Gospel Principles
Unit 5: The Church of Jesus Christ
Chapter 14: Priesthood Organization
Comments and Resources

'Elder Bruce R. McConkie clarified the reasons for having offices in the priesthood:
 "The priesthood is greater than any of its offices.  No office adds any power, dignity, or authority to the priesthood.  All offices derive their rights, virtues, and authorities from the priesthood.  Our concern is with those holding the offices of elder, of seventy and of high priest...

"Why do we have offices or callings in the priesthood?...
"....So that brethren can become specialists in the performance of priesthood labors...

"Elders are called to be standing ministers; to prefect the Saints; to labor for the salvation of the brethren.

"Seventies are called to proclaim the message of salvation to our Father's other children.

"High priests are called to be standing presidents; to prefect the Saints; to guide, govern, and direct the organization of the Church." (Address at Regional Representatives' seminar, 7 Oct 1973, p.2.)


During the study of this topic, we will learn how and why the priesthood is organized, what is meant by the keys of the priesthood, and the duties of the various offices in the priesthood.


Resources
Gospel Principles, chapter 14.
A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, chapter 12.
Jesus the Christ, chapter 16, 23.
The Articles of Faith, chapter 11.
Duties and Blessings of the Priesthood, Part A Chapters 1 - 11; Part B, Chapters 1 - 5

Scriptures :
3 Nephi 12:1-2
 1 And it came to pass that when Jesus had spoken these words unto Nephi, and to those who had been called, (now the number of them who had been called, and received power and authority to baptize, was twelve) and behold, he stretched forth his hand unto the multitude, and cried unto them, saying: Blessed are ye if ye shall give heed unto the words of these twelve whom I have chosen from among you to minister unto you, and to be your servants; and unto them I have given power that they may baptize you with water; and after that ye are baptized with water, behold, I will baptize you with fire and with the Holy Ghost; therefore blessed are ye if ye shall believe in me and be baptized, after that ye have seen me and know that I am. 
  2 And again, more blessed are they who shall believe in your words because that ye shall testify that ye have seen me, and that ye know that I am. Yea, blessed are they who shall believe in your words, and come down into the depths of humility and be baptized, for they shall be visited with fire and with the Holy Ghost, and shall receive a remission of their sins. 

Moroni 3  Elders ordain priests and teachers by the laying on of hands. Between A.D. 400 and 421 

D&C 20, 68, 107
D&C 20  
Revelation on Church Organization and Government, given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, April 1830. HC 1: 64 70. Preceding his record of this revelation the Prophet wrote: We obtained of him [Jesus Christ] the following, by the spirit of prophecy and revelation; which not only gave us much information, but also pointed out to us the precise day upon which, according to his will and commandment, we should proceed to organize his Church once more here upon the earth. 
1 16, The Book of Mormon proves the divinity of the latter-day work; 17 29, The doctrines of creation, fall, atonement, and baptism are affirmed; 29 37, Laws governing repentance, justification, sanctification, and baptism are set forth; 38 67, Duties of elders, priests, teachers, and deacons are summarized; 68 74, Duties of members, blessing of children, and mode of baptism are revealed; 75 84, Sacramental prayers and regulations governing church membership are given. 


D&C 68 
Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Hiram, Ohio, November 1831, at the request of Orson Hyde, Luke S. Johnson, Lyman E. Johnson, and William E. McLellin. HC 1: 227 229. Although this revelation was given in response to supplication that the mind of the Lord be made known concerning the elders named, much of the content pertains to the whole Church. 
1 5, Words of elders when moved upon by the Holy Ghost are scripture; 6 12, Elders are to preach and baptize, and signs shall follow true believers; 13 24, Firstborn among the sons of Aaron may serve as the Presiding Bishop (that is, hold the keys of presidency as a bishop) under the direction of the First Presidency; 25 28, Parents are commanded to teach the gospel to their children; 29 35, The saints are to observe the Sabbath, labor diligently, and pray. 


