Y Religion
Each year, religion professors at Brigham Young University (BYU) produce hundreds of publications on subjects related to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This podcast brings this research into one place to enlighten the everyday seeker of truth. Interviewing the author, we discuss why the study was done, why it matters, and why the professor chooses to be both a scholar, and a disciple. This is Y Religion.
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Episode 11: Creating Relevance and Application (Susan Porter & Scott Esplin)
08/17/2025
Episode 11: Creating Relevance and Application (Susan Porter & Scott Esplin)
How do we help students take the gospel from the classroom and into their own lives? In this episode Sister Susan Porter and Dean of Religious Education Scott Esplin discuss ways teachers can help students take what they learn in class and apply it to their daily lives. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 10: Teaching the One (Phil Allred & Camey Andersen)
08/10/2025
Episode 10: Teaching the One (Phil Allred & Camey Andersen)
How do we find meaningful ways to connect one-on-one with our students? Teaching the gospel means more than delivering lessons—it means ministering to individuals, just as Christ did. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin taught, “We are to be our brother’s keeper. We cannot neglect this commission given by our Savior. We must be concerned for the one.” In this episode, professors Phil Allred and Camey Andersen explore how gospel teachers can fulfill this sacred charge. By reaching out with compassion, adapting their teaching to individual needs, and creating a space where everyone feels valued, teachers can help individuals feel the Savior’s love, foster belonging, and inspire personal growth in the gospel. When we teach the one, we reflect the Savior’s love, and that love can change lives. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 9: Answering Difficult Questions (Jenet Erickson & Brian Mead)
08/03/2025
Episode 9: Answering Difficult Questions (Jenet Erickson & Brian Mead)
How do we respond with grace when faced with questions that challenge our deepest beliefs? In this episode, Professors Jenet Erickson and Brian Mead offer valuable insights into how we can lean into and thoughtfully respond to difficult questions. They explore a variety of approaches that emphasize addressing these questions with clarity and loving-kindness. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 8: Actively Engaging Learners (Tyler Griffin & Anthony Sweat)
07/27/2025
Episode 8: Actively Engaging Learners (Tyler Griffin & Anthony Sweat)
What do we want learners to know, feel, and do with each lesson? In this episode professors Tyler Griffin and Anthony Sweat discuss strategies for incorporating active learning—ways to boost learning, motivation, and critical thinking by engaging participants in the educational process. By incorporating a variety of active learning techniques, teachers can lead students to intentional and meaningful ways of learning and participation. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 7: Asking Good Questions (Jan Martin & Jared Halverson)
07/20/2025
Episode 7: Asking Good Questions (Jan Martin & Jared Halverson)
How can teachers transform their classrooms into collaborative learning spaces? In this episode professors Jan Martin and Jared Halverson discuss the power of guiding discussions with open-ended, scripture-anchored questions. Not only does this approach spark exploration, but it also invites students to become co-teachers and share the learning journey. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 6: Amplifying Prophetic Voices (Barbara Morgan Gardner and Matt Richardson)
07/13/2025
Episode 6: Amplifying Prophetic Voices (Barbara Morgan Gardner and Matt Richardson)
How can prophetic voices shape our teaching? In this episode Barbara Morgan Gardner and Matt Richardson explore how to teach with power by amplifying the words of prophets, seers, and revelators. They highlight how we can use the words of Church leaders to present key principles, explore prophetic invitations, and realize promised blessings. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 5: Teaching with the Scriptures (Gaye Strathearn & Joe Spencer)
07/06/2025
