Podcasts about Nauvoo

Welcome back to our Joseph Smith Podcast series with historian Dr. John Turner!This is Episode 29, where we dive into Chapter 24, titled “Upper Rooms,” from John Turner's new book Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.In this episode, we focus on Nauvoo in 1842 –a pivotal year when Freemasonry, the Relief Society, secrecy, and the earliest forms of the Nauvoo Endowment ceremony all intersect.The central question we wrestle with is this: To what extent did Freemasonry shape Joseph Smith's use of secrecy –and was it intended to protect his authority and reputation?We explore the anti-Masonic climate of early America and the murder of William Morgan, why the Book of Mormon was once read as an “anti-Masonic Bible,” Joseph Smith's embrace of Freemasonry, the founding of the Nauvoo Masonic Lodge, Parallels between Masonic rituals and the original Nauvoo Endowment, the secret oaths, handshakes, signs, tokens, and penalties, and Joseph Smith's evolving theology around power and exaltation.This conversation is historically grounded, candid, and essential for anyone trying to understand how Mormon temple theology developed –and why it still matters today!Show NotesYouTubeMormon Stories Thanks Our Generous Donors!Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today:One-time or recurring donation through DonorboxSupport us on PatreonPayPalVenmoOur Platforms:YouTubePatreonSpotifyApple PodcastsContact us:MormonStories@gmail.comPO Box 171085, Salt Lake City, UT 84117Social Media:Insta: @mormstoriesTikTok: @mormonstoriespodcastJoin the Discord

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

In the second of a 2-week series, MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

Welcome to Part 28 of our John G. Turner series of the Joseph Smith Podcast! Today we continue our deep dive into the Egyptian Materials, the Book of Abraham, and how its theology shaped Mormonism's most distinctive doctrines –including premortal existence, exaltation, intelligences, and the idea of God becoming God.This episode explores how Joseph Smith resumed work on the papyri in Nauvoo, publicly introduced the Book of Abraham, and used it as a vehicle for unfolding expansive cosmology and theology. We examine the papyri themselves, the facsimiles, translation claims, the catalyst theory, and why there is little evidence that key scrolls are missing.More importantly, we trace how the Book of Abraham becomes the theological backbone for ideas that later crystalize in the King Follett Discourse, the Plan of Salvation, the War in Heaven, and the belief that humans can become Gods.This is Part 2 of our discussion on the Egyptian Materials and their lasting influence on Mormon doctrine.Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeShow NotesAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

Mormonish is joined by Rebecca Williamson, director of tourism in Nauvoo Illinois, to discuss the history OTHER than Mormon history that makes Nauvoo what it is today.Nauvoo's history is a rich tapestry that existed long before the Mormons arrived and continued long after. Join us as we walk through the landmarks, stories, and legacies that shaped Nauvoo into the historic destination it is today. And hear the rest of the story!Thank you so much for watching Mormonish Podcast! ***How to DONATE to Mormonish Podcast: If you would like to help financially support our podcast, you can DONATE to support Mormonish Podcast here: Mormonish Podcast is a 501(c) (3) https://donorbox.org/mormonish-podcastThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

MRM's Bill McKeever and Bradley Campbell discuss the June 1844 Nauvoo Expositor, the only edition printed and the destruction of the printing press and copies of the paper by Joseph Smith. Just what is this paper all about? Is it filled with lies? The truth? Or some of both? Check out God Loves Mormons video on this topic as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SX-pdGIXUU

Welcome to episode 27 of the Joseph Smith Podcast with Dr. John G. Turner! In this episode, we take a deep dive into Joseph Smith's early practice of polygamy in Nauvoo, tracing how it began, how it expanded so rapidly, and what it reveals about power, belief, and risk.We examine the first plural marriages, the people Joseph trusted to introduce the practice, and the recurring patterns that emerge as polygamy spreads among church leadership. Along the way, we ask difficult questions about revelation, consent, secrecy, scripture, and whether Joseph believed his actions were divinely required –or something else entirely.This discussion also situates polygamy within the broader political and social pressures Joseph faced in the early 1840s, including legal threats, growing opposition, and his increasing confidence and recklessness as Nauvoo flourished. Ultimately, we explore whether Joseph's polygamy can be understood as sincere belief, institutional experimentation, abuse of authority, or some combination of all three.If you find this series valuable, consider liking, subscribing, and sharing. More episodes in this series are coming next!Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

Welcome to Part 26 of our Joseph Smith Podcast series! In this episode, we continue our deep dive into Chapter 22 of John Turner's new biography, Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet, as the story moves to the founding of Nauvoo, Illinois in 1840 –a fresh start for the Latter-day Saints and a turning point in Joseph Smith's theology and authority.We explore the emergence of baptism for the dead, one of the most distinctive doctrines introduced in Nauvoo, and how Joseph Smith framed proxy ordinances as answers to grief, death, and eternal family bonds. From New Testament passages to Adam Clarke's biblical commentary, we examine how this doctrine developed, why the Saints embraced it so enthusiastically, and how it eventually became tied to the temple.This episode also covers the doctrine of re-baptism, a ritual that allowed faithful members to recommit repeatedly, and what this reveals about early Mormon ideas of salvation, renewal, and belonging. We also introduce one of the most controversial figures of the Nauvoo period: John C. Bennett –a charismatic leader with a scandalous past whose rise and fall would have lasting consequences for Nauvoo, Joseph Smith, and the Church's political and legal standing.Along the way, we discuss Nauvoo's utopian hopes, strange theological ideas, spiritual experimentation, the growing power of the Nauvoo militia (and Joseph Smith), and the seeds of opposition that will eventually lead to Joseph Smith's death. Join us in the next episode for our discussion on Polygamy!Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

We’re diving deep into the First VIsion accounts with Historian Dan Vogel. He offers a deep dive into the historical developments of early Mormonism, challenging both critics and believers to look closer at the documents. What if Joseph Smith was neither a simple con man nor a traditional prophet, but something more complex? https://youtu.be/uVVJcgmyUKA Don't miss our other conversations on the First Vision: https://gospeltangents.com/mormon_history/first-vision/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved “Pious Fraud” Theory Vogel describes himself as a “moderate” critic who seeks the most charitable view of Joseph Smith that a non-believer can hold. He proposes the theory of “pious fraud,” viewing Smith as an “inspired pseudepigraphist”. In this framework, Smith believed he was genuinely called by God to teach true doctrine but used intentional deception—such as the physical gold plates—to provide “evidence” that would make it harder for others to reject his message. Vogel compares this to a faith healer who uses suggestion or minor “tricks” to raise an audience’s faith level so that they are prepared to receive what they believe are real miracles. For Smith, the “greater good” was the salvation of his followers and the conversion of his own family. Evolution of the First Vision One of the most significant points of Vogel's research is the evolution of the First Vision narrative. He highlights that the earliest recorded account from 1832 is markedly different from the canonized 1838 version. The 1832 Account: This version mentions only one personage (Jesus) and focuses on Smith's personal remission of sins. There is no mention of a revival or a command to stay away from all churches; rather, Smith had already concluded the churches were wrong by the age of 12. The 1838 Account: This version, written during a time of intense persecution in Missouri, includes the 1820 revival and a mandate that all other creeds were an “abomination”. Vogel argues that the 1820 date for the revival is anachronistic, noting that historical records place the great Palmyra revival in 1824–25. He suggests Smith moved the event back in his history to transform a personal “born-again” experience into a foundational event for the entire Church. Priesthood and the “Chain of Ordinations” Angelic ordinations were likely a later development. Vogel asserts that early on, authority was understood as a direct command from God through a seer stone or revelation, rather than the laying on of hands by angels. It wasn’t until around 1834–35 that detailed stories of John the Baptist and Peter, James, and John appeared in the records. Vogel posits these stories were introduced to solidify Joseph Smith's authority against internal challengers and to create a formal “chain of ordinations” that was harder to break. Theological Shifts: From One God to Three Vogel tracks a clear evolution in Smith’s theology regarding the nature of God: Modalism: The Book of Mormon reflects a view where Jesus is both the Father and the Son. Bi-theism/Trinitarianism: The Lectures on Faith (1835) describe God as a personage of spirit and the Son as a personage of tabernacle. Physical Personages: Only later, in the Nauvoo period, did Smith teach that both the Father and the Son have physical bodies of flesh and bone. We'll dive deeper into all 4 First Vision narratives. Check it out!

