Podcasts about anti mormon

Go To https://rumble.com/user/MormonRenegade for free video & access to exclusive content. Renegade Supply Store: https://renegade-supply-shop.printify.me/products   (THIS EPISODE IS FOR MORE MATURE AUDIENCES, SOME CLIPS I PLAY FROM A DIFFERENT PODCAST MAKE SEVERAL INAPPROPRIATE INNUENDOS AND I WOULD SUGGEST NOT LETTING ANYONE UNDER 16 LISTEN!!!)   While I won't play down the theological differences between Orthodox Mormonism and the LDS Church the truth is that there is a lot more that we have in common than not and as such when The LDS Church lines up with True Principles we should stand with them on that principle. This episode is one of those as me and my guest defend the LDS Church from a prominent Anti-Mormon podcaster. The LDS Church in the last couple months took a few steps in a direction I think most of us as Fundamentalists would agree with. They have presented new curriculum for their youth explaining the history around the LDS Church's former practice of Celestial Plural Marriage. Now by presenting this information you would think that the anti/post Mormon community would be happy with this since they have been screaming for more transparency on Joseph Smith's practice of plural marriage. However, the exact opposite is true. They railed on the curriculum material by calling it grooming. So, on this Ben Winfield and I breakdown not only the curriculum published by the LDS Church (which in my opinion is pretty darn good for LDS Youth) but also the response from a prominent anti-Mormon podcaster. 

Gen Alpha is here... and they've got opinions on Millenial anti-mormons! #proLDS #mormon #exmormon #bible

Breaking Down 'The God Makers': Separating Fact from Fiction in Anti-Mormon Narratives

Fathom The Good Curriculum - https://fathomthegood.com/ Social media has become THE tool to pass on disinformation and "critique" the Church, its history, practices and doctrines. The new, most popular, and fastest-growing anti-Mormon voices are mostly women. Website - www.cwicmedia.com 

Behold, Andrew Miller, Digital Danite! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

They can leave the church, and teach others how to leave, but they can't stop loving it... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Public Service Announcement: You better familiarize yourself with Michelangelo's "The Last Judgement" or you may not be righteous. #justsayin --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

A new authorship theory of the Book of Mormon is taking the anti-Mormon psuedo-historical community by storm! But it's failing... HARD... and it's funny! Full Washington Post report on the Neilson brothers: https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/these-mormon-twins-worked-together-on-an-irs-whistleblower-complaint-over-the-churchs-billions--and-it-tore-them-apart/2020/01/16/a6dcbb16-235f-11ea-bed5-880264cc91a9_story.html Dan Vogel's Review Part 1: https://youtu.be/RWkjGZ8R1gg?si=-g5jinmROIbIjfxu --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Serving with Integrity: The Realities of Church Leadership and Modest Salaries ⏱️⏱️VIDEO CHAPTERS⏱️⏱️: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Light Truth Letter Podcast 00:02:23 - Church Finances and Critics' Perspectives 00:04:53 - Volunteerism in Church Leadership Roles 00:07:13 - Wealth and Leadership in the Church 00:09:34 - Critics' Views on Church Leaders' Salaries 00:11:57 - Supporting Ward Radio and Community Engagement ⚡Make it a Trillion --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

A lot of critics try and attack the church using misinformation about church finances that the Light and Truth Letter rightly corrects! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

In this episode, we stand slack-jawed as Bart D. Ehrman WRECKS several anti-Mormon "Christians" and their psuedohistorical misrepresentation of the 11 witnesses. We love this guy.... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Debunking Myths: What Mormons Really Believe vs. Common Misconceptions

Unveiling Abinadi: The Lost Prophecies and Connections to Isaiah

Debunking Anti-Mormon Myths: A Critical AnalysisIn this video, we delve into the fascinating world of religious debates and theological discussions. Our host, Cardon Ellis, is joined by a panel of experts including Britney the Shadow, Tikla from the Women of Ward Radio, and Austin Fife, author of 'The Light and Truth Letter. This engaging conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the unique aspects of Mormon theology to the challenges faced by members of the Church in defending their beliefs. The discussion is peppered with humor, personal anecdotes, and insightful analysis, making it both entertaining and educational. Whether you're a believer, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, this video offers valuable perspectives on faith, logic, and the complexities of religious discourse. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode brought to you by scripture notes.com.

The Controversy Over Church-Led Education Programs in Africa

From Opposition to Acceptance: Embracing the LDS Church. In this inspiring video, we delve into the remarkable story of Chris and Claire, a couple whose lives were transformed by their journey to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Chris's background in a devoutly anti-Mormon family sets the stage for a dramatic shift in beliefs, catalyzed by a powerful spiritual experience. Claire's steadfast faith and gentle encouragement play a crucial role in Chris's decision to explore and ultimately join the church. Their story highlights the importance of open-mindedness, personal revelation, and the supportive role of community in spiritual growth. This video is a must-watch for anyone interested in religious conversions, the dynamics of faith within families, and the profound changes that can occur when individuals follow their spiritual promptings.

Recently, Kwaku El exposed Anti-Mormon Kyle Glen Bishop, for making FAKE racist Brigham Young Quotes for his ex-Mormon tik-tok channel that got over a hundred thousand views. Well, it sucks to get called out publicly, but, instead of laughing and admitting "if you're not cheating, you're not trying," Kyle decided to make 3 HOURS of follow-up videos defending the NATURE of the fake quotes before FINALLY ADMITTING he used Chat-GPT to create the quotes! You can't make this up! In this video we analyze each one of his claims, and debunk them, of course! P.S. Just for fun: Below is what artificial intelligence has to say about our video! lol Explore the controversy surrounding Kyle Glenn Bishop's use of Chat GPT to generate false quotes from Brigham Young in this in-depth video. We begin by exposing the methods used to create these fabrications and proceed to debunk each quote with factual historical evidence. The video highlights Brigham Young's real contributions to maintaining peace with Native American tribes and his progressive policies that contradicted the false narratives spread by Bishop. Featuring interviews with historians and experts, we provide a balanced perspective on the complexities of Mormon history. This video is a call to action for responsible historical scholarship and a defense against the spread of misinformation. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

So we made a new friend... with a great voice for radio, David Douglas, of the Youtube Channel, "Ancient Answers" who swears by the Bat Creek Stone. Let's hear what he has to say! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Under what circumstances is it still okay to use the term "Mormon"? The recent changes have also produced some interesting legal updates that has gone unnoticed… until now.

"There was this amazing thing that happened at Carthage Jail. There was a guy there, a college -age guy, who was in sweats, like total travel clothing. We went up to the room where John Taylor sang the song, 'Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief ' they usually just play a recording of that song but this guys mom put him on the spot and said, 'my son is a music major. He's about to graduate and he knows this song, would it be okay if he sang the song?, He got up and sang that song so beautifully and music speaks to me. The spirit has spoken to me through music so many times. I just feel the spirit in songs so much. Something transitioned for me there. It was just so real life for me that he was standing up there singing so beautifully, he knew the words, and was put on the spot and yet did such a rockin job at it." https://www.plantwhys.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠comeback⁠⁠⁠  Come Back Team: Director, Founder & Host: Ashly Stone Producer and Senior Editor: Lauren Rose Outreach Manager: Jenna Carlson Editor: Michelle Berger Art Director: Jeremy Garcia

It's hard to believe, but a Catholic guy came after us on Baptisms for the Dead, so we had to kindly correct him. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

If you ever wonder what the people in those anti-mormon mobs ever sounded like... just tune into Spencer Smith. lol. In this episode, Kwaku El, Jonah Barnes, and Cardon Ellis hilariously debunk the religiously bigoted rhetoric and falsehoods propogated by Spencer Smith. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Some anti-mormons anti-mormon so hard they end up driving people INTO the mormon church! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

From the shadow of the Hill Cumorah, we bring you questions and answer recordings in front of a live Standard of Truth Tour audience. Below are the questions that led the discussion for this episode: Who was Joseph Smith going to have as his vice-presidential running mate? How frequently did Church members gather for a “sacrament” meeting from 1830 to the end of the Nauvoo period? What is the Mount Rushmore of Restored Gospel doctrines/teachings? We know the plates were stored in a stone box (or at least stones arranged together to contain plates when buried). Are there any accounts of anyone finding the empty stone box? Surely, individuals have tried to find the box, maybe even the antis in their zeal to prove there "never had been a stone box, hence never plates". Perhaps, the box was destroyed by an angel or even Joseph as it was no longer pertinent to anything. Taylor, the brother of the lady who emailed you when she was in labor, asked for further elaboration on the laws that were passed/attempted to pass around eradicating the early members of the church/pioneers…and of course, polygamy.  Sign up for our free monthly (likely quarterly) email: ⁠ https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

Happy Pride Month... to all... even the faithful LDS men who have to put up with Anti-Mormon attacks. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

It'sd time to "kindly correct" James White and his myriad misrepresentations, lies, or "mistakes" repeated about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its members :) Enjoy --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Debunking Anti-Mormons is fun... but this one was extra fun! Join us debunking evangelical Anti-Mormon Enyart Theology! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Kwaku El takes particular issue with the latest trend of wealthy suburban women insulting his faith and cursing his religion with all kinds of progressive perjoratives from the comfort of their large Utah estates, without noticing the glaring hypocrisy of their "white privilege". 20 minutes in or so, it gets just CRAZY, lolol. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Bill Reel is a big Anti-Mormon on Youtube who says lots of hateful and/or dishonest things about members of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints that we have debunked... but this one... whew... this one was a doozy... a funny doozy, but a doozy, nonetheless. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

We've all heard the playful addage you "gotta flirt to convert" and we all know they don't send the sisters to be missionaries at Temple Square unless they're a little easier on the eyes, but, boi... overt seduction to get young BYU students to attend anti-mormon bible studies... whew... that's even a new one on us. But, according to our recent interview with Alan Arreaga, that's a legitimate tactic amongst the evangelists of evangelism and the real winner of the podcast is the hearthrob that they recruited to do their spiritual dirty work, baby! This one was funny! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

"I remember my dad, he sent me an apologetic video -- initially I was like 'dad I don't want to listen to this pseudo scholarship, this mental gymnastics the church isn't what it claims to be, come on give it a rest.' He was like just watch it. I sort of recognized that I'm not being very open-minded, I'm not willing to listen. I'd already come to a firm conclusion so I was like fine I'll watch it. It was by a guy called Bruce Porter and it was about the connections and correspondences and parallels between our temple endowment and ancient Egyptian temple rituals. If I'm being intellectually honest and consistent, just as I couldn't deny that there are things which are similar - if not identical, between a Masonic ritual and the temple endowment, there were things which correspond quite well. So I was like, 'okay, I can understand why a true believer they might think that the temple endowment is like a restoration of an ancient temple ritual.' So that sort of sparked some curiosity and I started to explore more evidence for things like this." Check out his channel: https://www.youtube.com/ @mormonismwiththemurph  ⁠https://www.plantwhys.com/free-1-week-meal-guide

We talked recently about how Batman was obviously Mormon... In this episode we discover how Peter Parker was unfortunately the opposite! Spiderman was Anti-Mormon! And we even dug up a hard copy to prove it! We have the comical receipts.... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

One of the first 30 rules of Anti-Mormonism is "though shalt recycle old lies" and you will notice that these lies have about a 25-30 year shelf life before they've fallen far enough out of the zeitgeist that you can bring them back. Well... I guess the lies told about members of the church in the 50's were ready to be recycled in 1979 and are due for a renaissance in 2023 so when Cardon Ellis found a VINTAGE 16mm print of the "Temple of the GodMakers" on Ebay, he HAD to purchase it and make this video of it! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

This episode Aaron Fawley and I answered many questions that were found in the comment sections of Conversion2Christ Tik Tok, Instagram, Facebook and Youtube! if you have any other questions you'd like us to answer then please comment them down below!

Jeff Durbin, the anti-mormon burger king is probably the most recognizeable Nicean Ninja Turtle at Apologia studios. He seems to want to spread the gospel well enough, but, he has a small, but not insignificant guilty pleasure... he LOVES lying about members of the Church of Jesus Christ and gatekeeping the body of Christ. Besides declaring "Mormons Aren't Christians" several times, he has now accused us of lying, so we are denouncing this deception and delighting in the truth of the gospel instead. Have fun, and ask for a Whopper when you meet him, I hear he has a hook-up! #Christian #ldspodcast #lds Visit us at: WardRadio.com To support the channel: Venmo @WardRadio or visit: https://account.venmo.com/u/MidnightMormons Paypal: paypal.me/@midnightmedia Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1AQLMTSMBM4DC?ref_=wl_share Follow us at: Instagram: @cardonellis @kwakuel @braderico @boho.birdy Facebook: @WardRadioWorldwide Twitter: WardRadioShow TikTok: WardRadioWorldwide --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

"I still don't know why stuff has happened the way that it has happened. But that feeling I had when I walked out of that meeting with my bishop - it wasn't just like 'yeah maybe I will go back I haven't felt the spirit in a while.' No, I was both feet in going to Deseret Book to buy garments. It all came flooding back. Whatever he wanted me to do I was in."

