Zionic Development & The Celestial Law

Transcription

1 Zionic Development & The Celestial Law Presiding Bishopric W. Kevin Romer Jerry Sherer & Dan Keleher

2 FOREWORD The hope of Zion, the literal establishment of the kingdom of God on earth, has inspired and motivated Latter Day Saints since the ushering in of the great restoration movement. With prophetic leadership the Church, moved by the spirit and power of revelation, began immediately to implement fundamental steps toward gathering, and places of preparation toward the day when fulfillment of the everlasting covenant would find expression through social, moral, and economic righteousness. That dream, though often obscured over the years, has been at the heart of our calling and mission to the world. The unfolding events of recent decades have caused serious-minded Latter Day Saints to once again turn, with a sense of urgency, to founding principles and contemplate with renewed concern the call to be blessed by and find peace in those religiously social reforms and relationships which have been divinely imposed as a great task of achievement. (D & C 137:6a) Additional recent revelation has declared that it will be through sacrifice and discipline [and] your righteousness that the power of God will be manifest for it will require power from on high to overcome and build up my Kingdom, even Zion, in these last days. (D & C R-148:3) The recent designation of a Presiding Bishop, and his ordination April 4, 2004, undergrids the call to again pursue without delay the cause of Zion. By the guiding inspiration of the Holy Spirit we are pleased to commend, both to the Church, and to the many who wait for the fulfillment of Divine purpose, the invitation to come and see. There has been a day of calling. We sincerely and in the spirit of expectancy remind all to whom this manual will come this is a day of choosing! With the Presiding Bishopric we invite the faithful to now eagerly respond to this day of renewal and consecration. Fraternally yours, THE FIRST PRESIDENCY 2

3 Index Pages 5 Introduction 7 Doctrine and Covenants R God s Financial Plan Outlined 13 Policies and Procedures Surplus Inheritance Stewardship Consecration 17 Doctrine and Covenants R Zionic Endeavors Appendix 23 Certificate and Testimony 25 Surplus Accounting Form 27 Scriptural References 3

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5 Introduction This booklet was prepared in response to the inspired document presented at the Priesthood Assembly October 26, 2003, since approved by conference action as R-147. Within that Revelation we read the following counsel given to the Bishop Designate and his Counselors. This call is made now because the time grows short for the redemption of my Zion and the work of the Bishopric must proceed with all haste. Preparation must be made before the next General Conference in order that the work towards fulfillment of the temporal law may be hastened. After much prayer and fasting we have felt the impress of the Spirit that it is now time to reintroduce and implement the full Temporal Law as given to Joseph Smith so many years ago. It is our belief that this is a necessary step on the road to building the Kingdom of God here upon the earth for Zion can not be built up unless it is by the principles of the law of the Celestial Kingdom. D&C 102: 2c Compliance with the Celestial Law regarding temporalities must be taken as a whole as it applies to Surplus, Consecration, Inheritance and Stewardships. We should approach compliance with the Celestial Law regarding temporalities as one would approach preparation for a Patriarchal Blessing or a call to Priesthood. Wherefore, verily I say unto you, that all things unto me are spiritual, and not at any time have I given unto you a law which was temporal, D&C 28: 9a We have been commanded to love the Lord our God with all our heart, might, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. On these two principles hangs all the Temporal Law. The whole law hangs on these two. The act of Consecration (making holy) includes not only what is ultimately given to the Church (Surplus) but also includes one s Inheritance and one s Stewardship. This makes all temporal activity sacred, whether a job, raising children or a business enterprise, it is done for God s Glory and the benefit of Zion. This should alter and change one s life and how temporal matters are viewed moving from selfish motives to motives arising from the pure love of Jesus Christ. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Verily I say unto you, it is not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, that shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father 5

6 who is in heaven. For the day soon cometh, that men shall come before me in judgment, to be judged according to their works. And many will say unto me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name; and in thy name cast out devils; and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I say, Ye never knew me; depart from me ye that work iniquity. Therefore, whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and Doeth them, I will liken him to a wise man, who built his house upon a rock, and the rains descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. Matthew 7: We have included in this booklet an outline of God s Financial Plan (page 11) to introduce to the membership the Celestial Law regarding temporalities as it is found in the three standard books. The policies and procedures developed to assure proper implementation of the Law is found on pages In our Prayer and Fasting it was also made known to us, through that same Holy Spirit, that it is now time to give consideration to the revelation given to the Church and accepted by conference action R-146 April 6, Within that Revelation we read the following; Further Inspiration directs: You have sensed a great need for the office and calling of a Bishop. It is not yet time for that office to be filled, but he is among you and is now being prepared. Until then, my Remnant people, you must continue to be more steadfast in obedience to the Law of Temporalities. I have given into your hands that property known as the Gathering Place. It has come to pass, not only by much sacrifice and zeal of you my people, but by my design. Assemble and worship in that place often and I will be in your midst. This is only the beginning of many such endeavors to gather my people to the Center Place of Zion and prepare them for the day of my coming. D&C R-146 Included in this booklet on page 19 is an outline of Zionic Endeavors that will make up the programs and efforts of the Church in conjunction with the Storehouse functions and responsibilities. It is clear that the Church has been commanded many times to purchase land in Jackson County for the Gathering of the membership. It is our belief that the Lord has instructed us to move out quickly so that the Saints may be gathered in and prepared for the day of the Lord s return. May we be found to be doers of His Word. 6

