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THE DOCTRINE AND COVENANTS
SECTION 109
Prayer offered at the dedication of the temple at Kirtland, Ohio, March 27, 1836. HC 2: 420—426. According to the Prophet’s written statement, this prayer was given to him by revelation.
1—5, Kirtland Temple built as a place for the son of Man [ The sanctioning of temple building is essentially synonymous with the sanctioning of kingdom building, of sanctioning the right to create, to create a world or a kingdom of worlds. The earliest use of this title "Son of Man" (man here means "King") that I can find in the scriptures comes from the Book Of Enoch(Enoch 46:1-3). Other references to that title include Daniel(), Abraham() and Christ himself() and all of them would have had available the Book Of Enoch. Enoch was given the title Son of Man as a descriptor for Jesus Christ. We find in written in the Book of Enoch 46:1-3 “And I asked the angel who went with me and showed me all the hidden things, concerning that Son of Man, who He was, and whence He was, (and) why he went with the Head of Days? And he answered and said unto me: This is the Son of Man who hath righteousness, with whom dwelleth righteousness, and who revealeth all the treasures of that which is hidden, because the Lord of Spirits hath chosen Him, and whose lot hath the pre-eminence before the Lord of Spirits in uprightness forever. (BoE 46:1-3)” So from these verses we can see that Enoch's angelic guide has declared that "the Son Of Man" is another name for Jesus Christ. This phrase is used by Daniel when he likens the person that he saw in his vision "like the Son of Man" (Daniel 7:13-14) as does Abraham when he described the individual who volunteered Himself to do the will of the Father as being “like unto the Son of Man.”  Therefore the phrase “like the Son of Man” or “like unto the Son of Man,” (Abr 3:27) used in these two examples promote the familiarity through an external source to which both prophets would have had access to that being the Book of Enoch. (Abr 1:31) This is also why Christ would have referred to himself as "the Son Of Man" because it was the messianic title that embodied the works and mission that would be preformed creation, example, atonement, resurrection, judgement(John 5:22-23,27) are all responsibilities that were given to the Son Of Man. Christ seems to use this title to place specific importance upon the subject matter He was teaching at the time, because the use of that title by Christ typically focuses on the prophecies of the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and His latter-day responsibilities. There is no reason to belive otherwise than those Jews who heard Christ use this title would have been fully aware the title’s source and the bold declaration represented by the messianic prophecies for him as described in the Book of Enoch. ] to visit; 6—21, It is to be a house of prayer, fasting, faith, learning, glory, and order, and a house of God; 22—33, May the unrepentant who oppose the Lord’s people be confounded; 34—42, May the saints go forth in power to gather the righteous to Zion; 43—53, May the saints be delivered from the terrible things to be poured out upon the wicked in the last days; 54—58, May nations and peoples and churches be prepared for the gospel; 59—67, May the Jews, the Lamanites, and all Israel be redeemed; 68—80, May the saints be crowned with glory and honor and gain eternal salvation.
1 THANKS be to thy name, O Lord God [ Hebrew - Yahweh ( or Jehovah which means "to become" or "to exist") translated as Lord; Elohim translated as God ("the Gods") which together the words mean "He will cause Gods to be". ] of Israel, who keepest covenant [ 1 Kings 8:22-61 is the dedication of King Solomon’s temple and his dedicatory prayer. ] and showest mercy [ Mercy is the time required for the individual to develop the kind of character God has, it is what makes God -God. So mercy will act over time in order for you to satisfy the demands of justice, or a time when you have developed the character that makes God God, if you have exercised faith unto repentance, which is the change of your character. ] unto thy servants who walk uprightly before thee, with all their hearts—
2 Thou who hast commanded thy servants to build a house to thy name in this place [Kirtland].
3 And now thou beholdest, O Lord, that thy servants have done according to thy commandment.
4 And now we ask thee, Holy Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, the son of thy bosom, in whose name alone salvation can be administered to the children of men, we ask thee, O Lord, to accept of this house, the workmanship of the hands of us, thy servants, which thou didst command us to build.
5 For thou knowest that we have done this work through great tribulation; [ President George Q. Cannon wrote that the Kirtland Temple had been built at the “utmost self-sacrifice. Nearly three years had been occupied in its construction; and during this time the Saints had given of their substance and had toiled without ceasing to make a habitation fit for the ministration of angelic visitants and of the Holy One, Himself. The consummation of this work had been very near to the Prophet’s heart, especially since the tribulations in Missouri had shown that no house of the Lord could be erected speedily in the center stake of Zion.” (Life of Joseph Smith, p. 204.) The Lord did “accept of this house” (D&C 109:4), as is evident from the manifestations that accompanied its dedication and also the glorious vision recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 110, which took place there shortly afterwards. ] and out of our poverty we have given of our substance to build a house to thy name, that the son of Man might have a place to manifest himself to his people. [ (D&C 110:6-7) ]
6 And as thou hast said in a revelation, given to us, calling us thy friends, saying—Call your solemn assembly, [ As outlined in D&C 108:4 for the purpose of endowing the brethern. ] as I have commanded you;
7 And as all have not faith, 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; [ (D&C 97:14) ]
8 Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing, [ This list of attributes is much more than a description of a temple. It is a promise about what will happen to those who serve and worship in the house of the Lord. They can expect to receive answers to prayer, personal revelation, greater faith, strength, comfort, increased knowledge, and increased power. Time in the temple will help you to think celestial and to catch a vision of who you really are, who you can become, and the kind of life you can have forever. Regular temple worship will enhance the way you see yourself and how you fit into God’s magnificent plan. I promise you that. (Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys April 2024 President Russell M. Nelson) This is the same message given to the attendees at the school of the prophets as the rules for the School of The Prophets. (D&C 88:119) for them the counsel was to establish a "life of" or with each of these elements. ] and establish a house, [ Create a place for or where the following can take place. ] even a house of prayer, [ My Temple which is a house of revelation. What was the first thing that Adam and Eve were commanded to do after the agreed to be obedient to God(the Law of Obedience)? They were to offer prayers and sacrifices to God. ] a house of fasting, [ What do we fast from in the temple? Fast from the cares of the world(you don't even take a watch in the older times) and focus on the atributes of God. Fast from Babylon. ] a house of faith, [ ] a house of learning, [ In a revelation given to the School of the Prophets, the Lord commanded the elders to organize themselves and build a house for prayer, fasting, and learning (D&C 88:117–20). Verses 6–9 quote the revelation given at that time. Elder John A. Widtsoe stated: “It is thrilling to look back over our history to the time of the Kirtland Temple. The men left their farms, fields, and shops in the evenings and climbed to the top story, the attic story of the Kirtland Temple, there, in provided classrooms, to study various subjects, languages, mathematics, history, geography, and a variety of subjects. Really our people began there what we call today adult education. It was thought [by others] that an older man could not learn; only young people could learn. Since that time the world has come to quite a different conclusion. Today a man is never too old to learn. A woman is never too old to learn. The power to assimilate knowledge remains with us to the last day. somehow these forebears of ours in the Church understood that.” (In Conference Report, Apr. 1949, p. 149.) ] a house of glory, [ His glory that he wants to share with us. Intelligence is the righteous application of knowledge so in other words we gain glory like unto God when we apply what we know in our heads to be true - knowledge, and apply the principles that our taught us through the spirit - our understanding. (D&C 93:36)

"Q. How do men obtain a knowledge of the glory of God, his perfections, and attributes?"