#Mormon #LatterDaySaints #kwakuel #cardonellis #braderico #Christianity #LDS #mormonstories #funny #Christianity #PatrickMason #JacobHansen #ThoughtfulFaith Recently, two self-proclaimed faithful members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Patrick Mason and Jana Reiss collaborated on a new weekly podcast that raised funds for one of the most prominent anti-mormons on the planet. Many viewers were left confused and bewildered as to the strategy, judgement, and intentions of the all the participants, except for the Anti-Mormon, John Dehlin, whose intentions are obvious. Jacob Hansen drops in to talk about what happened. Visit us at: midnightmormons.com To support the channel: Venmo @MidnightMormons https://account.venmo.com/u/MidnightMormons Paypal: paypal.me/@midnightmedia Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1AQLMTSMBM4DC?ref_=wl_share Follow us at: Instagram: @cardonellis @kwakuel @braderico Facebook: @MidnightMormons Twitter: MidnightMormons --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

On today's hodge-podge of subjects, we discuss Harper participating in an embarrassing BYU Idol competition, the best dessert, a funny and random connection with last week's guest as well as a potential guest in the future. We also talk about the NHL and NBA playoffs as well as a cool story of a former Anti-Mormon coming around and getting baptized. We then discuss people we can't be friends with and those who demand to be called by a certain name as well as simple pleasures. We then close it out with how the priesthood authority may or may not be transferred (in Mosiah) and Bryan shares an experience he had in the temple last week. Enjoy! Follow us!  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/latterdaytakes/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkMsWiqVxTvQP2tU98MJMDQ Twitter - https://twitter.com/harperdanderson Write in to Latter-day Takes: latterdaytakes@gmail.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/harper-anderson/support

Critics of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ often barf up a long list of supposed "gotchas" in an attempt to overwhelm ignorant and unsuspecting victims who are unfamiliar with church history or scholarship. Do their criticisms of the faith withstand scrutiny? How should Latter-day Saints respond?

Interview released 6-18-22On the final episode of the Under The Banner Of Heaven Aftershow co-hosts Rebecca Bibliotheca and Steven Pynakker are excited to have on Hanna Seariac! This is the second time we taped this episode and Hanna explains why she asked for the first one to be pulled. Hanna also discusses her recent article she wrote about Brenda Lafferty for the Deseret News and talks about why she felt it was important that her story be told. We then talk about the final episode of the FX/Hulu limited series titled "Blood Atonement". Hanna gives us her take on the episode as well as the series overall. We discuss the way that the Mountain Meadows Massacre was portrayed as well as Brigham Young and the martydom of Joseph Smith. Hanna also defends Lindsay Hansen Park and Dustin Lance Black against the accusation that they are Anti-Mormon. She also addreses the criticism that "she aligns with those who attack the (LDS) faith". I also want to thank Jim Bennett, Benjamin Shaffer, and Lindsay Hansen Park for coming on Mormon Book Reviews to discuss the series. Stay tuned for an Aftershow of the Netflix series "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey". Coming soon! #underthebannerofheaven #andrewgarfield #bloodatonement #lindsayhansenpark #lds #mormon #polygamy #mormonfundamentalism #evangelical #brendalafferty

Bill Reel and RFM (Radio Free Mormon) challenge us to MUTUAL COMBAT with STEEL BLADES!... j/k... they actually challenged "apologists" to "steel man" their arguments against the church so we rose to the challenge and argued against their thesis without mischaracterizing it (straw man). It was not that hard to do and was a lot of fun. You see, there's a reason why Jesus Christ said "let those who have ears to hear, listen." When you're so angry and blinded by hate, it's hard to see things from another vantage point or understand where people are coming from and this leads people to get even more angry if you politely engage with them without adopting their point of view or seeing through its flaws or even intentional half-truths. Often times, people say "don;t straw man my argument", not because you mischaracterized it but because you discovered it was built upon a faulty premise and exposed it as a straw man itself. This frustrates them, and when they lack the maturity to respond cordially, scientifically, or rationally, they blurt out philosophical words they barely understand in order to sound smart and console themselves into thinking they werent taken to school in an argument they thought they were going to dominate. That's what happens here in this video... enjoy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Here's the second half of the interview with Jonathan Streeter! Check it out! He is the curator of the youtube channel TOTAS (Thoughts on Things and Stuff) and a famous (or infamous) Anti-Mormon. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

GetReligion editor Terry Mattingly discusses “If crowds chant anti-Mormon filth at BYU athletes, is that a religion story?'”

BYU football traveled up to Eugene, Oregon on Saturday... lost the game... but it was a chant in the stands that has Oregon fans in hot water.  Jay Drew, Covers BYU Sports for the Deseret News to discuss what happened and if this is becoming a trend. This is officially a trend. The exact same thing happened last year at the USC game. Dave and Debbie take listener calls on if an apology See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oregon fans shout ANTI MORMON chant and the media IGNORES it, but believed Rachel Richardson HOAX! Make Sure You Subscribe on Podcast & YouTube! Make Sure You Subscribe on Podcast! Available on Google Podcast, Spotify, Castbox, Apple Podcasts (ITunes): https://anchor.fm/blackandwhitesports Become a Paid Subscriber: https://anchor.fm/blackandwhitesports/subscribe The podcast is all about the world of sports news, sports reactions, and the games. Website: www.blackandwhitenetwork.com Get your MERCH here: https://teespring.com/stores/blackandwhitesports Use Promo Code "USAFIRST" for 25% off any of the merch! After Pay Now Available! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/blackandwhitenetwork/support

Queen Elizabeth funeral today: What's the future for Britain? https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2022/09/today-britain-says-goodbye-queen-elizabeth-ii-looks-abyss-uncertainty/ Oregonian smear against the voter transparency movement: Ignores real evidence and the trial tomorrow in Hillsboro. https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2022/09/oregon-voter-offices-flooded-with-records-requests-from-2020-election-deniers.html Voter fraud proof: http://dennismontgomery.com/ Operation Checkmate: https://petesantillishow.notion.site/Operation-Checkmate-b36a759d27f34d3cae8e25b806684bfd Kotek's cowboy hat stunt at the Pendleton Roundup: https://oregoncatalyst.com/62310-koteks-cowboy-hat-stunt-betrays-rural-oregon-values.html Utah Gov blasts Duck fans for anti Mormon chant: UO apologizes. https://oregoncatalyst.com/62321-utah-gov-blasts-uofo-fans-antimormon-chant.html Wyden, Blumenauer and wives made stock trades that raise conflict of interest issues: Ya Think! https://www.wweek.com/news/2022/09/18/wyden-blumenauer-and-their-wives-made-stock-trades-that-raise-conflict-of-interest-questions-nyt-says/ 

This week we're gossin' 'bout ALL that drama behind Don't Worry Darling (including the LaBeouf firing, Florence Pugh, and a full breakdown, including theories, behind the recent #SpitGate), if the length of film festival standing ovations are truly necessary, and in celeb conspiracy corner;  Did Stephanie Meyer write a new Anti-Mormon novel in SECRET!? The List, BLinddz and SHOUTZ Want even more Page 7? Support us on Patreon! Patreon.com/Page7Podcast

Dusty Smith converted to the church, served a mission, and was pen pals with Elder Perry. After encountering "anti-Mormons" for the first time, he started researching church topics that he had never heard before In church history. Dusty left the church for 26 years. He spent those years doing everything he could to tear down the church. He debated In online forums with members, trying to prove the church wasn't true. After many miracles, including a priesthood blessing and a miraculous healing.. Dusty came back. One of his favorite people to debate the church with, had been putting his name on the temple prayer roll for years. Dusty says his love and prayers led to his coming back. Dusty baptized, and was sealed to his wife. Now he does everything he can to make up for his years of attacking... including having his story of redemption told by Elder Uchtdorf In conference. Dusty's message to you: "Remember, Heavenly Father love you as much as if you were the only person on the planet. No matter what happens In your life, Heavenly Father will always believe In you."

A New document discovery concerning Early Mormonism in Oct 1841 Surfaces, never seen before! Is this proof against Joseph Smith or just prejudice of his enemies and the bias against Mormons?

Royal Blue and Cerulean are two different hues of blue, and understanding the difference is important for any artist. Any believer needs the same skills to decipher truth from err, and how to see the difference.

In the Book of Mormon, Moroni chapter ten verse 32 says "Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ..." The words sound familiar, but do Moroni's references to "grace" and "Christ" really speak of the same grace and of the same Christ found in the New Testament? No. Note that Moroni says God's grace is only sufficient if you deny yourself of all ungodliness first. But how is that to be done? According to Romans 7, not even the Apostle Paul could do that! But according to Moroni, you must deny yourself of all ungodliness before Christ bestows sufficent grace upon you. Then and only then does God's grace "kick in." The second book of Nephi, chapter 25, verse 23 says for example that "it is by grace we are saved" however grace comes only "after all we can do." Clearly this is not in accordance with what the New Testament teaches. It is indeed by grace we are saved, but not by works of our own. We can't simply do stuff in church to make ourselves right with God. We cannot earn our salvation. "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9, NASB). On part two of our conversation with former LDS Sandra Tanner, we explore in more detail the LDS concept of grace, works, and salvation. We also discuss the problematic LDS scripture known as the Book of Abraham.Related Links: Get the rest of the story including some of our most popular podcasts on Mormonism, access to some of our key LDS articles and our free, 4-page Watchman Fellowship Profile on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism): Watchman Fellowship articles on Mormonism: watchman.org/LDS Watchman Fellowship Profile on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: watchman.org/Mormonism Sandra Tanner's ministry - Utah Lighthouse: Utlm.org New biography, Lighthouse: Jerald and Sandra Tanner, Despised and Beloved Critics of Mormonism, by Ronald Huggins V. Huggins: uhop.me/Lighthouse Related Podcasts 2020 Apologetics Profile podcast interview with Sandra Tanner (Part1): watchman.org/Sandra1 2020 Apologetics Profile podcast interview with Sandra Tanner (Part2): watchman.org/Sandra2 Apologetics Profile podcast with Micah Wilder (YouTube - Part 1): watchman.org/Micah1 Apologetics Profile podcast with Micah Wilder (YouTube - Part 2) watchman.org/Micah2 Apologetics Profile podcast with Lynn Wilder (Part 1): watchman.org/Lynn1 Apologetics Profile podcast with Lynn Wilder (Part 2) watchman.org/Lynn2 Apologetics Profile podcast What Is the Gospel? with Mormon apologist Scott Gordon and Christian apologist James Walker (YouTube):  watchman.org/GordonWalker  Additional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.PROFILE NOTEBOOK: Order the complete collection of Watchman Fellowship Profiles (over 600 pages -- from Astrology to Zen Buddhism) in either printed or PDF formats here: watchman.org/notebook. SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

DISCLAIMER: No specific information about "Anti-Mormon" material is presented in this episode. Our podcast does not want to create or share doubt/disbelief in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints or its doctrine. In today's discussion, Garrett and Mitch talk about why they think people leave or become less active/believing in Mormonism. And if those are valid reasons or not.SPOILER ALERT: They are!We would love it if you could leave us a review/rating and share this episode with your friends/family if you think it could help!Send us an email to LDSBridgeBuilders@gmail.com with any feedback, questions, or concerns.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/latter-day-bridge-builders/donations

So Artificial Intelligence can make pictures now... and it needs Jesus Apparently --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

Anti-Mormon Backfire: The Legend of Dan Jones… and his BIG HANDS! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wardradio/support

During the type-setting of the Book of Mormon, continuously to the time of his death Joseph Smith was faced with anti-Mormon and Anti-Joseph Smith publications, from newspaper publications, to pamphlets, to books.  In this episode of Religion Today, host Martin Tanner gives an over-view of the extraordinary opposition Joseph Smith faced and overcame during his lifetime. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have a fun episode for you this week! We begin with a vicious anti-Mormon story about Henry Caswell (Caswall) and the Greek Psalter incident in Joseph Smith's Nauvoo church. Hugh Nibley considered this one of the longest-running anti-Mormon stories and spent a good deal of print trying to debunk it (unsuccessfully I might add). Then we talk a Nic Cage movie from 2000, Gone in 60 Seconds because why the hell not. Then we wrap up with some happy news about recent cannabis legislation. Next few episodes are going to be pretty heavy so we wanted to keep things light and fun today. If you'd like to contribute to the next Miracle of Forgiveness segment concerning bishop's interviews, please consider filling out the survey linked below or send us an email about your experience to glassboxpodcast@gmail.com   Bishop's Interviews Survey: https://forms.gle/LrhBWKkyX8DeGanh8    Happy news: https://www.marijuanamoment.net/u-s-house-approves-marijuana-banking-reform-as-part-of-defense-spending-bill/   Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GlassBoxPod  Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/glassboxpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/GlassBoxPod  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glassboxpodcast/  Merch store: https://exmomerch.creator-spring.com/ Be sure to use discount code GLASSBOX for a tithing off your order!!!

Seer Stone V. Urim and Thummim: Book of Mormon Translation on Trial!https://bookofmormonevidence.org/bookstore/product/seer-stone-v-urim-and-thummim-book-of-mormon-translation-on-trial/YouTube video on the Smith family farm workhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hByMA4BP28

Friend, writer, and former member of the LDS church Christopher Shenefelt stops by to discuss his mormon upbringing, his years of devout faith, and the events that lead him to seek elsewhere for truth and eventually write a book deconstructing the American-made church.

One of the dreaded labels for a discerning member of the LDS church to wield against a malcontent is the term “anti-Mormon”. But what does that really mean? Is something anti-Mormon because it contradicts the doctrine or history of the church, or does it perhaps have something more to do with one’s level of loyalty to the current leadership?

Braxton Bogard shares his conversion story beginning as an avid Anti-Mormon majoring in Biblical Studies with the goal of becoming a Minister to ultimately gaining a testimony of the Book of Mormon and the restored Gospel and his passion to help others join on the Covenant Path.

