D & C 67 - 70 Book of Commandments - A Divine Work Worth the Riches of the World

Revelation Dates: November 1 – 12, 1831

Revelation Places: Hiram and Kirtland Ohio

Section 67 - Historical Background: It was time to compile the revelations received through Joseph Smith thus far and print them in a Book of Commandments. Joseph called a special church conference and after the meeting convened, the Lord revealed the Preface to the Book of Commandments which is now section 1 of the Doctrine & Covenants. The Elders present were asked to bear testimony of the divinity of the revelations. Meanwhile, William E. McLellin and a few others criticized some of the language used in the revelations and wanted it improved. The Lord provided this revelation as a result.

• Recap: Because of fear, the Elders did not receive the blessing God had offered them. The Lord testifies of the truthfulness and divinity of these revelations. The Lord challenges those scoffers in the church to take the least of these revelations and attempt to write one like unto it. If they cannot, they must sign their testimony to its divinity or else be condemned. They must strip themselves of jealousy and fear.

Section 68 - Historical Background: Following the experience as discussed in section 67, Orson Hyde, Luke S. Johnson, Lyman E. Johnson and William E. McLellin each requested a personal revelation from the Lord. Rather than granting individual counsel, the Lord reveals His word toward all the faithful elders of His church.

• Recap: When speaking as moved upon by the Holy Ghost, it is as if the Lord were speaking it. Be of good cheer and do not fear, for the Lord will stand by you. Preach the gospel to all the world that the believers may be saved. The Lord then turns to Joseph and gives administrative counsel. All bishops must be worthy high priests, appointed by the First Presidency. Parents are to teach their children prayer and the principles and ordinances of the gospel and baptize them at the age of 8. Be not idle!

Section 69 - Historical Background: After the Elders agreed to serve as witnesses to the divinity of the Book of Commandments, Joseph dedicated the Book of Commandments unto the Lord. Oliver Cowdery was assigned to take the manuscript to Independence, Missouri for printing.

• Recap: Oliver should not go to Independence alone but should have a companion, namely John Whitmer, the church historian, so that he can record this history.

Section 70 - Historical Background: From November 1 to November 12, 1831, Joseph needed to hold 4 church conferences. At the close of the 4th conference, Joseph completed reviewing the Book of Commandments and Oliver Cowdery with John Whitmer were about to embark on their 800 mile journey to Independence, Missouri.

• Recap: The specific stewardship of publishing and distributing the Book of Commandments is appointed to Oliver Cowdery, John Whitmer, Martin Harris, Sidney Rigdon and W.W. Phelps. They are to use the monies from the publication of the Book of Commandments for their needs but are to donate excess monies to the church, as commanded under the law of consecration and in accordance with the Spirit.