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Francis Schaeffer said, "Ideas have consequences." If people believe false ideas, they inevitably act on them in disastrous ways. The only solution to such false ideas is to replace them with the truth. Theology and doctrine matter. In this series, we will work through essential doctrines for followers of Jesus to understand as they strive to follow Jesus. This week, we explore the Doctrine of the Priesthood of All Believers. Speaker: Michael Bayne Text: 1 Peter 2:1-10 ESV
Homily at the Ordination of Waters Faulkner to the Priesthood by Jesus the Good Shepherd Anglican Church
Bishop reflects on Sunday's Gospel. Will Wright helps us understand the baptismal priesthood and we'll hear from Bishop-elect Peter Bui. You'll also get up to date on the latest news and events in the Diocese of Phoenix. Special thanks to Catholic Cemeteries and Funeral Homes for making this show possible.
Fr. Mike draws a parallel between the symbols in the book of Revelation and the persecution by the Roman empire of the first Christians and encourages us to hold firm in our faith. Additionally, Fr. Mike reveals the beauty of the new covenant priesthood established by Jesus and explained in Hebrews. Today's readings are Revelation 15-17, Hebrews 5-8, and Proverbs 31:23-25. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
President Holland passed away on Saturday, Dec 27, 2025. My personal interaction with Elder Holland Elder Holland's "Musket" Speech at BYU His "Tethered Empathy" Cwic Media Website: http://www.cwicmedia.com
FBC Medford "Priesthood and Blessing" - 1 Peter 2:4-10 Pastor Seth Stanley December 28, 2025
Apostolic Witness on the Restoration, the Articles of Faith, and the History of the Priesthood | Apostle D. Todd HarrisonAs Jesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and Generations, I testify that Jesus Christ is Alive Today and that He atoned for the sins of the world. I witness that The Church has been restored in these latter days. The priesthood has been granted to all worthy males. I declare that the doctrine in the Articles of Faith are God's Truth. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.D. Todd Harrison, Apostle of Jesus ChristJesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and GenerationsYear Six of Global Apostolic MinistryCommissioned by Jesus Christ (like the Apostle Paul – Galatians 1:1)The Most-Followed LDS Religious Leader on Facebook (1 Corinthians 9:1–3)Foreordained from the foundation of the world, Apostle of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Harrison stands as Jesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and Generations. Commissioned directly by the Savior, his divine calling ensures every nation hears the living reality of the Son of God in preparation for His return.For nearly six years, Apostle of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Harrison's global witness has boldly testified of the resurrection and living reality of Jesus Christ. Millions have felt the undeniable power of the Holy Spirit through his sacred testimony, delivered with the authority entrusted by the Savior Himself.Like the Apostle Paul—called outside institutional hierarchy—Apostle of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Harrison follows this rare and sacred pattern. While the First Presidency continues to call apostles to the Church, he and Paul are unique exceptions, personally chosen by the Lord to fulfill specific missions with boldness and power.His calling was prophetically recognized early. Elder Marion D. Hanks foretold that his name would one day be as well known around the Church as his great-grandfather, Apostle LeGrand Richards. Elder M. Russell Ballard, after hearing him speak before his mission, publicly declared, “Todd, for a moment there, I thought I was listening to LeGrand Richards,” and charged him to work hard, promising the Lord had “more important things ahead for him to do."What was not fully understood then—but is now unmistakably clear—is that Elder Ballard was prophesying Apostle of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Harrison's future global role. In that same meeting, Ballard urged him to always bear bold testimony, declaring, “That is what the world really needs to hear.” The Spirit confirmed a divine trajectory that has since reached over 100 million souls worldwide.For six generations, Apostle of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Harrison's family has served as apostles and general authorities. His lineage traces back to Abraham, King David, and King Solomon. One ancestral line, shared with his LDS apostle grandfathers, flows through Joseph of Arimathea. Another continues unbroken through every king of Judah—from King David to King Solomon-all the way down through the Babylonian captivity and the rebuilding under Zerubbabel—extending into the generations surrounding the restoration of temple authority and messianic expectation. Additional sacred lines of descent may be revealed at later times, each bearing witness to divine orchestration across dispensations.Through the sacred pattern established by the Lord, Apostle of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Harrison's mission amplifies the Church's work, standing in harmony with the First Presidency in bearing witness alongside the prophets. His inspired words cut through doubt, bringing souls to Jesus Christ in faith and certainty.His divine commission builds upon the legacy of his forebears, ensuring Jesus Christ's testimony reaches every nation and language. Just as past apostles laid the foundation, Apostle of Jesus Christ - D. Todd Harrison now fulfills an apostolic charge entrusted directly to him by the Savior Himself.
