Categories: Mind
In D&C 18:1-5, the Lord gives a commandment to Oliver Cowdery to “rely upon the things which are written” [i.e., the Book of Mormon] as he drafts the Articles of the Church of Christ—”for in them are all things written concerning the foundation of my church, my gospel, and my rock.” Oliver’s Articles of the Church of Christ didn’t make it to the Doctrine and Covenants. They were eventually replaced by Joseph Smith’s Articles & Covenants of the Church of Christ (now, Doctrine and Covenants 20), which were sustained by the entire church body (including Oliver).
When writing these foundational documents for the Church, both Oliver and Joseph took this commandment to use the Book of Mormon very seriously. Most of us know about the direct connection between the words of the Baptismal and Sacrament Prayers in D&C 20 and Moroni 6. I decided to try and seek out every connection between Doctrine and Covenants 20 that I could find. This post is the result of that study: a side-by-side comparison of how each verse in D&C 20 was influenced by the Book of Mormon (and sometimes the Old or New Testament).
I am amazed at how well Joseph and Oliver knew the Book of Mormon and how much they really did rely upon it to establish the foundation of the Church of Christ. It really strengthened my testimony of the Book of Mormon and of the Church. I wanted to share this with you all, in case it assists you in your studies of D&C 20.
If you want to learn more about this topic, you may also find the article “The Book of Mormon as the Keystone of Church Administration” by John W. Welch interesting.
Subsections of Section 20
- The Rise of the Church of Christ in the Last Days (v. 1-16)
- Preamble (v. 1-4)
- The Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon (v. 5-12)
- The Book of Mormon is Declared to the World (v. 13-16)
- Orthodoxy: Doctrines of the Church of Christ (v. 17-36)
- Orthopraxy: Administration of the Church of Christ (v. 37-84)
- Requirements for Baptism (v. 37)
- The Duty of the Apostles / Elders (v. 38-45)
- The Duty of the Priests (v. 46-52)
- The Duty of the Teachers & Deacons (v. 53-59)
- Ordinations of Elders, Priests, Teachers, & Deacons (v. 60)
- Regular Conferences of the Elders (v. 61-62)
- Licenses for Ordained Officers (v. 63-64)
- Common Consent & Ordinations for the High Priesthood (v. 65-67)
- The Duty of Baptized Members (v. 68-70)
- Administration of Baptism (v. 71-74)
- Dealing with Transgressing Members (v. 80)
- Maintaining Church Membership Records (v. 81-84)
The Rise of the Church of Christ in the Last Days (v. 1-16)
Preamble (v. 1-4)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The rise of the Church of Christ in these last days, being one thousand eight hundred and thirty years since the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the flesh, it being regularly organized and established agreeable to the laws of our country, by the will and commandments of God, in the fourth month, and on the sixth day of the month which is called April— | “And they who were baptized in the name of Jesus were called the church of Christ.” (3 Nephi 26:21; see also Mosiah 18:17; 4 Nephi 1:1; Moroni 6:4) “And how be it my church save it be called in my name? For if a church be called in Moses’ name then it be Moses’ church; or if it be called in the name of a man then it be the church of a man; but if it be called in my name then it is my church, if it so be that they are built upon my gospel.” (3 Nephi 27:8) | ||
| 2 | Which commandments were given to Joseph Smith, Jun., who was called of God, and ordained an apostle of Jesus Christ, to be the first elder of this church; | |||
| 3 | And to Oliver Cowdery, who was also called of God, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to be the second elder of this church, and ordained under his hand; | |||
| 4 | And this according to the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to whom be all glory, both now and forever. Amen. |
The Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon (v. 5-12)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | After it was truly manifested unto this first elder that he had received a remission of his sins, he was entangled again in the vanities of the world; | Being “entangled” again in sin (Galatians 5:1; 2 Peter 2:20) | Reference to the First Vision & Joseph’s teenage sins (see Joseph Smith—History 1:1-28 for more details). | |
| 6 | But after repenting, and humbling himself sincerely, through faith, God ministered unto him by an holy angel, whose countenance was as lightning, and whose garments were pure and white above all other whiteness; | “His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow” (Matthew 28:3 – a description of a resurrected individual) | Reference to the visit by the Angel Moroni (see Joseph Smith—History 1:29-54 for more details). | |
| 7 | And gave unto him commandments which inspired him; | |||
| 8 | And gave him power from on high, by the means which were before prepared, to translate the Book of Mormon; | “For he has wherewith that he can look, and translate all records that are of ancient date; and it is a gift from God. And the things are called interpreters, and no man can look in them except he be commanded, lest he should look for that he ought not and he should perish. And whosoever is commanded to look in them, the same is called seer… Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles; therefore he becometh a great benefit to his fellow beings.” (Mosiah 8:13,18) “The Lord knoweth the things which we have written, and also that none other people knoweth our language; and because that none other people knoweth our language, therefore he hath prepared means for the interpretation thereof.” (Mormon 9:34) | ||
| 9 | Which contains a record of a fallen people, and the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles and to the Jews also; | Title Page of the Book of Mormon; 1 Nephi 10:14; 15:13 | ||
| 10 | Which was given by inspiration, and is confirmed to others by the ministering of angels, and is declared unto the world by them— | “the ministering of angels” (Book of Mormon phrase: Jacob 7:17; Omni 1:25; Moroni 7:25) | “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16) | Reference to the Testimony of Three Witnesses (Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, & Martin Harris) to whom an angel appeared and who declare this unto the world (see also D&C 5 and D&C 17). |
