The Prophet Joseph Smith Goes to Missouri Again

Adapted from Doctrine and Covenants Stories (PBIC037A)

(See D&C 72:10; D&C 82: preface, D&C 17–18; D&C 83:2; D&C 4; D&C 6; History of the Church, pages 271–272.)

1 In April 1832 Joseph Smith went to Jackson County a second time. A general council of the Church was called, and Joseph was sustained as President of the High Priesthood.

2 The Prophet received a revelation in which the Lord said that the Saints were to work hard and share all that they had with each other.

3 Goods of all kinds were to be taken to the Church storehouse to be distributed according to the bishop’s orders.

4 Four days later Joseph received another revelation: If widows, orphans, or any other members were needy, they were to be provided for through the Church storehouse.

5 The revelation also said that husbands are to love and care for their wives, and parents are to love and care for their children.

6 In May, Sidney Rigdon, Newel K. Whitney, and the Prophet Joseph started back to Kirtland, Ohio. Near New Albany, Indiana, the horses pulling their wagon became frightened and bolted.

7 Joseph jumped out of the wagon unhurt, but Bishop Whitney caught his foot in a wheel and broke his leg and foot in several places.

8 Sidney Rigdon went on to Kirtland, but the Prophet stayed with Bishop Whitney for four weeks while he recuperated.

9 One day during that time, Joseph Smith ate something poisonous. When Bishop Whitney gave him a blessing of health, the Prophet was instantly healed. Soon they, too, continued on to Kirtland.