Book of Mormon Central

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, host Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the Book of Exodus chapters 7–13, where God's power is revealed through the dramatic plagues that fall upon Egypt. As Moses confronts Pharaoh again and again, the escalating plagues show that the Lord alone rules heaven and earth, giving Pharaoh repeated opportunities to recognize His authority. For the enslaved Israelites, these events must have strengthened their faith as they witnessed the Lord defending His covenant people. Through these miracles, the narrative builds toward the ultimate act of deliverance—the Passover—foreshadowing the saving power of the Lamb of God. While these chapters center on Moses and Pharaoh, this episode also highlights the often-overlooked experiences of women within Israelite homes during these pivotal moments. Israelite mothers played a crucial role in faithfully preparing the Passover meal, marking their doorposts with the lamb's blood, and teaching their children the sacred meaning of the night of deliverance. Their quiet obedience and faith helped preserve the covenant within the family and ensured that the memory of God's saving power would be passed from generation to generation. As Lynne Hilton Wilson explains, these women stand as powerful examples of covenant faith—participating in God's work of redemption within their homes and pointing symbolically to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Firstborn who delivers all God's children from spiritual bondage.

Of all the problems we encounter in this life, there is one that towers above them all and is the least understood. The worst of all human conditions in this life is not poverty, sickness, loneliness, abuse, war, or cruelty in all its diabolical variations, as awful as those conditions are. Rather, the worst of all human conditions is also the most common; it is to die. It is to die spiritually. It is to be separated from the presence of God, and in this life, His presence is His Spirit or power. The best of all human conditions is not wealth, fame, prestige, good health, the honors of men, or security as wonderful as some of those things are, the best of all human conditions in this life, is life; it is to be born again, endowed with heavenly power, to “receive the Holy Ghost” which is life, and the source of knowledge, revelation, strength, clarity, love, joy, peace, hope, confidence, faith and almost every other good thing. Our absolute dependence on God for life as well as every other good thing, is true spiritually as well as physically. We all die spiritually, and standing alone, our only and inevitable conclusion is ever-increasing chaos, darkness, and irredeemable death. That universal condition is what King Benjamin called our “awful situation.” It is awful because spiritual death, to be cut off from the presence of God, is both the worst and most common of all human conditions, and there is no way out on our own.

As the Savior's mortal ministry draws to its sacred climax, the New Testament highlights a devoted group of women whose faith and service quietly shape the final hours of Jesus Christ's life. In the days leading up to the Crucifixion, women appear as faithful disciples who minister with courage and devotion. The Gospels describe a woman in Bethany—identified as Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus—who anoints Jesus with precious ointment, symbolically preparing Him for His burial and demonstrating profound spiritual insight. Other faithful women, including Mary the mother of Jesus and Martha of Bethany, had long served the Savior and supported His ministry. Their acts of hospitality, discipleship, and devotion reflect a pattern of covenant service—women who recognized the Savior and responded with love, generosity, and spiritual sensitivity. At the time of the Crucifixion, when many others had fled in fear, several faithful women remained near the cross, becoming eyewitnesses of the Savior's sacrifice. Among them were Mary the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, Mary the wife of Cleopas, and Salome, along with other devoted disciples who had followed Him from Galilee and ministered to His needs. Their presence reflects remarkable courage and loyalty as they comfort one another and remain close to the Lord in His final mortal moments. These women would later play crucial roles in the sacred events surrounding His burial and Resurrection, preparing spices and returning to the tomb in loving service. From the preparation of the Last Supper to the sorrowful vigil at Golgotha, the women of the New Testament stand as powerful witnesses of Christ—models of faithful discipleship who served, mourned, and ultimately rejoiced in the triumph of their risen Redeemer.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, Lynne Hilton Wilson explores Exodus 1–6, where the story of Israel shifts from refuge to oppression in Egypt. Centuries after Jacob's family was welcomed during Joseph's lifetime, their descendants had grown into a large and thriving people. A new Pharaoh, fearing their numbers, subjected the Israelites to harsh bondage. Yet even in this dark moment, the narrative highlights the courage and faith of remarkable women who quietly but powerfully advance God's purposes. The Hebrew midwives Shiphrah and Puah refuse Pharaoh's command to kill newborn Hebrew boys, choosing reverence for God over obedience to an unjust ruler. Their bravery becomes the first act of resistance in the Exodus story, demonstrating how faithful women can stand as protectors of life and covenant. The account then centers on the women who preserve the life of the infant Moses—Jochebed, his faithful mother who entrusts him to the Lord; Miriam, his watchful sister who helps ensure his safety; and Pharaoh's daughter, whose compassion leads her to rescue and adopt the Hebrew child. In these opening chapters of Exodus, women act with moral courage, compassion, and spiritual insight, preparing the way for Israel's deliverance. As God begins to raise up Moses to lead His covenant people, these heroines remind us that divine work often begins through quiet acts of faith. For Latter-day Saint readers, their stories testify that obedience to God—especially in moments of risk—invites His protection and moves His covenant purposes forward.

