Church History Matters Podcast Summary Episode 125: D&C 58 CFM - The Saints in Zion - Now What? Release Date: May 27, 2025

Introduction to Doctrine & Covenants Sections 58 and 59

In Episode 125 of the Church History Matters podcast, hosts Scott and Casey delve into Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) sections 58 and 59, which are the second and third recorded revelations given to Joseph Smith in Missouri during the summer of 1831. These sections mark the culmination of the "Journey to Zion," addressing the complexities and aspirations surrounding the establishment of Zion, the prophesied City of God on the American frontier.

Context and Historical Background

Casey begins by setting the stage for Section 58, explaining that after receiving divine commands in earlier sections (52 and 55), Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, a group of elders, recent converts like Sidney Gilbert and W.W. Phelps, and about 60 members of the Colesville branch journeyed to Missouri. They arrived in Jackson County, where Section 57 identified Independence as the designated center for Zion (00:47).

Shortly after their arrival, additional members, including Sidney Rigdon and Elders Isaac Morley and Ezra Booth, joined them. However, the anticipated large congregation was underwhelming, with reports of fewer than ten converts despite Oliver Cowdery's extensive missionary efforts among the Lamanites. This discrepancy laid the groundwork for tensions and challenges addressed in Section 58.

Challenges Upon Arrival: Disappointment and Tension

Upon settling in Missouri, the Saints faced unexpected setbacks. As explained by Casey, Ezra Booth, a more pessimistic figure, expressed frustration over the lack of a substantial congregation. He lamented that Joseph Smith had led them to expect a large group of believers, only to find the harvest sparse (00:22).

Additionally, tensions arose between Bishop Edward Partridge and Joseph Smith. Edward, tasked with managing the church's land and property (as per Section 57), criticized the quality of the selected temple site, believing it inferior to nearby plots. Sidney Rigdon intervened, accusing Edward of violating divine laws, leading to a confrontation that highlighted underlying leadership strains (03:22).

Revelation of Section 58: Guidance Amid Tribulation

Scott summarizes that Section 58 begins with a mixture of sobering forecasts and hopeful promises. The Lord predicts "much tribulation" ahead while assuring a "crown of glory" for the faithful (Scott, 06:57). Verses 6 through 14 outline five reasons for the Saints' presence in Zion:

1. Obedience and Testimony: To be obedient and prepare their hearts to testify of future events.
2. Honoring Foundation: To be honored for laying Zion's foundation.
3. Bearing Record: To witness the land destined for Zion.
4. Preparation for the Millennium: Preparing for a grand millennial feast, symbolizing eternal blessings.
5. Testimony from Zion: To spread their testimony from Zion to the world.

The revelation emphasizes the need for patience, highlighting that Zion's glory is yet to be fully realized and lies beyond the forthcoming tribulations (06:57).

Personal Struggles and Leadership: Edward Partridge's Journey

Casey and Scott discuss Bishop Edward Partridge's pivotal role and personal struggles. Edward, appointed as a judge in Israel and responsible for land division, grapples with doubt and feelings of inadequacy. In Section 58, the Lord admonishes him to repent of "unbelief and blindness of heart" (12:35). Edward responds humbly, writing to his wife Lydia, expressing his fears and requesting prayers to remain steadfast (16:35).

This narrative is juxtaposed with Edward's later contributions, such as writing the hymn "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise," demonstrating his enduring faith despite initial doubts (39:00).

Consecrated Individuals: Martin Harris and William W. Phelps

The revelation also addresses Martin Harris and William W. Phelps:

• Martin Harris: Called to consecrate his finances to support Zion's establishment. Despite later struggles with seeking recognition, Martin's early obedience serves as an exemplar of faith and sacrifice (24:18).

• William W. Phelps: Charged to oversee printing needs, Phelps is admonished for seeking to "excel" rather than striving for righteous excellence. He is urged to adopt humility to fulfill his divine mission (40:13).

These accounts underscore the importance of self-motivation, repentance, and purity of heart in building Zion.

The Challenge of Doubt: Ezra Booth's Departure

A significant portion of the episode examines Ezra Booth's disillusionment. Contrary to Edward Partridge's persistence, Ezra becomes a vocal critic, questioning Joseph Smith's prophetic authority due to unmet expectations. He recounts Joseph's assurance of a large church in Missouri, which did not materialize, leading him to label Joseph's revelations as doubtful (33:32).

