AN OVERVIEW OF SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO THE BOOK OF COMMANDMENTS
This report lists sections of the
original 1833 BOOK OF COMMANDMENTS ("BOC"), with the revised later
version published in 1835 DOCTRINE & COVENANTS ("D&C").
In all
cases a section of the BOC is listed first, with the equivalent revised section
of the D&C listed after it. Each paired set is separated by a line.
We have not attempted to pair every verse of every chapter that was changed, but rather give an overview of the most significant changes. Verses which do not differ or only differ insignificantly are not included.
Book of Commandments Chapter IV
A Revelation given to Joseph and Martin, in Harmony, Pennsylvania, March, 1829, when Martin desired of the Lord to know whether Joseph had in his possession, the record of the Nephites.
Doctrine and Covenents Section 5
Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet at Harmony, Pennsylvania, March 1829, at the request of Martin Harris.
BOC IV:1 Behold, I say unto you, that my servant Martin has desired a witness from my hand, that my servant Joseph has got the things of which he has testified, and borne record that he has received of me.
D&C 5:1 Behold, I say unto you, that as my servant Martin Harris has desired a witness at my hand, that you, my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., have got the plates of which you have testified and borne record that you have received of me;
BOC IV:2 And now, behold this shall you say unto him:--I the Lord am God, and I have given these things unto my servant Joseph, and I have commanded him that he should stand as a witness of these things, nevertheless I have caused him that he should enter into a covenant with me, that he should not show them except I command him and he has no power over them except I grant it unto him; and he has a gift to translate the book and I have commanded him that he shall pretend to no other gift, for I will grant him no other gift.
D&C 5:2 And now, behold, this shall you say unto him--he who spake unto you, said unto you: I, the Lord, am God, and I have given these things unto you, my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., and have commanded you that you should stand as a witness of these things;
5:3 And I have caused you that you should enter into a covenant with me, that you should not show them except to those persons to whom I commanded you; and you have no power over them except I grant it unto you.
5:4 And you have a gift to translate the plates; and this is the first gift that I bestowed upon you; and I have commanded that you should pretend to no other gift until my purpose is fulfilled in this; for I will grant unto you no other gift until it is finished.
BOC IV:3 And verily I say unto you, that wo shall come unto the inhabitants of the earth, if they will not hearken my words, for behold, if they will not believe my words, they would not believe my servant Joseph, if it were possible that he show them all things. O ye unbelieving, ye stiffnecked generation, mine anger is kindled against you!
D&C 5:5 Verily, I say unto you, that woe shall come unto the inhabitants of the earth if they will not hearken unto my words;
5:6 For hereafter you shall be ordained and go forth and deliver my words unto the children of men.
5:7 Behold, if they will not believe my words, they will not believe you, my servant Joseph, if it were possible that you should show them all these things which I have committed unto you.
5:8 Oh, this unbelieving and stiffnecked generation--mine anger is kindled against them.
BOC IV:4 Behold, verily I say, I have reserved the things of which I have spoken, which I have intrusted to my servant, for a wise purpose in me, and it shall be made known in future generations: But this generation shall have my words, yea and the testimony of three of my servants shall go forth with my words unto this generation; yea, three shall know of a surety that these things are true, for I will give them power, that they may behold and view these things as they are, and to none else will I grant this power, to receive this same testimony among this generation. And the testimony of three witnesses will I send forth and my word, and behold, whosoever believeth in my word, them will I visit with the manifestation of my Spirit, and they shall be born of me, and their testimony shall also go forth.
D&C 5:9 Behold, verily I say unto you, I have reserved those things which I have entrusted unto you, my servant Joseph, for a wise purpose in me, and it shall be made known unto future generations;
5:10 But this generation shall have my word through you;
5:11 And in addition to your testimony, the testimony of three of my servants, whom I shall call and ordain, unto whom I will show these things, and they shall go forth with my words that are given through you.
5:12 Yea, they shall know of a surety that these things are true, for from heaven will I declare it unto them.
5:13 I will give them power that they may behold and view these things as they are;
5:14 And to none else will I grant this power, to receive this same testimony among this generation, in this the beginning of the rising up and the coming forth of my church out of the wilderness--clear as the moon, and fair as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners.
5:15 And the testimony of three witnesses will I send forth of my word.
5:16 And behold, whosoever believeth on my words, them will I visit with the manifestation of my Spirit; and they shall be born of me, even of water and of the Spirit--
5:17 And you must wait yet a little while, for ye are not yet ordained--
5:18 And their testimony shall go forth unto the condemnation of this generation if they harden their hearts against them;
BOC IV:5 And thus, if the people of this generation harden not their hearts, I will work a reformation among them, and I will put down all lyings, and deceivings, and priestcrafts, and envyings, and strifes, and idolatries, and sorceries, and all manner of iniquities, and I will establish my church, like unto the church which was taught by my disciples in the days of old.
6 And now if this generation do harden their hearts against my word, behold I will deliver them up unto Satan, for he reigneth and hath power at this time, for he hath got great hold upon the hearts of the people of this generation: and not far from the iniquities of Sodom and Gomorrah, do they come at this time: and behold the sword of justice hangeth over their heads, and if they persist in the hardness of their hearts, the time cometh that it must fall upon them. Behold I tell you these things even as I also told the people of the destruction of Jerusalem, and my word shall be verified at this time as it hath hitherto been verified.
D&C 5:19 For a desolating scourge shall go forth among the inhabitants of the earth, and shall continue to be poured out from time to time, if they repent not, until the earth is empty, and the inhabitants thereof are consumed away and utterly destroyed by the brightness of my coming.
5:20 Behold, I tell you these things, even as I also told the people of the destruction of Jerusalem; and my word shall be verified at this time as it hath hitherto been verified.
BOC IV:7 And now I command my servant, Joseph to repent, and walk more uprightly before me, and yield to the persuasions of men no more; and that he be firm in keeping the commandments wherewith I have commanded him; and if he doeth this, behold I grant unto him eternal life, even if he should be slain.
