Historical Background
Joseph Knight, Jr., wrote: “We commenced preparing houses on a brother’s land [in Thompson, Ohio, not far from Kirtland] who had a thousand acres. My folks came on. They were called the Colesville church [being a congregation of members from Colesville, New York]. We planted and sowed a great deal. The man was turned out of the church for bad conduct. His name was Leman Copley. He then began to persecute us and we had to leave his farm and pay sixty dollars damage for fitting up his houses and planting his ground. We then had a revelation to go to the western line of the States” (Joseph Knight, Jr.; “Incidents of History: 1829-1844.”).
D&C 54:1-6 A Message to Those Who Keep Their Covenants
Leman Copley did not keep the covenant he made to the Prophet and to the Lord that he would let the people from New York State live on his property. What did the Lord say concerning those who keep and those who break covenants? Why is it important that we keep the covenants we have made with the Lord and his appointed leaders?
D&C 54:7-10 Be Patient in Tribulation
Find the directions that the Lord gave these displaced people. What specific counsel does he give that would apply to anyone moving to a new location? Why is it wise for us all to be patient in times of tribulation? Have you ever had a time when you have been blessed because of your patience during a difficult time?
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Doctrine and Covenants Section 53
Historical Background
Sidney Gilbert was a business partner of Newel K. Whitney, an early convert to the Church. This revelation is the Lord’s response to his question about his calling in the Church.
D&C 53:1-7 Endure to the End
List the expectations that the Lord had of Sidney Gilbert. What blessings was he promised if he was faithful in fulfilling these commandments? See verse 6. What promise do we receive if we heed the revelations and commandments we receive from the Lord and his servants? See D&C 50:22-24.
Sidney Gilbert was a business partner of Newel K. Whitney, an early convert to the Church. This revelation is the Lord’s response to his question about his calling in the Church.
D&C 53:1-7 Endure to the End
List the expectations that the Lord had of Sidney Gilbert. What blessings was he promised if he was faithful in fulfilling these commandments? See verse 6. What promise do we receive if we heed the revelations and commandments we receive from the Lord and his servants? See D&C 50:22-24.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 52
Historical Background
In February 1831, the Lord gave a revelation to Joseph Smith instructing him to have a conference of the Church (see Section 44). To comply with that revelation, Joseph held a conference in Kirtland, Ohio in June 1831. During this conference, 22 elders were ordained to the office of high priest, making this the first time in this dispensation when such an ordination took place. Also, 14 pairs of elders, including Joseph Smith and Sydney Rigdon, were called to serve missions. They were called to go to Missouri, taking different routes, and to “preach by the way” to any who would listen. The 22 who were called were:
Wheeler Baldwin, single, age 39.
Heman Bassett, single, age 18
Ezra Booth, married, age 28
Reynolds Cahoon, married, age 42
Jared Carter, married, age 31
Simeon Carter, married, age 38
William Carter, unknown
Zebedee Coltrin, married, age 28
John Corrill, married, age 38
Edson Fuller, married, age 21
Selah J. Griffin, married, age 40
Levi W. Hancock, single, age 29
Solomon Hancock, married, age 39
Solomon Humphrey, married, age 57
George F. James, married, age 35
Newel Knight, married, age 31
Isaac Morley, married, age 46
John Murdock, married, age 40
Simonds Ryder, married, age 40
Jacob Scott, unknown
Joseph Smith, married, age 25
Sidney Rigdon, married, age 39
Harvey G. Whitlock, single, age 21
Lyman Wight, married, age 36
These men were instructed to take different routes from Kirtland to Missouri. There expectation upon arriving was that the location of the New Jerusalem would be announced.
D&C 52:1-6 A Mission for Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon
What was to happen to these men if they faithfully fulfilled their mission? What promises are made to missionaries in every generation? See D&C 49:26-27.
D&C 52:7-11 Preach by the Way
Look through these verses to find specific instructions that applied to all missionaries called to serve by this revelation. How do the instructions given to these early missionaries apply to modern missionaries?