Episode 5: Teaching with the Scriptures (Gaye Strathearn & Joe Spencer)
The scriptures are our most powerful tools for teaching. President J. Reuben Clark Jr. explained that "[we] are to teach this Gospel using as [our] sources and authorities the Standard Works of the Church and the words of those whom God has called to lead His people in these last days." In this episode Professors Gaye Strathearn and Joe Spencer discuss the power of teaching with the scriptures. They highlight ways teachers can draw knowledge from and incorporate the scriptures into their teaching. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 4: Teaching by the Spirit (Hank Smith & Ryan Sharp)
06/29/2025
Episode 4: Teaching by the Spirit (Hank Smith & Ryan Sharp)
How does the Holy Ghost assist in our preparation and delivery of lessons? In this episode professors Hank Smith and Ryan Sharp demystify what it means to teach by the Spirit. They discuss ways to invite the Spirit to guide both teachers and learners. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 3: Organizing a Lesson (Mark L. Pace and Ken Alford)
06/22/2025
Episode 3: Organizing a Lesson (Mark L. Pace and Ken Alford)
The Lord has invited, “Teach ye diligently and my grace shall attend you, that you may be instructed more perfectly in theory, in principle, in doctrine, in the law of the gospel, in all things that pertain unto the kingdom of God, that are expedient for you to understand” (Doctrine & Covenants 88:78, emphasis added). In this episode President Mark L. Pace and Professor Ken Alford discuss resources and methods for organizing ourselves and preparing to teach a lesson. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching. Resources
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Episode 2: Knowing Your Audience (Emily Belle Freeman & Brad Wilcox)
06/15/2025
Episode 2: Knowing Your Audience (Emily Belle Freeman & Brad Wilcox)
How do you prepare and adjust a message to connect with those you are leading? What methods can teachers—from all backgrounds and experiences—use when preparing for different teaching moments? In this episode, sister Emily Belle Freeman and Professor Brad Wilcox discuss tips on knowing and connecting with your audience when preparing and leading lessons. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Episode 1: The Power of Teaching (Clark Gilbert & Chad Webb)
06/08/2025
Episode 1: The Power of Teaching (Clark Gilbert & Chad Webb)
What makes powerful gospel teaching? What are the effective elements that any teacher— no matter their training, situation, or personality—can implement so that deepened faith and conversion can happen in the lives of learners? In this episode, brother Chad Webb and Elder Clark Gilbert highlight essential principles and practices that invite the influence of the Spirit of God to foster powerful gospel teaching. Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching is a limited series podcast where, each week during summer 2025, expert teachers share insights that highlight key principles and practices of effective gospel teaching.
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Bonus Episode—Introducing “Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching” (John Hilton III and Casey Griffiths)
06/01/2025
Bonus Episode—Introducing “Y Religion Presents: Gospel Teaching” (John Hilton III and Casey Griffiths)
President Dallin H. Oaks has taught that “every member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is, or will be, a teacher. Each of us has a vital interest in the content and effectiveness of gospel teaching.” How might we prepare ourselves to teach with clarity and the inspiration of the Holy Ghost? In this episode professors John Hilton III and Casey Griffiths introduce “Y Religion Presents,” a special series of weekly episodes on a common theme. The 2025 motif focuses on gospel teaching. In the following eleven episodes, leading experts discuss a variety of approaches, skills, and techniques for teaching—at home or in church—in the Savior’s way. Each episode is intercut with perspectives from two presenters, providing diverse voices, multiple applications, and more holistic approaches to touch the hearts and enlighten the minds of students. Listeners preparing to teach in any capacity can take away new approaches and perspectives as they continue to hone their craft of teaching.
