Lesson 18

“Establish … a House of God”

“Lesson 18: ‘Establish … a House of God’” Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Class Member Study Guide (1999)


Temples are an essential part of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In December 1832, the Lord commanded the Saints to build a temple in Kirtland, Ohio (D&C 88:119; 109:2).

  • Read D&C 95:3–4, 8–9, 16–17; 109:5, 8. What do these verses teach about the purposes for building the Kirtland Temple? What did the Lord reveal to Joseph Smith about how to build the Kirtland Temple? (See D&C 95:13–17.)

  • What were some of the challenges and sacrifices associated with building the temple? (See D&C 109:5; Our Heritage, 33–34.) What are some sacrifices you could make to participate in temple work?

  • Why do we dedicate temples? How have you felt as you have attended a temple dedication service? What spiritual manifestations occurred during the dedication of the Kirtland Temple? (See Our Heritage, 34–35.)

  • What priesthood keys did Moses, Elias, and Elijah restore? (See D&C 110:11–16.) What blessings and responsibilities do you have today because these keys were restored?

Scripture Chain: The Holiness of the Temple

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