Key points from the article:

• Threats and Turmoil: Joseph Smith faced threats from Doctor Philastus Hurlbut, who had vowed to kill him, and the Saints in Missouri were being forced from their lands. Despite this, missionary work around the Great Lakes was thriving.

• Mission to Pennsylvania and Canada: Amid these challenges, Joseph and Sidney Rigdon embarked on a mission through Pennsylvania, New York, and Ontario, Canada, following invitations from prospective converts and referrals.

• Personal Journal Entry: On October 12, 1833, Joseph made a rare personal journal entry, expressing peace but also concern for his family. That day, he received section 100, which addressed his worries about Zion and his family’s safety.

• Revelation’s Assurance: The Lord reassured Joseph and Sidney about their families, stating they were in His hands and under His care (Doctrine and Covenants 100:1). He also provided guidance for their mission, promising success if they faithfully spoke the thoughts He placed in their hearts and preached the gospel meekly.

• Mission-Specific Promises: The Lord promised that Joseph would receive a powerful testimony and Sidney the ability to expound scripture. Joseph would act as a revelator for Sidney, while Sidney would serve as Joseph’s spokesman.

• Message about Zion: Beginning in verse 13, the Lord spoke about Zion, promising protection and salvation for those Joseph had sent to Missouri and assuring that Zion would be redeemed after a period of chastening and purification.

• Joseph’s Commitment to Zion: Despite suggestions from Oliver Cowdery to abandon Missouri, Joseph remained determined to hold onto the land and continue the effort to build Zion. He reassured the Saints in Missouri to keep their land, promising that Zion would flourish eventually.

• Seeking Divine Understanding: Joseph prayed fervently and often about Zion’s struggles, even expressing frustration. Section 100 brought comfort, reinforcing his faith that Zion would ultimately be redeemed, though he did not know when or how. The Lord’s response was to be still and trust in His timing.

• Return and Gratitude: Upon returning from his mission, Joseph found his family safe and well, as the Lord had promised. He expressed gratitude for this blessing in his journal.

  Read this chapter for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-100