D&C 52:12-21 A Pattern by which Ye Shall Know Spirits
How are missionaries to receive blessings that will give them power to be successful in preaching the word? Why is it essential, even in our day, that missionaries have these traits?
D&C 52:22-34 Do Not Journey in Another’s Track
According to verses 33-34, should the missionaries travel together in a large group or go in separate routes to arrive in Missouri? What would happen if they followed this counsel?
D&C 52:35-36 Journey to the Eastern Lands
All missionaries are not given the same calling. How is the calling of Joseph Wakefield and Solomon Humphrey different from that of the other elders? What does this help us understand about missionary work?
D&C 52:37-44 The Land of Missouri
What important things does the Lord say concerning the land of Missouri, which is to be where the City of Zion is located? Why would all who are faithful want to go there? Cross-reference: Moses 7:18.
In February 1831, the Lord gave a revelation to Joseph Smith instructing him to have a conference of the Church (see Section 44). To comply with that revelation, Joseph held a conference in Kirtland, Ohio in June 1831. During this conference, 22 elders were ordained to the office of high priest, making this the first time in this dispensation when such an ordination took place. Also, 14 pairs of elders, including Joseph Smith and Sydney Rigdon, were called to serve missions. They were called to go to Missouri, taking different routes, and to “preach by the way” to any who would listen. The 22 who were called were:
Wheeler Baldwin, single, age 39.
Heman Bassett, single, age 18
Ezra Booth, married, age 28
Reynolds Cahoon, married, age 42
Jared Carter, married, age 31
Simeon Carter, married, age 38
William Carter, unknown
Zebedee Coltrin, married, age 28
John Corrill, married, age 38
Edson Fuller, married, age 21
Selah J. Griffin, married, age 40
Levi W. Hancock, single, age 29
Solomon Hancock, married, age 39
Solomon Humphrey, married, age 57
George F. James, married, age 35
Newel Knight, married, age 31
Isaac Morley, married, age 46
John Murdock, married, age 40
Simonds Ryder, married, age 40
Jacob Scott, unknown
Joseph Smith, married, age 25
Sidney Rigdon, married, age 39
Harvey G. Whitlock, single, age 21
Lyman Wight, married, age 36
These men were instructed to take different routes from Kirtland to Missouri. There expectation upon arriving was that the location of the New Jerusalem would be announced.
D&C 52:1-6 A Mission for Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon
What was to happen to these men if they faithfully fulfilled their mission? What promises are made to missionaries in every generation? See D&C 49:26-27.
D&C 52:7-11 Preach by the Way
Look through these verses to find specific instructions that applied to all missionaries called to serve by this revelation. How do the instructions given to these early missionaries apply to modern missionaries?
D&C 52:12-21 A Pattern by which Ye Shall Know Spirits
How are missionaries to receive blessings that will give them power to be successful in preaching the word? Why is it essential, even in our day, that missionaries have these traits?
D&C 52:22-34 Do Not Journey in Another’s Track
According to verses 33-34, should the missionaries travel together in a large group or go in separate routes to arrive in Missouri? What would happen if they followed this counsel?
D&C 52:35-36 Journey to the Eastern Lands
All missionaries are not given the same calling. How is the calling of Joseph Wakefield and Solomon Humphrey different from that of the other elders? What does this help us understand about missionary work?
D&C 52:37-44 The Land of Missouri
What important things does the Lord say concerning the land of Missouri, which is to be where the City of Zion is located? Why would all who are faithful want to go there? Cross-reference: Moses 7:18.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 51
Historical Background
As more and more of the Latter-day Saints came to Ohio there were constant questions about the distribution of property. Who should receive surplus property? What if they leave the Church after coming to Ohio? What property is maintained by each member? What property originally belonging to members is considered to belong exclusively to the Church? These and other difficult questions were surfacing daily. Joseph Smith and the Bishop of the Church, Edward Partridge, went to the Lord with this question. Section 51 is their answer.
