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A Marvelous Work 

Who Actually Saw the Gold Plates?

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In this episode Scott and Casey cover Joseph Smith—History 1:1-26, which covers Joseph Smith's First Vision, and offer their insights into the context, content, controversies, and consequences of this important history. 

The First Vision: Joseph Smith—History 1:1–26

Today, Scott and Casey delve into Doctrine and Covenants 1. This section is placed chronologically out of time, but serves as an introduction to the entire volume of scripture. Once again, they focus on the four C's: Context, Content, Controversies, and Consequences.

According to D&C 1, The Doctrine and Covenants serves as a manual for understanding God's work and establishing His covenant with His people. They go over the controversy around the phrase "the only true and living church." Some view this rhetoric as exclusive, so Scott and Casey explore its likely intended meaning.

The Lord's Preface - Doctrine & Covenants 1

In this episode, we cover the introductory material to the Come Follow Me curriculum and offer our own introduction to the context, content, controversies, and consequences to the book of the Doctrine & Covenants. We have a lot to talk about today. So let’s get into it! 

The Restoration - Intro to the Doctrine & Covenants

How can Christ help us forgive those who have wronged us in the most egregious ways?

As a young Muslim girl in Iran, Shima Baughman’s mom was betrayed by a family member and sent to one of the world’s worst prisons in the middle of a war-torn country. Shima shares how her family has navigated the deep wounds of betrayal. 

Can she and her family forgive the woman who betrayed her mom? 

Muslim to Latter-day Saints: Forgiveness After Family Betrayal & 10-Year Prison Sentence

If you, or someone you love, has struggled to reconcile complex church history, join us in our conversation with Dr. Steven C Harper.

Exploring the mystery of multiple First Vision accounts, Stephen Jones sits down with BYU Professor Dr. Steven Harper, a renowned historian and expert on Latter-day Saint history. 

They unravel the reasons behind the discrepancies and shed light on the broader implications for faith and history, guiding us toward a deeper understanding of this foundational event.

Church Historian: Here’s How I Approach Complex Church History - Dr. Steven C. Harper

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If you ever feel hopeless, watch until Elder Bednar gives his advice about hope and how to find it. The conversation gets really deep.
Elder Bednar, an apostle of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, previously never imagined there would be a temple in Bentonville, Arkansas, in his lifetime. Elder Bednar answers questions about the special significance of the Bentonville Arkansas Temple to him and his family, what he hopes people understand about worshiping in temples, what encourages and gives him hope for the future, and more.


Let's Get Real, Episode 0010: "One to One Phone Call with Apostle David A. Bednar About Temples, Peace, & Hope For The Future"

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Stephen Jones' parents got married and joined the Church in 1979 in the southern United States, and both decisions were met with some disdain. Whether it was weakness, preconceived notions, or the law, they held onto the Book of Mormon, and looking to their faith, Stephen learned to turn to the book too.


In the Book Episode 10: "Weak Things Become Strong: Stephen Jones"

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Summary
Tyler Griffin explains the importance of reading scriptures not as a task but as a way to forge a closer relationship with God and Jesus Christ.
He suggests paying attention to what we contribute to our relationship with God and the divine aspects we receive in return.
The discussion includes a detailed analysis of Jacob's teachings in 2 Nephi chapters 6-10, focusing on covenantal relationships and the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
Tyler emphasizes the role of prophets in guiding us and the importance of learning and heeding their counsel.
He concludes with an invitation to turn to the scriptures to find covenant connections with Christ and help others do the same.


Scripture Study Insights with Tyler Griffin: 2 Nephi 6–10

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Summary

Tyler explains the three layers of questions (Search, Analysis, and Application) to enhance scripture study and provides examples using 1 Nephi 11.
Search questions focus on specifics within the scriptures, analysis questions encourage deeper understanding, and application questions relate the teachings to personal life.
He provides an in-depth analysis of Nephi's vision in 1 Nephi 11, discussing the symbolism of the tree and Mary.
Tyler walks through the vision of the tree and the man descending from heaven, pointing out the use of the word 'look' as a guide for what to pay attention to, and discusses the connection between the tree, Nephi's vision, and the symbolism of Christ.
He instructs viewers to explore 1 Nephi 12-15, focusing on the scenes and questions presented, and to apply the principles to modern life.
Tyler discusses Nephi's interaction with his brothers Laman and Lemuel in 1 Nephi 15, pointing out that arguing or disputing about scriptures is less productive than seeking personal revelation.

