Doctrine & Covenants Section 1 Part 1 • Dr. J.B. Haws • January 6 - January 12 • Come Follow Me
Jan 1, 2025
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Dr. J.B. Haws, an expert in the Doctrine and Covenants, shares fascinating insights on the foundational preface of section 1. He discusses the historical significance of the early church's efforts to publish revelations and the motivations behind sharing sacred knowledge. The conversation touches on themes of faith, agency, and the contrasting forces of good and evil. Haws emphasizes the divine origin of these revelations and urges listeners to engage in spiritual self-reflection, ultimately exploring how the seemingly weak can fulfill God's significant purposes.
The podcast emphasizes that true obedience to God is about becoming a certain type of person rather than just following rules.
Listeners are reminded of the vital role of prophets in receiving divine revelation and guiding believers through life's challenges.
The discussion highlights God’s proactive engagement with humanity, preparing individuals through prophetic guidance for future trials and tribulations.
Deep dives
The Call to Become
The discussion emphasizes that the Lord desires individuals to embody a specific character rather than merely adhering to a set of rules. This concept is rooted in the belief that true obedience stems from becoming 'people of a particular sort,' as highlighted in Doctrine and Covenants section 1. The podcast repeatedly poses reflective questions to the audience, such as whether they are evolving into the type of individuals that aligns with divine expectations. There’s an emphasis on personal growth and transformation, inviting the listeners to evaluate their journeys toward becoming more Christlike.
The Power of Prophets
Doctrine and Covenants 1 serves as an introduction to the teachings of the Church, reiterating the critical role of prophets in receiving and conveying divine revelation. The podcast highlights that throughout history, God has called prophets to guide his people, underscoring the importance of listening to their counsel. Examples from the early church show that even with a small membership, the teachings and revelations needed to be shared with the world, illustrating the significant impact of prophetic leadership. This theme celebrates the idea that God communicates through chosen individuals to provide guidance and direction for all believers.
Challenges of Revelation
The dialogue delves into how the revelations given during the formation of the Church addressed real-life challenges faced by its members. One significant context focused on the desire to publish the revelations, which initially faced skepticism and concerns about their readiness for the public. This reflects a wider struggle in understanding the nature of divine communication and the eventual validation of these revelations as they were shared widely. The hosts highlight the pressures and opposition encountered, emphasizing that these challenges served to strengthen the resolve of church leaders and members alike.
God’s Proactive Nature
Listeners are introduced to a concept that emphasizes the Lord's proactive outreach to humanity, illustrated in the historical context of Joseph Smith's calling as a prophet. The conversation highlights verse 17 of Doctrine and Covenants 1, which reveals that God's foresight into challenges led Him to call upon individuals to help guide others. This understanding fosters a view of God who is not merely reactive, but continually engages with His people through direct calls for action and guidance. It reassures listeners that divine assistance is intentionally provided to prepare them for future trials and tribulations.
The Nature of Obedience
The session explores how obedience is framed within the context of establishing a relationship with God, as opposed to merely following rules. By examining verses that define the consequences of rebellion versus discipleship, the podcast emphasizes the transformative power of understanding God’s commandments as invitations to a covenantal relationship. The discussion underscores that true obedience manifests in seeking a deeper relationship with God and understanding His desires for us. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal journeys toward understanding what it means to follow divine guidance and to recognize their agency in making these choices.
What can you learn from the preface of a book of scripture? Dr. JB Haws explores the background to Doctrine and Covenants 1, including resources to help aid study in 2025.
42:45 D&C 1:2-3 - Attention and typology of opposites
46:39 D&C 1:16 - Idolatry and Scripture Citation Index
50:35 D&C 1:14-17 - Relationships and calamities
55:41 D&C 1:19-28 - Weak things of the world
58:45 God proves He wrote the section
01:02:05 End of Part 1 - Dr. JB Haws
Thanks to the followHIM team: Steve & 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 Will Stoughton: Video Editor Krystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, Website Ariel Cuadra: Spanish Transcripts Amelia Kabwika : Portuguese Transcripts
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