Ep. 377: Doctrine & Covenants 116 - 117 Are You Little or Large?
Release Date: 10/18/2025
Ep. 402: Doctrine & Covenants 136:1-28 Follies and Faux Pas
Streaking the Scriptures
Introduction Welcome back to Streaking the Scriptures! Jeff Downs here, grateful to be studying with you—even if it’s a little later in the day than usual. It’s the eve of Thanksgiving in the United States, a moment that invites reflection, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the blessings and freedoms the Lord has given us. Today, we open Doctrine and Covenants section 136—a revelation given through President Brigham Young at Winter Quarters after the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. The Saints were crossing the Mississippi, driven from Nauvoo, and preparing for a westward...
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Ep. 401: Doctrine & Covenants 135 Joseph Smith the Prophet
Streaking the Scriptures
Podcast Welcome back to another uplifting morning of Streaking the Scriptures. Even if the sun is a little higher than usual, the spirit of morning study is still alive and well. In today’s episode, Jeff takes us into Doctrine and Covenants sections 135 and 136—two chapters filled with weight, history, testimony, and deep personal application. Before diving into the text, Jeff shares an experience he had while out on a run—an experience involving a podcast, a message that was good, a delivery that wasn’t, and a moment of honest wrestling about charity, irritation, and how we respond...
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Ep. 400: Doctrine & Covenants 134 Obey, Honor, and Sustain the Law
Streaking the Scriptures
🎙️ Introduction In today’s episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeffery reflects on a Sabbath filled with joy, family, and spiritual depth. His daughter recently returned from serving in the Birmingham, Alabama Mission, and her homecoming message stirred heartfelt reminders of the power of discipleship. Surrounded by loved ones and lifted by rich discussions in the scriptures, Jeff transitions into a focused study of Doctrine and Covenants Section 134—a declaration on governments, laws, conscience, and the delicate balance between civil authority and divine agency. As always, this...
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Ep. 399: Doctrine & Covenants 133:53-74 Works and Obedience are Necessary
Streaking the Scriptures
INTRODUCTION In this episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeffery Downs begins with a joyful milestone—welcoming his daughter home from the Birmingham, Alabama Mission. The warmth of that reunion sets a heartfelt backdrop for a deep and thoughtful study of Doctrine and Covenants 133. With personal reflections, scriptural connections, and honest exploration, Jeff guides listeners through powerful themes of obedience, revelation, and preparation for the Lord’s return. CHAPTERS 00:00 — A Missionary Homecoming & Tender Mercies Jeff opens the episode by sharing the joy and gratitude his...
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Ep. 398: Doctrine & Covenants 133:5-53 The Great Grandeur of God
Streaking the Scriptures
Introduction In today’s episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeff takes us into Doctrine and Covenants 133—often referred to as “the appendix” to the Doctrine and Covenants. After a rare second start to his recording, he dives into themes of preparation, gathering, repentance, and revelation. Along the way, he reflects on Elder Neal A. Maxwell’s penetrating imagery of “keeping a second residence in Babylon,” considers the parable of the Ten Virgins, and pauses to explore modern prophetic counsel from President Oaks’ recent conference message. The episode becomes a thoughtful...
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Ep. 397: Doctrine & Covenants 133:1-5 Courage, Covenant, and Clean Hands
Streaking the Scriptures
Introduction In this episode of Streaking the Scriptures, Jeff shares a heartfelt reflection on a memorable primary program, the power of sacred music, and the spiritual impressions that followed. A moving moment during the song “My Sacred Grove” sets the tone for a deep dive into Doctrine & Covenants sections 132 and 133, exploring what it means to engage with the doctrine of Christ with humility, faith, and courage. Synopsis & Timecodes 00:00 – Opening & Primary Program Reflection Jeff describes teaching CTR-5 during the primary program and how the closing song, “My...
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Ep. 396: Doctrine & Covenants 132:15-66 Local Authority Having Jurisdiction
Streaking the Scriptures
Introduction Section 132 is both glorious and weighty. In this episode, Jeff sets the tone with humility and faith: eternal marriage is a revealed law that lifts, orders, and binds us to Christ—and some parts (especially plural marriage) raise real questions. With scripture in hand and application in view, he explores why covenants must be made and sealed by the Lord’s authority, how proxy ordinances fit the Savior’s doctrine, and what “then shall they be gods” actually points us toward—service, increase, and exaltation through Jesus Christ. Chapters 00:00 – Setting the stage:...
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Ep. 395: Doctrine & Covenants 131 - 132:14 Prepare Your Heart for Understanding
Streaking the Scriptures
Introduction As the Prophet Joseph Smith nears the end of his mortal ministry, the revelations become both intensely doctrinal and deeply personal. In this episode of Streaking the Scriptures, we move from Doctrine and Covenants section 130 into sections 131 and 132—some of the most concentrated teachings on eternal marriage, revelation, knowledge, and the sealing power in all of scripture. We start in section 131, where Joseph teaches about the three degrees within the celestial glory, the necessity of the new and everlasting covenant of marriage for exaltation, the “more sure word of...