D&C 107  
Revelation on priesthood, given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Kirtland, Ohio, dated March 28, 1835. HC 2: 209 217. On the date named the Twelve met in council, confessing their individual weaknesses and shortcomings, expressing repentance, and seeking the further guidance of the Lord. They were about to separate on missions to districts assigned. Although portions of this section were received on the date named, the historical records affirm that various parts were received at sundry times, some as early as November 1831. 
1 6, There are two priesthoods: the Melchizedek and the Aaronic; 7 12, Those who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood have power to officiate in all offices in the Church; 13 17, The bishopric presides over the Aaronic Priesthood, which administers in outward ordinances; 18 20, The Melchizedek Priesthood holds the keys of all spiritual blessings; the Aaronic Priesthood holds the keys of the ministering of angels; 21 38, The First Presidency, the Twelve, and the Seventy constitute the presiding quorums, whose decisions are to be made in unity and righteousness; 39 52, Patriarchal order established from Adam to Noah; 53 57, Ancient saints assembled at Adam-ondi-Ahman, and the Lord appeared to them; 58 67, The Twelve are to set the officers of the Church in order; 68 76, Bishops serve as common judges in Israel; 77 84, The First Presidency and the Twelve constitute the highest court in the Church; 85 100, Priesthood presidents govern their respective quorums. 

Exodus 18:13-27
13  And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening. 
  14 And when Moses father in law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto even? 
  15 And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of God: 
  16 When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do make them know the statutes of God, and his laws. 
  17 And Moses father in law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good. 
  18 Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone. 
  19 Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God: 
  20 And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do. 
  21 Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens: 
  22 And let them judge the people at all seasons: and it shall be, that every great matter they shall bring unto thee, but every small matter they shall judge: so shall it be easier for thyself, and they shall bear the burden with thee. 
  23 If thou shalt do this thing, and God command thee so, then thou shalt be able to endure, and all this people shall also go to their place in peace. 
  24 So Moses hearkened to the voice of his father in law, and did all that he had said. 
  25 And Moses chose able men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people, rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. 
  26 And they judged the people at all seasons: the hard causes they brought unto Moses, but every small matter they judged themselves. 
  27  And Moses let his father in law depart; and he went his way into his own land. 

Luke 10:1-4
  1 After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. 
  2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. 
  3 Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. 
  4 Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way. 

Acts 1:20-26; 6:1-4
Acts 1: 20-26
  20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. 
  21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 
  22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. 
  23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. 
  24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, 
  25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. 
  26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. 
Acts 6: 1-4
  1 And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. 
  2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. 
  3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 
  4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. 

Ephesians 4:11-14
11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 
  12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 
  13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 
  14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 

Titus 1:7-9
7 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 
  8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; 
  9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. 

Articles of Faith 1:6 We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth. 

Topical Guide: <http://Scriptures.lds.org/en/tg/contents> 
               Apostles
               Church
               Church Organization
               Elder-Melchizedek Priesthood
               High Priest-Aaronic Priesthood
               High Priest-Melchizedek Priesthood
               Jesus Christ, Head of the Church
               Ministry, Unpaid
               Patriarch
               Priesthood, Aaronic; 
               Priesthood, Keys of
               Priesthood, Magnifying Callings within
               Priesthood, Melchizedek; 
               Quorum

Bible Dictionary: <http://Scriptures.lds.org/en/bd/contents>
                  Apostle 
                  Bishop 
                  Elders 
                  Evangelist
                  High Priest
                  Ministry
                  Patriarch, Patriarchs 
                  Transfiguration, Mount of
                  Help Others Feel and Recognize the Spirit'





Chapter 14: Priesthood Organization
Concept 1: Introduction & Two Divisions of Priesthood

'The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is governed by the priesthood.  The priesthood, which is always associated with God's work, "continueth in the church of God in all generations, and is with out beginning of days or end of years" (D&C 84:17).  It is upon the earth today.  Men young and old are baptized into the Church, and when they are judged worthy they are ordained to the priesthood.  They are given the authority to act for the Lord and do his work on the earth.