D&C 51:1-6 Organize According to My Laws
In the Law of Consecration, when a person volunteered to come under that law, the member would give all that he had to the Church. The Church would then deed that portion back to him which he needed for his own support. Anything that was excess was retained by the Church to care for the poor. It was considered a gift. According to these verses, what was supposed to happen to these properties when a person left the Church? According to verse 3, what was to be used to determine how much each family received?
D&C 51:7-9 Let Every Man Deal Honestly
As you read these verses, think to yourself, “Why would it be important that those who lead the Church and those who are a part of it deal honestly with each other?” Why is it important for you to follow that counsel?
D&C 51:10-12 Money for Other Churches
Under what circumstances would the Lord’s true Church allow other churches to use its resources? As a service to needy congregations, the Church has for many years assisted other denominations. This revelation pertains to healthy congregations in other churches. What blessings would come to this Church and other churches if they followed the program instituted by the Lord?
D&C 51:13-14 Principles of Self-Reliance
What is the Bishop supposed to do with the contributions that are given to the storehouse?
D&C 51:15 The Privilege
What word does the Lord use to describe the situation he is putting the Saints in? What blessings are promised by the Lord to those who follow the principles of the Law of Consecration? How is this system different from other systems that try to make everyone equal within a community or nation? One of the greatest differences is that it is a voluntary system. No one is forced to be a part of it. And, everyone would live according to the same standards, including the leaders of the Church.
As more and more of the Latter-day Saints came to Ohio there were constant questions about the distribution of property. Who should receive surplus property? What if they leave the Church after coming to Ohio? What property is maintained by each member? What property originally belonging to members is considered to belong exclusively to the Church? These and other difficult questions were surfacing daily. Joseph Smith and the Bishop of the Church, Edward Partridge, went to the Lord with this question. Section 51 is their answer.
D&C 51:1-6 Organize According to My Laws
In the Law of Consecration, when a person volunteered to come under that law, the member would give all that he had to the Church. The Church would then deed that portion back to him which he needed for his own support. Anything that was excess was retained by the Church to care for the poor. It was considered a gift. According to these verses, what was supposed to happen to these properties when a person left the Church? According to verse 3, what was to be used to determine how much each family received?
D&C 51:7-9 Let Every Man Deal Honestly
As you read these verses, think to yourself, “Why would it be important that those who lead the Church and those who are a part of it deal honestly with each other?” Why is it important for you to follow that counsel?
D&C 51:10-12 Money for Other Churches
Under what circumstances would the Lord’s true Church allow other churches to use its resources? As a service to needy congregations, the Church has for many years assisted other denominations. This revelation pertains to healthy congregations in other churches. What blessings would come to this Church and other churches if they followed the program instituted by the Lord?
D&C 51:13-14 Principles of Self-Reliance
What is the Bishop supposed to do with the contributions that are given to the storehouse?
D&C 51:15 The Privilege
What word does the Lord use to describe the situation he is putting the Saints in? What blessings are promised by the Lord to those who follow the principles of the Law of Consecration? How is this system different from other systems that try to make everyone equal within a community or nation? One of the greatest differences is that it is a voluntary system. No one is forced to be a part of it. And, everyone would live according to the same standards, including the leaders of the Church.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 50
Historical Background
Parley P. Pratt wrote, “As I went forth among the different branches, some very strange spiritual operations were manifested, which were disgusting, rather than edifying. Some persons would seem to swoon away, and make unseemly gestures, and be drawn or disfigured in their countenances. Others would fall into ecstasies, and be drawn into contortions, cramps, fits, etc. Others would seem to have visions and revelations, which were not edifying, and which were not congenial to the doctrine and spirit of the gospel. In short, a false and lying spirit seemed to be creeping into the Church” (Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt, p. 61).
