Church History Matters Podcast: Episode 101 - "Oliver & Revelation - Come Follow Me - E6 - Feb 3-9"
Introduction
In Episode 101 of the Church History Matters podcast, hosted by Scripture Central, Scott and Casey delve into a pivotal moment in early Latter-day Saint history: the meeting between Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, and the subsequent revelations that shaped the translation of the Book of Mormon. Titled "Oliver & Revelation - Come Follow Me - E6 - Feb 3-9," this episode provides an in-depth exploration of Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) sections 6 through 9, highlighting the challenges and divine guidance experienced during this foundational period.
Meeting Oliver Cowdery (D&C 6)
The episode begins with Casey expressing enthusiasm about meeting Oliver Cowdery, a seminal figure in church history. "He really is. And I think, you know, Oliver's excommunicated in 1838, but he comes back in 1848, a decade later..." (01:01). Scott emphasizes Oliver’s crucial role alongside Joseph Smith, noting, "Without Oliver Cowdery, how do we get the Book of Mormon here?" (01:27). They discuss the circumstances leading to their collaboration, highlighting Oliver's arrival in Harmony, Pennsylvania, coinciding with Joseph's struggles in his translation efforts.
The Revelation and Personal Growth
Casey outlines the context of D&C 6, explaining that Oliver, a 22-year-old schoolteacher, joins the Smith household during a tumultuous period. "Oliver becomes so entirely absorbed in the subject of the record that it seemed impossible for him to think or converse about anything else" (04:00). The revelation in D&C 6 serves as a "seminar on revelation," mentoring Oliver into the prophetic process Joseph had been engaged in since the early 1820s.
Translation Process and the Use of Seer Rods (D&C 8)
As Scott and Casey transition to D&C 8, they explore the divine instructions given to Oliver about translating ancient records. Casey explains that Oliver was granted two gifts: the Spirit of Revelation and the gift of Aaron. "The Spirit of Revelation... is the Spirit of Truth" (08:00), facilitating not only the translation but also providing protection from adversaries. They delve into the transformation of the text from "the gift of working with the sprout" to "the gift of Aaron," noting editorial changes made by Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith to align with more biblical terminology (52:00).
Controversies: Use of Stones in Translation
A significant portion of the discussion addresses the controversial practice of using seer stones in the translation process. "Divining rods could be rods made of green flexible shoots or rods cut from hazel, peach, or cherry trees" (52:39). Casey and Scott contextualize this practice within the cultural milieu of the early 19th century, distinguishing it from modern perceptions of folk magic. They argue that such practices were not viewed negatively at the time and were seen as legitimate means of divine revelation.
Doctrine and Covenants 7: John the Apostle’s Survival
Moving to D&C 7, the podcast examines the revelation concerning John the Apostle. "DNC 7 establishes once and for all, he did not die" (39:24). This revelation challenges the simplified narrative of the Great Apostasy, suggesting that John and other apostles, like the Three Nephites, continued to exist beyond their earthly ministries. The hosts ponder the implications of this revelation, including why these apostles did not reestablish the church, despite their continued existence.
Doctrine and Covenants 8 and 9: Oliver's Attempt to Translate
Sections 8 and 9 chronicle Oliver Cowdery's endeavor to translate the Book of Mormon independently. "Oliver felt encouraged by D&C8, and he did, in fact attempt to translate the Book of Mormon" (58:36). However, his efforts ultimately failed, leading to humbling counsel from the Lord in D&C 9. "If you desire further witness, cast your mind upon the night that you cried unto me in your heart... What greater witness can you have than from God?" (15:23). The revelation emphasizes the importance of faith and the proper utilization of spiritual gifts, guiding Oliver to continue his role as a scribe rather than a translator.
Lessons on Revelation and Personal Revelation
Throughout their discussion, Scott and Casey draw broader lessons on the nature of revelation. They highlight how the revelations within D&C sections 6 through 9 functioned as a "seminar on revelation," teaching Oliver about personal revelation's principles. "Revelation takes work," Casey asserts, emphasizing that divine guidance often requires diligent effort and trust. They also discuss the balance between individual gifts and collective mission, using the dynamic between Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery as a case study.
Conclusion and Next Episode Preview
Concluding the episode, Scott and Casey reflect on the profound revelations discussed and their relevance to contemporary believers. They express anticipation for their upcoming interview with Jack Welch, an expert on the timing of the Book of Mormon translation, promising deeper insights into the translation process's rapidity and complexity. "We'll look forward to that video in two days time" (08:31).
Notable Quotes
- Casey (01:01): "If he hadn't taken a little walk about his name, he'd probably be even more well known than he is right now."
- Scott (01:27): "Without Oliver Cowdery, how do we get the Book of Mormon here?"
- Casey (04:00): "Oliver became so entirely absorbed in the subject of the record that it seemed impossible for him to think or converse about anything else."
- Casey (52:00): "We have to contextualize... was it strange in Joseph Smith's time and in the cultural context he existed in?"
- Scott (57:21): "Revelation takes work."
Insights and Conclusions
This episode underscores Oliver Cowdery's indispensable role in the translation of the Book of Mormon and his personal journey of receiving and understanding revelation. The revelations in D&C sections 6 through 9 not only facilitated the translation process but also provided Oliver with spiritual mentorship, reinforcing the principle that revelation is accessible to all believers, albeit requiring faith and perseverance. The discussion on cultural context challenges modern listeners to appreciate historical practices without anachronistically judging them, advocating for a nuanced understanding of foundational church events.
Moreover, the episode highlights the collaborative nature of divine work, illustrating how Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery's partnership exemplifies the balance between individual gifts and collective mission. The upcoming interview with Jack Welch promises to further illuminate the miraculous nature of the Book of Mormon's translation, offering listeners expert analysis on its swift completion.
Final Thoughts
Scott and Casey adeptly navigate complex doctrinal topics, making early church history accessible and engaging. By intertwining doctrinal exegesis with historical context and personal application, they provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how foundational revelations shaped the Latter-day Saint movement. This episode serves as both an informative historical account and a theological guide on the principles of revelation and personal spiritual growth.