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| The original Book of Commandments and Revelations and the corresponding section of the Doctrine and Covenants, Friday, Sept. 11, 2009. Photo by Jason Olson, courtesy of Church News. - Fair Use Allowed |
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In the spring of 1831, the early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faced a pivotal moment in their history. Gathered in Kirtland, Ohio, the Saints experienced rapid growth as converts joined their ranks, but this growth was met with fierce opposition. False reports, lies, and rumors circulated widely, aiming to discredit the faith and discourage potential converts. It was during this challenging time that the Prophet Joseph Smith received a revelation that would provide comfort, guidance, and a vision of the future—Doctrine and Covenants section 45.
This revelation, given on March 7, 1831, is more than a historical artifact; it is a timeless message for all who seek to understand the role of Jesus Christ, the signs of His Second Coming, and the call to build Zion. In this article, we will explore Doctrine and Covenants 45 in depth, connecting its teachings to the Bible, unpacking its meaning through exegetical commentary, and examining how it fits into Partial Preterism and Latter-day Saint eschatology. We will also draw parallels to ancient Jewish wedding customs, address common criticisms with mindful apologetics, and provide practical ways to apply these truths in our daily lives.
Whether you are studying Come Follow Me in 2025, seeking to deepen your faith, or simply curious about Latter-day Saint beliefs, this article will guide you through the profound teachings of D&C 45 and help you prepare for the future with faith and hope.
Doctrine and Covenants 45 is a revelation rich with doctrinal insights and prophetic promises. To fully appreciate its significance, we must first understand the historical context in which it was received. In early 1831, the Saints in Kirtland were grappling with both internal and external challenges. Internally, the rapid influx of new converts required organization and leadership. Externally, they faced persecution and slander from those who opposed their beliefs. Joseph Smith described this period as one where "many false reports, lies, and foolish stories" were circulated to prevent people from embracing the faith (Manuscript History of the Church, vol. A-1, p. 104).
Amid these trials, the Lord provided D&C 45 as a source of comfort and clarity. The revelation begins by reaffirming the divine roles of Jesus Christ and then transitions into a detailed prophecy about the signs of the Second Coming and the establishment of Zion. This structure mirrors the Savior’s teachings to His disciples on the Mount of Olives, as recorded in Matthew 24, where He spoke of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and the events preceding His return.
- The Roles of Jesus Christ: Christ is revealed as the Creator, Advocate, and Light of the World.
- Signs of the Second Coming: The revelation outlines specific signs that will precede the Savior’s return, including wars, natural disasters, and celestial phenomena.
- The Call to Build Zion: The Saints are instructed to gather and establish Zion, a place of peace and refuge for the righteous.
D&C 45 is deeply rooted in biblical prophecy, particularly the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 24. The Lord explicitly states in D&C 45:16 that He will show these things "plainly as I showed it unto my disciples as I stood before them in the flesh." This direct link to the New Testament underscores the continuity of God’s word across dispensations. Additionally, Joseph Smith—Matthew, an inspired translation of Matthew 24, provides further clarity on these prophecies, making D&C 45 a companion text for understanding the last days.
While the historical context of D&C 45 is specific to the early Saints, its teachings are timeless. In a world filled with uncertainty—wars, pandemics, and natural disasters—the revelation offers a roadmap for spiritual preparation. It reminds us that, despite the challenges we face, we can find peace and purpose by understanding our relationship with Christ, recognizing the signs of the times, and actively participating in the building of Zion. For those studying Come Follow Me in 2025, D&C 45 is a call to deepen our faith and prepare for the Savior’s return.
One of the most profound teachings in Doctrine and Covenants 45 is the revelation of Jesus Christ’s divine roles. In verses 1–14, the Lord declares Himself as the Creator, Advocate, and the Light and Life of the World. These titles are foundational to our understanding of the Savior’s mission and our relationship with Him.
In D&C 45:1, the Lord states, "Hearken, O ye people of my church, to whom the kingdom has been given; hearken ye and give ear to him who laid the foundation of the earth, who made the heavens and all the hosts thereof." This echoes the creation account in Genesis, where God spoke the world into existence. As the Creator, Christ has power over all things, including the power to redeem and save His people.
"Listen to him who is the advocate with the Father, who is pleading your cause before him—Saying: Father, behold the sufferings and death of him who did no sin, in whose mouth was found no guile... Wherefore, Father, spare these my brethren that believe on my name, that they may come unto me and have everlasting life."
The Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual explains that, because of our sins, we are unworthy to dwell in God’s presence. However, through His Atonement, Christ bridges the gap between justice and mercy. As our Advocate, He intercedes on our behalf, pleading for our redemption based on His own merits. President Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles explained:
“Jesus is our Advocate with the Father (see 1 John 2:1; D&C 29:5; 32:3; 45:3; 110:4). The word advocate comes from Latin roots meaning a ‘voice for,’ or ‘one who pleads for another.’ Other related terms are used in scripture, such as intercessor or mediator (see also 1 Timothy 2:5; 2 Nephi 2:28; D&C 76:69). …
“… Comprehending him as our advocate-intercessor-mediator with the Father gives us assurance of his unequaled understanding, justice, and mercy (see Alma 7:12)” (“Jesus the Christ—Our Master and More” [Brigham Young University fireside, Feb. 2,1992], 4, speeches.byu.edu).
Significantly, the Savior pleads our cause before the Father and asks that those who believe on Him be spared the eternal demands of justice, not based on our innocence but on His atoning sacrifice. His case for our redemption from the penalty of sin is “the sufferings and death of him who did no sin” (D&C 45:4).
This concept is echoed in the New Testament:
- 1 John 2:1: "If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous."
- 1 Timothy 2:5: "There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus."
These verses affirm that Christ’s role as Advocate is central to the plan of salvation. His advocacy is not based on our worthiness but on His grace and mercy.
In the historical context of 1831, the Saints were enduring persecution and slander. Knowing that Christ was their Advocate gave them the courage to endure. Today, when we face personal trials, feelings of unworthiness, or opposition, we can find strength in this same truth. Christ’s advocacy assures us that we are not alone; He is actively pleading our cause before the Father. Whether you’re struggling with a personal challenge or seeking peace amid global uncertainty, this doctrine offers profound comfort.
Reflection Question: How has knowing that Jesus Christ is your Advocate helped you in times of difficulty? Consider sharing your thoughts in the comments below.
Doctrine and Covenants 45:15–59 provides a detailed account of the signs that will precede the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. These signs are not meant to instill fear but to prepare the faithful for the Savior’s return. The revelation mirrors the teachings of Jesus on the Mount of Olives, as recorded in Matthew 24 and expanded in Joseph Smith—Matthew.
- Wars and rumors of wars (v. 26): "The whole earth shall be in commotion, and men’s hearts shall fail them."
- A desolating sickness (v. 31): A plague or pandemic that will cover the land.
- Earthquakes and desolations (v. 33): Natural disasters in various places.
- Celestial signs (v. 42): "The sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light."
- Gathering of the Gentiles and Jews (v. 25, 43): The restoration of Israel and the gathering of the elect.
These signs parallel the prophecies in Matthew 24:6–7, 29–30, where Jesus foretold wars, famines, earthquakes, and cosmic disturbances as precursors to His return.
One of the most intriguing aspects of these prophecies is their dual nature. Partial Preterism, a theological perspective, suggests that some of Jesus’ prophecies in Matthew 24 were fulfilled in the past, particularly with the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, while others await future fulfillment.
In D&C 45:18–20, the Lord references the past destruction of the temple in Jerusalem:
"And now ye behold this temple which is in Jerusalem, which ye call the house of God... When ye see this, ye shall know that the time is at hand."
This event, which occurred in 70 AD when the Romans razed the temple, serves as a "type" or foreshadowing of future events leading up to the Second Coming. The fig tree analogy in verse 37 further illustrates this: "And when the time of the Gentiles be come in, then shall ye see the fig tree putting forth her leaves; and ye say that summer is nigh at hand." Just as the budding of the fig tree signals the approach of summer, the appearance of these signs indicates that the Lord’s coming is near.
While Partial Preterism acknowledges past fulfillments, Latter-day Saints believe that the ultimate fulfillment of these prophecies—the Second Coming of Christ—is still future. D&C 45:44 states:
"And then shall the Lord set his foot upon this mount, and it shall cleave in twain, and the earth shall tremble, and reel to and fro, and the heavens also shall shake."
This vivid imagery underscores the literal nature of Christ’s return, accompanied by great power and glory. The Come Follow Me Guide emphasizes that understanding these signs should inspire preparation rather than fear. Those who follow prophetic counsel and live righteously will look forward to the Second Coming with hope (D&C 45:39).