The natural state of all things trends toward chaos. That process of degradation is broadly defined as “entropy.” Without the intervention of focused energy to counteract entropy, all things are continually breaking down, trending toward disorder. God not only offsets entropy but also creates order out of chaos. While God builds up, Satan tears down. While God's house “… is a house of order…” Satan's realm is confusion and chaos. While God is the Creator, Satan is the destroyer. Without intervention, entropy and chaos prevail spiritually and individually as well as physically and universally. Chaos, darkness, and death are all consequences of not keeping God's commandments. “Behold, mine house is a house of order, saith the Lord God, and not a house of confusion.” How blessed we are to have God's commandments. What safety, protection, and order come from keeping them.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this compelling installment of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson continues her illuminating walk through the later chapters of Genesis (42–50), bringing to life the women and cultural dynamics woven through the final act of the Joseph narrative. Viewers will hear fresh insights about the ancient Egyptian world where Hebrew women—unlike in many neighboring societies—could own property, manage legal affairs, and exercise a surprising degree of autonomy in family life and commerce in some contexts—setting the stage for understanding how Jacob's family navigated life in Egypt's Delta. Drawing on historical and cultural sources, Dr. Wilson highlights how these social realities shaped the experiences of Israelite women in a foreign land. This video also explores Jacob's visit to Pharaoh in Genesis 47, a moment that underscores the dramatic rise of Joseph's family from famine refugees to honored guests in Egypt's royal court, with Jacob himself offering blessings and receiving respect from the king. We also meet Serah, the daughter (or granddaughter) of Asher, whose brief biblical mention belies a rich later tradition about her role in preserving family memory and legacy in the land of Egypt. Plus, Dr. Wilson ties in recent archaeological work in the Goshen region (Tell el-Dab'a)—ancient Avaris—where excavations reveal a thriving Semitic city in the Nile Delta that may illuminate the cultural backdrop of Israel's settlement in Egypt and offer tangible context for the stories we read in Genesis.

Your Eternal Father loves you more than anyone has ever loved another. All He does is for you and His children. He offers you and all His children everywhere supernal gifts, but most of His children neither receive nor rejoice in His marvelous gifts, and as a result, they are weak and unhappy, and heaven weeps with them. Can you imagine the sadness and disappointment of Our Father if we do not accept His magnificent gifts, when His children ignore Him after all He has done? Enoch saw that not only Heavenly Father but the whole of the heavens weep when we refuse or neglect His gifts. What are the greatest gifts our Father offers all His children everywhere from the beginning of time? His Son, His Spirit, and His life. Those are God's greatest gifts to His children. To accept and receive those gifts is the best of all human conditions. What is the inconceivably high price paid to make them available? The creation, the fall, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, and all the Gods have done and do “… to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” Words cannot describe, nor can we conceive or measure the height, the breadth, the depth of the gift of God's own Son. “No tongue can speak, neither can there be written by any man, neither can the hearts of men conceive (anything) so great and marvelous” as Jesus Christ, the Son of God by whom salvation and all good things are possible. New episodes every Saturday at 8:30 a.m. MST

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines, Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the rich and often complicated stories of women in Genesis 37–41, shining a thoughtful Latter-day Saint lens on narratives that are frequently overshadowed by the story of Joseph. Dr. Wilson brings depth and cultural insight to the account of Dinah, whose story in Genesis 34 echoes into the later family tensions surrounding Joseph; Tamar, whose courageous and calculated actions in Genesis 38 preserve covenant lineage; and Potiphar's wife, a powerful yet unnamed Egyptian woman whose encounter with Joseph in Genesis 39 raises questions about power, agency, morality, and voice. With careful attention to ancient Near Eastern context and covenant theology, this episode highlights how these women—whether victims, heroines, or antagonists—play essential roles in moving the Abrahamic story forward. Dr. Wilson invites viewers to look beyond surface readings and consider issues of honor, inheritance, justice, and faith in a patriarchal world. As Joseph rises from slavery to leadership in Egypt, the stories of these women remind us that God's purposes unfold through complex human experiences—and that even the most difficult narratives in Genesis offer profound spiritual lessons for modern disciples.