Two Divisions of Priesthood
The priesthood is divided into two parts" the Melchizedek Priesthood and the Aaronic Priesthood (D&C 107:1 "There are, in the church, two priesthoods, namely, the Melchizedek and Aaronic, including the Levitical Priesthood").  The greater priesthood is the Melchizedek Priesthood.  Long ago it was called the "The Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God."  But the name was changed so the name of the Lord would not be used so often.  The Church in ancient days called the priesthood "the Melchizedek Priesthood" after a great high priest who lived during the time of Abraham. 
(D&C 107:2-4 "2. Why the first is called the Melchizedek Priesthood is because Melchizedek was such a great high priest.  
3. Before his day it was called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God.  
4. But out of respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme Being, to avoid the too frequent repetition of his name, they, the church, in ancient days, called that priesthood after Melchizedek, or the Melchizedek Priesthood.").

The lessor priesthood is an appendage to the Melchizedek Priesthood.  It is called the Aaronic Priesthood because it was conferred on Aaron and his sons throughout all their generations.  Those who hold the Aaronic Priesthood have authority to administer the outward ordinances of repentance and baptism. (D&C 107:13-14, 20  "13. The second priesthood is called the Priesthood of Aaron, because it was conferred upon Aaron and his seed, throughout all their generations.  
14. Why it is called the lesser priesthood is because it is an appendage to the greater, or the Melchizedek Priesthood, and has power in administering outward ordinances.  
20. The power and authority of the lesser, or Aaronic Priesthood, is to hold the keys of the ministering of angels, and to administer in outward ordinances, the letter of the gospel, the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, agreeable to the covenants and commandments.)

Those holding the Melchizedek Priesthood have the power and authority to lead the Church and direct the preaching of the gospel in all parts of the world.  They are in charge of all the spiritual work of the Church (D&C 84:19-22 "19. And this greater priesthood administereth the gospel and holdeth the key of the mysteries of the kingdom, even the key of the knowledge of God.  
20. Therefore, in the ordinances thereof, the power of godliness is manifest.  
21. And with out the ordinances thereof, and the authority of the priesthood, the power of godliness is not manifest unto men in the flesh;  
22. For with out this no man can see the face of God, even the Father, and live.").  
They direct the work done in the temples; they preside over wards, branches, stakes and missions; they heal the sick, bless babies, and give special blessings to Church Members.  The Lords chosen prophet, the president of the Church, is presiding high priest over the Melchizedek Priesthood (D&C 107:65-67 "65. Wherefore, it must needs be that one be appointed of the High Priesthood to preside over the priesthood, and he shall be called President of the High Priesthood of the Church; 
66. Or, in other words, the Presiding High priest over the high Priesthood of the Church.  
67. From the same comes the administering of ordinances and blessings upon the church, by the laying on of the hands.").

Discussion

Doctrine and Covenants 107:1-4.  
"1. There are, in the church, two priesthoods, namely, the Melchizedek and Aaronic, including the Levitical Priesthood.
 2. Why the first is called the Melchizedek Priesthood is because Melchizedek was such a great high priest.
 3. Before his day it was called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God.
 4. But out of respect or reverence to the name of the Supreme Being, to avoid the too frequent repetition of his name, they, the church, in ancient days, called that priesthood after Melchizedek, or the Melchizedek Priesthood."

What are the two divisions of the priesthood?  How did the Melchizedek Priesthood get its name?'


Concept 2: Keys of the Priesthood

'There is a difference between priesthood and the 'keys' of the priesthood.  A priest in a ward has power sufficient to baptize, yet he has not the right to preform this ordinance until he has been authorized by the bishop.  The bishop has the 'keys' to administer to the affairs belonging under his ecclesiastical jurisdiction.  Therefore, he is the person who can tell a priest to baptize.

"The president and prophet of the Church has the 'keys' of the priesthood to administer in all spiritual and temporal affairs of the Church.  It is his right to delegate stake presidents, bishops, patriarchs and others, as holders of the 'keys' pertaining to specific offices in certain geographical areas.

