D&C 99

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 99

Originally received in August 1832 (though placed later in the Doctrine and Covenants). John Murdock was called to preach the gospel, leaving his motherless children in the care of the bishop. His wife Julia had died shortly after giving birth to twins, and the twins were adopted by Joseph and Emma Smith. This revelation reflects the personal sacrifice demanded of early missionaries.

Scripture

John Murdock Called to Preach

Study note

John Murdock is called to proclaim the gospel in the eastern lands. He is promised that if he is faithful, he will be blessed with converts and the Spirit's guidance.

1 Behold, thus saith the Lord unto my servant John Murdock—thou art called to go into the eastern countries from house to house, from village to village, and from city to city, to proclaim mine everlasting gospel unto the inhabitants thereof, in the midst of persecution and wickedness.

2 And who receiveth you receiveth me; and you shall have power to declare my word in the demonstration of my Holy Spirit.

3 And who receiveth you as a little child, receiveth my kingdom; and blessed are they, for they shall obtain mercy.

4 And whoso rejecteth you shall be rejected of my Father and his house; and you shall cleanse your feet in the secret places by the way for a testimony against them.

Care for His Children

Study note

Murdock's children are to be cared for by the bishop. He is to send means for their support as he is able. The Lord assures him that his sacrifice will be rewarded.

5 And behold, and lo, I come quickly to judgment, to convince all of their ungodly deeds which they have committed against me, as it is written of me in the volume of the book.

6 And now, verily I say unto you, that it is not expedient that you should go until your children are provided for, and sent up kindly unto the bishop of Zion.

7 And after a few years, if thou desirest of me, thou mayest go up also unto the goodly land, to possess thine inheritance;

8 Otherwise thou shalt continue proclaiming my gospel until thou be taken. Amen.

Key Themes

Themes in D&C 99

Personal sacrifice for missionary serviceChurch community caring for missionary familiesFaith in the face of personal lossThe Lord calls individuals by nameTrusting God with our most precious relationships

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 99 1-4 Matthew 19:29

Murdock's sacrifice of family for the gospel's sake echoes Jesus' promise that everyone who has left houses, brothers, sisters, father, mother, or children for His name's sake shall receive a hundredfold.

D&C 99 5-8 Psalms 68:5

The Lord's provision for Murdock's fatherless children connects to the Psalmist's declaration that God is a father to the fatherless and a defender of widows in His holy habitation.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 99

John Murdock's story is deeply moving. Having lost his wife, he was now asked to leave his surviving children in the care of others and go preach the gospel. This level of sacrifice seems almost incomprehensible today, yet it reflects the reality faced by many early Saints. The principle remains relevant: sometimes serving God requires painful separation from those we love. But the Lord does not ask us to make such sacrifices alone—He provides a community to step in. The bishop's role in caring for Murdock's children shows the covenant community functioning as an extended family. We are all responsible for one another's children.

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