W. Cleon Skousen Insights

D & C 89 - 92 The Word of Wisdom: A Revelation for Health and Holiness

Revelation Dates: February 27 – March 15, 1833

Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 89 - Historical Background: In a small upstairs room in Bishop Whitney’s store, around 22 Elders gathered tightly together to attend the School of the Prophets. The purpose of the school was to learn the mysteries of God and sacred truths in preparation for their ministry. During the meeting, the Elders would light their pipes and smoke. When the pipe tobacco was exhausted, they would bite off a large piece of chewing tobacco. This was a common practice for the day. They had not been taught their bodies are considered sanctified tabernacles. The use of liquor, tobacco, coffee, tea and other stimulants were commonly accepted. Often, when Joseph entered the room to give instruction, he would find himself in a cloud of tobacco smoke. This, along with the complaints from Emma who cleaned the spittoons and the disgusting mess on the floor, made the Prophet think upon the matter. He inquired of the Lord and received this revelation, which went far beyond tobacco, known as the Word of Wisdom.

• Recap: For the health and general welfare of all the saints, the Lord reveals a Word of Wisdom. In consequence of evil and conspiring men, warns them to abstain from wine, strong drinks, tobacco, and hot drinks (later defined as coffee and tea). Rather, every herb and fruit should be used in the season. Meat is ordained for the use of man, sparingly. Grains is also ordained for the use of man and beast. Obedience to this warning promises health and wisdom.

Section 90 - Historical Background: At this critical time of the restoration, the Lord knew his church was going into a perilous phase in its development. Over the next two years, the Lord would appoint relatively  inexperienced men to lead the church, including the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the Seventy, Stake high councils, Stake Presidents and Bishops. These high offices and noble titles in the church would be a supreme test which many would fail. The Lord demonstrated a great deal of love and patience with these leaders. This section formally organizes the First Presidency who hold the keys of the Priesthood. It was shortly after this revelation was given that Joseph ordained Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams as Counselors in the First Presidency.

• Recap: The keys of the Priesthood are given to the First Presidency, consisting of Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams. They are to receive revelations for the entire church. The First Presidency are to set in order the church, learn and study, and continue in these offices for the remainder of their lives. There should be no pride, slothfulness or uncleanliness.

Section 91 - Historical Background: At this time, Joseph was revising the Old Testament. He came across the books referred to as the “Apocrypha,” meaning “hidden,” and didn’t know if they were worthy of including in the bible or were merely an appendix to the bible. He took this inquiry to the Lord.

• Recap: In the Apocrypha, there are many aspects which are true, but many things are not true. Therefore, they are not trustworthy to be included with the bible, nor should they be translated or revised. The Apocrypha should not be intermingled with the revelations from God. Any person led by the Spirit can benefit from the Apocrypha, but without the Spirit there is no benefit. 

Section 92 - Historical Background: This revelation relates to an earlier revelation in section 82, relating to the Law of Consecration. Now the Lord wants Frederick G. Williams added to the order.

• Recap: As a new counselor in the First Presidency, the Lord commands Frederick G. Williams to be included in the United Order, known as the Law of Consecration.

D & C 88 Organize Yourselves, Prepare Every Needful Thing, Establish a House of God

Revelation Dates: December 27, 1832 – January 3, 1833

Revelation Place: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 88 - Historical Background: Just 2 days after receiving section 87, containing the prophecies of war and terrible destruction, the Lord sends this new revelation (or series of revelations) containing words of peace. Joseph refers this revelation as an olive leaf. About a year earlier, in section 71, Joseph and Sidney were told to expound the mysteries of the scriptures. Now, in this revelation, Joseph and 10 other elders gathered in the Whitney store in Kirtland, and were instructed to organize a school of the prophets and also a house of God.

• Recap, verses 1-126 received December 27-28, 1832:
  • The Lord is pleased with these brethren and promises them the Second Comforter. All things are governed by the light of Christ. Men’s obedience to Christ will determine which kingdom of glory they will inherit. Death is part of the merciful plan of God, so each spirit can be glorified to its proper and appropriate level, and then quicken the body accordingly in a resurrected state, to abide in their particular kingdom of glory.
  • The heavens themselves reflect the majesty of God. Stay close to God and draw near to Him, praying for direction on a continuous basis. Sanctify yourselves. The Lord will hasten His work in His own time.
  • The Lord commands the saints to assemble, sanctify themselves and teach one another. Various teaching subjects are given to prepare them for the mission He has for them. Signs of the last days are given, along with a commandment to preach and warn others.
  • When Christ returns, the valiant saints will be caught up to meet him, along with the righteous who have died previously. Subsequent angels will then sound their trumps as various events occur until the Judgement day. Each thousand years of mortality will be viewed correspondently, revealing all the acts of mankind. Ultimately, Satan will be bound and expelled.
  • The saints are to seek learning, organize themselves and establish a school of the prophets and establish a house of God. Needful qualities of member's righteousness are listed.
• Recap, verses 127-141 received January 3, 1833:
  • The organization of the school of the prophets is given. Not all should talk at once, but a teacher should be appointed and order kept. All who attend must be worthy saints. They are to commence in prayer for the Spirit so the school may become a sanctuary and then the sacrament is to be administered.  