7 Doctrine and Covenants R-147 Renewal of the Church, in harmony with the pattern which guided formation of the Reorganization, had been, and was continuing to instruct the Remnant cause. As part of ongoing preparation, the First Presidency called for an assembly of the priesthood in October It was at this assembly that President Frederick N. Larsen presented the following revelation. It received unanimous endorsement by each quorum and order, along with the recommendation that approval be obtained from the next General Conference as requested. The eagerly awaited designation of one to serve as Presiding Bishop would bring great comfort and hope to the membership at large. On April 3, 2004 the General Conference unanimously approved the revelation as the will of the Lord for His Church and provided for its inclusion in the Doctrine and Covenants. Having given careful and prayerful consideration to the needs of the Church, particularly regarding the office of the Bishopric, and in response to what I perceived as divine guidance in the early morning hours of September 1, 2003 and additionally confirmed in direct petition to our heavenly Father on September 19, 2003, the following is presented to the priesthood in quorums assembled on October 26, 2003: 1 The Spirit of Inspiration through my servant the President of the High Priesthood and of the Church directs that it is now time to implement more fully the temporal law of my Church. It shall be in fulfillment of, and according to, the pattern given previously in my law. 2 a. My servant W. Kevin Romer, if willing to serve, is now called from among his brethren of the High Priesthood to the office of Presiding Bishop of the Remnant Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He has a deep abiding faith and testimony of the divinity and renewal of my Church, and if he accepts, will be blessed with all the powers of heaven at his disposal. b. This call is made now because the time grows short for the redemption of my Zion, and the work of the Bishopric must proceed with all haste. Preparation must be made before the next General Conference in order that the work towards fulfillment of the temporal law may be hastened. 3 a. My servant Kevin Romer shall be free to select his counselors as wisdom and inspiration direct. 7

8 b. This calling also bestows upon my servant the office of President of the Aaronic Priesthood, which priesthood has the power to administer the outward ordinances and the ministering of angels. This is in harmony with the covenants and commandments already given. 4 Opportunity for approval of this call should be granted to the priesthood quorums here assembled, and later, approval afforded to the membership body at the next General Conference. 5 a. The Spirit directs further: I have set in my Church those offices of priesthood necessary to bring to pass the building of my earthly Kingdom-even Zion. It is now the duty of every man called to priesthood office to magnify his calling and make preparation before the night comes. b. I will honor those who respond in righteousness with the powers of heaven, for it will require those powers for the work that lies ahead. c. Continue to seek the endowment you so eagerly look for, which will only come through the further sanctification of your everyday lives. 6 a. I have blessed you thus far, my little flock, speaking concerning the membership at large, with many gifts and my Holy Spirit as you have followed the pattern in the restitution of my Church. b. Continue to be faithful, humble, and unified in your worship and service to me and, as promised earlier, my Zion will unfold before you. Thus saith the Spirit. Amen. FREDERICK N. LARSEN INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI, APRIL 3,