"Stand Forever" Ep. 4 | The Essential Problem in Life | Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge by Scripture Central

"Stand Forever" Ep. 3 | Christ Is The Measure | Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge by Scripture Central

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Some are hard-pressed to believe in the extraordinary or miraculous. While it is understandable that we may be challenged by the extraordinary, we shouldn't be, because ordinary things are actually far more phenomenal. With this and the next episode, we begin at the end, with the conclusion of the entire series: to make clear our destination, believe and follow Christ to the end, and help others do the same. Today, the focus is simply “believe.” We'll walk through the pattern of syllogisms, piecing together an important syllogism threaded throughout scripture, which I call “Reason Down.” If you understand Reason Down, not only will your faith be fortified, but you will know that with God, all things are possible, and nothing should be hard to believe. Please join me on this journey and stand forever. Transcript/Notes: https://tinyurl.com/3k73uxdz

In this episode, Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the rich Old Testament narratives surrounding the matriarchs of Israel, highlighting the faith, courage, and covenant loyalty of women in the Jacob cycle. Beginning with the well-known scene of Rebekah's generosity in Book of Genesis—where she offers water not only to Abraham's servant but to his camels—Dr. Wilson connects this act of selfless service to the covenant marriages that shape the house of Israel. The story then moves to Rachel and Leah, daughters of Laban, whose lives intertwine with Jacob's through love, deception, longing, and divine promise. Through their marriages, and through the faithful contributions of Zilpah and Bilhah, the foundations of the twelve tribes are laid. Dr. Wilson carefully examines the births of Gad and Asher through Zilpah, Leah's handmaid, and reflects on the complex family dynamics that shaped Jacob's household. She also addresses the wives of Esau and the contrasting covenant paths chosen by Jacob and his brother. With insight drawn from ancient context and Latter-day Saint theology, this episode brings forward the voices of these often-overlooked women—Rachel, Leah, Zilpah, Bilhah, Rebekah, and Esau's wives—showing how their choices, sacrifices, and faith played a central role in God's covenant story. Thank you for joining us at Scripture Central! We hope that you have enjoyed this content.

The Stand Forever Series is about believing and following Christ to the end, engaged in His work, and helping others do the same. In Episode one, we see the big picture. Few things provide greater comfort, confidence, and clarity than looking beyond present cares to see the big picture. When we stand back, it looks like this: 1. The essential problem in life is separation from God our Father, resulting in chaos, darkness, and death. 2. Jesus Christ bridges the gap if we will believe and follow Him to the end engaged in His work and help others do the same. He is the Way offsetting chaos, the Truth offsetting darkness, and the Life offsetting death. 3. Therefore, cross the bridge and close the gap; believe and follow Christ to the end, engaged in His work, and help others do the same. The kingdom and purposes of God will not fail but stand forever. The question is whether you will. To that end, we invite you to join us on this journey and Stand Forever.

The Lord said, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” How do you do that? How do you live in a troubled world and not be troubled? How do you live in a fearful world and not be afraid? How do you find peace? Introducing a new original series from Scripture Central. The Stand Forever Series is a cinematic presentation of a Christ-centered book written by Elder Lawrence E. Corbridge (Emeritus General Authority Seventy), a book that may never be published. The book and now this series share the same title as a BYU devotional address given by Elder Corbridge in 2019, the elements of which are critical pieces to a larger puzzle. The Stand Forever Series is the larger puzzle revealing why we believe and follow Christ to the end, engaged in His work, and help others do the same. Although this first episode is the longest and one of the last of the series, it is being released first because it is especially timely. Subsequent episodes will be released in order every Saturday. We invite you to join us on this journey and Stand Forever. A downloadable transcript of this message can be found here: https://scripturecentral.org/shows/stand-forever/episodes/stand-forever-peace-let-not-your-heart-be-troubled-elder-lawrence-e-corbridge

