Doctrine and Covenants, Connected
Doctrine and Covenants 7 A greater work among men
In April 1829, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were discussing whether the Apostle John had died or would remain on earth until the Savior’s coming. They agreed to seek an answer through the Urim and Thummim, and Joseph received this revelation as a translation of an ancient parchment associated with John. The account explains that John desired to keep bringing souls to the Lord, while Peter desired to come to the Lord’s kingdom. The Lord honors both desires and describes the work John and his fellow apostles would do.
1 of 8 verses connected · 2 talks · 1 verse-to-talk connection
Doctrine and Covenants 7
- And the Lord said unto me: John, my beloved, what desirest thou? For if you shall ask what you will, it shall be granted unto you.
- And I said unto him: Lord, give unto me power over death, that I may live and bring souls unto thee.
- And the Lord said unto me: Verily, verily, I say unto thee, because thou desirest this thou shalt tarry until I come in my glory, and shalt prophesy before nations, kindreds, tongues and people.
- And for this cause the Lord said unto Peter: If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? For he desired of me that he might bring souls unto me, but thou desiredst that thou mightest speedily come unto me in my kingdom.
- I say unto thee, Peter, this was a good desire; but my beloved has desired that he might do more, or a greater work yet among men than what he has before done.
- Yea, he has undertaken a greater work; therefore I will make him as flaming fire and a ministering angel; he shall minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation who dwell on the earth.
- And I will make thee to minister for him and for thy brother James; and unto you three I will give this power and the keys of this ministry until I come. (1 connected talk)
- Verily I say unto you, ye shall both have according to your desires, for ye both joy in that which ye have desired.
Read Doctrine and Covenants 7 on the official scripture site
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Data version: D&C Connected v1 · built 2026-10-15 · conference through 2026-10