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INTRODUCTION	BISHOP	CONFERENCES
DEFINITIONS	HIGH PRIEST	COUNCELS
PRESIDENCY	ELDER	STAKES
TWELVE	PRIEST	UNORGANIZED AREAS
SEVENTY	TEACHER	IMPLEMENTING RESOLUTIONS
PATRIARCH	DEACON	KINGDOM ESSENTIALS

BOOK ONE OF TWO VOLUMES

A revelation given to Joseph Smith, Jr., at Fayette, New York, in the opening days of 1831.
"And that ye might escape the power of the enemy, and be gathered unto me a righteous people, without spot and blameless: wherefore, for this cause I gave unto you the commandment, that you should go to the Ohio; and there I will give unto you my law;" RLDS Doctrine and Covenants Section 38:7a,b

Volume II is The Book of Names, which is a record of the names of all those who agree to follow the laws of God to the best of their understanding and ability. The book of Names will be maintained by the Church Recorder in the church archives .

Any member of the church, after reading the Book of the Law, who agrees with the scriptural requirements contained therein, may at their own request, have their name enrolled in the Book of Names. The Church Recorder will enroll their name.

If anyone, after having their name enrolled in the Book of Names should leave the church, or if anyone is expelled from the church for cause by a church court, their name shall be blotted out of the Book of Names.

“Thou shalt take the things which thou hast received, which have been given unto thee in my Scriptures for a law, to be my law, to govern my church; and he that doeth according to these things, shall be saved, and he that doeth them not shall be damned, if he continues.” D&C 42:16a, b

“And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the book of the law, that he rent his clothes. And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Achbor the son of Michaiah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asahiah a servant of the king's, saying, Go ye, inquire of the Lord for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that is found; for great is the wrath of the Lord that is kindled against us, because our fathers have not hearkened unto the words of this book, to do according unto all that is written concerning us.” 2 Kings 22:11-13

The following revelation was given to Joseph Smith, Jr., March 8, 1833.

“Verily I say unto you, The keys of this kingdom shall never be taken from you, while thou art in the world, neither in the world to come; nevertheless, through you shall the oracles be given to another; yea, even unto the church.” And all they who receive the oracles of God, let them beware how they hold them, lest they are accounted as a light thing, and are brought under condemnation thereby; and stumble and fall, when the storms descend, and the winds blow, and the rains descend, and beat upon their house.”

D&C 87:2a, b

The oracles spoken of are the revelations given through the Prophet containing the pattern for re-establishing God’s Church and Kingdom upon the earth.

THE BOARD OF PUBLICATION OF THE

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST

RESTORED 1830

Independence, Missouri

First Printing March 2001

Second Printing August 2001

Church of Jesus Christ Restored 1830

First Quorum of Restoration Seventy

Post Office Box 3048

Independence, Missouri 64055

In any form without written permission of the Fire Mountain Press

PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

To the faithful toilers on an incessantly changing manuscript as new insight emerged. To the members of the First Quorum of Restoration Seventy and their wives, who spent countless hours in prayer, fasting and in numerous meetings to arm themselves with a better understanding of the pattern God has given us for the governing of his Church and Kingdom. The unity, loving patience while researching and editing all worked together to complete the work as commanded by the Lord.

Nolan and Nancy Glauner

Bill and Lily Green

Glenn and Catherine Hughes

Leonard and Betty Rose Liedeke

Richard and Metta Weston

REFERENCES

Doctrine and Covenants references are taken from the RLDS Edition.

Bible references are taken from the Inspired Version of the scriptures.

Book of Mormon references are taken from the 1908 Edition.

The following was received in a request to God, “What should be written for an introduction or preface to the Book Of The Law Of The Lord?”

PREFACE

Sibley, Missouri

Received by Seventy Nolan W. Glauner

January 23, 2001

1. All ye who labor and are heavy laden, come unto me and I will give you rest.

2. For know that it is I who must build my house, for if any other build it, they build in vain.

3. It is yet a little while and my vineyard shall be ready.

4. The vintage is ripe upon the vine.

5. I will reap the harvest and I will tread the winepress, for I do not plant without hope, and the wicked shall not stand.

6. My Saints are hope within my breast saith the Lord.

7. Come together and make a joyful noise, lift up your voices as one upon my hills of Zion.

8. Step outside of your petty bigotry and stand as I have called you, as obedient sons and daughters in my law, for my word is my law, which is sharper than a two edged sword unto the dividing asunder of both joints and marrow.

9. Rise up, my sons and daughters of Zion, and put on clean garments.

10. Put off your doubts, your fears and your suspicions.

11. Embrace my word and cling to all that I have given you through my true prophets.

12. But know that not all who say Lord, Lord are of me, but those who love me and do my will are mine, saith the Lord.

13. The day is drawing toward the close, and the opportunity to serve and store up treasures in heaven will have past.

14. Think not that you can sit idly by, heeding the fables of men who soothe your consciences, yet leave your work undone, and receive the reward of the laborer.

15. You must serve me and my Son who is my word made flesh, who has been with me from the beginning, and whose going forth has been from eternity, if you would receive a reward from my hand.

16. For if I do not call you to the work, for whom do you labor, and from whom do you receive your wages?

17. If ye desire an inheritance with my sons and daughters who have overcome the world, ye must also overcome the world.

18. Embrace my Son, cease listening to every wind of doctrine that the enemy has spewed forth upon the earth to mislead you.

19. Come and drink of the waters of life freely and eat of the bread which will fill your hungry souls.

20. My body is bread indeed and my blood is drink indeed. Sanctify yourselves by washing and cleanse yourselves by mine Holy ordinances.

21. Confess and forsake your sins and you may eat and drink of my word and my Spirit, saith the Lord.

22. Do not partake unworthily as some of you are doing at this time, not discerning my body.

23. I will gather you if you will be gathered, saith the Lord, but if ye refuse me, Zion shall not be a place of joy and refuge for you and your inheritance will be given unto another. Amen

INTRODUCTION

The rights of the priesthood are inseparably connected with the powers of heaven, and the powers of heaven cannot be controlled nor handled only upon the principles of righteousness. They may be conferred upon us, it is true; but when we undertake to cover our sins, or to gratify our pride, our vain ambition, or to exercise control or dominion or compulsion upon the souls of the children of men, in any degree of unrighteousness, behold, the heavens withdraw themselves; the Spirit of the Lord is grieved; and when it is withdrawn, Amen to the priesthood or the authority of that man. And Behold, if he repents not, he is left unto himself, to kick against the pricks, and to persecute the saints, and to fight against God.

Joseph Smith, Jr.

This Book of the Law of the Lord is written so that each Latter Day Saint who believes in the fullness of the gospel of the Kingdom, as proclaimed by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, which gospel was restored through the instrumentality of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Jr., may be able to understand and follow the laws of God.

All civilized peoples have adopted and accepted rules of law in order that they might enjoy the days of their probation upon the face of the earth in relative peace and security.

The Church and Kingdom of God are governed by laws which are contained in the Word of God and in His Commandments. Of necessity there must be resolutions, policies and procedures concerning the application of these laws, to provide for an orderly and just administration by church leadership.

When administrative authorities, down through the history of the church, have neglected their duty to guarantee the rights of individual members, the membership lost control of the Church. This allowed further abuses and misuse of members’ contributions of time, talents, and resources. Often when members sought redress for these wrongs, they were cast out, or politically pressured to leave the Church, and their rights to redress denied by the leadership.

Failure of church leadership in the past to develop scripture based rules, resolutions, and church policy in a clear understandable written form for acceptance by the body, has encouraged this abuse of power. This misuse of power has driven many of God’s Saints away from the Church they loved.

All previous attempts of administrations by Latter Day Saint organizations in righteousness, throughout history have ended in failure. This cannot be attributed to any flaw in the word of God, his laws or commandments, but was due in a major part to administrative errors and abuses.

It is our hope that this compilation and presentation of laws that were given to govern God’s people, will assist them in understanding more fully God’s plan to redeem his people and to bring to pass the cause of Zion.

All general church officers, all priesthood, and all members of the Church of Jesus Christ must be accountable to each other for their individual stewardships.

Most civilized governments are organized with an Executive Head, a Legislature and a Judiciary Body. When we observe the government of the greatest and most powerful nation on earth, The United States of America, we see those bodies interacting to represent the people, to formulate legislation or laws, to scrutinize their laws for conformity to the Constitution, and for workability. Those parts of government, framed by the founding fathers, were set up to protect the rights of the people from despotism and other abuses that are common to governments that do not govern by common consent. They form checks and balances for each other. It was our God that inspired the framers of this Constitution and to provide for the separation of powers. Checks and balances were necessary to ward off abuse of power and provide a representative government for the citizens. See D&C 98: 10 e-g

We of the Church of Jesus Christ do not think that God would grant his beloved church any less protection than he has provided in the above mentioned constitution. The church, has at times, been called a “Theocratic Democracy” (governed by God, but providing for the consent of those who are governed). Our God, in respect for the agency of mankind, has made provision to allow his Saints the privilege to vote for or against even the very commandments he gives through his Prophet.

In compiling this work, we have not attempted to cover all of the laws of the church. We have rather attempted to shed light on some of the tenets of law we think have been unknowingly or purposely ignored in the past. One only has to look at the many different Latter Day Saint movements that have sprung up over the years, to realize that there is a great amount of confusion concerning the way the church is to be governed.

We of the First Quorum of the Restoration Seventy, have been led to take a new approach in an effort to bring some understanding to this confusion:

FIRST: we have broken down the role of church officers into Priesthood, Legislative, Administrative, and Judicial functions. We believe that failure to separate these functions in the past has caused confusion by applying the wrong or improper law to a particular function. We hold fast to the truth that God does not change nor do His words fail. What comes to us in prophecy now, must agree with that which has been given before. Scriptural references have been furnished in those areas that might seem controversial. The Lord himself said, “The scripture cannot be broken”

John 10: 35.

We also submit that when church history, tradition, rules, resolutions , policies, or procedures, are in conflict with the canonized (accepted and approved scripture), it is imperative that we accept the scripture, the word of God, over the minds of men.

SECONDLY: we have proposed resolutions at the end of this work that are in harmony with scriptures and with history, but have for the most part not been enacted by previous church leadership for one reason or another. These resolutions will be brought before the Joint Council, the General Assembly and the Conferences of the church of Jesus Christ for approval before becoming binding upon the body.

Although this work has come forth by many hours of study, fasting and prayer, it is not infallible. We humbly request the reader bring to our attention anything they feel may be in error. We will give it our consideration and if needed, make appropriate corrections prior to any additional printing.

We would also ask you to give this work your prayerful consideration and challenge you to seek the truth that it contains with that same challenge that was given to confirm the truth of the Book of Mormon.

“And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” Book of Mormon Moroni 10: 4,5

“In the last days the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains…………. all nations shall flow unto it” See Isaiah 2:2

“Joseph Smith, Jr. was given to preside in the midst of my people, and ORGANIZE MY KINGDOM upon the consecrated land; and establish the children of Zion, upon the laws and commandments which have been, and which shall be given, unto you.” D&C 100:6g

The keys of the Kingdom were given to Joseph Smith, Jr. and his assistant presidents to set the whole Church and Kingdom of God on earth in order.

They accomplished this task and magnified their callings by bringing into being the Latter Day Restoration.

The ORACLES OF GOD were the product of this labor. These oracles are contained in the Doctrine and Covenants, The Book of Mormon, and the Inspired version of the Bible. The task given to Joseph Smith of bringing forth the oracles was completed and they were given to the Church.

“And all they who receive the ORACLES OF GOD, let them beware how they hold them, lest they are accounted as a light thing, and are brought under condemnation thereby; and stumble and fall, when the storms descend, and the winds blow, and the rains descend, and beat upon their house.” D&C 87:2b

The Keys of the Kingdom were never to be taken from Joseph in this world and will not be taken from him in the world to come. He was faithful in accomplishing all the work that was required of him by the Lord. See D&C 87: 2 a

The Restored Church was set in order in its fullness by Joseph Smith as he followed the pattern that was received. This resulted in the restoration of the ordinances and priesthood, both the Aaronic and Melchisedec orders. From these two orders, men were chosen or set apart to preside, (as presidents), over the various quorums and functions of the Church. These men were appointed from the two priesthoods, according to the commandments, discernment of Spirit, wisdom, and according to the gifts and talents of God given to men. After this initial “Setting in Order”, the commandment came directing that those officers are to be given full authority and the responsibility to function in their offices and callings.

Full order for the Church and Kingdom is achieved when all the quorums are formed with presiding officers installed for the General Church Administration and for the Stake Administrations.

