Section 107

Key Points: Calling of the First Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: In early 1835, Joseph Smith called and ordained the first Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in this dispensation. These young Apostles, recognizing the importance of their calling, gathered frequently to receive Joseph's instruction. At a March council, Joseph proposed they travel east to organize and support Church branches, which marked the beginning of their journey toward fulfilling their new responsibilities. Preparation and Revelation of Section 107: The Apostles sought guidance and, united in prayer, requested a revelation of God’s will for their mission. Section 107 provided direction, revealing priesthood principles and helping the Apostles understand their duties. Heber Kimball described it as a revelatory experience received from the Lord through Joseph, which the Apostles embraced with gratitude. Structure and Powers of the Priesthood: Section 107 describes the two main priesthoods—Melchizedek and Aaronic. The Melchizedek Priesthood offers exaltation, while the Aaronic serves as a preparatory priesthood. It established Church quorums, including the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and the Seventy, each with specific duties and authority. The revelation emphasized unity in decision-making and detailed roles of each quorum in leading and regulating the Church. Responsibilities and History of Priesthood Lineage: The revelation outlines each quorum's responsibilities: the Apostles were to travel globally and oversee the Church under the First Presidency’s direction, while the Seventy would support them. Patriarchs, called through revelation, were to serve as "evangelical ministers." Verses 40–57 recount the priesthood lineage passed from Adam, describing a gathering where Adam blessed his descendants with promises for future generations. Duties and Accountability in the Priesthood: Later verses clarify duties within Aaronic and Melchizedek quorums and stress the importance of diligence and learning. It ends with a call for accountability, urging priesthood holders to fulfill their duties or risk being judged unworthy. The language recalls Lehi’s charge to his sons to “arise from the dust...and be men” (2 Nephi 1:21). Enduring Influence of Section 107: Section 107 had a profound impact on Joseph’s understanding of priesthood and fatherhood, which historian Richard Bushman noted as “restoring fatherhood” in addition to priesthood. This revelation continues to inspire many to rise, embrace responsibility, and fulfill their priesthood callings. Read full article here: https://byustudies.byu.edu/online-book/doctrine-and-covenants-contexts/section-107