Doctrine & Covenants Section 84b — Study Guide
Continues from Doctrine & Covenants Section 84a — Study Guide
D&C 84:62–72 — The Promised Signs of Belief and Divine Protection
Verses 62-72 Doctrine & Covenants 84:62–72
Therefore, go ye into all the world; and unto whatsoever place ye cannot go ye shall send, that the testimony may go from you into all the world unto every creature.
And as I said unto mine apostles, even so I say unto you, for you are mine apostles, even God’s high priests; ye are they whom my Father hath given me; ye are my friends;
Therefore, as I said unto mine apostles I say unto you again, that every soul who believeth on your words, and is baptized by water for the remission of sins, shall receive the Holy Ghost.
And these signs shall follow them that believe—
In my name they shall do many wonderful works;
In my name they shall cast out devils;
In my name they shall heal the sick;
In my name they shall open the eyes of the blind, and unstop the ears of the deaf;
And the tongue of the dumb shall speak;
And if any man shall administer poison unto them it shall not hurt them;
And the poison of a serpent shall not have power to harm them.
Doctrinal Summary
This passage reiterates the apostolic commission: to go into all the world and preach the gospel. The Lord parallels His instructions to ancient apostles with the modern high priests, calling them “friends” and “apostles.” He promises that those who believe, repent, and are baptized will receive the Holy Ghost, and that miraculous signs—healings, exorcisms, divine protection—will follow them. This is both a continuation of Mark 16:17–18 and a reaffirmation of covenantal empowerment.
Language & Cultural Insights
“Believe” — Greek: pisteuō (πιστεύω) This verb implies not only mental assent but active trust and loyalty. Faith initiates action and covenantal relationship.
“Follow” — Greek: parakoloutheō (παρακολουθέω) Means to accompany, to conform closely—suggests discipleship that shadows the movements and teachings of the Lord.
“Wonderful works” — Hebrew: פָּלָא Pela - Pala/ פָּעַל Pa’al. Greek: μεγαλεῖα megalea, from megas great + lalea words/things, also dynamis (δυναμις) “power” Often translated as "miracles" or "powers," this term emphasizes divine force and spiritual empowerment through priesthood authority. (Act 2:11, Luk 1:49)
“Cast out” — Greek: ekballō (ἐκβάλλω) To forcibly eject or drive out—used in the New Testament to describe Jesus’ expulsion of evil spirits.
“Sign…Poison” — Hebrew: nēs (נֵס) — often translated “ensign” or “miraculous sign.” חֵמָה chêmâh — “heat, fury, anger, poison, venom.” Also רֹאשׁ rôʼsh — venom from the “head,” and שָׂרָף sârâph, as in seraphim (plural form), meaning fiery, brazen (brass/ copper color). Alternatively, some passages may echo nāshakh (נָשַׁךְ) meaning “to bite”—as in the “biting” or toxic harm of a serpent.
“Serpent” — Hebrew: nāchāsh (נָחָשׁ) In biblical typology, the serpent symbolizes both danger (Genesis 3) and healing (see Numbers 21:6–9)—a paradox fulfilled in Christ (see John 3:14–15, Helaman 8).
Reflection Questions
What does it mean to be called the Lord’s “friend” in the context of apostleship and covenant service?
How can we understand these promised signs—healing, protection, miracles—in our modern lives?
How does belief manifest not just in words, but in covenantal power and priesthood action?
Cross-References
Mark 16:15–18 — “These signs shall follow them that believe...”
John 15:14–15 — “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.”
Mosiah 18:10 — Baptism as a covenant of witness and action.
Alma 37:6 — By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.
D&C 84:64 — Baptism by water and receipt of the Holy Ghost.
Numbers 21:6–9 — The brazen serpent lifted up for healing.
John 3:14–15 — Christ compared to Moses’ brass serpent.
D&C 84:73–80 — Preaching the Gospel with Power and Boldness
Verses 73-80
"Doctrine and Covenants 84:73–80"
73 But a commandment I give unto them, that they shall not boast themselves of these things, neither speak them before the world; for these things are given unto you for your profit and for salvation.
