Standard of Truth Podcast: Episode S5E28 - John C. Bennett
Host: Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat
Guest: Dr. Richard Leduc
Release Date: July 3, 2025
Introduction
In this engaging and informative episode of the Standard of Truth podcast, Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat and Dr. Richard Leduc delve into the complex history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS Church) with a particular focus on John C. Bennett. The conversation is enriched with humor, scholarly insight, and critical analysis of historical events and doctrinal developments.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dirkmaat [00:37]: "Hi. Welcome to a special live episode of the Standard of Truth podcast."
Casual Banter and Setting the Scene
The episode begins with lighthearted banter between the hosts, setting a relaxed tone. They mention being joined by senior missionaries and share amusing anecdotes about their experiences, including humorous remarks about driving challenges and the logistics of their tours.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Leduc [01:18]: "We do have some guests other than the tour. We have some senior missionaries that are here."
Christie's Corner: Doctrine and Covenants, Section 74
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to exploring Section 74 of the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C), particularly its implications for the LDS Church's stance on infant baptism. The hosts examine historical context, scriptural interpretations, and the evolution of church doctrines.
Key Points:
-
Historical Context of Section 74:
- Originally recorded in the Book of Commandments and Revelations.
- Intended for inclusion in the 1835 Doctrine and Covenants but published without a date in subsequent editions.
- Reflects an explanation of First Corinthians 7:14, which discusses the sanctification of unbelieving spouses.
-
Infant Baptism Debate:
- Dr. Dirkmaat [10:02]: "Children were in some way attached to the covenant of grace that was given to their parents."
- The episode critiques the theological underpinnings of infant baptism, highlighting its lack of explicit biblical support and its roots in longstanding Christian tradition.
- Comparison with Protestant practices and the historical justification for infant baptism as a continuation of the Law of Circumcision.
-
Revelation Dating Controversy:
- Original manuscripts indicate Section 74 was received in 1830, not 1832 as previously documented.
- Dr. Dirkmaat [26:53]: "We knew exactly what we were going to talk about before this, and so now we're prepared to be able to go."
-
Impact on Church Doctrine:
- The revelation's misdating affects the understanding of church history and doctrinal development.
- Analysis of how tradition and cultural practices influence doctrinal stances, often beyond explicit scriptural mandates.
Notable Quotes:
Dr. Dirkmaat [08:14]: "When you wanna look smart in Sunday school, if you want your friends to think you're cool, when you wanna seem wise and not a fool, It's Christy's Corner."
Dr. Dirkmaat [14:05]: "What's the first. It's an infant baptism."
Analysis of Protestant and Catholic Justifications for Infant Baptism
The hosts critically assess how different Christian denominations have historically justified infant baptism. They argue that practices like infant baptism are maintained more due to cultural tradition than scriptural mandate, challenging the notion that such practices are essential for salvation.
Key Points:
-
Protestant Reformation's Stance:
- Despite rejecting the saving authority of ordinances, denominations like Lutheranism and Calvinism continued infant baptism.
- The use of First Corinthians 7:14 to justify the practice, even though the scripture does not explicitly endorse infant baptism.
-
Catholic Tradition:
- Infant baptism is defended as necessary to prevent damnation through the doctrine of original sin.
- Development of beliefs like limbo to address the fate of unbaptized infants.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dirkmaat [16:06]: "But it's done it because it's not there in the scriptures. And we can only believe things that are in the scriptures."
Mailbag Segment: John C. Bennett
Transitioning to the mailbag segment, Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc address an email from a listener named Jeremy, who shares his findings about John C. Bennett's grave in Polk City, Iowa. The discussion reveals detailed historical insights into Bennett's life, his role in the LDS Church, and his notorious reputation.
Key Points:
-
John C. Bennett’s Background:
- Initially presented as a physician in Nauvoo, though skepticism about his medical qualifications is expressed.
- His role as a spurious member of the First Presidency and subsequent excommunication due to immoral conduct.
-
Bennett’s Deception and Antagonism:
- Accusations of Bennett falsely claiming to have joined the LDS Church to expose its practices.
- His public confessions and subsequent attacks on Joseph Smith, reinforcing his image as a deceitful apostate.
-
Military Service Controversy:
- Clarification that Bennett's veteran status stems from his short, non-combat role in the Union Army during the Civil War.
- Dr. Dirkmaat [34:32]: "He was on the side of the Union and he helps raise a regiment."
-
Impact on Church History:
- Bennett's actions and falsehoods significantly tainted the reputation of the LDS Church and complicated the historical narrative surrounding plural marriage and church leadership.
Notable Quotes:
Dr. Leduc [31:07]: "John C. Bennett assumes a lot of air quotes. Formal medical training where he goes to a medical school and he apprentices."
Dr. Dirkmaat [34:46]: "He's technically a veteran. He just. He doesn't actually serve in any combat theater where he sees any action."
Conclusion and Final Remarks
The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the complexities of church history and the challenges of addressing controversial figures like John C. Bennett. They emphasize the importance of scrutinizing historical sources and maintaining scholarly integrity when discussing doctrinal and historical issues.
Notable Quote:
Dr. Dirkmaat [48:11]: "John C. Bennett is one of the greatest of all apostates in the church because of the long shadow that his antagonism casts."
Final Thoughts
Episode S5E28 of the Standard of Truth podcast offers a thorough examination of infusing scriptural analysis with historical scrutiny. By exploring Doctrine and Covenants Section 74 and the controversial figure of John C. Bennett, Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of LDS Church history and doctrinal developments. Their balanced approach, combining humor with rigorous scholarship, makes for an enlightening and thought-provoking listening experience.
Share this episode with fellow Latter-Day Saints or anyone interested in church history to foster a deeper understanding and faith.