Introduction: Come, Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson

Come, Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson | Episode 1 | 44 min

In this week's lesson, Lynne explores the religious and cultural backdrop of early America to address the question of whether Joseph Smith was a product of his environment. She traces the influence of the First and Second Great Awakenings, focusing on how religious movements shaped theological debates about human depravity, revelation, and the Trinity. Lynne highlights Joseph Smith’s family history, emphasizing the religious fervor and spiritual traditions passed down through generations. Through personal anecdotes and historical context, she illustrates how Joseph’s upbringing and environment influenced his spiritual quest but distinguishes his revelations as uniquely transformative.

Key Takeaways:

  • Early American religious history, particularly the First and Second Great Awakenings, emphasized personal choice in faith and fueled debates about human depravity, revelation, and the Trinity.
  • Joseph Smith’s ancestors, including the Mack and Smith families, were deeply religious, participating in revivals, preaching, and practicing spiritual gifts such as healing and visions.
  • Both grandfathers served in the Revolutionary War, instilling values of liberty and resilience that influenced Joseph’s upbringing and worldview.
  • Joseph’s father experienced significant dreams and spiritual impressions, sharing visions that parallel themes later found in Joseph’s revelations, including symbolic imagery like the tree of life.
  • While Joseph’s upbringing immersed him in a culture of spiritual inquiry, his teachings—especially on revelation and salvation—differed markedly from the prevailing doctrines of his time.

Additional Resources:

Wilson, Lynne Hilton. “Family History of Joseph Smith.” In Hard Questions in Church History: Supplementary Handouts, 1–8. Springville, UT: Book of Mormon Central, 2021.

Wilson, Lynne Hilton. “Background to the First Vision: 1801-1840 Second Great Awakening: Revivals and Camp Meetings.” In Hard Questions in Church History: Supplementary Handouts, 9–15. Springville, UT: Book of Mormon Central, 2021.