Filling the Gaps – Part 2

These are my questions I asked recently to help me fill the gaps of my experience with the Lord. He said to come often and ask. I know some of this is going to be very strange, it is condensed and edited, but hopefully it will help you to formulate question to ask the Lord yourself.

Is it better to sing or pray in tones or in tongues when we seek to bring down the glory? The Lord said that when we are alone it is better to pray in tongues. We can more easily relax. But, when we are in groups it is good to pray in tones so as to not distract those next to us. The Lord said that humming is more difficult because we can’t reach the right octave as easy. I just made the E sound with my mouth open and was able to get the right pitch.

Why do angels sometimes appear gold, like John did? The Lord said that resurrected beings and translated beings appear differently to the spiritual eyes. It has to do with a frequency of light, like a halo. Translated being will always appear as if they are emitting a golden flame, but resurrected beings it is white glory.

Can someone receive the Holy Ghost and not water baptism? What if they received it in the Spirit World and don’t have an opportunity to receive a baptism for the dead? The Lord said that they can receive the Gift of the Holy Ghost before the baptism of water, but all must have the ordinance to progress to Eternal Life. Those who do not receive before death, but choose to receive after, have two options: One, it to receive from their close relatives, which often helps them in the process of making that commitment and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. The second, and more common, is to piggyback on a baptism received by one who has real intent. Sometimes, multiple spirits will take part in a physical baptism of water to make their covenant with the Father and prepare for Eternal Life. Sometimes receiving this opportunity takes a long time if true baptisms are in short supply, but they are much more common now. Every single soul that accepts Christ’s atonement will have the opportunity to move forward in the Everlasting Covenant.

Why was I praising on the right side of the Throne room if that is where the women are? The Lord had my stand and look back toward the Grand Hall where all the angels were praising. It is brilliant white and large, but I noticed it was terraced. I noticed that the gates where angels entered were light blue, not seeing what was beyond. The Lord explained that the immediate level was divided male and female, but on the terraces,  they are not divided the same. It was made known to me that the hall is not some static structure. That it can expand or contract as the Lord desires. It is so bright it doesn’t even feel like a hall, but it is.

Do all have their Second Comforter at the Throne? Why would they be different? The Lord reminded me that my first experience was not at the Throne as we were now. Above the Throne is a place, like an open room where He often will greet those who come. This was my first experience. I didn’t remember any structures at first, just Him. It was here that we first met. He said that others will have experiences in the First Heaven, or even in the environment of where they are on earth. He said that the experience is more limited when it occurs this way but is a “Second Comforter” as they call it none-the-less. This is much different than to have ones Calling and Election Made Sure, which is a blessing and remembrance of their divine mission. This always occurs at the Throne.

How do the stars witness to our lives at the Throne? The Lord said that there are stars that represent each of the 144k of this Dominion. Their place in the Heavens witnesses to the actions of His servants and this is something I will learn about in the future. Nothing happens in random when it comes to the creations of God.

The Lord said that any of the gifts of the Spirit are technically sealing power, but the term is usually meant to be an unhindered degree of His power. This is something that is bestowed upon His servants to fulfill a foreordained mission.

What does it mean “My creation is forever.” When I saw the many planets? The Lord said that There is no end to His creation. This is Eternal Life.

How is a physical planet born? I saw the spiritual birth, right? The way the Lord explained this to me, both in word and vision was so interesting. He said that all things are created spiritual, like a blueprint for the final development of the form, the plan is set, and the tabernacle is given. Every part of the anatomy of the person or animal is in the spirit form, and when it is placed in motion to become physical, unless it is hindered, it will follow that plan. The earth was the same. It was created spiritually and when the great waves of the firmament rushed upon the place of creation the elements began to bind themselves to the spirit and take shape in a similar manner. Like a wave as it rolled together. Many such creations take pace in nebulas and expanding stars throughout the galaxy.

If the Terrestrial Kingdom lies beyond the atmosphere of this earth, why are telestial visitors allowed to come here? The Lord said that the telestial and terrestrial mingle somewhat inside the Telestial region of the God’s dominion along the outside perimeter of the Firmament. The Angels of God abide within the light realm, and the telestial are amongst the physical element. Spirits who make an agreement to come to this earth are bound to it and God’s commandments and edicts regarding it. Other planets are not held to the same rules, but they must abide certain laws of conduct here.

What does helpmeet mean? The Lord said that it implies a companion that is equal to the task. You could say that Eve’s helpmeet was Adam.

Are the planets considered like animals? Do they reproduce? Does Kolob and Koholo have a relationship like male and female? The Lord said that they do not reproduce like animals, but sometimes some of their body is taken to start new worlds. The Lord said that whenever a new world is created, like His children, they are created in pairs, male and female. After they become 4^th estate they are paired like Kolob and Koholo and reign in the highest of Heaven. This will occur to Earth at the end of the Millennium when it is exalted.

Filling in the Gaps

The Lord has told me to return to my journal and read through all the experiences I’ve had since my Second Comforter to ask more questions, to fill in the gaps, so that I can learn more. He said there was far more to learn than what I am asking, that I need to seek. Therefore, I have written down questions and come to the Lord today anxious to see what He will show me. This is the first of that experience. (I was instructed that I could share some of it here. Please do not share unless you feel impressed to do so privately.)

I began my prayer expressing my love and desire to learn, to ask questions, and to be made clean. These were my intentions. I followed this by asking Him humbly, “Wilt thou forgive me of my sins, anything I’ve done that is harmful to my spirit?” I waited a few seconds and heard the words gently in my mind, “Yes, thou art forgiven.” That is usually what I hear. It is unmistakably Him. I always feel grateful, yet embarrassed. I have to be fully clean to be in His presence, so I wonder how possible it is to really remain fully clean after going about my week in this crazy world. My sins aren’t as heavy as others, yet, a sin is a sin. A cruel thought, a harsh judgment of another, impatience, anger, frustration, impure thoughts (though usually placed there by a bad spirit). I know what the weakness of my flesh is, and what is being thrown at me from the adversary. However, I know that the Lord is there for me and will make me clean, always.

I asked Him to pour His light and love over me and saw what almost resembles heavy water flowing down over my body, starting from my head. I was washed from head to toe. I heard what sounds like rushing waters, and the brilliance was brighter than the sun at noon day. I said, “Lord, am I clean?” “Yes,” was the answer I heard succinctly in my mind.

I feel so blessed and fortunate that the Lord is willing to do this for me. I feel unworthy, yet I know I am worth it to Him. I have confidence in Him!

I begin to praise Him as I sit on my closet floor. I express gratitude and love, thinking of names to describe His role in my life and my family. I’m not looking for fancy words or phrases. I just express what I feel. Before I realize I am praying in tongues, which is harmonic sounds to a cadence. I’m not concerned with how I sound. I feel the words and express them with emotion. I know they mean something, yet I do not know what, nor do I care, because I only focus upon my love and adoration for Him!

As the Spirit begins to build it gets to a spot where I feel ready. I ask, “Lord, may I come to thee?” I hear Him say, “Yes, come forth!” The portal opens. I see it in my eyes, and they are open, yet I do not see the closet space. I have reached beyond this mortal place. I go toward the large voluminous twisting vortex of a kind. It is filled with light. I move with great speed, beyond what I can comprehend, toward a place where God dwells.

I arrive with a burst of light and sound, almost more that the eye can bear, yet I am ready for it and do not hesitate or withdraw. I know where I am, because I have been here before.

An angel of the Most-High, the Cherub who guards the gate greets me and ushers me forward. I see the great hall, yet that seems the wrong word. It is an eternal assembly of angels facing the Throne of Heaven. I see men on my left and women on my right facing toward the great Lord of Lords seated upon His Throne in the distance. I see the vast galaxy above, with its arms of light spreading out. The Throne appears almost a hundred yards away. I am there in an instant. I am kneeling before His great Throne chair, which brilliance and detail is as I’ve described before. He steps forward and lifts me up, we embrace, and I ask to go to my Garden, where we have spoken so many times.

Standing in the Garden He is glorious, dressed in white, His face smooth as powder, His hair perfectly combed back, reddish brown. His eyes are clear and filled with color and love. It’s hard to express in detail the glory you feel in His presence. The love is gentle and accepting, so eager to be with me and answer my questions. I feel so small, yet so loved!

