Alvin Smith, the Prophet Joseph’s beloved brother, passed away six years before God restored the authority to baptize. The common understanding among some Christians in 1836 was that if a person died without being baptized, that person could not go to heaven. Joseph wondered about Alvin’s eternal salvation for many years—until he received the revelation in Doctrine and Covenants 137.

Many people today have similar questions. Why would God require ordinances and covenants when so many people never have the opportunity to receive them? What would you say to someone who wonders this? How would you build their faith in God and His requirements for salvation? Look for truths you could share in section 137 and in section 138:30–37, 57–60. You could also look for these truths expressed in the hymn “The Glorious Gospel Light Has Shone” (Hymns, no. 283) and in President Henry B. Eyring’s message “Gathering the Family of God” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2017, 19–22).

As you study and ponder, you might record your impressions by completing sentences like these:

• Because of these revelations, I know that Heavenly Father .

• Because of these revelations, I know that the Father’s plan of salvation .

• Because of these revelations, I want to .

See also Saints, 1:2, 32–35.

Sometimes revelation comes even though we do not seek it. But more often it comes because we diligently search and prepare for it. As you read Doctrine and Covenants 138:1–11, 25–30, note what President Joseph F. Smith was pondering when “the eyes of [his] understanding were opened.” You could also compare his experience to 1 Nephi 11:1–6; Joseph Smith—History 1:12–19. Then consider how you can follow President Smith’s example. For instance, what changes do you feel inspired to make to your scripture study to receive more personal revelation?

In his message “The Vision of the Redemption of the Dead” (Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2018, 71–74), President M. Russell Ballard suggested other ways President Smith was prepared to receive this revelation. What do you learn from his experiences? Consider how the Lord has prepared you for experiences you are having—and how He might be preparing you for experiences in your future.

See also Saints, 3:202–5; “Ministry of Joseph F. Smith: A Vision of the Redemption of the Dead” (video), Gospel Library.

President Russell M. Nelson taught, “Our message to the world is simple and sincere: we invite all of God’s children on both sides of the veil to come unto their Savior, receive the blessings of the holy temple, have enduring joy, and qualify for eternal life” (“Let Us All Press On,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 118–19). Ponder this statement as you read Doctrine and Covenants 138:25–60. You could also consider these questions: