Church History Matters: Episode 099 - "The Second Vision - Come Follow Me - E4 - Jan 20-26"

Release Date: January 14, 2025

Hosts: Scott Woodward & McLean Heward
Podcast: Church History Matters by Scripture Central

Introduction

In Episode 099 of Church History Matters, host Scott Woodward is temporarily replaced by McLean Heward due to Scott's current commitments. McLean steps in to co-host the episode, delving deep into the "Second Vision" portion of the Come Follow Me curriculum, which explores the early phases of Joseph Smith's prophetic journey and the beginnings of the Book of Mormon translation.

Contextualizing Joseph Smith's Second Vision

The episode begins with McLean providing an overview of the Come Follow Me curriculum, which breaks down Joseph Smith's history into three segments:

1. The First Vision (D&C verses 1–26)
2. The Second Vision covering phase one of the Book of Mormon translation
3. The Second Phase involving Oliver Cowdery and later scriptures

McLean emphasizes that the focus of this episode is on Joseph Smith's encounter with the angel Moroni, the acquisition of the golden plates, and the initial stages of translation, highlighting Joseph's transition from a regular youth to a prophet undertaking divine work.

Moroni's Visits and the Acquisition of the Plates

Joseph Smith's narrative reveals a period of intense personal struggle and spiritual seeking following his First Vision. At approximately 17 years old, Joseph experiences divine manifestations leading to his encounter with Moroni. McLean notes, “[Joseph] often expressed feelings of being condemned for his imperfections” (02:57) and reflects on the cultural context of the early 19th century, including practices like money digging and the use of seer stones.

Key Events:

• First Appearance: Moroni appears to Joseph multiple times, emphasizing the importance of the golden plates and the dire consequences if misused.
• Physical Descriptions: Both Joseph and Oliver Cowdery provide detailed descriptions of Moroni, emphasizing his resurrected, glorious appearance and the tangible nature of the artifacts involved.

Notable Quote:

"His garment was perfectly white, and he had the appearance of being without seam." – Oliver Cowdery on Moroni (24:46)

The Role of Martin Harris

Martin Harris emerges as a pivotal figure in this phase. As financial pressures mount due to Joseph's family's struggles, Martin extends significant support, including a substantial $50 grant (equivalent to approximately $2,500 in 2010 dollars) to assist Joseph's journey and translation efforts.

Key Points:

• Initial Skepticism: Martin’s wife, Fawn Brody, questions Joseph’s legitimacy as a prophet, highlighting early tensions within supporters' families.
• Validation Attempt: Martin seeks external validation by presenting translated characters to esteemed scholars like Professor Charles Anthon, who initially appears to endorse Joseph’s work but later contradicts his earlier affirmations.

Notable Quote:

"If I could not bring them, I was forbidden by the messenger." – Joseph Smith on his interactions with Anthon (63:35)

Controversies: Money Digging and Accusations

A significant controversy discussed is Joseph Smith's involvement in money digging—using seer stones to locate minerals—and how this aspect of his life has been critiqued over time. McLean addresses accusations labeling Joseph as a "money digger," noting:

• Historical Normalcy: During Joseph’s youth, practices like divining rods and seer stones were culturally accepted and not stigmatized as they might be today.
• Financial Struggles: The family's economic hardships likely influenced Joseph’s foray into money digging, painting him as a young man under duress rather than out of malice.

Notable Quote:

"Yes, Joe Smith was a money digger, but it was never a very profitable job for him. He only got $14 a month for it." – Joseph Smith addressing the allegations (63:35)

Emma Smith's Marriage to Joseph

The episode recounts Emma Hale’s marriage to Joseph Smith, a relationship that has been subject to rumors and controversy. The narrative clarifies that Emma willingly chose to marry Joseph, despite her father's initial disapproval.

Key Points:

• Elopement Details: Emma and Joseph married without her father's consent, a decision Emma later described as made out of her preference over other suitors.
• Family Dynamics: Their union set the stage for future collaborations in translating and safeguarding the golden plates.

Notable Quote:

"I carried off your daughter in the state of New York, where we were married without his approval." – Emma Smith on her marriage to Joseph (66:15)

The Validation by Charles Anthon

Martin Harris’s attempt to validate the golden plates with Professor Charles Anthon serves as a critical juncture. Initially, Anthon praises the translation but later rebuts Joseph’s claims, undermining Martin’s confidence.

Key Points:

• Mixed Responses: Anthon’s initial support is later contradicted in his 1841 letter, where he denies the authenticity of Joseph's account.
• Impact on Martin Harris: These conflicting testimonies contribute to ongoing debates about the legitimacy of Joseph's prophetic claims.

Notable Quote:

"There was no such thing now as ministering of angels." – Charles Anthon reacting to Martin Harris’s presentation (78:54)

Security Challenges and Plate Theft Attempts

Joseph Smith and his family faced numerous threats aimed at obtaining the golden plates. The narrative details several attempts to steal the plates, resulting in physical confrontations and heightened security measures.

Key Events:

• Multiple Assaults: Joseph was physically attacked three times while attempting to retrieve the plates, leading to injuries and increased paranoia.
• Protective Measures: Using the Urim and Thummim, Joseph ensured the plates remained secure, demonstrating divine protection in his account.

Notable Quote:

"All of our content is free because of the generous donations of people like you. So if you're in a position where you're both willing and able to make a one-time or ongoing donation..." – Outro emphasizing the importance of scripture preservation (95:32)

Insights and Theological Implications

The episode explores the interplay between Joseph Smith’s cultural environment and his prophetic mission. It highlights how Joseph’s use of seer stones and his interactions with angelic beings were consistent with early 19th-century folk practices, thereby contextualizing his experiences within his societal framework.

Key Insights:

• Cultural Context: Understanding the prevalent folk magic practices of the time helps demystify Joseph’s methods and align them with accepted norms.
• Divine Guidance vs. Human Agency: The balance between Joseph’s personal struggles and divine interventions underscores the complexity of his prophetic journey.

Notable Quote:

"God needs to teach his children, and he does that through prophets, and he needs to bring forth the Book of Mormon." – McLean Heward on divine purpose (22:16)

Conclusions and Upcoming Topics

As the episode wraps up, the hosts summarize the significant developments from Joseph Smith’s Second Vision, including the acquisition of the golden plates, the hardships faced, and the foundational relationships formed with figures like Martin Harris.

Upcoming Discussion: Next week, the podcast will delve into the "Lost Manuscript of the Book of Mormon," examining the circumstances under which the initial translation was lost and its implications for the Restoration narrative.

Final Quote:

"These topics are important and powerful to talk about." – McLean Heward on concluding the episode (95:13)

Stay Tuned:
Join Scott and McLean next week as they continue to explore the rich tapestry of Latter-day Saint Church History, uncovering the complexities and triumphs of the Restoration through detailed analysis and engaging discussion.

This summary encapsulates the key elements, discussions, and insights from Episode 099 of Church History Matters, providing an accessible overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.