Why convert the starting scout to a prophet in turn 1

[Torin]

mainly is for the encumbrance factor.
Your army commander tire fast=few smites till he faints
Your scout can cast several smites
waiting for something better can be useful if you are LA marignon (blood sacrifice x 4 with the high inquisitor)
or LA Ermor i think is a must to wait for a H3 priest to make it H4

Maybe you can wait also to summon an undead commander to prophetize or recruit a tough one (giant) to use him as a HtH (specially with a good bless).

I often use the scout, is usually needed to the fastest expansion possible.

If you dont get a province with indy scouts you are pretty much blind.