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