One thing I think is so cool about Sections 127 and 128 is that we get to hear Joseph Smith’s own voice!
Don’t get me wrong, learning from the Lord, as recorded by Joseph, is amazing, and I’m so glad that most of our scriptures in the Doctrine and Covenants are straight from Him.
But I also have learned SO MUCH by studying these two sections about how Joseph received revelation.
Because if I know anything about Joseph, this man KNEW how to receive revelation from the Lord.
So what did Joseph do in order to receive this groundbreaking instruction about baptisms for the dead, a completely new concept?!
“I will write the word of the Lord from time to time” (D&C 127:10)
Joseph knew that revelation took time and came little bit by little bit.
“I now resume the subject of the baptism for the dead, as that subject seems to occupy my mind and press itself upon my feelings the strongest” (D&C 128:1)
Joseph received revelation by following the subjects that his mind and spirit were pulled toward.
“As you will find recorded in Revelation 20:12…” (D&C 128:6)
Joseph was in the scriptures. He quotes 5 different scriptures from the Bible and talks freely about them, making connections between the glimpses of doctrine that are taught.
“I have a few additional views in relation to this matter, which I now certify” (D&C 128:2)
He thought that he had learned something, but then he received more revelation later that clarified and adjusted what he had learned earlier.
“Let the mountains shout for joy, and all ye valleys cry aloud; and all ye seas and dry lands tell the wonders of your Eternal King!” (D&C 128:23)
He praised the Lord constantly as he received revelation, and always brought his mind back to gratitude for what he had been given.
What a cool master class in receiving revelation, right?
What stood out to you as you read Joseph’s own words in Sections 127-128?
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