D & C 85 - 87 Stand in Holy Places and Be Not Moved

Revelation Dates: November – December, 1832

Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 85 - Historical Background: Since receiving the previous section 84, Joseph had continued with the revision of the bible. Disturbing reports from the saints in Missouri reached Joseph, apparently related to the failure of vital points of obedience under the Law of Consecration. Influenced by the Spirit of the Lord, Joesph replied in a letter to W. W. Phelps, a portion of which became section 85.

• Recap: Deficiencies within the leadership of the church in Missouri are discussed. Clerk John Whitmer was delinquent in keeping adequate records of the affairs of the church and of properties consecrated to and from the Bishop. Also, previous warning to Bishop Edward Partridge regarding consecrated property was still being neglected. Apostates should have their names and linage stricken from the records of the church. If Bishop Partridge does not correct his failed actions, he will be struck down. One mighty and strong will arise to set up Zion in righteousness and assign the saints their inheritances.

Section 86 - Historical Background: While revising the New Testament, Joseph and Sidney Rigdon came across the parable of the wheat and the tares found in Matthew 13. Joseph was prompted that this parable was especially relevant within the restoration of the kingdom. He made a plea to the Lord for further clarification.

• Recap: The field is the world, the apostles are the sowers of the wheat seed, and the adversary sowed the seeds of tares. The restored priesthood will remain until the restoration of all things. Continue to be the light and the savior of people through the priesthood.

Section 87 - Historical Background: This section predicts the Civil War 28 years before it occurred and 81 years before World War I. Slavery was a toxic topic among the people, including the saints. In 1832, Congress passed a law requiring tariffs on exports to be paid to the Federal Government. The southern states objected to these tariffs and South Carolina passed a state law abolishing all Federal tariffs, citing them as unconstitutional. They also threatened to secede from the Union. This act of rebellion nearly resulted in war, until South Carolina backed down. Reflecting on slavery and these crucial issues, Joseph received this revelation and future prophecy. 

• Recap: War will begin in South Carolina and will result in the death of many souls. The states will be divided, northern against southern. The time will come that war will be waged among all nations worldwide. There will be bloodshed and mourning in all the earth, with famines, plagues, earthquakes and thunderings. The saints will plead with the Lord for protection. The Lord proclaims to the righteous, “Stand ye in holy places, and be not moved” until the Lord comes, who comes quickly.

D & C 84 The Oath and Covenant of the Priesthood

Revelation Date: September 22 – 23, 1832

Revelation Place: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 84 - Historical Background: In the summer months of 1832, Joseph and Sidney moved their residence to Kirtland, Ohio. They resumed revising the Bible and getting the first edition of the Evening and Morning Star published. By Fall, the missionaries sent to the Eastern states began returning from their missions and reported on their successes. It was while they were rejoicing together that Joseph received this revelation on the Priesthood.  

• Recap: The heart of the city of the New Jerusalem will be the temple. The genealogy of the Priesthood is given from Adam to Moses. The lesser priesthood, as given to Aaron, administers in the temporal ordinances. The higher priesthood sets forth the mysteries of the gospel and the keys to a spiritual knowledge of the nature and power of God. When the Israelites failed in their faithfulness, the higher priesthood was taken from them and only the lesser priesthood remained. The bishop, holding the higher priesthood, presides over the lesser priesthood.
• Those who obtain both priesthoods and magnify their calling are sanctified by the Spirit.
• Every person born on the earth has the Spirit of light and truth. Those who hearken to the Spirit will be redeemed but those who reject the Spirit will be under the bondage of sin and will not be aquainted with Christ.
• Because of the saints’ unbelief and treating lightly the Book of Mormon and the commandments, the whole church is under condemnation and will remain so until they repent.
• The signs that follow those who receive the Holy Ghost are given.
• The Elders are to proclaim the gospel, warning and teaching the people. They are to trust in God and go without purse or script. The Lord goes before their face. Those who receive them receive the Lord and will be blessed. The Lord describes the righteousness of those during the millennium. Therefore, strengthen one another, take care of the poor, offer up excesses to the Bishops for the building up of Zion.