I look around at my surroundings for a moment. The golden foliage, the rich hues of the fragrant flowers along the path. Everything so bright, rich, colorful, comfortable, and familiar. I focus upon Him, holding His arm as I begin to ask my questions.

These questions were organized from my first visits with the Lord that I wanted clarity:

Is expressing love and desire to be close to the you a prerequisite to opening that door? He said: Your heart must be prepared to come to me. If your intent is anything but love and desire to know and serve, you will not be able to connect sufficiently to come here.

What happens when we bathe ourselves in light: our food, our water, our shower, in the light? How does this affect us? He said: As you continually fill yourself with light throughout the day, you are capable of receiving the gifts of the Spirit more readily, to offer healing to others as guided, whether to their knowledge or not. You become a beacon of light that cannot be hid, and you can do much. [Edit]

I asked about the rooms in the sky. The clear room that I have visited before. How many such rooms are there above the earth? He said twelve. How do they operate? They are places where God’s servants are taken to be shown great things pertaining to their mission and prepare them for future blessings. How often do people go there? Not too often. Are they the gate to the Second Heaven? No, there is not a gate like there is to the Throne. It’s just that certain spirits are confined to the First Heaven and others are permitted to go beyond. Only the fourth estate visit these rooms. They are created by faith, through the light of creation to serve a purpose. They exist in the Heavenly Realm, so they cannot be seen or experienced with the natural eye. I asked why there was a desk in this room and an entrance. He said that the desk is for signing special documents related to assignments relative to the principalities.  He said that not all the twelve rooms look exactly the same, but they are similar. He said that the First Heaven extends to about where the blue light of the earth ends as it enters the atmosphere. When in the clear room you are looking down from the edge of the Second Heaven. This was new to me.

Can we speak while moving our mouths in this realm, or only this way? Do most speak without moving their mouths here? When I asked this the Lord began to speak with His mouth. My focus instantly went to His mouth and he said, “Do you see how your attention is now distracted? It is not necessary here to do that. Communication is more clear otherwise, and usually we only open our mouths to sing or to emphasize a spoken edict.”

What is the meaning of the crescent moon in my first vision? What is the meaning of the blood moon? The Lord said that when radical Islam has spread across the Middle East and Europe it will bring great blood and horror upon many people as the Kingdom of the Beast rises in its full wrath upon the earth.

Is the huge meteor of my vision the “Wormwood” spoken by John in Revelation? Yes, and it will bring great destruction and plague upon the earth before my coming.

What was the garment of light that was thrown over me the first time I came to the Throne? It is a shield of comfort made of light and color, which calms the spirit. It was no longer necessary after you had come again and become accustomed to the change of the light and power of this realm.

Why do the angels sing in harmonic tones? What does that do? It helps them to connect to me upon my Throne. It also helps to not be distracted by those around them. There is a frequency of tone and light that must be reached for the full experience. Each of these 3^rd estate souls are taught and prepared for what will come in the future as they prepare to be called and chosen to become 4^th estate.

What is the spinning galaxy above the Throne? It is the galaxy in which you exist, in a real time, actual visual, where all things are made known. I the Lord see what is before me always, and the heavens are laid open all around. You cannot see but it is below you and on both sides as well. It is beautiful and mighty to see the creations of the Father, and all glory is to Him.

The Lord showed me that there were innumerable worlds He created through the Father, and all will someday have a destiny like this earth if they fill the measure of their creation.

Why is the Adversary allowed to come to the Throne and not some lower sphere? Does this not create an unclean environment? The Lord said that dark beings are allowed to come under the direction of the Shahophalim, [Edit] These dark spirits are in a shield of sorts, that only allows the Lord to interact with them. They are as relieved to leave as you are to see them go, but they have no effect upon the light and glory of this place.

What is the water in the Garden? He said it was not water like the element we think of, yet it is the same feeling of water and creates a sense of place for creatures that abide in it. It can also be drunk like water and bring the same sense of refreshment and life that you feel in mortality, yet with more purity and satisfaction.

Lord, what were the words spoken between you and me during my first experience with you that I could not remember? [Edit] It was a beautiful moment between us. I think I was so emotional I couldn’t remember when I first wrote the experience.

What is an archangel exactly? The Lord said that among the 200 Great Ones are the Holy family, [Edit] they played a key role in organizing the House of Israel and the work required to save them in the House of our Father.

Is the Father’s Throne above Jesus’ Throne? Did I pass through a veil or another gate? The Lord said that it is a separate place above Kholo, right between the center of all creation and the gate to the [Edit]. Going there is like stepping through a door.

What did the Father say that I can’t remember? You will need to ask Him.

Does the Sacrament more fully prepare me to come to the Lord? The Sacrament contains the promises that you are doing to repent and have light poured upon you that you may be holy. You could come without it, but it is a good preface for your interaction with the Lord.

Should I still memorize my favorite Psalms? The Lord said that they are beautiful, and I could do that, or I could just write my own. They are helpful in fighting the Adversary and praising to add light and glory.

Joseph Smith’s Letters for Section 121 – Thoughts

Joseph Smith’s letters at Liberty Jail, written to the Church and Edward Partridge, March 20, 1839 – Text used to create the Doctrine and Covenants, section 121.

Much of the writings of Joseph’s two letters were edited out before the final inclusion in the D&C, but I have added portions in this blog that I feel are of great worth. The text for this blog came directly from the original letters in the Joseph Smith Papers Project, so there may be a few different words and grammatical changes from the published version.

Section 121, as it was edited for inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants 1876 Edition. Portions selected by Orson Pratt under the direction of Brigham Young.

O God where art thou and where is the pavilion [veil that separates mortals from the Heavenly Realm] that covereth thy hiding place? How long shall thy hand be stayed and thine eye, yea thy pure eye, behold from the eternal heavens the wrongs of thy people, and of thy servants, [those in prison and elsewhere] and thine ear be penetrated with their cries? Yea o Lord, how long shall they suffer these wrongs and unlawful oppressions before thine hart shall be softened towards them, and thy bowels be moved with compassion towards them? O Lord God almighty, maker of heaven earth, and seas, and of all things that in them is, and who controlleth and subjecteth the devil and the dark and beknighted dominion of Sheol [the place of Hell for Satan’s dominion]. Stretch forth thy hand; let thine eye pierce; let thy pavilion be taken up; let thy hiding place no longer be covered; let thine ear be inclined; let thine heart be softened and thy bowels moved with compassion toward us; let thine anger be kindle against our enemies; and in the fury of thine heart with thy sword avenge us of our wrongs. Remember thy suffering saints, oh our God, and thy servants will rejoice in thy name for ever. [121:1-6]

[When seeking a blessing from the Lord it is appropriate to make our case in prayer, to reason before Him why we believe it is worthy to request something, always affirming that it is according to His will.]

 Until finally all enmity, malice, and hatred, and past differences, misunderstandings, and mismanagements lie slain, victims at the feet of hope, and when the heart is sufficiently contrite, then​ the voice of inspiration [revelation] steals along and whispers – [I included this short prelude to where the scripture picks up again. Joseph explains that when he felt completely broken and dependent upon the Lord, he heard the following:] my son, peace be unto thy soul. Thine adversity and thy afflictions shall be but a small moment, and then if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high. [This applies to all of us who suffer in this world. But how do you endure it well?] Thou shalt triumph over all thy foes. Thy friends do stand by thee and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands. [You shall return to them.] Thou art not yet as Job. [But it will happen in the future.] Thy friends do not contend against thee, neither charge thee with transgression as they did Job, and they who​ do charge thee with transgression, their hope shall be blasted, and their prospects shall melt away as the hoary frost melteth before the burning rays of the rising sun, and also that God hath set to his hand and seal to change the times and seasons [to change the earth at His coming], and to blind their minds that they may not understand his marvelous workings, that he may prove them also and take them in their own craftiness, also because their hearts are corrupt and the thing which they are willing to bring upon others and love to have others suffer may come upon themselves to the very utmost that they may be disappointed also, and their hopes may be cut off, and not many years hence that they and their posterity shall be swept from under heaven saith God, that not one of them is left to stand by the wall [none seeking entrance to the Kingdom]. cursed are all those that shall lift up the heal against mine anointed, saith the Lord, and cry they [the Lord’s anointed] have sinned when they have not sinned before me saith the Lord, but have done that which was meat in mine eyes and which I commanded them, but those who cry transgression do it because they are the servants of sin and are the children of disobedience themselves, and those who swear false against my servants that they might bring them unto bondage and death. Wo unto them because they have offended my little ones [those whose faith is young]. They shall be severed from the ordinances of mine house. [The blessings of the Gospel shall not be theirs.] Their basket shall not be full [cursed temporally], their houses and their barns shall famish, and they themselves shall be despised by those that flattered them. They shall not have right to the priesthood nor their posterity after them from generation to generation. [This prophecy is fulfilled.] It had been better for them that a millstone had been hanged about their necks and they drowned in the depth of the see. Wo unto all those that discomfort my people and drive and murder and testify against them, saith the Lord of Host. A generation of vipers shall not escape the damnation of hell. Behold mine eyes seeth and knoweth all their works and I have in reserve a swift judgement in the season thereof for them all, for there is a time appointed to​ every man according as their work shall be. [121:7-25]