“And when those officers are ordained and set in their order, in the church, they should be left to administer in the things unto which they were ordained, having charge of the affairs over which they are called and set apart to preside;” D&C 122:8 b

Until full order is achieved, it is the duty and responsibility of the First Presidency, the Twelve, the Seventy, or in case of emergency, a council of High Priests, to set the Church in order. See D&C 122:10a

The following work was first published in America, in 1837. By Apostle Parley P. Pratt, taken from a pamphlet entitled, “A Voice of Warning”

Before we proceed any further in our research, let us agree upon the meaning of the term, the Kingdom of God, or the sense in which we will use it; for some apply this term to the kingdom of glory above, and some to the individual enjoyments of their own souls, while others apply it to his organized government on the earth. Now, when we speak of the kingdom of God, we wish it to be understood that we mean his organized government on the earth.

Essentials of the Kingdom of God

Now, reader, we launch forth into the wide field before us in search of a kingdom. But, stop, let us consider—What is a kingdom? I reply that four things are required in order to constitute any kingdom in heaven or on earth, namely: first, a king; secondly, commissioned officers duly qualified to execute his ordinances and laws; thirdly, a code of laws by which the subjects are governed; and fourthly, subjects who are governed. Where these exist in their proper order and regular authority, there is a kingdom, but were either of these to cease to exist, there would be a disorganization of the kingdom; consequently an end of it until reorganized after the same manner as before.

In this respect the kingdom of God is like other kingdoms; whenever we find officers duly commissioned and qualified by the Lord Jesus, together with his ordinances and laws existing in purity, unmixed with any precepts or commandments of men, there the kingdom of God exists, and there his power is manifest and his blessings are enjoyed as in days of old.

This Book is an overview of the Laws of the Lord and is not intended to be an exhaustive treatment of all church laws. It is our hope, however, that it will lead to further study by his Saints.

We do not believe that God has abandoned his people, but that he will still raise up those who will accept his word and law and respond to those requirements to enlist in the cause to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion.

The following pages contain carefully selected terms that clarify the various offices and functions contained within the organization and structure of the Church and Kingdom.

Definitions

In order to understand the government of the Church and Kingdom of God, we must first understand some basic terms.

These terms will be defined and expanded upon in the text following:

General Authorities
Traveling Ministry
Standing Ministry
General Assembly
Conferences
Joint Council
High Council
Center Place
Districts
Stakes

General Authorities

The General Authorities are responsible for and to the whole church. These men devote their time, resources and efforts toward the Lord’s church and Kingdom. They are comprised of the following

First Presidency
Quorum of Twelve
Quorum of Seventy
Presiding Patriarch
Presiding Bishop

Traveling Ministry (Missionaries)

Traveling ministry, (Missionaries), consist of the following priesthood offices:

Twelve
Seventies
Evangelical ministers (who are able to travel)
Traveling Bishops
Traveling Elders

Standing Ministry

The standing ministry consists of the following priesthood offices:

High Priest
Patriarch/Evangelist
Bishop
Elder
Priest
Teacher
Deacon

General Assembly of the Church:

The church is the Body of Christ and when gathered in General Assembly it is the highest administrative authority of the church. D&C 104:11. The Assembly format was used to approve the Doctrine and Covenants in 1835. The General Assembly is organized into the following church quorums:

Presidency
Twelve
Seventy
High Priests
Elders
Priests
Teachers
Deacons
Members

Note: Patriarchs, Bishops, and High Councilors are enrolled in the High Priests Quorum.. D&C 129:7a, b

Conferences of the Church

There are two scheduled conferences addressed in scripture and history. They are Elders Conferences and General Conferences.

The Joint Council

The Joint Council is comprised of the First Presidency, the Twelve, and the Seventy.

High Councils

There are a number of High Councils. Each Stake has one; There is a High Council at the seat of the First Presidency; The Twelve are a Traveling High Council; and there are Temporary High Councils. These councils are the church courts for the organized and unorganized areas of the church.

Center Place, (City New Jerusalem)

The location of the Center Place has been designated by prophecy as Independence, Missouri. This is the central location for the city New Jerusalem. We are promised that it will not be moved out of its place.

As early as August 1830, Joseph Smith, Jr., was given a revelation that decreed the elect would be gathered to one place on the face of this land of America. This was months before he received a further revelation in February of 1831 stating that a New Jerusalem would be built that God’s people may be gathered into one. Then in July of 1831 the Center Place location was designated at Independence, Jackson County, Missouri.

See D&C 28:2c; 36:12f; 42:3b; 51:1a

Stakes, Organized Areas of the Church

Stakes are fully organized units of church government and society that provide a physical and spiritual environment for nurturing its citizens in the “Good News of the Kingdom”, and in sanctification, from birth to the grave.

Line of Responsibility in the Standing Ministry

See D&C 122:9 a-c

High Priests
Elders
Priests
Teachers
Deacons

Districts, and other Unorganized Areas of the world

Districts are geographic areas designated for missionary development. The church missionary corps is responsible for developing leadership, and temporary organization in districts and undeveloped areas of the world until fully organized stakes can be set in order. The standing ministry then directs the affairs of the stake.

The Presidency in the Restoration

Stewardship and Authority

PREFACE TO THE DOCTRINE AND COVENANTS, SECTION 75

A conference was held at Amherst, Lorain County, Ohio, January 25, 1832. Some of the elders asked Joseph to "inquire of the Lord that they might know his will, or learn what would be most pleasing to him for them to do, in order to bring men to a sense of their condition." Joseph made inquiry of the Lord and received the following message. The conference is also noteworthy because here Joseph Smith was ordained President of the High Priesthood.

We are informed in the Doctrine and Covenants, the President of the High Priesthood is to preside over the whole church.

“And again, the duty of the president of the office of the high priesthood is to preside over the whole church, and to be like unto Moses.” D&C 104:42a

How Chosen

It is understood that all priesthood with valid claims must be called of God, as Aaron was called. Men ordained to the presidency of the church must be high priests. The body chooses from the high priests quorum those who will be their three presidents.

“President W.W. Phelps then read the written testimony of the Twelve, as follows: "The testimony of the witnesses to the book of the Lord's commandments, which he gave to his church through Joseph Smith, Jr., who was appointed by the voice of the church for this purpose:”

D&C Introduction: 5 a

“Of the Melchisedec priesthood, three presiding high priests, chosen by the body, appointed and ordained to that office, and upheld by the confidence, faith, and prayer of the church, form a quorum of the Presidency of the church.”

D&C 104:11b

Should the president of the high priesthood lose his ability to function in his office and calling through transgression or incapacity, he will only have the power to select from the remaining two presidents, the one who will succeed him.

“But verily, verily I say unto you, that none else shall be appointed unto this gift except it be through him, for if it be taken from him he shall not have power, except to appoint another in his stead and this shall be a law unto you, that ye receive not the teachings of any that shall come before you as revelations, or commandments; and this I give unto you, that you may not be deceived, that you may know they are not of me.”

D&C 43:2a, b

“Then comes the high priesthood, which is the greatest of all; wherefore, it must needs be that one be appointed, of the high priesthood, to preside over the priesthood; and he shall be called president of the high priesthood of the church, or, in other words, the presiding high priest over the high priesthood of the church.”

D&C 104:31e

Priesthood Functions

The First President of the Church is President of the high priesthood and called to be a seer, a revelator, a translator, and a prophet.

“And again, the duty of the president of the office of the high priesthood is to preside over the whole church, and to be like unto Moses. Behold, here is wisdom, yea, to be a seer, a revelator, a translator, and a prophet; having all the gifts of God which he bestows upon the head of the church.”

D&C 104:42 a, b

The presidency has authority to ordain and set in order all other officers in the church:

…..(Addressing the Presidency), “And this shall be your business and mission in all your lives to preside in council and set in order all the affairs of this church and kingdom.”

D&C 87:5c

The presidency has authority to organize the School of the Prophets:

“And again, verily I say unto thy brethren Sidney Rigdon and Frederick G. Williams, their sins are forgiven them also,...

…..and they are accounted as equal with thee (Joseph Smith, Jr.), in holding the keys of this last kingdom; as also through your administration the keys of the school of the prophets, which I have commanded to be organized, that thereby they may be perfected in their ministry for the salvation of Zion, and of the nations of Israel, and of the Gentiles, as many as will believe,” D&C 87:3a, b

LEGISLATIVE FUNCTION

The Quorum of First Presidency forms an equal part of The Joint Council when sitting as Legislative Bodies:

The Presidency sits in Joint Council with the Twelve, the Seventy, and at times include the Presiding Patriarch and the Presiding Bishop for council in order to legislate important requirements of the church: to formulate, debate, and perfect the implementation of Rules, Resolutions, Policies, and Procedures, that will be a standard guide in governing the Church. These Policies, Procedures, Rules, Resolutions, when perfected, will go to the various quorums in General Assembly for final acceptance and approval.

See the law of common consent contained in the following:

“And all things shall be done by common consent in the church, by much prayer and faith; for all things you shall receive by faith. Amen.” D&C 25:1b

“Neither shall anything be appointed unto any of this church contrary to the church covenants, for all things must be done in order and by common consent in the church, by the prayer of faith.” D&C 27:4c

“The Scriptures and the church articles and covenants, with the rules adopted by the church, shall govern in procedure..” D&C 122:10c

“The decisions of these quorums, (Presidency, Twelve and Seventy), or either of them, are to be made in all righteousness, in holiness and lowliness of heart, meekness and long-suffering, and in faith and virtue and knowledge; temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity, because the promise is, if these things abound in them, they shall not be unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord. And in case that any decision of these quorums is made in unrighteousness, it may be brought before a general assembly of the several quorums which constitute the spiritual authorities of the church, otherwise there can be no appeal from their decision.”

D&C 104:11i-j

The power and authority of the higher, or Melchisedec, priesthood, is to hold the keys of all the spiritual blessings of the church; to have the privilege of receiving the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven; to have the heavens opened unto them; to commune with the general assembly and church of the Firstborn; and to enjoy the communion and presence of God the Father, and Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant”

D&C 104:9a, b

Note: Appeal cannot be made to the High Council from the decisions of the Joint Council. The High Council does not have jurisdiction over the legislative decisions of these three quorums. However the High Council can try all church officers for transgression, with the exception of the First Presidency, who is the presidency of the High Council. The Presidency is tried in a special High Council with the Bishopric as Presidency.

“And inasmuch as a president of the high priesthood shall transgress, he shall be had in remembrance before the common council of the church, who shall be assisted by twelve councilors of the high priesthood; and their decision upon his head shall be an end of controversy concerning him.” D&C 104:37 a

“In case the Presidency is in transgression, the Bishop and his council of high priests, as provided in the law; and the Presidency and high council if the bishop, or his counselors, if high priests, are in transgression.”

D&C 122:10b

The first presidency will generally be chosen to preside at a General Assembly. In case of disorganization of the church however, any one of the three presidencies, or in case of emergency a council of High Priests, have the authority to call the remaining quorums together in General Assembly to set the church in order.

The leading quorum having authority such as: Presidency, Twelve, Seventy or Council of High Priests, will set the agenda for the General Assembly, after submitting it for the scrutiny and approval of the remaining General Church Authorities.

The First Presidency will generally be chosen to preside at the General Conference.

Administrative Function

The First Presidency is granted by the Lord and by the common consent of the membership, full authority to enforce all laws given of the Lord. and to implement and enforce all Laws, Rules, Resolutions, Policies, and Procedures that have been properly legislated and approved by the quorums of the Church.

Judicial Function

The Presidency of the Church, due to the dignity of the office should be chosen to sit as the presider or as presiders on the STANDING High Council of the General Church. See D&C 99

The Quorum of Twelve

Stewardship and Authority

The work of the Twelve is Prophetic, Legislative, Administrative and Judicial in its scope.

A Brief History of the Twelve

The Twelve in the Old Testament

The Twelve leaders of Israel in the Old Testament were chosen, one from each of the tribes of Israel, and were considered princes of the people.

“These are those that were numbered, which Moses and Aaron numbered, and the princes of Israel, being twelve men: each one was for the house of his fathers.” Numbers 1:44

The Lord refers to the pillars of his Church and Kingdom as princes and kings.

“And hast made us unto our God kings and priests; and we shall reign on the earth.” Rev 5:10

“For he saith, Are not my princes altogether kings?” Isaiah 10:8

“BEHOLD, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment”. Isaiah 32:1

There is a reference in the old testament to certain Princes that are established to be pillars.

“He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.” 1 Samuel 2:8

This is confirmed in the New Testament.

“And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.”