In today's episode, we dive into Chapter 21 titled “Keys” from Dr. John Turner's new book “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.” This chapter cover the pivotal years of 1839-1840, as the Saints leave behind the trauma of Missouri and begin building a new gathering place in Commerce (soon to be Nauvoo), Illinois.We pick up the story right after Joseph Smith escapes Liberty Jail, exploring how he reclaims leadership, rebuilds momentum, and introduces new theological ideas that will shape Latter-day Saint doctrine for generations.Dr. Turner –writing as a never-Mormon historian –gives us a clear-eyed look Joseph's rapid return to power, the purchase of Nauvoo lands, the arrival of the mummies and papyri, early missionary ambitions in Europe, evolving doctrines about angels and theosis, and Joseph's bold claims about “keys” –including what Turner calls “the keys of the universe.”We also get into the politics: Joseph's 1840 trip to Washington, his audience with President Martin Van Buren, and the Saints' ongoing fight for redress. And yes –we discuss everything from healings during the malaria outbreak to phrenology, patriarchal blessings, lineage theories, dynastic sealings, and even the perennial question: Was Joseph Smith actually good-looking?Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

It's the end of the year, the Spotify “Wrapped” flexing is in full swing, and Richard LeDuc is fresh off hosting a Hanukkah party that looked suspiciously like a full-blown ward social. Gerrit trys to solve the greatest unsolved case of 2025: why Richard's “most played song” is Massachusetts by the Bee Gees… a song he swears he has never listened to. After a quick stop at the Phoebe Draper Palmer Brown Mailbag, they jump back into who is Dead and in Hell. Gerrit continues the story of Judge Perry Brocchus's infamous Bowery speech in 1851, where what was supposed to be a simple patriotic appeal for a Washington Monument donation turns into a full-blown scolding of the Saints for criticizing the U.S. government. The discussion covers why Brocchus's argument lands so badly with a people who had lived through Missouri and Nauvoo, how Brigham Young responds with one of his sharpest lines (“profoundly ignorant or willfully wicked”), and how the fallout gets weaponized in hostile newspaper coverage accusing the Saints of sedition and rebellion. Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2027: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours Our 2026 tours are sold out, but if you would like to join us in the future here is a link to our 2027 tours: ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly 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  

Interracial Marriage is critical to the reasons for a priesthood/temple ban on black LDS Church members. For many years, the official position of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) was that “it is not known precisely why, how, or when this restriction [on the priesthood for male members of African descent] began in the church.” However, historical research utilizing early records suggests that the origins of the ban are quite specific, pointing to a confluence of events involving race and interracial sexual relations (often called “amalgamation” or “miscegenation” at the time) that served as the primary catalyst. https://youtu.be/V3DtkTfLazM Don't miss our other conversations on the priesthood ban: https://gospeltangents.com/mormon_history/racial-priesthood-temple-ban/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved 0:00 Meet Stassi Cram Priesthood Before the Prejudice (1830–1846) Contradicting later restrictions, evidence shows that Black men held the priesthood and participated in temple ordinances during the earliest decades of the Church. Black Pete, the first Black convert, was baptized in 1830 and served a mission in Ohio, likely performing baptisms in January 1831. Elijah Abel, perhaps the most famous early Black Mormon, was ordained an Elder and then a Seventy in 1836, received his washing and anointing ordinance in the Kirtland Temple, and participated in baptisms for the dead in the 1840s. Joseph Ball was ordained a high priest and served as a branch president in Lowell, Massachusetts, after Joseph Smith’s death in 1844. Ball was also slated to receive his temple endowment in Nauvoo in 1845. Walker Lewis, baptized in 1843, was ordained an Elder by William Smith, and was later referred to by Brigham Young in 1847 as “one of the best elders an African in Lowell,” [Massachusetts.] Furthermore, marriage between Black and white members was not automatically prohibitive; John Teague, a white Irishman, joined the church in 1842 with his Black wife, Evelyn Wilbur, and John was ordained a priest and then an elder. These facts confirm that no formal priesthood restrictions existed before 1847. Interracial Marriage Crisis of 1847 The shift from granting the priesthood to prohibiting it appears to have been driven by the highly visible, controversial interracial relationships of two Black elders in 1846 and 1847. Warner McCary and Interracial Polygamy: McCary, a freed slave who claimed to be part Indian, was baptized by Apostle Orson Hyde in 1846. Some believe he was ordained an Elder, but this is disputed. In 1847, McCary married Lucy Stanton, a white woman, with Orson Hyde performing the wedding. McCary later caused outrage in Winter Quarters by engaging in “sealing ceremonies” with white women that included sexual intercourse witnessed by his wife. Church leaders quickly expelled McCary from the camp. Brigham Young expressed concern about “amalgamation,” or race mixing, during a meeting where McCary was discussed. Enoch Lewis and the Mixed-Race Child: Simultaneously, in Massachusetts, Enoch Lewis (son of Elder Q. Walker Lewis) married Matilda Webster, a white woman, in 1846, and they had a mixed-race infant girl in 1847. Mission president William Applebee was so disgusted upon meeting the couple and their child that he wrote a dismayed report to Brigham Young asking if it was “the order of God to be tolerated in this church to ordain negroes to the priesthood” and allow amalgamation. When Brigham Young received Applebee’s report in October 1847, he responded strongly, stating that when Black and White people “mingle seed it is death to all” and that if they were far away from non-Mormons, they would “all be killed.” Following these cases, Brigham Young privately claimed that “black-white sexual relations were against the law of God and advocated death to all who participated.” This reaction was fueled by a desire to stop interracial marriage & led to the institutional restriction. The ban was publicly affirmed on February 15, 1852, when Brigham Young addressed the Utah territorial legislature and espoused the Curse of Cain doctrine, stating that the mark of Cain “is seen in the face of every negro on the earth” and declaring that any man “having one drop of seed of Cain in him cannot hold the priesthood.” Elephant in the Room: Racism While interracial relationships may have been the catalyst that triggered the ban, many argue that this analysis ignores the underlying issue: pre-existing racial prejudice. Marguerite Driessen notes, “interracial marriage can cause no problems and it can result in no bad consequences at all unless there’s already racial prejudice to begin with.” The underlying racism allowed church leaders to: Ignore precedents like Elijah Abel's ordination. Contort accepted doctrine to justify exclusion. For example, the Second Article of Faith states that humans will be punished for their own sins, not Adam’s transgression, yet the priesthood ban relied on the “curse of Cain,” effectively punishing Black individuals for the sins of an ancestor. The notion of “accursed lineage” derived from the Book of Abraham’s account of Egyptus, which was used to justify denying saving ordinances based solely on lineage, a factor over which people have “no agency or control.” Thus, the events of 1847-1852 did not create the prejudice, but rather offered a convenient, concrete focus for leaders to impose restrictions that many members and leaders were already culturally inclined to accept. The ban was the result of church policy, not doctrine, and was maintained because the congregation was unwilling to fully accept equality until the 1978 revelation ended the restriction.

Can women hold priesthood in LeBaron Mormon fundamentalism? Jacob Vidrine from Church of the Firstborn surprised me with his answer about women & priesthood! We also finish our conversation about the race ban in Brigham Young & Joseph Smith’s time. Check out our conversation, but it is only available to newsletter subscribers. Sign up at https://gospeltangents.com/newsletter! https://youtu.be/Xg9nt_4xu9M Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Nuance in the Priesthood Ban The discussion explores the often-simplified views of Brigham Young’s stance on race and slavery. While Brigham Young did articulate strong, lineage-based priesthood restrictions and opposed interracial marriage, he did not support slavery in the Utah Territory. Historically, it is argued that Young wanted to enact a form of gradual emancipation, aligning with Joseph Smith’s earlier ideas about compensating slave owners by selling public lands. For fundamentalists, this nuanced view helps frame Young’s motivations for restricting the priesthood not as personal hatred or bigotry, but as a form of “benevolent racism,” rooted in a belief in lineage-based restrictions. The conversation addresses the theological challenge presented by the Second Article of Faith (“men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression”) when discussing generational restrictions like Cain’s curse. This is often reconciled by fundamentalists who argue that the denial of priesthood is tied to actions in the pre-existence (citing Alma 13), or by noting that the Bible and Doctrine and Covenants contain references to both generational blessings and cursings (D&C 121). Ultimately, they view priesthood primarily as a responsibility conferred by God, rather than a right or privilege earned solely in mortality. Matriarchs, Eldresses, Women & Priesthood Perhaps the most unexpected element of LeBaronite theology is the authority granted to women. Contrary to many fundamentalist groups, the Church of the Firstborn tradition believes that women hold priesthood authority. This authority stems from Nauvoo temple rituals, where Joseph Smith was seen as bringing women into the priesthood, often leading to the belief that the Relief Society was intended to be a parallel priesthood organization. Ross LeBaron ordained women as matriarchs, granting them temple authority similar to kings and priests (queens and priestesses). Fred Collier advanced this idea, believing women could be ordained to lower priesthood offices. For instance, Jacob Vidrine's wife was ordained an eldress at age 16. While men typically bless and pass the sacrament, women are authorized to bless by the laying on of hands (blessings of faith), a practice continued from early Mormonism. Furthermore, if circumstances require it (such as the death of a husband), a wife could administer the sacrament to her family. This entire structure emphasizes the patriarchal order as a family organization, requiring the full, active participation of both men and women. Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved

Many Mormon fundamentalists restrict blacks from joining despite the 1978 revelation that allowed black men to hold the priesthood. This is considered a landmark moment in LDS history, but many in Mormon fundamentalists believe this 1978 revelation marked the moment the mainstream Church lost its essential authority. This theological break, rooted in Brigham Young’s fiery declarations about race and priesthood lineage, is why most fundamentalist groups reject modern LDS temple work. https://youtu.be/Rp-2f0Uxuh4 Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Why Black Priesthood Revelation Nullified Authority for Fundamentalists The 1978 revelation that allowed black men to hold the priesthood is considered a landmark moment in LDS history, but for many in Mormon fundamentalism, this decision marked the moment the mainstream Church lost its essential authority. This theological break, rooted in Brigham Young’s fiery declarations about race and priesthood lineage, is why most fundamentalist groups reject modern LDS temple work. The Conditional Priesthood Restrict Blacks For groups like the Ross LeBaronites and others who separated from the LDS Church, the 1978 revelation essentially nullified the Church's priesthood authority. This perspective relies heavily on an address given by Brigham Young in 1852 to the territorial legislature. In this discourse, Brigham Young articulated a powerful condition for maintaining the priesthood: “If we were to… come and decide that it was right to mingle with the seed of Cain and make them partake of all the blessings that we have then on that day and hour the priesthood is taken from the church and God leaves us to our fate“. Because of Brigham Young’s strong language, many fundamentalists are “very reticent to consider that Brigham could be wrong” about the priesthood ban. Therefore, they view the 1978 revelation as fulfilling the condition for the priesthood being withdrawn. The Temple Barrier The rejection of the 1978 decision has direct implications for temple work. Most fundamentalist groups will not use the LDS Temple because they feel its authority is no longer valid. This view is so central that it applies even to other fundamentalist splinter groups. The Missouri temple, for example, is noted as the only fundamentalist community that has rejected and lifted the racial teachings, but this decision causes most other fundamentalists to have “reservations about using their temple” for the “same reason” they reject the LDS temple. They view the temple authority as having been compromised. Was the Ban Revealed in Nauvoo? While some historians argue that the priesthood ban was a pragmatic decision starting around 1847, possibly catalyzed by incidents involving black men like William McCary and Enoch Lewis—events that prompted Brigham Young to want to put this to a stop. Other evidence suggests the doctrine may have predated the Utah period. For some, it is difficult to accept that Brigham Young “radically depart[ed] from Joseph Smith” and suddenly invented a racist doctrine. Jacob points to historical sources have fueled this debate: Nauvoo Lineage Emphasis: There are indications that an emphasis on lineage and blood connected to priesthood started emerging in Nauvoo. Brigham Young, in 1845, reportedly told the high priests quorum that many elders couldn’t hold the keys of the kingdom until their “blood changes and they become the right lineage”. George Q. Cannon’s Diaries: Diaries released in 2016 or 2017 show that George Q. Cannon discussed the priesthood ban in the 1890s, stating that he was taught the ban as a young boy in Nauvoo by John Taylor, suggesting the restriction was in place earlier than commonly dated. Elijah Abel‘s Restrictions: In June 1843, apostles restricted the preaching of Elijah Abel—a black elder who held the priesthood—to only his “own race”. This belief that the restriction was revealed in Nauvoo allows fundamentalists to reconcile the ban with Joseph Smith's period while maintaining Brigham Young's authority, even if they struggle with the theological implications. The key takeaway for them is that Brigham Young, whether right or wrong about the lineage-based restrictions, was not acting out of hatred or bigotry, but rather out of a form of “benevolent racism”—believing in a lineage-based restriction without personal malicious intent. The result is a complex theological landscape where adherence to what is perceived as the divinely revealed structure of the early Church necessitates the rejection of the mainstream church's post-1978 authority and its ordinances. For more information regarding the beginnings of the ban, check out Dr Paul Reeve's amazing research. Here is a link to Jacob’s paper: TheOriginofthePriesthoodBan. Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved

Episode: 1487 Teaching the American public to use the telephone.  Today, would you buy the first telephone?

The path to LeBaronism began when the speaker gained a testimony of the Adam-God doctrine, then accepted principles like rebaptism, eventually leading to a testimony of the Law of Adoption and connection with the Church of the Firstborn. https://youtu.be/AYwLSTRuidE Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved How LeBaron Group Practices Temple Work Without a Temple The quest for pure priesthood authority and the full restoration of doctrines—from Adam-God to the Law of Adoption—led one believer away from the mainstream LDS church and into the unique world of the Ross LeBaronites and the Church of the Firstborn. This journey highlights the fundamental difference between this fundamentalist group and larger organizations: their focus is on patriarchal authority and the function of ordinances, regardless of location. From Adam-God to Adoption: A Conversion Story The path into the Church of the Firstborn often begins with an intense intellectual and spiritual curiosity about early Mormon theology. For some, this journey began by stumbling upon controversial doctrines, such as the Adam-God doctrine, which posits that God himself established the human family on Earth by leaving celestial glory to deal with mortality. The search for deeper principles led to an online forum around 2014 where various fundamentalist voices converged. It was here that the writings and historical research of Fred Collier became especially influential. Collier was regarded as a key figure in the Church of the Firstborn, working alongside Ross LeBaron (the “religious innovator.”) While Ross established the “priesthood foundation”, Collier was the “systematizer”—sometimes referred to as a “Bruce R. McConkie of fundamentalism”—who used historical sources and revelations to articulate a coherent system, adding stability to LeBaron’s teachings. Collier's materials, often shared as pamphlets and essays, presented a highly developed priesthood cosmology. Ultimately, this research and theology, especially the doctrine of the Law of Adoption, led to joining Fred Collier's specific faction of the Church of the Firstborn. Patriarchal Priesthood Structure Unlike the LDS Church, the structure established by Ross LeBaron does not utilize the standard structure of Apostles. Ross acted as the prophet, and the leadership centered on patriarchs. Ross's major mission was to ordain these patriarchs and establish a patriarchal pattern. When a man was set apart, Ross conferred upon him “all the keys, rights, power, and authority of the patriarchal order of priesthood”. This authority was not meant solely for missionary work away from headquarters (like an apostle) but for building a family organization and a patriarchal order. This included the authority to have wives sealed in plural marriage and to adopt sons and families via the Law of Adoption. Ross ordained at least 40 patriarchs during his lifetime, and today, hundreds of people trace their patriarchal authority back to Ross LeBaron. Doing Temple Work in the Mountains One of the most unique aspects of the Church of the Firstborn today is its approach to temple ordinances in the absence of a dedicated temple structure. Historically, Ross LeBaronites—including Tom Green's and Fred Collier's groups—performed temple ordinances in homes that were temporarily dedicated for that purpose. This practice takes a cue from Nauvoo, where Joseph Smith performed ordinances in the Red Brick Store and the Mansion House before the Nauvoo Temple was completed. The fundamental idea is that the authority to perform the ordinance is paramount, not the specific physical structure. However, some groups now seek a dedicated, even if temporary, sacred space. The current approach involves setting up a temporary tabernacle in the mountains to perform the endowment ceremony and other temple ordinances. This method is favored over the home-based work, drawing inspiration from Brigham Young, who once gave endowments on Ensign Peak in 1849, citing comments that the poor could receive their endowments in the mountains. While performing ordinances way up in the mountains presents logistical challenges, such as lacking running water and electricity, adherents find that having this dedicated space allows for a “really spiritual powerful temple experience”. Learning from Cautionary Tales The movement is not without its difficulties. The fragmentation within the Church of the Firstborn, including the separation from Fred Collier's group in 2019-2020, often stemmed from serious issues related to sexual abuse. A major challenge within fundamentalism generally is a reluctance to report abuse to law enforcement, fueled by a defense mechanism mentality and distrust of a government perceived to be hostile toward their practice of polygamy. However, some families separate from these larger groups, seeing the importance of protecting their community and learning from “cautionary tales”—such as Ross's doctrinal errors in old age or the issues of abuse in Fred’s group—to create a safer continuation of the Church of the Firstborn. Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved

Grab a beer and join us tonight as we continue our series on Mormonism and the FLDS! We'll get into how plural marriage went from a secret in Nauvoo to a public doctrine in Utah that put the church on a collision course with the U.S. government. We'll go through the anti-polygamy crackdowns and the 1890 Manifesto, then follow the believers who refused to give it up into the remote Short Creek community, where they built the FLDS. https://www.necronomipod.com https://www.patreon.com/necronomipod Sponsored by BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com/necro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is about Joseph Smith. This episode includes testimonies from many different people. From the manual: The afternoon of June 27, 1844, found Joseph and Hyrum Smith in jail once again, accompanied by John Taylor and Willard Richards. They believed they were innocent of any crime, but they submitted to arrest, hoping to prevent violence against the Saints in Nauvoo. This wasn't the first time that enemies of the Church had put the Prophet Joseph in prison, but this time he seemed to know that he would not return alive. He and his friends tried to comfort each other by reading from the Book of Mormon and singing hymns. Then gunshots were heard, and within a few minutes the mortal lives of Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum had come to an end. And yet it was not the end of the divine cause they had embraced. And it was not the end of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. There was more work to do and more revelation that would guide the Church forward. Killing the Prophet could not kill the work of God. Please also watch this, I forgot to mention it on the podcast but it's one of my all time favorite talks about the Prophet Joseph Smith.  It's called, "Safety for the Soul" by Jeffrey R Holland. Safety for the Soul - Jeffrey R. Holland  

