Section 13: To John Whitmer – The Doctrine and Covenants

Background: The Whitmers were very excited by this spiritual adventure. David and Peter Jr. Whitmer were baptized in early June as a sign of their commitment, and John was likely baptized later that month.

John Whitmer, who would later become one of the Eight Witnesses, occasionally served as the scribe during the dictation and transcription process of The Book of Mormon; he may have transcribed up to 60 pages! He wanted to know what else he should be doing. This revelation was given through Joseph Smith Jr.’s seer stone in response to his questions.

An identical revelation was given to Peter Whitmer Jr. (D&C 14).

1

A. Hearken, my servant John, and listen to the words of Jesus Christ, your Lord and your Redeemer;

B. for, behold, I speak unto you with sharpness and with power, for mine arm is over all the earth, and I will tell you that which no man knows save me and you alone;

C. for many times you have desired of me to know that which would be of the most worth unto you.

2

Behold, blessed are you for this thing, and for speaking my words, which I have given you, according to my commandments.

3

And now, behold, I say unto you, that the thing which will be of the most worth unto you, will be to declare repentance unto this people, that you may bring souls unto me, that you may rest with them in the kingdom of my Father. Amen.