Witnessing Christ: Recent Episodes
Truth in Love Ministry
Witnessing Christ is a Truth in Love Ministry podcast designed to help biblical Christians witness to their Mormon family, friends, and missionaries. For more Bible-based witnessing resources, check out tilm.org. We have many resources to support you, including classes, witnessing scenarios, books, and so much more.
In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Caleb continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by exploring the book of Esther. As Latter-day Saints study this book in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage the same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
Esther is a story of hidden identity, palace intrigue, deadly danger, and an incredible reversal. Although God's name is never mentioned, His providence is evident on every page as He preserves His covenant people through seemingly ordinary events. From Esther's rise to queen, to Mordecai's faithfulness, to Haman's downfall, every detail unfolds according to God's sovereign plan to preserve the people through whom the promised Messiah would come.
The episode focuses on a familiar lesson often drawn from Esther: having the courage to do what is right. While Scripture certainly commends Esther's courage, the conversation looks beyond her example to the deeper reality that she, like every believer, was weak, fearful, and in need of God's grace. Ultimately, Esther points us not to finding hidden courage within ourselves, but to the perfect faithfulness of Jesus Christ.
In this episode, you'll hear:
- How God's providence quietly directs every event in the book of Esther.
- Why Esther's hesitation reveals the same fears and struggles found in every sinner.
- The difference between using Esther as a moral example and seeing how she points to Christ.
- Why God's acceptance is never based on personal courage, obedience, or worthiness.
- How Jesus identified Himself with condemned sinners far more completely than Esther ever could.
- What Hebrews 4 teaches about confidently approaching God's throne through Christ alone.
- The difference between biblical assurance and confidence rooted in personal worthiness.
- A practical witnessing question to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also highlights the contrast between Esther's uncertain approach to King Xerxes and the believer's confident access to God through Jesus Christ. Esther entered the king's presence not knowing whether she would live or die. Christians, however, approach God's throne with confidence because Jesus has already borne their judgment, fulfilled God's law, and secured full acceptance through His perfect righteousness.
This episode reminds listeners that the greatest comfort found in Esther is not that we can become courageous enough for God to use us. It is that God remains faithful even when His people are weak. Because Christ is worthy, forgiven sinners can rest in His finished work, confidently proclaim the gospel, and trust that God delights to work through imperfect people for His glory.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Caleb continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by exploring the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
After decades of exile, God moves the heart of King Cyrus to send His people home. The temple is rebuilt, Jerusalem's walls are restored, and God's Word is publicly proclaimed once again. Yet behind every human accomplishment stands a greater reality: God is faithfully keeping His promises and preserving the people through whom the promised Savior would come.
The episode focuses on a common theme in LDS teaching materials: "The house of the Lord is a place of joy." While affirming the joy surrounding the rebuilding of the temple, the conversation explores what the Old Testament temple was ultimately designed to teach—and how it points beyond itself to Jesus Christ.
In this episode, you'll hear:
- Why the rebuilding of the temple was ultimately about God's faithfulness to His promises.
- What the Old Testament temple revealed about God's holiness and humanity's sinfulness.
- How the sacrifices and priesthood pointed forward to Christ's once-for-all sacrifice.
- The difference between biblical confidence before God and confidence based on personal worthiness or covenant keeping.
- Why Jesus is the true Temple, the perfect High Priest, and the final sacrifice for sin.
- How Hebrews 10 explains believers' confidence to enter God's presence through Christ alone.
- Why good works flow from God's grace rather than earning His acceptance.
- A practical witnessing question to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also highlights Nehemiah 8, where the people weep as God's law exposes their sin. Rather than leaving them in despair, Scripture points them to God's mercy and ultimately to the greater work Jesus would accomplish. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Christ did not simply make it possible for sinners to become worthy someday—He accomplished everything necessary to bring them confidently into God's presence.
This episode reminds listeners that the restored temple was never the final destination. It was a shadow pointing to Jesus Christ, the true Temple and perfect Savior. Because of His finished work, believers do not place their confidence in ceremonies, covenants, or personal progress, but in the completed redemption won through Christ's blood.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Caleb continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by exploring 2 Chronicles 14–20, 26, and 30. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
These chapters follow the reigns of Asa, Jehoshaphat, Uzziah, and Hezekiah, highlighting both faithful reforms and tragic failures. Time and again, the kings experience God's blessing when they seek Him, yet they also reveal how quickly human hearts turn to pride, self-reliance, and misplaced trust. Even the godliest kings prove unable to trust the Lord perfectly.
The episode focuses on a common theme in LDS teaching materials: "Trusting in God will bring me peace." While Christians wholeheartedly affirm that truth, the conversation asks a deeper question: What does it really mean to trust God—and where can lasting peace actually be found?
In this episode, you'll hear:
- How Asa's life demonstrates both faithful dependence on God and the danger of trusting human wisdom.
- Why even the best kings of Judah failed to trust the Lord perfectly.
- The difference between biblical peace and confidence rooted in personal performance.
- How fear, anxiety, and self-reliance expose our struggle to trust God's promises.
- Why true peace cannot be found in our obedience or worthiness.
- How Romans 5 and Romans 8 proclaim peace with God through Jesus Christ.
- The difference between trusting Christ's finished work and trusting our own spiritual progress.
- A practical witnessing question to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also emphasizes that while Christians often struggle with fear, doubt, and anxiety, their ultimate peace does not rest on the strength of their faith but on the object of their faith. Jesus Christ has already reconciled sinners to God through His life, death, and resurrection, giving believers complete confidence that there is now no condemnation for those who are in Him.
This episode reminds listeners that lasting peace is not found by becoming worthy enough for God. It is found in trusting the Savior who has already accomplished everything necessary for our salvation. Because Christ has reconciled us to the Father, Christians can face every uncertainty—including death itself—with confidence in His finished work rather than their own.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Caleb continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by exploring 2 Kings 2–7. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
These chapters record the transition from Elijah’s ministry to Elisha’s, highlighting God's continued faithfulness through miraculous works. Elisha parts the Jordan River, purifies poisoned water, raises the dead, heals Naaman of leprosy, and repeatedly demonstrates that the Lord alone is the source of life, healing, and salvation.
The episode focuses on the account of Naaman, Elisha, and Gehazi, asking an important question: Why did Elisha refuse Naaman’s payment? While LDS teaching materials often emphasize humility and obedience through Naaman’s healing, this conversation points to a deeper truth—that God’s greatest gifts cannot be earned or purchased but are freely given by His grace.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why Naaman’s healing was ultimately an act of God's grace rather than a reward for obedience.
- The difference between biblical grace and the idea that salvation must be earned or progressed toward.
- How Gehazi’s response reveals the natural tendency to believe God's gifts should be paid for.
- Why salvation is received through faith in Christ rather than through human worthiness.
- How Naaman’s cleansing points forward to the complete forgiveness found in Jesus Christ.
- What Romans 3 teaches about justification by grace through faith.
- A practical witnessing question to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also highlights the beautiful picture of the gospel found in Naaman’s story. Just as Naaman could not purchase his cleansing from leprosy, sinners cannot purchase forgiveness or righteousness before God. Christ has already paid the full price through His life, death, and resurrection, offering complete forgiveness as a free gift to all who trust in Him.
This episode reminds listeners that the Christian life is not about earning God's favor but receiving His undeserved mercy. Through Jesus Christ, we are washed clean—not because we deserved it or paid for it, but because our Savior accomplished everything necessary for our salvation and freely gives His righteousness to all who believe.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Caleb continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by exploring 1 Kings 12–13 and 17–22. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
These chapters reveal the tragic consequences of Israel’s divided kingdom. Following Solomon’s reign, the nation fractures under Rehoboam and Jeroboam. Idolatry spreads, wicked rulers rise to power, and figures like Ahab and Jezebel lead God’s people further from the truth. Yet in the midst of rebellion and spiritual darkness, God faithfully sends His prophet Elijah to proclaim His Word and call people back to Himself.
The episode focuses on a theme often highlighted in LDS teaching materials: “The Lord often speaks in quiet, simple ways.” While Christians agree that God speaks through humble means, the conversation explores an important question: Where has God promised to speak to us today?
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why the divided kingdom reveals humanity’s ongoing rebellion against God.
- How Elijah’s ministry demonstrates God’s faithfulness in times of widespread unbelief.
- The difference between biblical confidence in God’s Word and seeking personal revelation through feelings and impressions.
- Why Scripture presents the Bible as God’s primary means of speaking to His people today.
- How the prophets of Baal illustrate the futility of trying to earn divine attention.
- What Elijah’s experience teaches about trusting God’s promises rather than subjective experiences.
- How Jesus pointed His followers to Moses and the Prophets as the foundation for faith.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also highlights Jesus’ encounter with the disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24. Rather than immediately revealing Himself, Jesus opened the Scriptures and showed how the entire Old Testament pointed to Him. In the same way, Christians find confidence not in changing emotions or private impressions, but in the unchanging Word of God that proclaims Christ.
This episode reminds listeners that God has not left His people guessing. Through the simple and powerful words of Scripture, God reveals His character, exposes our sin, strengthens our faith, and points us to Jesus Christ—the Savior promised throughout the Old Testament and proclaimed throughout the Bible.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Caleb continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by exploring 2 Samuel 11–12 and selections from 1 Kings 3, 6–9, and 11. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
These chapters contain some of the most sobering accounts in the Old Testament. David, the king described as a man after God’s own heart, falls into adultery, deception, and murder. Solomon begins his reign with wisdom, humility, and devotion to the Lord, but later turns away through idolatry and divided loyalties. Together, these stories reveal both the greatness of God’s gifts and the devastating reality of human sin.
The episode focuses especially on David’s confrontation with the prophet Nathan and the powerful words, “You are the man.” Through God’s law, David is exposed as guilty before the Lord. Yet in the midst of judgment comes an astonishing declaration of grace: “The Lord has taken away your sin.”
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why the account of David and Bathsheba is ultimately a story about sin, guilt, and grace.
- How Nathan’s confrontation reveals the purpose of God’s law.
- Why all people stand guilty before God’s perfect standard.
- What Psalm 51 teaches about true repentance and dependence on God’s mercy.
- How Solomon’s rise and fall reveal the danger of divided devotion.
- The difference between biblical faith and LDS understandings of faith and worthiness.
- How Romans 3 explains justification, redemption, and forgiveness through Christ.
- A practical witnessing question to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also highlights a crucial question: How could a just God take away David’s sins? David deserved judgment. He could not undo what he had done, nor could he offer a sacrifice sufficient to remove his guilt. His only hope was God’s mercy—and that mercy ultimately points forward to Jesus Christ, who would bear the punishment for sinners and provide the righteousness they could never earn.
This episode reminds listeners that the Bible is not a collection of moral success stories. Even David and Solomon failed. The good news is not that God saves worthy people, but that He justifies sinners through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Because Christ paid the price for sin, God can declare guilty people forgiven, righteous, and free.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Caleb continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by exploring 1 Samuel 8–16. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
These chapters mark a major turning point in Israel’s history. Tired of being ruled through judges and prophets, the people demand a king like the nations around them. God grants their request and gives them Saul—a king who looked impressive by worldly standards. Yet Saul’s reign quickly reveals that outward appearances and human strength cannot accomplish what God desires. By chapter 16, the Lord rejects Saul and raises up David, the king after His own heart.
The episode focuses on a key theme highlighted in LDS teaching materials: “Jesus Christ is my King.” While Christians wholeheartedly confess Christ as King, the conversation explores a deeper question: What does it mean to live under the rule of a perfectly holy and righteous King?
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why Israel’s demand for a king ultimately revealed a rejection of God’s rule.
- The difference between earthly kings and Jesus Christ, the perfect King.
- How LDS teachings often approach Christ’s kingship through the lens of personal obedience and agency.
- Why God’s law exposes our rebellion rather than proving our faithfulness.
- How sin is ultimately treason against our rightful King.
- Why none of us have perfectly obeyed Christ’s rule.
- How Jesus fulfilled the law and bore the penalty for our rebellion.
- A practical witnessing question to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also highlights the beautiful contrast at the heart of the gospel. The King we rebelled against is the very King who came to rescue us. Jesus did not simply show us how to live; He took our guilt upon Himself, suffered the punishment we deserved, and clothed us in His righteousness through His death and resurrection.
This episode reminds listeners that the good news of Christianity is not that we have successfully made Christ King through our obedience. Rather, Christ is already King—and in His mercy, He has rescued rebels like us. Through faith in Him, sinners receive forgiveness, righteousness, and an eternal place in His kingdom, not because they earned it, but because the King Himself paid the price.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, the Truth in Love Ministry team continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by exploring the book of Ruth alongside 1 Samuel 1–7. As Latter-day Saints study these passages in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same stories while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
These chapters contain deeply personal stories of grief, weakness, prayer, redemption, and God’s providence. Ruth and Naomi return to Bethlehem empty and vulnerable after devastating loss. Hannah pours out her sorrow before the Lord in prayer. Samuel is called by God during a spiritually dark time in Israel’s history. In every account, the focus ultimately turns away from human strength and toward God’s mercy and provision.
The episode highlights how LDS teaching materials often emphasize moral examples such as kindness, loyalty, prayer, obedience, and listening for God’s voice. While affirming those good themes, the conversation goes deeper by showing how these stories ultimately reveal humanity’s need for a Redeemer and God’s gracious action toward helpless sinners.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Why Ruth’s story is ultimately about redemption rather than merely kindness and loyalty.
How Boaz serves as a picture of Christ, the true Redeemer who pays the cost for sinners.
The difference between biblical grace and the idea that we must “do all we can do” first.
How Hannah’s prayer demonstrates dependence on God rather than spiritual self-sufficiency.
Why prayer is not bargaining with God, but crying out to Him in weakness and need.
What Samuel’s calling teaches about God speaking clearly through His Word.
Why faith rests on Christ and His promises—not confidence in our own covenant faithfulness.
How Israel’s misuse of the Ark warns against trusting religious activity instead of the Lord Himself.
Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also emphasizes that Ruth, Hannah, and Israel all share something in common: they could not save themselves. Ruth needed a redeemer. Hannah needed mercy. Israel needed deliverance. In each case, God provided what they could not provide on their own.
This episode reminds listeners that Jesus Christ is the greater Boaz—the true Redeemer who does not merely make salvation possible, but fully accomplishes it. We do not come to Him with worthiness or payment in hand. Like Ruth, we come empty-handed, trusting entirely in what our Redeemer has already done for us through His life, death, and resurrection.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, the Truth in Love Ministry team continues the Christ in the Old Testament series by turning to the book of Judges. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
The book of Judges is filled with rebellion, idolatry, oppression, violence, and repeated failure. Again and again, Israel turns away from the Lord, suffers under oppression, cries out for help, and is rescued by judges whom God raises up. Yet despite temporary deliverance, the cycle continues as God’s people repeatedly abandon Him.
Rather than presenting the judges primarily as moral examples to imitate, this episode highlights the deeper message running throughout the book: God’s mercy toward undeserving sinners. The focus is not on Israel finally becoming faithful enough, but on the Lord remaining faithful to His promises despite His people’s continual rebellion.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why the book of Judges is ultimately about God’s mercy rather than human heroism.
- The repeating cycle of sin, oppression, deliverance, and rebellion throughout Israel’s history.
- How LDS teachings often emphasize covenant faithfulness and obedience as conditions for blessing.
- Why Israel’s rescue was grounded in God’s compassion—not their worthiness.
- How the judges point forward to a greater and final deliverer.
- Why temporary earthly rescue could never solve humanity’s deeper problem of sin and death.
- How Jesus fulfills what the judges could only foreshadow.
- A practical witnessing question to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also emphasizes that the judges themselves were deeply flawed and imperfect. Even the best deliverers could only provide temporary relief from earthly enemies. The book leaves readers longing for someone greater—a Savior who defeats sin, death, and the devil forever.
This episode reminds listeners that God does not save people because they finally become worthy enough. Like Israel, all people are sinners in need of mercy. Yet God, in His compassion and faithfulness, sent Jesus Christ—the perfect deliverer who obeyed in our place, died for our sins, and rose again so that all who trust in Him receive eternal rescue by grace alone.
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The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Aaron, Caleb, and Noah—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, walking through the book of Joshua. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode helps Christians engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
The book of Joshua recounts Israel’s entrance into the Promised Land after the death of Moses. God parts the Jordan River, the walls of Jericho fall, Rahab hides the spies, and the land is conquered and divided among God’s people. Throughout the book, Joshua repeatedly calls Israel to remain faithful to the Lord who delivered them.
The interns explore how LDS teachings often emphasize conditional blessings, obedience, and covenant faithfulness, while Scripture continually points to something deeper: God’s mercy toward undeserving people and His faithfulness to keep His promises despite human failure.
A major focus of the episode is the story of Rahab, whose rescue becomes a powerful picture of salvation by faith. The team wrestles honestly with passages like James 2 and Hebrews 11, showing how good works flow from faith rather than earning salvation before God.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why Israel received the Promised Land because of God’s promise—not their righteousness.
- The difference between biblical obedience and LDS ideas of conditional salvation.
- How Rahab’s story highlights salvation by faith alone.
- What James 2 means when it speaks about faith and works together.
- Why Christians are justified before God by faith, while works reveal faith before others.
- How the gospel creates good works rather than depending on them.
- The comfort Christians have knowing God remains faithful even when His people fail.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also emphasizes that faith itself is God’s gift. Rahab’s actions did not create her salvation; they revealed trust in the God who saves. Just as Rahab was welcomed into God’s covenant people by faith, sinners today are welcomed and declared righteous through faith in Jesus Christ alone.
This episode reminds listeners that the story of Joshua is not ultimately about human faithfulness or conquest, but about a gracious God who keeps His promises. From Rahab’s rescue to Israel’s inheritance, the book points forward to Jesus Christ—the true Savior who gives an eternal inheritance not earned by works, but received by grace through faith.
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The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Ethan, Noah, Caleb, and Aaron—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, walking through selected chapters in the book of Numbers. As Latter-day Saints follow these readings in their Come, Follow Me study, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
In these chapters, the Israelites continue their journey through the wilderness, marked by a repeated cycle of complaint, rebellion, and doubt. Again and again, God’s people question His promises—even after witnessing His provision—while God responds with both justice and mercy, disciplining their sin yet continuing to provide for their needs.
The interns explore how LDS teachings often emphasize faith as action, personal agency, and conditional blessings, while Scripture reveals something deeper: a faithful God who keeps His promises despite human failure. From the spies’ report at the Promised Land to the bronze serpent lifted in the wilderness, these accounts ultimately point beyond human effort to God’s saving work.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How the Israelites’ repeated rebellion highlights humanity’s sinful nature.
- The difference between biblical faith and LDS views of faith as obedience and effort.
- Why God’s promises are not grounded in human performance, but in His faithfulness.
- How the concept of ongoing revelation and authority shapes LDS interpretation.
- Why words like faith, works, and law can carry very different meanings.
- How the bronze serpent in Numbers points directly to Jesus in John 3.
- The difference between salvation by looking to Christ and salvation by human action.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also highlights one of the clearest gospel pictures in the Old Testament: the bronze serpent. While some may see the act of “looking” as something people must do, Scripture points to something greater—the object of faith. Just as the serpent was lifted up for the people’s healing, so Jesus was lifted up on the cross, accomplishing salvation for all who believe.
This episode reminds listeners that the story of Numbers is not about people gradually becoming faithful enough for God. Instead, it reveals a God who remains faithful to His promises, even when His people fail—ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ, who was lifted up so that sinners might be declared not guilty and receive eternal life through faith alone.
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In this special episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, the Truth in Love Ministry team—including Mark and Molly Parsons, Pastor Wayne Uhlhorn, and interns Lilly, Aaron, Ethan, and Noah—come together to reflect on the April 2026 General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After listening to multiple conference talks, the group shares key takeaways and equips Christians to engage these teachings with clarity and compassion.
From messages on peace, service, eternal marriage, and becoming more like Christ, the team highlights how LDS leaders use familiar Christian language while often communicating very different meanings. Throughout the episode, the conversation focuses on how to recognize these differences and respond in a way that points back to the finished work of Jesus.
Each speaker brings a unique perspective, walking through specific talks and offering practical insights for witnessing. Whether discussing Peter’s failures, the burden of obedience, or the motivation behind loving others, the team consistently brings the conversation back to the central question: Is the focus on what Christ has done—or on what we must do?
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Key themes from the April 2026 General Conference and why they matter for witnessing.
- How LDS teachings often emphasize progression, obedience, and personal effort.
- The difference between biblical law and gospel and LDS approaches to Scripture.
- Why familiar words like grace, forgiveness, and salvation can carry different meanings.
- How to respond to messages about peace, service, and eternal marriage with biblical clarity.
- Practical ways to start conversations using General Conference as a bridge.
- Real-life witnessing insights from conversations with LDS friends, neighbors, and missionaries.
If you’d like to explore the talks discussed in this episode, you can find the full General Conference sessions here:
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference
The episode also emphasizes the importance of listening carefully and asking thoughtful questions. Rather than approaching conversations with debate in mind, the team models how to engage respectfully while still addressing the deeper theological differences that ultimately point to Christ alone.
This episode reminds listeners that opportunities for witnessing are often right in front of us. Events like General Conference give Christians a clear window into what their LDS friends are hearing and thinking—creating natural starting points for gospel conversations centered on Jesus’ finished work.
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The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Caleb, Ethan, and Aaron—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, covering key sections of Exodus 19–24 and 31–34. As Latter-day Saints follow these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same passages while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
In these chapters, God gives the Ten Commandments, establishes his covenant with Israel, and reveals his holiness on Mount Sinai. Yet almost immediately, the people turn to idolatry in the golden calf incident, exposing the depth of human sin and the impossibility of achieving righteousness through obedience.
