Podcast Summary: Standard of Truth – S5E8 D&C 10 Part 2

Host: Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat
Guest: Dr. Richard Leduc
Release Date: February 20, 2025
Episode Title: D&C 10 Part 2

Introduction to D&C 10 Part 2

In this episode of Standard of Truth, hosts Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat and Dr. Richard Leduc delve deeper into Doctrine and Covenants Section 10, Part 2. Building upon their previous discussion, they explore the complexities surrounding the lost 116 pages of Joseph Smith’s translation, the persistent opposition from adversarial forces, and the profound implications for Latter-Day Saints today.

Recap of Part One and Overview of Part Two

Dr. Dirkmaat begins by summarizing Part One, where they discussed the miraculous nature of the Book of Mormon’s translation and the historical context of the revelations received by Joseph Smith. He highlights the mystery surrounding the exact timing of the revelation and its subsequent modifications through Joseph Smith's prophetic guidance.

Quote:
"We spent a great deal of time in part one laying the background and just how miraculous the work of the Lord was in bringing forth the Book of Mormon."
— Dr. Dirkmaat [00:27]

Transitioning to Part Two, Dr. Dirkmaat emphasizes the intensifying opposition Joseph Smith faced, paralleling it with the satanic interference evident during Joseph’s First Vision.

Understanding the Opposition

The hosts discuss the nature of the opposition detailed in D&C 10, highlighting how satanic forces actively sought to impede Joseph Smith’s work. They draw connections between the historical persecutions faced by early Saints and the ongoing spiritual battles described in the revelation.

Quote:
"The opposition is not just, hey, these people don't like your dang fangled new religion... Satan is desperately trying to stop the work from going forward."
— Dr. Dirkmaat [02:00]

The Loss of the 116 Pages

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the controversial loss of the 116 pages Joseph Smith had translated. Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc examine the revelation’s implications that these pages were stolen by the servants of Satan, undermining any notion that they were merely lost.

Quote:
"The revelation says that it is a group of people, so it can't just be Lucy Harris. And in fact, the revelation says that it is men who have taken them."
— Dr. Dirkmaat [48:09]

They critique alternative theories suggesting that Lucy Harris herself may have destroyed the pages, reinforcing the idea that a concerted effort by adversarial forces was responsible.

The Role of Priesthood and Divine Authority

Dr. Dirkmaat underscores the miraculous aspect of Joseph Smith performing translations without being ordained to a priesthood office at the time. This serves to illustrate that the power of God transcends ecclesiastical structures.

Quote:
"Joseph Smith is acting as a seer. He is, by the gift and power of God, performing the greatest miracle of modern times. And he hasn't had hand won put on his head giving him the priesthood."
— Dr. Dirkmaat [06:18]

He further explains that while the Church today is organized with specific authority structures, miracles and divine interventions are not confined within these boundaries.

Satan as a Real Adversary

A pivotal theme of the episode is the affirmation of Satan as a real, personal being actively working against divine purposes. The hosts contrast this belief with the declining belief in Satan among modern Christians, discussing the dangers of viewing evil as merely a concept rather than a personified force.

Quote:
"We don't believe that Satan is just a way that you talk about evil in the world. Satan is a real being."
— Dr. Leduc [19:21]

They explore survey data indicating that less than half of American Christians believe in Satan’s existence, highlighting theological and moral implications of this shift.

Implications for Modern Believers

Dr. Dirkmaat advises listeners to discern the voices and influences in their lives, emphasizing that recognizing Satan as a personal adversary is crucial for overcoming temptation and maintaining spiritual integrity.

Quote:
"All false revelation, all of it has one thing in common, and that is it tells you what you want to hear."
— Dr. Leduc [48:32]

He warns against the allure of flattering voices that contradict prophetic guidance, urging adherence to divine commandments to safeguard one’s soul.

God’s Sovereignty Amidst Chaos

Despite the seemingly insurmountable opposition, the revelation in D&C 10 reassures believers of God’s ultimate control and wisdom. The hosts reflect on historical persecutions and current societal secularization, affirming that God’s plan prevails despite human and satanic interference.

Quote:
"Doctrine covenant section 10 is something that makes you want to shout hallelujah to God because he had our welfare in mind hundreds of years."
— Dr. Dirkmaat [40:10]

They draw parallels between ancient biblical narratives and Joseph Smith’s experiences, reinforcing the continuity of divine protection and purpose.

Conclusion: Perseverance and Faith

In wrapping up, Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc reiterate the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity. They encourage listeners to trust in God’s plan, acknowledging that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints will endure through divine assistance despite external and internal challenges.

Final Thoughts:
"The Lord Jesus Christ has established this church and it will persevere until the Lord Jesus Christ sets his foot back down on the earth again."
— Dr. Dirkmaat [47:52]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dr. Dirkmaat [00:27]:
  "We spent a great deal of time in part one laying the background and just how miraculous the work of the Lord was in bringing forth the Book of Mormon."

• Dr. Dirkmaat [02:00]:
  "The opposition is not just, hey, these people don't like your dang fangled new religion... Satan is desperately trying to stop the work from going forward."

• Dr. Dirkmaat [06:18]:
  "Joseph Smith is acting as a seer. He is, by the gift and power of God, performing the greatest miracle of modern times. And he hasn't had hand won put on his head giving him the priesthood."

• Dr. Leduc [19:21]:
  "We don't believe that Satan is just a way that you talk about evil in the world. Satan is a real being."

• Dr. Leduc [48:32]:
  "All false revelation, all of it has one thing in common, and that is it tells you what you want to hear."

• Dr. Dirkmaat [40:10]:
  "Doctrine covenant section 10 is something that makes you want to shout hallelujah to God because he had our welfare in mind hundreds of years."

• Dr. Dirkmaat [47:52]:
  "The Lord Jesus Christ has established this church and it will persevere until the Lord Jesus Christ sets his foot back down on the earth again."

Key Takeaways

1. Divine Opposition: Doctrine and Covenants Section 10 vividly portrays the relentless opposition from satanic forces aimed at thwarting the restoration of the Church.

2. Miraculous Translation: Joseph Smith’s ability to translate the Book of Mormon without initial priesthood authority underscores the unparalleled power of God at work.

3. Satan as a Personal Adversary: Recognizing Satan as a real being is crucial for spiritual resilience and combating temptation effectively.

4. Theft of the 116 Pages: The revelation clarifies that the loss of the 116 pages was due to deliberate theft by adversarial forces, not mere misplacement or accidental loss.

5. Faith and Perseverance: Despite historical and ongoing challenges, steadfast faith in God’s plan ensures the Church’s endurance and ultimate triumph.

Conclusion

This episode of Standard of Truth provides a profound exploration of D&C 10 Part 2, offering listeners a deepened understanding of the spiritual battles faced by Joseph Smith and the enduring principles that guide Latter-Day Saints today. Through insightful analysis and scriptural references, Dr. Dirkmaat and Dr. Leduc encourage believers to maintain unwavering faith amidst adversity, trusting in God’s supreme wisdom and protection.

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