Podcast Summary: followHIM Episode on Doctrine & Covenants 46-48 Part 2 with Prof. Danny Ricks

Episode Details:

• Title: Doctrine & Covenants 46-48 Part 2 • Prof. Danny Ricks • May 12-18 • Come Follow Me
• Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
• Release Date: May 7, 2025
• Duration: Approximately 52 minutes

Introduction to Spiritual Gifts and Wisdom

Timestamp: [00:00 – 00:47]

The episode kicks off with Prof. Danny Ricks introducing part two of the discussion on Doctrine and Covenants sections 46 through 48. The hosts, Hank Smith and John Bytheway, initiate a conversation distinguishing between knowledge and wisdom. John Bytheway humorously illustrates this difference by stating, “Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad” ([00:07]).

Danny Ricks further elaborates, “Knowledge is knowing how to play the banjo. Wisdom is knowing when and in what settings to play the banjo” ([00:27]). Hank reinforces that the discussion is centered on true wisdom, not merely doctrinal wisdom found in section 89, emphasizing that wisdom is pursued for its own sake.

Understanding and Utilizing Spiritual Gifts

Timestamp: [00:37 – 02:46]

The conversation delves into various spiritual gifts outlined in the Doctrine and Covenants, including faith to be healed, the faith to heal others, prophesying, discerning spirits, speaking with tongues, and the interpretation of tongues. John emphasizes that these gifts are bestowed by God for the collective benefit of His children ([00:47]).

Hank shares his personal feelings about the gift of speaking in tongues, expressing both admiration and apprehension. He articulates the purpose of these gifts, stating, “The gifts are given so that God can build his kingdom, so that God can come closer to him” ([01:08]). Hank underscores that spiritual gifts should not be used for personal aggrandizement but to further God's kingdom, highlighting Elder Joseph Smith’s insight that “the ultimate design of tongues is to speak to foreigners” ([02:46]).

The Role of Mentorship in Spiritual Development

Timestamp: [02:46 – 07:12]

Danny Ricks shares personal anecdotes about the transformative impact of mentorship in his life. He recalls how mentors recognized potential in him that he hadn't seen himself, fostering personal growth and spiritual development. Danny reflects, “I can remember all of my young men leaders and my bishops... but I remember my mentors, every one of them” ([06:34]).

Hank and John discuss the importance of recognizing and nurturing these gifts in others, drawing parallels to Paul’s analogy of the body of Christ—emphasizing that every individual has a unique and necessary role within the larger spiritual community.

Avoiding Criticism and Fostering Charity

Timestamp: [07:12 – 14:12]

The discussion shifts to the detrimental effects of criticism within the community. Elder Holland’s 2007 talk, “Tongues of Angels,” is cited, encouraging members to avoid verbal and emotional abuse. Hank quotes Elder Holland: “The sin of verbal abuse knows no gender. Bridle your tongue” ([04:43 – 05:06]).

John Bytheway and Danny Ricks explore the idea that criticism primarily harms the critic, not the one being criticized. They reference teachings that discourage criticism unless it is constructive and invites positive change. Danny mentions Elder Oaks’ perspective that avoiding criticism protects the spiritual well-being of the individual, stating, “The primary reason for the commandment to avoid criticism is to protect the spiritual well being of the criticizer” ([13:07 – 13:31]).

Embracing and Utilizing Family History Tools

Timestamp: [14:12 – 35:18]

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the importance of family history and the utilization of modern tools like the FamilySearch app and the Get Involved app. Hank presents impressive statistics on the exponential growth of indexed names over the years, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence in accelerating family history work: “From 2006 to 2013, over 1 billion names were indexed” ([36:39]).

Danny Ricks shares personal insights on how these tools enhance the sense of connection to one’s ancestors and provide a deeper understanding of personal identity and purpose. He encourages listeners to engage with these applications, suggesting that even spending just ten minutes a day can make a meaningful impact: “If everyone spent 10 minutes of their day... what a difference it would make” ([36:36 – 36:39]).