LEVITICUS 8 — THE CONSECRATION OF THE PRIESTHOOD (PART 2)“Cleansing, Order, Authority, and Covenant Service”Teachers: Kerry & Karen BattleAhava ~ Love AssemblyThis is Part Two of our Leviticus 8 teaching series.In Part One, we covered:The Summoning of the Congregation (Lev 8:1–4)The Washing of the Called (Lev 8:5–6)The Garments of Order and Responsibility (Lev 8:7–9)The Oil of Authorization (Lev 8:10–12)In this lesson, we pick back up at Section 5 and move deeper into the cost of consecration, the role of blood, sacrifice, endurance, and covenant participation.This is not ceremony.This is covenant authorization.This is how Yahuah establishes His priesthood.---WHAT WE COVER IN PART TWO5. The Sin Offering: Inner AlignmentLeviticus 8:14–17Before serving others, the inner condition must be addressed.Leadership magnifies what is hidden within.Atonement restores alignment before responsibility.---6. The Burnt Offering: Total SurrenderLeviticus 8:18–21The burnt offering represents complete surrender.Partial obedience is rejected.Consecration touches every area of life.---7. Blood on Ear, Hand, and FootLeviticus 8:22–24Hearing, doing, and walking are sanctified.What Israel hears, how she serves, and where she walks must align with Torah.---8. Offerings in Their Hands: Covenant ParticipationLeviticus 8:25–29No one appears before Yahuah empty.Participation reveals covenant loyalty.Giving reflects alignment, not coercion.---9. Seven Days at the Door: Endurance in ObedienceLeviticus 8:30–36Consecration requires remaining until Yahuah completes the charge.Leaving early disrupts covenant order.Faithfulness is proven over time.---WHY PART TWO MATTERSHoliness is testedObedience is provenEndurance is requiredAuthority is revealedCovenant order is enforcedLeviticus 8 shows that calling without discipline is dangerous, and authority without obedience is unstable.---SCRIPTURE REFERENCES FOR STUDYLev 8 • Ex 28–30 • Ex 29 • Lev 16 • Num 3 • Num 18Ps 24 • Ps 132 • Isa 61 • Ezek 44 • John 15 • Rom 12 • Heb 5Every section is taught precept upon precept.---
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!
The return of Christ is imminent, and He is coming for a bride without spot, wrinkle, or blemish. To prepare for this day, the Body of Christ must move past cultural and racial divisions to become one unified body under the lordship of Jesus. In this teaching, Dr. Edith Davis reveals that the key to this unity is the total transformation of our thought lives. By examining the life of Jesus, we see a model of perfect mental and spiritual health that we are called to emulate. Dr. Davis discusses the "guardrails" of the Word of God and the importance of discerning the source of our thoughts. She provides practical insights on how to "jettison" negative thoughts and replace them with the Word, reminding us that we have the authority to command every thought to bow to King Jesus. Main Points of the Teaching: -- The Call to Unity: We are not a collection of segregated churches based on ethnicity; we are one body that must be unified through the renewing of the mind. -- The Strategy of the Enemy: Satan first attacks our sense of authority and our walk of love, using deception and offense to create fear. -- The Four Attributes of a Sound Mind: To walk in victory, we must cultivate a mind that is calm (cool and collected), balanced (focused on Jesus), disciplined (guided by the Word), and self-controlled (ruling over emotions). -- Words vs. Thoughts: A spoken word is more powerful than a silent thought. We can cancel out the enemy's suggestions by speaking the Word of God out loud, just as Jesus did in the wilderness. -- Fruit over Labels: True salvation is evidenced by the fruit we bear. Dr. Davis warns against "religious works" that lack a true heart connection with the Savior. -- The Priesthood of Christ: A look into the lineage of John the Baptist and how the Aaronic priesthood served to baptize Jesus into the Melchizedek priesthood. Scriptures for Further Study -- 2 Timothy 1:7 -- Revelation 7:9-17 -- Proverbs 3:5-8 -- Matthew 7:21-23 -- Matthew 8:23-27 -- John 15:1-8 This is episode 386. +++++++ Check out my new website: https://www.enterthegloryzone.org/ MY AUDIO BOOK IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE You can Divorce Proof Your Marriage by understanding the Secret Keys of Love. You will come to understand that your Marriage has an enemy. You will come to understand that you are dating your future spouse representative. You will come to understand that your Marriage has the gift of Supernatural Sex. For more information about purchasing this audio book, click here: https://personalbuy.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/product8702.html
In a special interview with Guy Benson, former Catholic Priest and current Fox News contributor Johnathan Morris discusses Cardinal Dolan departing from the Church, some reflections around the Christmas season, and his program focused on scheduling group trips across the globe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
