W. Cleon Skousen Insights

D & C 49 - 50 That Which is of God is Light

Revelation Dates: May 1831

Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 49 - Historical Background: A man named Leman Copley was a recent convert from a religious group called the Shakers, or the Shaking Quakers. He was so excited about the gospel that he wanted to present it to his former church members located near Cleveland, Ohio. The founder of the Shakers was a woman named Ann Lee, who had once been involved in a miserable marriage. Much of her religion was built around her opposition to marriage and the relations that went with it. “Mother Lee” was regarded as the returned Christ, meat was forbidden to eat, baptism was unnecessary and a celibate life was required. Before sending missionaries to this group, Joseph asked the Lord how to approach the concepts of these people.   

• Recap: The Lord calls Sidney Rigdon and Parley P. Pratt to teach the Shakers, including Leman Copley, so Leman can convince his former congregation the truths of the Gospel. If they accept it, they shall be saved. Otherwise they shall be damned. The Lord specifies true gospel concepts to be taught: The Lord has not yet come the second time; Believe on Jesus Christ; Repent; Be Baptized and receive the Holy Ghost; Marriage is ordained of God; Meat is ordained for the use of man if not wasted; and Christ will return in the heavens – not as a woman or a man walking the earth. [Note: This missionary effort was completely rejected by the Shakers, and even Leman Copley abandoned the church, breaking promises and covenants he made previously.] 

Section 50 - Historical Background: Numerous converts were flooding into the church, making it difficult to manage the many new branches spreading abroad. Especially troublesome were the perverted beliefs many converts brought into the church from their former religion. A false and lying spirit was beginning to infiltrate the church, including false visions, prophesies and manifestations of spiritual possession. Some church leaders became concerned and approached Joseph to inquire of the Lord. Together, they all knelt in prayer and Joseph received this revelation. 

• Recap: There are many false spirits in the world, intending to deceive the world and especially the saints. Within the church there are some hypocrites (pretenders) who have deceived some, but they will be detected and cut off. The Elders are to preach according to the Spirit of God – if by any other means it is not of God. If the Spirit they receive does not edify, it is a false spirit. That which is of God is light, to chase away the darkness. If one cannot discern whether the spirit be good or evil, ask God. If it is evil, humbly but firmly denounce that spirit.

D & C 46 - 48 Seek Ye the Best Gifts

Revelation Dates: March 8, 1831

Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 46 - Historical Background: New converts were now pouring into Kirtland, Ohio. Many had preconceived ideas from their former churches how weekly services should be held. Joseph inquires of the Lord how He wants it done. 

• Recap: The elders attending the meeting should preside and conduct the meeting according to the Spirit. All people should be welcomed to attend, but only worthy members should partake of the sacrament. All members should seek earnestly the best gifts of the Spirit. Some of these gifts are to witness of Jesus Christ, having a believing heart, strong leadership, discernment, wisdom, knowledge, healing, faith, prophecy, and tongues. All gifts come from God for the benefit of mankind. 

Section 47 - Historical Background: Up to this time, Oliver Cowdery had been acting as Church historian. Joseph Smith called John Whitmer to replace Oliver and John agreed to do it, but only if Joseph Smith received divine guidance from the Lord to call him to the work. 

• Recap: John Whitmer is called to be the recorder of church history and additionally to replace Sidney Rigdon to transcribe revelations and future revisions of the scriptures. 

Section 48 - Historical Background: A large number of new converts were about to arrive from New York. A member named Leman Copley made a covenant allowing the arriving saints to occupy a piece of his land. Copley apostatized and broke his covenant, forcing these weary saints off of his land. Other saints were occupying a piece of land owned by Isaac Morley. Joseph inquired of the Lord how to acquire lands for the many incoming Saints. 

• Recap: Temporary quarters are necessary for the incoming Saints until the church moves west. If necessary, purchase or lease some land, but conserve funds for purchasing land in Zion. The Elders will be sent to Missouri and it will be revealed to them where Zion will be established and these lands should be purchased, laying the foundation for the City of Zion. The bishop will have the responsibility to assign properties to each family as their needs require.

D & C 45 Despite Troubling Times - God's Promises Shall be Fulfilled

Revelation Date: March 7, 1831

Revelation Place: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 45 - Historical Background: The Lord was well aware of the perils that were pouring out upon the Saints. Joseph lamented, “Many false reports, lies, and foolish stories were published and circulated in every direction, to prevent people from investigating the work.” During these times of slander and abuse, the Lord provided revelations of comfort and peace, including section 45, which was received, as Joseph wrote, “to the joy of the Saints who had to struggle against every thing that prejudice and wickedness could invent.”.