Ross Wesley LeBaron played the role of eccentric prophet. The second oldest son of patriarch Alma Dayer LeBaron Sr., carved a distinct path in Utah. Ross founded the Church of the Firstborn. His teachings presented a unique fundamentalist cosmology focused on distributing sacred authority rather than concentrating it, emphasizing that “the honor is in the work, not the title.” https://youtu.be/fHYDKiaoZ5o Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Authority Above the Church: Dissemination vs. Concentration Ross LeBaron’s theology centered on the concept of a higher order of priesthood existing “above the [LDS] Church” structure. This authority, which he called the Patriarchal Priesthood, originated with the keys restored by Moses, Elias, and Elijah in the Kirtland Temple (D&C 110). This higher priesthood manifested in the Nauvoo period as the authority to make men “kings and priests” (and women “queens and priestesses”), often referred to as the fullness of the priesthood. Ross taught that this authority should be widely distributed among worthy men, acting as a check and balance against unrighteous leadership. He contrasted this view sharply with the prevailing fundamentalist models (like the Woolley line, which later split into FLDS and AUB) that focused on concentrating supreme authority either in a single presiding figure (the “one man rule”) or a small “Council of Seven”. Ross felt the stability of the priesthood lay in this dissemination of authority, allowing many men to hold the highest keys for their own families. Ross LeBaron’s Priesthood Claim Ross’s authority traced back to his grandfather, Benjamin F. Johnson, a close confidant of Joseph Smith and the last living original member of the Council of Fifty. Johnson claimed that Joseph Smith had authorized him to teach the principles of plural marriage, endowments, garments, and the Second Anointing “when I’m led to do so”. This unique claim bypassed Ross’s father (Benjamin Franklin LeBaron) and passed to his grandfather, Alma Dayer LeBaron Sr. (“Dayer”.) Ross received a patriarchal blessing and the “keys, rights, and authority of the patriarchal order of priesthood” from his father, Dayer, in 1950. Although Dayer died without naming a clear successor, leaving behind a succession crisis, Ross eventually received a revelation confirming that the patriarchal priesthood he held was the fullness of the Melchizedek Priesthood. He subsequently concluded that, as Joseph Smith’s birthright, he was the “one anointed and appointed” referenced in D&C 132:73. Eccentric Prophet's Ministry &  the Second Anointing Ross’s ministry in Utah often relied on eccentric methods to gain public notice. He spent over 20 years on radio shows (like KSXX) attempting to be controversial or “silly” (clowning around) to draw attention before sharing his message, mirroring unusual methods sometimes used by Old Testament prophets. A crucial element of Ross’s authority was the belief that the patriarchal keys authorized him to perform temple ordinances, including the Second Anointing. Reviving the Second Anointing: Ross and his early follower, Robert Eaby (a former scribe for the AUB Council and participant in Musser’s School of the Prophets), became pioneers in researching and restoring the Second Anointing outside of the LDS Church. Robert Eaby, who had learned about the ordinance through connections to early prayer circles, was able to assist in administering the endowments and then the Second Anointing, making them the first fundamentalists known to perform the ordinance (circa 1967/1968). Historical Context: This revival occurred during a period when the ordinance was largely discontinued within the mainstream LDS Church, having been generally halted by Heber J. Grant in the late 1920s and not widely performed again until it was revived by Spencer W. Kimball in the 1970s. Ross also stressed individual accountability and agency. When a follower sought revelatory guidance from him regarding a major life decision, Ross challenged him: “Why are you afraid of taking responsibility for yourself? Don’t your knees work? Go to God yourself and get revelation for yourself.” This focus on the individual patriarch holding authority for their own family underscored Ross’s belief that while leaders were fallible, the highest order of priesthood could and should be accessed by all worthy individuals. Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

Grab a beer and join us tonight as we continue our FLDS series with the birth of Mormon polygamy! We'll get into Joseph's claimed angel with a drawn sword, the secret plural “marriages” starting with Fanny Alger in the Smiths' own home, and how that double life eventually blew up in Nauvoo with teen brides, polyandrous sealings, and Emma getting gaslit while being told to accept “all those” wives or be destroyed. From John C. Bennett's “spiritual wife” scam, to the Nauvoo Expositor calling Joseph out, to the city council literally destroying a printing press and Joseph declaring martial law, we'll follow the chaos straight into Carthage Jail and the gunfire that left Joseph and Hyrum dead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Evil Ervil LeBaron was a killer. He killed not only his brother Joel LeBaron, but had his wives kill rival Rulon Allred. He was known to have a hit list of others, including President Spencer Kimball of the LDS Church. Jacob Vidrine discusses these events and we’ll discuss the recent drug killings to a LeBaron family in Mexico. Check out our conversation… https://youtu.be/23RT8A5HEww Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission God's Executioner: How Ervil LeBaron's Quest for Authority Led to Murder and Stigma When discussing Mormon fundamentalism, the name LeBaron often conjures images of violence and notoriety, largely due to the actions of Ervil LeBaron. Though the family's original movement—the Church of the Firstborn—was rooted in unique priesthood claims tracing back to Nauvoo, Ervil's descent into murder and extremism permanently attached a “stigma” to the LeBaron name. Rise of the Violent Theologian Ervil LeBaron was one of the younger sons of Alma Dayer LeBaron (Dayer) and was initially associated with the Mexico branch of the family, led by his brother Joel LeBaron. Ervil was recognized early on as a key figure in establishing Joel's church, serving as a great theologian who authored the important pamphlet Priesthood Expounded. Joel rewarded his loyalty by appointing Ervil to the prestigious position of presiding patriarch over their Mexican church, the number two office under Joel. However, Ervil's rise was quickly marred by corruption. Reports indicated that Ervil began embezzling tithing funds and had a reputation for being predatory, attempting to get all the wives for himself and generally aggrandizing himself through his authority. By 1970, the controversy surrounding Ervil’s financial and moral conduct grew so severe that many members and leaders within Joel's church felt the need to curb his influence. Schism and the Birth of Violence In response to Ervil’s excesses, Joel made the drastic decision to strip Ervil of all authority in the church. Ervil, angered by the loss of his prestige and power, convinced himself that he was justified in killing Joel for taking away his authority. This marked the schism, leading Ervil to form his own group, the Church of the Lamb of God. Ervil’s actions escalated quickly into violence. He claimed a radical, theocratic justification for his subsequent murders: he asserted that he held the civil authority over the earth as “God’s appointed agent”. Based on this claim, Ervil believed he could kill anyone who was “treasonous against his government”. Ervil ordered Dan Jordan, one of his followers, to murder Joel LeBaron, which occurred in 1972. This assassination cut off the head of Joel's organization, as Joel died without appointing a successor to his highest office. Infamous Hit List After murdering his brother, Ervil was determined to eliminate any remaining opposition. He began threatening other fundamentalists and created a massive hit list. He was reportedly concerned about Verlan LeBaron, who had been appointed by Joel to replace Ervil as the presiding patriarch. Verlan was forced to go into hiding for nearly a decade to avoid Ervil’s retribution. To draw Verlan out of hiding, Ervil devised a calculated and shocking plan: he ordered the murder of Rulon Allred, the leader of the Allred Group (AUB). Ervil targeted Allred because Verlan had married into Rulon's family, believing Verlan would attend the funeral. Rulon Allred was assassinated in his doctor’s office in 1977. Ervil allegedly sent two of his wives to commit the crime, securing their commitment to his violent cause. Although Verlan was present at Allred’s funeral, the overwhelming police presence spooked Ervil’s followers, saving Verlan’s life. Ervil LeBaron's End and the Lingering Tragedy Ervil was eventually apprehended in Mexico, extradited, and convicted in 1980 for ordering Allred's death, receiving a life sentence in Utah State Prison. However, the violence did not end there. Ervil died in prison in 1981 in an apparent suicide. Tragically, just two days after Ervil's death was discovered, Verlan LeBaron—the man Ervil had spent years trying to kill—died in an auto accident in Mexico City. Several family members and observers suspected that this was not a coincidence, believing it was a sabotage hit ordered by Ervil's followers, who continued their deadly work even after Ervil's incarceration. Ervil's actions permanently “soil[ed] the whole [LeBaron]” family, transforming a unique movement rooted in secret Nauvoo priesthood claims into one synonymous with a twisted quest for power and serial murder. LeBarón and Langford Families Massacre Tragedy continues in Mexico as recently as 2019. Nine people were killed with some burned alive in a car (three women and six children, all of whom held dual US–Mexican citizenship).[3][4] They were members of the LeBaron and Langford families. A drug cartel is believed to be behind the attack.[5][6] In January 2025, a federal judge in Mexico ordered the Attorney General’s Office to investigate the massacre as an act of terrorism in Mexico. Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

Ok, folks - time to get the Saints out of Nauvoo and headed west…where none shall come to hurt or make afraid, there the Saints will be blessed.  Especially if they follow the pattern set up in this cool section!

Happy Thanksgiving! In this episode, we discuss how do we actually know Heavenly Father has a physical body and what Joseph Smith taught regarding every disciple facing a “trial of Abraham”. The episode closes with Daniel H. Wells's powerful 24th July address: a reminder that early Latter-day Saints could be fiercely loyal to the Constitution and the United States while refusing to whitewash the murders, expulsions, and persecutions they suffered. We reflect on how the faith the Saints, who endured Missouri, Nauvoo, and the plains without knowing “why” can sustain modern disciples facing difficult trials.   Kristy's KorneЯ (Last Minute Lesson Prep): separate rerelease of Joseph Smith's Martyrdom episodes for D&C 135     Standard of Truth Tour dates for the summer of 2027: ⁠ https://standardoftruth.com/tours Our 2026 tours are sold out, but if you would like to join us in the future here is a link to our 2027 tours: ⁠ Sign up for our free monthly 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