The interns explore how LDS teachings often emphasize commandment-keeping, covenant faithfulness, and progression toward godhood. In contrast, they highlight what Scripture reveals about the true purpose of the law—not as a ladder to climb toward God, but as a mirror that exposes sin and drives us to a Savior.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why the Ten Commandments reveal God’s perfect standard—not a path to earning salvation.
- How the golden calf incident exposes humanity’s constant failure and need for grace.
- The difference between biblical forgiveness and LDS ideas of forgiveness through effort and consequences.
- What Exodus 34:6–7 teaches about God’s justice, mercy, and steadfast love.
- How God’s justice and mercy meet perfectly at the cross of Christ.
- Why Jesus intensifies the law in Matthew 5 and what that reveals about our need for a Savior.
- How Christ fulfills the law perfectly and gives his righteousness to believers.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also emphasizes that while God does not leave sin unpunished, he himself provides the payment. At the cross, Jesus takes the full weight of the law’s demands, so that sinners can be fully forgiven—not by their obedience, but by his finished work.
This episode reminds listeners that the law was never meant to be a ladder to heaven. Instead, it shows us our need for Jesus—the One who is perfect in our place, who pays for our sin, and who gives us his righteousness as a gift.
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The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Caleb, Aaron, and Ethan—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, walking through Exodus 14–18. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to engage those same sections while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
In these chapters, God delivers His people through the Red Sea, defeats Pharaoh and his army, and provides for Israel in the wilderness with water from a rock and bread from heaven. From miraculous rescue to daily provision, these events reveal a God who saves and sustains His people entirely by His grace.
The interns examine how LDS teachings often emphasize personal growth, obedience, and “learning heaven,” while Scripture highlights something different: dependence on God’s provision. Through the stories of manna and water in the wilderness, they show how God provides for His people not because of their faithfulness, but in spite of their complaints and failures.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How the Red Sea crossing displays God’s complete and gracious deliverance.
- Why the Israelites’ complaints highlight God’s mercy—not their worthiness.
- The difference between biblical dependence on God and LDS ideas of progression and obedience.
- How the manna and water from the rock point forward to Jesus as the true source of life.
- Why Jesus calls Himself the Bread of Life and Living Water in John 4 and John 6.
- How eternal life is received through faith—not earned through effort or growth.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also emphasizes that the focus of these accounts is not on what God’s people must do, but on what God has already done and continues to provide. Just as God fed Israel in the wilderness, Jesus offers Himself as the true and lasting nourishment—the One who satisfies completely and gives eternal life to all who believe.
This episode reminds listeners that the Christian life is not about progressing toward God through obedience, but about trusting in what God has already provided in Christ. In Him, we are fully nourished, fully satisfied, and fully secure.
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The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Caleb, Aaron, Ethan, and Noah—pause their Christ in the Old Testament series for a special Easter episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, focusing on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and what it truly accomplished.
In this episode, the interns begin with a shared foundation: both biblical Christians and Latter-day Saints agree that Jesus physically rose from the dead. The tomb was empty, Christ appeared to His disciples, and He lives today. But while there is agreement on the event itself, the conversation quickly turns to a deeper question—what did the resurrection actually accomplish?
The team contrasts the LDS understanding of the resurrection as a universal gift of immortality with the biblical teaching that Christ’s death and resurrection fully accomplish salvation. They emphasize that the resurrection cannot be separated from the cross, where Jesus paid for sin in full, and show how the empty tomb is God’s declaration that the work is finished.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- What biblical Christians and Latter-day Saints agree on about the resurrection.
- Why the real question is not if Jesus rose, but what His resurrection accomplished.
- The difference between resurrection as universal immortality and resurrection as completed salvation.
- How the cross and resurrection work together to secure forgiveness and righteousness.
- Why “It is finished” means there is nothing left for us to earn before God.
- What it means to be justified—declared not guilty—through Christ’s resurrection.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The interns also explore how the resurrection gives Christians complete confidence before God. Because Jesus lived, died, and rose again, believers are not left wondering if they have done enough. Instead, they stand forgiven, justified, and secure—knowing that Christ has already accomplished everything necessary for their salvation.
This episode reminds listeners that Easter is not just about new life in a general sense, but about a finished victory. Jesus’ resurrection is the guarantee that sin is paid for, death is defeated, and eternal life is secured for all who trust in Him.
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The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Caleb, Ethan, and Noah—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, walking through Exodus 7–18. As Latter-day Saints follow these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode helps Christians engage those same sections while clearly pointing to the biblical gospel.
In these chapters, Moses and Aaron stand before Pharaoh as God unleashes the ten plagues on Egypt, culminating in the dramatic events of the Passover. As Pharaoh repeatedly hardens his heart, God displays His power, justice, and faithfulness—ultimately delivering His people from slavery. But beneath these familiar stories lies a deeper message about the condition of the human heart and the need for divine rescue.
The interns explore the tension between Pharaoh’s hardened heart and God’s sovereign action, emphasizing what Scripture teaches about sin, judgment, and God’s control over salvation. At the same time, they highlight one of the clearest pictures of Christ in the Old Testament: the Passover lamb.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- What Scripture teaches about Pharaoh hardening his heart—and God hardening it.
- The difference between biblical teaching and LDS views of agency and free will.
- Why all people begin with hearts hardened against God.
- How God’s judgment and mercy are both on display in the Exodus account.
- Why the Passover lamb is one of the clearest pictures of Jesus in the Old Testament.
- How the blood of the lamb points directly to Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
The episode also highlights how the Israelites were not saved by their obedience, but by the blood of the lamb—a powerful picture of how sinners are saved through Christ alone. Just as the destroyer passed over the homes marked by blood, so God’s judgment passes over all who are covered by the blood of Jesus, the true Passover Lamb.
This episode reminds listeners that salvation does not come from human effort or choice, but from God’s gracious action. The same God who delivered Israel from Egypt has delivered us from sin, death, and judgment through Jesus Christ—the Lamb who was slain so that we might live.
The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Caleb, Aaron, Ethan, and Noah—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, turning to the opening chapters of Exodus (1–6). As Latter-day Saints work through these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode helps Christians walk alongside those discussions while pointing clearly to the biblical gospel.
In these chapters, Israel’s situation becomes desperate. A new Pharaoh enslaves the Israelites, orders the death of Hebrew baby boys, and tightens his grip as their numbers grow. Yet even in the midst of oppression, God is quietly preserving His promise. Moses’ life is spared, he is raised in Pharaoh’s household, and decades later God calls him from the burning bush to deliver His people from slavery.
The interns examine how this section highlights God’s holiness, human sinfulness, and the need for a true deliverer. While Moses is chosen to lead Israel out of Egypt, his hesitation, doubt, and imperfection remind listeners that he is not the ultimate hero of the story. Instead, Moses points forward to a greater deliverer—Jesus Christ—who accomplishes the perfect salvation Moses could only foreshadow.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why the Exodus story is ultimately about God’s faithfulness to His promises.
- The difference between biblical deliverance and LDS ideas of salvation.
- How Moses’ weakness and reluctance highlight God’s power and grace.
- What the burning bush teaches about God’s holiness and human sinfulness.
- Why true reverence comes from encountering the holy God, not from human effort.
- How Moses’ role as deliverer points forward to the greater deliverer, Jesus Christ.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
This episode reminds listeners that humanity cannot climb its way up to God. Standing before a holy God exposes our sin and our need for rescue. But the same God who called Moses to deliver Israel ultimately sent Jesus Christ—the perfect deliverer who lived for us, died for us, and rose again so that sinners could stand confidently in God’s presence.
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10 Words to Know Before Sharing the Gospel with Mormons:
https://tilm.org/10-words-to-know-before-sharing-the-gospel-with-mormons/
The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Aaron, Ethan, Noah, and Caleb—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, exploring the second half of the Joseph narrative in Genesis 42–50. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode helps Christians walk alongside those discussions while pointing clearly to the biblical gospel.
In this section of Genesis, Joseph’s brothers travel to Egypt during a devastating famine, unaware that the powerful ruler they stand before is the brother they once sold into slavery. Through a series of tests, Joseph reveals his identity and ultimately offers forgiveness rather than revenge. The story builds toward a powerful reminder that God was working through every hardship—not only to preserve lives during the famine, but to preserve the promise of the Savior.
The interns examine how Joseph’s forgiveness flows from faith in God’s promise rather than from a desire for personal healing or progress. They also explore how the story ultimately centers not on Joseph as a moral example, but on God’s grace in preserving the line through which Jesus would come.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why Joseph chose forgiveness instead of revenge, even when he had the power to punish his brothers.
- The difference between biblical forgiveness and LDS ideas of forgiveness as personal progress.
- Why Joseph’s story is not primarily about moral example but about God’s promise.
- How God preserved the line of the Savior through Jacob’s family despite their sin.
- Why Judah—an unlikely and undeserving choice—receives the promise of the coming Messiah.
- How Old Testament believers lived by faith in the same promise fulfilled in Christ.
- Practical questions to help guide conversations with LDS friends and family about forgiveness and grace.
This episode reminds listeners that the story of Joseph is ultimately about God’s faithfulness to His promise. Even through betrayal, suffering, and broken families, God was preserving the line through which Jesus would come—the Savior who pays our debt, forgives our sins, and secures the eternal inheritance promised to all who trust in Him.
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The Truth in Love Ministry interns—Aaron, Ethan, and Noah—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, walking through Genesis 37–41 and the beginning of Joseph’s story. As Latter-day Saints study these chapters in their Come, Follow Me readings, this episode equips Christians to use Joseph’s life to share the biblical gospel.
From sibling jealousy and betrayal to false accusation and imprisonment, Joseph’s story seems like a spiral of injustice. Yet through every twist and turn, one truth remains constant: the Lord was with Joseph. God preserves His promise—even through family dysfunction, suffering, and human sin.
The interns trace the promise of the Savior from Genesis 3 through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, showing how Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt ultimately serves a greater purpose: preserving the line through which Christ would come. What appears to be chaos is actually divine faithfulness at work.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How Joseph’s suffering fits into God’s larger redemptive plan.
- Why “choosing the right” did not immediately result in earthly blessing for Joseph.
- The difference between biblical suffering and LDS ideas of obedience-based blessing.
- Why God reveals Himself—and where He promises to do so today.
- How Joseph’s life points forward to Christ, who suffers unjustly to save many.
- Comfort for Christians who suffer without knowing “why.”
- Practical ways to discuss revelation, suffering, and blessing with LDS friends and family.
This episode reminds listeners that God’s faithfulness is not measured by present comfort. Joseph’s imprisonment did not mean abandonment, and suffering is not proof of divine displeasure. The same God who preserved Joseph preserves His gospel promise in Christ—the One who bore suffering, overcame death, and guarantees eternal joy beyond this life.
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The interns from Truth in Love Ministry—Aaron, Ethan, Noah, and Caleb—continue their Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast, walking through Genesis 18–22. As Latter-day Saints follow the Come, Follow Me reading plan, this episode helps Christians engage those same chapters and clearly see how they point to Jesus Christ.
In this section of Genesis, the team explores Abraham’s intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah, Lot’s rescue from destruction, the sobering account of Lot’s family, Abraham’s repeated failures, the long-awaited birth of Isaac, and the powerful testing on Mount Moriah. Throughout it all, one theme remains clear: God’s faithfulness does not depend on human perfection.
The interns wrestle honestly with difficult passages—Lot’s hesitation, Lot’s wife, Abraham’s deception, and the testing of Isaac—while highlighting the gospel thread woven through every chapter. From the mercy shown to Lot, to the substitute ram caught in the thicket, to the promised offspring through whom all nations will be blessed, the story repeatedly echoes the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How Lot’s rescue reveals God’s mercy despite human weakness.
- Why righteousness is rooted in faith, not flawless behavior.
- How God works good even through deeply broken situations.
- The difference between biblical testing and LDS views of mortal probation.
- The powerful parallels between Isaac and Jesus on Mount Moriah.
- Why the ram as substitute points directly to Christ as our sacrifice.
- How Genesis 22 reinforces God’s unconditional promise of blessing through the promised Seed.
- Practical questions to help guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
This episode reminds listeners that the story of Abraham is not ultimately about heroic obedience, but about a faithful God who keeps His promises. From Sodom to Moriah, from Isaac’s birth to the substitute sacrifice, these chapters point forward to Jesus—the true promised Son who carries the wood, becomes the substitute, and through whom all nations are blessed.
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The interns from Truth in Love Ministry—Caleb, Aaron, Ethan, and Noah—reunite on the Witnessing Christ Podcast to continue their series, Christ in the Old Testament, by turning to the story of Abram in Genesis chapters 12–17. As Latter-day Saints study this section of Scripture, this episode helps Christians walk alongside those readings and clearly see how God’s promises point forward to Jesus Christ.
In this episode, the interns focus on Abram before his name is changed to Abraham, highlighting God’s unilateral promises and the covenant that depends entirely on God’s action—not Abram’s obedience. They trace God’s repeated “I will” statements, showing how Abram is chosen not because of his faithfulness or righteousness, but purely by God’s grace.
Listeners are taken honestly through Abram’s failures—his fear, deception, and attempts to take God’s promises into his own hands—before arriving at one of the most important verses in the Old Testament: Genesis 15:6, where Abram believes the Lord, and God credits it to him as righteousness. From there, the conversation connects directly to the New Testament explanation in Romans 4, where Paul shows that Abram’s righteousness comes by faith alone, apart from works.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why God’s covenant with Abram is a one-sided promise rooted in grace.
- How Abram’s sins highlight God’s faithfulness, not Abram’s worthiness.
- What it means for righteousness to be credited, not earned.
- Why faith is not a work, but trust in God’s promise.
- How Romans 4 clarifies Genesis 15 for Christians today.
- Key differences between biblical Christianity and LDS teachings on covenants, faith, and works.
- Practical questions to help point LDS friends and family to Christ in this section of Genesis.
This episode reminds listeners that salvation has always been God’s work. Just as Abram was declared righteous by believing God’s promise, Christians today are declared righteous through faith in Jesus Christ—the promised Seed through whom all nations are blessed.
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In this special episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Caleb and Aaron sit down with Pastor Wayne Uhlhorn to introduce him to the Truth in Love Ministry audience and share his heart for Christian witnessing. Recorded on Pastor Uhlhorn’s second day on the job, this conversation offers listeners a chance to get to know one of the newest leaders serving alongside the ministry.
Pastor Uhlhorn reflects on decades of pastoral ministry across the country and his personal experience engaging members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—especially during his time serving congregations in the western United States. From preschool classrooms to neighborhood conversations, he shares how respectful dialogue, listening, and clear proclamation of the gospel shaped his passion for reaching LDS friends with Christ-centered truth.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Pastor Uhlhorn’s background in pastoral ministry and church planting.
- How meaningful relationships with LDS families shaped his approach to witnessing.
- Why Truth in Love Ministry’s mission and direction compelled him to join the team.
- The importance of equipping local congregations to reach their LDS neighbors.
- Why law and gospel—not debate—must remain central in Christian witnessing.
- The need for compassion, patience, and a safe landing place for former Latter-day Saints.
- How Truth in Love resources help Christians speak with confidence and clarity.
This episode highlights the heart behind Truth in Love Ministry: meeting people where they are, listening well, and pointing them to the comfort, assurance, and sufficiency of Jesus Christ. Pastor Uhlhorn’s story reminds listeners that effective witnessing flows from genuine care for people and confidence in the gospel that Jesus truly is enough.
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The interns from Truth in Love Ministry—Caleb, Ethan, and Noah—step away from the Christ in the Old Testament series for a special episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast to reflect on their recent mission trip to Gilbert, Arizona. Joined by students from Martin Luther College and several pastors, the team spent a week engaging members and missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with the goal of planting gospel seeds and pointing people to the sufficiency of Christ.
In this mission trip debrief, the interns share what it looked like to go door-to-door, engage in gospel conversations, and lovingly challenge LDS assumptions—not through debate, but through Scripture, storytelling, and patience. They unpack the biblical framework behind their outreach, especially the concepts of seed-planting, law and gospel, and “shelf items,” while reflecting on both the encouragements and discouragements that come with this kind of mission work.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why Truth in Love emphasizes seed planting rather than immediate results.
- How the Parable of the Sower shapes a biblical approach to evangelism.
- Why the Parable of the Prodigal Sons was central to their door-to-door conversations.
- How storytelling evangelism opens doors to gospel conversations without confrontation.
- What “breaking shelves” really means—and why Christ must remain when they fall.
- Honest reflections on doubt, discouragement, and trusting the Holy Spirit for growth.
- How this trip strengthened the interns’ own faith and understanding of grace.
This episode reminds listeners that witnessing is not about visible success or instant conversions, but about faithfully proclaiming Christ and trusting God to work in His time. Whether planting the first seed, adding another link in the chain, or simply walking alongside someone with questions, God uses His Word to bring sinners from darkness into light.
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The interns from Truth in Love Ministry—Caleb and Noah—continue the Christ in the Old Testament series on the Witnessing Christ Podcast by turning to one of the most well-known stories in Scripture: Noah and the Flood. As Latter-day Saints study this section of the Old Testament, this episode walks alongside those readings to show how the story of Noah is ultimately about God’s grace and the righteousness that comes by faith in Christ.
In this episode, Caleb and Noah explore Genesis 6–9, addressing humanity’s deep corruption, God’s righteous judgment, and His merciful preservation of a remnant. They carefully unpack why Noah is described as “righteous” and “blameless,” showing from Scripture that Noah was not saved because of his obedience, but because of his faith in God’s promise. The ark itself becomes a powerful picture of salvation—God providing the means of rescue while shutting the door Himself.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why Scripture teaches that every human heart is corrupted by sin—including Noah’s.
- How Noah’s righteousness comes by faith, not works (Hebrews 11:7).
- The significance of God shutting Noah into the ark—judgment and grace at the same time.
- How the flood reveals God’s justice without undermining His mercy.
- Why God’s covenant with Noah is unilateral and grounded entirely in grace.
- How the rainbow points forward to Christ bearing God’s wrath in our place.
- Practical ways to discuss Noah, faith, and righteousness with LDS friends and family.
This episode reminds listeners that Noah’s story is not ultimately about human obedience, but about a faithful God who saves sinners by grace. Just as Noah trusted in God’s promise, Christians today are declared righteous through faith in Jesus Christ—the true ark of salvation who rescues us from judgment and brings us safely into God’s presence.
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The interns from Truth in Love Ministry—Caleb, Aaron, Ethan, and Noah—continue their takeover of the Witnessing Christ Podcast with the next episode in their new series, Christ in the Old Testament. As Latter-day Saints work through the Old Testament this year, this series walks alongside those readings to show how every chapter ultimately points to Jesus Christ.
In this episode, the interns turn to Genesis chapters 3–5, exploring the Fall into sin and its devastating consequences. They unpack Satan’s deception in the Garden, humanity’s loss of innocence, and the immediate effects of sin—shame, blame, separation, and death. But at the center of the Fall is not just bad news. In Genesis 3:15, God makes the first gospel promise, revealing that the Seed of the woman will crush the serpent’s head. The interns show how this promise points directly to Jesus, who comes to undo what Adam destroyed.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why the Fall is a tragic rebellion against God—not a necessary or “good” step forward.
- How Genesis 3:15 serves as the first clear promise of Christ in Scripture.
- What Scripture teaches about sin, death, and humanity’s separation from God.
- Key differences between biblical Christianity and LDS theology regarding the Fall.
- How Romans 5 explains Jesus as the Second Adam who reverses the curse of sin.
- Practical ways to use Genesis 3–5 to point LDS friends and family to Christ alone for salvation.
This episode reminds listeners that while humanity fell into sin through Adam, God immediately stepped in with a promise of redemption. From the very beginning, salvation is God’s work—fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who restores what was lost in the Fall.
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The interns from Truth in Love Ministry—Caleb, Aaron, Ethan, and Noah—officially take over the Witnessing Christ Podcast to launch a brand-new series: Christ in the Old Testament. As Latter-day Saints study the Old Testament this year, this series walks alongside those readings to show how every page of Scripture points to Jesus Christ.
In this kickoff episode, the interns dive into Genesis chapters 1 and 2, asking a bold but biblical question: Is Jesus really present in the very beginning? Drawing connections between Genesis and John 1, they show how Christ—the eternal Word—is active in creation, revealing the Triune God at work from the very first verse of the Bible.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why Genesis is not a fairy tale, but God’s true and purposeful beginning.
- How Jesus is present at creation, even though his name isn’t explicitly mentioned.
- What it truly means to be made in the image of God—and how that image is restored in Christ.
- Key differences between biblical Christianity and LDS theology regarding creation, Jesus, and humanity.
- How Genesis 1–2 lays the groundwork for grace, redemption, and the restored creation promised in Revelation.
- Practical ways to use these chapters to guide gospel conversations with LDS friends and family.
This episode sets the foundation for the entire series, reminding listeners that the God who saves in Christ is the same God who spoke the universe into existence—and that the story of redemption begins “In the beginning.”
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In this second and concluding episode on Sinner Saint: A Surprising Primer for the Christian Life, Pastor Mark Parsons is joined again by Molly, Noah, Caleb, Aaron, and Ethan to wrestle with the heart of the Christian life: what it really means to live as someone who is fully forgiven and still deeply flawed.
This episode centers on the often-forgotten doctrine of imputation—the “great exchange” where Christ takes our sin and credits us with His righteousness—and why this truth is essential for assurance, comfort, and faithful witnessing to Latter-day Saints. From there, the conversation expands into sanctification, common myths about Christian growth, and what real transformation actually looks like in the life of a believer.
