Ep 315 | D&C 30-36, Come Follow Me 2025 (April 7-13)
Apr 2, 2025
auto_awesome
Explore the fascinating missions of early church leaders and the unexpected challenges that shaped their journeys. Discover the importance of valuing the process of missionary work over just the results. Delve into the tension between fearing man and fearing God, and how it influences decision-making. Uncover the transformative power of humility and God's greatness in our lives. Listen to personal accounts of trials faced by early leaders, emphasizing the blessings of divine support for missionaries and their families.
The podcast emphasizes that the journey of missionary work often yields unexpected blessings and insights beyond initial success expectations.
It highlights the importance of humility and agency in God's plan, showcasing that even inexperienced individuals can make significant contributions.
A recurring theme is the need to prioritize seeking God's approval over fearing human judgment, which can lead to missed spiritual opportunities.
Deep dives
The Importance of Contextual Understanding
Exploring sections 30 through 36 of the Doctrine and Covenants reveals the significant patterns and narratives behind individual missions. The idea that these sections serve as springboards for deeper discussions emphasizes the need to teach depending on a family's or individual's circumstances. It's important to recognize that while the call for missionary work to the Lamanites is a specific directive, many fruitful conversations and conversions occurred unexpectedly along the way. This illustrates how the context, or the journey taken by these missionaries, can enrich the understanding of their experiences beyond just achieving a specific outcome.
Process Over Product in Gospel Work
The discussion highlights the spiritual principle that the process often holds greater value than the product. Oliver Cowdery's mission to convert the Lamanites represents an expectation of success, yet historical accounts reveal that substantial growth occurred among non-Lamanite groups. As the missionaries traveled, they formed significant relationships, leading to numerous baptisms, which is a stark reminder that sometimes the expected paths change, yet unexpected blessings abound. This encourages individuals to find value in their experiences, even when outcomes do not align with initial expectations of success.
Valuing Humility and Agency in Ministry
A key takeaway from the sections is the role of humility and agency in God's plan, illustrated through stories of young missionaries embarking on challenging missions. God consistently chooses to work through individuals who may not seem traditionally capable, affirming that every disciple, regardless of experience, has potential to contribute significantly to His work. For example, the narrative of Parley P. Pratt emphasizes the importance of following inspiration, even when circumstances are tough, and suggests that the Lord often calls the inexperienced or unlearned to achieve His purposes. This reinforces the idea that success in gospel work often relies on humility and the willingness to act amidst adversity.
Overcoming Fear in Faith
Throughout these scripture sections, the theme of overcoming fear is prominent, with God encouraging His servants to seek His approval rather than the praise of men. The consequences of fearing human judgment are starkly illustrated, revealing missed opportunities for growth and blessings. The messages directed toward figures like David Whitmer serve as cautionary tales about the spiritual costs associated with prioritizing public opinion over divine direction. Believers are reminded that genuine commitment to God leads to deeper insights and personal growth, even in the face of adversity.
Emphasizing the Power of Blessing and Service
The scriptural passages included in this discussion provide a wealth of promises to missionaries and faithful servants, emphasizing the blessings that follow dedication to service. From forgiveness of sins to personal guidance by the Spirit, these blessings highlight the transformative nature of devoted service. The encouragement to preach boldly, knowing that God will be present, showcases the reassurances given to those who engage in His work. Readers learn that through their efforts, they not only contribute to the lives of others but also receive profound personal blessings, thus reinforcing their faith.
→ Timestamps: (00:00) The historical background of these sections. (03:17) The process may be more important than the product. (13:02) The mission to the Lamanites. (30:25) Don’t fear man more than you fear God. Remember God is great. (42:39) The promises to Thomas B. Marsh in Section 31. (53:47) The blessings the Lord pours out on missionaries.
→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