• Recap: Addressed to the entire church, the Lord encourages the Saints to retain their repentance so they qualify for the mercy of forgiveness through the atonement. Soften your heart that the following revelations will be a light in the darkness. All of God’s prophecies must be fulfilled, just as the destruction of the temple in old Jerusalem and the scattering of the Jews was fulfilled.
• There will be coming wars, commotions, fear, hate and desolating plagues that will cover the land. There will be earthquakes, desolations and warfare. The wicked will curse God and die, but the righteous will not be moved.
• Be not troubled because the promises to the righteous shall all be fulfilled. Christ’s coming will cleanse the earth from evil. Gog and Magog will be destroyed. The Jews will see and accept Him as their Messiah. The righteous will be resurrected and Satan will be bound.
• The Lord prophesies of imminent war, probably the Civil War. Gather the Saints and assemble to the New Jerusalem – Zion, and sing the songs of everlasting joy.

D & C 41 - 44 God's Law to Govern God's People

Revelation Dates: February 1831

Revelation Place: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 41 - Historical Background: Arriving in Kirtland Ohio, Joseph found many of the saints practicing “strange notions” brought with the new converts from their previous church backgrounds. As these false precepts and traditions were creeping in among the church, Joseph asked the Lord what to do.

• Recap: Blessed are they who follow God’s commandments and cursed are those who don’t. The Elders are to gather together and God will declare His law clarifying His will. Joseph is to receive housing and Edward Partridge is to be ordained a Bishop, the first bishop of the church, to administer full time the temporal affairs of the church. 

Section 42 - Historical Background: The early members pooled their property in an attempt to mimic “all things in common” as described in Acts, also known as Christian Communism. This counterfeit to God’s Law of Consecration became so contentious that Joseph approached the Lord to seek the true meaning of “all things in common.” This section became known as “The Law” and was one of the first revelations to be published. 

• Recap: The strength of God’s church is in the obedience of its members. The first priority of the Elders is to do missionary work, two by two, as ordained by authority and then guided by the Sprit. Living the ten commandments is emphasized. The Law of Consecration is explained. Other laws of God are discussed, such as the law of work, healing, government, morality and judgement. 

Section 43 - Historical Background: Shortly after Joseph arrives in Kirtland, a woman by the name of Hubble announced herself as a prophetess who impresses some of the Elders, including Sidney Rigdon. Joseph declares her an imposter but some remained impressed by her. Joseph approached the Lord concerning the discord. 

• Recap: The Lord reminds the church there is none other authorized to transmit the will of the Lord than Joseph until the Lord announces a successor. The Elders are to be obedient, teach and edify one another so they may be sent forth to preach in righteousness. 

Section 44 - Historical Background: The church was rapidly growing and the Lord knew that great opposition was also rapidly growing. It was revealed to Joseph to prepare the saints for the upcoming crisis by assembling all the Elders in a conference for strength and instruction.         

• Recap: The Elders must be gathered from all areas to hold a June conference in Kirtland, where the Lord promises to pour out His spirit. Missionary work must be accelerated and many will be converted. These must be organized according to the laws of the land. Care must be given to those who are poor and needy.

D & C 37 - 40 Fear Not - Hear My Voice and Follow Me.

Revelation Dates: December 1830-January 1831

Revelation Place: Fayette, New York

Section 37 - Historical Background: Sidney Rigdon had been told earlier that new scriptures would be coming. As Joseph’s scribe, they received the book of Moses. The Lord then interrupts the translation and commands that the headquarters of the church be moved from Fayette, New York to Ohio.

• Recap: Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon are interrupted during the translation of the bible and the Book of Moses to focus on moving the church headquarters to Ohio. Each family is to choose for themselves according to their own best judgement.

 Section 38 - Historical Background: The church holds its 3^rd and last conference in Fayette, New York. As part of the conference, Joseph wanted to provide answers to the Saints’ questions why the Lord was requiring them to sell their farms and homes and move to Ohio. Joseph asks the Lord and with Sidney Rigdon as scribe, he receives this revelation. 

• Recap: The Lord reminds the Saints that it is He, and not Joseph Smith, who leads His church. The Lord protects the righteous who will always overcome, and He chains the wicked who will be doomed. Fear not, for the plot of the wicked will fail. He enters into a covenant with the church to provide a land of promise and inheritance, as long as the saints are faithful and obedient. There must be unity among the saints, organize themselves and gather in Ohio for safety. 

Section 39 - Historical Background: Immediately after the church conference in Fayette, a 40-year-long Baptist minister named James Covel was so moved that he committed to Joseph that he would obey any commandment given him. Joseph inquired of the Lord what He desired from Covel. 

