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Doctrine & Covenants 23-26 Part 2 • Sis. Morgan Pearson • March 17-March 23 • Come Follow Me

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Published: Wed Mar 12 2025

Summary

Podcast Summary: followHIM – Doctrine & Covenants 23-26 Part 2 with Sis. Morgan Pearson

Episode Information

  • Title: Doctrine & Covenants 23-26 Part 2 • Sis. Morgan Pearson • March 17-March 23 • Come Follow Me
  • Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
  • Guest: Sisters Morgan Pearson
  • Release Date: March 12, 2025

Introduction

In this insightful episode of the followHIM podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway engage in a deep dive into Doctrine & Covenants (D&C) Sections 23-26, specifically focusing on Sis. Morgan Pearson's perspectives. The discussion centers around Emma Smith, her roles, challenges, and contributions within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during a tumultuous period.

Emma Smith’s Commitment and Choices

Morgan Pearson opens by emphasizing the significance of Emma Smith’s decision to stay in Nauvoo rather than accompany the Saints westward. This decision, often questioned by believers, is explored through various interpretations:

  • John Bytheway highlights the Quranic verse where the Lord instructs Emma to "go with him at the time of his going," suggesting her deep commitment to Joseph Smith and familial responsibilities.

  • Morgan Pearson reflects on Emma’s role in caring for Lucy Mack Smith, Joseph’s mother. She cites Sister Freeman's insights, stating, “This is a woman who understood covenant relationship, both covenant relationship with God.”

Notable Quote:

John Bytheway [00:15]: "Emma took this verse, 'thou shalt go with him at the time of his going,' very seriously. Throughout his life, Emma tried to be with Joseph where possible."

Interpreting Expound and Exhort

The conversation transitions to D&C Section 25:7, where Emma is called to "expound and exhort." John Bytheway and Morgan Pearson delve into the meanings of these terms:

  • Expound: Defined as explaining or making clear, suggesting Emma's role as a theologian influencing Joseph Smith’s ministry.

  • Exhort: Encouraging and emboldening others, aligning with Emma’s efforts in the Relief Society to inspire sisters to minister and support each other.

Notable Quote:

Morgan Pearson [08:13]: "She is to be a comfort, a scribe, an expounder, an exhorter. And then on the next page, we're going to see a writer, a learner, a compiler."

The Power of Writing and Hymns

Hank Smith and John Bytheway explore Emma’s contributions to hymnody and the broader theological implications:

  • Discussing the 1836 Kirtland Hymnal, John Bytheway notes that Emma selected hymns that continue to influence current hymnals, shaping LDS theology.

  • Morgan Pearson emphasizes the transformative power of hymns, sharing personal anecdotes about how Christian music impacts her family’s spiritual lives.

Notable Quote:

John Bytheway [11:56]: "The hymns are Emma's thing. Like Emma was assigned to do this by the Lord Brigham."

Navigating Polygamy: Historical Context and Emma’s Perspective

A significant portion of the episode addresses the complex topic of polygamy and Emma Smith’s stance:

  • Hank Smith acknowledges the difficulty students face when questioning polygamy, advocating for validating their discomfort and encouraging transparent discussions.

  • Morgan Pearson shares insights from Jenny Reeder’s biography, highlighting Emma’s internal struggles and emotional trauma related to polygamy, including feelings of betrayal and the challenge of separating personal emotions from prophetic instructions.

Notable Quote:

Morgan Pearson [39:28]: "Social norms and personal feelings are hard to remove from prophetic instruction. Emma experienced deep emotional trauma due to betrayal, distrust, embarrassment, and anger."

Covenants and Personal Growth

The discussion shifts to the importance of covenants in personal and spiritual development:

  • John Bytheway emphasizes the immutable nature of covenants, quoting Elder and Sister Renlund on their role in anchoring the soul and providing a steadfast foundation.

  • Morgan Pearson reflects on the progression outlined in D&C Section 25, drawing parallels to individual spiritual journeys and the necessity of allowing others to progress without judgment.

Notable Quote:

John Bytheway [35:43]: "In the Scriptures, a covenant is a coming together or an agreement between God and man… It anchors the soul."

Beware of Pride and Embracing Meekness

Verse 14 of the section warns against pride and encourages meekness:

  • John Bytheway recommends landmark talks by President Benson and Elder Maxwell to deepen understanding of these attributes.

  • Hank Smith connects this to practical examples, such as the struggle to eliminate distracting apps, likening them to weeds that hinder spiritual growth.

Notable Quote:

John Bytheway [36:31]: "Meekness is a Christ-like attribute that can be harder to understand."

The Role of Music in Worship and Personal Lives

The episode underscores the significance of music in both communal worship and personal life:

  • Hank Smith shares a story of Joseph F. Smith’s interaction with Emma, highlighting the emotional connection fostered through shared hymnody.

  • Morgan Pearson discusses the calming and spiritually uplifting effects of Christian music in her household, reinforcing the idea that hymns are prayers in song.

Notable Quote:

Hank Smith [32:45]: "There's a little verse in Mark, chapter 14, verse 26… when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives."

Concluding Reflections on Emma Smith’s Legacy

The hosts and Morgan Pearson culminate the discussion with heartfelt reflections on Emma Smith’s enduring influence:

  • Morgan Pearson reads a poignant tribute, acknowledging Emma’s fingerprints across the Church’s organizations, hymns, and teachings, while celebrating her resilience and dedication.

  • Hank Smith recounts a touching story of Emma’s recognition of Joseph F. Smith, illustrating her deep sense of family and commitment.

Notable Quote:

Morgan Pearson [59:04]: "Emma, your fingerprints are all over this church… We thank you for paving a path that at times was without a doubt, treacherous, scary, lonely, and confusing."

Conclusion

This episode of followHIM offers a comprehensive exploration of Doctrine & Covenants Sections 23-26, through the lens of Emma Smith’s life and contributions. By intertwining scriptural analysis, historical context, and personal anecdotes, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, and Morgan Pearson provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of faith, commitment, and the complexities of divine instruction.

Key Takeaways:

  • Emma Smith’s decisions were deeply rooted in her commitments to family and covenants.
  • The roles of expounding and exhorting are pivotal in shaping LDS theology and community support.
  • Navigating historical practices like polygamy requires empathy and a thorough understanding of context.
  • Music and hymns play a vital role in both worship and personal spiritual lives.
  • Embracing meekness and avoiding pride are essential for personal growth and alignment with divine purposes.

For further insights and detailed discussions, listeners are encouraged to visit the followHIM website and explore additional resources shared during the episode.