Key themes include:
- Why imputation is a status, not a process—and how God truly sees us in Christ.
- How the gospel answers objections like “cheap grace” and the fear of “couch-potato Christianity.”
- Why sanctification is God’s work, not a measurable self-improvement project.
- The difference between growing up spiritually and growing down—deeper into reliance on Jesus.
- How compassion, not judgment, should define the church’s response to sin.
- Why wrestling with God, ongoing struggle, and even pain can be signs of spiritual life—not failure.
The episode closes with the comforting reminder that while Christians may be great sinners, we have an even greater Savior—and that Jesus truly is the Friend of sinners.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Pastor Mark Parsons is joined by Molly, Caleb, Aaron, Noah, and Ethan to discuss Sinner Saint: A Surprising Primer for the Christian Life by Pastor Luke Kjolhaug (or as the interns say—however you pronounce it!). Together, they unpack one of the most honest and freeing truths of the Christian faith: that believers are simultaneously sinners and saints (simul justus et peccator).
Through personal stories, Scripture, and laughter, the group explores:
- Why recognizing our sin and our sainthood at the same time is crucial for understanding grace.
- How Paul’s struggle in Romans 7 captures every Christian’s daily reality.
- Why “progress” in faith isn’t about becoming sinless, but about trusting Christ more deeply.
- The difference between how Latter-day Saints and biblical Christians understand the word saint—and why that difference matters.
- What the lives of Moses, Abraham, David, and Paul teach us about God using deeply flawed people for His glory.
- How a proper view of Law and Gospel helps us rest in what Christ has done, not what we’re trying to prove.
This episode reminds us that being a Christian isn’t about looking perfect—it’s about being honest about our brokenness and clinging to the One who calls us righteous.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Pastor Mark Parsons reunites with Molly, Caleb, Noah, Ethan, and Aaron to dive into the Gospel half of Law & Gospel—moving from God’s “alien work” (law) to his “proper work” (good news about a Person). Together they explore how the gospel is not advice or a checklist, but news—objective, finished, and for you.
They unpack:
- Gospel as News (not advice): The message comes from outside us and announces what Christ has already done.
- Gospel as Person: Jesus isn’t mainly an example; he’s the Substitute who fulfilled the law, bled, died, and rose.
- Gospel as Gift: Why unconditional grace offends our need for control—and why that’s exactly what sets us free.
- What the Gospel Gives: Forgiveness that’s paid for, justification that’s declared, and comfort that’s objective (not based on feelings).
- Fruits of the Gospel (not the law): Humility, receptivity, gratitude, love, spontaneity, humor, and real freedom—produced by the Spirit, not by white-knuckled effort.
- Witnessing to Latter-day Saints: Clear contrasts between “laws of the gospel” and the Bible’s announcement that “It is finished.”
Come for the theology; stay for the freedom that lets you stop performing and start resting in Christ—and then love your neighbor with joy.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, host Pastor Mark Parsons is joined by Molly, Caleb, Noah, Ethan, and Aaron to explore one of Christianity’s most important distinctions — the difference between God’s Law and His Gospel — and how properly understanding that difference changes everything, from personal faith to witnessing to Latter-day Saints.
The team explores:
- How the Law exposes our sin and our illusion of control, showing that “we can’t — and that’s the point.”
- The “Big L” Law (God’s commands) vs. the “little l” laws of culture, performance, and perfectionism.
- Why even good things (like Bible reading or moral behavior) can become crushing when turned into metrics of worth.
- How the Law always accuses — even when we think we’re “pulling it off.”
- Why recognizing our deadness is not bad news but the very thing that prepares us for life in Christ.
Using humor, personal stories, and deep biblical insight, the interns discuss how the Law leaves us desperate — not to destroy us, but to drive us to the One who brings life.
Next week, they’ll continue the conversation with the Gospel section — the “good news from across the sea.”
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In this follow-up episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, host Pastor Parsons continues the conversation with evangelist interns Noah, Caleb, Aaron, and Ethan as they conclude their discussion on Keep Showing Up: A Utah Pastor’s Journey by Pastor Scott McKinney.
Picking up from Part 1, the group explores the final chapters of McKinney’s ministry story—where theology meets compassion and the call to “keep showing up” becomes both personal and practical. Centered on Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4), this episode dives deep into how that story parallels gospel work among Latter-day Saints today.
Together they discuss:
- The cost of leaving Mormonism and the deep relational ties that make it so difficult.
- Why truth and love must always go hand in hand in witnessing—and the danger of falling into either ditch.
- How Jesus’ example in Samaria teaches us to show up, settle in, reach out, and share the good news with humility and courage.
- “Pork chop theology” and why the gospel is the satisfying feast every soul truly craves.
- Practical encouragement for anyone planting gospel seeds in difficult soil: your labor in the Lord is never in vain.
This thoughtful conclusion reminds listeners that mission work is rarely quick or easy—but every conversation, every act of love, and every prayer matters. Through Jesus’ example and Pastor McKinney’s story, we learn that faithful ministry in Mormon culture (and anywhere else) starts with showing up… and never giving up.
📘 Get the book: https://www.amazon.in/Keep-Showing-Up-Pastors-Journey/dp/1737032503
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When Every Mouth Is Silenced
In this week’s podcast episode, Missionary Mark Parsons shares a message inspired by his time at the 1517 Conference, Free Will Is Fiction, commemorating 500 years since Martin Luther’s The Bondage of the Will. Luther’s work reminds us that our will is not free when it comes to salvation—we are bound in sin and unable to reach up to God. Yet the gospel tells a far better story: God, in mercy, reaches down to us.
This sermon is based on Paul’s incredible words in Romans 3:19–28, where every mouth is silenced and the whole world is held accountable before God. In that silence, the righteousness of God is revealed apart from the law—a righteousness given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
Mark’s sermon, When Every Mouth Is Silenced, explores the futility of self-righteousness and the peace that comes when every excuse is quieted—not by condemnation, but by mercy. It’s a message for anyone weary of trying to prove their worth or earn God’s favor, offering rest in the grace of the One whose will alone brings life.
It’s also a gentle invitation for those from a Latter-day Saint background wrestling with ideas of agency, worthiness, and grace. This message isn’t confrontational—it’s freeing.
Listen now and be reminded that when every mouth is silenced, every heart can finally hear the voice of mercy.
Read the accompanying blog: When Every Mouth Is Silenced.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, four evangelist interns — Noah, Aaron, Caleb, and Ethan — join the conversation to unpack Keep Showing Up: A Utah Pastor’s Journey by Pastor Scott McKinney, who faithfully served over 30 years at Center Point Church in Orem, Utah.
Together with host Pastor Mark Parsons, the interns explore what it means to serve in the heart of Mormon country and how McKinney’s story reveals the challenges, joys, and gospel-centered perseverance required in ministry. They discuss:
- How McKinney’s personal story and early experiences shaped his heart for outreach in LDS communities.
- The shift from a“fortress mentality” to a mission-driven mindset focused on loving people as God does.
- The struggle between measuring ministry “success” by numbers versus faithfulness to the gospel.
- Why less is more—and how “Jesus is enough” counters the gospel of “more” found in Mormon culture.
- Key lessons for future pastors on building relationships, showing empathy, and keeping the main thing the main thing.
Filled with thoughtful reflections and practical takeaways, this episode encourages all Christians—not just future pastors—to “keep showing up” with the love of Christ, even in challenging ministry environments.
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Witnessing Christ Podcast: Grand Junction Temple Experience
Each time a new Latter-day Saint temple opens, Christians have a unique opportunity to understand Mormon beliefs better and lovingly point people to the true temple—Christ himself.
In this episode, Pastor Mark Parsons and our evangelist interns share their experience touring the Grand Junction Temple during its open house and leading a Build Bridges, Not Barriers witnessing conference. Together, they discuss what they saw, the conversations they had, and how these experiences shaped their hearts for the lost.
Listeners will gain insight into:
- What temple open houses reveal about the LDS view of worthiness, family, and eternal life
- Simple, respectful ways to start gospel conversations in LDS settings
- Why witnessing isn’t about winning arguments—but planting seeds and trusting the Holy Spirit
Whether you’ve never stepped inside an LDS temple or you regularly talk with Mormon friends, this episode will encourage you to approach every interaction with compassion, confidence, and Christ at the center.
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In this episode of Witnessing Christ, host Pastor Mark Parsons welcomes this year’s four evangelist interns—Ethan, Noah, Caleb, and Aaron—for a special discussion on the October General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Each intern brings firsthand insights from watching or attending local sessions, reflecting on the experience through the lens of gospel-centered outreach.
Introducing the Interns
Listeners meet the 2024–25 intern cohort: Ethan, a soon-to-be Lutheran pastor from Minnesota; Caleb, an avid outdoorsman from an Air Force family; Noah, a second-year seminarian newly married to his high school sweetheart; and Aaron, the group’s youngest member and duck boat driver from Wisconsin Dells. Each shares their background and passion for outreach.
Initial Impressions of General Conference
The interns discuss the atmosphere of the LDS General Conference—its polished formality and emotional weight following the recent death of President Russell M. Nelson. Dallin Oaks presided, reaffirming the 1995 Family: A Proclamation to the World, which reemphasized traditional LDS views on marriage, gender, and eternal family structures.
Several interns note the grandeur and emotional tone yet describe a recurring sense of emptiness—a focus on effort and presentation without the assurance of grace.
Highlights from Individual Talks
Each intern unpacks a specific conference message:
- Aaron reviews Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s Do Your Part with All Your Heart, noting the stress-inducing message of wholehearted effort. The team contrasts this with biblical assurance that Jesus did His part completely.
- Caleb examines Gary Stevenson’s Blessed Are the Peacemakers, which focuses on harmony in families. He observes that true peace begins with reconciliation to God through Christ, not merely human effort.
- Ethan explores Chad H. Webb’s That All May Be Edified, which emphasizes learning through obedience. He notes the talk’s subtle shift from gospel promise to personal performance, redefining grace as something accessed through covenant keeping.
- Noah analyzes Michael Cziesla's Simplicity in Christ, which promises peace through continual diligence. He contrasts this with the true simplicity of the gospel—that Christ has done everything necessary for eternal life with God.
Pastor Parsons and the interns reflect that across the talks, Christ was often mentioned but rarely proclaimed as the one who accomplished redemption fully. Instead, obedience and covenant-keeping were emphasized as the means to access grace.
Pastor Parsons also highlights two significant LDS updates:
- A pause on new temple announcements
- A reported surge in conversions
Witnessing Reflections
The conversation closes with key takeaways for Christian witnesses:
- Ask Mormons open-ended questions about what Jesus has done for them and what they base their faith on—their testimony or Christ’s finished work.
- Listen with curiosity and compassion, creating a safe space for doubts and reflection.
- Point conversations from human effort toward divine grace, emphasizing reconciliation through Jesus alone.
This week on Jesus Is Enough, we bring you the powerful conclusion to Emilie’s story of leaving Mormonism after 39 years and finding true freedom in Christ.
After a lifetime of striving for perfection, Emilie finally encounters the promises of Scripture—assurances of mercy, peace, and a God far greater than she ever imagined. The weight of works-based faith gives way to the comfort of knowing that she can boldly approach God’s throne, not because of what she’s done, but because of what Jesus has already accomplished.
Mark and Molly Parsons reflect on Emilie’s testimony, highlighting the peace of Philippians 4 and the hope of Hebrews 4, and showing how the gospel transforms anxiety, perfectionism, and fear into confidence, rest, and joy. Emilie’s journey reminds us that the true God is bigger, more merciful, and more loving than we could ever earn—and that in Christ, we are hidden, forgiven, and free.
Tune in and be encouraged: Jesus really is enough.
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This week on Jesus Is Enough, we bring you Part 3 of Emilie’s moving story of leaving Mormonism after 39 years and discovering the true hope of Jesus.
As Emilie enters marriage, she clings to the belief that she has finally found stability. But just when hope begins to rise, tragedy strikes—shattering her world and forcing her to confront the painful reality of works-based faith. The devastating loss not only impacts Emilie but also reveals how deeply the message of perfectionism had entangled her family, leaving them burdened by an impossible standard.
Mark and Molly Parsons reflect on this heartbreaking chapter of Emilie’s journey, helping listeners see the crushing weight of Mormonism’s demand for perfection—and the liberating truth of the gospel. They share how Emilie’s story points us back to the cleansing power of Christ’s blood, which offers forgiveness for every sin and a confidence to boldly approach God’s throne, not because of what we’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done for us.
Tune in and be reminded: even in life’s deepest tragedies, Jesus is enough.
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This week on Jesus Is Enough, we bring you Part 2 of Emilie’s powerful journey of leaving Mormonism after 39 years and discovering the freedom found in Jesus.
Emilie continues to wrestle with perfectionism, seeking validation in a new, unexpected relationship. But as the pressure mounts and long-held secrets come to light, the carefully constructed facade of her life—and the foundation of her Mormon faith—begins to crumble. In the midst of uncertainty and self-doubt, God’s truth starts to break through, revealing that grace is not something to earn but a gift freely given.
Mark and Molly Parsons reflect on Emilie’s experiences, guiding listeners to understand the struggles of those trapped in works-based religion and how the love of Christ offers true freedom. Through Emilie’s story, we see the tension between striving for perfection and resting in the sufficiency of Jesus, a tension that resonates with anyone burdened by the impossible demands of earning God’s favor.
Tune in and be reminded: your worth isn’t measured by performance—Jesus is enough.
Watch the video version or support this project at TILM.org/radio, and share with your friends who need to hear this powerful story.
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This week on Jesus Is Enough, we bring you Part 1 of Emilie’s compelling story of leaving Mormonism after 39 years and discovering the life-changing truth of Jesus.
Raised in a devout Latter-day Saint home, Emilie spent decades striving to be perfect—perfectly obedient, perfectly righteous, perfectly enough to earn God’s favor. Her faith was measured in works, her worth tied to performance, and the weight of perfectionism pressed heavily on her every day. She believed that only by cleaning herself up and achieving a certain level of righteousness could she approach God.
But as Emilie’s story unfolds, God begins to show her that salvation is not something she can earn. Through the lens of her upbringing, Emilie’s journey highlights the contrast between striving under the law and resting in the grace of Jesus. Her story is a vivid reminder that God’s love isn’t transactional—it’s freely given.
Mark and Molly Parsons offer reflections that guide listeners to understand Emilie’s experience, helping Christians cultivate empathy and courage when engaging with friends still bound by works-based faith. They explore how Mormon teachings on obedience and “blessings earned” can trap believers in a cycle of performance, and how the perfect obedience of Christ offers true freedom.
Tune in and be reminded: you don’t have to earn God’s favor—Jesus is enough.
Watch the video version or support this project at TILM.org/radio, and share with your friends who need to hear this powerful story.
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This week, we bring you the final chapter of Erik’s Jesus is Enough story—a journey of healing, grace, and new beginnings.
After navigating the pain of divorce and the upheaval of his former life, Erik begins to embrace his new reality. In the midst of uncertainty, he encounters someone whose life demonstrates the unearned grace of God in a way he had never seen before—showing him that even those who feel most undeserving are fully known and fully loved. For Erik, this realization marks a turning point, as he leans fully into faith in Jesus Christ rather than relying on performance or self-effort.
Following Erik’s story, Mark and Molly Parsons reflect on the profound power of grace, especially in contexts—like Mormonism—where it is often misunderstood or overlooked. They discuss how God meets broken people in their need, offering hope and transformation, and how true faith isn’t about control or checklist obedience, but about surrender to Christ.
This episode is a powerful conclusion to Erik’s story, reminding us that grace doesn’t just cover our past mistakes—it opens the door to new chapters, new relationships, and a life built on the unshakable foundation of Jesus.
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Watch Erik's full story here.
This week, we bring you Part 4 of Erik’s Jesus is Enough story—a chapter marked by unexpected loss, raw questions, and surprising encounters with grace.
Life was unfolding according to plan—until it wasn’t. When a personal crisis shakes the foundation of his carefully built world, Erik finds himself angry, disoriented, and searching for answers. A support group of unlikely companions becomes a refuge, and one man’s messy-yet-hope-filled life gives Erik a living example of grace in action. It’s here, in the middle of pain and uncertainty, that Erik begins to see the difference between a works-based checklist and the gospel’s unearned gift.
Following Erik’s story, Mark and Molly Parsons unpack the cultural backdrop—how pop culture portrayals of Mormonism can open doors (and landmines) in conversations, why archaeological claims about the Book of Mormon often collapse on their own, and the importance of building a solid trust in the Bible rather than just dismantling LDS teachings. They also explore how Mormon views of marriage and “eternal families” can intensify the pain of divorce—and why the LDS answer of “do more” falls short of the hope and comfort found in the Bible. Finally, they reflect on how God often uses deeply broken people to display the beauty of his grace, just as he did for Erik through an unexpected friend.
This episode is a powerful reminder that grace doesn’t wait for our lives to be in order—it meets us in the wreckage, offering hope, healing, and a new foundation in Christ.
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This week, we bring you Part 3 of Erik’s compelling Jesus is Enough story—his journey from devoted Mormon missionary to a man gripped by the beauty and truth of the biblical gospel.
While serving his mission, Erik is offered a rare opportunity to study in Jerusalem. Eager to deepen his Mormon faith in the very land where Jesus walked, he dives into the experience with enthusiasm. But as he begins comparing the Bible to the Book of Mormon, cracks appear. Discrepancies between Jesus’ words in the New Testament and LDS teachings spark unsettling questions. What started as an exciting faith-affirming trip becomes an eye-opening confrontation with the truth—and with the Savior Himself.
Following Erik’s story, Mark and Molly Parsons reflect on the surprising role an NIV Bible played in his journey, and why modern translations can be so significant for Latter-day Saints accustomed only to the King James Version. They explore how the Bible’s unflinching honesty about human brokenness stands in stark contrast to the sanitized narratives many Mormons are taught, and how that raw truth elevates God’s grace rather than human achievement. You’ll also hear their insights on the deep, multi-layered nature of Scripture—and why creating opportunities for LDS friends to encounter God’s Word is one of the most powerful things Christians can do.
This episode will challenge and encourage you to trust the transformative power of Bible, and to see how God uses even unexpected detours to lead people to the realization that grace can’t be earned—only received.
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Watch Erik's full story here.
What happens when your view of God is shaped by fear, duty, and distance?
In Part 2 of Erik’s story, we journey with a young man navigating personal tragedy, theological hunger, and a growing desire for something more than perfectionism and pretending. After the sudden death of his father, Erik finds himself asking what he calls “the great and terrible questions”—Where did my dad go? Am I doing enough? Can I ever be worthy?
Still deeply committed to Mormonism, Erik throws himself into LDS mission work. But an unexpected phone call with a bold Christian shakes his assumptions. When the man says, “That’s my Lord you’re talking about,” Erik begins to wonder: could a relationship with God actually be relational? Could Jesus belong to him, and not just the other way around?
What follows is a season of unexpected curiosity. As Erik visits Christian churches, hears historic creeds for the first time, and digs deeper into the Bible, the God he once feared starts to look more like a Father he can know.
Be sure to stick around for the end of the episode—you won’t want to miss Mark and Molly Parsons’ commentary. They unpack Erik’s story with insight and encouragement for Christian witnesses, sharing how grief often opens the door to grace, and how simple conversations (even the messy ones) can plant seeds that last.
In this episode:
- What grief taught Erik about eternity
- How Mormon views of Heavenly Father mirror earthly relationships
- The impact of one Christian’s loyalty to Jesus
- Why biblical creeds and church history intrigued Erik
- What it means to witness with both truth and tenderness
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Watch Erik's full story here.
This week, we bring you Part 1 of Erik’s powerful Jesus Is Enough story of growing up in Mormonism—and the unexpected early glimpse he got into grace.
Raised by devout Latter-day Saint parents, Erik’s childhood was steeped in the culture, expectations, and structure of Mormon life. But when a classroom “cash” crisis meets his mom’s creative intervention, Erik is introduced to something entirely different: an undeserved gift that he did not—and could not—earn. What seemed at first like a questionable parenting decision turned out to be a vivid parable of the gospel’s scandalous beauty.
Alongside Erik’s story, Mark and Molly Parsons offer meaningful reflections for Christian listeners. They invite us to see Erik’s journey not only as a testimony of grace breaking through but as a way to grow in empathy, understanding, and gospel-centered boldness when talking with Mormon friends. You’ll also hear how the LDS church’s increased focus on the Bible is opening unexpected doors—and how a discarded book (The Miracle of Forgiveness) signaled Erik’s growing awareness of the true message of Jesus.
This episode is a must-listen for Christians who want to bridge the gap between theological knowledge and a genuine heart for those still trapped in a works-based system.
Tune in and be reminded: grace isn’t earned—it’s received.
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Watch Erik's full story here.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ, Mark and Molly recap the 2025 Idaho Falls mission trip, where over 100 Christian missionaries—including 77 high school and college students—spent a week sharing the gospel in a community where 60% identify as Latter-day Saints.
Rather than leading with confrontation, this year’s outreach focused on Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son, inviting deep and personal spiritual conversations. Mark and Molly reflect on why this shift in approach opened doors—both literally and figuratively—as they recount stories of Mormons wrestling with perfectionism, questioning their worthiness, or feeling disconnected from God. Many, like “Tom,” a temple-attending man recovering from a heart attack, or “Kara,” who opened the final door after a long afternoon of rejections, found comfort in hearing that their worth comes not from what they do, but what Christ has done for them.
