D&C 135-136 - Slain Prophets and Strong Pioneers
2Digest
This podcast episode concludes the study of the Doctrine and Covenants with Sections 135 and 136. Section 135 recounts the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, highlighting their courage and contributions, while emphasizing Jesus Christ as the central figure. The speaker draws parallels between differing grief responses and the reactions of those present at the martyrdom, including John Taylor and Willard Richards. Joseph Smith's legacy and the hymn "Praise to the Man" are discussed, along with the symbolic meaning of "blood" in Section 135, linking it to sacrifice and prophecy. Section 136 offers guidance for the "Camp of Israel" on their westward journey, stressing organization, covenant-keeping, spiritual and physical preparation, and selfless cooperation in building Zion. The revelation prepares the Saints for trials, framing them as a refining process to "become Zion" internally. The episode concludes by discussing God's continuous work through dispensations, Joseph Smith's foundational sacrifice, the inevitability of suffering as part of a divine plan, and the ongoing nature of God's work, akin to a relay race, urging listeners not to be surprised by trials but to embrace them as opportunities for growth and to focus on the celestial horizon.
Outlines
Introduction to Doctrine and Covenants Sections 135 & 136
This episode concludes the study of the Doctrine and Covenants, focusing on sections 135 and 136. Section 135 details the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, while section 136 provides guidance for the Saints crossing the plains. The speaker emphasizes focusing on Jesus Christ even when studying historical events.
The Martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith (Section 135)
Section 135, written by John Taylor, recounts the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. It highlights their courage, the circumstances of their death, and their significant contributions to the Church. The speaker encourages listeners to see Jesus Christ as the central figure, even in the context of Joseph Smith's immense work.
Responding to Death and Contrasting Reactions
The speaker shares a personal experience about differing responses to grief, drawing parallels to Mary and Martha. This sets the stage for examining the different reactions of Joseph, Hyrum, John Taylor, and Willard Richards during the martyrdom, noting Hyrum's calm acceptance and Joseph's courageous actions.
Joseph Smith's Legacy and the Cost of Scripture
Section 135, verse 3, is highlighted for its praise of Joseph Smith's accomplishments, emphasizing his work to bring people to Christ. The vast impact of his ministry is underscored, and Section 136, verse 6, notes that the scriptures cost "the best blood of the 19th century," prompting reflection on sacrifices made.
Section 136: Guidance for the Camp of Israel
Section 136 provides guidance for the "camp of Israel" as they journey west, emphasizing organization, covenant-keeping, and cooperation. It outlines both spiritual and physical preparation for the journey, instructing pioneers to "go with their might" but also to prepare for those who will follow, embodying selfless service.
The Spirit of Sacrifice and Building Zion
Pioneers are encouraged to use all their influence and property to help others move, focusing on building Zion collectively rather than individual gain. The revelation prepares Saints for trials, emphasizing that they are not yet pure enough to bear God's full glory and will be "tried in all things."
Calamities, Divine Justice, and Becoming Zion
The Saints are warned not to be surprised by calamities befalling the nation they leave behind, connecting to divine justice. The ultimate purpose of the trek is to "become Zion," involving internal transformation, learning to rely on the Lord, and shedding "wickedness within."
God's Work Through Dispensations and Joseph's Sacrifice
The podcast discusses God's continuous work through various dispensations. Joseph Smith's foundational work and faithfulness are noted, emphasizing that he sealed his testimony with his blood, a necessary sacrifice for honor and condemnation of the wicked.
Don't Be Surprised by Suffering and Ongoing Work
Listeners are urged not to be surprised by personal suffering, as it's part of a purifying process and divine plan. Joseph Smith's desire for more time and the importance of his foundation are discussed, likening the ongoing work to a relay race where challenges may worsen before improving.
Persecution, Trials, and Embracing the Journey
Persecution is presented as inevitable, with a reminder of Peter's counsel to rejoice in Christ's sufferings. The idea of "signing up for" life's tests and growth is reframed, using the analogy of crossing the plains and pushing a handcart to illustrate collective effort and commitment to building Zion.
New Beginnings and Celestial Horizon
Revelation 135 marks an end, while 136 signifies a new beginning, paralleling leadership transitions and looking towards a celestial future. The podcast concludes with one-liners for contemplation on faith, righteousness, and divine guidance.
Keywords
Martyrdom of Joseph Smith
The killing of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, along with his brother Hyrum, in Carthage, Illinois, on June 27, 1844. This event is detailed in Doctrine and Covenants Section 135 and is considered a pivotal moment in Church history.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 135
A revelation in the Doctrine and Covenants of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, providing an account of the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. It was written by John Taylor, who was present during the event.
Doctrine and Covenants Section 136
A revelation in the Doctrine and Covenants of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, providing guidance for the Saints as they migrated westward. It emphasizes organization, cooperation, and spiritual preparation for the journey.
Pioneer Trek
The historical migration of Latter-day Saint pioneers across the American plains to establish settlements in the western United States, primarily Utah. This journey involved immense hardship, faith, and cooperation.
Camp of Israel
A term used in Doctrine and Covenants Section 136 to describe the organized companies of Latter-day Saints migrating westward. It evokes the biblical Israelites' journey through the wilderness, emphasizing divine guidance and collective purpose.
Zion
In Latter-day Saint theology, Zion represents a state of spiritual unity, righteousness, and community. It is both a place (the New Jerusalem) and a condition of the heart, where individuals are of "one heart and one mind."