• Recap: Only those who receive the Lord’s church can receive Him. Now is the time to accept His Gospel, be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost and embark in gathering the saints in Ohio. Preach with a loud voice, baptize and give them the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

Section 40 - Historical Background: Despite the solemn promise and covenant to follow God’s command (see section 39), James Covel deliberately refused and turned his back on the Lord and His saints. When Joseph learned of Covel’s blatant rejection, he asked the Lord for instructions.   

• Recap: Though the original covenant and heart of James Covel was right before the Lord, the adversary destroyed his conviction and therefore by breaking his promise Covel lost everything the Lord had promised him. Joseph is not to concern himself with James Covel any longer for the Lord will deal with him.

The Easter Story

Written by W. Cleon Skousen and narrated by Francis Urry, this professionally dramatized story of Easter was produced by KSL radio in Salt Lake City and was widely broadcast on radio stations during the 1960's and 1970's.

Journey through the Easter events beginning with the burial of Jesus Christ and concluding with His ascension. In the stillness of pre-dawn Jerusalem, a group of devoted women, including Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of Jesus, and Joanna, among others, embark on a poignant mission to anoint the body of Jesus with sweet spices. Their story unfolds with dramatic encounters at the tomb, where they are greeted by angelic figures announcing Jesus' resurrection.

Powerful moments of disbelief, followed by a wonderous realization by Jesus’ closest followers, including Mary and the apostles, the emotional transitions from fear and sorrow to amazement and renewal of faith as the resurrected Christ appears first to Mary and later to the broader group of disciples.

The moving account of Jesus’ 40-day ministry after His resurrection, filled with miraculous appearances and profound teachings. Culminating in Jesus’ ascension, the saints launch and ignite a global Christian movement of faith, testimony and hope.  

D & C 30 - 36 Personal Revelations for New Converts

Section 30 - Historical Background: Following the second conference of the Church at Fayette, the Lord provided revelations to several new converts who were anxious to know what God would have them do. This revelation was to three of the Whitmer brothers, David, Peter Jr. and John.

Recap: David Whitmer, one of the three witnesses, is admonished for fearing man more than God and for not giving heed to the Spirit. Therefore he is to remain home and ponder upon his situation. Peter is called on a mission to the Lamanites with Oliver Cowdery, who will be the senior in the companionship. John was called on a mission to declare the gospel within the area and was counselled not to fear man.

Section 31 - Historical Background: Thomas B Marsh was a recent convert from Massachusetts who was baptized in August 1830 by David Whitmer. In September he attended the conference in Fayette and received this personal revelation from Joseph.

Recap: The Lord is pleased with the dedication of Thomas B Marsh and he is promised blessings for him and his family. He is called on a mission to people whose hearts will be opened by God. Branches of the church will be established by Thomas. He is not assigned to a specific area but is to follow the Spirit where to go and preach.

Section 32 - Historical Background: Parley P Pratt was a former minister who read the Book of Mormon and knew it was true. He was baptized in early September, 1830. He immediately went to his brother Orson who immediately accepted the gospel. Within a month Parley received this revelation along with Ziba Peterson.

Recap: Parley was called on a mission to the Lamanites along with Oliver Cowdery and Peter Whitmer. Ziba Peterson was also called to join them. They are reassured that God will be in their midst.

Section 33 - Historical Background: Ezra Thayre and Northrop Sweet were mediocre members and lacked in zeal, yet asked for this revelation pertaining to their purpose.

Recap: Ezra and Northrop are called to preach. The Lord encourages them go forth and open their mouths. Faith, repentance, baptism by water and fire constitutes the rock of the restored church. They are to use the Book of Mormon as their manual.

Section 34 - Historical Background: At the age of 19, Orson Pratt was introduced to the gospel by his brother Parley. He immediately embraced the doctrine and was baptized. He traveled to Fayette to meet the Prophet Joseph and received this revelation.

Recap: Christ is a light which the wicked don’t comprehend. Orson is called to preach to the wicked before Christ comes again, which will be quickly.

Section 35 - Historical Background: Sidney Rigdon was a Baptist minister who became discouraged and moved to the Campbellite church. He was introduced to the Book of Mormon and after 2 weeks was baptized. After meeting Joseph he received this personal revelation, including the commandment to be Joseph’s scribe. As a result of Sidney’s fulfillment of this revelation, we have much of the recorded Doctrine and Covenants.

Recap: Sidney Rigdon, like John the Baptist, has prepared the way for the Lord. God calls upon the weak and unlearned to respond to His call. The Lord testifies to Sidney of the prophetic calling of Joseph. Sidney is to watch over Joseph and support him. He is commanded to be Joseph’s scribe and forsake him not.

