D&C 16

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 16

Received in June 1829 at Fayette, New York, for Peter Whitmer Jr. Nearly identical to section 15 given to John Whitmer, this revelation emphasizes the universal importance of declaring repentance and bringing souls to Christ.

Scripture

God's Knowledge of Peter's Heart

Study note

The Lord again demonstrates his personal knowledge of the individual, knowing Peter's thoughts and desires.

1 Hearken, my servant 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—

The Greatest Work: Declare Repentance

Study note

Peter is told that the thing of most worth is to declare repentance and bring souls to the Lord.

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 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, 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 16

Individual worth in God's eyesDeclaring repentance is the greatest workEvery person called to share the gospelGod's personal attention to each individual

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 16 4-6 Matthew 28:19-20

The call to declare repentance echoes Christ's Great Commission to go and teach all nations, baptizing and teaching them to observe his commandments.

D&C 16 6 Luke 15:7

The joy of bringing souls unto Christ connects to Jesus' teaching that there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine who need no repentance.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 16

The near-identical nature of sections 15 and 16 emphasizes that God's core message is universal: bringing souls to Christ is the most important thing we can do. Whether through formal missionary service, casual conversations, or simply living a Christlike example, every disciple has the opportunity to fulfill this call.

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