[At this point Joseph reviews some church business and then gives counsel:]

We would say be aware of pride also, for well and truly hath the wise man said that pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty [aristocratic and superior attitude] spirit before a fall. Again, outward appearance is not always a criterion for us to judge our fellow man, but the lips betray the haughty and overbearing imaginations of the heart [imposing superior belief in oneself], by his words ​and​ his deeds let him be scanned. [Joseph tells the leaders not to trust the appearances of people. Look upon the fruit of their works, their words and deeds should be carefully considered.]

A fanciful, flowery and heated imagination be aware of, because the things of God are of deep import, and time, experience, and careful and ponderous and solemn thoughts can only find them out. [This is a beautiful clue that Joseph gives to the means by which the mysteries are given to us. There are those who will jump into a belief after having an imaginative vision and immediately assume that God has revealed to them a great truth. We must be cautious of such things. Will an angel suddenly appear to a person and declare to them something that is not scriptural? Joseph said it takes time and experience before such things of God are given to an individual. We must have an experience with God, which comes over time, requiring careful pondering, and searching. Then we are given that which we seek according to the Lord’s will. Those who preach with heated passion to have received hidden revelation must be listened to with great caution.]

[Joseph gives the formula by which we seek the mysteries of God:]

Thy mind O Man, if thou wilt lead a soul unto salvation [that leads to Christ] must stretch as high as the utmost Heavens [without limit to the Throne of Heaven], and search into and contemplate the lowest considerations of the darkest abyss, [and the deepest place in Hell] and expand upon the broad considerations of Eternal Expanse [God’s creation], he must commune with God. [To “commune” is to be in His presence.] This more:  how much more dignified and noble are the thoughts of God, than the vain imagination of the human heart [the desires of the carnal man]? None but fools will trifle [to act frivolously] with the souls of men. How vain and trifling, have been our spirits, our conferences, our councils, our meetings in private as well as public. Conversations are too low, too mean, too vulgar, too condescending, for the dignified characters of the Called and Chosen of God, according to the purposes of his word will from before the foundation of the world, to hold the keys, of the mysteries of those things that have been kept hid from the foundation until now, of ​which some have tasted a little and which many of them are to be poured down from heaven upon the heads of babes, yea the weak, obscure and despisable ones of this earth. [You don’t know what the Lord has prepared for you!]

Therefore, we beseech of you brethren, that ​you bear​ [be patient] with those who do not feel themselves more worthy than yourselves, while we exort one another, to a reaffirmation with one an all, both old and young, teachers and taught, both high and low, rich and poor, bond and free, male and female. Let honesty and sobriety, and candor, and solemnity, and virtue, and pureness, and meekness, and simplicity, crown our heads in every place, and in fine, become as little children, without malice, guile, or hypocrisy.

[Here the Section 121 picks up again at verse 26:]

And now brethren, after your tribulations if you do these things, and exercise fervent prayer, and have faith in the sight of God always, he shall give unto you knowledge [spiritual understanding of the mysteries, which only comes through God] by his Holy Spirit; yea by the unspeakable gift of the Holy Ghost that has not been revealed since the world was [created] until now, which our fathers [the Patriarchs and Prophets] have waited with anxious expectation to be revealed in the last times, which their minds were pointed to by the Angels [angelic visitations] as held in reserve for the fullness of their glory a time to come in the which nothing shall be withheld [in the near coming future], whether there be one god or many gods, they shall be manifest, all thrones, and dominions, principalities, and powers shall be revealed and set forth upon all who have endured valiantly for the Gospel of Jesus Christ [The vast scope of that portion of this sentence is incomprehensible to the carnal mind.], and also if there be bounds set to the heavens, or to the seas, or to the dry land, or to the sun, moon, or stars, all the times of their revolutions all their appointed days, month, and years, and all the days of their days, months, and years, and all their glories, laws, and set times [This alludes to the science and laws of God that control all creation.] shall be revealed in the days of the dispensation of the fullness of times⁷³ [from Joseph until now] according to that which was ordained in the midst of the council of the eternal God of all other Gods [Interesting is it not?] before this world was that should be reserved unto the finishing and the end thereof when​ every man shall enter into his eternal presence and into his immortal rest [the Final Judgment of God], but I beg leave [change topic] to say unto you Brethren that ignorance, superstition, and bigotry, placing itself where it ought not is often times in the way of the prosperity of this church. Like the torrent of rain from the mountains that floods the most pure and crystal stream with mire, and dirt, and filthiness, and obscures everything that was clear before, and all hurls along in one general deluge, but time weathers​ the tide, and notwithstanding we are rolled in for the time being by the mire of the flood, the next surge, peradventure as time roles on, may bring us to the fountain as clear as crystal, and as pure as snow, while all the filthiness floodwood and rubbish is left and purged out by the way. How long can rolling waters remain impure? What power shall stay the heavens as well might man stretch forth his puny arm to stop the Missouri River in its decread course or to turn it up stream as to hinder the Almighty from pouring down knowledge from ​heaven​ upon the heads of the Latter Day Saints? [vs 26-33]

[This is a beautiful analogy Joseph offers to express how the foolishness of men will be washed away as the Lord reveals all truth to those who come unto Him.]

What is Boggs or his murderous party but wimbling willows upon the shore to catch the floodwood, as will might we argue that water is not water because the mountain torrents send down mire and riles the crystal stream, although afterwards renders it more pure than before? Or that fire is not fire because it is of a quenchable nature by pouring on the flood, as to say that our cause is down because renegades, liars, priests, thieves, and murderers who are all alike, tenacious of their crafts and creeds have poured down from their spiritual wickedness in high places, and from their strong holds of the divine a flood of dirt, and mire, and filthiness, and vomit upon our heads – no God forbid. Hell may poor forth its rage like the burning lava of Mount Vesuvius, or of Etna, or of the most terrible of the burning mountains, and yet shall Mormonism stand. [Joseph is not reluctant to call it “Mormonism.”] Water, fire, truth, and God are all the same truth in Mormonism. God is the author of it. He is our shield. It is by him we received our birth. [the origins of the Restoration] It was by his voice that we were called to a dispensation of his gospel in the beginning of the fullness of times. It was by him we received the Book of Mormon, and it was by him that we remain unto this day, and by him we shall remain if [a condition] it shall be for our glory and in his almighty name we are determined to endure tribulation as good soldiers unto the end. [A beautiful testimony.]