D & C 81 - 83 Where Much is Given, Much is Required

Revelation Dates: March – April, 1832

Revelation Places: Hiram Ohio and Jackson County, Missouri

Section 81 - Historical Background: This revelation was given originally to a relatively unknown person named Jesse Gause, to be a counsellor to Joseph Smith in the Presidency of the High Priesthood. However, Gause was unfaithful so he was replaced by Fredrick G. Williams. This Presidency was a forerunner to the “First Presidency” which was formally organized a year later, on March 18, 1833. When these revelations were published in 1835, section 81 was changed to omit the name of Jesse Gause and replace it with Frederick G. Williams. This section is more relevant to the calling of counsellor to the Prophet, his duties and the  designation of priesthood keys to the First Presidency, than it is to an individual at the time the revelation was given; hence the name change to Gause’s replacement, Frederick G. Williams.   

• Recap: Frederick G. Williams to be called as a High Priest and counsellor to Joseph Smith in the Presidency of the High Priesthood, which Presidency shares the keys to the kingdom. Pray always, proclaim the gospel, promote Jesus Christ, be faithful, strengthen the weak.

Section 82 - Historical Background: The mobs were so troublesome, that Joseph and Sidney left Hiram Ohio and travelled to Independence, Missouri where Joseph was joyfully welcomed by the saints in Zion. On April 26, 1832, Joseph held a church conference where he was sustained as the President of the High Priesthood. During the conference, Joseph received this revelation.

• Recap: The congregation is commanded to repent, for where much is given much is required. The Lord explains that the people ask for revelations and receive them, but then trample on their new knowledge. The Lord is bound to bless them when they are obedient, but when they are disobedient they have no promise. Zion must strengthen and enlarge her stakes. Every family leader is to be given a stewardship to improve the welfare of family and church. The Law of Consecration is a permanent and everlasting law of God. Make friends with your enemies and let God be their judge.

Section 83 - Historical Background: After closing church conference in Independence, Joseph went to visit the settlement of the Colesville saints. They rejoiced with Joseph and expressed great love and support. Returning to Independence, Joseph received this revelation dealing with the responsibility in the church over women, children and the poor.

• Recap: All faithful women of the church have claim on their husband to provide for their needs. If the woman becomes unfaithful, she will not be included in the congregation, but she will still have legal rights to her stewardship. All children have claim upon their parents until they are of age. The bishop’s storehouse will provide for the needs of widows, orphans and the poor.

D & C 77 - 80 I Will Lead You Along

Revelation Dates: March, 1832

Revelation Places: Hiram, Ohio

Section 77 - Historical Background: As Joseph Smith resumed revising the Bible, he came to the book of Revelation. Rather than translating or revising the revelation of John, Joseph was only allowed to inquire specific questions from the revelation.

• Recap: Some of the symbols used by John are explained:
  • Sea of glass: The sanctified Earth
  • The four beasts: Figurative expressions of happiness in heaven by all creatures created by God in their paradisical glory.
  • Are the beasts individuals or classes: They are Individual beasts, in their glory and enjoyment.
  • The eyes and wings of beasts: The remarkable powers in the next life of light, knowledge and capacity to move throughout the heavens.
  • 24 Elders: Faithful ministers during John’s time, who are now in paradise.
  • Sealed book: A history of God’s work during earth’s 7,000 year history.
  • 7 seals: Each seal contains a 1,000 year history of each period.
  • 4 angels: Powerful angels sent by God to each quarter of the earth.
  • Angel from the east: An angel to preside over the 4 angels over the earth.
  • Timing: All to be accomplished by the end of the 6^th seal (around 2000 AD)
  • 144,000: Virtuous high priests under the direction of the 4 angels to preach the gospel throughout the nations without threat of death.
  • Trumpet sounding: Happens when the seventh seal is opened, ushering in the return of Christ and the beginning of the millennium.
  • Timing of Revelation, chapter 9: After opening the 7^th seal, just prior to Christ’s coming.
  • Little book: John’s mission to gather the tribes of Israel.
  • 2 Witnesses: 2 prophets, who will hold off Gog and Magog from destroying Jerusalem just prior to the return of Christ the Messiah.

Section 78 - Historical Background: Having already received the Law of Consecration in February, 1831, the saints had yet to properly establish storehouses for the poor. This was especially needed now that many new converts were pouring into the kingdom, many of whom were poor. Joseph was troubled over this and received this revelation.

