Doctrine and Covenants Contexts

Key points from this section:

• Calling of the Twelve Apostles: Section 18 provides instructions on the calling of the Twelve Apostles, emphasizing the importance of their role in the Church.

• Value of Souls: It highlights the immense worth of souls, underscoring the significance of missionary work and the salvation of individuals.

• Repentance and Baptism: The section stresses the necessity of repentance and baptism for the remission of sins, outlining the foundational principles of the gospel.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-18.

Key points from this section:

• Three Witnesses: Section 17 is a revelation given to Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris, designating them as the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon.

• Promise of Seeing the Plates: The section promises that these three men will have the opportunity to see the gold plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated, as well as other sacred items.

• Testimony of the Book of Mormon: It emphasizes the importance of their testimony in establishing the divine origin of the Book of Mormon and supporting Joseph Smith’s role as a prophet.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-17.

Key points from this section:

• Revelation to the Whitmer Brothers: Sections 14-16 are revelations given to David, John, and Peter Whitmer Jr., providing them with guidance and encouragement in their roles within the early Church.

• Call to Service: These sections emphasize the importance of missionary work and the call to serve the Lord with all their heart, might, mind, and strength.

• Promises of Blessings: The sections include promises of blessings for those who diligently seek to serve God and follow His commandments, assuring them of spiritual rewards and divine support.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/sections-14-16.

Key points from this section:

• Ordination of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery: Section 13 recounts the ordination of Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to the Aaronic Priesthood by John the Baptist on May 15, 18291.

• Keys of the Aaronic Priesthood: The section highlights the keys and powers of the Aaronic Priesthood, including the ministering of angels, the gospel of repentance, and baptism by immersion for the remission of sins1.

• Promise of the Higher Priesthood: It includes a promise that the higher priesthood, known as the Melchizedek Priesthood, would be conferred upon Joseph and Oliver in due time

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-13.

Key points from this section:

• Revelation to Joseph Knight Sr.: Section 12 is a revelation given to Joseph Knight Sr., providing him with guidance and encouragement in his desire to assist in the Lord’s work.

• Call to Service: The section emphasizes the importance of serving the Lord with a willing heart and highlights the blessings that come from dedicating oneself to God’s work.

• Qualities of a Servant: It outlines the qualities that are desirable in those who serve, such as humility, faith, and diligence, and encourages Joseph Knight Sr. to continue in his efforts with these attributes.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-12.

Key points from this section:

• Revelation to Hyrum Smith: Section 11 is a revelation given to Hyrum Smith, the brother of Joseph Smith, providing him with guidance and encouragement in his spiritual journey.

• Preparation for Ministry: The section emphasizes the importance of preparing oneself spiritually before embarking on the work of the ministry, highlighting the need for study, faith, and humility.

• Promise of the Spirit: It assures Hyrum that if he seeks wisdom and follows the Lord’s commandments, he will be blessed with the Holy Spirit to guide and support him in his efforts.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-11.

Key points from this section:

• Restoration of the Lost Manuscript: Section 10 addresses the aftermath of the loss of the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript and provides instructions on how to proceed with the translation.

• Divine Protection of the Work: It reassures that the Lord’s work cannot be frustrated by the actions of men and that the translation of the Book of Mormon will continue as planned.

• Instructions to Joseph Smith: The section includes specific instructions to Joseph Smith on how to avoid future pitfalls and ensure the successful completion of the translation.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-10.

Key points from this section:

• Revelation on Translation: Section 9 addresses Oliver Cowdery’s attempt to translate the Book of Mormon and provides guidance on the process of receiving revelation for translation.

• Counsel on Patience and Effort: The section emphasizes the need for patience and diligent effort in seeking revelation, highlighting that it requires both spiritual and mental preparation.

• Role of Confirming Feelings: It explains the importance of confirming feelings of peace and assurance from the Holy Spirit as a way to validate the correctness of the translation efforts.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-9.

Key points from this section:

• Revelation on the Spirit of Revelation: Section 8 is a revelation given to Oliver Cowdery, focusing on the principle of revelation through the Holy Spirit.

• Gift of Aaron: The section mentions the “gift of Aaron,” which refers to Oliver’s ability to use divining rods, a common practice at the time, to receive divine guidance.

• Encouragement to Seek Revelation: It encourages Oliver to seek further knowledge and revelation through faith and diligence, promising that he will receive answers through the Spirit.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-8.

Key points from this section:

• Revelation on John the Beloved: Section 7 is a unique revelation that provides insight into the fate of John the Beloved, one of Jesus Christ’s original apostles.

• Translation of Ancient Records: The section reveals that John was granted the desire to remain on earth until the Second Coming of Christ, and it discusses the translation of ancient records that contain this information.

• Role of John in the Last Days: It highlights John’s ongoing role and mission in the last days, emphasizing his continued work in preparing the way for the Lord’s return.

Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-7.