No Weapon That Is Formed against You Shall Prosper
Come, Follow Me Study Guide | June 30-July 6
Reading: Doctrine and Covenants 71-75
In late 1831 and early 1832, the Church faced growing hostility—especially from Ezra Booth, a former member publishing critical letters. Rather than hiding or avoiding conflict, Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon were commanded to go forth and preach.
At the same time, the Saints in Ohio were preparing to gather and strengthen the Church. These sections reflect a blend of divine defense, practical guidance, and continued calls to preach the gospel despite personal and institutional adversity.
Setting the Stage for Your Come, Follow Me Study
On the night of March 24, 1832, in Hiram, Ohio, Joseph Smith was dragged out of his home by an infuriated mob and covered with tar and feathers. | ChurchofJesusChrist.orgThis section of the study guide aims to provide a deeper understanding of the circumstances surrounding the revelation or scripture being studied. By exploring the events, challenges, and background of the time, this section helps readers appreciate the significance of the teachings and how they apply to our lives today.
In early 1832, Joseph and Emma Smith were living in Hiram, Ohio, in the home of Elsa and John Johnson. It was a time of both spiritual revelation and intense opposition. Joseph and Sidney Rigdon had just recorded the vision of the three degrees of glory (D&C 76), a doctrine that excited many Saints but unsettled others.
Critics, including former member Ezra Booth, published letters attacking Joseph, spreading doubt and stirring hostility in the community. That hostility turned violent when a mob broke into the Johnson home in the night.
Food and supplies in the Lord’s storehouse. | ChurchofJesusChrist.orgJoseph was dragged from his bed, beaten, and tarred and feathered. Sidney suffered a severe head injury, and Joseph’s infant son died soon after—likely due to exposure from the attack. Despite this, Joseph preached the next morning and baptized new converts.
Just days later, he traveled to Missouri with Sidney and Newel K. Whitney to help organize Church efforts in Zion. There, leaders established the United Firm to manage resources and support the poor. At the same time, unauthorized migration to Missouri was creating tension, both within the Church and with local residents.
Through it all, the Lord continued to guide the Saints with revelations that strengthened their unity, encouraged bold testimony, and prepared them for greater spiritual responsibilities.
Find more helpful historical background here.
Come, Follow Me Study Resources
This section provides additional talks and insights to deepen your study and strengthen your understanding of gospel principles. Explore these messages to gain fresh perspectives and apply what you learn in your daily life.
- Loving Others and Living with Differences by Dallin H. Oaks
- Bishops—Shepherds over the Lord’s Flock by Quentin L. Cook
- Two Principles for Any Economy by Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Come, Follow Me Podcasts
These podcasts provide valuable insights, personal stories, and thoughtful perspectives that align with this week’s Come, Follow Me study guide. Tune in to explore new ideas and deepen your understanding of the principles being taught.
- Grounded – Doctrine and Covenants 71-75 | Dr. Barbara Morgan Gardner and Shima Baughman | June 30-July 6
- Thumb Follow Me – The Bishop Who Didn’t Feel Bishop-y
- Come Follow Up – Doctrine and Covenants | Jun 30-Jul 6 | Sections 71-75 | Come Follow Up on BYUtv
Questions for Personal Reflection
Photo by Artak Petrosyan on UnsplashThese thoughtful prompts are designed to help you connect the scriptures and their principles to your own life, encouraging personal insights and spiritual growth. Take time to reflect, journal, or discuss these questions as part of your study.
- How does the Lord strengthen me when I speak up in His name?
- What fears or opposition have I faced while trying to do what is right, and how has the Lord supported me through those challenges?
- In what ways can I “publish peace” in my own home, ward, or community?
Living the Principle: No Weapon That Is Formed against You Shall Prosper
Samuel H. Smith, the Prophet’s brother and one of the Eight Witnesses, was also one of the Church’s earliest missionaries. He preached to members of Brigham Young’s family, and they acquired this copy of the Book of Mormon from him. Book of Mormon, owned by Samuel H. Smith, 1830, Church History Museum.These suggestions are designed to inspire action and help you live the teachings in meaningful, personal ways. By embracing these ideas, you can deepen your discipleship and bring the light of the gospel into your home, relationships, and community.
- Share a personal testimony or spiritual message on social media to “lift up your voice without fear.”
- Identify someone experiencing opposition or criticism and reach out to encourage them with a note, message, or prayer.
- Study a recent General Conference talk on courage or spiritual resilience and apply one specific teaching this week.
Shareable Quotes for Come, Follow Me Inspiration
This section of the study guide features an uplifting quote from Church leaders, scriptures, or this week’s Come, Follow Me lesson—perfect for sharing with family and friends, or on social media. These messages are designed to spark meaningful conversations and keep the truths you learn at the forefront of your week.
How has this week’s study guide inspired or strengthened you? Your reflections could uplift someone else and spark a meaningful conversation in our community. Let’s learn and grow together!
We’d love to hear from you! As you study and apply this week’s principles, take a moment to share your thoughts, experiences, and insights in the comments below.
Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.