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Episode 128: Following Prophets When We Have Questions (Travis Searle)
05/15/2025
Episode 128: Following Prophets When We Have Questions (Travis Searle)
When some elders criticized the language of Joseph Smith’s revelations in 1831, the Lord provided powerful truths in Doctrine and Covenants 67 to strengthen their faith—truths that remain vital for us today. In this podcast, Professor Searle outlines five key principles from the section that can help us build greater trust in prophetic counsel: (1) act on the prophet’s invitations, (2) recognize righteousness within revelations, (3) sincerely seek Jesus Christ, (4) follow the guidance of the Spirit, and (5) move forward in faith. Trusting prophets is crucial for spiritual growth and navigating uncertainty, and learning from the challenges of past can give us greater power to follow the prophet in our day. Publications: · in (Religious Studies Center, 2025). Click to learn more about Travis Searle
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Episode 127: Understanding Our Jewish Neighbors (Shon Hopkin)
05/01/2025
Episode 127: Understanding Our Jewish Neighbors (Shon Hopkin)
The John A. Widtsoe Foundation recently introduced the series to “foster respect and interfaith dialogue.” In this episode Professor Shon Hopkin, Department Chair of BYU Ancient Scripture, discusses the second book in this series Understanding Our Jewish Neighbors co-written with Rabbi Mark S. Diamond. The book presents guide to understanding the similarities and differences between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and leading Jewish traditions. Professor Hopkin explains how listeners can take away a succinct understanding, reverence, and appreciation for both faiths, their traditions, and their members. Publications: by Rabbi Mark S. Diamond & Professor Shon D. Hopkin, Cedar Fort, 2024 John A. Widtsoe Foundation , 25.3, 2024 , 23.2, 2022 Jared W. Ludlow, Andrew C. Reed, and Shon D. Hopkin, in , Mark S. Diamond and Andrew C. Reed, ed., Religious Studies Center, 2020 , with Ann N. Madsen, Religious Studies Center, 2018 , Religious Studies Center, 2018 Click to learn more about Shon Hopkin
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Episode 126: Women Witnesses of the Easter Events (Gaye Strathearn)
04/15/2025
Episode 126: Women Witnesses of the Easter Events (Gaye Strathearn)
The first witnesses of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ were some of his female disciples. Mary Magdalene witnessed the empty tomb and was the first to encounter the risen Savior. Additionally, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and other unnamed women, who had come to the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus, saw the empty tomb and reported it to the apostles. In this episode, Professor Gaye Strathearn explores the profound impact of the Easter events through the experiences of the women who witnessed the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. She explains how Luke’s narrative, with support from the other Gospels, connects these women to Jesus’s ministry in Galilee and portrays them as dedicated disciples who ministered to Jesus and followed him to Jerusalem. Further, the discussion underscores the women’s loyalty and sacrifice, emphasizing their presence at the Crucifixion and their discovery of the empty tomb. In exploring these narratives, we can increase our knowledge of the enduring hope and faith that the Easter events inspire and add our own witness that “he is risen” (Mark 16:6). Publications: in , David M. Calabro and George A. Pierce, ed., Religious Studies Center, 2024. "The Chosen's Amplification of Women's Voices in Scripture," in , Robert K. Gtarcia, Paul Gondreau, Patrick Gray, and Douglas F. Huffman, ed., Eerdmans, 2025. , 25.3, 2024. , Religious Studies Center, 2023. in , Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, Frank F. Judd Jr. , and Thomas A. Wayment, ed., Religious Studies Center, 2008. , 23.1, 2022. Click to learn more about Gaye Strathearn
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Episode 125: Envisioning the Last Supper (Matthew Grey)
04/01/2025
Episode 125: Envisioning the Last Supper (Matthew Grey)
According to the earliest gospel accounts, on the night before his crucifixion, Jesus dined with his disciples to observe the feast of the Passover and institute what would later become the Christian eucharist (or sacrament). What would it have looked like to sit down with them that night? In this episode, Professor Matthew Grey reassesses the New Testament narratives of the Last Supper, especially its physical setting and manner of dining, by examining modern research on early Jewish dining customs with archaeological data. He challenges traditional views of Jesus and his disciples dining in an affluent upper room with a Roman triclinium (banquet hall), as the event is often depicted in art. Instead, he argues that the meal likely took place in a modest, non-elite home and reflected the lower-class dining practices of the time: sitting on reed mats, sharing cooking pots in clusters of 3—4 individuals, dipping their hands or bread into the shared vessels, and passing around a shared cup of wine. Professor Grey details how examining these new perspectives might help us envision and experience a more accurate understanding of the Last Supper’s historical and social setting as described in the synoptic gospels. Publications: “‘Where May I Eat the Passover with My Disciples?’: Reassessing the Urban Setting, Furnished Room, and Dining Practices of Jesus’s Last Supper,” in , Brill, 2023 with Richard Holzapfel, Deseret Book, 2025 in , Religious Studies Center, 2014 Click to learn more about Matthew Grey
