Theology of Suffering

Doctrine and Covenants: Insights on Suffering

  • Theology of Suffering by Sister Francine Benjamin

    • Considered an underused discourse by church leadership.
    • Discussion of suffering as a vital theological concept.

  • Key Teachings of Joseph Smith

    • Emphasis on resurrection and healing of losses.
    • Assurance of restoration if one maintains faith.
    • Personal conviction in Joseph Smith’s vision of divine truth.

Eliza Snow: A Case Study in Suffering

  • Introduction to Eliza Snow

    • Noted as the second most significant figure in the early restoration, following Emma Smith.
    • Context of her life during the Missouri expulsion.

  • Historical Background on Missouri Events

    • Eliza Snow's experience during the militia's takeover of Far West.
    • Loss of records complicates our understanding of historical events.

  • Uncovered Historical Accounts

    • Journal entry of a young woman conversing with older members of the Relief Society, featuring Eliza Snow.
    • Eliza’s recollection of being assaulted and the ensuing trauma, described in raw detail.
    • Harsh realities faced by women during and after these traumatic experiences.

  • Description of Hardship

    • Following expulsion, Eliza and others housed in a cramped cabin in Illinois.
    • Resources limited, surviving on frozen potatoes.
    • Journal entry employed to highlight the resilience and cheerfulness of the saints despite adversity:
    • "Not a complaint was heard. All were cheerful… judgement from appearances… a very merry night."

  • Contradiction of Experiences

    • Analyzing the coexistence of trauma and joy within the same context.
    • Exploring the psychological complexity of faith amid suffering.

Missouri and the Prelude to the Civil War

  • Bleeding Kansas Context

    • Events in Missouri serve as a precursor to wider national conflict, including the Civil War.
    • Kansas-Nebraska Act: conflict between pro-slavery and anti-slavery sentiments.

  • Religious Landscape of Frontier Missouri

    • Reduced popularity of religion among frontiersmen.
    • Local pastors rallying against Mormons.
    • Territorial disputes: the claim to land by both settlers and American Indians.

  • Social Dynamics

    • Diverse groups settled in Missouri, including those seeking economic opportunities and social outcasts.
    • Distinct racial hierarchies leading to tensions.

  • Political Climate

    • Growth of Mormon population from a few to 1,200 individuals prompted fears within the local populace.
    • Rising concerns regarding potential Mormon political power.

The Causative Spark of Conflict

  • Publication of Controversial Newspaper Article

    • Article about "free people of color" published by W. W. Phelps leads to heightened tensions.
    • Discussion surrounding the migration of free black members to a slave state.

  • Community Response

    • Formation of a secret constitution advocating for forceful removal of the LDS members.
    • Threats made against the Mormons and the destruction of property ensues.

  • Escalation of Violence

    • July 1833 events, resulting in physical violence against leaders of the church.
    • Formation of militia and mob activity against Latter-day Saints.
    • Joseph Smith receives revelation (Section 98, 101) underscoring the church's plight.

Zions’ Camp and Aftermath

  • Failed Attempt to Return to Zion

    • Organization of Zions' Camp in response to violence.
    • Joseph Smith's calls for financial and manpower support.
    • Revelation regarding the need to wait for God's timeline (Section 105).

  • Consequences of the Order

    • Joseph Smith and leaders imprisoned; widespread hardship among the saints.
    • Reflection on those suffering and redeeming qualities of faith.

Reflections on Suffering and Theological Implications

  • Interplay of Suffering and Hope

    • Exploration of the relationship between suffering and hope as taught by Elder Nelson.
    • Balance of accepting both joy and sorrow as part of the human experience.
    • Insights connecting Eliza Snow's and Joseph Smith's teachings on the nature of suffering.

  • The Role of Agency in Suffering

    • Discussion on pain from suffering versus pain from work.
    • Call for individual agency and resilience in confronting struggles.

  • Moral and Ethical Considerations

    • Confronting historical injustices and the moral implications of suffering.
    • The importance of forgiveness as demonstrated by the Latter-day Saints.

  • Conclusion: Redemptive Nature of Suffering

    • Suffering as a catalyst for spiritual growth akin to scripture references highlighting trials leading to humility or estrangement.
    • The affirmation of faith and endurance through trials, illustrating a deeper connection to divine purpose and character-building.