Doctrine and Covenants Section 27

Historical Background

On an evening in August, 1830, Joseph’s friend, Newel Knight and his wife Sally, came to visit the Smiths. As they conversed, they realized that neither Sally, nor Joseph’s wife, Emma, had been confirmed members of the Church and received the gift of the Holy Ghost. They determined to take care of the matter and to have the sacrament as well. For the sacrament, Joseph would need wine and he left the house to buy some.

Newel Knight wrote, “Brother Joseph set out to procure some wine for the occasion, but he had gone only a short distance, when he was met by a heavenly messenger, and received the first four verses of the revelation. . . .

“In obedience to this revelation we prepared some wine of our own make, and held our meeting, consisting only of five persons namely, Joseph Smith and wife [Emma Smith], John Whitmer, and myself [Newel Knight] and wife [Sally Knight]. We partook of the sacrament, after which we confirmed the two sisters into the Church, and spent the evening in a glorious manner. (Newel Knight Journal, Church Archives.)

Section 27 should be viewed as two revelations given at separate times: one in August of 1830 (verses 1-4), and the other in September of 1830 (verses 5-18).

D&C 27:1-4 The Emblems of the Sacrament

According to these verses, what should we remember as we partake of the sacrament? What commandment did the Lord give Joseph concerning wine? Explain that “new wine,” or, wine that is “made new among you,” is what we would call “grape juice” today. It is new because it has not yet fermented. It may be helpful to understand that the current practice of the Church, using bread and water for the sacrament, is based upon the living prophet’s interpretation of scripture. If a change in policy should occur, it would happen through a directive from the living prophet.

D&C 27:5-14 A Future Celebration

Have students list the ancient prophets who will attend the great celebration when Jesus comes again.

Moroni – The Lord gave him the keys of the record of Ephraim (the Book of Mormon).

John the Baptist – He was filled with the spirit of Elias (Elijah), and appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery.

Elijah – The Lord gave him keys to turn the hearts of the children to their fathers.

Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph – These were the ancient patriarchs who received promises from the Lord, promises which are passed on to the faithful in every generation.

Adam – He is also called Michael. He is the father of all the human family, the first patriarch.

Peter, James, and John – They were the Lord’s chief apostles when Jesus established His Church upon the earth.

Ask students who else is invited to this great celebration to drink wine with the Savior when he comes again. Why would we all want to be a part of this moment?

D&C 27:15-18 The Dress Code

In this revelation, the Lord has established the menu (verses 1-4), the guest list (verses 5-14), and in these verses He establishes the dress code. It is a symbolic dress code. Ask students to read these verses and explain what these different articles of armor symbolize in their own lives. Invite them to think of the piece of armor and the part of the body it protects. How are we spiritually protected today from influences which could destroy us spiritually?