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Episode 124: Sacramental Connections (Matthew O. Richardson)
03/15/2025
Episode 124: Sacramental Connections (Matthew O. Richardson)
How does understanding the interconnected purposes of the sacrament, as presented in Doctrine & Covenants 27, deepen our appreciation for this sacred ordinance? In this episode Matthew O. Richardson, professor of Church history and doctrine, discusses several key themes and gospel principles related to the ordinance of the sacrament. He presents three specific purposes: remembering the past, specifically the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ; looking forward to future redemption; and providing safety and protection in the present. Further, he discusses the historical context and symbolism of the sacramental emblems and connects them to putting on the armor of God and illustrates its role in providing spiritual protection. In understanding the symbolism of these emblems, we can enhance our worship experience and foster a closer relationship with the Savior. Publications: originally published in (Religious Studies Center, 2012) in (Religious Studies Center, 2009) in (Religious Studies Center, 2015) in (Religious Studies Center, 2008) Click to learn more about Matthew O. Richardson
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Episode 123: The Sail before the Trail—The 19th Century Latter-day Saint Gathering to America (Fred E. Woods)
03/01/2025
Episode 123: The Sail before the Trail—The 19th Century Latter-day Saint Gathering to America (Fred E. Woods)
Prior to their exodus west, nearly 90,000 converts journeyed across the seas to join the saints in America. In this episode Fred E. Woods, professor of Church history and doctrine, details the faith and immigration experiences of these saints as he discusses his recent publication Ports to Posts: Latter-day Saints Gathering in the Nineteenth Century. Professor Woods explores the port of Liverpool, England, the main point of embarkment for many converts, examines sailing conditions across the Atlantic for converts and non-converts alike, and details the arrival of these early pioneers into American harbors and the various posts they made contact with along the way. In addition to exploring how these converts gathered unto Zion, Professor Woods shares why so many members left their homelands to “be gathered in unto one place” (Doctrine & Covenants 29:7). Publications: (University of Nebraska Press, 2025) website (Y Religion, episode 82, 2023) (University of Nevada Press, 2023) (Greg Kofford Books, 2022) (, 23.2, 2022) (, 20.1, 2019) (Religious Studies Center, 2019) (Religious Studies Center, 2017) with Mary Jane Woodger and Riley Moffat (Mormon Historic Sites Foundation, 2016) in (Religious Studies Center, 2012) Click to learn more about Fred E. Woods
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Episode 122: Connections between the Book of Revelation and The Book of Mormon (Nick Frederick)
02/15/2025
Episode 122: Connections between the Book of Revelation and The Book of Mormon (Nick Frederick)
In this episode, Dr. Nicholas J. Frederick discusses his article "It’s Not the End of the World; It’s Just the Apocalypse: The Book of Revelation in the Book of Mormon" co-authored with Dr. Joseph M. Spencer. Professor Frederick examines the intricate relationship between the Book of Mormon and the New Testament, particularly focusing on the Book of Revelation, by highlighting key textual allusions, type scenes, and quotations between the two. For example, he compares Nephi’s vision as a variant of the visions recorded in Revelation, reinterpreting and recontextualizing its imagery and language. He details how it stretches the language and imagery of Revelation across a broader historical framework. Further, Dr. Frederick identifies three key revisions that expand our understanding: the reapplication of New Jerusalem imagery to describe Christ’s terrestrial visits, the use of apocalyptic language to depict Christ’s Crucifixion, and the equating of the great and abominable church with the great harlot of Revelation 17—18. These revisions emphasize the significance of Christ’s earthly ministry and death, presenting a typological view of sacred history with pivotal moments of Christ’s sojourn. Publications: (BYU Studies Quarterly, 63.2, 2024) (, 22.2, 2021) (, 21.2, 2020) (in , Religious Studies Center, 2017) Click to learn more about Nicholas J. Frederick.