"A. By devoting themselves to his service, through prayer and supplication incessantly, strengthening their faith in him, until like Enoch, the Brother of Jared, and Moses, they obtain a manifestation of God to themselves." (Lectures on Faith 2:55).] a house of order, [ What orders do we learn about in the temple? Patriarchal order of the priesthood, the order in which the creation was done, the step by step process that the Lord has given for us to be able to return to him, covenant process is based on order(build upon themselves) Why is it called such? D&C 107:3 "the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the son of God" - all things in Gods plan are done in order hence they are called ordinances after the latin root "Ordinaire" meaning order. ] a house of God; [ And finally Gods House - it is "A House of THe Lord" it is his house and no one else's. HE invites us to HIS HOUSE. ]

9 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—
10 And now, Holy Father, we ask thee to assist us, thy people, with thy grace, in calling our solemn assembly, that it may be done to thine honor and to thy divine acceptance;
11 And in a manner that we may be found worthy, in thy sight, to secure a fulfilment of the promises which thou hast made unto us, thy people, in the revelations given unto us;
12 That thy glory, [ What is the glory of god? If I asked you to finish this phrase how would you do that? "The glory of god is...." answer See D&C 93:36 " The glory of God is intelligence or, in other words, light and truth. The glory of God was also on Moses when he saw God face to face. ] may rest down upon thy people, and upon this thy house, which we now dedicate to thee, that it may be sanctified and consecrated to be holy, and that thy holy presence may be continually in this house;
13 And that all people who shall enter upon the threshold of the Lord’s house may feel thy power, and feel constrained to acknowledge that thou hast sanctified it, [ The basic meaning of "sanctified" and "conse- crated" -hagios, kadosh, sanctus, holy, etc.,-is "fenced off from the world." That is the permanent condition of the temple: "that thy holy presence may be continually in this house." Many holy places are open to secular use through- out the year except during the formal set times of assembly and celebration. Not so with the temple; there everything that happens is removed from the everyday world. ] and that it is thy house, a place of thy holiness.
14 And do thou grant, Holy Father, that all those who shall worship in this house may be taught words of wisdom out of the best books, and that they may seek learning even by study, and also by faith, as thou hast said;
15 And that they [ Those who attend the temple. ] may grow up in thee, and receive a fulness of the Holy Ghost, [ "Imagine what that promise means in terms of having the heavens open for each earnest seeker of eternal truth." (Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys April 2024 President Russell M. Nelson) The Holy Ghost knows all things (D&C 35:19) and can lead one to know of future events (2 Pet. 1:21). What is the fulness of the Holy Ghost? Church website: Comforter -> See also Holy Ghost; Jesus Christ: "The scriptures speak of two Comforters. The first is the Holy Ghost (John 14:26–27; Moro. 8:26; D&C 21:9; 42:17; 90:11). The Second Comforter is the Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:18, 21, 23; D&C 88:3). When someone obtains the Second Comforter, Jesus Christ will appear to him from time to time, will reveal the Father, and will teach him face to face (D&C 130:3)" “Wilford Woodruff recorded Joseph Smith’s teaching that ‘when the Lord has thoroughly proved [someone] and find[s] that the man is determined to serve him at all hazard, then . . . it will be his privilege to receive the other Comforter.’ ] and be organized according to thy laws, and be prepared [ Sanctify yourself in preparation. ] to obtain every needful thing; [ A time when nothing shall be witheld D&C 121:28 What kind of things are we going to need going forward? President Nelson said that we will need to hear him April 2020. 2:We are going to need the power of the Lamb of God(1 Ne. 14:14) we need to be armed with righteousness. ]
16 And that this house may be a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of glory and of God, even thy house;
17 That all the incomings [ Not only does this word mean going to, or coming to; but it also has to do with "gain". Or so that all of the things that they people who come hear learn they will do so in service to build Gods kingdom. ] of thy people, into this house, may be in the name of the Lord; [ The name of the Lord is a Biblical expression for the whole character of God. The name of the Lord refers to God's person and character, to take upon ourselves his name. ]
18 That all their outgoings from this house [ When we leave. ] may be in the name of the Lord; [ We may leave with the character of God, as our goal. What is one of the purposes of the temple? To teach us the character of God. ]
19 And that all their salutations [ The act of paying respect or reverence by the customary words or actions; as in inquiring of persons their welfare, expressing to them kind wishes, bowing, etc. Luke 1:29. Mark 12:38. ] may be in the name of the Lord, with holy hands, uplifted to the Most High; [ In the spirit of prayer, just as Adam did when he was driven from the garden. ]
20 And that no unclean thing [ Because one of the Eternal Laws is that God cannot dwell where there is uncleanliness. This is a law that will serve as a example of eternal life, cheribums are guarding the way back to God. Those who enter the house of the Lord should do so with “clean hands, and a pure heart” (Ps. 24:4), with a “broken heart and a contrite spirit” (3 Ne. 9:20; cf. Ps. 51:17), and with no ill feelings toward others (Matt. 5:23–24), if they will do so the temple is a place to worship through meditation, renewal, prayer, and quiet service. ] shall be permitted to come into thy house to pollute it;
21 And when thy people transgress, [ 1 Kings 8:48-50. ] any of them, they may speedily repent and return unto thee, and find favor in thy sight, and be restored to the blessings which thou hast ordained to be poured out upon those who shall reverence thee in thy house. [ How Does One Show Reverence in the Lord’s House? Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained that “the most decorous conduct—unmarred by loud laughter, unnecessary conversation, untoward actions of any sort, or even by evil thoughts—is essential to reverencing the Lord’s sanctuary. And what is said of his temples is also true of his meetinghouses.” (Mormon Doctrine, p. 652.) President Joseph F. Smith said: “Self-respect requires, among other things, that one shall behave like a true gentleman, in a house of worship. No self-respecting person will go to a house devoted to the service of God to whisper, gossip and visit; rather, it is one’s duty to put on self-restraint, to give one’s undivided attention to the speaker, and concentrate the mind upon his words that his thoughts may be grasped to one’s benefit and profit.” (Gospel Doctrine, p. 334.) ]