Joseph Smith Letter to Edward Partridge and the Church, circa 22 March 1839

[Here is where section 121 picks up again at verse 34:]

Behold there are many called [invited] but few are chosen [received]. And why are they not chosen? Because their hearts are set so much upon the things of this world and aspire to the honors of men that they do not learn this one lesson that the rights of priesthood [receiving of great spiritual gifts] are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven [through God only] and that the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principals of righteousness. [faith unto power in God] That they may be conferred upon us [ordained unto this power] it is true but when we undertake to cover our sins or to gratify our pride or vain ambition or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men in any degree of unrighteousness, behold the heavens withdraw themselves the Spirit of the Lord is grieved, and when it has withdrawn, amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man. [the source is blocked] Behold ere he is aware, he is left unto himself to kick against the pricks, [no-win-situation] to persecute the saints, and to fight against God. We have learned by sad experience that it is the nature and disposition of almost all men as soon as they get a little authority as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion. Hence many are called but few are chosen. [To be “Chosen” is to receive a priesthood blessing directly from God. Each ascension in the estates is a blessing of Grace and Glory.] No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned, by kindness, by pure knowledge which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy and without guile, reproving be-times with sharpness when moved upon by the Holy Ghost, and then showing forth afterwards an increase of love toward him whom thou hast reproved lest he esteem thee to be his enemy, that he may know that thy faithfulness is stronger than the cords of death, [Joseph gives this beautiful description of how a servant of God leads. There is no compulsion in a true servant’s leadership.]

Let thy bowels [desires] also being full of charity [God’s love and purpose] towards all men [the world] and to the household of faith. [believers] And let virtue [holy desires] garnish thy thoughts unceasingly, then shall thy confidence wax strong in the presence of God, [you will see me] and the doctrines of the Priesthood shall distill upon thy soul as the dews from heaven, [the mysteries shall be unfolded] the Holy Ghost shall be thy constant companion, [baptism of fire] and thy scepter an unchanging scepter of righteousness and truth, [knowledge of God] and thy dominion shall be an everlasting dominion, [Exaltation] and without compulsory means [sealing power given] it shall flow unto thee forever and ever. [Crowned a King]

There could be a book written about that last paragraph that makes up D&C 121:45-46. In it is the clue to receiving your Second Comforter experience and all that the Lord desires to bestow upon you!

D&C 93 Thoughts

1 Verily, thus saith the Lord: It shall come to pass that every soul [not just some] who forsaketh his sins and cometh unto me [turn their full heart to God], and calleth on my name, and obeyeth my voice [follows the revelations they receive], and keepeth my commandments, shall see my face and know that I am;

This is a very direct promise regarding the “Second Comforter.” They key element of the above verse is to follow the revelations received. This is why learning to hear the voice of the Lord is so important. Asking questions, as led by the Spirit, and then acting upon the revelations received will lead a person in a direct course toward having a personal witness of the Lord. This is the perfect beginning to this profound section of the Doctrine and Covenants.

2 And that I am the true light that lighteth every man that cometh into the world; [The Lord is the One that shows us the way.]

3 And that I am in the Father, and the Father in me, and the Father and I are one— [Meaning that they abide in the same Holy Spirit that guides all light and truth.]

4 The Father because he gave me of his fulness, and the Son because I was in the world and made flesh my tabernacle, and dwelt among the sons of men.

Here is the definition of Father: the being that makes it possible to receive of their higher glory. The Son: to condescend to the world and dwell among telestial beings so the Son can become their Father.

5 I was in the world and received of my Father, and the works of him were plainly manifest. [The works of the Father were made known in the works of the Son. All was because of the glory of the Father.]

6 And John [the Baptist] saw and bore record [witness] of the fulness of my glory, and the fulness of John’s record is hereafter to be revealed. [This witness that John beheld will also be revealed to you.]

7 And he bore record, saying: I saw his glory, that he was in the beginning, before the world was;

8 Therefore, in the beginning the Word [The identity of the Only Begotten, in His name was Salvation and Creation.] was, for he was the Word, even the messenger of salvation—

9 The light and the Redeemer of the world; the Spirit of truth, who came into the world, because the world was made by him, and in him was the life of men and the light of men.

10 The worlds were made by him; men were made by him; all things were made by him, and through him, and of him.

11 And I, John, bear record that I beheld his glory, as the glory of the Only Begotten of the Father, full of grace [resurrection, ascension] and truth [power of God], even the Spirit of truth, which came and dwelt in the flesh, and dwelt among us.

I have learned that the word grace in scripture often is in reference to the divine ladder of progression that all follow as they receive of Father and Mother what is needed to ascend to a higher resurrection.

12 And I, John, saw that he received not of the fulness at the first, but received grace for grace;

13 And he received not of the fulness at first, but continued from grace to grace, until he received a fulness; [And so it is with us, as we develop through the Everlasting Covenant of our Father.]

14 And thus he was called the Son of God, because he received not of the fulness at the first.

15 And I, John, bear record, and lo, the heavens were opened, and the Holy Ghost descended upon him in the form of a dove, and sat upon him, and there came a voice out of heaven saying: This is my beloved Son. [This was John’s initial witness of the divinity of Jesus, a vision and a voice.]

16 And I, John, bear record that he received a fulness of the glory of the Father;

17 And he received all power, both in heaven and on earth, and the glory of the Father was with him, for he dwelt in him.

18 And it shall come to pass, that if you are faithful you shall receive the fulness of the record of John. [This is the Lord’s promise to us that if we are faithful to the revelations we receive, acting upon the Word given to us, that we will have the same “witness” of John. This record will be the reception of a personal Second Comforter experience.]

19 I give unto you these sayings that you may understand and know how to worship [approach God], and know what you worship, that you may come unto the Father in my name, and in due time receive of his fulness. [In order to properly approach God, it requires that we know more clearly who He is, and how to do it. There is a proper way that often is curtailed by unbelief.]

20 For if you keep my commandments [follow the revelations you receive] you shall receive of his fulness, and be glorified in me as I am in the Father; therefore, I say unto you, you shall receive grace for grace. [Can it be any more clear than this? The mystery is laid before you.]

21 And now, verily I say unto you, I was in the beginning with the Father, and am the Firstborn;

The Lord announces that He was in the beginning of this world and the Chosen Messiah.

22 And all those who are begotten [Become His Only Begotten] through me are partakers of the glory of the same, and are the church of the Firstborn. [A clue to its purpose and end.]

23 Ye were also in the beginning with the Father; that which is Spirit, even the Spirit of truth;

24 And truth is knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come;

The Everlasting Covenant is this “knowledge” of the plan, fate, and progression of the Sons and Daughters of God.

25 And whatsoever is more or less than this is the spirit of that wicked one who was a liar from the beginning. [If you are outside of that description, you would belong to Lucifer and have no place in God’s Kingdom.]

26 The Spirit of truth [God’s power] is of God. I am the Spirit of truth, and John bore record of me, saying: He received a fulness of truth, yea, even of all truth;

27 And no man receiveth a fulness unless he keepeth his commandments.

28 He that keepeth his commandments receiveth truth and light, until he is glorified in truth and knoweth all things.

We tend to think of commandments as basic guidelines given in scripture or from the pulpit. The Lord sees “commandments” as every word given to us by the power of His Spirit. This is personal revelation. It is critical that we learn to hear His voice.

29 Man was also in the beginning with God. Intelligence, or the light of truth [what responds to God’s power], was not created or made, neither indeed can be.

30 All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself, as all intelligence also; otherwise there is no existence.

Think of the word “truth” in the scriptural sense to represent “Law.” Every kingdom or realm of God’s creation abides by a law which directs who, what, and how it is to be administered. In that realm, each intelligence or spirit and matter is free to act for itself.]

31 Behold, here is the agency of man, and here is the condemnation of man; because that which was from the beginning is plainly manifest unto them, and they receive not the light. [This is referring to that intelligence which would not respond to God’s command. It would not receive light, and thus remained in its unorganized condition.]

32 And every man whose spirit receiveth not the light is under condemnation.

33 For man is spirit. [an entity with the ability to act or be acted upon] The elements are eternal [without beginning or end, the means by which God creates], and spirit and element, inseparably connected, receive a fulness of joy; [Without the ability to coinhabit with element it is without form and incapable of exercise faith to meet the full measure of its creation.]

34 And when separated, man cannot receive a fulness of joy. [no purpose]

35 The elements are the tabernacle of God; yea, man is the tabernacle of God, even temples; and whatsoever temple is defiled, God shall destroy that temple. [All creation must abide by the laws of its creation, or it is destroyed.]

36 The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth. [In other words: the means by which God’s power is manifest is the creation of tabernacle for intelligence, to give life and purpose to it.]

