Ep. 342 Doctrine & Covenants 93: Parenting Isn’t Control, It’s Charity

My Scripture Streak

Episode Summary

In this episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeff explores Doctrine and Covenants 93 with a focus on the Lord’s rebuke of Frederick G. Williams, Sidney Rigdon, and Joseph Smith. He examines why Frederick G. Williams in particular was chastised for not teaching his children light and truth, connecting it to his busy life as a physician, community leader, and member of the First Presidency. Jeff then parallels this with biblical accounts—especially Eli and his sons in 1 Samuel—showing how neglecting to guide children spiritually can have lasting consequences.

The study transitions into a practical reflection on modern parenting: the balance between prioritizing family relationships, honoring children’s agency, and leading with charity. Jeff highlights that true gospel-centered parenting is less about control and more about embodying faith, hope, and Christlike love in the home. He concludes with encouragement for parents to seek revelation, act with charity, and trust that God can send others—including “angels in the flesh”—to help influence and guide their children.

Chapters

• (00:00) Introduction and setting the stage – revisiting the rebuke of Frederick G. Williams

• (02:17) Historical background: Williams’ large household and church responsibilities

• (04:45) Lessons for today: family as the first priority relationship

• (06:00) Biblical example: Eli’s sons abusing their priestly office (1 Samuel 2–3)

• (09:27) The Lord’s condemnation of Eli for honoring his sons above God

• (11:31) Application: parents’ duty to teach repentance and faith (D&C 68 & 93)

• (13:59) Parenting with light, truth, and agency vs. manipulation and control

• (16:28) Charity as the principle of parenting (adaptation of Moroni 7)

• (19:36) Practical reflections: long nights, patience, discipline, and consequences

• (22:46) The agency of man and allowing children to act for themselves (D&C 93:30–31)

• (25:12) Example from Jeff’s own family: making church attendance a positive choice

• (27:30) The most important work within the home – prophetic counsel and Come, Follow Me

• (28:27) Other scriptural parenting examples: Alma the Elder & Alma the Younger

• (30:43) Conclusion: seeking revelation, trusting God, and praying for angels to help

Conclusion

As Jeff closes this study, he reminds us that parenting with charity is the foundation of raising children in light and truth. Like Frederick G. Williams, Eli, and Alma the Elder, we are called to make our families a spiritual priority while respecting agency and seeking Christlike love.

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