An Underrated Section: How to Become Zion…and Heaven by Autumn Dickson With Joseph and Hyrum martyred, Brigham Young was now the prophet. After the Saints were expelled from Nauvoo, Brigham was in charge of finding them a permanent home in the mountains of the west. Though the westward movement of the Saints was among the most impressive immigrations of Americans, it did not start out that way. The Saints were starving and freezing along the trail. Muddy quagmires kept the Saints from reaching their goal to plant crops ahead of everyone coming. Brigham described feeling like he was dragging around a 25 ton weight. He felt like he had a large family with no way of taking care of them. At Winter Quarters in Nebraska, he turned to the Lord for guidance. The Lord told Brigham how to organize the company, but He taught Brigham much more important things that would turn the tide for the Saints' ability to make it to their destination. Here is the verse that introduces the important concept that turned things around. Doctrine and Covenants 136:2 Let all the people of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and those who journey with them, be organized into companies, with a covenant and promise to keep all the commandments and statutes of the Lord our God. The Saints were to be organized into companies that would stick together, and they entered into those companies by making covenants to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord. There were two major principles at work here that changed the game. Principle one. When people normally made their way across towards the west (Saints and non-Saints alike), it was done very loosely with every man vying for his own family. They often travelled together for safety, but companies broke apart and came together with different members more than once. That is the first principle: Brigham Young organized them into companies with leadership at different levels, and each company was expected to stick together throughout the entire journey. If one made it, they were all going to make it. The second principle was to focus on spirituality again. Not only were they to focus on the eternal nature of their work, but they were to focus on the fact that they believed in the same God who helped many groups of people travel to new destinations, the God of Israel. This becomes even more significant when you recognize what the Lord was preparing Brigham for. In 1877, Brigham Young organized the priesthood structure of the church. After travelling around Utah, he found that there were many people scattered and not enrolled in wards. There were overlapping authorities where spiritual jurisdictions were confusing, and it was unclear who would have the responsibility of showing their stewardship to the Lord. There were bishops who had never been ordained, and this was setting the stage for people to become more vulnerable as they were travelling the covenant path. The Saints had now grown large enough that they needed to be organized or two things would happen: losing people and losing the doctrine that had been restored with such difficulty. So that's what Brigham did. Under the direction of the apostles, Saints scattered across Utah were better organized into stakes and wards. Bishops were set apart. Every member found themselves in a ward with a leader who would watch over them. Priesthood roles were clarified so that everyone understood what they were in charge of. This would lessen the gaps in which people could fall through with no one to watch over them, and it would also serve to help the Lord speak to His entire church when He revealed something rather than sending word out and hoping everyone was able to receive it. It's hard to overstate the unglamorous importance of what Brigham did. Let's tie it back to what we talked about in the beginning, and let's talk about it from the perspective of an imaginary Saint who could have lived it A widow is trying to get her kids across the plains to gather with the Saints. Her oldest child is 10 years old and he helps, but he is still only 10. She started out with one company as she began her journey across the plains only to have fallen behind and found herself in a new company. As she tries to nurse her sick baby back to health, they fall behind again as the 10 year old can only get the wagon going so far. She finds herself in a new company once again. At this point, she is simply hoping that she gets to their destination before she reaches the end of the line of companies. Organizing the Saints into companies that cared for each other changed the game. No one got left behind. This is powerful for the widow, but it's also powerful for the ones who are watching out for the widow. It's powerful for the entire company who works together, mourns together, lifts one another. If you can cry with someone, you are very likely to rejoice with each other as well. Everything changes when you're not alone. The widow cries as she holds her baby and a 16 year old from another family has stepped up to drive her wagon along. Her 10 year old looks up at the 16 year old with something akin to hero-worship. This is the beginning of hope. The widow finds renewed faith in her ability to make it, and the 16 year old is changed too. This doesn't even mention the fact that all of this hope and change invites the Lord to rain down manna on the heads of the Saints. Now let's fast forward. The Saints are in the valley, and it is now 1877. There is a young family whose father has broken his leg in a wagon accident. Mother and teenage daughter are doing everything they can to keep the farm and home running, but it's not going well. What will winter look like if they can't finish the work? But then a man shows up and knocks on their door. He sees the ragged family and introduces himself as their bishop. Over the course of the next few weeks, there are rotations of brethren coming in to harvest the family's crop. There are young women who come in and help mother prepare the crop to last through the winter. This is all good and beautiful and inspiring, but I want to fast-forward again. We are accustomed to living in wards and stakes with leadership that enables lightning fast communication from our beloved prophet to each member. If there is a change wanted by the Lord, it is implemented overnight if that's what He wants. We are organized, and we enter into a covenant in order to become part of the organization. It changes the game when this kind of organization is used effectively. It didn't do much good if the companies that were travelling the plains stayed in the same geographical area but still found themselves laboring alone. When was the last time you looked around your ward and saw a family? When was the last time you made a valiant attempt to make it a ward family? When was the last time you ministered to make sure no one was lost out on the plains, physically or spiritually? When it comes to the Lord's work, it's not just about the widow who is being served. It's about how we change when we forget our own problems, and we all work together towards common purposes. Picture the vast difference between the beginning of the Saints journey towards Utah and the end of it. That's the difference we will find in our own lives if we recognize what the Lord has given us in His organization of the church. I testify that wards and stakes and leadership and priesthood organization are gifts from the Lord. I don't believe we recognize the full power of what we've been given. I worry that we won't recognize the full power until we're ready to bring everyone along the covenant path together. Zion is available everywhere; we do not have to wait. The Lord wants us to experience those blessings today, but He can't force us to find them. He can simply offer the opportunity and wait for us to step into those blessings. I testify that He loves us and gave us organizations to protect us and lift us. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 135–136 – Part 2 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

Martyrdom of Joseph & Hyrum Smith; Brigham Young led the Saints west (D&C 135–136) by Mike Parker (Mike Parker is a long-time FAIR member who has graciously allowed us to use materials he originally prepared for the Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class. The scripture passages covered in his lessons don't conform exactly to the Come, Follow Me reading schedule, so they will be shared here where they fit best.) Class Notes Additional Reading and Videos Alexander L. Baugh and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, “‘I Roll the Burthen and Responsibility of Leading This Church Off from My Shoulders on to Yours': The 1844/1845 Declaration of the Quorum of the Twelve Regarding Apostolic Succession,” BYU Studies 49, no. 3 (2010): 4–19. Dallin H. Oaks, “The Suppression of the Nauvoo Expositor,” Utah Law Review 9, no. 4 (Winter 1965): 862–903. Oaks argued that the Nauvoo city council's action to destroy the Expositor press was legal within the understanding of the law in Joseph's time. (This article was published twenty years before he became an apostle.) Joseph L. Lyon and David W. Lyon, “Physical Evidence at Carthage Jail and What It Reveals about the Assassination of Joseph and Hyrum Smith,” BYU Studies 47, no. 4 (2008): 4–50. Mark Lyman Staker and LaJean Purcell Carruth, “John Taylor's June 27, 1854, Account of the Martyrdom,” BYU Studies 50, no. 3 (2011): 25–62. D. Michael Quinn, “The Mormon Succession Crisis of 1844,” BYU Studies 16, no. 2 (Winter 1976): 187–233. Quinn argued that Joseph did not leave clear directions on who should succeed him and this spurred a crisis that was resolved only when the majority of the Saints threw their support behind Brigham Young and the Twelve. Ronald K. Esplin, “Joseph, Brigham and the Twelve: A Succession of Continuity,” BYU Studies 21, no. 3 (Summer 1981): 301–41. Esplin countered Quinn's article by arguing that the path of succession was clear from Joseph's statements and the canonized revelations. Russel R. Rich, “Nineteenth-Century Break-offs,” Ensign, September 1979, 68–71. Rich described some of the schismatic groups that broke away from the restored Church during the Prophet Joseph's life and after his death. R. Jean Addams, “Aftermath of the Martyrdom: Aspirants to the Mantle of the Prophet Joseph Smith,” Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship 62 (2024): 335–402. Addams examines the individuals who claimed the mantle of the Joseph Smith, their motives, and the churches or organizations they founded in the decade following the death of the Prophet. Road to Carthage: A Joseph Smith Papers Podcast is an eight-part documentary miniseries that explores the history of the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith in 1844. The episodes focus on the historical events that led to the assassination of the Prophet and his brother by a mob, as well as the aftermath of that tragic event. Series host Spencer W. McBride interviewed historians and Church leaders for this podcast. LaJean Carruth, “Brigham Young on Brigham Young: His Life, Conversion, and Faith, in his Own Words,” 2024 FAIR Conference. Daniel C. Peterson, “Appreciating Brother Brigham,” 2024 FAIR Conference. Mike Parker is a business and marketing analyst with over twenty years' experience in the financial services and cellular telephone industries. He holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management Information Systems from Dixie State University (now Utah Tech University) of St George, Utah. He also has eight years' experience in corporate training and currently teaches an adult religion class in southern Utah. Mike and his wife, Denise, have three children. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 135–136 – Mike Parker appeared first on FAIR.

