RLDS Chapter Context

Intro: SECTION 71 Revelation given through Joseph Smith, Jr., at Hiram, Ohio, late in November or on the first of December, 1831. Ezra Booth had apostatized and was attacking the church in print. In harmony with the instructions received, Joseph and Sidney returned to Kirtland and from this base preached in Shalersville, Ravenna, and other places where the people had become disturbed. Joseph later wrote that he and Sidney "did much towards allaying the excited feelings" which had developed.

1a Behold, thus saith the Lord unto you, my servants, Joseph Smith, Jr., and Sidney Rigdon, that the time has verily come that it is necessary and expedient in me that you should open your mouths in proclaiming my gospel, the things of the kingdom, expounding the mysteries thereof out of the Scriptures, according to that portion of the spirit and power, which shall be given unto you, even as I will.

2a Verily I say unto you, Proclaim unto the world in the regions round about, and in the church also, for the space of a season, even until it shall be made known unto you.

2b Verily this is a mission for a season which I give unto you; wherefore labor ye in my vineyard.

2c Call upon the inhabitants of the earth, and bear record, and prepare the way for the commandments and revelations which are to come.

2d Now, behold, this is wisdom; whoso readeth let him understand and receive also; for unto him that receiveth it shall be given more abundantly, even power;

2e wherefore, confound your enemies; call upon them to meet you, both in public and in private; and inasmuch as ye are faithful, their shame shall be made manifest.

2f Wherefore let them bring forth their strong reasons against the Lord.

2g Verily thus saith the Lord unto you, There is no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; and if any man lift his voice against you, he shall be confounded in mine own due time; wherefore, keep these commandments: they are true and faithful. Even so. Amen.