| 11 | Proving to the world that the holy scriptures are true, and that God does inspire men and call them to his holy work in this age and generation, as well as in generations of old; | 2 Nephi 27, 29 | ||
| 12 | Thereby showing that he is the same God yesterday, today, and forever. Amen. | “For behold, I am God; and I am a God of miracles; and I will show unto the world that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever” (2 Nephi 27:3). See also 2 Nephi 2:4; 29:9; Alma 31:17; Mormon 9:9; Moroni 10:19. | “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” (Heb. 13:8) |
The Book of Mormon is Declared to the World (v. 13-16)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Therefore, having so great witnesses, by them shall the world be judged, even as many as shall hereafter come to a knowledge of this work. | “For I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in the north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they shall write the words which I speak unto them; for out of the books which shall be written I will judge the world, every man according to their works, according to that which is written.” (2 Nephi 29:11) “Write the works of this people, which shall be, even as hath been written, of that which hath been. For behold, out of the books which have been written, and which shall be written, shall this people be judged, for by them shall their works be known unto men. And behold, all things are written by the Father; therefore out of the books which shall be written shall the world be judged.” (3 Nephi 27:24-26) | ||
| 14 | And those who receive it in faith, and work righteousness, shall receive a crown of eternal life; | “work righteousness” (Alma 13:10; 26:8) | “crown of life” (James 1:12; Revelations 2:10) | The importance of the Book of Mormon and its role in helping people accept Christ and receive eternal life was previously emphasized by the Lord in D&C 3, 10, 17, and 19. |
| 15 | But those who harden their hearts in unbelief, and reject it, it shall turn to their own condemnation— | “harden your hearts in unbelief” (Alma 33:21) “own condemnation” (Alma 3:19; Helaman 14:29) | ||
| 16 | For the Lord God has spoken it; and we, the elders of the church, have heard and bear witness to the words of the glorious Majesty on high, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. | Paul sometimes ended his letters to the churches with “to whom be glory forever and ever” (Romans 11:36; Galatians 1:5; 2 Timothy 4:18; Hebrews 13:21). |
Orthodoxy: Doctrines of the Church of Christ (v. 17-36)
The Plan of Salvation & the Gospel of Jesus Christ (v. 17-28)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | By these things we know that there is a God in heaven, who is infinite and eternal, from everlasting to everlasting the same unchangeable God, the framer of heaven and earth, and all things which are in them; | “For it is expedient that there should be a great and last sacrifice; yea, not a sacrifice of man, neither of beast, neither of any manner of fowl; for it shall not be a human sacrifice; but it must be an infinite and eternal sacrifice… And behold, this is the whole meaning of the law, every whit pointing to that great and last sacrifice; and that great and last sacrifice will be the Son of God, yea, infinite and eternal.” (Alma 34:10, 14) “For behold, God knowing all things, being from everlasting to everlasting, behold, he sent angels to minister unto the children of men, to make manifest concerning the coming of Christ; and in Christ there should come every good thing.” (Moroni 7:22) “For I know that God is not a partial God, neither a changeable being; but he is unchangeable from all eternity to all eternity.” (Moroni 8:18) “Yea, he is the very Eternal Father of heaven and of earth, and all things which in them are” (Alma 11:39) | “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.” (Ps. 90:2) | The phrases “infinite and eternal”, “unchangeable God”, “heaven and earth and all things which in them are” are not found in the Bible, and are unique to the Book of Mormon. |
| 18 | And that he created man, male and female, after his own image and in his own likeness, created he them; | “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness… God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” (Genesis 1:26-27) | ||
| 19 | And gave unto them commandments that they should love and serve him, the only living and true God, and that he should be the only being whom they should worship. | Alma 12; Alma 42; Mormon 9:28 | “Thou shalt have no other gods before me… Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them” (Ex. 20:3,5). “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” (Deut. 6:5) | |
| 20 | But by the transgression of these holy laws man became sensual and devilish, and became fallen man. | “For they are carnal and devilish, and the devil has power over them; yea, even that old serpent that did beguile our first parents, which was the cause of their fall; which was the cause of all mankind becoming carnal, sensual, devilish, knowing evil from good, subjecting themselves to the devil.” (Mosiah 16:3) “But behold, it was appointed unto man to die — therefore, as they were cut off from the tree of life they should be cut off from the face of the earth — and man became lost forever, yea, they became fallen man… Therefore, as they had become carnal, sensual, and devilish, by nature, this probationary state became a state for them to prepare; it became a preparatory state.” (Alma 42:6,10) | ||
| 21 | Wherefore, the Almighty God gave his Only Begotten Son, as it is written in those scriptures which have been given of him. | “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) | ||
| 22 | He suffered temptations but gave no heed unto them. | “And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people.” (Mosiah 3:7) “And thus the flesh becoming subject to the Spirit, or the Son to the Father, being one God, suffereth temptation, and yieldeth not to the temptation, but suffereth himself to be mocked, and scourged, and cast out, and disowned by his people.” (Mosiah 15:5) “And he shall go forth, suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind” (Alma 7:11) | The Temptation of Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13) “For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.” (Hebrews 2:18) “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrew 4:15) | |