The episode also explores the students’ transformation from nervous door knockers to bold gospel witnesses, the cultural shifts in modern Mormonism, and the remarkable receptiveness of a hurting community. You’ll hear how even small questions like “What’s your favorite Bible story?” sparked gospel-centered discussions and led to divine appointments.
Whether you supported this trip through prayer, donations, or curiosity, this behind-the-scenes recap will encourage your heart and inspire you to marvel at what God is doing in the hearts of those both inside and outside the LDS faith.
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What happens when the Mormon shelf finally breaks—and Jesus is the one standing in the rubble?
In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, we welcome Damien Tracy, author of The Shelf Breaker: How Jesus Drew Our Family Out of Mormonism.
Damien vulnerably shares his journey from moral collapse and spiritual exhaustion to the freeing grace of the true gospel. Through legal and personal struggles, Damien attempted to regain worthiness, but the weight of perfectionism ultimately crushed him.
What broke Damien’s shelf wasn’t scandal or bitterness. It was the overwhelming love of Christ and the faithfulness of Christian friends who patiently walked beside him. Hear how God used Roy and Mary, a kind Christian couple, to model friendship, plant gospel seeds, and create a safe place for questions.
This conversation will equip and inspire Christian witnesses with practical examples of:
- What cognitive dissonance feels like for Mormons
- How to become a trustworthy friend before you become a theological guide
- Why patience, presence, and small steps matter
- How the gospel transforms not just beliefs, but marriages, families, and identity
Listen now to see how God uses humble witnesses to reflect the light of Christ to those burdened by works-based religion.
For more from Damien, check out our review of his book "The Shelf Breaker: How Jesus Drew Our Family Out of Mormonism."
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, we sit down with Brandi Bronson, author of The Journey to Jesus: Finding Christ After Leaving Mormonism. Brandi shares her powerful story of growing up in a devoted LDS family, her eventual unraveling of deeply rooted beliefs, and how she came to know the true gospel of Christ. With honesty and grace, Brandi opens up about the emotional, cultural, and theological challenges of leaving Mormonism and the radical shift that occurred when she encountered the real Jesus of the Bible.
Alongside evangelist intern Calvin, Brandi discusses the pitfalls of relying on feelings as truth, the role of evidence and humility in her conversion, and the importance of asking the right questions when witnessing to Mormons. Brandi's insights will challenge and equip Christians to better understand the LDS mindset and lovingly point others to the sufficiency of Christ's righteousness.
Whether you're engaging with someone currently in the LDS church, supporting a questioning friend, or simply wanting to grow in gospel compassion, this conversation is both eye-opening and deeply encouraging.
Listen now and share with others seeking to reach Mormons with the true hope of the gospel.
In this episode, we sit down with Michael Flournoy, author of Tearing the Veil: A Guide for Sharing Grace with Mormons. Once a zealous Mormon missionary and amateur LDS apologist, Michael shares the incredible story of how a three-hour debate on grace, authority, and the nature of God began his journey out of Mormonism—and into the arms of Jesus.
Joined by our interns, Grace and Charlie, we explore Michael’s unique witnessing approach called the IRIS method, which breaks down the gospel into four key concepts: Impossible Standard, Reckoned Righteousness, Indomitable Gift, and Settled in Faith. Michael offers practical advice on utilizing Mormon vocabulary to convey biblical truths, explains why Christians should read the Book of Mormon when witnessing, and discusses the importance of playing the long game in gospel conversations.
This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone passionate about sharing the truth of God’s grace with Latter-day Saints. Whether you’re preparing for door-to-door outreach, engaging in spiritual conversations with missionaries, or just beginning to understand the Mormon mindset, Michael’s testimony and tactics will equip and encourage you.
For more from Michael, check out our review of his book "Tearing the Veil."
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In this heartfelt and honest conclusion to our two-part intern reflection, join Calvin, Grace, Jon, and Charlie as they pull back the curtain on the more stretching, surprising, and soul-shaping moments of their internship with Truth in Love Ministry.
You’ll hear stories of…
- Emotional highs and lows from online witnessing and facing spiritual resistance
- Team camaraderie and grace-filled encouragement through tough conversations
- Creative challenges—like making evangelistic reels and handling overwhelming comment sections
- Personal transformation in how they understand ministry, teamwork, technology, and outreach
- How witnessing stretched their faith and shaped their approach to the next season of life and ministry
If you've ever doubted your preparedness or felt drained by the call to reach the lost, this conversation will remind you of what God can do through ordinary people with a bold love for the truth.
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In this special episode of the Witnessing Christ podcast, we sit down with our 2024–2025 intern team—John, Charlie, Calvin, and Grace—as they reflect on a transformative year of evangelism, discipleship, and growth. From online conversations to temple visits and late-night theology papers, these young missionaries share how God shaped their hearts, sharpened their witness, and deepened their understanding of the sufficiency of Christ.
What to Expect:
- Spiritual Insights: Hear how each intern grappled with the suffocating burden of self-made righteousness in Mormonism and came to cherish the full sufficiency of Christ’s righteousness—imputed, not earned.
- Powerful Passages: Discover the Scripture verses that became lifelines for them in the mission field—Galatians 2, Colossians 2, Hebrews, and more—and how these verses ministered to their own hearts as well as to those they witnessed to.
- Hard Conversations: Listen in as the interns recount real-life moments—from emotionally charged online arguments to vulnerable face-to-face encounters with missionaries—where the Spirit used them in ways they never expected.
- Personal Growth: Get a glimpse into how their view of ministry changed, including the challenge of dividing law and gospel, the limits of apologetics, and the beauty of trusting the Word to do the heavy lifting.
- Words of Encouragement: If you’ve ever felt unequipped to witness, you’ll be inspired by their reminders: God doesn’t need your perfect words—He needs your faithful heart, your honest story, and your willingness to trust Him.
Whether you're new to witnessing or a seasoned outreach leader, this episode offers a compelling reminder: Jesus is enough, not just for eternal life, but for everyday gospel conversations.
Be sure to join us for Part 2, where the interns discuss the surprises, team dynamics, and how they plan to apply this experience to their future ministry callings.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Pastor Mark Parsons delivers a compelling sermon on Romans 3:19–28, diving into one of the most foundational questions of the Christian faith: How can a sinful human being stand righteous before a holy God?
This passage—hailed by Martin Luther as the heart of the gospel and the center of the Bible—draws a clear distinction between law and gospel. Pastor Mark brings it to life by exposing modern distortions of both and unpacking the four theological "views" that shape our beliefs: our view of God, humanity, the law, and the gospel.
Through engaging illustrations—from Reformation history to Santa Claus and even Taylor Swift—Mark shows how false gospels, whether from 16th-century Rome or today’s culture, all fall into the same trap: mixing God’s free gift with our flawed efforts. He contrasts the popular idea of "doing your best and God will do the rest" with the biblical message that salvation is entirely by grace through faith—apart from works.
Drawing from the Day of Atonement and the imagery of the mercy seat, Pastor Mark explains how the righteousness we need isn’t infused or earned—but imputed, gifted freely through the shed blood of Jesus. Our sins aren’t polished—they’re covered by the perfect sacrifice.
Listeners will leave not only with a clearer understanding of Romans 3, but also with renewed confidence in the gospel that sets hearts free. Whether you’re engaging with someone who believes in works-based righteousness or struggling with your own conscience, this episode provides gospel clarity and witnessing encouragement.
Key Takeaway:
You don’t need to stay up at night wondering if you’ve done enough. You haven’t—and that’s the point. Jesus has. Stand righteous before God not by your effort, but by his finished work, given freely by grace through faith.
In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Pastor Mark Parsons shares an outreach sermon based on the rich and relational account of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well in John chapter 4. More than a beautiful moment of personal transformation, this story offers a masterclass in witnessing—showing us how to move from curiosity to gospel clarity in spiritual conversations.
Pastor Mark highlights how Jesus models a wise, gracious approach in engaging someone from a rival religious background—one that echoes the challenges Christians often face when witnessing to Latter-day Saints. Like the Samaritans, the LDS community shares some familiar language and biblical elements, but with rival scriptures, priesthoods, and temples. Rather than debating every doctrinal difference, Jesus leads the woman from physical thirst to spiritual need, revealing himself as the source of living water.
Listeners will walk step by step through this iconic conversation, seeing how Jesus:
- Goes intentionally to Samaria—crossing cultural and religious boundaries.
- Opens the door with a simple question and listens with care.
- Gently reveals sin, not to shame, but to open the door for grace.
- Leads the woman from religious confusion to a clear understanding of the Messiah.
Pastor Mark shares how this passage has shaped his own approach when witnessing to Latter-day Saints—including a moving story about a visit to the Mesa, Arizona LDS temple, where a picture of Jesus and the woman at the well sparked an unexpected gospel conversation with a young missionary.
This episode encourages every believer to move beyond debate toward genuine gospel dialogue. Whether you're speaking with a Mormon friend, a coworker from another faith, or someone disillusioned with religion, Jesus’ encounter in John 4 shows us how to offer living water, not just correct answers.
Key Takeaway:
We are not called to win arguments—we are called to share Jesus. Like the woman at the well, those who receive the living water of Christ can’t help but run to tell others, “Come and see.”
In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, we share a sermon from Pastor Mark Parsons titled The Rescue, based on Ephesians 2:1–10. This message powerfully explores the heart of the gospel: that salvation is not something we contribute to, but something entirely accomplished by Christ and received through faith.
Pastor Mark begins by linking two important passages—Numbers 21 and John 3. In Numbers, God instructs Moses to lift up a bronze serpent so that anyone bitten by snakes could look at it and live. Jesus later refers to this moment in John 3 to explain his own mission: “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up.” These passages reveal a central truth—salvation comes not by doing, but by looking in faith to the one lifted up for us.
To bring this message to life, Pastor Mark shares the compelling real-world story of the 2018 Thai cave rescue, using it as an extended illustration of what it means to be truly rescued. Like the twelve boys trapped in a dark, flooded cave with no way out, we were spiritually dead—unable to save ourselves. The rescue required skilled divers to come from the outside, carry the boys out one by one, and do everything for them. Some initially suggested training the boys to swim their way out, but rescuers quickly realized that wouldn’t work. The boys couldn’t contribute to their escape—they could only trust their rescuers.
In the same way, Ephesians 2 tells us that we were dead in our sins, not merely struggling or needing guidance. But God, rich in mercy, made us alive in Christ. We are saved by grace, through faith, and even that faith is a gift, not something we generate. Not by works, so that no one can boast.
This episode equips Christians with a vivid and relatable way to explain the gospel, especially when speaking with those who believe their eternal life depends on personal worthiness or moral improvement. The story of the cave rescue becomes a moving picture of the biblical truth that we don’t rescue ourselves—Jesus does.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ, Mark is joined by Grace and Charlie to explore Tearing the Veil: A Guide for Sharing Grace with Mormons by Michael Flournoy. This insightful book, written by a former LDS apologist turned Christian, is a practical tool designed to equip Christians to witness effectively to Latter-day Saints.
The conversation highlights Flournoy’s unique perspective as a seventh-generation Mormon who once sought to defend his faith but was ultimately converted by the very words of Scripture. The hosts discuss his strategic IRIS acronym—Impossible Standard, Reckoned Righteousness, Indomitable Gift, and Settled at Faith—which outlines a step-by-step approach to gospel-centered conversations with Mormons.
Together, they unpack key themes from the book, such as the burden of Mormonism’s impossible expectations, the transactional nature of LDS theology, and the transformative power of reckoned righteousness through Christ. They also explore how Flournoy leverages the Book of Mormon itself to sow seeds of doubt in LDS teachings and emphasize the importance of discerning each person’s primary “conversion type”—doctrinal, social, or spiritual—to tailor the witness effectively.
Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to play the long game in evangelism, patiently guiding Mormons toward a grace-filled understanding of the gospel. The team reflects on the emotional cost of leaving Mormonism, the importance of building genuine relationships, and the value of expressing personal testimonies that incorporate LDS language to foster understanding.
Whether you're meeting with missionaries, witnessing to loved ones, or just beginning to understand Mormon doctrine, this episode offers invaluable tools and heartfelt encouragement. Tune in to hear how Flournoy’s journey—and the gospel he now shares—offers hope, clarity, and true rest in the righteousness of Christ.
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FAIR USE NOTICE:
This podcast explores published works written by former-Mormon Christians, highlighting their journeys to faith in Jesus Christ and their insights into the transformative power of the gospel. As part of our episodes, we occasionally quote excerpts from these copyrighted materials.
We do so under the Fair Use provisions of U.S. copyright law (17 U.S. Code § 107), which allow limited use of copyrighted content for commentary, critique, education, and discussion. Our use is transformative, offering biblical reflections, theological analysis, and witnessing insights to help Christians share the gospel in love and truth.
Our intention is not to replace or replicate the original works but to provide thoughtful engagement that encourages listeners to seek out and purchase these valuable resources for themselves. All quoted content remains the property of its respective copyright holders.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ, Mark and Jon delve into The Shelf Breaker: How Jesus Drew Our Family Out of Mormonism by Damien Tracy. This powerful memoir begins with Damien’s traumatic upbringing marked by abuse, leading him into cycles of sin and despair. Despite his earnest efforts to achieve worthiness through Mormon teachings, Damien found himself trapped in guilt, fear, and unworthiness.
Join us as we explore Damien's journey—from confronting his deep-seated struggles to his transformative encounter with grace. We discuss key stress points such as the burden of worthiness, the inconsistencies between LDS teachings and practice, and Mormonism's transactional nature. Central to Damien’s story is the metaphor of the "shelf," representing accumulating doubts and contradictions that eventually broke under the weight of truth.
Damien’s narrative candidly reflects on how personal relationships with faithful Christians, consistent biblical teaching, and genuine grace opened his eyes to a new, liberating identity in Christ. This episode emphasizes the power of relational evangelism, listening compassionately, and consistently pointing to the complete forgiveness found in Jesus alone.
Whether you're witnessing to Mormon friends, grappling with doubt yourself, or eager to understand the profound contrasts between LDS theology and biblical Christianity, this discussion will provide encouragement and practical insights. Tune in to hear how Damien moved from the overwhelming pressure of performance to resting in the unconditional love of Christ.
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Subscribe to our YouTube channel!
Support Truth in Love Ministry here.
FAIR USE NOTICE:
This podcast explores published works written by former-Mormon Christians, highlighting their journeys to faith in Jesus Christ and their insights into the transformative power of the gospel. As part of our episodes, we occasionally quote excerpts from these copyrighted materials.
We do so under the Fair Use provisions of U.S. copyright law (17 U.S. Code § 107), which allow limited use of copyrighted content for commentary, critique, education, and discussion. Our use is transformative, offering biblical reflections, theological analysis, and witnessing insights to help Christians share the gospel in love and truth.
Our intention is not to replace or replicate the original works but to provide thoughtful engagement that encourages listeners to seek out and purchase these valuable resources for themselves. All quoted content remains the property of its respective copyright holders.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ, Pastor Mark and Calvin dive deep into The Journey to Jesus: Finding Christ After Leaving Mormonism by Brandy Bronson. This compelling book chronicles Brandy’s faith crisis sparked by doctrinal inconsistencies and historical revelations from LDS sources. As her trust in Mormon teachings unraveled, Brandy embarked on a search for truth that led her to the Bible and ultimately to Jesus.
Join us as we explore her journey, from the initial cracks in her LDS faith to her profound discovery of biblical truth. We discuss key stress points like the reliability of the Bible, the LDS emphasis on feelings over objective truth, and the pressure to suppress doubts. Brandy’s narrative not only provides a powerful apologetic for the Bible but also serves as a compassionate guide for those who feel trapped between faith and truth.
Whether you're a Christian witnessing to Mormons, a former Mormon wrestling with doubt, or someone seeking to understand the differences between LDS doctrine and biblical Christianity, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Tune in and discover why Brandy says, "I left Mormonism because of its problems, but I stay with Christ because of his promises."
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FAIR USE NOTICE:
This podcast explores published works written by former-Mormon Christians, highlighting their journeys to faith in Jesus Christ and their insights into the transformative power of the gospel. As part of our episodes, we occasionally quote excerpts from these copyrighted materials.
We do so under the Fair Use provisions of U.S. copyright law (17 U.S. Code § 107), which allow limited use of copyrighted content for commentary, critique, education, and discussion. Our use is transformative, offering biblical reflections, theological analysis, and witnessing insights to help Christians share the gospel in love and truth.
Our intention is not to replace or replicate the original works but to provide thoughtful engagement that encourages listeners to seek out and purchase these valuable resources for themselves. All quoted content remains the property of its respective copyright holders.
Welcome to another episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast! In this installment of our Latter-day Saint book review series, Mark, Molly, and Grace dive into After All We Can Do by Dieter F. Uchtdorf, a prominent LDS apostle whose winsome style and nuanced take on grace has captured attention within and beyond his faith tradition.
Uchtdorf attempts to reinterpret 2 Nephi 25:23—“it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do”—in a more hopeful and less burdensome light. But does his message reflect biblical grace or reinforce the same exhausting cycle of works righteousness with softer language? Our team engages this question as they thoughtfully explore the book’s high-sounding promises and troubling inconsistencies.
In this episode, you'll hear a critical yet compassionate assessment of the LDS doctrine of “enabling grace,” Uchtdorf’s use of the parable of the prodigal son, and his attempts to merge gratitude-based obedience with conditions for exaltation. Through it all, Mark, Molly, and Grace contrast LDS teachings with the biblical gospel—that salvation is God’s free gift, not a reward for effort, and that hope and righteousness come from Christ alone.
Join us as we examine how to lovingly respond to LDS friends drawn to Uchtdorf’s tone but still burdened by the call to prove their worth. Learn how to point them to the true hope, rest, and rescue found only in Jesus.
Access the Prodigal Son resources we mentioned in the episode:
- Listen to the sermon Pastor Mark preached on Luke 15, along with practical witnessing tips: Witnessing Christ from Luke 15: The Prodigal or Two Lost Sons.
- Share this article with your LDS friends to illustrate both the depth of our sin and the boundless grace of God: The Two Lost Sons: An Invitation to the Father’s Embrace.
- Take the Quiz! Which Son Are You? (Take this with your LDS friends for a good discussion on which of the two sons you most relate to and why.)
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Support Truth in Love Ministry here.
FAIR USE NOTICE:
This podcast explores published works written by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with a particular focus on topics such as grace, salvation, and the character of God. As part of our episodes, we occasionally quote excerpts from these copyrighted materials.
We do so under the Fair Use provisions of U.S. copyright law (17 U.S. Code § 107), which allow limited use of copyrighted content for commentary, criticism, education, and discussion. Our use is transformative, offering biblical responses, theological reflection, and practical witnessing tips to help Christians share the gospel in love and truth.
We want to make it clear: We do not intend to replace or reproduce the original works, nor do we seek to disparage their authors. Instead, our goal is respectful engagement, inviting honest dialogue around eternal questions and the hope found in Jesus Christ. All quoted content remains the property of its respective copyright holders.
Welcome to another episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast! In this session, we continue our short series reviewing Latter-day Saint books on grace—this time diving into Grace to Become by Emily Belle Freeman.
Mark, Molly, and Grace unpack the second installment in Freeman’s grace-themed trilogy, exploring the LDS concept of “exalting grace” and how it differs significantly from the biblical gospel. This book builds on the previous volume (Grace Where You Are), shifting the focus from comfort in hardship to striving for godhood through personal effort and divine assistance.
In this episode, the team thoughtfully engages with Freeman’s language of “becoming like God,” her views on motivation and self-improvement, and her portrayal of grace as a ladder we climb rather than a gift we receive. Along the way, they contrast this with the biblical message of grace—God’s unearned favor given to the undeserving, not to enable progress toward exaltation, but to give righteousness, restore relationship, and grant eternal life through Jesus.
Join us as we explore how to speak compassionately and clearly with LDS friends who are overwhelmed by the burden to become, and how to point them to the rest and rescue found only in Christ.
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
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Support Truth in Love Ministry here.
FAIR USE NOTICE:
This podcast explores published works written by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with a particular focus on topics such as grace, salvation, and the character of God. As part of our episodes, we occasionally quote excerpts from these copyrighted materials.
We do so under the Fair Use provisions of U.S. copyright law (17 U.S. Code § 107), which allow limited use of copyrighted content for commentary, criticism, education, and discussion. Our use is transformative, offering biblical responses, theological reflection, and practical witnessing tips to help Christians share the gospel in love and truth.
We want to make it clear: We do not intend to replace or reproduce the original works, nor do we seek to disparage their authors. Instead, our goal is respectful engagement, inviting honest dialogue around eternal questions and the hope found in Jesus Christ. All quoted content remains the property of its respective copyright holders.
Welcome to another episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast! In this session, we begin a short series examining LDS books on grace—starting with Grace Where You Are by popular Mormon author and speaker Emily Belle Freeman.
Mark, Molly, and Grace engage in an insightful and honest conversation about the theology behind Freeman’s message. While the book uses familiar Christian language and offers comfort to the overwhelmed, the team highlights key doctrinal differences beneath the surface—especially regarding the LDS view of grace, the Fall, the role of Jesus, and what it means to be "enough."
This episode helps listeners understand how grace is often framed as divine assistance to become better rather than God’s unearned gift of righteousness. The team also shares strategies for gently redirecting conversations toward the true gospel, which invites us to come to Jesus with empty hands and receive what only He can give.
Join us as we explore how to meet LDS friends where they are—with clarity, compassion, and confidence in Christ alone.
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Subscribe to our YouTube channel!
Support Truth in Love Ministry here.
