Section 11: To Joseph Knight Sr. – The Doctrine and Covenants

Background: Joseph Knight Sr. was an old treasure digging friend of the Smith family. He was at the Smith family’s house on the night that Joseph Smith Jr. and Emma Hale went to supposedly gather the Golden Plates from the Hill Cumorah in 1827. He had occasionally brought Joseph Smith Jr. money and supplies so he and Oliver could continue working on the dictation and transcription of The Book of Mormon uninterrupted in Harmony, Pennsylvania. This could have even included the $50 ($1,424 in 2021) which Joseph and Emma used to purchase their part of the farm from the Hale family.

As Joseph Smith Jr. and Oliver Cowdery continued dictating and transcribing The Book of Mormon interest in it grew. Many people wanted to know how they could help or preach. This revelation was dictated to Joseph Knight Sr

A similar revelation would be given to Joseph Smith Sr. (D&C 4), Oliver Cowdery (D&C 6), Hyrum Smith (D&C 10) and would be given to David Whitmer (D&C 12).

1

A. A great and marvelous work is about to come forth among the children of men.

B. Behold, I am God, and give heed to my word, which is quick and powerful, sharper than a two-edged sword, to the dividing asunder of both joints and marrow;

C. therefore, give heed unto my word.

2

A. Behold, the field is white already to harvest; therefore, whoso desireth to reap, let him thrust in his sickle with his might, and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God;

B. yea, whosoever will thrust in his sickle and reap, the same is called of God;

C. therefore, if you will ask of me you shall receive, if you will knock it shall be opened unto you.

3

A. Now, as you have asked, behold, I say unto you,

B. Keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion.

4

A. Behold, I speak unto you, and also to all those who have desires to bring forth and establish this work;

B. 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 intrusted to his care.

5

A. Behold, I am the light and the life of the world, that speak these words;

B. therefore, give heed with your might, and then you are called. Amen.