D&C 5:21 And now I command you, my servant Joseph, to repent and walk more uprightly before me, and to yield to persuasions of men no more;
5:22 And that you be firm in keeping the commandments wherewith I have commanded you; and if you do this, behold I grant unto you eternal life, even if you should be slain.
BOC IV:8 And now I speak again concerning the man that desireth a witness: behold I say unto him, he exalteth himself and doth not humble himself sufficiently before me, but if he will go out and bow down before me, and humble himself in mighty prayer and faith, in the sincerity of his heart, then I will grant unto him a view of the things which he desireth to know: and then he shall say unto the people of this generation, behold I have seen the things and I know of a surety that they are true, for I have seen, and they have been shown unto me by the power of God and not of man. And I command him that he shall say no more unto them, concerning these things, except he shall say, I have seen them, and they have been shown unto me by the power of God.
D&C 5:23 And now, again, I speak unto you, my servant Joseph, concerning the man that desires the witness--
5:24 Behold, I say unto him, he exalts himself and does not humble himself sufficiently before me; but if he will bow down before me, and humble himself in mighty prayer and faith, in the sincerity of his heart, the will I grant unto him a view of the things which he desires to see.
5:25 And then he shall say unto the people of this generation: Behold, I have seen the things which the Lord hath shown unto Joseph Smith, Jun., and I know of a surety that they are true, for I have seen them, for they have been shown unto me by the power of God and not of man.
5:26 And I the Lord command him, my servant Martin Harris, that he shall say no more unto them concerning these things, except he shall say: I have seen them, and they have been shown unto me by the power of God;
BOC IV:9 And these are the words which he shall say.--But if he deny this, he will break the covenanted with me, and behold he is condemned. And now except he humble himself and acknowledge unto me the things that he has done, which are wrong, and covenant with me that he will keep my commandments, he shall have no such views, for I will grant unto him no views of the things which I have spoken. and if this be the case, I command him that he shall do no more, nor trouble me any more concerning this matter.
D&C and these are the words which he shall say.
5:27 But if he deny this he will break the covenant which he has before covenanted with me, and behold, he is condemned.
5:28 And now, except he humble himself and acknowledge unto me the things that he hath done which are wrong, and covenant with me that he will keep my commandments, and exercise faith in me, behold, I say unto him, he shall have no such views, for I will grant unto him no views of the things of which I have spoken.
5:29 And if this be the case, I command you, my servant Joseph, that you shall say unto him, that he shall do no more, nor trouble me any more concerning this matter.
BOC IV:10 And if this be the case, behold I say unto you, Joseph, when thou hast translated a few more pages, thou shalt stop for a season, even until I command thee again: then thou mayest translate again. And except thou do thou do this, behold thou shalt have no more gift, and I will take away the things which I have intrusted with thee.
D&C 5:30 And if this be the case, behold, I say unto thee Joseph, when thou hast translated a few more pages thou shalt stop for a season, even until I command thee again; then thou mayest translate again.
5:31 And except thou do this, behold, thou shalt have no more gift, and I will take away the things which I have entrusted with thee.
BOC IV:11 And now, because I foresee the lying in wait to destroy thee: Yea, I foresee that if my servant humbleth not himself, and receive a witness from my hand, that he will fall into transgression; and there are many that lie in wait to destroy thee from off the face of the earth: And for this cause, that thy days may be prolonged, I have given unto thee these commandments; yea, for this cause I have said, stop and stand still until I command thee, and I will provide means whereby thou mayest accomplish the thing which I have commanded thee; and if thou art faithful in keeping my commandments, thou shalt be lifted up at the last day:--Amen.
D&C 5:32 And now, because I foresee the lying in wait to destroy thee, yea, I foresee that if my servant Martin Harris humbleth not himself and receive a witness from my hand; that he will fall into transgression;
5:33 And there are many that lie in wait to destroy thee from off the face of the earth; and for this cause, that thy days may be prolonged, I have given unto thee these commandments.
5:34 Yea, for this cause I have said: Stop, and stand still until I command thee, and I will provide means whereby thou mayest accomplish the thing which I have commanded thee.
5:35 And if thou art faithful in keeping my commandments, thou shalt be lifted up at the last day. Amen.
Book of Commandments Chapter VI
A Revelation given to Oliver, in Harmony, Pennsylvania, April, 1829, when they desired to know whether John, the beloved disciple, tarried on earth. Translated from parchment, written and hid up by himself.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 7
Revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet and Oliver Cowdery, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, April 1829, when they inquired through the Urim and Thummim as to whether John, the beloved disciple, tarried in the flesh or had died. The revelation is a translated version of the record made on parchment by John and hidden up by himself. HC 1:35-36.
BOC VI:1 AND the Lord said unto me, John my beloved, what desireth thou? and I said Lord, give unto me power that I may bring souls unto thee.--And the Lord said unto me: Verily, verily I say unto thee, because thou desirest this, thou shalt tarry till I come in my glory:
D&C 7:1 And the Lord said unto me: John, my beloved, what desirest thou? For if you shall ask what you will, it shall be granted unto you.
7:2 And I said unto him: Lord, give unto me power over death, that I may live and bring souls unto thee.
7:3 And the Lord said unto me: Verily, verily, I say unto thee, because thou desirest this thou shalt tarry until I come in my glory, and shalt prophesy before nations, kindreds, tongues and people.
BOC VI:2 And for this cause. the Lord said unto Peter:--If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? for he desirest of me that he might bring souls unto me: but thou desirest that thou might speedily come unto me in my kingdom: I say unto thee, Peter, this was a good desire, but my beloved has undertaken a greater work.
D&C 7:4 And for this cause the Lord said unto Peter: If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? For he desired of me that he might bring souls unto me, but thou desiredst that thou mightest speedily come unto me in my kingdom.