• Recap: There must be organized storehouses among the saints for the poor. The Lord had referred to this need many times in prior revelations. Newel K Whitney, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon are to covenant with each other to form a council in order to establish these affairs.

Section 79 - Historical Background: This revelation was given at the Johnson home in Hiram, Ohio. Jared Carter had been a successful missionary who was again called and sent back on another mission, promising him many converts.

• Recap: Jared Carter is called on another mission, again to the eastern states. The comforter will inspire him and guide him to gather many converts.

Section 80 - Historical Background: Revelation was given at the Johnson home at the request of Stephen Burnett.

• Recap: Stephen Burnett is called on a mission, and is to go with Eden Smith as a companion. Their mission destination is to go anywhere they desire, for they cannot go amiss.

Secret to America’s Strength

Many Americans today often fail to realize the supreme importance which the Founding Fathers originally attached to the role of religion in the structure of the unique civilization which they hoped would emerge as the first free people in modern times.

This speech uses extensive references to a booklet written by Dr. W. Cleon Skousen with the same title as the speech, Secret to America's Strength. It will be very helpful to the listener to refer to the booklet and follow along with Dr. Skousen.

To obtain a free copy of the booklet, either submit a request by email to: wcleonskousenlibrary@gmail.com or visit the Skousen online bookstore at www.skousen2000.com or follow this URL: W. CLEON SKOUSEN LIBRARY – skousen2000

Once online, type the word "Secret" in the search box and select the free download option.

D & C 76 Unveiling the Kingdoms of Heaven

Revelation Date: February 16, 1832

Revelation Place: Hiram, Ohio

Section 76 - Historical Background: Having returned to Hiram Ohio from the church conference held in Amherst Ohio, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon resumed the revision of the New Testament. When they came to John 5: 28-29, the original KJV read, “Marvel not at this; for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” However, the Spirit inspired new writing as follows: “Marvel not at this; for the hour is coming, in the which all who are in their graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they who have done good, in the resurrection of the just; and they who have done evil, in the resurrection of the unjust.” Implied by this new wording was that there are more than just 2 kingdoms, namely heaven or hell. Both Joseph and Sidney were troubled by this and inquired of the Lord for more enlightenment.  

• Recap: God will reveal to the righteous the mysteries and wonders of eternity, greater wisdom and understanding. Joseph and Sidney commune with Jesus Christ face to face, and declare their testimonies of the reality of God. They witness the council in Heaven, where Jehovah is chosen to be the Savior. Lucifer rebels against God and declares war against God and His Only Begotten Son. One third of God’s spirit children are seduced by Lucifer and follow him, wherefore they are removed from heaven, never to be born and will suffer the second death, that is, to be cast back into outer darkness.
• All those spirits who were not seduced by Lucifer but were committed to Heavenly Father and His plan to send a Redeemer, even Jesus Christ, will be born into mortality and will be resurrected and redeemed to some degree (except for the sons of perdition). All the resurrected will inherit one of three kingdoms: the Celestial Kingdom (verses 51-70) with glory likened to the sun, who will dwell with God the Father and Jesus Christ; or the Terrestrial Kingdom (verses 71-80) with glory likened to the moon, administered by Christ; or the Telestial Kingdom (verses 81-90) with glory likened to the stars, administered by the Holy Ghost and angelic messengers.
• Regardless of which kingdom one inherits, all will bow the knee, and every tongue confess Jesus as the Christ and Father of their salvation. All shall be judged by Him, according to their own works, and receive their appropriate Kingdom of glory.  

D & C 71 - 75 No Weapon Formed Against You Shall Prosper

Revelation Dates: December 1831 – January 1832

Revelation Places: Ohio (Kirtland, Hiram and Amherst)

Section 71 - Historical Background: Joseph was engaged in translating the bible with Sidney Rigdon as scribe, but was interrupted by the Lord due to a wave of bitter feelings toward the church, partially because of a series of articles published in the Ohio Star newspaper, written by apostate Ezra Booth. Joseph and Sidney were called to cease translating and preach the restored gospel to the public and to the saints.  

• Recap: Joseph and Sidney are called to stop translating and preach the gospel for a season to the world and the mysteries of the kingdom to the saints. The church needs to be prepared to receive the Book of Commandments. No weapon that is formed against them will prosper.

Section 72 - Historical Background: As Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon set out to preach the gospel among the public and the church (in fulfillment of the commandment given them in Section 71) they arrived in Kirtland, Ohio. Here, several members of the church assembled to learn their duty in the church and asked Joseph to inquire of the Lord. 

