Doctrine and Covenants Section 38

Historical Background

In December 1830, the members of the Church living east of Ohio were commanded to move to Ohio. The Saints were startled by this revelation and many were reluctant to comply. It meant that they must sell their property, if they could, and start over again. A conference was announced for the Whitmer farm home in Fayette, New York, for the 2nd of January, 1831. Orson Pratt wrote, “In one small room of a log house nearly all the Latter Day Saints east of Ohio were collected together. They desired the Prophet of the Lord to inquire of God and receive a revelation to guide and instruct the church that were present.” (Deseret News, 22 February 1860.) Section 38 is the Lord’s answer to the concerns of the New York Saints.

D&C 38:1-6 I Am Christ

List all the qualities that the Lord uses to describe Himself. Why should these qualities inspire members of the Church to trust Him? Notice in verse 4 that the Lord makes reference to “the Zion of Enoch.” Keep in mind that Joseph Smith had been working on the inspired revision of the King James Bible. Cross-reference: Moses 7.

D&C 38:7-12 I Am in Your Midst

Find those statements that would give hope to members of the Church. What phrases would cause members to be afraid. What can you do to make sure you “abide the day” when the Lord comes again?

D&C 38:13-22 A Land of Promise

In verse 22, the Lord says, “Wherefore, hear my voice and follow me.” Read verses 13-22 and find reasons the Lord gives for following Him.

D&C 38:23-27 Esteem Your Brother as Yourself

In this revelation the Lord has promised a land that would belong to the Saints forever. These verses tell the members of the Church the conditions of that promise. How would living according to these conditions bless a family, community, or nation?

D&C 38:28-33 If Ye Are Prepared Ye Shall Not Fear

The enemies of the kingdom of God have a plan to destroy that kingdom. What is there plan? How will they accomplish it? What are the blessings of the Lord that will help to overthrow the plans of the enemy? How will receiving the law of the Lord and being endowed with power from on high bless Latter-day Saints today?

D&C 38:34-42 Go Ye Out from the Wicked

How would the words in these verses bring peace to the souls of those who would be leaving their lands behind? These people thought they were going to lose all that they had worked for throughout their lives to gain. What riches did the Lord promise them if they would be faithful? What promises has the Lord given to the faithful in every generation? Cross-reference: D&C 6:7; 93:1.