CFM: February 10–16
Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material
Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson
Apologies for the delay this week. I’ve been out of town and away from my main computer, which I needed to propagate some of the links for this week's lesson. There are so many valuable insights in this week’s materials, and rather than simply reiterating what has already been beautifully covered by others, my goal is to provide additional insights and resources to enrich and build upon those foundations. Therefore, this week, I’ll be focusing on some fascinating literary patterns found in section 11. We see these patterns in many of the early sections of D&C, particularly those that specify that they were received through the aid of the Urim and Thummim. These patterns are highly significant, and insights for this section are included in Part 2 of this lesson.
D&C STUDY GUIDE
Some Ways You Can Use This Study Guide
Personal Study: Read each verse (or group of verses) in D&C 10, then refer to the chart’s central themes, description, and biblical/Hebrew/Greek insights.
Copy and paste desired sections and links into your Scripture notes using your LDS Tools. Add any additional insights and incorporate these into your personal collection, keeping the things you want to have easily accessible in one place.
Teaching Settings: Present each row as an opportunity for discussion points. Invite learners to visit CFMCorner.com so they can come to class prepared to share things they discovered while exploring the available resources and cross-references. Encourage them to share their insights.
As time permits, some Hebrew/Greek terms are provided as cross-references to deepen understanding of linguistic or cultural context. However, this represents only a tiny sampling of what is available and waiting to be discovered. Dive in and enjoy the available resources.
D&C 10
Chapter Outline
Overview:
Doctrine & Covenants 10 is a revelation that addresses Joseph Smith’s predicament after the loss of the 116 manuscript pages of the Book of Mormon. The Lord exposes the plot of adversaries who intend to discredit the Book of Mormon by altering the lost pages. He instructs Joseph not to re-translate the missing portion but to rely on an alternate record (the small plates of Nephi) that covers the same historical period. This revelation underscores God’s foreknowledge and His power to fulfill His purposes despite human error.
Timeframe and Setting:
Date: Primarily received in April 1829 (with portions possibly earlier in summer 1828).
Location: Harmony, Pennsylvania.
Occasion: Joseph Smith, having lost the 116 pages through Martin Harris, sought the Lord’s guidance on how to proceed with the Book of Mormon translation.
Key Circumstances:
Joseph was temporarily chastened and lost the ability to translate (see D&C 3).
Enemies planned to modify the lost manuscript to undermine Joseph’s prophetic calling.
The Lord instructed Joseph to use the small plates of Nephi instead of re-translating the lost portion.
Purpose of the Revelation:
Warn Joseph of the enemy’s cunning plan and prevent re-translation.
Reinstate Joseph’s calling to translate under strict obedience.
Demonstrate God’s power and omniscience in protecting His work.
Significance:
Shows that no mortal error can ultimately thwart God’s designs.
Emphasizes repentance, obedience, and the restoration of spiritual gifts when we follow divine counsel.
Highlights the Book of Mormon’s divinely orchestrated preservation and testifies of God’s foreknowledge.
