruction of Nineveh and Assyria by the Babylonians. It explains that God is mindful of his people and that wicked, violent, and oppressive rulers/ regimes will not survive the test of time. Nahum explains, "God is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked.” In other words, Nahum is saying that justice will be dealt with, but when dealing with justice, the Lord acts carefully and thoughtfully; he does not allow emotion or impulsivity to cloud his judgment. Nahum goes on to compare the fate of wicked nations to the future of God’s faithful remnant. He demonstrates that those who sow seeds of injustice will be met with similar consequences, those that reflect their behaviors, while those who obey God’s law and treat one another justly and mercifully will be rewarded with results that mirror their righteous actions. One must remember that the scriptures explain that God is “slow to anger.” Therefore, we should expect the consequences of various actions (good or evil) to take some time before coming to fruition. However, this book and others assure that every promise of the Lord will eventually come to pass. Key verses and things to ponder: Nahum begins his book with the phrase, “The burden of Nineveh.” How does this revelation represent a burden, and how does this burden relate to us today? The name Nahum means “consolation.” How does Nahum’s name reflect his mission as it is represented in this book? 1:6 Who can stand before his indignation ? and who can abide in the fierceness of his anger? His fury is poured out like fire, and the rocks are thrown down by him. 7 The Lord is good , a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him. Nahum compares the strongholds of Nineveh to fig trees in 3:12, explaining that the Lord would shake the branches and strip the trees of their fruit. How does this compare to the parable of the fig tree in the New Testament (Matt 21:19-21; Matt 24:32-33; D&C 35:16-19) 2:2 For the Lord hath turned away the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency of Israel: for the emptiers have emptied them out, and marred their vine branches. Habakkuk (~625-600 BC) “Embrace” To fold over or come full circle From Chabaq חָבַק (H2263) Habakkuk is a contemporary prophet of Lehi, and his writings express deep sorrow regarding the wickedness of his nation. He takes these grievances to the Lord in prayer and asks, “ how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! ” God responds. God instructs Habakkuk to record the vision he receives, explaining that this message is intended for a future audience and that the deeper meaning of this message would be recognized by those who would later experience these events (and those like them D&C 121:1-3). God affirms Habakkuk’s fears that Jerusalem would soon erupt into devastating violence and destruction. He elaborates that the Babylonians/ Chaldeans would quickly overtake the city. Habakkuk is horrified and proclaims that Babylon is even worse than Jerusalem; he asks why the Lord would choose such a wicked nation as his instrument. The Lord replied that, eventually, Babylon would fall as well. He explains that many subsequent nations would follow the same cyclical pattern of rising and falling. This is like the vision Daniel interpreted for Nebuchadnezzar regarding the statue of gold, silver, brass, etc. The Lord explains to Habakkuk that these repetitive cycles of government would continue until the end of times when a remnant of God’s people would finally return to him and be faithful. On that day, God promised that he would once again restore his kingdom upon the earth. God clarified that he does not endorse the corrupted practices of any governing body, especially those that cause pain and suffering. However, he knows that these adverse experiences can be used to help his people better recognize and understand the devastating consequences of sin. The Lord details five “woes” that correspond with the warning signs associated with at-risk leadership. These are: Debt & Preying upon others' misfortune Coveting & Unrighteous Dominion - where leaders manipulate their positions to get gain and power. Political Arrogance & Slave Labor - when one vainly takes advantage of another’s perceived weakness or misfortune. Addiction & Immorality Idolatry – worshiping the work of one’s own hands and the things of the world rather than trusting/prioritizing the Lord. After a strong reminder that the Lord is in the Temple , Habakkuk acknowledges that he has heard the Lord and concludes his message with a song. Using temple imagery to outline the biblical history, Habakkuk points the listener to a future day when God would once again bring to pass the mighty miracles and peace that are reflective of those found in the stories of Eden. Key verses and things to ponder: What kind of example does Habakkuk set when it comes to prayer and aligning our will with God’s will? (See Prayer in Bible Dictionary, paragraph 