9 The Temporal Law And he that is a faithful and wise steward shall inherit all things. D.C. 77:4e 9

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11 God s Financial Plan Increase Needs Income $1,000 $300 $700 Tithe 9/10ths Increase $300 $30 $270 Surplus Just Wants 9/10ths $270 $140 $130 Income: This includes income from all sources; Wages, Dividends, Interest, Bonuses, Social Security, Retirement account withdrawals/401k and IRA s, etc. Needs: Necessary expenses, which don t represent an increase. These are the basic expenses required to maintain one s life: food, shelter and clothing; and those expenses required to maintain one s stewardship: transportation, repairs, replacements and contributions to 401K Plans and IRAs. Increase: Income minus needs ($1,000 - $700 = $300) Tithing: 1/10 th of our increase ($300 x 10% = $30) Offering: Free will offering from our increase above our Tithing Oblations: Free will offerings for the support of the poor and needy Just Wants: From the 9/10ths, expenses above the basic needs of life, development of talents, savings, investments, entertainment, vacation, hobbies, etc. (A good steward should attempt to restrain just wants to less than the total of 9/10ths) Zionic Development Principles Surplus: The remainder of resources left over after Needs, Tithing, Offerings, Oblations and Just Wants. Consecration: Required upon Gathering to Zion. All Surplus Properties to be put into the hands of the Bishop (Storehouse). Inheritance: Capital Necessary for your stewardship, derived from 9/10ths - surplus (Home, Business, Land, Tools, Pension etc.). Normally something that is developed by the individual, but when the storehouse is fully functioning, some development assistance might be obtained from the Bishop. Stewardship: Your Contribution to Zion what you do with your Time, Talents and Temporalities for the benefit of your fellow man (Creation of Surplus). 11

12 Purpose and Use of Funds Tithing: General Church Funds Missionary Work General Church Operations, Publications To build and maintain buildings involving general church interest Offerings: Free will offerings General and Local Church (Normal and Sacrificial) contributed from the 9/10ths portion of our increase. Oblation: For the care of the poor and needy. (Food, Shelter, Emergency Transportation, Clothing, Utilities, etc.). Surplus: For the building up of the storehouse The laying the foundation of Zion The granting of Inheritances For the Priesthood, and the debts of the Presidency The purchase of lands The development of stewardships (Business, Industrial and Agricultural) For the care of the Poor and Needy The building of houses of worship The building up of the New Jerusalem 12

13 Presiding Bishopric Policies and Procedures Surplus, Inheritances, Stewardships, and Consecrations I the Lord am bound when ye do what I say, but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise. D&C 81:3b 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 my 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 found a land of Zion unto you; and this shall be an ensample unto all the stakes of Zion. Even so, Amen. D&C

14 Surplus I. Surplus is defined as The remainder of resources and property left over after Needs, Tithing, Offerings, Oblations, and Just Wants are met including reasonable security. II. III. IV. A full accounting must be made before the Bishopric a. Surplus accounting form must be completed in full (assistance from Bishopric when requested) with the necessary detail in order to determine true surplus. b. The member must recommend the amount of Inheritance to keep and Surplus to give for Consecration. Determination of one s surplus is the joint responsibility of the Bishopric and the Individual or Group concerned a. A meeting with the presiding Bishopric must take place. b. This meeting should result in a mutual agreement to determine the inheritance to be retained and the surplus to be consecrated (including its means of conveyance). c. Should agreement not be achieved then the Standing High Council should be consulted for final advice. Surplus is to be placed into the Storehouse a. Once the surplus is given there is no interest or claim upon it by the individual giving b. The surplus is to be used for Purchasing land Care of the poor and needy Building the foundation of Zion Granting Inheritances Supporting Stewardships Debts of the Presidency Priesthood Building up of the Storehouse Building Houses of Worship Building up of the New Jerusalem V. Required of all those who Gather a. All members who reside in Jackson county and counties around about. b. All those who desire to Gather to those areas. c. Necessary for the foundation of Zion (Storehouse). d. Must be voluntarily given, not coerced. 14

15 Inheritances I. There are two forms of Inheritances a. Inheritances out of one s own net worth. b. Inheritances supplied/provided from the Storehouse for those who have no increase/net worth. II. III. IV. Inheritances are mutually agreed to between the individual and the Bishopric. The determination of Inheritances is based upon three main points a. The need of the Individual b. The Talents (abilities) of the Individual c. The needs of the Community There are two basic uses for Inheritances a. Basic living needs i.e., shelter, transportation etc b. Stewardships: the means of production i.e., business, farming, occupation, etc. V. Inheritances are fee simple: the individual steward retains ownership rights. VI. The Individual is accountable to God for the Stewardship over the Inheritance (Care and Maintenance). Stewardships I. Stewardships are assigned and agreed to between the individual or group and the Bishopric a. Based upon Time, Talents and Temporal Resources b. Needs of the Community II. III. Stewards are accountable to God to create an Increase (Parable of the Talents) leading to the generation of Surplus a. For periodic Consecrations of surplus to build up the Storehouse b. To continue to pay 1/10 of increase annually as tithing Capital for Stewardships comes from the individual and/or the Storehouse a. Based upon availability of funds b. Based upon the needs and priorities of the community 15

