W. Cleon Skousen Insights

Revelation Dates: February – June, 1834

Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio and Fishing River, Missouri

Section 102 - Historical Background: With the rapidly increasing membership of the church, Joseph needed help in administration. A meeting was called consisting of 62 brethren, and Joseph taught about the ancient councils and how they were operated under Moses and Peter, among others. Joseph had received in vision how Peter presided over councils. Joseph laid out the formation of a Church Council (later named High Council) to assist the First Presidency in the administration of the church. This section, rather than a direct revelation like other sections, is the record or minutes of this meeting. 

• Recap: A High Council will be organized, consisting of 12 High Priests and the First Presidency. Its purpose is to settle disputes that cannot be settled by the Bishop’s Council. A quorum of at least 7 must be present to act. The members of the council were chosen and approved. The accused and the accuser will each be represented by half the council, selected by lot. The president will make the final decision but approval will require a majority of councilors to approve that decision.

Section 103 - Historical Background: Joseph was deeply concerned for the saints in Jackson County, now that it was learned they had been completely driven from their homes. In Section 101, Joseph learned that at some point he would be required to lead “the strength of mine house” to Zion in order to “redeem” it. Seeking further understanding, comfort and direction, Joseph received this revelation as he petitioned the Lord.

• Recap: The Lord will pour out his wrath upon the enemies of His church, but only in his own due time. [26 years later, the Civil War ravished Jackson County until nothing was left standing.] A waiting time is required until (1) the wicked are fully ripe in iniquity, and (2) the slothful saints in Zion receive chastisement and repent sufficiently. If they do not repent, the saints will be subject to the kingdoms of the world and thrown down.
• In due time, Zion will be redeemed. It is decreed by God, for He will raise a powerful leader like unto Moses to accomplish it. This leader will be Joseph Smith. [Note: Because the saints failed to repent, the accomplishment of this decree was delayed, but will still occur in the future by Joseph Smith in his resurrected state, as promised in his patriarchal blessing.]  
• Joseph is to organize “Zions Camp,” to call up 500 men willing to risk their own lives on a mission of peace and goodwill to restore the fleeing saints to their own lands. If 500 do not heed the Lord’s call, 300 will be accepted. If not 300 men, 100 will have to suffice. If at least 100 men cannot be gathered, the relief expedition will be abandoned.

Section 104 - Historical Background: As leaders of the church prepared to leave Kirtland for “Zions Camp,” and not knowing if they would survive and return to Kirtland, concern was given over the pressing debts and temporal affairs of the church they were leaving behind. The saints had failed to live the Law of Consecration properly so they were lacking in resources, especially in building the temple. Joseph turned to the Lord for guidance.

• Recap: The purpose of the United Order is to be a blessing to the church and a benefit for the poor. But some of the saints are unfaithful, resulting in a cursing rather than a blessing. The innocent will be spared, but the guilty cannot escape God’s wrath. Leaders are to remove transgressors from the Order. Each saint must be held accountable for their stewardship. The rich are to reach out and assist the poor, so that both may benefit and rejoice.
• The Lord directs the assignment of properties in the United Order according to faithfulness and usefulness. Because the saints in Zion (Missouri) have transgressed the Order and broken their covenants, their United Order with the saints in Kirtland will be dissolved.
• The Lord clarifies that all properties are His and the saints are stewards only. There shall be two separate treasuries, one for the sacred funds from the people’s tithes for the printing of the scriptures, building of the temple and general works of the church; the other treasury will include proceeds from the properties consecrated to stewards to be used within the needs of the Order.
• All debts must be paid. The Lord will soften the hearts of their debtors. For this once, the Order is allowed to pledge the properties under stewardship in order to pay off their debts.

Section 105 - Historical Background: To answer the Lord’s call to rescue Zion, Joseph could only rally 100 men in Kirtland, while other leaders rallied another 100 men from outlying areas, making Zions Camp only 205 men. From this faithful little group, God will later staff his quorums of Apostles and Seventy. Though the group was small, Joseph could wait no longer to proceed. With clothing and provisions, this small group begain their 1,000 mile march to Independence to confront the mobs who greatly outnumbered them. However, they had a pledge from the Missouri Governor that the saints would receive a military escort back to the lands of the homeless saints. At a place called Fishing River, Joseph learned the Governor now refused to honor his pledge. Joseph reaches out to the Lord for directions how they should proceed to redeem Zion. 

