Doctrine and Covenants Section 7

Historical Background

Some time in April 1829, Joseph Smith came upon passages in the translation of the gold plates that made reference to John, the beloved disciple of the Lord Jesus. That reference appears in 3 Nephi 28:6-7. The resurrected Lord had asked three Nephite disciples what blessing they would like from the Lord. They were silent. But the Lord read their thoughts and said, “Ye have desired the thing which John, my beloved, who was with me in my ministry, before that I was lifted up by the Jews, desired of me. Therefore, more blessed are ye, for ye shall never taste of death.”

As Joseph and Oliver were working on this phase of the translation, they had a difference of opinion on the matter of John, the beloved disciple, still being alive and on the earth. They resolved the question by asking the Lord for an answer, which was received through the Urim and Thummim by Joseph Smith.

Section Headnote
We think nothing of “calling up a document” today. We have computer technology and the internet that give us access to documents, old and new, all over the world. Such technology did not exist in 1830. Notice what the headnote says, “The revelation is a translated version of the record made on parchment by John and hidden up by himself.” As student what important things we learn from this statement about the Urim and Thummim and the power of God. (See also, Bible Dictionary, p. 786, Urim and Thummim.)

D&C 7:1-3 John’s Desire and Blessing
Have students read these verses and summarize in their own words what it was that John wanted from the Lord. What would they say if the Lord said to them, “Ask what you will, it shall be granted unto you”? What do we learn about John from the request that he made to the Lord?

D&C 7:4-8 Peter’s Desire and Blessing
Ask students why the Lord called Peter’s wish a “good desire,” while he called John’s request a “greater work”. What desires do we have that can be made greater? Cross-reference: D&C 15:6.