16 Consecration Surplus/Inheritance/Stewardships I. The act of Consecration applies to our total stewardship and is accomplished by laying all before the Bishop, making all temporal activities sacred. This accounting of our total Stewardship, not to be confused with the annual Accounting, is required by all who would come to Zion (including those who currently reside in the Center Place). a. A 30 to 90 day period between the Accounting of our Total Stewardship and the act of Consecration is recommended. b. A Consecration Service should be held including Prayer, Dedication and Blessing, and preferably located at the Home of the Individual. c. A Certificate and Testimony should be given to the individuals as evidence of the Consecration of all they have being Dedicated to Zion, their Inheritance, Stewardship and any Surplus that has been determined. II. III. The formal transfer of Funds, deeds to real property, and/or Commitment of Time and Talents to the storehouse should take place at the time of Consecration. The Certificate is necessary for access to the storehouse for needs and just wants for one s Stewardship. 16

17 Doctrine and Covenants R-146 Revelation given through Frederick N. Larsen, Prophet and Seer to the Church, April 6, The work of renewal was quickening; acquisition and preparation of the Gathering Place was demanding a great amount of time and attention. The need for strengthening the role of the First Presidency was becoming more apparent and complete devotion to and execution of the law is made clear. With greater emphasis on missionary work by the Twelve and Seventy a new urgency to move out with all diligence was supported by the addition of several calls to those quorums. Continued steadfastness and obedience is required in preparation for the Bishopric. The revelation was considered, and unanimously approved, by the various councils and quorums before submission to the Conference body where it was endorsed and ordered printed in the Doctrine and Covenants as an expression of Divine Will to the Church. Having made the needs of the Church a matter of prayer and careful thought, the Spirit of our heavenly Father, who guides and directs the prophetic office, brings the following to the Church assembled for Quorum and General Conference approval: 1 a. It is my will saith the Lord that P. James Buchman is called and should be set apart as a Counselor to the President of the High Priesthood in the Quorum of the First Presidency. This call was made known before, but withheld for reasons sufficient to me. His apostleship is now extended in Presidency with his brethren of that Quorum, which is now complete. b. The work lying before the First Presidency of my Church in these last days will be evermore demanding and complete devotion and execution of the law will be required at their hands. 2 a. The Spirit saith further, that to fill vacancies in the Quorum of Twelve my servants Wayne A. Bartrow and Leland V. Collins are now called to be special witnesses and take their place among those brethren now serving as the frontline missionaries and Traveling High Council of my Church. b. The Apostolic Quorum and the Seventy must move out with all diligence to recover those, who rather than obey my law and the pattern of Renewal, have lost their way in following the precepts of men. The Apostles and the Seventy must also seek out those who will listen to my voice and respond to my Gospel of Salvation. 3 It is wisdom in me that my servant V. Lee Killpack be set apart as President of the Quorum of Twelve. He has acted in the past with great 17

18 sensitivity to the leading of my Spirit and I will bless him with wisdom and discernment as he provides direction and leadership to the Quorum. Further inspiration directs: 4 You have sensed a great need for the office and calling of a Bishop. It is not yet time for that office to be filled, but he is among you and is now being prepared. Until then, my Remnant people, you must continue to be more steadfast in obedience to the Law of Temporalities. 5 a. I have given into your hands that property known as the Gathering Place. It has come to pass, not only by much sacrifice and zeal of you my people, but by my design. Assemble and worship in that place often and I will be in your midst. b. This is only the beginning of many such endeavors to gather my people to the Center Place of Zion and prepare them for the day of my coming. 6 a. The Church as a whole is commended for the Spirit of unity and understanding that is among you. And, if those who lead you continue in the spirit of truth and righteousness and humility, I will pour out my Spirit in abundance. b. Remember, it is still day when preparation can be made for the coming of the Bridegroom. Prepare the Bride. Put oil in your vessels and trim your lamps. But take comfort in the knowledge that a secure foundation is being laid upon which my Gospel shall go forth, even as the stone which is cut out of the mountain without hands, and that my Zion will unfold before you. c. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom. Thus saith the Spirit. Amen. Respectfully submitted, FREDERICK N. LARSEN INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI, April 6,

19 Zionic Endeavors 1) Introduce / implement the Celestial Law regarding temporalities in relation to Surplus, Consecration, Inheritance, and Stewardship. 2) Stewardship Development as part of the Consecration Process a. Inventory Stewardship Skills and Abilities b. Identify immediate Stewardship needs for Zionic development programs c. Assign Stewardships to begin further Zionic Endeavors 3) Storehouse Development Gathering All Things Common Physical Storehouse a. Emergency Food Supplies b. Provisions to Support The Needy c. Emergency Medical Supplies d. Emergency Housing e. Non-Emergency Foodstuffs from Farm Productions 4) Purchase Land for Zionic Community a. Identify and purchase property for gathering b. Develop master plan for community c. Identify and purchase farmland d. Develop stewardships to manage property e. Initiate the gathering 5) School for Youth K-12 6) Develop Medical Clinic and Facilities 7) Senior Housing Development 19

