Podcast Summary: followHIM Favorites • "Jesus Says We Have to Get Divorced"

Episode Title: followHIM Favorites • Jesus Says We Have to Get Divorced
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Release Date: February 27, 2025
Podcast: followHIM
Podcast Description: Do you ever feel that preparing for your weekly Come, Follow Me lesson falls short? Join hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway as they interview experts to make your study for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Come, Follow Me course not only enjoyable but original and educational. If you are looking for resources to make your LDS study fresh, faithful, and fun—no matter your age—then join us every Wednesday morning.

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of followHIM Favorites, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into the profound topic of repentance as outlined in Doctrine and Covenants Section 19. The discussion pivots around the imperative nature of repentance and its transformative power, drawing parallels with C.S. Lewis’s literary work, "The Great Divorce".

Exploring the Nature of Repentance

Hank Smith initiates the conversation by emphasizing the Lord’s unwavering command to repent, highlighting its necessity to avoid suffering. He states:

"I command you to repent because I don't want you to suffer."
(00:03)

This strong directive underscores the seriousness with which repentance is viewed within the doctrinal context.

C.S. Lewis’s "The Great Divorce" – A Narrative Parallel

To elucidate the concept of repentance, Hank introduces a narrative from C.S. Lewis’s "The Great Divorce". He recounts the story of a man who, posthumously, visits heaven but finds hell to be an unappealing place characterized by monotony and interconnected suffering. The man’s desire to stay in heaven leads him to confront his own sins, symbolized by a "big, red, ugly lizard" perched on his shoulder.

Hank narrates the man's internal struggle to divorce himself from his sins:

"I need you to leave me because I want to stay here in heaven."
(01:18)

The lizard represents the man’s unresolved sins, creating a barrier to his acceptance into heaven despite his desire to repent.

The Struggle Between Sin and Salvation

The dialogue between the man and the lizard encapsulates the human struggle with sin:

"Do you know how long I've been with you? Do you know how much good times we've had together?"
(Approx. 02:13)

This personification of sin as a persistent, clawing force illustrates the tangible pain and resistance one might feel when attempting to repent. The man's realization that proximity to the angel (representing the Savior) exacerbates his pain:

"When you are close to me, this really hurts."
(Approx. 04:15)

This metaphor poignantly conveys how confronting one's sins is both painful and necessary for spiritual healing.

Resolution Through Repentance

Despite the torment, the man's yearning to remain in heaven compels him to choose repentance over his attachment to sin. He pleads for help to remove the lizard:

"Can you really kill it?"
(Approx. 05:45)

The angel's assurance of providing the necessary assistance, albeit causing immense pain, signifies the true cost of repentance. The man's eventual acceptance to endure the pain leads to the destruction of his sin, symbolizing the purification that follows genuine repentance.

"It's worth the pain of repentance, whatever that involves."
(07:09)

Connecting to Doctrine and Covenants Section 19

John Bytheway (referred to as B in the transcript) connects the narrative to Doctrine and Covenants 19, emphasizing the Lord's suffering endured to prevent believers from experiencing similar anguish:

"I've suffered these things for all that they might not suffer if they would repent."
(06:29)

This reinforces the episode’s central theme that repentance, while challenging, is invaluable for spiritual well-being.

Practical Applications of Repentance

Hank extends the discussion to practical steps listeners can take to embrace repentance, acknowledging the inherent pain and embarrassment it might involve:

"Maybe you have to go see the bishop. Maybe you need to go talk to the Bishop. It's worth the pain."
(06:44)

He reassures listeners that seeking guidance from church leaders is a supportive process designed to aid in their spiritual journey, not to judge or shame them.

Final Insights and Encouragement

Concluding the episode, Hank underscores the importance of enduring the pain of repentance for the sake of spiritual advancement:

"It's worth the pain of repentance, whatever that involves."
(07:09)

He encourages listeners to embrace the discomfort as a pathway to a more fulfilling and righteous life, aligning with the teachings of Doctrine and Covenants and the inspirational story drawn from C.S. Lewis.

Conclusion

In this episode of followHIM Favorites, Hank Smith and John Bytheway provide a compelling exploration of repentance, intertwining doctrinal teachings with literary storytelling to illuminate its significance. Through the allegory of "The Great Divorce", listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the challenges and rewards associated with repentance. The hosts adeptly bridge theoretical concepts with practical advice, fostering a relatable and motivational discussion aimed at enhancing the listener’s spiritual journey.

Note: For further insights and discussions, listeners are encouraged to explore the full followHIM podcast available on all major podcast platforms.