What Happened
Elder B. H. Roberts declares that for a Seventy, becoming a member means prioritizing 'mental activity' and 'intellectual development.' This curriculum outlines the Priesthood organization before navigating the four authoritative volumes: the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. Roberts treats these scriptures as technical equipment, mapping the antiquity of the Old Testament alongside the discovery of Egyptian mummies in Kirtland. The instruction pivots from the disputed authorship of Kings to practical drills in extemporaneous speech, directing elders to build a 'mental treasury' of materials. This systematic approach ensures that when a Seventy warns the wicked of their approaching end, the delivery is as energetic as it is prepared.
Key figures
- B. H. Roberts
Elder and editor from the First Council of the Seventy.
- The Seventy
A body of the Priesthood responsible for missionary labor and intellectual development.
- Joseph Smith
Prophet who translated the Book of Mormon and the writings of Abraham.
- Jerusalem
The point of origin for the second race of ancient Americans.
- Ezra
Biblical figure supposed to have interpolated or compiled portions of Samuel.
What it's really about
- Intellectual Discipline
- The requirement for missionaries to attain spiritual power through study.
- Scriptural Authority
- The validation of four distinct books as the Church's doctrinal tools.
Why it's memorable
- Egyptian papyrus rolls arriving in Kirtland and proving to be the writings of Abraham and Joseph.
- The image of a missionary as a workman who must master his specific tools of scripture.
Where it lands
The guide concludes by emphasizing that while brief, the authentic narratives of Joseph Smith possess a convincing power that speaks for itself.
For your book club
- How does Roberts balance the 'superficial' survey approach with the demand for intellectual mastery?
- In what way does the manual use historical criticism to address the authorship of biblical books?