John Whitmer wrote, “Some had visions and could not tell what they saw, some would fancy to themselves that they had the sword of Laban, and would wield it as expert as a light dragon, some would act like an Indian in the act of scalping, some would slide or scoop on the floor, with the rapidity of a serpent, which they termed sailing in the boat to the Lamanites, preaching the gospel. And many other vain and foolish manoevers that are unseeming and unprofitable to mention. . . . These things grieved the servants of the Lord, and some conversed together on this subject, and others came in and we were at Joseph Smith, Jr., the Seer, and made it a matter of consultation, for many would not turn from their folly, unless God would give a revelation. Therefore the Lord spoke to Joseph” (Book of John Whitmer, pp. 2-27).
D&C 50:1-9 Satan Hath Sought to Deceive You
What important things do we learn in these verses about false spirits, deceivers and hypocrites? In verse 9, what warning does the Lord give everyone? What blessings have come to you and your family because you have followed this warning?
D&C 50:10-22 Preaching and Receiving by the Spirit
What were the elders of the Church ordained to do? What does it mean to “preach my gospel by the Spirit?” How can we know if a person is preaching by the Spirit? Why would people making gestures and acting like they are filled with the Spirit not be a sign that the Spirit is working on them? When someone preaches the word of truth by the Comforter, what would expect that experience to be like?
D&C 50:23-30 Chase Darkness from among You
Read verses 23 through 27 and find the words “light” and “darkness.” What does the Lord say about light and darkness when he speaks of those who preach the gospel? According to verses 28 and 29, what characteristic must a person have before he can be a “possessor of all things” (or in other words, spiritually reborn)? What happens to those who purify themselves from sin? (see verses 29-30) How do these verses help us understand the difference from true teaching by the Spirit and any other kind of teaching?
D&C 50:31-36 Power to Overcome All Things
The Lord offers powerful counsel to those who want to discern between true and false spirits. What keys does the Lord give to all who want to know they are being led by the Spirit of God and not by a false spirit? What blessing will be given to all who are not deceived by false spirits?
D&C 50:37-46 Watch and Be Ready
What does the Lord compare his servants to? How are we all like little children compared to God? What blessings does he promises us if we will build upon Christ, the stone of Israel? Even though we cannot “bear all things now” why should we have no fear? See verses 40-46.
Parley P. Pratt wrote, “As I went forth among the different branches, some very strange spiritual operations were manifested, which were disgusting, rather than edifying. Some persons would seem to swoon away, and make unseemly gestures, and be drawn or disfigured in their countenances. Others would fall into ecstasies, and be drawn into contortions, cramps, fits, etc. Others would seem to have visions and revelations, which were not edifying, and which were not congenial to the doctrine and spirit of the gospel. In short, a false and lying spirit seemed to be creeping into the Church” (Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt, p. 61).
John Whitmer wrote, “Some had visions and could not tell what they saw, some would fancy to themselves that they had the sword of Laban, and would wield it as expert as a light dragon, some would act like an Indian in the act of scalping, some would slide or scoop on the floor, with the rapidity of a serpent, which they termed sailing in the boat to the Lamanites, preaching the gospel. And many other vain and foolish manoevers that are unseeming and unprofitable to mention. . . . These things grieved the servants of the Lord, and some conversed together on this subject, and others came in and we were at Joseph Smith, Jr., the Seer, and made it a matter of consultation, for many would not turn from their folly, unless God would give a revelation. Therefore the Lord spoke to Joseph” (Book of John Whitmer, pp. 2-27).
D&C 50:1-9 Satan Hath Sought to Deceive You
What important things do we learn in these verses about false spirits, deceivers and hypocrites? In verse 9, what warning does the Lord give everyone? What blessings have come to you and your family because you have followed this warning?
D&C 50:10-22 Preaching and Receiving by the Spirit
What were the elders of the Church ordained to do? What does it mean to “preach my gospel by the Spirit?” How can we know if a person is preaching by the Spirit? Why would people making gestures and acting like they are filled with the Spirit not be a sign that the Spirit is working on them? When someone preaches the word of truth by the Comforter, what would expect that experience to be like?
