Episode 79: D&C 137 - 138

Ben and Shiloh close out this year’s discussion on the Doctrine and Covenants and Church history with guest co-host Christopher Hurtado. It is evident in many places throughout Joseph Smith’s life just how much of an impact the death of his older brother, Alvin, had on the way that Joseph saw the world. Section 137 gives us a lot of things to think about concerning how Joseph saw and experienced what he called were his “visions”. In this section, while in vision, Joseph sees the great things and the great people in the celestial realm, and he even sees his parents there. It is interesting that his parents are still alive on earth while Joseph is having this vision of the celestial kingdom. Yet, it is not even the fact that he sees his parents in this glorious realm prior to their death that seems out of place for Joseph, but it is upon seeing Alvin in the celestial world (without having been baptized on earth) that seems to stop Joseph in his tracks mid-vision. What can this tell us about Joseph and his understanding of family, earth, and heaven? What Section 137 opens the door of understanding to, Section 138 elaborates upon gives greater awareness to what happens beyond the grave. As we close out our discussions on the Doctrine and Covenants, everyone reflects on their favorite episode, moment, or learning experience throughout the last year, and they have some exciting announcements for next year’s Come, Follow Me episodes for Old Testament!