followHIM Doctrine & Covenants 135-136 Part 1 • Dr. Keith Erekson • November 24-30 • Come Follow Me
Nov 19, 2025
Dr. Keith Erekson, the Director of Historical Research and Outreach for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, explores the gripping history surrounding the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. He delves into the context of Doctrine and Covenants Section 135, highlighting how their deaths transformed the Saints' perceptions. Erekson shares insights into Joseph's last note to Emma, the immediate reactions in Nauvoo, and the significance of their innocent martyrdom. He also discusses early missionary efforts and provides a tribute to Hyrum's unwavering support for Joseph.
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Last-Minute Canonization Of Joseph's Mission
- Section 135 was added into the Doctrine and Covenants immediately after the martyrdom to assert the work would continue.
- That last-minute insertion framed Joseph's mission as enduring and canonized his legacy for future generations.
Verse 3 As A Clear Thesis Statement
- Verse 3 functions as a thesis: Joseph did more than any living person save Jesus Christ.
- The text cites Book of Mormon translation, worldwide missionary work, published revelations, and the gathering at Nauvoo as evidence.
Global Vision From The Start
- Early Latter-day Saints intended the restoration for the whole earth from the start, not just America or England.
- Missionary efforts reached England, the Pacific, the Holy Land, and other regions in the 1840s.
