Summary of followHIM Podcast Episode: Ether 1-5 Part 2 with Dr. George Pierce & Dr. Krystal Pierce

In this enlightening second part of the Ether 1-5 series, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway engage in a profound discussion with Dr. George Pierce and Dr. Krystal Pierce. Together, they delve deep into the early chapters of the Book of Ether, unpacking themes of covenants, faith, divine interaction, and personal growth. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone seeking a richer understanding of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Come, Follow Me study materials.

1. Understanding Covenants and the Promised Land

The conversation begins with a detailed exploration of covenants as presented in Scripture. Dr. Krystal Pierce provides a foundational understanding:

Crystall Pierce [00:24]: "We can think of a covenant as a solemn two-way promise... Abraham and his family... God's part of that is to give them property, prosperity, to bless them and bless those who bless them."

This sets the stage for comparing various covenants throughout the Book of Mormon, emphasizing the recurring theme that obedience to God's commandments ensures prosperity and divine favor, while disobedience leads to loss.

2. The Jaredite Covenant and Its Implications

Dr. John Bytheway draws parallels between the Jaredite covenant and other promised land covenants:

John Bytheway [02:47]: "This is a Gentile book here. He's saying, you see that there's a Jaredite covenant. You see, there's a Nephite covenant. You are also part of this promised land covenant."

The discussion highlights Moroni’s warning about the consequences of breaking covenants, using historical outcomes of the Jaredites and Nephites as cautionary tales.

3. The Brother of Jared’s Test of Faith

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the Brother of Jared’s journey, particularly his challenges in keeping the covenant. Dr. George Pierce emphasizes human frailty:

George Pierce [04:26]: "It ends in them destroying each other. And that could easily happen to us."

The hosts and guests discuss the Brother of Jared’s four-year pause, his failure to persist in prayer, and the subsequent chastening by the Lord:

John Bytheway [06:12]: "A God who chastens is a God who cares. He doesn't walk away and say, oh, fine, forget it."

4. Divine Problem-Solving and Human Agency

The conversation shifts to the Brother of Jared’s innovative solution to the lack of light in the barges. Dr. Krystal Pierce connects this to ancient practices:

Crystall Pierce [07:34]: "The Lord gives him the answer... Pop the top, get air, close the top, pop the bottom, get rid of your refuse."

Dr. George Pierce relates this to modern faith-based problem-solving:

George Pierce [17:53]: "When we think of problem solving, that is a divine attribute, to try to be able to solve your own problem with the help of the Lord."

5. The Power of Faith and Revelation

A pivotal moment occurs when the Brother of Jared demonstrates immense faith by creating stones to produce light, leading to a miraculous revelation:

Crystall Pierce [23:57]: "You got this, Lord."

The discussion underscores the importance of proactive faith and personal initiative in spiritual growth, highlighting how the Brother of Jared’s actions led to unprecedented divine encounters.

6. The Sealed Portion and Its Significance

Dr. John Bytheway and Dr. George Pierce explore the enigmatic sealed portion of Ether, drawing parallels to Joseph Smith’s experiences with the Book of Mormon:

John Bytheway [38:34]: "Someday you will have these revelations, but for now, you're getting piece by piece by piece as you're ready to hear it and receive it."

The guests reflect on the role of faith in receiving divine knowledge, emphasizing that complete understanding awaits those who diligently seek it.

7. The Testimony of the Three Witnesses

The episode delves into the testimonies of the Book of Mormon’s three witnesses—Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris—highlighting their unwavering support despite personal challenges:

John Bytheway [41:25]: "They were all able to witness the gold plates... None of them ever denied seeing the gold plates or ever went back on their testimony of the Book of Mormon."

This segment reinforces the idea that true faith endures through trials, mirroring the steadfastness expected in covenant relationships.

8. Personal Reflections and Spiritual Insights

Throughout the episode, Dr. George Pierce and Dr. Krystal Pierce share personal anecdotes and scholarly insights, bridging ancient scripture with contemporary faith experiences. Dr. Krystal Pierce recounts her academic and spiritual journey:

Crystall Pierce [49:32]: "When I got baptized... It all makes sense academically, archeologically, anthropologically, sociologically, linguistically. And then it makes sense spiritually, that it is truth."

These reflections highlight the harmonious relationship between scholarly study and personal revelation, encouraging listeners to seek both intellectual and spiritual growth.

9. The Nature of Divine Interaction

The discussion concludes with a contemplation of God’s nature, emphasizing His desire for a reciprocal relationship with humanity:

Hank Smith [28:29]: "What did we just learn about what God is like? That's what I love. It's not just that he's real, but what's he like."

This final reflection encapsulates the episode’s core message: understanding God’s character is essential for deep, meaningful covenants and spiritual progression.

Conclusion

This episode of followHIM masterfully intertwines scriptural analysis, personal testimony, and theological exploration to provide a comprehensive understanding of Ether 1-5. By examining covenants, faith, divine problem-solving, and the steadfastness of true believers, Dr. George Pierce and Dr. Krystal Pierce offer listeners valuable insights into living a covenant-focused life. Whether you're new to the scriptures or seeking deeper knowledge, this episode serves as a guide to enriching your spiritual journey.

Notable Quotes:

• Crystall Pierce [00:24]: "We can think of a covenant as a solemn two-way promise... Abraham and his family... God's part of that is to give them property, prosperity, to bless them and bless those who bless them."

• John Bytheway [02:47]: "This is a Gentile book here. He's saying, you see that there's a Jaredite covenant. You see, there's a Nephite covenant. You are also part of this promised land covenant."

• John Bytheway [06:12]: "A God who chastens is a God who cares. He doesn't walk away and say, oh, fine, forget it."

• Crystall Pierce [23:57]: "You got this, Lord."

• John Bytheway [38:34]: "Someday you will have these revelations, but for now, you're getting piece by piece by piece as you're ready to hear it and receive it."

This episode stands as a testament to the power of scripture study, faithful living, and the ever-present guidance of the divine in navigating life’s challenges.