Part 2 “If Ye Are Not One Ye Are Not Mine”
- CFMCorner
- Apr 21
- 30 min read
Updated: Apr 21
CFM:

Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material
VIDEOS & PODCASTS
Chapter Outlines Continued
D&C 38 Chapter Outline & Study Chart
Overview
Date: January 2, 1831
Location: Fayette, New York
Recipient: Entire Church
Revelation Context: This revelation was given at the third and final conference held in Fayette. It builds upon the command in D&C 37 and gives deeper spiritual and doctrinal reasoning behind the call to gather in Ohio. The Lord promises protection, greater laws, and unity—if the Saints will obey.
Timeframe & Setting
The Church was still small but growing rapidly in New York. Hostility and persecution were escalating.
Sidney Rigdon and Edward Partridge were present. The command to relocate the Church’s center of activity to Ohio marked a turning point in organizational structure and future temple instruction.
Key Circumstances
Joseph Smith had temporarily paused his translation work (per D&C 37). This revelation provides the spiritual motivation and urgency behind that pause.
Section 38 shifts the tone from practical to theological and covenantal.
Purpose of the Revelation
To explain the spiritual purpose behind the physical move to Ohio.
To warn of unseen dangers and promise blessings to those who obey.
To emphasize unity, the law of consecration, and the need for preparedness to receive greater law (D&C 42).
Significance
Introduces the Lord’s attribute as the One who “knows all things” and sees what the Saints cannot.
Reinforces the connection between gathering, consecration, and covenant community.
Shows how early Saints were led by faith into the unknown—echoing Abraham’s call and Israel’s exodus.
Main Themes & Language Insights | Cross-References & Supporting Resources |
1–4 – The Lord Who Knows All Things Summary: The Lord introduces Himself as Alpha and Omega, the one who knows all things and is present among them. He sees what is hidden. Language Insights: “I am the same which spake” echoes Exodus 3:14, “I AM THAT I AM.” The Hebrew verb הָיָה (hayah) means “to be,” the root of YHWH. The Lord’s self-identification draws authority from eternity and covenant. The use of the word “seraphic” calls to mind the seraphim (שָׂרָף – sârâph), the “burning ones” described in Isaiah 6:2 as celestial beings who dwell in the presence of God, proclaiming His holiness and carrying out acts of purification. Interestingly, the same Hebrew root is used in Numbers 21 to describe the fiery serpents that afflicted the Israelites in the wilderness—blending the imagery of divine fire, judgment, and ultimately, healing. These fiery serpents remind us of the serpent in Eden, who introduced Adam and Eve to the knowledge of good and evil, resulting in the Fall and subsequent mortality. Yet in a divine inversion, what began as a curse becomes a symbol of redemption. When the Israelites cried out in repentance, the Lord commanded Moses to create a brazen serpent and raise it upon a pole, instructing the people to look upon it and live (Numbers 21:8–9, Alma 33:19–22, John 3:14–15). In this moment, the seraphic symbol of the serpent, once associated with sin and death, is transformed into a representation of faith, obedience, and healing—ultimately foreshadowing Jesus Christ, who would be lifted up on the cross. Just as the seraphim in Isaiah’s vision purify Isaiah’s lips with a burning coal from the altar (Isaiah 6:6–7), the fiery serpents in the wilderness serve as instruments of purification, reminding us that divine fire both burns and sanctifies. This paradox encapsulates the Atonement: what once brought pain now brings healing. The call to “look to God and live” (Alma 37:46) becomes a sacred echo of both Eden and Sinai, both judgment and mercy—ultimately fulfilled in Christ’s triumph over sin and death. “Bosom” (Greek: kolpos – κόλπος) conveys intimacy, acceptance, trust, and eternal rest—see Luke 16:22 (“Abraham’s bosom,” the bosom of a garment, i.e. a pocket for holding sacred and treasured things… the breastplate of righteousness, Urim & Thummim, symbols pertaining to the covenant). “Zion” (צִיּוֹן – Tziyyon) denotes a sanctified community united under covenant with God.
