Doctrine and Covenants Contexts

Official Declaration 2

1. Extension of Priesthood and Temple Blessings: The declaration announces that all worthy male members of the Church, regardless of race or color, can now be ordained to the priesthood and receive temple blessings. 2. Revelation to President Spencer W. Kimball: The change came through a revelation received by President Spencer W. Kimball after extended meditation and prayer, which was confirmed by other Church leaders. 3. Unanimous Approval: The revelation was unanimously approved by the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and other General Authorities, and was presented to the Church members for their sustaining vote.

Official Declaration 1

1. End of Plural Marriage: President Wilford Woodruff declares the end of the practice of plural marriage among Church members, stating that the Church is no longer teaching or permitting it. 2. Compliance with Law: The declaration emphasizes the Church’s intention to comply with the laws of the United States, which had made plural marriage illegal, and to use influence to ensure members do the same. 3. Divine Guidance: President Woodruff explains that the decision to end plural marriage was made following revelation and guidance from the Lord, highlighting the importance of preserving the Church’s temples and the ability to perform ordinances.

Section 138

1. Vision of the Spirit World: Joseph F. Smith receives a vision of the spirit world, where he sees the righteous dead rejoicing and the Savior organizing the preaching of the gospel to the spirits in prison. 2. Preaching to the Dead: The vision explains that Christ did not personally go among the wicked and disobedient spirits but sent messengers to preach the gospel to them. 3. Continuing Mission: Faithful elders continue their missionary work in the spirit world, ensuring that all have the opportunity to accept the gospel.

Section 137

1. Vision of the Celestial Kingdom: Joseph Smith sees a vision of the celestial kingdom and is surprised to see his deceased brother Alvin there, despite Alvin not having been baptized. 2. Salvation for the Dead: The vision reveals that those who would have accepted the gospel if they had the opportunity will be heirs of the celestial kingdom. 3. Desire Over Death: This section emphasizes that salvation is determined by one’s desires and choices, not by the timing of their death.

Section 136

1. Leadership and Organization: This section outlines the instructions given by Brigham Young to the Saints regarding their westward migration. It emphasizes the importance of organized leadership and the role of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in guiding the Church after Joseph Smith’s death. 2. Principles of Conduct: The revelation provides specific guidelines on how the Saints should conduct themselves during the journey. It stresses the importance of unity, faith, and obedience, as well as the need to care for the poor and needy among them. 3. Promise of Divine Support: The section assures the Saints that if they follow these instructions and remain faithful, they will receive the Lord’s protection and guidance. It frames their journey as a divinely sanctioned exodus, with the promise of reaching a new land where they can worship freely and build a new community.