 


Scripture Study Insights with Tyler Griffin: 1 Nephi 11–15

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Summary
Lynne and Jack dissect the sermon of King Benjamin, highlighting its significance as a manual of discipleship and a profound text on the atonement.
They discuss King Benjamin's character, his role as a king, prophet, and father, and his humility as a servant-leader, which aligns with Deuteronomy 17's law of the king.
King Benjamin's preparation for delivering his speech, including writing it down and planning its delivery, is emphasized, suggesting meticulous crafting of the sermon.
The setting of the sermon is likened to the Feast of Tabernacles, with families gathered in tents facing the temple, sacrifices being offered, and the significance of the name of Christ as the exclusive means of salvation is underscored.
The importance of the atonement, the need for personal discipleship, and the covenant King Benjamin invites his people to make are also discussed, with the sermon structured in a detailed chiasmus.
Dig Deeper
John W. Welch, "Mosiah 1-3." In John W. Welch Notes, 377-404. Springville, UT: Book of Mormon Central, 2020.


Book of Mormon Matters with John W. Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson: Mosiah 1–3

Summary
Tyler introduces the video by stating the focus is on 2 Nephi chapters 11-19, a significant portion of Isaiah's writings in the Book of Mormon.
He emphasizes the need to read Isaiah with Hebrew symbolism lenses, looking for layers of symbolic meaning that ultimately point to Jesus Christ.
Tyler explains that the words of Isaiah should excite readers as they are rooted in Christ and can be likened to one's own life for deeper understanding.
He recounts Isaiah as a Hebrew poet and seer who wrote about his time and provided prophecies that stretch from the past into the future.
Tyler suggests that all scriptures, not just Isaiah, should be read with the intent of understanding the coming of Christ and the fullness of God's teachings.


Scripture Study Insights with Tyler Griffin: 2 Nephi 11–19

Scripture Study Insights with Tyler Griffin: 1 Nephi 6-10

Summary
The video features Lynne Hilton Wilson and Jack Welch discussing 2 Nephi chapters 26 to 30, focusing on Nephi's commentary on Isaiah and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon.
They elaborate on the importance of scripture in guiding us today and likening the words of the prophets to ourselves, following Nephi's model.
Nephi prophesies about the restoration of the gospel, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and the adversary's tactics in the latter days.
The conversation includes insights into the translation process of the Book of Mormon, the significance of the sealed portion, and the future gathering of Israel.
Further Reading
Welch, John W.. "2 Nephi 26-30." In John W. Welch Notes, 207-225. Springville, UT: Book of Mormon Central, 2020.


Book of Mormon Matters with John W. Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson: 2 Nephi 26-30

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Vincenzo di Francesca (1888-1966) was on his way to a pastor’s house one cold, winter morning of 1910 in New York City when he saw a book lying on a barrel of ashes, its leaves blowing in the wind. When he picked it up, he saw there was no frontispiece, and the book was unnamed. Flipping through it, he saw the names Mosiah, Lamanite, Isaiah, and others, and wondered what it could be. Vincenzo lived by the teachings of this book for twenty years in the face of ridicule, not knowing where it had come from, and spent another twenty trying to join the Church, experiencing what seemed like insurmountable obstacles to do so.
Vincenzo first read the Book of Mormon in 1910 in New York City, and was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on January 18, 1951 at Imerese, Italy.
Vincenzo's words were recorded by Tommaso Cardullo.


