Church History Matters – Episode 121 Summary: D&C 47-48 CFM - The Importance of Keeping Records

Release Date: May 9, 2025
Hosts: Scott and Casey from Scripture Central

1. Introduction to Sections 47-48

In Episode 121 of the Church History Matters Podcast, Scott and Casey delve into Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) Sections 47 and 48, exploring their significance in the context of Latter-day Saint Church history. This episode underscores the vital role of record-keeping within the church and highlights the contributions of key historical figures.

2. The Calling of John Whitmer as Church Historian

Casey begins by discussing the appointment of John Whitmer as the church historian, emphasizing Whitmer's initial reluctance and his eventual acceptance of the role.

[00:01] Casey: "John might not have been great at writing history, but he's good at collecting history... We owe a huge debt of gratitude for having the Doctrine and Covenants the way we do."

Whitmer's appointment comes in D&C Section 47, where he is tasked with maintaining the church’s records and assisting Joseph Smith in transcribing revelations.

[03:54] Scott: "The Lord says, it's expedient in me. Which in the 1828 dictionary, expedient means it is useful, it is profitable."

3. Controversy Around John Whitmer’s Abilities as a Historian

The conversation shifts to the controversial aspects of Whitmer's tenure. Despite his significant contributions, Whitmer faced criticism and was ultimately excommunicated in 1838.

[10:46] Scott: "Didn't Joseph write a letter and say, you've left the church, but can we have the history you've kept of our church back?"

Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon questioned Whitmer's capabilities, leading to strained relations and Whitmer's departure from the church.

[11:01] Casey: "Knowing your incompetency as a historian. Indeed, sir, we never supposed you capable of writing a history, but we're willing to let it come out under your name..."

4. Rehabilitating John Whitmer’s Reputation

Despite initial criticisms, recent scholarship has rehabilitated Whitmer’s reputation. Casey argues that Whitmer was instrumental in collecting and preserving church records, which are invaluable to historians today.

[12:27] Scott: "John might not have been great at writing history, but he's good at collecting history."

Whitmer’s meticulous record-keeping laid the foundation for future historians, ensuring a rich documentary record for the church.

[15:24] Casey: "John Whitmer was a good historian... You don't always have to just be a good writer to be a good historian. You're a good compiler, you're a good listener, you are diligent in your calling."

5. Principles of Record-Keeping for Personal Histories

Drawing from Section 47, the hosts discuss the broader principles of record-keeping, encouraging listeners to maintain regular and continual personal histories.

[05:11] Casey: "It doesn't have to be brilliant... The Lord asked that you do it regularly and that you do it continually."

Scott reinforces this by highlighting the personal value of journals and records, referencing figures like Wilford Woodruff and Spencer W. Kimball.

[07:48] Scott: "President Kimball is saying that future generations are actually going to be really interested in our normal, everyday lives."

6. Overview of Section 48

The discussion transitions to D&C Section 48, which addresses the gathering of church members to Kirtland, Ohio, and the implementation of the Law of Consecration amidst logistical challenges.

Whitmer records the influx of members from New York and the subsequent need for flexible application of consecration principles.

[20:18] Scott: "Section 48 is kind of this, this interesting section that makes a couple promises that gives some practical counsel to the bishop and helps prepare the saints for more."

Casey highlights the flexibility inherent in these instructions, suggesting that the application of consecration would evolve with revelation and circumstances.

[24:05] Casey: "The Lord expects his servants... appointed stewardship to them."

7. The Practical Implications and Future Revelations

Scott outlines the practical implications of Sections 47 and 48, noting how they set the stage for future directives and the establishment of Zion.

[26:29] Casey: "This is a big project to go to a city that is, you're going to lay the foundations of this city..."

They anticipate future revelations that would further define and organize the church’s efforts in gathering and consecration.

8. Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, Scott and Casey emphasize the enduring importance of both institutional and personal record-keeping. They advocate for consistent documentation as a means of preserving faith, history, and personal growth.

[28:08] Casey: "Writing a history and the importance of keeping a record that applies to everybody."

[28:24] Scott: "Executing part A, then we'll move to part B and I'm going to keep you moving along until we accomplish the end game of Zion."

The episode serves as a reminder of the legacy of John Whitmer and the ongoing responsibility of church members to maintain and cherish their histories.

Notable Quotes:

• Casey [00:01]: "Sometimes being a good historian is just not throwing stuff away."
• Scott [03:54]: "It's expedient in me that my servant John should write..."
• Casey [05:11]: "It doesn't have to be brilliant. It doesn’t have to be the most literary moving."
• Scott [07:48]: "Spencer W. Kimball... said this people often use the excuse that their lives are uneventful..."
• Casey [15:24]: "John Whitmer was a good historian... You don't always have to just be a good writer to be a good historian."
• Scott [26:29]: "That's section 47. And he says, which ye shall hereafter receive."

This episode of Church History Matters offers a comprehensive exploration of D&C Sections 47 and 48, shedding light on the complexities of church historiography and the foundational principles of record-keeping vital to both church history and personal legacy.