7) What was he expected to do when God responded to Habakkuk’s prayer? (2:2-3) Throughout history, one can easily see many rising and falling regimes that depict Habakkuk's cycle. One can likely see many examples of these patterns today; in various governments, our personal lives, and the lives of those we love. Consider the meaning of Habakkuk’s name, “embrace.” Think of the Lord embracing us during our times of struggle and adversity, during our prayers. How can Habakkuk’s story comfort us, and what can we learn from his message? Zephaniah (~640-609 BC) “Jehovah has treasured” From Tsafan צָפַן (H6845) “treasured, hidden” and Yah יָהּ (H3050) Zephaniah lived during King Josiah’s reforms, just before Habakkuk. Zephaniah’s book contains a collection of his poetry. He opens the book proclaiming the destruction of Jerusalem. This reflects the opposite concept of the Genesis account, where God creates order out of Chaos. In these chapters, God allows the opposite to occur, as Jerusalem quickly devolves into pandemonium, darkness, and ruin. This information serves as a warning. In chapter 2:3, Zephaniah addresses God's meek and righteous followers; he tells them to seek the Lord so that they might be hidden from the wrath of the Lord’s anger. Zephaniah then proceeds to expand his vision to the nations surrounding Jerusalem: the Philistines, Moabites, Assyrians, Canaanites, Ammonites, etc., and he predicts that all these nations will fall to Babylon as well. In Chapter 3, the Lord issues a Woe to an unnamed and oppressive city, which could represent any city that has been corrupted through unrighteous rulers and priests who pollute the sanctuaries. The Lord is very aware of these communities and their injustices and explains that he will wipe them out. In verses 8-9, the Lord clarifies that the fire of his jealousy ( passion ) is not intended to destroy; instead, its purpose is to refine, to restore the people to a “pure language, that they might all call upon the name of the Lord, and serve him with one consent.” The Lord’s goal is to transform these divergent nations into a single-family unit; who love and care for one another. This represents a fulfillment of the promises God made to Abraham that "through his seed, all nations would be blessed." Again, Zephaniah concludes with a song, “Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout, O Israel: be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem.” Zephaniah describes Jerusalem and Zion as gathered and united in songs of praise. The Lord even promises that he would be in the midst of this heavenly throng upon earth, rejoicing over his elect with joy. He proclaims that along with the choir, he would also be singing songs of redeeming love on their behalf. Key verses and things to ponder: The manual suggests comparing these passages to 3 Nephi 17 when the Lord visits the Americas. We read that the Savior gathered everyone in the community. He healed their sick, blessed their children, taught, and prayed for them. The account reads, “eye hath never seen, neither hath the ear heard, before, so great and marvelous things…no tongue can speak, neither can there be written by any man, neither can the hearts of men conceive so great and marvelous things… Then, in verse 24, the account describes the heavens opening and a multitude of angels descending as they encircled the congregation in rings of fire, and the angels ministered unto the people. The Hebrew word for minister is שָׁרַת sharath , which is related to the root שִׁיר shir, which means “to sing.” One can see multiple reflections of Zephaniah’s promises in the BoM. Additionally, the account in 3 Nephi likely occurred while the Nephites and Lamanites were gathered at the Temple to observe Shavuot, which was celebrated 49 days following Passover. In Greek, this is called Pentecost. This was the same feast day that the Apostles were observing when they shared a similar experience in Acts 2; the Spirit of the Lord descended upon a group from multiple nationalities, whom all spoke multiple languages. They received the Holy Ghost, along with the gift of tongues, described as “cloven tongues of fire,” which allowed them to understand and communicate with one another. What can these three different accounts teach us about what it means to have a pure language? What can we learn when comparing these accounts to help us prepare for the Millennial Day?

