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Our Mothers Knew It with Maria EckersleyA Creative Study of Come, Follow MeD&C [D&C 67-70]“Worth … the Riches of the Whole Earth”June 23 – June 29, 2025WEEK 26 SUMMARY=================In Doctrine and Covenants sections 67 to 70, the Lord addresses several key issues with early Church leaders. Section 67 encourages the brethren to have faith and not fear, promising that they can receive a spiritual witness of the revelations. Section 68 provides guidance on the duties of Church leaders and the importance of teaching children the gospel. Section 69 instructs John Whitmer to accompany Oliver Cowdery to Missouri to ensure the safe delivery of important Church documents. Finally, Section 70 establishes the Literary Firm, assigning stewardship over the publication of revelations and emphasizing the importance of consecration and equality among the members involved. These sections collectively emphasize faith, leadership responsibilities, and the management of Church resources.SPARK 1: DRAW NEAR UNTO ME================OBJECT LESSON: “You Shall See me and Know That I Am”: Two-Way MirrorSPARK 2: TRUE AND FAITHFUL===================================OBJECT LESSON: “Whatsoever They Shall Speak … Shall Be Scripture”: Understanding the Canon QuadSPARK 3: SOUL, HEART, AND HAND=============================OBJECT LESSON: “They Shall Also Teach Their Children”: Water Transfer ChallengeCHAPTERS=========00:00:14 INTRO00:06:07 QUICK GLANCE00:09:23 SPARK 1 INSIGHTS00:20:07 SPARK 1 OBJECT LESSON00:23:58 SPARK 1 QUESTIONS00:25:59 SPARK 2 INSIGHTS00:31:31 SPARK 2 OBJECT LESSON00:36:37 SPARK 2 QUESTIONS00:38:35 SPARK 3 INSIGHTS00:46:04 SPARK 3 OBJECT LESSON00:49:17 SPARK 3 QUESTIONS00:51:41 WRAP UPLINKS=====WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.comETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmomINSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlifePODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER=================================This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Hour 1 - Guests include Bruce de Torres and Ty Masterson
Hour 2 - Guest: Todd Starnes
Revelation Dates: November 1 – 12, 1831 Revelation Places: Hiram and Kirtland Ohio Section 67 - Historical Background: It was time to compile the revelations received through Joseph Smith thus far and print them in a Book of Commandments. Joseph called a special church conference and after the meeting convened, the Lord revealed the Preface to the Book of Commandments which is now section 1 of the Doctrine & Covenants. The Elders present were asked to bear testimony of the divinity of the revelations. Meanwhile, William E. McLellin and a few others criticized some of the language used in the revelations and wanted it improved. The Lord provided this revelation as a result. Recap: Because of fear, the Elders did not receive the blessing God had offered them. The Lord testifies of the truthfulness and divinity of these revelations. The Lord challenges those scoffers in the church to take the least of these revelations and attempt to write one like unto it. If they cannot, they must sign their testimony to its divinity or else be condemned. They must strip themselves of jealousy and fear. Section 68 - Historical Background: Following the experience as discussed in section 67, Orson Hyde, Luke S. Johnson, Lyman E. Johnson and William E. McLellin each requested a personal revelation from the Lord. Rather than granting individual counsel, the Lord reveals His word toward all the faithful elders of His church. Recap: When speaking as moved upon by the Holy Ghost, it is as if the Lord were speaking it. Be of good cheer and do not fear, for the Lord will stand by you. Preach the gospel to all the world that the believers may be saved. The Lord then turns to Joseph and gives administrative counsel. All bishops must be worthy high priests, appointed by the First Presidency. Parents are to teach their children prayer and the principles and ordinances of the gospel and baptize them at the age of 8. Be not idle! Section 69 - Historical Background: After the Elders agreed to serve as witnesses to the divinity of the Book of Commandments, Joseph dedicated the Book of Commandments unto the Lord. Oliver Cowdery was assigned to take the manuscript to Independence, Missouri for printing. Recap: Oliver should not go to Independence alone but should have a companion, namely John Whitmer, the church historian, so that he can record this history. Section 70 - Historical Background: From November 1 to November 12, 1831, Joseph needed to hold 4 church conferences. At the close of the 4th conference, Joseph completed reviewing the Book of Commandments and Oliver Cowdery with John Whitmer were about to embark on their 800 mile journey to Independence, Missouri. Recap: The specific stewardship of publishing and distributing the Book of Commandments is appointed to Oliver Cowdery, John Whitmer, Martin Harris, Sidney Rigdon and W.W. Phelps. They are to use the monies from the publication of the Book of Commandments for their needs but are to donate excess monies to the church, as commanded under the law of consecration and in accordance with the Spirit.