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Genesis 18–23 highlights several remarkable women whose stories, read through an LDS lens, reveal faith, covenant, and the quiet influence of righteous women in God's plan. Sarah stands at the center: in Genesis 18 she hears the promise that she will bear a son in her old age and initially laughs, a deeply human reaction that the Lord gently turns into a lesson about divine power and timing. Latter-day Saints often see in Sarah a model of covenant partnership with Abraham—someone who grows into faith and ultimately receives the miracle promised. Genesis 19 introduces Lot's wife and daughters, whose experiences near the destruction of Sodom show both the dangers of looking back spiritually and the complexity of preserving family in a fallen world. An LDS perspective emphasizes agency and accountability, while also recognizing the difficult circumstances these women faced. Genesis 20–23 continues to show how women are woven into the covenant story. Sarah's protection in foreign courts underscores the Lord's watchful care over covenant mothers through whom promises flow. Her eventual joy in Isaac's birth (Genesis 21) fulfills God's word and highlights the doctrine that nothing is impossible for the Lord. Hagar and her son Ishmael are also remembered compassionately in Latter-day Saint thought: though separated from Abraham's household, they are seen as recipients of God's mercy and promises. Finally, Sarah's death in Genesis 23 is treated with great honor, showing her importance as a matriarch in Israel. Altogether, these chapters present women not as side characters but as vital participants in the Abrahamic covenant, whose faith, struggles, and divine encounters still teach modern disciples about trust in God's promises.

Genesis 18–23 highlights several remarkable women whose stories, read through an LDS lens, reveal faith, covenant, and the quiet influence of righteous women in God's plan. Sarah stands at the center: in Genesis 18 she hears the promise that she will bear a son in her old age and initially laughs, a deeply human reaction that the Lord gently turns into a lesson about divine power and timing. Latter-day Saints often see in Sarah a model of covenant partnership with Abraham—someone who grows into faith and ultimately receives the miracle promised. Genesis 19 introduces Lot's wife and daughters, whose experiences near the destruction of Sodom show both the dangers of looking back spiritually and the complexity of preserving family in a fallen world. An LDS perspective emphasizes agency and accountability, while also recognizing the difficult circumstances these women faced. Genesis 20–23 continues to show how women are woven into the covenant story. Sarah's protection in foreign courts underscores the Lord's watchful care over covenant mothers through whom promises flow. Her eventual joy in Isaac's birth (Genesis 21) fulfills God's word and highlights the doctrine that nothing is impossible for the Lord. Hagar and her son Ishmael are also remembered compassionately in Latter-day Saint thought: though separated from Abraham's household, they are seen as recipients of God's mercy and promises. Finally, Sarah's death in Genesis 23 is treated with great honor, showing her importance as a matriarch in Israel. Altogether, these chapters present women not as side characters but as vital participants in the Abrahamic covenant, whose faith, struggles, and divine encounters still teach modern disciples about trust in God's promises.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode, Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the stories of faithful women in the Old Testament who demonstrated deep obedience, covenant loyalty, and unwavering trust in God—even when their discipleship required real sacrifice. Through an LDS lens, she highlights how women were vital participants in God's covenant work, not merely background figures. Their lives show that faith in the Lord often requires courage, patience, and a willingness to place divine promises above personal comfort or social expectations. A special focus is given to Sarah in Genesis 12 and the Book of Abraham, following the journey she and Abraham make to Egypt during a time of famine. There, they encounter serious danger as Abraham fears for his life because of Sarah's beauty, leading to complex moral and spiritual tests. From an LDS perspective, Sarah's faith, unity with Abraham, and trust in God's protection reveal a woman deeply committed to the covenant path. Her story—marked by risk, displacement, and divine deliverance—invites viewers to appreciate the spiritual strength of covenant women and to see how their examples still guide Latter-day Saints striving to live faithfully today.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode, we dive into Moses chapter 8 and Genesis 6–11, exploring the powerful stories surrounding Noah, the Flood, and the Tower of Babel through a Latter-day Saint lens. These chapters highlight a world struggling with increasing wickedness, yet still touched by prophetic warnings, covenants, and divine mercy. Viewers will gain insight into how the Joseph Smith Translation in the book of Moses expands the biblical account, especially in emphasizing the role of preaching, repentance, and moral agency before the Flood. The discussion connects these ancient events to modern discipleship, asking what it means to remain faithful in a corrupt society. Special attention is given to the women mentioned or implied in these chapters—such as the “daughters of men” in Genesis 6, Noah's wife, and the wives of his sons—who are often overlooked but are essential to the story of preservation and covenant continuity. Their presence reminds us that families, marriages, and righteous women were central to God's plan to carry humanity forward after the Flood. By noticing these women in the text, this episode invites viewers to read more carefully and see how both men and women participate in God's work across generations, helping build a bridge from the world before the Flood to the renewed world that followed.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Why do Bible translations matter? In this video, LDS scholar Lynne Hilton Wilson explains how understanding different Bible translations can deepen scripture study, clarify meaning, and strengthen faith in Jesus Christ. Learn how language, culture, and history shape the biblical text—and why thoughtful comparison of translations can enrich both personal study and classroom learning.