CFM: Thoughts to Keep in Mind Prophets and Prophecy CFM: December 5–11 Haggai ; Zechariah 1–3 ; 7–14 “Holiness unto the Lord” Videos and Podcasts BOMC: Haggai & Zechariah LUL: Haggai & Zechariah TWP: Haggai & Zechariah (also available on Apple ) DMT: Haggai & Zechariah MM: Haggai & Zechariah Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah RV: Haggai & Zechariah Podcast CFH: Haggai & Zechariah Part 1 , Part 2 (also available on Apple ) Link to the Google Doc Resources and insights pertaining to the Lessons The Bible Project, How to read the Prophets Book of Mormon Central Study Guide Continuation of the 12 Minor Prophets Haggai (~520-505 BC) “Festive”, from Chag חָג (H2282) The book of Haggai was written during the Persian occupation. Haggai and Zechariah are mentioned explicitly in Ezra 5:1, and served during the same timeframe. The Persians had recently overthrown the Babylonian government, and Cyrus the Great made his famous declaration, allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. (Although only about 20% of the Jews taken into captivity returned to the Holy Land.) Haggai’s record begins two years after King Darius succeeded Cyrus as king. Joshua served as High Priest, and Zerubbabel, a descendant of the Dravidic line, served as a governor under the Persian empire. Returning to Jerusalem was a cause for celebration. However, many challenges materialized as the Jews were being gathered, which caused serious concerns. In his letters, Haggai criticized the Jews for putting their priorities above the Lord, particularly when rebuilding the Temple. Haggai admonished the Jews to “Consider your ways,” explaining that all the things that the people prioritized, thinking that those things were going to make them happy, were never going to be enough. True happiness does not come from things; it comes from God and his eternal blessings of salvation. In the Temple, God teaches and performs the sacred covenant ordinances that lead to true and lasting joy. The leaders and people took Haggai’s words to heart and refocused their efforts. Upon the completion of the Temple, many were disappointed because, in their minds, the glory of the second Temple did not compare to the splendor of the Temple that they had lost. Haggai reminded the people that rebuilding the Temple was a process, and that one day God’s Temple would be fully restored, in all its glory, and that the latter house would be greater than the former. However, until that time, Haggai counseled the people to remember their covenants and to be faithful in keeping them (in all aspects of their lives.) Haggai advised the people regarding the laws of Moses and challenged them to maintain ritual and moral purity. He encouraged the people to look forward to the fulfillment of God’s promised blessings and a brighter future. Key verses and things to ponder: In the CFH podcast, Anthony Sweat explained that Haggai made 4 Prophecies within four months. He categorized these prophecies into a pattern that outlines four principles that are regularly repeated by both ancient and modern prophets: Accusation: (Ch 1) Where is the Temple? The Lord accuses the people of building houses for themselves, but they have neglected his house. Expectation: (2:1-10) People had expectations of what the Temple should be, primarily regarding the outer appearance. Haggai reminded them to focus instead on the Lord and the Spirit of Peace they could feel and experience within the Temple. Haggai explained that one day all their hopes and expectations would be fully satisfied, but until then, Haggai encouraged the people to be faithful and to remember that the Lord was with them. Invitation: (2:10-19) The Lord invites the priests and people to step up their game in observing ritual and purity laws in a “call to greater holiness.” Celebration: (2:20-23) The Lord accepts the people's offering and prepares them to receive the Lord by granting them the authority to act in his name, according to the endowment given in the Temple. Dr. Sweat reminds us that receiving the endowment is like receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost: this is a directive, not something to be taken for granted. Even though we may have been confirmed or endowed on paper, the real blessings manifest themselves as we diligently strive to do the work required to receive them. How can we apply Haggai’s admonition to “Consider our ways” today? How can this process be viewed in a positive light to help us continually refocus on the Savior while in the process refining ourselves? (D&C 50:24) Zechariah (~518-480 BC) “Jehovah remembers” From zakar זָכַר (H2142) and Yah יָהּ (H3050) Zechariah worked alongside Haggai. His writings remind the people of the prophecies made by the prophet Jeremiah, who said that the exile would only last for 70 years. Chapter 1 begins with a vision where the Lord announces his return. An angel appears to Zechariah in a series of eight dreams that can be divided into four symmetrical (chiasmic) pairs (Chapters 1-9). 1 (1:1-17) & 8 (6:1-8) - Four horsemen. These are symbolic of God’s representatives and the Messianic Kingdom. 