Hank emphasizes that family history work not only preserves genealogical records but also invites spiritual blessings, reinforcing the call to action for listeners to become actively involved in this divine mandate.

Trusting in Divine Agency and Purpose

Timestamp: [35:18 – 46:08]

The discussion transitions to the concept of agency and trusting in God’s plan, as outlined in Doctrine and Covenants section 48. Hank highlights the importance of exercising personal agency: “Do what you want to do. God can exalt plumbers. God can exalt teachers. God can exalt doctors” ([41:36 – 41:37]).

John Bytheway and Danny Ricks address common anxieties related to making life choices, such as career paths and personal decisions. They encourage listeners to rely on divine guidance and trust that God’s plan is inherently good, stating, “Relax. Take a deep breath. As seemeth me good. As seemeth them good. Do what you need to” ([44:03 – 45:25]).

The hosts emphasize that fear of making incorrect choices can paralyze individuals, but reassurances from Scriptural teachings affirm that God’s omniscience ensures that He supports righteous decisions. They encourage embracing God-given agency with confidence and faith.

Personal Testimonies and the Restoration

Timestamp: [46:08 – 50:22]

In the latter part of the episode, Prof. Danny Ricks shares his personal testimony of the Restoration and its profound impact on his life. He underscores the centrality of Jesus Christ in his faith: “Jesus is the Christ. His resurrection's real. He is risen... everything else is an appendage to that” ([48:37 – 48:44]).

Danny recounts how studying the Restoration and church history has strengthened his testimony rather than weakened it, countering narratives that such studies might lead to doubt. He expresses deep gratitude for the Restoration, highlighting its role in providing peace, joy, and an eternal perspective: “The peace that I have, the joy that I can feel in good times because of Jesus Christ” ([48:37 – 48:44]).

Hank and John share personal stories about family history, emphasizing the emotional and spiritual connections that come from preserving and engaging with one’s lineage. They advocate for utilizing available tools to bolster these connections, enhancing one’s sense of purpose and belonging within God’s eternal plan.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Timestamp: [50:22 – 52:00]

As the episode wraps up, the hosts and Prof. Danny Ricks reiterate the importance of engaging with spiritual gifts, family history, and trusting in God’s agency. They encourage listeners to utilize technological tools to further their spiritual and genealogical work, ensuring that the blessings of the Restoration are accessible to all.

John Bytheway and Hank Smith extend their gratitude to Prof. Danny Ricks for his insightful contributions and remind listeners to explore resources available on their website and social media platforms. They conclude with a heartfelt invitation to continue following the teachings of Jesus Christ and applying them in daily life.

Notable Quotes:

• John Bytheway: “Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.” ([00:07])

• Danny Ricks: “Knowledge is knowing how to play the banjo. Wisdom is knowing when and in what settings to play the banjo.” ([00:27])

• Hank Smith: “The gifts are given so that God can build his kingdom, so that God can come closer to him.” ([01:08])

• Danny Ricks: “The primary reason for the commandment to avoid criticism is to protect the spiritual well being of the criticizer.” ([13:07])

• Hank Smith: “Do what you want to do. God can exalt plumbers. God can exalt teachers. God can exalt doctors.” ([41:36])

• Danny Ricks: “Everything good in my life has come because God restored a beautiful doctrine or principle through the prophet Joseph.” ([48:37])

This episode of the followHIM podcast offers a profound exploration of Doctrine & Covenants sections 46-48, emphasizing the distinction between knowledge and wisdom, the responsible use of spiritual gifts, the significance of mentorship, the dangers of criticism, and the vital role of family history. Through engaging dialogue and personal testimonies, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, and Prof. Danny Ricks inspire listeners to deepen their faith, embrace their divine potential, and contribute meaningfully to God's kingdom.