D&C 69

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 69

Received in November 1831 in Hiram, Ohio. This revelation directed John Whitmer, the Church historian, to carry the manuscripts of the revelations to Independence, Missouri, for publication. He was to travel with Oliver Cowdery, who was also carrying Church funds and materials to Missouri.

Scripture

John Whitmer to Carry the Manuscripts

Study note

John Whitmer is appointed to accompany Oliver Cowdery and carry the sacred manuscripts and Church history to Missouri.

1 Hearken unto me, saith the Lord your God, for my servant Oliver Cowdery's sake. It is not wisdom in me that he should be entrusted with the commandments and the moneys which he shall carry unto the land of Zion, except one go with him who will be true and faithful.

2 Wherefore, I, the Lord, will that my servant, John Whitmer, should go with my servant Oliver Cowdery;

3 And also that he shall continue in writing and making a history of all the important things which he shall observe and know concerning my church;

4 And also that he receive counsel and assistance from my servant Oliver Cowdery and others.

Gathering Historical Knowledge Along the Way

Study note

Whitmer is instructed to gather information, history, and knowledge about the Church and its members as he travels.

5 And also, my servants who are abroad in the earth should send forth the accounts of their stewardships to the land of Zion;

6 For the land of Zion shall be a seat and a place to receive and do all these things.

7 Nevertheless, let my servant John Whitmer travel many times from place to place, and from church to church, that he may the more easily obtain knowledge—

8 Preaching and expounding, writing, copying, selecting, and obtaining all things which shall be for the good of the church, and for the rising generations that shall grow up on the land of Zion, to possess it from generation to generation, forever and ever. Amen.

Key Themes

Themes in D&C 69

Safeguarding sacred records and manuscriptsThe importance of companionship in sacred errandsGathering and preserving Church historyAccountability in handling sacred documentsThe connection between record-keeping and revelation

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 69 1-2 Jeremiah 36:1-4

The Lord commanded Jeremiah to write His words in a scroll and entrusted Baruch to carry and preserve them, paralleling the charge to John Whitmer.

D&C 69 5-8 Ecclesiastes 12:12

The wise writer's attention to gathering and ordering knowledge reflects the charge to Whitmer to collect historical information during his travels.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 69

The care the Lord took to ensure the safe transport and preservation of the revelations teaches us about the value of sacred things. These manuscripts were irreplaceable records of divine communication, and God directed their protection through practical means—trusted companions and careful planning. In our own lives, we are stewards of sacred things: temple covenants, family histories, personal journals, and spiritual experiences. Preserving and protecting these records is both a practical and spiritual responsibility. The instruction to gather knowledge along the way also reminds us that every journey offers opportunities to learn and record things of lasting value.

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