1950s were a tumultuous time for Mormon polygamists. Not only did police jail many for polygamy, but there were Mormon Fundamentalist Schisms. Many groups including Joseph Musser and the LeBaron families split apart. Jacob Vidrine of the Church of the Firstborn gives more details. Check out our conversation… https://youtu.be/1hdRUUQ8Gv0 Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Dramatic 1955 Schism that Defined the LeBaron Legacy The history of Mormon fundamentalism is filled with contested authority claims, but few are as immediate and dramatic as the split that occurred between Ross and Joel LeBaron in the mid-1950s. This schism not only severed the nascent Church of the Firstborn into two distinct movements but also cemented radically different interpretations of priesthood authority that traced back to Nauvoo. From Mexico to Utah: Quest for the Kingdom Following the death of their father, Alma Dayer LeBaron (Dayer), who had claimed a unique authority line through Benjamin F. Johnson, the family faced a succession crisis. Joel LeBaron and his brothers (including Verlin and Floren) were primarily based in Mexico and had initially affiliated themselves with the Allred Group (AUB), which was the Salt Lake-based faction of the larger Woolley fundamentalist movement after the 1950s split. In 1955, Joel and his brothers traveled to Utah specifically to request funding from the Allred Council to establish a United Order in Mexico. While staying in Utah, they interacted with their brother, Ross Wesley LeBaron, the second oldest son, who had been ministering separately in the Utah area. Ross's Vision: The Higher Church Ross had received a commission from his father in 1950 to carry on the “patriarchal work”. His theology provided a unique perspective in the fundamentalist landscape, teaching that the Church of the Firstborn was not merely a holding pattern for the “out-of-order” LDS Church, but rather a “higher church above the Church of Jesus Christ”. Ross argued that the goal was not to “fall back into the church” but to “advance into the church of the firstborn,” emphasizing the higher principles of the patriarchal order restored by Moses, Elias, and Elijah in the Kirtland Temple. Ross converted his visiting brothers, Joel and Floren, “back to believing in their father’s authority line” and the patriarchal priesthood. Excited, the brothers decided to formally organize a new church5. The September Organization and Contested Authority On September 21, 1955, Ross, Joel, and Floren gathered for an organizational meeting that established the Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times. The minutes of this meeting articulated the specific authority lineage claimed by the family: Joseph Smith passed patriarchal keys to Benjamin F. Johnson, who passed them to Alma LeBaron (Dayer), who conferred them on his sons. In this initial organization: Ross Wesley LeBaron was sustained as the head patriarch, holding the keys and calling received from their father. Ross emphasized that “the honor is in the work, not the title,” focusing on the substance of the calling rather than merely claiming specific offices. Joel LeBaron was ordained to the office of president of the Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times. Floren LeBaron was set apart as a counselor. Ross claimed he ordained both Joel and Floren as patriarchs1012. However, this unity was fleeting. Joel's Claim to the One Mighty and Strong Within approximately a week of the organization, Joel decided to split from Ross. Joel sought a higher, incontrovertible claim to authority to override Ross’s position as the patriarch holding the keys. Joel traveled up Farmington Canyon and claimed to receive a revelation or a theophany. He claimed that “no fewer than… 17 or 18 different past prophets” appeared to him on the mountain. Crucially, these messengers allegedly appointed Joel as “the one mighty and strong”. This claim directly targeted Ross’s earlier teachings; Ross had claimed the birthright of Joseph Smith and described his own work as merely “preparatory work until the one mighty and strong came”. By claiming this specific title, Joel effectively trumped Ross’s foundational claim and secured his own undisputed position as the highest authority. The dramatic revelation led to a swift separation, with Ross remaining in Utah and Joel returning to Mexico, where he would successfully grow his branch of the Church of the Firstborn of the Fullness of Times to several thousand members, emphasizing a restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ structure (complete with a Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and a High Council), rather than Ross’s focus on the higher patriarchal order. ——————————————————————————– In essence, the split between Ross and Joel LeBaron illustrates a fundamental tension in fundamentalist authority: the conflict between inheriting authority (Ross, the Birthright, the Patriarchal Keys) versus receiving new, definitive revelation (Joel, the Theophany, the One Mighty and Strong). Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

You Don't Have to be Ready, Just Willing by Autumn Dickson Joseph Smith was 38 years old when he was murdered in Carthage Jail. He received the First Vision at age 14. He began translating The Book of Mormon at age 21, and he completed it at age 24. The Church was also organized when he was 24. The Kirtland temple was built, the Nauvoo temple began, temple ordinances were restored, the work of salvation for the dead was set in motion, numerous revelations were received, and missionaries were sent abroad. He had the vision at age 14, and he was taught annually by Moroni, but his true ministry began at the age of 21 as he started translating The Book of Mormon. His ministry was 17 years. Here is a verse in the Doctrine and Covenants that was written in the announcement of his death. Doctrine and Covenants 135:3 Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. In the short space of twenty years, he has brought forth the Book of Mormon, which he translated by the gift and power of God, and has been the means of publishing it on two continents; has sent the fulness of the everlasting gospel, which it contained, to the four quarters of the earth; has brought forth the revelations and commandments which compose this book of Doctrine and Covenants, and many other wise documents and instructions for the benefit of the children of men; gathered many thousands of the Latter-day Saints, founded a great city, and left a fame and name that cannot be slain. He lived great, and he died great in the eyes of God and his people; and like most of the Lord's anointed in ancient times, has sealed his mission and his works with his own blood; and so has his brother Hyrum. In life they were not divided, and in death they were not separated! Could anyone else do what Joseph did? I don't know. I believe that the Lord can enable anyone to do anything if they're willing, but were any of us willing? I really don't know. I believe so, but I don't know. I think of great men like the apostles who stood with Christ during his ministry. I think of Old Testament prophets and New Testament missionaries. I think of the stripling warriors who learned from their own mothers and followed in obedience. I think of pillars of faith in latter-day church history. I think of other men who were placed in different roles who were willing to do what God has assigned them to do, men like Martin Luther King Jr. Beyond that, I think there are a great number of quiet individuals who went about doing the Lord's will in their own lives even though it brought about no acclaim. I know plenty of women who are likewise incredible if that was the organization that the Lord had chosen. But He chose Joseph. I'm not sure why God places us in the roles that He does. I'm sure there are many reasons for His decisions, but I'm not sure what they are. He probably doesn't explain Himself because the reasons are situational. For example, He had specific roles that needed to be filled, and perhaps there were multiple people who could have filled those roles, but He also looked at us as individuals. What were the lessons we needed to learn in order to become what He wanted us to become? If we want to learn what the Lord wants us to learn and if we want to bless the world in the most powerful way available to us, there are a couple of characteristics of Joseph's that we can develop. The number one characteristic that came to my mind today is the willingness to follow His will no matter where it takes us. I believe that all the other attributes we could possibly develop in order to be prepared to fulfill our roles here on earth can all contribute to this one significant characteristic: we follow Heavenly Father and what He wants for us. If we can stand before God, (or better yet, kneel), and tell Him, “I'm not sure what you want me to do. I don't know what I need to learn in order to do it. I don't know who I need to become in order to do it, and I'm sure there will be many times that I feel that I can't do it. And yet, I want Thou to show me the way and make me who I need to be. Lead me. I will follow.” You don't have to be ready for your various roles yet. I repeat, you don't have to be ready. You just have to be willing. He can take care of the rest. The only thing you can truly give Him is your willingness to follow Him and do what He asks. He is capable of speaking to you in a way that you can understand and helping you know what you need to know. He can help you develop the specific testimonies you're going to need to carry you through. He can mold you. Sure, you'll make mistakes, but that's why we start today. We give Him time to work with us so we have had time to practice what we need to be. I was thinking of some grand moment in which you could promise God to follow Him, and yet, many of us already made that promise a long time ago at 8 years old. Some of us made that promise when we were a bit older, and maybe some of us have yet to make that promise. Perhaps we have already made the promise, but we are only just now feeling prepared to truly hand over our will. Lucky for us, we have this thing called the sacrament where we renew those promises every single week. How powerful could we become if we simply whispered to the Lord (and to ourselves) each week that we were willing to follow wherever, willing to learn what was necessary, willing to become what God wanted for us? When I think of Joseph's willingness, I don't think it was just one decision. I think it was a million decisions. When he would look at the vast amount of work he needed to do, he would turn to the Lord for guidance about what to prioritize. Then he would have faith that the Lord would enable him to do what was absolutely necessary. There was so much that needed to happen to restore Christ's church upon the earth; there is only so much he could accomplish with the time he was given on earth. So it wasn't about accomplishing everything; it was about just doing what God had for him each day. I love and honor Joseph Smith for his willingness to jump in and devote his time and life to what God wanted, whether that was building an impressive temple or living in squalor for four months in a prison. Most of all, I love and honor Joseph because he set the foundation a long time ago for me to find Christ. Joseph did more, save Jesus only, to save mankind. I think it's important to note that Jesus was the one who did the most. And wasn't this His defining characteristic? He was willing to do what the Father sent Him here to do. His ministry was only four years, He spent some of that time playing with children or taking quiet time to Himself. You would think that having only four years available to change the world would make someone rush a bit more, but that's not what the Father needed. Christ simply did what the Father wanted and because of that, His four year ministry changed everything. I testify that each of us have roles in the work of salvation. I testify that the Lord is capable of helping you fulfill that role if you simply tell Him that you're willing and ask Him to lead you along. I testify that you don't have to be capable or incredible, just willing. I testify that He is more than capable, loves you, and wants to include you. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 135–136 – Part 1 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

Thanksgiving Podcast For Kids! You're listening to Come Follow Me Kids!A Come Follow Me Podcast for Primary Kids of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.We are an interactive game play podcast for kids. Children will learn shout the scriptures while playing games that go with the Come Follow Me Lessons from the church.This year we are studying the Doctrine and Covenants. If you are looking for a Doctrine and Covenants Podcast for Primary Kids, look no further! Our podcast is called Come Follow Me Kids. Come Follow Me for kids that are primary aged 2-12 in the Church or Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We follow the come follow me manual from the church but are not officially affiliated in any way. Some audio segments come from the friend magazine and other church sources. On this podcast we play interactive games while learning about the gospel and atonement of Jesus Christ.If your children would like to be guests on this podcast or to receive a baptism shout out, please email us at their info at comefollowmekidspodcast@gmail.com RSS Feed https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/music/collections/music-from-the-friend?lang=eng https://anchor.fm/s/661b3db4/podcast/rsshttps://camillesprimaryideas.com/2011/12/music-cd-for-primary.html https://members.camillesprimaryideas.com/resource-library/#category Awesome! Congratulations Beverly! We will get her a shot out this week! If she ever wants to be a guest on the podcast, she is welcome to. Just send me an audio recording of her sharing an experience she had with the Holy Ghost, prayer, missionary work, or whatever else she thinks is worth sharing. Thants so much for listening and supporting the show. Clap it back (repeat beat of song by clapping)Sing a song in a round Echo song Finish the rhyme Guided doodle (drawing with food shapes)Women and priesthoodPriesthood service blesses Church members and their families.In addition to those who are ordained to the priesthood, women who are set apart to serve in the Church also exercise God's authority as they participate in His work. To learn how, see President Dallin H. Oaks's message “The Keys and Authority of the Priesthood” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2014, 49–52).Baptism Shout OutsYou're listening to Come Follow Me Kids! A Come Follow Me Podcast. We are an interactive game play podcast for kids. This is a Doctrine and Covenants Podcast for Kids! Our podcast is called Come Follow Me Kids. Come Follow Me for kids that are primary aged 2-12 in the Church or Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We follow the come follow me manual from the church but are not officially affiliated in any way. Some audio segments come from the friend magazine and other church sources. On this podcast we play interactive games while learning about the gospel and atonement of Jesus Christ. If your children would like to be guests on this podcast, please email us at comefollowmekidspodcast@gmail.com They can share their testimony about the restoration of the gospel, or share an experience they had with prayer, the Holy Ghost, or Missionary Work. Make sure they include their name and where they are from in the audio recording. And don't worry about your recording being perfect, we can edit out mistakes. Any sound file should work. If your children would like a baptism shout out, email us their name, and where they are from and we will add them to an upcoming episode. Use the same email listed above. This particular episode focuses on Thanksgiving and gratitude. Children will also learn Joseph and Hyrum Smith gave their lives for Jesus Christ and His gospel. And The Lord can bless me when I am struggling. This podcast discusses Nauvoo and the saints leaving Nauvoo, and Brigham Young leading the pioneers west to Zion.

