Ep 317 | D&C 37-40, Come Follow Me 2025 (April 21-27)
Apr 16, 2025
auto_awesome
Dive into the transformative principles of consecration and community, exploring how wealth can serve spiritual growth. Discover the moral duty to uplift those in need and the powerful impact of love and kindness. Reflect on the quest for equality in a historical context, addressing past injustices while seeking lasting change. Unpack the blessings of embracing the Gospel and the significance of gathering in Ohio for divine purposes. Finally, explore the celestial roles of seraphim and their connections to divine authority and purity.
The podcast emphasizes the law of consecration, highlighting how sharing resources fosters a reciprocal relationship with God and leads to greater blessings.
A core theme is overcoming the scarcity mentality, advocating that true faith recognizes abundance and encourages communal sharing of resources.
The necessity of esteeming one another equally is stressed, framing it as essential for building a compassionate community and fulfilling moral obligations.
Deep dives
The Shift to Ohio
A major transition occurs as the Lord directs the church to move the headquarters from New York to Ohio, marking a significant change in their journey. In section 37, the Lord emphasizes the urgency of this move and instructs them to halt their current work on the Bible. This relocation is intended for two primary reasons: first, to provide the Lord's law to the church, and second, to endow church members with divine power. This power, signified by the future establishment of a temple in Kirtland, symbolizes a deeper spiritual preparation for the church community.
Understanding the Law of Consecration
The law of consecration is introduced as an invitation to give all that one has to God, suggesting a reciprocal relationship where God gives all that He has to His followers. A core principle is that if individuals are willing to consecrate their resources, they will find greater blessings in return. An illustrative example highlights a young man's reluctance to share his labor until he considers the needs of a family member, revealing that perspective and personal connections are crucial to understanding the spirit of this law. The focus shifts to how one's heart attitudes toward gifts and possessions can define their willingness to embrace the law of consecration.
The Challenge of Wealth and Scarcity Mentality
A consistent theme in living the law of consecration is overcoming the scarcity mentality that promotes hoarding and self-interest. The podcast draws parallels between capitalism's tendency to create wealth and the belief that there is enough for everyone, contrasting it with the detrimental effects of scarcity thinking. Biblical examples, such as the Israelites hoarding manna, illustrate the consequences of distrust in God's providence, emphasizing that true faith allows for abundance. The call to recognize and share resources amid adequate availability is a vital component in fostering a communal spirit of consecration.
Esteeming One Another as Equals
The Lord emphasizes the necessity of regarding others as equals in section 38, highlighting a foundational principle for living the law of consecration. Esteeming one's neighbor as oneself is pivotal, and self-worth should not be predicated on wealth or status. This equality frames interactions within the community, fostering compassion and responsibility towards one another. The podcast suggests that embracing this perspective can alleviate social tensions, affirming that valuing each individual equally aligns with the divine expectation of unity among God's children.
The Call to Action and Responsibility
The Lord commands church members to take an active role in supporting those in need, asserting that they are their brother's keeper. This calling to assist the poor and needy is framed as a moral obligation ingrained in the law of consecration. Furthermore, individuals are encouraged to labor diligently, as communal success hinges on each person's willingness to contribute. The podcast underscores that humility and gratitude towards God's blessings are essential to balance the responsibilities and privileges that wealth confers, advocating for a proactive approach to help others in the community.
→ Timestamps: (00:00) The principle of Consecration. (09:05) The Lord has made the earth rich and full. There is enough and to spare. (13:53) Esteem your brother as yourself. (17:10) Work is essential to Consecration. (20:56) Section 38 invites everyone to Zion. (32:29) James Covill and the blessings of embracing the Gospel. (42:22) Equality and purpose from knowing we are children of God. (47:52) Layers to the word Seraphim.
→ For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here.
