D&C 12

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 12

Received in May 1829 at Harmony, Pennsylvania, for Joseph Knight Sr., a loyal friend who had provided provisions to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery during the translation of the Book of Mormon. The revelation follows the same pattern as sections 4, 6, and 11, calling Joseph Knight to assist in the work and listing the attributes needed for the Lord's service.

Scripture

A Marvelous Work and the Call to Service

Study note

God declares the work is great and promises blessings to those who labor to bring souls to repentance.

1 A great and marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men.

2 Behold, I am God; give heed to my word, which is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword, to the dividing asunder of both joints and marrow; therefore, give heed unto my word.

3 Behold, the field is white already to harvest; therefore, whoso desireth to reap let him thrust in his sickle with his might, and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God.

4 Yea, whosoever will thrust in his sickle and reap, the same is called of God.

5 Therefore, if you will ask of me you shall receive; if you will knock it shall be opened unto you.

Qualifications for Service

Study note

The Lord lists the attributes needed—faith, hope, charity, love, an eye single to God's glory—and declares the field is ready to harvest.

6 Now, as you have asked, behold, I say unto you, keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion.

7 Behold, I speak unto you, and also to all those who have desires to bring forth and establish this work;

8 And no one can assist in this work except he shall be humble and full of love, having faith, hope, and charity, being temperate in all things, whatsoever shall be entrusted to his care.

9 Behold, I am the light and the life of the world, that speak these words, therefore give heed with your might, and then you are called. Amen.

Key Themes

Themes in D&C 12

Practical support for God's work is valuedFaith, hope, and charity as essential attributesThe field is white and ready to harvestEvery contribution to God's work matters

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 12 3 Matthew 10:39

The promise that those who lose their life for God's sake will find it echoes Jesus' teaching about the paradox of sacrificial discipleship.

D&C 12 8 1 Corinthians 13:13

The emphasis on faith, hope, and charity as enduring virtues mirrors Paul's great declaration about these three abiding gifts.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 12

Joseph Knight's quiet generosity—providing food and supplies during the translation—was as essential as the translation itself. Not everyone is called to preach, but everyone can contribute. Acts of kindness and practical support are recognized by God as genuine service in his kingdom.

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