7:5 I say unto thee, Peter, this was a good desire; but my beloved has desired that he might do more, or a greater work yet among men than what he has before done.
BOC VI:3 Verily I say unto you, ye shall both have according to your desires, for ye both joy in that which ye have desired.
D&C 7:6 Yea, he has undertaken a greater work; therefore I will make him as flaming fire and a ministering angel; he shall minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation who dwell on the earth.
7:7 And I will make thee to minister for him and for thy brother James; and unto you three I will give this power and the keys of this ministry until I come.
7:8 Verily I say unto you, ye shall both have according to your desires, for ye both joy in that which ye have desired.
Book of Commandments Chapter VII
A Revelation given to Oliver, in Harmony, Pennsylvania, April, 1829.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 8
Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to Oliver Cowdery, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, April 1829. HC 1:36-37. In the course of the translation of the Book of Mormon, Oliver, who continued to serve as scribe, writing at the Prophet's dictation, desired to be endowed with the gift of translation. The Lord responded to his supplication by granting this revelation.
BOC VII:3 O remember, these words and keep my commandments. Remember this is your gift. Now this is not all, for you have another gift, which is the gift of working with the rod: behold it has told you things: behold there is no other power save God, that can cause this rod of nature, to work in your hands, for it is the work of God; and therefore whatsoever you shall ask me to tell you by that means, that will I grant unto you, that you shall know.
D&C 8:5 Oh, remember these words, and keep my commandments. Remember, this is your gift.
8:6 Now this is not all thy gift; for you have another gift, which is the gift of Aaron; behold, it has told you many things;
8:7 Behold, there is no other power, save the power of God, that can cause this gift of Aaron to be with you.
8:8 Therefore, doubt not, for it is the gift of God; and you shall hold it in your hands, and do marvelous works; and no power shall be able to take it away out of your hands, for it is the work of God.
8:9 And, therefore, whatsoever you shall ask me to tell you by that means, that will I grant unto you, and you shall have knowledge concerning it.
BOC VII:4 Remember that without faith you can do nothing. Trifle not with these things. Do not ask for that which you ought not. Ask that you may know the mysteries of God, and that you may translate all those ancient records, which have been hid up, which are sacred, and according to your faith shall it be done unto you.
D&C 8:10 Remember that without faith you can do nothing; therefore ask in faith. Trifle not with these things; do not ask for that which you ought not.
8:11 Ask that you may know the mysteries of God, and that you may translate and receive knowledge from all those ancient records which have been hid up, that are sacred; and according to your faith shall it be done unto you.
Book of Commandments Chapter XXIV
The Articles and Covenants of the church of Christ, given in Fayette, New York, June, 1830.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 20
Revelation on Church Organization and Government, given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, April 1830. HC 1:64-70. Preceding his record of this revelation, the Prophet wrote: "We obtained of him [Jesus Christ] the following, by the spirit of prophecy and revelation; which not only gave us much information, but also pointed out to us the precise day upon which, according to his will and commandment, we should proceed to organize his Church once more here upon the earth."
BOC XXIV:3 Which commandments were given to Joseph, who was called of God and ordained an apostle of Jesus Christ, and elder of this church;
D&C 20:2 Which commandments were given to Joseph Smith, Jun., who was called of God, and ordained an apostle of Jesus Christ, to be the first elder of this church;
BOC XXIV:4 And also to Oliver, who was also called of God an apostle of Jesus Christ, and elder of this church, and ordained under his hand:
D&C 20:3 And to Oliver Cowdery, who was also called of God, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to be the second elder of this church, and ordained under his hand;
BOC XXIV:7 But after truly repenting, God ministered unto him by an holy angel, whose countenance was as lightning, and whose garments were pure and white above all whiteness, and gave unto him commandments which inspired him from on high, and gave unto him power, by the means which were before prepared, that he should translate a book;
D&C 20:6 But after repenting, and humbling himself sincerely, through faith, God ministered unto him by an holy angel, whose countenance was as lightning, and whose garments were pure and white above all other whiteness;
20:7 And gave unto him commandments which inspired him;
20:8 And gave him power from on high, by the means which were before prepared, to translate the Book of Mormon;
BOC XXIV:8 Which book contained a record of a fallen people, and also the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles;
9 And also to the Jews, proving unto them, that the holy scriptures are true;
10 And also, that God doth inspire men and call them to his holy work, in these last days as well as in days of old, that he might be the same God forever. Amen.
11 Which book was given by inspiration, and is called the book of Mormon, and is confirmed to others by the ministering of angels, and declared unto the world by them:
D&C 20:9 Which contains a record of a fallen people, and the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles and to the Jews also;
20:10 Which was given by inspiration, and is confirmed to others by the ministering of angels, and is declared unto the world by them--
20:11 Proving to the world that the holy scriptures are true, and that God does inspire men and call them to his holy work in this age and generation, as well as in generations of old;
20:12 Thereby showing that he is the same God yesterday, today, and forever. Amen.
BOC XXIV:12 Wherefore having so great witnesses, by them shall the world be judged, even as many as shall hereafter receive this work, either to faith and righteousness, or to the hardness of heart in unbelief, to their own condemnation, for the Lord God hath spoken it, for we, the elders of the church, have heard and bear witness to the words of the glorious Majesty on high; to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
D&C 20:13 Therefore, having so great witnesses, by them shall the world be judged, even as many as shall hereafter come to a knowledge of this work.
20:14 And those who receive it in faith, and work righteousness, shall receive a crown of eternal life;
20:15 But those who harden their hearts in unbelief, and reject it, it shall turn to their own condemnation--
20:16 For the Lord God has spoken it; and we, the elders of the church, have heard and bear witness to the words of the glorious Majesty on high, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
BOC XXIV:13 Wherefore, by these things we know that there is a God in heaven, who is infinite and eternal, from everlasting to everlasting, the same unchangeable God, the maker of heaven and earth and all things that in them is, and that he created man male and female, and after his own image, and in his own likeness created he them;
D&C 20:17 By these things we know that there is a God in heaven, who is infinite and eternal, from everlasting to everlasting the same unchangeable God, the framer of heaven and earth, and all things which are in them;
20:18 And that he created man, male and female, after his own image and in his own likeness, created he them;
BOC XXIV:14 And that he gave unto the children of men commandments, that they should love and serve him the only being whom they should worship, but by the transgression of these holy laws, man became sensual and devilish, and became fallen man.