The Twelve in the New Testament

The Lord Jesus Christ called and ordained Twelve disciples whom he called apostles.

“And when it was day, he called his disciples; and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles.” Luke 6:13

“And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils.” Mark 3:13

The Twelve that were with him in his ministry shall sit upon twelve thrones and judge the twelve tribes of Israel.

“And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, that ye who have followed me, shall, in the resurrection, when the Son of Man shall come sitting on the throne of his glory, ye shall also sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” Mat 19:28

“And before him shall be gathered all nations; and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth sheep from the goats; the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left. And he shall sit upon his throne, and the twelve apostles with him”. Mat 25:33-34

“Mine apostles, the twelve which were with me in my ministry at Jerusalem, shall stand at my right hand, at the day of my coming, in a pillar of fire, being clothed with robes of righteousness, with crowns upon their heads, in glory even as I am, to judge the whole house of Israel, even as many as have loved me and kept my commandments, and none else;”

D&C 28:3b

The Twelve in the Book of Mormon

“And I also saw and bear record that the Holy Ghost fell upon twelve others, and they were ordained of God, and chosen. And the angel spake unto me, saying, Behold the twelve disciples of the Lamb, who are chosen to minister unto thy seed. And he said unto me, Thou remembereth the twelve apostles of the Lamb? Behold they are they who shall judge the twelve tribes of Israel: Wherefore, the twelve ministers of thy seed shall be judged of them; for ye are of the house of Israel; and these twelve ministers whom thou beholdest, shall judge thy seed.” 1 Nephi 3:113-116

The Lord empowered the Twelve in America to baptize with water and the Holy Ghost.

“And it came to pass that when Jesus had spoken these words unto Nephi, and to those who had been called, (now the number of them who had been called and received power and authority to baptize, were twelve,) And behold he stretched forth his hand unto the multitude, and cried unto them, saying, Blessed are ye if ye shall give heed unto the words of these twelve whom I have chosen from among you to minister unto you, ...

…….and to be your servants; And unto them I have given power, that they may baptize you with water, and after that ye are baptized with water, behold I will baptize you with fire and with the Holy Ghost;”

3 Nephi 5:44-46

The Twelve in the Restoration

The first Twelve were called and ordained on February 14, 1835. The method of calling was according to a previous commandment given in June 1829 at Fayette New York, to Martin Harris, David Whitmer and Oliver Cowdery, who were commanded to seek out and select those who would serve as the Twelve Apostles even though this selection was not completed until 1835.

“And now, behold, there are others who are called to declare my gospel, both unto Gentile and unto Jew; yea, even twelve; and the twelve shall be my disciples, and they shall take upon them my name;” D&C 16:5a

“And now, behold, I give unto you, Oliver Cowdery, and also unto David Whitmer, that you shall search out the twelve who shall have the desires of which I have spoken; and by their desires and their works, you shall know them.”

D&C 16: 6 a

The Twelve are referred to as disciples or Apostles.

“The twelve traveling councilors are called to be the Twelve Apostles, or special witnesses of the name of Christ, in all the world; thus differing from other officers in the church in the duties of their calling.” D&C 104:11c

“The Twelve are a traveling, presiding high council, to officiate in the name of the Lord, under the direction of the Presidency of the church, agreeably to the institution of heaven, to build up the church and regulate all the affairs of the same, in all nations; first unto the Gentiles, and secondly unto the Jews.” “The Twelve being sent out, holding the keys to open the door by the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ; and first unto the Gentiles, and then unto the Jews.” D&C 104:12 and 13b

How Chosen

Each time the Twelve (Apostles) have initially been established in the restoration they were chosen by committee. See D&C 16:6a

The Twelve have responsibility and authority to choose and ordain others to fill vacancies in their own quorum after they are initially chosen by committee and set in order. See Acts 1: 16-26

Priesthood Function

The Twelve hold the keys to open the Gospel in all the world, to establish and set in order the Kingdom of God. See D&C 104:13b

The Quorum of Twelve forms the Second Presidency of the church. In case of dissolution of two or more members of the First Presidency by death, or removal, the Quorum of Twelve becomes the leading Presidential Quorum of the Church. This is an interim measure until the First Presidency can be re-established by the voice of the General Assembly. See D&C 104:11 c,

When the Church is in a condition of disorganization, and the General Authorities and Leading Quorums have not been fully reestablished, then the Twelve have authority to ordain all other officers in the Church in order to complete the organization. Once the Leading Quorums are set in order with their Presiders, the Twelve then move on to function as Presiders in the Unorganized areas of the Church.

See D&C 104:30

“That part of the law which says: "It is the duty of the Twelve, also, to ordain and set in order all the other officers of the church," is to be understood by the revelation which went before and in accordance with which it was written; and which follows after it in the book; and when those officers are ordained and set in their order, in the church, they should be left to administer in the things unto which they were ordained, having charge of the affairs over which they are called and set apart to preside;” D&C 122:8a-b

“It is the duty of the Twelve, in all large branches of the church, (unorganized areas), to ordain evangelical ministers, as they shall be designated unto them by revelation.” D&C 104:17

LEGISLATIVE FUNCTION

The Quorum of Twelve are an equal part of The Joint Council. As a Legislative Body they may propose, debate, and review Rules, Resolutions, Policies, Procedures, Budgets, and other matters for consideration of the Joint Council and the Body.

“And every decision made by either of these quorums, (Presidency; Twelve; or Seventy), must be by the unanimous voice of the same; that is, every member in each quorum must be agreed to its decisions, in order to make their decisions of the same power or validity one with the other.”

D&C 104:11f

“The decisions of these quorums, or either of them, are to be made in all righteousness, in holiness and lowliness of heart, meekness and long-suffering, and in faith and virtue and knowledge; temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity, because the promise is, if these things abound in them, they shall not be unfruitful in the knowledge of the Lord.” D&C 104: 11 i

Administrative Function

The Twelve develop the missionary plan in conjunction with the First Presidency and Seventies to fulfill missionary responsibilities.

“The Twelve are a traveling, presiding high council, to officiate in the name of the Lord, under the direction of the Presidency of the church, agreeably to the institution of heaven, to build up the church and regulate all the affairs of the same, in all nations; first unto the Gentiles, and secondly unto the Jews. The Seventy are to act in the name of the Lord, under the direction of the Twelve, or the traveling high council, in building up the church, and regulating all the affairs of the same, in all nations; first unto the Gentiles, and then to the Jews.” D&C 104:12,13

The Quorum of Twelve, upon dissolution of the First Presidency, becomes the leading administrative quorum of the church and is responsible for conducting all Church business until the First Presidency is re-established.

The Twelve, having equal jurisdictional authority with the Presidency and Seventy, act as an oversight quorum to ensure that the rights of the people are not trampled upon. In doing this, they have authority to inspect all aspects of church administrative operations. Any discrepancies encountered shall be brought before a session of the Joint Council of the First Presidency, Twelve, and Seventy.

“In case there should be a flagrant disregard of the rights of the people, the quorums of the church in joint council should be appealed to, and their action and determination should govern. I inquired what quorums of the church were meant, and I was answered, the three quorums the decisions of which are provided for in the law--the Presidency, the Twelve, and the Seventy.” D&C 126:10d, e

The Twelve perform all administrative tasks in order to establish and set in order those areas that have been approved for stake organizations. Until stake organizations are formed, the Twelve shall preside or appoint someone to preside over Conferences in unorganized areas. See D&C 122: 8a-d

“And, behold, there is none other place appointed than that which I have appointed, (the Center Place), neither shall there be any other place appointed than that which I have appointed for the work of the gathering of my Saints, until the day cometh when there is found no more room for them; and then I have other places which I will appoint unto them, and they shall be called stakes, for the curtains, or the strength of Zion. Behold, it is my will, that all they who…….

...call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting gospel, should gather together and stand in holy places, and prepare for the revelation which is to come when the veil of the covering of my temple, in my tabernacle, which hideth the earth, shall be taken off, and all flesh shall see me together.” D&C 98:4h-5a

Judicial Function

The Twelve form a Traveling High Council with jurisdiction over all unorganized areas.

“There is a distinction between the high council of traveling high priests abroad, and the traveling high council composed of the twelve apostles, in their decisions: from the decision of the former there can be an appeal, but from the decision of the latter there cannot. The latter can only be called in question by the general authorities of the church in case of transgression.” D&C 99:13 a, b

There is no appeal from a decision of the Quorum of Twelve to any other High Council. If their decision is done in unrighteousness it can only be called in question by the Joint Council, The Presidency and the Seventy. (General Authorities of the Church)

The Quorum of Seventy

Stewardship and Authority

The work of the Seventy is Prophetic, Legislative, Administrative and

Judicial in its scope.

A Brief History of the Seventy

The Seventy in the Old Testament

The gospel has been taught from the beginning of time, and this everlasting gospel has remained unchanged from the days of Adam. Holding this belief allows us an understanding of parts of the Old Testament that would otherwise remain a mystery. The gospel contains the power to transform lives. Through direct confession to God, Repentance, Baptism of water and Spirit, God can make the foulest clean. The call of the Seventy is to:

“Bring to pass the gathering of mine elect; for mine elect hear my voice and harden not their hearts” D&C 28:2c.

Little has been recorded about the first Seventy who were called. We have references of the seventy elders of Israel who were called of God through Moses, when he cried unto the Lord that he could not bear the burden of the people alone and to be merciful to him by taking his life.

“And the Lord said unto Moses, Gather unto me seventy men of the elders of Israel, whom thou knowest to be the elders of the people, and officers over them; and bring them unto the tabernacle of the congregation, that they may stand there with thee. And I will come down and talk with thee there; and I will take of the Spirit which is upon thee, and will put it upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear it not thyself alone.” Num 11:16-17

These Elders were bid to come up unto the mountain and commune with the Lord. There the Seventy with Moses, Aaron, Nadab and Abihu saw the God of Israel.

“And he said unto Moses, Come up unto the LORD, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel; and worship ye afar off”.. Then went up Moses, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel: And they saw the God of Israel: and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness. And upon the nobles of the children of Israel he laid not his hand: also they saw God, and did eat and drink.” See Exodus 24:1,9,10

The Seventy in the New Testament

The Seventy Elders, (Sanhedrin), during our Lord’s ministry had become corrupted by apostasy. King Herod had murdered forty five of the seventy and replaced them with those who would be loyal to him. The Book of Luke records the Lord calling other Seventy.

“After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, where he himself would come…….. And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.” See Luke 10:1,18

The Book of Luke gives the only clear reference to the seventy in the New Testament, however, there are strong indications in the Book of Acts, and the letters of Paul, which refer to other members of this quorum.

Eusebius, a church historian that lived in the time when the Roman Emperor Constantine took control of the Christian factions about 325 AD writes:

“The names of the apostles of our Saviour are known to every one from the Gospels. But there exists no catalogue of the seventy disciples. Barnabas, indeed, is said to have been one of them, of whom the Acts of the Apostles makes mention in various places, and especially Paul in his Epistle to the Galatians. They say that Sosthenes also, who wrote to the Corinthians with Paul, was one of them. This is the account of Clement in the fifth book of his Hypotyposes, in which he also says that Cephas was one of the seventy disciples, a man who bore the same name as the apostle Peter, and the one concerning whom Paul says,

“When Cephas came to Antioch I withstood him to his face.” Matthias, also who was numbered with the apostles in the place of Judas, and the one who was honored by being made a candidate with him, are likewise said to have been deemed worthy of the same calling with the seventy. They say that Thaddeus also was one of them, concerning whom I shall presently relate an account which has come down to us. And upon examination you will find that our Saviour had more than seventy disciples, according to the testimony of Paul, who says that after his resurrection from the dead he appeared first to Cephas, then to the twelve, and after them to above five hundred brethren at once, of whom some had fallen asleep; but the majority were still living at the time he wrote.”-Ecclesiastical History, Book 1, Chapter 12

The Seventy in the Restoration

February 28, 1835 marks the date of the calling of the first Restoration Seventy. These Seventy were to function as had the Seventy of old. They were, as their predecessors, under the direction of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles who were called just fourteen days earlier. Thus the First Quorum of Restoration Seventy was begun according to the visions and revelations received by the Prophet Joseph Smith, Jr. Their ministry was to be to all the world. …...

……Those who were called to serve as Seventy were men with deep conviction bearing personal testimony of the mission of Jesus Christ and his coming kingdom. The calling and ordaining of the Twelve and Seventy at this period of Restoration history substantially completed the organization of priesthood in the church. They were commanded to stand with the First Presidency as the three leading quorums of the church, to serve in The Joint Council with joint responsibility to protect the rights of the Saints and the teachings of Christ.

