Church History Matters Podcast – Episode 119: D&C 45 CFM - What's Coming in the Last Days?

Release Date: April 29, 2025
Hosts: Scott and Casey
Podcast Description: The Church History Matters Podcast features in-depth conversations between Scott and Casey where they dive deep into both the challenges and beauty of Latter-day Saint Church History.

Introduction to the Episode

In Episode 119 of Church History Matters, Scott and Casey engage in a profound discussion centered around Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) section 45. Titled "What's Coming in the Last Days?", this episode delves into eschatological themes, exploring prophecies about the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, the gathering of Israel, and the establishment of Zion during the latter days.

Understanding D&C 45: Content and Context

The conversation begins with Scott asserting the literal significance of prophetic scripture:

Scott [00:05]: "This is real. This is legit. We're not playing games here. This isn't a fairy tale. This marks the beginning of the resurrection."

Casey adds context by explaining the dual challenges addressed in the prophecy:

Casey [00:13]: "Show you how the day of redemption will come. This is how I'm going to reverse the two grand things that make life so difficult for people. You're not perfect and you're going to die."

Together, they outline how D&C 45 integrates promises of the Messiah, the resurrection, and a glorified earth into a unified eschatological narrative.

Prophetic Interpretation: Literal vs. Figurative

A recurring theme is whether prophetic language should be interpreted literally or figuratively. Casey raises this critical question early on:

Casey [00:00]: "Whenever we're dealing with prophecy, the question we deal with is, is this figurative or is this literal?"

Scott emphasizes the seriousness and literal truth of the prophecies:

Scott [00:49]: "This is where all the promises of old have been building. This is not a metaphor."

The hosts agree that while some aspects may carry metaphorical weight, the overarching message of imminent divine intervention is literal.

Eschatological Views Among Christians and Mormonism

Scott and Casey compare premillennialism, amillennialism, and postmillennialism, situating Latter-day Saint beliefs within this spectrum:

Casey [01:11]: "I struggle with college words because I'm not very ambidextrous... Different schools of thought among Christians about what the end of the world is going to be like."

Casey articulates that Latter-day Saints embody a blend of these eschatological views:

Casey [01:28]: "I think that we're very premillennial... we're post millennial... we're okay with amillennialism as long as we say we don't think it's figurative."

Scott reinforces the premillennial foundation of their beliefs:

Scott [06:25]: "There’s a lot of trouble coming prior to his return... we are in anticipation of Jesus coming."

They highlight how D&C 45 exemplifies this blend by detailing both imminent challenges and active preparation for the Second Coming.

Historical Context: The Early Church in 1831

The episode provides a historical backdrop, explaining the circumstances under which D&C 45 was revealed:

Casey [07:25]: "This is given March 7, 1831. It's titled A Prophecy... People are buzzing about this new movement, this gold Bible, this new prophet..."

Scott recounts the external challenges faced by early Saints, such as mockery and persecution:

Scott [03:19]: "They were being persecuted and mocked and made fun of. And Gentiles are starting to reject this."

This context underscores the revelation's role in strengthening and reassuring the Saints amidst adversity.

Theological Insights: Resurrection, Gathering of Israel, and the Millennium

Delving deeper into theology, Scott elaborates on how D&C 45 ties together key doctrinal elements:

Scott [02:28]: "This is one unified story leading to this climactic end... Messiah, a gathered Israel, a resurrected people, a glorified earth."

Casey discusses the interconnectedness of redemption from sin and death:

Casey [19:35]: "How could the righteous who have lived throughout various ages of the world's history... actually see the millennial day in their flesh?"

They explore the promise of resurrection and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies regarding the gathering and redemption of Israel during the millennial reign.

Controversies and Modern Interpretations: The Concept of Zion

A significant portion of the discussion addresses the evolving understanding of Zion:

Scott [50:23]: "Since the time of this revelation, the concept of Zion has shifted and expanded significantly to include all the stakes of Zion."

Casey challenges the traditional view of Zion as a singular city in Missouri, suggesting a more dispersed and spiritual interpretation:

Casey [51:32]: "It's a central place with satellite locations... Zion as a city gets us into our hyper millennial mode... a city of people who are compassionate and kind."

They debate whether Zion remains a physical location or represents a collective of righteous individuals spread globally, emphasizing the adaptability of prophetic interpretation to contemporary church structure.

Concluding Thoughts and Takeaways

Wrapping up, Scott and Casey reflect on the implications of D&C 45 for both early Saints and modern believers:

Casey [62:18]: "It's an affirmation of Easter. It's a declaration that everybody is going to be able to receive a body and live in immortality and eternal life."

They underscore the revelation's purpose in providing assurance amidst turmoil and guiding Saints to focus on divine promises:

Scott [63:07]: "Section 45 helps as 1831 Latter Day Saints better appreciate the broader context... These local annoyances... are temporary."

Casey summarizes the essence of the revelation as an invitation to heed prophetic guidance and remain steadfast:

Casey [64:21]: "The Lord wants us to be prepared... to survive the latter days and that these calamities are leading to greater and better things."

Key Quotes with Timestamps

• Scott [00:05]: "This is real. This is legit. We're not playing games here. This isn't a fairy tale."

• Casey [00:13]: "Show you how the day of redemption will come. This is how I'm going to reverse the two grand things that make life so difficult for people."

• Scott [02:28]: "This is one unified story leading to this climactic end... Messiah, a gathered Israel, a resurrected people, a glorified earth."

• Scott [35:15]: "It shall be called Zion... a land of peace, a city of refuge, and a place of safety for the saints of the Most High."

• Casey [51:32]: "It's a central place with satellite locations... a city of people who are compassionate and kind."

• Casey [62:18]: "It's an affirmation of Easter. It's a declaration that everybody is going to be able to receive a body and live in immortality and eternal life."

Final Reflections

Throughout the episode, Scott and Casey navigate the intricate tapestry of prophetic scripture, historical circumstances, and personal faith to elucidate the profound messages within D&C 45. They balance scholarly interpretation with heartfelt insights, making complex theological concepts accessible and relevant for contemporary believers. By bridging past revelations with present-day understandings, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive exploration of what the latter days hold according to Latter-day Saint doctrine.

Note: This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and theological explorations presented by Scott and Casey in Episode 119 of the Church History Matters podcast. For an in-depth understanding and personal reflection, listening to the full episode is encouraged.