Ep. 353 Doctrine & Covenants 101:36-64 Sleeping Faith has Awakened
Release Date: 09/14/2025
Streaking the Scriptures
📖 Summary In this study, Jeffery reflects on Doctrine and Covenants 103 and its connection to the persecution of the Saints in Missouri. Drawing on scripture from both the Old and New Testaments and the Book of Mormon, he examines the themes of acting versus being acted upon, the filling of the cup of iniquity, and the eternal balance of justice and mercy. He highlights how God chastens His people for growth, calls them to act in righteousness, and prepares them to be a light and means of salvation for others. Ultimately, Jeffery reminds listeners that while the world is filled with...
info_outlineStreaking the Scriptures
Summary In this study session, Jeffery Downs explores Doctrine and Covenants Section 102, which records the organization of the first High Council of the Church in 1834. The episode highlights the Lord’s revealed pattern for councils—how decisions are made, the rights of the accused and accuser, and the role of the presiding authority in seeking revelation when written guidance is insufficient. Jeffery reflects on his own experiences serving in councils, emphasizing their sacred role in repentance, mercy, and guiding individuals back to Christ. He ties these principles to how modern Church...
info_outlineStreaking the Scriptures
Summary In this episode, Jeffery continues the study of Doctrine and Covenants Section 101, focusing on the parable of the vineyard, the importance of building the Lord’s “tower” (temple), and the lessons that apply both spiritually and temporally. He highlights the Saints’ struggles, the Lord’s instructions about gathering and land purchases, and the eternal importance of patience, preparation, and order in building Zion. Jeffery draws parallels between historical revelations, the U.S. Constitution as divinely inspired, and modern application in our temporal and spiritual lives. The...
info_outlineStreaking the Scriptures
Summary In this episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeffery reflects on a Sunday experience that felt profoundly different—rooted in peace amidst a world that seems to be increasingly divided. Drawing on recent tragic events, he contrasts the world's natural response to violence—war and retaliation—with the Savior’s command to pursue peace, forgiveness, and patience. Through stories from the Doctrine and Covenants, the Book of Mormon, and the Bible, he emphasizes that true discipleship is about proclaiming peace, seeking the face of the Lord, and humbling ourselves so we may be...
info_outlineStreaking the Scriptures
Summary In this episode, Jeffery reflects on the historical persecution of the Saints in Jackson County, Missouri, and draws parallels to the turmoil and contention present in today’s world. He connects the Lord’s counsel in D&C 101 with modern struggles—political violence, the dangers of echo chambers in social media, and the need to actively choose peace over contention. Through exploring verses 1–36, Jeffery emphasizes enduring affliction, receiving chastening with humility, rejecting contention, and striving to become the Lord’s jewels. He highlights that even amidst trials,...
info_outlineStreaking the Scriptures
Summary In this episode, Jeffery studies Doctrine and Covenants section 100, a revelation given to Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon in October 1833. The section addresses their concern for their families while away in service and reassures them that the Lord’s hand is over their loved ones. Jeffery draws connections to Christ’s teaching in Matthew 7 about a father giving good gifts to his children, emphasizing that God’s intent is always good—even in times of trial. The counsel continues with instruction to preach the gospel, rely on the Spirit to guide words, and speak with meekness....
info_outlineStreaking the Scriptures
Summary In this episode, Jeffery studies Doctrine & Covenants sections 98 and 99 against the backdrop of current events, including the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk and President Russell M. Nelson’s counsel on peacemaking. The scriptures highlight the Lord’s command to renounce war, lift a standard of peace, and forgive liberally—even seventy times seven—while leaving vengeance in His hands. President Nelson’s words, both in General Conference and his recent Time Magazine op-ed, underscore the same truths: anger never persuades, contention drives away the Spirit, and...