74 Verily, verily, I say unto you, they who believe not on your words, and are not baptized in water in my name, for the remission of their sins, that they may receive the Holy Ghost, shall be damned, and shall not come into my Father’s kingdom where my Father and I am.
75 And this revelation unto you, and commandment, is in force from this very hour upon all the world, and the gospel is unto all who have not received it.
76 But, verily I say unto all those to whom the kingdom has been given—from you it must be preached unto them, that they shall repent of their former evil works; for they are to be upbraided for their evil hearts of unbelief, and your brethren in Zion for their rebellion against you at the time I sent you.
77 And again I say unto you my friends, for from henceforth I shall call you friends, it is expedient that I give unto you this commandment, that ye become even as my friends in days when I was with them, traveling to preach the gospel in my power;
78 For I suffered them not to have purse or scrip, neither two coats.
79 Behold, I send you out to prove the world, and the laborer is worthy of his hire.
80 And any man that shall go and preach this gospel of the kingdom, and fail not to continue faithful in all things, shall not be weary in mind, neither darkened, neither in body, limb, nor joint; and a hair of his head shall not fall to the ground unnoticed. And they shall not go hungry, neither athirst.
Doctrinal Summary
This passage reaffirms the Lord’s commission to His servants to go forth boldly and faithfully in preaching the gospel without boasting or self-promotion. The labor is to be carried out in the Lord’s power, not for worldly gain, and is accompanied by divine protection and provision.
The Lord also outlines the consequences for those who reject the message—damnation and exclusion from His kingdom. The missionary charge is urgent, global, and covenantal in nature. Faithfulness in this labor ensures physical, mental, and spiritual preservation by the power of God.
Language & Cultural Insights
Boast themselves – The Greek equivalent often used in scripture is καυχάομαι (kauchaomai), meaning "to glory in" or “brag.” Paul uses this term in contrast to boasting in God or in the cross (Galatians 6:14).
Profit and salvation – Salvation (Hebrew: יְשׁוּעָה yeshuah )→ implies deliverance, wholeness, and peace.
Damned – Greek: κατακρίνω (katakrinō) → meaning to be condemned or judged as guilty—particularly with a final, divine judgment.
Prove the world – Greek: δοκιμάζω (dokimazō) means “to test for genuineness” or “to approve after trial.” (This word is used in Romans 12:2 and 1 Corinthians 11:28.)
Laborer is worthy of his hire – Greek: ἐργάτης (ergatēs) → means a field worker or servant; and μισθός (misthos) → means wages, reward, or compensation.
Preach this gospel – Greek: κηρύσσω (kērussō) → meaning to proclaim as a herald. The use of this word implies divine commission and urgency.
Purse or scrip – Common Hebrew idioms denoting travel and reliance on personal provision. Jesus similarly sent His disciples without these in Luke 10:4 to test reliance on divine providence.
Reflection Questions
What does it mean to preach “in the Lord’s power” rather than in our own strength?
How does the Lord’s promise of protection and provision inspire greater faith?
What does it say about God’s character that He warns and blesses so precisely?
Cross-References
Matthew 10:9–10: “Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses...”
Luke 10:4–7: Command to carry no purse, rely on hospitality.
Alma 29:9: “I know that which the Lord hath commanded me, and I glory in it...”
D&C 24:18: The laborer is worthy of his hire.
D&C 84:80: Assurance of physical and spiritual protection for the faithful.
D&C 84:73–80 — Preaching the Gospel with Power and Boldness
Verses: 73-80
"Doctrine and Covenants 84:73–80"
73 But a commandment I give unto them, that they shall not boast themselves of these things, neither speak them before the world; for these things are given unto you for your profit and for salvation.
74 Verily, verily, I say unto you, they who believe not on your words, and are not baptized in water in my name, for the remission of their sins, that they may receive the Holy Ghost, shall be damned, and shall not come into my Father’s kingdom where my Father and I am.
75 And this revelation unto you, and commandment, is in force from this very hour upon all the world, and the gospel is unto all who have not received it.
76 But, verily I say unto all those to whom the kingdom has been given—from you it must be preached unto them, that they shall repent of their former evil works; for they are to be upbraided for their evil hearts of unbelief, and your brethren in Zion for their rebellion against you at the time I sent you.