See D&C 104: 11e;123: 22; and 126: 10

The priesthood quorums received an endowment of the Holy Spirit in the Kirtland Temple at Kirtland Ohio in 1836 and in the following eight years moved out with great power in missionary activity. “The Lord now caused a greater endowment to rest upon his people, and the church grew rapidly. By 1844 the church estimated that 200,000 souls had embraced the truth”.

Church History, Vol. 3, Page 1.

How Chosen

The Presidents of Seventy have authority and responsibility to choose other Seventy to fill the seven quorums of Seventy as the need arises. They are to do this by consulting with the Presidents of the various Elders Quorums and also with their brother Seventies.

“And it is according to the vision, showing the order of the Seventy, that they should have Seven Presidents to preside over them, chosen out of the number of the Seventy, and seventh president of these presidents is to preside over the six; and these Seven Presidents are to choose other Seventy besides the first Seventy, to whom they belong, and are to preside over them; and also other Seventy until seven times seventy, if the labor in the vineyard of necessity requires it.” D&C 104:43a, b

“The presidents of Seventy are instructed to select from the several quorums of elders such as are qualified and in a condition to take upon them the office of Seventy, that they may be ordained unto the filling of the first quorum of Seventy. In making these selections the presidents of Seventy should confer with the several quorums before so selecting, and be guided by wisdom and the spirit of revelation, choosing none but men of good repute”. D&C 120:10a, b

“My servants, the presidents of the Seventy, may with the consent and approval of their brethren of the Seventy sitting in council together, select from their brethren one to take the place of my servant I. N. White, if he accept the appointment to the Quorum of Twelve, and his choosing be approved by the church; and in like manner they may fill any other vacancy that has occurred or may occur; such selection and appointment to be made in the spirit of prayer and supplication and wisdom, and to be approved by the church.” D&C 124:5 a, b

Priesthood Functions

“The seventy are also called to preach the gospel, and to be especial witnesses unto the Gentiles and in all the world--thus differing from other officers in the church in the duties of their calling; and they form a quorum equal in authority to that of the twelve especial witnesses, or apostles, just named”. D&C 104:11e

“It is the duty of the traveling high council, (Twelve Apostles), to call upon the Seventy, when they need assistance, to fill the several calls for preaching and administering the gospel, instead of any others.” D&C 104:16

“The Twelve and Seventy administering as those prosecuting the work of preaching with the warning voice, baptizing, organizing and setting in order, then pushing their ministry into other fields until the world is warned.” D&C 122:8c

Legislative Function

The Quorum of Seventy form an equal part of The Joint Council. As a Legislative Body they may propose, debate, and review Rules, Resolutions, Policies, Procedures, Budgets, and other matters for consideration of the Joint Council and the Body.

D&C 104:11f

D&C 104:11i

Administrative Function

“The Seventy are to act in the name of the Lord, under the direction of the Twelve, or the traveling high council, in building up the church, and regulating all the affairs of the same, in all nations; first unto the Gentiles, and then to the Jews;”

D&C 104:13

The Seventy having equal jurisdictional authority with the Presidency and Twelve, act as an oversight quorum to ensure that the rights of the people are not trampled upon. In doing this, they have authority to inspect all aspects of church administrative operations. Any discrepancies encountered shall be brought before a session of the Joint Council of the First Presidency, Twelve, and Seventy.

Judicial Function

The word of God established a judicial body of seventy Elders to assist Moses in judging the people of Israel. In later years this body of seventy elders was known as the Jewish Sanhedrin. It was to this judicial body that Paul, Nicodemus, and others well known in the New Testament belonged. When Jesus called other Seventy (Luke 10) he was calling those who would replace the Seventy that were in apostasy under the High Priest Caiaphas.

Jesus sent out his newly called Seventy to go into every city and place where he himself would come, and instructed them to preach the gospel of the Kingdom with a warning voice. They were to warn those with whom they came into contact of the judgment that was to follow all who would not hear them.

“But into whatsoever city ye, (the Seventy), enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say, Even the very dust of your city which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you; notwithstanding, be sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable in the day of judgment for Sodom, than for that city.” Luke 10:10-12

The Presiding Patriarch

Stewardship and Authority

A Brief History of the Patriarch

Patriarchs in the Old Testament

Joseph Smith received revelations that records the blessings from father to son of the patriarchs from the time of Adam to Noah. We also follow the descendants of Noah to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who received the promise that through them and through their seed the nations of the earth should be blessed.

Patriarchs in the New Testament

Patriarchs in the New Testament are referred to as evangelists. Their functions were not clearly expressed. A man named Philip, who was filled with the Holy Ghost, was chosen as one of the seven deacons to serve tables, but it is not known if this was the same man who baptized the eunuch from the court of Candice. If it was he would have had to be a priest or elder. Scripture also speaks of a Philip who is an evangelist but it is is not clear if this is the same man.

“And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea; and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.” Acts 21:8

“And he gave some, apostles; and some prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; Till we, in the unity of the faith, all come to the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;” Eph. 4:11-13

But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. 2 Tim 4:5

Patriarchs in the Restoration

The first patriarch in the Restoration, Joseph Smith, Sr., was ordained under the hands of the First Presidency consisting of Joseph Smith, Jr., Frederick Williams and Hyrum Smith in the Kirtland Temple on January 21, 1836. …..

…….Upon the death of Joseph Smith, Sr., his son Hyrum was ordained as patriarch of the church. After the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum, their brother William was ordained as patriarch. The patriarchal line according to lineage was observed until recent years by the Reorganized Church.

How Chosen

The choosing of the patriarch for the church is through lineage of the chosen seed. This had to be established through revelation in the Restoration. Also evangelical ministers who are also patriarchs, are chosen through revelations given to the Twelve.

“It is the duty of the Twelve, in all large branches of the church, to ordain evangelical ministers, as they shall be designated unto them by revelation. The order of this priesthood was confirmed to be handed down from father to son, and rightly belongs to the literal descendants of the chosen seed, to whom the promises were made.” D&C 104:17, 18

Priesthood Function

“The patriarch is an evangelical minister. The duties of this office are to be an evangelical minister; to preach, teach, expound, exhort, to be a revivalist, and to visit branches and districts as wisdom may direct, invitation, request, or the Spirit of God determine and require; to comfort the Saints; to be a father to the church; to give counsel and advice to individuals who may seek for such; to lay on hands for the conferment of spiritual blessing, and if so led, to point out the lineage of the one who is blessed.” D&C 125:3 a, b

“First, I give unto you Hyrum Smith to be a patriarch unto you, to hold the sealing blessings of my church, even the Holy Spirit of promise, whereby ye are sealed up unto the day of redemption, that ye may not fall, notwithstanding the hour of temptation that may come upon you.” D&C 107: 38

The Patriarch has no legislative functions except as he may be called upon for advise and council, by the Joint Council consisting of the Presidency, the Twelve and the Seventy.

Administrative Function

The patriarch of the church is to keep records of all patriarchal blessings and to be an administrator in charge of the administrative affairs of the patriarchs. He is a councilor to the president of the church.

“Separate and set apart my servant Alexander Hale Smith to be a counselor to my servant, the President of the church, his brother; and to be patriarch to the church, and an evangelical minister to the whole church.” D&C 124:2

Judicial Function

The Patriarch has no judicial function.

The Presiding Bishop

Stewardship and Authority

How Chosen

Bishops are chosen by the president of the High Priesthood, (President of the Church), and must be a High Priest if not a direct descendent of Aaron. Their ordination shall be by direction of a high council or General Conference.

“Every president of the high priesthood (or presiding elder), bishop, high councilor, and high priest, is to be ordained by the direction of a high council, or General Conference.” D&C 17:17

“wherefore they, (Bishops), shall be high priests who are worthy, and they shall be appointed by the First Presidency of the Melchisedec priesthood, except they be literal descendants of Aaron, and if they be literal descendants of Aaron, they have a legal right to the bishopric, if they are the firstborn among the sons of Aaron; for the firstborn holds the right of the presidency over this priesthood, and the keys or authority of the same.” D&C 68:2c

“And a literal descendant of Aaron, also must be designated by this presidency, and found worthy, and anointed, and ordained under the hands of this presidency, otherwise they are not legally authorized to officiate in their priesthood; but by virtue of the decree concerning their right of the priesthood descending from father to son, they may claim their anointing, if at any time they can prove their lineage, or do ascertain it by revelation from the Lord under the hands of the above-named presidency.” D&C 68:2f, g

Priesthood Functions

“The bishopric is the presidency of this priesthood, (Aaronic), and holds the keys or authority of the same. No man has a legal right to this office, to hold the keys of this priesthood, except he be a literal descendant of Aaron.” D&C 104:8c

“Also the duty of the president over the priesthood of Aaron, is to preside over forty-eight priests, and sit in council with them, to teach them the duties of their office, as is given in the covenants. This president is to be a bishop; for this is one of the duties of this priesthood.” D&C 104:40a, b

Legislative Function

The Bishopric has no legislative function unless called as an advisor to the legislative quorums of the church.

Administrative Function

“The word has been already given in agreement with revelations long since delivered to the church, that the temporalities of the church were to be under the charge and care of the Bishopric, men holding the office of bishop under a presiding head acting for the church in the gathering, caring for, and disbursing the contributions gathered from the Saints of moneys and properties under the terms of tithing, surplus, free will offerings, and consecrations.” D&C 129:8b

The office of the Presiding Bishopric, Stake Bishopric, and area Bishops are to administer all the temporal laws of tithing, consecrations, surplus, and the gathering.

“And inasmuch as ye impart of your substance unto the poor, ye will do it unto me, and it shall be laid before the bishop of my church and his counselors, two of the elders, or high priests, such as he shall or has appointed and set apart for that purpose.” D&C 42:8c

“Every man shall be made accountable unto me a steward over his own property, or that which he has received by consecration, inasmuch as is sufficient for himself and family. And again, if there shall be properties in the hands of the church, or any individuals of it, more than is necessary for their support, after this first consecration, which is a residue, to be consecrated unto the bishop, it shall be kept to administer unto those who have not, from time to time, that every man who has need may be amply supplied, and receive according to his wants. Therefore, the residue shall be kept in my storehouse, to administer to the poor and the needy, as shall be appointed by the high council of the church, and the bishop and his council, and for the purpose of purchasing lands for the public benefit of the church, and building houses of worship, and building up of the New Jerusalem which is hereafter to be revealed, that my covenant people may be gathered in one, in that day when I shall come to my temple. And this I do for the salvation of my people.” D&C 42:9b to 10c

“And again, let the bishop appoint a storehouse unto this church, and let all things, both in money and in meat, which is more than is needful for the want of this people, be kept in the hands of the bishop.” D&C 51:4a

“And now concerning the gathering, let the bishop and the agent make preparations for those families which have been commanded to come to this land, as soon as possible, and plant them in their inheritance.” D&C 57:6a

Judicial Function

The bishop is a Judge.

“Nevertheless, a high priest, that is after the order of Melchisedec, may be set apart unto the ministering of temporal things, having a knowledge of them by the Spirit of truth, and also to be a judge in Israel, to do the business of the church, to sit in judgment upon transgressors, upon testimony, as it shall be laid before him, according to the laws, by the assistance of his counselors, whom he has chosen, or will choose among the elders of the church. This is the duty of a bishop who is not a literal descendant of Aaron, but has been ordained to the high priesthood after the order of Melchisedec. Thus shall he be a judge, even a common judge among the inhabitants of Zion, or in a stake of Zion, or in any branch of the church where he shall be set apart unto this ministry,” D&C 104:32c-33a

The Presiding Bishopric with a special council of High Priests may try the First Presidency in case of transgression.

“But a literal descendant of Aaron has a legal right to the presidency of this priesthood, to the keys of this ministry, to act in the office of bishop independently, without counselors, except in a case where a president of the high priesthood, after the order of Melchisedec, is tried; to sit as a judge in Israel.” D&C 104:34a

“And inasmuch as a president of the high priesthood shall transgress, he shall be had in remembrance before the common council of the church, who shall be assisted by twelve councilors of the high priesthood; and their decision upon his head shall be an end of controversy concerning him.” D&C 104:37a

The High Priest

Stewardship and Authority

A Brief History of the High Priest

The High Priest in the Old Testament

The High Priest; a member of the High Priesthood also referred to as the Melchizedek Priesthood. This priesthood was after the Order of the Covenant that God made with Enoch and named after Melchizedek the Prince of Peace, King of Salem whom God had approved and ordained a high priest forever.