D&C 50:23-30 Chase Darkness from among You
Read verses 23 through 27 and find the words “light” and “darkness.” What does the Lord say about light and darkness when he speaks of those who preach the gospel? According to verses 28 and 29, what characteristic must a person have before he can be a “possessor of all things” (or in other words, spiritually reborn)? What happens to those who purify themselves from sin? (see verses 29-30) How do these verses help us understand the difference from true teaching by the Spirit and any other kind of teaching?
D&C 50:31-36 Power to Overcome All Things
The Lord offers powerful counsel to those who want to discern between true and false spirits. What keys does the Lord give to all who want to know they are being led by the Spirit of God and not by a false spirit? What blessing will be given to all who are not deceived by false spirits?
D&C 50:37-46 Watch and Be Ready
What does the Lord compare his servants to? How are we all like little children compared to God? What blessings does he promises us if we will build upon Christ, the stone of Israel? Even though we cannot “bear all things now” why should we have no fear? See verses 40-46.
Historical Background
Leman Copley was a 50 year old farmer living in Thompson, Ohio. He joined the Church in March 1831. Leman was a member of the Shaker faith prior to his baptism and after becoming a member of the Church it was his desire to share the gospel with other members of his previous faith. The Shakers had some fundamental beliefs that were different from the Church which Leman had joined. They believed in keeping the body pure by eating only vegetables and by living celibate lives. They believed that God was both male and female, that he appeared on earth anciently as Jesus Christ, and that he appeared in modern times as a woman: Ann Lee. Leman Copley asked if the Prophet Joseph might receive a revelation that could be given to the Shakers. Section 49 is in response to his request.
D&C 49:1-4 A Revelation to the Shakers
What did the Lord reveal about the Shakers? What commandment did he give to Sidney Rigdon, Parley P. Pratt, and Leman Copley? What promises did he make to Leman if he was faithful?
D&C 49:5-14 Repent and Be Baptized
In these verses the Lord reveals the fundamental doctrines of Christ. What are those fundamentals that everyone will have to believe before they can return to the presence of God?
D&C 49:15-23 Clarification of Various Doctrines
In these verses, the Lord gives clear statements about the following subjects: Marriage (verses 15-17), vegetarianism (verses 18-19), the law of consecration (verse 20), proper use of animal flesh (verse 21), and the Second Coming of Christ (verses 22-23). What is the revealed doctrine from the Lord on these matters? How has a proper understanding of these doctrines blessed your life?
D&C 49:24-28 Before the Second Coming
List the things that will happen before the Second Coming. As you think about these events, what items on the list have not yet happened? What does the Lord mean when he says he will come quickly? (See D&C 45:39-44.)
Leman Copley was a 50 year old farmer living in Thompson, Ohio. He joined the Church in March 1831. Leman was a member of the Shaker faith prior to his baptism and after becoming a member of the Church it was his desire to share the gospel with other members of his previous faith. The Shakers had some fundamental beliefs that were different from the Church which Leman had joined. They believed in keeping the body pure by eating only vegetables and by living celibate lives. They believed that God was both male and female, that he appeared on earth anciently as Jesus Christ, and that he appeared in modern times as a woman: Ann Lee. Leman Copley asked if the Prophet Joseph might receive a revelation that could be given to the Shakers. Section 49 is in response to his request.
D&C 49:1-4 A Revelation to the Shakers
What did the Lord reveal about the Shakers? What commandment did he give to Sidney Rigdon, Parley P. Pratt, and Leman Copley? What promises did he make to Leman if he was faithful?
D&C 49:5-14 Repent and Be Baptized
In these verses the Lord reveals the fundamental doctrines of Christ. What are those fundamentals that everyone will have to believe before they can return to the presence of God?
D&C 49:15-23 Clarification of Various Doctrines
In these verses, the Lord gives clear statements about the following subjects: Marriage (verses 15-17), vegetarianism (verses 18-19), the law of consecration (verse 20), proper use of animal flesh (verse 21), and the Second Coming of Christ (verses 22-23). What is the revealed doctrine from the Lord on these matters? How has a proper understanding of these doctrines blessed your life?