| 23 | He was crucified, died, and rose again the third day; | “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures” (1 Cor. 15:3-4) | ||
| 24 | And ascended into heaven, to sit down on the right hand of the Father, to reign with almighty power according to the will of the Father; | “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, have miracles ceased because Christ hath ascended into heaven, and hath sat down on the right hand of God, to claim of the Father his rights of mercy which he hath upon the children of men?” (Moroni 7:27) “And may the grace of God the Father, whose throne is high in the heavens, and our Lord Jesus Christ, who sitteth on the right hand of his power, until all things shall become subject unto him, be, and abide with you forever. Amen.” (Moroni 9:26) | “Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God.” (Luke 22:69) “Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high” (Heb. 1:3) | |
| 25 | That as many as would believe and be baptized in his holy name, and endure in faith to the end, should be saved— | “And if they will not repent and believe in his name, and be baptized in his name, and endure to the end, they must be damned; for the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has spoken it.” (2 Nephi 9:24) “And it shall come to pass, that whoso repenteth and is baptized in my name shall be filled; and if he endureth to the end, behold, him will I hold guiltless before my Father at that day when I shall stand to judge the world.” (3 Nephi 27:16) | “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” (Matt. 24:13) | |
| 26 | Not only those who believed after he came in the meridian of time, in the flesh, but all those from the beginning, even as many as were before he came, who believed in the words of the holy prophets, who spake as they were inspired by the gift of the Holy Ghost, who truly testified of him in all things, should have eternal life, | “Behold I say unto you, that whosoever has heard the words of the prophets, yea, all the holy prophets who have prophesied concerning the coming of the Lord — I say unto you, that all those who have hearkened unto their words, and believed that the Lord would redeem his people, and have looked forward to that day for a remission of their sins, I say unto you, that these are his seed, or they are heirs of the kingdom of God.” (Mosiah 15:11) | ||
| 27 | As well as those who should come after, who should believe in the gifts and callings of God by the Holy Ghost, which beareth record of the Father and of the Son; | “And after this manner did they ordain priests and teachers, according to the gifts and callings of God unto men; and they ordained them by the power of the Holy Ghost, which was in them.” (Moroni 3:4) The Holy Ghost “beareth record” of the Father and the Son: 1 Nephi 12:18; 3 Nephi 11:32; 3 Nephi 28:11; Ether 12:41 | ||
| 28 | Which Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are one God, infinite and eternal, without end. Amen. | “the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, which is one God, without end” (2 Nephi 31:21) “For it is expedient that there should be a great and last sacrifice; yea, not a sacrifice of man, neither of beast, neither of any manner of fowl; for it shall not be a human sacrifice; but it must be an infinite and eternal sacrifice… And behold, this is the whole meaning of the law, every whit pointing to that great and last sacrifice; and that great and last sacrifice will be the Son of God, yea, infinite and eternal.” (Alma 34:10, 14) |
Justification & Sanctification through Jesus Christ (v. 29-36)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 | And we know that all men must repent and believe on the name of Jesus Christ, and worship the Father in his name, and endure in faith on his name to the end, or they cannot be saved in the kingdom of God. | “And he commandeth all men that they must repent, and be baptized in his name, having perfect faith in the Holy One of Israel, or they cannot be saved in the kingdom of God. And if they will not repent and believe in his name, and be baptized in his name, and endure to the end, they must be damned; for the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has spoken it.” (2 Nephi 9:23-24) “Behold, they will crucify him; and after he is laid in a sepulchre for the space of three days he shall rise from the dead, with healing in his wings; and all those who shall believe on his name shall be saved in the kingdom of God.” (2 Nephi 25:13) “worship the Father in his name” (2 Nephi 25:16; Jacob 4:5) “And this is my doctrine, and it is the doctrine which the Father hath given unto me; and I bear record of the Father, and the Father beareth record of me, and the Holy Ghost beareth record of the Father and me; and I bear record that the Father commandeth all men, everywhere, to repent and believe in me. And whoso believeth in me, and is baptized, the same shall be saved; and they are they who shall inherit the kingdom of God.” (3 Nephi 11:32-33) | ||
| 30 | And we know that justification through the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is just and true; | “By the law no flesh is justified; or, by the law men are cut off… Wherefore, redemption cometh in and through the Holy Messiah; for he is full of grace and truth. Behold, he offereth himself a sacrifice for sin, to answer the ends of the law, unto all those who have a broken heart and a contrite spirit; and unto none else can the ends of the law be answered. Wherefore, how great the importance to make these things known unto the inhabitants of the earth, that they may know that there is no flesh that can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah, who layeth down his life according to the flesh, and taketh it again by the power of the Spirit, that he may bring to pass the resurrection of the dead, being the first that should rise.” (2 Nephi 2:5-8) “After ye are reconciled unto God, that it is only in and through the grace of God that ye are saved.” (2 Nephi 10:24) “It is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do” (2 Nephi 25:25) | “By Him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.” (Acts 13:39) “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24) “That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:7) | Justification = Being forgiven, accepted, and accounted righteous in God’s sight |