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21 Appendix I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say, but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise. D.C. 81d 21

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27 Scriptural References For the Celestial Stewardship Law Inspired Version Refs. Pg. 29 Matthew 7:29-34 Luke 16:10-11 Doctrine & Covenants (Section 102) Tithing Pg. 31 Genesis 28:20-22 Malachi 3:7-10 Matthew 23:20 Luke 11:40-43 Hebrews 7:1-4 Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 64:5a-b; 94:3a-c; 106:1b; 114:1a; 130:7a-d) Offering Pg. 33 Doctrine & Covenants (Section 58:6c-f) Surplus Pg. 34 Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 42:10a-c, 14a-b; 70:1b-c, 2a-b, 3a-b; 98:9a-g, 10a-c; 106:1a-b, 2a-c) 27

28 Consecrations Pg. 36 Luke 12:34-37 Romans 13:6-7 Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 36:2h-i; 42:8a-c, 9a; 58:7a-d; 70:1b-c, 2a-b, 3a-b; 82:2a-b; 102:8b; 107:8b) Book of Mormon: 4 th Nephi 1:3-7 Inheritance Pg. 40 Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 36:2h-i; 45:12a-d, 13a-b, 48:2a-d; 57:1a-g; 58:7a-d; 63:13a-b; 82:2a-b) Stewardships Pg. 42 Matthew 25:13-31 Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 36:2h-i; 42:9a-b, 10a-c, 14a-b; 70:1b-c, 2a-b, 3a-b; 72:1a-c; 81:4a-g, 5a; 101:2b-e) Conclusion Pg. 46 II Corinthians 9:6-7 28

29 Scriptural References For the Celestial Temporal Law May we become faithful Doers of His word Matthew, Ch. 7 (Inspired Version used throughout) 29. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 30. Verily I say unto you, it is not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, that shall enter unto the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven. 31. For the day soon cometh, that men shall come before me to judgment, to be judged according to their works. 32. And many will say unto me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name; and in thy name cast out devils; and in thy name done many wonderful works? 33. And then will I say, Ye never knew me; depart from me ye that work iniquity. 34. Therefore, whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, who built his house upon a rock, and the rains descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. Luke, Ch He who is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in the least, is also unjust in much. 11. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? 29

30 Doctrine and Covenants Section Verily I say unto you, who have assembled yourselves together that you may learn my will concerning the redemption of mine afflicted people: 2a. Behold, I say unto you, Were it not for the transgressions of my people, speaking concerning the church and not individuals, they might have been redeemed even now; b. but, behold, they have not learned to be obedient to the things which I require at their hands, but are full of all manner of evil, and do not impart of their substance, as becometh Saints, to the poor and afflicted among them, and are not united according to the union required by the law of the celestial kingdom; c. and Zion cannot be built up unless it is by the principles of the law of the celestial kingdom, otherwise I cannot receive her unto myself; d. and my people must needs be chastened until they learn obedience, if it must needs be, by the things which they suffer. 3a. I speak not concerning those who are appointed to lead my people, who are the first elders of my church, for they are not all under this condemnation; but I speak concerning my churches abroad; b. there are many who will say, Where is their God? Behold, he will deliver in time of trouble; otherwise we will not go up unto Zion, and will keep our moneys. c. Therefore, in consequence of the transgression of my people, it is expedient in me that mine elders should wait for a little season for the redemption of Zion, that they themselves may be prepared, and that my people may be taught more perfectly, and have experience, and know more perfectly, concerning their duty, and the things which I require at their hands; d. and this can not be brought to pass until mine elders are endowed with power from on high; e. for, behold, I have prepared a great endowment and blessing to be poured out upon them, inasmuch as they are faithful, and continue in humility before me; 30

31 Tithing Genesis, Ch And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, 21. So that I come again to my father's house in peace; then shall the Lord be my God; 22. And the place of this stone which I have set for a pillar, shall be the place of God's house; and of all that thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto thee. Malachi, Ch Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the Lord of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return? 8. Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. 9. Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. 10. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. Matthew, Ch Woe unto you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye pay tithe of mint, and anise, and cummin; and have omitted the weightier things of the law; judgment, mercy, and faith; these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Luke, Ch And the Lord said unto him; Now do you Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. 41. O fools, did not he who made that which is without, make that which is within also? 42. But if ye would rather give alms of such things as ye have; and observe to do all things which I have commanded you, then would your inward parts be clean also. 31