Today we interview Ed Decker -- ex-Mormon, Evangelical Christian, career "Anti-Mormon," and creator of the controversial 80's "anti-Mormon" movie called “The God Makers.”  Today’s interview focuses on four main areas: Part 1: Ed’s conversion to Mormonism, his life as a Mormon, his loss of faith, and his excommunication. Part 2: Ed’s “calling” to minister to Mormons, and the making of “The Godmakers.” Part 3: A discussion about the impact of and controversies surrounding “The God Makers.” Part 4: Ed’s unfortunate involvement in “The God Makers 2,” the negative fallout, and Ed’s life from then until now.

Today we interview Ed Decker -- ex-Mormon, Evangelical Christian, career "Anti-Mormon," and creator of the controversial 80's "anti-Mormon" movie called “The God Makers.”  Today’s interview focuses on four main areas: Part 1: Ed’s conversion to Mormonism, his life as a Mormon, his loss of faith, and his excommunication. Part 2: Ed’s “calling” to minister to Mormons, and the making of “The Godmakers.” Part 3: A discussion about the impact of and controversies surrounding “The God Makers.” Part 4: Ed’s unfortunate involvement in “The God Makers 2,” the negative fallout, and Ed’s life from then until now.

Today we interview Ed Decker -- ex-Mormon, Evangelical Christian, career "Anti-Mormon," and creator of the controversial 80's "anti-Mormon" movie called “The God Makers.”  Today’s interview focuses on four main areas: Part 1: Ed’s conversion to Mormonism, his life as a Mormon, his loss of faith, and his excommunication. Part 2: Ed’s “calling” to minister to Mormons, and the making of “The Godmakers.” Part 3: A discussion about the impact of and controversies surrounding “The God Makers.” Part 4: Ed’s unfortunate involvement in “The God Makers 2,” the negative fallout, and Ed’s life from then until now.

Today we interview Ed Decker -- ex-Mormon, Evangelical Christian, career "Anti-Mormon," and creator of the controversial 80's "anti-Mormon" movie called “The God Makers.”  Today’s interview focuses on four main areas: Part 1: Ed’s conversion to Mormonism, his life as a Mormon, his loss of faith, and his excommunication. Part 2: Ed’s “calling” to minister to Mormons, and the making of “The Godmakers.” Part 3: A discussion about the impact of and controversies surrounding “The God Makers.” Part 4: Ed’s unfortunate involvement in “The God Makers 2,” the negative fallout, and Ed’s life from then until now.

Today we interview Ed Decker -- ex-Mormon, Evangelical Christian, career "Anti-Mormon," and creator of the controversial 80's "anti-Mormon" movie called “The God Makers.”  Today’s interview focuses on four main areas: Part 1: Ed’s conversion to Mormonism, his life as a Mormon, his loss of faith, and his excommunication. Part 2: Ed’s “calling” to minister to Mormons, and the making of “The Godmakers.” Part 3: A discussion about the impact of and controversies surrounding “The God Makers.” Part 4: Ed’s unfortunate involvement in “The God Makers 2,” the negative fallout, and Ed’s life from then until now.

On this episode, we begin with discussing the arrest and extradition to Missouri of Mormon horse-thief Daniel Avery. He suffers for 2 weeks in a Missouri jail and is let off on a writ of habeas corpus to return to Nauvoo and swear out an affidavit detailing what happened. The Anti-Mormon political party becomes more aggressive in its opposition to Mormon political power and the Nauvoo City Council responds with enacting an ordinance which would allow them to arrest any officer of the law attempting to arrest a Mormon and throw them in prison for life. The Anti-Mormon party reacts in outrage and drafts their own resolution to run any Mormons out of Carthage and Warsaw, as well as send a copy of the new Nauvoo ordinance to the Governors of Missouri and Illinois. We wrap the episode with briefly discussing last week’s episode and some listener mail. Links: Carthage Conspiracy https://books.google.com/books?id=18HuCwAAQBAJ&pg=PA59&lpg=PA59&dq=daniel+avery+mormon&source=bl&ots=Y471RQm6W4&sig=ACfU3U0urwGVYgMBgTPqon1JEkUocdJqRQ&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjX0Y2kt7XkAhVjMn0KHUfoAl4Q6AEwBHoECAcQAQ#v=onepage&q=daniel%20avery%20mormon&f=false Daniel Avery https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/person/daniel-avery?highlight=daniel%20avery Warsaw Signal http://www.sidneyrigdon.com/dbroadhu/IL/sign1844.htm Warsaw Signal Archives http://warsaw.advantage-preservation.com/search?t=30053&i=t&bcn=1&m=between Nauvoo Neighbor 12/23/43 http://boap.org/LDS/Nauvoo-Neighbor/1843/12-13-1843.pdf Announcements! March for the Children Oct. 5, 2019 https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07eg6v5ed1df906027&oseq=&c=&ch= John Whitmer Historical Association Conference https://www.jwha.info/annual-conference/2019-jwha-annual-conference/ Show links:                                                                                                                                                              Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com Twitter @NakedMormonism Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Naked-Mormonism/370003839816311 Patreon http://patreon.com/nakedmormonism Music by Jason Comeau http://aloststateofmind.com/ Show Artwork http://weirdmormonshit.com/ Legal Counsel http://patorrez.com/

We're taking live calls. Remember, we are taking calls – 801 950-8413 – in about 40 minutes.  I want to thank all of you who tune in and consider our message.  We know that some of you are enemies who frankly despise me however we have seen some of our stuff sink in and actually change the ways even you do things and for that we are grateful.  And thank those of you who are so led to support us with prayers and hard earned finances.  Ours is a very, very small ministry but we are able to produce some qualitatice AND quantitative stuff because of your support.  So thank you.  This is Hear me out Part III of four.  Last week we talked about how that even though the Bible makes it clear that God, through the finished work of His Son, was going to establish His Kingdom among individuals, making the faith “subjectively known and received, that men and woman have tried to insert themselves and their views between God and the individual in the form of organized religion and their empires.  We illustrated the four main Jesus groups that are engaged in a constant tug-o-war for members and their control over them – Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxies, Protestant Denoms (of every flavor), and Restorationist movements writ large.  We also mentioned that some 5 BILLION other folks which thrive outside of these four groups (who are all considered hell-bound by the way) by the four main Christian approaches just named.  Again – all of this stuff  – this infighting and warfare, all of the division and name-calling would be done away with IF believers could see that God has reconciled the entire world to Himself by and through the finished work of His Son.  See, conflict and warfare exist between people when they allow themselves to believe that Jesus has only saved some because the rest of the world fails to believe the way their respective religion says they must to be saved.  And therein lies the power and the problem of religion – its very existence is anathematic to peace, love and understanding.  However, if God (through His SON) saved the whole world past, present and future (without exception or condition), then there remains no reason for denominationalism, judgment, criticism or attack on others.  None.   Of course ANYONE can come up with a theory that sounds nice, right?  The  question here is: Does the Bible say that God, through His Son, has saved the whole world?  If it does, then this is a major blow to proprietary religious establishments the world over and we can all stop feeding the machine.  Now, what makes answering this question difficult is people open up their Bibles and read Jesus and the Apostles talking to audiences in their day about “being saved.”  What many people don't realize is that a great percentage many of these references (about being saved) from the mouth of Jesus and His apostles are speaking of being saved from something other than “from hell and to heaven” – the way Christians today interpret the phrase.  For instance, when Paul was on a boat that was in peril he said:  Acts 27:3 Unless you abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.  That passage obviously has nothing to do with being saved “from hell and to heaven” but saved there obviously means, “saved from drowning in the sea!”  Right?  So context, audience and speaker help determine the meaning of the term, “saved.”  We also know that many times the word saved is used to describe someone who was healed from an ailment due to their faith, as Jesus said to a man healed in Luke 18:42  “Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.”  Saved thee from what?  Blindness.    Now listen closely, what is really revelatory about this is that most of the references to “being saved” (as stated by Jesus and/or his apostles) are couched in conversations of them talking to those people (in that day and age) about being saved from the coming destruction which was promised to fall upon them soon.  A destruction that actually did come and not only destroy Jerusalem and much of Israel in 70 AD but slaughtered well over a MILLION Jews.  The apostolic promise in that day was believe on Jesus and be SAVED from that certain coming death!  That is what many of the remarks on saving are about in the New Testament!  So, as an example, when we read Jesus say to his apostles in Matthew 10:22   And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.  He is talking to them about enduring the heinous trials that were coming upon them and those who did so “to the end” would be saved from the coming destruction.  Again, in Matthew 24:22 when Jesus says  And unless those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.  Again, the saving he is speaking of here has nothing to do with being saved from hell and to heaven but has to do with them being saved from the promised physical destruction headed their way.   Same in Luke where we read (1:71) That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us – from physical death prophesied to come!    I suggest that even at Pentecost, when Peter stood before the 3000 Jews and said:  Acts 2:21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.  That he was speaking of them being saved from the coming destruction and not from an eternity in hell.  In Acts 2:47 we read Luke's description of the nascent church when he wrote that the believers were  “Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.”  That again, “the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved from the coming destruction as His Church-Bride whom he would come and take.”  We all assume that when we read passages like Acts 16:31 where Paul says  “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.”   . . . that he is speaking of saved from hell and to heaven but he could easily and also be speaking of saved from the coming destruction Jesus promised.  Even when Paul writes in Romans  Romans 5:9-10 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.  Or when he writes in Romans 10  Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.  OR Romans 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.  OR Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.  That Paul could have easily have been referring to being saved the coming wrath that would fall upon the Nation who rejected faith in Christ.   Contextually,  2nd Thessalonians 2:10, which says:  “And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.”  It is talking about those who would perish in the coming destruction which they could have been saved from if they had a love of the truth.  The point being, we need to be really careful when we define “being saved” as meaning being saved from “eternal hell of fire and to heaven” when many of the scriptures that speak of being saved are, again, speaking of people actually being saved from the promised physical destruction headed their way then – something that FAITH in Jesus would help them avoid because he was coming to take the faithful from the earth.  This is SOOOO hard for the denoms to accept.  So back to the question that remains outstanding: Does the Bible say that God through His Son has saved the whole world from hell and to heaven irrespective of their faith or their faithlessness.   Because if it does, it's a MAJOR blow to the existence of “proprietary religious establishments that make it their business” to “save souls.”  As a means to free ANY and ALL from the bondage of religious rhetoric and to prove to you all by using the Bible that God has saved the world (with or without our individual permissions), I want to read to you what the Bible says Ready?  Starting back to the Old Testament a couple passages: Isaiah 25:6-8describes God's heart, saying:  On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food, a feast of well-aged wine, of rich food full of marrow, of aged wine well refined. And he will swallow up on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken. Lamentations 3:31-33 says  For the Lord will not cast off forever, but, though he cause grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; for he does not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men. (That's a very different picture from the torture monster God some denominations describe, isn't it?) Let's jump out to the New Testament when John the Baptist first saw the Lord, John 1:29 says:  The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 1 John 4:14 says:  And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. Then in John 3:17 we read  “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”  Jesus himself said in John 12:47 for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.  Its why we read in 1st John 4:14   “And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world.”  Now, sure, perhaps the world doesn't mean the world here (as it says) – that is what people would say.  So let's consider some other passages:  Paul wrote in Romans 5:18   Therefore, as one trespass led to condemnation for all men, (that was a trespass from Adam) so one act of righteousness (from the second Adam, Jesus) leads to justification and life for all men. That's a really different story than the old, “you better receive Jesus (accept our way, be a member, etc, etc., or your gonna be firewood after this life,” innit)? I mean through one man Adam we all were made sinners, right?  Without our permission we were all made sinners by one man?  So then why do we have to have our complicity or permission for one man (Jesus) to make us all righteous?  We DON'T.  That is what God did on our behalf!! The Apostle Peter wrote in 2 Peter 3:9  The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. Titus 2:11 says:  For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people 1 Corinthians 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. By the way, did you know that according to scripture human beings only die once – and that is because of Adam – “for as in Adam all die.” But then listen to Hebrews 9:27  “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” Remember, Jesus himself said in John 12:32  And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” Are you worried about your wayward son, your unbelieving sister, your pagan friends? God is not a failure and His son doesn't do shoddy work.  His work is sufficient for all.  This is the good news.  God is faithful when his creations are not.  And I'm saving the best stuff for last! Paul wrote in Ephesians 1:10  As a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth. He also wrote in Philippians 2:10  So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, Which he repeated in Romans 14:11  For it is written, “As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” Its why he wrote in 1st Timothy 2:4 about Godthat “He . . .  “desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. Listen to Colossians 1:20  And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. And listen to these last two – they really seal the deal, folks: 1 John 2:2  He (Jesus) is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also . . . for the sins . . .  of the whole world. What more do you want?  If He was the propitiation of sin for the whole world the whole world has been reconciled to God for it was our sin that alienated us from Him!! And how about 1st Timothy 4:10 where Paul says:  “For therefore we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe.”  (Repeat this)  “because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe.”  The Catholics, Eastern Orthodoxy, the Protestants and the Restorationist types are all clamoring over each other, claiming to have ”the special insights, doctrines, rituals and practices” on how to get saved and stay saved but the scripture plainly says that “God is the savior of all men already – and then adds a really important line – “especially those who believe” – which we will cover next week.  When Christians come together and embrace the idea that God has saved EVERYONE from sin and death by His Son, whether they believe or not, everyone (whether they repent or not) a good percentage of the interfaith infighting and division will disappear from the earth, a tremendous amount of hate for non-Christians will evaporate, and love from Christians for the LGBTQ, and Muslims, and Eastern Religions will appear, and we can take a deep collective breath of relief and praise God for His Goodness and love delivered to the world because of His Son.  We won't care if others believe the message – we will simply rejoice in it – in God's goodness through His Son – and love along the way!  See, where God has saved, there is no reason to judge!  Or malign!  Or do any other evil in His name.  Instead those who understand this about Him will  spend their time loving and serving all in His name because God loves all!  What is the theological basis of this stance?  I want to answer this by mentioning the other main theological foundations that have undergirded Christianity for some 1000 to 500 years.  The first is the Reformed Idea that says:  God created human beings full well knowing who He would elect to be saved and who he would not elect to be saved and who would therefore all burn forever in hell as a result.  To them God COULD, because he is sovereign, chose to save all, but he doesn't.  This is the first theological foundation popularized by Calvin and to me it creates both a mean and indifferent God and in many cases a mean and indifferent Christian.  The Second main theological stance depicts a God who is a really good and kind and while WANTING to save everyone, He can't do anything about the free will of people and Satan and his angels getting involved, but this God creates everyone anyway full well knowing that Satan (and human will) are going to mess up the works and he is unable to do anything about it.  So most people, because He is inept, will go to hell.  And he created us knowing this. Classic Arminianism  But the biblical message – as I just proved to you tonight – is that the first Man (Adam) would mess things up for this world (by introducing sin and death), but God, not willing that any would suffer such a demise and eternal separation, sent the Second Adam, His Son, who would overcome sin and death for all, thereby saving the world inhabitants and placing us all back in an Edenic state where we are all free to live as we choose.  Go back to the garden of Eden with me and ask yourself: “What was the point of God creating a garden, animals, and Adam and Eve?”  The point, in part, appears to be that God creates and gives life, and God (because He is Good) creates and gives choice, and God allows the creations (made in His image) to decide how they will live – to choose to love Him of their own free will and choice . . . or not.  He does NOT punish those who refuse a relationship with Him – He loves them and calls to them and blesses them like He blesses the rest.  But he does reward those who want a relationship with Him which cannot be obtained in any other way as those who believe have:  Peace that is not of this world. Comfort from Him Knowledge of Him and His Son An eternal view of things Hope in trials and difficulties And a living relationship with Him.   We share this message with the world because it is entirely good, because it is a message of life, and light, and because it is a message that promotes genuine Christian love around the world.  We share it because it is biblical.  We share it because it is true.  And as truth serves to LIBERATE people not only from religious bondage but it frees them to love all people all the time.  It's a message that brings light into the hearts and lives of those who live in darkness.  A message that comforts and encourages people to want to know and such a loving God.  And it is a message that triumphs over the messages of Man that say God has only saved a few, or that God cannot save all, or that those who don't play by God's rules will suffer in a literal burning hell forever and ever.  God is so much better than all of that clap.  So much bigger and better that it caused Paul to write  “For we therefore both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe.”  Next week, I will wrap our four part series up by talking about that last line – that God is the Savior of ALL men, especially of those that believe.  Because while God has certainly saved the whole world from sin and death, there is an enormous difference, an incalculable difference, between being someone saved to heaven and being someone who actually chooses to believe.  We will talk about that then.  Let's open up the phone lines:    801 590-8413  PLEASE turn your computers down!   Remember, September 3rd a Tuesday here in HOTM – Ethan Krok, Angela Kelly, and Denver Snuffer – all people coming on HOTM in the next several months.  Ethan Krok is the writer director of a film coming out called, Anti-Mormon and he has a LOT to say and share.  Angela Kelly really knows here stuff relative to Utah and the political power of the LDS church here in this state, and then in October, Denver Snuffer and his outreach to former LDS people who are trying to see Joseph Smith in another light will be with us to share and explain his story and purpose.  All here on HOTM.  See you next week. 

