D&C 30

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 30

Received in September 1830 at Fayette, New York, after a conference. Originally three separate revelations given to David Whitmer, Peter Whitmer Jr., and John Whitmer, each receiving personalized counsel about their missionary duties.

Scripture

Counsel to David Whitmer

Study note

David is rebuked for fearing man and being influenced by those whom God has not called. He is told to join Oliver on the mission to the Lamanites.

1 Behold, I say unto you, David, that you have feared man and have not relied on me for strength as you ought.

2 But your mind has been on the things of the earth more than on the things of me, your Maker, and the ministry whereunto you have been called; and you have not given heed unto my Spirit, and to those who were set over you, but have been persuaded by those whom I have not commanded.

3 Wherefore, you are left to inquire for yourself at my hand, and ponder upon the things which you have received.

4 And your home shall be at your father's house, until I give unto you further commandments. And you shall attend to the ministry in the church, and before the world, and in the regions round about. Amen.

Counsel to Peter Whitmer Jr.

Study note

Peter is called to accompany Oliver Cowdery to preach among the Lamanites and is told his duty along the way.

5 Behold, I say unto you, Peter, that you shall take your journey with your brother Oliver; for the time has come that it is expedient in me that you shall open your mouth to declare my gospel; therefore, fear not, but give heed unto the words and advice of your brother, which he shall give you.

6 And be you afflicted in all his afflictions, ever lifting up your heart unto me in prayer and faith, for his and your deliverance; for I have given unto him power to build up my church among the Lamanites;

7 And none have I appointed to be his counselor over him in the church, concerning church matters, except it is his brother, Joseph Smith, Jun.

8 Wherefore, give heed unto these things and be diligent in keeping my commandments, and you shall be blessed unto eternal life. Amen.

Counsel to John Whitmer

Study note

John is told to proclaim the gospel and to labor in the vineyard at the places where he is currently serving.

9 Behold, I say unto you, my servant John, that thou shalt commence from this time forth to proclaim my gospel, as with the voice of a trump.

10 And your labor shall be at your brother Philip Burroughs', and in that region round about, yea, wherever you can be heard, until I command you to go from hence.

11 And your whole labor shall be in Zion, with all your soul, from henceforth; yea, you shall ever open your mouth in my cause, not fearing what man can do, for I am with you. Amen.

Key Themes

Themes in D&C 30

Overcoming the fear of manPersonalized missionary callingsMission to the LamanitesLaboring where God has placed you

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 30 1-2 Proverbs 29:25

The rebuke for fearing man echoes the Proverb that the fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.

D&C 30 5-6 Acts 13:2-4

The calling to missionary service parallels the Holy Ghost setting apart Paul and Barnabas for the work to which they were called.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 30

David's rebuke for fearing man is a common challenge. We sometimes let the opinions and influence of others override what we know to be right. Each of these three men received specific, personalized counsel—a reminder that God's direction for us may differ from what he asks of someone else.

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