Revelation Dates: February 27 – March 15, 1833

Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 89 - Historical Background: In a small upstairs room in Bishop Whitney’s store, around 22 Elders gathered tightly together to attend the School of the Prophets. The purpose of the school was to learn the mysteries of God and sacred truths in preparation for their ministry. During the meeting, the Elders would light their pipes and smoke. When the pipe tobacco was exhausted, they would bite off a large piece of chewing tobacco. This was a common practice for the day. They had not been taught their bodies are considered sanctified tabernacles. The use of liquor, tobacco, coffee, tea and other stimulants were commonly accepted. Often, when Joseph entered the room to give instruction, he would find himself in a cloud of tobacco smoke. This, along with the complaints from Emma who cleaned the spittoons and the disgusting mess on the floor, made the Prophet think upon the matter. He inquired of the Lord and received this revelation, which went far beyond tobacco, known as the Word of Wisdom.

Section 90 - Historical Background: At this critical time of the restoration, the Lord knew his church was going into a perilous phase in its development. Over the next two years, the Lord would appoint relatively  inexperienced men to lead the church, including the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the Seventy, Stake high councils, Stake Presidents and Bishops. These high offices and noble titles in the church would be a supreme test which many would fail. The Lord demonstrated a great deal of love and patience with these leaders. This section formally organizes the First Presidency who hold the keys of the Priesthood. It was shortly after this revelation was given that Joseph ordained Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams as Counselors in the First Presidency.

Section 91 - Historical Background: At this time, Joseph was revising the Old Testament. He came across the books referred to as the “Apocrypha,” meaning “hidden,” and didn’t know if they were worthy of including in the bible or were merely an appendix to the bible. He took this inquiry to the Lord.

Section 92 - Historical Background: This revelation relates to an earlier revelation in section 82, relating to the Law of Consecration. Now the Lord wants Frederick G. Williams added to the order.