I think Thomas Sharp should be the ultimate villain in Mormonism, but I'll bet most people don't know who he is.  In our next conversation with Brian Stutzman, we'll learn more about the man who incited a mob to kill the prophet Joseph Smith. https://youtu.be/4uhEG0wjhHY Brian:  Thomas Sharp came from a Methodist family.  In England, in the late 1700s, John and Charles Wesley started the Methodist movement....Thomas Sharp was 22 years old when he came to Warsaw in 1844 or 1840, rather, so he's a rather young man. He tries his hand at the newspaper business with a partner named James Gamble. They spent six months, about, down on the river at the foot of Main. Then they move their press and change the name from Western World to the Warsaw Signal and they go up into an unknown location up on Main Street.  Now some of the tour buses stop and point to building at 204 Main.  They say, "This is where Thomas Sharp published."  That building wasn't built till 1851, way after Thomas Sharp published there, but it was after the Mormon period. ... But the turning point and Ben A. Marshall wrote a paper called the Turning Point of Thomas Sharp. There's some discrepancy over some of the facts here. But when they set the cornerstone for the Nauvoo temple, in April six of 1841, Joseph Smith had a table up front for the dignitaries and some of the dignitaries, one of them was Chief Keokuk, from Iowa, who this town is named after, and he was up at the front table. He invited young Thomas Sharp, again, 22-23 years old to be up at the head table with him and they had this big feasts and a military parade and they set the cornerstone for the Nauvoo Temple. GT:  So at this time, Thomas is still friendly. Brian:  Yeah, neutral at best, neutral or friendly. Sometime after--now, people speculate that that day he turned against the church. There's another historian and she's kind of in my house with me and my wife. We've done some history, Brooke Lethar. She was at BYU. Now she's studying at the University of Utah, and she has found research that it was awhile later before, Sharp turned negative. So there was a time where he was friendly and that he turned negative. So he goes up there and he starts writing terrible things in his paper.  There was a term in in that area about Masons. If you were not a Mason, but you're referring to Mason's there was a term called Jack Mason. ... Thomas Sharp is sitting there, seeing this bloc-voting going on up Nauvoo, and the two main political parties at the time were Democrats and Whigs. He says to his fellow people, fellow residents, he says, we don't have a shot in heck of getting somebody elected unless we join together, put our differences aside, and maybe we can get somebody elected locally. So he and Aldrich, again, these are two guys stood trial, and the guy named William Roosevelt. William Roosevelt was the cousin to Teddy Roosevelt's father. They're living in Warsaw and they get together and they create this political party in 1841. It's called the anti-Mormon political party. That wasn't a mob. It wasn't hostile, at least at first, but it was a political party to try to outvote the Mormons. Well, in 1842, Thomas Sharp decides to run for a seat in the state legislature. Well, who was he was he opposed by?  The prophet's little brother, William Smith, and William Smith beats him. In 1844 when Joseph Smith was running for President Thomas Sharp talks about running for the United States Senate, and then he learns that Hyrum Smith, the prophet's brother was considering running for the same seat in the United States Senate and Sharp withdrew. Check out our conversation…. It is surprising that Thomas Sharp is not more well-known among Church members. He literally started the anti-Mormon political party! Don't miss our previous conversations with Brian! 307: Economic Reasons Warsaw Hated Joseph 306: The Anti-Mormon Triangle: Warsaw, Carthage, Nauvoo      

Carthage, Nauvoo, and Warsaw, Illinois form a bit of an anti-Mormon Triangle.  Most Mormons know about the first 2 cities, but what do you know about the third?  In our next conversation, we'll get acquainted with both Brian Stutzman and Warsaw, Illinois, once a hotbed of anti-Mormon sentiment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkRwGiO2RFU Brian:  Before the Saints came to Nauvoo and before Warsaw was even started, there were some tracts of land on both sides of Mississippi. It doesn't sound politically correct, but on the Iowa side, (Iowa was a territory,) the government set up what was called the Half-breed Tract. Basically, it was for people that would be given land if they had one parent that was Native American, and another one that was a white person. That's why it was called Half-breed Tract. Well, the government gave this land away. And these Indians, half-Indians, half-breeds, whatever the term was in that time period, they didn't want it. So land speculators, like I said, Isaac Galland came, and would give them pennies on the dollar. He and his land development company had thousands of acres over on the Iowa side by Montrose, which became later the Zarahemla Stake. Well on the other side of the river by Commerce and Hotchkiss which became Nauvoo... GT:  Yeah, Commerce became Nauvoo. Brian:  So the United States government had 3.5 million acres. They had three different tracts. They called them military tracts, or bounty tracts, and basically, after the War of 1812, the United States government owed soldiers back pay. They didn't have any money, but they had all this land on the western frontier. That's what this military tract was. Essentially, if you were a soldier in the War of 1812, you would get 160 acres in one of these three military tracts. One of them came through western Illinois.  It covered 12 counties. Like I said, it's 3.5 million acres, so it's sizable. Well, the soldiers up in New England didn't want to move. Some of them didn't want to move, at least to Western Illinois, so they would sell their land for pennies on the dollar. So Isaac Galland and other land speculators had land on both sides of the Mississippi and they heard about Joseph Smith being in Liberty Jail, and he wrote him and said, "If you're looking for a place for your people, I'll make you a deal--nothing down...."  That's one reason I think the saints moved to Quincy and then on up as soon as Joseph escaped from Liberty to go up to Nauvoo. Brian is the first person to write a history of Warsaw, and we'll learn more about the dynamics that led to people of that city to storm the Carthage Jail and kill Joseph Smith, Jr.  Brian also had an interesting experience! Brian: I later became really good friends with the mayor, Tiffany Murphy and her husband Chris Bass. They had me over for dinner multiple times, took me out on the river. It was really cool. My experience with Warsaw not only on my multiple trips back because I was doing research for this book, but an apex of it was spending two nights in the bedroom of Thomas Sharp. GT:  There you go. GT:  Oh wow. Brian:  Now my wife says, “Is kind of like staying in the bedroom of Hitler or something?  Was it dark? Was it positive?” Thomas Sharp was editor of the newspaper and leader of the mob that stormed the jail in Carthage.  We'll talk about him quite a bit over the next few weeks.  We'll also talk about the events that led to a big rivalry between Nauvoo and Warsaw.  Check out our conversation…. Carthage, Nauvoo, and Warsaw formed an anti-Mormon triangle that led to the prophet Joseph Smith's death. Brian Stutzman has written the first history of Warsaw, Illinois. If you're interested in Joseph Smith, don't miss our conversations about the First Vision! 292: First Vision Conflicts (Vogel) 291: 1835 Account of First Vision (Vogel) 290: Making a Case for Melchizedek Priesthood in 1831? (Vogel) 289: Methodist Visions (Vogel)

Today RFM tackles part two of his time as an apologist for the faith.  How Young RFM was intimately aware of the “Anti-Mormon” material and even taught a 12 week course on Mormon Apologetics.  He recorded those 12 weeks of conversation on cassette tape.And today you get the chance to listen to Part 2.Become a […]

Today RFM tackles part two of his time as an apologist for the faith.  How Young RFM was intimately aware of the “Anti-Mormon” material and even taught a 12 week course on Mormon Apologetics.  He recorded those 12 weeks of conversation on cassette tape.And today you get the chance to listen to Part 2. Become […] The post Radio Free Mormon: 078: Defender Of The Faith Part 2 appeared first on Radio Free Mormon.

Today RFM tackles part two of his time as an apologist for the faith.  How Young RFM was intimately aware of the “Anti-Mormon” material and even taught a 12 week course on Mormon Apologetics.  He recorded those 12 weeks of conversation on cassette tape.And today you get the chance to listen to Part 2.Become a […] The post Radio Free Mormon: 078: Defender Of The Faith Part 2 appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

Today RFM tells you his early history as an apologist for the faith.  How even as a Young man he was intimately aware of the “Anti-Mormon” material and even taught a 12 week course on Mormon Apologetics……..  Really cool surprise in this episode.  He recorded those 12 weeks of conversation on cassette tape…….   Now Where […]

Today RFM tells you his early history as an apologist for the faith.  How even as a Young man he was intimately aware of the “Anti-Mormon” material and even taught a 12 week course on Mormon Apologetics……..  Really cool surprise in this episode.  He recorded those 12 weeks of conversation on cassette tape…….   Now Where […] The post Radio Free Mormon: 077: Defender Of The Faith Part 1 appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

Today RFM tells you his early history as an apologist for the faith.  How even as a Young man he was intimately aware of the “Anti-Mormon” material and even taught a 12 week course on Mormon Apologetics……..  Really cool surprise in this episode.  He recorded those 12 weeks of conversation on cassette tape…….   Now Where […] The post Radio Free Mormon: 077: Defender Of The Faith Part 1 appeared first on Radio Free Mormon.

This week I am joined by Shannon Ricks (LMFT) as we discuss the difficult topic of faith transitions and faith crisis....crisies? crisi? People going through a crisis of faith.  While we will be referencing our own experiences and journey within in the LDS church, you do not have to be Mormon (either current or past member) to draw the parallels so often seen in any sort of loss of faith.  If you are currently an active person of faith, there is still value in listening to these episodes (we hope).  Faith Transitions and a crisis of faith can be a devastating event in someone's life that can often leave them with more questions than answers.  While we can't promise to answer all of your questions in these two episodes. we hope that over the course of many discussions we will become a resource to those struggling along their own faith journeys.   As always, listener discretion is advised. Shannon and I talk openly and honestly about our faith, the things that we love, and the things that led us out.  This podcast is not intended to be used as Anti-Mormon promoting material, and rather seeks to build a bridge and find the common ground.     

