followHIM: A Come, Follow Me Podcast – Episode Summary

Title: Ether 12-15 Part 2 • Dr. Doug Benson • November 25 - December 1 • Come Follow Me
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Guest: Dr. Doug Benson
Release Date: November 20, 2024

Overview

In this insightful episode of the followHIM Podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway engage in a profound discussion with Dr. Doug Benson, delving into the intricate themes of Ether chapters 12 through 15 from The Book of Mormon. This episode, titled "Ether 12-15 Part 2," explores the interplay between faith, hope, charity, and human weakness, offering listeners both theological insights and practical strategies for managing emotions, particularly anger.

Key Topics and Discussions

1. Understanding Faith, Hope, and Charity in Ether

Dr. Doug Benson begins by examining Moroni's reflections in Ether 12:28-29, emphasizing the relationship between faith, hope, and charity. He explains how Moroni illustrates that:

• Faith and Hope as Behaviors: Moroni provides examples of individuals exercising faith and hope through their actions, which leads to blessings, albeit not always in expected forms. This demonstrates how behavior rooted in faith can help individuals overcome their natural weaknesses.

  “People do things, and because they have done things, they’re blessed.” (Doug Benson, 00:07)

• Charity as Essential and Resultant: Charity, described as the pure love of Christ, is both necessary for fostering hope and faith and is simultaneously enhanced by them. Without charity, faith and hope lack depth and sustainability.

  “Charity is the attribute that is both necessary for and the result of hope and faith.” (Doug Benson, 02:15)

• Acceptance of Weakness: Moroni acknowledges human imperfections and the inevitability of suffering, urging believers to seek charity to transcend their weaknesses through divine grace.

  “Without charity, we are nothing.” (Doug Benson, 01:15)

2. The Concept of Opposition: Between and Within

The conversation shifts to the idea of opposition, drawing parallels between Dr. Benson's concept of dialectics and traditional doctrines of opposition. They explore:

• Opposition Between Things: Typically seen as a conflict between good and evil, truth and falsehood. This form requires discernment to differentiate and choose the righteous path.

• Opposition Within Things: More nuanced, it involves the coexistence of contrasting elements within a single entity—such as sadness and joy or anger and love. Recognizing and balancing these internal oppositions is crucial for personal growth and emotional stability.

  “Sometimes we spend a lot of time and energy fighting something that's not terrible.” (Hank Smith, 10:58)

• Practical Implications: Understanding internal opposition helps individuals navigate complex emotions without letting one aspect overpower rational decision-making.

  “Find the truth in the thing.” (Hank Smith, 11:01)

3. Emotions and Their Impact on Behavior

A significant portion of the discussion centers on how intense emotions, especially anger, can drive destructive behaviors. Dr. Benson analyzes Ether chapters 14 and 15, highlighting:

• Destructive Anger: The narrative in Ether illustrates how unchecked anger leads to wars, division, and ultimately, self-destruction. Characters like Cory Antimer exemplify how emotions can cloud judgment and perpetuate cycles of violence.

  “They were drunk with anger. Even as a man who is drunk with wine.” (John Bytheway, 17:35)

• Natural Consequences: The text suggests that acting on negative emotions brings about natural repercussions, such as curses and loss, not as direct divine punishment but as outcomes of persistent emotional turmoil.

  “Great was the curse upon the land. It doesn't say that God cursed the land.” (Doug Benson, 16:22)

4. Managing Anger: Practical Strategies

Transitioning from analysis to application, Dr. Benson offers actionable advice on handling anger:

• Wise Mind Concept: Drawing from psychological principles, he introduces the idea of the "wise mind" as a balance between emotional and rational thinking. This synthesis allows for thoughtful and compassionate responses rather than impulsive reactions.

  “A wise mind is this synthesis of those two things.” (Doug Benson, 20:54)

• Intervention Techniques:

  • Deep Breathing and Time-Outs: Simple methods to reduce immediate emotional intensity.

  • Service and Charity: Engaging in acts of kindness can counterbalance anger and foster a more compassionate outlook.

    “Do some type of service project. Do something nice for someone.” (Doug Benson, 25:17)

  • Radical Acceptance: Embracing the reality of a situation can alleviate the persistent cycle of anger and resentment.

    “Accepting reality as a necessity to changing reality.” (Doug Benson, 27:46)

• Mindfulness and Present Focus: Emphasizing the importance of addressing current emotions rather than being trapped by past actions or future anxieties.

  “Focus on what's my current emotion. If I'm noticing anger, go back to those ideas of how do I intervene now?” (Doug Benson, 35:34)

5. Real-World Application: A Story from President Monson

To illustrate the devastating impact of anger, the hosts recount a poignant story shared by President Thomas S. Monson. This narrative describes a young couple whose momentary anger in a car accident led to lasting tragedy, underscoring the profound need for effective anger management.

“In just a moment of anger, have destroyed what takes years to build.” (Hank Smith, 34:00)

Dr. Benson reflects on this story, reiterating the importance of addressing anger proactively to prevent irreversible harm.

“I know that my weakness can become strong if I just have faith and hope and charity.” (Doug Benson, 38:11)

Conclusions and Takeaways

Throughout the episode, Dr. Doug Benson masterfully intertwines scriptural analysis with psychological insights, providing a comprehensive understanding of human emotions and their spiritual implications. Key takeaways include:

• Embrace Charity: Cultivating the pure love of Christ is foundational for overcoming personal weaknesses and fostering resilience through faith and hope.

• Balance Emotions and Reason: Recognizing and harmonizing opposing internal forces leads to more balanced and effective decision-making.

• Proactive Anger Management: Implementing practical strategies can prevent destructive behaviors and promote healthier relationships.

• Mindfulness and Acceptance: Staying present and accepting reality are crucial steps in healing and personal growth.

• Scriptures and Psychology Align: The principles discussed in the Book of Mormon resonate deeply with contemporary psychological practices, affirming their timeless relevance.

Notable Quotes

• Doug Benson (00:07): "People do things, and because they have done things, they’re blessed."

• Hank Smith (10:58): "Sometimes we spend a lot of time and energy fighting something that's not terrible."

• John Bytheway (17:35): "They were drunk with anger. Even as a man who is drunk with wine."

• Doug Benson (20:54): "A wise mind is this synthesis of those two things."

• Doug Benson (25:17): "Do some type of service project. Do something nice for someone."

• Hank Smith (34:00): "In just a moment of anger, have destroyed what takes years to build."

Final Thoughts

This episode of the followHIM Podcast offers a profound exploration of Ether 12-15, blending theological discourse with practical psychological strategies. Dr. Doug Benson's expertise provides listeners with valuable tools to navigate their emotions, cultivate charity, and strengthen their faith. Whether you're grappling with personal weaknesses or seeking to deepen your understanding of scriptural principles, this discussion promises to enrich your spiritual and emotional well-being.

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End of Summary