Section 36 - Historical Background: Edward Partridge arrived in Fayette with Sidney Rigdon and wanted to meet Joseph to decide for himself if he was a prophet. When Sidney introduced him the spirit immediately confirmed to Edward that Joseph was indeed a prophet of God. Edward desired immediate baptism but Joseph needed rest and baptized him the following day. Sidney asked Joseph for the Lord’s guidance and the following revelation was given for Edward (see Section 35 for Sidney’s revelation).

Recap: Sidney Rigdon is instructed to lay hands upon Edward and confirm him a member and give him the gift of the Holy Ghost. Edward is then called to preach the Gospel, as are all those who desire to be sent forth with a singleness of heart.

A Personal Search for the Meaning of the Atonement

In one of the most exhaustive, scripture based presentations on the Atonement, respected gospel scholar W. Cleon Skousen opens our understanding of the majesty and breadth of Jesus' sacrifice and how we can apply the principles of the Atonement in our lives.

As stated by Elder Bruce R. McConkie, "The doctrine of the Atonement embraces, sustains, supports, and gives life and force to all other gospel doctrines. It is the foundation upon which all truth rests..."

So what is the meaning of the Atonement? And why is the Atonement even necessary?

At the young age of 17, Brother Skousen embarks on his mission to England with these questions in mind. With the guidance of his mission president, Apostle John A. Widtsoe, and after decades of scriptural study, he discovers the answers to these profound questions.

Presented in a simple and beautiful manner, Dr. Skousen lays out the findings of his lifelong search in this popular address given at a mission conference in Dallas, Texas. He presents the answers to the Meaning of the Atonement, why it is necessary, the source of God's power and the key to understanding how the Atonement can become a reality in your own personal life and why it is so vital to your personal salvation and exaltation. 

D & C 29 Christ Will Gather and Protect His People

Section 29 - Historical Background:  After Joseph and Emma arrived in Fayette from Harmony, the saints were anxious for the upcoming second conference of the church. Many of the new members had questions. Six elders were in the presence of Joseph when he received this new magnificent revelation. This was not a revelation of simple concepts like received in previous revelations, but was instead a complex, layer upon layer, doctrinal and apocalyptic revelation.

Recap: It is through Christ’s mercy that our sins are atoned. The elect - or foreordained - of Christ will be gathered in America for safety. There will be a day of tribulation and desolation prior to Christ’s second coming. Many great signs in heaven and earth will precede His coming. Terrible plagues will pour down on the gentiles to humble them unto repentance, otherwise they will be burned by fire. At the end of the millennium, after the resurrection of all the dead, wickedness will return again and the earth will be consumed and become a new, paradisical earth.

These doctrines are given in response to questions in the minds of the six elders present.

All of God’s commands are spiritual. Satan rebelled against God by attempting to destroy our agency and was therefore cast down, spending his days tempting God’s children to prevent them from returning to God. They who resist temptation and believe in Christ will be raised in immortality unto eternal life.

D & C 27 - 28 Sacramental Wine and the Keys to Revelation

Section 27 - Historical Background: It had been four months since the organization of the church and the saints had been partaking of the sacrament using bread and wine. After the baptism of Emma Smith along with others, a meeting was held for the confirmation to take place followed by the partaking of the sacrament. However, there was no wine available for the sacrament so Joseph set out to obtain some. He had not gone far when he was met by a Heavenly messenger who gave him this revelation directly from the Savior.  

 Recap: The emblems used in the Lord’s sacrament can be something other than bread and wine as long as they are partaken with an eye single to the glory of God and done in remembrance of the body and blood of Christ.

 Section 28 - Historical Background: August of 1830 was a challenging time for both Joseph and Emma. The lies and persecution toward Joseph in Harmony reached the heart of Emma’s father who now refused any further refuge for Joseph and Emma. Harsh persecution forced Joseph and Emma to flee Harmony and move into the residence of the Whitmer’s home in Fayette. No sooner had they arrived when they learned that Hyrum Page, one of the eight witnesses, had claimed to be receiving revelations through a certain stone. Some members, including Oliver Cowdery, had been deceived by these claims. Joseph inquired of the Lord and received this revelation, directed to the deceived Oliver Cowdery.

 Recap: The Lord declares that only His appointed prophet has the keys to receive revelation for His church, for all things must be done in order. He commands Oliver Cowdery to remedy the deceit which has spread due to the stone used by Hiram Page, and to counsel with Hiram privately. Once this Satanic deceit has been settled, Oliver is to go on a mission to the Lamanites