Church History Matters: Episode 107 Summary

Title: Sacrificing for Others' Salvation is HARD - Come Follow Me - E10 - March 3 - 9
Host/Author: Scripture Central
Release Date: February 26, 2025

1. Introduction to Episode and Context

In Episode 107 of the Church History Matters podcast, hosts Scott Woodward, Casey Griffiths, and Anthony Sweat engage in an in-depth discussion about Doctrine and Covenants Section 19. This episode is part of the "Come Follow Me" series, where the hosts meticulously explore sections of the Doctrine and Covenants throughout 2025.

Scott Woodward [00:07]: "Come Follow Me edition, where we are systematically diving into every section of the Doctrine and Covenants throughout the year 2025."

2. Background of Doctrine and Covenants 19

Casey Griffiths begins by situating Section 19 within its historical context, highlighting its reception in the summer of 1829 and its targeted address to Martin Harris, one of the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon.

Casey Griffiths [01:03]: "Doctrine Covenants 19 is received in the summer of 1829. We don't know the exact date that it was given, but probably sometime around the end of June or the beginning of July, 1829."

3. Martin Harris's Sacrifice: Financial and Personal

The conversation delves into Martin Harris's pivotal role in the early Latter-day Saint movement, particularly his financial sacrifice to print the Book of Mormon. Facing refusals from multiple printers, Harris ultimately mortgages his 151-acre farm to secure the necessary funds.

Casey Griffiths [02:44]: "Martin is trying to find a printer that will be willing to print the manuscript. That's a challenge... Finally, they have one printer that agrees to do the job."

Anthony Sweat [04:48]: "Grandin would net around $1,000, which is a profit margin of like 33%, whereas the going rate at the time in the industry was 12%."

This significant financial commitment not only secured the publication of the Book of Mormon but also had profound personal consequences, including the straining and eventual separation of Martin Harris and his wife, Lucy Harris.

Casey Griffiths [06:04]: "Doctrine Covenants 19 probably comes around the time that reality is starting to settle in on Martin. Two printers have turned them down. Now there's an actual price tag and it's an exorbitant price tag."

4. The Revelation: Themes and Messages

Doctrine and Covenants 19 presents a revelation from the Lord to Martin Harris, urging him to repent and fully commit to financing the Book of Mormon's publication despite the immense personal sacrifice required.

a. Theocratic Warnings and Invitations

The Lord begins the revelation by identifying Himself as Alpha and Omega and emphasizing His role in the ultimate judgment and redemption.

Casey Griffiths [09:40]: "The Lord opens this revelation by introducing himself to Martin as Alpha and Omega, Christ the Lord, the Redeemer of the world..."

He then delves into themes of repentance, commandments, and the consequences of not adhering to divine guidance.

Anthony Sweat [13:48]: "Perhaps the Lord here is addressing an unspoken doubt or maybe a question in Martin's heart about the duration of God's punishment in the afterlife."

b. Comparisons to the Savior's Atoning Sacrifice

A poignant aspect of Section 19 is the parallels drawn between Jesus Christ's atoning sacrifice and Martin Harris's financial sacrifice. The Lord recounts Christ's suffering to emphasize the gravity and importance of Harris's potential sacrifice.

Anthony Sweat [18:15]: "Suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain and to bleed at every pore..."

Casey Griffiths [24:28]: "As to how Jesus felt during his atoning sacrifice, he says this to Martin, which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain..."

The dialogue underscores that sacrificing for others' salvation, whether on a divine or human level, is both challenging and essential.

Anthony Sweat [27:31]: "The big kind of punchline here from section 19 is that's worth it. Sacrificing for the salvation of other people is worth it."

5. Application of Doctrine in Lives

The hosts reflect on how Section 19's teachings are applicable beyond Harris's historical context, drawing parallels to modern-day sacrifices made by missionaries, parents, and individuals in various church callings.

Anthony Sweat [28:19]: "Perhaps it's not inappropriate for us to make that same kind of comparison with others in other spheres who sacrifice for the salvation of people."

This emphasizes the timeless relevance of the revelation's message about selflessness and dedication to others' spiritual well-being.

6. Consequences and Historical Outcomes

Martin Harris's decision to mortgage his farm led directly to the printing of the Book of Mormon and the subsequent organization of the Church in April 1830. However, it also resulted in the permanent separation between Martin and Lucy Harris.

Anthony Sweat [41:02]: "This is a great story. It comes from a guy named Pomeroy Tucker who's sort of antagonistic towards the church... striking him, Martin Harris, a severe blow upon the right side of his face."

Casey Griffiths [39:27]: "Martin Harris mortgages his farm. He does what the Lord asks him to do. He mortgages his farm for the printing of the Book of Mormon, and thus becomes probably the single most important benefactor in bringing forth the Book of Mormon to the world."

These events highlight the personal costs often associated with faithful service and the long-term impacts of such sacrifices on individuals' lives.

7. Reflection on Martin Harris's Character and Legacy

The episode portrays Martin Harris as a meek yet strong individual whose sacrifice was instrumental in the foundation of the Church. His ability to turn the other cheek after being physically assaulted underscores his steadfast faith and commitment to peaceful perseverance.

Casey Griffiths [43:10]: "Martin Harris was a peaceful as well as an honest man... Instantly turning the assailant the other cheek."

8. Controversies and Interpretations

While Casey Griffiths and Anthony Sweat find Doctrine and Covenants 19 to be largely uncontroversial, they acknowledge potential theological debates. Some may grapple with the language of punishment used in the revelation, questioning its tone and intent.

Anthony Sweat [35:40]: "Perhaps some might find some of this controversial... but it's a beautiful, straightforward invitation to repentance."

Overall, the hosts present Section 19 as a powerful call to self-sacrifice for the greater good, emphasizing its doctrinal richness and historical significance within the Church.

9. Conclusion and Legacy

The episode concludes by honoring Martin Harris's invaluable contribution to the Church and the dissemination of the Book of Mormon. His legacy serves as a testament to the impact of personal sacrifice in the pursuit of spiritual truth and missions.

Anthony Sweat [44:19]: "His story goes on beyond the loss of the 116 pages, it turns out, and he becomes an incredible benefactor to the church."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Casey Griffiths [01:03]: "Doctrine Covenants 19... addressed to Martin Harris."
• Anthony Sweat [04:48]: "Grandin would net around $1,000... a profit margin of like 33%... going rate at the time was 12%."
• Anthony Sweat [18:15]: "As to how Jesus felt during his atoning sacrifice..."
• Casey Griffiths [24:28]: "This is Jesus Christ commenting on his life and events."
• Anthony Sweat [27:31]: "Sacrificing for the salvation of other people is worth it."
• Casey Griffiths [34:54]: "A very applicable section and one of the most valuable revelations in the Doctrine and Covenants."
• Anthony Sweat [43:36]: "Repent or suffer."

This comprehensive analysis of Doctrine and Covenants 19 not only sheds light on a pivotal moment in Church history but also offers enduring lessons on faith, sacrifice, and dedication.