In the Book Episode 18: "The Book Without a Name: Vincenzo di Francesca (1888-1966) with Tommaso Cardullo"

Summary
Lynne Hilton Wilson and John W. Welch discuss the transition from 1 Nephi's narrative to the doctrinal depth of 2 Nephi.
Lehi's farewell speech in 2 Nephi 1 is contrasted with the action-packed 1 Nephi, illustrating a shift to more theological concepts and the introduction of core doctrines.
The conversation delves into the differences between patriarchal blessings and father's blessings, with a focus on Lehi's blessings to his children.
2 Nephi 2 is explored for its rich theological insights on the Fall, agency, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ, contrasting joy with opposition and suffering.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of choosing Christ, the mediator, to obtain eternal life and joy in the face of opposition.
Further Reading
Welch, John W.. "2 Nephi 1-5." In John W. Welch Notes, 130-163. Springville, UT: Book of Mormon Central, 2020.


Book of Mormon Matters with John W. Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson: 2 Nephi 1-2

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SUMMARY
Tyler Griffin emphasizes the importance of diligent work and study in understanding scriptures, particularly complex chapters like Jacob 5, the allegory of the olive trees.
Jacob 5 is used to illustrate the labor required in our spiritual growth, with God's work and glory being to help us attain immortality and eternal life.
The allegory represents the history of God's dealings with the House of Israel, the scattering and gathering of Israel, and individual spiritual growth.
Jacob 7 is discussed with the story of Sherem, who opposes Jacob's teachings about Christ, emphasizing the need for discernment and steadfastness in faith.


Scripture Study Insights with Tyler Griffin: Enos–Words of Mormon

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In this episode, we discuss why Latter-day Saint polygamy and Joseph Smith historian Don Bradley left and came back to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  


Let's Get Real, Episode 0012: "Why LDS Polygamy and Joseph Smith Historian Left and Came Back to the LDS Church, Part One"

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After uncovering controversial and lesser-known stories about Black pioneers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Mauli, feeling embarrassed about his ignorance, is inspired to become a film writer and director. His mission: To craft an enlightening film that breaks the silence. Despite facing societal hesitation to confront painful, controversial histories, Mauli aims to use the film's proceeds to fund a monument at This is the Place, transforming his newfound knowledge into a beacon of awareness and reconciliation.


Let's Get Real, Episode 0018: "LDS Grammy Winner Reconciles Painful Past in an Unexpected Way"

Summary
Tyler Griffin introduces the discussion on 2 Nephi chapters 3-5, framing it with the perspective of Jesus Christ's role in guiding humanity and spreading the gospel.
He explains the process of revelation through prophets and the importance of human testimony in disseminating God's word.
Tyler delves into the promises made to Lehi's descendants, particularly Joseph, linking them to the ancient Joseph of Egypt and the latter-day seer Joseph Smith.
The discussion includes Lehi's teachings and prophecies about his descendants, the importance of faith, and Nephi's role after Lehi's death.
Tyler emphasizes the significance of obedience to God's commands, even when the reasons are not fully understood, as exemplified by Nephi's creation of new plates.


Scripture Study Insights with Tyler Griffin: 2 Nephi 3–5

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For the March 23-29 Come, Follow Me lesson, BYU Professors Tyler Griffin and Taylor Halverson offer some amazing insights into the story of Enos, the internal geography of the Book of Mormon, and the plates.


Come Follow Me Insights (Enos–Words of Mormon)

Summary
Tyler Griffin introduces the session with a focus on 2 Nephi chapters 20-25, where Isaiah's writings end, and Nephi's commentary begins.
He explains how the Book of Mormon's chapter and verse divisions were added in 1879 by Orson Pratt, which changes how the chapters are read.
Tyler emphasizes the importance of understanding Isaiah's symbolism and the context of his prophecies for proper interpretation.
Nephi's commentary in chapters 25-27 serves as a guide to understanding Isaiah, highlighting the necessity of the spirit of prophecy.
Tyler concludes by focusing on Christ's role in Isaiah's writings and Nephi's emphasis on the Savior in his commentary.


Scripture Study Insights with Tyler Griffin: 2 Nephi 20–25

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Why does God allow hard things to happen to good people? When Chad Lewis was 19, he experienced one of the heaviest trials ever—his dad's fight for life. In this episode, Chad also reveals how he stays connected to God, why he reads the Book of Mormon every day, how he kept the Sabbath Day Holy as a professional football player, and what it was like having Andy Reid as a coach.