Hour 1 - Guests include Judd Dunning and Travis Coture-Lovelady
Hour 2 - Guests include Michael Austin, Dan Schneider, Donna Rhodes and Jaime Kissinger
David Hocking has put together several Annotated Scriptures. We'll discuss his latest book, which is sort of an Annotated Doctrine & Covenants. It is called "The Revelations of Joseph Smith." We'll also discuss his previous books, and dive into revelations on the coming forth of the Book of Mormon & the Church of Christ. Check out our conversation... https://youtu.be/JjvC2RZtJrM Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission David Hocking, described as a "scripture publisher" and editor, who is known for reformatting traditional scriptural texts to help readers engage with them more smoothly. By taking the existing text and applying specific elements and styles, Hocking aims to guide the reader and provide additional context and research. His books are often described as a "studied" version of the scripture. Hocking's process involves doing research on words or phrases that appeal to him, highlighting them in a gold color, and then providing additional information in a golden shaded box at the bottom of the page. His journey in scripture publishing began in the '90s when he started reformatting the Book of Mormon for his own use. This eventually led to the Annotated Edition of the Book of Mormon, which incorporated research, including information from the Heartland perspective. This book has been quite successful, with close to 40,000 copies sold and is available through Deseret Book. Following the Book of Mormon, Hocking worked on the Book of Jasher. He clarified that "Jasher" is a title, "Sephur Hayasher," meaning "the book of the upright," and the proper spelling should be Yashar. Interestingly, he notes that there are excerpts of the Book of Jasher in the Book of Mormon, brought over on the plates of brass. This led to a brief discussion on the language of the Book of Mormon, suggesting that Nephi likely learned Demotic Egyptian, a condensed, script-like form, in addition to Hebrew, and that "reformed Egyptian" might refer to a reformed Demotic Egyptian. He also touched on the difference between the Anthon Transcript (described by Martin Harris) and the Caracters Document in John Whitmer's handwriting (which the Church has recently acquired). He noted that handwriting analysis, specifically looking at the cursive "D" with a flourish common in German script, can help identify scribes like John Whitmer in early documents, including sections of the Book of Mormon original manuscript and the Revelation books. He also offered a perspective on the two sets of witnesses (three spiritual, eight physical) and the possibility they saw different sets of plates (the plates in the stone box vs. plates in a repository, potentially the small plates used to replace the lost Book of Lehi pages)10. Other books Hocking has edited include the Book of Isaiah, undertaken as part of the "11th commandment" to diligently search Isaiah. He sent a copy to Dr. Avraham Gileadi, a prominent LDS Isaiah scholar, who liked it. (Incidentally, the host mentioned NT Wright would be speaking on Isaiah in Houston, Texas). Hocking also worked on the Joseph Smith Translation (JST) of the New Testament. For this, he put Joseph Smith's contributions in brackets, using the 1867 first edition text. He mentioned that the Church itself is likely to release a fully done version of the JST in the coming years. He has a new version of his JST New Testament coming out soon as a red-letter edition. He noted that while red-letter Bibles (where the words of Christ are in red) are common elsewhere, they are less familiar in Utah. Another critical project was the Book of Enoch, which he believes explains why Enoch is an important figure and why the Lord referred to him in Moses 6 & 7 and D&C 107. He suggests that Joseph Smith himself became a modern-day Enoch, teaching and building a city of righteousness/Zion. Hocking's latest book,
Hour 2 - Guests include Dion Lefler and Dalton Glasscock
Hour 1 - Guests include Braedon Sorbo and Dr. Roger Marshall
Hour 2 - Guests include Monica Paige
Hour 1 - Guests include Debbie Potter and Tracey Mann
Hour 2 - Guests include Phil Gramm, Kathy Bond, and Jeff Colyer
Hour 1 - Guests include Phil Pettit and Dan Hawkins
John Whitmer's reaction to a new calling gives us A LOT to discuss and relate to. Let's dive into D&C 47:1, 4! And grab study guides for the whole family here: - To get Cali's scripture study guide for adults click here: https://comefollowmestudy.com/shop/ Discount code: OMSS Or purchase on Amazon: https://a.co/d/49uOuF1 - Kristen's scripture study guides are available here: https://kristenwalkersmith.com/starthere/ Get our 365-day Doctrine and Covenants daily devotional book: https://a.co/d/aE3Wp4D
Hour 1 - Guests include Sage Hill and Jeff Blubaugh
Hour 2 - Guests include Sam Sorbo, Kim Gish, and Scott Powell
