Church History Matters Podcast – Episode 129: D&C 64 CFM - Why Forgiveness is so Important

Host/Author: Scripture Central
Release Date: June 10, 2025
Episode Title: D&C 64 CFM - Why Forgiveness is so Important
Episode Number: 129
Duration: Approximately 59 minutes

Overview

In Episode 129 of the Church History Matters podcast, hosts Scott and Casey engage in an in-depth exploration of Section 64 of the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C). Titled "Why Forgiveness is so Important," the episode delves into the historical context, key themes, practical applications, and contemporary relevance of forgiveness within the Latter-day Saint (LDS) Church. The discussion not only examines the scriptural directives but also intertwines personal anecdotes and historical events to illustrate the enduring significance of forgiveness in both individual lives and the broader church community.

1. Historical Context of Section 64

Timestamp: [00:00] – [03:21]

Scott and Casey begin by setting the stage for Section 64, highlighting the tumultuous period leading up to its reception. Casey explains that in late August 1834, Joseph Smith returned to Kirtland, Ohio, to find several church members straying from their commitments. This revelation came at a time of internal conflict, particularly among missionaries returning from Missouri, leading to apostasy and ecclesiastical punishments such as silencing elders (referencing D&C sections 42, 74, and 93).

Notable Quote:
Casey [00:00]: “Do we have to forgive every single person that sins against us or offends us? And the answer is yes, you do. It just eventually continues to fester in a different way and causes other problems down the road.”

2. Core Themes: Forgiveness and Accountability

Timestamp: [03:21] – [16:57]

The primary focus of Section 64 centers on the imperative of forgiveness within the church. Scott emphasizes that forgiveness is not merely a personal virtue but a doctrinal necessity that aligns with Jesus Christ's teachings. He underscores that while forgiveness is vital, it does not absolve individuals from accountability or church responsibilities.

Key Points:

• Forgiveness as Commandment: Members are required to forgive others to prevent personal grievances from festering (D&C 64:10-11).
• Balance with Accountability: Forgiveness must be coupled with maintaining church standards and holding individuals accountable for their actions (D&C 64:12-24).
• Joseph Smith’s Imperfections: The episode acknowledges that even church leaders like Joseph Smith struggled with forgiveness, illustrating that no one is infallible (Casey [08:46]).

Notable Quotes:
Scott [03:21]: “Forgiveness doesn't mean people aren't accountable to the law. Just do your best today to be kind to somebody.”
Casey [08:46]: “The honest truth is... we have never claimed infallibility for our leaders. And this revelation is underscoring that right.”

3. Historical Examples of Forgiveness and Conflict

Timestamp: [11:47] – [26:40]

Scott and Casey delve into specific historical incidents to illustrate the challenges and triumphs associated with forgiveness.

Examples Discussed:

• Joseph and William Smith: An altercation in December 1835 where William Smith assaulted Joseph over a debating society issue, leading to a family reconciliation orchestrated by their father (Casey [11:47]).
• Ezra Booth and W.W. Phelps: Booth’s apostasy and his leading role in violent actions against Joseph Smith, contrasted with Phelps’s eventual repentance and reconciliation in Nauvoo (Scott [20:07]).
• Joseph Smith’s Response: Highlighted as embodying the teachings of Section 64, showcasing genuine forgiveness juxtaposed with accountability.

Notable Quotes:
Casey [11:47]: “He sucker punched him.”
Scott [20:07]: “He says, 'Come on, dear brother. For since the war has passed, friends at first are friends again at last.'”

4. Application to Modern Discipleship

Timestamp: [16:15] – [44:17]

The discussion transitions to applying the principles of forgiveness today, emphasizing that forgiveness is essential for personal and communal well-being within the church.

Key Applications:

• Daily Forgiveness: Encouraging members to practice daily forgiveness to build a strong foundation for a fulfilling life (Casey [16:15]).
• Temple Recommends as Micro-Judgments: Scott relates forgiving and judging within the context of temple recommend interviews, framing these as sacred moments of righteous judgment rather than harsh evaluations (Scott [42:56]).
• Teaching Balance: Advocating for a balance between not being overly judgmental and fulfilling necessary church responsibilities (Casey [39:43]).

Notable Quotes:
Casey [16:15]: “Small and simple things are going to lay the foundation for a great life.”
Scott [42:56]: “It's a sacred moment to witness and participate in righteous judgment.”

5. Prophecy Fulfillment and Zion’s Flourishing

Timestamp: [21:35] – [37:36]

The hosts examine prophetic elements within Section 64, particularly the five-year prophecy concerning Kirtland as a stronghold for the church and its eventual expansion into a global Zion.

Key Points:

• Five-Year Prophecy: The Lord declares Kirtland as a stronghold for five years, which aligns with historical events leading to the Kirtland apostasy and subsequent migrations (Casey [21:35]).
• Global Zion: Transitioning from a physical city to a global concept, Zion is interpreted as the collective of faithful Latter-day Saints worldwide, continuously flourishing through temple building and missionary work (Scott [23:10]).

Notable Quotes:
Casey [21:35]: “The Lord sets Kirtland as a stronghold, and five years later we see the signs of fulfillment.”
Scott [23:10]: “Zion is flourishing on the hills and rejoicing on the mountains.”

6. Addressing Controversies and Misinterpretations

Timestamp: [37:36] – [56:02]

The episode tackles potential controversies arising from interpretations of Section 64, particularly concerning the concept of lineage and righteousness.

Key Issues Discussed:

• Bloodline Misconceptions: Clarifying that references to "the blood of Ephraim" are covenantal rather than literal, countering any notions of inherent righteousness based on lineage (Casey [53:35]).
• Modern Misinterpretations: Addressing concerns from members, such as the discomfort expressed by an adopted individual regarding doctrinal statements about bloodlines.
• Doctrine vs. Misstatements by Leaders: Emphasizing that official church doctrine is rooted in the standard works, not individual leader interpretations or sayings.

Notable Quotes:
Casey [53:35]: “It's the covenantal relationship with God, not your lineage, that defines you.”
Scott [56:02]: “The real blessings come when we demonstrate our own commitment to the Lord and to the Gospel.”

7. Consequences and Divine Balance

Timestamp: [56:02] – [59:29]

Scott and Casey wrap up by reflecting on the balance between divine mercy and justice as depicted in Section 64. They highlight that while forgiveness is essential, it does not negate the need for accountability and adherence to commandments.

Key Points:

• Divine Mercy vs. Justice: Forgiveness is a pathway to mercy, but disobedience and unrepentant behavior still invoke divine justice.
• Endurance and Faith: Encouraging members to remain steadfast in their discipleship despite challenges, assuring them of eventual triumph in building Zion (Casey [57:42]).
• Role of Little Actions: Emphasizing that small, faithful actions collectively contribute to the grand work of establishing Zion.

Notable Quotes:
Scott [56:02]: “The Lord is merciful and he forgives sins... continue to have faith in the Lord.”
Casey [57:42]: “One heart, one mind. You’re not there yet. Keep forgiving each other.”

Conclusion

Episode 129 of Church History Matters provides a comprehensive examination of Section 64 of the Doctrine and Covenants, highlighting the indispensable role of forgiveness within the LDS Church. Through historical analysis, scriptural insights, and practical applications, Scott and Casey underscore how forgiveness fosters personal growth, strengthens church unity, and aligns with divine teachings. They adeptly navigate potential controversies, offering clarity on doctrinal matters while reinforcing the importance of balancing mercy with accountability. The episode serves as both an educational resource and an inspirational guide for members striving to embody the principles of forgiveness in their daily lives.

End of Summary