| 31 | And we know also, that sanctification through the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is just and true, to all those who love and serve God with all their mights, minds, and strength. | “Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can in nowise deny the power of God. And again, if ye by the grace of God are perfect in Christ, and deny not his power, then are ye sanctified in Christ by the grace of God, through the shedding of the blood of Christ, which is in the covenant of the Father unto the remission of your sins, that ye become holy, without spot.” (Moroni 10:32-33) | “And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” (1 Cor. 1:30) “Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thes. 5:23) “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” (Deut. 6:5) | Sanctification = Becoming more like Christ in mind, will, affections, and behaviors |
| 32 | But there is a possibility that man may fall from grace and depart from the living God; | There isn’t a specific verse that I can find (yet) that uses this same language; rather, the language seems to be inspired from the New Testament. However, this idea—that those who once were justified and sanctified by the grace of God can depart from Him and fall—is extremely prevalent throughout the Book of Mormon. | “Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.” (Galatians 5:4) “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” (1 Cor. 10:12) “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.” (Heb. 3:12) | |
| 33 | Therefore let the church take heed and pray always, lest they fall into temptation; | “Verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always, lest ye be tempted by the devil, and ye be led away captive by him. Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always lest ye enter into temptation; for Satan desireth to have you, that he may sift you as wheat.” (3 Nephi 18:15,18) | ||
| 34 | Yea, and even let those who are sanctified take heed also. | “And I would that ye should remember also, that this is the name that I said I should give unto you that never should be blotted out, except it be through transgression; therefore, take heed that ye do not transgress, that the name be not blotted out of your hearts.” (Mosiah 5:11) “Wherefore, take heed, my beloved brethren, that ye do not judge that which is evil to be of God, or that which is good and of God to be of the devil.” (Moroni 7:14) | “Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons” (Deut. 4:9) “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” (1 Cor. 10:12) “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.” (Heb. 3:12) | |
| 35 | And we know that these things are true and according to the revelations of John, neither adding to, nor diminishing from the prophecy of his book, the holy scriptures, or the revelations of God which shall come hereafter by the gift and power of the Holy Ghost, the voice of God, or the ministering of angels. | “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” (Revelations 22:18-19) | ||
| 36 | And the Lord God has spoken it; and honor, power and glory be rendered to his holy name, both now and ever. Amen. |
Orthopraxy: Administration of the Church of Christ (v. 37-84)
Requirements for Baptism (v. 37)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 37 | And again, by way of commandment to the church concerning the manner of baptism— All those who humble themselves before God, and desire to be baptized, and come forth with broken hearts and contrite spirits, and witness before the church that they have truly repented of all their sins, and are willing to take upon them the name of Jesus Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end, and truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins, shall be received by baptism into his church. | “And now I speak concerning baptism. Behold, elders, priests, and teachers were baptized; and they were not baptized save they brought forth fruit meet that they were worthy of it. Neither did they receive any unto baptism save they came forth with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, and witnessed unto the church that they truly repented of all their sins. And none were received unto baptism save they took upon them the name of Christ, having a determination to serve him to the end.” (Moroni 6:1-3) “And now, my brethren, I would that ye should humble yourselves before God, and bring forth fruit meet for repentance, that ye may also enter into that rest.” (Alma 13:13) “Verily I say unto you, that whoso repenteth of his sins through your words and desireth to be baptized in my name, on this wise shall ye baptize them” (3 Nephi 11:23) “And ye shall offer for a sacrifice unto me a broken heart and a contrite spirit.” (3 Nephi 9:20; see also 3 Nephi 12:19; Mormon 2:14; Ether 4:15; 2 Nephi 2:7) “For I remember the word of God, which saith by their works ye shall know them; for if their works be good, then they are good also.” (Moroni 7:5) | In the summer of 1830, Oliver Cowdery wrote Joseph Smith, saying, “I command you in the name of God to erase those words, that no priestcraft be amongst us.” Oliver disapproved of a phrase included in the list of requirements for baptism in D&C 20:37: “And truly manifest by their works that they have received of the Spirit of Christ unto the remission of their sins.” Joseph “immediately wrote to [Oliver] in reply, in which [Joseph] asked him by what authority [Oliver,] took upon him to command [him] to alter or erase…a revelation…from Almighty God.” Shortly after, Joseph traveled to see Oliver at the Peter Whitmer home where he was living. Unfortunately, Oliver not only had become angry with Joseph, but he had negatively influenced the Whitmers so that the entire household had become agitated in their feelings. Joseph’s history records, “I found the [Whitmer] family in [favor] of [Oliver’s] opinion … and it was not without both labor and [persistence] that I could prevail with any of them to reason calmly on the subject.” In the end, Joseph “succeeded in bringing not only the Whitmer family, but also Oliver Cowdery to acknowledge that they had been in error” (the proceeding account and quotations are from History of the Church 1:104-105). |