Main Topics and Themes from D&C 10
Major Topics & Themes | Resources & Links |
Verses 1–5 – Divine Guidance and the Need for Humility Themes: Obedience, Repentance, Consequences, Prayer, Organization, and Time Management Description: The Lord reminds Joseph Smith of his mistake (losing the 116 pages) and reiterates the importance of humility and reliance on prayer. He restores the translating gift to Joseph and stresses the importance of faithfully continuing with the work. His directive to not “run faster than he has strength” and to “pray always” (v. 5) recalls Book of Mormon and New Testament counsel (Luke 18:1, & Mosiah 4:27). This reminds us of the importance of wisdom, order, and prioritizing our time appropriately so that we can attain the goals the Lord has for us. Hebrew/Greek Insight:
Questions for Contemplation:
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Verses 6–10 – Mercy and Conditional Blessings Theme: God’s Will, Forgiveness, Healthy Boundaries Protect Us Description: The Lord extends mercy to Joseph Smith but makes blessings contingent upon obedience (see D&C 82:10). In effect, the Lord sets a protective boundary: Joseph is commanded not to re-translate the lost manuscript, thereby preventing further attempts to alter or misuse those pages. This episode illustrates how divine mercy and wisdom can coexist with accountability and prudence in dealing with adversarial forces. Just as Christ counseled His followers to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16), we can apply healthy boundaries without harboring fear or malice. This principle is reflected in the Hebrew concept of shamar (שָׁמַר)—to guard or keep— gavel (גָּבַל) —to set bounds, and the Greek terms for wisdom and innocence (phronimos φρόνιμος and akeraios ἀκεραίος). Setting such boundaries shows reverence for what’s sacred, safeguards the Lord’s work, and allows us to move forward in faith and trust. Hebrew/Greek Insight:
Reflection Questions:
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Verses 11–15 – God’s Foreknowledge and Preparation Theme: Omniscience, Protection from Deceit Description: The Lord reveals that He permitted certain events (like losing the 116 pages) “for a wise purpose” (v. 13). This section highlights how individuals may try to “alter the words” and use deceit to discredit the translation, but the Lord assures Joseph that no plan can ultimately thwart His designs. He prepared contingencies (the small plates, among other measures) to protect the Book of Mormon’s integrity. In emphasizing God’s omniscience, these verses also expose the devil’s strategies of trickery and distortion. Satan (Hebrew śāṭān שָׂטָן, “adversary/accuser”) actively works to undermine divine work and plant doubt. The Lord’s message is clear: nothing can overthrow what He has foreseen and established. This promise of protection teaches us to trust in God’s long-range vision, especially when adversarial voices rise. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - “Satan” (Hebrew śāṭān שָׂטָן): meaning “adversary” or “accuser,” used throughout the Old Testament to denote one who opposes or brings accusations against God’s people. This underscores the devil’s role in deception and cunning—plotting to twist truth for destructive ends. Reflection Questions: 1. How does trusting in God’s foreknowledge and preparation help us stay anchored when circumstances seem uncertain or when others attempt to distort the truth? 2. What do these verses teach us about recognizing and resisting the adversary’s deceptive tactics in our personal lives? 3. Why might God allow challenges or adversarial plots to unfold, and how could such experiences actually strengthen faith or clarify truth? |
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Verses 16–20 – The Adversary’s Tactics Theme: Deception, Fear vs. Faith, Motivation Description: The Lord highlights how Satan’s primary goal is to sow fear and confusion. Joseph Smith is counseled to stand firm in faith, assured that the Book of Mormon’s coming forth cannot be halted by the devil’s schemes. Satan often operates as the great counterfeit, taking divine truths and subtly twisting or repurposing them to fulfill his ambitions. By imitating or distorting what is good, he aims to deceive even the faithful (see 2 Corinthians 11:14). The word for “fear” in Greek, phobos (φόβος), highlights the paralyzing dread the adversary seeks to instill, undermining faith and motivation. This passage teaches us that while Satan’s methods are cunning, the Lord’s power and truth outlast and outshine every counterfeit. The knowledge of the adversary’s tactics helps us remain grounded in trust and forward momentum, rather than giving in to panic or doubt. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Fear (Greek “phobos” φόβος): Connotes dread or terror, which can immobilize us spiritually if we yield to it. By rejecting fear and relying on faith, disciples can break free from Satan’s paralyzing influence. - Devil (Greek “diabolos” διάβολος): Literally “slanderer” or “accuser,” often linked with deception and division. Satan is not a creator of truth but a corrupter—he misuses what already exists. Reflective Questions: 1. In what ways does Satan employ subtle counterfeits of truth or goodness to mislead us? How can we recognize these distortions early on? 2. What role does fear (phobos) play in Satan’s tactics, and how can cultivating faith and trust in God counteract that fear? 3. When have you seen something that initially appeared “good” but turned out to be a deceptive imitation? What safeguards can help us discern between genuine truth and the devil’s twisted version? 4. How does understanding the adversary’s methods empower us to stand firm in moments of uncertainty or trial—both spiritually and in our day-to-day decisions? |
