Podcast Summary: followHIM Episode on Doctrine & Covenants 77-80 Part 2 with Dr. Matthew Hinton

Introduction and Overview

In this engaging episode of the followHIM podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve deep into Doctrine & Covenants sections 77-80 with esteemed guest Dr. Matthew Hinton. Released on July 9, 2025, this episode continues Part 2 of their exploration, focusing on the profound teachings and historical contexts of these scriptures within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' Come, Follow Me study program.

Patience and God's Timing

Dr. Hinton opens the discussion by emphasizing God's unparalleled patience and deliberate timing. Reflecting on his experience as a bishop, he shares, “God is really patient. Sometimes it's the timing of the work in the vineyard, the waiting that happens” (01:59). This sentiment resonates with Jacob 5 from the Book of Mormon, where Dr. Hinton highlights God's methodical approach to building faith and aiding those who have strayed: “He is deliberate, he's careful, he's patient. Get some hope from that” (01:59).

Relationships and Divine Orchestration

The conversation progresses to the importance of building the right relationships as part of God's plan. Dr. Hinton recounts a personal anecdote where he was prompted by the Holy Ghost to assist a man with his sprinkler system, leading to a long-lasting friendship and eventual leadership role in the church: “God is really good at what he does, and the Savior is perfect at what he does” (03:42). This story underscores the belief that God orchestrates interactions to fulfill His divine purposes.

The United Firm and the Law of Consecration

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Doctrine & Covenants section 78, where Dr. Hinton discusses the establishment of the United Firm—a cooperative organization intended to manage church resources and support the temporal needs of its members. He explains, “The bigger challenge here is how do I create that Zion people? Not just solve a temporal problem, but make a celestial people” (14:41). The hosts and Dr. Hinton explore the intricacies of living the principles of consecration, emphasizing that true transformation begins within individuals.

The Transformation of Hearts and Zion

Hank Smith introduces a quote from Sister Sharon Eubank, highlighting the transformative power of spiritual commitments over mere financial aid: “The greatest charitable development on the planet is for people to bind themselves to their God and mean it” (19:55). This perspective aligns with President Ezra Taft Benson’s assertion that “The Lord works from the inside out. The world works from the outside in” (19:04), reinforcing the theme that lasting change is rooted in personal and spiritual transformation.

Scripture and God’s Plan

Dr. Hinton draws parallels between Mosiah 4 and Doctrine & Covenants 78, emphasizing the interconnectedness of spiritual and temporal well-being. He articulates, “God wants us to obtain a remission of our sins and retain a remission by how we treat each other” (06:56). This framework underscores that managing temporal matters is intrinsically linked to achieving spiritual goals and building a cohesive, celestial community.

Individual Mission Calls: Jared Carter and Stephen Burnett

The episode shifts focus to Doctrine & Covenants sections 79 and 80, where Dr. Hinton discusses the mission calls of Jared Carter and Stephen Burnett. Highlighting Jared Carter’s impactful service, he notes, “Brother Jared Carter’s own words: I have been gone six months and two days. The Lord has permitted me to administer the gospel to 79 souls” (44:45). Similarly, the call of Stephen Burnett illustrates the challenges and unwavering faith required to fulfill missionary obligations, even amidst personal hardships.

The Legacy and Lessons from Early Saints

Reflecting on the dedication and sacrifices of early church leaders like Newell K. Whitney and Edward Partridge, the discussion underscores their role in establishing foundational structures despite immense challenges: “These early saints who did that, Noel K. Whitney, Edward Partridge…these are remarkable saints that learn these lessons” (13:54). Their legacy serves as a testament to the enduring principles of faith, sacrifice, and communal support.

Application to Modern Believers

Hank and John draw actionable insights for contemporary listeners, encouraging patience, humility, and consistent effort in personal and communal spiritual growth. They stress the importance of everyday actions reflecting one's commitment to Christ, stating, “If you just preach my gospel, you go anywhere…You cannot get this wrong” (57:32). This guidance is aimed at fostering a celestial mindset and embodying the principles of Zion in daily life.

Conclusion and Insights

As the episode concludes, Dr. Hinton and the hosts reflect on the overarching theme of God’s grand design and the individual’s role within it. Dr. Hinton passionately affirms, “He is building his kingdom on the earth. The Church of the Firstborn. He wants all of us to be part of it” (54:16). The discussion wraps up with a reaffirmation of faith, patience, and the continuous transformation of hearts as foundational to participating in God’s eternal plan.

Notable Quotes

• John Bytheway (00:04): “One of my favorite things in life is having both books of scripture open, going back and forth. ... To me that is heaven, Disneyland.”

• Dr. Matthew Hinton (01:59): “God is really patient. Sometimes it's the timing of the work in the vineyard, the waiting that happens.”

• Hank Smith (19:55): “The greatest charitable development on the planet is for people to bind themselves to their God and mean it.”

• Dr. Matthew Hinton (44:45): “I have been gone six months and two days. The Lord has permitted me to administer the gospel to 79 souls.”

• John Bytheway (57:32): “If you just preach my gospel, you go anywhere. I love that one.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of followHIM masterfully intertwines scriptural analysis with personal anecdotes, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of Doctrine & Covenants sections 77-80. Through heartfelt discussions and insightful revelations, Hank, John, and Dr. Hinton provide both historical context and practical applications, inspiring believers to deepen their faith and actively participate in God's divine plan.