Follow Him Podcast - Episode Summary

Main Theme:

• Discussion on the story of the blind man in John 9 and the lost 116 pages from the Book of Mormon.

Hosts:

• Hank Smith
• John Bytheway

Guest:

• Sister Chelsea Chipman, teacher and teacher-trainer in the Church's educational system.

Key Topics:

The Blind Man Story (John 9):

• Question posed: Who sinned, him or his parents?
• Jesus' response: Neither, but that the works of God may be made manifest.
• Main takeaway: God's works prevail and become manifest even amidst suffering.

Introduction of Guest:

• Chelsea Chipman - teacher of teachers.
• Discussion on Hiram Smith, integrity, and loyalty.

Lost Manuscript (116 Pages) Story:

• Connection to feelings of loss in personal lives.
• Martin Harris' role and struggles, including financial support to Joseph Smith.
• The story serves as a lesson on dealing with loss and the mercy of God in restoring what is lost.

Doctrine and Covenants Sections 10 and 11:

• Section 10: Received around April 1829.

  • God's wisdom versus the cunning of the devil.
  • The Lord's foresight and preparation (Nephi's record as a backup plan).
  • Importance of prayer as a tool to overcome Satan.
  • Emphasis on God’s ability to restore and manifest His works.

• Section 11: Discussion to follow (not detailed in the provided transcript).

Key Insights and Lessons:

On God's Wisdom and Power:

• God's foresight is beyond human mistakes and adversities.
• Personal anecdotes on dealing with loss and learning from mistakes.
• Assurance that God works out His purposes despite human errors.

On Human Agency and Mistakes:

• God allows mistakes for learning and growth.
• Importance of listening to divine guidance to avoid unnecessary hardship.

On the Adversary (Satan):

• Satan's influence and tactics to destroy souls.
• Importance of understanding and recognizing Satan's strategies.

Practical Advice for Spiritual Growth:

• Prayer: Encouragement to pray always, as a means of conquering Satan.
• Scripture Study: Daily scripture study as a key to spiritual protection and gaining greater views of God's wisdom.
• Importance of personal revelation and connecting with God directly through His words.

Notable Quotes and References:

• Reference to Elder Bednar's talk on 'Pray Always' regarding creating and reporting the spiritual creation of one's day.
• President Packer and President Benson on the power and necessity of scripture study.
• Elder Richard G. Scott on pondering scripture for revelation and healing.

Personal Application:

• Encouragement for listeners to engage with scriptures and prayer to strengthen their faith and overcome trials.
• Recognizing mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning.
• Trust in God’s overarching plans and mercy.