Sealed with their Blood
This section of the Doctrine and Covenants was published three months after the martyrdom and declared Joseph and Hyrum Smith “sealed their testimony with their blood.”
Doctrine and Covenants 135
Doctrine and Covenants 135:3 lists many things Joseph Smith accomplished “in the short space of twenty years,” including bringing forth this book by the gift and power of God.
the Book of Mormon
Doctrine and Covenants 136 was given to guide the Saints after the martyrdom of Joseph Smith under the leadership of this Apostle.
Brigham Young
This hymn, sung by John Taylor in Carthage Jail just hours before the martyrdom, speaks of Christ as a suffering, faithful Friend.
“A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief”
According to D&C 135:3, Joseph Smith accomplished more for this purpose “save Jesus only.”
the salvation of men
Because of the truths Jesus Christ revealed through Joseph Smith, we now understand the nature of this relationship—central to our identity as God’s children.
our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (or the Father and the Son as separate, glorified beings)
The Saints camped in this temporary settlement—where Brigham Young sought revelation—before starting their grueling westward trek.
Winter Quarters
Written as a tribute to Joseph Smith, this hymn praises the Prophet’s divine calling and his unwavering dedication to the Restoration.
“Praise to the Man”
Doctrine and Covenants 136:37–39 teaches that God allows the death of His prophets so their testimonies may do this among all people.
stand as a witness against the wicked and testify of truth to all nations
A sentence beginning “Because of what the Lord did through Joseph Smith, I…” might be finished by mentioning one of these restored blessings that help us return to God.
priesthood authority, saving ordinances, or restored gospel truths
In D&C 136, the Lord emphasized that this was just as important as reaching the Salt Lake Valley.
their conduct on the journey (or the way they lived and treated each other)
This hymn became an anthem for the westward-moving Saints, encouraging them to press forward with hope despite trials on the trail.
“Come, Come, Ye Saints”
In D&C 135, Hyrum Smith is honored as this—someone whose life and testimony were fully dedicated to Christ.
a patriarch and faithful witness of Jesus Christ
If you wrote a eulogy for Joseph Smith, you might mention this key event in which heavenly messengers conferred divine authority upon him and Oliver Cowdery.
the restoration of the Priesthood (Aaronic and Melchizedek)
Doctrine and Covenants 136 teaches that trials can become spiritual experiences when we follow divine counsel. One specific command in this section was for the Saints to avoid this destructive attitude.
contention or complaining
This song, often performed in videos and firesides, celebrates the courage of early Saints and reminds modern Saints they also walk a covenant path.
“Faith in Every Footstep”
This phrase from section 135 teaches Saints to stay firm in Christ even amid persecution, just as Joseph and Hyrum did.
in life they were not divided, and in death they were not separated”
(Alternate accepted phrases: “Their innocent blood … is a broad seal”, “truth will prevail”, or any phrase that inspires enduring faithfulness.)
Joseph Smith taught more about the nature, mission, and Atonement of Jesus Christ than any prophet since biblical times. One of the most significant truths he restored is this eternal doctrine about our ability to return to God through the Savior.
the plan of salvation and the reality of Christ’s redeeming Atonement
Section 136 outlines how the Saints should travel, live, and serve. One powerful instruction was that Zion would be built as the Saints did this for one another on the trail.
“comforted each other” or “helped each other with all their might”
(Also acceptable: “organized themselves,” “kept the commandments,” “shared their substance,” or “took care of the poor, widows, and fatherless.”)
These hymns and videos are often used together in lessons because they testify of both the Prophet’s mission and the Saints’ sacrifices, inviting this heavenly influence into discussions.
the Holy Ghost