The Duty of the Apostles / Elders (v. 38-45)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 38 | The duty of the elders, priests, teachers, deacons, and members of the church of Christ— An apostle is an elder, and it is his calling to baptize; | “Now the number of [disciples] who had been called, and received power and authority to baptize, was twelve” (3 Nephi 12:1) “The disciples, who were called the elders of the church” (Moroni 3:1) | In the Book of Mormon, the office of “elder” after the visit of Christ applies to one who is a member of that group of 12 disciples authorized to baptize. However, it does seem that in the Church of God established by Alma the Elder there was also a role of “elder”. It is only mentioned in Alma 4 and 6: “Now this was the cause of much affliction to Alma, yea, and to many of the people whom Alma had consecrated to be teachers, and priests, and elders over the church; yea, many of them were sorely grieved for the wickedness which they saw had begun to be among their people… And he selected a wise man who was among the elders of the church…” (Alma 4:7,16) “And now it came to pass that after Alma had made an end of speaking unto the people of the church, which was established in the city of Zarahemla, he ordained priests and elders, by laying on his hands according to the order of God, to preside and watch over the church.” (Alma 6:1) It seems that this role of “elder” was more administrative than ministerial in nature as the only mentioned responsibilities are to “preside” and “watch over the church”. It could be that this role of “elder” would be similar to Nephi’s description of “elders of the Jews” (1 Nephi 4:22). |
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| 39 | And to ordain other elders, priests, teachers, and deacons; | “The manner which the disciples, who were called the elders of the church, ordained priests and teachers” (Moroni 3:1) “The disciples of Jesus, whom he had chosen, had all gone to the paradise of God, save it were the three who should tarry; and there were other disciples ordained in their stead” (4 Nephi 4:14) | ||
| 40 | And to administer bread and wine—the emblems of the flesh and blood of Christ— | “The manner of their elders and priests administering the flesh and blood of Christ unto the church” (Moroni 4:1) | ||
| 41 | And to confirm those who are baptized into the church, by the laying on of hands for the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, according to the scriptures; | “The disciples bear record that he gave them power to give the Holy Ghost” (3 Nephi 18:37) “Ye shall have power that to him upon whom ye shall lay your hands, ye shall give the Holy Ghost; and in my name shall ye give it, for thus do mine apostles.” (Moroni 2:2) | ||
| 42 | And to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and watch over the church; | “And the twelve did teach the multitude… And it came to pass that they arose and ministered unto the people” (3 Nephi 19:6-7) “The disciples of Jesus were journeying and preaching the things which they had both heard and seen” (3 Nephi 27:1) “Blessed are ye if ye shall give heed unto the words of these twelve whom I have chosen from among you to minister unto you, and to be your servants; and unto them I have given power that they may baptize you with water” (3 Nephi 12:1) “And now it came to pass that after Alma had made an end of speaking unto the people of the church, which was established in the city of Zarahemla, he ordained priests and elders, by laying on his hands according to the order of God, to preside and watch over the church.” (Alma 6:1) | ||
| 43 | And to confirm the church by the laying on of the hands, and the giving of the Holy Ghost; | See v. 41 above | ||
| 44 | And to take the lead of all meetings. | “And now it came to pass that after Alma had made an end of speaking unto the people of the church, which was established in the city of Zarahemla, he ordained priests and elders, by laying on his hands according to the order of God, to preside and watch over the church.” (Alma 6:1) | ||
| 45 | The elders are to conduct the meetings as they are led by the Holy Ghost, according to the commandments and revelations of God. | “And their meetings were conducted by the church after the manner of the workings of the Spirit, and by the power of the Holy Ghost; for as the power of the Holy Ghost led them whether to preach, or to exhort, or to pray, or to supplicate, or to sing, even so it was done.” (Moroni 6:9) |
The Duty of the Priests (v. 46-52)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 46 | The priest’s duty is to preach, teach, expound, exhort, and baptize, and administer the sacrament, | “The manner which the disciples, who were called the elders of the church, ordained priests and teachers—After they had prayed unto the Father in the name of Christ, they laid their hands upon them, and said: In the name of Jesus Christ I ordain you to be a priest… to preach repentance and remission of sins through Jesus Christ, by the endurance of faith on his name to the end. Amen.” (Moroni 3:1-3) “And it came to pass that Alma, having authority from God, ordained priests; even one priest to every fifty of their number did he ordain to preach unto them, and to teach them concerning the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. And he commanded them that they should teach nothing save it were the things which he had taught, and which had been spoken by the mouth of the holy prophets. Yea, even he commanded them that they should preach nothing save it were repentance and faith on the Lord, who had redeemed his people.” (Mosiah 18:18-20) “And it came to pass that king Mosiah granted unto Alma that he might establish churches throughout all the land of Zarahemla; and gave him power to ordain priests and teachers over every church. Now this was done because there were so many people that they could not all be governed by one teacher; neither could they all hear the word of God in one assembly; Therefore they did assemble themselves together in different bodies, being called churches; every church having their priests and their teachers, and every priest preaching the word according as it was delivered to him by the mouth of Alma. (Mosiah 25: 19-21) The word “expound” is used 15 times in the Book of Mormon in reference to someone in a ministerial role explaining the scriptures or doctrines of God. “And their meetings were conducted by the church after the manner of the workings of the Spirit, and by the power of the Holy Ghost; for as the power of the Holy Ghost led them whether to preach, or to exhort, or to pray, or to supplicate, or to sing, even so it was done.” (Moroni 6:9) “And Alma established a church in the land of Sidom, and consecrated priests and teachers in the land, to baptize unto the Lord whosoever were desirous to be baptized” (Alma 15:13). “The manner of their elders and priests administering the flesh and blood of Christ unto the church” (Moroni 4:1) | There is no record that the role of “priest” in the Book of Mormon after Christ’s visit in 3 Nephi had the authority to baptize. It is recorded that Jesus only gave the 12 disciples/elders authority to baptize (3 Nephi 12:1). However, in the Church of Christ as established by Alma the Elder, it seems that Alma the Younger consecrated at least some priests (and maybe teachers) in Sidom had authority to baptize. |
