Overview
This discussion focuses on key sections (67–70) of the Doctrine and Covenants, the early 1830s process of publishing new scripture, and the administrative, doctrinal, and practical issues faced by the early Latter-day Saint church as they worked to build Zion and define what constitutes scripture and authority.
The Purpose and Nature of Scripture
- Early leaders debated whether to publish Joseph Smith's revelations for transparency and to counter criticism.
- The church held a conference to decide if the revelations should be published, considering both public and private circulation.
- Concerns existed about the authenticity, language, and quality of Joseph Smith's revelations.
- Section 67 contains God's challenge: if anyone could replicate a revelation's quality, doubts about Joseph's prophetic role would be justified.
- Witnesses signed testimonies affirming divine inspiration of the revelations.
- The Lord acknowledged the imperfect humanity of prophets but insisted the revelations' content was righteous and divinely inspired.
- The idea of publishing revelations paralleled transparency efforts like the modern Joseph Smith Papers project.
Defining Scripture, Canon, and Authority
- Section 68 clarifies that anyone speaking by the Holy Ghost, not just leaders, can utter scripture, though not all such words are canon (binding for all).
- A distinction was made between personal revelation (scripture) and official canon (measuring rod for doctrine and practice).
- Practical laws regarding bishops and the role of parents were set forth, including the duty to teach core doctrines to children by age eight.
Practical Issues: Printing and Preserving Scripture
- Section 69 addresses logistics: transporting and printing revelations in Missouri, assigning Oliver Cowdery and John Whitmer to the task.
- John Whitmer was directed to keep records for church history, emphasizing the enduring value of preserving accounts for future generations.
The Literary Firm and Church Finance
- Section 70 organized the "literary firm," assigning stewardship over the revelations’ publication and permitting appropriate compensation.
- The Lord adjusted the law of consecration to ensure those working full-time to further the church could be supported.
- These early for-profit ventures (like publishing) set precedents for later church business activities aimed at supporting church growth and humanitarian efforts.
Interfaith and Revelatory Parallels
- The challenge to produce scripture comparable to Joseph Smith’s echoes similar claims in other faiths (e.g., the Quran).
- Leaders affirmed that God grants truth to leaders of other faiths as appropriate for their context.
- Not all claims of revelation, within or outside the church, are accepted as canon; revelations are tested against established scripture and doctrine.
Parental Responsibility and Church Organization
- Parents were commanded to teach core gospel principles to children, enabling informed personal choices.
- Instructions were given for managing church resources, expanding the number of bishops, and maintaining organizational order.
Decisions
- Go forward with publishing the revelations as the Book of Commandments.
- Establish the literary firm to oversee and manage the publication project.
- Assign John Whitmer and Oliver Cowdery to transport and safeguard the revelations and funds to Missouri.
Action Items
- TBD – John Whitmer & Oliver Cowdery: Safely deliver revelation manuscripts and funds to Missouri printing press.
- TBD – Church members: Parents to teach core doctrines to children by age eight and prioritize prayer and faithfulness.
Recommendations / Advice
- Evaluate claims of new revelation against canon and the edifying effects of their teachings.
- All members, not just leaders, should seek inspiration and recognize its personal scriptural value.
- Maintain and submit historical records for preservation and the benefit of future generations.