Come Follow Me | Doctrine and Covenants 20-22

Sections 20-22 of the Doctrine and Covenants mark a pivotal moment in Latter-day Saint history—the formal organisation of the Church of Christ on April 6, 1830. Section 20 is often called the "Articles and Covenants" of the Church, functioning as its first official constitution. It outlines the core beliefs, priesthood duties, and key ordinances such as baptism and the sacrament. This revelation solidified the Church’s early structure and governance. Section 21 was received on the day of the Church’s organization, commanding members to keep a record and recognize Joseph Smith as a prophet, seer, and revelator. It highlights the necessity of revelation in guiding the Church. Section 22 reinforces the importance of baptism by proper authority, rejecting previous baptisms performed outside the restored priesthood. These revelations were crucial in establishing the foundational principles of the Restoration. They provided early converts with direction and legitimacy at a time when the Church was just beginning to take shape. Understanding these sections helps us see how the Restoration was not just a spiritual movement but an organized effort with clear doctrine and structure.