FAIR USE NOTICE:
This podcast explores published works written by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, focusing particularly on topics such as grace, salvation, and the character of God. As part of our episodes, we occasionally quote excerpts from these copyrighted materials.
We do so under the Fair Use provisions of U.S. copyright law (17 U.S. Code § 107), which allow limited use of copyrighted content for commentary, criticism, education, and discussion. Our use is transformative, offering biblical responses, theological reflection, and practical witnessing tips to help Christians share the gospel in love and truth.
We want to make it clear: We do not intend to replace or reproduce the original works, nor do we seek to disparage their authors. Instead, our goal is respectful engagement, inviting honest dialogue around eternal questions and the hope found in Jesus Christ. All quoted content remains the property of its respective copyright holders.
Welcome to another episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast! In this session, we wrap up our journey through the Five Pillars of relational evangelism by focusing on the fifth and final pillar: "Proclaim Christ Rather Than Debate Mormonism."
Mark, Molly, Grace, Charlie, Jon, and Calvin share thoughtful reflections, personal stories, and practical advice about how to resist the temptation to win arguments and instead point people to Jesus. It's easy to get caught in endless back-and-forths about Joseph Smith, modern prophets, or doctrinal differences—but what changes hearts isn’t debate; it’s the gospel.
Together, the team explores how to listen for deeper spiritual needs, redirect conversations toward Christ, and trust in the power of God’s word to break through even the hardest hearts. From real-life examples to Scripture-based encouragement, this episode helps equip you to be a witness—not a lawyer—and to proclaim the sufficiency of Jesus with clarity and love.
For more on TILM's Five Pillars, visit tilm.org/our-witnessing-approach.
To watch and listen to Pastor Mark's sermon on the Woman at the Well, please visit https://youtu.be/kp-TLWRDLW0.
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Welcome to another episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast! In this session, we continue our journey through the Five Pillars of relational evangelism, focusing on the fourth pillar: "Speak the Mormon Language."
Mark, Grace, Charlie, Jon, Calvin, and Molly discuss the importance of understanding Mormonism's unique vocabulary and how it differs from biblical Christianity—even when the same words are used. Words like grace, faith, heaven, salvation, atonement, and repentance carry different meanings in an LDS context. This episode equips listeners to recognize those differences and offers practical ways to communicate biblical truths clearly and compassionately.
Learn how to define terms thoughtfully, ask better questions, and avoid misunderstandings that can derail conversations. Whether you're talking about eternal life, the gospel, or who Jesus is, this episode helps you speak in a way that your Mormon friends can truly understand.
For more on TILM's Five Pillars, visit tilm.org/our-witnessing-approach.
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Welcome to another episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast! In this session, we continue our journey through the Five Pillars of relational evangelism, focusing on the third pillar: "Focusing on Mormon Stress Points."
Mark, Grace, Charlie, John, and Molly engage in an insightful conversation about the key stress points that weigh heavily on members of the LDS community—worthiness, perfection, forgiveness, repentance, and exaltation. Rather than debating theological differences, this approach encourages us to listen with empathy and guide conversations toward the true rest found in Christ.
This episode offers real-life witnessing experiences, scriptural insights, and practical advice on how to gently point our Mormon friends and loved ones to the sufficiency of Jesus. Join us as we explore how to turn moments of spiritual struggle into opportunities for gospel hope.
For more on TILM's Five Pillars, visit tilm.org/our-witnessing-approach.
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Welcome to another episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast! In this session, we dive deep into the foundational principles of relational evangelism with a focus on our unique Five Pillars approach for Speaking the Truth in Love." Join us as we unpack the first two pillars of this strategy: "See Mormons as Victims, Not as Enemies" and "Treat Mormons with Genuine Love and Respect."
Mark, Grace, Calvin, John, Charlie, and Molly engage in a rich dialogue about the challenges and transformative experiences of witnessing to the Mormon community. This episode offers insightful stories from the field, personal reflections, and scriptural discussions that illuminate the importance of approaching evangelism with empathy, understanding, and a steadfast commitment to sharing the gospel truth. Tune in to learn how these pillars not only guide our interactions but also deepen our faith and understanding of Christ's love and grace.
For more on TILM's Five Pillars, check out tilm.org/our-witnessing-approach.
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In this episode, our evangelist interns, Calvin, Charlie, Jon, and Grace, join Pastor Mark to share their experiences from the "At the Door" mission trip to Gilbert and Mesa, Arizona. Focusing on relational evangelism rather than confrontational debates, the team discusses their preparation, individual experiences, and profound interactions with Latter-Day Saints and people of other faiths.
The team explored the nuances of using the parable of the prodigal son as a conversation starter. This approach contrasts with previous mission trips that focused on more doctrinal discussions around Matthew 5:48. It allowed for deeper, more personal exchanges about faith, illustrating how the gospel resonates across different beliefs.
Throughout the episode, listeners will hear vivid accounts of how the interns navigated their conversations, from dealing with the challenges of door-to-door evangelism to the unique opportunities of engaging with LDS missionaries. The interns reflect on these interactions' emotional and spiritual impacts, emphasizing the importance of compassion and genuine curiosity about others' beliefs.
Key Takeaway: Storytelling has a profound power in evangelism. It allows believers to connect on a human level, fosters understanding, and plants seeds of faith that resonate deeply with those they encounter.
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In this episode of the Witness in Christ Podcast, we share a sermon from Pastor Mark Parsons based on Luke 15—the story of the Prodigal Son or the Two Lost Sons. This message will be a central focus for our 2025 At the Door mission trips in Gilbert, Arizona, and Idaho Falls, Idaho, as we train Christian witnesses to share this impactful parable with Mormon friends and neighbors.
The sermon explores the profound love of the Father, who reaches out to two kinds of lost people: those who reject God outright and indulge in sin (like the younger son) and those who strive to earn his favor through self-righteousness (like the elder son). Both groups desperately need to hear the truth that eternal life with God is not earned but received as a gift through Jesus Christ.
Listeners will learn how this story uniquely addresses the struggles of our Mormon friends—whether they are weary from trying to earn perfection or despairing after abandoning God’s standards. With insights into Mormon theology, practical witnessing tips, and a focus on the transformative power of grace, this episode equips Christians to lovingly invite others to experience the Father’s embrace through Jesus's finished work.
Key Takeaway: Whether weary wanderers or self-righteous workers, God calls all his lost children to come home through his Son.
Here is a link to the image Pastor Mark references towards the end of the sermon.
In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, we conclude our four-part series on the interconnected biblical concepts of sin, grace, faith, and works. Pastor Mark, Calvin, Charlie, and Jon explore the proper place of good works in the Christian life, contrasting the biblical teaching with the Latter-day Saint (LDS) perspective.
The team examines how LDS doctrine distinguishes between "salvation" (universal resurrection) and "exaltation" (eternal life with God), presenting works as a requirement for the latter. They delve into fundamental LDS teachings, such as President Russell Nelson’s differentiation between conditional and unconditional gifts and Gerald Lund's "powerhouse" analogy, which frames works as necessary for unlocking God's grace. (NOTE that this article seems to have disappeared from the LDS website in November 2024.)
Drawing from Scripture, the discussion highlights that good works flow from faith as its fruit rather than a cause for justification. Stories like Abraham’s journey and Rahab’s faith illustrate that God declares believers righteous by faith, not deeds. The team emphasizes that works are done not for eternal life but from the gift of eternal life already secured in Christ.
Listeners are encouraged to marvel at the freedom found in the gospel and to joyfully serve their neighbor as an expression of love, not obligation. For further insights, the episode references Cari Osborne's journey on Jesus Is Enough, illustrating how understanding the biblical order of faith and works transforms lives.
Key Takeaway: Good works are the natural response to God’s grace, motivated by love for him and service to others, flowing from the assurance that "It is finished" in Christ Jesus.
For more on works, check out this article on JesusIsEnough.org.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Calvin, Charlie, and Jon explore the concept of faith, contrasting its meaning in biblical Christianity with Latter-day Saint (LDS) teachings. They highlight how, in Scripture, faith is a gift from God—an instrument through which we receive grace by trusting in Christ's finished work. In contrast, LDS doctrine often views faith as an “action word” closely tied to obedience, where faith is something to be demonstrated through works to access divine blessings or power.
The team unpacks key biblical passages like Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 3, and James 2, explaining that faith, biblically, means placing trust in Jesus rather than in personal efforts. They use illustrations, such as a tree naturally bearing fruit, to show how good works flow from faith rather than creating or sustaining it. The discussion also addresses the LDS emphasis on agency and effort, emphasizing that biblical faith rests solely on Jesus’ righteousness, not on human accomplishment.
The episode closes by introducing the next topic—the relationship between faith and works in the Christian life. This lays the foundation for a discussion on how, in Christianity, works are a response to faith, not a requirement for earning grace.
For more on faith, check out this article on JesusIsEnough.org.
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In this episode of Witnessing Christ, Mark Parsons is joined by our three evangelist interns, Calvin, Charlie, and Jon. We begin a four-part series unpacking four interconnected foundational biblical concepts: sin, grace, faith, and works. This discussion starts by exploring sin, highlighting key differences between the Christian and Mormon perspectives.
While many Latter-day Saints view sin as occasional mistakes or a checklist of behaviors to avoid, we look to the Bible to reveal its more profound nature as something inherent in humanity and requiring a Savior.
We also discuss practical ways to engage Latter-day Saints in conversations about sin, offering biblical illustrations and verses to emphasize the depth of our need for Jesus. Join us as we dive into this crucial topic and lay the groundwork for understanding grace in the next episode.
For more about how to talk about sin, check out this article on Jesus is Enough and this one on Be Ye Perfect.
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In this episode of the Witnessing Christ Podcast, Mark and the evangelist interns—Charlie, Calvin, and Jon—continue their series on the four foundational concepts of sin, grace, faith, and works, focusing this time on grace. The discussion explores the stark contrast between the biblical and LDS understandings of grace. In Latter-day Saint theology, grace is often seen as an “enabling power” that boosts human effort rather than the complete, unmerited gift Scripture describes.
The team shares illustrations from the Bible, including the story of David and Mephibosheth, the parable of the prodigal son, and Paul’s conversion, to reveal grace as God’s unconditional love poured out despite our unworthiness. This grace, fully realized in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, is beyond our ability to earn or fully comprehend. Mark and the interns encourage listeners to marvel at this profound gift and to share its wonder with those around them, especially during the Christmas season. Don’t miss this in-depth look at grace and its transformative power!
For more about how to talk about grace, check out this article on Jesus is Enough and this one on Be Ye Perfect.
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This week on the show, we have part three of Jake’s story.
Overwhelmed by the contradictions in his Mormon faith, Jake considers the consequences of leaving the only faith-family has ever known. Is it worth it? Will he find much-needed community elsewhere?
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
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Watch Jake's full story here.
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This week on the show, we have part two of Jake’s story. As contradictions in his faith continue, Jake finds himself reeling. While his foundation crumbles, Jake enters a dark season. Then, when he least expects it, someone enters his life and changes everything.
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
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Watch Jake's full story here.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
This week on the show, we have part one of Jake’s story. Growing up in an LDS family, Jake had been surrounded by Mormon traditions and expectations his entire life. But when a chance encounter at a Christian concert offers an intriguing alternative message, he begins an unexpected journey to find the truth. This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
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Watch Jake's full story here.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
In this episode, Mark, Calvin, Jon, and Charlie share their reactions to the October 2024 General Conference of the LDS Church. They explore the conference's production quality, its impact on viewers, and the content of key talks. The group reflects on the importance of personal experiences in faith development and how these often carry more weight than scriptural teachings for many LDS members.
The team digs deeper into specific talks, starting with Elder Quentin L. Cook's address "Sacred Scriptures the Foundation of Faith," where Calvin points out the importance of distinguishing between scripture and non-scripture. They also analyze Elder Kyle S. McKay's talk, “The Man Who Communed with Jehovah,” which discusses the LDS doctrine of conditions for Christ’s mercy. Charlie raises questions about whether McKay's emphasis on Joseph Smith overshadows the centrality of Jesus.
Emma Belle Freeman's talk "Live Up to Your Privildeges" is also discussed, particularly her emphasis on covenants made through priesthood authority and her interesting take on Emma Smith.
The conversation continues with a critique of Elder Dallin H. Oaks’ talk "Following Christ" on avoiding contention. The team contrasts this message with Jesus' approach of confronting false teachings while still maintaining love and truth, exploring how to engage with Latter-day Saints in a loving but truthful manner. Much of the remaining discussion revolves around Oak's statement, "The Lord’s commandments are of two types: permanent, like the doctrine of Christ, and temporary," and what it means that the word of the Lord stands forever.
Finally, the group reflects on the ongoing LDS practice of adding temples, including the announcement of a new temple in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the witnessing opportunities these expansions present. They discuss how to use the General Conference talks to engage with LDS members in conversations about Christ’s role in salvation, especially highlighting the difference between grace as a gift and the LDS concept of earning exaltation through personal effort.
Throughout the episode, the team emphasizes the importance of prayer, reflection, and preparing for future witnessing conversations. They also discuss the balance between being peacemakers and standing up against false doctrine, using Christ’s example as a model for engaging in these conversations.
Tune in for insights on how to witness to Latter-day Saints with truth and love, using the latest General Conference talks as a springboard for discussions.
In this podcast episode, Pastor Mark Parsons and evangelist interns Jon, Calvin, and Charlie discuss six articles from the October 2024 edition of Liahona. They focus on themes of unity, obedience, and personal testimony in the LDS faith, contrasting them with Christian teachings that emphasize shared faith in Christ. The conversation explores empathy, agency, and covenants, examining how the LDS emphasis on moral improvement and ordinances can lead to feelings of inadequacy. The team critically analyzes the role of free will and grace, while also considering how subtle differences in LDS theology open doors for meaningful conversations with LDS friends.
Here are links to the articles discussed in this episode.
"A Pattern for Unity in Christ" p. 2-7 - Calvin summarizes and provides an initial analysis
"Unity—Be of One Heart and One Mind” digital only - Jon summarizes and provides an initial analysis
"We Follow the Master Minister" p. 8-13 - Charlie summarizes and provides an initial analysis
"Because of They Faith Thou Have Seen" p. 20-24 - Calvin summarizes and provides an initial analysis
"Power Through Christlike Living" p. U11-16 - Jon summarizes and provides an initial analysis
"How My Covenants Keep Me Connected to What Matters Most" p. 31-33 - Charlie summarizes and provides an initial analysis
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This week on the show, we have part three of Cari’s story. Realizing she is at a turning point, Cari makes a big decision regarding her faith–impacting both her and her family. Will her family be receptive? Will she finally find the peace she has been seeking? Will she realize Jesus is Enough? Find out in part three of Cari’s story. Thanks for listening!
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
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Watch Cari's full story here.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
This week on the show, we have part two of Cari’s story. Feeling invigorated by a strange but powerful church experience in Germany, Cari begins her journey to discover the truth. Through careful, detailed research and a growing desire to learn more, Cari notices several glaring contradictions in the Book of Mormon. As the list of questions grows and more flaws are found, Cari reaches a turning point in her faith journey.
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
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Watch Cari's full story here.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
This week on the show, we have part one of Cari’s story. Cari, a lifelong Mormon whose heritage was firmly rooted in the church, begins to question the very teachings her family was founded upon. With mounting pressure to perform and constant feelings of inadequacy, Cari experiences a breakthrough moment in an unexpected place.
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
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Watch Braden's full story here.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
In this week's episode, Mark Parsons and the evangelist interns discuss their initial experiences witnessing to Mormon missionaries.
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This week on the show, we have part three of Christin’s story. As Christin moves forward with her life and starts anew after her messy, failed marriage, she realizes that God has been leading her to him the entire time. She looks back on her life and considers that God has been giving her “Manna, bread from heaven,” changing her life and writing her story one day and one piece at a time.
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
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Watch Braden's full story here.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
In this week's episode, Mark Parsons and the evangelist interns discuss the atonement in Mormon theology.
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This week on the show, we have part two of Christin’s story. As Christin’s marriage continues to face challenges, Christin finds purpose in unlikely friendships and an unexpected career path. But, just as things seem to feel like they are finally coming together, Christin receives life-altering news that changes everything.
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
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Watch Braden's full story here.
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In this week's episode, Mark Parsons and the evangelist interns discuss the differences between salvation and exaltation in Mormon theology.
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This week on the show, we have part one of Christin’s story. Christin spent her life trying to live up to the ideals taught in the Mormon church and achieve perfection. Her vision for her life, however, is shattered when her marriage faces several unexpected challenges.
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
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Watch Braden's full story here.
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In this Evangelist Interns episode, Mark Parsons interviews Calvin Arstein about his first visit with Mormon missionaries.
We apologize for the fuzzy audio in some places. We will have this remedied for next week.
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In this episode of Witnessing Christ, Mark Parsons welcomes three new evangelist interns to the team.
Jon, Calvin, and Charlie introduce themselves, share some of their witnessing experiences, and ask questions about the Mormon view of the fall and sin. Listen as they discuss how to use their understanding of Mormonism in witnessing conversations.
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This week on the show, we have part three of Braden’s story. Braden, a devout Mormon, was determined to reconcile his beliefs with those found in Christianity. Confident he had the truth, he was eager to share his Mormon beliefs—that is, until someone entered his life who made him question everything he thought he knew.
Will Braden find the truth? Will he finally be at peace in his relationship with God?
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
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Watch Braden's full story here.
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This week on the show, we have part two of Braden’s story. As the pressure to be perfect builds, Braden begins to feel the stress of living up to Jesus’ perfect example. More inconsistencies within his Mormon faith arise, leading to additional questions when someone new enters Braden’s life and begins to change the narrative.
This season of the Witnessing Christ podcast features segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. At the end of each episode, we provide practical witnessing tips.
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Watch Braden's full story here.
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Braden's On this season of the Witnessing Christ podcast, we're sharing segments from our Jesus Is Enough docuseries. These are crafted to equip you to share Christ with your Mormon neighbors. Stay tuned for practical witnessing tips at the end of each episode.
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In this episode, Mark and Molly are joined by Brian Urbanek of GoldWing Productions to discuss the new Jesus Is Enough initiative.
Learn more and support the Jesus Is Enough efforts by visiting tilm.org/jie.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss 1 and 2 Thessalonians.
1 and 2 Thessalonians, authored by the apostle Paul during his missionary journeys, provide a peek at the experiences of the early Christian church and offer insights into how believers are to navigate life with an eternal perspective. These epistles are tenderly addressed to the devout Christian community in Thessalonica, a vibrant Macedonian city.
Paul wrote his letters to the Thessalonian believers around A.D. 50/51, likely from Corinth. After being forced to abruptly leave Thessalonica due to intense persecution (Acts 17:1-10), Paul continued instructing these new believers on how to live their lives in light of eternity.
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In 2 Thessalonians 1:8-10, we encounter strong imagery of judgment. But within this passage lies a message of hope and salvation.
Paul speaks of those "who do not know God" and those who "do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus."
Obedience to the gospel means trusting in Jesus and his forgiveness, and believing that through him, we are made right before God. On the day of judgment, our safety rests on our trust in the one who fulfilled the law for us.
Our refuge on that day isn't our efforts but our faith in Jesus Christ. Trusting in him is our hope, and it is through this trust that we find salvation and are spared from the judgment to come.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Colossians 1–4.
If ever there was a book that said, "Jesus is enough," it would be Colossians. Paul confronts a heresy in the Colossian congregation that added to Christ, offering greater "fullness," "perfection," and "knowledge." He helps the reader see how all these things are already found in Christ. Paul also unpacks the transformational new identity, new life, and new victory found in Christ.
Key Themes
- The person of Christ and his supremacy
- The work of Christ and its fullness
- The weakness of law motivation
- The power of Christ in us
- The power of prayer in your witness
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*Have you ever noticed how rules have a way of making you want something even more? For example, if someone tells me not to eat chocolate, suddenly all I can think of is where can I find some chocolate! You know what I mean?
Now, what if you were given a taste of a food that was so good that, by comparison, made chocolate taste terrible? And what if, you were given an unending supply that never ran out? Now, that would be a way I might never eat chocolate again!
I was thinking about that picture as I was reading Colossians this week. He repeatedly emphasizes how Christ is God's most amazing gift to us and all of the blessings that are now ours through him. It came alive for me when it said to "continue in him, rooted and built up in him" (2:6–7). The way to get the best God has to offer is to fill up on the best gift he's given, Christ.
Instead of fear for what I might be missing, Christ fills us with thankfulness for everything we already have in him, like forgiveness (1:14) and peace (1:20). An overflowing heart filled with the best gifts is a heart changed from the inside that doesn't worry about missing out on anything else.
For the record, I'm not making any promises about chocolate; I think it's one of those special gifts from God. But it's got me thinking I really want to fill my heart up with Jesus and all the gifts that come with him!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Philippians 1–4.
Many are surprised that Philippians, one of Paul’s prison letters, has a central theme of joy. Despite the crosses Paul faced, his faith in Christ brought him joy. The friendly, positive tone of this letter demonstrates the close, personal bond Paul had with the Philippians.
As we study Philippians, we’ll clarify a number of often misunderstood statements that, when God is recognized as the active agent, are understood in more profound ways.
Key Themes
- A gospel perspective
- Christ as substitute before Christ as example
- "Work out Your salvation" (2:12–13)
- Boasting in Christ
- Joy in all circumstances
- "I can do all things..." (4:13)
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*Have you ever considered all the efforts people make trying to impress others? It's amazing how many industries are focused on helping people improve their appearances!
It got me thinking. If people go to those lengths to impress other people, what lengths do people go to gain God's favor?
