D&C 2: Moroni’s Message to Joseph Smith about Elijah

Historical Background:

It had been 3 years since the First Vision occurred in the Sacred Grove and Joseph hadn’t received any new revelations since then. Feeling condemned for his weaknesses, Joseph retired to bed and offered prayers for forgiveness. An angel from God, named Moroni, appeared to Joseph and told him about the Gold Plates. Joseph would translate these plates and be the instrument God will use to restore His gospel. Because of this, persecution will increase and Joseph’s name would be known for good and evil among all nations. Moroni then quoted prophecies from the Old Testament declaring the monumental tasks that must be accomplished before the end of the millennium.

Recap: Elijah will be revealed to restore the Sealing Keys of the priesthood allowing the living to perform essential saving ordinances for themselves and for those who have died.