Section 18 - Historical Setting: Having witnessed the Gold Plates and the angel Moroni, Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer were anxious to establish and build the kingdom of God. The Lord gives some preparatory direction, but the fulness of the gospel contained in the Book of Mormon had not yet been published. It will be 9 months before another revelation is received, during which time the primary focus is to get the Lord's scriptures published for study.

• Recap: The worth of souls is great. Oliver and David are instructed to preach repentance as the Lord lays the groundwork for the restoration of the Gospel. They are given an assignment to seek out the twelve apostles in preparation for the organization of the Lord’s church. All the while, their very salvation is dependent on remaining faithful and keeping God’s commandments.