I was reading in Philippians 3 about Paul's list. He had the lineage, the ritual, the rank. Humanly speaking, he had a bragging list that would far exceed most people. What's most shocking is, he threw it all away. He describes his efforts to gain his own righteousness as "dung." It was repulsive.
He completely abandons his list of accomplishments and says all he needs is Jesus. He finds his "surpassing worth," his "righteousness," in the saving work of Christ's death and resurrection. He said all he needs is to know Jesus and to be found in him.
I found it so refreshing, freeing even. Realizing that favor with God, something people so desperately yearn for, has already been won for us, changes everything. Instead of worrying about my own to-do list, my eyes are focused on the list he's already checked off. No more need to impress. Jesus is enough.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Ephesians 1-6.
Sent to the Christians in Ephesus, a prominent city in Asia Minor, this letter offers a distinctive angle among Paul's writings. Unlike many of his other epistles, such as Galatians or Corinthians, which directly counter false teachings, Ephesians strengthens believers by emphasizing positive theological truths and practical advice.
This episode dives into five major themes.
- Identity in Christ
- Unity in the Body of Christ
- Christian Living
- Household Codes
- Spiritual Warfare
In sum, the book of Ephesians might not directly confront false doctrines, but its enriching teachings on unity, identity in Christ, and the practical implications of the Gospel fortify believers' faith, acting as a solid bulwark against potential misinterpretations or divisive influences.
Mark and Molly discussed The Four Key Concepts in Ephesians 2; check out more resources here and here.
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"As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins... But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved... For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:1-10)
Picture a child struggling in deep waters, desperately gasping for breath, arms flailing, trying to stay afloat. A lifeguard notices the peril and dashes to the rescue. But imagine if, midway, the lifeguard halts and hollers, "I've brought you this far; now it’s up to you to swim the rest!" Such a scenario is unthinkable. When someone is drowning, they don't need partial help; they need complete rescue.
This scenario parallels the spiritual condition depicted in Ephesians 2. We were metaphorically drowning in our transgressions, powerless to save ourselves. But God, in his immense love and mercy, didn't provide just partial assistance. He made us alive with Christ, pulling us entirely out of our dire state.
Much like a drowning individual leans entirely on the lifeguard for salvation, our spiritual rescue is solely through God's grace. It’s not something we can achieve or earn; it’s a divine gift. God doesn't say, "I've done my part; now you finish the rest." He saves us wholly, ensuring our place in his eternal embrace.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Galatians 1-6.
Paul’s letter to the Galatians is a passionate defense of the true gospel against early distortions. The Galatian churches, established by Paul, were influenced by certain Jewish Christians known as Judaizers. These false teachers claimed Gentiles needed to be circumcised and follow Mosaic Law to be true Christians.
As we study Galatians, we’ll examine Paul’s skillful arguments against the Judaizers and his emphatic defense of justification by faith.
Key Themes
- Justification by faith vs. salvation by works
- Freedom from the law’s demands
- The contrast between law and grace, deeds and faith, the flesh and Spirit
- Identity in Christ: adopted children and heirs
- Unity of believers in Christ
- The danger of distorting the true gospel
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Click here to download a short Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries. Click here to download a much longer Bible study outline for a more in-depth study.
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In Galatians 3:10, Paul writes, "For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: 'Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.'"
*This verse is a sobering reminder that we cannot be saved by our own works. The law is good, but it is also impossible to keep perfectly. We all fall short, and as a result, we are under the curse of the law.
The curse of the law is not a physical curse but a spiritual one. It is the separation from God that comes from our sin. We are cut off from his blessing and his favor.
But there is good news! Jesus came to break the curse of the law. He lived a perfect life and died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. When we put our trust in Jesus, we are forgiven, and we are brought into a right relationship with God.
So, if you are feeling burdened by the law, or if you feel like you can never measure up, remember that Jesus has already done it for you. He has taken the curse upon himself so that you can be free.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss 2 Corinthians 8–13.
This podcast episode covers the following:
2 Corinthians 8–13
- Excel in the grace of giving
- An "out of this world" witnessing weapon
- What it means to belong to Christ
- Strength in weakness
Key concepts in this episode include:
- The directional nature of grace
- Happiness v. joy
- God's generosity: "his indescribable gift"
- Differences matter
- Another Jesus
- Different Spirit
- Different gospel
- God's intent in hardship
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Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Click here for the "Are Mormons Christian?" resource, which details the dramatic differences between Mormonism and biblical Christianity along with the eternal consequences involved.
God intends his grace to overflow in us and bless others. To help even more souls discover grace in Jesus, give today at tilm.org/give.
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*Have you ever thought about hardship as a blessing from God? James 1 says to consider trial "pure joy." That concept seems so counterintuitive. I can't imagine anyone praying to fall on hard times.
I've always considered the goal was just to make me stronger. But I was struck recently when I read about Paul's thorn in the flesh in 2 Corinthians 12. It gave me a whole new perspective. He starts out, "to keep me from becoming conceited..." (12:7). It's clear it's not about me at all.
Then, quoting Jesus, Paul says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" (12:9). He doesn't say our power becomes greater. He says his power shines brightest in our weakness. The more we acknowledge our weaknesses, the more we will come to rely on God's power, the source of true strength.
This has got me thinking about hardship in a whole new way. Instead of seeing a harsh god who presses people down with hardship, I've come to see a loving God who invites me to seek refuge in him and lean on his strength. Doesn't that change the way we can, with James, see trials as "pure joy?"*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss 2 Corinthians 1–7.
This podcast episode covers the following:
2 Corinthians 1–7
- God's promises are "yes" in Christ
- Contrasting the Old Covenant and New Covenant
- The treasure of the gospel is shared through jars of clay
- Two key "R" words: reconciliation and repentance
Key concepts in this episode include:
- A broad view of "law" when used in the New Testament
- Tenses matter. Note when God is the active agent
- The gospel message is embedded with the power to believe it
- Worldly sorrow v. Godly sorrow
- Why Christian witnesses are "smelly"
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Click here for an article or here for a video you can share to show how Jesus is our substitute, both by living and dying for us.
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*I was reading in 2 Corinthians this week and was fascinated by the difference between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. The Old Covenant was a two-sided agreement emphasizing "do!" or "don't do!" Unfortunately, the people could never hold up their end, so it didn't work.
I did some study and discovered that the word used for the New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:6) is the same word used for a last will and testament. Like an inheritance, the New Covenant is a one-sided promise based on what Christ has done for us.
If we were still under the Old Covenant and had to approach God by means of our obedience to the law, it would be terrifying. No wonder it was a fading glory that brought death (2 Corinthians 3:7). What a difference the New Covenant makes. It brings lasting glory and freedom (2 Corinthians 3:17).
Old Covenant vs. New Covenant; do! vs. done! How blessed we are to be able to stand through faith on Christ's record for us!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss 1 Corinthians 14–16.
This podcast episode covers the following:
1 Corinthians 14–16
- The spiritual gifts of speaking in tongues and prophecy
- The Great Resurrection chapter (1 Corinthians 15)
- Closing Encouragements in love
Key concepts in this episode include:
- Using gifts to edify others
- How to respond to LDS baptisms for the dead?
- How to respond to LDS different kingdoms of heaven?
- Emphasize the victory over death and sin
- Your witness is "not in vain"
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*One of my favorite expressions in the Bible is "but God..." It shows the amazing ways God, in love, has intervened and the transformational results that follow. I just came across one of the most beautiful "but" statements in the Bible.
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul is speaking about the centrality of Christ's resurrection to the Christian faith to those who didn't believe in it. He says, "If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins" (15:17). Then he goes on: "But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead!" (15:20).
That "but" statement changes everything. It means we can go back to v.17 and read it in reverse! "Since Christ has been raised, your faith is your greatest treasure; you are no longer in your sins."
The connection between sin and death is inseparable in the Bible (Romans 6:23). The only way Christ could conquer death, sin's punishment, is if he also conquered sin. And since he conquered both, nothing can separate us from God. Jesus' resurrection is the guarantee that I know I will live with Heavenly Father forever. That is an amazing "but..." promise!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss 1 Corinthians 8–13.
This podcast episode covers the following:
1 Corinthians 8–13
- God, in love, rescues us in moments of temptation
- We show love in how we use Christian freedom in glory to God
- God shows the proof of his love in the Lord's Supper
- We show love by using spiritual gifts to serve others
- The chapter of love reveals God's perfect love
Key concepts in this episode include:
- How can Christian witnesses share truth with a spirit of love?
- How do I respond if a question of multiple gods comes up?
- What if my LDS friend shares concerns about priestcraft?
- Where do we go for strength in times of trouble?
- Why is agape love so unique to biblical Christianity?
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*I was reading in 1 Corinthians this week and came across the verse: "God will not be tempted beyond what you can bear" (10:13). That sounds like a tremendous amount of pressure during troubling times to think it all depends on me. Then I got to thinking a god who wanted to take you to the brink and crush you would be a cruel god!
I can think of plenty of times when I have turned internally during trying times only to become more discouraged. It's clear he doesn't want us to trust in ourselves. In fact, he says, "If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!" (10:12).
Then I read the whole verse and it changed everything. It starts, "God is faithful." He doesn't change his mind; he is faithful to his promises. I don't have to wonder where I stand because of his faithful love. God's faithfulness means he can be trusted.
Those three words: "God is faithful" have changed the way I approach tough times. "God is faithful" has also changed the way I view God. It doesn't depend on me. God is faithful. It's not about my strength, but his. Instead of more pressure, it brings relief.
The next time trouble strikes, hold on to those three powerful words: "God is faithful." Then, digging into the Bible, let his faithful promises come alive in completely new ways!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss 1 Corinthians 1–7.
This podcast episode covers the following:
1 Corinthians 1–7
- Our identity and future are secure in Christ
- Unity in Christ
- The foolishness of the cross
- Temple of God
- Marriage and singleness
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What brings true unity?
- Why does the cross alienate people?
- How do Mormons see the cross?
- How do we use Christian liberty to honor God?
- What relationship is your eternal focus?
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*I guess I shouldn't be surprised, but I still marvel at how God's way of looking at things is often completely upside down from the way of the world. I was especially struck by this when I read in 1 Corinthians this week: "The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing" (1:18).
Have you ever thought about what he means by the message of the cross being foolishness? For many, it doesn't make sense that an all-powerful God would take on our sin so we could be set free. It doesn't makes sense that he would show such a profound display of no-strings-attached love. It doesn't makes sense that simply looking to the cross in faith (John 3:14–15) saves.
And that's the beauty! Every other religion in the world says you must "Do!" The cross clearly proclaims, "Done!" It's inconceivable, which is why it could only come from God himself.
I now think of the cross like a new set of lenses through which I see everything in a whole new light. Sins forgiven. New status and identity. Eternity with God won. The cross isn't just part of the story. It's the culmination that changes everything. No wonder the cross is the power of God for those who are saved!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Romans 7–16.
In the Book of Romans, we see that "The Gospel Creates New..." in the lives of believers. It brings awareness of sin and the need for God's grace, understanding of God's righteous judgment and the gift of justification by faith, hope in Christ's redemption, peace with God, a new life empowered by the Spirit, freedom from sin and the law, inclusion, and unity, submission to authorities, acceptance and love for one another, and a compassionate ministry to others. The gospel transforms lives, creating a new identity in Christ and a close-knit community of believers grounded in the truth of God's Word.
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Do you know what one of the most dangerous words in the world is? "And." Sound strange? You really need to watch out for the word "and"! Here's why: The Bible says that we are saved by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Do you know what we like to add? An "and." We like to think we're saved by God's grace and the fact that we're such good people. We think we get eternal life by God's grace, and how we are trying to keep the commandments or promises we have made. We think we get God's best gifts by God's grace and how much more moral we are than the people around us. God's grace "and"…
Do you see the danger? God does! "If by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace" (Romans 11:6). The moment an "and" sneaks into our relationship with God, it's no longer by grace. It's by us. The moment we add our works to eternal life, it's no longer by faith in Jesus. It's by what we do. And if we trust ourselves to be saved, do you know what will happen? We won't be saved! We have fallen away from grace.
Thankfully, there's no "and." God's grace saves you through faith in Jesus Christ. Period. There's nothing left unfinished. There's nothing that depends on you. It's all by grace—God's undeserved love! That's what gives us confidence and hope, and peace. "If by grace, then it cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace." No "and." Just grace. Just Jesus.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly are joined by special guest Daniel Ortner. They discuss Daniels's experiences in Mormonism and his encounters with the Book of Romans.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Romans 1–6.
In the Book of Romans, we see that "The Gospel Creates New..." in the lives of believers. It brings awareness of sin and the need for God's grace, understanding of God's righteous judgment and the gift of justification by faith, hope in Christ's redemption, peace with God, a new life empowered by the Spirit, freedom from sin and the law, inclusion, and unity, submission to authorities, acceptance and love for one another, and a compassionate ministry to others. The gospel transforms lives, creating a new identity in Christ and a close-knit community of believers grounded in the truth of God's Word.
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If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
"I can do it on my own!" That thought is ingrained in us from childhood. How often don't kids insist on taking on impossible tasks with false self-confidence—"I can do it on my own!" Life is often the slow realization that there are many things we can't do on our own—including saving ourselves. Yet, how often don't we insist on taking on the impossible task of saving ourselves with false self-confidence? "I'm getting better day by day, step by step." "I'm trying to keep the commandments." In other words, we say to God, "I can do it on my own!"
*Know what God says? "You can't! You're sinful!" But God has a much better way. The Apostle Pauls tells us, "In the gospel, the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written, 'The righteous will live by faith'" (Romans 1:17).
The Bible's great gospel message is that the righteousness (or perfection) we need to be saved doesn't depend on us at all. It depends on Jesus—from first to last. We're saved by faith from start to finish. From beginning to end. It's not up to us to start our relationship with God. It's not up to us to finish it. It all depends on God's grace in Jesus! The next time you realize you can't do it on your own, smile! You don't have to. Jesus did! We're saved by faith from first to last. (And even faith is a gift from God.)*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Acts 22–28.
This podcast episode includes many practical witnessing encouragements:
Acts 22–28
- Paul shares his conversion account
- Paul's various strategic approaches
- Paul witnesses to prominent leaders
- Paul's tumultuous trip to Rome
Key concepts in this episode include:
- Sharing your own experiences in witnessing
- Navigating moments of hesitation
- Navigating various responses to the gospel
- Starting your witness with commonalities
- Open eyes to witnessing opportunities all around
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*I've been reading through the Book of Acts and was struck this week by how Paul shared the gospel with the Roman governor Felix. It says he "discoursed on righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come" (24:25). I've noted his letters in the New Testament follow that very same pattern: being on the right side of the law with God is followed by living for God and then judgment.
It got me thinking about how vital that order is. If the order was changed, it would lead to a completely different outcome. For example, if I started with self-control and relied on my own efforts to gain God's favor, I'd never be sure I had it. If I was honest, I would be quite certain I didn't. Then, knowing I wasn't right with God, facing judgment would be terrifying.
But, taken in the biblical order, if I trust that Christ as our substitute lived perfectly in our place and took the punishment we deserved, I start from the position of knowing I'm right with God. Then, as I think about living a self-controlled life, it's not out of duty or obligation to gain God's favor but done out of thanks because I know I already have it. Knowing you're already good with God completely transforms how we look at judgment.
I noticed that when Felix heard Paul's words, he was afraid. It's clear he was still taking things in the wrong order and was terrified about judgment. How about you? Have you ever been concerned about judgment day? Go back to the biblical order to transform those fears into confidence!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Acts 16–21.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Acts 16–21
- The jailer at Philippi
- Be a Berean
- Sharing the Gospel in Athens
- Paul's farewell to the Ephesians
Key concepts in this episode include:
- Preparing ourselves to witness
- Contextualizing the gospel for those first hearing it
- Sharing gospel encouragement with believers
- How to respond to "we are his offspring"
- God does not dwell in temples built by human hands.
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*Have you ever thought about what will happen on judgment day? For example, if God were to ask you, "Why should I let you live eternally with me?" what would you say?
I ask because I was recently reading about the jailer of Philippi in Acts 16. After nearly facing earthly death, he realized he was even more afraid about his spiritual and eternal destination: "What must I do to be saved?" (Acts 16:30).
In that moment of crisis where it mattered most, he heard one of the clearest messages in the Bible: "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved" (Acts 16:31). The simplicity is startling. He was looking for a list of what he must do and instead he's told to simply trust in what Jesus has done**.
That has completely changed the way I look at judgment day. If it was about showing God all I have done, I'd have to show him both the good and the bad; that would be terrifying! But simply standing on Jesus' perfect record for me provides confidence and the certainty that I will live eternally with Heavenly Father.
"Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved" (Acts 16:31). In what ways does that change the way you look at judgment day?*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Acts 10–15.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Acts 10–15
- Peter's vision
- The Church grows in Antioch
- Paul and Barnabas share the good news
- The Council of Jerusalem
Key concepts in this episode include:
- How living in the new covenant changed the Church
- "God is no respecter of persons."
- Defining what a Christian is
- How adding to Jesus results in losing grace
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*Have you ever thought about a scenario where trying to do good could actually be bad? I was thinking recently about someone who is at risk of drowning. Sometimes the lifeguard actually has to knock the person unconscious because their well-intentioned efforts to "help" can actually sabotage the rescue.
That picture came to mind when I was reading about the Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15). Some said you had to do something (circumcision) to be saved. Peter clearly taught that we're saved by grace (15:11). Some might say, "What's the big deal if I just add more to that?"
I'm shocked at how it effectively says to Jesus, "You're not enough," and once again makes our eternity dependent on us. Paul, in Galatians, said that adding to Christ results in pushing him away and losing grace (5:4). It's like the drowning swimmer pushing the lifeguard away to their own peril.
I love that picture of the lifeguard. We need a full and complete rescue, and that's exactly what Jesus accomplished. I would never want to get in the way and ruin it by adding to it. Jesus is enough.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Acts 6–9.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Acts 6–9
- Stephen's witness
- Simon's search for power
- The Ethiopian eunuch's search for truth
- Saul's conversion
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What does it mean to resist the Holy Spirit?
- What is the only way to get right with God?
- Philip provides some key witnessing tips.
- Saul's transformation by the Spirit.
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*Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you learned that everything you were taught was a lie? I can only imagine how frightening it must have been when Saul discovered that, despite his religious zeal, he was misguided.
It's one thing not to know the truth. It's entirely another to realize you have a big problem with God. Saul was persecuting Jesus and opposing God! This was a problem far too large for him to fix.
What could have led to hopeless fear becomes a radical transformation. God shows the depths of his love. He calls a murderer like Saul to be one of his apostles and perhaps the greatest missionary of all time. Saul will use his story to show that if God could forgive someone like him, he can certainly forgive you too.
Saul's story of transformation is not so different from our own. We, too, come into this world opposed to God (Romans 8:7). The problem is too great for us to fix, so Jesus did. Like Saul, we discover that on the other side of our fears is forgiveness through faith in Jesus.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Acts 1–5.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Acts 1–5
- "You will be my witnesses."
- The Spirit's coming at Pentecost
- Peter's Pentecost sermon
- "In the name of Jesus"
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What is your role as a Christian witness?
- Why are repentance and the Spirit described as gifts?
- Which way are your arrows pointing? Is the Spirit an internal or external power? Does he primarily work internal or external change?
- How can we teach terms like "apostle," "kingdom," and "Church" from a spiritual perspective?
- What power is found in the name of Jesus?
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*I was reading the beginning chapters from Acts and was shocked by how often the phrase "the name of Jesus" came up. I studied it a little more and discovered the word name can also have the connotation of authority, power, or reputation like a messenger for a king carries his name.
That helped me read these verses in completely new ways."Repent...in the name of Jesus" (2:38) means repent by his power, not mine. Peter heals a cripple by Jesus' authority, not his. But the one that really stood out was, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved" (4:12). There is no other reputation that can save.
So often, I become focused on my name, my authority, my power, or my reputation. What a difference it makes to think we get to stand on his name, his authority, his power, and his reputation. That has completely changed the way I see judgment day! Instead of standing on my imperfect name and reputation, I get to stand on the perfect record and reputation of Jesus as my substitute. No wonder it emphasizes the life-changing power in the name of Jesus!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20–21.
This podcast episode covers the following:
- Resurrection Appearances
- Post-Resurrection Appearances
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What unique details does this gospel writer include in his account of Jesus’ resurrection and post-resurrection appearances? Explain the significance of the inclusion of those details.
- What comforting messages from Jesus does this gospel writer include in his account of Jesus’ resurrection and post-resurrection appearances? Explain the significance of those comforting messages to Jesus’ disciples and us today.
- What important instructions from Jesus for his disciples does this gospel writer include in his account of Jesus’ resurrection and post-resurrection appearances? How did the disciples react initially and ultimately to those instructions? How do those instructions still guide modern-day disciples?
- What primary themes does this gospel writer explore in his account of Jesus’ resurrection and post-resurrection appearances? How were those themes important and impactful for the early disciples? How are they important and impactful for us today?
- Which single verse in this gospel writer’s account of Jesus’ resurrection and post-resurrection appearances stood out to you the most? Why that verse? How would you explain it to someone unfamiliar with the message of Easter?
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We may sometimes wonder about the significance of Christ's resurrection and how it relates to us personally. Here are a couple of things to think about.
The resurrection holds profound meaning for each of us. It is the foundation of our faith and the source of our hope. Through Christ's victory over death, sin, and the devil's power no longer have control over us. We can be confident in the promise of eternal life.
