Podcast Summary: followHIM Episode - Doctrine & Covenants 3-5 Part 1 with Dr. Rob Eaton

Release Date: January 22, 2025

Introduction

In this insightful episode of the followHIM podcast, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into the early sections of the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C) with the esteemed guest Dr. Rob Eaton. Focused on D&C Sections 3-5, the discussion explores foundational themes of faith, repentance, and divine correction within the context of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' "Come, Follow Me" curriculum.

Overview of Doctrine & Covenants Sections 3-5

Hank Smith opens the discussion by highlighting the significance of D&C Sections 3, 4, and 5 as pivotal early revelations received by Joseph Smith. John Bytheway adds that these sections were received before the publication of the Book of Mormon and the formal organization of the church, emphasizing the gravity and vulnerability of Joseph during this formative period.

Dr. Rob Eaton elaborates on the interconnectedness of these sections, portraying them as a narrative of accountability and divine guidance. He notes:

"I see this as a wonderful trio of sections on witness preparation for all of us as we stand as witnesses of the Savior, of the Book of Mormon, and of the joy of the Gospel in our lives." (04:07)

Personal Reflections and Experiences

Hank Smith shares a personal anecdote about memorizing D&C Section 4 during his mission field service, highlighting the practical application of scripture in real-life situations. He advises missionaries to consider memorizing key verses to navigate unexpected challenges:

"So any missionary who's listening out there or someone who's got a mission call, you might just want to go through these seven verses and commit them to memory..." (03:51)

Dr. Eaton agrees, noting the frequent recitation of these verses within the church and the common occurrence of them being memorized but not always deeply understood:

"These may be the most recited verses of scripture in the church apart from those containing the sacrament. Prayers worry sometimes they're more frequently recited than understood." (03:51)

Historical Context and Resources

The hosts and Dr. Eaton discuss the importance of understanding the historical backdrop of D&C Sections 3-5 to fully grasp their significance. Dr. Eaton recommends utilizing the Gospel Library's Church History tab, emphasizing resources like "Revelations in Context", which offers detailed essays linked directly to specific sections of the Doctrine and Covenants:

"If you go to section three, there's a little icon in the upper right-hand corner. You click on that and it takes you right to the relevant essay from Revelations in Context, a tremendous resource." (10:00)

Hank Smith and Dr. Eaton also reference previous podcast episodes and external resources that provide deeper historical insights, encouraging listeners to explore these materials to enhance their understanding.

The Story of Martin Harris and Joseph Smith

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Martin Harris, Joseph Smith’s financial backer, and his pivotal role in the early church. Dr. Eaton narrates the complex relationship between Harris and Smith, emphasizing the challenges and eventual reconciliation that shaped their testimonies:

"Martin is really the first in a long line of people who fit that wonderful mold, and we're grateful for them." (19:42)

John Bytheway highlights the importance of remembering Harris's contributions beyond his missteps:

"He financed it. He came west. He never denied it. Let's remember that about Martin." (19:18)

The conversation underscores how Harris's experiences with loss and divine correction fortified his faith, ultimately positioning him as one of the three witnesses of the Book of Mormon.

Divine Correction and Personal Growth

A recurring theme in the episode is the role of divine correction in personal and spiritual development. Dr. Eaton draws parallels between Joseph Smith's experiences and modern-day challenges faced by church members:

"Divine course correction is a crucial part of God's curriculum even for his most trusted disciples, maybe even especially for his most trusted disciples." (44:38)

Hank Smith and John Bytheway discuss how embracing correction leads to greater spiritual opportunities and resilience. They cite various scriptural examples and teachings that reinforce the idea that God's corrections are expressions of His love and intentions for growth.

Dr. Eaton shares personal anecdotes illustrating the importance of humility and openness to correction, both spiritually and professionally:

"I will never forget that in terms of communication and avoiding unnecessarily offending some people, that there were some things I could do to be more intentional and be more careful." (48:48)

Lessons on Accountability and Faithfulness

The hosts and Dr. Eaton delve into specific verses from D&C Section 3, analyzing Joseph Smith’s emotional turmoil upon losing the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript. They explore the balance between human fallibility and divine assurance, emphasizing:

"The works and the designs and the purposes of God cannot be frustrated." (38:48)

John Bytheway adds that this assurance serves as a comforting reminder that divine plans transcend individual shortcomings:

"The fact that he's not disinterested, just kind of watching it unfold, but he has a design in mind is always comforting to me." (38:48)

Encouragement for Listeners

As the episode concludes, the hosts encourage listeners to embrace their own journeys of faith, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's approval over societal acceptance. They highlight the empowering message that despite personal errors, individuals remain called and chosen to contribute to God's work.

Dr. Eaton reinforces this by urging listeners to prioritize divine guidance in their decisions:

"The big takeaway that listeners will have, is that Martin comes out amazingly well in the end and stands steadfast as a witness of the Book of Mormon to the end of his life." (51:08)

Conclusion and Teaser for Part 2

The episode wraps up with a reflection on the profound lessons derived from D&C Sections 3-5, setting the stage for the continuation in Part 2. The hosts hint at further exploration of Martin Harris's redemption and the enduring impact of these early revelations on contemporary faith practices.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Rob Eaton (04:07): "I see this as a wonderful trio of sections on witness preparation for all of us as we stand as witnesses of the Savior, of the Book of Mormon, and of the joy of the Gospel in our lives."

• Hank Smith (03:51): "So any missionary who's listening out there or someone who's got a mission call, you might just want to go through these seven verses and commit them to memory..."

• John Bytheway (19:18): "He financed it. He came west. He never denied it. Let's remember that about Martin."

• Dr. Rob Eaton (44:38): "Divine course correction is a crucial part of God's curriculum even for his most trusted disciples, maybe even especially for his most trusted disciples."

Resources Mentioned:

• Gospel Library Church History Tab: Comprehensive resource for church history, including "Revelations in Context."

• Revelations in Context: Essays linked to specific sections of the Doctrine and Covenants for deeper understanding.

• Foundations of the Restoration Course: Educational course referenced by Dr. Eaton for exploring church history resources.

Connect with followHIM:

• Show Notes: https://followhim.co
• YouTube: followHimOfficialChannel
• Instagram: Instagram.com/followhimpodcast
• Facebook: Facebook.com/followhimpodcast

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this engaging discussion, where Hank, John, and Dr. Eaton continue to unpack the profound lessons from D&C Sections 3-5.