Doctrine and Covenants Section 107

Historical Background

In February 1835, the original quorum of Twelve Apostles was selected by the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon (Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris). This was in compliance with Section 18:37-39. The original quorum consisted of the following, in order of seniority, which was established by the age of the man: Thomas B. Marsh (1 Nov 1799 or 1800), David W. Patten (17 Nov 1799), Brigham Young (1 June 1801), Heber C. Kimball (14 June 1801), Orson Hyde (8 January 1805), William E. McLellin (18 January 1806), Parley P. Pratt (12 April 1807), Luke S. Johnson (3 November 1807), William Smith (13 March 1811), Orson Pratt (19 September 1811), John F. Boynton (20 September 1811), and Lyman E. Johnson (24 October 1811). These apostles were called on a mission to the Eastern States. They requested that Joseph “enquire of God for us and obtain a written revelation (if consistent [with God’s will]) that we may look upon it when we are separated, that our hearts may be comforted” (Kirtland Council Minute Book, p. 198). This section, known as the “Revelation on Priesthood,” was given in response to that request. Verses 1-58 were given on 28 March 1835. The remaining verses were given at a later date.

D&C 107:1-8 The Holy Priesthood

What important questions about the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods are answered in these verses? Cross-reference: JST Genesis 14;25-40 (see also JST Hebrews 7:1-3; Alma 13:14-19; D&C 84:14).

D&C 107:9-17 The Rights of the Priesthood

What are the rights or the authorities of the Presidency of the High Priesthood, high priests, elders, and the bishopric?

D&C 107:18-20 The Power and Authority of the Priesthood

What is the difference between the power and authority of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods?

D&C 107:21-26 The Governing Quorums of the Church

What are the three governing quorums of the Church? What does it mean when the revelation says they are “equal in authority?” The modern application of that idea is shown when the President of the Church dies. At that time, the First Presidency ceases to exist. The governing quorum of the Church is the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, with the senior member of that quorum serving as president. The Quorum of the Twelve, in this case, has equal authority to the First Presidency until the First Presidency is reorganized.

D&C 107:27-32 Decisions of the Quorums

What does the word “unanimous” mean? What blessings are promised to the quorums if they are unanimous in their decisions? What other characteristics must the quorums have if they are to be “fruitful in the knowledge of the Lord?” How can this principle be applied to your family?

D&C 107:33-39 The Duties of the Twelve, the Seventy, and High Councils

How are the duties of these quorums the same? How are they different? What is an “evangelical minister?” (See D&C 124:91-92.)

D&C 107:40-57 Things Written in the Book of Enoch

When was the High Priesthood established? How was it continued from one generation to the next? What unique things does this revelation tell us about Adam, Seth, Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch, Methuselah, Lamech, and Noah? What important experience took place three years before Adam died? Why is it important for us to know these things about the Holy Priesthood?

D&C 107:58-88 Order and Judgment in Councils

Verses 61-63, and 85-88 speaks of the deacons, teachers and priests. What important doctrines are given concerning these offices? Verses 58-60, and 64-67, 77-84 speak of the duties of president of the High Priesthood. What important principle is taught concerning the President of the High Priesthood in verses 82-84?

D&C 107:89-90 Elders and Seventies

How is the mission of the Elders and Seventies different? How do Elders and Seventies fulfill these duties in the modern Church?

D&C 107:91-92 The President of the High Priesthood

How is the President of the High Priesthood different from every other member or officer of the Church?

D&C 107:93-100 The Seventy

How are the Seventy different from other quorums of the Church? Why are there seven presidents? (See D&C 107:28 [25-28].) According to verse 100, what should all members of the Church remember as they serve in any calling? What impressions have you had as you have learned about the structure of the governing councils of the Church? What evidence is there that this organization comes from God and not from man?