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Verses 21–25 – The Enemy’s Plot Exposed Theme: Human Schemes vs. Divine Plans Description: The Lord reveals that wicked individuals intend to manipulate the missing pages of the manuscript to discredit Joseph Smith and prove supposed inconsistencies. This foreknowledge sets the stage for the command not to re-translate, protecting the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. These verses underscore the contrast between deceitful human conspiracies and the Lord’s unstoppable purposes. God’s intervention ensures that the adversaries’ attempts to “take advantage” of the lost manuscript ultimately fail. The term “iniquity” (Hebrew ʿāwon עָוֹן) often connotes guilt, moral crookedness, or perversion—a strong descriptor for the deliberate twisting of truth by those who oppose divine work. Despite their cunning, the Lord’s wisdom prepares a way to preserve the integrity of the restoration. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Iniquity (Hebrew “ʿāwon” עָוֹן): Implies a twisted or warped moral state, underscoring the malicious intent behind altering sacred text. ʿāwon also denotes conscious wrongdoing that leaves individuals under the burden of guilt. Reflective Questions:n 1. How might we discern modern “plots” or manipulations that seek to distort truth? 2. Why do you think the Lord allows space for adversaries’ attempts, rather than preventing them entirely? How can such experiences ultimately refine or fortify truth? 3. In your own life, how have you seen the Lord protect or preserve His work against human schemes? In what ways has this reinforced your faith in God’s foreknowledge? |
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Verses 26–30 – Command Not to Re-Translate Theme: Obedience, God’s Wisdom, Divine Justice, Warnings about Flattery Description: In these verses, Joseph Smith is explicitly forbidden to re-translate the lost portion of the manuscript. The Lord’s command demonstrates divine wisdom that overrides the cunning and flattery of men who would alter or misuse the text. Here, God also highlights that the wicked who set snares ultimately fall into their own traps, underscoring a principle of divine justice: those who weaponize deceit will inevitably face the consequences of their actions. Flattery in scriptural contexts often involves deceptive praise or manipulation to achieve selfish ends (see Proverbs 29:5). The Lord warns Joseph (and by extension all disciples) against being swayed by flattering words, reminding him that no one who engages in wicked schemes can permanently evade accountability. Ultimately, God’s justice prevails, ensuring that the designs of the deceitful collapse upon themselves (Psalm 7:14–16). Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Obedience (Hebrew “šāmaʿ” שָׁמַע, Greek ὑπακοή hupakŏē): Conveys not just hearing but actively responding in alignment with God’s will (e.g., Deuteronomy 6:4 “Hear, O Israel...”). When Joseph acts on the Lord’s counsel, he affirms true biblical obedience—listening and doing. Reflection Questions: 1. How does ignoring divine counsel or giving in to flattery open the door for spiritual pitfalls? 2. Why might God allow the wicked to set snares, knowing they will eventually be caught by their own devices? How does this illustrate divine justice at work? 3. In what ways can we practice “šāmaʿ”—hearing and heeding God’s guidance—particularly when it contradicts the flattery or pressures of others? 4. Reflect on a time when trusting in God’s wisdom (rather than human schemes) protected you or others from unintended consequences. What did you learn about His justice or foresight? |
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Verses 31–35 – God’s Response to Conspiracies Themes: God’s Work Cannot Be Frustrated Description: These verses emphasize that, despite mortal plotting, God’s plan for bringing forth the Book of Mormon stands unshaken. The Lord, in His foreknowledge, prepared long ago for any attempt to undermine or alter the text. The concept of being “confounded” here draws from the Greek term kataischýnō (καταισχύνω), meaning “to put to shame” or “disgrace.” When the adversaries attempt to twist or misuse scripture, God’s higher wisdom ultimately exposes their falsehoods. This passage continues the assurance that no human conspiracy—even one orchestrated with cunning or deceit—can permanently frustrate the marvelous work of God. It’s a reminder of the Old Testament principle found in Isaiah 54:17, “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper.” Instead, the Lord “confounds” those who fight against His revelations, bringing the truth into full light. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Confound (Greek “kataischýnō” καταισχύνω): Conveys an idea of bringing disgrace or humiliation upon deceivers, or rather, they bring it upon themselves. The notion is that truth exposes lies, thwarting those who wage deceitful campaigns. Reflection Questions: 1. What does it mean for God to “confound” the adversary’s plans in your life experiences? 2. How do examples of past divine interventions strengthen your trust that God’s purposes will not be frustrated today? 3. How might we better align ourselves with God’s work so that we can stand confidently, even when surrounded by criticism or conspiracy? |