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Episode 121: The Family Proclamation in Context (Michael A. Goodman)
02/01/2025
Episode 121: The Family Proclamation in Context (Michael A. Goodman)
Contemporary views on marriage and family have changed significantly over time. How much of our understanding of marriage and family is shaped by societal norms versus prophetic guidance? In this episode, professor of Church history and doctrine Michael A. Goodman examines the secular and spiritual context surrounding “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.” He discusses how the rise of expressive individualism, the sexual revolution, divorce rates, cohabitation, and other factors have played into the cultural and legal shifts in marriage norms. As he delves into the spiritual context of the proclamation, Professor Goodman outlines how it serves as more than a mere policy statement but a reaffirmation of eternal truths and doctrines. Publications: by Michael A. Goodman and W. Justin Dyer (, 2023) (, 63.4, 2024) by Sam A. Hardy, Russ Amelang, and Michael Goodman (, 2024) (, 2023) by Michael A. Goodman and Daniel Frost (, 61.3, 2022) (, 60.3, 2021) (, 2019) in (Religious Studies Center, 2014) Click to learn more about Michael A. Goodman
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Episode 120: The True Identity of Christ (Krystal V. L. Pierce)
01/15/2025
Episode 120: The True Identity of Christ (Krystal V. L. Pierce)
On the day after his Resurrection, the Savior appeared to those who knew him best during his mortal ministry—Mary Magdalene, Cleopas, ten of the apostles, and many other followers. While they saw him physically, they did not recognize him. Instead, they mistook him for a gardener, stranger, passing traveler, and even another prophet, as they misunderstood his role as the Redeemer of Israel or the promised Messiah. Rather than rebuking them, the Savior and ministering angels worked to correct their mistaken expectations by teaching them the true identity of Christ. In this episode, Professor Krystal V. L. Pierce describes how the Resurrected Savior opens the spiritual eyes and minds of his followers and disciples, in ancient and modern times, through visual, audible, and tangible signs and teachings. By learning to identify the spiritual nature of the Savior, we can prepare to see him physically in the Second Coming. Publications: in (Religious Studies Center, 2024) , ed. Kenneth L. Alford, Krystal V. L. Pierce, and Mary Jane Woodger (Religious Studies Center, 2024) by George A. Pierce and Krystal V. L. Pierce in (Religious Studies Center, 2022) , ed. Krystal V. L. Pierce and David Rolph Seely (Religious Studies Center, 2021) in (Religious Studies Center, 2021) “Egypt and the Egyptians” in (Deseret Book, 2017) in (Religious Studies Center, 2016) in (Religious Studies Center, 2023) Click to learn more about Krystal V. L. Pierce
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Episode 119: Hear Him! The Restored Voice of the Lord (Anthony Sweat)
01/01/2025
Episode 119: Hear Him! The Restored Voice of the Lord (Anthony Sweat)
As Professor of Church History and Doctrine Anthony Sweat dropped off a recent painting entitled Jesus of Nazareth, he was met with the response, “That’s not what Jesus looks like.” After a few laughs, Professor Sweat revealed that he intentionally avoided the Euro-centric depiction of Christ. Rather, he implemented elements of Roman Judea men—middle height, honey or olive-colored skin, and shorter black hair and beards. In this episode, Prof. Sweat answers the imperative question that came from this experience, “How do we know the Lord—his characteristics, priorities, doctrines, and commands?” In answering this question, he introduces a four-part study approach from Doctrine and Covenants 19:23 to guide us through our efforts to truly know and understand the Savior. This approach includes the following precepts: Learn of Me (studying the character and nature of Christ), Listen to My Words (analyzing the doctrines, principles, and truths imparted by Jesus), Walk in the Meekness of My Spirit (applying the Savior’s teachings in our lives such as following his commands, directives, and warnings), and Peace in Me (recognizing the peace, comfort, and blessings that come from following him). By using this model in our personal scripture study, we can gain a holistic view of the Savior's character, teachings, commands, and promises, leading us to a deeper and more accurate understanding of him. Publications: from (Religious Studies Center, 2025) (Religious Studies Center, 2020) () Website: Click to learn more about Anthony Sweat