22 And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants [ Those who are working to bring forth or gather Israel. ] may go forth from this house armed with thy power, [ This phrase or something very close to it like "endowed with thy power" has been used in every temple dedication that I could find. So what then does "Thy power" mean? 1 Ne. 14:14 "power of the Lamb of God, that it descended upon the saints of the church of the Lamb" (President Nelson addressed this in April Conf 2020 Hear Him "We have front-row seats to witness live what the prophet Nephi saw only in vision, that “the power of the Lamb of God” would descend “upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth; and they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory.”"); 1 Ne 22:16-17 "he will preserve the righteous by his power"; D&C 84:19-21. ] and that thy name [ Those who take upon themselves the name of Christ through covenant. Elder Bruce R. McConkie said "We worship the Father, in the name of the Son, by the power of the Holy Ghost, and we invite all men everywhere to come and join with us. "(The Lord God of the Restoration October 1980 Elder Bruce R. McConkie). ] may be upon them, and thy glory [ Or light and truth. Intelligence is the righteous application of knowledge so in other words we gain glory like unto God when we apply what we know in our heads to be true - knowledge, and apply the principles that our taught us through the spirit - our understanding. (D&C 93:36)] be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them; [ "Divine protection". If we live by the glory of God, under his intelligence, or doing what he would have us do then the angels are with us. “The Lord is here with us,” said President Brigham Young, “not in person, but his angels are round us, and he takes cognizance of every act of the children of men, as individuals and as nations. He is here ready by his agents, the angels, and by the power of his Holy Spirit and Priesthood, which he has restored in these last days, to bring most perfect and absolute deliverance unto all who put their trust in Him, when they are ready to receive it; and, until they are ready, the work of preparation must be vigorously progressed in, while at the same time we in patience must possess our souls.” (In Journal of Discourses, 11:14.) "How much does it increase your confidence to know that, as an endowed woman or man armed with the power of God, you do not have to face life alone? What courage does it give you to know that angels really will help you?" (Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys April 2024 President Russell M. Nelson) ]
23 And from this place they may bear exceedingly great and glorious tidings, in truth, unto the ends of the earth, [ (D&C 1:2) "For verily the voice of the Lord is unto all men, and there is none to escape; and there is no eye that shall not see, neither ear that shall not hear, neither heart that shall not be penetrated." ] that they may know that this is thy work, and that thou hast put forth thy hand, to fulfil that which thou hast spoken by the mouths of the prophets, concerning the last days. [ The dispensation of the fullness of times. ]
24 We ask thee, Holy Father, to establish the people that shall worship, and honorably hold a name [ We worship the Father, in the name of the Son, by the power of the Holy Ghost, and we invite all men everywhere to come and join with us. (The Lord God of the Restoration October 1980 Elder Bruce R. McConkie) ] and standing [ "standing": Possession of an office, character or place; as a patron or officer of long standing; Continuance; duration or existence; Station; place to stand in. Lasting; not transitory; Fixed; not movable; ] in this thy house, to all generations and for eternity; [ So in essence we are given to have his name(his sons and daughters) and a place(to call home, a place of covenant protection) for eternity - this is a blessing given then. ]
25  That no weapon formed against them shall prosper; [ "My dear brothers and sisters, here is my promise. Nothing will help you more to hold fast to the iron rod(word of God) than worshipping in the temple as regularly as your circumstances permit. Nothing will protect you more as you encounter the world’s mists of darkness. Nothing will bolster your testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ and His Atonement or help you understand God’s magnificent plan more. Nothing will soothe your spirit more during times of pain. Nothing will open the heavens more. Nothing!" (Rejoice in the Gift of Priesthood Keys April 2024 President Russell M. Nelson) ] that he who diggeth a pit for them shall fall into the same himself;
26 That no combination [ Remember combinations are Satans counterpart(the opposite) for covenant. Gods covenants are one to one God and the individual. Satan does it with a group(combination of people). ] of wickedness shall have power to rise up and prevail [ This does not mean that they will not cause a lot of damage, but it does say that the wickedness will not be allowed to prevail(overcome completely). (Matt. 16:18; D&C 98:22). ] over thy people upon whom thy name shall be put in this house;
27 And if any people shall rise against this people, that thine anger be kindled against them;
28 And if they shall smite this people thou wilt smite them; thou wilt fight [ Offer divine protection. ] for thy people as thou didst in the day of battle, that they may be delivered from the hands of all their enemies.
29 We ask thee, Holy Father, to confound, and astonish, and to bring to shame and confusion, all those who have spread lying reports abroad, over the world, against thy servant or servants, if they will not repent, when the everlasting gospel shall be proclaimed in their ears;
30 And that all their works may be brought to naught, and be swept away by the hail, [ What is meant by hail? See D&C 29:16; Ezekiel 38:22; Revelation 16:21. The plagues of God. ] and by the judgments which thou wilt send upon them in thine anger, that there may be an end to lyings and slanders against thy people.
31 For thou knowest, O Lord, that thy servants have been innocent before thee in bearing [ Revelation 12:17 "And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." ] record of thy name, for which they have suffered these things.
32 Therefore we plead before thee for a full and complete deliverance from under this yoke; [ Bondage or oppression. ]
33 Break it off, O Lord; break it off from the necks of thy servants, by thy power, that we may rise up in the midst of this generation and do thy work.
