Podcast Summary: followHIM – "I Don't Like Church! • followHIM Favorites • July 28 - August 3 • Come Follow Me"
Release Date: July 24, 2025
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Introduction
In this episode of followHIM, titled "I Don't Like Church!", hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into the challenges and triumphs associated with preparing for the weekly Come, Follow Me lessons of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Focusing on a poignant story that illustrates the true essence of priesthood responsibilities, Hank and John explore how young men can magnify their callings to create meaningful impacts within their communities.
Exploring Doctrine & Covenants Section 84
The episode begins with a brief overview of Doctrine & Covenants Section 84, highlighting its significance in outlining priesthood duties and responsibilities. Hank introduces the segment by emphasizing the importance of understanding and magnifying one's priesthood calling:
“...whoso is faithful unto the obtaining of these two priesthoods of which I have spoken and the magnifying their calling are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies.” (B • [00:15])
This sets the stage for the central narrative that follows, underlining the spiritual and communal responsibilities bestowed upon young men through their priesthood offices.
The Story of Allen and the Young Deacons
John recounts an inspiring story shared by President Stephen J. Lund during a recent General Conference, which serves as the heart of the episode:
“In April 2025, one bishop taught his new deacons, quorum presidency these duties. So the young presidency began to talk about what that might look like in their quorum in their ward, they decided they should start visiting elderly ward members to see what they needed and then do that.” (B • [00:30])
The young deacons embark on a mission to serve elderly members of their ward, leading them to Allen, a notoriously difficult and often hostile neighbor. Despite Allen's abrasive demeanor, the deacons persist in their efforts to serve him, exemplifying patience and unwavering dedication.
“The deacons went to work comically, ignoring his insults while they shoveled snow and took out trash. Deacons can be hard to hate, and Allen eventually began to love them.” (B • [02:08])
This persistent kindness gradually softens Allen, transforming his initial resistance into genuine affection for the deacons. Their consistent service culminates in Allen expressing his desire to quit smoking, prompting the deacons to take decisive action:
“One day in quorum meeting, he tenderly asked them to pray for him to quit smoking. And so they did. Then they followed him home and confiscated all of his tobacco.” (B • [03:00])
Tragically, Allen passes away before he can be baptized, but his final request is fulfilled by the deacons-turned-priests, who serve as pallbearers and speakers at his funeral, embodying the true spirit of their priesthood callings.
Key Lessons and Insights
Hank and John extract several profound lessons from Allen's story:
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Magnifying One’s Calling: The deacons exemplify what it means to magnify their callings beyond the basic requirements, showing that true service is rooted in genuine love and commitment.
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Persistence in Service: Despite initial resistance, the young deacons’ unwavering dedication leads to significant personal transformation in Allen, highlighting the power of persistent, selfless service.
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Impact of Small Acts: Simple acts of service, such as shoveling snow or taking out trash, can have profound impacts on individuals and communities.
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Faith in Action: The deacons' actions demonstrate living faith, turning doctrinal teachings into tangible expressions of Christ-like love.
“They did what deacons, teachers and priests do all over this church and all over this world. Now that's magnifying your calling.” (B • [03:51])
Notable Quotes
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Hank Smith:
“That is the Lord's way right there.” ([03:51])
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John Bytheway:
“I don't like church, I know, but you like us. So come with us.” ([03:53])
These quotes encapsulate the essence of the episode, emphasizing the transformative power of genuine service and invitation.
Conclusion
Hank and John wrap up the episode by reinforcing the episode’s central message: true magnification of one’s priesthood calling lies in selfless service, persistence, and heartfelt invitations to others. They invite listeners to engage further with their content through the followHIM podcast, promising more insightful discussions and inspiring stories in future episodes.
“If you like scripture, you are going to love our episode with Dr. Halverson. Then come back next week. Join us here. We'll do another Follow him favorite.” ([04:18])
Final Thoughts
This episode of followHIM serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that young men can have when they fully embrace and magnify their priesthood responsibilities. Through the heartfelt story of Allen and the dedicated deacons, Hank and John illustrate how small acts of service, driven by faith and love, can lead to extraordinary transformations both personally and within the broader community.
Connect with followHIM:
- Show Notes: followhim.co
- YouTube: FollowHimOfficialChannel
- Instagram: instagram.com/followhimpodcast
- Facebook: facebook.com/followhimpodcast
Note: The opinions expressed in this episode represent the views of the guest and podcasters alone and are not affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.