Now it was evident that there was a better resurrection, or else God would not have revealed it unto Paul wherein then, can it be said a better resurrection.
This distinction is made between the doctrine of the actual resurrection and translation: translation obtains deliverance from the tortures and sufferings of the body, but their existence will prolong as to the labors and toils of the ministry, before they can enter into so great a rest and glory. (Teachings, pp. 170-71.)
“He Spake Unto His Disciples”
It is to a modern revelation that we turn to learn what really became of John the Apostle, known also as the Beloved and the Revelator. In April of 1829 Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were discussing the mission of John: whether he had died or been allowed to live on. Through the Urim and Thummim the Prophet saw a translated version of a record made by John and hidden up. The restored knowledge is as follows:
And the Lord said unto me: John, my beloved, what desirest thou? For if you shall ask what you will, it shall be granted unto you. And I said unto him: Lord, give unto me power over death, that I may live and bring souls unto thee. And the Lord said unto me: Verily, verily I say unto thee, because thou desirest this thou shalt tarry until I come in my glory, and shalt prophesy before nations, kindreds, tongues, and people.
And for this cause the Lord said unto Peter: If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? For he desired of me that he might bring souls unto me, but thou desiredst that thou mightest speedily come unto me in my kingdom. I say unto thee, Peter, this was a good desire; but my beloved has desired that he might do more, or a greater work yet among men than what he has before done.
Yea, he has undertaken a greater work; therefore I will make him as flaming fire and a ministering angel; he shall minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation who dwell on the earth. And I will make thee to minister for him and for thy brother James; and unto you three I will give this power and the keys of this ministry until I come. Verily I say unto you, ye shall both have according to your desires, for ye both will have joy in that which ye have desired. (D&C 7:1-8.)