Podcast Summary: followHIM – Doctrine & Covenants 60-63 Part 1 • Dr. Scott Esplin • June 9-15 • Come Follow Me
Release Date: June 4, 2025
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Guest: Dr. Scott Esplin
Introduction and Guest Background
The episode begins with hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway welcoming Dr. Scott Esplin, a seasoned teacher and historian with a rich background in Church History and Doctrine at BYU. Dr. Esplin shares insights into his academic journey, highlighting his expertise in the Doctrine and Covenants and his award-winning work on the restoration of Nauvoo.
Hank Smith [00:37]: "Scott, thanks for being here."
John Bytheway [01:13]: "Thanks, John. And Hank, it's good to be with you. Thank you."
Contextualizing Doctrine & Covenants Sections 60-63
The discussion delves into Doctrine & Covenants (D&C) Sections 60-63, focusing on the early Church leaders' mission to Missouri and their efforts to establish Zion. Dr. Esplin emphasizes the historical and spiritual significance of these sections, explaining how they guide the principles of building a Zion-like community.
John Bytheway [02:21]: "They have located Zion. They've dedicated a center place of Zion and a lot for the Temple. They're ready to go home."
Dr. Esplin reflects on the challenges faced by early missionaries, who were navigating uncharted territories both physically and spiritually. He draws parallels to modern-day believers, underscoring the timeless relevance of these teachings.
Principles of Speed and Haste
A significant portion of the conversation centers around the balance between moving forward with purpose (“speedily”) and avoiding reckless haste. This theme is explored through the interpretation of Section 60, where missionaries are instructed to return swiftly without being hasty.
John Bytheway [20:27]: "The Lord's helping these early saints learn this principle as they become Zion. Like, move forward, don't wait to be told."
Hank Smith relates this principle to everyday life, illustrating it with personal anecdotes about teaching his children to drive—encouraging them to go “speedily” without being “in haste.”
Hank Smith [26:35]: "Do many things of your own free will. Thank you for checking. Move forward."
Sharing the Gospel Effectively
The hosts and Dr. Esplin discuss effective methods of sharing the Gospel, contrasting forceful scriptural debates with more natural, relationship-based interactions. Emphasis is placed on authenticity and building genuine connections.
Hank Smith [63:04]: "I did not think of that. Thanks for mentioning those resources. Hank. I was reminded too when Scott was talking about what has been said in General Conference."
John Bytheway [65:24]: "Love, share and invite in the example you shared."
Dr. Esplin shares a personal story from the Philippines, highlighting how natural conversations can lead to meaningful Gospel discussions and conversions.
Scott Esplin [66:22]: "We ended up teaching. Her name was Lourdes. Lourdes ended up joining the church and going on a mission."
Understanding Divine Guidance and Agency
The conversation touches upon the concept of agency and divine timing, referencing how the Lord empowers individuals to make choices while providing guidance through the Holy Spirit. The interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency is a key theme.
John Bytheway [44:40]: "You have to keep going."
Scott Esplin [46:03]: "You commit to a course of action, you start moving and if you're in the wrong way, he'll stop you."
This segment encourages listeners to trust in divine guidance while actively making decisions, illustrating how faith and action work hand in hand.
Interpreting Doctrine & Covenants Section 61
Dr. Esplin provides a nuanced interpretation of Section 61, clarifying common misconceptions. He explains that the references to water pertain specifically to the Missouri River and its inherent dangers, rather than a broader metaphysical battle between good and evil.
John Bytheway [51:56]: "If you think about the people you most consider Zion-like, there are people for me who do this."
He underscores God's omnipotence and His role in guiding and protecting believers, reinforcing that divine power is paramount in all situations.
Scott Esplin [55:39]: "The Lord began with God has all power. Yes, there are dangers on the waters. He's going to go on to describe those dangers."
Practical Applications and Takeaways
The hosts and Dr. Esplin conclude with actionable insights for listeners:
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Move Forward with Purpose: Embrace progress without losing sight of meaningful relationships and opportunities to share the Gospel.
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Share Authentically: Engage in natural conversations rather than confrontational debates to effectively share faith.
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Trust in Divine Guidance: Make informed decisions while relying on spiritual promptings and trust in God's plan.
John Bytheway [67:42]: "If you want to look at another principle, this one will bridge us to a couple of other ones I love."
Notable Quotes
- John Bytheway [20:27]: "Journey speedily, but not in haste."
- Scott Esplin [46:29]: "Absolutely."
- Hank Smith [31:04]: "The Lord even says in verse 13, don't idle away your time."
- John Bytheway [44:39]: "We've got to keep going."
Conclusion and Teaser for Part 2
The episode wraps up with reflections on the importance of balancing speed with mindfulness and hints at continued discussions in Part 2.
Hank Smith [67:57]: "Coming up in part two of this episode."
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the principles discussed and stay tuned for the continuation of the exploration of Doctrine & Covenants Sections 60-63.
Resources Mentioned:
- Show Notes: https://followhim.co
- YouTube Channel: FollowHimOfficialChannel
- Instagram: Instagram.com/followhimpodcast
- Facebook: Facebook.com/followhimpodcast
Disclaimer: The followHIM Podcast is not affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The opinions expressed on episodes represent the views of the guests and podcasters alone.