Foundations of the Restoration Midterm 1

• When has the Church attempted to practice the law of consecration?

"The law of sacrifice and the law of consecration have not been done away with and are still in effect" (President Gordon B. Hinckley, TGBH, 639) United Order United Firm

• What is the Joseph Smith "Translation" of the Bible (and what it is NOT)?

"Translation" was NOT meant by Joseph Smith to mean a literal language to language meaning. "Interpretation" Not putting the Bible back in its original form.

• What keys did Peter, James, and John restore?

"Upon you my fellow servants, in the name of Messiah, I confer the Priesthood of Aaron, which holds the keys of the ministering of angels, and of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins. ... "He said this Aaronic Priesthood had not the power of laying on hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, but that this should be conferred on us hereafter; and he commanded us ... that I should baptize Oliver Cowdery, and that afterwards he should baptize m The Melchizedek Priesthood includes the keys of the spiritual blessings of the Church

What is "Doctrine"?

"something that is taught" or "teaching, instruction." The Prophet and his associates, when printing the Lectures on Faith from the School of the Prophets, classified them as "Theology," and subtitled them "On the Doctrine of the Church of the Latter Day Saints."

• What are two revelation "tests" and their meanings?

#1 The Stewardship Test...(D&C 28:6-7;D&C 43:3-4) The Stewardship Test is that you will not receive revelation commanding or directing someone outside your defined realm of responsibility #2 The Brethren Test (D&C 28:9,11-12) The Brethren Test is that you will not receive direction from the Spirit to act in rebellion against the united voice of the current First Presidency and Twelve. An official First Presidency statement in 1913 taught, "From the days of Hiram Page...there have been manifestations from delusive spirits to members of the Church. . . . When visions, dreams, tongues, prophesy, impression or any extraordinary gift or inspiration, convey something out of harmony with the accepted revelations of the Church or contrary to the decisions of its constituted authorities, Latter-day Saints may know that it is not of God, no matter how plausible it may appear" (Joseph F. Smith, Anthon H. Lund, Charles W. Penrose, Improvement Era, Sept. 1913, 1148-1149; emphasis added).

• When and why did Joseph Smith lose his gift to translate? How many times were the urim and thummim taken from Joseph? What else was taken from him?

) Don't let the pursuit of worldliness—wealth, fame, glory, power, etc.— and 2) the "fear of man" (wanting to please others more than God) get in the way of doing what the Lord has taught and commanded us. When God commands us, let us do it.

What are five measures of evaluating an LDS historical source?

1) Is it a primary source, written or produced by a participant or an observer of the event (primary), or is it a secondhand account by a non-participant in the event(s)? 2) Is it a contemporary account (recorded at or relatively near the time of the events), or is it a later reminiscence recalled after a significant amount of time? 3) What is the intent and tone? Why was it written? Here you are looking for the motive. Does the writer have a potential agenda or axe to grind that may influence what is written and how it is written? What is the tone of the writer (neutral, balanced, candid, open, etc. or polemical, one-sided, evasive, defensive, etc.)? 4) What is its relationship to other sources? Compare and contrast the account with other primary and secondary sources dealing with the same events. Are the dates, facts, claims etc. consistent with other sources? What are the major similarities and differences? Why might those exist? 5) Is it a statement of factual inference or subjective hearsay? A fact is based on relatively indisputable data, and inference is a conclusion drawn from facts, and an opinion is a subjective judgment not based on known facts but personal opinion or hearsay.

• What are the celestial principles of consecration?

1) Ownership = God owns all, we own nothing. (D&C 104:14, 15, 55, 56, 62, 70) "What have you to consecrate that is actually your own? Nothing" (Brigham Young, JD, 2:307) 2) Stewardship = Given as a temporary overseer and responsible controller of something (D&C 104:56, 11-13; D&C 78:22; D&C 70:9) 3) Agency & Accountability = An agent who represents someone (God), acting in his name, with free will to do so, who will render an account to him. (D&C 104:13, 17; D&C 70:4; D&C 64:29; D&C 51:8)

• Why are written revelations altered?

1. Errors in transcription 2. Typographical errors 3. To communicate ideas more clearly 4. Additional revelation received that add further understanding

• Name at least three resources to turn to learn D&C historical context.

1. Joseph Smith Papers 2.Revelations in Context 3.Bro. Sweat Context Videos 4. Making Sense of the Doctrine and Covenants 5.NEW section headings (post 2013) 6. Institute manual for 324/325

• Who (the names) wrote the five secondary accounts (pre-reading)?

1. Orson Pratt, A[n] Interesting Account, pp. 3-5. This is the earliest published account of Joseph Smith's first vision of Deity. It was written by Orson Pratt of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and published as a pamphlet in Scotland in 1840. 2. Orson Hyde, Ein Ruf aus der Wüste [A cry out of the wilderness], pp. 14-16 (original German) (modern English translation). Another member of the Quorum of the Twelve, Orson Hyde, published this account of Joseph Smith's earliest visions in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1842. He wrote the text in English, relying heavily on Pratt's A[n] Interesting Account, and translated it into German for publication. 3. Levi Richards, Journal, 11 June 1843. Following an 11 June 1843 public church meeting at which Joseph Smith spoke of his earliest vision, Levi Richards included an account of it in his diary. 4. Interview, JS by David Nye White, Nauvoo, IL, 21 Aug. 1843; in David Nye White, "The Prairies, Joe Smith, the Temple, the Mormons, &c.," Pittsburgh Weekly Gazette, 15 Sept. 1843, [3]. In August 1843, David Nye White, editor of the Pittsburgh Weekly Gazette, interviewed Joseph Smith in his home as part of a two-day stop in Nauvoo, Illinois. His news article included an account of Joseph Smith's first vision. 5. Alexander Neibaur, Journal, 24 May 1844. On 24 May 1844, German immigrant and church member Alexander Neibaur visited Joseph Smith in his home and heard him relate the circumstances of his earliest visionary experience.

• What happened in the chamber of Father Whitmer related to priesthood restoration?

1829 May "Peter, James, and John, who held the keys of the priesthood of Melchisedeck" (JS History, 1838-1856, volume A-1, 18). See D&C 27:12-13 and D&C 128:20 1829 (month? However, after Peter, James, John) Chamber of Father Whitmer, "We now became anxious to have that promise realized to us...that provided we continued faithful; we should also have the Melchesidec Priesthood, which holds the authority of the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. We had for some time made this matter a subject of humble prayer, and at length we got together in the Chamber of Mr Whitmer's house in order more particularly to seek of the Lord what we now so earnestly desired : and here to our unspeakable satisfaction did we realize the truth of the Saviour's promise; "Ask, and you shall recieve, seek, and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you;" for we had not long been engaged in solemn and fervent prayer, when the word of the Lord, came unto us in the Chamber, commanding us; that I should ordain Oliver Cowdery to be an Elder in theChurch of Jesus Christ, and that he also should ordain me to the same office" (JS History, 1838-1856, volume A-1, 26-27).