37 Light and truth forsake that evil one.

38 Every spirit of man was innocent in the beginning; [before the world] and God having redeemed man from the fall, men became again, in their infant state, innocent before God. [the effects of the Atonement]

39 And that wicked one cometh and taketh away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men, and because of the tradition of their fathers. [This is unbelief, the misunderstanding of the true nature of God, and the blind following of paths that do not lead us to Him.]

40 But I have commanded you to bring up your children in light and truth.

41 But verily I say unto you, my servant Frederick G. Williams, you have continued under this condemnation;

42 You have not taught your children light and truth, according to the commandments; and that wicked one hath power, as yet, over you, and this is the cause of your affliction.

43 And now a commandment I give unto you—if you will be delivered you shall set in order your own house, for there are many things that are not right in your house.

44 Verily, I say unto my servant Sidney Rigdon, that in some things he hath not kept the commandments concerning his children; therefore, first set in order thy house.

The Lord gives instruction to two disciples to focus on their children and own house, that this was hindering their ability to receive their own “witness” of Him. This is something to ponder in our own lives.

45 Verily, I say unto my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., or in other words, I will call you friends, for you are my friends, and ye shall have an inheritance with me—

The Lord takes a moment to define His relationship with us. “Friends” is a very familiar term to use. It implies a similar standing.

46 I called you servants for the world’s sake, and ye are their servants for my sake—[He sets the stage for their callings as His servants and the servants of the world for His’ sake. This reminds me of the ordinance of Washing of Feet in section 88.]

47 And now, verily I say unto Joseph Smith, Jun.—You have not kept the commandments, and must needs stand rebuked before the Lord; [The Lord often rebukes his prophets.]

48 Your family must needs repent and forsake some things, and give more earnest heed unto your sayings, or be removed out of their place. [to lose the stewardship and mission in which they are called, and be given over to the buffetings of Satan]

49 What I say unto one I say unto all; pray always lest that wicked one have power in you, and remove you out of your place.

50 My servant Newel K. Whitney also, a bishop of my church, hath need to be chastened, and set in border his family, and see that they are more diligent and concerned at home, and pray always, or they shall be removed out of their place.

51 Now, I say unto you, my friends, let my servant Sidney Rigdon go on his journey, and make haste, and also proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the gospel of salvation, as I shall give him utterance; and by your prayer of faith with one consent I will uphold him.

52 And let my servants Joseph Smith, Jun., and Frederick G. Williams make haste also, and it shall be given them even according to the prayer of faith [This is a kind of prayer in which one uses their creative imagination, allowing the Spirit to guide them.]; and inasmuch as you keep my sayings you shall not be confounded in this world, nor in the world to come.

53 And, verily I say unto you, that it is my will that you [Joseph] should hasten to translate my scriptures, and to obtain a knowledge of history, and of countries, and of kingdoms, of laws of God and man, and all this for the salvation of Zion. Amen. [Joseph is given the topics he is to study. Not that he will learn more than his peers by doing so, but that he will know what questions to ask the Lord.]

D&C 88 Thoughts

1 Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you who have assembled yourselves together to receive his will concerning you:

2 Behold, this is pleasing unto your Lord, and the angels rejoice over you; the alms [virtue] of your prayers have come up into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth [of the Heavenly Hosts], and are recorded in the book of the names of the sanctified [The Book of Life, anointed Sons and Daughters of God, Church of the Firstborn], even them of the celestial world.

This is an announcement that they have received a Holy Spirit of Promise, an edict from the Father that they shall be sanctified in the blood of Jesus Christ.

3 Wherefore, [because of this] I now send upon you another Comforter [Divine Witness], even upon you my friends, that it may abide in your hearts, even the Holy Spirit of promise [a sealing of light]; which other Comforter is the same that I promised unto my disciples, as is recorded in the testimony of John. [John 14:16-26]

4 This Comforter is the promise which I give unto you of eternal life, even the glory of the celestial kingdom; [This Comforter, which the Lord is referring to, is the gift of the Holy Ghost, which brings the promise of Eternal Life. 2 Nephi 31:17-20]

5 Which glory [when your spirit is changed to its 3^rd estate] is that of the church of the Firstborn, even of God, the holiest of all, through Jesus Christ his Son—

The Church of the Firstborn is all those who have been born again spiritually through Jesus Christ. They belong to Him, never to be lost (except through denying the Holy Ghost). This association becomes very active and involves more covenants beyond this world, as we prepare to do the work of the Father. In this is a great mystery. D&C 76:53-60

6 He that ascended up on high, as also he descended below all things [condescension], in that he comprehended all things, that he might be in all and through all things, the light of truth;

There is a beautiful truth hiding in this verse above. Some have asked why Jesus had to suffer the atonement in order to save mankind. Why couldn’t He just save us in our sins? The truth of Heaven lies in the power of faith – to seek God’s understanding and to act upon it. Jesus, a perfect soul, descending below all things. He was capable of lifting us to a new resurrection of light and truth, because He knows us. It is the kind of mystery that requires a sublime spiritual revelation to fully understand. Alma 42:17-26

7 Which truth shineth. This is the light of Christ. As also he is in the sun, and the light of the sun, and the power thereof by which it was made. [Here is a short description of the Holy Spirit, the power of God that fills all creation.]

8 As also he is in the moon, and is the light of the moon [reflecting the light of the sun], and the power thereof by which it was made;

9 As also the light of the stars, and the power thereof by which they were made;

10 And the earth also, and the power thereof, even the earth upon which you stand.

11 And the light which shineth, which giveth you light, is through him who enlighteneth your eyes, which is the same light that quickeneth your understandings; [All the light which fills the immensity of space, and the power by which our bodies function, our sight, and intelligence, come from this light or power of God. It is the same light that we see from the sun, moon and stars.]

12 Which light proceedeth forth from the presence of God to fill the immensity of space— [It comes from a place, an actual location where God dwells.]

13 The light which is in all things, which giveth life to all things, which is the law by which all things are governed, even the power of God who sitteth upon his throne, who is in the bosom of eternity, who is in the midst of all things. [This power, energy and “light,” which we refer to as the Holy Spirit, is what holds all matter together in perfect harmony. It is in the “midst” of all things as it has no boundaries, limits, or walls that separate it from God and His ability to see with His all-seeing-eye, and touch with His limitless power.]

14 Now, verily I say unto you, that through the redemption which is made for you [the Atonement of Jesus Christ] is brought to pass the resurrection from the dead. [The raising of your light within you to a higher state of being.]

15 And the spirit and the body are the soul of man. [The necessary combination of our spirit and body to prepare us for this transition. Thus, the mortal experience.]

16 And the resurrection from the dead is the redemption of the soul. [The spirit is in essence dead (cannot progress) until it is raised up to its third estate.]

17 And the redemption of the soul is through him that quickeneth all things, in whose bosom it is decreed that the poor and the meek of the earth shall inherit it. [Through Christ, to those who have a broken heart and contrite spirit, fully submitting themselves to Him.]

18 Therefore, it [our soul] must needs be sanctified from all unrighteousness [receive the baptism of fire and gift of the Holy Ghost], that it may be prepared for the celestial glory; [Eternal Life]

19 For after it hath filled the measure of its creation [done all that the Father requires under the Everlasting Covenant],it shall be crowned with glory, even with the presence of God the Father;

20 That bodies who are of the celestial kingdom may possess it forever and ever; for, for this intent was it made and created, and for this intent are they sanctified. [Our perfected glory is the full intent of God’s purposes and creation for all His children.]

21 And they who are not sanctified through the law which I have given unto you, even the law of Christ, must inherit another kingdom, even that of a terrestrial kingdom, or that of a telestial kingdom. [These kingdoms or realms of glory have more limitations based upon what the soul is willing to receive.]

22 For he who is not able to abide the law [physical/spiritual requirements] of a celestial kingdom cannot abide a celestial glory.

23 And he who cannot abide the law of a terrestrial kingdom cannot abide a terrestrial glory.

24 And he who cannot abide the law of a telestial kingdom cannot abide a telestial glory; therefore he is not meet for a kingdom of glory. Therefore he must abide a kingdom which is not a kingdom of glory. [“Glory” is defined as a measure of God’s light. The more glory we experience, the more power and resurrection is required to exist within that light.]