The resurrection is not just some distant event without relevance to our lives. It is a powerful promise that extends to each one of us. Jesus' triumph over death means that his kingdom has no end, and all who believe in him will rise again, just as he did. So, our struggles and weariness in this life are not in vain. Beyond the grave, a crown of glory awaits us.
The resurrection assures us of a glorious future homecoming with our Heavenly Father. Imagine the joy of running into his open arms, knowing we will be forever united with him, experiencing his never-ending grace. On that day, we will intimately know him and join our voices as one. Until that day comes, we continue to praise him for his unfailing grace, holding onto the hope of that glorious future.
The resurrection gives meaning to our lives. It gives us strength in the face of challenges, comfort in times of loss, and unending joy in the promise of eternal life. The resurrection assures us that there is more to come, and our future is secure in him. So,
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss the accounts of Calvary from Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23 and John 19.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Luke 22 and John 18
- Jesus as the King we needed
- The gravity of sin
- The great exchange
- The forgiveness of sin
- The completed work of Christ
Key concepts in this episode include:
- How does Jesus' sacrifice emphasize his role as our substitute?
- What are the depths of Jesus' suffering, and why was it necessary?
- Who is the prisoner exchange with Barabbas picturing?
- Who is Jesus winning forgiveness for?
- "It is finished." What is finished? What does Jesus' work mean for us?
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*Friends, I've always been struck by all that happens on Good Friday. In particular, what always sticks with me is the temple curtain being torn in two from top to bottom. That curtain was a clear "Keep Out!" sign, a constant reminder that our sin separates us from a holy God. Then, right after Jesus says, "It is finished!" and gives up his life, the curtain is torn apart from top to bottom, clearly a sign God tore it.
That single event has given me an entirely new perspective on Jesus' words: "It is finished!" He doesn't just defeat death. He took the punishment to remove our sin. With full and complete forgiveness, we have direct access to God. He's no longer behind the curtain. He now dwells with us. In fact, he's so close that he's made us his temple and now dwells within us (1 Corinthians 6:19).
What a difference that torn curtain makes! Forgiveness is won. Direct access to God is granted. And it's entirely dependent on Jesus' saving work as our substitute. That torn curtain proclaims nothing more can be added. Jesus is enough!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Luke 22 and John 18.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Luke 22 and John 18
- Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial
- Jesus in Gethsemane
- Jesus Arrested
- Peter Denies Jesus
- Jesus on Trial Before Pilate
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What are we to make of Peter and his denials?
- Why do Mormons place so much emphasis on the Garden of Gethsemane?
- What was Jesus claiming when he said, "I am (he)"?
- In what ways did Jesus serve as a substitute in these chapters?
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*Friends, there are times when like you, I mess up—a lot. I stumble, fall short, and let Jesus down. But here's what blows my mind: Jesus never abandons me in my mess. He extends his loving grace to me, even when I feel I least deserve it.
I can relate so much to Peter's story. He denied Jesus not just once or twice but three times. And guess what? I've denied my Lord in my own ways too. My thoughts, words, and actions often fall short of his perfect standard. But you know what's incredible? Jesus, in his boundless mercy, never gives up on me. Instead, he seeks me out, forgives me, and restores me.
I find so much comfort and joy in Peter's story because it reveals the depths of Jesus' love for us. He doesn't hold our failures against us. Instead, he embraces us with open arms, offering forgiveness and reconciliation. He conquered sin and death through his death and resurrection, bringing us new life and hope.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss John 14–17.
This podcast episode covers the following:
John 14–17
- Words of Comfort
- Connection to Christ
- Empowered to Serve
- Convicted by the Spirit
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What's the difference between facing trouble and being troubled?
- Is heaven more a place or a presence?
- What are the implications of Jesus as the way, the truth, the life?
- What is the difference between the root and fruit?
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*I love the summer. There is so much growth and life. What amazes me is the power for this growth is so often unseen, underground. The roots soak up the nutrients and water for all the growth, flowers, and fruit we see.
It reminds me of Jesus' illustration when he says he is the vine and we are the branches (John 15). He, of course, talks about bearing fruit in that section. But I wonder sometimes if we can be so focused on what we see that, spiritually speaking, we can lose sight of where the true power comes from. In fact, I wonder if sometimes we can become so focused on outward fruits that we're like a branch, cut off from the vine, trying to produce fruit by its own power.
Jesus' encouragement to stay plugged into the power source has brought me great comfort. Seeing his saving work as our substitute assures me of God's love and presence now and forever. It's that faith connection, the root, that then motivates and empowers fruit. The root is the cause, the fruit is the result. Getting that order right and focusing on his power has completely changed the way I now see fruit, whether outside in nature or in my life.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Matthew 26, Mark 14, and John 13.
Matthew 26 and John 13
- Jesus is anointed
- Jesus predicts his betrayal
- Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper
- Jesus washes his disciples' feet
- Jesus gives a "new command"
Key concepts in this episode include:
- Who is in control of the situation?
- Why did Jesus give us his body and blood in the Lord's Supper?
- Who is "remembering" what in the Lord's Supper?
- What messages are being communicated in the Lord's Supper?
- What does it mean to be clean/washed by Jesus?
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For more on how Mormons focus on remembering Jesus in the Lord's Supper, check out this response to the Liahona article Always Remember Him.
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*Each time I receive the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, I am reminded of Jesus' body and blood given and shed to forgive my sins. Each week as I stand empty-handed, waiting to receive the bread and the wine, I am aware that there is nothing that I have done to make myself right with God but that he has done everything necessary for me to be made right with him.
For me, the Lord's Supper is a most precious gift from God. Participation in it is not about me sending a message to God or about renewing my covenant with God. It's not about what I do at all. It's all about Jesus confirming that his covenant of forgiveness applies personally to me. In the sacrament each week, Jesus is saying to me, "This meal shows you how much I love you."*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20; John 12.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20; John 12
- Jesus and Zacchaeus
- The Parable of the Wedding Banquet
- Questions about Marriage at the Resurrection
- Jesus Condemns Hypocrisy
- Receiving and Rejecting Jesus
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What brought "salvation" to Zacchaeus?
- What's up with the crazy story of the wedding banquet?
- Why was the improperly clothed wedding guest cast out?
- Will there be marriage in heaven?
- What are we do to with Jesus' warnings about hypocrisy?
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*When I read about Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1–10, I'm struck by how the people despised him. As a chief tax collector, he was seen as a traitor to his own people, a greedy and dishonest man who took advantage of his position for personal gain. Yet, when Jesus saw Zacchaeus in a tree, he didn't judge or turn him away. Instead, he invited himself to Zacchaeus' house, shocking the people around them.
As Zacchaeus and Jesus spent time together, something miraculous happened. Zacchaeus repented of his sins and pledged to give half his possessions to the poor and repay those he had wronged four times over. And Jesus declared that salvation had come to Zacchaeus' house.
I find hope in Zacchaeus' story because it shows that no matter how far we've strayed from God or how despised we may be by others, there is always hope for redemption. Zacchaeus' repentance wasn't about earning salvation through good works but about responding to the grace of God. It was only through the power of the Holy Spirit that he was able to turn away from his sinful ways and begin living a new life.
Jesus' willingness to associate with sinners and outcasts demonstrates the extent of his love and compassion for all people, regardless of their past. This gives me comfort, knowing that I, too, am loved by God, flaws and all.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Matthew 24–25, Mark 12–13, and Luke 21.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 24–25; Mark 12–13; Luke 21
- Signs of the End of the Age
- Be Prepared for Christ's Return
- Parable of the Ten Virgins
- Parable of the Talents
- Parable of the Sheep and the Goats
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What does it mean to "endure to the end"?
- Why does Jesus say "I don't know you" to some?
- What was the motivation behind the servants?
- What determines the separation of sheep and goats?
- Is there a middle ground to judgment day?
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*Have you ever thought about all that will happen on judgment day? How it will all go down? I know there are some shocking pictures of all that will happen in the end. Clearly, it's something we're all going to face (and it could come at any time), so it's important to be ready.
I'm particularly struck by the correlation between how people view their relationship with God and how they view judgment day. It makes sense. If they're afraid of God or view him as a somewhat distant or harsh master, they're also typically quite uneasy about judgment day. I get it. It would be terrifying to stand before God on my flawed record.
Can I share with you why I just can't wait until judgment day? Jesus lived a perfect life as our substitute, and I'm standing on his record for me. Because of that, I have an air-tight case and know with certainty how the story ends. In fact, I don't just stand with Jesus on that day, but every day. Relying completely on him in the end has resulted in an incredibly close, personal relationship right now.
So, what about you? Are you excited and looking forward to judgment day? Do you ever have days where you're at least a little unsure? Jesus clearly wanted us to be ready. Let's set up a time to study what Jesus taught about end times and focus in on the confidence and certainty he intends for us.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Matthew 19–20, Mark 10, and Luke 18.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Luke 18:9–14, Mark 10:17–34, 46–52, and Matthew 20:1–16
- The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
- The Rich and the Kingdom of God
- Jesus Predicts His Death a Third Time
- Blind Bartimaeus Receives His Sight
- The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What does it take to "inherit" eternal life?
- Why did the young man go away sad?
- What leads someone to cry out, "Lord have mercy"?
- What was the difference between the prayers of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector?
- How does God's grace challenge and confront our ideas of justice and fairness?
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*In Luke 18:9–14, Jesus shares a parable about a Pharisee and a tax collector who went to the temple to pray. The Pharisee boasted about his righteousness, while the tax collector humbly begged for mercy. The Greek word the tax collector used to ask for mercy is strikingly significant.
The tax collector's plea for mercy was expressed with the word "hilasterion" in Greek. This word can be translated as "propitiation" or "atonement." It refers to the covering or removal of sin, the restoration of a broken relationship, and the satisfaction of divine justice. Additionally, it's the word used in Greek to describe the "mercy seat" on the Ark of the Covenant.
The tax collector's use of the word "hilasterion" shows that he recognized the gravity of his sin and the need for divine intervention to make things right. He knew that he could not save himself or earn his way back into God's favor. He needed God's mercy and forgiveness, which could only come through an atoning sacrifice.
In contrast, the Pharisee did not recognize his own sinfulness and need for a savior. He thought his good deeds and religious practices made him righteous before God. He was too proud to ask for mercy or acknowledge his need for atonement.
The tax collector's plea for mercy teaches us to approach God with humility and a sincere desire for atonement. It reminds us that we all fall short of God's standards and need his forgiveness. It also points us to Jesus Christ, the ultimate atoning sacrifice for our sins. May we come to God with humility and a desire for forgiveness, trusting in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ to cleanse us of our sins and restore our relationship with God.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Luke 12–17 and John 11.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Luke 15:1–32; 16:19–31; 17:11–19
- The Parable of the Lost Sheep
- The Parable of the Lost Coin
- The Parable of the Lost Son
- The Rich Man and Lazarus
- Jesus Heals Ten Men with Leprosy
John 11:17–44
- Jesus Comforts the Sisters of Lazarus
- Jesus Raises Lazarus From the Dead
Key concepts in this episode include:
- Who gets invited to the "great banquet," Heaven?
- What do you learn from the Parable of the Lost Sheep and Lost Coin?
- What relationship is the Prodigal Son looking for? What does his Father offer him?
- Where do we see the theme of "worthiness" in these chapters?
- Which son are you?
- How do our LDS friends understand Easter differently than biblical Christians?
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It's great to have modern medicine, isn't it? But here's the reality: We're still going to die. Every single one of us. Because every single one of us is sinful. We need more than treatments or vaccines or vitamins. Know what it is?
*We need Jesus! Here's his promise: "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die" (John 11:25–26). Jesus gives life even in the face of death. He did what we could never do, which was live perfectly and die a sacrificial death for us. He rose from the dead for us and for our salvation!
Now he promises: "The one who believes in me will live, even though they die." Trust in Jesus for a life that never ends!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ, Mark and Molly discuss witnessing at and from the temple/tabernacle.
Witnessing at a Mormon temple might sound intimidating, but with a simple curious rather than confrontational approach, temple conversations can effectively point to Christ.
For more temple/tabernacle witnessing resources, check out the resources available here on the Be Ye Perfect website.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss John 7–10.
This podcast episode covers the following:
John 7:1–53; 8:1–59; 9:1–41; 10:1–42
- Jesus Goes to the Festival of Tabernacles
- Jesus Teaches at the Festival
- Division Over Who Jesus Is
- Unbelief of the Jewish Leaders
- Dispute Over Jesus' Testimony
- Dispute Over Who Jesus Is
- Dispute Over Whose Children Jesus' Opponents Are
- Jesus' Claims About Himself
- Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
- The Pharisees Investigate the Healing
- Spiritual Blindness
- The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
- Further Conflict Over Jesus' Claims
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What does it mean when Jesus says "I am"?
- What does it mean to do the "will of God"?
- What can we learn from the story of the adulterous woman?
- How are we, as children of God, set free?
- What did it mean when Jesus said, "The blind will see"?
- How can we explain that Jesus is the gate? The good shepherd?
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There is just one door to God. Just one door to heaven. It should be locked, right?
*When you think of how sinful we human beings are… When you look around at all the corruption in our world… When you're honest about all the evil in your own heart… That door to God and heaven should be locked tight.
But it's not. It's open to you and to me.
Because here's Jesus' promise: "I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture" (John 10:9).
Isn't that amazing? The gate to heaven is open to all who believe and trust in Jesus' perfection for us. It's open because the blood of Jesus paid for all of our sins and won for us eternal life.
Jesus is the gate; whoever enters through him will be saved!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Matthew 18 and Luke 10.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 18:1-35
- The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven
- Causing to Stumble
- The Parable of the Wandering Sheep
- Dealing With Sin in the Church
- The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
Luke 10:1-42
- Jesus Sends Out the Seventy-Two
- The Parable of the Good Samaritan
- At the Home of Martha and Mary
Key concepts in this episode include:
- How can an adult “change and become like a little child?”
- How to unpack the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
- What is the Parable of The Good Samaritan really about?
- How will our LDS friends understand the story of Mary and Martha?
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
Read the witnessing scenario based on Matthew 18:21-35 on tilm.org. (You must be signed in to access this page.)
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*There is way too much going on in life for you to handle on your own. There are way too many burdens on your heart today—sins, guilt, regret, fear, anxiety, depression—for you to carry on your own. But you don’t have to! You have a God and Savior ready to carry you today with his forgiveness and grace.
Whenever you find yourself distracted and worried and upset about many things, remember one thing is needed. Jesus and his Word. So don’t just do something, sit there.*
What is Witnessing Christ from the Liahona?
Each month The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints publishes an international periodical called the Liahona (formerly the Ensign). Because we have found it beneficial for myself and others, we plan to provide you with a digest version of each month's content and ideas for using it in your witnessing to LDS members. Each month as we look at a few articles, we will unpack the following:
- What it said
- Why it matters
- How to use it for witnessing, and
- Provide links for further study
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the Liahona, Mark and Molly discuss the following articles in the April 2023 edition of the Liahona:
- Jesus Christ is Our Savior, p.5
- Faith in Jesus Christ, p. 22
- His Atonement is Never Out of Reach, p. U2
- Called to Remember, p. U12
- How Can I Believe in What I Have Never Seen?, p. 30
- Resetting Our Spiritual Circuit Breakers, p. 40
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Check out our 4 Key Biblical Concepts webinar on Faith for an in-depth dive into faith. (NOTE: You will need to be logged in to the Truth in Love Ministry Online Community to access this episode.)
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Molly discuss Matthew 15–17 and Mark 7–9.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 15:1–39, 16:1–28, 17:1–27
- That Which Defiles
- The Faith of a Canaanite Woman
- The Demand for a Sign
- The Yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees
- Peter Declares That Jesus Is the Messiah
- Jesus Predicts His Death
- Jesus Heals a Demon-Possessed Boy
- Jesus Predicts His Death a Second Time
- The Temple Tax
Mark 7:1–37, 8:1–38, 9:1–50
- That Which Defiles
- Jesus Honors a Syrophoenician Woman's Faith
- Jesus Heals a Deaf and Mute Man
- The Yeast of the Pharisees and Herod
- Jesus Heals a Blind Man at Bethsaida
- Peter Declares That Jesus Is the Messiah
- Jesus Predicts His Death
- The Way of the Cross
- Jesus Heals a Boy Possessed by an Impure Spirit
- Jesus Predicts His Death a Second Time
- Whoever Is Not Against Us Is for Us
- Causing to Stumble
This podcast episode does not cover the accounts of "Jesus Feeds the Four Thousand" or "The Transfiguration." You can find coverage of "Jesus Feeds Multitudes" in Episode 14 and commentary on "The Transfiguration" in Episode 11.
Key concepts in this episode include:
- How can we understand greatness in these chapters?
- What makes someone unclean?
- What did Jesus mean about the "yeast" of the Pharisees' teaching?
- What do we learn from Jesus' interaction with the Canaanite Woman?
- What does it mean to "bear our crosses"?
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
What does greatness look like?
As upside-down as it may seem, look to the cross. You'll uncover a great love that motivated Jesus to finish his mission at Calvary. There, he chose to bring glory to his Father and demonstrate his love for you.
If you want to see greatness, look to Jesus.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Matthew 21–28. This week’s readings cover the entirety of Holy Week from the Gospel of Matthew 21:6–28:10 with supplementary readings from Luke 24:13–35; John 20:19–29; 1 Corinthians 15:1–8, 55; and 1 Peter 1:3–11. As you read these accounts, focus on what Jesus says and does as the one who would make man right with God. These readings will all come up again in May.
This podcast episode covers the following:
- Palm Sunday: Triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:6–11)
- Cleansing Monday: Cleansing the temple (Matthew 21:12–16)
- Teaching Tuesday: Teaching in Jerusalem (Matthew 21:17–23:39)
- Teaching Wednesday: Continued teaching (Matthew 24:1–25:46)
- Maundy Thursday: The Passover and Jesus prays in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:1–75)
- Good Friday: Trial, crucifixion, and burial (Matthew 27:1–61)
- Holy Saturday: Christ’s body lies in the tomb (Matthew 27:62–66)
- Easter Sunday: Christ’s resurrection and appearance to his disciples (Matthew 28:1–10)
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What does Holy Week show and tell us about Jesus?
- How can we use Jesus' conversations with the religious leaders in our conversations?
- What does the atonement do for us?
- What happened on the cross?
- What are the blessings of the resurrection?
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
Read through and share an article on the Parables from Jesus. Choose from the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, the Parable of the Ten Virgins, or the Parable of the Talents.
Find the LDS understanding of the "atonement" in Truth in Love Ministry's digital Dictionary of Mormonese.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*Don't rush from Gethsemane to the empty tomb.
The cross is messy. It's uncomfortable to acknowledge what brought Jesus to the cross on that Good Friday. Jesus went to the cross to do what we never could. He took sin on himself and became sin for us. He is the perfect lamb slain for the sins of the world. Instead of glossing over the cross, dwell on the truth that Good Friday displays.
Jesus fully paid for every one of your sins. He marked your debt of sin “paid in full.” Jesus didn’t just make it possible for your debt to be forgiven. Neither did he ask you to pay him back. He didn’t tell you to do anything. Instead, he said, “It is finished.” It’s a done deal.
Then, on Easter, stand in awe of the empty tomb, where God vividly demonstrated that he had accepted Jesus’ payment by raising him from the dead. Jesus’ resurrection is God’s receipt to you—it is confirmation that Christ has paid your debt in full and has power over sin and death. Because of Jesus’ resurrection, you can be confident that you will live eternally with Heavenly Father.
Rejoice that Jesus suffered on Friday to become victorious on Sunday!*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Casey discuss Matthew 14, Mark 6, and John 5–6.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 14:1–36
- John the Baptist Beheaded
- Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
- Jesus Walks on Water
Mark 6
- A Prophet Without Honor
- Jesus Sends Out the Twelve
- John the Baptist Beheaded
- Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
- Jesus Walks on Water
John 5:1–46, 6:1–71
- The Healing at the Pool
- The Authority of the Son
- Testimonies About Jesus
- Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
- Jesus Walks on Water
- Jesus the Bread of Life
- Many Disciples Desert Jesus
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What is the relationship between Jesus and God the Father?
- What is Jesus teaching in the feeding of the five thousand?
- How is Jesus the "Bread of Life"?
- Why did Peter sink in the water?
- What can we learn about Jesus being rejected in his hometown?
- Where do you turn?
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
Read the Be Ye Perfect article "You Have Direct Access to God" to prepare for your conversation about having access to Heavenly Father.
Download "Where to Turn" from beyeperfect.org and share it with your LDS friend during your next witnessing conversation.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*Are you tired? Does eternal life seem so far out of reach? No matter how hard you try, you still make mistakes. How will you ever know if you'll be enough?
John 6:47 says, "Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life." Jesus didn't say, "the one who believes and does their very best," "the one who believes that I can help them," or "the one who keeps the commandments." Jesus simply describes the inheritors of eternal life as those who believe in him. That’s it.
Everyone who takes Jesus at his word and trusts that he gave his life as a ransom for them has eternal life RIGHT NOW! There are no further requirements. Rest in his promise that we can live in God’s presence right now and for all eternity.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Matthew 13 and Luke 8 and 13.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 13:24–52
- The Parable of the Weeds
- The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
- The Parable of the Net
Luke 13:1–35
- Jesus Responds to a Question about Judgment
- The Parable of the Fig Tree
- The Narrow Door
- Jesus' Sorrow over Jerusalem
This episode does NOT cover stories that have been discussed in previous episodes, including:
Matthew 13:1–23; Luke 8:1–13
- The Parable of the Seed/Sower
- The Parable of the Seed/Sower Explained
Luke 8:16–56
- A Lamp on a Stand
- Jesus' Mother and Brothers
- Jesus Calms the Storm
- The Healing of the Demon-possessed Man
- Jairus' Daughter
- The Bleeding Woman
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What is the kingdom of God like?
