CFM: February 3–9
Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material
Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson
This is a continuation of “This Is the Spirit of Revelation” Part 1."
In this segment, we will continue to sections 7-9. Although, unfortunately, I will not have time to go into the detailed analysis that we do in Part 1. However, this is a good opportunity for the reader to explore some of the tools that I demonstrated in section 6.
This week my husband and I are traveling, so I am trying to keep up with things by writing in various airports between flights and whenever I have a spare moment. So please pardon my errors, I have not had much time to proofread. Also, next week is going to be tricky as we have a pretty packed itinerary, but I will do my best. Thank you for your patience!
D&C 7
Overview:
Timeframe and Setting:
Date: April 1829
Location: Harmony, Pennsylvania
Occasion: This revelation was received through the Urim and Thummim in response to a question about whether John the Beloved had died or remained on the earth.
Key Circumstances:
Curiosity about John’s fate: Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery inquired about John the Beloved, referenced in John 21:20-23, where Christ says, "If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?"
Revelation of John’s mission: The Lord confirms that John remains on the earth as a translated being to continue his ministry.
Purpose of the Revelation:
Clarification of John’s Role: John was given power over death to remain on the earth and minister until Christ’s return.
Contrasting Missions: Peter was called to seal his testimony in death, while John was given power over death to continue his work among the Lord’s people.
Authority and the Power of Translation: This revelation affirms that translated beings have a unique role in preparing the way for Christ’s Second Coming.
Significance:
Expanded Understanding of Translation: This section provides insight into how some individuals are translated rather than experiencing mortal death, showing continuity with other translated figures like Enoch and Elijah.
The Lord’s Sovereignty in Assigning Missions: Peter and John were both apostles, yet their missions were different. God assigns us unique roles according to His divine purposes.
The Doctrine of Two Witnesses: The revelation connects with the idea that John and Peter represent two types of apostolic testimony—one through martyrdom and one through continuous ministry.
Verse, Main Topic & Theme | Additional Resources |
Verse 1 - The Lord’s Will for John | |
Theme: Translation | |
Description: John was given the desire of his heart—to remain on earth and minister until the Lord’s return. The phrase “that he might bring souls unto me” echoes biblical themes of missionary work and endurance. Compare this with Matthew 28:19-20, where Christ commands His disciples to "teach all nations," and 2 Nephi 2:2, which speaks of enduring tribulation for the sake of righteousness. In Greek, "minister" (διακονέω, diakoneó) denotes active service and aid, reinforcing John’s role as an unceasing witness of Christ. | |
Verse 2 - John’s Power Over Death | |
Theme: Eternal Ministry | |
Description: John was granted power over death, similar to Enoch and Elijah. The phrase “that he should not taste of death” is also found in Matthew 16:28 and 3 Nephi 28:7, referring to those granted an extended mortal mission. The Hebrew term chai (חַיּ) chayyei olam, חַיֵּי עוֹלָם root chai (חַיּ)) and Greek term (zōē aiōnios, ζωή αἰώνιος) mean"eternal life" and both are linked to divine preservation. This shares similarities to the role of Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18), whose priesthood was tied to an extended mortal ministry. John's translation in the New Testament bears reference to Elijah and Enoch's translation in the Old Testament. The Greek word for translate can be found in Hebrew 11:5 μετατίθημι From μετά and τίθημι. In Hebrew the terms for these experiences include לָקַח lâqach meaning to take or transfer, עָלָה alah, meaning to "go up, or ascend" and עָבַר avar, meaning to "cross/pass over." |
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Verse 3-4 - Peter and John’s Different Callings | |
Theme: Unique Callings | |