25 And again, verily I say unto you, the earth abideth the law of a celestial kingdom, for it filleth the measure of its creation, and transgresseth not the law—[This means to say that this earth is on a path toward the receiving of Celestial glory because it abides the laws and covenants given to it of the Father. The same Everlasting Covenant which we are given.]

26 Wherefore, it shall be sanctified [made clean at a future time by the baptism of fire and Holy Ghost]; yea, notwithstanding it shall die [as do we] , it shall be quickened again [resurrected], and shall abide the power by which it is quickened, and the righteous shall inherit it.

This answers the question regarding the earth’s Millennial existence. The earth shall melt with fervent heat and shall die, but shall live again. 2 Peter 3:10, 3 Nephi 26:3, D&C 101:25

27 For notwithstanding they [planetary bodies] die, they also shall rise again, a spiritual body.

28 They who are of a celestial spirit shall receive the same body which was a natural body; even ye shall receive your bodies, and your glory shall be that glory by which your bodies are quickened.

It is difficult for some to consider the realities of the resurrection and how it relates to the “body.” The body is simply the tabernacle that identifies us as a singular entity. The glory is the degree of light that we carry within us. That which is spiritual is often considered a lesser matter, yet it is the flesh that is of the dust. The resurrected body is a far more dense and eternal than anything of the mortal tabernacle. A resurrected spirit is a body of flesh and bone with a more permanent density and glory than anything on this earth.

29 Ye who are quickened [judged in the Spirit] by a portion of the celestial glory shall then receive of the same, even a fulness.

30 And they who are quickened by a portion of the terrestrial glory shall then receive of the same, even a fulness.

31 And also they who are quickened by a portion of the telestial glory shall then receive of the same, even a fulness.

When a person is quickened in the Spirit, they are able to abide the presence of God. Such an experience can occur within the pillar of light, a literal baptism of fire similar to the kind Joseph Smith experienced in the Sacred Grove. No unclean thing can be in the presence of God. D&C 67:12 Once a person has been resurrected, their spirit quickened in glory, they are capable of entering the Throne of Heaven and walking with God in a Celestial Glory.

32 And they who remain [those who do not qualify for any of the above ] shall also be quickened [judged, separated and organized according to their glory]; nevertheless, they shall return again to their own place, to enjoy that which they are willing to receive, because they were not willing to enjoy that which they might have received. [There are many who have no desire to come unto Christ. Some even desire to go where Satan would take them to enjoy what he would promise them. These have no glory of God to receive, because they do not want it.]

33 For what doth it profit a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the gift? Behold, he rejoices not in that which is given unto him, neither rejoices in him who is the giver of the gift. [The Lord’s way of saying He does not force anyone to receive what He would give them.]

34 And again, verily I say unto you, that which is governed by law is also preserved by law and perfected and sanctified by the same. [Everything leads to more light. Damnation is a state of choosing to not receive the gift.]

35 That which breaketh a law, and abideth not by law, but seeketh to become a law unto itself, and willeth to abide in sin, and altogether abideth in sin, cannot be sanctified by law, neither by mercy, justice, nor judgment. Therefore, they must remain filthy still. [those who reject the Everlasting Covenant]

36 All kingdoms have a law given;

37 And there are many kingdoms; for there is no space in the which there is no kingdom; and there is no kingdom in which there is no space, either a greater or a lesser kingdom.

The mysteries of Heaven will unfold the truth of that statement to you in the future.

38 And unto every kingdom is given a law [cause and effect, a gate and a gatekeeper]; and unto every law there are certain bounds also and conditions. [limitations and guidelines]

39 All beings who abide not in those conditions are not justified. [given access]

40 For intelligence [every particle of glory] cleaveth unto intelligence; wisdom receiveth wisdom [an understanding of power from within]; truth embraceth truth [that which cannot change seeks its own]; virtue loveth virtue [The path to righteousness leads one on a straight course to more glory]; light cleaveth unto light [it does not fail or lessen]; mercy hath compassion on mercy and claimeth her own [The work of Father and Mother is to lift their children.]; justice continueth its course and claimeth its own [Access is given according to the Law]; judgment goeth before the face of him who sitteth upon the throne and governeth and executeth all things. [All things are divided and organized according to the Laws of Heaven.]

41 He comprehendeth all things, and all things are before him, and all things are round about him; and he is above all things, and in all things, and is through all things, and is round about all things; and all things are by him, and of him, even God, forever and ever. [This is hard to comprehend to the natural mind, yet God is so perfectly attuned to the power of the Spirit that nothing is withheld or rationed. To understand this is to exponentially increase the power of our faith in Him and His blessings to us.]

42 And again [to emphasize], verily I say unto you, he hath given a law unto all things [every creation], by which they move in their times and their seasons;

43 And their courses are fixed [a pattern of birth and death, health or sickness, expansion or decline], even the courses of the heavens [all that is above the earth] and the earth [in the earth], which comprehend [encompass] the earth and all the planets.

44 And they give light [divine energy] to each other in their times and in their seasons, in their minutes, in their hours, in their days, in their weeks, in their months, in their years—all these are one year [one single period of time] with God, but not with man.

45 The earth rolls upon her wings [she moves according to her power of flight], and the sun giveth his light by day, and the moon giveth her light by night, and the stars also give their light, as they roll upon their wings in their glory, in the midst of the power of God. [Notice that male and female designation is given to these planetary bodies. Because they are alive and are either feminine or masculine in nature and spirit.]

46 Unto what shall I liken these kingdoms, [realms of creation] that ye may understand?

47 Behold, all these are kingdoms, and any man who hath seen any or the least of these hath seen God moving in his majesty and power.

48 I say unto you, he [Jesus Christ] hath seen him [God the Father]; nevertheless, he [Jesus Christ] who came unto his own was not comprehended. [was rejected by the House of Israel]

49 The light [Christ] shineth in darkness [the world] , and the darkness comprehendeth it not; nevertheless, the day shall come when you shall comprehend even God, being quickened in him and by him. [A promise that you too shall understand after you are resurrected and see how this glorious light fills all creation.]

50 Then shall ye know that ye have seen me, that I am, and that I am the true light that is in you, and that you are in me; otherwise ye could not abound. [You will see that I was always with you, or you could not have beheld me.]

51 Behold, I will liken these kingdoms unto a man having a field, and he sent forth his servants into the field to dig in the field.

52 And he said unto the first: Go ye and labor in the field, and in the first hour I will come unto you, and ye shall behold the joy of my countenance.

53 And he said unto the second: Go ye also into the field, and in the second hour I will visit you with the joy of my countenance.

54 And also unto the third, saying: I will visit you;

55 And unto the fourth, and so on unto the twelfth.

56 And the lord of the field went unto the first in the first hour, and tarried with him all that hour, and he was made glad with the light of the countenance of his lord.

57 And then he withdrew from the first that he might visit the second also, and the third, and the fourth, and so on unto the twelfth.

58 And thus they all received the light of the countenance of their lord, every man in his hour, and in his time, and in his season—

59 Beginning at the first, and so on unto the last, and from the last unto the first, and from the first unto the last;

60 Every man in his own order, until his hour was finished, even according as his lord had commanded him, that his lord might be glorified in him, and he in his lord, that they all might be glorified.

61 Therefore, unto this parable I will liken all these kingdoms, and the inhabitants thereof—every kingdom in its hour, and in its time, and in its season, even according to the decree which God hath made.

This parable describes the Lord sending His Servants into the field to labor. Twelve is the number of an organized body and the Lord’s servants are specifically the 4^th Estate, the 144k sent to gather the House of Israel. Why would the Lord take the time to explain that there are many seasons, at different times and hours? Each time, the Lord visits them to help dig in the field. These specific servants are chosen to help glorify them in God’s Everlasting Covenant, or in other words – to raise them up. What is the Lord trying to say to these servants in this parable?

62 And again, verily I say unto you, my friends [a term to mean those who are intimate and close], I leave these sayings with you to ponder in your hearts, with this commandment which I give unto you, that ye shall call upon me while I am near—

In verse 41 we get the sense that the Lord is always “near” and aware of all things, yet he says “comprehendeth … and round about all things.” However, this verse above is an announcement that now is the time for them to act. We need to be particularly aware when the Lord is near to us, meaning there is an hour and season in which we are to act, and the Lord will manifest that to us.