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Verses 36–40 – Assurance of the Book’s Integrity Theme: Preservation of Scripture, Quiet Resilience Description: In these verses, the Lord promises to preserve the message of the Book of Mormon through alternate plates (the small plates of Nephi). No conspiracy or human error can nullify God’s word. Importantly, Joseph is counseled at times to “hold [his] peace,” reminding us of the biblical principle “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Sometimes quiet reliance and patient observation bring clarity, while at other times, we must speak truth with boldness. Learning to discern which approach to take—being still or speaking out—is part of a disciple’s journey. The Greek term “logos” (λόγος), often translated as “word,” conveys not just speech but davar "divine utterance," the core message of God, which remains unshakeable. The Lord’s counsel here shows how vital it is to trust in His overarching plan, rather than letting fear or pressure drive our actions or words. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Word (Greek “logos” λόγος): Implies divine utterance or message, emphasizing that God’s truth stands firm regardless of opposition. Reflection Questions: 1. When have you found it wiser to remain still (“hold your peace”) and observe rather than immediately speaking out? How did this approach allow the Lord to guide the outcome? 2. Conversely, when has it been crucial to speak up boldly under the Spirit’s prompting? What discernment process helped you know it was time to act? 3. In a world of continual noise and rapid communication, how can the principle “Be still, and know that I am God” help you preserve your peace and hear divine direction? 4. Reflect on the idea that no plan can overthrow God’s word. How does trusting in “logos” (the unchanging message of Christ) provide confidence in moments of uncertainty? |
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Let's keep going, Verses 41–45 – Divine Preparation: The Small Plates Themes: Omniscience, Backup Plan Description: The Lord reveals how the small plates of Nephi replace the lost manuscript portion, ensuring the authenticity and continuity of the Book of Mormon’s account. This is a perfect example of God’s foreknowledge and how He prepares solutions before challenges even arise. The Greek term prognōsis (πρόγνωσις) connects with the idea that God both knows events beforehand and arranges means to accomplish His work. Furthermore, we can learn from the Lord’s parenting skills in these verses: He allows His children (Joseph Smith, Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery, and all of us) to learn through agency, mistakes, natural consequences, and eventual repentance—yet He also provides a gracious “backup plan,” which is the plan. Through His atonement and through the multiple tender mercies we experience we learn and grow. The small plates stand as a tangible metaphor of how, when we fall short, God has already laid out another path to help us succeed. Learning from these verses can shape how we act as learners, teachers, disciples, and parents, offering a blend of trust in others’ agency and loving preparation for when mistakes inevitably occur. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Foreknowledge (“prognōsis” πρόγνωσις): Connotes divine foresight and preparation. God is never surprised; He orchestrates solutions that respect our agency while safeguarding His overarching plan. Reflection Questions: 1. Agency & Backup Plans: How does seeing God’s “backup plan” (the small plates) change your perspective on making mistakes? In what ways might we create healthy backup plans for our families or responsibilities without removing personal accountability? 2. Parenting & Discipleship: How can we follow the Lord’s example in allowing children, students, or those we lead to learn from consequences while still providing a supportive pathway to repentance or correction? 3. Omniscience vs. Free Will: How does knowing God can foresee problems (and prepare solutions) encourage you to trust Him more fully, especially in moments of uncertainty or error? 4. Teaching Humility & Growth: When have you experienced a “wise purpose” in your own life—where a disappointment or failure turned into an essential learning opportunity or a second chance? |
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Verses 46–50 – Book of Mormon as a Witness of Christ Theme: Testimony of Jesus Christ Description: These verses reiterate the central purpose of the Book of Mormon: to testify of Jesus Christ (Greek Christos Χριστός, “Anointed One,” paralleling Hebrew Mashiach מָשִׁיחַ) and gather souls to Him. Alongside the promises given to Nephite record keepers, the Lord also fulfilled prophecies given to biblical prophets and apostles that another witness would come forth in the latter days.
Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Christ (Greek “Christos” Χριστός): meaning “Anointed One,” Hebrew “Mashiach” (מָשִׁיחַ). Both Old and New Testament prophets foretold a Messiah whose message would gather Israel’s scattered remnants—including those in the New World—to Himself. Reflection Questions: 1. How does recognizing the Book of Mormon as part of Ezekiel’s “two sticks” enhance your confidence that God remembers and honors ancient prophecies? 2. In what ways does Jesus’s statement in John 10:16 find fulfillment in the Book of Mormon narrative? 3. How might understanding these interwoven promises (Old Testament, New Testament, Book of Mormon) inspire you to trust God’s continuing revelations and covenant purposes today? 4. How do these verses reinforce the concept that the Lord does not forget any of His people or leave any promise unfulfilled—even if centuries pass before we see the outcome? |
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Verses 51–55 – Stand as a Witness Themes: Bold Testimony, Missionary Work Description: In these verses, Joseph Smith is called to stand as a witness, declaring truth to the nations. By extension, all believers share the missionary obligation to bear testimony of the Book of Mormon and its witness of Christ. The text reinforces that the Lord will eventually confound falsehoods, meaning no opposition can permanently silence His word. Additionally, the concept of “Church” here transcends any narrow definition. In Greek, “church” is ekklēsía (ἐκκλησία), literally “the called-out assembly.” In Hebrew, “assembly” often appears as qāhāl (קָהָל), referring to God’s covenant community. Christ taught that His Church comprises all who choose Him, keep His commandments, and covenant to serve (see Matthew 16:18; John 10:16). Conversely, those who misuse His name, abuse His Church, or persecute His disciples will be held accountable, as the Lord takes the treatment of His covenant people seriously (Matthew 25:40,45). Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Witness (Greek “martys” μάρτυς): Conveys bearing testimony even under threat—a commitment so strong that early Christians often faced persecution or martyrdom. - Church: • Greek ekklēsía (ἐκκλησία) — “the called-out ones” or an assembly gathered in Christ’s name. • Hebrew qāhāl (קָהָל) — used for a community or congregation in covenant with God. Reflection Questions: 1. In what ways are we “called out” from the world to bear bold testimony, and how can we prepare spiritually for opposition? 2. How does understanding the broader, covenant-based definition of “Church” strengthen your commitment to fellow disciples—both ancient and modern? 3. When have you seen God’s promise to “confound falsehood” at work, either in church history or personal experience? 4. What cautions do these verses offer about misusing the Lord’s name or persecuting His Church? How do they invite us to protect and uphold each other in faith? |
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Verses 56–60 – Encouragement to Joseph Themes: Repentance, Enduring Faith, Blessings of the Covenant, Recognizing Christ Description: Joseph is to remain steadfast and not waver due to previous errors or other people conspiring against him. God’s grace is sufficient help him and help the work withstand (Ether 12:27). Here the Lord also underscores the serious consequences awaiting those who reject Christ and His gospel—those who fight against God, those who fail to discern or understand His words, and those who choose to ignore them, thus “missing the mark/ boat” on salvation and the opportunity to partake in His covenant blessings. Many in Christ’s time, for example, could not see the Messiah standing among them (John 1:10–11). Others misconstrued His teachings, never truly recognizing His divine mission. This passage warns us that failing to recognize or respond to the Lord’s invitation, His light can bring spiritual blindness and eventual condemnation. We must learn from these historical lessons: embrace repentance and maintain faith in Christ, lest we too become hardened or complacent and miss out on life’s most important truth. Hebrew/Greek Insight:- Btessed (Hebrew “baruch” בָּרַךְ ) denotes the concept of blessings through adoption, through the covenant privileges that we receive from becoming His. In these passages, the Lord utilizes the poetic charaz form that we learned about last week, stringing together several core reference, teaching sermons within sermons, “I am Jesus Christ” (Matthew 16:16), the “Son of God” (John 10:36), “I came unto mine own, and mine own received me not” John 1:11 “I am the light which shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not.” John 1:5, John 8:12 and 12:46. Reflection Questions: 1. Why do you think some people in Christ’s day—and in ours—fail to recognize Him or understand His mission? 2. What practical steps can we take to prevent “missing the mark/boat” (i.e., God’s guiding truth) in our own lives? 3. In what ways can understanding the concept of barach (covenant blessing) help us progress spiritually to recognize and receive God’s grace? 4. How does reflecting on past mistakes, yet moving forward in faith, build the kind of resolute trust Joseph Smith was developing here? |