“Now Melchizedek was a man of faith, who wrought righteousness; and when a child he feared God, and stopped the mouths of lions, and quenched the violence of fire. And thus, having been approved of God, he was ordained an high priest after the order of the covenant which God made with Enoch, It being after the order of the son of God; which order came, not by man, nor the will of man; neither by father nor mother; neither by beginning of days nor end of years; but of God;”

Gen. 14:26-28

The High Priesthood existed on earth, prior to Melchizedek.

"Three years previous to the death of Adam, he called Seth, Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch, and Methuselah, who were all high priests, with the residue of his posterity, who were righteous, into the valley of Adam-ondi-ahman, and there bestowed upon them his last blessing. And the Lord appeared unto them, and they rose up and blessed Adam, and called him Michael, the Prince, the Archangel." RLDS Doctrine and Covenants Sec 104:28a,b

The High Priest in the New Testament

A High Priest is given authority to administer in all the offices in the church when no higher authorities are present. They have a right to officiate in their own standing under the direction of the presidency. The President of the church is the President of the High Priesthood. Apostles, and Patriarchs are High Priests. The Bishop in the absence of a literal descendant of Aaron is also a High Priest. There are presiding High Priests who are chosen as Stake Presidents. There are also High Priests chosen to preside over large congregations in unorganized areas of the church. High Priests have the authority to sit on the various High Councils.

The Apostle Paul, speaking of his fellow apostles, in his letter to the Hebrews makes this statement;

“Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;” Hebrews 3:1

Paul here clarifies that not only is Jesus an Apostle and High Priest but that the Apostles are also partakers of the heavenly calling of High priest.

“For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins;” Heb 5:1

“So also Christ glorified not himself to be made a high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, today have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” Heb 5:5-6

The High Priest in the Book of Mormon

“And also trusting no one to be your teacher nor your minister, except he is a man of God, walking in his ways and keeping his commandments. Thus did Alma teach his people, that every man should love his neighbor as himself; that there should be no contention among them. And now Alma was their high priest, he being the founder of their church. And it came to pass that none received authority to preach or to teach, except it were by him from God.”

Mosiah 11:15-18

“And it came to pass that Alma was appointed to be the chief judge; he being also the high priest; his father having conferred the office upon him, and had given him the charge concerning all the affairs of the church. And now it came to pass that Alma did walk in the ways of the Lord, and he did keep his commandments, and he did judge righteous judgments; and there was continual peace through the land; Mosiah 13:63,64

“ And thus being called by his holy calling, and ordained unto the high priesthood of the holy order of God, to teach his commandments unto the children of men, that they also might enter into his rest, This high priesthood being after the order of his Son, which order was from the foundation of the world: Or in other words, being without beginning of days or end of years, being prepared from eternity to all eternity, according to his foreknowledge of all things. Now they were ordained after this manner: Being called with a holy calling, and ordained with a holy ordinance, and taking upon them the high priesthood of the holy order, which calling, and ordinance, and high priesthood, is without beginning or end; Thus they become high priests for ever, after the order of the Son, the only begotten of the Father, who is without beginning of days or end of years, who is full of grace, equity, and truth. And thus it is. Amen.”

Alma 9:69-73

The High Priest in the Restoration

We can look to the Restoration for a fuller understanding of the role of High Priest. The Doctrine and Covenants furnishes us with a better understanding of this important calling.

The restoration of the Melchisedec Priesthood through the visitation of Peter, James, and John gave the Prophet Joseph Smith, Jr., and Oliver Cowdery the authority and power to set all things in order. As church membership increased, the Lord revealed his pattern to Joseph. The organization of the priesthood into divisions and quorums gradually were understood and established. It is highly important that we understand that the structure and organization of the church could not all come about at once. …...

…..The principle reason for this is that when the church was organized on the 6th of April 1830, there were only a few persons involved. The church needed time to grow in numbers in order to provide qualified, capable men to fill the many offices and callings that God required in his church. For example, a committee to select the Twelve, was appointed in 1829, however the twelve were not finally selected and ordained until 1835, six years later. The Melchisedec Priesthood was restored prior to the organization of the church in 1830; however the first High Priest was not ordained until 1831. It is necessary to take into consideration the historical time element, if we are to gain a better understanding of God’s plan for his church.

Joseph was given the following in relation to the calling of High Priest:

“The high priest and elder are to administer in spiritual things, agreeably to the covenants and commandments of the church; and they have a right to officiate in all these offices of the church when there are no higher authorities present.” D&C 104:7

“Every president of the high priesthood (or presiding elder), bishop, high councilor, and high priest, is to be ordained by the direction of a high council, or General Conference.” D&C 17:17

How Chosen

High Priests are chosen and ordained in the same manner as all priesthood. They must be called of God by revelation as Aaron was called by one having authority to call them. This authority to call varies from office to office, but all priesthood calls must be from the Lord through the calling authority.

“If an elder be chosen who may by experience be found qualified to preside, as soon as practicable thereafter he should be ordained an high priest by the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the one ordaining, and by direction of a high council, or General Conference, as required in the law.” D&C 120:2d

And thus, having been approved of God, he was ordained an high priest after the order of the covenant which God made with Enoch, It being after the order of the son of God; which order came, not by man, nor the will of man; neither by father nor mother; neither by beginning of days nor end of years; but of God; And it was delivered unto men by the calling of his own voice, according to his own will, unto as many as believed on his name. Genesis 14:27-29

So that the Saints will not be confused, it is necessary to clarify something that has been confusing to many. The president of the High Priesthood is chosen by the body from the quorum of those High Priests who have been called of God and ordained by one having authority. In fact of law all three presidents, the First President and the Two Assistant Presidents or Councilors, are chosen from the High Priest Quorum by the body.

“Of necessity, there are presidents, or presiding offices, growing out of, or appointed of, or from among those who are ordained to the several offices in these two priesthoods. Of the Melchisedec priesthood, three presiding high priests, chosen by the body, appointed and ordained to that office, and upheld by the confidence, faith, and prayer of the church, form a quorum of the Presidency of the church.” D&C 104:11a, b

Priesthood Function

The Presidency, the Twelve, the Patriarchs, and the Bishops are all High Priests and we have treated their authorities and responsibilities under their own headings. We will now confine ourselves to those functions of the High Priest that have not been addressed.

“High Priests, after the order of the Melchisedec priesthood, have a right to officiate in their own standing, under the direction of the Presidency, in administering spiritual things, and also in the office of an elder, priest (of the Levitical order), teacher, deacon, and member.” D&C Sec 104:5

High Priests are chosen and sustained as Stake Presidents by a Stake Conference. These Stake Presidents are under the direction of the President of the Church.

High Priests are called and chosen to preside in all large Branches of unorganized areas.

Legislative Function

The High Priests of the High Priests Quorum have the same legislative function as other Quorums within the General Assembly setting.

Administrative Function

There will be administrative functions derived from those presidencies held by the High Priest. The High Priest as a Stake President, administers the affairs of the whole stake. He is to administer the stake business according to the laws of God for the Stakes of Zion. On a stake level of administration, the Stake Bishop, the Patriarch and other High Priests come under his direction. The Stake President is under the direction of the President of the High Priesthood, the church President. On the general church level, for general church matters, the Bishop and Patriarch are under the direction of the Presiding Bishop and Presiding Patriarch.

Judicial Function

One of the most important callings of a High Priest, is to be a judge in a high council setting. serving as a high councilor. There are four types of high councils other than the Traveling High Council, (the Twelve Apostles), these councils are: The Standing High Council for the General Church; the High Council for a Stake of Zion; a Council of Traveling High Priests (temporary council) for trying cases in unorganized areas; and a special High Council called by the Presiding Bishop when a President of the High Priesthood is tried for transgression. Two types of councils can be appealed to a higher court. These are the Stake Councils and the Council of Traveling High Priests (temporary council). Three of these councils cannot be appealed. These are the Standing High Council for the General Church, the Traveling High Council, (the Twelve Apostles), and the special High Council called by the Presiding Bishop when a President of the High Priesthood is tried for transgression.

The Elder

Stewardship and Authority

A brief History of the Elder

The term Elder, is first mentioned in the Doctrine and Covenants Section Nineteen. This revelation was given April 6, 1830, at Fayette, New York, the day the church was organized.

“Wherefore, it behooveth me, that he, (Joseph Smith), should be ordained by you, Oliver Cowdery, mine apostle; this being an ordinance unto you, that you are an elder under his hand, he being the first unto you, that you might be an elder unto this church of Christ, bearing my name; D&C 19:3b

It was not until March 28, 1835, that the elders were organized into quorums. On that date the Prophet Joseph received the following by revelation:

“The office of an Elder comes under the priesthood of Melchisedec. The Melchisedec priesthood holds the right of presidency, and has power and authority over all the offices in the church, in all ages of the world, to administer in spiritual things.” D&C 104:3a-b

“Verily, I say unto you, saith the Lord of Hosts, there must needs be presiding elders to preside over those who are of the office of an elder.”

D&C 104: 31 b

“Again, the duty of the president over the office of elders is to preside over ninety-six elders, and to sit in council with them, and to teach them according to the covenants. This presidency is a distinct one from that of the seventy, and is designed for those who do not travel into all the world.” D&C 104: 41a, b

There are two usages of the term Elder throughout the scriptures. One of these usages is very familiar to those of the Restoration, that of the office of Elder within the Melchisedec Priesthood. The other usage has come into disuse mostly during the administration of the Reorganized Church. That usage was applied to all Melchisedec priesthood members from the President, Apostles, Seventies, Patriarchs, Bishops, and to the Elders.

“The word elders as used in the law signifies those holding the Melchisedec priesthood only; all classes and orders of this priesthood are characterized by the word elder.” D&C 125:8

D&C 17:8b

It is a scriptural requirement that one chosen as an Apostle, must be a High Priest and approved by a High Council or Conference before he can be ordained. The First Presidency is not a High Council without twelve high councilors who are set in place to form the High Council. This being the case, it is not only appropriate to refer to an Apostle as Elder, but also to make reference to High Priests, as Elders. Administrative policy and practice in the past has erroneously placed members of the quorum of seventy into the Elders quorum. It would be as logical to return the president of the high priesthood or an apostle to the Elders quorum as to return a seventy to this quorum. The law as we have found, does not allow shifting of callings outside the prescribed process of law which is given for each quorum.

For example: The body selects the president of the high priesthood and through legislation, (a vote of the body), the body can replace the president. Judiciously a special court headed by the presiding bishop and twelve high priests can try a president for transgression. The twelve choose other members of the twelve. They can only be removed by transgression and that by a finding of the standing high council. A member of the twelve can request non functioning status for age or health reasons but can only be released without his request by total incapacitation or his transgression as established by a high council. A seventy is chosen by the presidents of seventy and their brother seventies, and can only be released, by their quorum, for the same reasons as an apostle. All general authorities of the church at one time or another have been elders.

The office that we want to discuss here is the specific office of Elder, within the Melchisedec Priesthood.

Priesthood Function

“An apostle is an elder, and it is his calling to baptize, and to ordain other elders, priests, teachers, and deacons, and to administer bread and wine--the emblems of the flesh and blood of Christ--and to confirm those who are baptized into the church, by the laying on of hands for the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost, according to the Scriptures; and to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and watch over the church; and to confirm the church by the laying on of the hands, and the giving of the Holy Ghost, and to take the lead of all meetings. The elders are to conduct the meetings as they are led by the Holy Ghost, according to the commandments and revelations of God.” D&C 17:8b, 9

The above revelation indicates there are to be other elders than these who are apostles, but an Apostle is an Elder.

The priesthood functions of an elder are many as shown in the following instructions from the Lord:

To Work As a Missionary

The elder is to travel as far and wide as his circumstances will permit, and those who cannot travel are to watch over the church.

“And again I say unto you, I give unto you a commandment, that every man, both elder, priest, teacher, and also member, go to with his might, with the labor of his hands, to prepare and accomplish the things which I have commanded. And let your preaching be the warning voice, every man to his neighbor, in mildness and in meekness. And go ye out from among the wicked. Save yourselves. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord. Even so. Amen” D&C 38:9c, d, e

And again, verily I say unto you, Let Jared Carter be ordained a priest, and also George James be ordained a priest. Let the residue of the elders watch over the churches, and declare the word in the regions among them. And let them labor with their own hands, that there be no idolatry nor wickedness practiced. And remember in all things, the poor and the needy, the sick and the afflicted, for he that doeth not these things, the same is not my disciple. D&C 52:9a-c

Elders are to Assist the Bishop

“...and the elders, or high priests who are appointed to assist the bishop as counselors, in all things are to have their families supported out of the property which is consecrated to the bishop, for the good of the poor, and for other purposes, as before mentioned,...” D&C 42: 19a, b

To Teach the Gospel

“And again, the elders, priests, and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, in which is the fullness of the gospel; and they shall observe the covenants and church articles to do them, and these shall be their teachings, as they shall be directed by the Spirit; and the Spirit shall be given unto you by the prayer of faith, and if ye receive not the Spirit ye shall not teach.” D&C 42:5a, b.