77 And again I say unto you my friends, for from henceforth I shall call you friends, it is expedient that I give unto you this commandment, that ye become even as my friends in days when I was with them, traveling to preach the gospel in my power;
78 For I suffered them not to have purse or scrip, neither two coats.
79 Behold, I send you out to prove the world, and the laborer is worthy of his hire.
80 And any man that shall go and preach this gospel of the kingdom, and fail not to continue faithful in all things, shall not be weary in mind, neither darkened, neither in body, limb, nor joint; and a hair of his head shall not fall to the ground unnoticed. And they shall not go hungry, neither athirst.
Doctrinal Summary
This passage reaffirms the Lord’s commission to His servants to go forth boldly and faithfully in preaching the gospel without boasting or self-promotion. The labor is to be carried out in the Lord’s power, not for worldly gain, and is accompanied by divine protection and provision.
The Lord also outlines the consequences for those who reject the message—damnation and exclusion from His kingdom. The missionary charge is urgent, global, and covenantal in nature. Faithfulness in this labor ensures physical, mental, and spiritual preservation by the power of God.
Language & Cultural Insights
Boast of themselves – The Greek equivalent often used in scripture is καυχάομαι (kauchaomai), meaning "to glory in" or “brag.” Paul uses this term in contrast to boasting in God or in the cross (Galatians 6:14). Comparable to הָלַל hâlal in Hebrew. See Alma 26:12.
Profit and salvation – Salvation (Hebrew: יְשׁוּעָה yeshuah → Jesus) implies deliverance, wholeness, and peace.
Damned – Greek: κατακρίνω (katakrinō) → meaning to be condemned or judged as guilty—particularly with a final, divine judgment.
Prove the world – Greek: δοκιμάζω (dokimazō) means “to test for genuineness” or “to approve after trial.” (This word is used in Romans 12:2 and 1 Corinthians 11:28.) Hebrew: בָּחַן bâchan
Laborer is worthy of his hire – Greek: ἐργάτης (ergatēs) → means a field worker or servant; and μισθός (misthos) → means wages, reward, or compensation.
Preach this gospel – Greek: κηρύσσω (kērussō) → meaning to proclaim as a herald. The use of this word implies divine commission and urgency.
Purse or scrip – Common Hebrew idioms denoting travel and reliance on personal provision. Jesus similarly sent His disciples without these in Luke 10:4 to test reliance on divine providence.
Reflection Questions
What does it mean to preach “in the Lord’s power” rather than in our own strength?
How does the Lord’s promise of protection and provision inspire greater faith?
What does it say about God’s character that He warns and blesses so precisely?
Cross-References
Matthew 10:9–10: “Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses...”
Luke 10:4–7: Command to carry no purse, rely on hospitality.
Alma 29:9: “I know that which the Lord hath commanded me, and I glory in it...”
D&C 24:18: The laborer is worthy of his hire.
D&C 84:80: Assurance of physical and spiritual protection for the faithful.
D&C 84:81–97 — Temporal Promises & Apostolic Instruction
Verses 81-97
81. Therefore, take ye no thought for the morrow, for what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, or wherewithal ye shall be clothed.
82. For, consider the lilies of the field, how they grow, they toil not, neither do they spin; and the kingdoms of the world, in all their glory, are not arrayed like one of these.
83. For your Father, who is in heaven, knoweth that you have need of all these things.
84. Therefore, let the morrow take thought for the things of itself.
85. Neither take ye thought beforehand what ye shall say; but treasure up in your minds continually the words of life, and it shall be given you in the very hour that portion that shall be meted unto every man.
86. Therefore, let no man among you, for this commandment is unto all the faithful who are called of God in the church unto the ministry, from this hour take purse or scrip, that goeth forth to proclaim this gospel of the kingdom.
87. Behold, I send you out to reprove the world of all their unrighteous deeds, and to teach them of a judgment which is to come.
88. And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.
89. Whoso receiveth you receiveth me; and the same will feed you, and clothe you, and give you money.
90. And he who feeds you, or clothes you, or gives you money, shall in nowise lose his reward.
91. And he that doeth not these things is not my disciple; by this you may know my disciples.
92. He that receiveth you not, go away from him alone by yourselves, and cleanse your feet even with water, pure water, whether in heat or in cold, and bear testimony of it unto your Father which is in heaven, and return not again unto that man.