D&C 49:24-28 Before the Second Coming
List the things that will happen before the Second Coming. As you think about these events, what items on the list have not yet happened? What does the Lord mean when he says he will come quickly? (See D&C 45:39-44.)
Doctrine and Covenants Section 48
Historical Background
The first call for the Saints to gather came in December 1830. The place to which they were to gather was Ohio, in the vicinity of Kirtland. By March of 1831, the Saints were beginning to respond and land was needed for them in order that they might have a livelihood. This revelation gives instruction to the Prophet Joseph concerning the manner of providing land for the Saints who would be coming to Ohio.
D&C 48:1-3 Impart of Your Land
What were those who excess land supposed to do with the land they did not need? What if there were no surplus land? How were they to obtain land for the people who would be coming? Read D&C 42:33. How is the word of the Lord in D&C 42 similar to the wording in Section 48? How can we apply these words to our lives today? Consider what is done with Fast Offerings, Tithing, the Missionary Support Fund. How are the principles in these programs like the principles found in D&C 48?
D&C 48:4-6 Building a New City
The city spoken of in these verses is the New Jerusalem. It was the intention of the Lord to provide the Saints with a city where they could welcome the Savior. That city has not yet been built, but it will be some day. What are the principles that will be followed when it is built? Who will direct the gathering to the New Jerusalem? Cross-reference: Ether 13:2-12; Articles of Faith 1:10.
The first call for the Saints to gather came in December 1830. The place to which they were to gather was Ohio, in the vicinity of Kirtland. By March of 1831, the Saints were beginning to respond and land was needed for them in order that they might have a livelihood. This revelation gives instruction to the Prophet Joseph concerning the manner of providing land for the Saints who would be coming to Ohio.
D&C 48:1-3 Impart of Your Land
What were those who excess land supposed to do with the land they did not need? What if there were no surplus land? How were they to obtain land for the people who would be coming? Read D&C 42:33. How is the word of the Lord in D&C 42 similar to the wording in Section 48? How can we apply these words to our lives today? Consider what is done with Fast Offerings, Tithing, the Missionary Support Fund. How are the principles in these programs like the principles found in D&C 48?
D&C 48:4-6 Building a New City
The city spoken of in these verses is the New Jerusalem. It was the intention of the Lord to provide the Saints with a city where they could welcome the Savior. That city has not yet been built, but it will be some day. What are the principles that will be followed when it is built? Who will direct the gathering to the New Jerusalem? Cross-reference: Ether 13:2-12; Articles of Faith 1:10.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 47
Historical Background
The Prophet Joseph Smith told John Whitmer that he would be the historian for the Church. Brother Whitmer was not interested in such a calling, but he told Joseph that he would do it if it was the will of the Lord. Section 47 is the revelation requested by John Whitmer, telling him of his responsibility. He was set apart in April of 1831 and began writing in June. His assignment was to transcribe all things that had been revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith. Even in these early days of the Church it would have been a massive undertaking. There is mention made in the revelation concerning another calling for Oliver Cowdery. It should be remembered that he already had the position of Second Elder (D&C 20:3); and, he had been called to preach the gospel to the Lamanites (D&C 28:8).
D&C 47:1-4 Callings in the Church
Read these verses and explain what they help us understand about callings in the Church. What calling did John Whitmer receive? What was he called to do? How long was he called to serve? What else did his calling allow him to do? Why was the person who held this calling released? What will he have to do to be successful? Why would it be important for John Whitmer to know these things? Why would it be important for anyone receiving a calling in the Church to know these things?
The Prophet Joseph Smith told John Whitmer that he would be the historian for the Church. Brother Whitmer was not interested in such a calling, but he told Joseph that he would do it if it was the will of the Lord. Section 47 is the revelation requested by John Whitmer, telling him of his responsibility. He was set apart in April of 1831 and began writing in June. His assignment was to transcribe all things that had been revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith. Even in these early days of the Church it would have been a massive undertaking. There is mention made in the revelation concerning another calling for Oliver Cowdery. It should be remembered that he already had the position of Second Elder (D&C 20:3); and, he had been called to preach the gospel to the Lamanites (D&C 28:8).
