Introduction This episode begins with a listener’s question about whether animals have an afterlife and eventually transitions into a doctrinal exploration of hero worship, prophetic authority, apostasy, and the Lord’s revealed system for preventing spiritual deception. Although these subjects seem unrelated at first glance, both center on foundational Latter-day Saint teachings about the nature of … Read more
Continuing Revelation and Prophetic Authority in Early Latter-day Saint History Early Crises of Revelation (1830–1831) In the first year after the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (April 1830–April 1831), church leaders faced repeated crises over revelation and prophetic authority. This example demonstrates continuing revelation in early church history. One early … Read more
The Importance of the Temple Introduction In recent years, the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has intensified its prophetic emphasis on the temple, placing covenant worship at the very heart of discipleship. This modern focus echoes the Lord’s declaration in Doctrine and Covenants 88:73, that in the last days He … Read more
The episode opens with two heartfelt listener concerns—one centered on the nature of scripture and the complexity of biblical authorship, the other on the rising tension some Saints feel when politics enters Church discussions. Both questions reflect experiences Latter-day Saints have always faced: how to remain rooted in revealed religion while surrounded by scholarly debates, … Read more
The story of Oliver Cowdery’s attempt to translate opens a window into a rare and intimate moment in the early Restoration. It unfolds while Joseph Smith is working through multiple ancient records, while Church organization is still taking shape, and while God is teaching His servants how revelation actually operates. Oliver, eager to take part … Read more
Building Temples Introduction: Questions About Temples, Documents, and Early Christianity This episode addresses several interconnected doctrinal and historical issues raised by listeners, ranging from the purpose and use of the Joseph Smith Papers and the Brigham Young Papers, to broader questions about the presence of temple worship in early Christianity, the meaning of New Testament … Read more
Introduction This bonus episode draws on a revealing moment in early Church history: a letter Joseph Smith wrote in 1833 addressing members who rejected or disputed revealed doctrine—particularly the revelation now known as Doctrine and Covenants 76. By examining how early Saints reacted to prophetic teachings, the episode highlights enduring patterns seen again in the … Read more
Revelation and Prophetic Authority The Principle of Continuing Revelation The Doctrine and Covenants describes revelation as ongoing. God reveals His will to guide the Church. Revelation may occur through visions, dreams, impressions of the Holy Ghost, and angelic messengers. The phrase “line upon line” reflects gradual spiritual instruction. Prophetic Stewardship and Authority Only the President … Read more