Grab a beer and join us tonight as we kick off our FLDS series by going all the way back to the birth of Joseph Smith Jr. We'll talk about his family's mix of homegrown religion and folk magic, the revivals that swept through upstate New York, and how Joseph said he started seeing visions and eventually dug up gold plates that became the Book of Mormon. Then we'll follow him as he organizes the early church, gathers converts in Ohio and Missouri, survives violence and failed banking schemes, and builds Nauvoo into a powerful Mormon city with its own courts, militia, and serious political clout. Finally, we'll get into the early temple rituals and quiet talk of plural marriage starting to go around Nauvoo. https://www.necronomipod.com https://www.patreon.com/necronomipod Sponsored by BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com/necro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will there be polygamy in heaven? We’re diving into Ross LeBaron story with Jacob Vidrine of the Church of the Firstborn. I’ll also ask Jacob if polygamy a requirement for the Celestial Kingdom. Will it be monogamy or polygamy in heaven? His answer surprised me! We discuss Law of Adoption & the Manifesto ending polygamy in the LDS Church as well. Check out our conversation… https://youtu.be/m20kOKhSdLA 0:00 1st Successor: Ross LeBaron 13:57 Law of Adoption 22:03 Requirement for Polygamy in Heaven? 28:59 Manifesto Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission Nauvoo Foundation: Priesthood Above Church To understand the LeBaron claim, one must look back to Nauvoo Mormonism, where Joseph Smith introduced the concept of higher orders of priesthood. This “highest order of the Melchizedek Priesthood” was often referred to as the “fullness of the priesthood” and involved making men and women “kings and priests” in temple ordinances. Associated with this was the Council of 50, which Joseph Smith established just months before his death as the “literal government” or “political kingdom of God on the earth.” Historical evidence suggests that the Council of 50 was intended to be a presiding priesthood body that held authority no church tribunal could control. Benjamin F. Johnson was one of the men added to the Council of 50 on March 26, 1844, just before Joseph Smith’s death. Johnson was a close friend of Joseph Smith and was taught directly about plural marriage, endowments, garments, and the Second Anointing. Johnson later asserted that he was authorized by Joseph Smith “to teach this to others when I’m was led to do so.” After the Council of 50 ceased meeting (it became defunct after 1885/1911 when Joseph F. Smith denied the request to reconvene it), Johnson emphasized that he was the last living original member of the Council of 50. ——————————————————————————– Transmission of the Birthright The LeBaron authority claim rests on Johnson passing this special, secret Nauvoo authority—which included the Fullness of the Priesthood and involvement in the Kingdom of God structure—to his grandson, Alma Dayer LeBaron (Dayer.) This transfer of keys was unusual because it bypassed Dayer’s own father, Benjamin Franklin LeBaron. The LeBaron family justified this by drawing analogies to the Old Testament, such as Jacob appointing Ephraim the birthright over his older brother Manasseh. The lineage runs: Joseph Smith à  Benjamin F. Johnson à Alma Dayer LeBaron. The family tradition holds that in the mid-1890s, when Dayer was about 10 years old, Johnson gave him a patriarchal blessing appointing him to hold the “birthright of Joseph Smith.” This “birthright” concept relates to special blessings given in the Nauvoo Temple, granting “special authority to authorize the temple… work for the dead” within a family context. Before Johnson died (around 1905), he reportedly charged Dayer to “carry on the kingdom” and conferred upon him all the priesthood that Johnson had received from Joseph Smith. Dayer spent the remainder of his life establishing his family and practicing plural marriage in Mexico, having been excommunicated from the LDS Church. Because he was secretive about his authority claim, Dayer was sometimes called the “silent prophet” or “quiet heir of the kingdom.” LeBaron Split: Ross’s Unique Theology Following Dayer’s death in the early 1950s without naming a clear successor, a succession crisis ensued, leading to major schisms among his sons: Ben (who was mentally unwell), Ross Wesley LeBaron (second oldest), and Joel LeBaron (a younger son.) Ross, who operated primarily in Utah, built his claim on a commission received from Dayer in 1950 to carry on the “patriarchal work.” Ross emphasized a cosmology that directly reflected the Nauvoo concepts: Patriarchal Priesthood as Highest Authority: Ross taught that the Church of the Firstborn was a higher church above the Church of Jesus Christ. This was the priesthood restored by Moses, Elias, and Elijah in the Kirtland Temple. Dissemination of Authority: Unlike the Woolley line, which concentrated power in a central “Council of Friends,” Ross’s theology focused on giving this highest authority (patriarchal keys) to many worthy men for their own family spheres, acting as a check and balance against the concentration of power. Emphasis on Work over Title: Ross received a revelation that affirmed, “the honor is in the work, not the title,” which distinguished his ministry from other fundamentalists focused solely on claiming specific offices. The distinct nature of this lineage—tracing independent temple and kingdom authority through a Council of 50 member rather than through the apostolic line—is why LeBaronism remains a peculiar and historically fascinating branch of Mormon fundamentalism. Status of Monogamists in Celestial Kingdom Historically, leaders whose teachings form the basis of fundamentalist theology (such as Brigham Young and Lyman Wight) taught that monogamous people can go to the celestial kingdom. Faithfulness, Not Numbers: The primary factor for achieving the celestial kingdom is how faithful you are to the gospel, not simply the number of wives one possesses. A “Gallon Measure”: When questioned about whether a man could be exalted without plural wives, Brigham Young reportedly responded using an analogy: “you can’t put a gallon and a pint measure, but both can be made filled full.” He concluded that “If a man is faithful with one wife, he may grow to be a gallon measure.” Requirement of Acceptance: The view held by those attempting to harmonize these teachings is that a faithful monogamist must accept plural marriage in their faith as being a true principle in order to qualify for the celestial kingdom. Polygamy in Heaven: Attaining the Highest Glory and Godhood While a monogamist can achieve the celestial kingdom, the practice of plural marriage is tied to the highest level of exaltation and becoming a God. Greater Glory: Polygamists are understood to attain a greater glory in the celestial kingdom. The Law of Godhood: The perspective is that if “we do not live the same law that our heavenly father lives then we cannot go where he is,” suggesting that plural marriage is part of the law of Godhood. Therefore, in order to be a god, you will have to eventually practice polygamy. Priesthood Authority: The doctrine of John Taylor maintained that a man living a “lower law cannot preside over a man living a higher law.” The fulfillment of the “celestial law” (including plural marriage) is seen as a “stepping stone to exaltation” and to the “responsibility of godhood.” Degrees of Glory (Specific Cosmologies): Within some fundamentalist cosmologies (like that articulated by Ross LeBaron, derived partially from Lorin Woolley), the degrees of the celestial kingdom are associated with plural marriage. One specific cosmology suggested that attaining the highest degree of the celestial kingdom might require seven or more wives, the middle degree five, and the bottom degree three. However, Ross LeBaron viewed these as “celestial patterns that aren’t necessarily attained on earth.” In summary, fundamentalist theology generally holds that acceptance of plural marriage as a true principle is essential for celestial glory, and its eventual practice is considered necessary for the greatest glory and achieving Godhood. Ross LeBaron’s particular theology, however, often took plural marriage for granted and focused more heavily on the patriarchal priesthood and keys necessary for the “higher church” (the Church of the Firstborn.) Don't miss our other conversations with Jacob: https://gospeltangents.com/people/jacob-vidrine Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission

Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nauvoo and Becca Williamson02:10 The Unique Charm of Nauvoo05:00 Insider Tips for Visiting Nauvoo07:48 Hidden Gems and Family Fun in Nauvoo11:02 Dining in Nauvoo: Local Favorites16:47 The History and People of Nauvoo20:00 The Legacy of Nauvoo Restoration21:51 Family Ties and Ancestry in Nauvoo22:54 Year-Round Activities in Nauvoo24:27 Memorable Experiences in Tourism25:05 The Emotional Journey of the Saints26:34 The Trail of Hope and Its Significance29:06 Finding Peace at the Riverwalk30:43 Helpful Tips for Families Visiting NauvooTakeaways:Nauvoo is a charming town with a rich history.The sunsets in Nauvoo are spectacular and a must-see.Visitors can tour over 30 historic homes for free.Local dining options are family-owned and unique.The town has hidden gems like fairy doors and herb gardens.Understanding the pioneer experience adds depth to visits.Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit Nauvoo.Where you can find more about Nauvoo:Visiting Historic Nauvoo With Kids!! The Itinerary Your Family Will LoveBeautiful Nauvoo - City of Nauvoo Tourism WebsiteBoston Travel Itinerary mentioned in podcast:Visiting Historic New England: 4 Days Boston to Maine

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

Doctrinal Developments in Nauvoo by Mike Parker (Mike Parker is a long-time FAIR member who has graciously allowed us to use materials he originally prepared for the Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class. The scripture passages covered in his lessons don't conform exactly to the Come, Follow Me reading schedule, so they will be shared here where […] The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 129–131 – Mike Parker appeared first on FAIR.