63 Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

How to we draw near, seek, ask, and knock in the way the Lord desires us to do? Some believe this is a short cryptic list of the path of revelatory progression, as we begin to feel the Spirit and eventually have our Second Comforter experience. I agree. The Lord is inviting us to have faith, to reach out to Him with the purpose, especially if this is our hour and season to come to Him. We cannot force the Lord’s hand, yet if we act with sincere faith, knocking resolutely on the door of Heaven the Lord will not leave us comfortless.

64 Whatsoever ye ask the Father in my name it shall be given unto you [100% given], that is expedient for you; [necessary according to God’s will]

65 And if ye ask anything that is not expedient for you, it shall turn unto your condemnation. [work against you]

66 Behold, that which you hear [the sound of God’s voice to you] is as the voice of one crying in the wilderness [far from you]—in the wilderness, because you cannot see him—my voice, because my voice is Spirit; my Spirit is truth; truth abideth and hath no end; and if it be in you it shall abound. [The Spirit of truth will fill your being. Now the Lord will specify how you can accomplish this:]

67 And if your eye [spiritual senses] be single [perfectly aligned] to my glory [Celestial glory], your whole bodies shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things. [the sealing power]

68 Therefore, sanctify yourselves [Receive the Holy Ghost] that your minds become single to God, and the days will come that you shall see him; for he will unveil his face unto you, and it shall be in his own time, and in his own way, and according to his own will. [This is the invitation to have your Second Comforter experience.]

69 Remember the great and last promise which I have made unto you [that He will send the Comforter] ; cast away your idle thoughts and your excess of laughter far from you. [wallowing in frivolity and the mundane]

70 Tarry ye, tarry ye in this place, and call a solemn assembly, even of those who are the first laborers in this last kingdom. [Do not leave in haste.]

71 And let those whom they have warned in their traveling call on the Lord, and ponder the warning in their hearts which they have received, for a little season.

72 Behold, and lo, I will take care of your flocks [families and stewardships], and will raise up elders and send unto them.

73 Behold, I will hasten my work in its time. [but not yet]

74 And I give unto you, who are the first laborers [first to labor, meaning they shall not be the last] in this last kingdom, a commandment that you assemble yourselves together, and organize yourselves, and prepare yourselves, and sanctify yourselves; yea, purify your hearts, and cleanse your hands and your feet before me, that I may make you clean; [They need to be made ready for what lies ahead.]

75 That I may testify unto your Father, and your God, and my God, that you are clean from the blood of this wicked generation; that I may fulfil this promise, this great and last promise, which I have made unto you, when I will. [This gives us a taste of the conversation between the Lord and our Father in Heaven when He pleads our case before God that we be made clean and quickened in the Spirit.]

76 Also, I give unto you a commandment that ye shall continue in prayer and fasting from this time forth. [Step one: pray and fast to establish a relationship with Him.]

77 And I give unto you a commandment that you shall teach one another the doctrine of the kingdom. [Step two: teach each other the doctrine of Christ.]

78 Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand; [That’s a broad list. What kind of theory? Perhaps for how to more perfectly ask and knock to come to God? For how to exercise the gifts of the Spirit?]

79 Of things both in heaven and in the earth, and under the earth; things which have been, things which are, things which must shortly come to pass; things which are at home, things which are abroad; the wars and the perplexities of the nations, and the judgments which are on the land; and a knowledge also of countries and of kingdoms—[We are to ask God for an understanding of all things, both above and below. Both civic, political, scriptural, geographical, historical, and scientific, but always by the Spirit.]

80 That ye may be prepared in all things when I shall send you again [because you have been before] to magnify the calling whereunto I have called you, and the mission with which I have commissioned you.

81 Behold, I sent you out to testify and warn the people, and it becometh every man who hath been warned to warn his neighbor. [What are the servants (to whom He is speaking) to warn them of?]

82 Therefore, they are left without excuse, and their sins are upon their own heads.

83 He that seeketh me early [without procrastinating] shall find me, and shall not be forsaken.

84 Therefore, tarry ye, and labor diligently, that you may be perfected in your ministry to go forth among the Gentiles for the last time, as many as the mouth of the Lord shall name, to bind up the law and seal up the testimony, and to prepare the saints for the hour of judgment which is to come;

85 That their souls may escape the wrath [inescapable judgments] of God, the desolation of abomination which awaits the wicked, both in this world and in the world to come. Verily, I say unto you, let those who are not the first elders continue in the vineyard until the mouth of the Lord shall call them, for their time is not yet come; their garments are not clean from the blood of this generation. [but not yet]

86 Abide ye in the liberty wherewith ye are made free [free of sin]; entangle not yourselves in sin, but let your hands be clean, until the Lord comes.

87 For not many days hence and the earth shall tremble and reel to and fro as a drunken man; [The entire earth shall move out of its axis and shake.] and the sun shall hide his face, and shall refuse to give light; and the moon shall be bathed in blood;[not a cyclical blood moon, but a lasting event] and the stars [heavenly bodies] shall become exceedingly angry, and shall cast themselves down as a fig that falleth from off a fig tree. [drop like rocks to the earth]

88 And after your testimony [Your gathering of my Elect] cometh wrath and indignation upon the people.

89 For after your testimony cometh the testimony of earthquakes, that shall cause groanings in the midst of her, and men shall fall upon the ground and shall not be able to stand.

90 And also cometh the testimony of the voice of thunderings, and the voice of lightnings, and the voice of tempests, and the voice of the waves of the sea heaving themselves beyond their bounds.

91 And all things shall be in commotion; and surely, men’s hearts shall fail them; for fear shall come upon all people. [This is a world event, not just in certain regions.]

92 And angels shall fly through the midst of heaven, crying with a loud voice, sounding the trump of God, saying: Prepare ye, prepare ye, O inhabitants of the earth; for the judgment of our God is come. Behold, and lo, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. [The prophecies written in the Book of Revelation.]

93 And immediately there shall appear a great sign in heaven, and all people shall see it together. [After the judgments there shall be a great light approaching from the eastern sky and the righteous will know what it is.]

94 And another angel shall sound his trump, saying: That great church, the mother of abominations, that made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, that persecuteth the saints of God, that shed their blood—she who sitteth upon many waters, and upon the islands of the sea—behold, she is the tares of the earth; she is bound in bundles; her bands are made strong, no man can loose them; therefore, she is ready to be burned. And he shall sound his trump both long and loud, and all nations shall hear it. [The declaration of the end of Satan’s Kingdom, the Kingdom of the Beast shall be destroyed.]

95 And there shall be silence in heaven for the space of half an hour; and immediately after shall the curtain of heaven be unfolded, as a scroll is unfolded after it is rolled up, and the face of the Lord shall be unveiled; [Here we see the proper placement of the prophecy regarding the silence in the Heaven, as it comes just before the coming of Christ, after all the great tribulations.]

96 And the saints that are upon the earth, who are alive, shall be quickened and be caught up to meet him. [Their temporal bodies shall be gone, as their spirits are quickened and they are caught up to God in their resurrected state.]

97 And they who have slept in their graves shall come forth, for their graves shall be opened; and they also shall be caught up to meet him in the midst of the pillar of heaven—[Those who have abided in the spirit world, the First Heaven, shall be quickened and caught up into the vast pillar of fire in the Heaven.]

98 They are Christ’s, the first fruits [the Third Estate], they who shall descend with him first, and they who are on the earth and in their graves, who are first caught up to meet him; and all this by the voice of the sounding of the trump of the angel of God.

These angels who sound the trump are the Dispensation heads, the great Dominion Angels that abide over the priesthood power of the Seven Dispensations of this earth. The same who made an accounting upon the altars at Adam-ondi-Ahman at the beginning of the opening of the Seventh Dispensation.

99 And after this another angel shall sound, which is the second trump; and then cometh the redemption of those who are Christ’s at his coming; who have received their part in that prison which is prepared for them, that they might receive the gospel, and be judged according to men in the flesh. [These are those who are terrestrial, that are saved in Christ and brought forth in glory after receiving Him in the spirit world, their moment has come.]

