Overview
This session provides an in-depth exploration of Doctrine and Covenants Section 88, a significant Latter-day Saint revelation. The discussion covers its theological scope, historical context, apocalyptic themes, instructions for spiritual education, and the establishment of the School of the Prophets and the Kirtland Temple.
Theological Themes and Cosmic Law
- The plan of salvation includes redeeming all of creation, not just humanity.
- God’s laws are not arbitrary tests but describe the inherent order of the universe.
- One’s capacity for heavenly glory is developed by the laws one willingly obeys.
- The destiny of humankind is intertwined with the sanctification and exaltation of the earth.
- The revelation counters the idea of abandoning earth for heaven; rather, God dwells with the sanctified on a renewed earth.
- Multiple kingdoms and laws govern all existence, both spiritual and temporal.
Revelation Context and Structure
- Section 88 was received over several days at the end of 1832 after a previous revelation about war.
- The revelation is lengthy, complex, and rich in both theology and practical instructions.
- It was intended to provide peace and guidance after unsettling prophecies regarding war and turmoil.
- The structure of Section 88 includes doctrinal exposition, eschatology, commandments, and specific instructions for church leadership and education.
Key Instructions and Applications
- Saints are commanded to sanctify themselves, unite in purpose, and seek spiritual and secular education.
- Education is elevated as a spiritual commandment, encompassing both religious and secular knowledge.
- The School of the Prophets is instituted for church officers, emphasizing learning by study and faith.
- Guidelines for school conduct stress charity, humility, cleanliness, and order.
- The Kirtland Temple is to serve as a house of worship, learning, and solemn assemblies, with rituals to prepare members to enter God's presence.
Apocalyptic and Eschatological Elements
- Section 88 describes a detailed sequence of end-time events, paralleling and expanding on themes from the Book of Revelation.
- Trumpet blasts by angels signify pivotal events, resurrection orders, judgments, and the final defeat of evil.
- The millennium and post-millennial conflicts are outlined, emphasizing God’s ultimate victory and the eternal sanctification of the saints.
Rituals and Organizational Practices
- Detailed protocols for the School of the Prophets include salutation rituals and the ordinance of washing of feet.
- Standards of worthiness and decorum are established to maintain the sanctity and purpose of the educational and worship setting.
Decisions
- Command to build the Kirtland Temple as a house of God, worship, and learning.
- Establish the School of the Prophets for church leadership education and sanctification.
- Hold a solemn assembly as a means of collective spiritual preparation.
Action Items
- TBD – Church Elders: Organize and attend the solemn assembly.
- TBD – Church Leadership: Prepare and construct the Kirtland Temple.
- TBD – Church Officers: Establish and conduct the School of the Prophets according to the outlined principles.
- TBD – All Members: Seek education, spiritual learning, and sanctification according to revelation.
Recommendations / Advice
- Engage in continuous learning, both secular and spiritual, as a divine mandate.
- Emphasize unity, prayer, and charity within educational and spiritual endeavors.
- Approach God's laws as pathways to transformation and sanctification, not merely as tests.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Further discussion promised on the controversies and consequences of Section 88 in a subsequent session.