Doctrine & Covenants 27-28 Part 2 • Dr. Matthew Richardson • March 24 - 30 • Come Follow Me
Mar 19, 2025
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Dr. Matthew Richardson, an expert on the Doctrine and Covenants, dives deep into sections 27 and 28, exploring the role of divine revelation and church order. He highlights the journey of Hiram Page, a pivotal figure whose claims of receiving revelations sparked intrigue in early church history. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sustaining leaders and navigating community conflicts through open communication. Richardson also discusses the principle of common consent in fostering unity and how personal revelations must align with prophetic guidance.
Hiram Page's experience illustrates the historical challenges of spiritual authority and the need for clarity in revelation practices within the church.
The principle of common consent emphasizes the collective responsibility of church members in sustaining leadership and participating in governance decisions.
The concept of progressive revelation reminds members that spiritual growth is a gradual journey, requiring patience and adherence to established patterns.
Deep dives
Understanding Hiram Page's Role
Hiram Page, a figure significant to early church history, was known for receiving revelations purportedly from a stone. This practice, although viewed skeptically today, was not uncommon in the 1800s when many sought divine guidance through similar means. Page's background in a religious environment fostered his belief that he could receive valid revelations, contributing to the confusion surrounding spiritual authority within the church. The story of Hiram Page serves as a reminder of the spiritual climate of that time, where different methods of divine communication were considered legitimate, yet also led to misunderstandings about revelation.
The Nature of Revelation
The discussions around revelation emphasize the importance of established patterns in receiving divine guidance within the church context. Oliver Cowdery, closely associated with Joseph Smith, found himself at odds when he began to support Page's revelations, which warranted a correction from Joseph Smith. This incident highlights the need for checks and balances in spiritual leadership to prevent deception and ensure that the right channels of revelation are maintained. By understanding the various roles of individuals in the church and the significance of prophetic authority, members can better navigate their spiritual experiences.
Common Consent and Sustaining Leadership
The principle of common consent emerges as a critical aspect of church governance, ensuring that all decisions are made with the involvement of its members. This process, which involves raising hands to indicate support, signifies a communal alignment with church leadership rather than mere approval of individual leaders. The idea of common consent goes beyond traditional voting, emphasizing a collective commitment to the church's mission and direction. By participating in this practice, members are reminded of their agency and responsibility in sustaining their leaders and contributing to the church's overall well-being.
Patterns of Spiritual Growth
The concept of progressive revelation is underscored by the notion of teaching line upon line, encouraging members to grow in understanding and experience over time. The early church saw revelations unfold gradually, guiding the community's development while often addressing contemporary issues and questions. This method shows that spiritual growth is a journey, with new insights and understandings being revealed as members become more prepared to receive them. Through patience and diligence in following established patterns, individuals can navigate their spiritual paths effectively.
The Essence of Zion
The discussion highlights that Zion is more about the state of individual and communal hearts than about geographical locations. True Zion emerges when members align their actions and intentions with divine principles, reflecting love and unity. Experiences shared within the church, including service and sustained support during trials, build connections that embody the spirit of Zion. This concept reinforces the idea that achieving Zion within our lives involves learning to cooperate with one another, yielding to the Spirit, and fostering understanding, especially in times of conflict.
Dr Richardson continues to examine Doctrine and Covenants 28 including the importance of following the established order and pattern of revelation in the Church.
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TIMECODE
00:00 - Part 2 - Matt Richardson
00:07 Hiram Page and seer stone
02:24 The spiritual climate
04:17 Voices of the Restoration with Dr. Dirkmaat
05:04 Background to Hiram Page
07:47 The Lord’s checks and balances
10:12 A pattern for stewardship
14:25 Natural man and fallen man
18:02 Stewardship and order
25:46 D&C 28:7 - Order after Joseph
26:40 Where is Zion?
30:46 Not ready for Zion
34:15 By common consent
39:14 A pattern for correction
44:42 Hiram Page’s response to correction
47:30 What it means to sustain leaders
54:14 When you don’t sustain a leader
57:34 Gratitude for those who sustain others
01:00:19 D&C 28:15 - The Lord’s help in our duties
01:01:49 Dr. Richardson’s testimony of Jesus Christ and the prophet Joseph
01:06:25 Gratitude for the early Saints
01:11:14 End of Part 2 - Dr. Matthew Richardson
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 Heather Barlow: Communications Director
"Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonald https://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com
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