D&C 16

THE DOCTRINE AND COVENANTS

SECTION 16

Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet to Peter Whitmer, Jun., at Fayette, New York, June 1829. HC 1: 51; see also heading to Section 14. Peter Whitmer, Jun., later became one of the Eight Witnesses to the Book of Mormon.

[ Part of the three revelations obtained in succession. 14, 15 & 16. All three were brothers and the division between them is somewhat arbitrary. Joseph said “through the means of the Urim and Thummim, and obtained for them in succession the following revelations” (HofC, Vol. 1, page 49). While there are three revelations, they are obtained in succession, apparently one right after the other. ]

1—2, The Lord’s arm is over all the earth; 3—6, To preach the gospel and save souls is the thing of most worth.

1 HEARKEN, my servant [ Such an address is not lightly given by the Lord, cp. 51:1, 69:1, 70:1, 81:1. ] Peter, and listen to the words of Jesus Christ, your Lord and your Redeemer.

2 For behold, I speak unto you with sharpness and with power, for mine arm is over all the earth.

3 And I will tell you that which no man knoweth save me and thee alone—

4 For many times you have desired of me to know that which would be of the most worth unto you. [ Peter Whitmer was; like Jospeh Smith trying to know what religion to join. Since he is stating "desired of me", it suggests that he went to the Father in Prayer to know the answer. ]

5 Behold, blessed are you for this thing, and for speaking my words which I have given unto you according to my commandments.

6 And now, behold, I say unto you, that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you will be to declare repentance unto this people, [ Peter is called to preach. ] that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father. Amen.

[ For additional notes, insight and history see Section 14. ]