How did a podcast about the rosary beat out Joe Rogan? What actually is the rosary, and why can all Christians grow spiritually from praying with it? And what does it mean to be a great leader --whether in a church, marriage, or career?Today I'm sitting down with Fr Mary-Mary, a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal, as we dive into his vocation, the power and purpose of the rosary, handling abusive situations in relationships and church matters, as well as the need to celebrate victories. I think you'll enjoy this candid discussion. Rosary in a year Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rosary-in-a-year-with-fr-mark-mary-ames/id1776236328Rosary in a year Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Rx1puBjE0xZBiuy4BT4i7NEW: Check out our Merch store! https://shop.lilaroseshow.com/Join our new Patreon community! https://patreon.com/lilaroseshow - We'll have BTS footage, ad-free episodes, and early access to our upcoming guests.A big thanks to our partner, EWTN, the world's leading Catholic network! Discover news, entertainment and more at https://www.ewtn.com/ Check out our Sponsors:-Brave+: Screen Time Made Good - Get a week free trial at https://braveplus.com/lila-We Heart Nutrition: https://www.weheartnutrition.com/ Get high quality vitamin supplements for 20% off using the code LILA. -EveryLife Women: https://www.everylife.com/lila Buy diapers and women's health products from an amazing company and use code LILA to get 10% off!-Seven Weeks Coffee: https://www.sevenweekscoffee.com Buy your pro-life coffee and Save up to 25% with promo code 'LILA' & get up to four FREE gifts this Christmas season: http://www.sevenweekscoffee.com00:00:00 - Intro00:02:57 - Mary showing up more in media00:05:29 - Respect Mary, but pray to Mary?00:18:15 - Fr Mark-Mary's Confession:00:23:59 - In-N-Out Vocation00:27:15 - Culture of Spiritual Direction00:32:32 - Does everyone need a spiritual director?00:40:21 - Why Fr Mark-Mary Likes online dating00:45:58 - Abuse in Marriage, Church, Relationships00:50:00 - Why more people need help00:55:44 - Spiritual Abuse / Marriage01:05:52 - Jocko and Leadership01:13:21 - Denying men from Franciscans01:18:34 - Men leaving Franciscan order01:22:10 - Annulments01:25:03 - Rosary in a Year01:27:59 - Battle of Lepanto01:30:27 - History of the rosary01:38:03 - 3 Goals With Rosary01:42:44 - Most surprising thing about RIAY Podcast01:44:37 - Difficulty from Success01:59:38 - Jesus receiving praise02:07:15 - Reflections on Mary and Advent:02:13:20 - Marriage, Partnership, Unity02:16:32 - Fr Mark-Mary Asks Lila Questions02:32:36 - How Lila Got into Pro-Life space
In this episode, we talk to Jacque's friend Matt Duff about his journey from the corporate world to joining seminary to become a Catholic priest. // Our podcast was born from our friendship. We are two people with very different beliefs, yet a shared desire to have understanding and unity! We love to have good … Read More Read More
Check out Discipleship.org for resources on disciple-making: https://discipleship.org/resources/ Join us at the 2026 National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/2026-national-disciple-making-forum/ 45 Degree Shifts: From Addition to Multiplication in Church Growth - Part 2 In this episode of the Disciple Makers Podcast, host Josh Howard delves into four additional key shifts that churches need to make to move from addition to multiplication. Josh explores the transition from creating consumers to forming missionaries, empowering the priesthood of all believers, focusing on controllables over uncontrollables in metrics, and shifting from a church growth mindset to kingdom expansion. Using principles, stories, and practical examples, this episode is a must-listen for those looking to make a lasting impact for the Kingdom. Tune in to learn how small 45 degree shifts can lead to exponential growth and transformation. 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:49 Shift 5: From Consumers to Missionaries 06:56 Shift 6: From Professionals to the Priesthood of All Believers 12:27 Shift 7: From Tracking Uncontrollables to Controllables 19:09 Shift 8: From Church Growth to Kingdom Expansion 22:29 Conclusion and Call to Action
We’re in the lead up to Christmas and we’re learning each day about the different people who played crucial roles in the narrative. Today we’ll learn about the priesthood.Your support sends the gospel to every corner of Australia through broadcast, online and print media: https://www.vision.org.au/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Feminism, Faith & the Power of Womanhood in the LDS Church | WARD RADIOIn this candid and deeply insightful conversation, Cardon Ellis sits down with Laura E. Welch for a refreshing, grounded exploration of feminism, motherhood, and what it truly means to be a woman in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.What begins with playful banter over episode titles quickly turns into a meaningful dive into why so many LDS women find more fulfillment in motherhood, service, and faith-driven community than in the narratives secular feminism offers. Laura shares her own journey—how, despite criticisms that the Church is “male-dominated,” her lived experience has been one of support, unity, and empowerment rooted in gospel principles.
FROM TODAY'S RECAP: - Video: 1 Peter Overview - Article: Is the Priesthood of All Believers Biblical? - Article: A Royal Priesthood in Christ - Article: Does 1 Peter 3:21 Teach That Baptism is Necessary for Salvation? - Article: What is Baptism and Does it Save? - Video: Hebrews Overview - TBR Bookshelf Graphics - Finishers Page - Prep for Next Year: 2026 Episode - Sign up for the NEWScap - Sign up for PREcap Emails Note: We provide links to specific resources; this is not an endorsement of the entire website, author, organization, etc. Their views may not represent our own. SHOW NOTES: - Follow The Bible Recap: Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube - Follow Tara-Leigh Cobble: Instagram - Read/listen on the Bible App or Dwell App - Learn more at our Start Page - Become a RECAPtain - Shop the TBR Store - Credits PARTNER MINISTRIES: D-Group International Israelux The God Shot TLC Writing & Speaking DISCLAIMER: The Bible Recap, Tara-Leigh Cobble, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact.