• Recap: It is expedient that a bishop be appointed in Kirtland, as there was appointed in Independence Missouri (Edward Partridge). Newel K. Whitney is called as the Kirtland bishop. Each steward in Kirtland will be accountable to their bishop. The duties of a bishop are outlined: to keep the storehouse, to receive funds, to administer to the saints – especially the poor and needy, and to pay church debts.

Section 73 - Historical Background: In an effort to accomplish the commandment to preach the gospel (see section 71), Joseph became restless needing to know if they were doing what the Lord expected, especially in light of the upcoming church conference to be held 2 weeks later on January 25, 1832.

• Recap: Joseph and Sidney are to continue preaching and exhorting to the saints whenever possible, but should also resume translating the Bible. As they had set the example of preaching and exhorting, the elders of the church should continue preaching and exhorting as they had seen what Joseph and Sidney had done.

Section 74 - Historical Background: As Joseph continues translating the Bible, they came across 1 Corinthians 7:14 where Paul counseled married couples when one was a member and the spouse was not. Did this make the children unworthy, as was traditional in the Jewish faith?

• Recap: The unbelieving spouse is sanctified by the believing spouse. Children should not be raised outside of the faith and should not follow the law of Moses or the wicked traditions of the unbelieving spouse. Little children are holy and come under the atonement of Christ.

Section 75 - Historical Background: As the church conference began on January 25, 1832 in Amherst, Ohio, this revelation was given. Joseph was to be sustained and ordained President of the High Priesthood and many of the elders who had been previously called on missions were to be given their assignments.

• Recap: The elders that were called to preach must do so with all their might and they will receive great blessings. William E. McLellin is reprimanded and reassigned. Other elders are called on various missions with promises and assurances from the Lord. They are to bless or curse those they encounter. It is the duty of the church, as needed, to provide for the families of those serving missions.

D & C 67 - 70 Book of Commandments - A Divine Work Worth the Riches of the World

Revelation Dates: November 1 – 12, 1831

Revelation Places: Hiram and Kirtland Ohio

Section 67 - Historical Background: It was time to compile the revelations received through Joseph Smith thus far and print them in a Book of Commandments. Joseph called a special church conference and after the meeting convened, the Lord revealed the Preface to the Book of Commandments which is now section 1 of the Doctrine & Covenants. The Elders present were asked to bear testimony of the divinity of the revelations. Meanwhile, William E. McLellin and a few others criticized some of the language used in the revelations and wanted it improved. The Lord provided this revelation as a result.

• Recap: Because of fear, the Elders did not receive the blessing God had offered them. The Lord testifies of the truthfulness and divinity of these revelations. The Lord challenges those scoffers in the church to take the least of these revelations and attempt to write one like unto it. If they cannot, they must sign their testimony to its divinity or else be condemned. They must strip themselves of jealousy and fear.

Section 68 - Historical Background: Following the experience as discussed in section 67, Orson Hyde, Luke S. Johnson, Lyman E. Johnson and William E. McLellin each requested a personal revelation from the Lord. Rather than granting individual counsel, the Lord reveals His word toward all the faithful elders of His church.

• Recap: When speaking as moved upon by the Holy Ghost, it is as if the Lord were speaking it. Be of good cheer and do not fear, for the Lord will stand by you. Preach the gospel to all the world that the believers may be saved. The Lord then turns to Joseph and gives administrative counsel. All bishops must be worthy high priests, appointed by the First Presidency. Parents are to teach their children prayer and the principles and ordinances of the gospel and baptize them at the age of 8. Be not idle!

Section 69 - Historical Background: After the Elders agreed to serve as witnesses to the divinity of the Book of Commandments, Joseph dedicated the Book of Commandments unto the Lord. Oliver Cowdery was assigned to take the manuscript to Independence, Missouri for printing.

• Recap: Oliver should not go to Independence alone but should have a companion, namely John Whitmer, the church historian, so that he can record this history.

Section 70 - Historical Background: From November 1 to November 12, 1831, Joseph needed to hold 4 church conferences. At the close of the 4^th conference, Joseph completed reviewing the Book of Commandments and Oliver Cowdery with John Whitmer were about to embark on their 800 mile journey to Independence, Missouri.

• Recap: The specific stewardship of publishing and distributing the Book of Commandments is appointed to Oliver Cowdery, John Whitmer, Martin Harris, Sidney Rigdon and W.W. Phelps. They are to use the monies from the publication of the Book of Commandments for their needs but are to donate excess monies to the church, as commanded under the law of consecration and in accordance with the Spirit.