Dcotrine and Covenants Section 84

Historical Background

In September 1832, Joseph Smith presented a revelation to the Church of major doctrinal importance. In it the following issues are addressed: building the New Jerusalem in Independence, Missouri; the order of the priesthood; rebelliousness among priesthood leaders, business issues that needed attention. This is the first revelation for the whole Church given since April 1832. Joseph had engaged in the translation of the Bible for much of that time. One of the most significant concepts springing from this revelation is the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood.

D&C 84:1-5 The New Jerusalem

List all the things that the Lord said concerning the temple in the city New Jerusalem; or, as the Lord called it, the “house.” Why were the Saints asked to build such a structure? In October 1838, the Lord rescinded the commandment to build the house (see D&C 124:49-51).

D&C 84:6-31 A History of the Holy Priesthood

In verses 6-17, the Lord traces the history of the Holy Priesthood from Moses back to Adam. What important things do we learn about the priesthood in these verses? In verses 18-25 an explanation is given concerning the removal of the Holy Priesthood from the children of Israel. Why was it removed? Verses 26-31 explain the power and authority of the Aaronic Priesthood and John the Baptist’s connection to that priesthood. What powers are associated with that priesthood? What important information does the Lord reveal about John the Baptist that was unknown before?

D&C 84:32-45 The Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood

How do men “become” the sons of Moses and Aaron? How do men receive “all that the Father hath?”What happens to those who break the covenant of the priesthood, or those who refuse to receive it? According to verses 43-45, what must all men who receive the priesthood do? Notice the word “receive” in all of its forms in verses 32-45. What must we receive in order for the blessings of the Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood to be granted?

D&C 84:46-53 Light and Darkness

Keep in mind that the words “my,” and “me” refer to the Lord. Read these verses and explain the relationship between the Lord, the Father, and the Spirit. What do these verses help us understand about spiritual light and spiritual darkness?

D&C 84:54-61 Scourge and Judgment upon the Children of Zion

Read these verses carefully and discover what it is that causes the Lord to say that there is a scourge and judgment upon the children of Zion, “even all.” What can be done to remove that scourge? How can the Book of Mormon help remove the scourge?

D&C 84:62-95 To Those who Preach the Gospel

Verses 62-73 speak of the power given to the apostles. What is that power? What do the apostles have to be careful not to do? Verses 74-86 speak of the specific things the apostles must do as they serve. What are they to be concerned about? What should they not worry about? Verses 87-95 give direction to the apostles when their message is accepted and when it is rejected. What does the Lord direct them to do in each case?

D&C 84:96-102 A New Song

Review the “new song” the Lord speaks of in verses 99-102. What is the theme of the song? According to verses 96-98, when will the song be sung? Who will sing it?

D&C 84:103-111 Every Man Shall Go Forth

How is it that missionaries and their families shall be taken care of when they are away preaching the gospel? What is the role of the Aaronic Priesthood in proclaiming the gospel? What is the role of the Melchizedek Priesthood?

D&C 84:112-120 The Bishop and the Rest

How is the responsibility of the bishop (verses 112-116) different from the mission of “the rest of my servants?” (verses 117-120). What is the Lord preparing to do? What can we do to help Him accomplish His purposes?