Join Pastor Mike Burchfield as he speaks a special message: The Excellent Priesthood of Christ. Text: Various Scripture
Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Knives Out 3: A murder in a neo‑gothic church, a boxer who traded the ring for a collar, and a monsignor whose thunder hides a storm—this story had us leaning in from skepticism to surprise. What starts like a stylish whodunit unfolds into a thoughtful meditation on guilt, grace, and the strange mercy of suffering. We dig into why the narrative needed Catholicism—not just the aesthetics of stained glass and cassocks, but the hard edges of confession, penance, and redemptive love.We share where the film won us over: Father Jud's steady humility, the way ritual is presented as a living story, and a pivotal conversation that reframes doubt without smugness. Monsignor Wicks emerges as a cautionary tale of zeal unmoored from charity, while the detective's barbs slowly reveal an old wound masquerading as certainty. Along the way we spot smart details—a well-placed theological book, a deliberate use of architecture—that signal someone behind the scenes knows the difference between costume and conviction.Expect a candid take on content concerns, an honest compare to “faith” films that preach but don't persuade, and a deeper look at the film's central symbols, including an “Eve's apple” motif that turns into a stark contrast between grasping and surrender. Whether you're Catholic, curious, or just here for a sharp mystery with moral weight, this conversation aims to help you see the clues behind the clues—and maybe why repentance doesn't shrink a life but sets it free.If this resonates, follow the show, share with a friend who loves smart cinema, and leave a review with your take on the film's portrayal of faith. We read every word.Support the showTake advantage of great Catholic red wines by heading over to https://recusantcellars.com/ and using code "BASED" for 10% off at checkout!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon
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
One of the more important questions the early church wrestled with, was what to do with the Old Testament law? The second half of Hebrews 7 gives us a clear answer. Not only that, Hebrews 7 gives us powerful and inspiring truths about the eternal and permanent salvation we have in Christ. Join us for this important study in this key chapter of God's Word! Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. In 2025, we were awarded #10 on the list of the "Best 100 Bible Podcasts" list from www.millionpodcasts.com. We are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.
What if the most famous tithe in the Bible wasn't about a rule at all, but about recognizing a greater King and Priest? We open Hebrews chapter 7 and discover why Abraham's gift to Melchizedek predates the Mosaic Law and why that matters for how we give, how we worship, and how we understand Jesus' ministry today. Instead of arguing for a quota, the passage raises a bigger claim: a superior priesthood has arrived, grounded not in lineage but in the power of an indestructible life.We walk through the key moves of the text: Melchizedek blesses Abraham, so the greater blesses the lesser; Levi “pays” tithes in Abraham, elevating Melchizedek's order above the Levitical priesthood; and if the priesthood changes, the law must change too. That's where everything turns. The Mosaic Law could diagnose sin but could not make anyone complete. Jesus, our priest forever according to Psalm 110, brings a better hope, a new covenant, and real nearness to God. The law of Christ—love God and love neighbor—raises the bar beyond rule-keeping and empowers obedience through the Spirit.We also rethink generosity in light of this better priesthood. The New Testament calls us to give freely, joyfully, and abundantly, not under compulsion. If giving feels like an invoice, we miss the point. Generosity becomes participation in God's work, a way to share in its fruit with open hands and a full heart. And because Jesus' priesthood never ends, our hope is not seasonal or symbolic; it's anchored in his ongoing intercession and his once-for-all sacrifice.Join us as we trace how Hebrews 7 reframes tithing, priesthood, and law around Jesus—greater than angels, greater than Moses, and greater than the old priesthood. If this conversation helps you see giving and grace with fresh eyes, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show.Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the Bible Please prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve
The beauty of the Gospel of Jesus Christ comes alive in the Old Testament. The backbone of learning the Gospel in the Old Testament begins with a historical understanding, which W. Cleon Skousen lays out masterfully by helping the student learn the easy hook dates of critical learning. Weaving these hook dates among the major players in the Old Testament pulls together the storyline and fasinating tapestry of God's master plan for all His children. From Adam to the Great Flood, to Abraham, Joseph and Moses, you will learn how to remember who, when and what each of these prophetic leaders did, promoting and testifying of Jesus Christ and the Plan of Salvation for all mankind. You will discover the linage of Abraham traced through the ages and into our present day, along with the promise of Abraham and the responsibilities of Priesthood leadership residing on his descendants today. God is the same and ever-present today, yesterday and forever, demonstrating His unchanging power and love through Old Testament times, and continuing through your lifetime today and the lives of your posterity in the tomorrows to come.