What are the respective years, context, and audiences of the 4 primary First Vision accounts (pre-reading)?

1832-Joseph's years of searching: "At about the age of twelve years my mind become seriously imprest with regard to the all importent concerns of for the well fare of my immortal Soul which led me to searching the scriptures thus from the age of twelve years to fifteen I pondered many things in my heart concerning the sittuation of the world of mankind. His sins and the sins of the world: "I become convicted of my sins and by searching the scriptures I found that mand <mankind> did not come unto the Lord but that they had apostatised from the true and liveing faith and there was no society or denomination that built upon the gospel of Jesus Christ as recorded in the new testament9 and I felt to mourn for my own sins and for the sins of the world" Perhaps only one being mentioned: "a piller of fire light above the brightness of the sun at noon day come down from above and rested upon me and I was filled with the spirit of god and the <Lord>opened the heavens upon me and I saw the Lord"The post vision of being filled with love: "my soul was filled with love and for many days I could rejoice with great Joy and the Lord was with me but could find none that would believe the hevnly vision nevertheless I pondered these things in my heart" Context: Joseph's first attempt to record his history. D&C 85 had just been received, which says the Lord's clerk must "keep a history, and a general church record of all things that transpire in Zion." According to Steven C. Harper, Joseph bought his first diary the day that revelation came. He recorded D&C 85 in that letter book, and then in the following pages his history. It is the only account written (partly) in Joseph's own hand. The other scribe is Joseph's counselor Fredrick G. Williams 1835-Account (To Joshua, The Jewish Minister). Robert Matthews or "Joshua" the Jewish prophet or "Matthias the Prophet." Matthews claimed to be God the Father reincarnated in the body of Matthias, the ancient prophet. "Suspicions were entertained that the Said Joshua was the noted Matthias of New York, spoken so much of in the public prints on account of the trials he endured in that place before a court of Justice, for Murder, Manslaughter, Contempt of court, whipping his daughter &c.... After some <November 9.> equivocating he confessed that he really was Matthias...Tuesday 10th [November 1835] I resumed conversation with Matthias, and desired him to enlighten my mind more on his views respecting the resurrection...I told him that his doctrine was of the Devil, that he was in reality in pos session of a wicked and depraved spirit, although he professed to be the spirit of truth itself, and he said also that he possessed <11> the spirit of soul of Christ. He tarried until Wednesday, 11th. After Breakfast when I told him that my God told me. that his God was the Devil, and I could not keep him any longer, and he must depart, and so I for once, cast out the Devil in bodily shape, and I beleive a murderer,Sermon on the Mount reference and also first James 1:5 reference: "I retired to the silent grove and bowd down before the Lord, under a realising sense that he had said (if the bible be true) ask and you shall receive knock and it shall be opened seek and you shall find and again, if any man lack wisdom let him ask of God who giveth to all men libar ally and upbradeth not; information was what I most desired at this time, and with a fixed determination to obtain it"Description of adversarial attack, springing to feet: "I called upon the Lord for the first time, in the place above stated or in other words I made a fruitless attempt to pray, my toung seemed to be swolen in my mouth, so that I could not utter I heard a noise behind me like some person walking towards me, <I> strove again to pray, but could not, the noise of walking seem ed to draw nearer, I sprung up on my feet"Not a dual divine appearance, but one and then the other: "a personage appeard in the midst, of this pillar of flame which was spread all around, and yet nothing consumed, another personage soon appeard like unto the first, he said unto me thy sins are forgiven thee" 1843 Interview with David Nye White: "Directly I saw a light, and then a glorious per sonage in the light, and then another person age, and the first personage said to the second, 'Behold my beloved Son, hear him.'" Alexander Neibaur journal 1844: "saw a personage in the fire light complexion blue eyes a piece of white cloth drawn over his shoulders his right arm bear after a w[h]ile a other person came to the side of the first " Many angels: "<and I saw many angels in this vision>" 1838 account Emphasized more than any other the religious zeal and confusion and fervor (vs. 5-9) Incorporated into the Pearl of Great Price in 1851 when Franklin D. Richards published it in England. The Pearl of Great Price became canonized in 1880. JS-H 1:5-26.Vs. 14 New descriptive details of the day: "beautiful, clear day, early in the spring of eighteen hundred and twenty." Vs. 15 "Previously designed to go." The David Nye White version reports Joseph saying, "[I] went to the stump where I had stuck my axe when I had quit work"Vs. 18 all wrong: "never entered into my heart that all were wrong" Vs. 20 more things: "many other things did he say unto me, which I cannot write at this time." Vs. 20 post vision on back/no strength: "came to myself again...lying on my back...I had no strength" 1843 David Nye White Pittsburg Gazette interview: "when I come to my self, I was sprawling on my back; and it was sometime before my strength returned." Vs. 20 discussion with mother: "learned for myself that Presbyterianism is not true" Vs. 21-23 Local contempt/mocking: "one of the Methodist preachers...I took occasion to give him an account of the vision which I had had." The preacher responded "with great contempt" which "excited a great deal of prejudice against me among professors of religion, and was the cause of great persecution". 1842- Joseph is in Nauvoo Illinois responding to Chicago Democrat editor John Wentworth's request for a sketch of the rise of the Church. Joseph had his response to John Wentworth printed in March 1842 issue of Times and Seasons. The "Wentworth letter" as it has become known is a choice document, ending with "the standard of truth has been erected..." and also a declaration we call the "Articles of Faith.".Transfigured or Paul-ish moment (in or out of the body?): "my mind was taken away from the objects with which I was surrounded, and I was enwrapped in a heavenly vision" Father and Son look the same: "saw two glorious personages who exactly resembled each other in features, and likeness" 1835 Account "another personage...like unto the first" Promise of future truth: "expressly commanded to 'go not after them,' at the same time receiving a promise that the fulness of the gospel should at some future time be made known unto me.".

• The key events/history of how we received the Doctrine and Covenants o What are the years of the 7 major printings of the D&C where changes are made? o What were the original "doctrine" and "covenants"? o What is the role of Orson Pratt? o What year was the removal of the article on marriage and lectures on faith?

1833 Book of Commandments (never finished printing, July 1833 Missouri mobs stopped them. Only a few incomplete copies were bound and exist today) 1835 The Doctrine and Covenants (The "Doctrine" = The 7 Lectures on Faith, and the "Covenants" = the revelations of the Lord to Joseph Smith). Joseph added and corrected some of the revelations previously received by the spirit of inspiration 1844 (Joseph Smith/1st Presidency) Doctrine and Covenants added D&C 103, 105, 112, 119, 124, 127-128, and 135 1876 Doctrine and Covenants (Orson Pratt) added 26 new sections, including today's D&C 2, 13, 77, 85, 87, 108, 109, 110, 111, 113-118, 120-123, 125, 126, 129-132, and 136. He also rearranged the order of the sections chronologically and divided them into verses. Removed the article on marriage 1921 Doctrine and Covenants (apostles under Heber J. Grant's direction). Revised footnotes, Official Declaration #1, set the type in double column, and removed the 7 "Lectures on Faith" 1981 Doctrine and Covenants included completely revised footnotes and enhanced study aids, adding D&C 137, 138, and Official Declaration #2 2013 Doctrine and Covenants as a result of the Joseph Smith Papers project, adjustments were made to correct inaccurate facts, more precise dating, and to supply better historical context to the section headings.

