You have to wonder how a person can be highly esteemed enough to be called as a counselor to the prophet and then shortly thereafter fall far enough to be excommunicated. What a great opportunity was squandered by Jesse Gause. One key point in verse two is the Lord saying that the keys of the kingdom always belong in the first presidency of the church. A prophet can fall, a counselor can fall, but the keys remain with the presidency. A year from the date of this revelation, the first presidency will be formally organized. Eventually, they keys will be also be given to the 12 apostles, but not the right to exercise those keys unless they become a part of the first presidency.
The basic duties of a counselor in the presidency (or in any presidency) are listed in this revelation.
1. Be faithful in counsel. To me a good counselor never holds back, but speaks frankly, even if those words are contrary to what others are saying. Once the decision is made, the counsel ends and should turn to absolute support of the decision.
2. Pray always. A good counselor always maintains his spiritual power so that he can be in tune with the Lord and the quorum.
3. Proclaim the gospel. A counselor should have a strong grasp of the doctrine and be able to teach and speak convincingly.
4. Be faithful. A good counselor is a rock. He can be counted on to be steadfast and immovable in his allegiance.
5. Stand in the office to which you have been appointed. To me, this means fulfill all of your duties to the best of your ability.
6. Succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, strengthen the feeble knees. Like the Savior did, the most important thing a priesthood holder does is care for those who have needs beyond their means.
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