MOUNTAIN MEADOWS MASSACRE, Chapter 8 of     Blood Atonement by OGDEN KRAUT Page 95.   I fear, and I regret to say it, that with certain parties here there is a greater anxiety to connect Brigham Young and other church dignitaries with every criminal offense, than diligent endeavor to punish the actual perpetrators of crime. (Bancrofts History of Utah, p. 56; statement made by Jacob Forney, Supt. of Indian Affairs) One of the most pathetic incidents in the history of the Utah Territory occurred in the fall of 1857 near Cedar City, Utah. It was an atrocious act of violence known as the Mountain Meadows Massacre. Anti-Mormons and apostates have sent world-wide a billowing mass of pages on this incident in their effort to destroy Mormonism or cast aspersion upon its doctrines. In their determination they have sometimes written the most absurd and wild fantasies imaginable. B.H. Roberts in his History of the Church wrote: Anti-“Mormon” writers have been determined to fasten the crime upon the Church of the Latter Day Saints, or at least upon her leaders; and also, as a rule, holding that in some way “Mormon” doctrine and “Mormon” church policy was responsible for the crime. On the other hand, church people who in all good conscience, and justly, resent this imputation against their church and its leaders, have been naturally slow to admit all the facts that history may insist upon as inevitable. (C.H.C. 4:139)

Welcome to the LDS MissionCast. To those of you who are new listeners to our show, thank you for listening. We hope you enjoy what this podcast has to offer as education and inspiration for missionary work in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Each week we try to bring you interviews that […] The post From convert, to anti-mormon, to reconversion – Interview with Dusty Smith appeared first on FairMormon.

Dusty Smith (right) with "pen pal" Elder L. Tom Perry (left) Welcome to the LDS MissionCast. To those of you who are new listeners to our show, thank you for listening. We hope you enjoy what this podcast has to offer as education and inspiration for missionary work in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Each week we try to bring you interviews that can help you to be a better missionary, or to help you feel inspired in missionary work. This week features an interview with Dusty Smith. While that may not be a name you immediately recognize, this is a story you won’t want to miss. This story is filled with the hand of God, and is an amazing, extraordinary example of how simple acts of missionary work can have a profound impact on literally hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world. Each Thursday we are also privileged to have Shawn Rapier from the always entertaining, Latter- Shawn Rapier (left) host of Latter-day Lives Podcast, Ryan Snarr (right) guest for the Latter-day Lives segment. day Lives podcast who records a special side interview with his guests about their mission experiences, or missionary-related experiences that can make you laugh, feel nostalgic for your own mission, or just leave you feeling inspired. This week Shawn had on artist Ryan Snarr, who tells a story about the enduring relationships that can be created from serving a mission, and how rich and fulfilling those relationships can be as they extend beyond the years of missionary service. Each episode we try to feature different music or different LDS Musicians. This week we are showcasing a website and service called Music For Missionaries.net. Heather Bosshardt arranges and performs some great arrangements of the hymns. She sends you firesides in your inbox each and every week. It is FREE to missionaries while they are on their missions. This is music and spiritual messages that are sent to you each week that you can use for your own inspiration or you can share it with those being taught, or wards where you serve. Check out, www.musicformissionaries.net Videos of Dusty Smith's story:  