• Who restored the keys of the Aaronic priesthood and what are its 3 keys?

3 Keys of the Aaronic priesthood: The ministering of angels The gospel of repentance Baptism by immersion Won't be taken "until the sons of Levi offer an offering"...Oliver Cowdery wrote his recounting of the words as "which shall remain upon earth, that the sons of Levi may yet offer an offering unto the Lord in righteousness" (see Oliver's account in JS-H p. 59). The offering of the Sons of Levi (D&C 128:24)

• What D&C section is known as "The Law" of the Church

42

• What is a creed?

A creed is a formal statement of faith and doctrine, from the Latin credo meaning "I believe"

• What are key principles to remember about what makes a D&C revelation?

A revelation is malleable, changeable, additionable. See original D&C 27 or D&C 20:67 2. Revelations are received and expressed in a prophet's language (D&C 1:24) On one occasion Orson Pratt explained: "Joseph ... received the ideas from God, but clothed those ideas with such words as came to his mind" (Minutes of the School of Prophets, Salt Lake Stake, 9 Dec. 1872, Church Historical Department Archives). "The revelations were not God's diction, dialect, or native language," historian Richard Bushman has written. "They were couched in language suitable to Joseph's time" (Bushman, Rough Stone Rolling, 174). 3. D&C Revelations come in various ways: Some by urim and thummim, some by the voice of the Lord to his mind, some by discourses, some by inspired journal entries, some at dinner time table discussions. 4. Not all revelations are canonized (Ezra Thayre, Buy Paper, Hiram Kimball paper throw). 5. To become canonized a revelation must be approved by the 1st Presidency and 12 and presented to the Church.

• What are the differences between "All Things Common, the United Order (Firm), and the Law of Consecration"

All things common = Giving over to the church (Bishop) all your properties and being deeded back a portion according to your wants and needs as outlined in your pre-reading of D&C 51 The United Order: D&C 78:3 "For verily I say unto you, the time has come, and is now at hand; and behold and lo, it must needs be that there be an organization of my people, in regulating and establishing the affairs of the storehouse of the poor of my people, both in this place and in the land of Zion" The United Order (D&C 70, 78, 82, 104) = sometimes called the United Firm or the Order of Enoch, was a consecration-based business organization of Church leaders in Kirtland and Missouri who, by covenant, united Bishop Whitney's store in Kirtland (the Bishop's storehouse, literally), the Literary Firm (who was organizing the printing the Book of Commandments overseen by Bishop Partridge in Missouri) and the Church's store in Missouri (operated by Sidney Gilbert), dedicating their proceeds to the work of the Lord and caring for the poor. After a short time the United Order became dysfunctional (debt in Kirtland, persecutions in Missouri, and some members of the order not keeping their covenants). A conference voted to dissolve it, and the Lord directed how the Firms' properties be reorganized in D&C 104. "Some Latter-day Saints mistakenly think that this process [the dissolving of the United Firm] ended the law of consecration, but that is akin to saying that if NASA were to stop functioning, the laws of physics would cease to be." (Steven C. Harper, Making Sense of the Doctrine and Covenants, 2008, p. 291). Law of Consecration = As God's agent, you dedicate your time, talents, and means to building up God's kingdom on earth as he directs you. To "consecrate" something means to dedicate something, to make it holy, to set it apart. The law of Consecration is dedicating your life to God to do his will. Just like the laws of obedience & sacrifice, consecration begins at baptism when you take upon yourself Christ's name. You live the law of consecration each day as you dedicate your life to God and seek to do his will, dedicating your time, talents, and means to the Lord's kingdom as he directs. The law of consecration is in operation whenever and wherever this covenant is made. It is an eternal law." (Robert L. Millet, Camille Fronk Olson, Andrew C. Skinner, Brent L. Top, LDS Beliefs, 2011, 128-129).

• Where, when, and by whom were the keys of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthood restored? (focus point)

As Preach My Gospel summarizes, "Peter, James, and John (three of Christ's original Apostles) appeared and conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, restoring the same authority given to Christ's Apostles anciently. With this priesthood authority, Joseph Smith was directed to organize the Church of Jesus Christ again on the earth" (Preach My Gospel: A Guide to Missionary Service, (2004), 31-46). suswuehannah pensylvania may, 1829

• How did the JST get published (under what names), how did we (LDS) get it, and who is Robert J. Matthews?

As early as 1833 when he finished the Bible translation Joseph discussed printing the JST. In August of 1833 in D&C 94:10 the Lord tells the saints in Kirtland to print shop "for the work of the printing of the translation of my scriptures." However, other temporal matters intervened. In July 1840 the First Presidency sent out an appeal to all the saints asking for money to print Church materials, including the JST. They received a grand total of $207 in donations—nowhere near nearly enough. In January 1841 in D&C 124:89 the Lord directs the leaders of the Church (William Law) to "publish the new translation of my holy word" but instead any moneys went into a steam-mill and hemp farm. Robert Matthews wrote: "Several attempts were made by the Prophet to publish his work in its entirety, although such a publication was never realized in his lifetime. The historical records show that failure to publish the new translation was not due to any negligence or lack of interest on Joseph Smith's part, but rather to a neglect on the part of the Saints to provide the temporal necessities by which the Prophet could attend to the work." ("Joseph Smith's Efforts to Publish His Bible 'Translation'," Ensign, January 1983)

• How does the JST contributed to the restoration of truth and schooling of Joseph?

As scholar Robert J. Matthews pointed out, "Through the experience of translating the Bible Joseph Smith was to come into possession of knowledge he did not previously have." (Robert J. Matthews, "A Plainer Translation": Joseph Smith's Translation of the Bible—A History and Commentary (Provo, UT: Brigham Young University Press, 1975), 53). The JST was a teaching method by the Lord to continue to tutor Joseph Smith—a launching pad for new revelation. Which D&C sections sprang from his reading of the JST? A few examples: D&C 29 (Moses 5), D&C 38/42 consecration (Moses 6-8), D&C 76 (John 5), D&C 132 (Genesis). One specific one, in April 1831 Joseph translates Genesis 17:11 "that thy children are not accountable before me until they are eight years old" and then 6 months later in a D&C revelation 8 is first mentioned as the year of accountability (D&C 68:25). Matthews: "Most of what we know about Adam and Melchizedek and eternal marriage and priesthood organization originated in the JST." Matthews concluded: "The Doctrine and Covenants and its relationship with the JST... are not two entirely separate books. They are interwoven." (Robert J. Matthews and His Work with the Joseph Smith Translation, p. 46, 42).

