Insights on D&C 124:28 and the Fullness of Priesthood

Context and Initial Thoughts

• Presenter was interviewed about Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) 124:28.
• Started an in-depth exploration into the history and context of the verse.
• Verse: "For there is not a place found on the earth that he may come and restore again that which was lost unto you, or which he hath taken away, even the fullness of the priesthood."
• Focus: understanding the "fullness of the priesthood" and its implications.

Key Verse Analysis

• Restore Again: Indicates it was restored once before and lost again.
• Fullness of the Priesthood: What was taken away that needs restoration?
• Commandment to Build the Temple: Specific time given for establishment.
• Promises and Conditions: Restoration tied to completion of the Nauvoo Temple.

Historical Context

• Late 1830s: Multiple challenges within the Church, including apostasy and internal conflict.
• 1841: Command to build the Nauvoo Temple under the leadership of Joseph Smith.
• 1831 Isaac Morley Farm Conference: Significant in the history of the restoration of the Melchizedek Priesthood.

Fullness of the Priesthood

• High Priesthood/Melchizedek Priesthood:
  • Requires a calling from God, not from men (Hebrews 5, JST Genesis 14).
  • Evidenced by manifestations of power (e.g., miracles akin to Nephi and Melchizedek).
  • Biblical examples: Christ received it through divine calling.
• Historical Accounts: Notably from Levi Hancock, John Corrill, and Parley P. Pratt detailing spiritual manifestations and conferment of priesthood power.

Issues and Clarifications

• Restoration in 1831 vs. 1829:
  • Some believe authority was first restored in 1829 by Peter, James, and John.
  • Contested by multiple accounts suggesting 1831 event was significant.
• High Priests and Apostles: Differing accounts on the need for ordination.
• Brigham Young’s Address (1853): Claimed apostles had fullness without being ordained high priests, raising questions about discrepancies.

Condemnation and Fullness

• D&C 84 (1832): Church came under condemnation, which continued unresolved (according to Pres. Benson in the 1980s).
• Impact on Fullness: Whether the church could claim fullness while under condemnation.

Reflections and Questions

• Impact of Condemnation: If still under condemnation, can fullness of priesthood coexist?
• Unanswered Questions:
  • Was the Nauvoo Temple completed in time and filled with power as prophesied?
  • Why are significant events like the Isaac Morley Farm not widely communicated in official histories?
• Personal Reflection: The presenter’s own status as a high priest conflicts with findings, and they welcome further insight and correction.

Conclusion

• Ongoing Inquiry: Encourages open dialogue and further research for clarity.
• Call for Repentance: Reflection on the need for genuine repentance and spiritual rebirth.
• Future Hope: Aspires for the true restoration of the Melchizedek Priesthood in its fullness.