Doctrine and Covenants Section 85

Historical Background

This section of the Doctrine and Covenants contains portions of a letter that was sent to William W. Phelps in November 1832. Many of the instructions given in this letter were intended for John Whitmer and were designed to help him more fully understand his duties as Church Historian. Mention is made in the letter concerning a book of the law of God or a book of remembrance. The purpose of this book was to record the revelations related to the law of consecration (section 42 , for example) and provide a listing of members of the Church. Additional clarification was provided to John Whitmer in a letter from Oliver Cowdery in January 1834.

“It is necessary to keep the names of the Saints, & when a child is brought forward to be blessed by the Elders, it is then necessary to take their name upon the Church Record. Put down the name of the man, his place of birth, and when, &c. and also of his family. . . . If he apostatizes write opposite his name that he has. If he begets children after that and they do not come into the Church their names are not known with their brethren in the book of remembrance. The names of the Saints are to be kep in a book that contains the law of God, this is what is meant in Bro. Josephs’ letter. . . . Each family will have its record with the law of the Lord in it; each branch of the Church the same in every city; and each city one general record kept by a general clerk.”

Traditionally, verse 8 of this revelation was thought to refer exclusively to Edward Partridge. Oliver’s 1834 letter clarifies the intent of the remarks.

“Brother Joseph says, that the item in his letter that says, that a man that is called &c. and puts forth his hand to steady the ark of God, does not mean that any one had at the time, but it was given for a caution to those in high standing to be ward, lest they should fall by the shaft of death” (Oliver Cowdery Letter Book, Huntington Library, San Marino, California).

D&C 85:1-5 Policies on Apostates

What is to be done if a person who has entered into the law of consecration by covenant should turn away from that covenant?

D&C 85:6-8 Ark Steadiers

Compare what is said about “one mighty and strong,” with those who want to “steady the ark.” Cross-reference: 2 Samuel 6:6-7.

D&C 85:9-12 Priesthood Holders Who Apostatize

What happens to apostates who hold the priesthood? Cross-reference: Ezra 2:61-62.