Doctrine and Covenants Section 60

Historical Background

Fourteen two-man teams of missionaries were called from Ohio to preach the gospel in Missouri (see D&C 52). Those who made the trip to Missouri, preached along the way, and when they arrived in Missouri they along with those who were already there were taught. The place for the New Jerusalem was revealed and instructions were given concerning those who would remain in Missouri. Section 60 contains instruction for the Ohio missionaries who were about to return to their homes.

D&C 60:1-4 With Some I Am Not Well Pleased

What pleased the Lord about the service of the missionaries who came from Ohio? What displeased the Lord? As you ponder these verses, what things do you think you have done that please the Lord? What things do you need to change in your life?

D&C 60:5-14 Speedily Return, Not in Haste

These verses answer several questions for the missionaries who are returning home and for the First Presidency (Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, and Sidney Rigdon), and the Presiding Bishop (Edward Partridge). For example, where are they supposed to go on their return home? What are they supposed to do as they travel? What should they not do? How will they pay for their travel? What if they can’t pay back the money loaned to them? What does the Lord mean when he says, “Thou shalt speedily return, proclaiming my word among the congregations of the wicked, not in haste, neither in wrath nor with strife”?

D&C 60:15-17 Wash Thy Feet as a Testimony against Them

In the days of Moses and Aaron, the priests were commanded to wash their hands and feet so that they might be pure when they entered into the presence of the Lord. See Exodus 30:19-21. Jesus washed the feet of his apostles as a sign of his humility before them, even though he was the creator of the world. See John 13:5-14. Why would the Lord say that missionaries should shake the dust off their feet “as a testimony against” persons who reject their testimony?