34 O Jehovah, have mercy [ Give us the time to do what we need to do. ] upon this people, and as all men sin forgive the transgressions of thy people, and let them be blotted out forever.
35 Let the anointing [ Leviticus 8:12–13 12 And he poured of the anointing oil upon Aaron’s head, and anointed him, to sanctify him. 13 And Moses brought Aaron’s sons, and put coats upon them, and girded them with girdles, and put bonnets upon them; as the Lord commanded Moses. ] of thy ministers [ Servants or those who are doing the work in gathering Israel. ] be sealed [ So the anointing is sealed upon them. Or as it where in the days of old. We are anointed to become in the ordinances today, to be sealed would mean that you have been sealed as a king and queen(not to become such). 2nd anointing? ] upon them with power from on high.
36 Let it be fulfilled upon them, as upon those on the day of Pentecost; let the gift of tongues [ One of the witnesses of the presence of the Holy Ghost. ] be poured out upon thy people, even cloven tongues as of fire, and the interpretation thereof.
37 And let thy house be filled, as with a rushing mighty wind, [ As in the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:2). ] with thy glory. [ (Verse 12) ]
38 Put upon thy servants the testimony of the covenant, [ What is the testimony of the covenant? Sanctification; the more sure word of prophecy or the testifying that our individual covenant is made everlasting? ] that when they go out and proclaim thy word they may seal up [ You seal a thing up for preservation from the elements, the accidents, and the ravages of time. That is the situation here, for the world is going to be a dangerous place. The temple is holding open the door, so to speak, during this climactic dispensation. Is there more trouble coming? Where is the happy ending? It is here and now! As long as we have the temple, "in the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). As long as we know the happy ending, we can anticipate a better world to come in our visits to the temple. Rev 7:2-4 "the seal of the living God - hurt not the earth...until we have sealed the servants of our God"? ] the law, [ Repeated again in verse 46. ] and prepare the hearts of thy saints [ What do our hearts need to be prepared for? How do we prepare our hearts? ] for all those judgments thou art about to send, [ We need to prepare our hearts for the judgements, these then will not just be something that saints of old have been able to just wander through and get to our destination, no it will be far more difficult. ] in thy wrath, upon the inhabitants of the earth, because of their transgressions, that thy people may not faint in the day of trouble.
39 And whatsoever city thy servants shall enter, and the people of that city receive their testimony, let thy peace and thy salvation be upon that city; that they may gather out of that city the righteous, that they may come forth to Zion, or to her stakes, the places of thine appointment, with songs of everlasting joy;
40 And until this be accomplished, let not thy judgments fall upon that city.
41 And whatsoever city thy servants shall enter, and the people of that city receive not the testimony of thy servants, [ Oposite of verse 39. ] and thy servants warn them to save themselves from this untoward [ Perverse; or not easily guided or taught. ] generation, let it be upon that city according to that which thou hast spoken by the mouths of thy prophets. [ Which is what? Repent; Alma 40:26 "But behold, an awful death cometh upon the wicked; for they die as to things pertaining to things of righteousness; for they are unclean, and no unclean thing can inherit the kingdom of God; " Verse 45 ]
42 But deliver thou, O Jehovah, we beseech thee, thy servants from their hands, and cleanse them from their blood.
43 O Lord, we delight not in the destruction of our fellow men; their souls [ Or the worth of their souls. ] are precious before thee;
44 But thy word must be fulfilled. Help thy servants to say, with thy grace assisting them: Thy will be done, O Lord, and not ours.
45 We know that thou hast spoken by the mouth of thy prophets terrible things concerning the wicked, [ desolation of abomination which awaits the wicked, D&C 88:85; war will be poured out upon all nations, D&C 87:2; heavens shall shake and the earth shall tremble, D&C 43:18; desolating scourge shall go forth, D&C 5:19; great division among the people, 2 Ne. 30:10; they that believe not in him shall be destroyed, 2 Ne. 6:15; day cometh that the wrath of God is poured out upon the mother of harlots, 1 Ne. 14:17; day cometh, that shall burn as an oven, Mal. 4:1 (3 Ne. 25:1; D&C 133:64; JS—H 1:37); ] in the last days—that thou wilt pour out thy judgments, without measure;
46 Therefore, O Lord, deliver thy people from the calamity of the wicked; enable thy servants to seal up the law, [ Repeated from verse 38. What is he suggesting? ] and bind up the testimony, [ Isa. 8:16; 2 Nephi 18:16. ] that they may be prepared against the day of burning. [ Mal. 4:1 (3 Ne. 25:1; D&C 133:64; JS—H 1:37) ]
47 We ask thee, Holy Father, to remember those who have been driven by the inhabitants of Jackson county, Missouri, from the lands of their inheritance, and break off, O Lord, this yoke of affliction that has been put upon them.
48 Thou knowest, O Lord, that they have been greatly oppressed and afflicted by wicked men; and our hearts flow out with sorrow because of their grievous burdens.
49 O Lord, how long wilt thou suffer this people to bear this affliction, and the cries [ Mosiah 21:15 "And now the Lord was slow to hear their cry because of their iniquities; nevertheless the Lord did hear their cries, and began to soften the hearts of the Lamanites that they began to ease their burdens; yet the Lord did not see fit to deliver them out of bondage." ] of their innocent ones to ascend up in thine ears, and their blood come up in testimony before thee, and not make a display of thy testimony in their behalf?
50 Have mercy, O Lord, upon the wicked mob, who have driven thy people, that they may cease to spoil, that they may repent of their sins if repentance is to be found;
51 But if they will not, make bare thine arm, O Lord, and redeem [ When we ask for redemption we need to make sure that we have done what was asked of us. D&C 105:2 "Behold, I say unto you, were it not for the transgressions of my people, speaking concerning the church and not individuals, they might have been redeemed even now." Or sometimes will will have to suffer as we have not been righteous enough to be spared. And then some times it is just the Lords will for use to be chastened for a season. D&C 100:13 ] that which thou didst appoint a Zion unto thy people.