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Episode 118: The Doctrine and Covenants as Living Scripture (Casey Griffiths)
12/15/2024
Episode 118: The Doctrine and Covenants as Living Scripture (Casey Griffiths)
When BYU professor Casey Paul Griffiths teaches a scripture class, he often concludes the semester by saying, “The end.” But when he finishes a course on the Doctrine and Covenants, he says, “To be continued . . .” This reflects the ongoing nature of revelation in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a living church led by the Savior through his prophets. In this episode, Dr. Griffiths discusses the recently released four-volume work, Scripture Central Commentary on the Doctrine and Covenants, and draws on insights from the Joseph Smith Papers project, launched in 2005. The project ushered in a “golden age” of Church history, making a wealth of historical documents readily available and creating a need for updated commentary on the revelations given to the early Saints. The Doctrine and Covenants stands as a testament to God’s ongoing work, revealing his tender guidance and care for individuals and the Church collectively. Griffiths emphasizes how the Lord communicates with his children, stating, “What happened anciently in the Old Testament still continues today. . . . The day of miracles is not past.” It reminds us that ours is an open canon—living scripture still being written, with each of us invited to play a part. Publications: (Cedar Fort, 2024) (Religious Studies Center, 2022) (Religious Studies Center, 2021) Website: Click to learn more about Casey Griffiths
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Episode 117: Kenneth L. Alford (Using the Book of Mormon Art Catalog)
12/01/2024
Episode 117: Kenneth L. Alford (Using the Book of Mormon Art Catalog)
In an address to religious educators, Elder Richard G. Scott taught that “the use of an appealing visual aid can clarify truth.” One platform for accessing such righteous and clarifying images is the Book of Mormon Art Catalog (bookofmormonartcatalog.org). As an open-access repository of visual artwork, inspired by Restoration scripture and Church history, this catalog is a valuable resource for gospel teachers, Church leaders, families, and individuals seeking to visualize the Book of Mormon and other Restoration scripture and events. In this episode Church history and doctrine professor Kenneth L. Alford presents ideas accessing and using images from the catalog. He explains the various search filters available—such as scripture reference, topic, artistic style, etc.—and provides a step-by-step example of how to conduct an image search. Further, he highlights additional resources like videos and blog posts that are available on the website. Using the catalog in our personal scripture study can enhance personal interest in the Book of Mormon while supporting scholarly work on religious art. Publications: (, 25.1, 2024) (Religious Studies Center, 2025) (Religious Studies Center, 2024) (, 25.2, 2024) (Religious Studies Center, 2020) (, 21.3, 2020) (Religious Studies Center, 2021) Click to learn more about Ken Alford
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Episode 116: Using Precepts to Draw Closer to Jesus Christ (Maclane Heward)
11/15/2024
Episode 116: Using Precepts to Draw Closer to Jesus Christ (Maclane Heward)
The Prophet Joseph Smith taught “that the book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the key stone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.” But what exactly are precepts? And how are those recorded in an ancient record relevant to our lives today? In this episode Church history and doctrine professor Dr. Maclane Heward discusses ways to identify key precepts in the Book of Mormon and intentionally incorporated them into our lives. He examines a micro approach (like verse-by-verse analysis) and a macro approach (such as examining larger sections or entire books for overarching themes) for uncovering and understanding precepts. Further, he shares how applying such precepts can lead to personal growth, increased spiritual understanding, and a deeper sense of purpose and direction. By studying and applying the precepts found in the Book of Mormon, we can strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ and develop a closer relationship with him. Publications: (in , Religious Studies Center, 2024) (in , Religious Studies Center, 2021) Click to learn more about Maclane Heward