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| 47 | And visit the house of each member, and exhort them to pray vocally and in secret and attend to all family duties. | “And now, Alma was their high priest, he being the founder of their church. And it came to pass that none received authority to preach or to teach except it were by him from God. Therefore he consecrated all their priests and all their teachers; and none were consecrated except they were just men. Therefore they did watch over their people, and did nourish them with things pertaining to righteousness.” (Mosiah 23:16-18) “Yea, and I also exhort you, my brethren, that ye be watchful unto prayer continually, that ye may not be led away by the temptations of the devil, that he may not overpower you, that ye may not become his subjects at the last day; for behold, he rewardeth you no good thing.” (Alma 34:39) “And it came to pass that when Jesus had spoken these words unto his disciples, he turned again unto the multitude and said unto them: Behold, verily, verily, I say unto you, ye must watch and pray always lest ye enter into temptation; for Satan desireth to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. Therefore ye must always pray unto the Father in my name; And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you. Pray in your families unto the Father, always in my name, that your wives and your children may be blessed.” (3 Nephi 18:18-21) | Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” (James 1:27) | I command thee that thou shalt pray vocally as well as in thy heart; yea, before the world as well as in secret, in public as well as in private.” (D&C 19:28) |
| 48 | And he may also ordain other priests, teachers, and deacons. | In the Book of Mormon, priests and teachers only ever seem to be ordained or consecrated by one having higher authority (i.e., a high priest or post-Christ disciple/elder). High priests were ordained or consecrated by the previous high priest or by the king. Kings were consecrated by the previous king. Ordination never seemed to occur from one priest or teacher to another priest or teacher, respectively. | ||
| 49 | And he is to take the lead of meetings when there is no elder present; | “And now it came to pass that after Alma had made an end of speaking unto the people of the church, which was established in the city of Zarahemla, he ordained priests and elders, by laying on his hands according to the order of God, to preside and watch over the church.” (Alma 6:1) | ||
| 50 | But when there is an elder present, he is only to preach, teach, expound, exhort, and baptize, | See v. 46 above | ||
| 51 | And visit the house of each member, exhorting them to pray vocally and in secret and attend to all family duties. | See v. 47 above | ||
| 52 | In all these duties the priest is to assist the elder if occasion requires. |
The Duty of the Teachers & Deacons (v. 53-59)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | The teacher’s duty is to watch over the church always, and be with and strengthen them; | “And now, Alma was their high priest, he being the founder of their church. And it came to pass that none received authority to preach or to teach except it were by him from God. Therefore he consecrated all their priests and all their teachers; and none were consecrated except they were just men. Therefore they did watch over their people, and did nourish them with things pertaining to righteousness.” (Mosiah 23:16-18) | “When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren” (Luke 22:32) | |
| 54 | And see that there is no iniquity in the church, neither hardness with each other, neither lying, backbiting, nor evil speaking; | Teachers in the pre-Christ Church established by Alma the Elder not only taught, but had some role in the governance and administration of the churches (see Mosiah 25:19-21). “And they were strict to observe that there should be no iniquity among them; and whoso was found to commit iniquity, and three witnesses of the church did condemn them before the elders, and if they repented not, and confessed not, their names were blotted out, and they were not numbered among the people of Christ.” (Moroni 6:7) “And the church did meet together oft” (Moroni 6:5) | “For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults” (2 Cor. 12:20) “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice” (Eph. 4:31) | Teachers definitely have a more defined role beyond teaching in the restored Church of Christ. The “governing” part of the role of teachers in the Book of Mormon is largely unexplained. |
| 55 | And see that the church meet together often, and also see that all the members do their duty. | |||
| 56 | And he is to take the lead of meetings in the absence of the elder or priest— | |||
| 57 | And is to be assisted always, in all his duties in the church, by the deacons, if occasion requires. | Acts 6:1-6 is often seen as the start of the role of “deacons” in the New Testament. Seven men were called to take care of the physical and logistical needs of the church, so that the apostles could dedicate their time to preaching and ministering. The requirements for the office of deacon were laid out in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. | The office of “deacon” does not exist in the Book of Mormon, and comes strictly from the New Testament. | |
| 58 | But neither teachers nor deacons have authority to baptize, administer the sacrament, or lay on hands; | |||
| 59 | They are, however, to warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ. |