A key verse in this section is D&C 45:32: "But my disciples shall stand in holy places and shall not be moved." This counsel is particularly relevant in our modern world, where chaos and uncertainty abound. Sister Ann M. Dibb, former counselor in the Young Women General Presidency, taught that holy places include temples, chapels, homes, and even moments when we feel the Spirit (Your Holy Places, 2013). Standing in holy places is about spiritual resilience—remaining steadfast in our faith amid the turmoil of the last days.
While the ultimate fulfillment of these signs is yet to come, history provides examples that may serve as types or partial fulfillments:
- Wars and Rumors of Wars: The 20th century saw two world wars, the Cold War, and ongoing global conflicts.
- Desolating Sickness: The Spanish Flu of 1918 and the COVID-19 pandemic are stark reminders of widespread illness.
- Earthquakes and Desolations: Events like the 2010 Haiti earthquake and the 2011 Tōhoku tsunami in Japan highlight the increasing frequency of natural disasters.
These examples remind us that while we cannot predict the exact timing of the Second Coming, we can recognize the signs and prepare accordingly.
In the parable, ten virgins await the arrival of the bridegroom. Five are wise and bring extra oil for their lamps, while five are foolish and do not. When the bridegroom arrives unexpectedly at midnight, the wise virgins are ready, but the foolish ones are left behind, unable to borrow oil at the last minute.
"For they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived—verily I say unto you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide the day."
These individuals will be prepared to meet the Savior and reign with Him during the Millennium.
The oil in the lamps represents spiritual preparation, specifically the influence of the Holy Spirit and personal righteousness. Elder David A. Bednar taught that the oil cannot be borrowed; it must be acquired through personal effort and obedience (That We May Always Have His Spirit to Be with Us, 2006). This underscores the importance of daily spiritual practices—prayer, scripture study, and service—that fill our "lamps" with the oil of faith and testimony.
The Parable of the Ten Virgins is deeply rooted in ancient Jewish wedding traditions, where the bridegroom’s arrival was often at an unexpected hour, requiring the bride and her attendants to be vigilant. This cultural context enriches our understanding of the parable’s message: just as the virgins needed to be prepared for the bridegroom’s coming, we must be spiritually ready for Christ’s return.
In Latter-day Saint theology, the Parable of the Ten Virgins is a direct call to prepare for the Second Coming. D&C 45:57 emphasizes that those who take the Holy Spirit as their guide will not be deceived by the falsehoods and distractions of the world. This guidance is available to every baptized member of the Church through the covenant promise of the gift of the Holy Ghost.
- Daily Prayer and Scripture Study: These practices invite the Spirit into our lives and strengthen our connection to God.
- Temple Attendance: Regular worship in the temple helps us stand in holy places and receive personal revelation.
- Service and Ministering: Serving others aligns our hearts with Christ’s teachings and prepares us to meet Him.
Reflection Question: What insights do you gain from the Parable of the Ten Virgins? How can you ensure that your "lamp" is filled with oil? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Doctrine and Covenants 45:60–75 introduces the concept of Zion, the New Jerusalem, as a place of peace, refuge, and safety for the righteous. While the early Saints were commanded to physically gather and build Zion, today’s application is broader, focusing on establishing God’s kingdom wherever we live.
"And it shall be called the New Jerusalem, a land of peace, a city of refuge, a place of safety for the saints of the Most High God; And the glory of the Lord shall be there, and the terror of the Lord also shall be there, insomuch that the wicked will not come unto it."
Historically, the Saints attempted to build Zion in Missouri and other locations but faced significant challenges. Today, Zion refers not only to a future city but also to the pure in heart—those who live righteously and create communities of faith, love, and service.
- Joseph Smith: "We ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object" (Teachings of Presidents: Joseph Smith, p. 186; 2007). He emphasized that Zion is a cause that has inspired prophets throughout history.
- Brigham Young: "The purpose of our life should be to build up the Zion of our God... to prepare a people to meet the Lord when he comes" (Teachings of Presidents: Brigham Young, 1997). Young taught that Zion must be built according to God’s pattern, as exemplified by Enoch’s city.
While the physical gathering to a central location is no longer emphasized, the principles of Zion remain vital. Latter-day Saints are encouraged to build Zion in their stakes, wards, and homes by:
- Fostering Unity: Creating communities where all feel welcome and valued.
- Serving Others: Engaging in ministering and community service to meet the needs of those around us.
- Strengthening Families: Making our homes places of peace, love, and gospel learning.
- Welfare and Humanitarian Efforts: The Church’s welfare program and humanitarian aid initiatives exemplify the principles of Zion by caring for the poor and needy.