Verse 4: The Zion of Enoch is a prototype of what the Lord expects Zion to be in the last days:
Reflection Questions:
| Steven C. Harper, “Section 38” Why the Ohio? Why Anything in My Life? Lessons from the Command to Gather Exodus 3:14 – “I Am That I Am” Hebrews 13:8 – “The same yesterday, today…” Mosiah 3:5 – The Lord is omniscient and omnipresent Conference: • “Trust in the Lord” – Richard G. Scott, Oct 1995 • “The Infinite Power of Hope” – Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Oct 2008 |
5–12 – Hidden Dangers & Promised Deliverance Summary: The Saints are warned of unseen enemies and assured that deliverance will come if they obey the Lord’s voice. Although they cannot yet see Him, the Lord promises that the veil will soon be lifted and they will behold His presence. This section weaves together themes of hidden divine presence, covenantal protection, angelic readiness, and the sacred trust required of those who walk by faith and not by sight. The passage concludes with a sobering image: “The angels are waiting the great command to reap down the earth, to gather the tares that they may be burned; and, behold, the enemy is combined.” This evokes apocalyptic harvest scenes and emphasizes that divine judgment is imminent, even if presently delayed. The Saints are being gathered for protection, while the forces of opposition are combining. Language Insights: The phrase “I am in your midst” echoes the covenantal language of God dwelling among His people:
Reflection Questions:
| 2 Nephi 2:24 – “God... seeth all things” 1 Nephi 4:6 – “Not knowing beforehand…” Conference: • “Obedience through Our Faithfulness” – L. Tom Perry, Oct 2014 • “The Lord’s Way” – By Elder Stanley G. Ellis |
13–20 – Call to Gather, Prepare for the LawSummary:The Saints are commanded to go to Ohio to escape the encroaching influence of the adversary and to be prepared to receive “the law”—a reference to the more detailed organizational and communal commandments that would come in D&C 42. The Lord warns of hidden threats and unveils a mystery, calling His people to both spiritual vigilance and covenant preparation. In their upcoming Exodus, he promises them a promised land, “flowing with milk and honey.” He is preparing the saints for the things that lie ahead, he is preparing them to receive the covenant through the blessings of the Temple. This passage serves as both a prophetic warning and an invitation to sanctification through obedience and gathering. Language Insights:“I show unto you a mystery”
“A thing which is had in secret chambers”
Connection to Secret Combinations:The Lord’s statement reveals not just a divine mystery but exposes a hidden opposition—a literal and spiritual conspiracy working behind the scenes. In the Book of Mormon, secret combinations are built upon:
The phrase in D&C 38 signals that the Lord is pulling back the veil to show His Saints what is happening in “secret chambers”—suggesting both the revealing of divine mysteries and the unmasking of satanic plots. The Law and Preparation:
Reflection Questions:
| D&C 42 – The law that would be given in Ohio D&C 132:5 – “Receive my law” Isaiah 2:3 – “Out of Zion shall go forth the law…” Conference: • “Come: Let Israel Build Zion” – Elder Bruce R. McConkie April 1977 • “Zion in the Midst of Babylon” – David R. Stone, Apr 2006 |
21–27 – A Society Governed by God: Unity, Equity, and Covenant LawSummary: The Lord is not merely commanding external obedience—He is establishing the framework for a covenantal society, one that reflects His law because it is written upon their hearts (compare Jeremiah 31:33 and Hebrews 8:10). In this society, the Saints have “no more disposition to do evil” (Mosiah 5:2), but actively desire to lift and help one another. Earthly hierarchies are replaced with divine order: the Lord Himself will be their King, Lawgiver, and Shepherd (v. 21–22). This vision anticipates a Zion society where:
The Lord’s warning against favoritism (vv. 24–26) includes a parable of the father with twelve sons—a rebuke of inequality and injustice in spiritual communities. God is no respecter of persons, and His justice demands unity grounded in equity. Verse 27 declares a profound truth: “If ye are not one, ye are not mine.” Language Insights:
Reflection Questions:
| Mosiah 18:21 – “Their hearts knit together in unity” John 17:11, 21 – Christ prays that they may be one Conference: • “That They May Be One in Us” – Elder D. Todd Christofferson • “Be One” – President Nelson, June 2018 (Worldwide Devotional) |
28–32 – Treasure Up Wisdom Summary: In these verses, the Lord issues a direct warning: while His people are watching for conflicts “in far countries,” they are blind to the hidden dangers among their own. The enemy in the secret chambers is not only a literal threat to life but a spiritual metaphor for secret combinations, misinformation, and divisive influences. These forces threaten to unravel the unity required to build Zion. Despite these warnings, the Lord’s tone is pastoral and empowering: He reveals these truths “because of your prayers” (v. 30), and promises that if the Saints are prepared, they shall not fear. He commands them to gather in Ohio, not only for safety but to receive His law and power—a foreshadowing of the Law of Consecration (D&C 42) and later temple endowment. This passage connects directly to the parable of the wise and foolish virgins, emphasizing spiritual foresight, oil in our lamps, and unity despite turmoil. Language Insights: “Treasure up wisdom in your bosoms” Hebrew: ḥāḵmâ (חָכְמָה) = “wisdom,” but often connotes applied, covenantal knowledge (see Proverbs 3:13–15). Greek: phronimos (φρόνιμος) = “wise, prudent,” as used for the wise virgins in Matthew 25:1–13. “Enemy in the secret chambers” See previous notes on סֵתֶר (sēther) and the theme of hidden conspiracies or dark influences. These chambers can represent spiritual or ideological hideouts—sources of disinformation, division, and subversion. “Voice louder than that which shall shake the earth” May symbolize worldly chaos and deception becoming more persuasive and overwhelming than divine truth—unless the Saints are grounded in wisdom and covenantal preparation. “If ye are prepared ye shall not fear” This has become a prophetic refrain in Latter-day Saint thought, originating here in D&C 38:30. It pairs with Matthew 25's lesson of spiritual foresight and connects to personal revelation, temple ordinances, and unity. Reflection Questions:
| Ether 12:27 – Weakness given to be humble Psalm 103:8 – “The Lord is merciful and gracious…” Moroni 10:32–33 – Come unto Christ and be perfected in Him Conference: • “The Tender Mercies of the Lord” – David A. Bednar, Apr 2005 Elder Dale G. Renlund – “Personal Preparation to Meet the Savior” Elder Renlund emphasized the importance of individual spiritual readiness, highlighting that the oil of conversion cannot be borrowed. He taught that consistent, personal devotion invites the Holy Ghost, enabling us to avoid deception and be prepared for the Savior's return. President Dallin H. Oaks – “Divine Helps for Mortality” President Oaks discussed the gift of the Holy Ghost as a vital aid in our mortal journey. He referenced the parable to illustrate that only those who are spiritually prepared will be ready to meet the Bridegroom, underscoring the necessity of continual personal preparation. President Camille N. Johnson – “Spiritually Whole in Him” President Johnson reflected on the parable, noting that the wise virgins' lamps were filled with the oil of conversion. She emphasized that making and keeping covenants, especially those in the temple, fills our lamps and prepares us to meet the Savior. Elder Sergio R Vargas, “Our Heavenly Guidance System”Elder Vargas compares the promptings of the Holy Ghost to a divinely calibrated guidance system—a spiritual GPS designed to lead us safely through times of confusion, conflict, and moral complexity. Where Did Joseph Smith Get His Ideas about the Physical and Spiritual Gathering of Israel? |
33–42 – Instructions to Leaders and the Church: Covenant Journey, Riches of Eternity, and Endowed Purpose Summary: The Lord now reveals the deep spiritual significance behind the commandment to gather in Ohio: it is not merely a relocation for safety—it is a covenantal movement toward receiving greater law, deeper commitment, and eventual endowment with power from on high. This prepares the Saints to fulfill a global missionary commission (v. 33), establishing the Lord’s work throughout the nations. The “riches” spoken of in verse 39 are not merely economic. They include the riches of eternity: temple blessings, priesthood power, revelation, unity, and the knowledge of God's mysteries. The