“Cleansing, Order, Authority, and Covenant Service”Teachers: Kerry & Karen BattleAhava ~ Love AssemblyWelcome to Leviticus 8. This chapter records the public consecration of the priesthood and establishes the covenant process by which Yahuah sets men apart for service at His altar.This is not ceremony.This is covenant authorization.This is how Yahuah preserves holiness, leadership, and order in Israel.---WHAT YOU WILL LEARN TODAY1. The Summoning of the CongregationLeviticus 8:1–4Consecration begins with obedience to Yahuah's command to gather.A scattered people cannot be ordered.Covenant formation requires presence, submission, and public accountability.---2. The Washing of the CalledLeviticus 8:5–6Cleansing precedes authority.Yahuah addresses inner purity before public function.Hidden sin is exposed before holy service begins.---3. The Garments of Order and ResponsibilityLeviticus 8:7–9Garments represent covenant responsibility, not status.Public roles require public accountability.Order protects the camp and preserves reverence.---4. The Oil of AuthorizationLeviticus 8:10–12Anointing confirms Yahuahah's authorization.Oil follows obedience, not ambition.Authority is proven by fruit, discipline, and faithfulness.---5. The Sin Offering: Inner AlignmentLeviticus 8:14–17Before serving others, the inner condition must be addressed.Leadership magnifies what is hidden within.Atonement restores alignment before responsibility.sin offering explained, Torah atonement, priesthood repentance, Leviticus sacrifices, holiness teaching---6. The Burnt Offering: Total SurrenderLeviticus 8:18–21The burnt offering represents complete surrender.Partial obedience is rejected.Consecration touches every area of life.---7. Blood on Ear, Hand, and FootLeviticus 8:22–24Hearing, doing, and walking are sanctified.What Israel hears, how she serves, and where she walks must align with Torah.blood consecration, Leviticus priesthood, Torah obedience, covenant walk, Israelite holiness---8. Offerings in Their Hands: Covenant ParticipationLeviticus 8:25–29No one appears before Yahuah empty.Participation reveals covenant loyalty.Giving reflects alignment, not coercion.Torah giving, priestly portions, covenant participation, Leviticus offerings, Israelite economy---9. Seven Days at the Door: Endurance in ObedienceLeviticus 8:30–36Consecration requires remaining until Yahuah completes the charge.Leaving early disrupts covenant order.Faithfulness is proven over time.waiting on Yahuah, covenant endurance, Leviticus obedience, priesthood faithfulness---WHY LEVITICUS 8 MATTERS TODAYHoliness is preservedLeadership is orderedAuthority is testedPurity is requiredEndurance is enforcedLeviticus 8 reveals how Yahuah establishes and protects His priesthood.---SCRIPTURE REFERENCES FOR STUDYLev 8 • Ex 28–30 • Ex 29 • Lev 16 • Num 3 • Num 18Ps 24 • Ps 132 • Isa 61 • Ezek 44 • John 15 • Rom 12 • Heb 5Every section is taught precept upon precept.---
Hebrews 7 is an important chapter to understand the changing of the Old Covenant Priesthood and Law. This is the first of a two part study in Hebrews 7 that lays out the origins of the Melchizedekian Priesthood and why it is superior to the Levitical/Aaronic Priesthood. Join us! Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. In 2025, we were awarded #10 on the list of the "Best 100 Bible Podcasts" list from www.millionpodcasts.com. We are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.
Chanukah is central to our Jewish Calendar and way of life, but there are many unanswered questions: Why celebrate defeat? What was the real role of Kohanim during the Second Temple? Why was this Yomtov chosen to reflect the ultimate ideal ? Tracing the story from Alexander the Great and Shimon HaTzaddik through the corruption of the Second Temple and the rise of Hellenism, the podcast redefines the central idea of Chanukah - the only festival established by the Sages post-prophecy Connecting the ancient clash of civilizations to the battles which echo down through Russia, America and Eretz Yisrael; It defines Who is a Jew. Timestamps [0:00:00] Introduction to Greek Exile and Historical Context [0:01:07] Podcast Dedication and Welcome [0:02:05] Setting Up the Hanukkah Discussion [0:04:13] Questioning the Purpose of Hanukkah Celebration [0:14:44] Historical Prequel: Alexander the Great and Shimon HaTzadik [0:22:49] Corruption of the Priesthood [0:26:38] Empire Dynamics After Alexander [0:31:05] Jewish Attraction to Greek Culture [0:40:41] The Spiritual Victory of Hanukkah [0:49:26] Comparing Purim and Hanukkah [0:50:44] Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-up
You'd think with a new, charismatic pope that appears Catholic in his external behavior that this would turn around. But unfortunately this is the Francis effect, and it will continue long enough that it will become the Leo effect unless radical changes are made to how vocations are treated and how men are recruited for seminary.Sponsored by Fidei Email:https://www.fidei.emailSources:https://www.returntotradition.orgorhttps://substack.com/@returntotradition1Contact Me:Email: return2catholictradition@gmail.comSupport My Work:Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/AnthonyStineSubscribeStarhttps://www.subscribestar.net/return-to-traditionBuy Me A Coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/AnthonyStinePhysical Mail:Anthony StinePO Box 3048Shawnee, OK74802Follow me on the following social media:https://www.facebook.com/ReturnToCatholicTradition/https://twitter.com/pontificatormax+JMJ+#popeleoXIV #catholicism #catholicchurch #catholicprophecy#infiltration