Blood of the Martyrs
The concept of the blood shed by those who die for their faith. In Section 135, it signifies the ultimate sacrifice made by Joseph and Hyrum Smith, sealing their testimony and serving as a powerful witness.
Cooperation vs. Competition
A central theme in Section 136, contrasting the individualistic, competitive spirit of many pioneer movements with the Latter-day Saint pioneers' emphasis on cooperation, mutual support, and collective well-being.
Becoming Zion
The idea that to build Zion as a place, individuals must first become Zion internally. This involves spiritual refinement, personal transformation, and embodying the principles of unity, love, and righteousness.
Fiery Trials
Metaphorical intense challenges and persecutions faced by believers. Peter's counsel suggests these are not to be marveled at but are opportunities for spiritual growth and eventual shared glory with Christ.
Q&A
What is the significance of Section 135 in the Doctrine and Covenants?
Section 135 is significant because it records the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, the foundational leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Written by John Taylor, who witnessed the event, it serves as a testament to their sacrifice and their pivotal role in restoring the gospel.
How does Section 136 guide the Latter-day Saint pioneers?
Section 136 provides divine instruction for the Saints migrating westward. It emphasizes organizing into companies, keeping covenants, preparing spiritually and physically for the journey, and fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual support, rather than individualism.
What is the main message the speaker wants listeners to take away from studying Sections 135 and 136?
The speaker repeatedly emphasizes the importance of focusing on Jesus Christ. Even when discussing the significant historical events and figures like Joseph Smith and the pioneers, the ultimate aim is to see Christ as the central figure and the reason for their faith and actions.
How does Section 135 address the legacy of Joseph Smith?
Section 135 praises Joseph Smith's monumental contributions, stating he "has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man." It highlights his role in bringing forth the Book of Mormon, revelations, and gathering the Saints, all in service to Christ.
What does Section 136 teach about the pioneer journey?
Section 136 teaches that the pioneer journey was not about individual success but about collective effort and sacrifice. Pioneers were to prepare for those who followed, bear equal proportions of burdens, and build communities, demonstrating a spirit of selfless service and cooperation.
How does the concept of "blood" in Section 135 relate to sacrifice?
The "blood" mentioned in Section 135 refers to the literal blood shed by Joseph and Hyrum Smith during their martyrdom. This sacrifice is seen as sealing their testimony and serving as a powerful witness, akin to the blood of other martyrs throughout history, ultimately pointing to Christ's sacrifice.
What does it mean to "become Zion" as discussed in relation to Section 136?
"Becoming Zion" means transforming internally to embody the principles of unity, love, and righteousness before establishing Zion as a physical place. It involves overcoming individualism, seeking God's counsel, and caring for others, creating a community of "one heart and one mind."
Why shouldn't we be surprised by suffering?
Suffering is presented as a purifying process orchestrated by God. It's a necessary part of growth, testing, and fulfilling a divine plan, not a random or unexpected event.
What is the significance of Joseph Smith sealing his testimony with his blood?
This act signifies his ultimate commitment to his beliefs. It serves as a powerful testament to the truth he proclaimed and leads to the condemnation of those who opposed him.
How does the podcast reframe the idea of "signing up for" life's challenges?
It suggests that while individual trials may be unexpected, a life of testing, growth, and progress is precisely what we agreed to in a premortal existence.
Show Notes
June 27, 1844. Carthage Jail. The greatest tragedy and the ultimate triumph of the Restoration. How does the Church move forward after the Prophet seals his testimony with his blood? D&C 135 and 136 answer with a powerful statement on sacrifice and a direct revelation on how to build a Zion people.
Summary: This episode explores the final, foundational sections of the Doctrine and Covenants: D&C 135: The Martyrdom. Written by John Taylor, this section seals the testimony of the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants with the death of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. We contrast the different, yet unified, ways the brothers met their end—Hyrum falling "calmly" and Joseph attempting to leap from the window. The section declares that Joseph Smith "has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it". His innocent blood was shed , and it was "needful that he should seal his testimony with his blood".
D&C 136: The Word and Will of the Lord. Received by Brigham Young in Winter Quarters, this revelation provided the blueprint for the great western exodus. It commanded the "Camp of Israel" to be organized into companies with a "covenant and promise to keep all the commandments".
Collective Effort: The trek was not individualistic; the Saints were commanded to "bear an equal proportion" in taking the "poor, the widows, the fatherless," and the families of soldiers. The command was to "go to with their might, to prepare for those who are to tarry" —to be "pioneers to prepare".
Preparation for Zion: The Lord warns, "my people must be tried in all things, that they may be prepared to receive the glory that I have for them". He assures them, "marvel not at these things" , and that He is the "God of your fathers" who led Israel and whose "arm is stretched out in the last days, to save my people Israel".
Call-to-Action: Which person—a widow, a poor person, or a family—can you help bear their burden this week? The pioneer spirit is still needed! Share your plans in the comments below. If this message inspired you to keep striving for Zion, please like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay "Unshaken" in your faith.
Chapter Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
6:28 Life and Death Differences
19:33 Praise to the Man
33:39 Innocent Blood
45:10 Pioneers to Prepare
59:47 Still Hoping for Zion
1:08:35 Not My First Rodeo
1:20:29 Don't Be Surprised
1:31:12 One-Liners
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