Description: Peter was to testify through martyrdom, while John was to minister through translation. The Lord tells Peter, "What is that to thee? Follow thou me"—a reminder that different disciples have different missions, as seen in John 21:20-22. This same concept applies to Joseph and Oliver, both had important roles to play, albeit they each serve in different ways. It is of interest to note that the Greek word martyria (μαρτυρία) means "witness," linking Peter's testimony through death with his role as a chief apostle (2 Peter 1:14). However, the accounts of John demonstrate that some martyrs are called to live for Christ, offering their wants and wills to serve Him in whatever capacity he desires. This is reflected Alma 29:3, where Alma wrestles with his desire to have a different calling but he ultimately accepts the Lord’s will. | Discussion: Why Different Apostolic Missions? |
Verse 5 - Desiring a Greater Work | |
Theme: Righteous Desires | |
Description: The Lord acknowledges Peter’s desire as "good" but explains that John has desired to do more—a "greater work" among men. This highlights the principle that the Lord grants spiritual gifts and opportunities according to righteous desires (see D&C 46:8-9). The Hebrew word gadol (גָּדוֹל) means "great" or "important," emphasizing the magnitude of John’s mission compared to what he had previously done. This also relates to Jacob 4:6, where faith enables one to accomplish greater works. | |
Verse 6 - A Ministering Angel and Flaming Fire | |
Theme: Divine Commission | |
Description: The Lord declares John will be made “as flaming fire and a ministering angel.” This imagery is found in Psalm 104:4, where angels are described as “ministers of flaming fire.” The phrase reflects John’s elevated spiritual role, much like Elijah, whose ascension in a chariot of fire (2 Kings 2:11) symbolized divine transformation. The Greek word pyr (πῦρ) means "fire" but also signifies purification and divine power, showing that John’s mission is deeply connected to spiritual refinement and ministering to the heirs of salvation (compare with Hebrews 1:14). | |
Verse 7-8 - Keys of the Ministry & Divine Authority | |
Theme: Priesthood Authority | |
Description: The Lord grants John, Peter, and James the keys of this ministry, meaning they have divine authority to act in His name. The phrase "I will give this power and the keys of this ministry until I come" refers to priesthood keys—the power to administer ordinances, lead, and teach under God’s direction. This doctrine is supported in Acts 15:7, where Peter speaks of his authority, D&C 6:28, which discusses the establishment of the Lord’s work through divine keys, and Joseph Smith—History 1:72, where the priesthood is restored. The Greek word kleis (κλείς) means "key" and represents divine authority in scripture (see Matthew 16:19). |
D&C 8
Overview:
Timeframe and Setting:
Date: April 1829
Location: Harmony, Pennsylvania
Occasion: This revelation was given to Oliver Cowdery, who desired the gift of translation as Joseph Smith was translating the Book of Mormon. This revelation builds upon D&C 6, and provides additional direction to Oliver.
Key Circumstances:
Oliver’s Role as Scribe: He had begun acting as a scribe for Joseph Smith in the translation of the Book of Mormon.
Desire for Personal Revelation: Oliver sought confirmation of his ability to also receive divine guidance and assist in translation.
The Spirit of Revelation: The Lord taught Oliver how revelation works, particularly through the Spirit speaking to the mind and heart.
Purpose of the Revelation:
Teaching the Process of Revelation: The Lord explained that revelation comes by the power of the Holy Ghost.
Confirming Oliver’s Spiritual Gift: Oliver was promised the gift of translation, contingent on faith and diligence.
Encouragement to Seek Further Knowledge: The Lord encouraged Oliver to continue in faith and seek further light and knowledge.
Significance:
Understanding Personal Revelation: This section clarifies that revelation is not just external but is received internally through thought and feeling.
Faith and the Power of the Priesthood: Oliver was reminded that faith is essential in the exercise of spiritual gifts.
The Role of Gifts in the Restoration: The promise of spiritual gifts, such as translation, highlights how God empowers His servants to fulfill divine purposes.
