D&C 2

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 2

The words of the angel Moroni to Joseph Smith on the evening of September 21, 1823, in Palmyra, New York. Moroni quoted Malachi's prophecy about Elijah's return, declaring that the time had not yet come but was near.

Scripture

Elijah's Mission to Turn Hearts

Study note

Moroni reveals that Elijah will come to plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and that the whole earth would be smitten with a curse without this work.

1 Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.

2 And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers.

3 If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming.

Key Themes

Themes in D&C 2

Elijah's return before the great dayTurning hearts of fathers and childrenTemple and family history workPriesthood keys of sealing

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 2 1 Malachi 4:5-6

Moroni directly quotes Malachi's prophecy about Elijah coming before the great and dreadful day of the Lord.

D&C 2 2 Luke 1:17

The mission to turn hearts of fathers to children echoes the angel's words about John the Baptist coming in the spirit of Elijah.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 2

This brief but powerful revelation establishes the foundation for all temple and family history work. The promise that hearts will turn to our ancestors invites us to seek out our family connections and perform saving ordinances on their behalf. Participating in this work brings a sense of purpose and eternal belonging.

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