Why are there different First Vision accounts?

Audience (context) Purpose (content) Memory (interpretation)

• How do creeds define a modern "Christian"?

BYU religion professor JB Haws has written: "When someone asks, 'Are Mormons Christians?' in reality neither a 'yes' or a 'no' brings appropriate clarity because...it depends on what the inquirer has in mind by Christian....So in the spirit of seeking brevity and clarity, what if the standard answer on websites and in college textbooks and in Sunday School courses were something like this: 'Mormons are biblical Christians, but not Trinitarian or traditional Christians"? (in Talking Doctrine: Mormons and Evangelicals in Conversation (2015), 208). "We do not accept the Athanasian Creed. We do not accept the Nicene Creed or any other creed based on the tradition and the conclusions of men. We do accept, as the basis of our doctrine, the statement of the Prophet Joseph Smith that when he prayed for wisdom in the woods, 'the light rested upon me [and] I saw two Personages...' (Joseph Smith—History 1:17). Two beings of substance were before him. He saw Them. They were in form like men, only much more glorious in Their appearance. He spoke to them. They spoke to him. They were not amorphous spirits. Each was a distinct personality. They were beings of flesh and bone whose nature was reaffirmed in later revelations which came to the Prophet" (Discourses of Gordon B. Hinckley, Vol. 1 (2004), 256-257).

• What themes progress through the Book of Abraham, and where else do we see that today?

Being made a priest. Being taught and instructed. Being brought into God's presence. Being promised all the blessings of exaltation. Hmmm....

• What specific priesthood offices developed later?

Bishop in February 1831 (Edward Partridge) Patriarch in December of 1834 (Joseph Smith Sr.) High Council in February 1834 (originally equal in authority to the First Presidency and 12 Apostles, see D&C 107:36) Quorum of Seventy and 12 Apostles in February, 1835. (Originally an "apostle is an Elder" (D&C 20:38) and it meant one who was called to preach. Later in 1835 developed into an office and quorum).

• Who does the planet Kolob symbolize?

Christ

• What revelation is on priesthood offices and their roles?

D&C 107, given in 1835, acts like a priesthood handbook, organizing the Melchizedek and Aaronic priesthoods, their offices and duties. Your Analysis Assignment #4 will partly deal with this section.

• What is a 4-step approach to studying the D&C?

Context means "knit or woven together" and "the part or parts of something...which precede or follow." It is the background, circumstances, the culture, the setting, the intent. We want to know what the revelation meant to THEM and WHY. Learn the background/historical context:Context means "knit or woven together" and "the part or parts of something...which precede or follow." It is the background, circumstances, the culture, the setting, the intent. We want to know what the revelation meant to THEM and WHY. Study for original intent (what did it mean to the recipients) Search for general statements of truth Make application personally

What are four types of doctrine

Core, eternal teachings/doctrine: unchanging truths of salvation Supporting teachings/doctrine: elaborate, descriptive, timely teachings expanding on core doctrines Policy teachings/doctrine: timely statements related to applications of supportive and eternal teachings Esoteric teachings/doctrine: unknown or only partially revealed or yet to be revealed truths

• What is the offering of the sons of Levi?

D&C 13 24 Behold, the great aday of the Lord is at hand; and who can babide the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appeareth? For he is like a crefiner's dfire, and like fuller's soap; and he shall sit as a erefiner and purifier of silver, and he shall purify the sons of fLevi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an goffering in righteousness. Let us, therefore, as a church and a people, and as Latter-day Saints, offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness; and let us present in his holy temple, when it is finished, a book containing the hrecords of our dead, which shall be worthy of all acceptation.

• What D&C section is the Church's Constitution, or "Articles and Covenants"?

D&C 20

• What section is the revelatory "preface" to the BOC/D&C and what are the primary messages of the preface?

D&C 67 Vs. 4-9 choose the wisest and make a revelation Joseph said: "William E. M'Lellin, as the wisest man, in his own estimation, having more learning than sense, endeavored to write a commandment like unto one of the least of the Lord's, but failed; it is an awful responsibility to write in the name of the Lord. The Elders and all present that witnessed this vain attempt of a man to imitate the language of Jesus Christ, renewed their faith in the fulness of the Gospel, and in the truth of the commandments and revelations which the Lord had given to the Church through my instrumentality; and the Elders signified a willingness to bear testimony of their truth to all the world" (in History of the Church, 1:226).

• What is the gift of Aaron? (focus point)

D&C 8:6-9. What Was the Gift of Aaron? "There was another gift bestowed upon Oliver Cowdery, and that was the gift of Aaron. Like Aaron with his rod in his hand going before Moses as a spokesman, so Oliver Cowdery was to go before Joseph Smith. Whatever he should ask the Lord by power of this gift should be granted if asked in faith and in wisdom. Oliver was blessed with the great honor of holding the keys of this dispensation with Joseph Smith, and, like Aaron, did become a spokesman on numerous occasions. It was Oliver who delivered the first public discourse in this dispensation." (Smith, Church History and Modern Revelation, 1:52.)

• What are the facsimile's and what do they represent?

Deliverance, eternal knowledge, judgement/exaltation

• What are two primary doctrinal messages from the First Vision?

Error in doctrinal truth: "they have turned asside from the gospel" (1832) "all the religious denominations were believing in incorrect doctrines; and, consequently, that none of them was acknowledged of God, as his church and kingdom" (Pratt, 1840) Joseph said (1842) "each one pointing to his own particular creed as the summum bonum of perfection" "were all wrong, and . . . all their Creeds were an abomination in his sight" (1838)

• Where the Book of Abraham came from and how it became part of LDS scripture today? (focus point)

Facts: We have part a small part of the Egyptian Papyri today (but not all of it as witness descriptions say it was "a long roll"), including Facsimile 1 and some characters around it. Rediscovered in 1967. The fragments date from 3rd century B.C.E. to 1st century C.E., long after Abraham lived or wrote. LDS and non-LDS Egyptologists say the surviving characters do not mention Abraham nor are the characters anything to do with what is in the Book of Abraham. They are a funerary text for mummified bodies, in this case a person named Hôr. The translations in the grammar book written by Phelps and Cowdery do not correspond to those recognized by Egyptologists today. When critics say the Book of Abraham is therefore false, how do we respond? How do we not be blind to research and facts but still be open to the truthfulness of the Book of Abraham (like its profound doctrines or link to ancient near-eastern traditions of Abraham unknown to Joseph Smith)? What bearing may the JST or D&C 7 bring into Abraham?

• What did Joseph Smith have to overcome with Martin Harris (his "second" test)?

Fear God more than Man

• What are the four foundational events of the Church listed in D&C 20?

