Doctrine and Covenants Section 64

Historical Background

This revelation was received in September of 1831. In the early part of this month, Joseph Smith prepared to move himself and his family to Hiram, Ohio, to the home of John and Elsa Johnson. The point of the move was to place Joseph in a position to spend more time on the inspired revision of the King James Bible. This revelation was received the day before Joseph left with his family for the Johnson home.

D&C 64:1-11 Forgiveness of Sins

According to verses 1-4, what is the will of the Lord for the Latter-day Saints? In verses 5-7 we learn some important things about the Prophet Joseph Smith. What does the Lord mean when he says some “have sought occasion against him without a cause?” In the next few verses (6-11) the Lord explains principles related to forgiveness. What does He want us to understand about forgiveness? How can understanding the doctrine of forgiveness be a blessing in your life? Cross-reference: D&C 58:42-43.

D&C 64:12-14 What About Those Who Do Not Repent?

Everyone does not repent. What were the leaders of the Church supposed to do in cases where the sinner did not repent? Why was it important to follow this counsel?

D&C 64:15-22 The Lord Requires the Heart

In these verses the Lord mentions specific temptations and challenges of various leaders of the Church. How are their problems like your own? What can we do to overcome the influence of Satan in our lives? Notice that the Lord says he will not “overthrow the wicked” for five more years. What reason does he give in verse 21 for not taking action against them?

D&C 64:23-25 The Coming of the Son of Man

What does the Lord call the time we are living in now? What word does he use for the time when Christ will come again? Why would it be good for us who live today to prepare as if Christ were coming tomorrow?

D&C 64:26-36 The Rebellious Are Not of the Blood of Ephraim

The Lord declared that the saints would have an inheritance in Zion. That has not happened yet. How do verses 32-36 help us understand this? What must we do to be worthy to return to Zion some day? Cross-reference: Moses 7:18; Articles of Faith 1:10; D&C 136:18.

D&C 64:37-42 Zion Shall Flourish

List all the promises made by the Lord concerning Zion. Why should we prepare ourselves to live in such a place? How, according to Section 64, can we prepare ourselves?