- Temple Building: The construction of temples worldwide creates holy places where the Spirit can dwell and where families can be sealed for eternity.
- Selection of the Bride: The bridegroom chooses his bride, symbolizing Christ’s divine election of His followers (John 15:16).
- Bride Price (Mohar): The bridegroom pays a price for the bride, representing Christ’s sacrificial Atonement (1 Peter 1:18–19).
- Betrothal (Erusin): A legally binding covenant, akin to the New Covenant between Christ and His Church (2 Corinthians 11:2).
- Bride’s Consent: The bride’s willing agreement reflects the necessity of personal acceptance of Christ (Romans 10:9–10).
- Cup of the Covenant: Sharing wine seals the covenant, recalling the Last Supper and anticipating future communion (Luke 22:20).
- Gifts for the Bride: The bridegroom gives gifts, such as the Holy Spirit, to sustain the bride during separation (2 Corinthians 1:21–22).
- Mikvah (Ritual Immersion): Symbolizes purification, similar to baptism (Mark 16:16).
- Departure of the Bridegroom: The bridegroom leaves to prepare a place, paralleling Christ’s ascension and promise to return (John 14:2–3).
- Consecrated Bride: The bride prepares herself, symbolizing the Church’s call to holiness (Song of Songs 4:12).
- Return of the Bridegroom: The bridegroom’s unexpected return emphasizes readiness (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).
- Huppah (Wedding Canopy): Represents the intimate union and protection of the bride, foreshadowing eternal dwelling with God (Revelation 21:9–10).
- Marriage Supper: A joyous feast symbolizing ultimate communion with Christ (Revelation 19:6–9).
The Parable of the Ten Virgins directly aligns with the custom of the bridegroom’s unexpected return. The wise virgins, who have oil (the Holy Spirit), are prepared for the bridegroom’s arrival, while the foolish are not. This reinforces the need for spiritual vigilance and readiness for Christ’s Second Coming.
D&C 45:56–57 directly references the Parable of the Ten Virgins, urging Latter-day Saints to be like the wise virgins who take the Holy Spirit as their guide. The broader themes of preparation, sanctification, and reunion with Christ in D&C 45 mirror the wedding customs’ narrative of anticipation and eternal joy.
Latter-day Saint teachings on the Second Coming and Zion have occasionally faced criticism, often from those who view the prophecies as vague or unfulfilled. However, a mindful approach to apologetics can address these concerns while reinforcing the importance of faith and preparation.
- Vague or Unfulfilled Prophecies: Some argue that the signs of the Second Coming are too general, or that certain prophecies have not yet been fulfilled.
- Idealism of Zion: Critics may view the concept of Zion as unrealistic or overly idealistic.
- Prophecy and God’s Timing: Prophecy often unfolds in layers, and God’s timing is not bound by human expectations. The purpose of prophecy is not to predict exact dates but to inspire preparation and faithfulness (D&C 45:35).
- Zion as a Process: While the early Saints’ attempts to build Zion faced challenges, their efforts laid the foundation for the global Church today. Zion is not just a future city but a present reality in the hearts of the faithful. Practical acts of love, service, and unity make Zion possible.
Doctrine and Covenants 45 is not just a revelation to be studied; it is a guide for daily living. The teachings of this section provide practical applications that can help us draw closer to Christ, prepare for His return, and build Zion in our lives.
- Trust Christ as Your Advocate: When you feel overwhelmed or unworthy, turn to Him in prayer, trusting in His grace and mercy.
- Stand in Holy Places: Make your home, workplace, and personal life a refuge by inviting the Spirit through prayer, scripture study, and wholesome activities.
- Seek the Spirit Daily: Live worthily to have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, listening to and acting on promptings.
- Build Zion: Serve in your ward, strengthen your family, and reach out to those in need.
Imagine a family that dedicates one evening a week to family prayer, scripture study, and service planning. Over time, their home becomes a place of peace and spiritual strength—a microcosm of Zion. This practice prepares them for the future while blessing their lives now.
Doctrine and Covenants 45 is a revelation of hope, preparation, and divine promise. It teaches us about the Savior’s roles, the signs of His coming, and the importance of building Zion. Through the lens of ancient Jewish wedding customs, we gain deeper insights into our covenant relationship with Christ and the need for spiritual readiness.
As we reflect on these teachings, let us remember James 1:22: "Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only." D&C 45 is not just a scripture to study; it is a call to action. This week, consider how you can stand in holy places, seek the Spirit, or build Zion in your community. Set a specific goal and act on it.
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