This is the first revelation that gives details into establishing a Bishop's Storehouse to make sure that all the saints are provided for. In the second verse, the Lord specifies that he has ordained Joseph Smith and is giving the commandment through him. One thought on ordination. Ordination gives a person authority, but does not give them power. Power comes as a result of God's help because we are worthy to receive it. Sometimes, unfortunately, priesthood holders assume that because they have authority, they have power. A priesthood holder who understands the nature of his authority, know he has no power to exercise that authority unless he is receiving power beyond his own abilities.
The reasons for establishing the storehouse are:
1. v.3 There has to be an organization in place for providing for the poor.
2. v. 5-6 There must be equal opportunity for all members to obtain heavenly things, so there must be equal opportunity to obtain temporal things. This doesn't mean everyone is equal, only that all have an equal opportunity to achieve.
3. v. 7 This is a celestial law and is based on celestial principles.
4. v. 14 Regardless of what happens to the church or what may be happening in the world, the church needs to be able to stand independent so that it never relies on an outside source for assistance. Were that the case, say if it called upon the government for help, it would then always be beholding to the government and the government could then exercise some control over the church. The church has shown that this principle is inspired. There are few, if any, organizations, who can claim the self reliance the church does.
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