Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., March 8, 1831, at Kirtland, Ohio, and addressed to John Whitmer. Oliver Cowdery's departure upon the mission to the West had left Joseph without a scribe who could keep an official record of the church's history. John Whitmer, who was now called to this responsibility, wrote only eighty-five pages. These included many of the revelations given prior to 1838.

^1a)Behold, it is expedient in me that my servant John should write and keep a regular history, and assist you, my servant Joseph, in transcribing all things which shall be given you, until he is called to further duties.

^1b)Again, verily I say unto you, that he can also lift up his voice in meetings, whenever it shall be expedient.

^2a)And again, I say unto you, that it shall be appointed unto him to keep the church record and history continually, for Oliver Cowdery I have appointed to another office.

^2b)Wherefore, it shall be given him, inasmuch as he is faithful, by the Comforter, to write these things. Even so. Amen.