D&C 15

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 15

Received in June 1829 at Fayette, New York, for John Whitmer. This revelation is nearly identical to section 16, given to Peter Whitmer Jr., demonstrating that the Lord gave personalized but similarly structured counsel to individuals with comparable circumstances.

Scripture

The Lord Knows John's Heart

Study note

God declares that he knows John's desires and thoughts, demonstrating his intimate awareness of each individual.

1 Hearken, my servant John, 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—

The Most Valuable Thing

Study note

The Lord tells John that the thing of most worth is to declare repentance and bring souls to Christ.

4 For many times you have desired of me to know that which would be of the most worth unto you.

5 Behold, blessed are you for this thing, and for speaking my words which I have given 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, that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father. Amen.

Key Themes

Themes in D&C 15

God knows our secret thoughts and desiresDeclaring repentance is of most worthBringing souls to ChristPersonal divine awareness

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 15 1-2 Psalms 139:1-4

God's knowledge of John's thoughts and desires echoes David's psalm declaring that God searches and knows us, understanding our thoughts from afar.

D&C 15 6 James 5:20

Bringing souls unto Christ echoes James's teaching that whoever converts a sinner saves a soul from death and covers a multitude of sins.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 15

The Lord's declaration that he knows our very thoughts is both humbling and comforting. He sees our private struggles, desires, and intentions. He then tells John the single most valuable thing he can do: help others come to Christ. This simple priority can guide every major decision in our lives.

Go Deeper

Study the Doctrine and Covenants in Covenant Path

Read every section with study aids and daily reading plans — free in the app.

Download for iOS Download for Android