As the head of this dispensation, Joseph established ordinances that should not be changed.
Isaiah 24:5
5 The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.
Notice below as the Lord speaks about a time in the future (later than 1831). People must be given an ordinance and a covenant before they can stray from that ordinance and break the covenant.
D&C 1:12-15
12 Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come,
for the Lord is nigh;
13 And the anger of the Lord is kindled, and his
sword is bathed in heaven, and it shall fall upon the inhabitants of
the earth.
14 And the arm of the Lord shall be revealed; and
the day cometh that they who will not hear the voice of the Lord,
neither the
voice of his servants, neither give heed to the words of the prophets
and
apostles, shall be cut off from among the people;
15 For they have strayed from mine ordinances, and have broken mine everlasting covenant;
Jan. 1877 – Brigham dictates first written version of endowment and adds minister.
Feb. 1877 – Adam-God lecture included in temple endowment
1927 – practice of private prayer circles is ended.
1969 – Two-piece garment authorized
1990 – Change endowment: remove penalties, 5 points, Adamic words, lecture and minister.
Women no longer covenant to obey law of their husband.