"President Joseph F. Smith taught on this subject:

" 'Every man ordained to any degree of the priesthood has this authority delegated to him.  But it is necessary that every act performed under this authority shall be done at the proper time and place, in the proper way, and after the proper order.  The power of directing these labors constitutes the keys of the priesthood' (Gospel Doctrine, p. 136)' (Melvin R. Brooks, L.D.S. Reference Encyclopedia, p. 393).

Discussion

What is the difference between the priesthood and the keys of the priesthood?'



Concept 3: The Offices and Duties of the Aaronic Priesthood

'When the Aaronic Priesthood is conferred on a man or boy, he is ordained to an office in that priesthood.  The offices in the Aaronic Priesthood are deacon, teacher, priest, and bishop.  Each office carries duties and responsibilities.  Each group or quorum is presided over by a group leader or quorum president who teaches the members their duties and ask them to fill assignments.

Some men join the Church or become active after they have passed the usual age to receive the offices of this priesthood.  They are usually ordained to an office in the Aaronic Priesthood and can soon be advanced to higher offices if they are worthy.

DEACON
A boy who has been baptized and confirmed a member of the Church and is worthy may be ordained to the office of deacon when he is twelve years old.  The deacons are usually assigned to pass the sacrament to members of the Church, act as ushers, keep Church buildings and ground in good order, act as messengers for priesthood leaders, and fulfill special assignments such as collecting fast offerings.

TEACHER
A worthy boy my be ordained a teacher when he is fourteen years or older.  Teachers have all the duties, rights and powers of the office of deacon plus additional ones.  Teachers in the Aaronic Priesthood are to help Church members live the commandments (D&C 20:53-59  "53. The teacher's duty is to watch over the church always, and be with and strengthen them; 
54. And see that there is no iniquity in the church, neither hardness with each other, neither lying, backbiting, nor evil speaking;  
55. And see that the church meet together often, and also see that all the members do their duty.  
56. And he is to take the lead of meetings in the absence of the elder or priest-  
57. And is to be assisted always, in all his duties in the church, by the deacons, if the occasion requires.   
58. But neither teachers nor deacons have authority to baptize, administer the sacrament, or lay on hands; 
59. They are, however, to warm, expound, exhort, and teach, and invite all to come unto Christ.").  
To help fulfill this responsibility, they are usually called as home teachers.  They visit the homes of Church members and encourage them to live the principles of the gospel.  They have been commanded to teach the truths of the gospel from the Scriptures  (D&C 42:12 "And again, the elders, priests and teachers of this church shall teach the principles of my gospel, which are in the Bible and the Book of Mormon, in the which is the fulness of the gospel.").  Teachers also prepare the bread and water for the sacrament service.

PRIEST
A worthy boy may be ordained a priest when he is sixteen years old or older.  Priest have all the duties, rights, and powers of the offices of deacon and teacher plus some additional ones (D&C 20:46-51  "46. The priest's duty is to preach, teach, expound, exhort, and baptize, and administer the sacrament, 
47. And visit the house of each member, and exhort them to pray vocally and in 
secret and attend to all family duties.  
48. And he may also ordain other priests, teachers and deacons.  
49. An he is to take the lead of meetings when there is no elder present; 
50. But when there is an elder present, he is only to preach, teach, expound, exhort, and baptize.  
51. And visit the house of each member, exhorting them to pray vocally and in secret and attend to all family duties.").  
A priest may baptized.  He may also administer the sacrament.  He may ordain other priests, teachers, and deacons.  A priest may take charge of meetings when there is no Melchizedek Priesthood leader present.  He is to preach the gospel to those around him.