D&C 20:19 And gave unto them commandments that they should love and serve him, the only living and true God, and that he should be the only being whom they should worship.
20:20 But by the transgression of these holy laws man became sensual and devilish, and became fallen man
BOC XXIV:18 Yea, even as many as were before he came in the flesh, from the beginning, who believed in the words of the holy prophets, who were inspired by the gift of the Holy Ghost, which truly testified of him in all things, as well as those who should come after, who should believe in the gifts and callings of God, by the Holy Ghost, which beareth record of the Father and of the Son, which Father and Son and Holy Ghost, is one God, infinite and eternal, without end. Amen.
D&C 20:26 Not only those who believed after he came in the meridian of time, in the flesh, but all those from the beginning, even as many as were before he came, who believed in the words of the holy prophets, who spake as they were inspired by the gift of the Holy Ghost, who truly testified of him in all things, should have eternal life,
20:27 As well as those who should come after, who should believe in the gifts and callings of God by the Holy Ghost, which beareth record of the Father and of the Son;
20:28 Which Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one God, infinite and eternal, without end. Amen.
BOC XXIV:21 And we know, also, that sanctification through the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, is just and true, to all those who love and serve God with all their mights, minds, and strength, but there is a possibility that men may fall from grace and depart from the living God.
D&C 20:31 And we know also, that sanctification through the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is just and true, to all those who love and serve God with all their mights, minds, and strength.
20:32 But there is a possibility that man may fall from grace and depart from the living God;
BOC XXIV:23 Yea, and even he that is sanctified also.
D&C 20:34 Yea, and even let those who are sanctified take heed also.
BOC XXIV:24 And we know that these things are true and agreeable to the revelation of John, neither adding to, nor diminishing from the prophecy of his book;
25 Neither to the holy scriptures;
26 Neither to the revelations of God which shall come hereafter, by the gift and power of the Holy Ghost;
27 Neither by the voice of God;
28 Neither by the ministering of angels, and the Lord God hath spoken it; and honor, power, and glory, be rendered to his holy name both now and ever. Amen.
D&C 20:35 And we know that these things are true and according to the revelations of John, neither adding to, nor diminishing from the prophecy of his book, the holy scriptures, or the revelations of God which shall come hereafter by the gift and power of the Holy Ghost, the voice of God, or the ministering of angels.
20:36 And the Lord God has spoken it; and honor, power and glory be rendered to his holy name, both now and ever. Amen.
BOC XXIV:29 And again, by way of commandment to the church, concerning the matter of baptism;
30 Behold whosoever humbleth himself before God and desireth to be baptized, and comes forth with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, and witnesseth unto the church, that they have truly repented of all their sins and are willing to take upon them the name of Christ, having a determination to serve him unto the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, then shall they be received unto baptism into the church of Christ.
D&C 20:37 And again, by way of commandment to the church concerning the manner of baptism-- All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, shall be received by baptism into his church.
BOC XXIV:31 The duty of the elders, priests, teachers, deacons and members of the church of Christ.
32 An apostle is an elder, and it is his calling to baptize and to ordain other elders, priests, teachers and deacons, and to administer the flesh and blood of Christ according to the scriptures;
D&C 20:38 The duty of the elders, priests, teachers, deacons, and members of the church of Christ--An apostle is an elder, and it is his calling to baptize;
20:39 And to ordain other elders, priests, teachers, and deacons;
20:40 And to administer bread and wine--the emblems of the flesh and blood of Christ--
20:41 And to confirm those who are baptized into the church, by the laying on of hands for the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, according to the scriptures;
BOC XXIV:35 The elders are to conduct the meetings as they are led by the Holy Ghost.
D&C 20:45 The elders are to conduct the meetings as they are led by the Holy Ghost, according to the commandments and revelations of God.
BOC XXIV:37 And ordain other priests, teachers and deacons, and to take the lead of meetings; but none of these offices is he to do when there is an elder present, but in all cases is to assist the elder.
D&C 20:48 And he may also ordain other priests, teachers, and deacons.
20:49 And he is to take the lead of meetings when there is no elder present;
20:50 But when there is an elder present, he is only to preach, teach, expound, exhort, and baptize,
20:51 And visit the house of each member, exhorting them to pray vocally and in secret and attend to all family duties.
20:52 In all these duties the priest is to assist the elder if occasion requires.
BOC XXIV:40 And he is to take the lead of meetings in the absence of the elder or priest, and is to be assisted always, and in all his duties in the church by the deacons;
D&C 20:56 And he is to take the lead of meetings in the absence of the elder or priest--
20:57 And is to be assisted always, in all his duties in the church, by the deacons, if occasion requires.
BOC XXIV:41 But neither the teachers nor deacons have authority to baptize nor administer the sacrament, but are to warn, expound, exhort and teach, invite all to come unto Christ.
D&C 20:58 But neither teachers nor deacons have authority to baptize, administer the sacrament, or lay on hands;
20:59 They are, however, to warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ.
BOC XXIV:42 Every elder, priest, teacher or deacon, is to be ordained according to the gifts and callings of God unto him, by the power of the Holy Ghost which is in the one who ordains him.
D&C 20:60 Every elder, priest, teacher, or deacon is to be ordained according to the gifts and callings of God unto him; and he is to be ordained by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is in the one who ordains him.
BOC XXIV:43 The several elders composing this church of Christ, are to meet in conference once in three months, or from time to time as they shall direct or appoint, to do church business whatsoever is necessary.