First Vision Coming of Moroni Translation of the Book of Mormon Three witnesses of the Book of Mormon

• What are the foundational practices of the Church

Foundational ordinances/duties/procedures (vs. 37-84) Vs. 38-67 Priesthood office duties, licenses, ordinations Vs. 68-69 Duties of members after baptism Vs. 70 blessing children Vs. 71 Age of accountability for baptism (CR with D&C 68:25 and 1 Peter 3:20-21) Vs. 72-74 Baptismal prayer and immersion Vs. 75-79 Sacrament prayers Vs. 80-84 Keeping records of members of the Church

• What are the basic Christian creeds?

Four Christian creeds developed in the centuries after Christ help define core Christian doctrine: The Apostles' Creed (3rd century), The Nicene Creed (4th century), Creed of Chalcedon (5th century), the Athanasian Creed (6th century).

• How is the JST finished but it is not (and what does that even mean)?

From the Joseph Smith Papers: "The Bible revision manuscripts remained in JS's possession throughout his life. After JS's death, the manuscript was in the possession of his wife Emma for more than twenty years until 1867, when she gave it to her son Joseph Smith III so that the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS church) could publish it. It has been in the possession of the RLDS church (now Community of Christ) ever since." (Source note: Visions of Moses, June 1830 [Moses 1]). The RLDS published it as "The Holy Scriptures" in 1867 and then called the subtitle "The Inspired Version" in their 1936 version. We (LDS) came up with "Joseph Smith Translation" in the 1970's. When we began to want to use it in our footnotes of our Bible we needed an abbreviation. Couldn't use IV, couldn't use NT (too confusing) so a committee decided on JST and the First Presidency approved it. ("Robert J. Matthews and his work on the Joseph Smith Translation" p. 31) From the Joseph Smith Papers: "The Bible revision manuscripts remained in JS's possession throughout his life. After JS's death, the manuscript was in the possession of his wife Emma for more than twenty years until 1867, when she gave it to her son Joseph Smith III so that the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS church) could publish it. It has been in the possession of the RLDS church (now Community of Christ) ever since." (Source note: Visions of Moses, June 1830 [Moses 1]). The RLDS published it as "The Holy Scriptures" in 1867 and then called the subtitle "The Inspired Version" in their 1936 version. We (LDS) came up with "Joseph Smith Translation" in the 1970's. When we began to want to use it in our footnotes of our Bible we needed an abbreviation. Couldn't use IV, couldn't use NT (too confusing) so a committee decided on JST and the First Presidency approved it. ("Robert J. Matthews and his work on the Joseph Smith Translation" p. 31) Malachi 4:5-6: 5 ¶Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: 6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. No JST changing it Jesus in the Book of Mormon quotes Malachi 4:5-6 word for word as written above. D&C 2 D&C 128:18

• What book of scripture is the foundation of the Church in the latter days?

Heading of D&C 70, "This revelation was given after the conference voted that the revelations were 'worth to the Church the riches of the whole Earth.' Joseph Smith's history refers to the revelations as 'the foundation of the Church in these last days, and a benefit to the world, showing that the keys of the mysteries of the kingdom of our Savior are again entrusted to man.'"

• Who is Hyrum Page and what happened at the September 1830 conference because of him?

His revelations from his seer stone were one of the first challenges to Joseph Smith's authority within the Church, just a few months after its organization. If God speaks again, can he speak to anyone? If he can, can anyone receive revelations for the Church? What if someone receives "different" revelation than what the Church teaches? D&C 28:11

• When and how did Joseph Smith obtain a seer stone, and what did he use it for?

In 1825 the Wayne Sentinel in Palmyra reported that buried treasure had been found "by the help of a mineral stone, (which becomes transparent when placed in a hat and the light excluded by the face of him who looks into it)" ("Wonderful Discovery," Wayne Sentinel [Palmyra, New York] (27 December 1825), page 2, col. 4. taken from http://en.fairmormon.org/Joseph_Smith/Money_digging/Was_this_a_blot_on_his_character#cite_note-3 Although accounts vary, Joseph apparently found a seer stone while digging a well, perhaps on the Chase farm, in 1822 when he was 16 years old. Joseph, and perhaps pushed on by his father, Joseph Smith Sr., occasionally joined other locals in attempts to use seer stones to find valuable hidden objects Joseph's mother, Lucy Smith, remembered, "A short time before the house was completed, a man by the name of Josiah Stoal came from Chenango County, New York, to get Joseph to assist him in digging for a silver mine. He came for Joseph from having heard, that he was in possession of certain means, by which he could discern things, which that could not be seen by the natural eye. Joseph endeavered to divert him from his vain project; but he was inflexible, and offered high wages to such as would dig for him; in search of the mine; and was [illegible] still very anxious [illegible] to have Joseph work for him; consequently, he returned with the old gentle man; besides several others thatwho were picked up in the neighborhood, and commenced digging. After laboring about a month without success, Joseph prevailed on his employer to cease his opperations. It was from this circumstance, namely, his having working worked by the month at digging for a silver mine, that the very prevalent story arose, of his having been a money digger" (Lucy Mack Smith, History, 1845). In 1838 answering a list of self-imposed common questions Joseph wrote: "Q. Was not Joseph Smith a money digger? A. Yes, but it was never a very profitable job for him, as he only got fourteen dollars a month for it" (Elders' Journal 1/3 (July 1838): 43).

• How much of the JST do we have and use in our scriptures?

In our current edition of the scriptures we only have printed about 1/3rd

• What does it mean that Abraham desired the "blessings of the fathers"?

In the Bible, God's covenant with Abraham appears to begin during Abraham's life. According to the book of Abraham, the covenant began before the foundation of the earth and was passed down through Adam, Noah, and other prophets.7 Abraham thus takes his place in a long line of prophets and patriarchs whose mission is to preserve and extend God's covenant on earth. The heart of this covenant is the priesthood, through which "the blessings of salvation, even of life eternal" are conveyed

• What did Joseph have to overcome to obtain the plates in his 4 year probationary period (his "first" test)?

Initially Joseph did not know how long it would take to obtain the plates, or if he ever would. Year after year Moroni met with and tutored and schooled Joseph. In 1824 Joseph went to the Hill Cumorah to try and obtain the plates. Historian Steven Harper summarized what happened: "[Joseph] reached down and lifted the plates from their stone box when, according to his mother, 'the thought flashed across his mind that there might be something more in the box,' something be could profit from after all. Excited, Joseph laid the plates down to cover the box, planning to come back later for the rest. When he turned back to pick up the plates, they were gone, 'but where he knew not nor did he know by what means it had been taken away.' Alarmed, Joseph knelt and prayed. The angel appeared, 'and told him that he had not done as he was commanded,' that he was still tempted, 'to secure some imaginary treasure,' that he was still too easily overcome by the powers of darkness, not yet vigilant enough, not yet motivated solely by the glory of God. After the rebuke Moroni allowed Joseph to raise the stone again and see that the plates were safe in their stone box. Joseph reached for them again but was hurled back" ("The Probation of a Teenage Seer," p. 34 in The Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon, 44th Annual Sidney B. Sperry Symposium). In 1826 Joseph was late coming home one day and his dad, worried, said to him when he arrived, " Joseph why have <you> staid so late has anything happened you we have been in distress about you these 3 hours after Joseph recovered himself a little he said Father I have had the severest chastisement that I ever had in my life Chastisement indeed! said Mr Smith Well upon my word I would like to [know?] who has been takeing you to task and what their pre text was its pretty well too if you are to be detained till this time of night to take lectures for your bad practises— Joseph smiled to see his Father so hasty and indignant. Father said he it was the angel of the Lord. he says I have been negligent that the time has now come when the record should be brought forth and that I must be up and doing that I must set myself about the things which God has commanded me to do" (Lucy Mack Smith, History, 1844-1845).

