D&C 73

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 73

Received January 10, 1832, in Hiram, Ohio. Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon had been preaching as directed in Section 71 and had successfully countered the hostile publications against the Church. The Lord now directed them to resume their translation of the Bible (the Joseph Smith Translation) until the next conference.

Scripture

Resume the Bible Translation

Study note

Joseph and Sidney are commanded to return to their translation work, which had been paused. The Lord affirms the importance of this inspired revision of the scriptures.

1 For verily, thus saith the Lord, it is expedient in me that they should continue preaching the gospel, and in exhortation to the churches in the regions round about, until conference;

2 And then, behold, it shall be made known unto them, by the voice of the conference, their several missions.

3 Now, verily I say unto you my servants, Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon, saith the Lord, it is expedient to translate again;

4 And, inasmuch as it is practicable, to preach in the regions round about until conference; and after that it is expedient to continue the work of translation until it be finished.

Elders to Continue Preaching

Study note

Other elders are to continue preaching in the surrounding areas. The work of ministry does not stop when the Prophet returns to translation.

5 And let this be a pattern unto the elders until further knowledge, even as it is written.

6 Now I give no more unto you at this time. Gird up your loins and be sober. Even so. Amen.

Key Themes

Themes in D&C 73

Importance of the Joseph Smith TranslationBalancing different aspects of the Lord's workDivision of labor in the kingdomObedience to shifting assignments from the Lord

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 73 3-4 2 Timothy 2:15

The command to study and rightly handle the word of God through translation mirrors Paul's charge to Timothy to be a diligent workman who correctly interprets scripture.

D&C 73 5-6 Mark 16:15

The continuing call for elders to preach reflects Christ's great commission to go into all the world and proclaim the gospel.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 73

This brief revelation teaches an important lesson about divine timing and flexibility. Joseph was called to preach for a season, then redirected back to scripture work. In our own lives, the Lord may shift our focus between different worthy endeavors—sometimes we are called to serve publicly, other times to study and prepare quietly. Being responsive to the Spirit's direction, even when it means changing course, is essential to discipleship. Not all of God's work looks the same from season to season.

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