You'd think with a new, charismatic pope that appears Catholic in his external behavior that this would turn around. But unfortunately this is the Francis effect, and it will continue long enough that it will become the Leo effect unless radical changes are made to how vocations are treated and how men are recruited for seminary.Sponsored by Fidei Email:https://www.fidei.emailSources:https://www.returntotradition.orgorhttps://substack.com/@returntotradition1Contact Me:Email: return2catholictradition@gmail.comSupport My Work:Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/AnthonyStineSubscribeStarhttps://www.subscribestar.net/return-to-traditionBuy Me A Coffeehttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/AnthonyStinePhysical Mail:Anthony StinePO Box 3048Shawnee, OK74802Follow me on the following social media:https://www.facebook.com/ReturnToCatholicTradition/https://twitter.com/pontificatormax+JMJ+#popeleoXIV #catholicism #catholicchurch #catholicprophecy#infiltration
Today we're studying Article of Faith 5 in just one minute! Grab your scriptures and let's dive into them together!And grab study guides for the whole family here: - Kristen's daily scripture study help is available for kids/teens/adults in digital and physical form here :https://kristenwalkersmith.com/starthere/And for weekly help understanding the storyline of Come Follow Me check out her YouTube videos here: https://kristenwalkersmith.com/youtube/- To get Cali's scripture study guide for adults click here: https://comefollowmestudy.com/shop/ Discount code: OMSSOr purchase on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0pKf8XtGet our NEW 365-day Old Testament daily devotional book in Costco stores in Utah, Idaho, ArizonaOr purchase on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0p3Ds0t Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today, in light of the upcoming Come Follow Me lesson which covers Official Declaration 2, we're honored to share a conversation with W. Paul Reeve and Ramesus Stewart-Johnson about race, the priesthood and temple restriction, and what it really means to root out racism in our church community today.Since lifting the priesthood and temple ban in 1978, we have witnessed a great flourishing of the church, as multitudes have embraced the restored gospel in Africa and elsewhere. We can pause to celebrate this transformation occurring in the body of Christ, while contemplating how we can continue to follow the prophetic challenge to root out racism in our church, in our society and in our hearts today.. Part of this work is recognizing that myths and misinformation about our history on race persist to this day, subtle remnants of racism.This conversation felt bold, and at times, challenging. But both Paul and Ramesus share their personal stories, insights, and convictions to help us face our past and future with clarity and spiritual courage. Paul walks us through the history—how the restriction began, how it was solidified, and how newly available primary sources push back against the idea, expressed in our Come Follow Me manual, that we “just don't know” why the priesthood and temple restrictions were put in place. Paul argues that, until we come face-to-face with our history, we will not learn what we should from it. Ramesus helps us grapple with the lasting spiritual and emotional impact this history has had on many Black Saints—and how genuine discipleship, rooted in grace, honesty, and reconciliation, may be the key to moving forward.Paul is the Simmons Chair of Mormon Studies at the University of Utah and author of Let's Talk About Race and Priesthood, published by Deseret Book, as well as Religion of a Different Color, a landmark history of race and the early Church and winner of multiple book awards. Ramesus founded the North Texas Genesis Group as a support for Black Latter-day Saints, and now leads Black Lives Bless, an organization devoted to building beloved community through storytelling and truth-telling across the global Church and beyond.We're deeply grateful to Paul and Ramesus for being willing to share their hearts and their wisdom with us.You can watch a video of how Paul would lead a Sunday School discussion on Official Declaration 2 on our YouTube channel, and you can find Paul's slides for that discussion here.You can learn more from Black Lives Bless on their website, blacklivesbless.org.And find even more from Faith Matters on this important topic in this week's newsletter on our website, faithmatters.org.
Please help us! For Giving Tuesday and the giving season, please consider helping us keep the podcast going. Any amount helps! Give just a little to keep us going. We make no money from this, we just do this for you as we do it with you! Thank you so much. How to pay: Venmo @julianne-muhlesteinZelle using the email TheScripturesAreReal@gmail.comChecks can be made personally, or through a DAF toEnlighten Educational Experience or to Edifying Educational Experience 1935 N. 600 E Orem, UT 84097The EIN is 99-3778038 If another method would work better for you, please email us at TheScripturesAreReal@gmail.comYour donation is tax deductible and will make a huge difference in allowing us to continue and spread our work. Thank you!In this episode Kerry interviews Marcus Martins, who was the first missionary for the Church of African descent and whose father was the first General Authority of African descent. Marcus outlines how they came into the gospel and why they stayed when they could not participate in all ordinances and when people said hurtful things. His testimony and explanation are real, and are powerful Don't miss this!We are grateful for our executive producers, J. Parke, D. Watson, D. Van Blerkom, the Dawsons, M. Cannon, M. Rosema, B. Fisher, J. Beardall, D. Anderson, and H. Umphlett, and for all our generous and loyal donors. We are also very grateful for all our Patreon members. We are so thankful for Beehive Broadcast for producing the podcast and for Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.