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Episode 115: A Woman’s Influence on the Delivery of The Family Proclamation (Barbara Morgan Gardner and Olivia Osguthorpe)
11/01/2024
Episode 115: A Woman’s Influence on the Delivery of The Family Proclamation (Barbara Morgan Gardner and Olivia Osguthorpe)
Reflecting on the first public interview with Relief Society General President Elaine Jack regarding “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Dr. Barbara Morgan Gardner, professor of Church history and doctrine, and Olivia Osguthorpe uncover and clarify truths and perspectives never before documented and critical to historical accuracy. In the months leading up to the general Relief Society meeting of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Saturday, September 23, 1995, then-General Relief Society Presidency Elaine L. Jack, Aileen H. Clyde, and Chieko Okazaki likely had no idea this meeting would become one of the most impactful and memorable of the twentieth century. For it was in this meeting that President Gordon B. Hinckley presented “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” which outlines the Church’s doctrinal beliefs concerning the family, gender, and marriage. What was the Relief Society President’s role in this critical meeting and decision-making process? Why was the family proclamation delivered at this time, in this meeting, and to this audience? In this episode Dr. Barbara Morgan Gardner and Olivia Osguthorpe discuss answers to these questions and more. Through analysis of the journals, personal writings, and interviews with President Jack, Gardner and Osguthorpe provide much needed clarity on the inception and presentation of The Family: A Proclamation to the World. Barbara Morgan Gardner Publications: (, 24.2, 2023) (, 23.2, 2022) (, 22.2, 2021) (in , Religious Studies Center, 2020) Click to learn more about Barbara Morgan Gardner Olivia Osguthorpe Publications: (, 24.2, 2023) (Review Magazine, Fall 2024)
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Episode 114: Learning from People of Other Faiths (Joshua M. Sears)
10/15/2024
Episode 114: Learning from People of Other Faiths (Joshua M. Sears)
Since the organization of the Church, leaders have called for world-wide religious liberty and harmony: “We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may” (Articles of Faith 1:11). In this episode, Dr. Joshua M. Sears, associate professor of ancient scripture, details how we might answer the prophetic call to not only love and respect people of different faiths but to also learn from them. He discusses the importance of adapting trustworthy interfaith resources into our spiritual lives. Additionally, he details how to locate and evaluate reliable resources, and describes one ecumenical resource, BibleProject, as an example. Without diluting our doctrinal uniqueness or missionary mandate, we can build strong relationships with our religious neighbors and learn from the truth that is “scattered liberally across the globe” (Elder Christofferson). Publications: ( 24.2, 2023) (Religious Studies Center, 2021) (Religious Educator, 20.3, 2019) (Y Religion, episode 86, 2023) (Y Religion, episode 35, 2021) BibleProject Videos: Click to learn more about Joshua M. Sears
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Episode 113: Using the Beatitudes to Understand Christ’s Atonement and Grace (Brad Wilcox)
10/01/2024
Episode 113: Using the Beatitudes to Understand Christ’s Atonement and Grace (Brad Wilcox)