52 And if it cannot be otherwise, that the cause of thy people may not fail before thee may thine anger be kindled, and thine indignation fall upon them, that they may be wasted away, both root and branch, from under heaven;
53 But inasmuch as they will repent, thou art gracious and merciful, and wilt turn away thy wrath when thou lookest upon the face of thine Anointed. [ Who are the Lords' anointed? Those who have been anointed in the temple. ]
54 Have mercy, O Lord, upon all the nations of the earth; have mercy upon the rulers of our land; may those principles, which were so honorably and nobly defended, namely, the Constitution of our land, [ D&C 98:5 And that law of the land which is constitutional, supporting that principle of freedom in maintaining rights and privileges, belongs to all mankind, and is justifiable before me. 6 Therefore, I, the Lord, justify you, and your brethren of my church, in befriending that law which is the constitutional law of the land; 7 And as pertaining to law of man, whatsoever is more or less than this, cometh of evil. ] by our fathers, be established forever.
55 Remember the kings, the princes, the nobles, and the great ones of the earth, and all people, and the churches, all the poor, the needy, and afflicted ones of the earth;
56 That their hearts may be softened when thy servants shall go out from thy house, O Jehovah, to bear testimony of thy name; that their prejudices may give way before the truth, and thy people may obtain favor in the sight of all;
57  That all the ends of the earth may know that we, thy servants, [ Through the bearing of testimony. ] have heard thy voice, and that thou hast sent us;
58 That from among all these, thy servants, the sons of Jacob, [ Israel. Ephraim and Manasseh were born to him (Gen. 41:50–52). In the last days the tribe of Ephraim has the privilege and responsibility is to bear the priesthood, take the message of the restored gospel to the world, and raise an ensign to gather scattered Israel (Isa. 11:12–13; 2 Ne. 21:12–13). In addition; the children of Ephraim will crown with glory those from the north countries who return in the last days (D&C 133:26–34). ] may gather out the righteous [ This is the responsibility given to the the tribe of Ephraim. ] to build a holy city to thy name, [ Zion; the new Jerusalem ] as thou hast commanded them.
59 We ask thee to appoint unto Zion other stakes besides this one which thou hast appointed, that the gathering of thy people may roll on in great power and majesty, that thy work may be cut short in righteousness. [ The footnote suggests the theme of Matt. 24:22, but this identical phrase appears in D&C 52:11 and D&C 84:97 and is a quotation of KJV Romans 9:28. See comments on D&C 52:11. It is possible Joseph was using this phrase casually with a colloquial meaning which would agree with Matt. 24:22, as in this case it is Joseph speaking where the other two D&C appearances are quotations of the Lord. "cut short" if the days are to be cut short for the elects sake, do you think that the more righteous we become the shorter our time of suffering will be? ]
60 Now these words, O Lord, we have spoken before thee, concerning the revelations and commandments which thou hast given unto us, who are identified with the Gentiles.
61 But thou knowest that thou hast a great love for the children of Jacob, [ Genesis 49:26 "The blessings of thy father have prevailed above the blessings of my progenitors unto the utmost bound of the everlasting hills: they shall be on the head of Joseph, and on the crown of the head of him that was separate from his brethren." ] who have been scattered upon the mountains for a long time, in a cloudy and dark day. [ The day of the heathen. Ezek. 30:3 ]
62 We therefore ask thee to have mercy upon the children of Jacob, that Jerusalem, [ Speaking of the covenant that God made with His people that in due time he would gather them together, and return them to the land that was given to them for their inheritance - Jerusalem. ] from this hour, may begin to be redeemed;
63 And the yoke of bondage may begin to be broken off from the house of David; [ As shepherd he acquired the habit of deep reflection; as courtier he was trained in self-control and chivalrous generosity; as outlaw he acquired knowledge of men and power of government. Each successive phase of experience developed in him the conscious dependence upon God that was the secret of his strength throughout his life. He was a great example of righteousness except in the murder of Uriah. As a consequence David is still unforgiven, but he received a promise that the Lord would not leave his soul in hell. He will be resurrected at the end of the Millennium. Because of his transgressions, he has fallen from his exaltation (D&C 132:39). Nathan the prophet pronounced that David, because of his sin (2 Sam. 12:7–13) would suffer with conflicts thereafter. David’s life illustrates the need for all persons to endure in righteousness to the end. As a youth he is characterized as being a man after the Lord’s “own heart” (1 Sam. 13:14); as a man he spoke by the Spirit and had many revelations. But he paid, and is paying, a heavy price for his disobedience to the commandments of God. ]
64 And the children of Judah may begin to return to the lands [ D&C 133:13 And let them who be of Judah flee unto Jerusalem, unto the mountains of the Lord’s house. 35 And they also of the tribe of Judah, after their pain, shall be sanctified in holiness before the Lord, to dwell in his presence day and night, forever and ever. ] which thou didst give to Abraham, [ Gods covenant with Abraham of land (D&C 133:8, 13, 35). Genesis 17:1–8. Judah In the Old Testament, the fourth son of Jacob and Leah (Gen. 29:35; 37:26–27; 43:3, 8; 44:16; 49:8). Jacob blessed Judah that he would be a natural leader among the sons of Jacob and that Shiloh (Jesus Christ) would be his descendant (Gen. 49:10). In the reign of Rehoboam the dominions of Solomon were broken up into two separate kingdoms, mainly because of the jealousy between the tribes of Ephraim and Judah. Jerusalem was Judah's capital. On the whole Judah remained more faithful to the worship of Jehovah than did the northern kingdom. ] their father.
65 And cause that the remnants of Jacob, [ The Indian nations. The Prophet Joseph Smith wrote that in reading the Book of Mormon “we learn that our western tribes of Indians are descendants from that Joseph which was sold into Egypt, and that the land of America is a promised land unto them, and unto it all the tribes of Israel will come, with as many of the Gentiles as shall comply with the requisitions of the new covenant. But the tribe of Judah will return to old Jerusalem [see Doctrine and Covenants 133:8, 13, 35]. The city of Zion spoken of by David, in the one hundred and second Psalm, will be built upon the land of America, ‘And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads’ (Isaiah 35:10); and then they will be delivered from the overflowing scourge that shall pass through the land. But Judah shall obtain deliverance at Jerusalem. See Joel 2:32; Isaiah 26:20 and 21; Jeremiah 31:12; Psalm 1:5; Ezekiel 34:11, 12 and 13. These are testimonies that the Good Shepherd will put forth His own sheep, and lead them out from all nations where they have been scattered in a cloudy and dark day, to Zion, and to Jerusalem; besides many more testimonies which might be brought.”(History of the Church, 1:315.) ] who have been cursed and smitten because of their transgression, be converted from their wild and savage condition to the fulness of the everlasting gospel; [ Referring to the native american indians - compare 3 Ne. 16:15, D&C 87:5. ]
66 That they may lay down their weapons of bloodshed, and cease their rebellions.
67 And may all the scattered remnants of Israel, [ Isa. 52:2; 2 Ne. 21:12; 3 Ne. 16:10; D&C 113:10. ] who have been driven to the ends of the earth, [ Everywhere(D&C 1:2), no place that they will not go. It is interesting that this is also the place where the ten tribes are scattered. 2 Ne. 24:2; 2 Ne. 29:2,3; 3 Ne. 16:20; 3 Ne 20:19; Duet 33:17 ] , come to a knowledge of the truth, believe in the Messiah, and be redeemed from oppression, and rejoice before thee.