BISHOP
A bishop is ordained and set apart to preside over the Aaronic Priesthood in a ward.  He is the president of the priests quorum (D&C 107:87-88  "87. Also the duty of the president over the Priesthood of Aaron is to preside over forty-eight priests, and sit in council with them to teach them the duties of their office, as is given in the covenants- 
88. This president is to be a bishop; for this is one of the duties of this priesthood.").  
When he is acting in his Aaronic Priesthood office, a bishop deals primarily with temporal matters, such as administering finances and records and directing care for the poor and needy. (D&C 107:68 "Wherefore, the office of a bishop is not equal unto it; for the offices of a bishop is in administering all temporal things;"). 

A bishop is also ordained a high priest so he can preside over all members in the ward. (D&C 107:71-73 "71. Nevertheless, a high priest, that is, after the order of Melchizedek, may be set apart unto the ministering of temporal things, having a knowledge of them by Spirit of truth; 
72. And also to be a judge in Israel, to do the business of the church, to sit in judgment upon transgressors upon testimony as it shall be laid before him according to the laws, by the assistance of his counselors, whom he has chosen or will choose among the elders of the church.  
73. This is the duty of a bishop who is not a literal descendant of Aaron, but has been ordained to the High Priesthood after the order of Melchizedek.; 
68:15 "Wherefore they shall be high priests who are worthy, and they shall be appointed by the First Presidency of the Melchizedek Priesthood, except they be literal descendants of Aaron.").  
A bishop is a judge in Israel (D&C 107:74 "Thus shall he be a judge, even a common judge among the inhabitants of Zion, or in a stake of Zion, or in any branch of the church where he shall be set apart unto this ministry, until the borders of Zion are enlarged and it becomes necessary to have other bishops or judges in Zion or elsewhere.") and interviews members for temple recommends, priesthood ordinations, and other needs.  It is his right to have the gift of discernment.

Discussion

Discuss the duties of the deacon, teacher, priest, and bishops.'



Concept 4: The Offices and Duties of the Melchizedek Priesthood

'The offices of the Melchizedek Priesthood are elder, high priest, patriarch, seventy, and Apostle.

ELDER
Elders are called to teach, expound, exhort, baptize, and watch over the Church (D&C 20:42).  All Melchizedek Priesthood holders are elders.  They have the authority to bestow the gift of the Holy Ghost by laying on of the hands (D&C 20:43 "And to confirm the church by the laying on of the hands, and the giving of the Holy Ghost;").  Elders should conduct meetings of the Church as they are led by the Holy Ghost (D&C 20:45 "The elders are to conduct the meetings as they are led by the Holy Ghost, according to the commandments and revelations of God."; 
D&C 46:2 "But notwithstanding those things which are written, it always has been given to the elders of my church from the beginning, and ever shall be, to conduct all meetings as they are directed and guided by the Holy Spirit.").  Elders may administer to the sick (D&C 42:44 "And the elders of the church, two or more, shall be called, and shall pray for and lay their hands upon them in my name; and if they die they shall die unto me, and if they live they shall live unto me.").  They are commanded to bless little children (D&C 20:70 "Every member of the church of Christ having children is to bring them unto the elders before the church, who are to lay their hands upon them in the name of Jesus Christ, and bless them in his name.).  Elders may preside over Church meetings when there is no high priest present (D&C 107:11 "An elder has a right to officiate in his stead when the high priest is not present.").

HIGH PRIEST
A high priest may be given the authority to officiate in the Church and be in charge of spiritual things (D&C 107:10. "High priests after the order of the Melchizedek Priesthood have a right to officiate in their own standing, under the direction of the presidency, in administering spiritual things, and also in the office of an elder, priest (of the Levitical order), teacher, deacon, and member.", D&C 107:12. "The high priest and elder are to administer in spiritual things, agreeable to the covenants and commandments of the church; and they have a right to officiate in all these offices of the church when there are no higher authorities present.").  He may also officiate in all lesser offices (D&C 68:19 "But, as a high priest of the Melchizedek Priesthood has authority to officiate in all the lesser offices he may officiate in the office of bishop when no literal descendant of Aaron can be found, provided he is called and set apart and ordained unto this power, under the hands of the First Presidency of the Melchizedek Priesthood.").  Stake presidents, mission presidents, high councilors, bishoprics, and other leaders of the Church are ordained high priests.