32 43. But I say unto you, Woe be unto you, Pharisees! For ye tithe mint, and rue, and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment, and the love of God; These ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Hebrews, Ch For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; 2. To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; 3. For this Melchizedek was ordained a priest after the order of the Son of God, which order was without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life. And all those who are ordained unto this priesthood are made like unto the Son of God, abiding a priest continually. 4. Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils. Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 64, 94, 106, 114, 130) 64:5a Behold, now it is called today (until the coming of the Son of man), and verily it is a day of sacrifice, and a day for the tithing of my people; for he that is tithed shall not be burned (at his coming); for after to day cometh the burning: this is speaking after the manner of the Lord; b. for verily I say, Tomorrow all the proud and they that do wickedly shall be as stubble; and I will burn them up, for I am the Lord of hosts; and I will not spare any that remaineth in Babylon. Wherefore, if ye believe me, ye will labor while it is called to day. 94:3a Verily I say unto you, that it is my will that an house should be built unto me in the land of Zion, like unto the pattern which I have given you; yea, let it be built speedily by the tithing of my people: b. behold, this is the tithing and the sacrifice which I, the Lord, require at their hands, that there may be an house built unto me for the salvation of Zion; c. for a place of thanksgiving, for all Saints, and for a place of instruction for all those who are called to the work of the ministry, in all their several callings, and offices; 32

33 106:1b 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. 114:1a In order to place the church in a position to carry on the promulgation of the gospel, and as a means of fulfilling the law, the Twelve will take measures in connection with the Bishop, to execute the law of tithing; 130:7a. The Spirit saith further unto the church assembled and at large: (b.) In order that the temporal affairs of the church may be successfully carried on and the accumulated debt of the church in its respective departments where debts have accumulated may be properly met and in due time discharged, c. the church is instructed, both as members and as the body at large, to avoid the unnecessary building of houses of worship or places of entertainment or otherwise expending the tithes and offerings of the church in that which may not be essential unto the continued onward progress of the general work; d. and both in private and in public expenditure carry into active exercise the principle of sacrifice and repression of unnecessary wants; Offering Doctrine & Covenants (Section 58) 58:6c. for, behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things, for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. d. Verily I say, Men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness; for the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. e. And inasmuch as men do good, they shall in nowise lose their reward f. But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned. 33

34 Surplus Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 42, 70, 98, 106) 42:10a. 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. b. 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, c. 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 42:14a. Thou shalt stand in the place of thy stewardship; thou shalt not take thy brother's garment; thou shalt pay for that which thou shalt receive of thy brother; b. and if thou obtainest more than that which would be for thy support, thou shalt give it unto my storehouse, that all things may be done according to that which I have said. 70:1b. wherefore hearken and hear, for thus saith the Lord unto them, I, the Lord, have appointed them, and ordained them to be stewards over the revelations and commandments which I have given unto them, and which I shall hereafter give unto them; c. and an account of this stewardship will I require of them in the day of judgment; wherefore I have appointed unto them, and this is their business in the church of God, to manage them and the concerns thereof; yea, the benefits thereof. 70:2a. Wherefore a commandment I give unto them, that they shall not give these things unto the church, neither unto the world; c. nevertheless, inasmuch as they receive more than is needful for their necessities and their wants, it shall be given into my storehouse, and the benefits shall be consecrated unto the inhabitants of Zion and unto their generations, inasmuch as they become heirs according to the laws of the kingdom. 34

35 70:3a. Behold, this is what the Lord requires of every man in his stewardship, even as I, the Lord, have appointed, or shall hereafter appoint unto any man. b. And behold, none are exempt from this law who belong to the church of the living God; yea, neither the bishop, neither the agent, who keepeth the Lord's storehouse; neither he who is appointed in a stewardship over temporal things; 98:9a. Again, verily I say unto you, I will show unto you wisdom in me concerning all the churches, inasmuch as they are willing to be guided in a right and proper way for their salvation, that the work of the gathering together of my Saints may continue, that I may build them up unto my name upon holy places; for the time of harvest is come, and my word must needs be fulfilled. b. Therefore, I must gather together my people according to the parable of the wheat and the tares, that the wheat may be secured in the garners to possess eternal life, and be crowned with celestial glory when I shall come in the kingdom of my Father, to reward every man according as his work shall be; c. while the tares shall be bound in bundles, and their bands made strong, that they may be burned with unquenchable fire. d. Therefore, a commandment I give unto all the churches, that they shall continue to gather together unto the places which I have appointed; e. nevertheless, as I have said unto you in a former commandment, let not your gathering be in haste, nor by flight; but let all things be prepared before you; f. and in order that all things be prepared before you, observe the commandments which I have given concerning these things, which saith, or teacheth, to purchase all the lands by money, which can be purchased for money, in the region round about the land which I have appointed to be the land of Zion, for the beginning of the gathering of my Saints; g. all the land which can be purchased in Jackson County, and the counties round about, and leave the residue in mine hand. 98:10a. Now, verily I say unto you, Let all the churches gather together all their moneys; let these things be done in their time, be not in haste; and observe to have all things prepared before you. b. And let honorable men be appointed, even wise men, and send them to purchase these lands; and every church in the eastern countries when they are built up, if they will hearken unto this counsel, they may buy lands and gather together upon them, and in this way they may establish Zion. 35