move to Ohio is a prophetic echo of ancient Israel’s wilderness journey: physically challenging, but spiritually essential to become a people of promise. The Saints are warned to beware of pride, remembering the downfall of the Nephites when they placed worldly wealth above spiritual inheritance. The final verses emphasize community stewardship (vv. 34–36), the preparation of resources, and the call to go forth with humility, labor, and a warning voice. The chapter ends with a call to separation and sanctification—“Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord” (v. 42), echoing Isaiah 52:11 and temple-worthy living. Language Insights:
Reflection Questions:
| D&C 84:88 – “I will be on your right hand and on your left…” Joshua 1:5 – “I will be with thee: I will not fail thee…” Alma 37:6–7 – “By small and simple things…” Conference: • “Stand Strong in Holy Places” – Elder Robert D. Hales, Apr 2013 “Acquiring Spiritual Knowledge” – Elder Richard G. Scott How Can People Today Avoid Being Destroyed Like the Nephites Were? Why Does the Book of Mormon Warn Against Seeking after Riches? Why Did the “Pride Cycle” Destroy the Nephite Nation? Why Did Moroni Refer to Vessel Impurity in Condemning the Central Government? (Alma 60:23) |
D&C 39 Chapter Outline & Study Chart
Overview
Date: January 5, 1831
Location: Fayette, New York
Recipient: James Covill, a former Baptist minister and Methodist preacher
Verses: 24
Revelation Context: This revelation was received just three days after Section 38, addressed personally to James Covill, who had covenanted with the Lord to obey any commandment given through Joseph Smith. The Lord honors this willingness and gives him a personal commission—but Covill ultimately rejects it, as recorded in D&C 40.
Timeframe & Setting
The Church was actively preparing for the move to Ohio.
James Covill had been preaching for around 40 years and was impressed by the Restoration but hesitant to act.
This revelation exemplifies the pattern of divine invitation and human agency.
Key Circumstances
James Covill is a figure representative of many who receive spiritual witnesses but hesitate to make costly changes.
His story serves as both a warning and a mirror for all who feel spiritual promptings but fear social or personal sacrifice.
Purpose of the Revelation
To call James Covill to repentance and full discipleship.
To extend a missionary calling and the invitation to gather with the Saints.
To show that the Lord gives clear and personal instruction to the sincere.
Significance
Highlights the tension between faith and fear, especially when obedience threatens one's social standing or comfort.
Reinforces the principle that true conversion requires action.
Demonstrates how personal revelation can be both merciful and conditional.
Main Themes & Language Insights | Cross-References & Supporting Resources |
Verse 1–4: Receiving Christ and Becoming His Children Summary: In this opening passage, Jesus Christ identifies Himself with transcendent titles: “from all eternity to all eternity,” “the Great I Am,” “the light and the life of the world.” He is the same divine Being who came in the meridian of time, rejected by His own, yet offering divine power to those who receive Him. This power is described as the ability to “become [His] sons,” signifying a spiritual transformation rooted in acceptance, obedience, and covenant. Child of God vs. Becoming a Child of God All Are Children of God by Creation
🌱 But We Become Children of Christ by Covenant
Language & Scriptural Insights
Theological Implications
Reflection Questions:
| Moses 1:3–4 – “Endless is my name” Genesis 1:1 – “God created the heaven and the earth” D&C 137:9 – God judges according to desires of the heart Conference: • “The Heart of a Prophet” – Elder Gary E. Stevensson, Apr 2018 • “According to the Desire of [Our] Hearts” – Neal A. Maxwell, Apr 1996 Steven C. Harper, “Section 39–40” Susan Easton Black, “Stay the Course” Jed Woodworth, “James Covel and the 'Cares of the World'” What Did the Early Saints Learn about the Second Coming from the Book of Mormon? What Can We Learn from the Savior’s First Words at Bountiful? |