Verse, Main Topic & Theme | Additional Resources |
Verse 1 - The Power of God in Revelation | |
Theme: Divine Authority | |
Description: The Lord declares that true revelation comes through Him and that he is willing to share it, especially when it comes to interpreting his scriptures (script+Torah - “written Law’). This aligns with James 1:5, where seekers of wisdom are told to ask God directly. Key Words & Phrases: “knowledge of whatsoever things you shall ask in faith, with an honest heart, believing that you shall receive” | |
Verse 2 - The Spirit of Revelation | |
Theme: The Holy Ghost as a Guide | |
Description: The Lord explains that revelation comes to the mind and heart (D&C 8:2). This principle is also found in Luke 24:32, where disciples on the road to Emmaus felt their hearts burn as Christ taught them. The Hebrew word lev (לֵב) means heart, but it also refers to the inner self, thoughts, and will. | |
Verse 3 - The Spirit of Moses | |
Theme: Prophetic Authority | |
Description: The Lord references the same spirit given to Moses, affirming Oliver’s calling. In Numbers 11:16-17, God extends the same spirit that guided Moses upon seventy elders, later stating in v.29 “ would God that all the Lord’s people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit upon them!” Key Words & Phrases: “spirit of revelation” The Greek word pneuma (πνεῦμα) means breath or spirit, signifying divine inspiration, which is expressed in the Hebraic meaning of Ruach רוּחַ. | |
Verse 4-5 - Gifts of the Spirit | |
Theme: Spiritual Gifts | |
Description: Oliver is reminded that faith is required to receive spiritual gifts. This aligns with 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, where Paul lists the gifts of the Spirit. Key Words & Prases: “this is thy gift; apply unto it” The Hebrew word mattan (מַתָּן) means gift, emphasizing divine bestowal rather than personal achievement. In Greek the word δόμα dóma means “gift,” but the concept is also expressed with the phrase “manifestation of the Spirit” φανέρωσις phanerōsis from the root φανερόω fanero, meaning “to make manifest or visible, to make that which was unknown, known” | |
Verse 6 - The Gift of Aaron | |
Theme: Divine Gifts | |
Description: The Lord declares that Oliver has another gift—the gift of Aaron. This bears reference to the power of the priesthood, including being able to use tools such as the Urim and Thummim or a rod of divine power (see Exodus 7:9-12, Rod of Aaron, examples, . The Hebrew word מַטֶּה maṭṭeh means “rod, or staff, while the name Aharon (אַהֲרֹן) is associated with priestly authority, as described in Numbers 17, when Aaron’s rod is used as a sign that God chose him to be the high priest of Israel when disputes regarding authority arose between the tribes. | |
Verse 7 - The Power of God Alone | |
Theme: Divine Authority | |
Description: The Lord clarifies that only God’s power enables Oliver’s gift to function, affirming that miracles come through faith and priesthood authority. This principle is reinforced in 2 Nephi 26:13, which states that Christ works miracles according to faith. | |
Verse 8 - Doubt Not, Do Marvelous Works | |
Theme: Trust in God’s Power | |
Description: Oliver is told to “hold it in your hands, and do marvelous works.” This aligns with Ether 12:27, which also pertains to scribal work, and teaches us that through humility and faith our weaknesses can become strengths and that through God miraculous things will come to pass. The Hebrew word pala (פָּלָא) means wonders or marvelous works, often referring to divine acts, many of which include prophecies pertaining to the last days (i.e. Zec 8:6). | |
Verse 9 - Asking Through Divine Means | |
Theme: Personal Revelation | |
Description: The Lord encourages Oliver to ask and receive knowledge through his gift. This mirrors Matthew 7:7, where Christ teaches, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” The Greek word aiteo (αἰτέω) means to ask, usually with dilligence and expectation. | |
Verse 10 - Trifling Not with Sacred Things | |
Theme: Respect for Spiritual Gifts | |
Description: The Lord explains that all things are done through faith. He warns against trifling with sacred things. This principle is echoed in D&C 6:12, where frivolous and inappropriate handling of sacred knowledge and tools is condemned. The Hebrew word chalal (חָלַל) means to profane or make common, and it frequently refers to idolatry. This highlights the importance of recognizing and acknowledging that these are sacred gifts from God and that we must maintain reverence and integrity when exercising Spiritual Gifts to operate them in righteousness. These are sacred priesthood powers that should be regarded with the utmost respect. | |
Verse 11 - The Mysteries of God | |
Theme: Seeking Hidden Knowledge | |
Description: Oliver is told to seek to know the mysteries of God, a phrase also found in Alma 12:10-11. The Greek word mysterion (μυστήριον), means divine secrets revealed to the faithful. | |
Verse 12 - The Same God Who Spoke Before | |
Theme: The Eternal Nature of God | |
Description: The Lord declares, “I am the same that spake unto you from the beginning.” This phrase mirrors Hebrews 13:8, which teaches that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” The Hebrew Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh (אֶהְיֶה אֲשֶׁר אֶהְיֶה) means “I Am That I Am”, a declaration of God’s eternal nature (see Exodus 3:14). |
D&C 9
Overview:
Timeframe and Setting:
Date: April 1829
Location: Harmony, Pennsylvania
Occasion: A revelation given to Oliver Cowdery, who attempted to translate the Book of Mormon but struggled to do so.