36 c. There is even now already in store a sufficient, yea, even abundance to redeem Zion, and establish her waste places, no more to be thrown down, were the churches, who call themselves after my name, willing to hearken to my voice. 106:1a. 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; b. 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. 106:2a. 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. b. 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, c. 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. Consecrations Luke Ch Therefore seek ye to bring forth the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you. 35. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 36. This he spake unto his disciples, saying, Sell that ye have and give alms; provide not for yourselves bags which wax old, but rather provide a treasure in the heavens, that faileth not; where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. 37. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 36

37 Romans Ch For, for this cause pay ye your consecrations also unto them; for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. 7. But first, render to all their dues, according to custom, tribute to whom tribute, custom to whom custom, that your consecrations may be done in fear of him to whom fear belongs, and in honor of him to whom honor belongs. Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 36, 42, 58, 70, 82, 102, 107) 36:2h And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; i. and there was no poor among them; and Enoch continued his preaching in righteousness unto the people of God. 42:8a. If thou lovest me, thou shalt serve me and keep all my commandments. b. And, behold, thou wilt remember the poor, and consecrate of thy properties for their support, that which thou hast to impart unto them, with a covenant and a deed which cannot be broken; c. 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. 42:9a And it shall come to pass that after they are laid before the bishop of my church, and after that he has received these testimonies concerning the consecration of the properties of my church, that they cannot be taken from the church, agreeable to my commandments; 58:7a And now I give unto you further directions concerning this land. b. It is wisdom in me that my servant Martin Harris should be an example unto the church, in laying his moneys before the bishop of the church. c. And also, this is a law unto every man that cometh unto this land, to receive an inheritance, and he shall do with his moneys according as the law directs. d. And it is wisdom, also, that there should be lands purchased in Independence, for the place of the storehouse, and also for the house of the printing. 37

38 70:1b. wherefore hearken and hear, for thus saith the Lord unto them, I, the Lord, have appointed them, and ordained them to be stewards over the revelations and commandments which I have given unto them, and which I shall hereafter give unto them; c. and an account of this stewardship will I require of them in the day of judgment; wherefore I have appointed unto them, and this is their business in the church of God, to manage them and the concerns thereof; yea, the benefits thereof. 70:2a. Wherefore a commandment I give unto them, that they shall not give these things unto the church, neither unto the world; b. nevertheless, inasmuch as they receive more than is needful for their necessities and their wants, it shall be given into my storehouse, and the benefits shall be consecrated unto the inhabitants of Zion and unto their generations, inasmuch as they become heirs according to the laws of the kingdom. 70:3a. Behold, this is what the Lord requires of every man in his stewardship, even as I, the Lord, have appointed, or shall hereafter appoint unto any man. b. And behold, none are exempt from this law who belong to the church of the living God; yea, neither the bishop, neither the agent, who keepeth the Lord's storehouse; neither he who is appointed in a stewardship over temporal things; 82:2a. All children have claim upon their parents for their maintenance until they are of age; and after that, they have claim upon the church; or, in other words, upon the Lord's storehouse, if their parents have not wherewith to give them inheritances. b. And the storehouse shall be kept by the consecrations of the church, that widows and orphans shall be provided for, as also the poor 102:8b. and I will soften the hearts of the people, as I did the heart of Pharaoh, from time to time, until my servant Baurak Ale, and Baneemy, whom I have appointed, shall have time to gather up the strength of my house, and to have sent wise men, to fulfill that which I have commanded concerning the purchasing of all the lands in Jackson County, that can be purchased, and in the adjoining counties round about; for it is my will that these lands be purchased, and after they are purchased that my Saints should possess them according to the laws of consecration which I have given; 38

