Dr. J.B. Haws, an expert on the Book of James, explores its power to inspire faith and action. Topics include blessings from James, Joseph Smith's connection to James, acting in faith, remaining unspotted, forgiveness and humility, and the importance of treating others with love and kindness. The podcast also touches on social media comparisons, judging others, and the power of words.
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Quick takeaways
The Book of James inspires readers to act in faith and follow Jesus Christ.
James prompts self-reflection and action through the analogy of a mirror.
Extend grace and fair judgment to Joseph Smith, appreciating and studying his teachings and revelations.
Deep dives
Treasure in the Epistle of James
The podcast episode explores the richness and practical wisdom found in the Epistle of James. The book is known for its concise and impactful statements, resembling proverbs or bumper stickers. It is a valuable resource for disciples seeking to deepen their faith and introspect on their next steps in discipleship. The episode highlights the connection between James and Elder Holland's talk on the power of words and emphasizes the importance of asking for wisdom from God, as Joseph Smith did based on James 1:5. The book inspires readers to be doers of the word and to live the royal law of loving one's neighbor as oneself.
The Mirror of Self-Reflection
James uses powerful metaphors of a mirror to convey the importance of self-reflection and action. The passage in James 1:22-25 compares a mere hearer of the word to someone who sees their reflection in a mirror but quickly forgets what they look like. On the other hand, one who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues to do what it says is truly blessed. This analogy prompts us to consider how often we forget the teachings we hear and fail to put them into practice. It encourages us to use the law as a mirror and strive to live in accordance with it by controlling our speech, caring for others in need, and remaining unspotted from worldly influences.
Extending Grace to Joseph Smith
The podcast episode addresses the criticisms and doubts surrounding Joseph Smith and emphasizes the importance of extending grace and fair judgment to him. It reminds listeners that although Joseph Smith was not perfect and did not claim perfection, he was a prophet chosen by God and led by Christ. The episode discourages focusing solely on imperfections or weaknesses and instead encourages studying Joseph Smith's life and teachings with an open heart, relying on the spirit for understanding. It highlights the significant impact Joseph Smith had in bringing forth the Book of Mormon and restoring the Church of Jesus Christ on earth, urging listeners to appreciate and mine his teachings and revelations.
The Tragic Character of Mrs. St. Clair and Self-Deception
In this podcast episode, the speaker discusses the character of Mrs. St. Clair from Uncle Tom's Cabin as a tragic example of self-deception. Despite her daughter's suffering, Mrs. St. Clair is primarily concerned with her own well-being and constantly portrays herself as a victim. The speaker ponders how one can recognize if they are deceiving themselves in a similar manner, believing they are righteous and virtuous when they are actually self-centered. The suggestion is made that caring for others, such as visiting the fatherless and widows, can serve as a check against self-deception.
The Importance of Seeking Wisdom from God
The podcast also delves into the significance of Joseph Smith's experience with James 1:5. Joseph Smith's deep need for answers to questions about forgiveness and salvation, in the face of conflicting religious messages, resonates with many. James 1:5, 'if any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God,' becomes a powerful catalyst for Joseph Smith's quest for truth. The speaker highlights the importance of seeking wisdom, not just information, from God. The ability to patiently seek answers, enduring in the quest for knowledge and understanding, aligns with Joseph Smith's example and the call for discipleship.
Can a single verse of scripture alter the course of history? Join Dr. J.B. Haws as he illuminates the Book of James in the context of Prophet Joseph Smith’s theophany and the Restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Discover the book’s remarkable power to inspire readers to act in faith and follow Jesus Christ.
51:43 Hank shares a story about judging and appearances
54:38 John shares a story about Stephen Covey’s mom
58:46 Hank shares a story about a “homeless” man
1:00:12 Elder Holland and “A Tongue of Angels”
1:02: 45 End of Part 1–Dr. JB Haws
Thanks to the followHIM team: Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, Sponsor David & Verla Sorensen: Sponsors Dr. Hank Smith: Co-host John Bytheway: Co-host David Perry: Producer Kyle Nelson: Marketing, Sponsor Lisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show Notes Jamie Neilson: Social Media, Graphic Design Annabelle Sorensen: Creative Project Manager Will Stoughton: Video Editor Krystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, Website Ariel Cuadra: Spanish Transcripts
"Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonald https://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com
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