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Verses 61–65 – Warnings and Exhortations Themes: Sharing Truth, Avoiding Contention, Global Vision, Education Description: These verses serve as a warning and guide to future generations. Joseph Smith is instructed to continue teaching the gospel so correct doctrine can be clarified. The Lord points out that many “wrest the scriptures and do not understand them,” leading to contention that Satan stirs up. True disciples must therefore learn to interpret scripture as accurately as possible, drawing on its earliest sources and the Holy Spirit’s guidance to discern the Lord’s meaning while also remembering, “And there shall be no disputations among you… For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil…” (3 Nephi 11:28–29) Specifically, the Lord promises to “unfold unto them this great mystery” and uses maternal imagery—“For, behold, I will gather them as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings” (v. 65). This recalls the Savior’s plea in Matthew 23:37 and 3 Nephi 10:4–6: He desires to protect and unify all who will soften their hearts and turn to Him. The global vision includes teaching and gathering all of scattered Israel into Christ’s fold. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Teach (Greek “didaskō” διδάσκω "teach, learn", mathēteúō μαθητεύω "disciple, pupil", Hebrew "lamad" לָמַד): Implies systematic instruction—a careful, purposeful spreading of truth. The Lord calls His people to instruct “far and wide,” emphasizing depth of understanding, not just superficial knowledge. Reflection Questions: 1. How can examining scripture from its earliest sources (including ancient texts or original-language study) help us avoid “wresting” meaning and thereby reduce contention? 2. In what ways might Satan stir up contention specifically over “points of doctrine”? Why is humility so crucial in scriptural interpretation? 3. How does the hen-and-chickens metaphor deepen your appreciation for Christ’s desire to gather, protect, and instruct His children? 4. What practical steps can we take as modern disciples (“didaskō”) to systematically and accurately teach true doctrine, ensuring clarity rather than confusion? |
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Verses 66–70 – Conclusion: God’s Work Shall Prevail Themes: Final Reassurance, Eternal Perspective Description: These closing verses provide assurances of victory over all opposition and emphasize that no mortal design can ultimately disrupt God’s work. The Lord reminds Joseph Smith (and us) to trust in eternal outcomes. Notably, in verses 67–68, the Lord defines His Church not by outward structure alone, but by repentance and coming unto Christ: “Behold, this is my doctrine—whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church.” This concept underscores a spiritual membership in the body of Christ, resonating with the New Testament idea that the Church is comprised of all who genuinely follow the Savior (e.g., Ephesians 1:22–23). It also echoes 2 Nephi 26:33 in the Book of Mormon, indicating that the Lord’s arms are extended to all who repent and believe. The revelation concludes by reinforcing that we need not fear the obstacles raised by adversaries or human error; God’s truth and salvation (sōtēria σωτηρία in Greek) will ultimately triumph for those who persevere in faith. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Salvation (Greek “sōtēria” σωτηρία): Signifies deliverance from sin and its effects; it is promised to those who faithfully endure. The Lord’s concluding words assure that His plan of sōtēria stands firm, regardless of earthly challenges. Reflection Questions: 1. How does understanding “this is my doctrine—whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church” affect your view of belonging within the body of Christ? 2. Why is it significant that the Lord closes this revelation with an emphasis on trust in eternal outcomes rather than immediate vindication or results? 3. In what ways can we align our lives with God’s eternal perspective to find reassurance, especially when facing opposition or setbacks? 4. How might a clearer grasp of “sōtēria” (salvation) inspire greater diligence in repenting and coming unto Christ personally? |
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