• What is "Joseph's Promise"?

Joseph Smith: "Search the scriptures—search the revelations which we publish and ask your Heavenly Father, in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, to manifest the truth unto you, and if you do it with an eye single to His glory, nothing doubting, He will answer you by the power of His Holy Spirit. You will then know for yourselves and not for another" (HC 1:282). The testimony of the 12 Apostles at the front of the D&C reads: "The Lord has borne record to our souls, through the Holy Ghost shed forth upon us, that these commandments were given by the inspiration of God, and are profitable for all men and are verily true."

• What is the timeline of the JST (when/where did he start and finish it)?

Joseph began translating the Bible immediately after the BOM was printed, in the Summer of 1830. Finished July 1833

• What were the instruments used in the translation of the Book of Mormon? What are their names and sources?

Joseph described the interpreters as "two stones in silver bows...for the purpose of translating the book" (JS-H 1:35). Lucy Mack Smith said when Joseph returned home from receiving the plates he said to his mother: "Do not be uneasy all is right see here Said he I have got the key I knew not what he meant but took the article in my hands and uponafter examing it*(*with no covering but a silk handkerchief)<found> that it consisted of 2 smooth <3 cornered diamonds set in glass and the glass was set in silver bows> stones con[n]ected with each other in the same way that old fashioned spectacles are made" (Lucy Mack Smith, History, 1844-1845, book 5, p. 7). This stone is sometimes referred to as "Gazelem" by some from Alma 37:23 "I will prepare unto my servant Gazelem, a stone, which shall shine forth in darkness unto light" Assistant Church Historian Richard Turley recently wrote, "Early Latter-day Saints believed this prophesied servant was Joseph Smith" ("Joseph the Seer," Ensign Oct. 2015). This name Gazelam was used as a code name to conceal Joseph Smith's identity in some early revelations (below, D&C 78) "These two instruments—the interpreters and the seer stone—were apparently interchangeable and worked in much the same way such that, in the course of time, Joseph Smith and his associates often used the term 'Urim and Thummim' to refer to the single stone as well as the interpreters" (LDS.org "Book of Mormon Translation") Definition of Urim and Thummim: In a sense, "Urim and Thummim" could be viewed as an umbrella term or "descriptive category" that encompasses a divine instrument that aids in revelation from God. In the celestial glory apparently we will each be given a seer stone with a new name on it: "Then the white stone mentioned in Revelation 2:17 will become a Urim and Thummim to each individual who receives one, whereby things pertaining to a higher order of kingdoms will be made known; And a white stone is given to each of those who come into the celestial kingdom, whereon is a new name written, which no man knoweth save he that receiveth it. The new name is the key word" (D&C 130:10-11). What other physical objects to mediate the divine can you think of in the scriptures?

• When did Joseph Smith learn about the concept of Zion?

Joseph had learned about the "New Jerusalem" while translating the Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:23-24). In his Bible translation in the summer of 1830 Joseph also learned about Enoch's people: "And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; And there was no poor among them" (Moses 7:18). The concept of "Zion" was beginning to settle in and be revealed to him. Joseph Smith received a revelation in the fall of 1830 in D&C 28:9 that the latter-day "city of Zion" or New Jerusalem would be "on the borders by the Lamanites." He sends Oliver Cowdery, Peter Whitmer, Parley P. Pratt, and Ziba Peterson (D&C 32) and company on a mission to preach to the Lamanites and identify the land of Zion.

• How does God use divine instruments to aid in revelation?

Joseph's methods of interacting with the divine may seem strange to us, but this is largely because we are more cultural inheritors of the Protestant movement to remove God from daily life than we are of the folk religion of Joseph's day. However, as Joseph consulted the Bible, he would have found instances of divining instruments; they were far from unfamiliar in a biblical culture. If David enquired of the Urim and Thummim (seerstones) for directions concerning military strivings (see 1 Samuel 30:7-8), could Joseph not inquire of a seerstone regarding the financial struggles of his family? . . . Is there a real difference between Nephi being told where to hunt through a brass ball and God helping those who believe find lost cows through a rod, or lost pins through a seerstone? Will God direct those who honestly turn to him in whatever manner they expect, or must he always give revelation through a fleece laid on the ground ( Judges 6:36-40)? . . . Should we expect God to refuse interaction with such a youth because he was seeking God in ways not familiar to us?"(Kerry Muhlestein, "Seeking Divine Interaction: Joseph Smith's Varying Searches for the Supernatural," in No Weapon Shall Prosper).

• What is the "High priesthood of Melchizedek" and how was it restored at the June 1831 conference?

June 1831 conference at the Morley Farm in Ohio. Early church members ordained to the "high priesthood" for the first time. New office, new power. This new "high priesthood" order was different than an elder, and was "after the order of the Son of God" (see Hebrews 5:6). It included the power to seal people up to heaven (see Minute Book 2, Oct. 1831; also D&C 1:8; D&C 68:12) JST Genesis 14:27, 30-31

• What are some of the unique contributions of the secondary accounts?

Orson Pratt Trees consumed: "as it drew nearer, it increas ed in brightness, and magnitude, so that, by the time that it reached the tops of the trees, the whole wilderness, for some distance around, was illuminated in a most glorious and brilliant manner. He expected to have seen the leaves and boughs of the trees consumed, as soon as the light came in contact with them; but, perceiving that it did not produce that effect, he was encouraged with the hopes of being able to endure its presence." Wrapped by light/fire: "he was enveloped in the midst of it [the light/fire]." Wrapped by light/fire: "he was enveloped in the midst of it [the light/fire]." Orson Hyde adversary gave him doubts and improper images: "He filled his mind with doubts [p. 15] and brought to mind all manner of inappropriate images to prevent him from obtaining the object of his endeavors" Levi Richards Journal and the covenant being broken: " the Everlasting covena[n]t was broken" David Nye White: the axe "and went to the stump where I had stuck my axe when I had quit work" and speaking to Jesus directly "I then, addressed this second person, saying, "O Lord, what Church shall I join." Alexander Neibar "he wanted to get Religion too wanted to feel & shout like the Rest but could feel nothing" and "blue eyes a piece of white cloth drawn over his shoulders his right arm bear" also "fire drew nigher Rested upon the tree enveloped him"

• What is the object lesson of Abraham 3 about?