93. And in whatsoever village or city ye enter, do likewise.
94. Nevertheless, search diligently and spare not; and wo unto that house, or that village or city that rejecteth you, or your words, or your testimony concerning me.
95. Wo, I say again, unto that house, or that village or city that rejecteth you, or your words, or your testimony of me;
96. For I, the Almighty, have laid my hands upon the nations, to scourge them for their wickedness.
97. And plagues shall go forth, and they shall not be taken from the earth until I have completed my work, which shall be cut short in righteousness—
Doctrinal Summary
This passage reassures missionaries and messengers of the Lord that they need not be overly concerned with food, clothing, or what they will say when preaching. Like the lilies of the field, their Father will provide. These instructions echo Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount and extend to how messengers are to interact with those who receive or reject their message.
Promises are made of divine presence, spiritual preparation, and even angelic support for those sent by God. Rejection of the Lord’s messengers is equated with rejection of God Himself and comes with associated warnings of judgment and scourging upon the nations.
Language & Cultural Insights
“Take no thought” — Greek: μεριμνάω (merimnaō) Meaning: “to be anxious or distracted,” often used in Jesus' teachings (e.g., Matthew 6:25).
“Treasure up in your minds…words” Hebrew: סְגֻלָּה çᵉgullâh, אוֹצָר ʼôwtsâr → “treasure” See Isa 33:6, “And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure.”
Greek: λογίον (logion) “words.” Root of the word for "oracles," referring to divine speech or words of life. Used in the Sept. for חֹשֶׁן ḥōšen, the breast-plate of the high priest
“Disciple” —
Greek: μαθητής (mathētēs same root as mathematics “the measure of measuments”)
Hebrew: לִמּוּד (limmûwd)A learner, apprentice, or follower of a master. (לִ + מַד = prefix l- “to” + mad “measure” from מָדַד mâdad. aka “One who measures.”) Discipleship in scripture implies lifelong transformation and emulation of the teacher.
“Commandment” — Hebrew: צָוָה (tsavah) Meaning “to charge, command, or appoint.” It implies divine commissioning rather than mere suggestion.
Greek: ἐντολή (entolḗ) An order prescribed to one through the original person’s office or authority
“Teach” — Greek: διδάσκω (didaskō) Refers not just to relaying information but forming moral and covenantal understanding.
Hebrew: לָמַד (lâmad): to cause to be learned through instruction or training
Cleansing of feet — In ancient culture, this was both literal and symbolic. In Jewish tradition, it denoted leaving judgment upon those who rejected the message (cf. Matthew 10:14). It is also a ritual act denoting separation from impurity.
Hebrew רָחַץ (râchats) To wash the body, either physical washing or as part of a spiritual cleansing
Reflection Questions
How does trusting God with temporal needs affect our ability to minister boldly?
What does it mean to be a “disciple” in action—not just belief?
How does this passage deepen our understanding of how God supports His servants?
Cross-References
Matthew 6:25–34: Jesus’ teaching about lilies and anxiety.
Luke 12:22–32: Parallel teaching about trusting in God’s provision.
3 Nephi 13:25–34: Sermon at the temple in Bountiful.
Doctrine and Covenants 84:85: “Treasure up continually the words of life.”
Matthew 10:14: Shaking the dust from feet as a witness.
D&C 84:98–102 — The New Song of Zion: A Prophetic Witness
Verses 98-102
Doctrine and Covenants 84:98–102
98. Until all shall know me, who remain, even from the least unto the greatest, and shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, and shall see eye to eye, and shall lift up their voice, and with the voice together sing this new song, saying:
99. The Lord hath brought again Zion;
The Lord hath redeemed his people, Israel,
According to the election of grace,
Which was brought to pass by the faith
And covenant of their fathers.
100. The Lord hath redeemed his people;
And Satan is bound and time is no longer.
The Lord hath gathered all things in one.
The Lord hath brought down Zion from above.
The Lord hath brought up Zion from beneath.