Key Circumstances:
Oliver’s Attempt at Translation: Oliver desired to translate, but after trying, he found himself unable to proceed.
The Lord’s Counsel on Revelation: The Lord revealed that Oliver had expected translation to come too easily, without exerting proper spiritual effort.
Instruction on Receiving Revelation: The Lord outlined the process of revelation—one must study it out in their mind, ask for confirmation, and receive a burning feeling or a stupor of thought.
Purpose of the Revelation:
Clarifying How Revelation Works: Revelation requires both mental effort and divine confirmation.
Redirecting Oliver’s Role: The Lord instructs Oliver to continue as Joseph’s scribe, rather than as a translator.
Reassuring Oliver of His Calling: Though translation was not his role, Oliver was still chosen for an important work in the Restoration.
Significance:
The Process of Personal Revelation: This section establishes the pattern of how to receive answers from God, a principle still widely applied today.
The Principle of Faith and Effort: Revelation is not given passively but requires faith, diligence, and mental exertion.
The Role of Spiritual Callings: Sometimes, we are called to a different work than we expected, but God’s plan for us is still inspired.
Verse, Main Topic & Theme | Additional Resources |
Verse 1 - Continuing the Work | |
Theme: Patience in God’s Timing | |
Description: The Lord tells Oliver that since he struggled to translate, he should continue as Joseph’s scribe. This emphasizes the importance of accepting the Lord’s assignments. The Greek word hypomonē (ὑπομονή) means endurance or steadfastness, highlighting the need for patience. | |
Verse 2 - Future Opportunities to Translate | |
Theme: Divine Promises | |
Description: The Lord reassures Oliver that he will still have opportunities to translate other ancient records. This aligns with 2 Nephi 27:22, where the Lord declares that He will reveal additional scripture in His time. | |
Verse 3 - Be Patient, My Son | |
Theme: Submission to God’s Wisdom | |
Description: The Lord urges Oliver to be patient and trust divine timing. This principle is reflected in Ecclesiastes 3:1, which states, "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." The Hebrew word chokhmah (חָכְמָה) means wisdom, signifying divine guidance. Likewise, the Greek word, σοφία sophia means wisdom, both describe the process of developing skills through training and experience. |
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Verse 4 - Writing is Your Calling | |
Theme: Accepting One’s Role | |
Description: The Lord confirms that Oliver’s role at this time is to be a scribe. The Hebrew word kathab (כָּתַב) means to inscribe or record, and this was considered to be a sacred duty among the Israelites, and this tradition continued with the diligent efforts of the Nephites, who faithfully retained a record of their people. | |
Verse 5 - A Lost Privilege | |
Theme: Consequences of Inaction | |
Description: Oliver is reminded that he lost the privilege to translate because he did not follow through with what he started. This connects with D&C 6:11, where the Lord encourages seekers to continue in faith to receive greater knowledge. |
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Verse 6 - Do Not Murmur | |
Theme: Acceptance of Divine Will | |
Description: Oliver is warned not to murmur about the Lord’s decision. This echoes Numbers 14:27, where the Israelites’ complaints led to consequences, and the incessant murmuring of Laman and Lemuel. The Hebrew word lun (לוּן) means to grumble or complain, it also means to stay stagnant, this word gives us some interesting perspective regarding the spiritual danger of resisting divine guidance. Murmuring limits and stints our ability to grow and progress. | |
Verse 7 - You Have Not Understood | |
Theme: Misconceptions About Revelation | |
Description: The Lord corrects Oliver’s assumption that revelation comes effortlessly. This is similar to James 2:17, which teaches that "faith without works is dead," stressing the necessity of the dilligent work and personal effort required to receive revelation. The Greek word for work is ἔργον érgon, and there are several Hebrew words used to denote various aspects of this concept, including: פֹּעַל, עֲבֹדָה ,מְלָאכָה and מַעֲשֶׂה. | |
