Podcast Summary: followHIM – Doctrine & Covenants 12-17, JSH 1:66; Part 2 • Dr. Wendy Ulrich
Release Date: February 12, 2025
Introduction to the Episode Theme
In this episode of the followHIM podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway engage in a deep exploration of Doctrine and Covenants sections 12 through 17, alongside Joseph Smith History 1:66. Their guest, Dr. Wendy Ulrich, a seasoned psychologist and church leader, delves into the profound interplay between divine authority, personal experiences, and the foundational principles of the early Latter Day Saint movement.
Priesthood Power and Its Misuse
The conversation kicks off with Dr. Ulrich emphasizing the distinction between true priesthood power and mere authority. She likens priesthood power to the Liahona—a divine compass that functions correctly only when its user maintains righteousness and humility.
Dr. Wendy Ulrich [00:00]: "It's like the Liahona. That only worked if you are righteous and you don't have priesthood power... If you begin to exercise control, dominion, compulsion... You lose priesthood power."
Hank Smith echoes this sentiment by recounting an incident where a priesthood holder made decisions unilaterally, undermining the collaborative and righteous use of priesthood authority.
Hank Smith [00:55]: "Having the priesthood does not make us the decision-makers, I think. Amen to that power. It's gone."
Personal Experiences with Angels
The discussion transitions to personal testimonies about angelic visitations and divine guidance. John Bytheway shares a poignant story of his daughter teaching her children about angels, highlighting how personal and ancestral connections can manifest spiritually.
John Bytheway [02:17]: "There is power available to us... angels are real and that the plan is real and that God is real and that he cares about us in our hour of need."
Dr. Ulrich adds depth by reflecting on John Taylor's quote about God's and angels' profound interest in humanity.
Dr. Wendy Ulrich [11:09]: "God's eyes are over us, and his angels are round and about us... 10,000 times more interested, but we do not know it."
Both hosts share their own experiences, reinforcing the universal nature of angelic ministry within the faith community.
Early LDS Families: Knights and Whitmers
A significant portion of the episode focuses on the foundational families of the Church, particularly the Knight and Whitmer families. John Bytheway, known for his church history tours, provides insightful historical context about these families' unwavering commitment during the tumultuous early years of the Church.
John Bytheway [19:36]: "The Knights still play a significant role in the church today... the original Joseph Knight home is still there."
Dr. Ulrich highlights the spiritual significance of these families, noting how their collective faith and resilience laid the groundwork for future generations.
Dr. Wendy Ulrich [18:15]: "These beginnings were these families at first... sections coming forth that are as applicable to us today as they are to them."
Insights on Doctrine and Covenants Sections 12-17
The hosts and Dr. Ulrich dissect various sections of the Doctrine and Covenants, drawing parallels between historical directives and contemporary application. John Bytheway contrasts the guidance given to different individuals within the Church, showcasing the personalized nature of divine instruction.
John Bytheway [21:27]: "At different stages of our lives or our circumstances, you get that personal part of this, along with the organizational principles that still hold for all of us."
Hank Smith underscores the embryonic stages of the Church's establishment of Zion, tying it back to the Knight family's pivotal role.
Hank Smith [22:33]: "The cause of Zion... maybe a little foreshadowing to how important the Knight family is going to be."
The Principle of Repentance
A profound discussion emerges around the concept of repentance, redefining it from mere acknowledgment of sin to embracing a fresh perspective on God, oneself, and the world.
Dr. Wendy Ulrich [28:17]: "Repentance, a fresh view about God, about oneself, and about the world... it's about improvement, change, a fresh view."
John Bytheway aligns this interpretation with President Nelson's teachings, emphasizing repentance as an ongoing, hopeful journey rather than a source of despair.
John Bytheway [29:09]: "Repent means to change your mind... it's an invitation to grow and to become closer to the Lord."
The hosts further discuss the integration of repentance into daily life, illustrating its dynamic and continuous nature.
Hank Smith [30:00]: "We can become converted to daily repentance... we do the next step that you can think of."
Balancing the Miraculous and the Human
Dr. Ulrich and the hosts explore the delicate balance between recognizing miraculous divine interventions and acknowledging human frailties. They cite Bruce Hafen's advice to maintain both perceptual clarity and an open heart to truly appreciate divine works.
Dr. Wendy Ulrich [39:39]: "It's a daily process of staying as close as we can to the spirit and of coming back when we get away."
John Bytheway shares personal anecdotes illustrating how unexpected divine answers often manifest through serving others, reinforcing the interconnectedness of faith and action.
John Bytheway [39:39]: "Sometimes we get answers we weren't expecting... it's never just about us."
Advice for Listeners Struggling
Towards the episode's conclusion, Dr. Ulrich offers compassionate guidance for listeners enduring personal hardships. She emphasizes the universal nature of suffering and the importance of compassionate, non-judgmental support.
Dr. Wendy Ulrich [43:54]: "There are people who are ready to help us if we're willing to let them... The Lord is willing to comfort us if we're willing to receive it."
She also integrates psychological insights, advocating for problem-focused approaches rather than personal blame in resolving interpersonal conflicts.
Dr. Wendy Ulrich [46:37]: "Let's fix the problem... try to see what we're going to do with this problem and not make it so personal."
Reflections on the Restoration and Joseph Smith
Dr. Ulrich shares a transformative experience during a Church history tour in Independence, Missouri, where she felt a profound spiritual connection with Joseph Smith, solidifying her faith despite prior doubts.
Dr. Wendy Ulrich [52:19]: "I felt Joseph Smith standing next to me saying, 'Wendy, you know me.'"
John Bytheway recounts a missionary story illustrating divine intervention, where a young missionary overcomes his desire to abandon his mission through a seemingly coincidental reassignment, reinforcing the belief in purposeful divine orchestration.
John Bytheway [48:36]: "The Lord knows where we are. He takes this missionary that he's already told has served the whole 24 months..."
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with heartfelt acknowledgments and promotional content for Dr. Ulrich's new book, Live up to Our Privileges: Women, Power, and Priesthood, praised by host Hank Smith for its insightful exploration of priesthood and women's roles within the Church.
Hank Smith [59:38]: "I hope everyone will take time to grab a copy of Live up to Our Privileges, Women, Power and Priesthood."
The hosts express gratitude towards Dr. Ulrich for her invaluable contributions and encourage listeners to engage further through their website and social media channels.
Notable Quotes:
- Dr. Wendy Ulrich [00:00]: "It's like the Liahona... If you begin to exercise control, dominion, compulsion... You lose priesthood power."
- John Bytheway [02:17]: "There is power available to us... angels are real..."
- Dr. Wendy Ulrich [28:17]: "Repentance, a fresh view about God, about oneself, and about the world."
- John Bytheway [29:09]: "Repent means to change your mind... it's an invitation to grow."
- Dr. Wendy Ulrich [52:19]: "I felt Joseph Smith standing next to me saying, 'Wendy, you know me.'"
This episode offers a rich tapestry of theological insights, personal testimonies, and historical reflections, providing listeners with both spiritual encouragement and practical wisdom to enhance their Come, Follow Me study.