D & C 111 - 114 Purify Your Hearts Before Me

Revelation Dates: August 1836 – April 1838

Revelation Places: Salem, Massachusetts; Kirtland, Ohio; Farr West, Missouri

Section 111 - Historical Background: In the summer of 1836, a member from Massachusetts by the name of Jonathan Burgess, came to Joseph regarding a sister member in Salem, Massachusetts who was now deceased. He explained that prior to her death she intended to give the church a large treasure of gold and silver which was stored in her basement. Seemingly true, Joseph knew this treasure would be a great blessing to help pay the significant debts taken on by the church for the building of the temple and assisting the saints in Zion. As Joseph, Hyrum, Sidney and Oliver left Kirtland on their mission to the Northeast, they stopped in Salem. Upon arrival they met with brother Burgess, but the sister’s home (and treasure) could not be found due to the tremendous changes in the growth of the city. Meanwhile, back in Zion the saints who had been driven from Jackson County were settling in Clay County. Now, they were asked to leave that county also. Amidst all this turmoil, many of the church leadership were away on this missionary effort, and Joseph received the following revelation.

• Recap: The Lord is pleased with their journey, despite their folly (for the treasure). Don’t be concerned about the debts of the church, for the Lord will give the saints power to cover these debts. Continue the missionary work in Salem and the vicinity.

Section 112 - Historical Background: As it often occurs, following marvelous and beautiful spiritual manifestations, come equally spectacular evil doings, hardships and tribulation. The saints had experienced magnificent spiritual visions and wonders at the dedication of the Kirtland temple, but were now experiencing unprecedented mobs and persecution. Little did they know the Lord was about to manifest significant sifting in the  church, including its leadership. The year following the temple dedication saw a spirit of apostasy sweep through the church. In the midst of this, the Lord opened England as a focus for missionary work, which became incredibly successful. It had been nearly a year since the Lord had given Joseph a direct revelation. The Lord directs this to the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve (Thomas B Marsh is Quorum President).

• Recap: Thomas B Marsh was troubled, prayerfully seeking repentance, which was granted. Now, he must remain faithful and preach the gospel. The Lord knows his heart and he must refrain from being partial towards the brethren. Admonish the 12 Apostles for their sins, who must humble themselves, soften their hearts and repent. Marsh holds the keys to administer over the twelve. A day of desolation and lamentation will cover the earth, beginning in the church. Go with the twelve into the world and preach the Lord’s gospel. Stay faithful.

Section 113 - Historical Background: 1837 and 1838 were the saddest years in the church up to this time, with rampant apostasy and threatening murders. Armed mobs pursued Joseph constantly. In one day, Joseph was arrested, released and arrested again 6 times. Fleeing for their lives, the saints abandoned their homes and escaped into the western frontier, settling temporarily in Farr West Missouri. Upon his arrival, Joseph was asked several questions by the brethren concerning the book of Isaiah. This revelation is one of three sections in the Doctrine and Covenants that deal with scriptural interpretation (see also sections 74 and 77).

• Recap: Isaiah Ch 11: The Stem of Jesse is Jesus Christ; the Rod of Jesse describes Joseph Smith as a resurrected being; the Root of Jesse describes Joseph Smith in mortality; Ch 52: The strength of Zion is the Priesthood; To loosen the bands of her neck is in reference to scattered Israel and releasing the curse upon the Jews.

Section 114 - Historical Background: This revelation relates primarily to David W Patton. In 1835 Patton was ordained to be an apostle and was always faithful to Joseph and obedient to God. In this revelation, David W Patton is called on a mission. Note: In October, 1838, while defending the church against an angry mob at Crooked River, Apostle David W. Patton was killed, thus becoming the first martyred “Prophet, Seer and Revelator” in the last days.

• Recap: David W. Patton to settle his affairs and go into the mission field to preach the gospel. Those who hold church positions that are unfaithful will be replaced.