101. The earth hath travailed and brought forth her strength;
And truth is established in her bowels;
And the heavens have smiled upon her;
And she is clothed with the glory of her God;
For he stands in the midst of his people.
102. Glory, and honor, and power, and might,
Be ascribed to our God; for he is full of mercy,
Justice, grace and truth, and peace,
Forever and ever, Amen.
Doctrinal Summary
This powerful conclusion introduces a prophetic “new song” sung by Zion, signifying full knowledge of God and the unification of heaven and earth. The song praises the Lord’s redemptive acts, testifies of Satan’s defeat, and declares the glory of Zion clothed in the majesty of her God. These verses symbolize the final triumph of the covenant and serve as a liturgical proclamation of the Lord’s coming reign. The song reflects deep eschatological and covenantal themes.
Language & Cultural Insights
“New song” — Hebrew: שִׁיר חָדָשׁ (shir chadash), Greek: καινὴν ᾠδὴν (kainos ōdē) Used in Psalm 96:1 and Revelation 5:9 to denote a redemptive victory song that will be sung in the last days as part of the Second Coming.
“Voice together” — Emphasizes unity in prophetic witness. The Hebrew word often used in similar contexts is קוֹל (qol) meaning "sound, proclamation, thunder, or shofar." (Qol Echad) See: Exodus 19:16–19, Isaiah 52:8, 2 Chronicles 5:13, Psalm 29, Revelation 14:2–3.
“Election of grace” — From Paul’s language in Romans 11:5, referring to the remnant chosen not by works but by divine mercy.
“Lift up their voice... sing” — Greek: ᾄδω (adō) = “to sing praises or hymnally proclaim.” Often linked with worship and covenant renewal.
Mirror imagery & the Urim and Thummim — The idea of Zion coming "down from above" and "up from beneath" echoes the dual nature of the Urim and Thummim, instruments of divine reflection. Theologically, this symbolizes heaven and earth being brought into harmony through covenant alignment (see Revelation 21:2; Ether 13:3–11).
“She is clothed with the glory of her God” — evokes bridal imagery (cf. Isaiah 61:10, Revelation 19:7–8). Zion is depicted as the prepared Bride.
Reflection Questions
What does it mean for Zion to "sing the new song"?
How does singing become a prophetic witness of readiness?
What patterns of covenantal redemption are echoed in this passage?
Cross-References
Deuteronomy 32:1–43: Song of Moses – God’s covenant witness to Israel.
Revelation 5:9 and Revelation 14:3 – New song sung by the redeemed with the Lamb.
2 Nephi 8:11: Joy and singing in Zion.
D&C 133:56–57: Redeemed shall sing the song of the Lamb.
Ether 13:3–11: New Jerusalem comes down out of heaven and is joined with the Zion below.
D&C 84:103–120 — Final Charge: Warning, Gathering, and Blessing All Nations
Verses 103-120
Doctrine & Covenants 84:103–120 (LDS.org)
103. And again, verily, verily, I say unto you, it is expedient that every man who goes forth to proclaim mine everlasting gospel, that inasmuch as they have families, and receive money by gift, that they should send it unto them or make use of it for their benefit, as the Lord shall direct them, for thus it seemeth me good.
104. And let all those who have not families, who receive money, send it up unto the bishop in Zion, or unto the bishop in Ohio, that it may be consecrated for the bringing forth of the revelations and the printing thereof, and for establishing Zion.
105. And if any man shall give unto any of you a coat, or a suit, take the old and cast it unto the poor, and go on your way rejoicing.
106. And if any man among you be strong in the Spirit, let him take with him him that is weak, that he may be edified in all meekness, that he may become strong also.
107. Therefore, take with you those who are ordained unto the lesser priesthood, and send them before you to make appointments, and to prepare the way, and to fill appointments that you yourselves are not able to fill.
108. Behold, this is the way that mine apostles, in ancient days, built up my church unto me.
109. Therefore, let every man stand in his own office, and labor in his own calling; and let not the head say unto the feet it hath no need of the feet; for without the feet how shall the body be able to stand?
110. Also the body hath need of every member, that all may be edified together, that the system may be kept perfect.
111. And behold, the high priests should travel, and also the elders, and also the lesser priests; but the deacons and teachers should be appointed to watch over the church, to be standing ministers unto the church.