Moses chapter 7 centers on the rise of the City of Enoch, a people who learned to build Zion by becoming “of one heart and one mind,” dwelling in righteousness, and caring deeply for one another. Under Enoch's prophetic leadership, the people rejected violence, pride, and inequality, choosing instead to live the law of consecration so fully that there were “no poor among them.” Their society was marked not only by moral purity but by profound compassion—so much so that the Lord Himself wept over the suffering and wickedness of the world. In contrast to the surrounding nations, Zion stood as a covenant community defined by love, justice, and unity with God. The chapter also teaches that Zion is not merely a place, but a condition of the heart that any people can strive to achieve. Moses 7 makes clear that Zion is built through repentance, obedience, humility, and collective commitment to God's ways. As Enoch's people aligned their lives with heaven, they became sanctified and were ultimately taken into God's presence, symbolizing the destiny of a truly Zion-like society. For modern readers, the City of Enoch becomes both a model and an invitation: Zion is achieved when individuals and communities choose righteousness, unity, and selfless care for the vulnerable, preparing the world—and themselves—for the return of the Lord.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

Genesis chapter 5 and Moses chapter 6 take us into the earliest generations of God's covenant people, tracing the lineage from Adam through Enoch and revealing why these names matter far more than a list of ages and ancestors. In this video, Dr. Lynne Hilton Wilson explains how these chapters preserve temple-centered themes of covenant, posterity, and divine identity. Genesis 5 quietly emphasizes continuity—life, death, and faith passed from one generation to the next—while Moses 6 expands the story, restoring prophetic voices, priesthood authority, and the doctrine that humans are literal children of God. Together, these texts teach that genealogy in scripture is theology: it shows how God works through families to move His plan forward. Dr. Wilson also highlights Moses 6 as a powerful doctrinal restoration that deepens our understanding of repentance, baptism, and spiritual rebirth. Through the ministry of Enoch and the teachings given to Adam, we learn that salvation comes through Jesus Christ, that hearts can be changed, and that Zion is built when people choose righteousness in a fallen world. This video helps viewers see how the Joseph Smith Translation clarifies missing or obscured truths, transforming familiar passages into a compelling invitation to walk with God—just as Enoch did—and to claim our own place in God's eternal family.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems, and Heroines: Find Their Messiah in the Old Testament, Lynne Hilton Wilson explores the Fall of Adam and Eve through the lens of Moses 4 and Genesis 3, highlighting how careful attention to language, context, and covenant reveals Jesus Christ at the center of the story. Rather than portraying Eve as reckless or malicious, Dr. Wilson explains that the Hebrew text suggests growth, perception, and timing—Eve sought wisdom, but before the appointed time and outside the proper divine order. The Fall is shown not simply as a mistake, but as a necessary step in humanity's journey toward knowledge, accountability, and ultimately redemption. Dr. Wilson emphasizes the profound symbolism of nakedness and covering, teaching that Adam and Eve's attempt to clothe themselves with fig leaves represents human self-reliance, while God's gift of coats of skins represents divine atonement. The Hebrew concept of kaffar, meaning “covering,” points directly to Christ's role in covering humanity's sin and vulnerability. The Lord's questions—“Where goest thou?”—underscore that disobedience moves us away from God, yet His response is still merciful, structured around accountability, repentance, and hope rather than abandonment. Ultimately, this lesson reframes the banishment from Eden as an act of mercy, not punishment. By preventing Adam and Eve from partaking of the tree of life too soon, God ensures they have time to repent and be spiritually prepared. Throughout the narrative, Christ emerges as the promised seed who will overcome Satan and restore what was lost. Through scripture that is carefully illuminated and faithfully defended, Lynne Hilton Wilson shows how the stories of the Old Testament—even those involving transgression, sorrow, and consequence—are deeply rooted in the redemptive power of Jesus Christ.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

