Scriptures
Doctrine and Covenants 40


Section 40

Revelation given to Joseph Smith the Prophet and Sidney Rigdon, at Fayette, New York, January 6, 1831. Preceding the record of this revelation, the Prophet’s history states, “As James [Covel] rejected the word of the Lord, and returned to his former principles and people, the Lord gave unto me and Sidney Rigdon the following revelation” (see section 39).

1–3, Fear of persecution and cares of the world cause rejection of the gospel.

1 Behold, verily I say unto you, that the heart of my servant aJames Covel was right before me, for he covenanted with me that he would obey my word.

2 And he areceived the word with gladness, but straightway Satan btempted him; and the fear of cpersecution and the cares of the world caused him to dreject the word.

3 Wherefore he abroke my covenant, and it remaineth with me to do with him as seemeth me good. Amen.