112. And the bishop, Newel K. Whitney, also should travel round about and among all the churches, searching after the poor to administer to their wants by humbling the rich and the proud.
113. He should also employ an agent to take charge and to do his secular business as he shall direct.
114. Nevertheless, let the bishop go unto the city of New York, also to the city of Albany, and also to the city of Boston, and warn the people of those cities with the sound of the gospel, with a loud voice, of the desolation and utter abolishment which await them if they do reject these things.
115. For if they do reject these things the hour of their judgment is nigh, and their house shall be left unto them desolate.
116. Let him trust in me and he shall not be confounded; and a hair of his head shall not fall to the ground unnoticed.
117. And verily I say unto you, the rest of my servants, go ye forth as your circumstances shall permit, in your several callings, unto the great and notable cities and villages, reproving the world in righteousness of all their unrighteous and ungodly deeds, setting forth clearly and understandingly the desolation of abomination in the last days.
118. For, with you saith the Lord Almighty, I will rend their kingdoms; I will not only shake the earth, but the starry heavens shall tremble.
119. For I, the Lord, have put forth my hand to exert the powers of heaven; ye cannot see it now, yet a little while and ye shall see it, and know that I am, and that I will come and reign with my people.
120. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. Amen.
Doctrinal Summary
This final segment acts as the Lord’s closing commission to His servants. It includes:
Practical instructions on consecrated financial stewardship (vv. 103–105)
Principles of missionary companionships, mutual strengthening, and sending forth lesser priesthood brethren (vv. 106–107)
A divine model of church structure: apostles, bishops, deacons, and teachers (vv. 108–111)
Bishop Newel K. Whitney's charge to minister, warn, and teach the consequences of rejection (vv. 112–116)
A global call to all servants of God to reprove the world and gather the righteous (vv. 117–120)
This passage culminates in a majestic eschatological vision where the Lord shakes the earth and heavens, puts forth His hand to reign, and closes with the divine affirmation:
“I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.”
Language & Cultural Insights
“Consecrated” — From Latin consecrare, meaning "to make sacred, to dedicate formally." In Hebrew: קָדַשׁ (qāḏash) — “to set apart, sanctify”
“Be edified in all meekness” — Greek for “edify” is οἰκοδομέω (oikodomeō) — “to build up (a house, body, or person).” Often used metaphorically in NT for spiritual growth.
“Let not the head say unto the feet...” — Direct allusion to 1 Corinthians 12:12–27, emphasizing interdependence in the Body of Christ.
“The system may be kept perfect” — This is covenantal and temple language. The Greek word often used for “perfect” in the NT is τέλειος (teleios) — complete, whole, fully matured.
“Sound of the gospel” — Gospel: Greek εὐαγγέλιον (euangelion) — “good news” or “message of salvation.”
“Confounded” — Greek καταισχύνω (kataischunō) — “to dishonor, to shame, to disappoint one’s hope.”
“I will not only shake the earth...” — Echoes Haggai 2:6 and Hebrews 12:26–27 about the Lord’s return and purification of creation.
“Put forth my hand to exert the powers of heaven” — This phrase invokes Exodus 6:6 and Isaiah 52:10 — the Lord’s “outstretched arm” is a symbol of deliverance, judgment, and power.
Reflection Questions
What does it mean to proclaim the gospel with boldness, but also in meekness?
How do modern missionary efforts reflect the principles of companionship and shared callings found here?
In what ways can we personally help “keep the system perfect” in our wards and stakes?
Do we view the rejection of the gospel with appropriate urgency and compassion?
What does the Lord’s declaration “I am Alpha and Omega” mean for our role in the last days?
Cross-References & Conference Talks
Scripture Cross-References
D&C 38:27 — “If ye are not one ye are not mine.”
Isaiah 52:10 — “The Lord hath made bare his holy arm.”
Luke 21:26 — “Men’s hearts failing them for fear...”
Conference Talks
President Ezra Taft Benson, “Flooding the Earth with the Book of Mormon” (Oct. 1988)
Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Your Great Adventure” (Oct. 2019)