Summary of "Church History Matters" Episode 103: "God Playing Chess, Satan Playing Checkers - Come Follow Me - E7 - Feb 10-16"
Release Date: February 4, 2025
In Episode 103 of the Church History Matters podcast, hosts Scott Woodward and Casey engage in a profound exploration of Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) Sections 10 and 11, delving into the intricacies of the Latter-day Saint Church History, theological debates, and the pivotal roles of key figures like Hyrum Smith. This episode, titled "God Playing Chess, Satan Playing Checkers," offers listeners an in-depth analysis of the challenges and divine strategies surrounding the translation and preservation of the Book of Mormon.
1. Introduction and Context
Scott Woodward opens the discussion by highlighting the podcast's focus for the year 2025: systematically examining each section of the Doctrine and Covenants. The conversation zeroes in on D&C Sections 10 and 11, referred to as "the lost manuscript part two," which addresses the aftermath of the Book of Mormon manuscript’s loss and the subsequent divine revelations guiding its translation.
Notable Quote:
[00:05] Scott Woodward: "Welcome to Church History Matters. Come follow me. Edition where we are systematically diving into every section of the Doctrine and Covenants throughout the year 2025."
2. Doctrine and Covenants Section 10: The Lost Manuscript Part Two
The Gap Between D&C 3 and D&C 10
Casey observes the perplexing sequence in the Doctrine and Covenants, where D&C 3, the earliest revelation, precedes a series of revelations involving Joseph Smith Sr. and Oliver Cowdery, before returning to another major section at D&C 10. This gap raises questions about the chronological progression of events and revelations.
Notable Quote:
[00:33] Casey: "It's weird how it works because the flow of things is DNC3... deals with this... and then you take a break... and then you return back to this."
Possible Explanations for the Gap
Scott and Casey discuss scholarly theories addressing why D&C 10 appears out of sequence:
- Single Revelation Timing: D&C 10 may have been received entirely in May 1829 during the second translation phase with Oliver Cowdery.
- Combined Revelations: Part of D&C 10 could date back to the summer of 1828 when the manuscript was lost, and another part was received in May 1829.
- Translation Strategy: Joseph and Oliver may have prioritized translating from the Book of Mosiah to the end of Moroni, deciding against re-translating the lost Book of Lehi manuscript.
Notable Quote:
[03:15] Scott Woodward: "Another possibility... they just combined similar revelations into one, so that everything was kind of a little bit more neat and tidy as we go."
Theological Implications: Open Theism vs. Closed Theism
A significant portion of the episode delves into the theological debate sparked by D&C 10:
- Open Theism: Suggests God knows all possible outcomes but not the actual future choices made by individuals.
- Closed Theism: Asserts that God has complete and perfect knowledge of the future, including all human actions.
Casey leans towards closed theism, interpreting D&C 10 as evidence of God's foreknowledge and meticulous planning to counteract Satan's schemes. Scott introduces Neal A. Maxwell's perspective, advocating that God's foreknowledge does not impinge on human free will, allowing individuals to make genuine choices while God remains informed of all possible outcomes.
Notable Quote:
[34:09] Casey: "Neal A. Maxwell... argues that God foresaw Martin Harris's loss of pages but did not cause it to happen... You can know the future, but that doesn't impede a person's free agency."
God's Strategy vs. Satan's Cunning
The hosts analyze how God’s strategic foresight—metaphorically "playing chess"—outmaneuvers Satan’s simpler plans, ensuring the preservation and dissemination of the Book of Mormon despite adversarial attempts to undermine its authenticity.
Notable Quote:
[31:10] Scott Woodward: "It sounds like they're saying, I was playing chess while Satan was playing checkers."
3. Doctrine and Covenants Section 11: Instructions to Hyrum Smith
Overview of D&C 11
Transitioning to D&C 11, Scott and Casey highlight its focus on Hyrum Smith, Joseph Smith’s brother, who emerges as a crucial figure in the Restoration movement. This section serves as an early form of a patriarchal blessing, guiding Hyrum on his divine role and responsibilities.
Notable Quote:
[48:41] Casey: "Do not suppose you were called to preach until you are called... Seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain my word."
Spiritual Guidance and Application
The revelation provides Hyrum with criteria to recognize the Spirit of God:
- Doing Good: Actions that are just, humble, and righteous.
