Doctrine and Covenants 3-5 | Scott Woodward & Casey Griffiths Come Follow Me LDS 2025
Jan 21, 2025
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Dive into the drama of the lost 116 pages of the Book of Mormon and the controversies surrounding it! Hear about Joseph Smith's trials during translation, his relationships with key figures, and the implications of prophetic fallibility. Explore the divine revelations that shaped early church dynamics and how they relate to personal journeys of faith. Discover Martin Harris's transformation from doubt to commitment and the pivotal moments that highlight the importance of divine purpose amidst human imperfections.
The podcast discusses the significant loss of the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript, illustrating both the personal trials faced by Joseph Smith and the implications for his prophetic role.
It emphasizes the theme of prophetic fallibility, comparing Joseph Smith's errors to those of biblical figures, highlighting the necessity of acknowledging human imperfection in spiritual leadership.
The conversation also addresses the divine assurances in the revelations to Joseph Smith, underscoring the importance of humility and God’s unwavering purposes despite human shortcomings.
Deep dives
Chronological Context of Revelations
The first section reviewed is section three of the Doctrine and Covenants, identified as the first chronological revelation received by Joseph Smith. It is significant because this revelation serves as a rebuke to Joseph, emphasizing the need for humility in his prophetic calling. This period followed the death of his brother Alvin and led to crucial developments in Joseph's life, including his marriage to Emma Hale and the subsequent retrieval of the golden plates. The transition from Palmyra to Harmony, Pennsylvania, marked a critical point where the translation of the Book of Mormon began amidst significant opposition.
Relationships and Challenges in Translation
The podcast highlights the dynamics between Joseph Smith and key individuals during the translation process, such as Martin Harris, his wife Lucy Harris, and Joseph's scribe, Emma. At first, Martin was supportive, acting as a scribe under arduous circumstances, which included a significant geographic distance between Harmony and Palmyra. The tension escalated when Martin's wife became increasingly skeptical and antagonistic towards Joseph's endeavors, particularly after he refused to show her the golden plates. This discord underscored the personal trials and external pressures affecting Joseph and his early followers.
The Consequences of the Lost Manuscript
One of the pivotal moments discussed is the loss of the manuscript comprising the Book of Lehi, which significantly impacted Joseph's status as a prophet. After Martin Harris took the manuscript to show his wife and it was subsequently lost, Joseph experienced a profound crisis of faith and responsibility. The ensuing revelation reassured Joseph that God's work would not be thwarted by human error, emphasizing divine mercy. This incident reflects broader themes of accountability and redemption within the context of early Latter-day Saint history.
The Concept of Prophetic Fallibility
The discussion on prophetic fallibility establishes that prophets can indeed err, drawing parallels to biblical figures such as Moses and Peter. Section three serves as a critical text, illustrating that even Joseph Smith, acting in his prophetic role, made significant mistakes that had lasting repercussions. The podcast emphasizes that the recognition of prophetic fallibility is essential for understanding the nature of divine guidance and human frailty. This notion is reinforced by the idea that God works through imperfect vessels, enabling early saints to learn and grow amid their shortcomings.
The Assurance of God's Plan
Lastly, the podcast addresses the assurances provided in sections four and five of the Doctrine and Covenants regarding God's plans for His work despite human failings. Joseph Smith is instructed that his role as a prophet is affirmed, alongside a promise of the eventual arrival of witnesses who would validate the translation of the Book of Mormon. This revelation highlights the importance of humility, repentance, and the pursuit of godly attributes for all involved in the restoration. The overarching message remains one of hope, emphasizing that God’s purpose prevails as individuals navigate their spiritual journeys, even after significant mistakes.
As Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon in 1829, Martin Harris was entrusted with the 116 page manuscript, but lost the 116 pages. Scott and Casey discuss the context and controversies surrounding the losing of the Book of Mormon manuscript, a revelation to Joseph Smith Sr., and the first foreshadowing of the role of the Three Witnesses. Today's controversy surrounds prophetic infallibility and how God could have allowed Joseph Smith to lose the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript.
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