The Creation accounts in Genesis, Moses, and Abraham invite us to reflect on a world that began “without form, and void” and was gradually shaped by divine power into something beautiful and full of life. These scriptures teach that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are creators who work patiently and purposefully, bringing light out of darkness and order out of chaos. That truth offers hope in our own lives: when things feel empty or disorganized, God is still at work. Being created in His image means we have divine potential—to grow, to change, and ultimately to become more like Him. These Creation stories also help us better understand who God is and who we are. They testify that we are made in God's likeness, male and female, and that our bodies are sacred gifts. This knowledge shapes how we see ourselves and others, especially when we struggle with self-doubt or negative messages from the world. Rather than suggesting that we are already finished or perfect, the scriptures teach that God's creative work in us continues. Through humility and grace, weaknesses can become strengths, and we can be refined into who God intends us to be. Finally, the Creation narrative teaches us about sacred relationships and responsibilities. Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and central to His plan, and we are entrusted with the stewardship of the earth and all living things. God also set apart the Sabbath day as holy—a time for rest, worship, and renewal. Together, these truths remind us that creation is not just a past event, but an ongoing invitation to live with reverence, gratitude, and purpose as we care for God's creations and honor the divine image within ourselves.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.” To view the resources connected with this episode, visit https://johnhiltoniii.com/findingchrist. Please like and comment on this episode and subscribe @scripturecentralofficial so you can more easily see the rest of the videos and resources in this course. Whether you're using this course for personal enrichment or to help with "Come, Follow Me," we hope it will be valuable in your studies.

In this episode of Handmaidens, Harems and Heroines, we explore two of the most expansive and identity-shaping chapters in all of scripture: Moses chapter 1 and Abraham chapter 3. Together, these chapters lift our eyes beyond the mortal world and remind us who we really are—and why we are here. Beginning with Moses 1, we witness a powerful confrontation between Moses and Satan. This chapter teaches how spiritual clarity comes from knowing our divine identity as children of God, and how that knowledge gives us strength to resist the temptations, deceptions, and counterfeits of the adversary. Moses's declaration—“I am a son of God”—becomes a model for discipleship in a world filled with competing voices. Turning to Abraham 3, we are invited into a grand vision of the cosmos and the premortal life. Abraham learns of intelligences, divine order, and God's eternal plan—revealing that we existed before this life and were chosen to participate in God's great work. These verses help us see mortality not as an accident, but as a purposeful step in a loving, eternal design. Together, Moses 1 and Abraham 3 testify of the work and glory of God: to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of His children. This study encourages faith, spiritual courage, and a deeper sense of divine belonging—reminding us that knowing who we are changes how we live.

Welcome to “Finding Christ in the Old Testament.”

Join Lynne Hilton Wilson for an inspiring journey through the Old Testament, centered on Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah. For many, approaching the Old Testament can bring mixed emotions—eagerness, uncertainty, even apprehension. As one of the oldest collections of sacred writings in the world, its ancient cultures and stories can feel distant or unfamiliar. Yet within these pages are deeply recognizable human experiences and powerful gospel truths. In this video, Lynne Hilton Wilson helps viewers see how the lives of men and women from the Old Testament point us to Christ. Though their circumstances were different from ours, they knew family joy and conflict, faith and doubt, success and failure. Most importantly, they exercised faith, repented, made covenants, and held fast to the promise of a Savior. As we learn how God moved in their lives, we begin to see how He moves in ours. This episode invites you to rediscover the Old Testament not as a distant or intimidating book, but as a living witness of Jesus Christ, echoing the psalmist's testimony: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

In this episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson uncovers little-known details of the Nativity story by bringing together the unique accounts found in the books of Luke and Matthew. Dive deeper into Luke's intimate portrait of Mary—her lineage, her spiritual preparation, the symbolism of her “highly favored” calling, and the cultural realities she faced as a young mother in ancient Judea. Then explore Matthew's distinctive focus on Joseph—his royal Davidic heritage, his revelatory dreams, his quiet strength, and the legal and spiritual responsibilities he carried in protecting the Holy Family. Lynne illuminates how these two perspectives weave together a richer, more complete tapestry of the birth of Christ. This episode goes beyond the familiar Christmas narrative to highlight historical context, overlooked verses, and surprising insights that reveal the faith, courage, and divine guidance surrounding Jesus's arrival into the world. Perfect for viewers looking to deepen their understanding of the Nativity and appreciate the beauty in both Mary's and Joseph's stories.

In this episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson uncovers little-known details of the Nativity story by bringing together the unique accounts found in the books of Luke and Matthew. Dive deeper into Luke's intimate portrait of Mary—her lineage, her spiritual preparation, the symbolism of her “highly favored” calling, and the cultural realities she faced as a young mother in ancient Judea. Then explore Matthew's distinctive focus on Joseph—his royal Davidic heritage, his revelatory dreams, his quiet strength, and the legal and spiritual responsibilities he carried in protecting the Holy Family. Lynne illuminates how these two perspectives weave together a richer, more complete tapestry of the birth of Christ. This episode goes beyond the familiar Christmas narrative to highlight historical context, overlooked verses, and surprising insights that reveal the faith, courage, and divine guidance surrounding Jesus's arrival into the world. Perfect for viewers looking to deepen their understanding of the Nativity and appreciate the beauty in both Mary's and Joseph's stories.