D&C 20:61 The several elders composing this church of Christ are to meet in conference once in three months, or from time to time as said conferences shall direct or appoint;
20:62 And said conferences are to do whatever church business is necessary to be done at the time.
20:63 The elders are to receive their licenses from other elders, by vote of the church to which they belong, or from the conferences.
BOC XXIV:44 And each priest or teacher, who is ordained by a priest, is to take a certificate from him at the time, which when presented to an elder, he is to give him a license, which shall authorize him to perform the duty of his calling.
D&C 20:64 Each priest, teacher, or deacon, who is ordained by a priest, may take a certificate from him at the time, which certificate, when presented to an elder, shall entitle him to a license, which shall authorize him to perform the duties of his calling, or he may receive it from a conference.
20:65 No person is to be ordained to any office in this church, where there is a regularly organized branch of the same, without the vote of that church;
20:66 But the presiding elders, traveling bishops, high councilors, high priests, and elders, may have the privilege of ordaining, where there is no branch of the church that a vote may be called.
20:67 Every president of the high priesthood (or presiding elder), bishop, high councilor, and high priest, is to be ordained by the direction of a high council or general conference.
BOC XXIV:49 Every member of this church of Christ having children, is to bring them unto the elders before the church, who are to lay hands upon them in the name of the Lord, and bless them in the name of Christ.
D&C 20:70 Every member of the church of Christ having children is to bring them unto the elders before the church, who are to lay their hands upon them in the name of Jesus Christ, and bless them in his name.
BOC XXIV:50 There cannot any one be received into this church of Christ, who has not arrived to the years of accountability before God, and is not capable of repentance.
D&C 20:71 No one can be received into the church of Christ unless he has arrived unto the years of accountability before God, and is capable of repentance.
BOC XXIV:52 Whosoever being called of God and having authority given them of Jesus Christ, shall go down into the water with them, and shall say, calling them by name:
53 Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
D&C 20:73 The person who is called of God and has authority from Jesus Christ to baptize, shall go down into the water with the person who has presented himself or herself for baptism, and shall say, calling him or her by name: Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
BOC XXIV:54 Then shall he immerse them in the water, and come forth again out of the water.
D&C 20:74 Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again out of the water.
BOC XXIV:56 And the elder or the priest shall administer it, and after this manner shall he do, he shall kneel with the church, and call upon the Father in mighty prayer, saying:
D&C 20:76 And the elder or priest shall administer it; and after this manner shall he administer it --he shall kneel with the church and call upon the Father in solemn prayer, saying:
BOC XXIV:58 The matter of administering the wine:
59 Behold they shall take the cup and say, O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this wine to the souls of all those who drink of it, that they may do it in remembrance of the blood of thy Son, which was shed for them, that they may witness unto thee, O God the Eternal Father, that they do always remember him, that they may have his Spirit to be with them. Amen.
D&C 20:78 The manner of administering the wineÑhe shall take the cup also, and say:
20:79 O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this wine to the souls of all those who drink of it, that they may do it in remembrance of the blood of thy Son, which was shed for them; that they may witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they do always remember him, that they may have his Spirit to be with them. Amen.
BOC XXIV:60 Any member of this church of Christ, transgressing or being overtaken in a fault, shall be dealt with according as the scriptures direct.
D&C 20:80 Any member of the church of Christ transgressing, or being overtaken in a fault, shall be dealt with as the scriptures direct.
BOC XXIV:61 It shall be the duty of the several churches, composing this church of Christ, to send one or more of their teachers to attend the several conferences, held by the elders of this church, with a list of the names of the several members, uniting themselves to the church since the last conference, or send by the hand of some priest, so that there can be kept a regular list of all the names of the members of the whole church, in a book kept by one of the elders;
62 Whomsoever the other elders shall appoint from time to time:
D&C 20:81 It shall be the duty of the several churches, composing the church of Christ, to send one or more of their teachers to attend the several conferences held by the elders of the church,
20:82 With a list of the names of the several members uniting themselves with the church since the last conference; or send by the hand of some priest; so that a regular list of all the names of the whole church may be kept in a book by one of the elders, whomsoever the other elders shall appoint from time to time;
BOC XXIV:64 Any member removing from the church where he resides, if going to a church where he is not known, may take a letter certifying that he is a regular member and in good standing;
65 Which certificate may be signed by any elder or priest, if the member receiving the letter is personally acquainted with the elder or priest, or it may be signed by the teachers or deacons of the church.
D&C 20:84 All members removing from the church where they reside, if going to a church where they are not known, may take a letter certifying that they are regular members and in good standing, which certificate may be signed by any elder or priest if the member receiving the letter is personally acquainted with the elder or priest, or it may be signed by the teachers or deacons of the church.
Book of Commandments Chapter XXVI
A Revelation to Emma, given in Harmony, Pennsylvania, July, 1830.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 25
Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, July 1830. See HC 1:103-104; see also heading to Section 24. This revelation manifests the will of the Lord to Emma Smith, the Prophet's wife.
BOC XXVI:1 EMMA, my daughter in Zion, a revelation I give unto you, concerning my will:
D&C 25:1 Hearken unto the voice of the Lord your God, while I speak unto you, Emma Smith, my daughter; for verily I say unto you, all those who receive my gospel are sons and daughters in my kingdom.
25:2 A revelation I give unto you concerning my will; and if thou art faithful and walk in the paths of virtue before me, I will preserve thy life, and thou shalt receive an inheritance in Zion.
BOC XXVI:4 And the office of thy calling shall be for a comfort unto my servant Joseph, thy husband, in his afflictions with consoling words, in the spirit of meekness.
D&C 25:5 And the office of thy calling shall be for a comfort unto my servant, Joseph Smith, Jun., thy husband, in his afflictions, with consoling words, in the spirit of meekness.
BOC XXVI:5 And thou shalt go with him at the time of his going, and be unto him for a scribe, that I may send Oliver withersoever I will.