• Recap: Were it not for the transgressions of the church, Zion would have been redeemd already. But the church members have not learned to be obedient, impart of their substance to the poor, and are not united. Therefore, the saints will be chastened and Zion will not be redeemed for now. The leaders are to vigorously teach the saints more perfectly until they are spiritually prepared. God will fight the battles of the saints, but they must first become a righteous people.
• Those of Zion’s Camp who want to stay in Zion may do so, but refrain from boasting of God’s revelations. God will soften the hearts of the people, giving the church time to prepare for Zion's redemption. Purchase as much land as possible. Finish the temple in Kirtland and receive endowments there. Those who will redeem Zion will not be called, but will, at that time, be carefully chosen.

Revelation Dates: August – December, 1833

Revelation Places: Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York

Section 98 – Aug 6, 1833 - Historical Background: Persecution was increasing in Missouri and Joseph was concerned for the saints, seeking help from the Lord. Joseph was 800 miles away in Kirtland and had not yet heard of the extreme violence and destruction of property, including the printing press. But the Lord knew what was happening, and revealed to the Prophet this revelation containing principles of peace, comfort and forgiveness.  

• Recap: The Lord has heard the prayers of his people and they will be granted. Have patience. Trust in the Lord. Obey the laws of the land. Their rights are inalienable, yet when the wicked rule, the people mourn. Forsake evil and cleave to good. Renounce war and proclaim peace. The saints in Kirtland must repent. The principles of persecution and retaliation are outlined.

Section 99 - Historical Background: This revelation is out of sequence and was actually given in August 1832, not 1833. The revelation was on behalf of John Murdock, one of Joseph’s most faithful servants. John’s wife died giving birth to twins, who were adopted by Joseph and Emma.

• Recap: John Murdock is called on a mission to the eastern states. He is promised power. Those who accept John accept the Lord, and those who reject John also reject the Lord. John is encouraged to continue preaching the gospel for his entire life.

Section 100 – Oct 12, 1833 - Historical Background: After organizing the Kirtland Stake and getting the Kirtland temple construction organized, Joseph and Sidney went on a mission to Upper Canada. They were accompanied by a new convert named Freeman Nickerson from Perrysburg, New York, who was returning home and invited Joseph and Sidney to ride with him as they journeyed north. After arriving in Perrysburg, Joseph became deeply anxious about his family back in Kirtland and inquired of the Lord.  

• Recap: Joseph and Sidney’s families are well and are in the care of the Savior while they are on their mission. As to this mission, they are promised great success. They are told to fear not, for God will fill their mouths and they cannot be confounded. Be meek and the Holy Ghost will bear record of the truth. Sidney is called to be a spokesman for Joseph, who is to be the revelator. Meanwhile, back in Missouri, the Lord says Zion will be chastened for a season. In due time, God will raise up a people pure in heart to redeem Zion.

Section 101 – Dec 16, 1833 - Historical Background: In Section 97, the Lord declares that if Zion obeyed God's commandments (including building a temple) they would prosper, otherwise they will face affliction, sword, vengeance and fire. The saints transgressed and failed by their lackluster efforts to build a temple. In July, 1833, a large Missouri mob demanded the saints cease from all religious labors in Jackson County. Three days later they destroyed the church printing press, burned the building and tarred and feathered 2 church leaders. In October and November, the mob raided branches of the church demolishing homes, and in one branch “amid the shrieks and screams of women and children, whipped and beat in a savage and brutal manner, several of the men.” A church member and two mob members were killed. The 2,500 saints in Zion were fleeing for their lives. In December, Joseph received the awful news and reached out to the Lord asking why He would allow this persecution and when He would redeem Zion.     

• Recap: The saints were driven out of Zion because of their transgressions, and must now endure their chastening. But God will be merciful. “Be still, and know that I am God.” The righteous and pure in heart will return to redeem Zion and build the New Jerusalem. A time frame was not given. Meanwhile, gather together in stakes and live the gospel principles. Christ will appear to all and the wicked will be consumed. The millennial period will begin and Zion will be built, Satan will be bound, and all history will be revealed.
• Those saints driven from Zion are transgressors and need to be chastened. The Lord gives a parable of a vineyard, whose servants refused to build a tower (temple), and therefore the enemy came undetected and destroyed the vineyard.
• The House of Israel must continue to be gathered and the Saints must gather in stakes to be strengthened. Lands must be purchased in Zion.
• Those who were scattered must seek redress by the law to uphold their inalienable rights. This was the purpose of establishing the Constitution, by the hands of wise men raised up by God. If government leaders do not give heed to these laws, God will be displeased and in His fierce anger, will vex them along with the nation.
• The day will come that the Lord’s people will hold claim to Zion and will return, build and prosper there.