In this episode of Come Follow Church History, host Lynne Hilton Wilson welcomes special guest BYU Professor Jenet Erickson for a deep and inspiring discussion on The Family: A Proclamation to the World. Together, they explore the historical roots, doctrinal foundations, and continuing relevance of this landmark declaration from the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Dr. Wilson and Professor Erickson unpack the Proclamation's teachings on marriage, family roles, identity, and divine potential—values that stand as both a beacon and a counter-current in today's rapidly shifting cultural landscape. With warmth, scholarship, and faith, they examine why these traditional principles remain central to Latter-day Saint belief, how they connect to broader themes in Church history, and why they continue to offer clarity and hope in a world of competing philosophies. Whether you're studying the Proclamation for the first time or seeking deeper understanding, this conversation will enrich your appreciation of the eternal truths at its heart. Join us for an uplifting, thoughtful, and timely exploration of one of the Church's most influential modern documents. Visit us online: https://scripturecentral.org/archive/books

In this thought-provoking episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson sits down with historian Janiece Johnson for a candid and insightful exploration of Race and the Priesthood in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together, they trace the historical context leading up to the 1978 revelation—Official Declaration 2—that extended priesthood and temple blessings to all worthy members worldwide. Lynne and Janiece discuss the complex historical factors, the lived experiences of Black Latter-day Saints, and the spiritual significance of the revelation. They highlight how Church leaders sought divine guidance and how this landmark moment continues to shape the global Church today. Whether you're a student of Church history or simply seeking deeper understanding, this episode offers a compassionate, clear, and faithful look at one of the most pivotal chapters in modern Latter-day Saint history.

In this episode of Come Follow Church History, host Lynne Hilton Wilson is joined by BYU professor and historian Janiece Johnson for a captivating deep dive into one of the most pivotal—and often misunderstood—moments in Latter-day Saint history: the 1844 succession crisis. In the immediate aftermath of the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints faced an uncertain and deeply emotional crossroads. Without its founding prophet, who would lead the Saints? Lynne and Janiece unpack the confusion, tension, and spiritual searching that followed, exploring the claims of various contenders—including Sidney Rigdon, who argued for guardianship of the Church—as well as other voices who stepped forward during this turbulent period. Together they trace how fear, grief, and competing visions for the future created a moment of genuine crisis for the Saints. With expert insight, Janiece Johnson provides rich historical context, helping viewers understand the different claims to take leadership of the Church—and how the eventual path forward reshaped the trajectory of the Restoration. If you're interested in Latter-day Saint history, the legacy of Joseph Smith, or the development of Church leadership, this episode offers a thoughtful and faith-focused look at a defining moment in 1844. Tune in for a conversation filled with depth, clarity, and remarkable historical detail.

In this episode of Come Follow Church History, host Lynne Hilton Wilson sits down with historian Janiece Johnson to explore one of the most pivotal and tragic moments in Latter-day Saint history—the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Together, they uncover the remarkable and turbulent events leading up to June 27, 1844, when Joseph and Hyrum Smith were killed at Carthage Jail. From Joseph Smith's unprecedented run for President of the United States to the formation of the Council of Fifty, Lynne and Janiece trace how faith, politics, and power collided in Nauvoo. They also examine William Law's rebellion and infidelity, the publication of the Nauvoo Expositor, and the rising tensions that set the stage for Joseph's final days.

In this inspiring episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson dives deep into the Book of Abraham, one of the most profound and revelatory texts in Latter-day Saint scripture. With a warm and faithful perspective, Lynne explores the incredible doctrines revealed through this ancient record—truths about the divine nature of men and women, our premortal existence, and our eternal standing as beloved children of God. Lynne also highlights the groundbreaking research of Dr. John Gee, renowned Egyptologist at BYU, whose decades of study on hundreds of Egyptian facsimiles shed new light on Joseph Smith's inspired translation. His work provides fascinating insights that support and enrich our understanding of how the Book of Abraham connects ancient symbols with eternal truths.

In this episode of Come Follow Church History with Lynne Hilton Wilson, Dr. Wilson sits down with historian Dr. Janiece Johnson to explore one of the most complex and often misunderstood chapters in Latter-day Saint history—the introduction of plural marriage in Nauvoo. Together, they discuss the deep faith, sacrifice, and obedience of early Saints who strove to follow what they sincerely believed was a divine commandment revealed through the Prophet Joseph Smith. Despite the personal heartache and social challenges that came with practicing plural marriage, figures like Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, and many faithful women and men sought to live this principle with devotion, humility, and integrity. Dr. Wilson and Dr. Johnson also delve into the eternal perspectives behind the doctrine of eternal marriage, exploring how the Saints in Nauvoo viewed family, sealing, and covenant relationships as essential parts of God's plan of salvation. Though plural marriage was a defining test of faith for the early Church, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints do not practice this principle today. This episode invites viewers to look at this sensitive topic with empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the faith and courage of those who lived it.

