The Body, Agency, and Divine Choreography: A Scholar's Journey Home

Brothers and sisters, have you ever felt that tug, that subtle yet persistent prompting, that whispers of a deeper truth residing just beyond your grasp? Like Samuel the Lamanite, scaling the walls to deliver a message of warning and preparation, we often find ourselves on a path we didn’t anticipate, drawn by a force we can scarcely comprehend. Ammon, at the waters of Sebus, faced a daunting task, yet by the power of the Spirit, he prevailed. We, too, are called to act with courage, to be builders, not destroyers, in a world desperately needing restoration.

We've been listening to a powerful conversation with Dr. John White, a theologian who, after years of dedicated study and scholarship, found himself drawn to the waters of restoration. Listen to the full episode:

Dr. White’s story isn’t one of simple intellectual assent; it’s a tale of profound personal experience, a revelation that unfolded as he presented a paper on agape ethics. He describes an encounter with an LDS scholar, a visit to Hill Cumorah, and a moment of profound recognition as he read Moroni 10—a moment that ignited a spark of faith, a forerunner to the enlightenment of the Holy Ghost.

Embodiment and the Divine

What resonated deeply was Dr. White’s exploration of the theology of the body—a concept central to understanding our relationship with God and with ourselves. He reminds us that we are our bodies, not merely inhabitants of them. This is a vital correction to a world that often seeks to disassociate from the physical, to deny its inherent goodness and potential for sacred experience. As Paul teaches, the separation of soul and body is unnatural. Embracing our physicality, acknowledging its role in our spiritual journey, is crucial to true discipleship.

Agency and Divine Choreography

He speaks of divine choreography, a phrase that captures the beautiful and often mysterious way God works in our lives. It’s tempting to wish we’d begun our journeys earlier, to lament the delays and detours. But as Dr. White wisely observes, “That’s just the beauty of divine choreography.” He reminds us that God is weaving together the threads of our experiences, preparing us for the precise moment of revelation. This isn’t about passive waiting; it's about active participation, seeking opportunities to learn, to grow, and to serve.

This echoes the words of the Savior: “And if ye will that I should bless you with wisdom, then you must learn of me, that when I am taken from you, I may not be forgotten” (Moroni 10:4-5).

Building a Kingdom of Restoration

The story of Dr. White’s conversion is a testament to the power of truth, the importance of seeking, and the profound beauty of God’s plan. It compels us to examine our own lives, to identify the areas where we can become more faithful builders, more active participants in the gathering of Israel. Let us be like the digital striplings, armed with the five smooth stones of faith, hope, charity, knowledge, and wisdom, ready to face the challenges of our time.

Your engagement here isn’t just about learning and inspiration; it’s part of a vital charity flywheel. Every interaction, every contribution helps fund gospel advertising in places like Ghana, reaching those who are on the cusp of their own testimonies. It supports the Missionary Fund, fueling the work of those who serve across the globe. And it strengthens the Map of Churches, connecting builders and facilitating collaboration. Claim your church and join the movement!

Let us be mindful of Outback Jack’s constant reminder: Alma 17–19, D&C 4, Moroni 10:4–5—principles that guide us in this work. Let us embrace the courage challenge, the waters of Sebus, and the certainty of the Stone cut without hands, that we may build a Zion worthy of the name.