- What does judgment look like in the kingdom of God?
- Why does God allow believers and unbelievers to exist together?
- Why is repentance so important when it comes to judgment?
- Who is the active agent in most parables?
- What is the narrow door, and how does one enter through it?
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
Read Bradley Gray's article, Lost & Found: The Purpose of Jesus' Parables, to see his commentary on the parables.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*In the past, I missed the point of the Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl. I made myself the main character. But, like the rest of the Scriptures, the main character is not me.
Bradley Gray explains this parable clearly. "The point is not the treasure. The point is the Person who finds the treasure. We once were lost, now we're found because God's only begotten Son went all the way to find us. And that's the best news I've ever heard."*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Matthew 11–12 and Luke 11.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 11:1–30
- Jesus Responds to John the Baptist's Doubts
- The Light and Easy Yoke of Jesus
Matthew 12:1–21
- Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath
- Jesus is the Servant of the Lord
Matthew 12:38–42
- The Sign of Jonah
- True Relationships that Matter
Matthew 11:37–54
- Religious Hypocrisy Denounced
- The Key of Knowledge Withheld
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What are we to make of John the Baptist's doubts?
- What does Jesus teach John the Baptist about himself?
- What are we to do with our doubts?
- What yoke was burdening the people of Jesus' day?
- What is the easy and light yoke that Jesus gives?
- What relationships matter the most?
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform! Encourage your LDS friend to ask questions when you share the article "Is it OK to Ask Questions About God?" from Be Ye Perfect.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*Have you ever noticed the oxymorons in Matthew 11:30? It says, "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Yokes are put around oxen so that they can pull heavy things. Burdens, by definition, are not light. Jesus is trying to make a point.
By nature, humans are all yoked to the law. And the burden of the law is intense, crushing, unbearable, and impossible. Maybe I can give the appearance of upholding the law outwardly, but my heart is filled with anger, lust, greed, and selfishness. Daily, I strive to do better, but the reality is I am weary and heavy-laden. I'm not even close to fulfilling my own checklists, let alone the checklist the law of God has for me.
But Jesus offers a different yoke—the yoke of the gospel! Jesus subjected himself to the yoke of the law, but it didn't crush him; he fulfilled it perfectly. He also carried a burden of my sin and suffered my condemnation on the cross. He did this so that I wouldn't have to, so I could be set free. And now, I am yoked to the gospel of full and free forgiveness and the righteousness of Christ.
Dear friend, what are you yoked to? If you are striving to climb a ladder, weary from completing a checklist, or burdened trying to earn forgiveness, you're not yoked to Jesus; you are still yoked to the law!
Being yoked to Jesus is freeing, light, easy, and gentle. The yoke of the gospel isn't "do more;" it's "done in Jesus."*
What is Witnessing Christ from the Liahona?
Each month The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints publishes an international periodical called the Liahona (formerly the Ensign). Because we have found it beneficial for myself and others, we plan to provide you with a digest version of each month's content and ideas for using it in your witnessing to LDS members. Each month as we look at a few articles, we will unpack the following:
- What it said
- Why it matters
- How to use it for witnessing, and
- Provide links for further study
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the Liahona, Mark and Molly discuss the following articles in the March 2023 edition of the Liahona:
- My Peace I Give Unto You, p.5
- How Divine Identity Affects Belonging and Becoming, p. 9
- The Power to Raise Up, p. 41
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Casey discuss Matthew 9–10, Mark 5, and Luke 9.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 9:1–38, 10:1–42
- Jesus Heals a Paralytic
- The Calling of Matthew
- Jesus Questioned About Fasting
- A Dead Girl and a Sick Woman
- The Workers Are Few
- Jesus Sends Out the Twelve
Mark 5:1–43
- The Healing of a Demon-possessed Man
- A Dead Girl and a Sick Woman
Luke 9:1–62
- Jesus Sends Out the Twelve
- Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
- Peter's Confession of Christ
- The Transfiguration
- The Healing of a Boy With an Evil Spirit
- Who Will Be the Greatest?
- Samaritan Opposition
- The Cost of Following Jesus
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What was the paralytic's greatest need?
- What does Jesus have power over?
- What does "I desire mercy, not sacrifice" (Matthew 9:13) really mean?
- What can we learn from the Transfiguration?
- What does the "wineskin" illustration mean?
- Does the "Son of Man" refer to Jesus' humanity?
- Why would Jesus ask, "Who do you say that I am?"
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
To find more explanation on the person of Jesus, check out "Who Is Jesus?" from our "Are Mormons Christian?" guide.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*Who do you say Jesus is? Was he a great teacher? Was he like a big brother to you? Was he more?
How we answer that question has enormous implications. If he is merely a good teacher, a prophet, or an example, then we have limited his power to save us. In his book, "Mere Christianity," C.S. Lewis says, "You can shut Him up for a fool, you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon; or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God. But let us not come up with any patronizing nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to."
When we see Jesus as Lord, as the "Son of Man," as the one who had power over disease, demons, and even death, we see him as true God. We not only stand in awe of who he is but also of what he came to do. Jesus came to save!*
What is Witnessing Christ from the Liahona?
Each month The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints publishes an international periodical called the Liahona (formerly the Ensign). Because we have found it beneficial for myself and others, we plan to provide you with a digest version of each month's content and ideas for using it in your witnessing to LDS members. Each month as we look at a few articles, we will unpack the following:
- What it said
- Why it matters
- How to use it for witnessing, and
- Provide links for further study
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the Liahona, Mark and Molly discuss the following articles in the February 2023 edition of the Liahona:
- He Marked the Path and Led the Way p. 5
- Peace, Be Still: Calming Our Storms p.15
- Preparing Missionaries in the Digital Age p. U13
- Doesn't Obedience Lead to Blessings? p. 30
- Understanding "Why?" p. 34
- Preparing for Your Interview with the Lord p. 38
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly discuss Matthew 8, Mark 2–4, and Luke 7.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 8:1–13, 23–27
- The Man with Leprosy
- The Faith of the Centurion
- Jesus Calms the Storm
Mark 4:1–41
- The Parable of the Sower
- The Parable of the Growing Seed
- The Parable of the Mustard Seed
- Jesus Calms the Storm
Luke 7:11–17, 36–50
- Jesus Raises the Widow's Son
- Jesus Anointed by a Sinful Woman
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What is faith?
- What is the object of faith?
- What does faith trust?
- How does Jesus calm the storms and fears of life?
- What are we to make of those times when it seems as if God is sleeping?
- How are we to read and understand parables?
- What do Jesus' telling and touching teach us about his power?
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
Understand what Mormonism teaches about faith in our blog post, Faith.While discussing faith in the face of storms, Molly mentions Shane & Shane's version of Psalm 46, which you can watch here.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to share with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*If my faith depended on me, I would worry. I would doubt that my faith would be enough in my Father's eyes. Trusting in myself would be like building a house on shifting sand or being knocked about by waves during a storm.
When I put my faith in Christ alone, his perfection becomes mine personally. I don't have to enter my days with uncertainty because his words of forgiveness are unchanging. He is my anchor in a storm. I trust that through Jesus alone, I have a secure future with him.*
In this bonus episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon, Casey, Mark, and Molly discuss the Parables of Jesus.
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What are the joys and challenges presented in the parables?
- How do Mormons read and understand parables?
- How are we to properly read and understand parables?
- How can we use the parables for witnessing Christ to Mormons?
Share this podcast with your Christian friends and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
For more on interpreting the parables, check out:
Lost and Found: The purpose of Jesus' Parables from 1517.org
Understanding Jesus' Parables from 1517.org
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Casey discuss Matthew 6 and 7.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 6:1–34
- Giving to the Needy
- Prayer
- Fasting
- Treasures in Heaven
- Do Not Worry
Matthew 7:1–29
- Judging Others
- Ask, Seek, Knock
- The Narrow and Wide Gates
- True and False Prophets
- True and False Disciples
- Wise and Foolish Builders
Key concepts in this episode include:
- Is Jesus being hypocritical?
- Is prayer about the recitation or the relationship?
- What about worry?
- What is doing the will of the Father (John 6:40)?
- What relationship do we see in the 6th petition? Is forgiveness conditional?
- How can we talk about the wide and narrow path?
- What does Jesus mean when he says, "I never knew you"?
Share this podcast with your Christian friend and subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform!
Understand what Mormonism teaches about prayer in our blog post, Mormonism's View on Prayer.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to use with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*Do you know any celebrities? Do any celebrities know YOU? What's the difference between knowing about someone and being known by them?
We have this unbelievable privilege as children of God. We know that our Father knows us by name through faith in our relationship with God. Unfortunately, there will be people to whom Jesus says, "I never knew you" (Matthew 7:23). If we try to approach our Heavenly Father on the basis of the law and our good works, we will be turned away. Our Father knows us because we trust in Jesus for our access. He opens the door and is the one who ensures that we can spend eternity in heaven with God.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Jon and Casey dive into Matthew 5 and Luke 6.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 5:1–48
- Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount
- The Beatitudes
- Salt and Light
- The Fulfillment of the Law
- Murder
- Adultery
- Divorce
- Oaths
- Eye for Eye
- Love for Enemies
Luke 6:1–49
- Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath
- The Twelve Apostles
- Blessings and Woes
- Love for Enemies
- Judging Others
- A Tree and Its Fruit
- The Wise and Foolish Builders
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What is the purpose of the Sabbath?
- What is Jesus teaching us in the Beatitudes? What isn't he teaching us?
- What is judging?
- Are there unconditional blessings from God?
- What does Matthew 5:48 really mean?
- What do we learn about God and about ourselves?
Share the article "How is Perfection Achieved?" with your LDS friend when the topic of perfection or Matthew 5:48 is being discussed.
Read through and share "What is the Purpose of God's Law?" with your LDS friend.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to use with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*Where do you find rest? Is it in the "do" of Matthew 5:48 or in the "done for you" of Matthew 5:17?
Matthew 5:48 says, "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Jesus draws attention to the impossibility of keeping the law even before this verse by bringing up lustful thoughts and hateful attitudes. Even these, he says, are "subject to judgment" (Matthew 5:22). In the very last verse, he simply says to be perfect. If I had to live up to perfection, my days would be hopeless. My life would be a never-ending question of "am I enough?"
Matthew 5:48 opens my eyes to the truth that I could never rely on myself for perfection, or enoughness, in my Father's eyes. Instead, I lean into Matthew 5:17, where Jesus says, "do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." He fulfilled the law and all of its requirements for me. Trusting in Jesus means I rest in his perfection instead of my own. I trust that Jesus is enough.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly Parsons discuss John 2–4.
This podcast episode covers the following:
John 2:1–25
- Jesus Changes Water into Wine
- Jesus Clears the Temple
John 3:1–35
- Jesus Teaches Nicodemus
- John the Baptist's Testimony about Jesus
John 4:1–54
- Jesus Talks with a Samaritan Woman
- Jesus Heals the Officials Son
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What did Jesus' miracles show and tell about him?
- How was Jesus the temple that would be rebuilt?
- According to the Bible, what does it mean to be "born again"?
- How do Mormons understand being "born again"? (Cucumbers into pickles)
- What is the difference between those who receive eternal life and those who don't?
- How do Mormons understand John 3:16–18?
- What witnessing applications can we make from Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus?
- What did Jesus show and tell about himself when he healed the paralytic?
- What witnessing applications can we make from Jesus' conversation with the woman at the well in Samaria?
To learn more about why it's important to explain what belief/faith is and isn't, check out this blog post about the Christian and LDS views of Faith.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to use with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*In John 3, Nicodemus relied on his status and efforts to attain eternal life. The investigator was there to understand if this miracle worker was from God. Jesus cut right to the heart and devalued everything the Pharisees taught, throwing out human reasoning.
Eternal life could only be attained by being "born again," which one could not do to himself, nor could it be understood without faith—trust not in self but in God alone. Jesus said Nicodemus' efforts, accomplishments, and present status were meaningless.
Children don't ask to be born and certainly do not help give birth to themselves. Likewise, our children look like us and sin like us. Flesh gives birth to flesh. All of us need to be reborn into a different family through faith.
Similarly, we cannot cause ourselves to be spiritually reborn. This rebirth, which is faith, is only accomplished by the Spirit. Once we have been born again, we look like Jesus and are righteous like Jesus in God's eyes. The Spirit gives birth to the spirit.
Jesus then explained that salvation comes through faith, and he told Nicodemus where to place that faith by referencing an Old Testament story from Numbers 21.
In the wilderness, the Israelites were once again grumbling against God. They complained because they did not trust him. In punishment, God sent venomous snakes. But he also provided salvation.
If the bitten looked at the bronze snake on a pole, they would live. They lived because they had faith and trust in the promise. It was that simple, look in faith and live.
Likewise, the whole world has been bitten and infected by the venom of sin. Our salvation comes by looking to the Son of Man on the cross, who has taken the poison of sin's bite, death upon himself, to give us victory over sin and death and provide us with eternal life.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly Parsons discuss Matthew 4 and Luke 4–5.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 4:1–25
- Jesus is Tested in the Wilderness
- Jesus Begins to Preach
- Jesus Calls His First Disciples
- Jesus Heals the Sick
Luke 4:1–5:39
- Jesus is Tested in the Wilderness
- Jesus Rejected at Nazareth
- Jesus Drives Out an Impure Spirit
- Jesus Heals Many
- Jesus Calls His First Disciples
- Jesus Heals a Man with Leprosy
- Jesus Forgives and Heals a Paralyzed Man
- Jesus Calls Levi and Eats with Sinners
- Jesus Questioned About Fasting
Key concepts in this episode include:
- Is Jesus primarily our substitute or our example in the wilderness?
- What was the devil attempting to get Jesus to do with the temptations?
- Why were the Pharisees so worked up about Jesus?
- What did Jesus show and tell about himself when he healed the paralytic?
- What did Jesus want the Pharisees to see about themselves, their view of sinners, and his interactions with them?
To learn more about why it's important to emphasize Christ as our substitute vs. Christ as our example, check out the blog post Example vs. Substitute.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to use with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*Was Jesus primarily our substitute or our example in the wilderness?
In Matthew 4 and Luke 4, we see how the devil uses targeted temptations to test Jesus, yet Jesus doesn't falter. He rebukes the devil with the Bible in response to his tricks, continuing in his perfect life.
If we only receive encouragement from Jesus in the wilderness to follow his example, we're missing an important piece of the story. When Jesus was tempted, he remained perfect when we would've sinned. His perfect life, whether in Nazareth, the temple, or the wilderness, fulfills all righteousness for us. If he had fallen into temptation, we would have no hope. But because Jesus was perfect, those who place their trust not in their efforts but in the perfect work of Jesus are perfect now in Heavenly Father's sight.
Like Jesus, you can use the Bible to resist the devil's temptations. However, even more importantly, remember that Jesus stood firm in the wilderness as your substitute.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Casey and Jon discuss Matthew 3, Mark 1, and Luke 3.
This podcast episode covers the following:
Matthew 3
- John the Baptist Prepares the Way
- The Baptism of Jesus
Mark 1
- John the Baptist Prepares the Way
- The Baptism and Testing of Jesus
- Jesus Announces the Good News
- Jesus Calls His First Disciples
- Jesus Drives Out an Impure Spirit
- Jesus Heals Many
- Jesus Prays in a Solitary Place
- Jesus Heals a Man With Leprosy
Luke 3
- John the Baptist Prepares the Way
- The Baptism and Genealogy of Jesus
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What do we learn about John the Baptist?
- Why would John baptize Jesus?
- How was the prophecy in Mark 1:2–3 fulfilled?
- How will “repentance” and “baptism” be understood by LDS?
- How will our LDS friends view these sections differently?
To understand the dramatic differences between biblical Christianity and Mormonism, download Are Mormons Christian, which includes a comparison of teachings on repentance.
For a better understanding of how Christianity and Mormonism look at the same words differently, request a copy of Dictionary of Mormonese.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love Online Community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to use with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
*John the Baptist preached a “baptism of repentance” in the wilderness (Mark 1:4). Jesus said, “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15). So, what is repentance?
Repentance is turning from trust in self to trust in God alone. It’s not a series of steps that you must complete but rather a gift from God himself. If something is a gift from God, then he is the source. An electrical appliance can only accomplish what it was created for when plugged into the power source. Instead of looking to our own feeble power to make changes in our life, we look to the Spirit, who motivates and empowers fruits of repentance (Luke 3:8).
Repent. Stop trusting in your own power. Trust in God alone. When you do, you’ll see the gravity of sin, stand in awe of God’s grace and forgiveness, and walk forward empowered by the Spirit. Repentance is not a painful process to endure. Instead, you’ll discover it is a restful state to be in where joy overflows through you to others.*
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly Parsons introduce the Gospel of John and walk through John 1.
This podcast episode covers the following:
- John 1:1-18
- The Word Became Flesh
- A Witness to the Word
- John 1:19-51
- John the Baptist Denies Being the Messiah
- John the Baptist Testifies about Jesus
- John's Disciples Follow Jesus
- Jesus Calls Philip and Nathaniel
Key concepts in this episode include:
- What's up with the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible?
- What/Who is the "Word," and why does it matter?
- What does it mean that Jesus is "life"?
- What does it mean that Jesus is "light"?
- What made Jesus so unique?
- What was John the Baptist's role?
- Why did Christmas (and the incarnation) need to take place?
- How does the fact that Jesus came to dwell (tabernacle) among us impact our lives and eternity?
For 15 time-tested principles for witnessing, request a copy of Prepared to Share, which includes helpful tips for sharing essential truths from the Bible.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love online community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to use with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
No matter how dark the world looks or how hopeless your situation feels, you can find hope in the Light of the world.
John 1:5 promises, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” The light that beams through despair, hopelessness, and defeat is Jesus. He is victorious over sin, death, and the devil.
Friend, take heart. Remember that darkness is no match for your Savior, Jesus!
In the first episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Mark and Molly Parsons introduce the Gospels of Matthew and Luke and walk through the first chapter of each evangelist's account.
This podcast episode covers the following:
- Matthew 1:1-25
- The Geneology of Jesus
- Joseph Accepts Jesus as His Son
- Luke 1:1-80
- The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold
- The Birth of Jesus Foretold
- Mary Visits Elizabeth
- Mary's Song
- The Birth of John the Baptist
- Zechariah's Song
Key concepts in this episode include:
- The Genealogy of Jesus: What is it and why does it matter?
- Why does Jesus include sinners in his family tree?
- What does it take to "stand righteous" in the sight of God?
- Why did Jesus need to be both truly God and truly man?
- What do the songs of Mary and Zechariah teach us about our Savior Jesus?
For more insights on witnessing Christ from Matthew's genealogy, check out the blog series Wrecked and Redeemed to hear the incredible stories of five out-of-place women on Jesus' family tree.
For more on righteousness, check out the blog What is Righteousness? on BeYePerfect.org and the webinar The Two Kinds of Righteousness on TILM.org.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love online community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to use with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
An excerpt to share personally with your LDS friends:
What’s your family history like? Do you come from a line of honor or shame? Even more, how about your own life? Are you proud of what you’ve done or filled with embarrassment?
You should see Jesus’ family tree. Before he writes the story of Jesus’ birth, Matthew records Jesus’ genealogy (Matthew 1:1-17). When you look at Jesus’ family tree, do you know what you see? Sinners. Lots of sinners. Jacob deceived his father. Judah slept with his daughter-in-law. Rahab was a prostitute. Ruth had been an idol worshiper. David committed adultery and murder. We could go on and on… That’s Jesus’ family tree.
Why on earth would God be willing to be born into such a sinful family? Here’s why: Jesus was willing to be born from sinners because he came to save sinners. After recording Jesus’ family tree, Matthew tells us exactly what Jesus came into the world to do: “He will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).
Remember, it’s not about where you come from, who you know, or how well you perform in front of your peers. Jesus came to save you simply because he loves you. In him, there is forgiveness, peace, and true hope.
In this episode of Witnessing Christ from the New Testament, Casey and Jon walk through Luke 2 and Matthew 2
This podcast episode covers the following:
- Luke 2:1-52
- The Birth of Jesus
- Jesus Presented at the Temple
- The Boy Jesus at the Temple
- Matthew 2:1-23
- The Magi Visit the Messiah
- The Escape to Egypt
- The Return to Nazareth
Key concepts in this episode include:
- Why do the writers include historical context?
- Names (and naming) of Jesus
- How do we see humility in these chapters?
- How do we elevate God in these stories as we witness?
- How will our LDS friends look at Luke 2 and Matthew 2 differently?
For a better understanding of how Christianity and Mormonism look at the same words differently, request a copy of Dictionary of Mormonese.
Read and share the article “What is Christmas All About” with your LDS friends, which places the focus squarely on Jesus.
If you have not yet registered for the Truth in Love online community, enroll now to gain access to all of our courses, resources, and more.
Click here to download a Bible Study outline to use with your Mormon friends, family, and missionaries.
Share this conversation starter with your LDS friend:
God never does exactly what we’d expect. As we read Luke 2, we’re reminded that the King of the Universe is full of surprises.
Not only was our powerful God brought down to be fully human, but as a baby, he was placed in a feeding trough. (Luke 2:7) His first visitors were not kings or lords, but were humble shepherds! (Luke 2:16)
Do you know the best surprise? It’s found in his name, “Jesus”. The name “Jesus” literally means “the LORD saves”. God, in his amazing love, sent his only son to be sacrificed for you. All he asks is that you believe and trust in him. Now, that’s the best surprise of all.