5–8 – The Call to Obedience and Missionary Work Summary: In these verses, the Lord clearly defines His gospel: repentance, baptism by water, and then the baptism of fire and the Holy Ghost—described as the Comforter who teaches “the peaceable things of the kingdom.” This mirrors 2 Nephi 31 and forms the foundation of personal transformation and covenant discipleship. Receiving this gospel is equivalent to receiving Christ Himself (v. 5)—a sobering reminder that rejecting His gospel is also rejecting Him. For James Covill, the Lord expresses personal knowledge and affirmation: “Thine heart is now right before me at this time.” His calling is not generic—it is rooted in current sincerity and past efforts, and tied to his willingness to act now. The Lord’s pattern here echoes that of Saul/Paul’s conversion: a dramatic redirection, a call to arise and be baptized, and a commissioning to preach (see Acts 9 & 22). The opportunity is immediate and immense—but it must be received. Language Insights:
Reflection Questions:
| 2 Nephi 31:5–13 – Baptism is the gate Acts 22:16 – “Arise and be baptized” D&C 4:2–3 – “If ye have desires to serve…” Conference: • “Missionary Work: Sharing What Is in Your Heart” – Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Apr 2019 • “Converted Unto the Lord” – David A. Bednar, Oct 2012 |
9–12 – The Call to Repentance, Deliverance, and Empowered MinistrySummary: In these verses, the Lord lovingly confronts James Covill’s past: he has “rejected [the Lord] many times because of pride and the cares of the world.” Yet, the Lord also offers hope—“the days of thy deliverance are come.” If Covill will arise, be baptized, and call on Christ’s name, he will receive the Holy Ghost and a blessing “so great as [he has] never known.” This blessing includes not just personal renewal but a divine commission to preach the restored gospel to the house of Israel with power and faith. The Lord promises Covill that He will go before his face, echoing promises made to prophets like Moses (Exodus 33:14) and Joseph Smith (D&C 84:88). The tone is both merciful and urgent: deliverance is offered, but it must be claimed through covenant obedience. Language & Theological Insights:
Reflection Questions:
| Moroni 10:8–18 – Gifts of the Spirit D&C 46:11–26 – All have spiritual gifts Ether 12:27–29 – Gifts given to strengthen faith Conference: • “Spiritual Gifts” – Marvin J. Ashton, Oct 1987 • “Instruments in the Hands of God” – M. Russell Ballard, Apr 2005 |
13–14 – Warnings Against Pride and Riches Summary:The Lord issues a direct and compassionate warning to James Covill: pride and the pursuit of riches are obstacles that can derail even the most sincere disciple. These desires are often subtle, rooted in fear of social loss, public image, or worldly ambition. For Covill, a longtime minister, the cost of full conversion would likely require public humility and personal sacrifice. These verses foreshadow his eventual decision to reject the Lord’s call (see D&C 40:2), proving that even spiritual sincerity must be paired with enduring submission. This passage is not just about Covill—it’s a universal caution to anyone who feels drawn to Christ but finds it difficult to let go of comfort, prestige, or material attachments. Language & Theological Insights:
Spiritual Implications:Covill had the spiritual sensitivity to receive revelation (v. 8), but not yet the spiritual courage to forsake worldly stability. The Lord’s warning is tender but firm: the path of discipleship requires a whole heart. You cannot cling to old securities and walk a new covenant path. This warning extends beyond monetary riches—it includes status, career, reputation, or even long-held paradigms that must yield to living revelation. Reflection Questions:
| Matthew 13:22 – Choked by the cares of the world Jacob 2:18–19 – Seek first the kingdom of God 1 Timothy 6:10 – “The love of money is the root of all evil” Conference: • “Beware of Pride” – Ezra Taft Benson, Apr 1989 • “The Lord’s Way” – Elder Stanley G. Ellis, Apr 2013 Why Does Zion Flourish in the Wilderness? |
15–24 – Call to Ohio and Final Promises Summary: The Lord extends one final, direct invitation to James Covill: “Go to the Ohio.” There, he is promised not only power and divine companionship but also the chance to labor in the great latter-day work of salvation. If he obeys, he will become a powerful instrument in the Lord’s hands—testifying of Christ and participating in the gathering of Israel. These verses emphasize urgency, mission, and promise—but they also highlight that such blessings are conditional upon obedience. Despite this sacred calling, Covill ultimately rejected the commandment due to fear of persecution and the allure of his former religious position (see D&C 40:2). His story stands as a sobering lesson on choice and accountability: even divine invitation cannot override mortal agency. Language & Theological Insights:
Reflection Questions:
Final Note: A Cautionary LegacyJames Covill's story ends in D&C 40, where the Lord confirms that fear and worldly attachment caused him to reject this sacred commission. His narrative is not one of doctrinal rejection or rebellion—it is a story of hesitation, pride, and missed opportunity. His example reminds us that spiritual gifts and callings require faith in motion. The Lord will never compel—He invites, prepares, empowers… and then waits to see if we will follow. | D&C 11:21 – “Seek not to declare my word, but first obtain” Luke 10:7 – “The laborer is worthy of his hire” D&C 42:6–8 – Missionary calls and support Conference: • “Lift Where You Stand” – Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Oct 2008 • “Christ Is Risen; Faith in Him Will Move Mountains ” – President Nelson, Apr 2021 |
D&C 40 Chapter Outline & Study Chart
Overview
Date: January 1831 (shortly after Section 39)
Location: Fayette, New York
Recipient: The Church (regarding James Covill)
Revelation Context: Just days after the Lord extended a personal calling to James Covill in Section 39, he rejected the word due to fear of persecution and concern for his standing in the world. This brief but poignant revelation is a sobering postscript that highlights the eternal tension between spiritual conviction and worldly fear.
Timeframe & Setting
Section 40 was received shortly after Covill’s failure to follow through with his covenant to obey the Lord’s command.
This revelation serves not only as a response to Covill’s actions but as a general warning to all disciples regarding fear, doubt, and indecision.
Key Circumstances
Covill likely lost social status and possibly feared alienation from fellow ministers or his congregation.
His story parallels many in scripture who accept the word with joy but quickly fall away when trials or social pressure arise.
Purpose of the Revelation
To record and interpret Covill’s rejection of the Lord’s command.
To underscore the cost of discipleship.
To offer a powerful example of how fear can override faith.
Significance
A tragic but instructive conclusion to a divine invitation.
Emphasizes how fleeting spiritual impressions can be if not acted upon.
Illustrates the need for courage and commitment in receiving and following revelation.
Main Themes & Language Insights | Cross-References & Supporting Resources |
Summary:This section confirms what the Lord already foresaw in D&C 39: though James Covill received the word “with gladness,” he allowed fear of persecution and worldly cares to overpower his spiritual resolve. The Lord acknowledges that Covill’s heart was right—his intention sincere—but he broke the covenant by choosing safety and social comfort over divine commission. This three-verse revelation serves as a sobering postscript and a doctrinal commentary on the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:20–22), in which some receive the word joyfully but have no root and fall away when tribulation or worldly distraction arises. Language & Scriptural Insights:
Theological Implication:James Covill’s story illustrates that conversion requires courage. The Lord respects agency and does not condemn Covill beyond truth: He simply states the facts—he received, he feared, and he turned away. The Lord’s justice is measured, merciful, and exact. Covill's story echoes that of others in scripture who almost responded fully:
Reflection Questions:
| Mark 4:16–19 – Parable of the sower; “received the word… but had no root” Luke 14:27–30 – Count the cost of discipleship 2 Timothy 1:7 – “God hath not given us the spirit of fear…” D&C 101:35–36 – “Fear not even unto death…” Conference: • “Therefore They Hushed Their Fears ” – Elder David A. Bednar, Apr 2015 • “The Cost—and Blessings—of Discipleship” – Jeffrey R. Holland, Apr 2014 • “Spiritual Capacity” – Michelle D. Craig, Oct 2019 Steven C. Harper, “Section 39–40” Susan Easton Black, “Rejecting the Word of God,” |
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