D&C 25:6 And thou shalt go with him at the time of his going, and be unto him for a scribe, while there is no one to be a scribe for him, that I may send my servant, Oliver Cowdery, whithersoever I will.
BOC XXVI:8 And thou needest not fear, for thy husband shall support thee from the church: 9 For unto them is his calling, that all things might be revealed unto them, whatsoever I will according to their faith.
D&C 25:9 And thou needest not fear, for thy husband shall support thee in the church; for unto them is his calling, that all things might be revealed unto them, whatsoever I will, according to their faith.
Book of Commandments Chapter XXVIII
A Commandment to the church of Christ, given in Harmony, Pennsylvania, September 4, 1830.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 27
Revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Harmony, Pennsylvania, August 1830. HC 1:106-108. In preparation for a religious service at which the sacrament of bread and wine was to be administered, Joseph set out to procure wine for the occasion. He was met by a heavenly messenger and received this revelation, a portion of which was written at the time, and the remainder in the September following. Water is now used instead of wine in the sacramental services of the Church.
BOC XXVIII:6 Behold this is wisdom in me, wherefore marvel not, for the hour cometh that I will drink of the fruit of the vine with you, on the earth, and with all those whom my Father hath given me out of the world:
D&C 27:5 Behold, this is wisdom in me; wherefore, marvel not, for the hour cometh that I will drink of the fruit of the vine with you on the earth, and with Moroni, whom I have sent unto you to reveal the Book of Mormon, containing the fulness of my everlasting gospel, to whom I have committed the keys of the record of the stick of Ephraim;
27:6 And also with Elias, to whom I have committed the keys of bringing to pass the restoration of all things spoken by the mouth of all the holy prophets since the world began, concerning the last days;
27:7 And also John the son of Zacharias, which Zacharias he (Elias) visited and gave promise that he should have a son, and his name should be John, and he should be filled with the spirit of Elias;
27:8 Which John I have sent unto you, my servants, Joseph Smith, Jun., and Oliver Cowdery, to ordain you unto the first priesthood which you have received, that you might be called and ordained even as Aaron;
27:9 And also Elijah, unto whom I have committed the keys of the power of turning the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to the fathers, that the whole earth may not be smitten with a curse;
27:10 And also with Joseph and Jacob, and Isaac, and Abraham, your fathers, by whom the promises remain;
27:11 And also with Michael, or Adam, the father of all, the prince of all, the ancient of days;
27:12 And also with Peter, and James, and John, whom I have sent unto you, by whom I have ordained you and confirmed you to be apostles, and especial witnesses of my name, and bear the keys of your ministry and of the same things which I revealed unto them;
27:13 Unto whom I have committed the keys of my kingdom, and a dispensation of the gospel for the last times; and for the fulness of times, in the which I will gather together in one all things, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth;
27:14 And also with all those whom my Father hath given me out of the world.
BOC XXVIII:7 Wherefore lift up your hearts and rejoice, and gird up your loins and be faithful until I come:--even so. Amen
D&C 27:15 Wherefore, lift up your hearts and rejoice, and gird up your loins, and take upon you my whole armor, that ye may be able to withstand the evil day, having done all, that ye may be able to stand.
27:16 Stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, having on the breastplate of righteousness, and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, which I have sent mine angels to commit unto you;
27:17 Taking the shield of faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked;
27:18 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of my Spirit, which I will pour out upon you, and my word which I reveal unto you, and be agreed as touching all things whatsoever ye ask of me, and be faithful until I come, and ye shall be caught up, that where I am ye shall be also. Amen.
Book of Commandments Chapter XLIV
A Revelation given to twelve elders assembled in Kirtland, Ohio; and also the law for the government of the church, given in the presence of the same, February, 1831.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 42
Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Kirtland, Ohio, February 9, 1831. HC 1:148-154. It was received in the presence of twelve elders, and in fulfillment of the Lord's promise previously made that the "law" would be given in Ohio; see Section 38:32 The Prophet specifies this revelation as "embracing the law of the Church."
BOC XLIV:5 Behold, verily I say unto you, I give unto you this first commandment, that ye shall go forth in my name, every one of you, excepting my servants Joseph and Sidney.
D&C 42:4 Behold, verily I say unto you, I give unto you this first commandment, that ye shall go forth in my name, every one of you, excepting my servants Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon.
BOC XLIV:6 And I give unto them a commandment that they shall go forth for a little season, and it shall be given by the power of my Spirit when they shall return:
D&C 42:5 And I give unto them a commandment that they shall go forth for a little season, and it shall be given by the power of the Spirit when they shall return.
BOC XLIV:7 And ye shall go forth in the power of my Spirit, preaching my gospel, two by two, in my name, lifting up your voices as with the voice of a trump, declaring my word like unto angels of God:
D&C 42:6 And ye shall go forth in the power of my Spirit, preaching my gospel, two by two, in my name, lifting up your voices as with the sound of a trump, declaring my word like unto angels of God.
BOC XLIV:10 And again, I say unto you, that my servant Edward shall stand in office wherewith I have appointed him.
11 And it shall come to pass that if he transgress another shall be appointed in his stead; even so: Amen.
D&C 42:10 And again, I say unto you, that my servant Edward Partridge shall stand in the office whereunto I have appointed him. And it shall come to pass, that if he transgress another shall be appointed in his stead. Even so. Amen.
BOC XLIV:13 And again, the elders, priests, and teachers of this church, shall teach the scriptures which are in the bible, and the book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel; and they shall observe the covenants and church articles to do them; and these shall be their teachings.
14 And they shall be directed by the Spirit, which shall be given them by the prayer of faith; and if they receive not the Spirit, they shall not teach.
D&C 42:12 And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel, which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel.
42:13 And they shall observe the covenants and church articles to do them, and these shall be their teachings, as they shall be directed by the Spirit.
42:14 And the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith; and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach.
