Part 2 of “All Things Must Be Done in Order”
- CFMCorner
- Mar 27
- 19 min read
CFM: March 24–30
Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material
Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson
There is quite a bit going on in these chapters, and some significant messages often get overlooked, including the importance of Oliver's mission to the Lamanites. This is a topic that deserves some focused attention.
Social Implications of Oliver Cowdery’s Mission to the Lamanites and Resulting Controversy
The Context of Oliver Cowdery’s Mission
When Oliver Cowdery was commanded in D&C 28:8–10 to preach the gospel to the Lamanites (Native American tribes), it marked one of the earliest organized missionary efforts of the newly restored Church. However, this mission was not merely spiritual—it also carried profound social and political consequences, especially in the racially and politically charged atmosphere of the early 19th-century American frontier.
The mission occurred in late 1830 and early 1831, during a time of high racial tension. The U.S. government was enacting policies of Native displacement and racial separation, culminating in the Indian Removal Act of 1830, signed by President Andrew Jackson. At the same time, the Latter-day Saints, through revelation and prophetic teaching, were extending spiritual equality and covenantal identity to marginalized groups—particularly Native Americans and, in other ways, enslaved Africans.
Social and Political Concerns from White Settlers
1. The Perceived Threat of Mormon Influence on Native Americans
The idea of white men preaching the gospel to Native American tribes deeply unsettled white settlers, who feared these missionaries might inspire rebellion or resistance among indigenous populations.
In frontier areas like western Missouri, white settlers—many of whom had only recently displaced Native groups—viewed Mormon proselytizing as politically subversive.
Similar suspicions had previously been aimed at Quakers and Methodists, who also sought to uplift and educate Native peoples.
2. Church Teachings on Equality & Anti-Slavery
Joseph Smith’s early teachings included radical assertions of equality—that all are alike unto God, including bond and free, black and white (2 Nephi 26:33).
These teachings, along with the Church’s missionary outreach to Native peoples and the baptism of Black converts, were considered threatening in slaveholding, racially stratified societies.
According to the Century of Black Mormons Project, the Church’s early openness to Black priesthood holders and interracial religious fellowship—though later restricted—was unusual and controversial in the antebellum American context.
This emphasis on universal salvation and inclusion made the Saints appear socially radical and politically dangerous in the eyes of many white Americans.
3. The Indian Removal Act of 1830
The timing of Oliver’s mission, aligning with the Indian Removal Act, raised government suspicion that the Church might be interfering with federal policy.
Efforts to establish religious ties with Native tribes contradicted the U.S. agenda of removal and relocation, especially in Missouri and surrounding territories.
In early 1831, Cowdery and his companions were forcibly expelled from Indian Territory by federal agents, ending their mission prematurely. (For those interested, this Docrial Thesis, written by Kaleb Miller, gives an intriguing history into the context of Oliver Cowdery's mission, particularly from the Native American perspective, Indian Removal and the Lamanite Mission of 1830-31)
4. The 1833 Jackson County Expulsion & Broader Persecution
The fallout from the Lamanite mission and the Church’s egalitarian teachings helped lay the groundwork for the violent expulsion of the Saints from Jackson County in 1833.
Missouri settlers saw the Church as radical, interracial, and destabilizing, especially as it gained converts and sought to establish Zion in their midst.
Governor Lilburn W. Boggs, who would later issue the Extermination Order in 1838, was among those deeply opposed to the Church’s relationship with Native peoples and its theological implications.
Broader Implications for the Church
A Commitment to the Lamanites and Scattered Israel
Despite early setbacks, the mission to the Lamanites reflects the Church’s ongoing focus on the gathering of Israel, particularly the descendants of Lehi.
Later revelations (e.g., D&C 49:24; 3 Nephi 21:1–7) reaffirmed this covenant promise.
The Book of Mormon’s message to the Lamanites remains central to the Restoration’s purpose.
A Pattern of Persecution and Misunderstanding
The early Church’s inclusive doctrine and outreach to oppressed peoples fueled continued opposition.
Anti-slavery sentiment, even in embryonic form, was politically dangerous in slaveholding states.
The Saints' refusal to conform to racial hierarchies put them at odds with prevailing culture.
A Lasting Legacy in Missionary Work
Although the first Lamanite mission was cut short, it established a pattern for later outreach.
From the 19th-century Indian Placement Program to modern-day language-based branches and cultural support programs, the Church has continued to reach out to Indigenous peoples worldwide.