- Enlightenment: The Spirit will enlighten the mind and fill the soul with joy.
- Knowledge: Assurance of knowing truths pertaining to righteousness.
These guidelines are presented as practical advice for modern believers seeking divine inspiration and effective ministry.
Notable Quote:
[50:44] Scott Woodward: "You will know all things that you desire to know of the Lord which pertain to things of righteousness."
4. Insights on Church History: Hyrum Smith's Legacy
Hyrum Smith's Role and Contributions
Hyrum Smith is portrayed as a steadfast and integral leader within the church. Despite not being part of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, his unwavering support and leadership are evident in several church events and revelations.
Notable Points:
- Eight Witnesses: Hyrum is one of the eight witnesses who physically handled the plates of the Book of Mormon, providing tangible proof of its authenticity.
- Carthage Jail Martyrdom: Alongside Joseph Smith, Hyrum is martyred, cementing his legacy as a loyal and devoted leader.
- Doctrine and Covenants 124: This revelation elevates Hyrum's status, positioning him as the second Elder after Oliver Cowdery, highlighting his spiritual gifts and leadership qualities.
Notable Quote:
[62:40] Casey: "Section 135... Hyrum Smith... in life, they were not divided... they were martyr Saints... their name shall go down to posterity as gems of the sanctified."
Hyrum's Descendants and Continued Influence
The discussion touches on the profound impact of Hyrum's lineage within the church, mentioning notable descendants like Joseph F. Smith and Elder Ballard, who have significantly shaped the church's history and doctrines.
5. Conclusion: Consequences of D&C 10 and 11
Scott and Casey conclude by summarizing the key takeaways from their analysis of D&C Sections 10 and 11:
- Divine Foreknowledge and Strategy: God’s comprehensive plan ensures the perseverance and success of His works despite adversarial efforts.
- Guidance for Leaders: Revelations like D&C 11 provide essential spiritual guidance for church leaders, emphasizing the importance of personal revelation and preparedness.
- Reassurance to Broader Christianity: The Lord’s assurances in these sections affirm that the Book of Mormon is intended to build upon existing Christian doctrines, fostering unity rather than division.
Notable Quote:
[47:33] Casey: "God knows everything and he's got plans upon plans of plans... Satan's plans to destroy God's work can never succeed."
Additional Highlights
- Philosophical Depth: The episode ventures into complex theological debates, encouraging listeners to ponder the nature of God’s knowledge and human free will.
- Practical Application: Emphasis on discerning the Spirit and obtaining God's word before evangelizing, as advised to Hyrum Smith, aligns with modern missionary strategies.
- Historical Anecdotes: The hosts share historical incidents, such as Abner Cole's theft of the manuscript, illustrating recurring challenges in preserving sacred texts.
Notable Quote:
[17:57] Scott Woodward: "They don't even open the text of the Book of Mormon... they've already formulated this plan to discredit Joseph Smith."
Final Thoughts
Episode 103 of Church History Matters offers a comprehensive and thoughtful examination of pivotal Doctrine and Covenants sections, blending historical insights with deep theological discussions. Through the dynamic dialogue between Scott Woodward and Casey, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the divine strategies that safeguarded the Book of Mormon and the enduring legacy of leaders like Hyrum Smith. The episode not only illuminates key aspects of church history but also invites believers to reflect on the interplay between divine foreknowledge and human agency.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- [31:10] Scott Woodward: "It sounds like they're saying, I was playing chess while Satan was playing checkers."
- [34:09] Casey: "Neal A. Maxwell... argues that God foresaw Martin Harris's loss of pages but did not cause it to happen..."
- [50:44] Scott Woodward: "You will know all things that you desire to know of the Lord which pertain to things of righteousness."
- [62:40] Scott Woodward: "Joseph and Hyrum... Hyrum is never a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Yet Hyrum is a significant figure."
About the Podcast:
Church History Matters is a podcast by Scripture Central, dedicated to making Latter-day Saints scripture and church history accessible and comprehensible. Through in-depth discussions, the podcast aims to build enduring faith in Jesus Christ by exploring the context, content, controversies, and consequences of key doctrinal revelations.
For more resources and to support the podcast, visit scripturecentral.org.