Ordinations of Elders, Priests, Teachers, & Deacons (v. 60)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | Every elder, priest, teacher, or deacon is to be ordained according to the gifts and callings of God unto him; and he is to be ordained by the power of the Holy Ghost, which is in the one who ordains him. | “And after this manner did they ordain priests and teachers, according to the gifts and callings of God unto men; and they ordained them by the power of the Holy Ghost, which was in them.” (Moroni 3:4) | Ordination according to the gifts and callings of God by the laying on of hands (Acts 6:5-6; 13:2-3; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6; Hebrews 6:1-2) |
Regular Conferences of the Elders (v. 61-62)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 61 | The several elders composing this church of Christ are to meet in conference once in three months, or from time to time as said conferences shall direct or appoint; | |||
| 62 | And said conferences are to do whatever church business is necessary to be done at the time. |
Licenses for Ordained Officers (v. 63-64)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 63 | The elders are to receive their licenses from other elders, by vote of the church to which they belong, or from the conferences. | Ministerial licenses trace their roots back to “letters of recommendation” in the early church (Acts 18:27; 2 Cor. 3:1-3). See also “Letters of Recommendation” in the Bible Hub Topical Encyclopedia. | “The practice of licensing for ministry [in Methodism] began in the late 1600s in England when the government decided they needed to have a way to approve or disapprove of particular nonconformist faith groups (meaning simply, not Church of England)” (The United Methodist Church, “Report of the 2017-2020 Study of Ministry Commission Report”). I am guessing it was likely common practice for ministers in Joseph’s area to have licenses to preach, and it made sense for the Church of Christ to do the same. (I’d love to find more sources on this topic.) |
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| 64 | Each priest, teacher, or deacon, who is ordained by a priest, may take a certificate from him at the time, which certificate, when presented to an elder, shall entitle him to a license, which shall authorize him to perform the duties of his calling, or he may receive it from a conference. |
Common Consent & Ordinations for the High Priesthood (v. 65-67)
These verses were inserted into D&C 20 after the office of high priest was revealed in Kirtland, Ohio in June 1831 (see the section header for D&C 52).
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 65 | No person is to be ordained to any office in this church, where there is a regularly organized branch of the same, without the vote of that church; | Even though this verse was included in D&C 20 until after June 1831, the principle of Common Consent was first introduced by revelation in July 1830: “And all things shall be done by common consent in the church, by much prayer and faith, for all things you shall receive by faith” (D&C 26:2). | ||
| 66 | But the presiding elders, traveling bishops, high councilors, high priests, and elders, may have the privilege of ordaining, where there is no branch of the church that a vote may be called. | |||
| 67 | Every president of the high priesthood (or presiding elder), bishop, high councilor, and high priest, is to be ordained by the direction of a high council or general conference. |
The Duty of Baptized Members (v. 68-70)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 68 | The duty of the members after they are received by baptism— The elders or priests are to have a sufficient time to expound all things concerning the church of Christ to their understanding, previous to their partaking of the sacrament and being confirmed by the laying on of the hands of the elders, so that all things may be done in order. | “And after they had been received unto baptism, and were wrought upon and cleansed by the power of the Holy Ghost, they were numbered among the people of the church of Christ; and their names were taken, that they might be remembered and nourished by the good word of God, to keep them in the right way, to keep them continually watchful unto prayer, relying alone upon the merits of Christ, who was the author and the finisher of their faith.” (Moroni 6:4) | “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Cor. 14:40) | |
| 69 | And the members shall manifest before the church, and also before the elders, by a godly walk and conversation, that they are worthy of it, that there may be works and faith agreeable to the holy scriptures—walking in holiness before the Lord. | “And now it came to pass that when Jesus had spoken these words, he turned his eyes again upon the disciples whom he had chosen, and said unto them: Behold verily, verily, I say unto you, I give unto you another commandment… that ye shall not suffer any one knowingly to partake of my flesh and blood unworthily, when ye shall minister it; For whoso eateth and drinketh my flesh and blood unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to his soul; therefore if ye know that a man is unworthy to eat and drink of my flesh and blood ye shall forbid him.” (3 Nephi 18:26-29) “They were not baptized save they brought forth fruit meet that they were worthy of it.” (Moroni 6:1) | “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” (Tit. 2:12). “Enoch walked faithfully with God.” (Gen. 5:22,24) “The Lord shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the Lord thy God, and walk in his ways.” (Deut. 28:9) “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called” (Eph. 4:1) “Walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory” (1 Thes. 2:12) “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” (1 John 2:6) “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ” (Phil. 1:27) “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (1 Tim. 4:12) “As he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation” (1 Pet. 1:15) “What manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness” (2 Pet. 3:11) Faith without works is dead (James 2:14-26). “Put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Eph. 4:24) “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.” (1 Thes. 4:7) “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Heb. 2:14) | Note that the Greek word translated as “conversation” in the King James Bible is better understood to the modern reader as “behavior” or “deportment” (see “Conversation” in the King James Bible Dictionary). |