100 And again, another trump shall sound, which is the third trump; and then come the spirits of men who are to be judged, and are found under condemnation;

101 And these are the rest of the dead; and they live not again until the thousand years are ended, neither again, until the end of the earth. [They are not allowed to have a physical body again until the end of the Millennium when a new world is made ready for them. Here, they will only be allowed to have bodies of a temporal nature.]

102 And another trump shall sound, which is the fourth trump, saying: There are found among those who are to remain until that great and last day, even the end, who shall remain filthy still. [Those who will be sent to Outer Darkness, that have chosen to follow Satan.]

103 And another trump shall sound, which is the fifth trump, which is the fifth angel who committeth the everlasting gospel—flying through the midst of heaven, unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people;

104 And this shall be the sound of his trump, saying to all people, both in heaven and in earth, and that are under the earth—for every ear shall hear it, and every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess, while they hear the sound of the trump, saying: Fear God, and give glory to him who sitteth upon the throne, forever and ever; for the hour of his judgment is come. [The moment of separation, the organizing of all the glories of His creation in relation to this earth.]

105 And again, another angel shall sound his trump, which is the sixth angel, saying: She is fallen who made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication; she is fallen, is fallen! [They have descended to their place, no more to mingle among the Sons and Daughters of God.]

106 And again, another angel shall sound his trump, which is the seventh angel, saying: It is finished; it is finished! The Lamb of God hath overcome and trodden the wine-press alone, even the wine-press of the fierceness of the wrath of Almighty God. [Glory and Praise to the God of the Sabbath, a time of rest.]

107 And then shall the angels [4, 5, 6 estate] be crowned with the glory of his might, and the saints [third estate] shall be filled with his glory, and receive their inheritance and be made equal with him. [To abide in his presence and receive the fullness of the Everlasting Covenant.]

108 And then shall the first angel again sound his trump in the ears of all living [in Christ], and reveal the secret acts of men, and the mighty works of God in the first thousand years. [These shall be revealed to all those who have been glorified during the Millennium.]

109 And then shall the second angel sound his trump, and reveal the secret acts of men, and the thoughts and intents of their hearts, and the mighty works of God in the second thousand years—

110 And so on, until the seventh angel shall sound his trump; [All this before the renewal of the earth to its Millennial glory, a terrestrial state.]  and he shall stand forth upon the land and upon the sea, and swear in the name of him who sitteth upon the throne, that there shall be time no longer [The end of life on earth.]; and Satan shall be bound, that old serpent, who is called the devil, and shall not be loosed for the space of a thousand years.

111 And then he shall be loosed for a little season, that he may gather together his armies. [At the end of the Millennium he will be allowed to tempt the Sons and Daughters of God. This is the great war of Heaven that occurs before the Grand Council, which takes place before the foundation of each world.]

112 And Michael, the seventh angel, even the archangel, shall gather together his armies, even the hosts of heaven. [Michael is the name of the head arch angel, which is usually the angel officiating over the dispensation during their time.]

113 And the devil shall gather together his armies; even the hosts of hell, and shall come up to battle against Michael and his armies. [They will divide according to their desire and intent to either choose God or Lucifer.]

114 And then cometh the battle of the great God; and the devil and his armies shall be cast away into their own place, that they shall not have power over the saints any more at all. [This is the cycle of God’s Order, to allow mankind to choose for themselves.]

115 For Michael shall fight their battles, and shall overcome him who seeketh the throne of him who sitteth upon the throne, even the Lamb.

116 This is the glory of God, and the sanctified; and they shall not any more see death. [They are claimed by God, never to be taken away.]

117 Therefore, verily I say unto you, my friends, call your solemn assembly, as I have commanded you.

118 And as all have not faith [the knowledge to come unto God’s presence], seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.

The “best books’ are the ones that lead us to ask the best questions. In this we find wisdom and enlightenment of the Spirit, as we use faith in Christ to receive personal revelation.

119 Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God;

The word “house” is better understood as “school.” The Lord will require Zion to establish schools to learn the seven virtues, which will prepare each person to receive further light and knowledge.

120 That your incomings may be in the name of the Lord; that your outgoings may be in the name of the Lord; that all your salutations may be in the name of the Lord, with uplifted hands unto the Most High.

121 Therefore, cease from all your light speeches, from all laughter, from all your lustful desires, from all your pride and light-mindedness, and from all your wicked doings.

122 Appoint among yourselves a teacher, and let not all be spokesmen at once; but let one speak at a time and let all listen unto his sayings, that when all have spoken that all may be edified of all, and that every man may have an equal privilege. [The schools must be organized in a way that each person can contribute, with a teacher or discussion coordinator at the helm, appointed by the consent of the group.]

123 See that ye love one another; cease to be covetous; learn to impart one to another as the gospel requires. [There is no “strong man” complex in the school. Each person must feel free to share and when differences arise, praying for unity is necessary. Otherwise, the topic is set aside.]

124 Cease to be idle; cease to be unclean; cease to find fault one with another; cease to sleep longer than is needful; retire to thy bed early, that ye may not be weary; arise early, that your bodies and your minds may be invigorated.

125 And above all things, clothe yourselves with the bond of charity, as with a mantle, which is the bond of perfectness and peace.

126 Pray always, that ye may not faint, until I come. Behold, and lo, I will come quickly, and receive you unto myself. Amen. [Final thoughts to prepare oneself for the schools.]

127 And again, the order of the house [school] prepared for the presidency of the school of the prophets, established for their instruction in all things that are expedient for them, even for all the officers of the church, or in other words, those who are called to the ministry in the church, beginning at the high priests, even down to the deacons—[The schools were to help all the officers of the church at that time to prepare for their missions. The Schools in preparation for Zion will be separated according to male, female, couples, and families.]

128 And this shall be the order of the house of the presidency of the school: He that is appointed to be president, or teacher, [instructor to lead the discussion in each school] shall be found standing in his place, in the house which shall be prepared for him.

129 Therefore, he shall be first in the house of God [He shall know the Lord], in a place that the congregation in the house may hear his words carefully and distinctly, not with loud speech.

130 And when he cometh into the house of God, for he should be first in the house—behold, this is beautiful, that he may be an example—[The instructor is the first to enter and prepares himself for the class through prayer…]

131 Let him offer himself in prayer upon his knees before God, in token or remembrance of the everlasting covenant.

132 And when any shall come in after him, let the teacher arise, and, with uplifted hands to heaven, yea, even directly, salute his brother or brethren with these words:

133 Art thou a brother or brethren? I salute you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, in token or remembrance of the everlasting covenant, in which covenant I receive you to fellowship, in a determination that is fixed, immovable, and unchangeable, to be your friend and brother through the grace of God in the bonds of love, to walk in all the commandments of God blameless, in thanksgiving, forever and ever. Amen.

134 And he that is found unworthy of this salutation shall not have place among you; for ye shall not suffer that mine house shall be polluted by him.

135 And he that cometh in and is faithful before me, and is a brother, or if they be brethren, they shall salute the president or teacher with uplifted hands to heaven, with this same prayer and covenant, or by saying Amen, in token of the same.

This is how the School of the Prophets was designed, according to the Lord, to prepare the male servants to receive knowledge according to the gifts of the Spirit. Other schools will have variations of this salute given to them by revelation.

136 Behold, verily, I say unto you, this is an ensample [a pattern] unto you for a salutation to one another in the house of God, in the school of the prophets.

137 And ye are called to do this by prayer and thanksgiving, as the Spirit shall give utterance in all your doings in the house of the Lord, in the school of the prophets, that it may become a sanctuary, a tabernacle of the Holy Spirit to your edification.

138 And ye shall not receive any among you into this school save he is clean from the blood of this generation; [accepted of the Lord by revelation]

139 And he shall be received [introduced on the first day] by the ordinance of the washing of feet, for unto this end was the ordinance of the washing of feet instituted.

The Washing of Feet ordinance is a specific ordinance performed upon the Servants of the Lord for the purpose of teaching them the power and humility of their calling. All those who will be amongst the Gatherers of the last days shall receive this holy ordinance in a like manner.

140 And again, the ordinance of washing feet is to be administered by the president, or presiding elder of the church. [Whomever is presiding. See D&C 10:67]

141 It is to be commenced with prayer; and after partaking of bread and wine, he is to gird himself according to the pattern given in the thirteenth chapter of John’s testimony concerning me. Amen.