Podcast Summary: followHIM Episode – Doctrine & Covenants 81-83 Part 1 • Dr. Eva Witesman • July 21-27 • Come Follow Me

Introduction

In this enlightening episode of the followHIM podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway engage in a profound discussion with Dr. Eva Witesman, exploring Doctrine & Covenants (D&C) sections 81-83. Released on July 16, 2025, this episode delves deep into the early revelations that shaped the structure and covenants of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), providing listeners with rich insights applicable both historically and in contemporary contexts.

Overview of Doctrine & Covenants 81-83

The conversation begins with an introduction to the focal sections of the D&C. Hank Smith outlines the historical context:

“In March 1832, the Lord called Jesse Gauss to be a counselor to Joseph Smith and in the presidency of the high priesthood, now called the first presidency.” [05:52]

Dr. Witesman emphasizes the timeless relevance of the principle:

“Unto whom much is given, much is required.” [01:37]

This foundational idea underscores the responsibilities that come with priesthood authority and temporal blessings.

The Passing of Callings and Priesthood Authority

John Bytheway reflects on the dynamic nature of priesthood callings, likening it to the biblical transition between Elijah and Elisha:

“I think about this mantle of a counselor in the presidency being passed from one man to another.” [07:08]

He shares a personal experience to illustrate the profound connection and loss felt when a priesthood role concludes:

“There was this depth of vision that I had about the young women who were within my stewardship... that gift was withdrawn from me.” [09:00]

Dr. Witesman adds a layer of emotional depth, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of such transitions:

“I’m sure a lot of heads are nodding out there... It’s a bittersweet thing.” [10:35]

The Role of Councils in the Early Church and Today

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the evolution and importance of councils within the church. John Bytheway highlights:

“This isn't just an organizational structure that gets the right people in the room to have a meeting. A council is different from a meeting.” [16:00]

He elaborates on how councils are designed to foster meaningful gospel instruction and righteous action, diverging from mere efficient meetings:

“Councils have a different standard. It’s about gaining the richness of the experience... holy decision making.” [30:23]

Dr. Witesman reinforces the concept by sharing insights from their experiences:

“We are modeling that we are showing our young people how it’s supposed to work.” [19:27]

Faithfulness in Counsel and Serving Others

The discussion emphasizes the importance of being "faithful in counsel," a theme resonating through both early revelations and modern church practices. Hank Smith shares an anecdote illustrating the power of honest feedback within a council:

“Sister Reyna Alberto... Elder Bednar stopped her and said... 'I want to hear everything you have to say.'” [20:17]

John Bytheway expands on fostering an environment where all voices are heard, stressing the need for humility and receptiveness to feedback:

“It can be very vulnerable... How do you prepare yourself for that feedback?” [26:37]

Temporal Stewardship and the United Firm

Transitioning to the management of temporal blessings, the hosts and Dr. Witesman explore the concept of the "United Firm." Hank Smith connects this to scriptural teachings:

“Those who go to the temple beat their swords into plowshares... feeding people. I'm growing food.” [39:25]

John Bytheway reinforces the intertwining of spiritual and temporal responsibilities, referencing Sister Eubank's perspective on the church's humanitarian efforts:

“The greatest charitable development on the planet is for people to bind themselves to their God and mean it.” [39:25]

Personal Stories Illustrating Church Principles

The episode is enriched with personal narratives that bring the discussed principles to life. Hank Smith recounts Mervyn Arnold’s story from the April 2004 General Conference, illustrating the profound impact of dedicated ministry:

“Brother Marques didn’t just give me a ride to church. The corps made sure I remained active.” [47:15]

John Bytheway shares insights from the Ballard Center for Social Impact, highlighting innovative approaches to ministering and community service:

“The students who were the greatest critics... discovered that they could actually see whole big social problems from the vantage point of this one person that they loved.” [46:00]

Conclusion and Preview for Part 2

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts reflect on the cyclical nature of forgiveness and judgment in D&C sections 81-83. John Bytheway connects these themes to broader scriptural teachings about stewardship and accountability:

“The more commandments and covenants that you have available to you, the more accountable you are to those covenants before God.” [63:22]

Hank Smith touches on the personal transformation that comes from shedding worldly frameworks, echoing Dr. Witesman's journey toward deeper revelation:

“...the floodgates opened for more personal revelation between my Father in heaven and me...” [75:02]

Dr. Witesman concludes with a powerful statement on overcoming societal constructs to fully embrace one's divine identity:

“If I could give one gift, it would be the ability to sort of drop scales from our eyes...” [75:35]

Listeners are encouraged to tune in for Part 2, where the discussion will continue to unravel the intricacies of D&C sections 81-83, delving deeper into the principles of consecration and the establishment of the United Firm.

Notable Quotes:

• John Bytheway [07:08]:
  “I think about this mantle of a counselor in the presidency being passed from one man to another.”

• Dr. Eva Witesman [10:35]:
  “I’m sure a lot of heads are nodding out there... It’s a bittersweet thing.”

• Hank Smith [20:17]:
  “Sister Roberto, you don't need to apologize. I want to hear everything you have to say.”

• John Bytheway [26:37]:
  “How do you prepare yourself for that feedback with the humility that that requires, the good humor that that requires.”

• Dr. Eva Weitzman [19:27]:
  “Live, care, invite, unite. Which is a great way to say it.”

This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of early church revelations and their lasting impact, blending historical context with personal growth and contemporary application. Whether you're a longtime member or new to the LDS faith, Dr. Eva Witesman's expertise provides valuable perspectives to enrich your understanding and practice of gospel principles.