BOC XLIV:15 And all this they shall observe to do, as I have commanded concerning their teaching, until the fulness of my scriptures are given.
D&C 42:15 And all this ye shall observe to do as I have commanded concerning your teaching, until the fulness of my scriptures is given.
BOC XLIV:16. And as they shall lift up their voices by the Comforter, they shall speak and prophesy as seemeth me good; for behold the Comforter knoweth all things, and beareth record of the Father, and of the Son.
D&C 42:16 And as ye shall lift up your voices by the Comforter, ye shall speak and prophesy as seemeth me good;
42:17 For, behold, the Comforter knoweth all things, and beareth record of the Father and of the Son.
BOC XLIV:17 And now behold I speak unto the church:
18 Thou shalt not kill: and he that killeth, shall not have forgiveness, neither in this world, nor in the world to come.
D&C 42:18 And now, behold, I speak unto the church. Thou shalt not kill; and he that kills shall not have forgiveness in this world, nor in the world to come.
BOC XLIV:23 Thou shalt not commit adultery; and he that committeth adultery and repenteth not, shall be cast out; and he that committeth adultery and repenteth with all his heart, and forsaketh and doeth it no more, thou shalt forgive him; but if he doeth it again, he shall not be forgiven, but shall be cast out.
D&C 42:24 Thou shalt not commit adultery; and he that committeth adultery, and repenteth not, shall be cast out.
42:25 But he that has committed adultery and repents with all his heart, and forsaketh it, and doeth it no more, thou shalt forgive;
42:26 But if he doeth it again, he shall not be forgiven, but shall be cast out.
BOC XLIV:25 Thou knowest my laws, they are given in my scriptures, he that sinneth and repenteth not, shall be cast out.
D&C 42:28 Thou knowest my laws concerning these things are given in my scriptures; he that sinneth and repenteth not shall be cast out.
BOC XLIV:26 If thou lovest me, thou shalt serve me and keep all my commandments; and behold, thou shalt consecrate all thy properties, that which thou hast unto me, with a covenant and a deed which can not be broken; and they shall be laid before the bishop of my church, and two of the elders, such as he shall appoint and set apart for that purpose.
D&C 42:29 If thou lovest me thou shalt serve me and keep all my commandments.
42:30 And behold, thou wilt remember the poor, and consecrate of thy properties for their support that which thou hast to impart unto them, with a covenant and a deed which cannot be broken.
42:31 And inasmuch as ye impart of your substance unto the poor, ye will do it unto me; and they shall be laid before the bishop of my church and his counselors, two of the elders, or high priests, such as he shall appoint or has appointed and set apart for that purpose.
BOC XLIV:27 And it shall come to pass, that the bishop of my church, after that he has received the properties of my church, that it can not be taken from the church, he shall appoint every man a steward over his own property, or that which he has received, inasmuch as is sufficient for himself and family:
28 And the residue shall be kept to administer to him who has not, that every man receive according as he stands in need:
D&C 42:32 And it shall come to pass, that after they are laid before the bishop of my church, and after that he has received these testimonies concerning the consecration of the properties of my church, that they cannot be taken from the church, agreeable to my commandments, every man shall be made accountable unto me, a steward over his own property, or that which he has received by consecration, as much as is sufficient for himself and family.
42:33 And again, if there shall be properties in the hands of the church, or any individuals of it, more than is necessary for their support after this first consecration, which is a residue to be consecrated unto the bishop, it shall be kept to administer to those who have not, from time to time, that every man who has need may be amply supplied and receive according to his wants.
BOC XLIV:29 And the residue shall be kept in my storehouse, to administer to the poor and needy, as shall be appointed by the elders of the church and the bishop; and for the purpose of purchasing lands, and the building up of the New Jerusalem, which is hereafter to be revealed; that my covenant people may be gathered in one, in the day that I shall come to my temple:
30 And this I do for the salvation of my people.
D&C 42:34 Therefore, the residue shall be kept in my storehouse, to administer to the poor and the needy, as shall be appointed by the high council of the church, and the bishop and his council;
42:35 And for the purpose of purchasing lands for the public benefit of the church, and building houses of worship, building up of the New Jerusalem which is hereafter to be revealed--
42:36 That my covenant people may be gathered in one in that day when I shall come to my temple. And this I do for the salvation of my people.
BOC XLIV:31 And it shall come to pass, that he that sinneth and repenteth not shall be cast out, and shall not receive again that which he has consecrated unto me:
D&C 42:37 And it shall come to pass, that he that sinneth and repenteth not shall be cast out of the church, and shall not receive again that which he has consecrated unto the poor and the needy of my church, or in other words, unto me--
42:38 For inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these, ye do it unto me.
BOC XLIV:32 For it shall come to pass, that which I spake by the mouths of my prophets shall be fulfilled; for I will consecrate the riches of the Gentiles, unto my people which are of the house of Israel.
D&C 42:39 For it shall come to pass, that which I spake by the mouths of my prophets shall be fulfilled; for I will consecrate of the riches of those who embrace my gospel among the Gentiles unto the poor of my people who are of the house of Israel.
BOC XLIV:35 And whosoever among you are sick, and have not faith to be healed, but believeth, shall be nourished in all tenderness with herbs and mild food, and that not of the world; and the elders of the church, two or more shall be called, and shall pray for, and lay their hands upon them in my name, and if they die, they shall die unto me; and if they live they shall live unto me.
D&C 42:43 And whosoever among you are sick, and have not faith to be healed, but believe, shall be nourished with all tenderness, with herbs and mild food, and that not by the hand of an enemy.
42:44 And the elders of the church, two or more, shall be called, and shall pray for and lay their hands upon them in my name; and if they die they shall die unto me, and if they live they shall live unto me.