PATRIARCH
Patriarchs are ordained by General Authorities, or by stake presidents when they are authorized by the Council of the Twelve, to give special patriarchal blessings to members of the Church.  These blessings give us some understanding of our callings on earth.  They are the word of the Lord personally to us.  Patriarchs are also ordained high priests (D&C 107:39-56 "  39 It is the duty of the Twelve, in all large branches of the church, to ordain evangelical ministers, as they shall be designated unto them by revelation 
  40 The order of this priesthood was confirmed to be handed down from father to son, and rightly belongs to the literal descendants of the chosen seed, to whom the promises were made. 
  41 This order was instituted in the days of Adam, and came down by lineage in the following manner: 
  42 From Adam to Seth, who was ordained by Adam at the age of sixty-nine years, and was blessed by him three years previous to his (Adam's) death, and received the promise of God by his father, that his posterity should be the chosen of the Lord, and that they should be preserved unto the end of the earth; 
  43 Because he (Seth) was a perfect man, and his likeness was the express likeness of his father, insomuch that he seemed to be like unto his father in all things, and could be distinguished from him only by his age. 
  44 Enos was ordained at the age of one hundred and thirty-four years and four months, by the hand of Adam. 
  45 God called upon Cainan in the wilderness in the fortieth year of his age; and he met Adam in journeying to the place Shedolamak. He was eighty-seven years old when he received his ordination. 
  46 Mahalaleel was four hundred and ninety-six years and seven days old when he was ordained by the hand of Adam, who also blessed him. 
  47 Jared was two hundred years old when he was ordained under the hand of Adam, who also blessed him. 
  48 Enoch was twenty-five years old when he was ordained under the hand of Adam; and he was sixty-five and Adam blessed him. 
  49 And he saw the Lord, and he walked with him, and was before his face continually; and he walked with God three hundred and sixty-five years, making him four hundred and thirty years old when he was translated. 
  50 Methuselah was one hundred years old when he was ordained under the hand of Adam. 
  51 Lamech was thirty-two years old when he was ordained under the hand of Seth. 
  52 Noah was ten years old when he was ordained under the hand of Methuselah. 
  53 Three years previous to the death of Adam, he called Seth, Enos, Cainan, Mahalaleel, Jared, Enoch, and Methuselah, who were all high priests, with the residue of his posterity who were righteous, into the valley of Adam-ondi-Ahman, and there bestowed upon them his last blessing. 
  54 And the Lord appeared unto them, and they rose up and blessed Adam, and called him Michael, the prince, the archangel. 
  55 And the Lord administered comfort unto Adam, and said unto him: I have set thee to be at the head; a multitude of nations shall come of thee, and thou art a prince over them forever. 
  56 And Adam stood up in the midst of the congregation; and, notwithstanding he was bowed down with age, being full of the Holy Ghost, predicted whatsoever should befall his posterity unto the latest generation.").

SEVENTY
Seventies are special witness of Jesus Christ to the world and assist in building up and regulating the Church (D&C 107:25 "The aSeventy are also called to bpreach the gospel, and to be especial witnesses unto the Gentiles and in all the world thus differing from other officers in the church in the duties of their calling. "; 
D&C 107:34,38. "  34 The Seventy are to act in the name of the Lord, under the direction of the Twelve or the traveling high council, in building up the church and regulating all the affairs of the same in all nations, first unto the Gentiles and then to the Jews; 
      "  "  "  
38 It is the duty of the traveling high council to call upon the Seventy, when they need assistance, to fill the several calls for preaching and administering the gospel, instead of any others."; 
D&C 107:93-97 "  93 And it is according to the vision showing the order of the Seventy, that they should have seven presidents to preside over them, chosen out of the number of the seventy; 
  94 And the seventh president of these presidents is to preside over the six; 
  95 And these seven presidents are to choose other seventy besides the first seventy to whom they belong, and are to preside over them; 
  96 And also other seventy, until seven times seventy, if the labor in the vineyard of necessity requires it. 
  97 And these seventy are to be traveling ministers, unto the Gentiles first and also unto the Jews.") 

APOSTLE
An Apostle is a special witness of Jesus Christ in all the world (D&C 107:23 "The twelve traveling councilors are called to be the Twelve Apostles, or special witnesses of the name of Christ in all the world thus differing from other officers in the church in the duties of their calling.").  The Apostles administer the affairs of the Church throughout the world.  Those who are ordained to the office of Apostle in the Melchizedek Priesthood are usually set apart as members of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles.  Each one is given all the keys of the kingdom of God on earth, but only the senior Apostle, who is President of the Church, actively exercises all the keys.  The others act under his direction.


Concept 5: The Quorums of The Aaronic Priesthood

'The Lord has instructed that the holders of the priesthood be organized into quorums.  A quorum is a body of brethren holding the same priesthood office.

There are three Quorums of the Aaronic Priesthood:

1.  The deacons quorum, which consists of up to twelve deacons (D&C 107:85 "And again, verily I say unto you, the duty of a president over the office of a deacon is to preside over twelve deacons, to sit in council with them, and to teach them their duty, edifying one another, as it is given according to the covenants.").  The presidency of the deacons quorum is called by the bishop from among the quorum members.

2. The teachers quorum, which consists of up to twenty-four teachers (D&C 107:86 "And also the duty of the president over the office of the teachers is to preside over twenty-four of the teachers, and to sit in council with them, teaching them the duties of their office, as given in the covenants.").  The presidency of the teachers quorum is called by the bishop from among the quorum members.

3. The priests quorum, which consists of up to forty-eight priests (D&C 107:87-88 "87. Also the duty of the president over the Priesthood of Aaron is to preside over forty-eight priests, and sit in council with them, to teach them the duties of their office, as given in the covenants- 
88. This president is to be a bishop; for this is one of the duties of this priesthood.").  
It is presided over by the bishop of the ward to which the quorum belongs.  The bishop is a high priest and thus also belongs to the high priests quorum.

Whenever the number specified for a quorum is exceeded, the quorum may be divided.'


Concept 6: The Quorums of the Melchizedek Priesthood

'There are in the stakes of Zion the following Melchizedek Priesthood quorums:

Elders Quorum
Each elders quorum "..is instituted for standing ministers; nevertheless they may travel, yet they are ordained to be standing ministers" (D&C 124:137).  They do most of their work near their homes.  The quorum is to consist of up to ninety-six elders, presided over by a quorum presidency that is called by the stake president.

High Priests Quorum
Each quorum includes all high priests residing within the boundaries of a stake, including patriarchs and bishops.  The stake president and his counselors are the presidency of this quorum.  The high priests in each ward are organized into a group with a group leader.'


Concept 7: Importance of Priesthood Quorums

'When ordained to the priesthood, a man or boy automatically becomes a member of a priesthood quorum.  From then on though life, it is expected that he will hold membership in a quorum of the priesthood according to his office.  (See Body K. Packer, "The Quorum," in Strengthen Your Brethren [Melchizedek Priesthood Personal Study Guide 4, 1991], pp. 142-48).

If a priesthood quorum functions properly, the members of the quorum are encouraged, blessed, fellowshipped, and taught the gospel by their leaders.  Even though a man may be called and release from Church assignments such as teacher, officer, bishop, high councilor, or stake president, his membership in his quorum does not change.  Membership in a quorum of the priesthood should be regarded as a sacred privilege.

Discussion

What is a Quorum?  How Does a Quorum help strengthen individual members?
How many members make up a quorum of elders, high priests, deacons, teachers, priests?

Additional Scriptures

Alma 13:1-19 (manner in which men were ordained to the priesthood)


Hebrews 7:11-13 (Melchizedek Priesthood restored at the coming of Christ)


Matthew 16:19; D&C 68:12 (Apostles given power, what they seal on earth is sealed in heaven)
Matthew16:19
  19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 
D&C 68:12
  12 And of as many as the Father shall bear record, to you shall be given power to seal them up unto eternal life. Amen. 

D&C 20:38-67 (Duties of elders, priests, teachers, deacons)


D&C 84; 107 (Revelations on the priesthood)
D&C 84  
Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Kirtland, Ohio, September 22 and 23, 1832. HC 1:286-295. During the month of September, elders had begun to return from their missions in the eastern states and to make reports of their labors. It was while they were together in this season of joy that the following communication was received. The Prophet designates it a revelation on priesthood. 
1-5, The New Jerusalem and the temple shall be built in Missouri; 6 17, Line of priesthood is given from Moses to Adam; 18-25, The greater priesthood administers the gospel ordinances; 26-32, The lesser priesthood administers the preparatory gospel; 33-44, Men gain eternal life through the oath and covenant of the priesthood; 45-53, The Spirit of Christ enlightens men, and the world lies in sin; 54-61, The saints must testify of those things they have received; 62-76, They are to preach the gospel, and signs shall follow; 77-91, Elders are to go forth without purse or scrip, and the Lord will care for their needs; 92-97, Plagues and cursings await those who reject the gospel; 98-102, The new song of the redemption of Zion; 103-110, Let every man stand in his own office and labor in his own calling; 111-120, The Lord s servants are to proclaim the abomination of desolation of the last days. 

D&C 107 
Revelation on priesthood, given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Kirtland, Ohio, dated March 28, 1835. HC 2:209-217. On the date named the Twelve met in council, confessing their individual weaknesses and shortcomings, expressing repentance, and seeking the further guidance of the Lord. They were about to separate on missions to districts assigned. Although portions of this section were received on the date named, the historical records affirm that various parts were received at sundry times, some as early as November 1831. 
1-6, There are two priesthoods: the Melchizedek and the Aaronic; 7-12, Those who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood have power to officiate in all offices in the Church; 13-17, The bishopric presides over the Aaronic Priesthood, which administers in outward ordinances; 18-20, The Melchizedek Priesthood holds the keys of all spiritual blessings; the Aaronic Priesthood holds the keys of the ministering of angels; 21-38, The First Presidency, the Twelve, and the Seventy constitute the presiding quorums, whose decisions are to be made in unity and righteousness; 39-52, Patriarchal order established from Adam to Noah; 53-57, Ancient saints assembled at Adam-ondi-Ahman, and the Lord appeared to them; 58 67, The Twelve are to set the officers of the Church in order; 68-76, Bishops serve as common judges in Israel; 77-84, The First Presidency and the Twelve constitute the highest court in the Church; 85-100, Priesthood presidents govern their respective quorums. 

1 Corinthians 12:14-31 (All offices of the priesthood are important)'



-----------------
Moroni 10:4-5
"4. And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost. 
5. And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things."

Subscribe to the Discussion list and talk about Gospel Principles and related topics: mailto:GPDiscussion-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
 URL to the page: <http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GPDiscussion>

Invite a friend to join the Gospel Principles Weekly Lessons List.
<http://scottsworld.info/gp.htm>

Read the Gospel Principles on the Web at www.lds.org
<http://www.lds.org/library/gos_pri/gos_pri.html>

The Plan of Salvation
<http://salvation.scottsworld.info/theplans.htm>

Questions Answered By The Book of Mormon
<http://salvation.scottsworld.info/qabommf.htm>

------------------------------------------------------------
You can manage your subscription to this mailing list at:

<http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Gospel_Principles>

Gospel Principles List Unsubscribe: mailto:Gospel_Principles-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Gospel Principles List Subscribe: mailto:Gospel_Principles-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

List Home Page: <http://scottsworld.info/gp.htm>
List Owner: Scott Scheibe
mailto:dsscheibe@earthlink.net
List: Gospel Principles Lesson
-------------------------------------------------------------