39 107:8b. I, therefore, say unto you, I seal upon his head the office of a bishop, like unto my servant Edward Partridge, that he may receive the consecrations of mine house, that he may administer blessings upon the heads of the poor of my people, saith the Lord. Book of Mormon - 4 th Nephi 1: 3. And it came to pass in the thirty and sixth year, the people were all converted unto the Lord, upon all the face of the land, both Nephites and Lamanites, and there were no contentions and disputations among them, and every man did deal justly one with another; 4. And they had all things common among them, therefore they were not rich and poor, bond and free, but they were all made free, and partakers of the heavenly gift. 5. And it came to pass that the thirty and seventh year passed away also, and there still continued to be peace in the land. 6. And there were great and marvelous works wrought by the disciples of Jesus, insomuch that they did heal the sick, and raise the dead, and cause the lame to walk, and the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear; 7. And all manner of miracles did they work among the children of men; and in nothing did they work miracles save it were in the name of Jesus. 39

40 Inheritance Doctrine & Covenants (Sections 36, 45, 48, 57, 58, 63, 82) 36:2h. And the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; i. and there was no poor among them; and Enoch continued his preaching in righteousness unto the people of God. 45:12a. Wherefore, I the Lord have said, Gather ye out from the eastern lands, assemble ye yourselves together ye elders of my church; b. go ye forth unto the western countries, call upon the inhabitants to repent, and inasmuch as they do repent, build up churches unto me; c. and with one heart and with one mind, gather up your riches that ye may purchase an inheritance which shall hereafter be appointed unto you, 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; d. 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; and it shall be called Zion. 45:13a. And it shall come to pass, among the wicked, that every man that will not take his sword against his neighbor, must needs flee unto Zion for safety. b. And there shall be gathered unto it out of every nation under heaven; and it shall be the only people that shall not be at war one with another. 48:2a. It must needs be, that ye save all the money that ye can, and that ye obtain all that ye can in righteousness, that in time ye may be enabled to purchase lands for an inheritance, even the city. b. The place is not yet to be revealed, but after your brethren come from the east, there are to be certain men appointed, and to them it shall be given to know the place, or to them it shall be revealed; c. and they shall be appointed to purchase the lands, and to make a commencement, to lay the foundation of the city; d. and then ye shall begin to be gathered with your families, every man according to his family, according to his circumstances, and as is appointed to him by the presidency and the bishop of the church, according to the laws and commandments, which ye have received, and which ye shall hereafter receive. 40

41 57:1a. Hearken, O ye elders of my church saith the Lord your God, who have assembled yourselves together, according to my commandments, in this land which is the land of Missouri, which is the land which I have appointed and consecrated for the gathering of the Saints: b. wherefore this is the land of promise, and the place for the city of Zion. c. And thus saith the Lord your God, If you will receive wisdom here is wisdom. d. Behold, the place which is now called Independence, is the Center Place, and the spot for the temple is lying westward upon a lot which is not far from the courthouse; e. wherefore it is wisdom that the land should be purchased by the Saints; and also every tract lying westward, even unto the line running directly between Jew and Gentile. f.. And also every tract bordering by the prairies, inasmuch as my disciples are enabled to buy lands. g. Behold, this is wisdom, that they may obtain it for an everlasting inheritance. 58:7a. And now I give unto you further directions concerning this land. b. It is wisdom in me that my servant Martin Harris should be an example unto the church, in laying his moneys before the bishop of the church. c. And also, this is a law unto every man that cometh unto this land, to receive an inheritance, and he shall do with his moneys according as the law directs. d. And it is wisdom, also, that there should be lands purchased in Independence, for the place of the storehouse, and also for the house of the printing. 63:13a. He that is faithful and endureth shall overcome the world. b. He that sendeth up treasures unto the land of Zion, shall receive an inheritance in this world, and his works shall follow him; and also a reward in the world to come: 82:2a. All children have claim upon their parents for their maintenance until they are of age; and after that, they have claim upon the church; or, in other words, upon the Lord's storehouse, if their parents have not wherewith to give them inheritances. b. And the storehouse shall be kept by the consecrations of the church, that widows and orphans shall be provided for, as also the poor. 41

42 Inspired Version Stewardships Matthew Ch Now I will liken these things unto a parable. 14. For it is like as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. 15. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway went on his journey. 16. Then he that had received the five talents, went and traded with the same; and gained other five talents. 17. And likewise he who received two talents, he also gained other two. 18. But he who had received one, went and digged in the earth and hid his lord's money. 19. After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. 20. And so he that had received the five talents came, and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents; behold, I have gained besides them five talents more. 21. His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 22. He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents; behold, I have gained two talents besides them. 23. His lord said unto him, Will done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 24. Then he who had received the one talent came, and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art a hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not scattered. 25. And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth; and lo, here is thy talent; take it from me as thou hast from thine other servants, for it is thine. 42