68 O Lord, remember thy servant, Joseph Smith, Jun., and all his afflictions and persecutions—how he has covenanted with Jehovah, and vowed to thee, O Mighty God of Jacob—and the commandments which thou hast given unto him, and that he hath sincerely striven to do thy will.
69 Have mercy, O Lord, upon his wife and children, that they may be exalted in thy presence, and preserved by thy fostering hand.
70 Have mercy upon all their immediate connections, [ Close family. ] that their prejudices may be broken up and swept away as with a flood; that they may be converted and redeemed with Israel, and know that thou art God.
71 Remember, O Lord, the presidents, even all the presidents of thy church, that thy right hand may exalt them, with all their families, and their immediate connections, that their names may be perpetuated and had in everlasting remembrance from generation to generation.
72 Remember all thy church, O Lord, with all their families, and all their immediate connections, with all their sick and afflicted ones, with all the poor and meek of the earth; that the kingdom, [ See Doctrine and Covenants 65:2; 35:27 and Daniel 2:44-45. ] which thou hast set up without hands, may become a great mountain and fill the whole earth;
73 That thy church may come forth out of the wilderness of darkness, and shine forth fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners; [ As an ensign to the nations of the earth. 2 Ne. 15:26 ]
74 And be adorned [ Decorated; embellished. Or prepared for the ceremony that is about to take place. ] as a bride [ Hosea 2:19 ] for that day when thou shalt unveil the heavens, and cause the mountains to flow down [ Phrase referring to the Day of the Lord when He will tread the mountains beneath His feet causing them to melt, as well as being connected to the “mountains being laid low and valleys being exalted” apocalyptic catch phrase, cp. Isa. 64:1-3, 40:4 Micah 1:3-4, D&C 133:21-22,26,40; Moses 6:34; Judges 5:5; ct. Joel 3:18. When Will the Mountains Flow Down? “In the resurrection which now approaches,” Elder Parley P. Pratt wrote, “and in connection with the glorious coming of Jesus Christ, the earth will undergo a change in its physical features, climate, soil, productions, and in its political, moral and spiritual government. “Its mountains will be levelled, its valleys exalted, its swamps and sickly places will be drained and become healthy, while its burning deserts and its frigid polar regions will be redeemed and become temperate and fruitful.” (Key to the Science of Theology, p. 132; see D&C 133:19–25.)] at thy presence, and the valleys to be exalted, the rough places made smooth; that thy glory may fill the earth;
75 That when the trump shall sound for the dead, we shall be caught up in the cloud to meet thee, [ D&C 88: 95-98. The power of translation. JST Gen 14:30-32 ] that we may ever be with the Lord;
76 That our garments may be pure, that we may be clothed upon with robes of righteousness, with palms in our hands, and crowns [ Who is entitled to wear the crown? The king and the queen. ] of glory upon our heads, and reap eternal joy for all our sufferings.
77 O Lord God [ Hebrew - Yahweh ( or Jehovah which means "to become" or "to exist") translated as Lord; Elohim translated as God ("the Gods") which together the words mean "He will cause Gods to be". ] Almighty, hear us in these our petitions, and answer us from heaven, thy holy habitation, where thou sittest enthroned, with glory, honor, power, majesty, might, dominion, truth, justice, judgment, mercy, and an infinity of fulness, from everlasting to everlasting.
78  O hear, O hear, O hear us, [ Adam's prayer is repeated three times- we have come full circle and reached "an infinity of fulness." Since there is no end to fulness, there will be no end to what we are capable of receiving, as long as we do not reject it! ] O Lord! And answer these petitions, and accept the dedication of this house unto thee, the work of our hands, which we have built unto thy name; [ When a house is dedicated to the Lord it becomes HIS HOUSE and none other. Meaning that those who did the work do not put their name on it. if the church commissions a painting for the temple the artist is asked not to sign it, the ground that was acquired to build the temple is transferred back to the rightful owner, all that it is outside and inside is HIS HOUSE. ]
79 And also this church, to put upon it thy name. [ "THE HOUSE OF THE LORD" ] And help us by the power of thy Spirit, that we may mingle our voices [ That the voices in heaven will be joined with the voices on earth in the temple. ] with those bright, shining seraphs [ D&C 38:1; Isaiah 6:1-6. ] around thy throne, with acclamations of praise, singing Hosanna to God and the Lamb!

80 And let these, [ Those who are gathered in the temple. ] thine anointed ones, [ Again who are the anointed ones? Those who have been anointed as such in the temple of our God. ] be clothed with salvation, and thy saints shout aloud for joy. Amen, and Amen.