To Administer to the Sick

“Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.”

James 5:14,15

Elders to Bless Little Children

“Every member of the church of Christ having children, is to bring them unto the elders before the church, who are to lay their hands upon them in the name of Jesus Christ, and bless them in his name.” D&C 17:19

Legislative Function

The Elders in quorum in General Assembly vote on the issues brought before the church.

“Every elder, priest, teacher, or deacon, is to be ordained according to the gifts and callings of God unto him; and he is to be ordained by the power of the Holy Ghost which is in the one who ordains him………. The several elders composing this church of Christ are to meet in conference once in three months, or from time to time, as said conferences shall direct or appoint; and said conferences are to do whatever church business is necessary to be done at the time. The elders are to receive their licenses from other elders, by vote of the church to which they belong, or from the conferences.” D&C 17:12a, b, 13, 14

Administrative Function

To Officiate

Elders are often called upon to preside in congregations in unorganized areas. This calling is to be a shepherd and an administrator to the flock. He will often work under the organizing supervision of the Apostle or Seventy assigned to his area.

An elder has a right to officiate in his stead when the high priest is not present.

Judicial Function

To Bring Wrongdoers Before the Church (Elders Court)

“But he or she shall be condemned by the mouth of two witnesses, and the elders shall lay the case before the church, and the church shall lift up their hands against him or her, that they may be dealt with according to the law of God. And if it can be, it is necessary that the bishop is present also. And thus ye shall do in all cases which shall come before you.” D&C 42:22b-e

Aaronic Priesthood

Stewardship and Authority

A brief History of the Priesthood of Aaron

Appendage to the Melchisedec priesthood

“Therefore, he took Moses out of their midst and the holy priesthood also; and the lesser priesthood continued, which priesthood holdeth the key of the ministering of angels and the preparatory gospel, which gospel is the gospel of repentance and of baptism, and the remission of sins, and the law of carnal commandments, which the Lord, in his wrath, caused to continue with the house of Aaron, among the children of Israel until John, whom God raised up, being filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb:”

D&C 83:4c-d

“Why it is called the lesser priesthood is, because it is an appendage to the greater, or the Melchisedec priesthood, and has power in administering outward ordinances. The bishopric is the presidency of this priesthood, and holds the keys or authority of the same.” D&C 104:8b-c

Priesthood after the order of Aaron Restored

John, who was called the Baptist, was recognized of the Lord when Jesus went to him for baptism. When the chief priests and elders questioned Jesus in the temple, Jesus indicated that the baptism of John was of heaven. See Matt. 21:23

John was of a priestly family. His father Zacharias served in the temple at Jerusalem. See Luke 1:5-8

This John, appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery and restored the priesthood of Aaron on earth for the first time since the great apostasy.

“And also John the son of Zacharias, which Zacharias he (Elias) visited and gave promise that he should have a son, and his name should be John, and he should be filled with the spirit of Elias; which John I have sent unto you, my servants, Joseph Smith, Jr., and Oliver Cowdery, to ordain you unto this first priesthood which you have received, that you might be called and ordained even as Aaron;” D&C 26:2c-d

The Presidencies

Aaronic Priesthood

The Bishops in Zion, in her Stakes, and in unorganized areas, are presidents over the priesthood of Aaron.

Of organized areas, the law has been given:

The Bishops are the presidents over all the priesthood of Aaron, however each quorum also has its own president. When the Church and Kingdom are functioning as God provided, all priesthood will receive those teachings necessary to perform their stewardships in a manner pleasing to the Lord.

“And again, verily I say unto you, The duty of a president over the office of a deacon, is to preside over twelve deacons, to sit in council with them, and to teach them their duty--edifying one another, as it is given according to the covenants. And also the duty of the president over the office of the teachers, is to preside over twenty--four of the teachers, and to sit in council with them-teaching them the duties of their office, as given in the covenants;” D&C 104:38-39

The New testament church grew as members of the priesthood under the authority of Jesus Christ bore their testimonies. Many priesthood members left the established church that had rejected the teachings of Jesus and joined the New Testament or New Covenant Church.

“And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.” Acts 6:7

The Priest

Stewardship and Authority

The priest's duty is to preach, teach, expound, exhort, and baptize, and administer the sacrament.

And visit the house of each member, and exhort them to pray vocally and in secret,

and attend to all family duties:

And he may also ordain other priests, teachers, and deacons;

And he is to take the lead of meetings when there is no elder present,

And visit the house of each member, exhorting them to pray vocally and in secret, and attend to all family duties.

In all these duties the priest is to assist the elder if occasion requires.” See D&C 17:10a, e

The Teacher

Stewardship and Authority

The teacher has a significant role in his responsibilities to the church. Often this important calling has been moved to the background of overall church ministry. Teachers have not been utilized to the full extent of their calling. Observe the importance of their calling in the following scriptures:

“The teacher's duty is to watch over the church always, and be with, and strengthen them, and see that there is no iniquity in the church, neither hardness with each other; neither lying, backbiting, nor evil speaking;

And see that the church meet together often, and also see that all the members do their duty,

And he is to take the lead of meetings in the absence of the elder or priest,

And is to be assisted always, in all his duties in the church, by the deacons, if occasion requires;

But neither teachers nor deacons have authority to baptize, administer the sacrament, or lay on hands;

They are, however, to warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ.

Every elder, priest, teacher, or deacon, is to be ordained according to the gifts and callings of God unto him;

And he is to be ordained by the power of the Holy Ghost which is in the one who ordains him.” D&C 17:11a-12b

Teachers, in organized areas are to be formed into quorums and will have a president.

“And also the duty of the president over the office of the teachers, is to preside over twenty--four of the teachers, and to sit in council with them-teaching them the duties of their office, as given in the covenants.” D&C 104:39

Teachers are to watch over the church as standing ministry.

“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.” D&C 83:22

The Deacon

Stewardship and Authority

Although there are references to the calling of deacon in the new testament, we must look to the revelations enumerated in the Restoration in order to understand the duties and responsibilities of this important calling.

The office of teacher and deacon are necessary appendages to the lesser priesthood of Aaron.

“Each priest, teacher, or deacon, who is ordained by a priest, may take a certificate from him at the time, which certificate, when presented to an elder, shall entitle him to a license, which shall authorize him to perform the duties of his calling; or he may receive it from a conference.” D&C 17:15

“And (the teacher) is to be assisted always, in all his duties in the church, by the deacons, if occasion requires;

But neither teachers nor deacons have authority to baptize, administer the sacrament, or lay on hands;

They are, however, to warn, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ.

Every elder, priest, teacher, or deacon, is to be ordained according to the gifts and callings of God

unto him;

And he is to be ordained by the power of the Holy Ghost which is in the one who ordains him.” See D&C 17:11d-12b

Deacons, in organized areas are to be formed into quorums and will have a president.

Deacons are to watch over the church as standing ministry.

Church Conferences

There are two conferences addressed in scripture and history. They are Elders Conferences and General Conferences.

The Elders Conference

Elders conferences are held in stakes and districts and include all Melchisedec priesthood members representing the various congregations in the stake or district. Elders conferences are directed by the Doctrine and Covenants.

“The several elders composing this church of Christ are to meet in conference once in three months, or from time to time, as said conferences shall direct or appoint; and said conferences are to do whatever church business is necessary to be done at the time.” D&C 17:13

Please keep in mind when our scriptures refer to Elders, it usually refers to all those who hold the Melchisedec Priesthood. So the conferences that are called for in this revelation are for the Melchisedec Priesthood.

In the organized stake areas, quarterly conferences are relatively easy to conduct and are conducted by the stake president who will usually have a general church authority present for council and advise.

In unorganized areas it is the responsibility of the missionary in charge of the district or area of missionary endeavor, that is responsible for calling and presiding over quarterly conferences.

The General Conference

What is called a General Conference, (meaning the gathering of the body of the church for legislative purposes), was not instituted until after the reorganization, replacing, for the most part the general assembly setting. General Conferences outside of the General Assembly setting, were not recorded or prescribed in the time of Joseph Smith, Jr. It appears that a total gathering (as much as possible) for church participation in legislative matters, was within the general assembly setting. This was the case of the assembly that was called for when the Doctrine and Covenants was approved in 1835. It appears that most legislation was approved by the body in the various stake and unorganized areas during quarterly conferences.

The Joint Council

The Joint Council is a legislative body. It is sometimes referred to as Council of Concurrent Jurisdiction, and is next to the General Assembly in authority. It consists of the three presidencies which are made by law: the First Presidency, the Twelve, and the Seventy. This council is made up of what could be referred to as the executive and legislative bodies or legislative authorities of the church. Each presidency when sitting in quorum and when unanimous in its decisions, has equal authority, and the weight of their decisions is equal one with the other. This constitutes part of the checks and balances that our Lord placed in his church to protect the church against abuses. All prophecy, all legislation to be considered by the body, must be evaluated by the three quorums for conformity to the laws of God prior to being brought to the General Assembly or Conference. This Joint Council will establish set times to meet and conduct the required oversight to prevent the flagrant disregard of the rights of the people and legislate for the church , in order to protect them from any and all abuse. See D&C 126: 10 d-e

Stakes

Organized Areas of the Church

Stakes are fully organized units of Church society that provide physical and spiritual nurturing of its citizens from birth to the grave.

Stakes Commanded

April 8, 1844. “I have received instructions from the Lord that from henceforth, wherever the Elders of Israel shall build up churches and branches unto the Lord throughout the States, there shall be a stake of Zion. In the great cities, as Boston, New York, etc., there shall be stakes. It is a glorious proclamation, and I reserved it to the last, and designed it to be understood that this work shall commence after the washings, anointings, and endowments have been performed here.”—Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, Jr. Page. 363,

“Go ye forth unto the land of Zion, that the borders of my people may be enlarged, and that her stakes may be strengthened, and that Zion may go forth unto the regions round about; yea, let the cry go forth among all people: Awake and arise and go forth to meet the Bridegroom.” D&C 108:3c

“Zion shall not be moved out of her place, notwithstanding her children are scattered, they that remain and are pure in heart shall return and come to their inheritances; they and their children, with songs of everlasting joy; to build up the waste places of Zion. And all these things, that the prophets might be fulfilled. And, behold, there is none other place appointed than that which I have appointed, neither shall there be any other place appointed than that which I have appointed for the work of the gathering of my Saints, until the day cometh when there is found no more room for them; and then I have other places which I will appoint unto them, and they shall be called stakes, for the curtains, or the strength of Zion.” D&C 98:4g-4i

A General Conference held at Nauvoo beginning October 3, 1840, appointed a committee consisting of Hyrum Smith, Lyman Wight, and Almon Babbitt, to organize stakes between Nauvoo and Kirtland Ohio. During the month of October the committee appointed at General Conference organized stakes at the following named places: Lima, Quincy, Mount Hope, in Adams County, and one at Freedom; and on November 1 they organized a stake in Morgan County, Illinois, called Geneva stake. RLDS History Vol. 2 pp. 467, 468

Stake Organization

A stake organization consists of three High Priests; a Bishop and Council; a High Council of twelve High Priests; a High Priests quorum, one or more Elders quorums; and quorums of Priests, Teachers, and Deacons.

The Stake Presidency and High Council, are to oversee the spiritual condition of the Stake. They jointly constitute a judicial body for settling difficulties that may not be satisfactorily adjusted in the Bishop's courts. It is, however, an ecclesiastical court of origin as well as of appellate jurisdiction.

The Bishopric constitutes the local presidency of the Aaronic Priesthood and each quorum of Aaronic Priesthood has its own elected president. These quorums of Priests, Teachers and Deacons aid the Bishopric in the work of their ministry. The Deacons see to the affairs of the church buildings and grounds and look to the comfort of the congregation. They are also to assist the Teachers when occasion requires. The Teachers are the watchmen upon the towers of Zion, and it is their business to see that there is no iniquity in the Church such as backbiting, or faultfinding, and that the members attend to all their religious duties. It is the duty of the Priest to visit in the homes of the people and instruct them in the gospel. They should be invited to meet with, and teach them the eternal truths of the gospel.