There are 3 "Givens" that we can not prove, but are the foundation for our faith. Because these "Givens" can not be proven, they have to be given to you by our Heavenly Father. This episode talks about what they are, and how you can KNOW that they are true. ---Transcript--- Hey everyone, this is Russell and I want to welcome you to this episode of the podcast. This is one that I am super excited to share with you guys because this is actually a talk that I wrote almost three years ago. I gave it in a ward we were in, and then recently after that we moved to a different ward and I had a chance to kind of rewrite this thing, and then I shared it as a class inside the Elder's Quorum and then a couple of months later I got asked to speak in church again and I wanted to share it with so many people. So I kind of reworked it again and shared it again. I knew that if and when I ever started this podcast that this was going to be really the first episode after the introduction, because this is the foundation. If you think about anything in life, if you think about a building, the first thing people do is lay the foundation. And if the foundation is brittle and soft, the building will collapse, it will tip over, it won't be very good. You think about relationships, the foundation is the beginning, when you first meet your spouse. The time, the energy, the effort you put in the foundation is the key. It's what makes the relationship great. In a business it's the same thing. Everything in life that's good and everything that's going to become great starts with having the right foundation. I think a lot of times people get into religion or beliefs or things like that and they don't really have a foundation. They're going off of opinions or thoughts or things. I remember once hearing Elder Bruce R. McConkie speak and he said his job was not to try to force his beliefs on other people, his job was to figure out what does God actually believe and then match and align our beliefs with his. Because what we believe, we have beliefs that come and go, but we need to know what the truth is and then we need to shift our beliefs to the truth, because the truth is really the only thing that matters. So that's kind of what I wanted to begin with here, the three givens presentation is all about that foundation and aligning yourself with the truth. And when you have that as the foundation, that gives you the ability to have everything else you want in life. It gives you the ability to go from good to great and beyond. So that's what this presentation is about. Because those that don't have this initial foundation, there will be a time in everybody's life, and it's happened in different parts of my life, I know it's happened in your life and people around you where the test and the trials and the temptations come and they come hard. It's rare that any of us get to escape this life without any of those things. And this foundation, at least for me, is what gives me the ability to know and to wake up with absolute certainty all the time. I talked about this in the initial podcast and I'm sure we'll have an episode just on this, but there's three questions we need to know. Where did I come from? Why am I here? Where am I going? And to really understand that, you have to understand the three givens. This is the foundation of everything. There's a quote from Jeffery R Holland that I love that talks about this, about when the trials and temptations and all these things come and they try to destroy us. How are we going to take that? What are we going to do? And he said, “When difficult times come upon us, when temptation seems all around, will we be, are we now prepared to stand our ground and outlast the intruder? Are we equipped for combat to stay loyal for as long as it takes? To stay true for the duration of the war? Can we hold fast to the principals and the people that truly matter eternally to us?” So that's my question for you, are you? And if not, it's the foundation we need to build a solid foundation. For me this is the foundation of my faith. Some of these things, depending on who's listening, I know we've got people who are members of the church listening and so you will know and understand some of these things. We have people who were part of the church who have left, who suddenly things are going to be hard for. You're not going to want to believe them. But like I said, it's not about what we believe, it's about what is the truth. What does God believe? We need to believe what he believes because it's what's true. Then we also have people who are non members here who, some of these things may be brand new to you. Some of you may believe one or two of them, or understand a couple of them, but some may be foreign. But there are three essential things we must know, as the foundation of our faith. So to kind of give you guys the back story behind this, why do I call this the three givens? The reason, when I was in 8th grade, I had a teacher and we have a lot of teachers in school, and my guess is most of you guys don't remember any of your teachers names. There are very few that I remember their names. But there was one teacher I had in a subject I didn't really love, it's math. But he was so excited about math. When he would come, he was so excited about math. His name was Mr. Turner, and he would come in and start teaching and talking, and I didn't know half the time what he was talking about, but he was so excited and so passionate. And for me now, fast forwarding all these years later as someone who is an educator and an author and someone who speaks, that passion and enthusiasm is what makes people remember you. Mr. Turner was someone who was just so passionate about math, and while I think I struggled in his class mostly because I wasn't a good student and was not in the right spot in my life to really learn and grow, I do remember this random conversation he had the first day he had the first day of class. It was about a concept that he called the givens. It was funny, as I was first preparing this talk a couple of years ago, I was like I need to email Mr. Turner and see…I'm sure he doesn't remember me, I was the quiet, awkward kid in the back who didn't ever raise my hand, but I was listening. So I emailed him, in fact, I found the email just recently here, so in the email I said, I was able to find his email address somewhere online, and I didn't know if it was him or not, but I wanted to try and see. Because I wanted to make sure I understood this right. So my email to him was, “Hey Mr. Turner, I'm sure you don't remember me, but you were my 8th grade geometry teacher back in 1993.” Which actually, as of today, was 24 years ago, crazy. Anyway, “You were honestly one of the best teachers I've had through my entire schooling, even college. I wanted to thank you for that. Also, I'm actually writing a talk for church tomorrow and I had flashback back to the first day of 8th grade where you were talking about the foundations of math. I'm not sure if I remember this one 100% correct, but you said something about there being givens that were un-provable, but we had to believe them for the rest of math or geometry to work. I think there was a line, a line segment, a point, and probably a few others. Did I get that right?” “In my talk I'm going to relate that faith and how there are givens that you have to have to believe in, that aren't really provable. Anyway, I want to let you know, 21 years later, that the kids remember what you're teaching and it still has an impact on them. Thanks, Russell Brunson.” So I got an email back from him a couple of days later that said, “Thank you so much for the email. It does my heart good to know what I'm teaching truly has an impact on my students. Your 21 year old memory is pretty good. The three givens are a point, a line, and a plane. Let me know how your talk went, I'm sure it's going to be excellent given that it was related to math. Thanks Mr. Turner.” So what he said, and I want to kind of sum this up. What he said is basically, if you look at geometry, I remember him always talking about Euclidean geometry and about how cool Euclid was and all these things. He was so excited. But he said all this whole theory, this whole science, everything based on geometry is all provable except for three things. But these three things are the foundation points and I can't prove these, but if these three things are true, if they're a given, then all of geometry works. If you take them away everything crumbles. He said these are the three things. One is a point, a line, and a plane. If we define these things, this is a point, this is the line and the plane, I can't prove those but these are the three givens. And based on the fact that these three givens, if we believe that they're true, all of math works. And I just remember when he told me that, how amazing…for me it tied so much to faith. If you think about faith, there are things you have to have faith in that we can't prove them, but if we believe in them then everything else great in this world happens because of that. So the reason why I knew that a point and line and plane were true is because Mr. Turner said, “These are true and because they are true, therefore all geometry works.” So for me, I was like what are the givens of my faith? Things that aren't, that I can't prove are true but they are true. What are those things? And just like I had to get Mr. Turner to tell me, “Hey Russell, these are the three givens.” I need somebody who I trust to tell me that these givens are true. And it can't be someone here on this earth, because people here on earth are persuaded, they have all sorts of different agendas and ideas and things like that, it has to be somebody eternal. It has to be God. So for me, I figured out these were the three givens of my faith. And if these three things are true, then everything else amazing in my life became amazing because of these three things. And I can't prove them, the only way you can prove them is to go and ask God, which is my message of this entire podcast. I will never try to logically convince you of anything. What I'm going to do is try to inspire you and get you excited to go ask God yourself. And if I was looking at what I should be asking him, what do I need to know is true? It's these three givens. Because after you understand these and you believe these and he has told you they are true, everything else in your life will be built around it and you'll have absolute certainty, absolute confidence. You'll know exactly where you came from, why you're here and where you're going. So these are my three givens, and if you're taking notes, write these down, because these are the foundation of my faith and of your faith, and I believe that they are true. Not because I convinced myself or I can logically prove it to you, but because God has told me. These are things that he will tell you as well if you will ask him. Alright, so number one, my first given is there is a God and he loves us. That's given number one. Given number two is that Jesus is the Christ. And given number three is that the Book of Mormon is true. Those are my three givens. Now again, I know this not because of myself, but because I asked God and I received revelation directly from him on all three of these and I'll talk about that as we kind of go on. But the coolest thing for you, as I share these things with you, don't take my word for it. Please don't take my word for it. I want you to hear it and then I want you to see the pattern of how I got my answer and then I want you to take action and I want you to follow that pattern as well. That's my only goal from this. But if these three things are true, I promise you, the plan of happiness, everything else that comes from that is all true. But these are the three givens that I can't prove. Just like in geometry, I can't prove a point, a line, or a plane, but because they are true, this amazing thing called geometry is possible. Alright, let's hear that once again. Number one, there's a God and he loves us. Number two, Jesus is the Christ. Number three, the Book of Mormon is true. Like I said, depending on where you are coming at this, if you're already Christian you probably already believe in number one and two. If you're Mormon you probably believe one, two and three. If you were Mormon at one time and you've left the faith, you probably don't believe number three, and maybe don't believe number two. I know you're all in different spots. So my encouragement to you is to look at this, this is the foundation of faith. You need to know, not based on your own opinion, based on God's opinion. What's his opinion on these three things? Figure it out and everything else will change for you. Alright, let's jump into this. Given number one, there is a God and he loves us. For me, when I was born into this world I just assumed there was a God and I think most people do as well. I fast forward 19 years of my life and I had a chance to go on a mission, I went to Cherry Hill, New Jersey and I had one of the most amazing experiences of my life. It was scary, it was fun, it was exciting. But it was pretty cool. I had a chance to knock on doors and teach people about God and about Christ and all these amazing things. And what was interesting is as I was going out there I assumed everyone believed in God too. We all believe in God. And as I started knocking on doors and talking to people I found out really quickly that a lot of people don't. In fact, not only do some people not believe in God, they don't believe in Christ, they don't believe in God, they don't even believe in anything. And as I met atheists and agnostics and other people out there, I was like, huh. And some of them had very convincing arguments, they were very logical. I was like, huh. As you're going door by door by door trying to explain to people about this amazing thing that's happened and they're coming back saying, “That doesn't even matter because there is no God.” After a while I started wondering, is there a God? I always assumed there was, but I don't know. All the sudden I got scared. I'm trying to convince people that the Book of Mormon is true and that Jesus Christ is our Savior and that his church is back here on earth, but I started thinking, but what if there's no God? If there's no God this whole thing collapses. This is one of the givens. If this isn't true then everything else disappears. I realized, I gotta know if this is true. I have to know there's a God. I assume there is, but how do I know? I need to know this, I can't just go on blind faith. I need to know. So for me, it started this study of trying to understand who God was. I'm sure we'll have episodes that will go deeper into that, but it's outside the concept of today. Today, I needed to know that. So I started studying the Book of Mormon, which we'll talk about why it's such an amazing book here in a minute. But in the book there's a really cool story. There's a guy named Alma who is a prophet and he had a fight with this guy named Korihor who's an antichrist. And it's in Alma chapter 30, verse 44, if anyone wants to read it. But Korihor was someone who did not believe in God and he came out and he started preaching to all these people, laughing, “Why are you following the prophets? Why are you caring about a God? There's this guy named Jesus who's supposed to be coming in the future, I'm sure it's going to happen. They're just telling you this stuff about God because they want to control you and they're trying to take away your agency and all these things and that's why they're doing this.” And Alma the prophet was like, “What are you talking about? You know that's not true. We don't make any money from this, we're volunteering our time, we're working with our own hands to pay for our own things. We're here to help each other and God is true.” And they started fighting back and forth and finally Korihor comes back to Alma and says, “Well if you would show me a sign, if you just show me a sign, then I will believe you.” And Alma, I'm sure, I'm envisioning this situation, he's debating with this antichrist, I'm sure that he had the situation where the antichrist is looking like, “Are you serious? You need a sign?” and this is what Alma said in Alma 30:44, chapter 30, verse 44 he said, “Thou hast had signs enough, will you tempt your God? Will you say show unto me a sign when you have a testimony of all these, they brethren, all the holy prophets and the scriptures are laid before thee and all things to note that there is a God. Yea, even the earth and all the things upon the face of it, yea and it's motion and all the planets which move in the regular form, do witness that there is a supreme creator.” Alma is basically saying, “Look around. Do you not see what's happening around us? There's a sun that comes up every morning and goes down. There's a moon and all these things. There's breath and life and plants and animals and birth and death. These amazing creations had to have a creations had to have a creator. Plus you have these scriptures in front of you. These scriptures, these are people who have met God, who have talked to God, who have written stories on it. You have all the testimony of your brethren, people who have interacted with him. What more do you need? Do you honestly need a sign?” And Korihor came back and said, “Yeah, I need a sign. If you show me a sign, then I'll believe you.” And I just imagine Alma, letting out a sigh of breath and be like, “Alright, well if the Lord wants it done, he'll send you a sign.” What happened to Korihor is he was then struck dumb. He lost his voice and they came back to him and said, “Okay, there's your sign. What do you think?” and he can't talk and he's freaking out and starts writing down on a piece of paper, “You're right. I can't talk. Only God could have done this, I believe there's a God now. Take this away, I want to be able to speak again.” And they're like, “No, if you get your voice back, you're going to continue to go down the same path.” He said, “No, it wasn't me. Satan came and convinced me to do these things and taught me the words to say, but let me talk again and I promise I'll come back and I'll do good now.” And Alma basically said, “Well, it's up to God. If he wants to give it back he can, but it's kind of up to him.” And the Lord didn't give him his voice back. So Korihor ended up going house to house begging for food and eventually it says he was trodden down and died. I don't know what the word trodden means, in my head it's horses stomping on somebody, but I don't know if that's true or not. All I know is he went through a horrible experience and then he died. As I read that, I just started thinking. I'm looking around me and realizing he's right, Alma was right. All things denote that there is a God. The fact that I live here on this earth, that 37 years ago I was born, I had these amazing parents, I grew up, eventually I was able to find my wife and now we have kids. Just all these things that are happening, all things denote that there is a God. And as I started looking around, in the scriptures they talk about the plan of happiness, and I look as I followed this plan, which some say was made up or invented or whatever. Korihor would have said it was created because they're trying to hold you back. I look at the more I follow this plan of happiness, the more I do what's right, the more I follow these commandments of God, the more that I try to be like him and try to do what he would want me to do, the more happy I've been in my life. And as I've deviated from that path, that's when I feel, the times in my life that have been dark, that I haven't felt happiness. As I look at our creator, look at our father and the plan he's created for us and as I followed it, it is what's gotten me to know that there is a God. I think for all of us that needs to be the first question. We have to know beyond ourselves. If we pray, when we pray and then receive an answer, that's how you know there's a God. Someone told me there's this guy you gotta meet, I don't know who he is, but as soon as I meet him the first time and I hear his voice, I know that he's real. So for me, I started praying on my mission, begging and pleading for answers, as I heard his voice, I knew that he was real. I testify to you that there is a God in the heavens. He is literally our father. I know that he loves us, he cares about us more than we will ever know or understand while we're here on this earth. But number one is true. There is a God and he loves us. I don't know that because I was logically convinced but because I have heard his voice, and I know that you can hear his voice too, but you gotta ask. You gotta pray and when you do that he'll respond to you. So that's given number one, there is a God and he loves us. Alright given number two, Jesus is the Christ. Once again, this is something that in my naivety, growing up in Utah, I assumed everyone believed in Christ. You know, I thought the argument was “Is the Book of Mormon a real thing?” I thought that was the question. But for the majority of the world, they aren't even Christians. I look at today, I was in 8th grade 24 years ago, so I was on my mission almost 20 years ago and back then as I was knocking on doors in New Jersey I was shocked at how many people didn't believe in Christ. But today it's even worse. Christianity, 20 years ago I would have assumed the majority of people thought they were Christians. But today with Facebook and with my interaction with literally thousands and thousands of people around the globe, most people I don't think consider themselves Christians anymore. I have people come to me and say, “Russell, are you Christian?” I say, “Of course I am.” And they're like, “Man, I can tell.” I'm like, 20 years ago I think everyone identified themselves as Christian. It's shocking to me that they're not. So because of that, it gets even more complicated now. We need to know that. So the question is how do you know that Jesus is the Christ? That's a good argument. How do we know that? There's a book that talks about it, we've seen some movies on TV but how do we know? Believing is good, but we can know. When you know it becomes a firm foundation as opposed to just kind of hope. So on my mission, I'm out there tracting and we're knocking on doors and meeting people, and again up to that point in my life I just assumed that everyone believed in Christ. Or that the majority of people did. And we went to this lady's house and knocked on her door and she let us in and we had the chance to teach her. For her, her daughter had actually passed away in a car wreck three or four years earlier. And she was, you could see she was still really, really struggling with it. We go back and have these discussions with her and talk about life and again, going through the three questions, where do we come from, why are we here, and where are we going. And helping her understand that, not just from her own perspective but from her daughter's. “Where did you and your daughter come from? What's the purpose here? Her dying early? Where is she going now?” and helping her understand that. We taught her for a bunch of weeks and then one day she called us or we went by her house, I can't remember exactly what the situation was. But she said, “Hey, there are these debates that are going to be on TV. It's a Christian/Muslim debate and I want you guys to be here to help support me as I'm watching this.” As missionaries, normally we don't watch TV, maybe it wasn't the right thing for us to watch, but I thought you know this is an investigator that we're working with and I was kind of fascinated. I hadn't met a lot of Muslims up to that point. I didn't know what they believed and I was curious. I wanted to see this debate happen. So we went to her house and she turned on the TV and we had a chance to watch this debate. And what's cool is there was a Christian and there was a Muslim and each of them had a chance to come up and present to the world what they believe. And everything's obviously very logically based. But it was fascinating watching this debate as they're going back and forth and back and forth.They keep taking turns and like, tag teaming each other. And I remember watching, I think we watched about three hours. And when these debates ended I was sitting there just fascinated because I learned so much about Muslims and what they believe and what the core sect of Christianity believes and all sorts of things. I remember afterwards the investigator is like, “Oh yeah, that Christian guy destroyed the Muslim.” And I started thinking, and as I was listening, I didn't feel the same way. I felt very strong that the Muslim guy had a lot stronger foundation he was on. And as the Muslim guy kept attacking the Christian guy in these debates, what he kept coming back to, he said, “Why do you guys believe Christ is the savior?” and the Christian guy said, “Because it says it in the bible.” And the Muslim guy would come back and say, “You have one witness. You can't rely everything on this one witness. The Muslim believe because we have witness of this and this and there's multiple people and sources and stuff showing that this is true. Right now you're relying on the Bible saying the Bible says that Jesus is the Christ, therefore it is true. But what makes you believe the Bible's true? What if it's not? What if it's….” And he kept attacking. And what was funny and interesting to me, what'd he say, he said, “You guys say that the Bible is the word of God because it says it's the word of God. There's only one testament, there for it can't be true.” That's what the Muslim guy kept saying. And as I was hearing that I was like, he's right. What's the proof? I love the Bible, more than most people. In fact, I have tons of Christians be like, “Well you've never read the Bible.” I'm like, “Have you?” and they're like, “No.” and I'm like, “Well I actually have. And I actually really enjoy it.” So it's funny, when they tell me that and very few of them have actually read it. Yes, I have read the Bible, I love it, it's amazing. But it's one testament. And I started smiling as I was explaining to this woman, I said, “Look, the Christian guy didn't have a lot to stand on because he had this one testament. If he had another testament, if there was another section of the world, if there were other people in a different part of the world who saw Christ, who saw the wounds in his hands and his feet, and would say, yes we saw him. Then the Christians would have won instantly because that was the argument.” But I know if I would have went to that Christian debater and I would have said, “Hey dude, you're awesome. I have this really cool book it's called The Book of Mormon, it's another testament of Jesus Christ.” He would have said, “You're evil, get that away from me.” And I say, “No, you don't understand. You have this amazing book called the Bible, it's the people in Jerusalem. They saw Christ, he came to them after he was resurrected and they saw the wounds in his hands and his feet. And they said, Jesus is the Christ. And it's true, I believe it. But the problem is it's one testament. You don't know. If there's a car wreck on the side of the road and this horrible accident happens and there's one witness and then you go to court and the guy's like, ‘this is what happened.' It doesn't stand up very strong, but there's three or four people, all who have the same testimony saying, ‘Yeah, that is actually what happened.' Then guess what happens? Suddenly it becomes a very strong case. Look, there's three people, different situations, different parts of life, who all said the same thing, therefore it's probably true.” “So the Book of Mormon, what it is, it's these people in ancient America, the same time that Christ was in Jerusalem and he was crucified and he died and then came back and they saw the wounds in his hands. Then he ascended up into heaven and then he came to the other side of the globe, to the Americas. And this is before they had cell phones or fax machines or post offices or even boats for crying out loud that could get there. He came to the other side of the world, came to them and said, ‘Hey you guys, my name is Jesus Christ, your prophets talked about me as well. Feel the wounds in my hands and my feet. I was just crucified, I did what your prophets have been talking about. Feel the wounds in my hands and my feet.' And they did, and they wrote these things down, and that's what the Book of Mormon is.” “It's an ancient record of people who lived the same time that Christ was in Jerusalem, but after Christ was crucified, after he left there, he came to the people in America and they saw the same thing.Now we have these two books from two separate sides of the world, two witnesses of Christ saying, ‘yes, he did die and he did rise again.” And I as I started looking at it from that lens, I said, that is the power. That is what makes, that's why the Book of Mormon is so essential. It's the second testimony, it's the second witness of Jesus Christ. It was just fascinating to me. But after we left that discussion I went back and kept thinking, I believe Christ is the savior and we have these two different witnesses, but I've never even asked. I've never asked God. I assumed it was true but how am I supposed to go tell people the Jesus is the Christ if I don't know that? What if this guy that was the Muslim debating guy was right? And I remember I was scared by that. I remember towards the end of my mission I was reading the New Testament, and I wanted to read it chronologically because I wanted to hear the stories in the order. So Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John if you've read them, Matthew tells the whole story from his point of view, then Mark tells the story from his point of view, then Luke does, then John. So I found this table you could read, okay read Matthew these verses, then Mark, then Luke, then John. And it told all the stories chronologically. So I read the gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, in chronological order and as I'm reading these things I'm hearing, I'm getting this beautiful glimpse and view of the Saviors life as he's going through his ministry and his birth, his life, his ministry and then his Crucifixion. And I remember the day, I remember the chair I was sitting in, in New Jersey, as I read about the Crucifixion and just the emotion, the pain, and all those things I felt as I read that. I remember as I finished those chapters that day for my study, it ended with Christ being put into the tomb, and then I left that day to go out and start knocking on doors and start talking about Christ. I remember being nervous for the next day, because I knew the next morning I was going to read about the resurrection. I remember thinking, I've read about it before, but I don't want to believe it, I want to know. I want this to be a given. I want to know, I want to be able to have this so strong in my foundation of my faith, that nothing could ever rock me, no matter what. I need to know. And that whole day as we were knocking on doors, I was praying, when I read this tomorrow, Heavenly Father I need to know. I need to know if Jesus Christ is my Savior. I need to know, I need an answer to this prayer. I kept praying and praying and praying. And the next morning I woke up and I remember being scared, and I knelt down and I said a prayer saying, “Heavenly Father, I need to know if Jesus is the Christ. I believe he is. I've been going out there doing and serving and taking this on faith, but I need to know.” And that morning as I opened up my scriptures and I started reading about the resurrection I felt it. I felt it from our Heavenly Father, and he told me that Jesus is the Christ. He's our Messiah, he's our Redeemer. He came not just to save me, but to save my family. He came to save my friends. He came to save the people that went before me, the people who come after me, he came to save you. But we have to listen to him, we have to understand. I remember feeling so much relief after that experience and being like, understanding at that point that my faith that I've been running with for so long, now I knew that it was true. And one of my favorite scriptures, no that's not true. This is my favorite scripture. My favorite scripture is in a book called the Doctrine and Covenants, and it's in Section 19 verse 16-19. It's the only time in scripture where Christ himself explained what he did for us. There are a lot of people who tell this story. You hear it from Matthew, and Mark, and Luke, and John's perspective. You hear it from other prophet's around the world. You hear it from a lot of different places, but this is the only time where Christ himself explained what that experience was like for him. So I want to share with you, in his own words. Doctrine and Covenants, Section 19, verses 16-19, he said, “For behold I God have suffered these things for all that they might not suffer if they would repent. But if they would not repent, they must suffer even as I. Which suffering caused myself, even God the greatest of all to tremble because of pain and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit and would that I might not drink the bitter cup and shrink. Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men.” As I heard that I was just like, man! Listen to how he explains that, he said, “which suffering caused myself, even God the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain. And to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit.” That's what he went through for us. When I imagine that and visualize it, I see the pain that he went through, it's amazing. It was part of the plan, and we're going to talk in other episodes about the plan and make it more clear, but he did that for us. In a thing that we call the Atonement, it's a big word, but in a way that doesn't make sense to all of us obviously, but his suffering and what he did in the Garden of Gethsemane, and then what he suffered again on the cross, somehow made it possible for us to be forgiven of our sins. So that we can return back to our Heavenly Father, so we can live with him again someday. So we can live with Christ, so we can live with our families up in Heaven. And for me, that is so vitally important because I love my family. I love my mom and my dad, I love my brothers and my sisters, I love my kids, I love my wife. And if I knew that this life was the end, and I if I knew that I was going to die and it was going to be the end of it, this life would be miserable. What would be the point of any of it? But because Christ came, because he did what he did, because he fulfilled this plan of happiness and he became our Savior, our Messiah, our Redeemer, and he gave us the ability to be forgiven of our sins so we could become clean and we could someday return back to Heavenly Father, because of that I get to be with my family again. I get to be with him again. And it's the coolest thing in the world. I want to testify to you that I know that Jesus is the Christ. Our Heavenly Father has told me. It's not something that I doubt, or I waver, or I wonder. I know it's true. But what's cooler is I know that you can know it's true. You don't have to take my word for it, you don't have to take anyone's word for it. You don't have to listen to Christian/Muslim debates. You don't have to listen to anything. All you gotta do is go ask him. He wants you to know. He needs you to know. Because when you do that, it'll change your life. It'll change the people's life's that you're entrusted with, your kids, your family, people around you. But you need to know. So given number two is Jesus is the Christ. Okay, that brings me now to given number three, which is the Book of Mormon is true. Now, the first two givens are ones that most people inside of Christianity believe already, this is one that may be a little bit of a stretch for you. But I want to kind of bring you back to what we talked about earlier. It's not important for us to try to get other people to try to believe our opinions, the goal is to figure out what is God's opinion, what is actual truth and then conform our belief's to that. So for those of you guys who have heard of Mormons and you may be freaking out, I don't want you to, I want you to suspend your judgment, listen to what I have to say, and then I want to challenge you to find out for yourself if it's true. Because if it is true, this is the most important thing you will have ever heard. If it's not true, then it doesn't really matter. But you need to know. So with that said, I'm going to jump right into this. The Book of Mormon is the keystone of our conversion. Joseph Smith said that the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion, so what is a keystone? If you look at an archway, a keystone is that thing in the middle that holds everything together. If the keystone collapses or breaks the entire arch collapses as well. And I know and we know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints lives and dies on the fact of if the Book of Mormon is true or not. Now the coolest thing about this, and I want you guys to understand this because this is just common sense, and it takes a minute to understand this. But the Book of Mormon is literally the key that you can use to figure out if anything is true. So let me explain how it works. So think about inside of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, people always come up to me, “I have questions. I have concerns.” Or whatever, and I'm like, “Cool, what are the concerns?” And they're like, “Okay well, you guys used to have plural marriage, or you didn't let blacks have the priesthood for a while, or women don't get the priesthood. Or what do you believe about gay marriages?” On and on.. I get all sorts of stuff. And I always laugh, I'm like, “Okay cool. Let me explain how this whole thing works. So number one, I recognize your objections. You're telling me that you're concerned about blank, or you have questions about blank?” and they're like, “Yes that is my question.” I'm like, “Cool. Alright, so let me go find the answer to that. And the answer to all your questions you can find inside modern revelation. There is a prophet or an apostle who has spoken about every concern you can dream of. I promise you, you can find that, you can Google it. Go to LDS.org, do a little searching and you'll find the answers to your questions. They're always there.” So number one, I recognize the objection. Number two, I find the answer inside of modern revelation. You may look at that and say, “Okay, well who is this guy, who is Gordon B. Hinkley who said that? He's just some dude, so how do I believe that?” Which is a good, that is the right question. Why should I believe this guy? Why should I believe this person, this prophet or…you say they're a prophet or apostle, why should I believe what they have to say is true or that it even matters? So then the third thing to understand, the answer to that question, if that is true, it has 100% to do with whether or not we have modern prophets and modern revelations. So what I believe is that we have a prophet, just like when Christ was here he had 12 apostles, and when he left he called a prophet, 12 apostles, right. And we believe that same thing is on earth today. We believe in modern revelation. So we believe that when the church or people or whatever have a question that our Heavenly Father reveals those things to the prophet, just like he did in the days of old. He does the same thing today. So the question is, is that person receiving revelation? Is he really a prophet? Do we really have modern revelation? So the only way to know if that is true is to say, okay this is the prophet or the 12 apostles, or whoever the revelation came through inside of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, how do I know if the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is actually true? Well, what is the keystone? The keystone's the Book of Mormon. If the Book of Mormon is true, that means we have modern day prophets living on Earth today, who receive revelation directly from God and if we have modern prophets on Earth who receive revelation directly from God and they said this, then that is God's will, and therefore we need to conform our will to what God's is. So that's it, every question, every concern, every doubt, everything, all hinges on this one thing, this keystone, this book called the Book of Mormon. So any concern you give me, it's going to be the same thing. I'm going to say, “okay, this is your concern. Here's the answer, but I don't want you to believe in that answer or not. All you need to know is that this answer came from a prophet of God and the way you know if that prophet is actually true, is if the Book of Mormon is true. If the Book of Mormon is true, then the prophet is a prophet and this is what God said.” So all you have to do is figure out if the Book of Mormon is true. Does that make sense? When I first got that, it made so much sense. So it's always funny to me because I hear people who are thinking about leaving the church, who leave the church, they always say, “Oh well, I have all these questions.” Okay, what are the questions? Because I have none right now. I can't think of one question I got. There's some things that I'm trying to figure out and understand, but I have no questions. And they always give me some question and I'm like, “Okay, boom. This is where it's been answered.” And they're like, “Oh well how…” and they have some reason why they don't believe the things of the prophet. I'm like, “Well what's your opinion on the Book of Mormon?” “Well, you know it's a good book…” okay, you need to understand that this is the key. It comes back to that. Is the Book of Mormon true? If the Book of Mormon is true, we have prophets on Earth today. If we have prophets on Earth today, then God has already told us the answer and you just have to believe what the prophet said. Now it's easy, looking back in time, if you're sitting there and you're like, there's this dude named Noah and he's building a huge boat and he came to me and said the world's going to flood, we should get on the boat. Looking back, we're like, “You morons, why didn't you get on the boat. The Earth's going to flood. Noah's the prophet, it makes perfect sense.” But what happened in real life? Everyone's looking around like, “That dude's crazy. Why is he building a boat? Why is he collecting animals? It's starting to rain but the guy's still insane.” It starts flooding up and soon the entire world's destroyed. That's where we're at today. We have prophets. They're here. I know it, I believe it. Heavenly Father told me. Now it's your shot to figure that out. Do we really have prophets? How do I know that? The way I know that is this thing, this keystone called the Book of Mormon. That's the key, that's why it's so important. That's why it's one of the three givens. Because if it is true, then a whole bunch of amazing stuff has happened that you need to know about. It means that God has restored his church on earth, it means there's a prophet, 12 apostles, it means there is revelation come from heaven. It means there's authority. All these amazing gifts and keys and things, that's why Mormons are so excited. That's why people look at me like, “Russell, why are you so excited all the time?” Do you not realize what's happening around us? Our Heavenly Father is here, living. Giving us revelation and messages and if we listen to him, he tells us what to do and I don't have to stress about things. I know where I came from, I know why I'm here, I know where I'm going and I don't have doubt. I have absolute certainty because Heavenly Father told me the Book of Mormon is true, therefore I know that we have modern day prophets, that means revelation is here, I know where I'm going, I'm not concerned. So that's what I need you guys to understand. I want to tell a story about someone I met on my mission, her name was Robin, and Robin actually grew up in Arizona. She was an anti-Mormon. Now, what is an anti-Mormon? Anti-Mormon is somebody who not only is like, not a member of the church but who is actively fighting against the church. So she was so deep into it that she would go out and she would proselyte, she'd find the missionaries where they were knocking on doors and follow them and try to save the people as they would leave. She actually had her own radio show where she had hours every single day talking about how evil the church was and how the doctrines were false and how we're leading people astray and all sorts of stuff. And she did that for years in real life. And then she decided to move to New Jersey. So she left her anti-Mormon friends and all those people and went to New Jersey, and when she was there she was just doing her normal thing and studying and learning. And one day she was like, thinking about all this stuff with the Mormon church that she would talk about, all the weird things we do and believe and all sorts of stuff. And for some reason, she had this aha. What if instead of looking at this, here's all these evil things, I'm going to look at it from their perspective, what if these things were true? Which, I thought was a really good question to ask. What if these things were true? What would that mean? So she started going through the different doctrines, “Here's this thing. What if that was true? What would that mean?” And she'd study and learn about it and she's like, “Huh. What about this one. What if this was true?” and just by changing her perspective it changed the questions and changed what she was searching for and how. And after a while, every time she would go down a different topic and say what if, it would open up a whole new world to her. And one day she was like, “I have a lot of questions now, I need to ask somebody.” So I don't know if she saw or she called, but somehow the sister missionaries in our area got a hold of her and they started teaching her. And I still remember because I was the District Leader at the time, and I remember getting a phone call from one of the sister missionaries saying, “We met this lady named Robin, she's amazing but she used to be an anti-Mormon and she has all sorts of questions, we don't know how to answer them.” So they started bringing me in to answer some of the questions too, which was really fun. And every week, every time they'd do a discussion, she started coming to church, coming to church, she had a whole list of questions. We'd answer question after question and they weren't the type of questions you'd normally get on your mission, they were the deep ones where you're like, “Wow. How do you even know about that?” Not that anything is hidden or secret, but it was just I didn't even know the answer to a lot of these things. So I'd be like, “Well let me go find out.” And I'd go research and study and ask questions and come back, “okay, this is what I found out.” And the questions kept coming and kept coming. And then one day I saw her, I was like, “Alright Robin, what's our question for today?” and she said, “I don't have any more questions.” I was like, “What do you mean you don't have any more questions? You are the question queen, you always have questions.” And she's like, “Guess what happened Elder Brunson?” I'm like, “What?” She's like, “I've been reading the Book of Mormon, as you know and finally I decided to do what you guys keep telling me and I prayed about it and our Heavenly Father told me it's true. I don't have any more questions anymore. I just want to get baptized.” And I just remember how powerful that was. It was kind of funny, her biggest concern, she's like, “Well, I want to get baptized, but my husband hasn't been doing this journey with me and he used to do anti-Mormon stuff with me and I'm pretty sure he's going to be upset about it.” So it took her like two or three weeks for her to get the courage to go talk to her husband and finally she said, “Husband…” I don't remember his name, “I'm thinking about getting baptized.” And he's like, “Alright.” And she's like, “Aren't you mad?” and he's like, “No, you're the one that hated the Mormons, not me.” So she was so excited and wanted to get baptized and what's funny, she was an amazing person, she was into all sorts of crafts and things like that and doing cool stuff, and she'd been going to Relief Society and all the Relief Society women fell in love with her and she wanted to teach Relief Society on Wednesday. But she only wanted to teach Relief Society if she was actually a member. So I remember we did the baptism for her on a Wednesday night and then did the confirmation afterwards and that night she taught Relief Society. It was just so cool to see somebody, for me, who had come from such a far extreme. One side of the extreme was, she was actively fighting against the church, she hated it. But as soon as she shifted her questions to “What if this is true? What would that mean for me? What would that mean for my family? What if this was true, what would that mean?” And then to sincerely search for those questions. And it's okay to have questions, we all have questions. But the only real question that we need to understand and know is, is the Book of Mormon true? And when she asked that, our Heavenly Father told her and then the rest of the questions went away, because now she knew. And the same thing is true, the exact same thing is true for you. I wanted to share that story with you because it shows just how big and how fast a change can happen when you're willing to stop and ask. So if you have questions, that's okay. It's not bad to have questions or doubts or concerns or whatever, but know where to get the answers. The wrong place to get the answers is this thing called Google. Now I am an internet marketer, once again if you Google my name you will see, for the last 14 plus years of my life I have been manipulating the search engines, the algorithms and everything to make money for myself and my businesses and it's done great. I also have friends who have manipulated the search engines in really bad ways and basically anything they want to publish they can. And they write and do all sorts of stuff and rank things, I mean it's crazy. So if you want to try to find answers going to Google, just know that the answers you are getting are from somebody who has an agenda who's putting in the time and the money and the effort to get that ranked where it needs to be. I want you guys to be fully aware of that, it's not difficult to gain the search engines for someone who's spent a decade of their life doing it. It's not difficult. So that's not what you need to put your faith in. The reason why the Book of Mormon is such a powerful thing is because unlike the Bible, if you know the history of the Bible, the Bible came and it's amazing and I'm going to do a whole podcast on this, but there was a time when nobody had access except the people who were in charge of the church. And as it started getting passed out, things changed and things were modified. And as amazing as the book is, you can tell that many of the plain and precious things have been taken away from it. Many of the doctrines have been hidden or distorted or whatever, for evil purposes. So you have to understand as you're going in with the Book of Mormon, it was translated once. The book that I have, this original one, one of the original 5,000, it went from Golden Plates, Joseph Smith reading it to somebody and writing it down, to going to a printer and it was printed on paper, and that's it. It hasn't been translated over a hundred years or centuries. It is what it is. So the question is, is it true? Robin found out. As soon as she found out it was true, that means we have modern prophets, that means all these other things are true. So for you, that's the key, it's the keystone when you understand that. It is true. Now I want to tell you kind of my, how I got my testimony of the Book of Mormon and how this became one of my givens, it became the foundation of my faith.  So I was in New Jersey, I was about 7 months into my mission. It was funny because I always wanted to receive an answer to my prayer. I had prayed about asking Heavenly Father if the church was true, and I never received an answer. I remember my dad, when I was growing up, he told me his conversion story and he was in the MTC when he got his testimony. So I thought, okay cool. When I'm in the MTC I'll get my testimony. When I got there, I started going through it and I didn't get it. I remember leaving on the plane to New Jersey, flying and being like, oh my gosh. I don't have a testimony. I believe this is true but I don't know. I need to know. In my mission I was going through and I was doing the motions, I was trying, I was praying and I found out later, I had to go through this trial of my faith. They always say, faith precedes the miracle. This was a trial of my faith and I had to go through there and I had to repent and I had to clean up my life and my thoughts and my actions. I had to become a better person and through going through this repentance process while I'm out serving the Lord, just really figuring it out. About 7 months into my mission I had an amazing experience. I had a zone leader, named Elder Franco, it's fun actually, during the last General Conference, I hadn't talked to him in 20 years, I saw him on Facebook. Someone in his family got called to be a General Authority or something. So I saw him pop up there. So I actually just messaged him. I'm like, “Hey, I don't know if you realize, you were instrument in changing my life. A huge change, a directional shift.” And he's like, “Really? What happened.” And I told him. We had this zone conference that he was running and he asked me if I'd read a talk and it was a talk from Bruce R. McConkie, and it had some powerful quotes, I'm going to share a bunch of them with you guys here. But he had me read this talk, I'm going to read one piece of this to you. He said, and I read this during the intro podcast as well. Bruce R. McConkie said, “These are deep and solemn and ponderous matters. We need not think that we can trifle with sacred things and escape the wrath of a just God. Either the Book of Mormon is true or it is false. There's no middle ground. Either it came from God or his spawn in the infernal realms. It is not and cannot simply be another treaty on religion. Either it came from Heaven or from Hell and it's time that all those who seek salvation to find out for themselves whether it's from the Lord or if it's from Lucifer.” So he had me read that part of the talk and then I sat down and Elder Franco stood up and he said, “Alright you guys, did you hear what Elder Brunson just said? We are either servants of the Lord or servants of Lucifer. And I don't know about you, but I want to find out right now which one it is, because either we're doing the right thing or we're doing something very, very evil. And we need to find out.” So he said, as a missionary we had a group of probably 20 of us, and he said, “Let's kneel down and let's ask Heavenly Father right now if the Book of Mormon is true because we need to know. He's called us on this mission to go out there and tell other people about this message, this thing that's happened, but we need to know if this is true. Otherwise, we could be doing, we could be serving the opposite side.” And I remember as he said that, my palms started sweating and I got these butterflies and I was so nervous because I had prayed dozens of times a day for the last 7 months and beyond, begging and pleading and asking Heavenly Father to let me know the church was true. I was so scared in that moment. What if it's not, what if I put my faith in the wrong thing. I started getting so nervous. Then we kneeled down and Elder Brager was the person who said the prayer. Elder Brager starts saying the prayer and he said, “Heavenly Father, we're gathered here together as a group of your missionaries, here to serve thee in the best way that we know how. But we have question for you, Heavenly Father, is the Book of Mormon true?” And then he waited. And in that moment I felt the spirit stronger than I have ever felt before or since, as Heavenly Father told me that the Book of Mormon was true. Then Elder Brager said, “Heavenly Father, is Jesus Christ our savior?” and again I felt the spirit so strong. And for me, in that moment, my prayer was answered and I knew, I didn't think, I didn't hope, I didn't believe, I knew that the Book of Mormon was true. I knew that the message that we had, that we were giving, was from God. When I knew that, everything shifted for me. It wasn't a hope or belief or faith, it was knowledge, it was a given. Heavenly Father told me and because I now knew that there was a God and he loved me and because I knew that Jesus Christ was our savior, because I knew the Book of Mormon was true, everything else became possible because of that. All the other amazing things that happened inside of the church, everything in my life, the entire plan of happiness, everything that's happened from that point forward in my life became true because that day the foundation of my faith became complete. Because I knew that the three givens were true. Now, I want to kind of speak for a moment on the Book of Mormon because I don't want people to dismiss this. I've had some people that I share with and they go, “Ah, that's great but you know, I've got the Bible.” And if you dismiss this, you are literally missing out on the most important message our Heavenly Father is trying to give to you and I need to try to clarify that. So hopefully the first quote here helped, and I'm going to kind of read part of it, but it basically said, “…it is not and cannot simply be another treaty on religion. Either it came from Heaven or from Hell and it's time for all those who seek salvation to find out for themselves whether it's from the Lord or it's from Lucifer.” It's from the Lord, there's a reason why he did this big deal, a reason why he came to Joseph Smith and told him to translate this book. It wasn't just that he was bored and needed something to do for the weekend. It's because there was a very vitally important reason why he needed this thing to be done. So you need to find out first off, is this from the Lord or is it from Lucifer. That's number one. Number two, this is some more quotes from Bruce R. McConkie, and those who don't know Bruce R. McConkie yet, he's my favorite dead apostle. He is amazing, but of the people who have ever been in our church, he's probably the biggest scholar ever. In fact, if you look at the triple combination that us Mormon's like to use, the footnotes were basically done by Bruce R. McConkie. The entire footnotes between the Old Testament, the New Testament, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, like insane, that was basically his notes, the footnotes. There's probably nobody on planet earth that knows and has read and understands the Bible more so than him, I would argue. So I wanted to share that in context with this quote he said. He said, “I have an unbound appreciation for both the King James version and the inspired version of the Bible. I stand reverential awes, I read it and I ponder the wonderous words they contain. I do not believe there is a person on earth who has a greater respect for or appreciation for the Holy Bible than I do. Now I say this in a prelude to making these flat and unequivocal declarations. Number one, most of the doctrine set forth in the Book of Mormon far surpass their comparitable recitation than the Bible. Number two, this Nephite record bears a plainer and purer witness of the divine sonship of Christ and the salvation that comes in and through his holy name, than do the old world scriptures. Number three, men can get nearer to God, can have more of the spirit of conversion and conformity in their hearts, can have stronger testimonies, can gain a better understanding of the doctrines of salvation through the Book of Mormon than they ever can through the Bible. Number four, more people will flock to the gospel standard, more souls will be converted, more of scattered Israel will be gathered, and more people will migrate from one place to another because of the Book of Mormon than ever was or will be the case with the Bible. Number five, there will be more people saved in the Kingdom of God, ten thousand times over, because of the Book of Mormon than there ever will be because of the Bible.” I remember hearing missionaries say, “Oh yeah, the Bible's awesome, the Book of Mormon is a good book just like that.” And that's not the truth, the Book of Mormon is a better book, it's a clearer book, it's a plainer witness. We need to be bold in that statement. The Bible is amazing and if it had not been for evil men who have taken it and done things with it, it would be perfect. Again, we believe that the Bible is the word of God, as far as it is translated correctly. But because of the translation, because of all the stuff, and I'm going to talk about the history of that so you guys understand and have a very clear picture of what's happened, where it's gone, and where it is today. The Book of Mormon, though, is clean, it's pure. When you read it, it makes more sense. When you read it, it's clear. All of the things that were confusing in the Bible, it comes back like we talked about earlier, with the two separate witnesses. There's things that Christ talks about in the Bible, that don't make perfect sense, or the apostle, the things they talk about. You're like, “I kind of understand that but I need some clarification.” And because of those confusions we're always…churches start popping up, someone's like, “I think it means this.” And they're like, “No, it means this.” And they fight and argue and all these things happen. Whereas, the Book of Mormon is the second book, it was only translated once. It came from people on the opposite side of the world, and Christ came to them and told them the same gospel, so now we have both of these books. You read them together and it's like, “No, this is what Christ meant. This is what he actually said. Before translators changed and manipulated things, this is what the actual thing said, the way he gave it to people in America.” It's powerful, it's not a good book, it's the most important book ever. That's the first thing to understand. Number two, why do we have and why do we need the Book of Mormon? Again, I talked about this during the intro session, but I want to talk about it again. So this was Joseph Fielding McConkie, it's Bruce R. McConkie's son, he said, “Why a Book of Mormon? Because it's the perfect test of spiritual integrity. Acceptance of the Book of Mormon requires the same faith that was necessary to accept Christ in the meridian time. As he was opposed by false traditions and a corrupt priesthood, so the Book of Mormon is opposed today. The doctrines are the same, the opposition is the same and the courage and faith necessary to accept it are the same.” So how you treat, how I treat, how we treat the Book of Mormon, is how we would have treated Christ if he was here today. That's why it's so important. So you're like, “Oh cool, it sounds nice.” And you push it away, that's how you would have treated Christ. When I read that, when I understood, I was like, “Are you kidding me?” My attitude towards this thing, is what my attitude is and would be towards Christ. It is the same. The doctrines are the same, the opposition is the same, the courage and the faith necessary to accept it, are the same. Are you guys getting this, does that make sense? That's why the Book of Mormon is so important. Now, it's interesting, as I've had people that I love, family members, friends who have left the church. They always leave based on these things that aren't based on the three givens. They leave based on, “Oh I read this thing over here and someone said this about Joseph Smith.” Or “I read this and I don't believe this.” Or “I want to do this in my life.” There's reasons why they leave. But what's interesting is that they don't leave because they don't believe in the Book of Mormon, they leave because Satan has somehow tricked them with some external thing. Jeffery R. Holland said, “If he or she wants to leave this church it must be done by crawling over or under or around the Book of Mormon to make that exit. It is in that sense, the book is what Christ himself said it to be, a stone of stumbling, a rock of offense, a barrier on the path of t

