After church members from Colesville, New York, migrated to Ohio, they settled in Thompson on land provided by Leman Copley. However, difficulties arose in the arrangement, resulting in a revelation that directed them to move to Missouri and choose one of their number as their leader. The preferred choice was their presiding elder, Newel Knight, but he was scheduled to leave on a preaching mission. This revelation adjusted Knight’s assignment, allowing him to lead his congregation as the group journeyed to Missouri.

Circumstances affected other missionary appointments as well. Thomas B. Marsh planned to assume duties with Ezra Thayer, but Thayer’s delay in preparation forced a change in companionship. This revelation directed Selah Griffin, who had expected to be Knight’s companion, to now accompany Marsh.

John Whitmer copied this text into Revelation Book 1, where it is designated “59th Commandment given at Kirtland June 15th 1831,” sometime in June 1831. Symonds Rider also produced a copy in June 1831. The 1833 Book of Commandments dates the revelation to June 1831 at Kirtland, Ohio, while the 1835 Doctrine and Covenants gives the same date but no location.