Noble Nyina Danso (Ghanaian, b. 2001)
Baptism Beach I (2021)
Acrylic Canvas, 11 x 14 inches
Used with permission of the artist

Historical Perspectives

Joseph Smith and the Zion party left Jackson County in August 1831 and made their way back to Kirtland. The need for instructions on their journey were the occasion for a number of revelations in the late summer. Once back in Ohio, the prophet was responsible for the development of two societies, one in the East the other in the West, and he received revelations to help with both locations. One of the central concerns in Ohio was the formation of scriptures. He was retranslating the Bible, a project begun in June 1830 with the revelation of the Book of Moses, and he was also compiling his own revelations into a volume that would be called at first the Book of Commandments and later the Doctrine and Covenants. Through 1829, Joseph had focused his attention almost solely on the translation of the Book of Mormon. Two years later he is managing a church with hundreds of members, a missionary program, significant scriptural creations, and the organization of a Zion society.

- Richard Bushman, author, historian, and co-founder of the Center

These sections of scripture are replete with instructions to missionaries. Numerous early missionaries are instructed, counseled, warned, and called to serve. The Lord urges them to open their mouths, to be fearless, and to reach out to all. He commands them to not hide their talents or spiritual gifts and reminds them that sacred things must be spoken of with reverence. Elders and sisters today read these scriptures as if the Lord is speaking to them now.

The painting Baptism Beach I was created by Ghanaian artist Noble Nyina Danso after serving in the Ghana Accra Mission. Referencing a historic photograph of early converts being baptized in Africa, it captures the gospel moving across continents, languages, and cultures. “It was one of my first post-mission paintings,” said the artist of this piece, “and it powerfully conveyed that the Gospel is spreading to all nations, kindreds, and tongues.”

Discussion Questions

1. Repeatedly Jesus instructs missionaries to serve two-by-two (D&C 52:10, 22-32; 60:8; "for this is a wise purpose in me," D&C 61:35) and missionaries today continue to serve in twos. Why do you think this pairing is an important part of missionary service? How have you been blessed by serving in companionship with others?

2. Jesus is our advocate, knows our weaknesses, and knows how to succor us, including when we are tempted (D&C 62:1). In what situations might you feel the strength and comfort of Jesus' succoring power?

3. Jesus gives several words of comfort and instruction in these verses that feel tailor-made for when we are in a difficult situation: "Be of good cheer, little children; for I am in your midst, and I have not forsaken you" (D&C 61:36) and "gird up your loins and be watchful and be sober" (D&C 61:38). How have Jesus' words given you guidance and courage when going through a rough patch of life?

For Children & Youth

Hi. In this week’s scriptures, Jesus tells the early missionaries to open their mouths and not be afraid to teach about Him. The verses also teach to be reverent when we talk about or do sacred things.

The painting you see shows a baptism in Ghana, a long way from where the gospel started—but still full of the same spirit and love. Can you see how the people are gathered close and paying attention? They’re watching something really special happen. The gospel is for everyone, no matter where they live. And when we do something sacred like baptism or sharing our testimony, Jesus wants us to remember that He is always with us.

Discussion Questions

Jesus says that we should not hide (or bury) our talents "because of the fear of man" (D&C 60:2, 13). What are three of your talents? Is there ever a time when you were too scared of what others might think and you didn't share your talent? What might give you courage in those situations?
Jesus warns that we should "not idle away thy time" (D&C 60:13). What is something that you do that is actually wasting your time? Why do you think we are commanded not to waste time?
Signs (or miracles) are not given to those who doubt, but rather "signs follow those that believe" (D&C 63:9). Why do you think the pattern is faith then signs, rather than signs then faith? (See D&C 63:6-12)