2 (1:18-21) & 7 (5:5-11) - Horns & an ephah. The horns symbolize sin, exile, and adversity. The Ephah is a unit of measurement. In the vision, the ephah is weighed against a talent of lead. This represents a balancing of the scales, where the righteousness of Israel is being tested. Israel appears as a woman, similar to the bride motif one regularly observes throughout scripture. Initially, Israel fails the test, but in vs. 9, another woman joins the first, and together they successfully lift the ephah into the heavens, with "wind in their wings." This symbolism is reminiscent of Ancient Israel and the New Jerusalem gathered on the Last Day. This imagery might remind one of the sticks of Judah and Ephraim joining together as an ensign to the nations. It also references Cherubim and seraphim, balancing the scales between Justice & Mercy, and fundamental principles of Good & Evil. 3 (2:1-13) & 6 (5:1-4) - Plumb line & flying scroll (a metaphor for the rebuilding of the New Jerusalem, the Lord’s Kingdom upon the Earth & purification through scripture) 4 (3:1-10) & 5 (4:1-14) Clothing & Candlestick. These symbols are related to Joshua, the High Priest & Zerubbabel, the royal descendant of David. At the beginning of the vision, Joshua is clothed in filthy robes representing sin. The angel, who is Christ, instructs his servants to “take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him (Joshua) he said, “Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment” (3:4). Joshua is then clothed in the garments of the Holy Priesthood. The change in clothing represents the transformation of man through the power of the Atonement, from a fallen to a celestial state. In 4:1-14, one reads a vision, like Nephi’s dream, where an angel instructs Zechariah regarding various symbols. Two candlesticks represent the Lord’s anointed stewards, one represents the high priesthood (through the cleansing power of the Atonement), and the other represents kingship, or the authority to govern. The responsibility of this pair is to serve God by serving his people; they are instructed to obey the voice of the Lord diligently, and admonished to not lead by might or power but instead by the Spirit. The Lord explains that if they do this, they will be successful. Joshua and Zerubbabel metaphorically take the form of 2 olive trees, which provide anointing oil to fill and light the menorah. The angel explains that Joshua (the Hebrew form of the Greek name Jesus) is representative of the Messiah. If he serves faithfully, he will be known as a symbol of God’s grace, forgiveness, and salvation. These visions are highly symbolic and provide a helpful foundation for studying the Book of Revelation, as many of these symbols cross over. There are also many significant uses of Temple imagery. The CFH podcast with Dr. Sweat covers some of those connections. Chapter 8 Prophecies of the New Jerusalem. The purpose of the Temple is to prepare the people to receive the Lord, to prepare priests and priestesses who exemplify attributes of righteousness and charity, dedicated to the building up of God’s kingdom upon the Earth. This chapter describes in detail many of the characteristics that define his people. Old men and women with staff in hand (staff symbolic of priesthood authority, a kingdom of priests and priestesses) God dwells among them. Safe streets for children People exercise true judgment. They show compassion Stand for truth and righteousness. Work hard They hear and obey the words of the Prophets. They make the Temple a priority. Peacemakers Prosperous and fruitful Generous Courageous Repent regularly Honest in their words and actions Avoid evil speaking and contention. Keep their word Keep the law of the fast. Assemble to observe the feast days Cheerful Lovers of truth Seekers of knowledge Actively seek the Lord. They study and embrace the learning, language, and culture of the Jews Chapters 9-12 These chapters paint a vivid kaleidoscope of various images that prophesy of the Messiah. Zechariah even details specific symbols and events that correspond with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. One can easily identify many of these references: Coming of the King, riding on a donkey Teaching peace to foreign nations, Miraculous feedings of the flock A shepherd king that would be rejected by the corrupt leaders of Israel One partaking a bitter cup An account of betrayal for 30 pieces of silver Crucifixion by a nail Another violent destruction of Jerusalem, followed by another diaspora. Chapters 13-14 offer an account of the Second Coming when God pours out a spirit of repentance. By that time, the idols of the past would be forgotten. The shepherd would be remembered, and people would ask, “What are these wounds in thine hands?” to which the shepherd will reply, “those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.” (D&C 45:48-61) Following a period of refinement, the shepherd will stand on the Mount of Olives and lead his people to victory. With the Temple rebuilt, all nations would once again flock to it and participate together in the ancient feasts of the Lord. Key verses and things to ponder: How are modern-day prophets preparing us to welcome the Savior when he comes again? How does Zechariah’s message relate to modern audiences?