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Summary In today’s study session, we began with Mosiah 29 and the sobering reality that it is exceedingly difficult to dethrone an iniquitous king because such rulers surround themselves with guards, companions in sin, and laws crafted to protect their wickedness. This teaching tied directly into Doctrine and Covenants 98, which reminds us that when the wicked rule, the people mourn—but when righteous leaders are upheld, freedom and peace flourish. Jeff emphasized that our Constitution is a remarkable blessing, allowing for the peaceful transfer of power and granting each of us the civil...
info_outlineStreaking the Scriptures
Summary In this study of Doctrine and Covenants 98, Jeffery Downs explores the trials of the Saints in Missouri and the Lord’s call to “fear not” even amid persecution. Drawing from the sacrifices of early Saints—like grinding their dinner plates into plaster for the Kirtland Temple—Jeff emphasizes gratitude, patience, and friendship with God through service and continual communication. With stories from scripture, history, and modern life (including lessons from traffic and Corrie Ten Boom’s testimony of gratitude), this episode demonstrates how all things can work together for...
info_outlineStreaking the Scriptures
Summary In this episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeffery Downs guides listeners through Doctrine & Covenants 96 and 97, exploring themes of unity, consecration, prayer, and the building of the Lord’s house amidst persecution. He reflects on the Saints’ struggles to obey the Lord’s command to build temples during times of trial, showing how obedience to God’s commandments brings both refuge and revelation. Drawing on Alma 34, Elder Holland’s message in The Other Prodigal, and Sherri Dew’s teachings on revelation, Jeffery emphasizes the power of turning to the Lord in every...
info_outlineSummary
In this episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeffery reflects on a Sunday experience that felt profoundly different—rooted in peace amidst a world that seems to be increasingly divided. Drawing on recent tragic events, he contrasts the world's natural response to violence—war and retaliation—with the Savior’s command to pursue peace, forgiveness, and patience. Through stories from the Doctrine and Covenants, the Book of Mormon, and the Bible, he emphasizes that true discipleship is about proclaiming peace, seeking the face of the Lord, and humbling ourselves so we may be exalted. The episode builds toward the parable of the nobleman’s vineyard, underscoring the importance of vigilance, spiritual preparation, and obedience to the Lord’s direction in turbulent times.
Chapters
(00:00) A Different Sunday Feeling
Jeffery shares how church felt different and powerful, especially in light of the Charlie Kirk assassination and the cultural divide it exposed.
(02:29) Fighting Violence with Peace
The anti-Nephi-Lehi story and Christ’s example of forgiveness are held up as models for how disciples should respond to violence—with peace, not vengeance.
(04:51) The Savior’s Desire: All to Return Home
A reminder that Christ wants every one of us—regardless of our mistakes—to return to Him.
(07:04) Teaching Youth Peace over Violence
Reflections from primary class and a youth music festival about guiding children away from violence and toward forgiveness and civility.
(09:03) Why This Podcast Is Different
Jeffery explains his scripture study approach—focused on application rather than proving historical context.
(11:27) Seeking the Face of the Lord
Scriptures in 2 Chronicles, Psalms, Amos, and Doctrine & Covenants highlight the call to humble ourselves, repent, and seek God’s face.
(17:43) Alma 5: Receiving His Image
Applying Alma’s piercing questions about spiritual rebirth and having the image of Christ in our countenance.
(19:00) Salt of the Earth
Drawing from Jesus the Christ, Jeffery explores the symbolism of salt as preservation, fidelity, and covenant power.
(25:08) Humility Exalts
Lessons from Luke 18 on humility, repentance, and justification before God.
(27:24) The Parable of the Nobleman’s Vineyard
The Lord’s warning about delaying obedience, with parallels to the Kirtland Temple and the importance of vigilance in discipleship.
(32:16) Always Be Spiritually Vigilant
Personal reflections on sacrament talks, being still, and letting the Spirit guide daily life.
(34:13) Lessons from Pixar and Testifying of Christ
A teaser for applying Pixar’s collaborative culture to gospel living, followed by a heartfelt testimony of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
This episode leaves us with the urgent reminder to be peacemakers, to humble ourselves, and to keep our spiritual vigilance high. The Lord asks us to “seek His face always,” and that requires daily, intentional effort.
One of the best ways to build that consistency is through streaks—small, simple actions repeated every day that draw us closer to God and strengthen our discipleship. That’s why I created the MyStreaks app. It’s a tool designed to help you track and celebrate your daily commitments—whether that’s scripture study, prayer, or simply choosing to forgive. With every streak, you build momentum that preserves your spiritual “salt” and keeps you connected to the Savior.
Download the MyStreaks app today and start building your daily streaks of faith and peace.
And as always—keep streaking the scriptures