Planets and stars are us. Kolob is closest to God, then Adam and Eve, etc

What are key doctrinal teachings on the Pre-mortal Satan's fall, the Fall of Adam/Eve, Little children, Signs of the 2nd Coming, Millennium, and judgment/eternity in D&C 29?

Pre-mortal life: vs. 36-37 Garden of Eden/Fall: 40-42 Children and Adam's transgression: 46-47 Signs of the 2nd Coming: 14-21 Millennium: 9, 13, 22 Judgment/eternity: 12, 23-28 ontext: September, 1830. Received just prior to the church conference. This is a huge theological section that covers everything from the fall of Lucifer to the end of times. Around this time, Joseph is translating some of the book of Genesis and Moses. Genesis 1-5 (Moses 1-4) should be read just prior to reading this section. Major theme: signs of the last days. Christ is our advocate. order of events leading up to the last days.

• What are the different "types" of priesthood definitions and their meanings?

Priesthood: "the power and authority of God" (lds.org) Priesthood Authority: The power of God delegated to mortals Priesthood Power: God's power attained through righteousness (D&C 121:36-37) Priesthood Offices: Divisions of priesthood to administer authorized to perform priesthood ordinances/blessings and administer (D&C 107) Priesthood Ordinances: Authorized rituals performed under the direction of those who hold priesthood keys Priesthood Keys: "Priesthood keys are the authority God has given to priesthood leaders to direct, control, and govern the use of His priesthood on earth" (Handbook 2, 2.1.1.)

• What are Joseph's five original titles he is sustained with and their respective meanings?

Seer-A "seer" is "greater than a prophet...and a gift which is greater can no man have...things which are not known shall be made known by them" (Mosiah 8:15-17 Translator-A "translator" is, most obvious, a translator from one language to another (D&C 20:8), but, perhaps more importantly, is able to discern and understand and transmit the intent of the original scriptural writer (as in the JST). Prophet-A "prophet" will "testify of Jesus Christ and teach His gospel. They make known God's will and true character. They speak boldly and clearly, denouncing sin and warning of its consequences. At times, they may be inspired to prophesy of future events for our benefit." (TTTF, p. 129). Apostle-An "apostle" is a special witness of Christ (D&C 107:23) Elder-An "Elder," in the words of Elder Bruce R. McConkie, "is a minister of the Lord Jesus Christ. He holds the holy Melchizedek Priesthood. He is commissioned to stand in the place and stead of his Master—who is the Chief Elder—in ministering to his fellowmen. He is the Lord's agent. His appointment is to preach the gospel and perfect the Saints" ( "Only an Elder," Ensign, June 1975, p. 66).

• What does it mean that churches "deny [God's] power?"

The First Vision shattered creedal statements of the traditional Trinitarian God ("Two personages"). It undermined Calvinistic doctrines of an angry/wrathful God ("Thy sins are forgiven thee), agnostic ideas of a distant God ("Joseph <my son>). It didn't support a Congregationalist God who doesn't care what denomination we belong to ("don't join any of them, they are all corrupt"), nor a universalist God of heaven no matter what ("[not] his church and kingdom") or protestant ideas that God doesn't desire authorized covenants with him ("broken the everlasting covenant") The First Vision began to teach us "how to worship" (D&C 93:19) so we can have "life eternal" by beginning to "know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou has sent" (John 17:3). "Let us here observe that three things are necessary for any rational and intelligent being to exercise faith in God unto life and salvation. First, the idea that he actually exists; Secondly, a correct idea of his character, perfections, and attributes; Thirdly, an actual knowledge that the course of life which one is pursuing is according to His will" (Lectures on Faith, 3) Question: Is baptism essential for salvation? Answer: "The belief that baptism is necessary for salvation is also known as 'baptismal regeneration.' It is our contention that baptism is an important step of obedience for a Christian, but we adamantly reject baptism as being required for salvation. . . . Requiring anything in addition to faith in Jesus Christ for salvation is a works-based salvation" (answer from Protestant/Evangelical site Gotquestions.org http://www.gotquestions.org/baptism-salvation.html ) Error in authorized ordinances. Levi Richards (1843) reported Joseph Smith as saying he was told "that they were all wrong, & that the Everlasting covenant was broken." The 1838 account reports the Lord saying, "Professors [of religion] were all corrupt...they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof" (1838) Cross reference JS-H 1:19 with D&C 84:20-21 to better understand that the general Christian churches have a form of godliness but deny the power thereof D&C 84:21 "Power of godliness in the flesh" (2 ordinances of salvation, 2 ordinances of exaltation): Baptism and sacrament = The purity of God Holy Ghost = The mind of God, and the heart [character] of God Endowment = The knowledge of God Sealing = The eternal increase of God

What are four measures of evaluating an official LDS teaching?

The current publications of the church: the books, manuals, magazines pulished through the church's official outlets and presses (official websited, tesachers manuals, bible dictionaty, chruch magazine articles, joseph smith papers, intelectual reserve, LDS.org topics essays The repeated teachings of current general authorities/ officeers: what is being taught collectively, cohesively, and consistently by general church leaders acting in official capacities such as (general conference addresses, worldwide broadcasts/trainings,reginal conference talks, seminars and trainings) The united voice of the current 1st preidency & 12 apostles: teachings that are official united pronouncements, proclamations, and publications from the current prophets, seers, and revelators such as (official declarations and proclamations, letters from the 1st presidency, offical handbooks of instruction, books, documents, announcements under the official signature of the 1st presidency or 12 the harmonized scriptural cannon: teachings that are found repeatedly and consistently in the canonized reveations and scriptural writings of the phrophets in (the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, the Pearl of Great Price (standard works)

• Where do we get the Book of Moses, Abraham, and the Pearl of Great Price? (focus point)

The first collection of materials carrying the title Pearl of Great Price was made in 1851 by Elder Franklin D. Richards, then a member of the Council of the Twelve and president of the British Mission. Abraham came from papyrus scrolls bought in Kirtland.

• What are D&C 3, 10 about?

The first known written revelation of Joseph Smith's is D&C 3. D&C 3: "Immediately after my return home [to Harmony] I was walking out a little distance, when Behold the former heavenly messenger appeared and handed to me the Urim and Thummin again (for it had been taken from me in consequence of my having wearied the Lord in asking for the privilege of letting Martin Harris take the writings which he lost by transgression) and I enquired of the Lord through them and obtained the following revelation [D&C 3]" (Joseph Smith Papers, Documents Vol. 1, 7) The plates were also taken. In his earliest history JS explained: "The Plates was taken from me by the power of God and I was not able to obtain them for a season and it came to pass afte[r] much humility and affliction of Soul I obtained them again." (JS History, ca. Summer 1832, [6].) Joseph's mother remembered in her history the plates and urim and thummim were returned "on the 22 of September [1828]" (Joseph Smith Papers, Documents Vol. 1, 8). D&C 10: Apparently the Urim and Thummim were taken twice from Joseph. The first time after Martin took the pages, and the 2nd time after D&C 3 was received. Joseph said after D&C 3 was received "the urim and thummim were taken from me again." After "a few days" they were returned and Joseph received another revelation (D&C 10:1-3). Joseph's mother remembered in her history the plates and urim and thummim were returned "on the 22 of September [1828]" (Joseph Smith Papers, Documents Vol. 1, 8).