Let's Get Real, Episode 0001: "Chad Lewis: Why does God allow hard things to happen to good people?"

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Tyler Griffin and Taylor Halverson share insights into the July 6-12 Come, Follow Me Lesson.


Come Follow Me Insights (Alma 30–31)

Summary
The discussion delves into the story of Nephi and Lehi, their journey, and the context of 600 BC, a time of great civilizational advancements.
They explore the significance of the Book of Mormon, its relation to the Axial Period, and its purpose as a divine work of God.
Detailed examination of Nephi's obtaining the brass plates, the importance of scripture, and the role of women in the Book of Mormon, specifically Sariah.
Archaeological evidence, such as the Silver Scroll, is presented to support the historical accuracy of the Book of Mormon.
Further Reading
Welch, John W. "1 Nephi 1-7." In John W. Welch Notes, 15-56. Springville, UT: Book of Mormon Central, 2020.
Book of Mormon Central, “Have the Valley of Lemuel and the River Laman Been Found? (1 Nephi 2:6),” KnoWhy 286 (March 13, 2017).
Tvedtnes, John A.. "Colophons in the Book of Mormon." In Reexploring the Book of Mormon: The F.A.R.M.S. Updates, edited by John W. Welch, 13-17. Provo, UT: Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1992.


Book of Mormon Matters with John W. Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson: 1 Nephi 1-5, Jan 8-14

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In this episode of our podcast, we have the pleasure of interviewing Matt Townsend, a renowned relationship expert who has helped thousands of people worldwide. Matt believes effective communication is critical to building healthy relationships and can help resolve even the most complex issues.
During our conversation, Matt shared his insights on "Real Communication," a concept he discovered while reading 3 Nephi 11-17 in the Book of Mormon. In addition, he reveals the four skills he learned from the Savior's visit to the Americas after His crucifixion and resurrection, which can help anyone communicate more effectively.
Matt emphasizes the importance of meeting someone's most basic human needs, such as feeling capable, safe, and like they belong. He also suggests looking for three signs that someone's vital signs are not good before using the four skills taught by Jesus Christ during His visit.
Join Matt Townsend and me as we explore effective communication's power and how it can improve your relationships. Don't miss it!


Let's Get Real, Episode 0005: "4 Skills to Improve Your Relationships with Doctor Matt Townsend, Part One"

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Evidence #487

The Book of Moses presents a version of the Creation that differs somewhat from the account in the book of Genesis. Other ancient Jewish and Christian documents give similar accounts of the Creation that deviate from Genesis.

A New Creation Account

Evidence#486

Jacob’s teaching about an awful monster has clear roots in concepts from the ancient Near East which were also known to Isaiah.

Isaiah's Monster in Jacob's Teachings

Evidence #485

Moses 6 contains the prophetic commission of Enoch, which matches the prophetic call pattern found in various ancient texts.

Enoch's Prophetic Commission

Evidence #484

Abinadi’s description of Christ as the “founder of peace” appears to be an intentional wordplay on the name Jerusalem.

Wordplay on Jerusalem

Evidence #483

The Book of Moses records that Enoch was taught in all the ways of God by his father Jared. These ideas can also be found in ancient Enochic sources, sometimes in very similar contexts. 

Enoch, a Student of Righteousness

Evidence #482

Shared elements found in the account of the Amalekites in the Bible and the Amlicites/Amalekites in the Book of Mormon suggest a deliberate attempt to read the activities of the latter in light of the former.

Amalekites, Amlicites, and the Anti-Nephi-Lehies

Evidence #481

The Lord’s prophecy concerning a future prophet who would restore the words of Moses contains an implied wordplay on the name Joseph. 

Wordplay on Joseph

Evidence #480

When viewed in context, the description of Enoch as a “lad” in the Book of Moses has strong parallels with several ancient Enochic texts that almost certainly weren’t available to Joseph Smith.

Enoch the Lad

Evidence #479

In the Book of Moses, the concept of “darkness” is referenced in a number of different contexts. This same theme turns up in similar contexts in pseudepigraphic texts, especially in Enochic literature.

