D & C 51 - 57 The Law of Consecration, for Faithful, Just, and Wise Stewards

W. Cleon Skousen Insights

Revelation Dates: May – July 1831

Revelation Places: Ohio and Missouri

Section 51 - Historical Background: As the many converts from New York came to Kirtland Ohio, Bishop Partridge had been assigned to organize and care for them according to the law of consecration, described in section 42. Needing assistance from the Lord, the bishop asked Joseph to seek further guidance from the Lord.

• Recap: The bishop is to appoint each family an appropriate portion of property according to his specific needs. Once appointed, a deed of ownership must be given him. A storehouse of money and goods should be kept by the bishop for the needs and wants of the people.

Section 52 - Historical Background: A church conference was called in Kirtland which about 2,000 members attended. The events included ordaining several High Priests. During the conference, Joseph Smith rebuked evil spirits residing in 2 men.

• Recap: The next conference is announced to be held in Missouri, which must be consecrated for the faithful. 28 Elders are called on missions to Missouri, two by two. The Lord gives the pattern necessary to be a righteous missionary.

Section 53 - Historical Background: After calling all the elders on missions in the previous section, Sidney Gilbert was not included. Hurt by this, Gilbert approached the Lord in prayer and then to Joseph for a revelation of what work he can do while the others went to Missouri.

• Recap: Sidney Gilbert's prayers have been heard. He is to forsake the world, become an Elder and preach repentance. He is to accompany Joseph Smith to Missouri.

Section 54 - Historical Background: The saints from Colesville, New York contracted with Leman Copley to stay on his property. Copley was to consecrate his property to the church, but he apostatized and broke his covenant. Joseph sought counsel from the Lord.

• Recap: It would be better for those Saints who break covenants with the Lord to have been drowned in the sea. But those who honor their covenants will be rewarded. The saints are to flee Ohio and move to Missouri. Be patient in tribulation.

Section 55 - Historical Background: William W. Phelps was converted through the Book of Mormon and sought a revelation from the Lord as to what work he should do.

• Recap: Phelps is commanded to be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost and be ordained an Elder to preach repentance. He is assigned to Missouri to assist Oliver Cowdery as printer.

Section 56 - Historical Background: As Thomas B. Marsh was preparing to go to Missouri as commanded, his indolent companion, Ezra Thayre, was not enthusiastic. Joseph inquires what the Lord would have him do.

• Recap: Those who pretend to be saints but are rebellious will not be saved but will be cut off from the church. Marsh is given a new companion. All members are called to repentance.

Section 57 - Historical Background: The focus of the saints was on gathering to Zion in Jackson County, Missouri. The town of Independence Missouri was a backward, frontier town of about 3,000 people. The Lord announces the place for Zion and the temple.

• Recap: The land of Missouri is appointed as the center place of Zion and the New Jerusalem. The exact place of the temple is appointed. The saints are to purchase all the regions of the land. Assignments are made to various church leaders. Speed is of the essence. Gathering saints will be granted land according to the law of consecration.