In 3 Nephi 12:1—12 the resurrected Savior delivers an address to the Nephites similar to the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5; Luke 6) and presents the Beatitudes. Like the Matthew 5 account, the Book of Mormon record details how we might enter and build a covenantal relationship with God through the “interrelated and progressive” arrangement of the Beatitudes (Bible Dictionary). But what additional insight does the 3 Nephi account offer that isn’t preserved in the New Testament? In this episode Dr. Brad Wilcox, professor of ancient scripture, discusses his book Blessed Are Ye: Using the Beatitudes to Understand Christ’s Atonement and Grace, co-authored with his brother Roger Wilcox. He details varied interpretations of the Beatitudes, connects them to the first principles and ordinances of the gospel, and examines their relationship to latter-day temple covenants. As we study the Beatitudes, they become more than a code of conduct. Rather, they can be a holy invitation from Christ Himself to enter a covenant relationship with Him, receive His grace, and become like Him. Publications: (Covenant Communications, 2023) “ (BYU Speeches, 2011) (, 2017) (, 2009) (Deseret Book, 2021) (, 25.2, 2024) (, 12.2, 2011) (Y Religion, episode 83, 2023) (Y Religion, episode 46, 2021) Click to learn more about Brad Wilcox
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Episode 112: Use Boldness but Not Overbearance (Jan J. Martin)
09/15/2024
Episode 112: Use Boldness but Not Overbearance (Jan J. Martin)
As Alma mentored his sons in teaching the gospel, he counseled them not only to cultivate qualities such as diligence, temperance, humility, and self-reflection, but to also use “boldness, but not overbearance” (Alma 38:12) as part of their approach. The words boldness, bold, and boldly are used twenty-seven times throughout the Book Mormon, primarily to indicate that a person, or a group of people, have spoken or acted with “courage, daring, fearlessness; confidence, assurance, [and] security” (Oxford English Dictionary Online, OED). On the other hand, overbearance is used only once and seems to mean “to overcome, put down, or repress, as by power, authority, influence, or emotional pressure” (OED). In this episode, Dr. Jan J. Martin, associate professor of ancient scripture, discusses Alma’s stylistic teaching advice given to his son Shiblon. She highlights two critical areas of Alma’s methodology: the origin of his prophetic and fatherly counsel for teaching the gospel and his practice of leaning into the Holy Ghost for inspiration on what and how to teach. Alma’s experiences in Ammonihah provide important instruction for anyone with leadership or teaching responsibilities who desire to be bold but not overbearing. Publications: · (, Religious Studies Center, 2024) · (, Religious Studies Center, 2024) · (, Religious Studies Center, 2022) · (Religious Studies Center, 2021) · (, Religious Studies Center, 2021) · (, 27, 2018) Click to learn more about Jan J. Martin
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Episode 111: Missionary Work in the Digital Age (Scott L. Howell)
09/01/2024
Episode 111: Missionary Work in the Digital Age (Scott L. Howell)
Description Since the introduction of missionary work in 1830, Saints have used a variety of tools and practices to share the good news of the gospel and bring people unto Christ. Some of the most common methods have included standing on a collapsible soapbox, knocking on doors, using flannel and flip charts to illustrate lessons, sharing slideshows and videos, and utilizing a primary guide, like Preach My Gospel, to teach prepared discussions. The recent introduction of social media and the use of smartphones are two of the latest tools reserved for the youth of this generation as they engage in missionary service. President Harold B. Lee taught that “the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ are divine. Nobody changes the principles and [doctrine] of the Church except the Lord by revelation. But methods change as the inspired direction comes to those who preside at a given time.” In this episode Dr. Scott L. Howell, assistant teaching professor of Church history and doctrine, discusses the recent shifts in methodology for the gathering of Israel. He provides insight on how the youth might craft their digital dossiers prior to their service, details safeguards for using technology before, during, and after missionary service, and previews a number of phone apps and Church resources for engaging with the gospel online. In melding traditional and modern approaches, we can further the reach of this marvelous work and wonder. Publications: · (, 23.3, 2022) · (, February 2023) · (, Faculty Publications, 6153, 2022) · (, 24.2, 2023) · (, 53, 2022) Click to learn more about Scott L. Howell
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