Revelation Dates: March 8, 1831 Revelation Places: Kirtland, Ohio Section 46 - Historical Background: New converts were now pouring into Kirtland, Ohio. Many had preconceived ideas from their former churches how weekly services should be held. Joseph inquires of the Lord how He wants it done. Recap: The elders attending the meeting should preside and conduct the meeting according to the Spirit. All people should be welcomed to attend, but only worthy members should partake of the sacrament. All members should seek earnestly the best gifts of the Spirit. Some of these gifts are to witness of Jesus Christ, having a believing heart, strong leadership, discernment, wisdom, knowledge, healing, faith, prophecy, and tongues. All gifts come from God for the benefit of mankind. Section 47 - Historical Background: Up to this time, Oliver Cowdery had been acting as Church historian. Joseph Smith called John Whitmer to replace Oliver and John agreed to do it, but only if Joseph Smith received divine guidance from the Lord to call him to the work. Recap: John Whitmer is called to be the recorder of church history and additionally to replace Sidney Rigdon to transcribe revelations and future revisions of the scriptures. Section 48 - Historical Background: A large number of new converts were about to arrive from New York. A member named Leman Copley made a covenant allowing the arriving saints to occupy a piece of his land. Copley apostatized and broke his covenant, forcing these weary saints off of his land. Other saints were occupying a piece of land owned by Isaac Morley. Joseph inquired of the Lord how to acquire lands for the many incoming Saints. Recap: Temporary quarters are necessary for the incoming Saints until the church moves west. If necessary, purchase or lease some land, but conserve funds for purchasing land in Zion. The Elders will be sent to Missouri and it will be revealed to them where Zion will be established and these lands should be purchased, laying the foundation for the City of Zion. The bishop will have the responsibility to assign properties to each family as their needs require.
Our Mothers Knew It with Maria EckersleyA Creative Study of Come, Follow MeD&C [D&C 46-48]“Seek Ye Earnestly the Best Gifts”May 12 – May 18, 2025WEEK 20 SUMMARY=================In Doctrine and Covenants 46, guidance is given on the conduct of sacrament meetings, emphasizing that they should be open to everyone. It also highlights the importance of spiritual gifts and encourages seeking them for the benefit of all. In D&C 47, John Whitmer is called to keep a historical record of the Church, signify the importance of documentation and record-keeping. Lastly, D&C 48 instructs the saints on acquiring land in Ohio as they gather in the area, reinforcing the importance of unity and preparation in building the Church community.SPARK 1: A DELICATE WEAVE================OBJECT LESSON: “That All May Be Profited Thereby”: Spiritual Gifts LoomEtsy Printable Link: [COMING SOON]SPARK 2: THINGS AS THEY REALLY ARE===================================OBJECT LESSON: “To Others The Discerning of Spirits ”: Blanket GameSPARK 3: FOR THE PRESENT TIME=============================OBJECT LESSON: “Write and Keep a Regular History”: High and Low JournalsCHAPTERS=========00:00:14 INTRO00:003:26 QUICK GLANCE00:06:59 SPARK 1 INSIGHTS00:15:51 SPARK 1 OBJECT LESSON00:19:48 SPARK 1 QUESTIONS00:21:59 SPARK 2 INSIGHTS00:30:54 SPARK 2 OBJECT LESSON00:36:52 SPARK 2 QUESTIONS00:39:57 SPARK 3 INSIGHTS00:47:56 SPARK 3 OBJECT LESSON00:52:04 SPARK 3 QUESTIONS00:54:32 WRAP UPLINKS=====WEB: https://www.gather.meckmom.comETSY: https://www.etsy.com/shop/meckmomINSTAGRAM: Instagram @meckmomlifePODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST DISCLAIMER=================================This podcast represents my own thoughts and opinions. It is not made, approved, or endorsed by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Any content or creative interpretations, implied or included are solely those of Maria Eckersley ("MeckMom LLC"), and not those of Intellectual Reserve, Inc. or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Great care has been made to ensure this podcast is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church. Click here to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
John Whitmer, Wichita Radio Host and Former Kansas Politician On Controversial Article in Kansas City Star. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hour 1 - Guests include Elizabeth Patton and Douglas Ernest
Hour 2 - Guests include Dr. Jeff Colyer, Andy Hooser and Corey DeAngelis
Hour 1 - Guests include Donald Wilkie and Mandy Gunasekara
Hour 2 - Guests include Ron Estes and JV Johnston
Hour 1 - Guests include John Commerford and Edward Bartlett
Hour 2 - Guests include Riley Gaines and Teddy Pierce
Hour 1 - Guests include Rachel Ehrenfeld and Blake Carpenter
Hour 2 - Guests include Riley Gaines and Dr. Stanley Ridgley
Hour 1 - Guests include Kris Kobach and Dan Hawkins
Hour 2 - Guests include Lily Wu, Pat Proctor, Leo Delperdang, and Michael Fagg
Hour 1 - Guests include Stephen Owens
Hour 2 - Guests include Mark Meckler and Greg Rabidoux
Hour 1 - Guests include Elizabeth Patton and Renee Erickson
Hour 2 - Guests include Paula Scanlan, Dave Trabert and Curtis Houck
