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Doctrine and Covenants

By Jospeh Smith

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Instructions given by Joseph Smith, Nauvoo, Illinois, February 9, 1843.

129:1There are two kinds of beings in heaven, namely: Angels, who are resurrected personages, having bodies of flesh and bones—

129:2For instance, Jesus said: Handle me and see, for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.

129:3Secondly: the spirits of just men made perfect, they who are not resurrected, but inherit the same glory.

129:4When a messenger comes saying he has a message from God, offer him your hand and request him to shake hands with you.

129:5If he be an angel he will do so, and you will feel his hand.

129:6If he be the spirit of a just man made perfect he will come in his glory; for that is the only way he can appear—

129:7Ask him to shake hands with you, but he will not move, because it is contrary to the order of heaven for a just man to deceive; but he will still deliver his message.

129:8If it be the devil as an angel of light, when you ask him to shake hands he will offer you his hand, and you will not feel anything; you may therefore detect him.

129:9These are three grand keys whereby you may know whether any administration is from God.