In addition to these officers, there is in each stake a quorum of High Priests, and one or more quorums of Elders. These constitute the standing ministry in the stakes of Zion, and are authorized to teach the gospel, to warn all men against evil, and to invite and persuade all men to come unto Christ. These provisions are made for home ministry, in the Church organization proper.

The Stake is the perfect design of our Lord to provide for the spiritual and temporal welfare and for the nurturing of the Saints throughout their lifetimes. Every provision is made for carrying on the work of the ministry, instructing the Saints in the things of God, inviting all to come unto Christ; the object of the Church being to lift to higher, and ever higher levels the lives of the Saints of God, until they shall become sanctified in Holiness and become perfect men and women in Christ Jesus the Lord.

The church has elected to divide unorganized areas into districts and large Congregations. This division is employed as an expedient to prevent overlap in these areas. The commandment for gathering to the Center Place (City New Jerusalem), has never been rescinded. The fully organized church unit is the Stake Organization. The church has been commanded to build up the Center Place, and then to raise up Stakes from the Center Place outward until the whole world is filled.

The church cannot be considered fully organized until these Stake units are set in order, in place and are functioning on a level to bring righteousness and sanctification to the Saints. Each stake is a monolithic community of saints.

Districts, Unorganized Areas

The World

Line of Responsibility in the Unorganized Areas

“The quorums in respect to authority are designed to take precedence in office as follows: The Presidency, the Twelve, the Seventy in all meetings and gatherings of the membership, where no previous organization has been effected. Where organization has been arranged and officers have been ordained and set in order; the standing ministry in their order; high priests, elders, priests, teachers, and deacons, the parallels are: in the Presidency, the President and his counselors; in the second presidency, the Twelve; in the missionary work, first the Twelve, second, the Seventy; in the standing ministry, the Presidency, second, the high priests; third, the elders, then priests, teachers, and deacons in their order.” D&C 122:9a-c

All areas that are not under Stake or Center Place, (Church Headquarters Organization) are considered unorganized areas and are the responsibility of the three quorums provided by law to set all things in order.

· The Presidency
· The Twelve
· The Seventy

This encompasses the world. The Twelve under the direction of the Presidency, and the Seventy under the direction of the Twelve, are commanded to go into all the world to preach the fullness of the gospel of the Kingdom, and to organize God’s church and kingdom throughout the world. This is done by setting all things in order and in conformity with the laws God has given his church. These quorums, Presidency, Twelve, and Seventy have full authority, (the keys), to set all things in order and to ordain and fill all priesthood offices for the various stake priesthood functions. Full order is achieved when a stake organization is completed. The missionaries are then to move on, leaving the organized area to the standing ministry, and repeat the process until the world is filled with God’s Saints.

Implementing Resolutions

Rules and Resolutions are necessary instructions on how the commandments of God shall be followed. God has formed a partnership with his people in the process of bringing forth His Kingdom upon the earth. It is our part to put these principles of the Kingdom into use in a way that God has intended for us to use them. This requires our unity in the use of our free agency to agree upon these rules. If there are errors , they can be corrected by bringing that particular resolution back before the body. Resolutions by necessity, must not conflict with the revealed word of God. However that which is not forbidden by the word and is, by the determination of the body to be good and useful, can be adopted for governing the body.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 1

This proposed resolution is to bring about the “SETTING IN ORDER THE CONGREGATION OF ISRAEL.” The Apostle Paul said it well when he expounded the fact that we are the Body of Christ.

“For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body; so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body.” 1 Corinthians 12:12-20

“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ;” Eph 4:11-12

How long would apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers be placed in the church?

“Till we, in the unity of the faith, all come to the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;”

Eph 4:13

Thus, there is a need for every part (office and calling) in the church that has been restored in these latter days. We must come to a unity of the faith!

Since the church is in an UNORGANIZED state, and in this state it is the responsibility of the Presidency, or the Twelve, or the Seventy or in case of emergency a council of High Priests to set it in order.

And since the missionary quorums of the church have full authority to set all things in order in unorganized areas of the church and preside until such organization is completed.

“Should the church fall into disorder, or any portion of it, it is the duty of the several quorums of the church, or any one of them to take measures to correct such disorder; through the advice and direction of the Presidency, the Twelve, the Seventy, or a council of high priests, in case of emergency;” D&C 122:10a

And since the Presidency and the Twelve of the Restoration Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints have refused to repent and have formally been called out of order by the remaining First Quorum of Seventy.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

We will recognize the First Quorum of Restoration Seventy as the leading surviving presidency of the church. We further recognize their authority under God and His law, to begin the task of setting the church in order.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 2. We declare common consent for all legislation that shall govern the Congregations of Israel: This resolution contains the process for approving/modifying/disapproving of any and all legislation proposed for the orderly governing of God’s church.

“And all things shall be done by common consent in the church, by much prayer and faith; for all things you shall receive by faith.” Amen. D&C 25:1b

“Neither shall anything be appointed unto any of this church contrary to the church covenants, for all things must be done in order and by common consent in the church, by the prayer of faith.” D&C 27:4c

“The Scriptures and the church articles and covenants, with the rules adopted by the church, shall govern in procedure.” D&C 122:10c

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

All proposed legislation to include rules and resolutions; policies and procedures shall be brought before the Joint Council, (Presidency, Twelve and Seventy) for review prior to going to the body for approval.

All members shall be given sufficient time to review the material to be considered prior to the commencement of the next General Assembly. All rules and resolutions shall be brought before the body assembled, and each proposed rule or resolution shall be submitted and voted upon individually. A simple majority of fifty-one percent is required for passage of a rule or resolution and a two-thirds majority shall be required to modify or to rescind.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 3.

That we declare Jesus Christ to be our King: The Elders of Israel, in the time of Samuel the prophet, rejected God as their King.

“Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto Ramah, And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways; now make us a king to judge us like all the nations. But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the Lord. And the Lord said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee; for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.” 1 Samuel 8:4-7

Jesus was also rejected of the Jews and delivered over to be crucified by the Roman government.

“Wherefore, he shall bring forth his words unto them, which words shall judge them at the last day; For they shall be given them for the purpose of convincing them of the true Messiah, who was rejected by them; And unto the convincing of them that they need not look forward anymore for a Messiah to come, For there should not any come, save it should be a false Messiah, which should deceive the people: For there is save one Messiah spoken of by the prophets, and that Messiah is he who should be rejected of the Jews.” 2 Nephi 11:30-34

“The disciples asked Jesus after he was rejected of the Jews,” Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.” Acts 1:6-7

Then in 1831, Joseph Smith, Jr. received this admonition

“The keys of the kingdom of God are committed unto man on the earth, and from thence shall the gospel roll forth unto the ends of the earth, as the stone which is cut out of the mountain without hands shall roll forth, until it has filled the whole earth; yea, a voice crying, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, prepare ye the supper of the Lamb, make ready for the Bridegroom; pray unto the Lord; call upon his holy name; make known his wonderful works among the people, call upon the Lord, that his kingdom may go forth upon the earth; that the inhabitants thereof may receive it, and be prepared for the days to come, in the which the Son of man shall come down in heaven, clothed in the brightness of his glory, to meet the kingdom of God WHICH IS SET UP ON THE EARTH;” D&C 65:1b-e

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

Although we may have individually taken Jesus Christ as our King and Savior, we have not done so as the corporate Body of Christ. Just as the voice of the Saints of God in the time of Samuel the prophet, rejected God as their King, we the voice of the Latter Day Saints once again acknowledge Him and proclaim Him as our King.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 4.

That we declare that we are Latter Day Israel:

“Turn all ye Gentiles, from your wicked ways, and repent of your evil doings, of your lyings and deceivings, and of your whoredoms, and of your secret abominations, and your idolatries, and of your murders, and your priestcrafts, and your envyings, and your strifes, and from all your wickedness and abominations, And come unto me, and be baptized in my name, that ye may receive a remission of your sins, and be filled with the Holy Ghost, that ye may be numbered with my people, who are of the house of Israel.” 3 Nephi 14: 2,3

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

We, the Congregations (churches) of the Saints are the Congregations of Israel and include all those who were of the Gentiles who are joined with us by adoption.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 5.

That we declare that our primary purpose is to bring forth the Kingdom of God, and to bring his people to a condition of sanctification.

We believe that the way to establish God’s Kingdom and bring His people to sanctification, is through the pattern he has given us in the Three Standard Books of the Church, The Bible, The Book of Mormon, and The Doctrine and Covenants.

We further believe that according to the pattern that is given, Zion (The Center Place) is the location for the seat of the government and Kingdom of God, and that the saints are called to gather to the Center Place and to the areas round about Independence, Missouri.

“Wherefore prepare ye, prepare ye, O my people; sanctify yourselves; gather ye together, O ye people of my church, upon the land of Zion, all you that have not been commanded to tarry. Go ye out from Babylon. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord. Call your solemn assemblies, and speak often one to another.” D&C 108:2a, b

We further believe that the Stake Organization is to be a holy sanctuary of the Kingdom established in the pattern of the scriptures, and that all efforts to bring about conditions to develop stakes should be exerted and promoted. The stake is a gathering of God’s people into close proximity, (totally laid out and planned when possible) in a community where there is a worship center or worship centers; a storehouse, canning factory complex, church education units (schools) for our children, a home for our elderly joined to day care centers as needed for working families, recreation facilities, farming and equipment for food crops, some type of industrial complex if desired, and other resources as the stake should desire and have ability to develop.

“And, behold, there is none other place appointed than that which I have appointed, neither shall there be any other place appointed than that which I have appointed for the work of the gathering of my Saints, until the day cometh when there is found no more room for them; and then I have other places which I will appoint unto them, and they shall be called stakes, for the curtains, or the strength of Zion.” D&C 98:4h, i

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

As soon as possible and practicable, and in agreement with the commandments of God, the General Congregation of Israel (total church) will exert all efforts necessary to develop future stake locations and establish stake organizations.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 6.

Resolution on Filing, Payment, and Disposition of Tithes.

Throughout the history of the Restoration, the Saints, have made great sacrifices of their resources only to see the church go into apostasy and all their resources lost. It has been the policy of previous church administrations to require the Saints to send their tithing to the general church headquarters to be administered by the general church. It is obvious that this method has not built Zion.

Also our people have had to leave the church when it went into apostasy, and forfeit all their offerings to a church that had departed from the faith. This often included buildings (houses of worship) which were purchased by local sacrifice of the saints or by their labor and sweat. They would pay off the loan to the general church and relinquish the deed. Then when they objected to the direction their church leadership was taking them, their hard earned places of worship were taken from them by civil law. It is heartbreaking to know that our parents and grandparents during the great depression offered what they could to continue the work on the RLDS Auditorium in Independence and even before this our ancestors sacrificed greatly to build the Kirtland Temple which is also lost to the Saints through apostasy.

In order to keep history from repeating this offense to God’s people, we therefore acknowledge that although all tithing statements must be filed with the Bishop in Zion, we find no restriction in scripture from paying our tithing to the Stake Bishop in an organized stake, and to the general church bishopric from unorganized areas. We further resolve that money in tithing that is sent up to the Bishop in Zion, should be held in escrow to the individual’s members account against the time when that member should gather to Zion. At that time when the member gathers, those tithing funds held in the members name are to be transferred to the Bishop of one of the stakes. This must be a stake of the members choosing, and be with the consent of the stake Bishop.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

Each member’s tithing and tithing statement shall be forwarded to the member’s Stake Bishop or to the General Church Bishop for those living in unorganized

areas. That the stake Bishop shall forward a copy of the tithing statement to the General Church Bishopric, along with one-tenth of the tithe for use of the General Church. The remaining nine-tenths shall remain in the stake for stake use. The General Church Bishopric when receiving tithing and tithing statements from members in unorganized areas, shall receive one-tenth of the tithe for use of the General Church, and the remaining nine-tenths shall be held in escrow for that member to be deposited with the Stake Bishop upon that member’s gathering to Zion. It should be noted that all tithing once filed and forwarded to the church becomes the property of the Stake, and that portion, one-tenth of the tithe becomes the property of the General Church and cannot be reclaimed by the member.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 7.

Use and disposition of tithes in the stake organization.

The law of tithing was given at Far West Missouri on 8 July 1838. The Saints had been driven out of Independence and had founded a stake at Far West where they had laid the foundation for a temple. This is the “church in Zion” that is referred to in this revelation.

“Verily, thus saith the Lord, I require all their surplus property to be put into the hands of the bishop of my church of Zion, for the building of mine house, and for the laying the foundation of Zion, and for the priesthood, and for the debts of the presidency of my church; and this shall be the beginning of the tithing of my people; and after that, those who have thus been tithed, shall pay one tenth of all their interest annually; and this shall be a standing law unto them for ever, for my holy priesthood, saith the Lord. Verily I say unto you, It shall come to pass that all those who gather unto the land of Zion shall be tithed of their surplus properties, and shall observe this law, or they shall not be found worthy to abide among you. And I say unto you, If my people observe not this law, to keep it holy, and by this law sanctify the land of Zion unto me, that my statutes and my judgments may be kept thereon, that it may be most holy, behold, verily I say unto you, It shall not be a land of Zion unto you; and this shall be an ensample unto all the stakes of Zion. Even so. Amen.” D&C 106:1a-2c

An example of a stake of 1000 members. If each household consisted of five members there would be 200 households. If each household paid $100.00 in tithes each month the stake monthly income would be $20,000.00 per month with one-tenth going to the General Church which would equal $2,000.00 per month or $24,000.00 per year, thus leaving $18,000.00 each month, or $216,000.00 per year for stake development and use. This does not take into consideration the tenth of each members net worth that is the beginning of tithing nor all surplus property that is to be given into the hands of the Stake Bishop for stake use.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

The nine-tenths of the tithing paid to the Stake Bishop with all other contributions of surplus, free will offerings and sacrifice offerings shall be for the use and development of the stake infrastructure and other uses as approved by the stake. A stake storehouse shall be maintained by each Stake Bishop for the benefit of the poor and needy.

The disposition of funds for use of the stake shall be determined by the Lord, the Stake President, the Bishop and his council, by the Stake High Council and as approved by the membership.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 8. Dissolution of the Stake Organization.

In order to develop and maintain the trust between the Stakes of Israel and the general church leadership, and in light of the gross inequities that have been perpetuated against the Saints of God in the past in regard to their surplus, tithes, offerings and properties:

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

Any buildings (places of worship) held by congregations who vote to enter into a Stake organization, shall at their discretion, either be retained by the group, or placed under the trusteeship of the Stake Bishop of which they are becoming affiliated. Should any branch or group vote to place trusteeship with the Stake organization, they may do so and also reserve the right to reclaim ownership at any time, free and clear. The group may by a vote of two thirds of its membership, reclaim original ownership of such property and remain in the Congregation of Israel or leave as they may choose. Any improvements to said property become the sole property of the original owners.

In addition to this, a stake complex may, with the vote and consent of two thirds or more of its members, withdraw from the Congregation of Israel, (Church) and retain all temporal rights to stake assets and property.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 9.

Providing for legislative sessions and actions of the Joint Council.

Joseph Smith III was given direction designating which General Church authoritative bodies comprise the Joint Council.

“In case there should be a flagrant disregard of the rights of the people, the quorums of the church in joint council should be appealed to, and their action and determination should govern. I inquired what quorums of the church were meant, and I was answered, the three quorums the decisions of which are provided for in the law--the Presidency, the Twelve, and the Seventy.” D&C 126:10d, e

It is a matter of record that church administrators of the past have abused their power and have allowed politics and the natural man to enter into their functions, thus subverting the purposes of God, resulting in the church going into apostasy.

Past administrations have maneuvered to control church decisions through the deliberations of First Presidency, and the Bishopric. Since the Bishop is appointed by the president of the church this offers no checks and balances upon the presidency. At times the Twelve were also called into the meetings of the Presidency and Bishopric and were allowed some input upon their decisions. However since Joseph Smith, III, started calling the Apostles to serve which was not done previously, this action influenced their ability to act as a check and balance upon the Presidency. The Seventies were almost always left out of the process; since the Seventy and Presidents of Seventy were given authority of God to select and ordain their own members, which would have offered real checks and balance to administrative and legislative decisions.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

All revelations received by the church president and all legislation proposed from the body shall be submitted in writing addressed to the Joint Council. That upon receipt of these proposals and at the next scheduled meeting of the Joint Council, they will be read and tested against scripture and past approved policies, and if found to be valid, will be brought to the quorums that comprise the General Assembly of the Congregation of Israel. No frivolous or unreasonable requests for legislation, as determined by the Joint Council, will be forwarded for Assembly consideration.

The Joint Council will meet once a year for a period to be determined, according to the work to be done, and will meet more often if needed to have sufficient time to assess and evaluate the business of the church prior to the General Assembly.

The Joint Council during its regularly scheduled meeting, shall set the agenda for the coming year for presentation to the General Assembly. The agenda with informational materials will be forwarded to members prior to the General Assembly, giving them sufficient time to consider and review the issues.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 10.

Punitive action shall not be taken against any member of the body or priesthood member without due process of a Church Court. The term ”Silencing” is not found in the scriptures. Administrative silence was not used in the church during Joseph Smith, Jr., the founding prophets leadership. If any member of the church of Jesus Christ transgressed the law or commandments, they were immediately brought before a church court to determine the issue. If confronted with the offense, the charged person admitted offense and repented, often he was forgiven and allowed to continue in the church. However if the person charged did not admit guilt, and was proven guilty by the mouth of two or more witnesses, he was cast out of the church and his name blotted out of the records, until such time as he repented. In this case he could re-apply for membership.

We as the Church of Jesus Christ and Congregations of Israel, believe that all priesthood calls are from the Lord.

“And no man taketh this honor unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.” Hebrews 5:4.

We further believe that what God has bestowed upon a man, cannot be put asunder by any other man. We understand that as a priesthood member magnifies his calling and qualifies himself for a greater stewardship, he may be called to even greater responsibility. However shifting of priesthood offices for political reasons is contrary to the gifts and callings of God. If each quorum functions according to the law, political shifting will not take place. In other words a High Priest cannot call an Apostle to be a Patriarch. High Priests through discernment of the Spirit, may call other High Priests; Apostles through discernment of the Spirit, may call other Apostles; Presidents of Seventy, through discernment of the Spirit, may call other Seventies etc. This is not to be confused with the power and authority to ordain to an office. Any priesthood holder may ordain candidates to offices that are under him as prescribed in the Scriptures.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

The church make no legislation allowing leadership to take punitive actions against anyone in the church, be they priesthood or member, without lawful due process in one of the church courts.

The laws of God designating those who shall have power and authority to choose priesthood for the various offices and quorums shall be observed at all times.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 11. To develop a plan for future Stakes of Zion.

The longing and prayers of the Saints from the beginning of “God’s setting his hand the second time to recover his people Israel”, has been to see the establishment of the Kingdom in a tangible way. We have been promised where the location of the city will be. We look forward to it’s realization. Our God has given man dominion over the whole earth and commanded him to go forth and subdue the earth. He has also encouraged us to be involved in all good works. Therefore, this is a proposal to start the process of planning so that God’s Kingdom may be more fully established upon the earth. We may not be one hundred percent in our planning, but our Lord will lead us and correct us on the way, if we are truly engaged in His work.

Keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion. Behold, I speak unto you, and also to all those who have desires to bring forth and establish this work; and no one can assist in this work, except he shall be humble and full of love, having faith, hope, and charity, being temperate in all things whatsoever shall be entrusted to his care. D&C 11:3b-4b

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

As soon as practicable, the church shall appoint a planning group to begin drafting plans for the establishment of future stakes of Zion for the curtains and strength of Zion, and also to begin the preliminary stages of planning for the City New Jerusalem (Zion)

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 12.

Past administrations have used their offices in ways that were not intended by our Lord. They ignored the scriptural requirement for obtaining common consent of the members in legislative matters that would impact the membership. They at times openly stated that it was their prerogatives to impose these policies upon the membership without necessarily gaining membership’s approval. These administrations appear to have also politicized church government to the extent that many were appointed to high positions mainly because they would agree with the presidency. God’s laws have not changed. Common consent is required for all rules that govern His church and Kingdom.

When church leadership goes into apostasy, as it has done numerous times down through history, the church as an administering organization ceases to exist upon the face of the earth. When this happens the Lord has made provisions to set his church back into order, so that his people, the Saints, whom he loves will not be lost.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

We believe past administrations have departed from that which is taught in the scriptures containing the laws governing God’s Church, and by doing so, have lost their authority to lead the Church of Jesus Christ.

This assembly affirms that all previous church administrative officers who have departed from the laws of God, are not worthy, or recognized as having authority to act as officers in the Church of Jesus Christ.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 13.

We, as the Saints of the Most High God, have been called by a number of titles, all of which meet the requirements of our Lord for his church. When church leadership goes into apostasy and attempts to lead the membership with it into heresy, true latter day saints reject this leadership. In our day of secular corporations, the past leadership has felt it expedient to incorporate the church in accordance with the laws of the land. This was done for many reasons, tax exemption, property ownership and such. However this also incorporated the name of the church the Saints selected to be known by. These incorporated names cannot be used by anyone except the registered corporation. This is the reason and only reason, we are not allowed to continue with the same name each time the church is required to be set in order once more. This does not mean in any sense, that we are not the true continuation of the church that God restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith, Jr. on April 6th, 1830.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

This body recognizes “The Church of Jesus Christ Restored 1830”, as the successor and continuation of that church which was founded through the Prophet Joseph Smith, Jr. on April 6th, 1830. We further resolve, that this Assembly is the gathering of the scattered remnants of that church in continuation.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 14

Apostles in the Restoration have largely been chosen by a committee. The original twelve of the Restoration were chosen by the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon.

The apostles in the Restoration Church of Jesus Christ were also chosen by a committee. It is important that apostles be not chosen by the Quorum of Seventy or the Presidency, even though the Seventy may be the acting presidency of the church. This principle is required in order to maintain a separation from undue influence of one quorum of presidency over another. Following this principle will insure checks and balances within the church leadership.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

A committee be selected by the Assembly, to seek out those men who would be worthy to serve as Apostles. This committee shall be made up of three Elders of the church holding the office of High Priest. They are to do this with much prayer, fasting and discernment of Spirit. Progress in this selection process shall be reported at the next General Assembly.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 15.

God has desired us to do all things according to the pattern, and in an orderly manner.

Since the church administration has gone into apostasy, we have not been relieved of conforming to God’s laws. We are to continue filing our tithing statements, and to pay our tithe and offerings. We also propose that until such a time as the church is set in order with the required offices filled, we need to choose one to act as an Agent of Trust for the church.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

An Agent of Trust, shall be appointed to oversee and manage the moneys and properties of the General Church until such a time as a Bishop or Bishops should be appointed.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 16.

God’s word is eternal. We are commanded that we shall live by every word that proceeds forth from the mouth of God. We find these words of God in the three standard books of the church. One principle must be kept in mind when studying these scriptures. God does not make mistakes, and he does not contradict himself. If we should find a scripture that appears to conflict with a previous one, one of two things has happened. Either we do not understand the meaning of what we have read or some one brought forth that which is not of God. If our understanding is at fault we need to pray to gain light as to the meaning. If the one bringing forth that which is in conflict has brought that which is not of God, we need not give it weight. All new scripture should be compared and agree with all scripture that has gone before.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

We as the Body of Christ accept the Holy Scriptures known as the Inspired Version; The Book of Mormon in it’s entirety and the Doctrine and Covenants up to and including section 144 as the word of God. We also accept those sections in the appendix that are scripture.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 17.

Since the church has been plagued with heresy and every wind of doctrine, no person who believes himself to be a member of the priesthood or a member of the church, and yet is not willing to accept the word of God in it’s fullness, will not be admitted into The Book of Names of The Law of the Lord.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

The Joint Council, The Presidency, The Twelve and the Seventy, will admit priesthood and members upon valid credentials. Until these three quorums are set in order, any one or more of these quorums may admit upon validation, candidates to priesthood, priesthood offices, or membership.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 18.

The Rules passed by this Assembly along with any future rules passed by future assemblies of this body, shall be the rules by which this body is governed. All previous rules, resolutions, policies or procedures of former organizations are considered null and void by this resolution.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

We do not accept any part or portion of any and all rules, resolutions, policies or procedures of any previous organization.

PROPOSED RESOLUTION NO. 19

This resolution is brought for the purpose of eliminating conflicts of interest between church and businesses of priesthood members, It is a fact that most of our priesthood members are required to work at a trade or profession to provide for their personal and families welfare. It is also true that many use their private resources for church purposes. It is also proper that Saints frequent or use the services owned and operated by other church members. This resolution is only given so that priesthood members do not personally openly solicit other members to do business with them. Members trust the priesthood, and may enter into business transactions out of a feeling of obligation. As not all business transactions turn out well, such as investments that suffer a loss, it is believed that priesthood should not solicit members for business. This does not preclude advertising or passing out cards etc.

WE HEREBY RESOLVE THAT:

As a code of honor, priesthood members shall not solicit business, or use their priesthood office to enter homes to conduct personal business unless the request is initiated from the member.

END