• What are its "more perfect" commandments (especially the non-10 commandment ones)?

The law of Consecration

• What are the original priesthood offices in the Church in April 1830?

The original Church of Christ in April of 1830 only had the offices of Elder, Priest, Teacher, Deacon (although no deacons were ordained until October 1831).

• The number of un-canonized revelations of Joseph Smith in revelation books 1 and 2

There are 9 un-canonized revelations in Revelation Books 1 and 2.

• What is the "Lamanite mission" and its major effect on the Church?

They stop in Ohio to visit Parley's former Campbellite preacher, Sidney Rigdon. He oversees a communal congregation of numerous families living on the Isaac Morley farm ("the family"). They receive the gospel with a sweep. Suddenly we have more members of the Church in Ohio than we do in New York. The Lord then reveals in the winter of 1830 in D&C 37 and 38 that the New York saints are to leave and, for the first time, gather to "the Ohio" (D&C 37:1).

• Who are Samuel Lawrence and Willard Chase?

Treasure seeking buddies Samuel Lawrence and Willard Chase in particular tried to get the plates from him. Joseph Knight Sr. in his reminiscence said Samuel Lawrence "had Bin to the hill and knew about the things in the hill and he was trying to obtain them." (Jessee, "Joseph Knight's Recollection," 32_).

• What are the six foundational doctrines of the Church listed in D&C 20?

Vs. 17 There is a God Vs. 18 Creation Vs. 19-20 Fall Vs. 21-24 Atonement Vs. 25-29 1st principles Baptism Vs. 30-32 Justification and sanctification by the grace of Christ. Justification = We are justified (made right by Christ) even in our weakness Sanctification = we are sanctified (made like Christ) in our character

• D&C 25 is an important revelation to Emma Smith, and for women of the Church in general

Vs. 3 Elect lady (In 1842 Emma became the first General Relief Society President). Vs. 4 Emma told her son: "I knew that he had them, and was not specially curious about them . . . I did not attempt to handle the plates, other than I have told you, nor uncover them to look at them. I was satisfied that it was the work of God, and therefore did not feel it to be necessary to do so." Vs. 6 a scribe: don't overlook Emma's significant contribution as Joseph's scribe for the Book of Mormon (116 pages, before Oliver C.) Vs. 7 Ordained to expound scripture and exhort the Church Vs. 8 had yet to be confirmed and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost Vs. 9 worried about financial support (Joseph remembered they were "so reduced in property" and poor that Emma's father—whom Joseph owed mortgage payments to for their small home—"was about to turn me out of doores & I had not where to go"). They had to rely on friends such as the Kinghts, Martin Harris, Josiah Stowell, and Oliver Cowdery for financial help. Vs. 11 make a selection of hymns Vs. 14 Beware of pride 15 Qualities of an elect lady (vs. 16 "this is my voice unto all"): Vs. 1 She is a daughter of God by covenant Vs. 2 lives faithfully (loyally) to God Vs. 2 Walks in the paths of virtue Vs. 3 Has desires to serve God and is called of him Vs. 4 Doesn't complain about what she doesn't experience that others get the opportunity to do Vs. 5 Comforts her husband in meekness Vs. 6 Supports husband in his Church calling (and FYI, he does the same for her in return, see vs. 9)

• What is the Abrahamic Covenant?

We will prove them herewith," God stated, "to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them," adding a promise to add glory forever upon the faithful.11 Nowhere in the Bible is the purpose and potential of earth life stated so clearly as in the book of Abraham. covenants with God as a high priest in marriage Through his covenant with Abraham, the Lord has promised to bless all the faithful with truth, priesthood ordinances, exaltation, and eternal increase. ,

• What are the primary messages of the Book of Mormon that laid a new foundation for our faith?

Worship of Christ directly through faith, repentance, baptism, Holy Ghost, grace, from the very beginning through Old Testament times. Its prophets taught pure Christianity. (see Mosiah 18). The BOM gives the "covenants of the Lord" through Christ. Some American natives descend from Israel. They are a chosen people who will fulfill the work of God in the last days, with the Gentiles assisting them. "It overturns history" said Richard Bushman. A great, revelatory latter-day work will commence in the last days, including the building of Zion or The New Jerusalem by the "remnant" of the seed of Joseph on this continent (see Ether 13). Christ speaks to many nations and they have recorded it. The canon of scripture is wide open (2 Nephi 29:12) with the Lord "manifesting himself unto all nations."

• How was the Book of Abraham translated? (focus point)

oseph Smith claimed no expertise in any language. He readily acknowledged that he was one of the "weak things of the world," called to speak words sent "from heaven."1 Speaking of the translation of the Book of Mormon, the Lord said, "You cannot write that which is sacred save it be given you from me."2 The same principle can be applied to the book of Abraham. The Lord did not require Joseph Smith to have knowledge of Egyptian. By the gift and power of God, Joseph received knowledge about the life and teachings of Abraham.

• What is the broader definition of Urim and Thummim?

physical objects to mediate the divine

• Which revelation acted as the "preface" to the original 1830 BOM?

rvelation about the kost 116 pages

• Which revelation is the first known written revelation of Joseph Smith?

s D&C 3.

• How was the Book of Mormon translated?

seer stones Joseph Knight Sr. (1833-1847?): "Now the way he translated was he put the urim and thummim into his hat and Darkned his Eyes than he would take a sentance and it would apper in Brite Roman Letters. Then he would tell the writer and he would write it. Then that would go away the next sentance would Come and so on. But if it was not Spelt rite it would not go away till it was rite, so we see it was marvelous. Thus was the hol [whole] translated." David Whitmer explained that "Joseph Smith would put the seer stone into a hat, and put his face in the hat, drawing it closely around his face. . . A piece of something resembling parchment would appear, and on that appeared the writing. One character at a time would appear, and under it was the interpretation in English. Brother Joseph would read off the English to Oliver Cowdery, who was his principal scribe, and when it was written down and repeated to Brother Joseph to see if it was correct, then it would disappear, and another character with the interpretation would appear. Thus the Book of Mormon was translated by the gift and power of God, and not by any power of man" (An Address to All Believers in Christ, 1887, 36). D&C 7 provides interesting potential insight into the translation process What does D&C 8 and 9 teach us about translation? Use caution here; we don't have all the answers (only Joseph does!)

• What covenant did Martin Harris break (focus point)?

showed plates to more people than the Lord peritted