 

[ Historical Material Pertaining to Doctrine & Covenants 109 Excerpt from Life of Heber C. Kimball This building [Kirtland Temple] the saints commenced in 1833, in poverty, and without means to do it. In 1834 they completed the walls, and in 1835-6 they nearly finished it. The cost was between sixty and seventy thousand dollars.... This house was 80 x 60 feet, and 57 feet high to the eaves. It was divided into two stories, each 22 feet high and arched overhead. Ten feet were cut off from the front by a partition, and used as an entry or outer court, which also contained the stairs. This left the main room 55 x 65 feet in the clear, both below and above. In each of these rooms were built two pulpits, one in each end. Each pulpit consisted of four different apartments; the fourth standing on a platform raised a suitable height above the floor; the third stood directly behind and elevated a little above the fourth; the second in rear of and elevated above the third; and in like manner the first above the second. Each of these apartments was just large enough and rightly calculated to seat three persons, and the breastwork in front of each of these three last mentioned was constituted of three semi-circles joining each other, and finished in good style. The fourth or lower one, was straight in front, and had an elegant table leaf attached to it, that could be raised at pleasure for the convenience of administering the Sacrament, etc. These pulpits were alike in each end of the house. One was for the use of the Melchizedek or High Priesthood, and the other for the Aaronic or lesser Priesthood. The first or highest apartment was occupied by the First Presidency over the whole Church; the second apartment by the Melchizedek High Priesthood; the third by the President of the High Priests’ Quorum; and the fourth by the President of the Elders and his two counselors. The highest apartment of the other pulpit was occupied by the Bishop of the Church and his two counselors; the next by the President of the Priests and his two counselors; the third by the President of the Teachers and his two counselors; and the fourth by the President of the Deacons and his two counselors. Each of these apartments had curtains hanging from the ceiling over head down to the top of the pulpit, which could be rolled up or dropped down at pleasure; and when dropped down would completely exclude those within the apartment from the sight of all others. The room itself was finished with slips and seats so calculated that by slipping the seats a little the congregation could change their faces toward either pulpit they chose; for in some cases the high Priesthood would administer, and in other cases the lesser Priesthood would administer. The room was also divided into four compartments by means of curtains 109.11 or veils hanging from the ceiling over head down to the floor, which could be rolled up at pleasure, so that the house could be used all in one or divided into four rooms and used for different purposes. Thus the house was constructed to suit and accommodate the different quorums of the priesthood and worship peculiar to the Church. The first story or lower room was dedicated for divine worship alone. The second story was finished similar in form to the first, but was designed wholly for instructing the Priesthood, and was supplied with tables and seats instead of slips. In the attic, five rooms were finished for the convenience of schools and for different quorums of the Church to meet in. There was no baptismal font in this temple, the ordinance of baptism for the dead not having been revealed. At the time of dedication the first story was finished, also the attic, but the second story was in an unfinished condition. At the dedication an address was delivered by Elder [Sidney] Rigdon, from Matthew 8th chap. 18th, 19th and 20th verses more particularly the 20th. He spoke two hours and a half. The tenor of his discourse went to show the toils, sufferings, privations, and hardships the brethren and sisters had to endure while building this house, and compared it with the sufferings of the Saints in the days of the Savior. During the ceremonies of the dedication [Kirtland Temple] an angel appeared and sat near President Joseph Smith, Sen., and Frederick G. Williams, so that they had a fair view of his person. He was a very tall personage, black eyes, white hair, and stoop shouldered; his garment was whole, extending to near his ankles; on his feet he had sandals. He was sent as a messenger to accept of the dedication.... We had been commanded to prepare ourselves for a solemn assembly. [Sec. 108:4.] At length the time arrived for this assembly to meet; previous to which the Prophet Joseph exhorted the Elders to solemnize their minds, by casting away every evil from them, in thought, word and deed, and to let their hearts become sanctified, because they need not expect a blessing from God without being duly prepared for it, for the Holy Ghost would not dwell in unholy temples. This meeting took place soon after the house of the Lord had been dedicated.... When the Prophet Joseph had finished the endowments of the First Presidency, the Twelve and the Presiding Bishops, the First Presidency proceeded to lay hands upon each one of them to seal and confirm the anointing; and at the close of each blessing the whole of the quorums responded to it with a loud shout of Hosanna! Hosanna! etc. While these things were being attended to the beloved disciple John was seen in our midst by the Prophet Joseph, Oliver Cowdery and others. After this all the quorums arose in order, together with the three Presidencies; and the Twelve then 109.12 presented themselves separately and individually before the First Presidency, with hands uplifted towards heaven, and asked of God whatever they felt to desire; and after each individual petition the whole of the quorums answered aloud Amen! Hosanna! Hosanna! Hosanna! To God and the Lamb, forever and ever, amen and amen! The 6th day of April being the day appointed for fasting and prayer, all the Elders, Priests, Teachers and Deacons, numbering about four hundred, met together in the House of the Lord to attend to further ordinances; none being permitted to enter but official members who had previously received their washings and anointings. (Heber C. Kimball, Life of Heber C. Kimball, March 27, 1836, pages 88-92) Excerpt from Journal of Discourses When the Temple was completed there was a great manifestation of power. The brethren gathered together to its dedication. We considered it a very large building. some nine hundred and sixty could be seated, and there would be room for a few to stand, the congregation was swelled to a little over a thousand persons at the time of the dedication. It was a trial of faith. The Elders from every part of the country had come together. The finishing of the Temple had involved a debt of many thousands, and we all came together to the dedication. The congregation was so large that we could not all get in; and when the house was full, then, of course, the doors were closed, and no more admitted.... When the dedication prayer was read by Joseph, it was read from a printed copy. This was a great trial of faith to many. “How can it be that the prophet should read a prayer?” What an awful trial it was, for the Prophet to read a prayer! The service of the dedication being over, it was repeated again on the next day, to accommodate those who had not been able to get in on the first day, and all those who had been there on the first day, excepting the authorities, being required to remain outside, till those who could not get in the day before were seated; the result of this arrangement was two days dedication. (George A. Smith, Journal of Discourses, volume 11, pages 9-10.) Excerpt from Life of Joseph Smith Joseph was acknowledged by the several quorums, standing upon their feet, as the Prophet and Seer of the Church, and they gave a solemn pledge to uphold him as such by their faith and prayers. [Kirtland Temple dedication.] This action was also ratified by the entire congregation of the Saints in the same manner. The Prophet then called upon the quorums and the