Overview
This discussion analyzes Doctrine and Covenants section 84, exploring its historical context, doctrinal significance, and practical instructions, with focus on priesthood, temple, missionary work, and the early structure of the LDS Church. The section is presented as three related but distinct revelations, each addressing foundational aspects of church governance and spiritual purpose.
Historical Context of Section 84
- Joseph Smith received section 84 after returning from Missouri while staying at the Whitney store in Kirtland in September 1832.
- The revelation occurred as missionaries returned, shared their experiences, and church leaders faced leadership challenges, including Sydney Rigdon’s trauma and temporary removal.
- This period included Joseph’s contemplative break, during which he reflected on his life and began composing his history.
- Section 84 was originally highly ranked in importance among early revelations due to its doctrinal and regulatory content.
Structure and Content of Section 84
- Section 84 consists of three related revelations: doctrinal insights on priesthood and temple (vv. 1–42), counsel to missionaries and warnings to Zion (vv. 43–102), and practical missionary instructions (vv. 103–120).
- The first revelation links the establishment of the church and the gathering of saints to the building of the New Jerusalem and its temple in Missouri.
- The connection between priesthood (both higher and lower orders) and temple ordinances is emphasized as essential for godly living and access to God.
Doctrinal Insights: Priesthood and Temple
- The revelation differentiates between the greater (high) priesthood and the lesser (Aaronic) priesthood, tracing their lineage and spiritual authority.
- Ordinances and authority of the greater priesthood are presented as necessary for manifesting the power of godliness and entering God’s presence.
- Membership in the "sons of Moses and Aaron" is based on faithfulness and choice, not lineage alone; adoption into this spiritual group comes by accepting and magnifying one’s calling.
Missionary Work, Condemnation, and Counsel
- The second revelation urges servants to live by every word of God and recognizes the necessity of missionaries preaching truth to a world in spiritual darkness.
- The Lord warns that both the wider world and members of the church (especially in Zion/Missouri) are under condemnation for unbelief and neglecting sacred scripture, notably the Book of Mormon.
- Servants are promised spiritual protection and guidance and instructed not to boast of miracles but remain humble and steadfast.
Practical Instructions for Missionaries and Church Offices
- Detailed counsel is given on the distribution of gifts or money received during missions, with priorities for family, personal use, or church funds.
- High priests are to work with those of lesser priesthoods, emphasizing unity and mutual support within church structure.
- Instructions to Bishop Whitney include seeking out the poor and warning major cities; practical guidance underscores adaptability as circumstances change.
Decisions
- Split the discussion of section 84 into two parts due to its length.
- Missionaries to follow specific practical and doctrinal instructions as outlined in the revelation.
Action Items
- October 1832 – Bishop Whitney: Travel to New York, Albany, and Boston to preach and warn according to revelation.
- TBD – Church Members: Repent, focus on the Book of Mormon, and act on commandments to lift condemnation.
- TBD – Missionaries/Servants: Go forth to preach, follow revelation’s instructions, and support one another in their callings.
Recommendations / Advice
- Church members should regularly self-reflect on their engagement with scripture and commandments.
- Missionaries and leaders should rely on the guidance of the Spirit and fulfill roles with humility and unity.