D&C 47:1-4 Callings in the Church
Read these verses and explain what they help us understand about callings in the Church. What calling did John Whitmer receive? What was he called to do? How long was he called to serve? What else did his calling allow him to do? Why was the person who held this calling released? What will he have to do to be successful? Why would it be important for John Whitmer to know these things? Why would it be important for anyone receiving a calling in the Church to know these things?
Doctrine and Covenants Section 46
Historical Background
In March of 1831, Joseph Smith followed the direction of the Lord and directed his attention to a revision of the New Testament. John Whitmer and Sydney Rigdon assisted in this effort. As they visited among themselves about various doctrines and practices the question of who could and could not attend Church meetings came up. In response to the differences of opinion on the matter, Joseph went to the Lord seeking direction. This revelation is the Lord’s answer to the question, Who may participate in Church meetings?
D&C 46:1-6 Conduct Meetings by the Holy Spirit
Find the word “meetings” in these verses. Read the words associated with meetings and list the principles that the Lord reveals concerning: how the meetings should be conducted, who may attend, who may partake of the sacrament, who may attend meetings were converts are being confirmed. Why should you know these principles? How has your life been affected by the idea that the Church has open meetings?
D&C 46:7-12 Gifts to Avoid Deception
According to verse 7, how should a person approach God to ask His help? What does verse 8 say we should beware of? How can we avoid deception? What does the Lord say about the gifts he has given us to avoid deception?
D&C 46:13-26 Gifts of the Spirit
As you read the gifts of the Spirit found in these verses, ask yourself how each of these gifts or all of them together, would protect the members of the Church from being deceived. How have these gifts been a blessing to you and to those you love?
D&C 46:27-33 Asking for and Discerning the Gifts of the Spirit
Who is given power to discern whether or not a gift comes from God or some other source? What are they to do so that they might receive that knowledge? Why would asking for any gift from God require that you “ask according to the will of God,” do it “in the name of Christ,” “give thanks to God,” and “practice virtue and holiness . . . continually”? How will doing these things keep you from being deceived by persons who are not of God who claim to have spiritual gifts?
In March of 1831, Joseph Smith followed the direction of the Lord and directed his attention to a revision of the New Testament. John Whitmer and Sydney Rigdon assisted in this effort. As they visited among themselves about various doctrines and practices the question of who could and could not attend Church meetings came up. In response to the differences of opinion on the matter, Joseph went to the Lord seeking direction. This revelation is the Lord’s answer to the question, Who may participate in Church meetings?
D&C 46:1-6 Conduct Meetings by the Holy Spirit
Find the word “meetings” in these verses. Read the words associated with meetings and list the principles that the Lord reveals concerning: how the meetings should be conducted, who may attend, who may partake of the sacrament, who may attend meetings were converts are being confirmed. Why should you know these principles? How has your life been affected by the idea that the Church has open meetings?
D&C 46:7-12 Gifts to Avoid Deception
According to verse 7, how should a person approach God to ask His help? What does verse 8 say we should beware of? How can we avoid deception? What does the Lord say about the gifts he has given us to avoid deception?
D&C 46:13-26 Gifts of the Spirit
As you read the gifts of the Spirit found in these verses, ask yourself how each of these gifts or all of them together, would protect the members of the Church from being deceived. How have these gifts been a blessing to you and to those you love?
D&C 46:27-33 Asking for and Discerning the Gifts of the Spirit
Who is given power to discern whether or not a gift comes from God or some other source? What are they to do so that they might receive that knowledge? Why would asking for any gift from God require that you “ask according to the will of God,” do it “in the name of Christ,” “give thanks to God,” and “practice virtue and holiness . . . continually”? How will doing these things keep you from being deceived by persons who are not of God who claim to have spiritual gifts?
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