Doctrine and Covenants 84:88 stands as a pivotal verse within the scriptural canon of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offering profound insight into the nature of priesthood authority and the prerequisites for administering sacred ordinances. This verse is part of a larger revelation received in 1832, addressing the early Saints in Kirtland, Ohio, and outlining the foundational principles required for the establishment of God's kingdom on earth. The specific instruction found in verse 88 serves as a gateway to understanding the proper organization and function of the Church, emphasizing that correct authority is not self-assumed but divinely bestowed.
The Context of Revelation
To fully grasp the weight of Doctrine and Covenants 84:88, one must first examine the context in which it was given. The early Latter-day Saint community was grappling with the restoration of the gospel, seeking to understand how the ancient church structure was to be re-established in the modern era. The revelation section containing this verse discusses the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods, the duties of ministers, and the necessity of temporal support for the poor. Within this framework, verse 88 acts as a directive, clarifying that the keys of the priesthood are necessary for the salvation of God's children and are held by those ordained through proper lineage and calling.
Decoding the Verse
Doctrine and Covenants 84:88 reads: "And again, verily I say unto you, let this house be built unto my name, that I may reveal mine ordinances therein unto my people; For I deign to reveal unto my church things which have been kept hid from before the foundation of the world, things that pertain to the dispensation of the fulness of times." While the verse extends beyond the specific phrase of 88, the instruction to build a house is a command to construct a physical temple where these ordinances can be revealed. This highlights the principle that God’s teachings are not merely abstract concepts but are delivered through designated holy spaces where covenant-making occurs.
Theological Implications of Authority
The theological significance of this verse extends to the very structure of salvation. Latter-day Saint theology posits that in order for ordinances such as baptism and the sacrament to be valid, they must be performed by the proper authority. This authority is traced back to the ancient apostles and prophets through a line of succession. Doctrine and Covenants 84:88 underscores that the revelation of ordinances is contingent upon the construction of the house, symbolizing the organized Church through which Christ directs His affairs. It is a reminder that individual inspiration must be aligned with the established order of the kingdom.
The necessity of a physical structure for the revelation of spiritual truths.
The requirement of divine authorization for the performance of sacred rites.
The connection between temple worship and the revelation of God's will.
The importance of community over individualism in religious practice.
The preservation of ancient ordinances through modern application.
Practical Application for the Modern Saint
For the contemporary follower, Doctrine and Covenants 84:88 serves as a guide for understanding the importance of attending and supporting the established Church. The "house" is not merely a building but the organized body of believers who uphold the commandments and facilitate the ordinances. This verse encourages members to seek out the authorized institutions where the gospel is taught in its fullness. It reinforces the idea that true discipleship involves submission to the recognized leadership and structure that God has provided for the gathering of His people.