Join host Lynne Hilton Wilson as she dives deep into the inspiring story behind the creation of the Relief Society, the women's organization established by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in March of 1840. In this episode, Lynne explores how a small group of faithful women in Nauvoo, Illinois, under the direction of Joseph Smith, came together with a divine purpose—to serve, uplift, and strengthen one another in both temporal and spiritual ways. Through her thoughtful commentary and historical insights, Lynne reveals how the Relief Society became one of the oldest and largest women's organizations in the world, dedicated to faith, compassion, and unity. Discover the remarkable beginnings of this sacred sisterhood and how its founding principles continue to bless lives today.

Join host Lynne Hilton Wilson and special guest Susan Easton Black, one of the foremost experts on Nauvoo, Illinois, for a captivating episode exploring the creation of one of the most remarkable cities in early Latter-day Saint history. In this groundbreaking podcast, they uncover new insights and fascinating details about how the Saints transformed a swampy stretch of Mississippi River shoreline into the thriving “City Beautiful.” Together, Lynne and Susan dive into Nauvoo's spiritual, social, and architectural legacy—from the vision behind its city planning and the building of the majestic Nauvoo Temple to the stories of the faith-filled people who made it all possible. Viewers will discover how Nauvoo became a center of innovation, faith, and community—and why its legacy still inspires members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today.

In the winter of 1838–1839, the Prophet Joseph Smith and several Church leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were imprisoned in Liberty Jail, Missouri — a cold, cramped dungeon that became a “prison-temple” of revelation. Doctrine and Covenants sections 121, 122, and 123 capture Joseph's heartfelt cries to God and the Lord's powerful response about enduring adversity with faith, patience, and charity. This episode explores the intense persecution of the Saints in Missouri, the unlawful imprisonment of Church leaders, and the spiritual lessons that arose from one of the darkest times in early Church history. As Joseph faced betrayal, loss, and despair, God taught eternal truths about priesthood, humility, and the refining power of trials. Join us as we uncover how these revelations can help you face your own Liberty Jail moments — finding strength when everything seems turned against you, and trusting that “all these things shall give thee experience, and shall be for thy good.”

In this episode, we explore Doctrine and Covenants sections 115 through 120—some of the most defining revelations in the history of the early Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These revelations, given in 1838, officially establish the divinely revealed name of the Church, emphasizing that it must bear the name of Jesus Christ to clearly identify whose Church it is. The Lord also directs the Saints to build up the sacred gathering place of Adam-ondi-Ahman in Missouri—a site tied to ancient prophecy and the future return of the Savior. Through these commands, the Saints are reminded that their work is not only about organizing a church but about preparing a people and a place for the coming of Christ. Sections 119 and 120 introduce the law of tithing, a principle that would bless both individual Saints and the Church collectively. This revelation set a divine pattern of sacrifice and stewardship, where the faithful contribute one-tenth of their increase to sustain the Lord's work on earth. These sections show how the Lord guides His people in both spiritual and temporal matters—establishing identity through His name, unity through sacred gathering places, and consecration through the law of tithing. Together, these revelations reflect the growing maturity of the restored Church and the Lord's ongoing pattern of preparing His Saints for Zion.

The story of the early Latter-day Saints in the 1830s is one of both trial and triumph. In Kirtland, Ohio, the Saints faced a heartbreaking financial crisis with the collapse of the Kirtland Safety Society Bank. Hopes of building Zion seemed threatened as many lost money, and critics pointed to the failure as evidence against Joseph Smith and the Church's future stability. It was a season of doubt, testing, and refinement for the faith of the Saints. Yet, at the very same time, remarkable success unfolded across the Atlantic. Missionaries sent to England began preaching the restored gospel with such power that entire congregations were converted. In less than a year, over 1,600 baptisms took place—an astonishing outpouring of faith that infused the struggling Church with new life and strength. In this episode with professor Lynne Hilton Wilson, listen to details about how both the trials of Kirtland and the miracles in England shaped the destiny of the Church. The failures of man stood in stark contrast to the Lord's triumphs, showing how God's hand continued to guide His people through opposition, ultimately moving the work forward in miraculous ways.