followHIM Podcast Episode Summary: "Home Teaching Drug Deal • followHIM Favorites"
Release Date: March 6, 2025
In the "Home Teaching Drug Deal" episode of the followHIM Favorites series, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into an intriguing and humorous anecdote that underscores the importance of preparation and discernment in the home teaching (now ministering) program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This episode, released on March 6, 2025, offers listeners a blend of scriptural insights, real-life experiences, and practical lessons to enhance their Come, Follow Me studies.
Introduction to Section 20 of the Doctrine and Covenants
The episode begins with John introducing the focus of their discussion: Section 20 of the Doctrine and Covenants. He remarks, “We are in Section 20 of the Doctrine and Covenants. You know this section. Tell us what it is” (00:00).
Darrell Bud, a guest on the show, elaborates on the significance of this section, describing it as the “constitution of the church,” outlining its organizational structure and operational guidelines (00:17). John draws a parallel to the "first handbook of instruction," emphasizing that Section 20 serves as a foundational text for church administration.
The conversation highlights a particular directive from the section: believers are encouraged to "visit the house of each member and exhort them to pray vocally in secret and attend all their family duties." This directive has evolved into the home teaching program, now known as the ministering program, which aims to foster fellowship and support among church members.
The Anecdote: A Home Teaching Turned Unexpected
John transitions into the heart of the episode by introducing an article written by Paul Raleigh, which recounts an experience involving Darrell Bud and an elder Corn President during a home teaching visit. John states, “There is this part of the new handbook here where it says that we should visit the house of each member and exhort them to pray vocally in secret and attend all their family duties... This wins the award, absolutely, for making an appointment before you go to teach at someone's house” (00:24).
Paul Raleigh praises Bud’s narrative, noting his “cheerful spirit and good sense of humor” (00:24). The story unfolds as Bud and the elder president visit a lapsed LDS member’s apartment, expecting a routine ministering visit. However, their visit takes an unexpected turn when they are confronted by the police.
At 01:00, Bud recounts the escalating situation: "Before the boyfriend could open the door, it flew open and 10 armed men wearing Kevlar vests bearing the word police swarmed in. Ordering everyone to the floor." The tension peaks as Bud lies face down, and the elder attempts to explain their presence, only to be met with further aggression.
A particularly memorable moment occurs at 02:18, when a large officer raises his finger threateningly: “I said, get on the ground.” In the ensuing chaos, Bud humorously reflects on his predicament: “I never thought I would need to support the President like that” (02:18). Amidst the fear, Bud finds humor in the irony of their situation, laughing even as they are handcuffed and searched.
The revelation comes when the elders finally assert their spiritual mission, leading the officers to momentarily pause and request church identification. However, despite their attempts to clarify their intent, the outcome remains tragic: the couple they aimed to help succumbs to circumstances beyond their assistance, symbolizing lost opportunities to guide "lost sheep" back to the fold.
Bud poignantly summarizes the harrowing experience: “I knew my temple recommend could get me in the house of the Lord, but I never dreamed it could get me out of going to the big house” (02:16).
Lessons Learned: The Importance of Preparation
Reflecting on the ordeal, John reiterates the core lesson derived from the narrative: the necessity of making appointments before home visits. He emphasizes, “Make an appointment. Make an appointment” as a practical takeaway to avoid unwelcomed and potentially hazardous situations during ministering efforts.
The hosts connect this lesson back to Section 20, reinforcing the idea that thoughtful preparation and respect for individual circumstances are crucial components of effective ministry. By ensuring appointments are set, ministering efforts become more purposeful, respectful, and less intrusive, thereby fostering genuine connections and support within the community.
Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes
As the episode concludes, John invites listeners to engage further with the followHIM Podcast, highlighting upcoming discussions and expert interviews designed to enrich their Come, Follow Me studies. He mentions a forthcoming episode featuring Dr. Casey Griffiths, an expert in incompetence, who will provide deeper insights into the complexities of Section 20.
John encourages listeners to subscribe and participate in future episodes, promising continued exploration of favorite stories and lessons that resonate with diverse age groups and backgrounds within the LDS community.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- John Bytheway: “We are in Section 20 of the Doctrine and Covenants. You know this section. Tell us what it is.” (00:00)
- Darrell Bud: “I never thought I would need to support the President like that” (02:18)
- John Bytheway: “Make an appointment. Make an appointment.” (Final Segment)
Conclusion
The "Home Teaching Drug Deal" episode of followHIM Favorites masterfully intertwines scriptural teachings with real-life experiences, offering listeners both entertainment and valuable lessons. By sharing Darrell Bud’s unexpected encounter during a home teaching visit, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway highlight the importance of preparation, discernment, and adaptability in ministering efforts. This episode serves as a compelling reminder that effective ministry requires not only spiritual dedication but also practical strategies to navigate the complexities of real-world interactions.
For those seeking to make their LDS study fresh, faithful, and fun, this episode exemplifies the enriching content that followHIM consistently delivers every Wednesday morning.
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