BOC XLIV:43 Thou shalt ask and my scriptures shall be given as I have appointed; and for thy safety it is expedient that thou shouldst hold thy peace concerning them, until ye have received them:
D&C 42:56 Thou shalt ask, and my scriptures shall be given as I have appointed, and they shall be preserved in safety;
42:57 And it is expedient that thou shouldst hold thy peace concerning them, and not teach them until ye have received them in full.
BOC XLIV:44 Then I give unto you a commandment that ye shall teach unto all men; and they also shall be taught unto all nations, kindreds, tongues and people.
D&C 42:58 And I give unto you a commandment that then ye shall teach them unto all men; for they shall be taught unto all nations, kindreds, tongues and people.
BOC XLIV:45 Thou shalt take the things which thou hast received, which thou knowest to have been my law, to be my law, to govern my church; and he that doeth according to these things shall be saved, and he that doeth them not shall be damned, if he continue.
D&C 42:59 Thou shalt take the things which thou hast received, which have been given unto thee in my scriptures for a law, to be my law to govern my church;
42:60 And he that doeth according to these things shall be saved, and he that doeth them not shall be damned if he so continue.
BOC XLIV:46 If thou ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries, and the peaceable things of the kingdom; that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal.
D&C 42:61 If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries and peaceable things --that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal.
BOC XLIV:49 Behold, thou shalt observe all these things, and great shall be thy reward.
50 Thou shalt observe to keep the mysteries of the kingdom unto thyself, for it is not given to the world to know the mysteries.
D&C 42:65 Behold, thou shalt observe all these things, and great shall be thy reward; for unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom, but unto the world it is not given to know them.
BOC XLIV:51 The laws which ye have received, and shall hereafter receive, shall be sufficient for you both here, and in the New Jerusalem.
D&C 42:66 Ye shall observe the laws which ye have received and be faithful.
42:67 And ye shall hereafter receive church covenants, such as shall be sufficient to establish you, both here and in the New Jerusalem.
BOC XLIV:52 Therefore, he that lacketh knowledge, let him ask of me and I will give him liberally and upbraid him not.
D&C 42:68 Therefore, he that lacketh wisdom, let him ask of me, and I will give him liberally and upbraid him not.
BOC XLIV:53 Lift up your hearts and rejoice, for unto you the kingdom has been given; even so: Amen.
D&C 42:69 Lift up your hearts and rejoice, for unto you the kingdom, or in other words, the keys of the church have been given. Even so. Amen.
BOC XLIV:54 The priests and teachers, shall have their stewardship given them even as the members; and the elders are to assist the bishop in all things, and he is to see that their families are supported out of the property which is consecrated to the Lord, either a stewardship, or otherwise, as may be thought best by the elders and bishop.
D&C 42:70 The priests and teachers shall have their stewardships, even as the members.
42:71 And the elders or high priests who are appointed to assist the bishop as counselors in all things, are to have their families supported out of the property which is consecrated to the bishop, for the good of the poor, and for other purposes, as before mentioned;
42:72 Or they are to receive a just remuneration for all their services, either a stewardship or otherwise, as may be thought best or decided by the counselors and bishop.
BOC XLIV:55 Thou shalt contract no debts with the world, except thou are commanded.
56 And again, the elders and bishop, shall counsel together, and they shall do by the direction of the Spirit as it must needs be necessary.
57 There shall be as many appointed as must needs be necessary to assist the bishop in obtaining places for the brethren from New York, that they may be together as much as can be, and as they are directed by the Holy Spirit; and every family shall have a place, that they may live by themselves.-- And every church shall be organized in as close bodies as they can be; and this for a wise purpose:--even so. Amen.
D&C 42:73 And the bishop, also, shall receive his support, or a just remuneration for all his services in the church.
42:74 Behold, verily I say unto you, that whatever persons among you, having put away their companions for the cause of fornication, or in other words, if they shall testify before you in all lowliness of heart that this is the case, ye shall not cast them out from among you;
42:75 But if ye shall find that any persons have left their companions for the sake of adultery, and they themselves are the offenders, and their companions are living, they shall be cast out from among you.
42:76 And again, I say unto you, that ye shall be watchful and careful, with all inquiry, that ye receive none such among you if they are married;
42:77 And if they are not married, they shall repent of all their sins or ye shall not receive them.
42:78 And again, every person who belongeth to this church of Christ, shall observe to keep all the commandments and covenants of the church.
42:79 And it shall come to pass, that if any persons among you shall kill they shall be delivered up and dealt with according to the laws of the land; for remember that he hath no forgiveness; and it shall be proved according to the laws of the land.
42:80 And if any man or woman shall commit adultery, he or she shall be tried before two elders of the church, or more, and every word shall be established against him or her by two witnesses of the church, and not of the enemy; but if there are more than two witnesses it is better.
42:81 But he or she shall be condemned by the mouth of two witnesses; and the elders shall lay the case before the church, and the church shall lift up their hands against him or her, that they may be dealt with according to the law of God.
42:82 And if it can be, it is necessary that the bishop be present also.
42:83 And thus ye shall do in all cases which shall come before you.
42:84 And if a man or woman shall rob, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law of the land.
42:85 And if he or she shall steal, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law of the land.
42:86 And if he or she shall lie, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law of the land.
42:87 And if he or she do any manner of iniquity, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law, even that of God.
42:88 And if thy brother or sister offend thee, thou shalt take him or her between him or her and thee alone; and if he or she confess thou shalt be reconciled.
42:89 And if he or she confess not thou shalt deliver him or her up unto the church, not to the members, but to the elders. And it shall be done in a meeting, and that not before the world.
42:90 And if thy brother or sister offend many, he or she shall be chastened before many.
42:91 And if any one offend openly, he or she shall be rebuked openly, that he or she may be ashamed. And if he or she confess not, he or she shall be delivered up unto the law of God.
42:92 If any shall offend in secret, he or she shall be rebuked in secret, that he or she may have opportunity to confess in secret to him or her whom he or she has offended, and to God, that the church may not speak reproachfully of him or her.
42:93 And thus shall ye conduct in all things.