Our Lord came to us in history, remains with us in mystery, and will return to us in glory. That last part is often overlooked. Father McTeigue offers a corrective. Show Notes Get ready for the Apocalypse with this one neat trick! The Four Great Evils of the Day | Henry Edward Manning Discourses On The Latter Days | Father Henry James Coleridge S.J. Advent of the Heart: Seasonal Sermons and Prison Writings | Alfred Delp Superman No.1 Comic Book Found in Mom's Attic Bags $9.1 Million in Most Valuable Comic Auction Ever Justice in the Church: Gender and Participation | Benedict Ashley Women in the Priesthood?: A Systematic Analysis in the Light of the Order of Creation and Redemption iCatholic Mobile The Station of the Cross Merchandise - Use Coupon Code 14STATIONS for 10% off | Catholic to the Max Read Fr. McTeigue's Written Works! "Let's Take A Closer Look" with Fr. Robert McTeigue, S.J. | Full Series Playlist Listen to Fr. McTeigue's Preaching! | Herald of the Gospel Sermons Podcast on Spotify Visit Fr. McTeigue's Website | Herald of the Gospel Questions? Comments? Feedback? Ask Father!
Hosts Susanne McNinch and Chez Filippini talk with Fr. William Gibson and Fr. Peter Jutras about their ordination to the priesthood, the challenges of transitioning from seminary to parish life, building connections with parishioners, and the joy of celebrating Mass.
Celebrating the Reformation Sermon Series
In this episode of The Catholic Talk Show, the guys introduce Fr. Michael Nixon and discuss his powerful conversion and discernment to the Priesthood. 00:00 Introduction to Father Michael's Journey 02:46 From Hare Krishna to Catholic Priesthood 05:36 Family Conversion and Its Impact 08:15 The Role of Prayer and Spiritual Growth 10:54 Discerning the Call to Priesthood 13:36 Experiences in Seminary Life 16:21 Ordination and Its Significance 19:23 First Assignment and Early Challenges 21:47 Maintaining Passion in Priesthood 24:52 Engaging the Community and Evangelization 27:26 The Inquisition: Fun Questions with Father Michael Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this thought-provoking episode, host Lynne Hilton Wilson sits down with historian Janiece Johnson for a candid and insightful exploration of Race and the Priesthood in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together, they trace the historical context leading up to the 1978 revelation—Official Declaration 2—that extended priesthood and temple blessings to all worthy members worldwide. Lynne and Janiece discuss the complex historical factors, the lived experiences of Black Latter-day Saints, and the spiritual significance of the revelation. They highlight how Church leaders sought divine guidance and how this landmark moment continues to shape the global Church today. Whether you're a student of Church history or simply seeking deeper understanding, this episode offers a compassionate, clear, and faithful look at one of the most pivotal chapters in modern Latter-day Saint history.
Explore Fr. Timothy Gallagher's teaching on discerning vocations, highlighting how marriage flows from human nature and how priesthood and religious life arise from a supernatural call to offer oneself in love and spiritual fruitfulness. The post DWG6 – Understanding Marriage and Priesthood – The Discernment of God's Will in Everyday Decisions with Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Unity Without Compromise with Dr. Steven LaTulippe – A growing spiritual and political conflict grips America as truth clashes with deception. Christians face urgent questions about faith, obedience, and resistance in a nation divided by corruption, lawlessness, and ideological warfare. As false authority spreads, believers are called to defend biblical truth, expose evil, and consider the cost of preserving a Christian homeland...