On this episode, we begin with an interview discussing 19th-century American politics. Our guest walks us through the rise of the Jacksonian Democratic party in the wake of the War of 1812 and walks us through how popular opinion and anti-Jackson sentiments led to the rise and fall of the Whig political party. Dovetailing off the discussion with Chris, we jump into Illinois politics and the formation of the Anti-Mormon political party to combat the growing power of the Saints in Nauvoo and Handcock County politics. The Mormons organize the Nauvoo Legion into a military parade for the 1841 4th of July celebration, which a number of politicians and dignitaries attended to show their support for the Mormons. Jo’s truly living the American dream. Links: Teacher’s History of U.S. Podcast https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/teachers-history-united-states-podcast-about-american/id1218263890?mt=2 Times and Season 1841 http://contentdm.lib.byu.edu/cdm/ref/collection/NCMP1820-1846/id/9099 Abraham Lincoln Timeline http://www.abrahamlincolnonline.org/lincoln/education/polbrief.htm Prophet of Palmyra – Thomas Gregg https://books.google.com/books?id=H8xGAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA168&lpg=PA168&dq=senator+sidney+h+little&source=bl&ots=UIow52UU7J&sig=-hnVeNOOiA-srD3JpA4j2e6GPKs&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwikj-XN1KTZAhULx2MKHd1wAvYQ6AEIPTAD#v=onepage&q=senator%20sidney%20h%20little&f=false Warsaw Signal 1841 http://www.sidneyrigdon.com/dbroadhu/il/sign1841.htm Announcements: Darwin Day http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b49a5af2aa02-darwin1 Reddit AMA https://www.reddit.com/r/MormonDoctrine/comments/7x94in/ama_i_am_bryce_blankenagel_of_the_naked_mormonism/ Scathing Atheist BoM trivia https://audioboom.com/posts/6675630-dontcha-come-back-no-mormon-edition In the Name of God Podcast http://nameofgod.podbean.com/ Show links: Website http://nakedmormonismpodcast.com Twitter @NakedMormonism Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Naked-Mormonism/370003839816311 Patreon http://patreon.com/nakedmormonism Music by Jason Comeau http://aloststateofmind.com/ Show Artwork http://weirdmormonshit.com/ Legal Counsel http://patorrez.com/

Originally published 9 January 2017. Since it's now officially past the six month threshold we now present it to you…in all of its dated glory. If you want to hear this content fresh, please consider supporting the show via Patreon. The original text from Patreon follows below: X, Kyle, and Geoff take a trip down […]

John, Zilpha, Bob, Brandt, and Randy break down Mormon voices' article: Top Ten Anti-Mormon Statements in 2011. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mormonexpression/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/mormonexpression/support

Inside the Mind of an Anti-Mormon

Today we interview a young man named Hyrum, founder of the thechurchisnottrue.com web site. In this interview, Hyrum tells his story of why he left the Mormon church.