Doctrine and Covenants Section 24

Historical Background

Once the Church had been organized Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery circulated among the three families that constituted the Church: the Smiths in Palmyra/Manchester, the Whitmers in Fayette, and the Knights in Colesville. These families, together with their friends who lived nearby, constituted the restored kingdom of God on the earth. This series of visits was not without its trials. Joseph was arrested twice for disorderly conduct. The thing that was disorderly about the conduct was that his doctrine was not consistent with the traditional understanding of the day. Furthermore, his preaching was drawing away persons from other congregations, thus putting those congregations at risk in the minds of their pastors. After this season of traveling about, Joseph returned to his home in Harmony, Pennsylvania, and received the revelation known today as Section 24. The question that seems to have generated this revelation is, “Are we doing all that our office requires?” After lifting the Church for four and a half months, Joseph and Oliver needed lifting themselves. The Lord’s answer represents a pattern for lifting those who have been called to the service of God in any generation.

D&C 24:1-7 The Duties of Joseph Smith

Listed in these verses are the duties given by the Lord to the Prophet Joseph Smith. What were the duties? How was he to fulfill them? What blessings did the Lord promise him if he was faithful? What responsibility did he have to fulfill before he went to the communities where the Church had been organized? How do these principles apply to priesthood leaders today?

D&C 24:8-12 The Authority Given to Joseph and Oliver

Invite students to find the authority given to Joseph (verses 8-9) and Oliver (verses 10-12). What gifts were not granted to them? Why is it important to know the authority we have been given as well as an understanding of the gifts that we will not have?

D&C 24:13-17 Do That Which Is Required

What does it mean to have something “required”? Under what conditions were Joseph and Oliver to require miracles? When were they to give blessings? When were they to give cursings? Cross-reference: Matthew 10:11-15.

D&C 24:18-19 The Church Shall Give Unto Thee

Explain that the word “scrip” mean a bag or sack into which belongings could be packed for a journey. “Staves” is the plural form of the word “staff” which is a long walking stick or cane. The expression “prune the vineyard” means to cut away excess limbs or branches on a tree or vine to promote greater growth and healthier fruit. After reviewing these definitions, ask students to summarize what it was that the Lord was commanding Joseph and Oliver to do. How is their assignment from the Lord similar to what the general authorities of the Church do today? How is it like what missionaries do today? What can all members of the Church do to help the Church, the vineyard of the Lord, be healthier and larger?