Theme of Darkness

Evidence #478

Instead of using punctuation marks, ancient languages tended to use specific words or phrases to mark the flow of ideas and new sentences. This type of verbal punctuation also appears to be prevalent in the Book of Mormon. 

Verbal Punctuation

Evidence #477

Throughout the Book of Moses, multiple lines of textual evidence connect the name Moses with its etymological meaning in Egyptian (involving the concept of being “begotten,” as well the terms “son” or “child”). This wordplay also appears to arise in JST Genesis 50:29.

Wordplay on Moses

Evidence #476

In the Book of Mormon, the word “and” is occasionally used where a disjunctive is expected, suggesting a more literal translation of a Hebrew-like language.

"And" as a Disjunctive

Evidence #475

In the Book of Mormon, the phrase “prepare the way” is sometimes used in the context of clearing obstacles from a path. On one occasion, the phrase “clear my way” is used. This suggests a nuanced understanding of the Hebrew idiom (pinnâ derek) from which the phrase was likely derived. 

Prepare/Clear the Way

Evidence #474

The Book of Mormon contains transliterations of words that were on the plates, such as “senine,” “cureloms,” and “neas.” The types of words left untranslated, as well as their frequency, are typical of other texts translated from ancient documents.

Ancient Transliteration Patterns

Amulek’s mention of three types of sacrifice (man, beast, and fowl) and his refutation of vicarious human sacrifice fit well in both an ancient Near Eastern and ancient American cultural context.

Sacrifices of Man, Beast, and Fowl

Evidence #472

When describing Christ’s resurrected ministry to the Nephites, the Book of Mormon places an unusual emphasis on the wound in Christ’s side. This may reflect an ancient Mesoamerican context where human sacrifice commonly involved an incision under the rib cage.

Christ's Wounded Side

Evidence #471

The Book of Mormon contains a variety of adverbs ending in -ly. Yet, to an unusual degree for an English text, it also uses adverbial phrases beginning with words like "with" or "in." This tendency suggests a literal translation of Hebraic phrases.

Adverbial Phrases

Evidence #470

In several instances, noun-verb cognates in the Book of Mormon weren’t likely derived from Joseph Smith’s 19th-century linguistic environment, either because they reflect the nuances of biblical Hebrew or because they are rare or absent in the King James Version of the Bible.  

Cognate Nouns and Verbs

KnoWhy #784

Where Did Ezekiel Prophesy that the Great and Abominable Church Would Be Destroyed?

KnoWhy #783

Why Does God Give Revelation for the Church Only to the Presiding Prophet?

KnoWhy #782

Why Was Emma Smith Called an Elect Lady?

KnoWhy #781

Why Was the Church Organized in Fayette, New York?

KnoWhy #780

Why Does Jesus Have So Many Names in the Doctrine and Covenants?

KnoWhy #779

Why Did the Three Witnesses Select the First Twelve Apostles?

KnoWhy #778

How Was the Melchizedek Priesthood Restored?

KnoWhy #777

How Did Hyrum Smith Help Bring Forth the Book of Mormon?

KnoWhy #776

Why Are the Witnesses to the Book of Mormon Translation Reliable?

KnoWhy #775

Why Did Martin Harris Sometimes Say He Saw the Plates with Spiritual Eyes?

KnoWhy #774

Why Did Charles Anthon Compare the Characters He Was Shown to Many Languages?

KnoWhy #773

Why Did Christ Call the Creeds an Abomination?

KnoWhy #772

How Did Joseph Smith’s Family Testify of the First Vision?

KnoWhy #771

Why Did God Call His Church “the Only True and Living Church”?

KnoWhy #770

Why Was a Restoration Necessary?

KnoWhy #769

How Is the Revelation of the Magi Similar to the Book of Mormon’s Prophecies of Christ?

KnoWhy #768

Why Did Moroni Seal the Plates in a Stone Box?

KnoWhy #767

Why Does God Allow Bad Things to Happen?

Summary of all sessions and talks of the October 2024 General Conference for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints<br/><br/>#lds #prolds #churchofjesuschristoflatterdaysaints #churchofjesuschrist #generalconference #ldsconf