Revelation Dates: May – August, 1833

Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 94 - Historical Background: Ever since January, 1833, Joseph Smith had been warning the church leaders in Jackson County, Missouri to stop disputing and quarrelling among themselves. Their sinful behavior was putting the whole cause of Zion at risk. As they did not repent, the threats of mobs increased. If the saints in Missouri were not worthy to build a temple on the dedicated lot in Zion, the Lord would build an interim temple in Kirtland. There were keys to be restored and endowments to be performed. Time was of the essence. Therefore, on May 6, 1833, Joseph received this revelation.  

• Recap: The Kirtland saints are to begin laying out plans for the building of a temple. 3 lots are to be purchased for the project to build the temple, a printing house, and a residence for Hyrum Smith. The dimensions of the temple and printing shop are given. But they are commanded to not begin construction until the Lord gives approval. The Lord promises to come personally to the finished, dedicated temple as long as it remains clean and sacred.

Section 95 - Historical Background: In December, 1832, the Lord had given divine directions for the building of houses of worship and for the school of the prophets. For over 6 months now, the Kirtland saints had not complied with this commandment. The Lord reprimands the saints for their lackluster effort in this matter.

• Recap: The Lord loves those whom He chastens. The saints have sinned by neglecting the building of the house of the Lord. Consequently, those who have been called and qualified to preach the gospel, go out unprepared and walk in the darkness at noon day. The Lord promises the saints that if they keep His commandments, He will give them power to build the temple, and He provides the temple dimensions and purposes.

Section 96 - Historical Background: The day following the receipt of Section 95, a council of high priests discussed the purchasing of the lots commanded by the Lord. A property owned by Pete French, referred to as the French farm, was to be purchased. However, they couldn’t decide how it should then be managed. Joseph, along with this council of High Priests, appeal to the Lord for help.

• Recap: The French farm will be administered by Bishop Newell K. Whitney. The farm is to be divided into lots, a portion for the temple, the printing house and various consecrated inheritances. The Lord then commanded John Johnson be admitted to the United Order and be provided a place of residence.

Section 97 - Historical Background: By the summer of 1833, Jackson County was becoming a stage of crisis.  Meanwhile, the work in Kirtland was progressing and the temple cornerstone had been laid. Joseph was very concerned for the saints in Missouri and inquired of the Lord for their sakes. By this time, due to severe persecution, the saints in Zion had been forced to sign an agreement to vacate Jackson County under a predetermined timeline (which was ultimately violated by the mobs).

• Recap: Threatening circumstances have caused the leaders of the church in Zion to become humble and meek. This state of humility allows the Lord to show mercy towards them. The Lord wants to bless His people but needs them to be honest, with broken hearts and contrite spirits. The saints are commanded to quickly build a modest temple, similar in design to what is being built in Kirtland, through the tithing of the saints. The Lord promises to visit this temple in glory, to be seen by all the pure in heart, as long as it is undefiled and worthy. But the Lord forewarns the people that if they do not do what they have been commanded, they will be visited with sore afflictions, plagues, and with sword and vengeance. [Note: All this could have been avoided had the saints repented quickly and had the zeal to build the temple as commanded.]

Revelation Date: May 6, 1833

Revelation Place: Kirtland, Ohio

Section 93 - Historical Background: Many of the saints had migrated from Kirtland to Jackson County, Missouri, but there were still about 150 families remaining in Kirtland, Ohio. Still, the Lord wanted to establish a Stake there and organize the building of a temple. In anticipation of this, the Lord revealed to Joseph Smith one of the most profound revelations found in the Doctrine and Covenants, providing deep, spiritual truths the saints would need to know to appreciate the significance of the temple endowment.

• Recap: Every human being who keeps God’s commandments shall see His face and shall receive the Father’s fullness, grace for grace. Christ is the Firstborn, and was chosen in the beginning to be the Only Begotten of the Father, the Creator of all things and the Redeemer of mankind. Truth is defined as knowing the realities of the present, the past and as they always will be. In the beginning, all mankind were independent intelligences, or elements of light and truth, which are eternal and cannot be made. Each intelligence has agency to act for oneself. God selected those intelligences to become His children and they were given a Spirit body. He then prepared a plan for them to receive the fullness of His joy, which requires a temporal body. The glory of God is the host of intelligences who obey Him, obtaining exaltation, immortality and eternal life. We are thus commanded to set in order our house and teach our children light and truth. The First Presidency is rebuked and called to repentance. Satan is determined to destroy them, along with all of God’s children. The First Presidency must repent, set their homes in order and hasten to complete the revising of the scriptures, the learning history, countries, kingdoms and the laws of God and man.

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.

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.  

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.

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.

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.

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.