1829

Angels Restore the Priesthood

Power to do God’s work

As Joseph and Oliver translated the gold plates, they learned that Jesus wanted everyone to be baptized. He also gave people power to baptize others. Joseph had not been baptized. He wanted to know more about baptism.

Joseph Smith—History 1:68; Saints, 1:65–66

Joseph and Oliver wondered who had power to baptize people now. They decided to ask God. They went into the woods and knelt to pray.

Joseph Smith—History 1:68; Saints, 1:66

As they prayed, an angel appeared. He said he was John the Baptist, who baptized Jesus Christ long ago. He gave Joseph and Oliver the Aaronic Priesthood. The priesthood is God’s power. It is used to bless God’s children.

Doctrine and Covenants 13; Joseph Smith—History 1:69, 72; Saints, 1:66–67

John the Baptist said that a person with the Aaronic Priesthood can teach people to repent and baptize them. John told Joseph and Oliver to be baptized. They went into a river and baptized each other. When they came out of the water, they were filled with the Holy Ghost. They were very happy!

Joseph Smith—History 1:70–73

Later, other angels came. Three of Jesus’s Apostles—Peter, James, and John—gave Joseph and Oliver the Melchizedek Priesthood. Now Joseph and Oliver could give the gift of the Holy Ghost. Joseph and Oliver became Apostles too. They could lead the Church and be special witnesses of Jesus Christ.

Doctrine and Covenants 27:12; Saints, 1:84