Today we're welcoming back Patrick Mason for a conversation with author and historian Brittany Chapman Nash.In this episode, Patrick and Brittany explore what plural marriage looked like in the early Utah period—how it was lived, how it was taught, and why so many Latter-day Saints practiced it with such deep conviction. Brittany shares stories from women whose voices often go unheard, and helps us understand not just the spiritual and theological motivations behind polygamy, but the complexity, nuance, and sometimes heartbreak that came with it.She offers a window into the hopes, sacrifices, and faith of those who lived this principle—and reflects on what that legacy means for us today.You can learn more in Brittany's book Let's Talk about Polygamy, which was published by Deseret Book. This episode is part of a five-part series on polygamy. We invite you to listen to all five episodes for a range of perspectives and voices on this important topic. You can find even more resources on our website, faithmatters.org. Become a paid subscriber to Wayfare Magazine before December 1 to receive Issue 6, the prophecy issue, in the mail! This is a beautifully bound print magazine with full color art and work by writers like Adam Miller, Hannah Packard Crowther, James Goldberg, Camilla Stark, Matt Bowman, Jenny Richards, Terryl Givens, and more. Visit wayfaremagazine.org/subscribe to learn more.

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

What did Joseph Smith's Nauvoo revelation teach about discerning spirits, the nature of God, and eternal relationships? Historian Brittany Nash Chapman explores Doctrine and Covenants 129-131 and how early Saints lived and understood these profound doctrines.SHOW NOTES/TRANSCRIPTS English: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC246EN French: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC246FR German: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC246DE Portuguese: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC246PT Spanish: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC246ESYOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/f7kv2QSZ9HcALL EPISODES/SHOW NOTESfollowHIM website: https://www.followHIM.co2021 Episode Doctrine & Covenants 129-132 Part 1https://youtu.be/gn84EE_B5WUFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook  WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter  SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE:00:00 Part 1 - Sister Brittany Chapman Nash02:56 Being offended on other's behalf03:40 Brittany Chapman Nash bio07:44 Come, Follow Me Manual09:22 Reducing the heavenly to the finite12:25 Sister Nash shares about discernment18:20 Joseph's confidence with angelic influences21:16  Information about the next life22:36 Endowment in the Red Brick Store25:35 Heavenly relationships29:48 Friendship: A fundamental principal34:31 Kate Holbrook and Melissa Inoyue37:22 Prize enduring relationships39:06 Gaining intelligence44:16 President Faust46:43 Dangers in this verse48:06 Elder Christofferson's Cosmic Vending Machine50:47 The first anti-Christian writer?54:53 Brigham Young yearned to know this57:23 Clarification regarding kingdoms1:00:21 Spirit is matter1:03:12 End of Part 1 - Sister Brittany Chapman NashThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com

October 27-November 2What happened during the nearly two years that elapsed between the reception of Section 123 and Section 124 of the Doctrine and Covenants? As it turns out, plenty. We'll talk about that today.

Welcome to part 20 of our epic series on Dr. John G. Turner's landmark biography, “Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet.”Things are really heating up as we enter the mid-1830s in the life of Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter-day Saint movement. This episode dives into one of the most controversial and debated episodes in early Mormon history –Joseph's relationship with Fanny Alger, a young woman employed in the Smith household in Kirtland, Ohio in 1836.Was it adultery? Was it an early form of plural marriage? Or was it something else entirely –a “scrape”?Join us for Part 1 of Chapter 18, where we unpack Turner's detailed treatment of this scandal, explore how it fractured relationships within the early church (especially between Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery), and trace how it shaped the theology of polygamy that would later emerge in Nauvoo.Please purchase the book ⁠here⁠.To support this series please donate ⁠here⁠. One half of all donations will go to Dr. Turner for as long as he is participating in the series.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals.  Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions

→ Watch on YouTube → Detailed Show Notes → Timestamps: (00:00) During the Nauvoo period, Joseph Smith receives substantial revelation pertaining to the ordinances of the temple.(03:45) The historical background of Section 125.(05:58) “Essaying” is a term that means trying. Becoming a Saint is a process.(07:39) Through the help of The post Ep 345 | D&C 125-128, Come Follow Me 2025 (November 3-9) appeared first on LDS Scripture Teachings.

I'm in Doctrine and Covenants 124—“A House unto My Name.” I recap the Saints' move to Nauvoo, why the Lord urgently needed a temple, and how faithful discipleship (taking counsel, staying humble, keeping the Spirit) helps us endure. I talk about being doers of the word, not hearers only; welcoming strangers like the people of Quincy did; and practical ways to serve—yes, including finding refugee and local needs on JustServe.org. I also touch on Nauvoo ordinances, baptisms for the dead, and making temple work part of daily discipleship. At the end, I invite you to pray about one specific thing you'll do this week—and then go do it.    Follow me on Substack to get this sent directly to your inbox each week.  And if you haven't bought my book about the power of the Book of Mormon, which includes a simple five-step method to getting the most out of your study, you can buy it here.  Yipee! Feasting on the Words of Christ

Imagine starting over, driven from your home, betrayed by friends, and attempting to build a city and a temple in a malaria-infested swamp. The sheer audacity of the Nauvoo project required a powerful new revelation. D&C 124 provides the blueprint for healing the past, trusting the present, and embracing a grand future. Summary: This episode analyzes D&C 124, a pivotal revelation received in Nauvoo in 1841. Proclaiming Zion (D&C 124:2-11): The Saints are commanded to issue a solemn proclamation to "all the kings of the world" and world leaders, inviting them to "come to the light and glory of Zion". This was an act of courage, recognizing that the set time had come to favor Zion. Heart Health & Integrity (D&C 124:15-20): The Lord praises Hyrum Smith for the "integrity of his heart" and his love for what is right. In stark contrast, John C. Bennett is given multiple "ifs" —his reward depends entirely on his choice to "receive counsel" and continue in love and acceptance. The Nauvoo House (D&C 124:22-24, 60-61): The Saints are commanded to build a "healthful habitation" and a "resting-place for the weary traveler" where he can "contemplate the word of the Lord". The Lord instructs that stockholders must be "a believer in the Book of Mormon, and the revelations". The Temple & Acceptance (D&C 124:27-35): Because the Saints lack a proper house for ordinances, the Lord mercifully accepts baptisms for the dead performed outside a temple "only in the days of your poverty". However, this acceptance has a strict deadline: failure to complete the temple after a "sufficient time" will result in the Church being "rejected as a church". "A for Effort" (D&C 124:49-55): The Lord gives a powerful principle: when we go "with all their might" and are hindered by enemies, the Lord will "accept of their offerings". This principle is applied to the failed attempt to build the temple in Jackson County , offering "consolation" and a command to "prove yourselves unto me" by trying again in Nauvoo. The Cause of the Poor (D&C 124:74-76): Saints are commanded to "plead the cause of the poor and the needy" and to support this cause with their interest , establishing a pattern of generosity that ensures their "seed be found begging bread" no more. Call-to-Action: What "cause of the poor" can you dedicate yourself to this week? Share your commitments in the comments below! If this message helped you find renewed hope and purpose, please like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay "Unshaken" in your faith. Chapter Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 5:06 Hope Springs Eternal 18:37 Heart Health 29:43 The Nauvoo House 42:47 Good Enough for Now 52:44 Temple Ordinances 1:06:01 A for Effort 1:17:19 The Cause of the Poor 1:33:46 One-Liners

How do we rebuild when life takes an unexpected turn? Dr. Liz Darger connects the Saints' Nauvoo “rebuilding years” in Doctrine and Covenants 124 to modern lessons in humility, faith, and using everyday platforms to create holy spaces and share the gospel naturally. SHOW NOTES/TRANSCRIPTS English: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC244EN French: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC244FR German: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC244DE Portuguese: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC244PT Spanish: https://tinyurl.com/podcastDC244ESYOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/q8qgF43WlVYALL EPISODES/SHOW NOTESfollowHIM website: https://www.followHIM.co2021 Episode Doctrine & Covenants 124 Part 1https://youtu.be/AbtSHIX9ULsFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook  WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter  SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE:00:00 Part 1 - Dr. Liz Darger02:03 Episode Teaser02:44 Liz Darger's bio05:28 Working with the NCAA08:14 Pattern of following through with “nudges”10:50 Come, Follow Me Manual14:29 The need for a temple16:33 Rebuilding seasons20:09 Falling is part of the process24:48 Humility and courage27:22 Take the box off the shelf30:06 Six proclamations by the Church36:50 Farmer sends proclamations to kings40:10 Soccer lessons and the Sabbath47:53 Mission call missionary work50:24 Student athletes55:39 God develops gifts and talents58:50 Nauvoo House1:05:28 Value of hospitality1:09:23 Ordinances & NCAA Women's basketball1:14:46 End of Part 1 - Dr. Liz DargerThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com