Cross-References & Additional Scripture Insights
3 Nephi 21:1–7 – Christ prophesies that the gospel will go first to the Lamanites
D&C 49:24 – The Lamanites will "blossom as the rose"
Isaiah 49:22 – The Lord will lift His hand to the nations and gather Israel
D&C 57:1–3 – Zion to be built near Lamanite territory (Jackson County, Missouri)
D&C 87:5 – Wars foretold that may reflect racial and social unrest
Conference Talks & Modern Teachings
President Russell M. Nelson, "The Gathering of Scattered Israel" (Oct 2006)
Elder Spencer W. Kimball, "The Restoration and Destiny of the Lamanites" (Oct 1947)
Elder Larry J. Echo Hawk, "The Blessings of the Gospel Among Indigenous Peoples" (Oct 2012)
References and Books of Interest
Indian Removal and the Lamanite Mission of 1830-31. (A Docrial Thesis, written by Kaleb Miller, provides an intriguing history into the context of Oliver Cowdery's mission, particularly from the Native American perspective.)
Was There Hebrew Language in Ancient America? An Interview with Brian Stubbs
(PDF Hebrew and Uto-Aztecan: Possible Linguistic Connections)
Reflection & Discussion Questions
Why do you think the Lord commanded one of the first missions to go to the Lamanites?
What lessons can we learn from the hostility that arose because of this mission?
How does the early mission to the Lamanites relate to the Church’s current efforts to gather Israel?
What does this teach us about opposition and faith when doing the Lord’s work?
How can we apply the Lord’s vision of unity among all peoples in today’s world?
Conclusion
Oliver Cowdery’s mission to the Lamanites had profound spiritual, political, and social consequences. It set in motion patterns of persecution and misunderstanding that would follow the Church for decades. However, it also reinforced the Church’s prophetic identity as a gathering force for all peoples, particularly the remnant of Israel. In a time of deep division and inequality, the Restoration boldly proclaimed a universal gospel of covenant, equality, and redemption—a message that remains as radical and necessary today as it was then.
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.
Doctrine and Covenants 28 Study Guide
Chapter Overview
Section 28 was revealed in September 1830 in Fayette, New York in response to a crisis in the early Church. Hiram Page, a member of the Church, claimed to receive revelations using a seer stone, and many, including Oliver Cowdery, believed his messages about the building of Zion and Church governance. This revelation reaffirmed Joseph Smith’s prophetic authority and corrected the false teachings, emphasizing the importance of priesthood order and divine governance in receiving revelation for the Church.
Timeframe & Setting
Date: September 1830.
Location: Fayette, New York.
Context: Hiram Page claimed to receive revelations through a seer stone, creating confusion in the Church. This revelation clarified that Joseph Smith alone held the keys to receive commandments for the Church.
Key Circumstances
The Authority of the Prophet: The Lord reaffirms that only Joseph Smith has the authority to receive revelations for the whole Church.
Order and Common Consent: The revelation establishes Church order, ensuring that no unauthorized individuals claim prophetic authority.
Hiram Page’s False Revelations: The Lord reveals that Satan deceived Hiram Page, and Oliver Cowdery is commanded to correct him privately.
Mission to the Lamanites: Oliver Cowdery is commanded to preach the gospel to the Lamanites and help establish the Church among them.
Future Location of Zion: The Lord hints that Zion will be built near the Lamanite borders, but its precise location is not yet revealed.
Purpose of the Revelation
To Correct False Revelation: The Lord warns against unauthorized revelation, ensuring priesthood order.
To Reaffirm Prophetic Keys: The Lord confirms that Joseph Smith alone holds the keys of revelation, comparable to Moses.
To Establish Missionary Work: The Lord commands Oliver Cowdery to preach to the Lamanites as part of the early missionary efforts.
Significance
Defining Prophetic Authority: This section establishes prophetic leadership in the Church, preventing doctrinal confusion.
Reinforcing the Pattern of Revelation: The Lord teaches that revelation comes through proper channels, ensuring order in the Church.
First Mention of Zion’s Location: The Lord reveals that Zion will be near the Lamanites, foreshadowing Independence, Missouri as its future site.
Clarifying the Role of the Seer Stone: While seer stones were used righteously (e.g., by Joseph Smith), Hiram Page’s use was unauthorized.
Main Topics and Themes from D&C 28
Major Topics & Themes | Resources & Links |
Verse: 1–2 Theme: Joseph Smith (The Prophet/ President of the Church) Holds the Keys of Revelation Description: These verses clarify the proper order of revelation within the Church, specifically addressing a conflict over false revelations received by Hiram Page through a seer stone. The Lord declares that Joseph Smith alone holds the keys to receive commandments and revelations for the Church. This revelation also defines the hierarchy of prophetic authority in the Restoration, comparing Joseph to Moses and Oliver to Aaron.
