Joseph Smith Heals His Father Joseph Smith Sr. When He Is Near Death

In the spring of 1836, Joseph Smith Sr. fell gravely ill. The family feared he would not recover. Joseph Smith Jr. went to his bedside and, as his son, anointed and administered to him by the power of the priesthood.

Lucy Mack Smith recorded: "Joseph laid his hands upon his head, and said, 'Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I command you to arise and be healed.' [His father arose] and was immediately restored to perfect health."

This was one of several occasions on which Joseph Smith healed close family members. The administration followed the pattern established in James 5:14–15, with anointing with oil and the prayer of faith.