Scott and Casey explore whether Joseph's predictions were flawed or if Ezra and Edward's inferences were misguided. They conclude that faith and managing expectations are crucial, highlighting Edward's ability to overcome doubt versus Ezra's descent into skepticism (40:55; 43:56).

Principles and Lessons from Section 58

The hosts distill six key takeaways from Section 58:

1. Future Glory of Zion: The full splendor of Zion is yet to come, lying beyond current tribulations.
2. Foundation Laying: The initial group’s testimony is vital for building Zion.
3. Bishop’s Role: Leadership, particularly Bishop Partridge’s, is crucial for Zion’s temporal success.
4. Land Acquisition: Significant efforts and funds are required to purchase Missouri land for Zion.
5. Self-Motivated Righteousness: Members must act out of free will and righteous intent without waiting for explicit commands.
6. Global Mission: After establishing Zion, the Saints are to spread the gospel worldwide, preparing for the Savior's return (46:12).

Consequences and Future Implications

Scott and Casey discuss how Section 58 sets the stage for future revelations and challenges. The emphasis on lawful land acquisition foreshadows conflicts in Missouri, a slave state with differing cultural norms. The directives for funding and land purchase hint at the significant communal and financial efforts required to realize Zion (29:01).

Moreover, the episode reflects on personal agency and obedience, illustrating how individual choices impact the collective journey towards Zion. The stories of Edward Partridge, Martin Harris, and William W. Phelps serve as exemplars of faith, obedience, and the personal struggles faced by early church leaders.

Contrasting Perspectives: Faith vs. Doubt

The podcast highlights the contrasting responses to unforeseen challenges:

• Ezra Booth embodies doubt and eventual departure from the faith.
• Edward Partridge represents steadfastness and faith despite initial setbacks.
• Joseph Smith maintains an unwavering optimistic vision, encouraging trust in divine plans.

This dichotomy illustrates the broader theme of faith as a choice, reinforcing the idea that perspective shapes one's spiritual journey. The hosts draw parallels to scriptural narratives, such as the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, emphasizing the timeless nature of these challenges (43:56).

Conclusion: Building Zion Through Faith and Obedience

Episode 125 of Church History Matters offers a comprehensive exploration of D&C 58, highlighting the early Saints' struggles and triumphs in establishing Zion. Through detailed analysis and personal stories, Scott and Casey emphasize the enduring principles of faith, obedience, and communal effort necessary for building the City of God. The episode underscores that while tribulations are inevitable, the promise of glory and eternal rewards awaits those who remain faithful and proactive in their divine mission.

Notable Quotes

• Casey (00:00): "There's some questions that lead to dead ends, like why is this happening to me? Or what caused this to occur. And he said there's some questions that open doors for us, like, what am I supposed to learn from this?"

• Scott (00:20): "I think that's a pretty valuable application for all of us."

• Casey (06:57): "He can't command us in all things. You're going to figure out some of this stuff on your own."

• Scott (37:40): "Would that be a safe inference? I don't know."

• Casey (46:12): "Each one of them made a choice when they saw the land, and that reflects so much about who they are and the faith that they have in God."

Timestamp References

For clarity, the timestamps mentioned correspond to key points in the podcast transcript provided:

• [00:00] – Introduction to handling questions and moving forward.
• [00:20] – Initial discussion on application of questions.
• [03:22] – Tensions between Bishop Partridge and Joseph Smith.
• [06:57] – Overview of Section 58's content.
• [12:35] – Discussion on Bishop Partridge's struggles.
• [16:35] – Edward's letter to his wife Lydia.
• [24:18] – Martin Harris's consecration.
• [33:32] – Ezra Booth's departure and doubts.
• [37:05] – Differentiating between facts and inferences.
• [39:00] – Edward Partridge's hymn writing.
• [43:56] – Contrasting faith and doubt with Ezra and Edward.
• [44:57] – Casey reflects on enduring faith.
• [46:12] – Summarizing key takeaways from Section 58.

Closing Remarks

Scott and Casey conclude the episode by highlighting the enduring relevance of Section 58's teachings, encouraging listeners to embody the principles of faith, repentance, and proactive engagement in building Zion. They tease future discussions on Section 59, promising continued insights into the Saints' journey and the establishment of their divine heritage.