congregation to acknowledge the other members of the First Presidency and the several quorums in their offices and callings, and the vote was unanimous in every instance. After the administration of the Lord’s Supper and the expression of many solemn testimonies, the dedication was sealed by shouting Hosanna, Hosanna to God and the Lamb, three times sealing it, each time with Amen, Amen, and Amen. Brigham Young had the gift of tongues powerfully upon him and made an address, which David W. Patten interpreted. Then the Prophet made a short exhortation also in tongues, and afterward blessed the congregation in the name of the Lord, and the assembly dispersed. (George Q. Cannon, Life of Joseph Smith, pages 190-91) Excerpt from Doctrine and Covenants Commentary The dedication of the Temple in Kirtland, on the 27th of March, 1836, was an ever memorable event in the history of the Church. That structure was reared in compliance with Revelations received (See Sec. 88:119; 95:8-9), at a time when the Saints were few and poor, and when to raise the money required (between sixty and seventy thousand dollars) meant a great deal of self-sacrifice on their part. “While the brethren labored in their departments,” says Tullidge, “the sisters were actively engaged in boarding and clothing workmen not otherwise provided for all living as abstemiously as possible, so that every cent might be appropriated to the grand object.” And thus they toiled on from the 23rd of July, 1833, when the corner stones were laid, until it was completed for dedication. In the Revelation given on the 1st of June, 1833, the Lord indicated the special object for which this house was to be built: “I gave unto you a commandment, that you should build an house, in the which house I design to endow those whom 1 have chosen, with power from on high” (Sec. 95:8). It was to be a place in which the Church would receive a Pentecostal baptism in the fire of the Holy Spirit. A special house, consecrated and dedicated, was needed for that purpose. Hence the commandment of God to the Saints concerning this house. Now the day of dedication had come. The people assembled early, full of joy and gratitude, and they were not disappointed in their expectations. The manifestations of the divine presence were such as to leave no room in the minds of the true Saints for doubt concerning the nature of the work in which they were engaged. Heber C. Kimball relates that during the ceremonies of the dedication, an angel appeared and sat near Joseph Smith, Sr., and Frederick G. Williams, so that they had a fair view of his person. He was tall, had black eyes and white hair; wore a garment extending to near his ankles, and had sandals on his feet. “He was sent,” President Kimball says, “as a messenger to accept of the dedication” (Whitney’s Life of Heber C. Kimball, p. 103). A few days afterwards. a solemn assembly was held in accordance with a commandment received (See Sec. 108:4), and blessings were given. “While these things were being attended to,” Heber C. Kimball says, “the beloved disciple John was seen in our midst by the Prophet Joseph, Oliver Cowdery, and others” (Ibid., p. 104). On the 6th of April, a meeting was held which was prolonged into the night. On this occasion the spirit of prophecy was poured out upon the Saints, and many in the congregation saw tongues of fire upon some of those present, while to others angels appeared. “This,” President Kimball says, “continued several days and was attended by a marvelous spirit of prophecy. Every man’s mouth was full of prophesying, and for a number of days and weeks our time was spent in visiting from house to house, administering bread and wine, and pronouncing blessings upon each other to that degree, that from the external appearances one would have supposed that the last days had truly come, in which the Spirit of the Lord was poured out upon all flesh,” (Ibid., p. 105; see also Hist. of the Church, Vol. II., p. 427). Nor were the Saints the only ones who were aware of supernatural manifestations at this time. Elder George A. Smith rose to prophesy, when a noise was heard like the sound of a rushing wind. All the congregation arose, and many began to speak in tongues and prophesy. And then people of the neighborhood came running together (hearing an unusual sound within and seeing a bright light like a pillar of fire resting upon the Temple), and were astonished at what was taking place. This continued until the meeting closed, at 11 p.m. (History of the Church, Vol. II., p. 428). The dedicatory prayer opens with an expression of gratitude to God for His faithfulness and mercy (v. 1). Then the Prophet humbly asks Him to accept the house which had been built in obedience to His command (v. 4). It was not a magnificent building, compared with the Temple of solomon, for instance, but, the Prophet says, “Thou knowest that we have done this work through great tribulation” (v. 5). Then he asks the Lord to bless His people in the solemn assembly that is to be called (vv. 10-13), and to grant that those who shall worship in the Temple may be instructed and learn wisdom (vv. 14-20). He asks for blessings upon the servants of the Lord (v. 22), and on the Saints generally (vv. 24-8), and that the enemies may be confounded (vv. 29-31). He prays for all nations (v. 54), for kings, princes, etc., (vv. 55-8); for the Church (v. 59); for the children of Jacob; the children of Judah (v. 64); for Israel (v. 67); and then he prays for himself and his house (vv. 68-70); for the officers of the Church (v. 71), and for the Church (vv. 72-6). This remarkable prayer can be studied, profitably, in connection with the dedicatory prayer of King solomon. See I. Kings 8:23-53, and II. Chron. 6: 14-42. Elder George A. Smith says of the Kirtland Temple: “We considered it a very large building. some 960 could be seated, and there would be room for a few to stand; the congregation was swelled to a little over a thousand persons at the time of the dedication. It was a trial of faith. The Elders from every part of the country had come together. * * * The congregation was so large that we could not all get in; and when the house was full, then, of course the doors were closed and no more admitted. This caused Elder Frazier Eaton, who had paid $700 towards building the house, to apostatize, because he did not get there early enough to the meeting. When the dedication prayer was read by Joseph, it was read from a printed copy. This was a great trial of faith to many, ‘How can it be that the Prophet should read a prayer?’” (Jour. of Dis., Vol. XI., p. 9). “The erection of the Temple at Kirtland seemed to increase the hostile opposition to which the Church had been subjected since its organization; and persecution soon became so violent that all of the Saints who could dispose of their property and leave did so and joined their fellow religionists in Missouri. Within two years following the dedication, a general exodus of the Saints had taken place, and the Temple soon fell into the hands of the persecutors” (Dr. James E. Talmage, The House of the Lord, p. 123). Nor is this to be wondered at. The rearing of a Temple of God in the world is the construction of a citadel by the followers of Prince Immanuel in the territory claimed by Diabolus. Hence his rage when the people of God build Temples. But the Temple in Kirtland served its divine purpose, as did that in Nauvoo, though both were abandoned. In it the Saints received that power from on high which enabled the Church to withstand, successfully, the attacks of all enemies. Owing to that baptism by the Holy Spirit received in the Temples, the Church, notwithstanding persecution, exile, and apostasy, has grown in spiritual power and become able to make itself felt in the world as a regenerating force. But for the Temples and the communion with God established through the Temple service, the Church might have been overwhelmed in the persecutions of Missouri and Illinois, just as the Primitive Church might have perished in the early persecutions but for the power it received on the day of Pentecost. Comp. Acts. 1:8. (Hyrum M. Smith and Janne M. Sjodahl, Doctrine and Covenants Commentary) ]