Verse 8 - Study It Out in Your Mind | |
Theme: The Balance of Dilligent Study and Prayer | |
Description: Oliver is taught that revelation requires both diligent study and spiritual confirmation, aligning with Proverbs 2:2-5, which states that wisdom and understanding come from both earnestly seeking knowledge and communicating (crying) with the Lord. This sincere process facilitates revelation, stating, “If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.” The Hebrew word binah (בִּינָה) means understanding or discernment. | |
Verse 9 - Stupor of Thought | |
Theme: Discerning Truth from Error | |
Description: The Lord explains that when something is incorrect, the mind will experience confusion, and that can come in many forms. The Greek word ταράσσω tarasso means “aggitated, stirred up, troubled, anxious, disressed,” thus ataraxia (ἀταραξία), with the a- (negating prefix) means clarity of mind, or a freedom from trouble, worry, distress, and anxiety. This calmness and serenity does not come through ignoring our concerns, but through faithfully strive to seek answers for the things that we are missing. God is a God of order, and when things are right, they fit together perfectly, like pieces of a puzzle. We may not have all the pieces yet to put that puzzle together, but each of us plays a pivotal role in finding answers and sharing those discoveries with others. This is how God’s kingdom progresses and advances until that day when “the Great Jehovah shall say the work is done,” and he returns in majesty and glory. | |
Verse 10 - If You Had Known This | |
Theme: The Importance of Preparation | |
Description: The Lord tells Oliver that had he understood the process of revelation earlier, he could have translated. This relates to Matthew 25:10, where the wise virgins were prepared and thus received their reward. The Hebrew word yada (יָדַע) means to know by experience, highlighting the necessity of spiritual preparation. | |
Verse 11 - Fear and the Loss of Opportunity | |
Theme: Overcoming Fear in Spiritual Work | |
Description: The Lord explains that Oliver’s fear caused him to lose his chance to translate. This mirrors 2 Timothy 1:7, which states, "God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." The Greek word deilia (δειλία) means timidity or cowardice, showing how fear inhibits faith. In the sections we have covered the last few weeks, we have seen how fear impeded Oliver Cowdery, Martin Harris, and Joseph Smith. Oliver Cowdery demonstrated fear with the translation process, Martin and Joseph feared man more than the feared God. How do we develop the faith to overcome fear? In all three of these cases, God allowed these remarkable individuals to fail. Failure taught them valuable lessons, and the Lord provided them with the opportunity to repent, the process of learning from their failures, helping them to turn their weaknesses into strengths. We are all granted these same privileges though the power of Christ’s Atonement. We should not fear failure, we should embrace it as an opportunity to learn, a chance to test ourselves so that we can identify areas for improvement. When we learn to put our trust in the Lord, and allow him to guide our path, knowing that he will provide a way for our deliverance, however that might take shape, our fears can be hushed and our anxieties can rest as we allow ourselves to be “be still,” to witness his miracles and his peace that surpasses all understanding. This process takes practice, and that why were are here. Do not be discouraged by fear and failure, know that even the Lord’s most elect servants, Joseph, Peter, Oliver, and others had to learn these important lessons. This is a pivitol part of our mortal experience. | |
Verse 12-14 - Stand Fast in Your Calling | |
Theme: Faithfulness and Divine Protection | |
Description: Oliver is promised that if he remains faithful, he will prosper and be protected. This aligns with 1 Nephi 17:3, which states that "those who keep the commandments shall be strengthened." The Hebrew phrase yatsiv emunah (יָצִיב אֱמוּנָה) means steadfast faith, from the root נָצַב nâtsab emphasizing stability and perseverance. |
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