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Ep. 394: Doctrine & Covenants 130 Charity in Traffic & Other Eternal Streaks
Streaking the Scriptures
Summary A candid, early-morning study on sleep, uncertainty, and charity leads into Doctrine & Covenants 130 with practical application. You reflect on D&C 88’s counsel to “retire to thy bed early” and “arise early,” then explore how the “same sociality” continues beyond the veil, why devices like the Urim and Thummim symbolize ordered, revelatory learning, and how obedience and diligent, daily effort (“streaks”) expand intelligence that rises with us. The thread through it all: clothe yourself “with the bond of charity”—yes, even in traffic—and trust the...
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Ep. 393: Doctrine & Covenants 129 Detect the Truth
Streaking the Scriptures
Summary The episode introduces the theme of time passing quickly and anchors the study in Doctrine and Covenants 129. The discussion centers on Joseph Smith’s instruction for discerning ministering beings—resurrected angels, spirits of just men made perfect, and counterfeit messengers. You connect these keys of discernment to modern challenges, especially the prevalence of deception, misinformation, and misplaced spiritual authority. You explore how true revelation aligns with stewardship, how to verify sources, and how to confirm truth through the Spirit. Drawing from 3 Nephi 11, Moroni...
info_outline🎙️ Episode Summary
In this spiritually rich study session, Jeffery explores Doctrine and Covenants sections 116 and 117, delving into the significance of Adam-ondi-Ahman, the keys of salvation given to Adam, and the powerful lessons of humility, obedience, and charity. Moving from historical revelation to personal reflection, Jeff unpacks how the Lord’s repeated phrase “saith the Lord” emphasizes divine authorship and urgency. The discussion culminates in a thoughtful meditation on humility as a godly characteristic and the call to become “large of soul” through service and love—especially in daily life’s small tests like traffic and relationships.
đź“– Chapters
(00:00) – Opening Reflections
Jeff greets listeners and sets the stage to study Sections 116 and 117 following prior lessons on debt and the temple at Far West. He reminds listeners of the spontaneous, spirit-led nature of these scripture studies.
(01:10) – Section 116: Adam-ondi-Ahman
Jeff introduces the one-verse revelation designating Spring Hill, Missouri as Adam-ondi-Ahman, where Adam will visit his people as prophesied by Daniel. He describes his personal visit to the location and the reverence felt there.
(02:24) – The Importance of Studying Scripture
Drawing from Daniel 7:13–14 and 22, Jeff reflects on Joseph Smith’s deep scriptural study and how the Holy Ghost brings to remembrance what has been diligently learned. He underscores the necessity of “treasuring up the words of life” for revelation to draw upon.
(05:47) – Adam Receives Keys from Christ
Referencing D&C 78:15–16 and 95:17, Jeff explains how Michael (Adam) received keys of salvation from Christ and how this event connects to the great gathering at Adam-ondi-Ahman before the Second Coming.
(08:14) – Section 117: Call to Action
The Lord commands William Marks, Newel K. Whitney, and Oliver Granger to leave Kirtland and act swiftly. Jeff points out how “saith the Lord” appears repeatedly, marking divine urgency and authorship. He compares it to spiritual exclamation points that demand obedience and immediacy.
(12:50) – Acting with Faith and Urgency
Jeff reflects on promptings that require either swift action or patient waiting, emphasizing discernment through the Spirit. He reminds listeners that faith in God’s grandeur brings confidence to act when called.
(15:11) – Faithful Over a Few Things
Inspired by verse 10, Jeff unpacks the phrase “faithful over a few things, ruler over many,” teaching that in God’s kingdom, ruling means serving. True leadership is grounded in humility, not authority.
(17:14) – The Savior’s Example of Humility
Reading from 2 Nephi 31:5–7, Jeff examines Christ’s baptism as the ultimate act of humility and obedience. He contrasts the arrogance of Satan’s plan with the Savior’s meek submission, illustrating humility as the divine attribute that enables forgiveness.
(23:42) – Littleness of Soul
Jeff focuses on verse 11’s warning against “littleness of soul,” exploring what it means to be small-minded, selfish, or self-centered. He encourages listeners to expand spiritually—being large of soul, charitable, and inclusive like Christ.
(26:07) – Charity and Traffic
Using his humorous and relatable “charity in traffic” metaphor, Jeff applies scripture to everyday life, challenging listeners to practice patience, empathy, and love—especially during the busy holiday season.
(28:35) – Large of Soul Like the Savior
Drawing on Jesus the Christ, Jeff reminds us that the Savior’s compassion and inclusiveness reflect the “largeness of soul” we should emulate. Love expands us; selfishness contracts us.
(30:17) – Closing Reflections
Jeff concludes with an invitation to sacrifice for the Lord, to finish sections 118–120 in the next study, and to live with charity in all circumstances. He thanks listeners for joining and invites them to share their insights by email.
🌟 Conclusion
Consistency in studying, serving, and loving others isn’t random—it’s a streak of discipleship. Each time you open your scriptures, forgive quickly, or choose charity in traffic, you’re proving your faith through small, daily actions that compound into Christlike character.
That’s what the MyStreaks App is all about—helping you stay consistent in the simple, spiritual actions that matter most. Whether it’s daily scripture study, family prayer, or expressing gratitude, track your streaks, strengthen your soul, and grow your faith one day at a time.
📲 Download MyStreaks today and start your spiritual streak. Because when you streak the scriptures—you don’t just read them, you live them.