Hour 2 - Guests include Olivia Krolczyk, Kim Gish, and Dalton Glasscock
Section 23 - Historical Background: Shortly after the organization of the church, probably between April 6 to 11, 1830, Joseph was approached by five faithful men desiring to know their respective duties in the new church. These five individuals included Joseph's father, Joseph Smith Sr, two brothers, Hyrum and Samuel Smith, Oliver Cowdery and Joseph Knight, Sr. Joseph inquired of the Lord and received this revelation. Recap: Oliver Cowdery was addressed first and warned against pride; urged to witness to others the truth; Hyrum was called to strengthen the church; Samuel was to work within the church for strengthening the members but not yet to preach outside the church; Joseph Knight Sr was also called to serve in the Kingdom forever and pray vocally and encouraged to join the church and take up his cross. Section 24 - Historical Background: Immediately following the organization of the church, persecution came quickly and became intense. Joseph was harassed with arrests and had to evade mobs for safety. Joseph had begun to receive revelations concerning the book of Genesis which is recorded in the Pearl of Great Price, book of Moses. During these times of persecution and revelation, Joseph received the following revelation. Recap: Joseph is encouraged to magnify his office and to be patient in his afflictions; he is to seek safety among the members of the church; Oliver Cowdery is to be diligent in declaring the gospel, thinking nothing of himself, and he will receive strength. Section 25 - Historical Background: The persecutions spewing against her husband Joseph had been a great trial for Emma Smith. Her uncle was a minister responsible for much of the persecution against Joseph, especially during the translation of the plates. This persecution drove Joseph and Emma from Harmony to Fayette, NY. Arrested and nearly mobbed several times, Joseph had to constantly flee. During this time, Emma had been faithful and supportive despite trials and hardships. Never had Emma seen the Gold Plates yet she didn't complain. Now, however, Mary Whitmore had the privilege of seeing the plates. Feeling slighted, the Lord gave Emma this strengthening and comforting revelation calling Emma an “elect lady.” Recap: Emma is forgiven for her sins and is called an elect lady; she is to be Joseph's scribe and to compile a hymnbook for the members. All members are called to beware of pride and to keep the commandments. Section 26 - Historical Background: During the weeks since the publication of the Book of Mormon, Samuel Smith had been diligently trying to get people to buy the sacred book. Since there was nothing but hostility around Palmyra, he went 15 miles to the town of Mendon. Finally he returned home with all but 2 of the original books. He gave one of the books to a widow and the other went to a respected minister John Green. Reverend Green read the book, believed it and eagerly passed it on to Phineas Young and then to Brigham Young and Heber C Kimball, all reading and finding belief and conversion. This resulted in the uniting of converts and a strong branch of the church near Mendon. Meanwhile, Joseph, Oliver and John Whitmer were in Harmony wondering what they could do to exert themselves, and the following short revelation was given. Recap: The Lord tells Joseph, Oliver and John Whitmer to get involved in 4 things, namely the fervent study of the scriptures, the organization of the branch in Colesville, perform the essential work on their farmland and then to prepare for the next church conference. The importance of common consent is given.
The Lord speaks to and calls John Whitmer. Here is a link to the text:Doctrine and Covenants 15
Guest host John Whitmer, former Kansas House Representative, steps in for this special episode of American Potential. Joining him is Javin Fulson, Grassroots Program Manager at Americans for Prosperity, who shares firsthand experiences from the road as part of the "Prosperity is Possible" tour. Together, they unpack the economic challenges facing Americans today, from skyrocketing energy bills to rising grocery costs. Javin recounts heartfelt stories from everyday Americans, highlighting how failed government policies, excessive spending, and regulatory overreach are driving inflation and burdening families. Javin also shares actionable solutions, such as cutting unnecessary spending, unleashing American energy, and reducing burdensome regulations to pave the way for affordable living. Reflecting on impactful tour events across the nation, including unique moments of connection and education in places like Montana and Pennsylvania, Javin demonstrates how grassroots activism can lead to real change. John and Javin emphasize the importance of citizen involvement, encouraging listeners to take action—whether through door-knocking, writing letters to representatives, or simply sharing their stories on social media. This inspiring episode underscores the power of community-driven advocacy and the importance of defending liberty and economic opportunity. Tune in to learn how you can make a difference!