Joseph Smith’s Role as the Prophet
Hebrew/Greek Insights: "Commandments and Revelations" (v. 2)
Parallels Between Prophetic Authority and Ancient Temple LeadershipThis passage draws parallels between Joseph Smith’s prophetic role and Moses’ leadership in ancient Israel, which included:
Reflection:
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Numbers 12:6-8 – Moses as the Lord’s prophet; D&C 43:1-7 – Only the appointed prophet receives revelation for the Church Exodus 4:15-16 – God appoints Aaron to speak for Moses, just as Oliver was called to declare Joseph’s revelations. Deuteronomy 18:15-18 – Moses prophesies that a future prophet like him will arise (a foreshadowing of both Christ and Joseph Smith). D&C 21:4-5 – The Church is commanded to heed the prophet's words. Amos 3:7 – "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." "The Lord Leads His Church" – President Henry B. Eyring (April 2017)
"Sustaining the Prophets" – President Russell M. Nelson (April 2018)
"Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives" – President Russell M. Nelson (April 2018)
"The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood" – Elder Dallin H. Oaks (April 2014)
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Verse: 3–7 Theme: Oliver Cowdery’s Role and Limits Description: This passage further clarifies the prophetic order established in the Church, reinforcing that Joseph Smith alone receives revelations for the Church. Oliver Cowdery, like Aaron to Moses, is instructed to declare the revelations given to Joseph with power and authority. The Lord also warns against commanding those in higher authority and confirms that Joseph holds the keys to the mysteries and sealed revelations.
Reflection: What does this verse teach about following prophetic counsel even when we hold leadership roles?
Reflection: How does this verse help us differentiate between personal revelation and Church-wide revelation? D&C 28:6 – Do Not Command the Lord’s Anointed"And thou shalt not command him who is at thy head, and at the head of the church;"
Reflection: How do we show respect for the Lord’s appointed leaders while still exercising personal revelation? D&C 28:7 – The Keys of the Mysteries and Sealed Revelations"For I have given him the keys of the mysteries, and the revelations which are sealed, until I shall appoint unto them another in his stead."
Reflection: What does this verse teach about the continuous line of prophetic authority in the Church? Hebrew/Greek Insights: 1. "Declare Faithfully" (v. 3)
Reflection: What does it mean to declare the Lord’s words "faithfully" in our own lives? 2. "By Way of Commandment" (v. 5)
Reflection: How does this verse help us recognize the divinely established pattern of revelation? 3. "Keys of the Mysteries" (v. 7)
Reflection:
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"The Doctrine of Christ" – Elder D. Todd Christofferson (April 2012)
"Prophets, Leadership, and Divine Law" – President Russell M. Nelson
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Verse: 8–10 Theme: Oliver Cowdery’s Mission to the Lamanites Description: Oliver is commanded to preach to the Lamanites and help establish the Church among them. The location of Zion is not yet revealed but will be on the borders of the Lamanites. Hebrew/ Greek Insights: "Preach My Gospel" (v. 8)
"Borders by the Lamanites" (v. 9)
"Appointed to Preside" (v. 10)
Reflection:
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"The Gathering of Scattered Israel" – President Russell M. Nelson (October 2006)
"We are All Enlisted" – Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (April 2001)
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Verse: 11–12 Theme: Hiram Page’s False Revelations Description: The Lord Rejects Hiram Page’s Revelations: The Lord commands Oliver to privately correct Hiram Page, confirming that his revelations are from Satan and have no authority.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: "Seer Stone" (v. 11)
Reflection:
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"Beware of False Prophets" – Elder M. Russell Ballard (April 1999)
"Ask, Seek, Knock" – Pres. Russell M. Nelson (Oct 2009)
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Verse:13–14 Theme: Church Order and Common Consent Description: All things must be done in order, and revelations should be sustained by the Church through common consent. Hebrew/Greek Insights: "Common Consent" (v. 13)
Reflection:
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“By Union of Feeling We Obtain Power with God” Sharon Eubanks “That We May Be One” Elder Henry B. Eyring |
Verse: 15–16 Theme: Preach the Gospel Boldly with Joy Description: Oliver is instructed to open his mouth at all times, declaring the gospel with joy. Hebrew/Greek Insights: "Rejoicing" (v. 16)
Reflection:
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"How Great Will Be Your Joy" – Elder Ronald A. Rasband (October 2023)
"A Higher Joy" – Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf (April 2024)
“Joy and Spiritual Survival” – President Russell M Nelson
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