| 70 | Every member of the church of Christ having children is to bring them unto the elders before the church, who are to lay their hands upon them in the name of Jesus Christ, and bless them in his name. | Jesus blesses the little children (3 Nephi 17:11-12, 21-24). | Jesus blesses the little children (Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16; Luke 18:15-17). |
Administration of Baptism (v. 71-74)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71 | No one can be received into the church of Christ unless he has arrived unto the years of accountability before God, and is capable of repentance. | Moroni 8: The Epistle of Mormon to his son Moroni concerning the abomination of infant baptism, wherein he taught that “repentance and baptism unto those who are accountable and capable of committing sin” (Moroni 8:10). | ||
| 72 | Baptism is to be administered in the following manner unto all those who repent— | 3 Nephi 11:22-28: Jesus Christ called the Twelve Disciples (Elders) and gave them authority and instructions to baptize all those who repent and come unto Him. | ||
| 73 | The person who is called of God and has authority from Jesus Christ to baptize, shall go down into the water with the person who has presented himself or herself for baptism, and shall say, calling him or her by name: Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. | “Behold, ye shall go down and stand in the water, and in my name shall ye baptize them. And now behold, these are the words which ye shall say, calling them by name, saying: Having authority given me of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.” (3 Nephi 11:23-25) | ||
| 74 | Then shall he immerse him or her in the water, and come forth again out of the water. | “And then shall ye immerse them in the water, and come forth again out of the water.” (3 Nephi 11:26) |
Administration of the Sacrament (v. 75-79)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75 | It is expedient that the church meet together often to partake of bread and wine in the remembrance of the Lord Jesus; | “And they did meet together oft to partake of bread and wine, in remembrance of the Lord Jesus.” (Moroni 6:6; see also 3 Nephi 18). | ||
| 76 | And the elder or priest shall administer it; and after this manner shall he administer it—he shall kneel with the church and call upon the Father in solemn prayer, saying: | “The manner of their elders and priests administering the flesh and blood of Christ unto the church; and they administered it according to the commandments of Christ; wherefore we know the manner to be true; and the elder or priest did minister it— And they did kneel down with the church, and pray to the Father in the name of Christ, saying:” (Moroni 4:1-2) | ||
| 77 | O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those who partake of it, that they may eat in remembrance of the body of thy Son, and witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given them; that they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen. | Moroni 4:3 | ||
| 78 | The manner of administering the wine—he shall take the cup also, and say: | “The manner of administering the wine—Behold, they took the cup, and said:” (Moroni 5:1) | ||
| 79 | O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this wine to the souls of all those who drink of it, that they may do it in remembrance of the blood of thy Son, which was shed for them; that they may witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they do always remember him, that they may have his Spirit to be with them. Amen. | Moroni 5:2 |
Dealing with Transgressing Members (v. 80)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 | Any member of the church of Christ transgressing, or being overtaken in a fault, shall be dealt with as the scriptures direct. | 3 Nephi 18:26-32; Moroni 6:7-8; see also Mosiah 26:29-32; Alma 6:3 | Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:1; 1 Cor. 5:11-13; 2 Thessalonians 3:6,14-15; Titus 3:10-11 | Paul was much more keen to shun sinners if they did not receive correction, whereas the instructions from Jesus in the Book of Mormon were to not let them partake of the Sacrament and to blot out their names, but not to cast them out—instead to minister to them and love them. D&C 42 (“The Law”) and other future revelations also provided instructions to the Saints on issues such as this. |
Maintaining Church Membership Records (v. 81-84)
| Verse | Text | Influence from the Book of Mormon | Influence from the Bible | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 81 | It shall be the duty of the several churches, composing the church of Christ, to send one or more of their teachers to attend the several conferences held by the elders of the church, | |||
| 82 | With a list of the names of the several members uniting themselves with the church since the last conference; or send by the hand of some priest; so that a regular list of all the names of the whole church may be kept in a book by one of the elders, whomsoever the other elders shall appoint from time to time; | “And after they had been received unto baptism, and were wrought upon and cleansed by the power of the Holy Ghost, they were numbered among the people of the church of Christ; and their names were taken, that they might be remembered and nourished by the good word of God, to keep them in the right way, to keep them continually watchful unto prayer, relying alone upon the merits of Christ, who was the author and the finisher of their faith.” (Moroni 6:4) | ||
| 83 | And also, if any have been expelled from the church, so that their names may be blotted out of the general church record of names. | “Whoso was found to commit iniquity, and three witnesses of the church did condemn them before the elders, and if they repented not, and confessed not, their names were blotted out, and they were not numbered among the people of Christ.” (Moroni 6:7) | ||
| 84 | All members removing from the church where they reside, if going to a church where they are not known, may take a letter certifying that they are regular members and in good standing, which certificate may be signed by any elder or priest if the member receiving the letter is personally acquainted with the elder or priest, or it may be signed by the teachers or deacons of the church. |