Teaching and Study helps for the Articles of Faith and Official Declaration 1 & 2 lesson in the Come Follow Me manual. This video will give you ideas and insights on how to teach Christ and Scripture Centered gospel lessons with more relevancy and power. These insights coincide with the lesson for December 8-December 14 in the Come Follow Me manual. Principles include: , and more.The Manifesto and the End of Plural Marriagehttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics-essays/the-manifesto-and-the-end-of-plural-marriage?lang=eng Race and the Priesthoodhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics-essays/race-and-the-priesthood?lang=eng Link to anchor: https://amzn.to/4oWlU6p Link to "The Articles of Faith" Video: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/video/2019-08-0110-the-articles-of-faith?lang=eng Link to "The Manifesto and the End of Polygamy" Video: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/video/2018-03-0030-the-manifesto-and-the-end-of-polygamy?lang=eng&alang=eng&collectionId=cc3fd300cb9751036c65a7c92223f1c6e419028b Link to "Struggling with the History of Race and the Priesthood" Video:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/video/2021-01-0080-struggling-with-the-history-of-race-and-the-priesthood-his-grace?lang=eng To purchase the Doctrine and Covenants Bundle Subscription, click here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TeachingWithPower You can reach me by email at teachingwithpower@gmail.com Music Provided by Youtube Audio Library. Track Name: Dancing Star. https://teachingwithpower.wixsite.com/teachingwithpower IMAGES USED:DALL-E AI images have been used in the production of some of the illustrations used in this video. Story Illustration pictures from Bible illustrations provided by Sweet Publishing, http://sweetpublishing.com, and issued under Creative Commons 3.0 Share Alike Unported License. All other pictures are listed in the Public Domain Disclaimer: I alone am responsible for the content of these videos. The opinions in them are mine. They represent my ideas and insights and do not reflect the official position of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
This video includes additional teaching ideas and activities for the Articles of Faith and Official Declarations 1 and 2 lesson in the Come Follow Me manual. It is intended to supplement the insight video and to be an additional resource specifically for teachers, parents, missionaries, or anyone preparing to teach the content of this week's Come Follow Me lesson to others. The Manifesto and the End of Plural Marriagehttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics-essays/the-manifesto-and-the-end-of-plural-marriage?lang=eng Race and the Priesthoodhttps://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics-essays/race-and-the-priesthood?lang=eng Link to anchor: https://amzn.to/4oWlU6p Link to "The Articles of Faith" Video: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/video/2019-08-0110-the-articles-of-faith?lang=eng Link to "The Manifesto and the End of Polygamy" Video: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/video/2018-03-0030-the-manifesto-and-the-end-of-polygamy?lang=eng&alang=eng&collectionId=cc3fd300cb9751036c65a7c92223f1c6e419028b Link to "Struggling with the History of Race and the Priesthood" Video:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/video/2021-01-0080-struggling-with-the-history-of-race-and-the-priesthood-his-grace?lang=eng To purchase the Doctrine and Covenants Bundle Subscription, click here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TeachingWithPower You can reach me by email at teachingwithpower@gmail.com Music Provided by Youtube Audio Library. Track Name: Dancing Star. https://teachingwithpower.wixsite.com/teachingwithpower IMAGES USED:DALL-E AI images have been used in the production of some of the illustrations used in this video. Story Illustration pictures from Bible illustrations provided by Sweet Publishing, http://sweetpublishing.com, and issued under Creative Commons 3.0 Share Alike Unported License. All other pictures are listed in the Public Domain Disclaimer: I alone am responsible for the content of these videos. The opinions in them are mine. They represent my ideas and insights and do not reflect the official position of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In this powerful message, "The Nearness of the Lord," Pastor Peter asserts that we are in a unique cultural moment and a season being shaped by God drawing near to His church. He anchors this truth in Psalm 73:28, declaring, "But as for me, the nearness of God is my good". Drawing on the resurrection account where Jesus entered a locked room to minister to His disciples (John 20:19-22) and appeared to them for forty days before His ascension (Acts 1:1-3), Peter explains that the Lord is drawing near today to prepare His church and bring it out of prayerlessness and into oneness. This shift redefines our understanding of ecclesiology—the nature of the church—by emphasizing that it is not about debates or governance, but about Lordship, esteeming the Lord's presence, and remembering the cautionary tale of treating God's presence casually. Thanks to Jesus, who is the faithful High Priest, the church is being restored to its identity as a kingdom of priests to God the Father (Revelation 1:6), called to draw near to Him. Listen as Pastor Peter urges believers to awaken from slumber and slothfulness, embrace a volunteer spirit, and mobilize the priesthood of all believers, preparing the church to cry out, "Maranatha, come Lord Jesus".
* You can get the sermon note sheet at: https://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25Nov30.pdf * Over the past couple of weeks we have considered the Priesthood of the Messiah. The authenticity of His Priesthood is critical for authoritativeness of His Propitiatory Sacrifice by which the New Covenant was established once for all. * Today, we begin considering the apex of this book. This is to which the author has been building. Messiah - God Incarnate - came to establish a New and Living Way through the Veil by offering Himself as the Perfect Sacrifice for our sins. * Today, we see that God had many different aspects of His redemptive plan working in harmony and pointing toward the ultimate payment for our sins! * Lord willing, next week we will consider the Presentation of the Ultimate Sacrifice. Then, in two weeks, consider in much greater detail the passage that we have been memorizing to consider the Pertinence of the Covenant in the Activities of the Church. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on November 30, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.
Unity Without Compromise with Dr. Steven LaTulippe – A growing spiritual and political conflict grips America as truth clashes with deception. Christians face urgent questions about faith, obedience, and resistance in a nation divided by corruption, lawlessness, and ideological warfare. As false authority spreads, believers are called to defend biblical truth, expose evil, and consider the cost of preserving a Christian homeland...
Martin Luther's priesthood of all believers broke clergy-laity barriers, gave value to everyday work, enabled all to access God directly, and transformed life, worship, and society with dignity and purpose.
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.
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
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